The Philippine literary community is deeply mourning the loss of a true icon.
Award-winning author, feminist, poet, and journalist Marra PL. Lanot passed away at the age of 82. As we honor her extraordinary life, we warmly remember her beautiful days. Above all, we celebrate her immense contribution to Philippine literature. Writing fluidly in Filipino, English, and Spanish, her storytelling and teaching touched countless lives. As a result, she leaves behind a profound legacy across the nation’s cultural landscape.
A Storied Writing Career
Lanot built an extraordinarily accomplished literary path across several decades.
First, she captured national acclaim when her debut poetry collection, Sheaves of Things Burning, won second prize at the 1967 Palanca Awards. Later, in 1980, she earned first prize in the essay category for Deja Vu In America: Or, One of the Songs. Over the years, her career was celebrated with numerous accolades, including a Catholic Mass Media Award and the 2020 Gawad Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas.
Additionally, her landmark publications include Passion and Compassion: Mga Tula sa Ingles at Pilipino (1981), Riding the Full Moon and Other Poems in Filipino and Spanish (2008), and Cadena de Amor: New and Selected Poems in English, Filipino, and Spanish (2017).
Mentorship and Public Service
Beyond her own writing, Lanot actively shaped the broader cultural community. As a proud alumna of the University of the Philippines Diliman, she returned to her alma mater as an educator. There, she mentored emerging writers in literature, creative writing, and film. Furthermore, she held key administrative positions at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Movie and Television Rating and Classification Board. Ultimately, she offered her expert guidance as a long-standing judge for the Palanca Awards.
Family Legacy and Final Remembrance
Lanot passed away on Sunday, August 16, after a prolonged hospital stay. Above all her professional triumphs, she was a loving wife to screenwriter Jose “Pete” Lacaba. Likewise, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, and sister. Reflecting on her vibrant personality, her family shared:
“She will always be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and sheer love for life. If she loved you, you would know it for sure — she wasn’t the type to hide it.”
Today, she is survived by her husband, her son Kris, her three grandchildren, and her siblings Pfootsy and Xyrus.
Marra PL. Lanot’s legacy endures far beyond the pages of her books. In remembering her beautiful days, we reflect on a remarkable life defined by passion and mentorship. Most importantly, her vital contribution to Philippine literature will continue to inspire generations of readers and writers for years to come.
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