Don Carlos Palanca Jr. was a prominent Filipino businessman and philanthropist, best known for his contributions to the literary arts in the Philippines. He was the founder of the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature, which recognizes outstanding literary works in various categories, encouraging writers to excel in their craft. Born on September 24, 1904, Palanca was also involved in various business ventures, including the Palanca Group of Companies. His legacy continues to influence Filipino literature, as the awards he established remain one of the most prestigious honors for writers in the country.