A new generation of Kapampangan writers took the spotlight as the Kapampangan Center honored the winners of the 2nd Conrado N. Manankil Jr. Kapampangan Essay Writing Contest on September 16, celebrating the 87th birth anniversary of the late author and philanthropist.
Jorem Gonzales of Divisoria Elementary School, Mexico, Pampanga emerged as the Elementary champion, taking home ₱10,000, while Roj Luis S. Diamsay of Panipuan High School, San Fernando won the High School title and ₱15,000. In the College Category, Mark John N. Paras of Pampanga State University, Bacolor claimed the championship and ₱20,000.
WINNERS
Elementary Division:
* Champion: Jorem Gonzales (Divisoria Elementary School) — ₱10,000
* 2nd Place: Mia Zen C. Batu (San Luis Central School) — ₱5,000
High School:
* Champion: Roj Luis S. Diamsay (Panipuan High School) – ₱15,000
* 2nd Place: Paul Christian Elchico (Holy Cross College) — ₱10,000
College:
* Champion: Mark John N. Paras (Pampanga State University) — ₱20,000
* 2nd Place: Renz Dungca — (Pampanga State Agricultural University) — ₱15,000
The on-the-spot competition brought together students from across the Kapampangan region, challenging them to express their ideas entirely in Kapampangan, using both contemporary and classic orthography.
The contest fulfills the lifelong dream of Manankil, who devoted 40 years to studying the Kapampangan language and authored a book on it. His vision was to establish an essay-writing contest that would encourage young Kapampangan writers.
The second edition was also offered by his wife, Norma Manankil, as a tribute to her late husband, who passed away in December 2025.
“Tatang Conrado did not just dream for himself, he dreamt for the next generation of Kapampangan writers. Though he passed away last December, his dream lives on through these young writers,” said Kapampangan Center Director Myra Lopez.
Renowned poet, author and artist Dr. Tec Tolosa, one of the judges, likewise noted the depth of the students’ entries, particularly their insights on contemporary issues and their ability to articulate these ideas in Kapampangan.
Through the annual competition, the Kapampangan Center continues to promote the Kapampangan language, literature and cultural heritage, while helping cultivate the next generation of writers who can carry the language—and Manankil’s legacy—forward.
