National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera
MANILA, Philippines — Filipino National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera passed away due to “due to complications of stroke” on Tuesday morning. He was 89.
His daughter, Tala, told INQUIRER.net that her father died at 9:14 am.
Lumbera was a critically acclaimed poet, critic, and dramatist.
He was a recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Journalism, Literature and Creative Communications before becoming a National Artist.
Lumbera was also a recipient of multiple literary awards, most notable of which are the National Book Awards from the National Book Foundation and the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards.
Condolences poured in from friends and colleagues of Lumbera.
“A former political detainee, Mang Bien was a staunch member and supporter of many progressive groups,” said journalist Inday Espina-Varona in a Facebook post.
“Isa ka sa mga taong mahal ko talaga,” author Lualhati Bautista said in a Facebook post. “Dala mo ang aming taos-pusong pagpupugay.”
(You are one of the people who is very dear to me. You brought with you our heartfelt salutation.)
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