Likhaan: University of the Philippines Institute of Creative Writing is now accepting applications for the 63rd UP National Writers Workshop (2024). Just like last year, we will push through with the physical format of the workshop. Regardless of the venue, rest assured that we will find the most conducive space to host our dear writers and their projects.

For the 63rd iteration of the workshop, we are renewing our commitment to supporting the literary arts and engaging in productive conversations with writers. We understand that like the works we discuss, the workshop itself is subject to both appreciation and criticism, both which help us make the UPNWW better as we proceed with the next decade of the institution. We will continue with the hope that writers will be empowered to establish more literary spaces all over the Philippines.

With this in mind, writers from regions outside NCR are highly encouraged to apply. In turn:

• All fellows are entitled to a modest stipend.
• Accommodation will be provided, as well as transportation to the venue from the pick-up point.

The UP National Writers Workshop is committed to ensuring a safe space of creative freedom and productive discourse for all participants for the entire duration of the workshop.

Please note that the workshop aims to help advanced writers further hone their craft.

Below are the guidelines for application:

Qualifications

• (1) Authors with at least one published book, (2) graduates of creative writing, literary studies, and related programs (on all levels), (3) Palanca prize winners, and (4) Likhaan Journal authors are all welcome to apply.
• Applicants must be writers in English, Filipino or other Philippine languages (manuscripts must be accompanied by a translation in English or Filipino).
• Experience with writing workshops and familiarity with literary concepts is preferred.

Requirements

• A digital word file (.doc or .docx) of one original unpublished manuscript. The manuscripts could be a collection of short pieces (short story, poetry, creative nonfiction, one-act play, short film scripts), or long-form work (a novel, a script for a documentary, or a full-length script for TV, film, or theater) to be discussed during the workshop. Submissions should not exceed 6,000 words. Please follow this format: 12 points, Times New Roman font, double-spaced, 8 1/2 x 11.
• A digital word file (.doc or .docx) of an essay on “What I write, how, and why” in relation to the work-in-progress. The essay may include, not only the applicant’s literary, cultural, and academic influences, but also personal influences relating to family, class origin, ethnicity, gender and sexuality, among others. The essay must be no longer than 2,500 words and will be the basis for a 20-minute presentation that the fellow is expected to do during the workshop. Please follow this format: 12 points, Times New Roman font, double-spaced, 8 1/2 x 11. For reference on how to write this essay, please read Here and Now: Selected Poetics from the UP National Writers Workshop. Download through this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13zaW-3sA5zRnyeXLpy71ZUoy4j1UrQoe/view?usp=sharing
• Scanned copies of the applicant’s published work: this includes the cover and the copyright page for books, and for anthologies and journals, the cover, copyright page, and table of contents where the name of the author and their contribution is shown. For films and plays, a digital copy of the poster with its release date
• For graduates of literary programs, a scanned or digital copy of their certificate of graduation must be sent alongside the essay and manuscript.
• Filled-out application form in the appropriate filename format, with required photo, ID scan, and certification form sent as attachments. Download through this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q_Qldte3XNL0_YHEVng_8KGe05fmfYA1/view?usp=share_link

All submissions with complete requirements and fully accomplished application form must be sent to 63upnww@gmail.com.

Please follow the subject line and filename format: [Language], [Genre], [Title], [Author’s Last Name]. For example: Filipino, Tula, “Ang Akda,” Alvarez. The deadline for submissions is January 31, 2024.

Only writers who go through the complete application process will be considered. The chosen fellows must be present for the full duration of the week-long workshop. For inquiries about the workshop, email us at 63upnww@gmail.com.