Meet the Contributors of Voces del Alma: Sombra y Luz

Voces del Alma: Sombra y Luz is more than just an anthology of Chabacano poetry, it is also a collection of memories, experiences, and aspirations from Zamboangueño writers of different backgrounds and generations. Each contributor brings a unique perspective, reminding us that Chabacano literature continues to grow through the people who write, read, and keep the language alive.

Through their biographies, we celebrate and recognize the individuals whose voices made this anthology possible.

Introducing the Contributors Behind Voces del Alma:

Arnolyn Balaton is a recent university graduate and one of the contributors to Voces del Alma. She is the author of a three-part poem that explores the theme of unrequited love, a work that resonated with many readers of the anthology.

Featured Poems in Voces del Alma:

"Tiene Ya"

"Tiene Ba?"

"Tiene Pa"

EJ Franz Hugo is one of the student contributors to Voces del Alma. His participation in the anthology reflects the enthusiasm of young writers who continue to explore and express themselves through the Chabacano language.

Featured Poem in Voces del Alma: "El Sol Abajando"

Isidro Floreta is a Zamboanga-based visual artist who is widely active in the local art scene. He has mentored several Zamboanga-based artists and previously served in the Ateneo de Zamboanga University's SUGPAT Program, which supports the education of out-of-school youth.

He is known for his captivating Madonna and Child portraits, historical vinta depictions, and works portraying the "indomitable sea." In 2023, he curated and led the What Are You Made Of? exhibit at the Erehwon Center for the Arts in Metro Manila, showcasing the works of 16 Zamboanga-based artists and bringing Mindanao talent to the national stage. He also serves as a friend and adviser to some officers of the Pinturas en Lienzos Artist Society Zamboanga City (PLASOZ) and regularly participates in regional collaborations such as the SAGWAN exhibit.

His contribution to Voces del Alma reflects his continued support for Chabacano language and culture.

Featured Poems in Voces del Alma:

"Un Sueño"

"Tu"

"Memoria"

Jason Kris Kanindot prefers to let his writing speak for itself. He describes himself in just one line: "Still after the elusive: hunting for metaphors."

His poem titled "Seco", is one of the featured poems in Voces del Alma.

Ryan Jimenez is an Assistant Professor IV in the Department of English at Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology in Lanao del Norte, Philippines. A graduate of Western Mindanao State University (AB English, 2014), he is based in Iligan City, teaching English Language Teaching and Linguistics. He is also a writer with interests in Wattpad storytelling and has authored nonfiction books such as When Words Kept Unsaid, When Battles Fought in Silence, and the English novel The Gossiper’s Prayers.

Featured Poem in Voces del Alma: "Kun Era" 

Jayline Gonzales-Barredo is a passionate kindergarten teacher at Dulian Integrated School in Manicahan District and an early childhood educator who graduated from Western Mindanao State University. A mother, she contributes to Voces del Alma with a thoughtful poem about the loss of bird habitats in Zamboanga, reminding readers of the importance of protecting our trees and preserving the environment for future generations.

Featured Poem in Voces del Alma: "Donde Esta?"

Mark Matthew D. S. Viñas, professionally and colloquially known as “Don Matthew,” is a Chabacano writer who has been actively engaged in the promotion and preservation of the Chabacano language since 2018 under the mentorship of the late Dr. Jose Genaro R. Yap-Aizon through initiatives of the City Government of Zamboanga. He is a pianist, Chabacano language enthusiast, and a graduate of Hotel and Restaurant Management, holding two National Certificate II (NC II) qualifications. He is likewise an avid enthusiast of antiques and vintage heritage pieces, as well as a dedicated advocate for local history, culture, and heritage preservation.

Featured Poems in Voces del Alma:

"Escribi Chavacano, Conversa Chavacano"

"Chavacano de Zamboanga"

"Amor de un Nana"

"Curacha de Alavar"

"Yo un Zamboangueño"

Mary Chris Turno is a 28-year-old who was born and raised in Zamboanga. She has a passion for writing poetry in a unique blend of Spanish, English, and Chabacano. She believes that creativity is something to be celebrated, not dismissed as weird. Currently, she works as a Medical Representative Virtual Assistant and resides in Tagaytay. She is also pursuing her bilingual certification to further enhance her professional skills.

Featured Poems in Voces del Alma: "Donde Esta I-II"

Nyka Ela Atilano Nueva España is a contributor to Voces del Alma whose poem reflects on learning to accept life's uncertainties with hope and resilience, reminding readers that not everything is within our control.

Featured Poem in Voces del Alma: "El Mañana Hende Yo Puede Agarra"

Rocel Matthew M. Gregorio is the youngest contributor to Voces del Alma. An 18-year-old recent graduate of Culianan National High School, where he graduated with honors, he enjoys painting, sketching, writing stories, hosting events, and singing. A Top 6 finalist in a local youth pageant, Rocel aspires to become a model or brand ambassador. His contribution to the anthology reflects the growing participation of young people in Chabacano literature.

Featured Poem in Voces del Alma: "El Fuerza de mio Mayores"

Meet the Translator Behind the English Translations of Selected Poems in Voces del Alma:

Rozel Mar J. Miranda is a member of the Chavacano Wikipedia team. He recently graduated from senior high school and contributed English translations for selected poems in Voces del Alma.