In celebration of Buwan ng Wika 2024, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Instabright International Guild of Researchers and Educators Inc. proudly hosted the Third Instabright National Literary Awards 2024. This prestigious event was held on August 24, 2024, at Summit Ridge, Tagaytay, marking an important occasion in the literary calendar of the Philippines.

The competition, which was open to teachers and students from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), the Department of Education (DepEd), and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across the nation, attracted an impressive number of submissions. The submission period, which ran from June 3 to August 5, 2024, saw over one thousand entries vying for recognition. However, only fewer than 200 entries were selected for publication and awards, underscoring the high standards of this national competition.

The Instabright National Literary Awards provided a platform to showcase the literary talents of educators and students, with a specific focus on two categories: Inspirational Poems of the Year and Creative Stories of the Year. This event highlighted the creative and reflective abilities of participants, offering a space for the celebration of Filipino language and culture.

The winning entries will be published in the Instabright e-Gazette, ensuring that these literary works reach a wider audience and receive the recognition they deserve.

Major Awards:

Rexon H. Gaston, a faculty of the College of Entrepreneurship, Tourism and Hotel Management emerged as the outstanding winner in this year’s competition. His entry, titled “Echoes of the Conquered and Emancipated” (Entry No. 130), won 1st place in the Most Creative Short Story of the Year (English Category). His compelling narrative captivated the judges and showcased his storytelling prowess.

Special Awards:

Rexon H. Gaston also received two special awards:

Inspirational Poem of the Year (English Category): “Language Liberation: A Nation’s Reflection” (Entry No. 14).

Creative Short Story of the Year (English Category): “Threads of Valor: Amaya’s Journey to the Heart of Igorots” (Entry No. 127), co-authored with Israel A. Lacsa, a second year BSABE student of the College of Engineering and Information Technology who contributed significantly to the story’s depth and cultural insight.

Jinky V. Mangad also shone in the special awards category:

Creative Short Story of the Year (English Category): “Ullipan and Her Salidummay” (Entry No. 22).

Inspirational Poem of the Year (English Category): “Voice of the Mountains” (Entry No. 11).

In response, Mr. Gaston delivered his acceptance and appreciation speech like other winners did.

A total of 186 awardees were recognized across all categories, reflecting the diversity and richness of literary talent in the country. The Instabright National Literary Awards continues to inspire and promote the literary arts, contributing to the cultural and intellectual heritage of the Philippines.