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Pablo Tariman

ABS-CBN News

<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1760002763916Pablo.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Pablo Tariman/FacebookMANILA — Pablo Tariman, a respected journalist, writer, and cultural critic known for his passionate coverage of Philippine arts, music, and cinema, died on Thursday, October 9, at the age of 76 due to lingering illnesses.</div>He passed away at around 1 p.m., as confirmed by his wife, Merlita Lorena-Tariman, which was relayed to ABS-CBN News by Pablo&#x27;s close friend, writer and book editor Elizabeth Lolarga.In her tribute for &quot;The Diarist,&quot; Lolarga recalled when she last visited him at Rizal Medical Center, where he passed.&quot;I asked him if he would like a priest to minister to him and give him the final blessing, he shook his head, saying softly, &#x27;Huwag na lang (No more).&#x27; But then, when the possibility of Fr. Robert Reyes, a progressive, dropping by to anoint him opened, he was amenable, this time saying, &#x27;Gusto ko nang pagbayaran ang mga kasalanan ko (I want to atone for my sins)!&#x27;&quot; she wrote.Tariman’s career spanned decades, earning him a reputation as a keen observer of the Filipino cultural scene and a champion of local talent. His work appeared in various national publications, notably the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Vera Files, where he was known for his eloquent reviews, insightful essays, and deep knowledge of classical music.Tributes poured in from the arts community following the news of his passing. Renowned pianist Cecile Licad, a longtime friend, shared her heartfelt tribute on social media, saying she will dedicate her upcoming concert in Virac, Catanduanes on October 11 to him. “He is one of the Philippines’ truly great writers, poets. Met him when I was 13 in the Bicol region near the Mayon Volcano, and since then dedicated his life passionately to writing for the arts, music, films, and culture. A very intuitive and sensitive person. He will sorely be missed by many, many people he had inspired,” Licad wrote, adding that Catanduanes was a place very special to Tariman’s heart as she extended her condolences to his family and friends.Born on December 30, 1948 in Baras, Catanduanes, Tariman took up journalism at the Manuel L. Quezon University. His voice resonated across print, broadcast, and social media as he chronicled the country’s concert halls, theaters, literature, and cultural scene. Over several decades, he produced thoughtful criticism and features for major publications, helped nurture local talent, and organized performances that brought classical and contemporary works to communities beyond the capital.As a poet, Tariman touched readers with works that bridged personal introspection and public reflection. His book &quot;Love, Life and Loss – Poems During the Pandemic&quot; (released in 2022) gave voice to grief and resilience in a time of shared vulnerability.His poem, &quot;Ode to Frontliners,&quot; was also unveiled as a marker in Pasig City by Mayor Vico Sotto in December 2020.<div><a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/life/04/27/22/how-poetry-helped-pablo-tariman-cope-with-the-pandemic">How poetry helped Pablo Tariman cope with the pandemic </a></div>His life was marked by personal tragedy and courageous expression. He endured the loss of his daughter Kerima Tariman — herself a poet and activist — who was killed in 2021. In the years since, Tariman honored her memory through concert tributes, essays, and public discourse on art, justice, and remembrance.He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and his extended community of writers, musicians, and artists who consider him mentor and guide.Details for his memorial service are expected to be announced soon. -- With report from Totel de Jesus

Pablo Tariman, a respected journalist, writer, and cultural critic known for his passionate coverage of Philippine arts, music, and cinema, died on Thursday, October 9, at the age of 76.

Pablo Tariman, a respected journalist, writer, and cultural critic known for his passionate coverage of Philippine arts, music, and cinema, died on Thursday, October 9, at the age of 76.

Pablo Tariman, veteran arts and culture writer, dies at 76

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Pablo Tariman, veteran arts and culture writer, dies at 76

ABS-CBN News

Published October 09, 2025 06:01 PM PHT

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Updated October 09, 2025 06:44 PM PHT

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