Greg M. Mercado:Romancing with Words Book Launch

MANILA, Philippines - The recent book launch about Cebuano writer Greg M. Mercado (1919-1967) had the ambiance of an intimate, cozy gathering, despite being held at the bustling Ayala Activity Center one evening.

The book is authored by Dr. Erlinda K. Alburo (former Director of the USC Cebuano Studies Center), and printed by USC Press.  Dr. Alburo first heard about Greg Mercado from her late father. She gave the book title "Romancing with Words" since Greg's three passions - as short story writer, journalist, and radio broadcaster - all had to do with words.

One of Greg's sons,  Engr. Roberto "Boy" Mercado, was supposed to give the response from their family. However, shortly before the launch, he passed away due to a lingering illness. In his behalf, Boy's sons flew in from the US and attended for their father. Greg Diaz Mercado, Greg's grandson, spoke of how excited his father, Boy, was about the launch. He (Greg Diaz Mercado) also said how his father spoke often over the years about having a book published on their grandfather's life and works.

The launch was enriched by a dramatic reading of two short stories (The Awakening; Rajah Tupas) and essays from Greg's works by personalities from media and the community -- Mike Lopez, Grace Lacamiento, John Rey Saavedra, Joeberth Ocao, and Clint Potestas from The Freeman; Haidee Juezan and Radel Paredes from Cebu Daily News; and US Consular Agent John Domingo.

Further giving life and voice to Greg's background, life, and works were the opening remarks of Jose Bersales Jr. (Manager, USC Press) and the guest speaker, Mdme. Virginia Peralta-Vamenta (doyenne of Cebu's Broadcast Industry and a CDN columnist).

Distinguished personalities in the audience included Madame Fe Sala Villarica, doyenne of Cebu's art & culture; Mike and Rose Henessy of Arts Council; Judge Simeon and wife Milagros Dumdum; Consul Dodong Alegrado; Consul Jaime Picornell; President of Cebu Toastmasters Club Atty. Eddie Barita; and fellow TMs Atty. Amay Ong Vano; Judge Benjie Cobarde, and Laureano Rogero.

Emcees for the evening were Marlinda Angbetic Tan (The Freeman Lifestyle Executive Editor) and Jude Bacalso (CDN Lifestyle Contributing Editor). Cocktails followed after the event by Creative Cuisine, courtesy of Ayala Center Cebu.

This book launch is another The Freeman Lifestyle Event in tandem with Ayala Center Cebu and Cebu Daily News. (FREEMAN)