Negros Oriental Major Literary Groups & Institutions
1.
Silliman University National Writers Workshop
- The oldest creative writing workshop in Asia
- Trains writers, poets, and literary scholars
- One of the main reasons Dumaguete is called a “City
of Stories”
👉 This is the core institution for literary
development in Dumaguete.
2.
Edilberto and Edith Tiempo Creative Writing Center
- Based in Silliman University Department of English & Literature
- Supports writing programs, workshops, and publications
- Works with local groups and festivals
3.
Buglas Reading & Writers Club
The group Buglas Reading & Writers
Club is actually one of the most important literary groups in Dumaguete.
✔️
What they do:
- Organize and support literary events, reading
advocates, and festivals
- Help lead Dumaguete’s push to became a UNESCO City
of Literature
- Collaborate with institutions like:
- Negros Oriental Alliance of Culture & Arts
Advocates ( NOACAA-INC))
- National Alliance of Reading Advocates
- St. Paul University Dumaguete
- Asian College Inc
- City Government of Dumaguete
- Bais City Public Library
- Organize the Buglas Literature Festival every April
4.St. Paul
University Dumaguete
. Basa Bata
reading advocacy in Pulangtubig
. Paulinian Writing
style
. advocate of
literature and culture
Reading Communities & Book Culture
1.
LibrAria Books -EJ Blanco drive
•Book store•
- Independent bookstore + literary space
- Hosts Silent Book Club 6200 (reading meetups)
- Organizes readings, discussions, and literary events
👉 One of the most active reading communities in the
city.
2.
Ikaduhang Andana Bookstore and Study Space
- Local bookstore focused on Philippine literature
- Functions as a cultural hub and reading space
- Hosts open mic and literary activities
- A popular spot in Dumaguete that functions as both a bookstore and a café, offering a quiet environment for reading and working.
Location: While associated with the Judge Centeno Road Daro along old E. J. Blanco Extension.
Operating Hours: It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (opening slightly later at 11:00 AM on Sundays).
Atmosphere: Reviewers often highlight its cozy, "hidden gem" vibe, making it a preferred location for students and local bibliophiles.
Offerings: Beyond a curated selection of books, they serve various coffee drinks and light snacks.
🎉 Literary Events & Networks
6.
Dumaguete Literary Festival
- Annual festival with panels, readings, workshops,
book launches
- Organized by multiple groups (writers, bookstores,
institutions)
- Open to students, readers, and the public
7.
Arts and Design Collective Dumaguete
- Creative hub where many literary events happen
- Venue for readings, book clubs, and festivals
🎭 Related Cultural & Youth Groups
8.
Youth Advocates Through Theater Arts
- Focuses more on theater, but promotes creative
expression and storytelling among youth
- Helps develop literary and artistic skills
🧠 Big Picture
Dumaguete is recognized as a literary
hub in the Philippines, with:
- Universities supporting writing and reading culture
- Active bookstores and reading clubs
- Festivals and workshops for writers and readers
This ecosystem is why the city is
being positioned as a UNESCO City of Literature
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| declared Dumaguete as UNESCO Creative City of Literature Photo from Negros Oriental Tourism Board |


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