fundamental truths about life and human

THE STUDY OF LITERATURE AS AN nature; thus, enriching our mental ability.

ART Spiritual Value – Great literature motivates,
inspires, and brings out moral values which can
Literature is derived from the Latin “littera” which
makeus better persons. Italsorelates to God’s
means “letter”, whichrefers primarily to written texts.
plan and purpose for humanity.
Therefore, literature is simply anything that iswritten.
Style – Great literature is evidentwith the
Literature consists writings which recognizethe
distinctiveway in which the writer sees life,
meanings of nature and life, in words of charm and
forms his/her ideas, and expresses them
power, touched with the characterof the author, in
distinctly. The uniqueness of the writer shows in
artistic forms of permanent interest. Literature is the
his or her style.
written, printedor oral productions of the human mind
Suggestiveness – Great literature drawsto our
collectively, which deals with themes of permanent and
emotions, stirs our imagination, feeling, moves
universal interest, characterized by creativeness and
us deeply and evokes visions over and beyond
grace of expression, as poetry, fictions, essays, etc.,
the level of ordinary life and experience.
distinguished from works of scientific, technical or
journalistic nature.
Types of Literature Prose and Poetry
A. Oral literature is the literature of the ancient Prose is discourse that follows the continuous and
periods when they did not yet have much usual flow of conversation which uses sentences
concern about a enduringpreservation of the forming paragraphs to express ideas, feelings, and
expressions of their wits and emotions or their actions. It is divided into two major divisions, namely
experiences because what seemed to matter fiction and non-fiction.
then to them was merely the pleasure of being Divisions of Prose:
able to tell stories or being able to express
themselves either in the simplest way they can 1. Fiction is a type of prose writingthat is the
or in their kind of aesthetic sense. Itis preserved product of theauthor’s imagination.
and handed down from one generation to
another by word of mouth. Oral literature A. Short Story is a sequence of events
started unwritten, but eventually captured for including one or more characters, one
writing narrative, and one single idea. Examples:
B. Written literature is one that producedfrom the Dead Stars by Paz Marquez Benitez,
use of the pen by literary writer. Written Footnote to Youth by Jose Garcia Villa.
Literature is more permanent than oral B. Novel is along work of fiction that has
literature because it remains as is. chapters where many
charactersareinvolved and spans long
Reasons Why People Write period of time. Examples: Noli Me Tangere
- For self-expression. It goes by the saying, “The mouth by Dr. Jose P. Rizal Things Fall Apart by
speaks what the heart is full of.” Literature can be a Chinua Achebe.
great avenue for a person to express what they feel or C. Play is a scripted story executed n stage
think. Examples: Call Me Flory by Wilfredo Ma.
Guerrero Dekada ’70 by Lualhati Bautista.
- To spread knowledge and information. Writing is a
D. Legend is a narrative about the origin of
great way for us not only to share information, but to
man, place, event, and happenings.
learn from the informationshared by other people.
Examples: Alamat ng Pinya, The Legend of
- To pass on ideas and values. Preserving ideas and Daragang Magayon.
values can be difficult and writing can mend to that E. Fable is a narrative where the characters
problem. Passing on principles can be made easy by are animals and nonlivingobjects that speak
writings. and act like people, and usually ends with
- To conveytruth, accuracy, and evaluation. This allows values that can mold their attitudes.
others to analyze, evaluate, form valid judgments, and Examples: The Monkey and the Turtle, The
make wise decisions. Ant and the Grasshopper

2. Non-fictionis a type of prose writing that is based on

The Qualities of Great Literature:
facts, real events, and real people.
Permanence - Great literature has a lasting
influenceand can stand though ages and may
still open a new world of meaning and A. Essay is an attempt to express the
experiences through different generations. viewpoint and judgment of the writer on a
Universality - Great literature appeals to dilemma or event. Example: Essays of
anyone, wherever, wheneverand may be Francis Bacon
constantlyrelevant. It deals with elemental B. Oration is a formal treatment of the
feelings, fundamental truths, and universal subject and intended to be spoken before a
conditions. crowd.
Artistry – Great literature drawsto our C. Biography is a literary work that gives the
aesthetic sense or sense of beauty. life account of a person written by another
Intellectual Value – Great literature stimulates person.
the way we think. It makes us realize D. Autobiography is a literary work where
the author writes his own life account.
 E. News is a report of expected and famous person or aclose friend. Examples:
unexpected events in society and An Elegy Written on a Country Church Yard
government and incidents in the fieldof by Thomas GrayIn Memoriam A.H.H. by
science, business, etc. Alfred Lord Tennyson
F. Letters is a written message D. Sonnet is a 14-line lyric poem with a
communicated from one person to another certain pattern of rhyme and rhythm.
person via writing through a medium. Examples: How Do I Love Theeby Elizabeth
Letters can be formal and informal. Barrett Browning (1806-1986) an English
G. Diaries and journalsserve as account of PoetSonnet 18 by William Shakespearee.
personal experiences. They are synonymous Song is a lyric poem intended to be sung.
but there isan important difference: Example: Sound of Silence by Bob Dylan and
- A diary is precisely a record of personal or Paul Simon.
private and daily experiences.
- A journal, depending on the context, could
mean a more universal record or logbook PRE – SPANISH PERIOD
but more importantly a technical journal, Beforehand the Spaniards arrived or set foot on
that is a scientific or industry-related Philippine shores, our ancestors already had their own
publication/periodical. literature emblazoned in the history of our race.
Literature occurred even prior to composing
implements were invented. It used to be oral; therefore,
Poetry is a type of literature that combines the sound
the literature of ancient Filipinos was handed from one
and meaning of language to create and express ideas
generation to another by word of mouth. The pre-
and feelings. The language of poetry which uses
Spanish poets and storytellers had gifts of good memory
imagery and figurative language closely related terms is
to be able to transmit oral literature without changing
very rich, suggestive, and powerful. It is expressed in
the original, omitting or changing details from it.
regimented manner by the force of stanza, meter,
rhyme, and other regulating devices.
Pre-Spanish Literature is characterized by:
1. Narrative poetry tells stories and has two forms: A. LEGENDS are narrative prose whichaim
A. Epics are lengthy poems that embodythe to entertain and tell the story of how an
adventures of epic heroes and divine forces. object, place, or nameoriginated.
They are the oldestremainingform of Though they may seem believable
poetry. Examples: Biag ni Lam-ang, Epic of expecially for children, theevents are
Gilgamesh, Beowulf. mere fictional, unreal, and lacking truth.
B. Ballads are narrative poems meantto be Former Filipino customs are mirrored in
sung. They are brieferthan the epics and these legends.
they usually tell stories about a person. B. FOLK TALES are narratives about life,
Because ballads startedfrom the common quest, love, horror, and comedy where
people, they use repetitive and simple one can get lessons about life. These
language as well as supernatural touches. are valuable to us as they help us
Example: Ballad to King Arthur. appreciate our situation, assess our
personalities, and enhance our life’s
2. Dramatic poetry reveal stories, but one or more perceptions.
characters act out the poem. There are plays that are C. EPICS are long narrative poems that
written as dramatic poetry. This allows the writer to dealt with the protagonists’ or heroes’
reveal characters directly through dialogue/monologue. series of heroic achievements or events.
William Shakespeare, an English playwright, is the most D. MYTHS are narratives that describe and
famous dramatic poet. In the dramatic monologue, the portray in symbolic language the origin
story is dramatically told by only one character. of the basic elements and assumptions
Examples: The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe, Winter’s Tale of a culture. Mythic narratives relate,
by William Shakespeare for example, how the world began, how
3.Lyric poetry, the most familiarof the three, is a humans and animals were created, and
briefpoem that articulatesthe poet’s thoughts and how certain customs, gestures, or forms
feeling. The word lyric comes from the Greek word of human activities originated. Almost
“rhein” which means lyre, a harp-like musical all cultures possess or at one time
instrument used by poets in ancient Greece. Lyricpoetry possessed and lived in terms of myths.
comes in many forms: E. FOLK SONGS are one of the eldest types
A. Haiku, one of the shortest lyric poems, is of Philippine literature that appeared in
a Japanese verse of 17 syllables arranged in the Pre-Spanish time. Folksongs
three lines, the first line has 5, the second 7, reflectand preserve the culture of the
and the third 5. Example: Haiku poems of early Filipinos. These intend to express
Matsuo Basho. the hopes and aspirations, the people’s
B. Ode is a serious elaborate lyric poem full lifestyles as well as their loves. These
of high praises and noble feelingsusually are repetitive and sonorous, didactic
about things. Example: Ode to Eveningby and naïve asthechildren’s songs or Ida-
William Collins (1721-1759) Ode to ida (Maguindanao), tulang pambata
Tomatoes by Pablo Neruda. (Tagalog) or cansiones para
C. Elegy is a poem of meditation on life and abbing(Ibanag).
death. Many elegies mourn the death of a
SPANISH PERIOD (1565-1898) book from Greek to Tagalog. The
published translated book has 556
Spain had occupied the Philippines for over 300 years. pages and was believed to be the
Spanish occupation made a great impact to the lives of first Tagalog novel published in the
Filipinos as well as their lifestyle. It was the Spanish Philippines. This novel was also
colonization which introduced customs such as naming translated to Ilocano by Agustin
system, baptism, and religion such as Mejia.
Catholicism.Morover, Filipinos learned tobuildhouses - The Passion
that are made of stones and bricks, used kitchen This book narrates the life and
utensils and furniture like the piano. The means of sufferngs of Jesus Christ, and it is
transportation of Filipinos during those times were normally recited during the lent
carriages, trains, and boats. Fiestas are heldto pay season. 4 versions are available in
tribute tothe saints, popes, and governors. The church Tagalog. Each of the adaptation is
had also acted as the government. The popular according to the name of the
recreational activities were cockfights, horse races and author: 1. DeBelen Version by
theater. Gaspar Aquino de Belen of Bataan
A. Spanish Influences on Philippine Literature (1704)
- Alibata was the earliest Filipino 2. De Guia Version by Luis de Guia
writing system which was replaced in (1750)
by the Roman alphabet, 3. Pilapil Version by Mariano Pilapil
- The basis for religious practices was of Bulacan (1814)
the Christian Doctrine. 4. Dela Merced version by Aniceto
- The Spanish language, which lent de la Merced of Norzagaray,
many of its words to our language, Bulacan (1856)
served as the medium of instruction
and language of literature. B. FOLK SONGS
- Our songs, corridos, and moro- - During the Spanish period, each
moros were mostly about the region had its national song from
legends and traditions from Europe. the lowlands to the mountains of
- Ancient literature was translated Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Folk
and becameavailable inTagalog and songs truly manifest the Filipinos’
other dialects. artistic feelings and innate
- Grammar books were published in appreciation for love of beauty:
different Filipino languages such as Some examples of folk songs are:
Tagalog, Ilocano, and Visayan. Leron-Leron Sinta, Pamulinawen,
- Several magazines and periodicals Dandansoy, Sarong Banggi, Atin Cu
were written in religious light and Pung Singsing.
tone. C. RECREATIONAL PLAYS
A. THE FIRST BOOKS These recreational plays in poetic forms
- The Christian Doctrine (Doctrina were performed by Filipinos during the
Cristiana) Spanish era:
This was the first Tagalog and - Tibag means to excavate. This is a
Spanish book published in the ritual to remind the people about
Philippines in 1593 in Xylography. It the search of Saint Helena for the
was authored by Fr. Juan de Holy Cross where Jesus Christ was
Placencia and Fr. Domingo Nieva. It nailed and died.
included the Pater Noster (Our - Lagaylay is a special occasion to get
Father), Ave Maria (Hail Mary), together during the month of May
Regina Coeli (Hail Holy Queen), and for the Pilarenos of Sorsogon. As
the Ten Commandments of God, early as April, ladies are chosen, or
the Commandments of the Catholic mothers volunteer their girls to
Church, the Seven Mortal Sins, how fulfill a vow or panata during illness
to Confess, and the Cathecism. or even for a favor received. In
- Libro de los Cuatro Post Primeras Bicol, the people do a ritual offering
de Hombre of praise, respect and love to the
This wasthe first book publishedin Blessed Cross by Saint Helena on
typography. the mound she had dug in.
- Cenaculo is a dramatic performance
- Nuestra Senora del Rosario to re-enact the passion and death
This was the second book printed in of Jesus Christ. There are two kinds
the Philippines authored by Fr. of cenaculo: the Cantada which is
Blancas de San Jose in 1602. It chanted like thePassion, and the
includes the memoirs of saints, Hablada which has a more dignified
novenas, and questions and theme where the lines are spoken
answers about religion. in a more deliberate manner
- Ang Barlaan at Josephat showing the rhythmic measure of
This book was the first Biblical story each verse and stanza.
published in the Philippines. Fr. - Panunuluyan is a play where the
Antonio de Borja translated the search of Virgin Mary and Saint
 Joseph for an inn to deliver the - Karagatan is a poetic competition
baby Jesus is reenacted. where a tradition is performed
- Salubong is an Eastern Sunday play, based on a legend about a princess
usually held before sunrise, stages who dropped her ring into the
the meeting of the Risen Jesus middle of the ocean and who
Christ and His Mother. offered her hand in marriage to
- Carillo (also known asshadow play) anyone who can find it. A leader
is a dramatic entertainment begins with an extemporaneous
performed during dark nights. poem to declare the purpose as he
Cardboards figures before a light spins a “lumbo” or a “tabo” marked
against a white sheet are normally with a white line. Whoever comes
used to successfully portray Carillo. in the direction of the whiteline
The figures are moved like when the spinning stops, gets his
marionettes and their chance to “go into the sea to look
conversations are created by for the ring.” The girl asks a riddle,
professionals and are drawn from and if he gives the correct answer,
Corrido, Awit or some religious he will offer the ring to the girl.
plays accompanied with songs. - Balagtasan is a poetic debate about
- Zarzuela (also known as the Father a socially-relevanttopic or issue.
of Drama) is a musical comedy or This is held in honor of Francisco
melodrama. Divided into three acts, “Balagtas” Baltazar.
the drama deals with man’s several - Dung-aw is a chant in free verse by
desires and feelings like love, hate, a grieving person beside the corpse
revenge, cruelty, greed or other of the dead. Without definite meter
social and political problems. or rhyming, the person recites in
- Sainete is a brief yet exaggerated poetic rhythm according to his
musical comedy wherein the feelings, emotions, and thoughts.
characters depicted came from the Since it is personalized and usually
lower class. The themes resemble deals with the life, sufferings, and
everyday life problems, conflicts, sacrifices of the dead, it also
and situations. includes apologies for his misdeeds.
- Moro-Moro is a play held in every
city fiesta for the individuals to
enjoy and commemoratetheir AMERICAN PERIOD (1898-1941)
Christianity. The play starts with the During the American Period in the Philippines, the
abduction of a Christian princess or literary creationwas motivatedby two advancementsin
a nobleman’s daughter by the education and culture:
Moros. The father then organizes a
-The introduction of free instruction forall children of
rescue team where battling
school age
between the Moros and the
Christians takes place. The -The use of English as medium of instruction in all levels
Christians usually win the battle by of education in public schools.
divine intervention, and the Free public education made knowledge and information
defeated Moros are converted to accessible to all Filipinos. Those who availed this
Christianity, or the whole kingdom education through college were able to improve their
of Moros becomes baptized and social status and joined a good number of educated
converted to Christian as well. masses who became part of the country’s middle class.
–Escuela de Farmacia del Liceo de
Manila (now MCU)

Founded Schools/ Universities in the Philippines 1905–Central Philippine University

During American Colonial Period: 1908–University of the Philippines

1901 1914–University of Manila

–Philippine Normal College (now PNU) 1915–Cebu Normal School

–National University 1919

–Silliman University –Philippine Women’s University

–El Colegio de San Beda (now SBU) –Jose Rizal University

1902 1925–Mapua Institute of Technology

–Negros Oriental High school 1933 –Far Eastern University

–Ilo-ilo Normal School 1938–Arellano University

1904 1941–San Sebastian College –Recoletos

–St. Paul University

–Filamer Christian University
–Zamboanga Normal School
 The Three PeriodsThat Emerged During American
During the Period of Apprenticeship (1910-1930), the Period:
Filipino writers imitated English and American models. 1.The Period of Reorientation (1898-1910) – The
They were into all forms of literature like news, concept ofreorientation was materializedduring this
reporting, poetry, stories, plays, essays, and novels. period. The English language became the language of
Their writings clearly depicted their love of country and literature by the time of American occupation on
their longings for independence. August 13, 1898. In 1900, the English language came to
Short Stories be used as a method of teaching in the public schools.

 Dead Stars was the first short story written in 2. The Period of Imitation (1910-1924) – In1919,
English by Paz Marquez Benitez. different universities such as the UP-College Folio
printed the literary masterpieces of the first Filipino
 The Small Key was written by Paz Latorena.
authors in English. They were the forerunners in writing
 Footnote to Youth was written by Jose Garcia
short stories. They were then scrutinizing their way into
Villa.
impersonating American and British models which
Newspapers resulted in a unusual, synthetic, and unnatural style,
 El Nuevo Dia (The New Day) -Established by lacking enthusiasm, and naturalness. Their models
Sergio Osmena in 1900.The Americanscensored, included Longfellow and Hawthorne, Longfellow, Allan
twice banned and threatened Osmena with Poe, Irving and other American authors of the Romantic
banishment because of his nationalistic School. Writers of this folio included Fernando
writings. Maramag (the greatest editorial author of this period)
 El Grito Del Pueblo (The Call of the Nation)- Juan F. Salazar, Jose M. Hernandez, Vicente del Fierro,
Established by Pascual Poblete in 1900. and Francisco M. Africa and Victoriano Yamzon. They
 El Renacimiento (The Rebirth) -Founded by are established when it comes to English poetry.
Rafael Palma in 1901. 3. Period of Self-Discovery and Growth (1925-1941) -
Plays By this time, Filipino writers had mastered writing
literary pieces in English. They confidently and
 Kahapon, Ngayon, at Bukas (Yesterday, Today competently wrote on a lot of topicsalthough the old-
and Tomorrow) written by Aurelio Tolentino. It time favorites of love and youth continued. They
depicts the suppression done by the Americans explored writing various forms of literaturelike the
and their plan to colonize the Philippines. novel and the drama.
 Tanikalang Ginto of Juan Abado Malaya by
Tomas Remigio
 Walang Sugat by Severino Reyes JAPANESE PERIOD (1941-1945)
The Characteristics and Features of the American
 The development of Philippine literature was
Period:
jeopardized when Japan conquered the
1. Zarsuelas -This was popularized in1893A new-found Philippines between 1941-1945. The Japanese
dramatic form was popularized by Severino Reyes and prohibited the use of the English language in
the old forms gradually vanished. The theme was no almost all newspapers except the Tribune,
longer about Christians and Muslims but between Philippine Review, Pillars, Free Philippines, and
Filipinos and Spaniards in the first period of the Filipina.
American regime.  Freedom of speech was prohibited as well.
2. Tagalog Prose Fiction - Some of the well-known According to Victoria Abelardo, the Filipino
works are “Salawahang Pag-ibig” by Lope K. Santos, literature in the time of Japanese invasion was
“Pagsintang Naluoy” by Modesto Santiago and “Unang “bitter and pessimistic.” Strict censorship
Bulaklak” byValeriano Hernandez. Writers of these allowed only afew literary works to be printed
prose were emotional; they chose more for romantic and published during this period.
adventures than for flaming issues of the day.  Before it was managed by a Japanese named
Ishiwara, the weekly magazine Liwayway was
3. Novel - “Banaag at Sikat,” which was written byLope
placed under a very strict surveillance.
K. Santos, is one of the renowned novels during this era.
 This period encouraged Tagalog writing. Several
The emotional character of each Filipino was shown in
literary works thatfocused on everyday life were
this novel using tents of provinces.
seen and unaffectedby war. The Filipino
4. Poetry - Remarkable people in this area include Literaturegained advantagesfor itsrenewed
Marcelo de Gracia Concepcion, Jose Garcia Villa, Angela attention because writers in English turned to
Manalang Gloria, Abelardo Subido, Trinidad Tarrosa writing in Filipino. One example of this is Juan
Subido and Rafael Zulueta da Costa. They transformed Laya, who used to write in English. Heturned to
not only love poems but nationalistic, spiritual, writing in Filipino language because of the strict
evocative and insightful poems too. They penned in free prohibitions of the Japanese regarding any
verse, in odes and sonnets and in other types. Poetry writing in English.
was unique, natural, expertly written and later, merged  The guerillas performed oral and written
social awareness. literatureusing theirsatiricaland humorous skills.
5. Short Story (1925-1941) –The College publications UP The people who are fighting against Japanese
Literary Apprentice, Philippine Free Press, The Graphic, movementalso used literature as their weapon
The Philippine Magazine offered incentives and the and means of expression.
short story prospered during these times.  The importance of cultural events remains not
in the excellence of output but by the guidepost
of the Filipinos.
 Most poems centered onnationalism, love and
life in the barrios, faith, religion, and arts.
 Voice of Freedom, a utmostly-secret The Rebirth of Freedom (1946-1970)
underground radio, served as the only contact Historical Background in the Post War-Contemporary
of Filipinos with the outside world. Period
 During this period, Tagalog was favored by the  It is also known as the “Recovering Era.”
Japanese military authority, and eventually  The Americans returned to the Philippines in
influenced and encouraged the Filipinos to 1945 to end the Japanese rule.
develop the vernacular literature.  The Filipinos were jubilant and the Guerillas
 Filipino writers who were able to write freely who fled in the mountains joined the liberating
were those residing in the United States. Most American Army.
writers and authors were forced to go  It is a period when Philippines gained
underground or write in Tagalog. Thus, the independence from both America and Japan.
Filipino literature gained renewed attention
The Philippine Literature during the Post War-
because writers in English language shifted to
Contemporary Period:
writing in Filipino language.
 Movie houses showing American films were  It is the transitional period in Philippine
closed. It was latter replaced by stage plays that literature from the American style to the
were translated from English to Tagalog. Well- modern style of writing
known translators at that time were Francisco  The post liberation period was characterized by
Soc Rodrigo, Alberto Concio and Narciso “struggle of mind and spirit” posed by the
Pimentel. sudden emancipation from the Japanese rule
 Filipino literature was given a break during this and the strong desire to experience the
period. Many Filipino writers wrote plays, freedom of writing.
poems, short stories etc. whose topics and  The Filipinos gained more confidence in
themes were often about life in the provinces. expressing themselves. Meanwhile, post war
problems in connection to language and print –
The Filipino Poetry during the like economic stability, the threat of new ideas
and morality-had to be dealt with side by side.
JapanesePeriod:  The newspapers like the Free Press, Morning
As previously discussed, the themes of Filipino Sun of Sergio Osmena Sr., Daily Mirror of
poetry during the Japanese colonization were Joaquin Roces, Evening News of Ramon Lopez
nationalism, love and life in the barrios, faith, and the Bulletin of Menzi, proved that there
religion, and the arts. were more readers in English than in any other
vernaculars like Tagalog, Ilocano or Hiligaynon
Three Types of Poems that Emerged during this period.
during the JapanesePeriod:  In year 1946, Ginto sa Makiling, a novel by
1. Haiku – a poem of free verse that the Macario Pineda, was published. It is the first
Japanese like. It was made up of 17 syllables work that appeared after the Second World
divided into three lines. The first line had 5 War to be recorded.
syllables, the second, 7 syllables and the third,  Lazaro Francisco, a famous Tagalog novelist, is
five. The haiku is allegorical in meaning, is short described as a realist with social and moral
and covers a wide scope in meaning. ideals. The influence of Rizal is reflective on his
2. Tanaga – a poem consisted of 4 lines, each work. He produced the following three novels:
with 7 syllables and usually has AAAA rhyme 1. “Sugat Sa Alaala” (1950) reflects the horrors of the
scheme war experience as well as the human capacity for
3. Karaniwang anyo (usual metrical form) nobility, endurance, and love under the most extreme
circumstances.
The Filipino Drama During the 2. “Maganda Pa Ang Daigdig” (1956) deals with the
Japanese Period: agrarian issue
The drama experienced a lull during the 3. “Daluyong” (1962) deals with the corruption
Japanese period because movie houses showing produced by the American-style and American-
American films were closed. The big movie educated pseudo-reformers.
houses were just made to show stage shows.
Many of the plays were reproductions of English  Amado Hernandez, the poet who was also a
plays to Tagalog. The translators were Francisco union leader and social activist, wrote novels
Soc Rodrigo, Alberto Concio, and Narciso encouraging social
Pimentel. They also founded the organization of change. These novels include: “Luha ng
Filipino players named Dramatic Philippines. Buwaya” (1963) (Lumbera) discusses the
A few playwrights and their well-known plays struggle between the
were: oppressed peasantry and the class of politically
1. Jose Ma. Hernandez – wrote “Panday Pira” powerful landlords. “Mga Ibong Mandaragit”
2. Francisco Soc Rodrigo – wrote “Sa pula, sa (1969) deals
Puti” with the domination of Filipinos by American
3. Clodualdo del Mundo – wrote “Bulaga” (an industry.
expression in the game Hide and Seek).  The writers in English dominated the genres of
4. Julian Cruz Balmaceda – wrote “Sino ba Post-war poetry and fiction. They educated and
Kayo? Dahil sa Anak, and Higante ng Patay.” trained in
 writers’ workshops in the United States or  Gonzalez’ absence of college degree did not
England. stop him from pursuing teaching, and he
 Later on, most of the said writers return to the received teaching
Philippines as educators. With their credentials positions at numerous universities in the
and solid Philippines, including the University of the
standings, they influenced the form and Philippines (U.P) and
direction of the next generation mainly in the Philippine Women’s University. In fact,
accordance with the Gonzalez was one of only two faculty members
dominant tenets of the formalist New Critics of at U.P. to
America and England. teach without holding a college degree. Since
 Whether written in English or any of the native then, he has taught at several universities in
languages, the Philippine novel has remained California.
social-realist.  During his writing career, Gonzalez wrote five
 The prize-winning poet-critic Lilia Quindoza novels, eight short fictions and multiple essays,
Santiago, is, the most comprehensive with his
compilation of feminist work translated into languages like English,
writing in the Philippines after “Sa Ngalan Ng Chinese, German, Russian, and Indonesian.
Ina” (1997) which was written during the post-  Gonzalez has received numerous awards
war period. including the City of Manila Medal of Honor in
1971, the
Cultural Center of the Philippines award in
The Challenges Faced by the Government: 1990, and the role of Regents professor at the
University of
California at Los Angeles in 1988-9.
 In the 1950s, the Guerilla warfare, also known
 Gonzalez passed away in 1999 at the age of 84,
as the HUKBALAHAP, (Hukbong Bayan Laban sa
leaving behind his wife, four children, and five
Hapon) was causing problems in the
grandchildren. In 2016, Gonzalez’s son, Dr.
government, but in the Magsaysay
Michael Gonzalez, led an N.V.M. Gonzalez
administration, they vanished, neutralized, or
Workshop in
were gone.
 Oriental Mindoro. This workshop was in honor
 During this period, journalists indulged in more
of the 2015 centenary of Gonzalez’s birth and
militant attitude in their reporting. Gradually, as
was held in
peace and order were restored, the tones and
the province of Gonzalez’s childhood.
themes of their writings turned to the less
pressing problems of economic survival.
ABOUT THE BAMBOO DANCERS:
The Bamboo Dancers is a historical
novel by the Filipino novelist NVM Gonzalez.
Filipino Writers During the Post- Published in 1959 by
War Period Bookmark, this novel follows the travels of an
Americanized Filipino man and his struggles to
1. N.V.M. Gonzales (1915-1999) embrace his
 Nestor Vicente Madali Gonzalez, also known as own roots in rural culture. Praised for its
N.V.M. Gonzalez, is subtlety and careful handling of culture clashes,
fictionist, essayist, poet, and teacher. He The Bamboo Dancers
articulated the Filipino spirit in is one of a series titled Filipino Literary Classics.
rural, urban landscapes. Prior to his death in 1999, Gonzalez received
 Born in the Philippines in 1915 in the province both the 1960
of Oriental Mindoro, Philippine Cultural Heritage Award for
Gonzalez conveyed enthusiasm for music at a Literature, and the 1961 Rizal Pro-Patria Award.
very early age. He He received National
discovered to perform the violin and made his Artist status in 1997. The narrative follows the
own guitars by hand. For journey of protagonist Ernie Rama.
college, he studied at National University at
Manila, Philippines, but did
2. Macario Pineda (1912-1950)
not finish his degree.
 Gonzalez published his initial essay in the  Macario Pineda was born on April 10, 1912 in
Philippine Graphic and his first poem was Malolos, Bulacan. His
printed in 1934. parents, Felisa de Guzman and Nicanor Pineda
These early publications began Gonzalez’s are established poetical
literary career. He went to The Diliman Review debater. Macario Pineda married Avelina Reyes
and worked and they had seven
as a member on the Board of Advisers of children. He finished his high school studies at
Likhaan: The University of the Philippines Bulacan High School and
Creative Writing worked afterwards in the municipality office.
Center and president of the Philippine Writers’  Macario Pineda is a well-known Filipino writer.
Association. He is a renowned author
because of his Tagalog works. Even though he
wrote some stories in
 English, all his writings in Filipino were much his Iloko translation of the Doctrina Cristiana
appreciated by the readers. (first book published in the Philippines by
He also authored works in Liwayway, Malaya, Cardinal Bellarmine)
Bulaklak, Ilang-ilang, in 1621.
Daigdig, at Sinag-tala.
 His works shows distinctive characterization and
remarkable narration.
FRANCISCO SIONIL JOSÉ (already 93 years old) is
one of the most
Readers are astounded with his works because
he uses native contexts, widely read Filipino writers in the English language. His
excellent use of the Filipino language which novels and short
reflects traditional Filipino customs. His works stories depict the social underpinnings of class struggle
were always and colonialism in
included in the list of the anthology of the great
Filipino society.
writers, Ang 25 Pinakamabuting Maikling
Kathang Pilipino Birthdate: December 3, 1924
ng 1943 and Maikling Kuwentong Tagalog, Hometown: Rosales, Pangasinan
1886-1948.
Educational Attainment: Graduated at University of
Santo Tomas
3. Stevan Javellana (1918–1977)
 Stevan “Esteban” Javellana, a Filipino novelist Melvin Banggollay
and short story writer in the English language, Birthplace: Saliok, Natonin, Mountain Province
was born in 1918 in Iloilo. During the Japanese
occupation, he fought as one of the guerillas. Hometown: Tabuk, Kalinga
After the World War II, he graduated from the Occupation: Senior specialist at Department of Trade
University of the Philippines College of Law in and Industry DTI)
1948. He stayed in the United States afterwards Educational Attainment: Graduated Bachelor of Science
but he died in the Visayas in 1977 at the age of in Commerce, Major in
59.
Accounting and management at St. Mary's University,
Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya,
 Javellana wrote Without Seeing the Dawn,
which was his only and best-selling war novel in as a scholar of the National Integration Study Grant
the United States and Manila. This was Program (NISGP) sponsored by
published by Little, Brown and Company in the Department of Education and National Student Loan
Boston in 1947. He also wrote short stories that Center, Philippines
were published in 1950s by Manila Times
Magazine in among which are Two Tickets to
Manila, The Sin of Father Anselmo, Sleeping BICOLANO LITERATURE
Tablets, The Fifth Man, The Tree of Peace and
Transition. Around 5 million people speak variations of Bikolano
dialect in the Bicol region. From Camarines Sur to
Naga to Albay Sorsogon – and every locality in between
ILOCANO LITERATURE – Bikolano literature has flourished, providing a lively
 Ilocano literature is one of the most vibrant literary flavor unrivalled by any other literary tradition.
Filipino literatures throughout the ages. Ilocano How the Diversity Unfolded:
regions are also
 Just like other local traditions and cultures in
one of the most active tributaries in the
the country, Bikolano literature has its roots in
Philippine literature next to Cebuano, Bikol,
orally transmitted
Hiligaynon,
Pangasinense, and Tagalog. poems and mythical narratives that reflect the history
 Prior to the Spanish colonial period, the Ilocano of the people. The transformation of the literature can
literature is purely alive in form of written and be
oral literature. traced by going through local and national history.
The ancient Ilocano poets expressed themselves
 Mariano Perfecto is the first Bikolano writer
in folk and war songs. Another popular form of
who published Bikola newspaper, he was also
literature
responsible for the
was the dallot, which is an improvised, versified
and impromptu long poem delivered in a sing- development of the first printing press named
song manner. “Imprenta de Nuestra Senora de Penafrancia.”
 When the Spaniards arrived in Ilocos Norte in  While the latter development implied that
1572, it took a toll on Ilocano literature. During Bikolano literature was dominated by religious
the Spanish writing at that time.
era, Ilocano poetry was heavily influenced by  Protest drama became a form of expressing the
Spanish poetry. The earliest known written people’s growing resentment of the Spanish
Ilocano poems were rule.
the romances translated from Spanish by  “Comedia” writers such as Sabas Armenta, Juan
Francisco Lopez. Lopez was an Augustinian friar Alvarez Guerra and Juan Miraflor have protest
who published plays credited
to their names. contains a “balaybay” or metaphor), the “tigmo”
 The dramatic genre of the “corridor,” which was (riddles), “panultihon” (proverbs), and “garay” verses.
popular among the Tagalog-speaking folk, was  “Balitaw,” a poetic debate that required the
adapted into participants (a man and a woman) to improvise and
the local ‘Bikolcorrido”, with “Magamang Pobre” being even sing their lines, was also popular in the place.
a popular example). Improvised poetry was also present in the dramatic
genre of the “kulilising hari”. Cebuanos are known for
Bicolano Authors and their Literary Pieces: having a rich oral tradition, this is consist of legends
Luis Guevarra Dato (4 July 1906 – 29 January associated with specific locales, like the “Maria Cacao”
1985) legends of Southern Cebu and those of Lapu-Lapu and
his father Datu Manggal of Mactan; and folktales like
 He was a Filipino poet, writer, educator and politician the fable “Haring Gangis ug Haring Leon”, which gives
from Baao, Camarines Sur. caution on the unmannerly behavior by the prevailing
 He was one of the first Filipinos to write and publish group. Many of the tales carry lessons, but just as many
works in English. suggest the value of humor, keeping of one’s wit and
 He was also considered as an “authority on the Bicol resourcefulness, as in the “Juan Pusong trickster tales”.
language and culture.”  It was only in the late 19th century when written
 He also worked as a newspaperman for the Bicol Star, literature became noteworthy. Tomas de San
Geronimo’s “Soneto sa Pagdayeg can Santa Maria
Naga times, and other Newspapers. Other Famous
Gihapon Virgen” (1751) is the first of many religious
Works:
compositions that show a loss of the mysterious symbol
 Manila: A Collection of Verses (1926), and metaphor of pre-colonial verse.
 My Book of Verses, I (1936), II undated  The pasyon is considered the longest poetic form. It is
 The Land of Mai: A Philippine Epic, Volume I (1975) a verse interpreting the life and suffering of Jesus Christ
that is read during the Lent season.
Marne L. Kilates has published three books of
poetry, Children of the Snarl (Aklat Peskador, 1987),  Among the publications before the war, only Bisaya
Poems en Route (UST Publishing House, 1998), and has survived as literary outlet of Cebuano, caused by
Mostly in Monsoon Weather (UP Press, 2007), and nine the rise in stature of English and later Tagalog. Although
books of translation of Filipino poetry into English. His Cebuano was still the language of home and street,
translations include works by major Filipino poets, the postwar Cebuano literature was downgraded to third
latest of which are the University of the Philippines class.
Centennial Edition of Francisco Balagtas’ Florante at  Cebuano literature is probably weakest when it comes
Laura, and National Artist Virgilio S. Almario’s (or Rio to the Drama, even though there are few writers like
Alma’s) Mga Biyahe, Mga Estasyon / Journeys, Junctions Claude Al Evangelio and Allan Jayme Rabaya whose
(Anvil, 2008). Kilates is also an active user of the new writings were continued. Cebuano playwrights have
medium of the Internet, and publishes and edits the slowly turned to radio- and TV-scriptwriting triggered by
online poetry & art magazine called Poet’s Picturebook. the worry they had regarding thoughts unusual to
writing for theater, like curiosity in publication and
facing the standard of the theater arts.
CEBUANO LITERATURE  The annual “Cornelio Faigao Memorial Writers
Cebu, dubbed as “The Queen of the South,” Workshop” conducted since 1984 by the “Cebuano
distinguishes itself with its rich and vibrant literary Studies Center of the University of San Carlos” were
tradition. With a quarter of the entire country’s attended my many writers. These workshops, which the
population speaking the Cebuano language, Cebuano Cebuano writers may attend as fellows and as
literature has proliferated across Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, observers, provide a setting for people from different
and Negros Oriental. backgrounds and walks of life to share their crafts and
How the Diversity Unfolded: discuss problems.
 Cebuano literature refers to the literary works written
in Cebuano, a language widely spoken in the southern
Philippines. The term is most often extended to cover
ESTERN VISAYAS LITERATURE
the oral literary forms in both indigenous and colonial GEOGRAPHY
Philippines.
 While the majority of Cebuano writers are from the •Western Visayas, also known as Region VI, is
Visayas and Mindanao region, the most recognized composed of the provinces Aklan, Antique, Capiz,
Filipino literary outlet for them, including the Bisaya Iloilo, Negros Occidental, and the new province of
Magasin, is based in Makati City in Metro Manila, while Guimaras, which was formerly a sub-province of Iloilo.
there is also a lively Cebuano community of writers in
•Farming and fishing are the primary sources of income
the language, which is based outside the country.
ofthe people of Region VI.
 Cebuano literature, therefore, encompasses not only
those Visayas and Mindanao-based writers writing in •Aside from rice, the region also produces sugar,
Cebuano, but all written output in Cebuano, wherever coconut, banana, fruits, root crops, and vegetables.
its source is.
•Iloilo City and Bacolod City are highly urbanized cities
 Cebuano Literature may be traced back to several while the rest are rural.
poetic forms. These included the “balak” (which
LANGUAGE(S)
•Hiligaynon–lingua francaof the Ilonggos in the Western individuals who have passion in writing local literatures
Visayas also collect and publish them.

•Kinaray-aor Hiraya–mother language of the Western •The themes of Western Visayan literature are mostly
Visayas and is spoken by the Ilonggosin the central and about success and failure in love, expression of love,
southern towns of Iloilo, all provinces of Antique, most longing for maternal love, occupation and culture,
of Capiz, and even South Cotabato, where many behavior, adventure, and courtship, challenges and
Western Visayans have migrated hardships, calamities, care for nature, heroism,
crimes and criminality.
•Cebuano or Sugbuanon–Though it is the lingua
francaof Central Visayas, it is spoken in the northern •Rich and varied Hiligaynon literatures manifested
towns of Negros Occidental which face Tañon Strait different beliefs, traditions, customs, everyday life,
towards Cebu human relationships and occupationof the Western
Visayan people.
•Aklanon–language spoken in Aklan, which was also
derived from Kinaray-a just like Hiligaynon

ETHNIC GROUPS A folktale is an old form of literature which is usually a

story originating in popular culture and is typically
•Aklananon–main inhabitants of Aklan
passed across generationsthrough oral tradition.
•Negrito–locally known as Ati Without the oral tradition, the earliest forms of
literature might not be known in the present
•Sulod–tribal group that resides in the hinterlands of generation.
Panay
An epic is a long narrative poem that exemplifies
WESTERN VISAYAS LITERATURE FROM THE PAST AND the adventures of heroes with supernatural abilities
THE PRESENT and characters with divine forces. Epics are the oldest
•During the pre-Spanish era, the Western Visayan surviving form of poetry.
literature was transmitted through oral tradition and The Man Behind The Pig: John Iremil E. Teodoro
in Kinaray-a.
Hometown: San Jose de Buenavista,
•Kinaray-awas said to have been the language in
folklore of the ten Bornean datus. According to the folk Antique Occupation: Writer, literary critic, educator,
account of the Maragtas,these datusbought the island cultural scholar, a leading pioneer in Philippine gay
of Panay with a headgear of gold and a necklace literature
that touched the ground. Panay Island was said to be
Educational Attainment:
originally a possession of the aboriginal Ati.
➢Studied BS Biology at University of San Agustin
•The folk literature of Western Visayas consists of brief
riddles, proverbs, ditties, ritual chants, elaborate love ➢Studied Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at
songs, tales, and extensive epics. DLSU
•Binalaybay–a term that refers to Western Visayan ➢Studied Doctor of Philisophy in Literature at DLSU
poem
Literary Achievements:
•Asoy or Sugilanon –a term that refers to Western
Visayan tales ➢Five-timerecipient ofCarlos Palanca Awards

•Region VI is known to be rich in folklore that truly ➢National Book Award given by the Manila Critics
mirrors the culture, tradition, and dreams of its Circle
people. The researchers believe that these folklores
Several Literary Works:
deserve to be included in the canon of the Philippine
Literature (Morga, 2019). ➢Paruparo at Korales/ Butterflies and Corals: A
Collectionof Palawan Poems in Filipino and English
•In the present time, the Western Visayan literature is
(1999)
still known and orally passed by old folks. These are
categorized into the following categories: ➢Babaye: Mga Tulang Filipino, Hiligaynon, at Kinaray-a
(2004)
➢Bulong, hurubaton, huding, likayo, hakol, hangkat,
and other old and shorter verses ➢Kung ang Tula ay Pwedeng Pambili ng Lalaki (2006)
➢Ambahanon, Daigon, komposo (folk songs) ➢Pagmumuni-muni at Pagtatalak ng Sirenang
Nagpapanggap na Prinsesa (2007)
➢Dayaw/ dalit, pasyon (verses/ songs of praise)
➢Anghel sang Capiz (2009)
➢Paktakon (riddles), lowa, folk tales
Free verse is a form contemporary poetry which is
•Written forms also exist for most of these literatures
free from rhythm and rhyme, word choice, and
were written, collected and stored in the libraries of
structure.
schools and universities in the region. Private
EASTERN VISAYAS LITERATURE •Francisco Pedro Chirino–a Jesuit historian who said
that the Bisayans had verses about the creation of the
GEOGRAPHY world, paradise, the deluge and other invisible things
which they sang while doing mundane activities such as
•Eastern Visayas, also known as Region VIII, is
sailing, tilling the fields, feasting, and even mourning
composed of the three main islands namely Samar,
the dead
Biliran, and Leyte. These islands are comprised of the
six provinces namely Samar, Northern Samar, Eastern •Francisco Ignacio Alcina-a Jesuit historian who
Samar, Biliran, and Leyte, and Southern Leyte. documented the poetic forms of Waray literature in
as early as 1668 which collected the following literary
•Mining, farming, fishing, beverage manufacturing,
works:
home industries, and tourism are the major sources of
livelihood of the people. ➢Candu–poem or songs about history which is sung by
paracandu
•Aside from rice, the region also produces sugar,
coconut, banana, fruits, root crops, and vegetables. ➢Diibtang–semi goddesses whose exploits are
recounted in an epic that is spoken by elderly men who
•Tacloban City is the only highly urbanized place in this
were still tattooed and related it with elegance and
region which serves as the sole regional center and hub
grace
of investment, trade, and development.coconut,
banana, fruits, root crops, and vegetables. ➢Cabungao and Bubu nga Ginbuna–two celebrated
•Iloilo City and Bacolod City are highly urbanized cities lovers whose story is told in the coast of Ibabao, the
while the rest are rural. eastern coast of Samar

LANGUAGE(S) ➢Daragangan–men of great strength, valour, and

unusual courage whose exploits are celebrated in songs
•Waray-Waray–lingua franca of Eastern Visayas,
including the islands of Zumarraga and Homonhon, ➢Ambahan–meaning “multitude,” a song sung by the
formerly called “Samareño” and “Binisaya” community

•Cebuano–second most widely used language in Region ➢Bical–a witty, humorous, and satirical joust where the
VIII and is also colloquially known as “Kana” man usually says critical things of the woman and vice-
versa; requires two persons to exchange verses in strict
•Abaknon–a unique dialect spoken in Capul Island, metrical time
Northern Samar which is neither Waray nor Cebuano,
but a potpourri of several dialects; also known as Capul ➢Balac–a metaphorical, flowery, bombastic,
language grandiloquent, and verbose courtship song with
accompaniment of stringed musical instruments and is
•Baybayanon–used in Baybay City, Leyte performed by a man and woman and usually dealt with
•Kinabalian–used in the municipality of San Juan, the affairs of love
Northern Leyte ➢Siday–poem that celebrates the beauty of a woman
•Boholano–used by the people in Southern Leyte or bravery of a man and is performed by the most
skilled of the folk poets
ETHNIC GROUPS
➢Awit–most popular Waray poetry and is oftentimes
•Waray–majority of inhabitants of Region VIII used in coordinating certain activities like rowing a boat,
•Samareños–inhabitants of the island of Samar weaving, or walking home from the fields

•Leyteños–inhabitants of the island of Leyte ➢Canogon–poems for mourning the dead

•Bantoanon–natives of Romblon who migrated to ➢Titigoon–riddles for games

Eastern Visayas
➢Susumaton–stories told during gatherings
•Rombloanon–natives of Romblon who migrated to
➢Sareta–a narrative poem that recounted the acts
Eastern Visayas
of bravery and moments of weaknesses of the Waray
EASTERN VISAYASLITERATURE FROM THE PAST AND gods and goddesses
THE PRESENT
➢Luwa–poem that is best recited orally than sung due
•The literature of Eastern Visayas is more popularly to its formal nature
known as Waray literature.
•Theater tradition had gained its popularity in place.
•Waray literature caught the attention of German These had been incorporated to the performance of
priests who managed a local university in Tacloban City, poetry, rituals, and mimetic dances. The joys and
which paved way to collecting, recording, and activities of the ancient Waray are reflected and
documenting literary works together with scholars and expressed through dancing.
researchers. This proves that they saw the necessity of
preserving the literary heritage of the region. •As an effect of a century-long Spanish colonization
and a long period of American occupation,
Christianity and other foreign cultures and beliefs had
washed away the old rituals, poetic forms and about relevant socio-political issues and current
narratives known by people. Moreover, many poetic events. The use of words is usually limited in an
forms were dismissed as pagan culture and editorial cartoon. Editorial cartoonists have always
slowly disappeared from the collective left readers with powerful or impactful message.
consciousness of the colonized people.
A Homeland’s Roots Through the Eyes of
•Some literary forms had undergone reinvention
Samarnon
during the Spanish and American colonization:

➢Balachad retained its form even its name had Artists: Miel Prudencio Ma
changed according to the languages of the colonizers. Pseudonym: Dengcoy Miel
▪Balacbecame popular with the term amoral, a term Occupation: editorial cartoonist, painter, former
derived from the word “amor,” during the Spanish chief editorial cartoonist of The Philippine Star,now
colonization. the assistant art editor of The Straits Times in
▪After amoral, balacwas renamed ismayling, a term Singapore
derived from the English word “smile,” during the Educational Attainment:
American occupation.
➢Studied Fine Arts in University of the Philippines
➢An anonymous literary scholar reported that in some
places in Samar, balac had been reinvented toexpress ➢Studied Master’s Degree in Design at University of
anti-imperialist sentiments. For an instance, in the New South Wales
balac, the woman represents the motherland.
Some Awards:
Meanwhile, the man represents the patriot who
professes his patriotism or love of country. How the ➢Most Outstanding Samareño (1989)
word ismayling was coined is still unknown up to the
present time. ➢National Cartoonist Society Newspaper Illustration
Award (2001)
➢Comediaand zarzuelaare plays that were introduced
by the Spaniards and were popularized and performed Charo Nabong-Cabardo
during fiestas up to 1930s. These were later on
Occupation: research associate, journalist, former
replaced by operettasas introduced by the Americans
political detainee under Marcos regime, author and
➢Sinuloga dramatization of the Moro Raids of the writer of historical articles, editor
coasts of Samar in the 18thcentury and how the
Educational Attainment:
Spanish priests and Warays repulsed these raids. The
raids aimed to capture men and women for sale as ➢Studied AB Journalism at University of the
slaves, especially the binocolor the women known for Philippines
their beauty and fairness of skin.
➢Studied Program Development Management at
•After the colonization of Spaniards and Americans, Asian Institute of Management
only siday, susumaton, and titigoon are the ancient
Waray literary works that survived up to the present What you are about to read and view is a historical
time, together with ismayling. account of Samar with editorial illustrations. This was
one of the Samarnon literary works that were
•A young Waray writer said in a regional literature published in a literature journal in March 1990.
conference “we have no literature,” as the word waray
means “nothing,” and that the only literature they have
“comes out only during drinking sprees”.

➢Luwa, siday, awit–oral forms of literature that are

present in the modern time

Editorial cartoons are non-fictional illustrations or

comicstrips containing socio-political message, that
usually relates to current events or personalities.

Editorial cartoons are usually found in the

newspapers but nowadays, editorial cartoonists’
works can be seen even in social media sites,
newspapers published online, academic journals,
books, and other online and offline platforms. We
have gained more access to newspapers as well. In fact,
newspapers are gradually becoming paperless because
news stories, editorial writings, editorial cartoons,
and other newspaper parts can be published online.

Going back, cartoonists use editorial cartooning as a

means of expressing their current stand and opinion
 Literary Achievements:

➢Lillian Jerome Thornton Award for Nonfiction

➢Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Award for Literature

➢National Book Award

➢Sunthorn Phu Literary Awards

➢Ani ng Dangal

Literary Works:

➢The Haiyan Dead (2014)

➢Sa Atong Dila: Introduction to Visayan Literature

(2013)

➢Tales of the Spiderwoman (2010)

➢Amina among the Angels (1997)

➢Selected Poems (2004)

➢Hearthstone, Sacred Tree (1993)

➢Kabilin (2004)

Merlie M. Alunan wrote the poem in January 6, 2014, a

couple of months after the historical Typhoon Yolanda
hit the Philippines, greatly affecting the islands of Leyte,
Samar, and Biliran. Internationally known as
Typhoon Haiyan, it was one of the deadliest
Philippine typhoons on record. In fact, it had
historically killed 6,352 peoplewhile left 1,771 people
missing. Years after the devastating event, Eastern
Visayan families and communities who survived the
storm have progressed in recovering from their loss.

Even up to the present time, the Filipinos and

some humanitarian groups still wonder about what
went wrong and what had caused the high number of
death toll.

The Woman Who Saw the Haiyan Dead:

Merlie M. Alunan
Hometown: Dingle, Ilo-ilo

Residence: Tacloban, Leyte

Occupation(s): Professor emeritus at UP Tacloban

College, poet, translator
ILOKANO
The Molave and the Orchid – Francisco Sionil

CHARACTERSMolaveOrchidGroup of men

SETTINGJungleA month of April

PLOT

EXPOSITION

There was an old and arrogant molave in the jungle, he

was the oldest of all trees. The old molave could not be
cut down even if so many had tried. One morning, he
woke up and find a little orchid clinging to his trunk. He
had so many times having an unwelcomed guest but
they always left. Unlike his usual visitor this little orchid
had fastened herself to his trunk with the intention of
latching on, a permanent parasite.

RISING ACTION

The old molave keeps throwing away the intruder in his

BIKOLANO
trunk.The orchid did not let the tree for his rudeness.
She objected that she’snot a parasite, and a fate blew
her to old molave trunk. She added that a living
creature has a reason for existence and what love and
purpose is. The old molave did not listen and keep
throwing away the little orchid.

CLIMAX

After a dry season passed, the typhoons of monsoon

will rage. The wind broke many of younger trees. When
the old molave look down he surprised that the orchid
still clinging on him. The orchid said that only death can
set them apart. The old molave didn’t believe he would
die because of he is the hardest tree ever. No one can
cut him down. The little orchid keep saying about the
purpose of life and love.

FALLING ACTION

The old molave was speechless wondering what the

orchid said. There is a group of men appeared having a
huge chain saw. The old molave cringed as he felt the
sharp thing intohis flesh. He was stoic, he did not have
to speak.

RESOLUTION

One man said that he will give a section to other and

the rest he will create a big coffee table in their living
room, and the little orchid clinging on the tree will place
it in the table tograce their living area.

MORAL LESSON

There is no permanent in this world. Everything flows

and nothing remains the same.

BIKOLANO
Ang Duwende – Damiana Ligon before his eyes. The firewood had somehow taken
on a form that looked like that of a little child. As the
Eugenio – Bicolano Folklore days went by, the child's features became clearer and
clearer until at last it became the image of the Santo
CHARACTERSTwo daughtersMotherDwarf
Niño as we would see it today.
SETTINGAt the town of Legaspi
WESTERN AND EASTERN VISAYAS
PLOT

EXPOSITION

Mother told her daughters to close the door at night

and started sharing story about the existing of the
dwarfs in their town.

RISING ACTION

The siblings forgot to close the door and their windows.

CLIMAX

Few seconds before midnight, the siblings hear the

noise of the dwarfs and started remembering the story
told by their mother about them. They are frightened
and saw the dwarf enter the door and goes to the
direction of the siblings.

FALLING ACTION

The dwarf accidentally hit the gas lamp causing fire.

RESOLUTION

Because of that incident the siblings and the people of

their town carefully closing their doors and windows
before going tosleep at night.

MORAL LESSON

Listen to advice from other people. Even if it so hard to

believe that when you are young but parents they can
be so valuable when it comes to advice.

CEBUANO
The Santo Niño of Cebu - A Visayan Folktale

One day a poor fisherman went out early to the sea as

usual. However, the day turned out to be a very unlucky
one for him because, every time he cast his net, all he
would catch was a piece of firewood. Thrice the
fisherman threw the firewood back to the sea; each
time he pulled in his net, the same piece of firewood
would turn up. Disgusted yet fascinated by what had
happened, the fisherman took the driftwood home with
him.

When he got home, he saw his wife drying palay on a

mat out on their yard. The fisherman threw the
firewood on top of the palay and muttered to himself,
"If you are indeed a thing of magic, let's see you
keep the birds and the chickens away from this drying
palay." Astonishingly, no bird or fowl came near the
drying palay. When evening came, the fisherman
brought the piece of wood inside the house and forgot
all about it.

However, that very night, the fisherman had a

strange dream. He dreamed that the firewood, which
he “caught” that morning, had turned into a statue of a
beautiful child. True enough, when he awoke in the
morning, he saw a strange transformation happening