Prof. Jhoanna Lynn Cruz was at the center of dynamic discussions in “Dissent in Literary Spaces,” a book launch of multiple literary works which was held on May 1, 2025, at Good Intentions Books, Comuna, Makati City. The discussions explored how literature and its forms embody and empower necessary dissent and foster further discussion.
The book launch featured “Lugar Lang: Dispatch from Davao,” a collection of essays by Prof. Jhoanna Cruz published by Ateneo University Press, “The Arhat Son,” a new novel by Charlson Ong, and literary art zines by BBZ.
“A lovely, lovely audience packed to overflowing,” wrote Sarge Lacuesta. “A lot of rich discussion and real talk among friends old and new,” he stated.
“The courage of this woman is unmatched,” wrote Rebie Picazo Ramoso in a social media post. “That was my first thought as I listened to Jhoanna Cruz sharing about her book, Lugar Lang, which compiles her essays as a columnist in Davao for the Mindanao Times during the reign of PRRD and then Mayor, VP Sara Duterte. Her open dissent towards the injustices that she had witnessed firsthand resulted in her political persecution and harassment – some of which I find unimaginable,” she wrote.
“Dissent in Literary Spaces” was organized by PEN Philippines with Ateneo University Press, Milflores Publishing, and the Editors of Bente-Bente Zine.
The top photo by Rebie Picazo Ramoso shows a glimpse of the scene at the book launch..
A glimpse of the scene from a photo by Sarge Lacuesta
Artwork by Good Intentions Publishing
Photo by Rebie Picazo Ramoso