Written by: Emilia
Edited by: Noah
What is Miguel Syjuco doing at ISM? Why does he pull up to our English classes, giving us talks and workshops?
Miguel Syjuco is a Filipino author and journalist, best known for Ilustrado: A Novel and his opinion editorials published in the New York Times. His work focuses primarily on Philippine society, politics, and identity. Through his writing, he persistently critiques the Philippines’ contemporary and historical issues, often in the political sphere.
With Miguel Syjuco being such an accomplished writer, why has he been spending his time at ISM? Back in 2012, his novel Ilustrado was introduced in IB English A curriculum to amplify Filipino voices, beginning the relationship between ISM and Syjuco. This eventually led to his first visit to ISM as a guest author. The relationship deepened as the HS English department and Syjuco brainstormed about how to effectively run creative writing classes, sparking the idea of an annual arrangement. During these visits, Syjuco works with school publication teams, helps students explore his work and other Filipino fiction, and runs creative writing workshops. Reflecting on the collaboration, Syjuco shared, “It’s the best thing a writer could ever ask—to have people engaging with your work on such a deep level.”
Mr. Butcher, who invited Syjuco to ISM 13 years ago, explained that reaching out to accomplished authors and publishers has always been a big challenge. Over the years, the English department has contacted many, but responses are often rare, and the costs of bringing them to ISM for a speaking engagement have been too high. Mr. Butcher said, “With Dr. Syjuco, we were lucky to establish the correspondence and develop the special relationship we have with him.” Having a highly accomplished author regularly return to ISM is truly a blessing.
Maintaining a relationship with Miguel Syjuco over the years allows students a unique opportunity to experience his continuously growing success firsthand. His articles on Philippine politics are regularly published in the New York Times. Additionally, he teaches literature and creative writing at NYU Abu Dhabi, and he has published his second novel titled I Was the President’s Mistress. Mr. Butcher noted, “ISM students working with him had front-row seats and access to a world-renowned critically acclaimed writer of fiction, journalism, and social activism, even as he continued to grow, publish, and develop in all of these areas.” This connection is especially significant since, as Syjuco’s success grew, he became increasingly withdrawn from public life. He no longer participates in public speaking, Q&As, or social events. The only public event he continues is his work with ISM, a testament to the depth of this relationship and the value of his ongoing collaboration with the school.
Miguel Syjuco’s presence at ISM provides students with direct access to a highly accomplished writer, an opportunity that can significantly elevate their writing skills and experience. Under his guidance, students can ask him questions directly and draw inspiration from his journey as a writer. Syjuco’s focus on Filipino culture and politics also resonates with the student body, offering a deeper understanding of local issues and sparking interest in both his work and the topics he explores.
ISM’s long-standing relationship with Miguel Syjuco for over a decade continues to provide the ISM community with countless opportunities to work with a highly accomplished Filipino writer. His presence not only helps students improve their writing but also inspires students to find their own voices in storytelling, offering a bridge to the greater world of literature.
