SLSU–TO Faculty Receive National Writing, Leadership Awards in Baguio

Several faculty members of Southern Leyte State University–Tomas Oppus (SLSU-TO) received national recognitions during the KAFAMPI: Pambansang Seminar and the Gawad Gurong Lider 2025, held from December 4 to 6, 2025, at 456 Hotel in Baguio City.

The national seminar, themed “Style, Substance, & Power: The ABCs of Academic and Creative Writing,” was organized by the Kapisanan ng mga Filipinong Awtor at Manunulat sa Pilipinas, Inc. (KAFAMPI) in partnership with Pangasinan State University (PSU). The event was endorsed through PASUC Advisory No. 179, s. 2025 and gathered educators, writers, and scholars from various regions to discuss developments in academic writing, creative writing, and educational leadership.

Recognition ceremonies held on December 6 highlighted educators who demonstrated contributions to literature, authorship, and teacher leadership. From SLSU-TO, Dr. Erlinda D. Tibus, Dr. Ginalyn B. Carbonilla, and Dr. Riza L. Lacerna were named Katangi-Tanging Manunulat under the Pamana ng Pluma Platinum Awards 2025, while Dr. Analiza M. Nares received the Natatanging Manunulat distinction under the Pamana ng Pluma Gold Awards 2025.

Dr. Norlyn L. Borong received two recognitions: Katangi-Tanging Awtor under the Pamana ng Pluma Platinum Awards 2025 and Katangi-Tanging Gurong Lider under the Gawad Gurong Lider 2025. Additional recipients of the Katangi-Tanging Gurong Lider award included Dr. Romulo L. Lanugan, Dr. Vicente S. Betarmos, Jr., and Mr. Enrique E. Balili, Jr.

The awards formed part of national programs recognizing educators for leadership, scholarship, and contributions to professional and academic organizations, reinforcing the role of higher education institutions in advancing literary and educational development nationwide. This initiative supports Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by promoting excellence in teaching, academic writing, and educational leadership.