Sheilfa B. Alojamiento began writing for Moro Kurier and National Midweek. She took up AB Political Science in Mindanao State University in Marawi, finished AB English in Silliman University in Dumaguete. She taught at Mindanao State University in Patikul, Sulu, and Notre Dame of Jolo College.

Razul A. Ariz of Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, is an Ilocano-Maguindanaon visual artist, writer, layout editor, and self-taught translator and lexicographer dedicated to documenting and mainstreaming his native language and biodiversity through his social media advocacy page, Magindaknown. His translation works have also been featured on his social media platforms, including Kampilan, a youth organization he co-founded in their locality. Among his translated works are “Nalúgën a Papanúk” (“Caged Bird”) by Maya Angelou, “Su Mangúda a Dátu” (“The Little Prince”) by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, and selected poems by Robert Frost, Rudyard Kipling, Fadwa Tuqan, and Hanan Mikha’il Ashrawi. His piece “Mapya pën Silan” was published in Bangsamoro Literary Review in 2024. His works revolved around the themes of personal journey, faith, liberation, and freedom. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies from Mindanao State University – General Santos and a Diploma in Women, Peace and Security from Mindanao State University – Maguindanao. A peace advocate and development worker, he currently works with a local non-government organization in Cotabato City, supporting projects that uphold the rights of Bangsamoro women.

Meizan Badrudin is a creative nonfiction writer from Cotabato City, Philippines. She is the author of the Polymath Project Book Series and a contributor to Philippine Daily Inquirer Young Blood. Her work explores themes of faith, healthcare, education, mental health, and the lived experiences of marginalized communities. She aspires to pursue medicine and continue telling stories that illuminate the dignity, resilience, and humanity found in everyday lives.

Yassin Guro Hadji Basher, born in Lumba-Bayabao, Lanao del Sur, is a graduate of mindanao State University. He is a writer and a public servant. 

Mirra-Edora Esmael is a faculty member of the Department of Literary and Cultural Studies of MSU-TCTO. She writes short stories, and creative nonfiction exploring womanhood, culture, faith, memory, and decolonial identity within the Philippine south. She was a fellow at the 2nd Maas Kamlon Writers Workshop and a participant at the 1st GAD Moro Women Writeshop of MSU-IIT. Her dream is to write an epic fantasy novel.

Jamil Mabandis is an aspiring Bangsamoro writer from Cotabato City, currently pursuing a BA English (Creative Writing) at the University of the Philippines Mindanao. Driven by a deep responsibility to preserve the voices and experiences of his people, he writes to navigate the world he is inheriting and to capture emotions too vast to hold alone. He envisions a prosperous, peaceful Bangsamoro land rooted in freedom and justice, alongside a healthy planet that safeguards all creatures. His work has appeared in the Bangsamoro Literary Review, Dagmay, SunStar Davao, and Liwayway Magazine.

Neshrin M. Macabago is a young writer from Saguiaran, Lanao del Sur whose works are mainly focus on womanhood, and it is evident in her debut work “A Daughter-In-Law” that was featured in the 8th edition of BLR. She loves to write stories that are culturally embedded and are inspired from real-life events, and she’s also into writing poetry. Her passion in writing started when she was 12, viewing it as her way of expressing her unsaid thoughts, feelings, and her creative imagination. Ms. Macabago earned a degree in Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies at Mindanao State University – Marawi, with a Latin Honor.

Norhana Maguid is a language educator and cultural advocate, a graduate of the Bachelor of Secondary Education, major in English, and the Master of Arts in English Language Teaching at Mindanao State University-Maguindanao. She is an active contributor to the arts and education communities in the Bangsamoro region.

Aida Marohom-Manda is a Filipino language educator, an Associate Professor, and a distinguished faculty member of the Mindanao State University – Integrated Laboratory School with more than two decades of extensive experience in teaching ang academic service. She holds a PhD in Filipino, which she completed at MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology. Her dedication to education continues to inspire both learners and colleagues in the academic community.

Aaqilah S. Mangarun is a BS Biology (Major in Animal Biology) graduate from Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology. Her works have been featured in online literary journals and local publications, such as the Manila Bulletin, Transit Dialog, panitikan.ph, and Bangsamoro Literary Review. She was a fellow at the Paradox Philippine Speculative Fiction Writing Workshop in 2025.

Al Jhamier U. Mosib, with the pen name Multilingual Snake, is a 21 years-old Moro writer, and student-linguist from Banisilan, Cotabato Province. He is currently taking Bachelor of Arts in English Language (BAEL) at the University of Southern Mindanao (USM). He speaks nine languages in total. He is also a fellow of SOX Writers Workshop 2025 and the Inaugural Bangsamoro Writers Workshop in Cotabato City. Some of his works were published under the Bangsamoro Literary Review, Dagmay, and Cotabato Literary Circle’s Zines.

Gonaranao B. Musor is a diplomat and writer currently based in Jakarta and previously posted in Cairo, Kuala Lumpur, Doha, and Singapore. He has written for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Rappler, GMA News Online, Bangsamoro Literary Review, and was the former editor of the now defunct www.bangsamoro.com. His work was also featured in the anthologies “Children of the Ever-Changing Moon: Essays by Young Moro Writers” (2007) and “Get Luckier: An Anthology of Philippine and Singapore Writings II” (2022). He recently co-edited the book “The Frontiers of Foreign Policy: Essays on Philippine Soft Power” (2024). He holds BA Psychology (Cum Laude) and MA Communication degrees from UP Diliman.

Gamson Jr Mawallil Quijano of Sūlū is a registered Radiologic Technologist based in Doha, Qatar and a contributor to MindaNews through “Tausūg in Doha.” His literary and creative works have appeared in various journals and publications.

Noor Mohammad Saada is an introvert, outlier and quinquagenarian Moro of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, born in Sulu, grew up in Tawi-Tawi, studied in Zamboanga City, and worked in Davao City, Cotabato City, Makati City, and Basilan. He brings with him more than two decades of professional work in school health and nutrition, human resources management, management information systems, education management, education in minority and equity contexts, education in fragility, cultural sensitivity, peace education, and donor-funded project development. He is a widower, father of two children, and now works in a local government unit, and part-time as a lecturer in a graduate school.

Masasalamin sa mga akda ni Almayrah A. Tiburon ang pagpapaunlad at pagsusulong ng wika at kulturang Meranaw. Siya ay propesor sa Departamento ng Filipino At Iba Pang Wika sa Mindanao State University (MSU) – Main Campus, Lungsod Marawi. Bilang isang manunulat, nakilala siya sa kanyang mga librong tulad ng “Salamin At Iba Pang Panglaw”, “Thotholan: Mga Alamat at Pabulang Meranaw”, at iba pang libro. Marami na rin siyang naisulat na mga tula, mga sanaysay, at mga maikling kwento. Ang obra maestra niyang kwento ay ang “Katao” gayundin ang kwentong “Langilaw” na naisalin sa iba’t ibang wika. Ginawaran siya ng prestihiyosong “Gawad Kampeon ng Wika 2024” ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino bilang pagkilala sa kanyang natatanging kontribusyon sa pagpapayabong ng wika at kulturang Meranaw.

Anifa Gamor Alonto is an associate professor at the English Department of Mindanao State University-Main Campus. She completed her baccalaureate degree in Speech Communication from the University of the Philippines-Diliman, and her master’s degree in English Language Teaching at MSU-Main Campus. She has taught as a pioneering Filipino university instructor in Libya before returning home to continue her teaching career. She is currently teaching English at the School of Foreign Languages in Kastamonu University, Turkey, under a two-year faculty exchange program with the institution.

Najhanne Buat Asum, 21, is from Balindong, Lanao del Sur. She is a fourth-year student in the Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies program at Mindanao State University – Main Campus. Najhanne writes from the heart, inspired by what she observes in the world, and hopes her words can make a small difference.

Guian Dayang writes poetry that explores labor, culture, politics, and the mystical or extraordinary. Their work reflects the textures of everyday life in Mindanao and the stories that emerge from the intersections of work, belief, and community.

Nelson Dino is an assistant professor in the Department of Literary and Cultural Studies at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) at MSU-TCTO. He also serves as the Director of the Office of Creative Works (OCREWORKS) at the same university, where he helps manage the Maas Kamlon Writers Workshop and remains involved in creative writing. Committed to supporting literature in the region, he regularly submits his works to BLR for consideration. He hopes his stories are deeply rooted in the landscapes of islands, the sea, and coastal communities, capturing the rhythm of the tides, the voices of children, and the resilience of local traditions. Through his creative writing engagement, he seeks to explore themes of identity, memory, and how people connect with their surroundings. He tries to weave elements of nature, daily life, and cultural heritage into narratives that feel vivid and immersive, highlighting the subtle beauty of the environment while keeping his stories both personal and expansive. As a proponent of Sululogy—a storytelling method grounded in self-narrative—he hopes to encourage readers and young writers to view the world through the lens of local experiences and imagination.

Raihana K. Lamalan is currently studying at Mindanao State University – General Santos City. Born in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, she grew up with little access to books and literature, but managed to find a way through Wattpad. She was a fellow of the SOX Writers Workshop in 2023.

Jamil E. Mabandis is an aspiring Bangsamoro writer, currently pursuing a BA in English (Creative Writing) at the University of the Philippines Mindanao. He loves experimenting with poetry and creative nonfiction, especially about Bangsamoro.

Shayra A. Macaombao, a fourth-year student at Mindanao State University Marawi, is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies. Her academic interests revolve around language, literature, and communication, particularly within the context of Philippine studies and education. As a graduating student, she is actively honing her research, critical analysis, and academic writing skills to prepare for a career in language-related fields.

Anna L. Mamalampac, is a second‑year pioneering student of the Bachelor of Arts in Literature. Her story was an honorable mention during the 32nd Iligan National Writers Workshop and was awarded the Jimmy Y. Balacuit Award for her Creative Non-fiction. Her early interest in art, nature, writing, and literature—cultivated since elementary school—has shaped her academic path, strengthened her commitment to literary studies, and continues to drive her exploration of storytelling. She aspires to publish works that reflect depth, clarity, and cultural consciousness. She believes that stories extend beyond mere narration; they preserve memory, identity, and the cultural values of a people. For her, stories do more than recount events—they shape minds, preserve cultures, and inspire change.

Nathara Mugong is a native of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi. She previously served as a Museum Engagement Assistant and has had her work featured in the Kislap-Diwa exhibit at the National Museum of Anthropology. In 2025, she was honored with the National Youth Achievement Award in Literary Arts by the National Committee on Literary Arts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCLA–NCCA).

Sandrah Maas Saudagal is a 23-year-old poet and artist from Kabacan, Cotabato. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Language, graduating with honors from the University of Southern Mindanao—Main Campus in 2024. She is a member of the Cotabato Literary Circle and the author of the zine Depth TOTS.com, published during the SOX Zine Fest 2024. In her undergraduate thesis, Tudtulan: Tales of Heroes, Virtues, and Cultural Perspectives, she sought to explore Maguindanaon literature by examining its portrayals of heroism, virtue, and cultural identity. Much of her creative work delves into themes of humor, depth, and self-discovery. Beyond writing, she enjoys creating and sharing videos on her personal Facebook page.

Jahara A. Solaiman teaches art appreciation, purposive communication, writing, and literature subjects at the English Department in Mindanao State University, Marawi City. Her poems have appeared in several issues of the Bangsamoro Literary Review, and she has also published poems in national anthologies like Lawanen II (Gantala Press, 2018) and the 40th anniversary edition of Ani (2018), the annual literary journal of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Her poetry takes inspiration from everyday life, the human condition, and the Meranaw culture. She is now finishing an MA in Language Studies in MSU-Marawi.

Si Ralph Jade Tampal ay isang Maguindanaon at Muslim na theatre artist at interfaith advocate mula sa Munisipalidad ng Kiamba, Probinsya ng Sarangani. Isa siya sa mga napiling kalahok sa 7th Amelia Lapeña-Bonifacio Writers’ Workshop (2023), ikaapat na Saling Panitik: Palihang Bienvenido Lumbera (2024), at ikatlong Palihang Rene O. Villanueva (2025). Nagtapos si Ralph ng Bachelor of Arts in Theatre (cum laude) sa Guang Ming College. Noong Abril 2025, pinarangalan siya bilang isa sa mga National Honorees ng Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines. Sa kasalukuyan, kumukuha siya ng Master of Arts sa Malikhaing Pagsulat sa Unibersidad ng Pilipinas–Diliman at nagtuturo sa Departamento ng Performing Arts ng Guang Ming College–Tagaytay.

Masasalamin sa mga akda ni Dr. Almayrah A. Tiburon ang pagpapaunlad at pagsusulong ng wika at kulturang Meranaw. Siya ay propesor sa Departamento ng Filipino At Iba Pang Wika sa Mindanao State University (MSU) – Main Campus, Lungsod Marawi. Bilang isang manunulat, nakilala siya sa kanyang mga librong tulad ng “Salamin At Iba Pang Panglaw”, “Thotholan: Mga Alamat at Pabulang Meranaw”, at iba pang libro. Marami na rin siyang naisulat na mga tula, mga sanaysay, at mga maikling kwento. Ang obra maestra niyang kwento ay ang “Katao” gayundin ang kwentong “Langilaw” na naisalin sa iba’t ibang wika. Ginawaran siya ng prestihiyosong “Gawad Kampeon ng Wika 2024” ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino bilang pagkilala sa kanyang natatanging kontribusyon sa pagpapayabong ng wika at kulturang Meranaw.

Raihan A. Yusoph is a faculty member of the History Department at Mindanao State University–Marawi. He earned his BA in History (2016) and MA in History, major in Mindanao Studies (2021), from MSU–Marawi, and completed additional doctoral units in Philippine Studies. He is currently pursuing a PhD in the International Peace and Coexistence Program at Hiroshima University, Japan, under the supervision of Dr. Mari Katayanagi, as a MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholar of the Japanese Government. He has presented research in various international conferences across Asia, Europe, and North Africa. His research focuses on Bangsamoro studies, peace and conflict studies, and biographical studies, with publications in Scopus-indexed and peer-reviewed international journals.

Almera Alimoden is a college student at Mindanao State University- Main Campus Marawi City, taking up Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies.

Nail Tugasan Arumpac is a third year college student at Mindanao State University – Sultan Naga Dimaporo, pursuing a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Filipino.

Johara D. Alangca-Azis is a Meranaw writer from Mindanao State University-Main Campus, Marawi City. Her passion and enthusiasm for studying, documenting, promoting and preserving her own language and culture, including her keen interest in composing poetry in Meranaw were sparked by her active involvement with the Meranaw Cultural Mapping Team of the MSU-Main Campus, where she serves as the Head of the Meranaw Language Program. Additionally, she leads the Meranaw Orthography Committee, which has produced a guidebook titled ‘SINANADAN KO KAZORAT SA BASA MERANAW (Learning Guide in the Writing of the Meranaw Language, Volume1). She has also authored several instructional materials on Meranaw language and culture, including a book titled “MONTIYA: Book of Meranaw Poems, Dialogues and Peace Sayings, Volume 1.”

Lady Johainee Dimaampao Banocag is a 24-year-old student at Mindanao State University – Main Campus, Marawi City, pursuing a degree in English Language Studies. With interest in writing about real-life experiences recounted to her, she looks forward to making her works an eye-opener for her readers. In 2024, she created a Facebook page called Write, Lady to share her reflections on various aspects of life. Aside from writing, she is also passionate about video creation and editing.

Aleah Sulaiman Bantas, dalawampung taong gulang at kasalukuyang kumukuha ng Bachelor of Secondary Education, Major in Social Studies, sa University of Southern Mindanao. Isang Maguindanaon mula sa Datu Paglas, Maguindanao del Sur, ginugugol niya ang kaniyang oras sa pagbabasa at pagsusulat— lalo na ng tula, panitikan, at mga akdang hinango mula sa kaniyang personal na karanasan ng paggunita, pakikipamuhay sa masa, at mga salitang kayang punan ang puwang ng katahimikan. Hilig niya rin ang pagguhit, paglikha, panonood ng pelikula, at pakikinig sa musika.

Laurehl Onyx B. Cabiles was born in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat. He grew up in Carmen, Cotabato Province. He has been a fellow of the Sox Writer’s Workshop (2023), NAGMAC-YWS (2024), and Ateneo de Davao Summer Writers Workshop (2024), and Davao Writers Workshop (2025). This young writer, who is also a licensed professional teacher and a member of Tridax Zines, loves to spend his free time attending local literary and music events to support his fellow artists in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region.

Adawia J. Jamasali is a researcher, educator, and cultural champion from Sulu. She teaches English and Communication at Sulu State College and is actively involved in community-based projects, particularly those that utilize storytelling and digital literacy to empower indigenous groups, such as the Sama. Her research interests are languages, education, linguistics, literature, and human resource development. Adawia is also an avid writer who uses her experience and local stories to raise awareness and resilience. She is also a public speaker and host.

Norhan B. Kudarat is a writer, teacher, and PhD student in Language Studies at Mindanao State University – Marawi. His literary works are deeply rooted in the cultural identity and lived realities of the Moro people. He is the author of “Dipatuan and Bai Laga“, a folk-inspired story published by Tanjungpura University in Indonesia. Currently, he is completing his dissertation on the stylistics of Kalimantan and Mindanao folk stories, exploring how linguistic and literary elements reflect the worldview and cultural values of Southeast Asian communities. His writing often centers on themes of faith, womanhood, identity, and resilience in Southern Philippines.

Sohaylah B. Manabilang is a second-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Literary and Cultural Studies at Mindanao State University – Main Campus, Marawi City. In 2022–2023, I was selected as a fully‑funded Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program scholar. I lived and studied in the United States for one academic year. I have also represented the university as a delegate at the Asia Youth International Model United Nations in Bangkok, Thailand. Passionate about cultural heritage, I currently serve as a Cultural Advocate and Brand Ambassadress of The Meranaw Hijab, promoting traditional attire and identity.

Si Al-jhamier Unos Mosib o kilala rin sa kaniyang pen name na Multilingual_Snake ay dalawampung taong gulang at naninirahan sa Banisilan, Cotabato. Kasalukuyan siyang kumukuha ng kursong AB English Language Studies sa Pamantasan ng Katimugang Mindanao (USM). Siya ay may malalim na pagmamahal sa mga katutubong wika at sa katunayan, siya ay nakapagsasalita ng walo sa kabuuan, kabilang ang wikang Maguindanaon, Hiligaynon, Cebuano, Maranao, Iranun, Kinaray-a, atbp. Naniniwala siyang ang wika ay susi sa pag-unawa ng kultura ng bawat isa.

Nathara M. Mugong is a Sama from Simunul, Tawi-Tawi. She is a graduate of Ateneo de Zamboanga University with a Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies.

Noor Mohammad D. Saada is an introvert, outlier and quinquagenarian Moro of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, born in Sulu, grew up in Tawi-Tawi, studied in Zamboanga City, and worked in Davao City, Cotabato City, Makati City, and Basilan. He brings with him more than two decades of professional work in school health and nutrition, human resources management, management information systems, education management, education in minority and equity contexts, education in fragility, cultural sensitivity, peace education, and donor-funded project development. He is a widower, father of two children, and now works in a local government unit, and part-time as a lecturer in a graduate school.

Almayrah A. Tiburon is a native Meranaw writer from Mindanao State University, Marawi City. She composed the official school hymn of Philippine Integrated School Foundation (PISF). Two of her books on fiction Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have e-book versions aside from printed ones. Her works have been published in respected periodicals and anthologies such as Umaalma, Kumikibo, In Certain Seasons: Mother Write in the Time of Covid, Likhaan: The Journal of Contemporary Philippine Literature, Aruga: Mga Sanaysay ng Pagtanggap at Paglingap, Ani 40: Katutubo where she served as the editor of the Meranaw section of this book, BioLente: Mga Bagong Katha sa Danas ng Dahas at Banwa, Laoanen:  Kababaihan/ Digmaan/ Kapayapaan, CNN Philippines’ Best Books of 2018 Lawanen 2: Mga Alaala ng Pagkubkob which she also served as editor of this book, Mga Haraya ng Pag-igpaw, Bangsamoro Literary Review, Liwayway, Danas: Mga Pag-aakda ng Babae Ngayon which was named among The Best Filipino Books of the 2010s by CNN Philippines, Likhaan’s Dx Machina: Philippine Literature in the Time of COVID-19, Sulatan sa Panahon ng Pandemya, Mindanao Harvest 4: A 21st Century Literary Anthology, and Asymptote Journal. She is the author of Thotholan: Mga Alamat at Pabulang Meranaw, and Salamin At Iba Pang Panglaw which was among the Top 5 finalists for the Best Books of Short Fiction (Filipino) in National Book Awards 2019. Her literary interests also cover the folk literature of the Meranaw people. She wants to encourage Meranaws and other Mindanaoans, whose voices are seldom heard in the literary scene, to write about their sentiments and be published.

Ronaliza Manangat-Wagas is a faculty member of Mindanao Statee University – Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (MSU-TCTO).

Abdul Majiid K. Abdul Azis is a College Instructor specializing in History, recognized for his insightful writings under the pen name “Abdul Abdul”. With a Master’s degree in History, Abdul has contributed significantly to the literary world, showcasing his talent through various publications. Some of his works can be found in  “The Aftermath: A Struggle for Survival” (2022), “Nowhere Near Home” (Stripes Literary Magazine: Issue 1 Vol. 2, 2022), “Freedom” (TalesFromTheOtherLand Group, 2021), “Coast to Coast” (2020), and “Tales and Twists” (2019).

In 2024, Abdul continues to expand his literary footprint with notable contributions. He is featured in “Echoes in the Wind” (Written Tales Chapbook XIII, June 8, 2024), selected for “All Your Poems Magazine” (June Issue, The Writers Publishing Company, June 1, 2024), and is a contributor to “The Mountain was Abuzz: Poems of Himalaya: an Anthology” (Sabre & Quill Publishers, May 19, 2024). His other works as a contributor can be read in “Whispers of the Heart” (June 2024), “Otherwise Engaged Literature and Arts Journal 13th Edition” (June 2024), “Highland Park Poetry” (July 2024), and “Lacuna Magazine” (October 2024), and The Literary Magazine (December 2024).

Abdul’s writing deeply engages with themes of identity, displacement, and the human condition, resonating with readers across diverse literary platforms.

Sheilfa B. Alojamiento began writing for Moro Kurier and National Midweek in the wake of the post-February movement. She took up AB Political Science in Mindanao State University in Marawi and finished AB English in Silliman University in Dumaguete.

Hanin A. Ayaown is a student of the Mindanao State University-Main Campus in Marawi City.

Joross Michael D. Bongcarawan is a fourth year Secondary Education student at Mindanao State University-Marawi, majoring in English. He is passionate about teaching as it has been his dream since he was a kid. He wants to be an effective educator both in Western and Islamic education, imparting beneficial knowledge to learners that will help them better navigate the complexity of today’s world. He aims to make a great contribution to the community through teaching. His interests include writing poems, short stories, and journals.

Norhasnie Curo is a fourth-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies at the College of Social Sciences and Humanities, MSU-Marawi. A writer and a language researcher with a particular focus on Meranaw and English in court discourse, she is currently conducting a sociolinguistic analysis of legal English. She aspires to become a full-time writer and a professional linguist that will contribute to the preservation and promotion of Meranaw through research and community-based language initiatives.

Nelson Dino is engaged in writing poetry, short stories, narratives, novels, and song lyrics in different languages. In addition to serving as a history and language faculty member at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) at Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography, he is tasked with being the director of the Cultural Affairs Office (CAO), supervising the Tambuli Cultural Dance Troupe, Gusi Lumba Music Guild, Dolphin Ambassadors, and University Marching Band.

Neshrin M. Macabago, 22, hails from Pindolonan, Saguiaran, Lanao Del Sur. She is currently a 3rd year English major at Mindanao State University – Marawi.

Mohammad Ammar G. Mangondato is a Meranaw youth and a Magna Cum Laude BS Psychology graduate from Mindanao State University-Marawi, where he was honored with the College Writer of the Year award in 2024. He actively engaged in extracurricular activities as a youth volunteer, student leader, campus journalist, student peer counselor, and youth parliamentarian during his college years. Writing, whether technical or creative, serves as his ultimate form of self-expression and a powerful medium for empowering the voices of the unheard. He aspires to influence the future and teach the values of kindness and hope to the younger generation through his simple yet meaningful works. In addition to writing, he finds solace in community work, particularly within underprivileged sectors, and has been a volunteer at the Al-Barizeen Foundation since 2022.

Nathara M. Mugong is a Sama from Simunul, Tawi-Tawi. She is a graduate of Ateneo de Zamboanga University with a Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies.

Sittiehaya Lininding Omar is an Islamic Banking and Finance student of the Mindanao State University-Main Campus in Marawi City.

Almayrah A. Tiburon is a native Meranaw writer from Mindanao State University, Marawi City. She composed the official school hymn of Philippine Integrated School Foundation (PISF). Two of her books on fiction Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have e-book versions aside from printed ones. Her works have been published in respected periodicals and anthologies such as Umaalma, Kumikibo, In Certain Seasons: Mother Write in the Time of Covid, Likhaan: The Journal of Contemporary Philippine Literature, Aruga: Mga Sanaysay ng Pagtanggap at Paglingap, Ani 40: Katutubo where she served as the editor of the Meranaw section of this book, BioLente: Mga Bagong Katha sa Danas ng Dahas at Banwa, Laoanen:  Kababaihan/ Digmaan/ Kapayapaan, CNN Philippines’ Best Books of 2018 Lawanen 2: Mga Alaala ng Pagkubkob which she also served as editor of this book, Mga Haraya ng Pag-igpaw, Bangsamoro Literary Review, Liwayway, Danas: Mga Pag-aakda ng Babae Ngayon which was named among The Best Filipino Books of the 2010s by CNN Philippines, Likhaan’s Dx Machina: Philippine Literature in the Time of COVID-19, Sulatan sa Panahon ng Pandemya, Mindanao Harvest 4: A 21st Century Literary Anthology, and Asymptote Journal. She is the author of Thotholan: Mga Alamat at Pabulang Meranaw, and Salamin At Iba Pang Panglaw which was among the Top 5 finalists for the Best Books of Short Fiction (Filipino) in National Book Awards 2019. Her literary interests also cover the folk literature of the Meranaw people. She wants to encourage Meranaws and other Mindanaoans, whose voices are seldom heard in the literary scene, to write about their sentiments and be published.

Mohannad Daguit Ules is a Maguindanaon journalist and storyteller from Bugawas, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte. His work spans writing, multimedia, and policy advocacy, with a deep engagement in narratives that inform, challenge, and inspire. A former Editor-in-Chief of The Torch, he has earned national recognition in news, science writing, and copyreading. Beyond print, he explores filmmaking and visual storytelling, including editing the short film Battle of Tampakan in 2018.

Sheilfa B. Alojamiento began writing for Moro Kurier and National Midweek in the wake of the post-February movement. She took up AB Political Science in Mindanao State University in Marawi and finished AB English in Silliman University in Dumaguete.

Meizan Badrudin is a creative nonfiction writer from Cotabato City. She is the author of the 5 Polymath Project Book Series: Gift of Merci, Academic Asylum, Unchained Narratives, Twilight’s Veil, and Lady in the Countryside, which addresses her advocacy on education, mental health, healthcare, and poverty. She is also a contributor to the Philippine Inquirer Young Blood, with one of her notable articles titled “Being Muslim in a Catholic School.” She has contributed various essays nationwide, including Law of Reversed Effort, Living Inside the Box, Letters Buried Six Feet Underground, Gifted Kid Burnout, Where You At?, The Price of Being an Overachiever, The Sandwich Class, One Percent of the Class, and Apoptosis: We Die Every Day. Some of her research works have been accepted at national conferences, such as her study on Cyberchondriasis. Currently a third-year MedTech student at San Pedro College in Davao City, she passionately advocates for social awareness, embodying the belief that a love for medicine goes hand in hand with a love for humanity.

Joross Michael D. Bongcarawan is a fourth year Secondary Education student at Mindanao State University-Marawi, majoring in English. He is passionate about teaching as it has been his dream since he was a kid. He wants to be an effective educator both in Western and Islamic education, imparting beneficial knowledge to learners that will help them better navigate the complexity of today’s world. He aims to make a great contribution to the community through teaching. His interests include writing poems, short stories, and journals.

Lourd Greggory D. Crisol is a researcher, teacher, and emerging writer from the city of majestic waterfalls, Iligan City. Currently, he is affiliated with the English Department of the Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology. His works have appeared in Bisaya Magazine, as well as in the Beyond the Binary literary magazine. He was also a fellow to the 8^th Amelia Lapena Bonifacio Writer’s Workshop organized by the Likhaan UP Institute of Creative Writing, and the TranSCRIPT playwriting workshop organized by Japan Foundation and the Center for Culture and Arts of MSU-IIT. He is passionate about works related to culture and folklore.

Nelson Dino is engaged in writing poetry, short stories, narratives, novels, and song lyrics in different languages. In addition to serving as a history and language faculty member at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) at Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography, he is tasked with being the director of the Cultural Affairs Office (CAO), supervising the Tambuli Cultural Dance Troupe, Gusi Lumba Music Guild, Dolphin Ambassadors, and University Marching Band.

Ahmed ibn Djaliv T. ‘Amin’ Hataman is a provincial board member of the first district of Basilan. He graduated with a degree in Economics at the Ateneo de Manila University in 2023. He currently takes part in many pursuits aimed at youth development for a united and stronger Bangsamoro.

Omarjan Ibrahim Jahuran is an independent scholar and writer from Tabawan island, South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi. Two of his bilingual children’s stories (Sinama and Tagalog) were included in Ani, the 40th edition publication of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in 2018 and he was a contributing writer for the CCP Online Encyclopedia of Philippine Arts (CCP-EPA) in 2019 and 2021 for the architectural designs of the traditional Sama houses and the Langgal Wooden Mosque of Tabawan Island.

He is also a Mother-Tongue Translator (MTT) and language consultant for the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL) Philippines Salinan Project in the development and publication of Central Sinama-English Dictionary, which is now available initially as an online version. He is also a co-administrator for the online cultural website www. kaumanSama.org. and Sinamalibrary.org as part of his advocacy in documenting the stories, oral traditions and practices of the Sama people.

From 2018-2019 He had a weekly radio program in Tawi-Tawi at DXGD AM Radio for Peace “Pusaka’ Kamatto’ahan” (legacy of our ancestors) to raise awareness about the Sama Cultural Heritage. He was one of the cultural consultants for the GMA Teleserye “Sahaya” and research assistant for 2 Gawad Urian-nominated Best Documentaries: The “Lepa and Other Watercrafts Boat Building Traditions of the Sama of Tawi-Tawi”; and “7 Dances of Life; A salient socio-religious practices of two Sama communities in Tawi-Tawi” He has training background on Language Translations, Lexicography and Ethnomusicology. Currently he is the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) and Co-Chairman of the Local Council for Tourism, Culture and Arts of South Ubian Municipality, Province of Tawi-Tawi.

Aisha L. Kunting graduated senior high school at Philippine International School in Riyadh, where she was the assistant editor in chief for the Campus Voice paper. She worked for DQ Living Magazine Riyadh as a Content Contributor, creating reels and posts for DQ’s social media accounts. Currently, she is pursuing a degree in Business Administration at Mapua Malayan Digital College. Her hobbies include creative writing such as poems and short stories, and food photography for her Instagram blog, Averenza.

Hussien C. Malawi, born on January 29, 2000, in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies at Mindanao State University – Main Campus. Prior to this, he completed his senior high school education at Al Khwarizmi International College Foundation, where he studied under the ABM strand. His passion for stories and language has driven him to explore various forms of writing, and he has always been fascinated by the way words can evoke emotions and build entire worlds. 

Outside of his academic and writing endeavors, he enjoys reading manhwa and manga, sketching, and immersing himself in anime and movies. He also finds joy in listening to music and playing video games, both of which fuel his imagination. Guided by the belief that “Life begins at the end of our comfort zone,” he continuously seeks new experiences and challenges, pushing creative boundaries as he grows in his writing journey. 

Rayyan Paglangan is a half Maguindanaon and half Blaan undergraduate student at Mindanao State University-General Santos City, taking up a Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies. She was raised in a Maguindanaon-dominated community in South Cotabato; hence, she grew up culturally inculcated and primed. Currently, she is an active youth leader, a community project implementor, and is affiliated with various organizations. She takes pleasure and finds purpose in partaking in civic and cultural organizations, especially in the amplification of marginalized groups’ voices. Apart from her background in journalism, she is also a creative writer aspiring to gain literary values for her works under Maratabat:MSU-GenSan Writers Guild. Beside writing fiction and essays, she also enjoys publishing brief literary criticisms on Facebook. 

Jahara A. Solaiman is an instructor at the English Department of Mindanao State University-Marawi City, where she teaches English, literature, and art appreciation. Her earlier works have appeared in other literary anthologies, the most recent being Lawanen II (Gantala Press) and Ani 40: Katutubo (Cultural Center of the Philippines). In addition to creative writing, she loves imparting her love of art (she works with colored pencils, watercolors, and acrylic) to her students.

Almayrah A. Tiburon is a native Meranaw writer from Mindanao State University, Marawi City. She composed the official school hymn of Philippine Integrated School Foundation (PISF). Two of her books on fiction Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have e-book versions aside from printed ones. Her works have been published in respected periodicals and anthologies such as Umaalma, Kumikibo, In Certain Seasons: Mother Write in the Time of Covid, Likhaan: The Journal of Contemporary Philippine Literature, Aruga: Mga Sanaysay ng Pagtanggap at Paglingap, Ani 40: Katutubo where she served as the editor of the Meranaw section of this book, BioLente: Mga Bagong Katha sa Danas ng Dahas at Banwa, Laoanen:  Kababaihan/ Digmaan/ Kapayapaan, CNN Philippines’ Best Books of 2018 Lawanen 2: Mga Alaala ng Pagkubkob which she also served as editor of this book, Mga Haraya ng Pag-igpaw, Bangsamoro Literary Review, Liwayway, Danas: Mga Pag-aakda ng Babae Ngayon which was named among The Best Filipino Books of the 2010s by CNN Philippines, Likhaan’s Dx Machina: Philippine Literature in the Time of COVID-19, Sulatan sa Panahon ng Pandemya, Mindanao Harvest 4: A 21st Century Literary Anthology, and Asymptote Journal. She is the author of Thotholan: Mga Alamat at Pabulang Meranaw, and Salamin At Iba Pang Panglaw which was among the Top 5 finalists for the Best Books of Short Fiction (Filipino) in National Book Awards 2019. Her literary interests also cover the folk literature of the Meranaw people. She wants to encourage Meranaws and other Mindanaoans, whose voices are seldom heard in the literary scene, to write about their sentiments and be published.