Aletheia Publishing proudly congratulates Dr. Jerry D. Imbong, a faculty of Visayas State University, for winning Best Book in Philosophy in the National Book Development Board's 43rd National Book Awards.
His book Towards a Mindanawon/Lumad Philosophy: The Filipino Philosophy of Bro. Karl Gaspar, CSsR, offers a sustained and original engagement with the thought and praxis of Karl Gaspar, Redemptorist brother, anthropologist, award-winning writer, and cultural worker, situating his philosophy within the lived realities, struggles, and wisdom traditions of Mindanawon and Lumad communities. Through careful analysis and contextual reflection, the work articulates a philosophy rooted in place, culture, and a commitment to social justice, thereby expanding the horizons of Filipino philosophical discourse.
The prize affirms the book’s scholarly depth and its vital contribution to amplifying indigenous and regional voices in philosophy, underscoring the continuing relevance of Mindanawon/Lumad thought in shaping contemporary intellectual and ethical conversations.
Dr. Epifanio San Juan, a prominent critic and activist, notes in the book's blurb: "This book is a much-awaited introduction to the effort of Bro. Karl Gaspar in forging a Mindanawon/Lumad indigenous philosophy. Bro. Karl's resistance against U.S. Imperialism and its local oligarchs inspired multitudes. Prof. Imbong's initiative in calling attention to the plight of the Lumads is noteworthy. I hope this book can launch a spark that will kindle a prairie-fire of debate, argumentation, and inquiry into the neoliberal legitimization of our neocolonial predicament."
Dr. Imbong's book bested three other outstanding titles: Kung Bakit May Mga Tanong Ang Buhay (published by Claretian Communications), Mula Bayang Sawi Hanggang Lupang Hinirang (published by Ateneo de Manila University Press), and Pilosopiya OPM Pag-ibig (published by Ateneo de Naga University).
An annual prize that honors the most outstanding titles written and published in the Philippines, the National Book Awards celebrates the enterprising creative labor involved in book publishing. Since 2008, it has been co-administered by the Filipino Critics Circle and National Book Development Board.