The Carlos Palanca Foundation Inc. is now accepting submissions for the 73rd Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards (CPMA) for Literature, the Philippines’ most prestigious literary competition.
The contest is open to all Filipino citizens or former Filipino citizens, regardless of age or place of residence. Each participant may submit only one entry per category. The competition features four divisions: English, Filipino, Regional Languages, and Kabataan.
Categories under the English Division include Short Story, Short Story for Children, Essay, Poetry, Poetry Written for Children, One-Act Play, and Full-Length Play. The Filipino Division covers Maikling Kuwento, Maikling Kuwentong Pambata, Sanaysay, Tula, Tula Para sa mga Bata, Dulang May Isang Yugto, Dulang Ganap ang Haba, and Dulang Pampelikula.
The Regional Languages Division includes Short Story in Cebuano, Hiligaynon, and Ilokano. The Kabataan Division, open to writers under 18 years old, includes Kabataan Essay (English) and Kabataan Sanaysay (Filipino).
This year’s theme for the Kabataan categories focuses on the impact of artificial intelligence on daily life and education. Entrants are asked to reflect on how AI can enhance learning while upholding personal responsibility, independent thinking, and ethical integrity.
Eligible works include those first published or produced between June 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, as well as unpublished and unproduced works. Only unproduced scripts are allowed for the Dulang Pampelikula category. Entries that have won in other competitions before midnight of June 30, 2025, are not eligible.
All submissions must be made online via www.palancaawards.com.ph. The foundation will not accept printed or email submissions. The deadline for entries is June 30, 2025.
For contest rules and entry forms, visit the Palanca Awards website. For inquiries, email cpfoundation@palancaawards.com.ph or call +63 2 8478 7996 and look for Ms. Ester Alfaro. You may also reach out via mobile at +63 917 828 2762 (CPMA).
Winners will be honored in a special awarding ceremony later this year. For updates, follow the Palanca Awards website and Facebook page at fb.com/palancaawards. PR
