Edith Tiempo: The First Lady of Philippine Literature

Did you know? 

Edith Tiempo's full name is actually Edith Cutaran Lopez Tiempo. She is one of the most influential Filipino writers in the Philippines. A poet, fictionist, literary critic, and teacher. Edith made contributions to Philippine literature through writing and being a mentor to generations of Filipino authors. That is why she is the First Lady of Philippine Literature, having received an award in 1999, and the first female National Artist for Literature.

Life & Background

Edith Tiempo was born on April 22, 1919 in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya. At the age of 92, Edith passed away on August 21, 2011, in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental. 

She studied at Silliman University, earned her master's degree from the University of Iowa (United States), and earned her doctorate in English literature at the University of Denver (Colorado).

Edith and Edilberto at University of Iowa

She was married to Edilberto K. Tiempo, a fellow writer and teacher. Together, they are known as "literary tandem" because both of them are accomplished writers and teachers who nurtured generations of Filipino writers.

Major Works

• Bonsai - Edith's most famous poem, appreciating the beauty and symbol of small things.

• The Builder - Known for its philosophical style.

• Halaman - Appreciation for nature and life.

• His Native Coast - exploring identity and belonging.

Themes & Style

Edith's works often explore nature, life, and human emotions through vivid imagery and symbolic language. Her style in writing is strict in terms of language. 

Contributions & Legacy

First Siliman University National Writers Workshop in Dumaguete, 

Negros Oriental (photo courtesy)

Edith Tiempo is the co-founder of the Silliman University National Writers Workshop, the first in Asia and the longest running in the Philippines. She and her husband mentored and nurtured generations of Filipino writers. 

Aside from being the founder of the Silliman University National Writers Workshop, she was awarded the National Artist Award for Literature in 1999, making her one of the canonical authors for her contributions to Philippine literature.

Reflection

I have learned that Edith Tiempo played a major role in Philippine literature for shaping generations of Filipino writers through her workshop and for being the first female to receive the award of National Artist Award for Literature. Edith Tiempo is indeed an inspiration and a wonderful figure to look at.

References

Edith Cutaran Lopez-Tiempo was born on April 22, 1919 in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya. (2024, May 19). The Kahimyang Project. https://kahimyang.com/articles/2920/edith-cutaran-lopez-tiempo-was-born-on-april-22-1919-in-bayombong-nueva-vizcaya

 

Lara, S. S. (2024, January 22). Edith L. Tiempo: Up close and personal. Philippines Graphic. https://philippinesgraphic.com.ph/2024/01/22/edith-l-tiempo-up-close-and-personal/

 

Wikipedia contributors. (2025, August 7). Edith Tiempo. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edith_Tiempo

 

Silliman University National Writers Workshop | Silliman University. (n.d.). https://su.edu.ph/academics/national-writers-workshop/#1553671298954-8f927c7f-8019