Multi-awarded writer conducts workshops in Berlin

Dr. Isagani Cruz, multi-awarded writer and educator, conducted writing workshops at the Philippine Embassy in Berlin from July 5 to 6 as part of Embassy's continuing capacity-building program for officers and staff.

During the workshop, entitled Writing to Communicate, Dr. Cruz discussed the fundamentals of effective writing in relation to the various communication materials prepared by the Embassy. The workshop included the review of previous press releases issued by the Embassy. Dr Cruz also gave tips on preparing reports and writing newsletter articles.

Dr. Cruz tackled the ways that the Embassy can effectively communicate through social networking services and other internet-based platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and email blasts. He analyzed the elements of existing Facebook accounts or pages of various Philippine embassies and suggested ways to improve them. He also compared and contrasted various Embassy websites, with recommendations on how to keep readers' interest.

The concept for the writing workshop was developed by Dr. Cruz in close coordination with Philippine Ambassador to Germany Maria Cleofe Natividad, based on an assessment of the writing needs of Embassy staff.

Dr. Cruz is widely recognized for his contributions to Philippine literature. He is a member of the Palanca Hall of Fame since 2004, having won the prestigious literary award several times. He also won the SEAWRITE Award in 1991, the Centennial Literary Contest Award in 1998, and the Gawad Balagtas Award in 1999.

A friend of the Embassy, Dr. Cruz has been an active agent in improving bilateral cooperation with Germany, particularly in the field of cultural relations. - PIA — ARA