By Michiko Je M. Bito-on
AMONG THE WINNERS of the 23rd Nick Joaquin Literary Awards for this year is from the Silliman University Graduate School. Karlo Antonio G. David, a Master of Arts in English Major in Creative Writing student, bagged 2nd place for his short story entitled “In the Manner Accustomed”.
“It’s very affirming particularly because I’m 22 and…I won a national award and it’s not only affirming for me but for young writers like me.
This affirmation is also of young writers from the regions”, David said. He added, “It’s [the short story] semi-autobiographical. I’m aware of
my weaknesses…it’s a personal story more than anything.”
The writer received P30,000, a Lenovo tablet and life insurance for being the second best in his category. In first place was Angelo Lacuesta for his short story entitled “Sparrows” and in third place was Jenny Ortuoste for “How I Spent my U.S. Vacation”. David is the youngest writer to win an award this year.
The Nick Joaquin Literary Awards is an annual literary competition named after National Artist for Literature, Nick Joaquin. The award is given by Philippines Graphic, the only national publication in the Philippines which publishes literary works and where in Nick Joaquin had served as editor during his last years.
The awarding ceremony took place at Ramon Magsaysay Center,Manila last Sept. 20.
