TAGOLOAN Community College

Baluarte, Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental

Tel.No. (08822)740-835/(088)5671-215

College of Arts and Sciences

GEC 10 Philippine Popular Culture
Semester of A.Y. 2020-2021

Introduction
Philippine Popular Culture is a three-unit course that develops students’ ability to appreciate, analyze, and
critic popular culture in the Philippines. This course equips students with critical perspectives in
understanding popular culture in the Philippines and provides students with the necessary tools of analysis in
exploring our popular culture.
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Rationale

To equip students the skills and tools necessary of analysis in exploring critical perspective in
understanding popular culture in the Philippines.

Intended Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of popular culture and its political, economic and social
context.
2. Explain and evaluate the different forms of Philippine popular culture.
3. Analyze how popular culture affects the social, economic and political context.
4. Create their own cultural presentation as a way to explore specific social, political and economic issues.

Activity

Essay- Interpretation, Analysis, Criticism, Evaluation, Reflection

Plot Timeline

Quiz

Discussion

Module 7. Trending Arts: Visual Arts and Performing Arts

PHILIPPINE VISUAL ARTS

The Philippine visual arts encompass a range of forms developed by Filipinos in the Ethnic, Spanish, American,
and contemporary traditions. In ethnic communities, pottery, weaving, carving, and metalcraft are made for

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 ritual purposes or for everyday use. Spanish colonization introduced painting and sculpture whose subject matter
was for the most part religious, although secular themes and forms emerged in the 19th century under the
patronage of the new mestizo elite. The American period witnessed the conflict between conservatism and
modernism, with the latter gaining ground in the end in painting and sculpture. After World War II artists
explored a variety of Western and Eastern styles, media, and philosophies—some conciously going back to
ethnic roots—to express themselves as individuals and as Filipinos. The Ethnic Tradition Pottery stands among
one of the most ancient arts. The Manunggul Jar, excavated in Palawan circa 8th century BC, shows the high
artistic level which the art attained in ancient times. This large burial jar has a cover showing two men rowing a
boat, suggesting the belief among early Filipinos in an afterlife across a mythical body of water. Around its body
is an incised design of curved lines and dots. Indeed, extant examples of early Philippine pottery display a wide
variety of shapes and decorative techniques, including incision, stippling, applique, openwork, and impression
by rope and mat. Designs are often geometric and include stylized nature motifs. In later years pottery would
become more and more associated with objects for daily use, such as the palayok (clay pot) for cooking, and the
banga and tapayan (clay pot) for storing liquids. In the Ilocos, the making of burnay pottery continues as a lively
tradition. Weaving also originated from the precolonial times and remains as a precious living tradition. The
Cordillera groups of the north are well-known for the art of weaving. With a backstrap loom, they produce
blankets and articles of clothing that fulfill a practical function and also play a part in religion and ritual. This
tradition is also found in the adjacent Ilocos provinces which take pride in their sturdy abel (weave). In
Mindanao, the Tboli of Cotabato weave abaca cloth, called tnalak, in a difficult tie-dye process. This cloth has a
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large repertoire of motifs, such as the gmayaw bird, whose rhythms create the feeling of flapping wings, the frog
which signifies fertility, and the dancing man which calls for rain. These motifs attest to the lead in protest
art. Banding together as a group dealing with socio-political themes, the social realists work in a variety of styles
and media to expose foreign-dominated and exploitative structures and express the people’s aspiration for a just,
free, and sovereign society. Within these general concerns, there are particular themes, such as the struggle of
the cultural communities, land reform, workers’ rights, women’s liberation, and freedom from foreign economic
control. While there have been earlier groups of political artists, the Kaisahan social realists refined and
developed the aesthetics of the school. The major social realists of the original group are Pablo Baens Santos,
Edgar Fernandez, Antipas Delotavo,Orlando Castillo, Renato Habulan, Al Manrique, Neil Doloricon, Papo de
Asis,and Jose Tence Ruiz. They have been joined by younger artists, such as FedericoSievert, Artemio Barriga,
Elmer Borlongan, and Lito Mondejar. Outstanding political artists from the regions are Nunelucio Alvarado,
Norberto Roldan, and Charlie Co from Bacolod; Ruben de Vera and Rafael Cruz from Davao; and Aster Tecson
from the Cordilleras. Because of their immediate experience with grassroots struggle they have been able to
articulate their themes with vivid and highly specific images in drawings, paintings, and sculptures. Feminism
has been felt in the works of women artists. Imelda Cajipe-Endaya has been most successful in the use of
indigenous materials, like sawali and fabric collages, to convey feminist and anti-US intervention themes in a
vivid folk imagery. In her posters, illustrations, and paintings, Anna Fer has imaginatively articulated ethnic and
political themes. The Tarot series of Brenda Fajardo brings out women’s anticolonial struggle in indigenized
tarot images with folk and realist themes. 
Julie Lluch’s eloquent feminism lies in her terra-cotta portraits of women raging
against their traditional stereotyped roles. SandraTorrijos’ feminism explores the metaphysical. Exploring new
sculptural forms, Tence Ruiz’s jeepney assemblages on jeepney culture, Rey Paz Contreras’ T o r t u r e   a n d
D e a t h   in the Paco railroad station, and Gabriel Barredo ’s surrealistic celebrations of the bizarre convey their
various themes with artistic uniqueness. Increasing socio-political consciousness has also brought out the need
for the democratization of art through the use of indigenous materials, and thetransformation of indigenous
forms with contemporary content. At the same time, the visual arts have interacted with other arts, such as music
and theater. From David Medalla ’s kinetic and performance art and Raymundo Albano ’s and Roberto Chabet’s
conceptual approaches of the 1970s rooted in Western avantegarde are evolving multimedia works conveying
nationalistic and indigenous themes. Artists—like Roberto Villanueva, Jean Marie Syjuco, and Alan
Rivera — have also worked in dynamic forms combining theater, visual arts, and music. Photography has
developed as a form of artistic expression in the last century. Journalists have used the camera to record major
events and personalities, in Honesto Vitug’s coverage of presidential activities from Quezon to Aquino, John
Chua’s documentation of the EDSA Revolt, and Albert Garcia’s photographs of the Pinatubo
eruption. Advertisements have used pictures as well to sell products and institutions. But the more significant
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 development in photography is its useas a form of artistic expression—as in Eduardo Masferre ’s
Cordillera photographs, Dick Baldovino ’s portraits of Botong Francisco, Ed Santiago’s insights into the
jeepney, Jaime Zobel de Ayala ’s interpretation of dancers anddance movements, and Joseph Fortin ’s
documentations of the various ethnic groups. For the last century komiks(comics) and cartoons have reigned as
the most popular visual-art forms. Cartoons with social and political comments have been in use since the end of
the 19th century in newspapers and magazines. Jorge Pineda, Jose V. Pereira, Esmeraldo Z. Izon, Liborio
Gatbonton aka Gat, Mauro Malang Santos aka Malang, Edgar Soller, Corky Trinidad, Danilo Dalena, and Jose
Tence Ruiz are some of the more notable cartoonists. Inspired by American comic cartoons, Filipino komiks
started in the 1930s.Komiks characters created to entertain with laughter and make social commentary are Tony
Velasquez ’s K e n k o y   , Larry Alcala ’s M a n g A m b o (Old Man Ambo),Mars Ravelo’s B u h a y
P i l i p i n o   (Filipino Life), and Nonoy Marcelo ’sT i s o y . Melodrama with realistic illustrations are seen in
Nestor Redondo ’s G i l d a   and Fred Carrillo’s A p a t n a A g i m a t   (Four Talismans). Fantasy or “historial”
komiks, with romantic and idealized drawings are exemplified by Francisco V. Coching ’s E l I n d i o    (The
Native), Elpidio Torres’ Dyesebel ,Federico C. Javinal’s E l V i b o r a   (The Viper), and Steve Gan’sA n g
Panday. 

Performing arts refers to forms of art in which artists use their voices, bodies or inanimate objects to convey
artistic expression. It is different from visual arts, which is when artists use paint, canvas or various materials to
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create physical or static art objects. Performing arts include a range of disciplines which are performed in front
of a live audience, inducing theatre, music, and dance.
Theatre, music, dance and object manipulation, and other kinds of performances are present in all human
cultures. The history of music and dance date to pre-historic times whereas circus skills date to at least Ancient
Egypt. Many performing arts are performed professionally. Performance can be in purpose built buildings, such
as theatres and opera houses, on open air stages at festivals, on stages in tents such as circuses and on the street.
Live performances before an audience are a form of entertainment. The development
of audio and video recording has allowed for private consumption of the performing arts.
The performing arts often aims to express one's emotions and feelings.
Performers
Artists who participate in performing arts in front of an audience are called performers. Examples of these
include actors, comedians, dancers, magicians, circus artists, musicians, and singers. Performing arts are also
supported by workers in related fields, such as songwriting, choreography and stagecraft.
Performers often adapt their appearance, such as with costumes and stage makeup, stage lighting, and sound.
Types Of Performing Arts
Performing arts may include dance, music, opera, theatre and musical theatre, magic, illusion, mime, spoken
word, puppetry, circus arts, performance art.
There is also a specialized form of fine art, in which the artists perform their work live to an audience. This is
called performance art. Most performance art also involves some form of plastic art, perhaps in the creation
of props. Dance was often referred to as a plastic art during the Modern dance era]
Theatre
Theatre is the branch of performing arts; concerned with acting out stories in front of an audience, using a
combination of speech, gesture, music, dance, sound and spectacle. Any one or more of these elements is
performing arts. In addition to the standard narrative dialogue style of plays. Theater takes such forms as plays,
musicals, opera, ballet, illusion, mime, classical Indian dance, kabuki, mummers' plays, improvisational theatre,
comedy, pantomime, and non-conventional or contemporary forms like postmodern theatre, postdramatic
theatre, or performance art.
Dance
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 In the context of performing arts, dance generally refers to
human movement, typically rhythmic and to music, used as a form
of audience entertainment in a performance setting. Definitions of
what constitutes dance are dependent
on social, cultural, aesthetic artistic and moral constraints and range
from functional movement (such as folk dance) to
codified, virtuoso techniques such as ballet.
There is one another modern form of dance that emerged in 19th- 20th
century with the name of Free-Dance style. This form of dance was
structured to create a harmonious personality which included
features such as physical and spiritual freedom. Isadora
Duncan was the first female dancer who argued about "woman of
future" and developed novel vector of choreography
using Nietzsche’s idea of "supreme mind in free mind".
Dance is a powerful impulse, but the art of dance is that impulse
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channeled by skillful performers into something that becomes intensely

expressive and that may delight spectators who feel no wish to dance
themselves. These two concepts of the art of dance—dance as a powerful impulse and dance as a skillfully
choreographed art practiced largely by a professional few—are the two most important connecting ideas running
through any consideration of the subject. In dance, the connection between the two concepts is stronger than in
some other arts, and neither can exist without the other.
Choreography is the art of making dances, and the person who practices this art is called a choreographer.
Music
Music is an art form which combines pitch, rhythm, and dynamic to create sound. It can be performed using a
variety of instruments and styles and is divided into genres such as folk, jazz, hip hop, pop, and rock, etc. As an
art form, music can occur in live or recorded formats, and can be planned or improvised.

As music is a protean art, it easily coordinates with words for songs as physical movements do in dance.
Moreover, it has a capability of shaping human behaviors as it impacts our emotions.

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 7 Types of Theater in the Philippines

Long before the different forms of theater we enjoy today, like straight plays and musicals largely influenced by
the West, the Philippines has had many types of theater through the years. It’s a rich performing arts tradition –
from folk legends passed down through generations to intellectual debates as performance art; from pagan
practices to the deeply religious celebrations influenced by years of colonization, here’s a look back through the
colorful history and evolution of theater in the Philippines.

1. Epic poetry

Epic poetry is considered the highest point of Filipino folk literature, and dates back to the  pre-colonial period.
These epics, usually of romance or adventure, are commonly presented during festivals and gatherings such as
weddings, baptisms, and wakes. Singers have been known to perform for hours at a time. One of the most
famous epic poems is Biag ni Lam-ang, the national epic of the Ilocano people, and notable for being the first
folk epic to be recorded in written form after being passed on from generation to generation. 
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2. Duplo

The duplo is a poetic debate presented through song and dance, which originated from indigenous courtship
customs. Poets used proverbs and riddles to present their suit to the woman of their choice. This ultimately
evolved into a more formal debate on issues, and started to be called the balagtasan.

3. Moro-moro

For a time, one of the most popular types of theater in the Philippines was the Moros y Cristianos, which is not
surprising for a country that was under Spanish rule for 300 years. Commonly called moro-moro, it is a street
drama that usually lasted for several days, and presented both secular themes like love and vengeance, and the
Spanish-influenced religious theme of the conflict between Christians and Moors. The moro-moro only survives
in isolated towns today, and though an integral part of Filipino art history, it may not bear too much close
scrutiny these days with its less than admirable depictions of intolerance.

4. Senakulo

Another performing art stemming from religious custom is the senakulo or Passion Play. This is the
dramatization of the life and death of Jesus Christ and is usually presented as a community activity during the
Lenten season. This still endures to the present, ranging from simple productions to more technically
sophisticated and modernized versions.

5. Traditional Folk Dance

With its varied cultures and communities throughout its 7000 islands, the Philippines has a diverse collection of
folk dances. Some of the most popular folk dances are the Singkil, a folk dance that originated from the
Maranao people of Lake Lanao in Mindanao, from the epic legend Darangen; the Itik-Itik, which originated as
an improvised dance in Surigao del Sur and was discovered by National Artist for Dance Francisca Reyes-
Aquino; and the Tinikling, which is similar to Singkil with its use of bamboo poles that dancers must weave
through. It is supposed to mimic the movement of the local tikling birds.

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 6. Bodabil

It sounds like “vaudeville”, and it is. This form of theater was an American import in the pre-war era, but
became uniquely Filipino with the indigenization of the name. Like its American counterpart, bodabil featured a
variety of musical numbers, comedic and dramatic skits, and song and dance numbers. Popular Filipino
performers such as Dolphy, Anita Linda, and sarsuwela legend Atang de la Rama got their start in bodabil. It has
since died out with the rise of cinema, but its influence can still be felt in television variety shows.

7. Sarsuwela

The sarsuwela is a type of melodrama, usually in three acts, that uses alternately spoken and sung words. It was
the Spanish influence that started the sarsuwela, but it was also this colonization that led Filipinos to incorporate
nationalistic overtones in the art. This resulted in the arrest of several prominent writers such as Aurelio
Tolentino and Pascual Poblete, and eventually, the shutdown of sarsuwela companies during the American
occupation. As proof of its importance in Philippine culture, in 2011 the National Commission for Culture and
the Arts designated the sarsuwela as a nominee for the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage lists.

 E-Dance & Philippine Allstars “fUsEd” Performance Art: Modern Dance & Hip Hop
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Two cultures. One platform.

In a world of chaos, there is a simple language that binds us all: movement. That is why E-Dance
Theatre decided to take hip hop off the streets and merge it with modern/contemporary dance to tell a
story.

fUSEd is a gamble on the single similarity between two different dance forms that are not normally
associated with each other: the need to differentiate, the search for a unique expression. Hip hop is a
product of communities looking for an identity in the streets where they felt free to express themselves,
while modern dance is a break-away from the rigidities of classical ballet. Despite the varying
techniques, E-dance bravely took the challenge to weave these two dance forms together in an effort to
create a new dimension in performing arts.
fUSEd charms the audience through the creative portrayal of daily life. The nameless characters tell the story of
you and me, the person right next to you on the train, the one you passed on the street on your way to work, the
one you might bump into on your lunch break, fellow travelers going in, out, and along this chaotic world.

Born in 2002, E-Dance Theatre is a group of young independent artists seeking alternative spaces to enhance
their technique and experiment with different forms of performing arts. Inspired by the growth of multi-media
and interactive technology, and the contemporary dance tradition, E-dance engages in collaborative experiments
with other artists from different fields, exploring the different approaches to creating dance.

When in Manila, support local performance arts. Check out the “fUSEd” dance performance where you’ll get
to see a fusion of modern dance and hip hop. Also, do keep an eye out for the E-Dance Theatre group and the
Philippine Allstars for any of their future performances.

Assignment

1. Collect pictures of contemporary performing arts and contemporary visual arts. Label and submit thru
messenger.
2. Deadline: Before midterm exam.

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 Discussion

Module 8. Popular Artists in Arts, Music, and Authors of Literature

Pinoy Pop Music

P-pop (abbreviation: Philippine pop / Pinoy pop) or Filipino pop refers to a popular contemporary music in
the Philippines born from the OPM genre. With its beginnings in the 1970s, Filipino pop is a growing genre. It
stems from a broader genre, Original Pilipino Music (OPM)
Beginnings (1960s–1970s)
Filipino pop songs mainly referred to songs popularized since the 1960s, especially those in the ballad form, by
major commercial artists like Pilita Corrales and Nora Aunor, and in the 1970s by Basil Valdez, Freddie
Aguilar and Rey Valera.
Singer-songwriters Ryan Cayabyab and José Mari Chan rose to fame in the 1970s by composing original
English love songs alongside modern Tagalog songs. Pioneer pop groups in the same decade include Manila
sound groups APO Hiking Society and Hotdog.
Golden age of Filipino music
In the 1980s, disco group VST & Co. and pop icon Gary V. gave rise to dance-pop in the mainstream.
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Prominence of rock-acoustic bands, belters and balladeers. (mid-1990s to present)

The early to mid-1990s saw the emergence of pop-rock group, Eraserheads, considered as a turning-point in the
OPM music scene. In the wake of their success was the emergence of a string of influential bands such
as Yano, Siakol, Parokya ni Edgar, Grin Department, Rivermaya, Moonstar 88 and Hungry Young Poets, each
of which mixes the influence of a variety of pop and rock subgenres into their style.
Filipino rock continues to flourish at present with newer bands such as Hale, Cueshé, Sponge
Cola, Chicosci, Kamikazee and Urbandub, and the emergence of the country's first virtual band, Mistula.
Though only some of the spearheading bands are still fully intact, many old members have formed new bands
such as Pupil, Sandwich and Bamboo. A few band members such as Kitchie Nadal, Barbie Almalbis and Rico
Blanco have established steady solo careers.
Though rock bands have been dominating the mainstream since their commercialization in the '90s, acoustic
groups were still regularly showcased in the live band scene such as Side A, True Faith, Neocolours, South
Border and Freestyle popularized songs that clearly reflect the sentimental character of OPM pop. Popular
acoustic acts like Nina, Juris (of MYMP) and Aiza Seguerra also prove the diversity of Filipino pop.
Solo belters and balladeers such as Regine Velasquez, Sharon Cuneta, Joey Albert, Donna Cruz, Zsa Zsa
Padilla, Jaya, Jolina Magdangal and Martin Nievera had regular exposure on television and radio.
Re-emergence of R&B and novelty songs (2000s to present)
From the early 2000s onwards, Kyla, Nina and Jay R began to be pioneers of the contemporary R&B music
with Gloc-9 and Abra of hip-hop genre.
Local sing and dance groups SexBomb Girls and Viva Hot Babes began to popularize novelty songs among the
masses.
Pinoy pop renaissance (2010s)
Since 2010, the genre of Pinoy pop drastically changed as the usual rock bands and novelty songs from the
1990s and 2000s started to fade out of the mainstream, creating the new pop genre without any influence of rock
and hip-hop.
In 2010, Little Big Star 2nd runner-up and YouTube star Charice became the first Asian to peak on the top 10 (at
No. 8) of the Billboard 200 for her debut album. She was also one of the first Asian artists to have a song peak at
No. 1 for Billboard's Dance/Club Play Songs.
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 Notable pop artists of the 2010s include Toni Gonzaga, Moira Dela Torre, Yeng Constantino and Sarah
Geronimo whose songs "Tala" and "Kilometro" were chosen by CNN Philippines as best songs of the decade.
The rise of P-pop idol groups (2020s)
From the influence of K-pop and J-pop, a new era of P-pop was born. The Philippines' first idol group MNL48,
a sister group of the J-pop group AKB48, started a new era for P-pop when they debuted in 2018. Following
them is the all-boy idol group SB19 who also debuted in 2018. They are the first Filipino act trained by a Korean
entertainment company under the same system that catapulted K-pop artists into global stardom. SB19 is
considered to be the first P-pop idol group to chart on the Billboard Next Big Sound and Billboard Social 50. On
November 20, 2019, SB19 made history by being the first Filipino artist to chart and debut on
the Billboard Next Big Sound chart debuting and peaking at No. 5. The Next Big Sound chart tracks "the fastest
accelerating artists during the past week, across all major social music sites, statistically predicted to achieve
future success," according to the Billboard website.] On December 3, 2019, the group broke the all-time record
of the longest stay at the No. 1 spot of Myx Daily Top Ten with "Go Up" staying at the top spot for 53 non-
consecutive days.

International Recognition
In 2019, P-pop idol group MNL48 performed at AKB48 Group Asia Festival 2019, the first held at Bangkok,
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Thailand on January 27, while the second one was held at Shanghai, China on August 24. Such performances
catapulted MNL48 to the international stage, especially with other fans of their 48G counterparts. That same
year, MNL48's Abby Trinidad was the group's representative on the New Year's Eve special of NHK's "Kohaku
Uta Gassen", where along with other 48G counterparts, performed "Koi Soru Fortune Cookie". This is the third
time a Filipino performer appeared on the said show, alongside Gary Valenciano and the band Smokey
Mountain.
In 2020, Sarah Geronimo's single "Tala" entered at No. 12 on the U.S. Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart.
In 2020, P-pop boy band SB19 became a Billboard Social 50 mainstay after peaking at No. 15 on the chart,
likely due to the music video of their single "Alab".
MNL48, on the other hand, announced the formation of BABY BLUE, the group's newest sub-unit on
September 1, 2020. Alongside with that announcement is the release of the sub-unit's single "Sweet Talking
Sugar", released in collaboration with Tower Records Japan, a major Japanese music retailer.
Ten Most Popular Authors

List of the most popular authors from Philippines, listed alphabetically with photos when available.
For centuries authors have been among the world's most important people, helping chronicle history
and keep us entertained with one of the earliest forms of storytelling. Whether they're known for
fiction, non-fiction, poetry or even technical writing, the famous Filipino authors on this list have kept
that tradition alive by writing renowned works that have been praised around the world.

1. Nick JoaquínThe Woman Who Had Two Navels, La Orosa, A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino
2. Fidel V. RamosTime for takeoff, A call to duty, Break not the peace
3. Carlos P. RomuloI Walked With Heroes, Forty years, ASEAN at the threshold of the new
millennium
4. José RizalNoli Me Tángere, Makamisa, Antología
5. Ferdinand Marcos In search of alternatives, A dialogue with my people, Five years of the new
society
6. Diosdado Macapagal Five-year integrated socio-economic program for the Philippines,
Fullness of Freedom: Speeches and Statements of President Diosdado Macapagal, Speeches of
President Diosdado Macapagal
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 7. Ricky Lee. Salome Ricardo Lee (born as March 19, 1948) is a Filipino screenwriter, journalist,
novelist, and playwright. He has written more than 150 film screenplays since 1973, earning
him more than 50 trophies.
8. Rustica C. Carpio. Dramatic poundal, The Shanghai Of My Past and other essays, Literature is
life. Rustica C. Carpio is an actress and writer.
9. Rufus Bautista Rodriguez . Administrative law, with notes and cases, The Intellectual Property
Code of the Philippines and its implementing rules and regulations. Rufus B. Rodriguez is a
Filipino politician. A member of the Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino party, and affiliated with the
Genuine Opposition.
10. Danton Remoto. X-factor: Tales outside the closet, Skin voices faces, Black silk pajamas.
Danton R. Remoto (born March 25, 1963) is a Filipino writer, essayist, reporter, editor,
columnist, and professor. Remoto was a first prize recipient at the ASEAN Letter-Writing
Contest for ...more
11. Manuel RoxasThe problems of Philippine rehabilitation and trade relations
Manuel Acuña Roxas ; born Manuel Róxas y Acuña; January 1,
1892 – April 15, 1948) was the fifth President of the Philippines who served
from 1946 until his death.
12. Emilio AguinaldoMy memoirs, True version of the Philippine revolution, A second look at
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America. Emilio Aguinaldo y Famy March 22, 1869 – February 6, 1964) was a Filipino
revolutionary, politician and military leader.
13. Danny Sillada. Danny C. Sillada (born April 27, 1963) is a Filipino artist, writer and cultural
critic from Mindanao. Sillada has contributed to various art forms, from painting, to music and
performance art.
14. Fernando Amorsolo. Paintings of twelve Philippine women. Fernando Amorsolo y Cueto (May
30, 1892 – April 24, 1972) was one of the most important artists in the history of painting in the
Philippines. Amorsolo was a portraitist and painter of rural ...more
15. Lualhati Bautista. Bata, Bata… Pa'no Ka Ginawa?, ‘GAPÔ. Lualhati Torres Bautista (born
December 2, 1945) is one of the foremost Filipino female novelists in the history of
contemporary Philippine literature. Her novels include Dekada '70, Bata, Bata Paano ka
Ginawa?
16. Jaime LicaucoA practical guide to Philippine healers, True encounters with the unknown, The
magicians of God. Jaime T. Licauco, also known as Jimmy Licauco, is a parapsychologist,
author, and teacher of management in the Philippines. He is the founder and president of the
Inner Mind Development ...more
17. Elpidio Quirino. Planning for the Commonwealth and the towns. 22
18. Ninotchka Rosca. Twice Blessed, State of War, Bitter country
19. Francisco Balagtas. Florante at Laura, Auredato at Astrome, Clara Belmore
20. Blas Ople. Global but parochial
21. Miguel Syjuco. Ilustrado: A Novel . Miguel Syjuco (born November 17, 1976) is a Filipino
writer from Manila and the grand prize winner of the 2008 Man Asian Literary Prize for his
first novel Ilustrado.
22. Norberto Romuáldez. Filipino musical instruments and airs of long ago. Norberto Romuáldez y
López (June 6, 1875 – November 4, 1941) (often referred to as Norberto Romuáldez, Sr. to
distinguish him from his son with the same name) was a Philippine writer, politician,
23. Peter Solis Nery. First few notes of a green symphony, Moon river, butterflies
Peter Solis Nery is a Filipino poet, fictionist, author, and filmmaker. Writing in
Hiligaynon, he is a Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature Hall of
Fame Awardee, the Cultural Center of the Phlippines.
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 24. José Corazón de Jesús
José Corazón de Jesús (November 22, 1896 – May 26, 1932), also known by
his pen name Huseng Batute, was a Filipino poet who used Tagalog poetry
to express the Filipinos' desire for independence.
25. Rene Villanueva
Rene O. Villanueva (September 22, 1954 – December 5, 2007) was a Filipino
playwright and author. He is famed for his deep involvement in theater and
television and in children's literature, whether it ...more
26. Jose F. Lacaba. Jose Maria Flores Lacaba, Jr., better known as Jose F. Lacaba and Pete Lacaba,
is a Filipino poet, journalist, and screenwriter. He was conferred the Aruna Vasudev Lifetime
Achievement Award for Writers.
27. Simeon Dumdum, Jr. Third world opera, The gift of sleep, Love In The Time Of The Camera.
Simeon Dumdum Jr. (born March 7, 1948) is a former Regional Trial Court Judge in Cebu
City, The Philippines, and is a published poet. He once studied for the priesthood in Galway,
Ireland, but left th ...more
28. Manuel Ocampo. Manuel Ocampo, Virgin destroyer . Manuel Ocampo (born 1965) is a Filipino
artist. His work fuses sacred Baroque religious iconography with secular political narrative. His
works draw upon a wide range of art historical references, co ...more
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29. Jourdan Sebastian. Jourdan Sebastian a.k.a. The Dreamer, is an independent Filipino Spoken
Word artist, director, executive producer, writer, actor, filmmaker, beat poet, acting coach,
creative director, music video director.
30. Genoveva Matute. Genoveva Edroza-Matute (January 13, 1915 – March 21, 2009) was a
Filipino author. In 1951, she was the recipient of the first ever Palanca Award for Short Story in
Filipino, for "Kuwento ni Mabuti".
31. Santiago B. Villafania. Santiago Villafania is a bilingual Filipino poet who writes in English
and in his native language of Pangasinan.
32. Louie Jon Agustin Sanchez . Louie Jon Agustin Sanchez (born 1980 in Sta. Mesa, Manila), a
poet, fictionist, critic, and journalist.
33. Lourd de Veyra. Lourd Ernest Hanopol de Veyra (born February 11, 1975) is a Filipino
musician, emcee, poet, journalist, TV host, broadcast personality and activist who became
famous as the vocalist of the Manila-base band.
34. John Iremil Teodoro. John Iremil Erine Teodoro (*November 14, 1973 in Maybato Norte, San
Jose de Buenavista, Antique, Philippines) is a Filipino writer, literary
critic and cultural scholar.

The 10 Best Books in Modern Philippine Literature

Most traditional Filipino books either tell stories about nationalism, real-life experiences, or make use of
legends and fables to showcase Filipino traits and values. Modern Filipino books aren’t far from promoting
such cultural values, as these books continue to make use of symbols and allegories to depict the daily struggles
of Filipinos in dealing with family, friends, romantic partners, and society. Whether told in a comedic or heart-
breaking way, these books never fail to surprise readers and leave an eye-opening realization or two. And
because of their impact on readers, some of these books even made their way to the big screen. Here’s our picks
for the 10 best books in modern Philippine literature.

ABNKKBSNPLAko?! by Bob Ong

ABNKKBSNPLAko?! Courtesy of Visual Print Enterprises

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 The title of the book is read phonetically as “Aba nakakabasa na pala ako?!” which can be translated as “Wow I
can read now?!” Published in 2001, Bob Ong’s first book rose to fame for depicting the supposed unforgettable
moments of his life as a student—from primary years to college days—using a first-person perspective and
conversational writing techniques. Because of its success among readers, this book got its movie debut in 2014.

Para Kay B by Ricky Lee

Ricky Lee’s Para Kay B is a romantic comedy which tells stories about five different women, but only one out of
five of them gets a happy ending. Each character has her own chapter—a moment to tell her story—which isn’t
a usual situation in a Philippine context. A breathe of fresh air in mainstream romance, this book shows how
people are willing to take risks and sacrifices for the sake of love.

Dekada ’70 by Lualhati Bautista

Dekada 70 Courtesy of Anvil Publishing

Dekada ’70 (translated to “Decade 70”) tells the story of a woman’s struggles and heart-breaking experiences
during the difficult years in Philippine history known as the Martial Law era. Prepare yourself for a tragic and
emotionally intense plot, and take a glimpse at how difficult it was for women to live during the Martial Law
era. This book got its movie version in 2002.
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Ilustrado by Miguel Syjuco

The story begins when authorities find the lifeless body of fictional author Crispin Salvador floating off the
Hudson River. According to authorities, there was no evidence of foul play, which led them to think that the
author must have taken his own life. At the time, Salvador was working on a manuscript that would expose
powerful and influential people in the Philippines. His student and friend, who has the same name as the book’s
author Miguel Syjuco, hopes to unravel the story behind this mystery.
Miguel Syjuco’s novel landed him a spot as the Grand Prize winner of the 2008 Man Asian Literary Prize.

Ligo na U, Lapit na Me by Eros Atalia

Roughly translated, the title of the book is “Take A Shower. I’m Almost There Now.” This is a story about two
college students named Intoy and Jenny who engage in a casual sexual relationship. In short, they’re friends
with benefits. The book teaches its readers that there are a lot of questions, and whether you know the answer or
not, it doesn’t guarantee a happy ending. Sometimes, the most intriguing questions are left unanswered, and you
just have to accept it. In 2011, Ligo na U, Lapit na Me hit the big screen.

100 Tula Para Kay Stella by Jason Paul Laxamana

In 100 Tula Para Kay Stella (“100 Poems for Stella”), character Fidel Lansangan meets his opposite Stella
Puno. Fidel has a speech impediment that makes him really shy around people, while Stella is a tough rocker
chick full of confidence. Fidel loves poetry and is a grade-conscious student, whereas Stella doesn’t really care
much about her studies—her priority is to snag a recording contract. Despite their opposing personalities, the
two seem to complement each other and become really good friends. But for Fidel, he can’t hide his true
feelings forever, and after his 100th poem, he hopes to tell it all. This book also became a hit among readers and
got its movie debut this year.

14 by Manix Abrera
Just by looking at the book’s cover, one instantly gets the impression that this book has a dark, mysterious, sad
story. Manix Abrera’s second wordless graphic novel reveals how good the author is at conveying messages
without having to use words. While this novel portrays typical beings in Philippine folklore such as
a manananggal (creature without its lower half), a white lady, and an elf, among others, don’t expect that it’s a
typical Philippine horror story.

The Last Time I Saw Mother by Arlene J. Chai

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 In Arlene J. Chai’s novel, protagonist Caridad discovers that her real mother isn’t the woman she grew up with.
Aside from finding out the story behind Caridad’s secret adoption, readers get a detailed glimpse into how
difficult life was during the Japanese invasion up to the Marcos era and People Power Revolution, where fear,
envy, and hatred lingered among native Filipinos.

Smaller and Smaller Circles by F.H. Batacan

Author F.H. Batacan won the Carlos Palanca Grand Prize for the English Novel in 1999 for his book, Smaller
and Smaller Circles. This is the first Filipino crime detective story set in the Philippines. The mystery revolves
around two Jesuit priests who happen to perform forensic work and hope to uncover the person behind the
serial killings in a slum area in Manila. At the time of writing, this movie is being shown in selected cinemas in
the Philippines.

Stupid is Forever by Miriam Defensor-Santiago

The late Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago might have lost the presidential elections last 2016, but she won the
hearts of many for her wit and sense of humor. In her book, published in 2014, the ‘Iron Lady of Asia’ proves
that only a politician like her can spontaneously make people laugh as she brings up her collection of one-
liners, pick-up lines, and witty jokes in the political setting.
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Top 10 Filipino Wattpad Stories PUBLISHED

Montello High: School of Gangsters
1 by 
Shiela May Familaran

  

The Boy Next Door (Part Two)

2 by 
Mia Cortez

 
 

Teen Clash
3 by 
Ilyn Anne Danganan

  

Mapapansin Kaya?
4 by 
Jonaxx

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 The Four Bad Boys and Me (Part One)
5 by 
Blue_Maiden (Goodreads Author)

"Break the Casanova's Heart" Operation

6 by 
Alyloony (Goodreads Author)

My Prince
7 by 
Alyloony (Goodreads Author)

Mr. Maniac Meets Ms. Pervert

8 by 
justchin
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Campus Royalties
9 by 
Purpleyhan

 
  

Revenge ni Miss Piggy

10 by 
Riri Glamoure

 
 

The 10 Most Famous Filipino Artists and their Masterworks

Philippine art reflects a wide range of influences, from the country’s colonial past to contemporary culture.
Here, 10 legendary Filipino masters you should know.

Fernando Amorsolo (1892-1972)

Labelled the country’s first National Artist in 1972 by then President Marcos, Fernando Amorsolo is often
known as the ‘Grand Old Man of Philippine Art’. The Spanish-trained realist developed a backlighting
technique, where his colorful depictions of local people reflect the radiance of the Philippine sun. The figures
and illuminated landscapes magically glow on the canvas. Despite his deteriorating health and failing eyesight,
he remained prolific until the end, producing up to 10 paintings a month until his death at the age of 80.
Amorsolo’s creativity defines the nation’s culture and heritage to this day.
The Vargas Musuem – found inside the campus of his alma mater, the University of the Philippines, displays a
notable selection of his work.
‘The Fruit Gatherer’, 1950 

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José Joya (1931-1995)

A Filipino pioneer of Abstract expressionism, multi-media painter José Joya uses bold and vibrant colours with
a variety of painting techniques, layering, loose impasto strokes and controlled drips. His harmonious colours
are influenced by Philippine landscapes and tropical wildlife. His mastery lies in gestural paintings, where the
paint is applied spontaneously on canvas, sometimes directly out of the tube or through the use of broad strokes
with brushes.
‘Granadean Arabesque’, 1958 

Joya influenced younger artists to explore other mediums such as pottery and printmaking while he served as
the Dean of the College of Fine Arts at the University of the Philippines. In 1964, Joya represented the country
in the Venice Biennial, showcasing the advancement of modern art in the Philippines.
His most notable painting from 1958, called Granadean Arabesque, is a large scale yellow hued mural that
features clusters of sand and impasto. It can be viewed at the Ateneo Art Gallery in Manila.

Pacita Abad (1946-2004)

Born on the northern island of Batanes, the internationally revered artist first obtained a degree in Political
Science at the University of the Philippines. Her staunch activism against the Marcos regime in the 1970s, led
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 her to move to San Francisco to initially study law – but she found her true calling with art. Her paintings
consist of vibrant colors and a constant change of patterns and materials. Earlier work dealt with socio-political
depictions of people, indigenous masks, tropical flowers, and underwater scenes. Pacita created a unique
technique called ‘trapunto’, where she stitches and stuffs her vibrant canvases with a wide range of materials
such as cloth, metal, beads, buttons, shells, glass and ceramics, to give her work a three-dimensional look. Her
many travels across the globe with her husband have served as an inspiration for the techniques and materials
used in her art. Pacita has participated in over 60 exhibitions across the United States, Latin America, and
Europe.
She is noted to have worked on more than 5,000 pieces of art – her masterwork being Alkaff Bridge, Singapore,
a 55-meter bridge covered in over 2,000 colourful circles. It was completed a few months before she passed
away from lung cancer in 2004.
Alkaff bridge by Pacita Abad 
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Ang Kiukok (1935-2005)

Born to Chinese immigrants, Ang Kiukok is the pioneer of Philippine modern figurative expressionism.
Rewarded as the country’s National Artist in 2001, he was one of the most successful commercial figures on the
local art scene from the 1960s until his death from cancer in 2005. Like Amorsolo, his paintings are popular at
auctions and have received exceptionally high bids at Sotheby’s and Christie’s. He is known for his distinct
cubist and surrealist portrayals of the crucifixion of Christ and mother and child. However, he is acclaimed for
his series of Fishermen at Sea, which connects both energy, faith and the struggle of fishermen under a vibrant
crimson sun labouring together to bring in the haul for the day.
His notable works are represented in the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the National Historical Museum of
Taipei and the National Museum in Singapore.
‘The Fishermen’, 1981 

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Benedicto Cabrera (1942-present)

Fondly known as ‘BenCab’ in the Philippines, Cabrera is the best-selling commercial painter of his generation
and a prominent head of the local contemporary art scene. He studied under José Joya at the University of the
Philippines and received his degree in Fine Arts in 1963. His fruitful career has spanned five decades, where his
paintings, etchings, sketches, and prints have been exhibited across Asia, Europe, and the US. He currently
resides in the chilly northern hill station of Baguio, where he established his own four-level BenCab Museum on
Asin Road that features an eclectic selection of indigenous artifacts, personal works, and an overwhelming
collection of paintings from contemporary Filipino artists.
‘Sabel in Blue’, 2006 

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Kidlat Tahimik (1942-present)

A close friend of BenCab and Baguio native is critically acclaimed director Kidlat Tahimik. Known as the father
of Philippine independent film, the government recently conferred upon him the Order of National Artist for
Film in October 2018. Born Eric de Guia, Kidlat Tahimik means ‘silent lightning’ in Tagalog. Before entering
cinema, Kidlat studied at the prestigious University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, earning a Masters in
Business Administration. His work is associated with Third Cinema, a film movement that denounces neo-
colonialism and the capitalist system. His films have been prominent at film festivals across America, Europe,
and Asia.
He is highly respected among directors Werner Herzog and Francis Ford Copolla, who were both instrumental
in helping him present his most famous semi-autobiographical work Perfumed Nightmare in 1977. The film
combines documentary and essay techniques that provide a somewhat humorous but sharp critique of the social
divide between the rich and poor in the Philippines.
If you happen to be in Baguio, drop by his artist café and vegetarian restaurant Oh My Gulay, which rests in the
heart of Session Road on the fifth floor of the La Azotea Building. The old building does not house an elevator,
but the long way up is worth the trip and view. The café is a quirky wonderland of Kidlat’s imagination,
featuring wooden bridges, bright blue fish ponds, paintings and native sculptures surrounded by a healthy array
of plants. On Assumption Road, he created a massive artist village inspired by his first café, called Ili-likha (or,
to create), which is a must-see before leaving Baguio.

Eduardo Masferré (1909-1995)

Further north of Baguio, in the mountainous province of Sagada, Eduardo Masferré was born to a Filipino
mother and Spanish soldier. He is regarded as the Father of Philippine photography. He documented with great
detail the everyday lives of indigenous people of the Cordilleras. The self-taught photographer processed his
own film in a makeshift darkroom and managed to even produce prints without electricity. His photographs
17
 capture the culture of the people in his community and serve as a documentation of their customary practices
and rituals. Masferré’s photographs have found their way into exhibitions around the world. The Smithsonian
Institution carries at least 120 prints of his works for the National Museum of Natural History in Washington
D.C.
He is remembered for his book on the People of the Philippine Cordillera Photographs 1934-1956, which was
published in 1988. A country inn and café in Sagada is named after him and is worth the visit to see copies of
his prints and purchase souvenirs created in Masferré’s honor.
‘Sagada’, 1952 
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Agnes Arellano (1949-present)

Born to a family of prominent male architects, sculptress Agnes Arellano is best known for her surrealist and
expressionist work in plaster, bronze and cold-cast marble. Her sculptures highlight the female body and draw
from themes surrounding sexuality, religion, and mysticism. Borrowing from the term of poet Gerard Manley
Hopkins, Agnes attributes her work to ‘inscapes’, that assert an internal unity among various elements in her
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 installations and sculptures. Drawing from the tragic death of her parents and sister from a house fire in 1981,
her work explores themes of creation and destruction, and the cycles of life from birth to death.
‘Carcass-Cornucopia’, 1987
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Roberto Chabet (1937-2013)

Born Roberto Rodriguez, he used his mother’s maiden name Chabet when he began his career in art. He was a
mentor to many students at the University of the Philippines, where he taught for over 30 years, and is
acknowledged as the father of conceptual art in the Philippines. Chabet initially studied architecture but his
conceptual art installations, collages, and sculptures in the 1960s and 70s made him a rebellious figure on the

20
 local art scene. He was the founding museum director of the Cultural Center of the Philippines from 1967-1970,
where he established the 13 Artists Awards that highlight the achievements of young artists whose works show a
contemporary view of art-making and thinking.
Roberto Chabet’s ‘Onethingafteranother’, at the Mission House.
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He describes himself as a “custodian” and his work as “creatures of memory”. His multi-faceted skills in
drawing, sculpture, installations, photography, printmaking, and collages question modernity. His works reflect
the importance of space and how the displacement of ordinary objects can alter their meaning.

Napoleon Abueva (1930-2018)

Noted as the Father of Modern Filipino sculpture, Abueva attended the University of the Philippines with Joya
and was mentored by noted sculptor Guillermo Tolentino, at the College of Fine Arts. Born in Bohol, he is also
the youngest National Artist awardee appointed by then President Marcos, at the age of 46. His expertise was
seen in a wide array of materials such as hard wood, abode, steel, cement, marble, and bronze.
The Cross at Mt. Samat. Bataan completed in 1970.

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Abueva is adept in traditional representation and modern abstract forms of sculpture. A trip around
the University of the Philippines will show you a number of his works, such as the University
Gateway and Nine Muses near the old faculty centre. He was also responsible for the relief marble
sculptures seen in the war memorial cross in Mt. Samat, Bataan.
It is the second highest cross in the world and the tallest in Asia. Under the commission of the
Philippine government, Abueva collaborated with designer Lorenzo del Castillo to create a shrine that
commemorates the thousands of Filipino and American soldiers who lost their lives during the
Japanese-led Bataan Death March in 1942. Make sure to walk up the flight of stairs inside the cross to
reach the top, and experience the fabulous views of Bataan.

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 Other Famous Artists
This list of the most popular artists from Philippines is ordered alphabetically, with photos when available.
Filipino painters and artists in every medium have helped chronicle history and entertain millions with their
work. Whether they're known for painting, sculpting, etching or drawing, the famous Filipino artists on this list
have kept traditions alive by creating renowned pieces of art that have been praised and illuminated Filipino
culture all over the world.

Francis Magalona
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Francis Michael Durango Magalona, also known as FrancisM, Master Rapper, The Mouth and The Man From
Manila, was a Filipino rapper, entrepreneur, songwriter.

Manolito Tolentino Mayo

Associated periods or movements: Cubism
Lito Mayo (December 17, 1954 – May 4, 1983) was a Filipino graphic artist, print-maker, avantegarde poet,
social activist, sculptor, satirist, and art professor.

José Rizal
The Triumph of Death over Life, Singapore lighthouse, A painting on a pair of mother-of-pearl
Art Forms: Painting, Sculpture, Writing

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 Juan Luna
Spoliarium, The Death of Cleopatra, The Blood Compact
Associated periods or movements: Impressionism, Romanticism, Realism, Realism
Art Forms: Sculpture, Painting, Drawing
Juan Luna y Novicio, better known as Juan Luna was a Filipino painter, sculptor and a political activist of the
Philippine Revolution.
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Ryan Agoncillo
Kristoffer Lou Gonzales Agoncillo known as Ryan Agoncillo, is a Filipino film and television actor, model,
singer, photographer, and TV host.

Fernando Amorsolo
The Explosion, Bataan, Dalagang Bukid
Art Forms: Painting
Fernando Amorsolo y Cueto was one of the most important artists in the history of painting in the Philippines.
Amorsolo was a portraitist and painter.

Danny Sillada
Associated periods or movements: Creative Thinkers International, Surrealism
Art Forms: Installation art, Painting
Danny C. Sillada is a Filipino artist, writer and cultural critic from Mindanao. Sillada has contributed to various
art forms, from painting, to music and performance art.

24
 Jao Mapa
Pamilya, Kainan, Basurero
Art Forms: Painting
Jose Vicente D. Mapa III, who is better known by his screen name Jao Mapa, is a Filipino actor from the
Philippines.
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Félix Resurrección HidalgoLa barca de Aqueronte, Las Virgenes Cristianas Expuestas al Populacho, La Laguna
Estigia
Associated periods or movements: Impressionism
Art Forms: Painting, Drawing
Félix Resurrección Hidalgo y Padilla was a Filipino artist. He is acknowledged as one of the great Filipino
painters of the late 19th century.

Botong Francisco
Bayanihan sa Bukid, Bayanihan, The Martyrdom of Rizal
Carlos Modesto "Botong" Villaluz Francisco was a muralist from Angono, Rizal.

Pacita Abad
Art Bridge
Art Forms: Sculpture, Ceramic art, Painting

25
 Federico Aguilar Alcuaz
Abstract in Blue and Black, Panoramic View Of Manila, Bodegón
Art Forms: Painting
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Elito Circa
Art Forms: Painting
Elito Villaflor Circa (born January 28, 1970), better known as "Amangpintor", is a Filipino painter and
internationally known folk artist, who paints using indigenous human hair.

Roberto Chabet
Landscape With White Moon, Canonization of Blessed Jasper, Sabbat 1
Roberto "Bobby" Rodríguez Chabet (March 29, 1937 - April 30, 2013) widely acknowledged as the father of
Philippine conceptual art.

Discussion
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 Module 9. Post Colonialism and Pop Culture

http://www.philippinestudies.net
Fri June 27 13:30:20 2008

Assignment: Search and Read the link. Answer the following questions:
1. What is popular culture as coined in the article?
2. What is the first comic strip in the country?
3. Who created this comic strip?
4. Enumerate the medium used in Popular Culture before?
5. What are the main areas of the literature of popular culture?

Deadline: Before Midterm Exam

Discussion
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Module 10. Feminism and Pop Culture

27