Cover Photo: Arnold Arre
Photo: Arnold Arre
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While we wait for Tori Tadiar's Highsummer, which has been picked up by Disney and will release in 2024, check out these other graphic novels by Filipino creators that are equally compelling
At long last, Philippine graphic novels are getting the recognition they deserve, especially after the success of the recently-adapted Netflix show, Trese, based on the eponymous work of Budjette Tan, illustrated by Kajo Baldisimo.
See also: Filipino Novel "Trese" Gets The Netflix Treatment, To Launch This June 2021
This feat has opened the door to the realm of Filipino komiks (comics), where one can find many more stories which are distinctly Filipino, all for one reason—it features a hero that fights for his fellowmen's welfare—as explained by Professor Bien S Mabbayad of the Department of Literature at the University of Santo Tomas in Problematizing the Filipino Hero.
It's an adventure worth taking and a culture worth exploring.
Browse below if you're ready to start a new journey to learn more about Filipino myths and culture:
Sagala
Above Photo: Goodreads
Photo: Goodreads
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Tori Tadiar's Sagala is set in an alternate universe during the Spanish era in the Philippines, where Riel, a Filipina gunsmith, dreams of becoming a courtesan at the Royal Palacio with her brother Constantino. This inspiring read needs to be in every young girl's book collection!
Si Amapola
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If you've read Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata by Ricky Lee, then you'll want to check out its newest version—a graphic novel illustrated by none other than Manix Abrera. You'll love revisiting Amapola's world in this new colourful adaptation.
See also: Trese: A Quick Guide On The Monsters Of Philippine Folklore—Who Is Friendly And Who Is Not?
Tablay
Above Photo: Tablay / Facebook
Photo: Tablay / Facebook
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Accompany Anya as you discover the wonders of New Intramuros in Katrina F Olan's Tablay, a graphic novel slated to release in 2023. In this reality exists a smart city trapped behind armoured walls and guarded by Philippine Mech Force, who protect the people from aswangs.
Tabi Po
Above Photo: Goodreads
Photo: Goodreads
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Mervin Malonzo's Tabi Po begins with Elias, who struggles with his identity and appetite as a newborn aswang. Set during the Spanish occupation of the Philippines, a time when religion was introduced to Filipinos, this thrilling work also tackles faith alongside folklore, making it an all the more exciting read.
Sixty-Six
Above Photo: Adarna
Photo: Adarna
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Have you ever heard of an old man becoming a superhero? Russell Molina realises this unique concept in Sixty-Six. This graphic novel, illustrated by Ian Sta Maria, portrays how anyone can be a hero—even if you're a 66-year-old man named Celestino "Tino" Cabal.
Read more: National Heritage Month: Filipino Books That Shaped Our History
The Mythology Class
Above Photo: Amazon
Photo: Amazon
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Written and illustrated by Arnold Arre, The Mythology Class is a fantasy graphic novel that features Philippine myth and magic in a contemporary world. Anthropology student Nicole Lacson is left to deal with living creatures after being summoned to meet Madame Enkanta. What follows next is an epic coming-of-age story you wouldn't want to miss out on!
14
Above Photo: Twitter
Photo: Twitter
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Your graphic novel collection cannot be complete with award-winning creator Abrera's works, including 14. Prepare to discover many mythological creatures as the novel's lead character enters the 13th floor of his building, where supernatural beings—including the Tikbalang, Manananggal, and Kapre—hang and exchange stories.
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Christine Andas is a features writer and the style lead of Tatler Philippines. She mostly covers style-related content but enjoys writing about space, sneakers, and her favourite stars. She acquired a master's degree in Creative Writing at the University of Santo Tomas and has written young adult short stories which can be read online.
