Manila, April 23 -- Senator Loren Legarda on Wednesday reaffirmed the importance of Philippine literature in shaping national identity and elevating the country's cultural presence on the world stage, as the nation observes National Literature Month this April.

"There is a rich history of literature in our country, even dating back to pre-colonial times when our ancestors passed down epics, folktales, myths, and songs through oral tradition," she said in a news release.

Legarda emphasized that both oral and written forms of literature are crucial in preserving heritage, fostering creativity, and passing on timeless values to younger generations.

National Literature Month is commemorated every April under Proclamation No. 968, signed in...