James Joyce's Legacy Inspires Filipino Writers in Bloomsday Competition

Bloomsday, celebrated on 16 June every year, commemorates James Joyce’s 1922 novel Ulysses.

Set in Dublin over a single day -16 June 1904, it follows the experiences and thoughts of Leopold Bloom and a host of other characters. Being one of the world’s most iconic literary celebrations, the Irish Embassy in Manila organised a short story competition, in honour of Bloomsday, open to Filipinos across the country.

Sharing a love of literature

This was designed to discover and highlight up and coming writers, students, and other professionals, who share a love of literature and Ireland.

From over 300 entrants, judges from universities in the Philippines and in Ireland narrowed down the search to a top ten, consequently awarding the top three winners with cash prizes.

The winning piece, “Ugliest Sweater” about a Filipino taking up a course at Trinity College Dublin spending Christmas in Ireland, was written by Mr. Al Ryanne G. Gatcho who was awarded by Minister of State Frank Feighan and Ambassador Emma Hickey during the St. Patrick’s Day Festival held last 14 March, 2026.

Also awarded during the festival was Mr. Alpine Moldez, earning 2nd place for his original piece entitled “The Kept Man”. The Kept Man tells the story of a daughter sharing information about her father’s identity and relationship with a man in Dublin back in 1996.

This short-story competition was an incredible opportunity to recognise the work of some of the country’s most promising talents.