Before controversial National Artist for Literature F. Sionil Jose’s angioplasty operation at the Makati Medical Center early this year, he was able to write significant notes and last will which he shared with his family and friends.
One of them was the food he wanted serve during his funeral wake, one might consider a weird concern but for a great writer like him it was a realistic proposition.
According to Glaiza Lee, one of the writers at the Corporate Communications of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), F. Sionil Jose, Francisco Sionil Jose in real life, requested that lugaw (porridge) be served during his funeral wake.
“Yes, sinabi niya ‘yon,” quipped Glaiza at the side ramp of CCP during the tribute to the other late National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera.
On May 18, 2022 at 5 pm, the CCP will pay homage to Jose in a state funeral service.
According to the CCP Public Relations Office, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra led by Maestro Herminigildo Ranera, will perform “Ti Ayat ti Maysa nga Ubing,” one of the late National Artist’s favorite songs.
Renowned pianist Raul M. Sunico will play “The Falling Leaves” with music by Joseph Kosma and English lyrics by Joseph Mercer.
Meanwhile, Tanghalang Pilipino artistic director Fernando “Tata Nanding” Josef will do an excerpt from Balete, a theater play based on “Tree,” one of Jose’s Rosales Saga novels.
Porridge is expected to be served after the event.