Two Filipina creatives, visual artist Ren Galeno and journalist Nicole Dungca, have been named finalists for the prestigious 2024 Pulitzer Prize in the Illustrated Reporting and Commentary category. Their nominated work, “Searching For Maura,” uses comics to explore a neglected chapter of history from the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, where several Filipinos tragically died.
The Pulitzer committee praised their project for its “masterful and sensitive use of the comic form,” highlighting the unique and impactful approach taken by the team, which also includes journalist Claire Healy. “The narrative of ‘Searching For Maura’ not only revisits history but does so in a way that is both educational and emotionally compelling,” said committee member Shazna Nessa.
Ren Galeno, from Davao City, holds a bachelor’s degree in painting from the University of the Philippines Diliman and now specializes in comics and illustration. Nicole Dungca, currently reporting for the investigative unit of The Washington Post, has a rich background in investigative journalism and is the president of the Asian American Journalists Association.
Despite their strong showing, the award in their category went to Medar de la Cruz of The New Yorker, who captivated the jury with his stark black-and-white illustrations depicting the life-changing impact of a library in Rikers Island jail.
The Pulitzer Prizes, awarded annually by Columbia University, are among the highest honors in American journalism, literature, and music, recognizing significant contributions to public service and the arts.