Pre-colonial Period

- Philippine literature before the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century was
primarily oral and consisted of songs, epics, riddles, proverbs, and mythical tales. These
were passed down through generations through storytelling and were used to preserve the
culture and beliefs of the various indigenous communities. The pre-colonial literature was
rich in symbolism and was an expression of the indigenous people's connection to their land
and the natural world.

Spanish Colonization Period

- During the Spanish colonization period, which lasted from 1521 to 1898, Philippine
literature was heavily influenced by Spanish culture and religion. Spanish friars introduced
Christianity to the Philippines and used religious texts, such as the Bible, to spread their
teachings. They also introduced Spanish literary forms, such as the sonnet and the drama,
which were used to promote Catholic beliefs and practices. The Spanish also established
schools and introduced a formal education system, which made it possible for Filipinos to
learn to read and write in Spanish.

Nationalistic/Propaganda and Revolutionary Period

- During this period, which spanned from the late 19th century to the 1940s, Philippine
literature was characterized by a growing national consciousness and a desire for
independence from Spanish and American colonial rule. This period saw the rise of the
Propaganda Movement, a group of writers who used their work to promote nationalism and
anti-colonial sentiments. Literature during this period was also used as a tool for
revolutionary propaganda, with writers and poets such as Jose Garcia Villa and Jose Ma.
Sison using their work to inspire the masses to fight for their rights.

American Colonial Period

- The American colonial period, which lasted from 1898 to 1946, saw the introduction of
American literary forms and styles to the Philippines. American influence was particularly
strong in the early 20th century, with writers such as Nick Joaquin and Paz Marquez Benitez
incorporating American literary techniques into their works. The American colonial period
was also characterized by the growth of the middle class, which provided a new audience
for Philippine literature.

Japanese Occupation

- During the Japanese Occupation, from 1942 to 1945, Philippine literature was suppressed,
and many writers went into hiding or were forced to flee the country. Despite these difficult
 circumstances, some writers continued to produce works that reflected their resistance to
the Japanese occupiers. After the war, Philippine literature experienced a resurgence, with
writers exploring themes related to the war and its aftermath.

Contemporary/Modern Period

- The contemporary or modern period of Philippine literature, which began in the late 20th
century, is characterized by a diverse range of styles and forms. This period has seen the
emergence of new literary movements, such as the Manila Writers Workshop and the Davao
Writers Group, which have helped to promote and develop Philippine literature both locally
and internationally. Today, Philippine literature continues to evolve, with writers exploring
new themes and experimenting with new forms and styles to tell their stories and express
their perspectives.