LONDON 03 March 2023 – In celebration of National Arts Month, the Philippine Embassy hosted the launch of London-based OFW Marilou Madriaga Smart’s first book, “Ang Reunion”, at Sentro Rizal London.

In her welcome remarks, Chargé d'Affaires, a.i. Rhenita B. Rodriguez said that Ms. Smart’s book is a testament to her remarkable talent, which is in line with the National Arts Month’s theme “Ani ng Sining, Bunga ng Galing.”

During her talk, Ms. Smart shared that she followed her dreams in writing her book and having it published, though she has not had any formal training nor prior experience in writing. “Ang Reunion” is a fictional story about high school classmates and their experiences with bullying as the main theme.  During their class reunion 25 years later, the classmates learned valuable life lessons and insights.

 Ms. Smart is a healthcare assistant in a psychiatric hospital in the UK. She grew up in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, and became an overseas Filipino worker in Hongkong in 1987.

The book launch was attended by members of the Filipino community and representatives of UK-based Philippine media organizations. END