MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Google Doodle, a regular feature on the homepage of Google, celebrated the 129th birthday of the legendary Filipina author and educator Paz Marquez-Benitez on March 3, 2023.
Born on March 3, 1894, in Lucena City, Quezon Province, Marquez-Benitez was a pioneering literary figure in Philippine literature. Her most famous work, “Dead Stars,” is a classic in the genre of short stories, published in 1925.
She is also recognized for her contribution to the development of Philippine literature in English, which has cemented her legacy as an important figure in the country’s cultural history.
Aside from her writing accomplishments, Marquez-Benitez was also a prominent educator. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of the Philippines in 1912 and went on to teach English and Literature at several institutions in Manila.
She was also one of the founders of the Philippine Women’s University and headed the Department of English and Comparative Literature.
Marquez-Benitez’s granddaughter, Jennifer Santiago, shared her thoughts with GMA News about the Google Doodle tribute to her grandmother.
Santiago expressed her delight and said, “It’s a great honor for my grandmother to be featured on Google Doodle. She would have been very proud.”
Google Doodle is known for featuring notable personalities and events to recognize their contribution to society and celebrate their achievements.
The inclusion of Marquez-Benitez on Google Doodle is a significant milestone in recognizing the immense impact of Philippine literature and culture. Her works continue to inspire writers and scholars across generations and have been recognized worldwide. – WhatALife!
Also read: Severino Reyes, pen name ‘Lola Basyang’, commemorated by Google
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