ANIMATING PERSPECTIVES - THE TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT OF ANIME ON FILIPINO YOUTH AND

CONTEMPORARY POP CULTURE

A Concept Paper Submitted to fulfill the Requirements for completion of

GE7- The Contemporary World

AIRA R. DELA ROSA

Polytechnic College of the City of Meycauayan

2023
INTRODUCTION

The escalating popularity of anime among Filipino youth has become a noteworthy cultural
phenomenon, intertwining with daily life and influencing societal dynamics. This study aims to explore
the transformative impact of anime on Filipino youth and its consequential effects on contemporary
pop culture. As anime increasingly shapes the perspectives, values, and interactions of Filipino youth,
understanding these dynamics is crucial for comprehending the evolving nature of pop culture in the
Philippines.

The surge in anime consumption poses a unique challenge and opportunity. While it opens avenues for
cultural exchange and self-expression, it raises questions about how this influence shapes youth
identity and impacts societal norms. Addressing this issue provides insights into fostering cultural
understanding and promoting positive youth engagement.

Current research has acknowledged the global popularity of anime, but limited attention has been
given to its specific impact on Filipino youth within the context of pop culture. This gap highlights the
need for a focused exploration, delving into the nuances of how anime influences the cultural
landscape in the Philippines.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

This study aims to:

1. Investigate how anime influences the perspectives and values of Filipino youth.
2. Examine the sociocultural implications of anime consumption on youth interactions.
3. Understand the role of anime in shaping contemporary pop culture in the Philippines.
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The significance of understanding the relationship between anime, Filipino youth, and pop culture lies
in its multifaceted impact on identity, societal dynamics, and cultural practices (Smith, 2020).
According to recent studies, anime's global appeal has transcended geographical boundaries, with the
Philippines emerging as a key consumer (Jones et al., 2018).

In defining key terms, anime refers to a style of animation originating in Japan, capturing a diverse
range of genres and themes. Filipino youth, in this context, pertains to individuals aged 15-24. Pop
culture encompasses cultural products and practices reflecting the mainstream and is constantly
evolving.

Anime's historical evolution reveals its journey from a niche subculture to mainstream entertainment,
mirroring broader societal changes (Tanaka, 2019). Cultural exchanges between Japan and the
Philippines have played a pivotal role in shaping anime's reception in the country (Garcia, 2017).

Existing literature underscores the sociocultural impact of anime, noting its influence on identity
formation and community building among youth (Nakamura, 2021). Youth engagement in pop culture,
especially the role of anime, contributes to the dynamism of societal norms and cultural expressions
(Lee & Santos, 2019).

Despite these insights, a notable gap exists in literature specific to the transformative impact of anime
on Filipino youth within the context of contemporary pop culture.
CONCLUSION

This concept paper has highlighted the increasing influence of anime on Filipino youth and its profound
implications for contemporary pop culture. The exploration of this phenomenon is essential for
grasping the intricate dynamics at play.

We invite collaboration and support to conduct this research, seeking funding and engagement from
stakeholders interested in contributing to a nuanced understanding of how anime shapes the cultural
landscape among Filipino youth.

REFERENCES

Garcia, M. (2017). Anime Across Borders: A Comparative Analysis of Anime Fandom in Japan and the
Philippines. Journal of Global Popular Culture, 2(2), 154-172.

Jones, A., et al. (2018). Anime: A Global Phenomenon. Routledge.

Lee, S., & Santos, J. (2019). Exploring the Impact of Pop Culture on Youth Identity: A Case Study of
Anime Fandom in the Philippines. Journal of Youth Studies, 22(8), 1065-1080.

Nakamura, Y. (2021). Anime and Identity: Impacts on Youth Culture. Asian Journal of Social Psychology,
24(1), 32-42.

Smith, R. (2020). Anime and Cultural Exchange: Understanding the Global Appeal. Palgrave Macmillan.
Tanaka, K. (2019). From Subculture to Pop Culture: A Historical Analysis of Anime in Japan. Journal of
Asian Cultural Studies, 2(1), 115-131.

Badilla, E. (2023, April 15). WORLD ANIME DAY: Anime and how it shaped Filipino youth, culture.
PALAWAN NEWS. https://palawan-news.com/world-anime-day-anime-and-how-it-shaped-filipino-
youth-culture/#google_vignette

Hayashi, K., Anderson, W. H. U., & Ünal, B. (2023). History of anime: periods, genres and industry.
ResearchGate.https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375889972_History_of_Anime_Periods_Gen
res_and_Industry