The vibrant literary scene in Davao City received a significant boost last September 6, 2025, when aspiring writers gathered at Plan B Café in Mabini for an inspiring creative workshop. The event, titled From Blank Pages to Breakthrough, was organized by Bookbed and brought together local writing enthusiasts for a day of learning and collaboration.
A Welcoming Space for Writers
KB Meniado, a fellow Dabawenya and respected writer and editor with Bookbed, hosted the gathering with genuine warmth and encouragement. While specifically designed for emerging writers, the event attracted participants at various stages of their writing journeys, including published authors eager to contribute their experiences.
The café's owners, Bianca Delgado and Batet Sentilanosa, had been building anticipation for weeks, extending invitations to local writers to utilize their community shelf and participate in the growing creative hub they've established.
Structured Writing Exercises Break Down Barriers
What made the event particularly effective were the engaging activities designed by Meniado. Participants engaged in focused writing exercises with clear, achievable objectives: craft a complete narrative with a beginning, middle, and end by the conclusion of the day.
This structured approach proved both simple and empowering, demonstrating that the writing process doesn't need to feel overwhelming. The exercises provided a practical framework that helped writers overcome initial hesitation and build confidence in their storytelling abilities.
Community and Atmosphere Fuel Creativity
The cozy atmosphere of Plan B Café contributed significantly to the event's success. Between writing sessions, participants enjoyed good food, comfortable surroundings, and the invaluable company of fellow storytellers. The café's mascot, Bibi Manki, added a playful touch while promoting the importance of reading and writing.
Beyond the initial act of writing, the event addressed the crucial next steps that many writers find challenging: editing, revising, and navigating publication paths. The shared recognition that every writer's journey is unique created a supportive environment where participants could explore different approaches to bringing their stories to audiences.
The gathering highlighted Davao's substantial creative potential, not just in literature but across the artistic spectrum. Events like From Blank Pages to Breakthrough provide essential platforms for local voices to develop, flourish, and eventually share their unique perspectives with the wider world.
