Three books by and about Mindanao have been recognized at the 43rd National Book Awards, highlighting the region’s rich history and culture. The awards, announced by the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Filipino Critics Circle (FCC), honored 30 titles across 30 categories.
Celebrating Mindanaoan History and Identity
More Mindanawon Than We Admit: History, Culture, and Identity in the Philippine South, edited by Jhoanna Lynn B. Cruz, UP Mindanao Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences, and published by Vibal Foundation, won Best Book in Social Sciences. The anthology explores Mindanao’s diverse heritage and its influence on Filipino identity. Cruz thanked UP Mindanao faculty and alumni contributors, calling the recognition “an honor.”
Philosophy Rooted in Mindanao
Towards a More Mindanawon/Lumad Philosophy: The Filipino Philosophy of Bro. Karl Gaspar, CsSR, written by Jerry D. Imbong and published by Aletheia Printing and Publishing House, won Best Book in Philosophy. The book examines Bro. Karl Gaspar’s work in shaping an indigenous More Mindanawon/Lumad philosophy. Imbong, a philosophy professor at Visayas State University, completed his dissertation on this topic while earning his Ph.D. at De La Salle University, Manila.
Bridging Peace and Profession
The Road to Peace: Crafting the Bangsamoro Organic Law, self-published by Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, won Best Book on Professions. The book chronicles the legislative process behind the Bangsamoro Organic Law and documents the painstaking work of building peace. Zubiri described it as a guide for readers, policymakers, and the public.
Of the 385 titles submitted in English, Filipino, Hiligaynon, and Kinaray-a, 139 were selected as finalists. Ten of these focused on Mindanao, either by subject or author. The awards ceremony will be held on March 14 at the Philippine Book Festival in Mandaluyong City.
