Children’s book author Luis Gatmaitan to deliver UST lecture on May 2

(The following is a press release from the University of Santo Tomas.)

Acclaimed children’s book author and medical doctor Luis Gatmaitan, widely recognized for his significant contributions to Philippine children’s literature and health education, will deliver this year’s iteration of the Paz Latorena Memorial Lecture on Saturday, May 2, at 2 pm, to be held at the Albertus Magnus Building Auditorium in University of Santo Tomas (UST), España Boulevard, Manila.
Writing under the pen name “Tito Dok,” Gatmaitan has authored numerous award-winning books that promote values formation, literacy, and wellness among young readers, earning distinctions from institutions such as the Ten Outstanding Young Men, Catholic Mass Media Awards, the National Book Awards, and the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards Hall of Fame. Gatmaitan previously chaired the Philippine Board on Books for Young People and Kuting or Kuwentista ng mga Tsikiting.
Gatmaitan’s books have been published by several local publishing houses and international agencies like UNICEF and World Vision International. His children’s book “Sandosenang Sapatos,” listed in the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) catalogue for the Bologna International Children’s Book Fair, was named an Outstanding Book for Young People with Disabilities by the IBBY. The story has been adapted into play and musical.
Carrying the theme “Literature and Healing,” this year’s lecture will examine the role of literary works in fostering emotional, psychological, and even physical well-being. It aims to highlight how storytelling can serve as a tool for recovery, empathy, and transformation, particularly in times marked by uncertainty and collective challenges.
The annual memorial lecture honors Paz Latorena (1908–1953), a pioneering figure in Philippine literature in English and a former faculty member of UST. Through her teaching and mentorship, she helped shape generations of writers and thinkers, leaving a lasting imprint on the country’s literary landscape. In conjunction with the lecture, the event will also host the awarding ceremony of the 3rd Paz Latorena On-the-spot Essay Writing Contest for senior high school students.
Held as part of UST’s founding anniversary celebrations and National Literature Month, the lecture provides a venue for scholars, students, and practitioners to reflect on the evolving role of literature in society. It continues to serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue on the intersections of art, culture, and human experience. Previous lecturers include National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, cultural critic Rolando Tolentino, editor Inday Espina-Varona, and lawyer-dramatist Nick Pichay.
The event is organized by the UST Department of Literature and the Department of Creative Writing, in collaboration with the UST Literary Society and the UST MaKatha Writers Circle. Participants from various academic and professional backgrounds are encouraged to attend.
For inquiries, interested parties may contact Dr. Allen Dave Arboleda, chair of the UST Department of Literature, via email at abarboleda@ust.edu.ph or by phone at 8786-1611 (local 8922). – Rappler.com