GALLEGAN PROFESSOR WINS 3RD PRIZE IN PRESTIGIOUS PETER SOLIS NERY PRIZE FOR LITERATURE by Pauline Adordionicio

 Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija – Assistant Professor Rene Boy E. Abiva, a prolific writer and full-time faculty member at Manuel V. Gallego Foundation Colleges (MVGFC), has once again made a remarkable impact on the national literary scene. His adapted short story, “Babala Bago ang Opensiba sa Khan Yunis”, secured the 3rd Prize in the highly esteemed 2024 Peter Solis Nery Prize for Literature, further solidifying his stature in the world of Filipino letters. This year’s competition saw an impressive 49 qualified entries in the Adapted Story category, which celebrates literary works in Hiligaynon, Filipino, and English.

Abiva, a dedicated educator and author, is known for his mastery of Social Sciences, Filipino, Creative Writing, Research, and Literature. Holding an MA in Malikhaing Pagsulat and a Doctor of Literature (Honoris Causa) from Theophany University in Haiti, his impressive literary portfolio includes 15 published works, spanning poetry collections, short stories, flash fiction, and novels. His writings have graced notable publications such as Diliman Review, Liwayway, Bannawag, and have been recognized by institutions like the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).

In addition to his written works, Abiva is also recognized for his interdisciplinary talents, having served as a Language Coach and Cultural Researcher for popular films and as Creative Director for special projects at the CCP. His contributions to literature extend globally, having presented research papers at international conferences in Indonesia, Hungary, and Australia. His acclaimed MA thesis, titled “Uma(a)limbukay ang Dugo”, from the University of the Philippines-Diliman, earned him the Antonio M. Abad Award for Best Graduate Thesis in 2024, further proving his academic excellence.

Abiva’s recent win at the Peter Solis Nery Prize is yet another accolade in his ever-growing list of accomplishments. He has previously received fellowships from prestigious workshops such as the UP National Writers Workshop and the Iligan National Writers Workshop. His contributions to the Filipino literary field have also earned recognition from prominent institutions, including GUMIL-Filipinas, Bannawag Magazine, and the NCCA.

Beyond his personal achievements, Abiva continues to be a beacon for the local literary community. He is the founding leader of the Samahang Lazaro Francisco (SLF) and an active member of various national literary organizations, including the DOST-National Research Council of the Philippines, Philippine PEN, and the Unyon ng mga Manunulat ng Pilipinas (UMPIL). His leadership and participation in these groups reflect his commitment to nurturing the next generation of Filipino writers and scholars.

The 2024 Peter Solis Nery Prize will formally recognize Abiva and other winners in a grand ceremony set for November, during the 12th anniversary of the Peter Solis Nery Foundation. Established by multi-awarded Filipino poet, playwright, and filmmaker Peter Solis Nery, the foundation and its prize have become one of the country’s most prestigious honors, celebrating excellence across a range of literary forms.

This recognition not only adds another feather to Professor Abiva’s cap but also reaffirms his legacy as a distinguished figure in Filipino literature and a tireless advocate for the promotion of the Filipino language and culture. ###