TMI holds 4th International Literary Conference

A group of writers called the Timpuyog Mannurat ti Ilokano (TMI) recently held its 4th Internatioal Literary Conference on May 18-20, 2012 at Ports Authority in Poro, San Fernando City, La Union. 

There were series of lectures conducted. There was also awarding of literary writing contest winners composed mainly of young writers. I was also invited by the TMI consultant Mr. Peter Julian on the last day to talk about Philippine Arts and Culture and shared to them the projects and programs of NCCA. 

Some were excited to propose projects with regards to literary arts. We had an open forum where it became emotional since a member broke into tears because of their disappointment that the agency have withdrawn the grant supposed to be received by their association. It was a grant to support last year’s conference but it was given to another writing group whom they say is much more qualified as they claimed to have been written on the NCCA letter. I asked them to provide me copies of the letter and ask for a dialogue with the following concerned people. 

This is my second time to attend this conference and last year it was held in San Nicolas and my group TIPS exhibited photographs during the said conference. . It was nice to see people from Isabela, Cagayan, Nueva Vizcaya, La Union, Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, Australia, Hawaii and the US mainland. Hope to see them again next time.