Veteran journalist and longtime I-Witness host Howie Severino is stepping into an exciting new literary chapter with the release of his first book of essays. Titled “People I Knew (And Some I Didn’t But Wrote About Them Anyway),” the collection beautifully weaves together profiles of historical figures, beloved colleagues, and everyday heroes. The project originally blossomed from online tributes Severino wrote for friends who had passed away, as he chose to focus on their most memorable qualities and legacies rather than simply expressing his grief.
The transition from digital tributes to a published collection was sparked by writer Cristina Pantoja-Hidalgo, who connected Severino with the UST Publishing House. Drawing from his rich archive of pieces previously published on GMA News Online and GMA Regional TV, the book features an impressive roster of personalities. Readers can look forward to insightful essays on the Aquino family, former President Fidel V. Ramos, and iconic GMA network colleagues such as Mike Enriquez and Cesar Apolinario.
Beyond politicians and journalists, Severino’s book shines a well-deserved light on various legends from the arts and culture sectors. He recounts profound experiences, such as sharing a jail cell with acclaimed movie director Lino Brocka during Martial Law, and honors creatives like theater luminary Floy Quintos and comedian Tado Jimenez. Interestingly, the collection also explores the unexpected life impact of icons he never actually met, including Nora Aunor, Kobe Bryant, and former President Ramon Magsaysay.
True to his roots as a grounded storyteller, Severino ensures that unsung individuals get their spotlight as well, taking time to honor people like his former townhouse security guard who biked to work daily. The book is as diverse in its literary style as it is in its subjects, featuring pieces written in Filipino, poetic verses, long-form reportage, and even bite-sized reflections. As Severino explains in his introduction, the compilation is not about the subjects’ level of fame, but rather the diverse ways we can choose to memorialize people through words.
Avid readers and history enthusiasts can grab their copies at the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay. The official book launch takes place on September 11 at 4:00 PM, followed immediately by a book signing session. Fans will have another chance to get their copies signed by the author on the evening of Saturday, September 12.
