LINGAYEN CAPITOL UPDATES
| National Artist for literature and internationally acclaimed Filipino novelist Francisco Sionil Jose (right) shares his insights with Governor Amado T. Espino, Jr. (left) on the province’s successful move to “resurrect the dying Pangasinan culture and arts.” The renowned artist, who was the guest of honor and speaker during the commemorative program of Pangasinan Day (432nd Foundation Anniversary) celebration held April 11 lauded the Governor for conceptualizing worthy projects to further the cause of local culture and arts advancement. The “grand old man” of Philippine Literature, who is a native of Rosales town, likewise called on national leaders to replicate and follow the good example set by the incumbent provincial leadership of Pangasinan. |
Language bears the best identity of the people
By Ruby R. Bernardino
Lingayen – Language is what makes a people and country.
National Artist for literature Francisco Sionil Jose, an internationally acclaimed Filipino novelist whose works were translated into 12 foreign languages, sent the message across before thousands of Pangasinenses in his speech during the celebration of Pangasinan’s 432nd founding year at the Capitol Park here yesterday.
“Language bears the best identity of the people. It is the soul, the heart, and the mind of the people,” said Sionil-Jose, a native of Rosales, Pangasinan and a Balitok awardee in 2010, along with former Pres. Fidel V. Ramos, former House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr. and National Artist (for theater design) Salvador Bernal.
Pointing out that “culture, history and literature are the primary builders of human development,” the 84-year old novelist recounted how languages of other nations died because of poor leadership.
He lauded the provincial government led by Gov. Amado T. Espino, Jr. for “waging a war against all threats that cause the death of culture, history and literature.”
“I am happy to know that Gov. Espino and the vice governor have a beautiful program such as this. For sure, Pangasinan language will live for many years,” Sionil-Jose, also a Ramon Magsaysay awardee for literature, said.
He called on national leaders to replicate and follow the good example set by the incumbent provincial leadership of Pangasinan.
