Mabaya is a sequel to Kahel. It is divided into three parts: Pangamba (Anxiety), Galit (Anger), and Paglaya (Freedom). Mabaya, when read cover to cover, brings its readers to realize that even the most incurable disease may give hope and change lives.
Using the art of poetry as a platform, Mabaya is an anthology that aims to spread knowledge about HIV/AIDS and to help bring an end to the social stigma the disease brings. Most of the pieces are written in Filipino. Take a sneak peek below.
I am honored to work with young and talented poets and spoken word artists whose beautiful works are also showcased in this book. Through Mabaya, we wanted our voices to be heard as one in the advocacy for HIV/AIDS. What a better way to instill encouragement and hope than through a form that everyone appreciates—poetry.
The book launch held in a special World AIDS Day episode of PalabasTayo in partnership with The Red Whistle was both informative and entertaining. As an advocate, I was able to share about HIV/AIDS and its status in the Philippines today. Felix Rivera, a Hong Kong-based theatre actor performed my piece, “Mabaya”, which is also the summary of the entire book itself. Raflesia Bravo, another thespian and a PETA performer, presented “Araw (Isang tula ng pangangamusta)”. The latter is a poem that talks about COVID-19 and how the people living with HIV/AIDS have been affected during this pandemic.
Carlo Bautista, Kelly Garcia, and Sen Diaz sang during the book launch. Bautista performed “Kwarto”, a song featured in the movie “Mga Batang Poz”. Three copies of Mabaya were also given away during the book launch to those who answered some questions regarding HIV/AIDS.
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The book is currently sold out and will be available again by February 2021. For pre-orders and other inquiry, contact Paul Cardenas.
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, Galit (Anger), and Paglaya (Freedom).){kind=link}