Ricky Lee launches first novel

The worlds of cinema, literature, television, journalism, and the academe converged as personalities gathered recently for the launch of Para Kay B (O Kung Paano Dinevastate ng Pag-ibig ang 4 out of 5 sa atin), the first novel by scriptwriter Ricardo “Ricky” Lee, at the UP Bahay ng Alumni, UP Diliman, QC.

Piolo Pascual, Lorna Tolentino, Gina Alajar, Cherie Pie Picache, Chanda Romero, Malou de Guzman, Eugene Domingo and Cesar Montano read excerpts from the novel.

Ricky Davao, Skarlet, and Cookie Chua performed musical numbers.

Director of ceremonies was Marilou Diaz-Abaya, assisted by Jerome Pobocan and Toots Sanchez.

Lee’s townmates from Daet, Camarines Norte, also graced the occasion. The book launch also served as a grand reunion of Lee’s students who have attended his free scriptwriting workshops since 1982.

Self-financed and mostly held at his home in QC, these intimate learning sessions have produced several of today’s acclaimed filmmakers.

The special occasion also marked the inauguration of Philippine Writer Studio, — Lee’s own version of Mowelfund — a welfare institution that will support writers in their creative, financial, emotional, and health-related needs.

Lee also announced the production of an omnibus film by 39 indie directors who agreed to shoot two to five-minute excerpts from Para Kay B for free.

Among them are Dante Mendoza, Jeffrey Jeturian, Aureus Solito, Adolf Alix, Khavn dela Cruz, Raya Martin, and Lav Diaz.

“This is the realization of a life-long dream for me,” Lee said of his debut novel.