SLSU-Tomas Oppus Hosts Intensive Training on Creative Writing and Publication Strategies 

Southern Leyte State University–Tomas Oppus Campus conducted a two-day Trainer's Training on Creative Writing for Literary Works: Development and Publication Opportunities on October 29–30, 2025, at the Graduate School Building. The program aimed to strengthen educators' capability in creative writing, literary analysis, and publication strategies, preparing them to guide students and fellow writers in producing publishable literary works. 

Spearheaded by Dr. Leslie Elisa S. Cobilla, Head of the Instructional and Creative Works Development Center, the training opened on October 29 with a warm welcome message from Dr. Norla Grace Betarmos, Dean of the Faculty of Teacher Education, followed by inspirational remarks from Dr. Clemente H. Cobilla, Campus Director, who emphasized the value of creativity and scholarly writing in shaping innovative and culturally aware academic communities. The first day featured Mr. Mark Alden Arcenal as the resource speaker, who delivered an insightful lecture titled "Phenomenology and Metacognition in the Creative Writing Process." Participants engaged in an open forum and a guided writing session, during which they applied reflective and creative strategies learned during the discussion. 

The second day opened with a peer-critiquing workshop to foster collaborative feedback and professional growth. Mr. Arcenal returned for his second lecture, "The Submission Strategy," which focused on identifying publication venues, preparing manuscripts, and understanding the editorial processes of reputable journals. Participants also presented evaluation tools for creative works, emphasizing the integration of literary assessment in academic programs. The concluding peer workshop enabled attendees to refine their works, polish evaluation practices, and strengthen their skills in developing publishable literary outputs. The program concluded with an impression message from Dr. Betarmos, who commended the participants' dedication and enthusiasm and encouraged continued pursuit of literary excellence. Dr. Violeta B. Felisilda, member of the Evaluation Committee for Literary Works, delivered the closing message, emphasizing SLSU's commitment to cultivating a vibrant culture of creativity, research, and scholarship within the campus community. 

Rooted in SLSU's Creative Works Manual, the training also supports the institution's goal of capacitating members of the Evaluation Committee for Creative Works, particularly in assessing literary works using established standards and ensuring the production of high-quality creative outputs. This also supports the University's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by promoting quality and inclusive education (SDG 4), ensuring equal participation and opportunities (SDG 5), and reducing educational and creative gaps (SDG 10) through accessible and innovative literary development programs.