On August 19th, at 5 PM, Instituto Cervantes de Manila will host at its Intramuros branch the book presentation of Mosai-KO: Quince relatos del barrio de El Raval, a collection of short stories authored by fourteen young writers aged 11 to 24 from Barcelona’s vibrant Filipino community.
More than just a collection of fiction, Mosai-KO acts as a walking tour through the heart of Barcelona’s El Raval neighborhood, guiding readers beyond the tourist spots and into the hidden corners, alleys, and public plazas. The book captures the resilience and ongoing self-construction of the local Filipino diaspora, offering both a personal refuge and a promise for the future.
All fourteen young authors: Benjamin Elaydo, Charmae Llagas Caiga, Eduard Caringal, James Daniel Pangilinan, Jomari Chavez Edangalino, Jynwell Maloles, Jyrelle Marie Gonzales de Chavez, Kara Dumpit, Katrina Nicole Oamil, Khendie Rei Dumpit, Kiara Ordinario, Nelissa Aina Tubon Tojon, Patricia Jane Chipongian, and Yven Marie Enoserio Dalisay, are active members of the Kudyapi Choir, a group named after the traditional Filipino lute.
Blending their cultural heritage with a Spanish upbringing, these second-generation youth serve as a bridge between the Philippines and Spain, using literature to reclaim their voices, identity, and place in the world. Featuring a prologue by Karessa Malaya and an epilogue by Nats Sisma Villaluna, the anthology stands as a powerful testament to the vitality of the diaspora across Europe. As Villaluna writes in the closing pages, “words become the notes that never fade, remaining long after the choir has left the stage.”
Attendees are encouraged to register in advance through this link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/HvRT6MjHZQ
This event is presented by Instituto Cervantes, in collaboration with the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines. AECID and Intramuros Administration. The event will feature readings by some of the authors, an engaging talk on community identity, and a special performance. Admission is free and open to all members of the press and public.
