Historical Overview of Philippine Literature

(PRE-COLONIAL PERIOD)
The beginning period of Philippine literary history can be considered as the longest as evidenced
by the artifacts of different periods recovered ranging from 50,000 years ago to 14th century A.D. in the
Tabon Cave of Palawan. The said exploration was headed by a team from the National Museum where
they found the oldest known human skeletal and fossil in the Philippines. The discovery later on led to
the realization of our very own indigenous cultures before the presence of the Spanish colonizers
through the analysis of collected oral literature preserved by our Filipino ancestors.

Literature during this period may be classified into three groups: folk speech, folk songs, and
folk narratives such as riddles, proverbs, myths, legends, fables, and hero tales. Epics are of great
proportions among oral literature in all regions.

Spiritual traditions and regular trading with our Asian neighbors such as India, China, and other
countries from Southeast Asia had been part of our Filipino ancestors' daily lives during the pre-colonial
period. As a result, early Filipinos were exposed to various religions and cultures that shaped their
values, beliefs, and traditions. Indigenous animism was predominant at the time, but Islam, Buddhism,
and Hinduism were also embraced. Other than being one of the largest Christian countries today, our
country is also considered as predominantly Islamic since it was introduced in the 14th century as a
foreign religion. Although, there was no formal education, early Filipinos already had their own
government system.
Daily experiences and religious rites and ceremonies mostly reflect the type of literature
produced at that time. Experts state the possibility of having our ancestors’ own system of writing
during the pre-colonial period but unfortunately only few survived in terms of written form leading to
the prevalence of oral literature. This explains why no notable authors were recorded.

PRE-COLONIAL PERIOD (before the arrival of Spaniards)

Certain events in the Philippines during pre-colonial period started to be recorded in the year 1521.
Our rich past was reflected in "folk speeches, folk songs, folk narratives and indigenous rituals and
mimetic dances that affirm our ties with our Southeast Asian neighbors" (Godinez-Ortega, n.d.).
In terms of government, Filipinos were ruled by chieftains of different barangay. The Malacañang
Palace considered this as more on "alliance networking rather than territorial" (malacanang.gov.ph).
There was no formal education. Learning was merely through imitation and practice. In general, the
following were commonly practiced:

✔ Early Filipinos heavily believed on spirits and supernatural entities (animism). ✔ Social
ranking and classes were practiced.
✔ Economic and political dimensions involved trading, marriage, feasting, and alliance.
Dimensions of Pre-colonial Literature
✔ Philippine literature during the pre-colonial era is mostly based on oral traditions passed
down from generation to generation.
✔ The language used pertains to daily life.
 ✔ Common forms of oral literature are riddles, proverbs, and songs to express a thought
or emotion.
✔ Epic was considered as the most exciting poetic and narrative form of literature in which
the ASEAN-sponsored study of Filipino asserted that there are more than 100 epics discovered
where majority came from Palawan (as cited by Quindoza-Santiago, n.d.).
✔ Majority of proverbs, epigrams, and proverbs collected by researchers come from
Tagalog, Cebuano, and Ilocano dialects.
✔ The ancient pre-Spanish form of writing called Baybayin which was often cited in the
work of Pedro Chirino during the 1500s, was later on approved as the National Writing System
of the Philippines through House Bill No. 1022.
✔ The experiences of the people during pre-colonial period such as food hunting, work at
home, caring for the children, and creatures or objects of nature served as the common subject
in oral literature.
✔ Anyone who knew the language and the convention and forms could be a poet, singer,
or storyteller.
✔ All important events such as rites and ceremonies reflect religious observance where
people commonly recite, sing, or utter a chant.
Types of Pre-colonial Literature

✔ Folk Tales. These are stories which can be characterized as anonymous, timeless, and
placeless tales circulated orally among a group of people.
✔ Legends. These are a form of prose which deal with the origin of a thing, location or
name.
✔ Myths. Unlike legends where the characters have realistic human qualities, the
characters here usually have supernatural powers where the main purpose is to provide
explanation about the existence of something or someone.
✔ Epics. These pertain to a type of a long narrative poem mainly focusing on the heroic
achievements and deeds of the main character.
✔ Folk Songs. These can be considered as the oldest forms of Philippine literature that
mirror the culture which expresses hopes, aspirations, lifestyles, and emotions of early Filipinos.
Some examples are kundiman, kumintang, oyayi or hele and some drinking songs.
✔ Other Forms. Some examples are proverbs (salawikain), riddles (bugtong), chant
(bulong), maxims or those with rhyming couplets of 5, 6, or 8 syllables, sayings (kasabihan), and
idiom (sawikain). Tanaga is another favorite poem consisting of four rhyming lines of 7 syllables
each.
 Historical Overview of Philippine
Literature (COLONIAL PERIOD)
Almost half a decade, after the documented discovery of the Philippines in 1521 during
Ferdinand Magellan's exploration marks the beginning of the colonial period. The Spaniards successfully
colonized the Philippines for more than 300 years having evangelization as its main thrust. The
nationalistic consciousness of the Filipinos began when world trade took place in the Philippines as a
result of exchanging of liberal ideas with the other countries among children of middle class Filipino
families who were sent to Europe. This led to a revolutionary period that ended the long and oppressive
Spanish tyranny in our country.

American period of colonialism officially took place after Emilio Aguinaldo surrendered. The
transition period between Spanish and American colonialism did not run smoothly since resistance
among the native Filipinos who were threatened by the coming of other colonizers was evident. The
setting of public schools during the American period became a necessary tool for popularizing
democracy in our country, training Filipinos for citizenship, and embracing the English language. All of
which are considered influential to Philippine literature even up to this date. The last colonizers to enter
the Philippines were the Japanese who failed to gain the trust of Filipinos and only lasted for less than
five years.
PHILIPPINE LITERATURE DURING COLONIAL PERIOD
Philippine literature had been polished by colonial experiences of Filipinos during Spanish
Period, American Period, and Japanese Period. Moreover, foreign encounters with neighbouring
countries were also significant parts of Filipinos' lives. All of these Eastern (Asia and Middle East) and
Western influences (Europe and North America) have uniquely shaped the geopolitical, as well as
economic conditions of the Philippines. Eastern culture is more conservative and traditions, while
Western culture is liberal, open, and blunt. Great consideration and respect for the elders is emphasized
among Asian countries. On the other hand, Europeans and North Americans are quite expressive and
have high regards for one's own decision-making.

An emphasis on Christian doctrine was manifested through various types of texts which
replaced stories about heroes and animated creatures to Biblical characters and saints as evidenced by
novenas, prayer books, and other printed materials. This makes literature during the Early Spanish
Period didactic or intended for teaching morality and conduct for good behavior. Other than books,
plays and dramas emerged for recreational purposes. These were mostly poetic in nature and were
intended for public performances. When few privileged Filipino men from middle class families were
given access to education, they also became fluent in Spanish language which paved the way to
production of literary texts by our own natives. Eventually, this led to reforms in the government
through underground newspapers and revolts.

Threatened by the presence of other colonizers, the transition between Spanish Period and
American Period was not smooth due to resistance among Emilio Aguinaldo who was the appointed
president at that time and our fellow countrymen. As compared to Spanish regime, American colonizers
used democratic approach as manifested by allowing a Filipino to lead the country through elections
where Manuel Quezon won over Aguinaldo. Public education was then emphasized during this period
where the English language was introduced and embraced by many Filipinos resulting in various literary
works in English which were mostly imitative at first. Some notable Filipino writers later on adapted and
developed their own theme, styles, and conventions making their works recognizable both nationally
and internationally. Watching foreign films replaced the popularity of theatrical shows and novels.
The cruelty of the Japanese occupation was evidenced by strong resistance among the majority
of Filipino people. The attempt to erase Western influences was shown when they tried to ban the use
of English language during their reign. Freedom of the press and of expression was also suppressed. The
Tagalog language was favored by the Japanese which made Tagalog stories and dramas flourish at the
time. Love for music was evident through exposure to opera and classical music. Life struggles,
nationalism, and patriotism were the common themes and subjects but were secretly published. Only
those Filipinos who were living abroad could freely write and express their opinions.

I. SPANISH COLONIAL PERIOD (1565-1898)

✔ This can be divided into two major periods: Early Spanish Period (1565-1863) and Later
Part or Revolutionary Period (1864-1896).
✔ Early Spanish Period can be categorized as either religious or secular.
Dimensions of Philippine Literature
✔ The type of literature produced during this period used Spanish, Tagalog, and the
vernacular form of languages.
✔ Spanish was introduced as the medium of communication and later shifted to Tagalog
when a sense of nationalism arose during the revolutionary period.
✔ The introduction of the printing equipment called xylographic press by the Dominicans
resulted in publication of various religious materials and earliest books.
✔ Poetically inclined writers led by Tagalog versifiers called Ladinos (natives who were
also fluent in Spanish) such as Fernándo Bágongbantâ and Tomas Pinpin tackled mostly morality
and religion.
✔ Folk songs still existed.
✔ Drama, as another type of literary genre, as well as metrical tales based on European
origin (such as awit and corrido) flourished.
✔ Diaryong Tagalog (1882), a Spanish-Tagalog newspaper, published bulk of Filipino
writings. The publication signaled the open campaign for reforms.
✔ In 1889, the La Solidaridad, an underground newspaper, became the mouthpiece of the
Reform Movement.

Emergence of Other Types of Literature during Spanish Colonial Period

✔ Books. In 1593, the book written by Fr. Juan de Placencia and Fr. Domingo Nieva
entitled "Doctrina Cristiana" (The Christian Doctrine) was first printed. Among the other
notable books printed are "Nuestra Señora del Rosario" by Fr. Blancas de San Jose,
"Barláan at Jósaphát" (first published in 1708) translated from Greek to Tagalog by Fr.
Antonio de Borja, and "Urbana at Felisa" by Modesto de Castro who is considered as the
Father of Classic Prose in Tagalog.
✔ Folk Songs. These were songs modified based on the folkways of Filipinos during this
period.
 ✔ Recreational Plays. These were mostly poetic in nature and intended to be
performed during the Spanish era. Cenaculo, Carillo, Zarzuela, Moro-Moro, Balagtasan,
Duplo, and Karagatan are among the examples.
✔ Novels. These are fictitious prose usually lengthy and complex in nature. Pedro
Paterno's work entitled "Ninay" is the first novel published by a Filipino author. This was
originally written in Spanish language and translated into English and Tagalog in 1907 and 1908.
✔ Newspapers. There has been a debate on whether newspapers should be
categorized as literature or not. However, according to Britannica, some high level journalism
like articles written in a newspaper such as columns and feature articles can be considered as
literature for as long as they achieve a certain level of satisfaction under aesthetic,
chronological, and psychological characterization. Bulk of Filipino writings produced were mostly
published in Diaryong Tagalog. The underground newspaper La Solidaridad is considered as
the mouthpiece of the Reform Movement.

Some Notable Writers

✔ Francisco Baltazar (1788-1862) was hailed as the "Master of Traditional Tagalog
Poetry". His well-known literary work, Florante at Laura (1838–1861), is regarded as the
most famous metrical romance of the country.
✔ Pedro Paterno (1857–1911) was the first Filipino who wrote poetry collection in
Spanish entitled Sampaguitas y poesias varias (1880). His novel in Spanish Ninay (1885)
was considered to be the first Filipino novel.
✔ Jose Rizal (1861–1896), a prominent ilustrado and the country’s national hero, is
famous for the novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. These novels portray the
corruption and abuse of the Spanish officials and the clergy.
✔ Andres Bonifacio (1863–1897), the founder of the Katipunan, wrote the poem
“Pag-ibig sa Tinubuang Lupa” which appeared in the official newspaper of the Katipunan
called Kalayaan in March 1896.
✔ Leona Florentino (1849–1884), known as the “Mother of Philippine Women’s
Literature,” was a poet in both Ilocano and Spanish. Twenty of her poems were preserved and
exhibited in Europe and were included in the Encyclopedia Internationaldes Oeuvres des Femme
in 1889.

II. AMERICAN COLONIAL PERIOD (1910-1945)

✔ American colonial period is divided into two periods: the period of apprenticeship
(1910-1930) and the period of emergence (1920-1930).
✔ The surrender of first Philippine President Emilio Aguinaldo in 1901 signified the end of
the military struggle for independence.
✔ Aguinaldo promised allegiance to America but still continued to be very vocal of
achieving independence for the Philippines.
✔ In 1935, Aguinaldo was soundly defeated by Manuel L. Quezon as the first President of
the Commonwealth.
Dimensions of Philippine Literature
✔ During the transition period many Filipino writers still preferred to write in Spanish since
English was still a foreign language to them.
✔ Filipino writers were into all forms of literature during the period of apprenticeship but
most of their works were critiqued as an imitation of English and American models.
✔ Short stories became the most prevalent literary form during the latter part of American
colonial period.
✔ The existence of American literary works and periodicals as well as the coming of
American teachers encouraged many aspiring Filipino writers to use the English language.
✔ A new type of literature began when American system of education and English
language were introduced.
✔ At the beginning, most of the literary works written in English were considered imitative
in nature, but then later on evolved to a new variety of subjects, styles, and conventions of
writing.
✔ Common theme in plays was all about nationalism.

Other Type of Literature Existed during American Colonial Period

✔ Short Stories. These are stories that can typically be read in one sitting revolving around one
subject and may range between 1,000 up to 20,000 words. The first short story written in English
is entitled "Dead Stars" by Paz Marquez Benitez.

Some Notable Writers

✔ Juan C. Laya. He won first prize for his novel "His Native Soil" in the First
Commonwealth Literary Awards in 1940.
✔ Zoilo M. Galang. His work entitled "A Child of Sorrow" in 1921 is considered as the
first Filipino novel in English.

III. JAPANESE COLONIAL PERIOD (1942-1945)

✔ Japan invaded the Philippines on December 8, 1941 which was strongly opposed by the
Guerillas.
✔ Captured soldiers and American deportees were forced to have "Death March" to a
prison camp where they walked for 100 kilometers from Mariveles, Bataan to San Fernando,
Pampanga. An estimated 10,000 prisoners died here.
✔ Aguinaldo cooperated with the Japanese to end Filipino and American opposition.
✔ Japanese colonizers failed to gain the trust of Filipinos.
✔ The resurgence of World War II forced former President Manuel L. Quezon and Vice-
President Sergio Osmeña Sr. to immediately leave the Philippines and sought residence in the
United States as the Commonwealth government was suddenly in exile.
✔ There was a great tension between the two major groups: HUKBALAHAP (unified
guerilla army against Japanese invasion) and KALIBAPI (political party approved by the
Japanese).
 ✔ Jose P. Laurel was appointed as the President of the Philippines under the Japanese-
sponsored Republic.
✔ In 1942, Mc Arthur escaped but promised to return which he did in 1944. The US victory
in the battle of Leyte gulf signaled the beginning of Philippine liberation from the Japanese.

Dimensions of Philippine Literature

✔ All forms of writings were censored during this time because there was no freedom of
speech and of the press.
✔ Only those who were living in the United States such as Carlos P. Romulo and Manuel L.
Quezon could write freely.
✔ The use of English language was stopped in almost all publications and only Tagalog and
the vernaculars were permitted.
✔ Few literary works were printed and mostly considered as pessimistic and bitter
according to the author Victoria Abelardo.
✔ Another type of poetry that emerged is the Haiku consisting of three lines with 5-7-5
syllables or 17 syllabic poetry in all.
✔ Tagalog short stories flourished and some of the best works were compiled by the
Liwayway magazine editors in Ang Pinakamabuting Maikling Kathang Pilipino ng
1943. Some notable stories were “Lupang Tinubuan” by Narciso G. Reyes, “Uhaw ang Tigang
na Lupa” by Liwayway Arceo, “Nayon at Dagatdagatan” by N. V.M. Gonzalez, and
“Suyuan sa Tubigan” by Macario Pineda.
✔ Opera and classical music gained popularity.
✔ Among the other types of literature emerged were essay (e.g. "Literature and Society"
by Salvador P. Lopez) and autobiography (e.g. "The Good Fight" by Manuel Quezon).
Some Notable Writers
✔ Carlos P. Romulo. He won the Pulitzer Prize for his notable works such as "I Saw
the Fall of the Philippines", "I See the Philippines Rise", "Mother America", and "My Brother
Americans".
✔ Narciso Reyes. He won first prize with his short story "Lupang Tinubuan".

Historical Overview of Philippine

Literature (POST-COLONIAL PERIOD)

As an aftermath of war and a series of foreign invasions in our country, the term post-
colonialism was popularized. The lasting impact of imperialism and colonialism had been the utmost
concern at this period.
American colonial rule already loosened but its influences and control are still somehow affecting us in
terms of social, political and economic aspects of our country as manifested in the form of literature
produced in various genres.
 PHILIPPINE LITERATURE DURING POST-COLONIAL PERIOD

Literary works of Filipino authors started to be recognized through the initialization of Carlos Palanca
Memorial Awards in 1950 and realization of the need to grant National Artist Awards in 1972 under the
former President Ferdinand Marcos.
The influences of Spanish and American cultures can be observed. More and more Filipino
writers continued to write more fluently using the English language since gaining independence from
the Japanese occupation in 1945. In fact, many of the literary works in both Palanca and Order of
National Artists were written in English. Most of these writers were considered as social realists.
Short stories became the most popular form of literary expression and more novels were
published which mostly dealt with freedom from both economic and political bondage. Social issues
such as poverty, survival, gender inequalities, justice system and domestic conditions have been
prevalent themes and subjects in literature. Moreover, the leaders of the country have to deal with
issues concerning economic stability, new and contrasting ideas, and morality to name a few. The most
significant period that greatly influences many Filipinos is the period of Martial Law during the Marcos
regime.

POST-COLONIAL PERIOD (1945-present) AFTER THE WAR

✔ In 1944, Sergio S. Osmeña, Sr. assumed the presidency upon the death of Manuel L.
Quezon while the Philippine Commonwealth government was in exile in the U.S.
✔ Manuel A. Roxas defeated Sergio S. Osmeña, Sr. as the President in April 1946 for the
Independent Second Republic of the Philippines.
✔ Elpidio R. Quirino assumed the remaining term of Roxas when the latter died of a heart
attack in 1948.
✔ In 1953, Ramon F. Magsaysay was elected as the new president but died in an airplane
crash on March 16, 1957.
✔ Magsaysay's position was assumed by Carlos P. Garcia who was re-elected and served
until 1961.
✔ Diosdado P. Macapagal became the President after Carlos P. Garcia. He changed the
date of Philippine Independence from July 4, 1946 (Liberation from America) to June 12, 1896
(Liberation from Spanish by the revolutionists). He also recognized the presidency of Jose P.
Laurel.

PHILIPPINES DURING THE MARTIAL LAW PERIOD

✔ Ferdinand E. Marcos took office for presidency in 1965 who got re-elected in 1969
making him the first to win two presidential terms.
✔ He declared Martial Law on September 21, 1972 and led the country into what he calls
"The New Society" against lawlessness which incited a lot of opposition.
✔ Marcos was forced to hold an election in 1978 and 1981 to stabilize the country's
chaotic condition where he won again.
✔ The death of Benigno Simeon "Ninoy" Aquino, Jr. became the beginning of calling for
Marcos' removal.
 ✔ EDSA People Power Revolution (bloodless revolution) through the initiative of Maria
Corazon C. Aquino and her supporters erupted which marked a significant national event.
✔ Snap election was conducted in 1986 which seated Corazon Aquino- the widow of
Benigno Simeon "Ninoy" Aquino, Jr. as the 11th President of the Philippines and ended the 21
years of what many claimed as the tyrant rule. ✔ Marcos went on exile in Hawaii, where he died
on September 28, 1989.

PHILIPPINES AFTER THE MARTIAL LAW PERIOD (5TH REPUBLIC TO PRESENT)

✔ The political and economic condition of the Philippines during Cory Aquino's
administration was described as chaotic.
✔ Monopolization of the agricultural industry took place after the International Monetary
Fund (IMF) forced the Philippines to pay its debt amounting to 27.2 billion dollars which they
claimed to be inherited from Marcos administration.
✔ Fidel V. Ramos (also known as "Centennial President") took office in 1992 where he
immediately worked on the country's recovery. He was awarded the Peace Award by UNESCO in
his effort to achieve a Peace Agreement with MILF.
✔ Film actor Joseph Ejercito Estrada won presidency with his pro-poor campaign in1998
but was ousted in 2001 because of corruption and gambling issues.
✔ Maria Gloria Macapagal Arroyo assumed office in 1998, got re-elected, and served until
2010. During her term, many impeachment complaints were filed against her due to corruption
and electoral sabotage where she got hospital arrest for her spinal surgery.
✔ Former Senator Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III (aka PNoy or Noynoy Aquino) seated as
the next president in 2010.
✔ Next to him is our current President- Rodrigo Roa Duterte who is both a lawyer and
politician.

Dimensions of Philippine Literature

✔ Filipino writers began to develop new themes, styles, and techniques. The first notable
work that appeared right after the second world war under Japanese occupation in the
Philippines is a novel written by Macario Pineda entitled Ginto sa Makiling which was
considered as a narrative of the Philippines’ social, political, and moral aspects (Macansantos, et
al, n.d.). It was noted for its resemblance to the work of Rizal and more on the work of Balagtas
in terms of plot and style.
✔ The rise of English writers began after exposure to American language and culture,
although there were still many Filipino writers observed using the vernaculars. Sarvia (n.d.)
considers the following factors contributory to the flourishing of Filipino literature: 1)
establishment of the University of the Philippines in 1908 where English was primarily used as
the medium of instruction, 2) the founding of the Philippine Writers’ Association in 1953, and 3)
the establishment of the Carlos Palanca Memorial Award in 1955 to name a few.
✔ According to Macansantos et al (n.d.), among the common literary themes in novels and
short stories were war experiences which can be seen in the works of Stevan Javellana’s
Without Seeing the Dawn (1947) and Edilberto Tiempo’s Watch in the Night for the
 English category. While for Filipino literature that used the vernaculars, the works of Lazaro
Francisco were profoundly noted for his style associated to Rizal’s influence such as Bayaning
Nagpatiwakal (1932), Sugat sa Alaala (1950), Maganda pa ang Daigdig (1956), and
Daluyong (1962). The influence of both Spanish and American styles could be observed in the
work of Nick Joaquin where his flashback technique was highly appreciated by critics. Some
writers attempted to incorporate a taste of folk tradition especially in poetry such as epic and
other oral forms of literature which still existed like Balagtasan. However, oral tradition
became less popular as people became more interested in short stories.

The Canonical Authors from the

Regions
Collecting literary works does not only involve words but also passion. Literary writers/authors
have enriched our Filipino culture and their works introduce something vital in exploring our humanity.
Discovering and appreciating what our writers from the different regions have produced will help in
preserving the heritage of our country's literary arts.

LESSON 5: Regional Literature: Life and Works of Canonical

Authors
The 21st century literature has its own advantage and that is the use of technology. With the presence
of internet, readers of today have the means to access numerous notable literary works. Perhaps, this
can also be a bridge toward appreciating literature from different regions for full consciousness of one's
own identity as a Filipino. Thus, learning about the canonical authors in every corner of the Philippines is
one way to honor those people who have contributed greatly to the country.
As defined by Oxford dictionary, canonical /kənɒnɪkəl/ traditionally means anything that is included
in a list of holy books that are accepted as genuine. Another definition given is its connectedness with
works of literature that are highly respected. It comes from the root word "canon" or a generally
accepted rule, standard or principle by which something is judged. If something has canonical status, it is
accepted as having all the qualities that a thing of its kind should have. Thus, canonical authors are those
who are highly esteemed and well-respected writers whose published works have contributed greatly in
the field of literature.
As we gain an awareness of the gaps and issues concerning the field of literature across the regions, we
must also remember to appreciate the works of the great authors in our country for they are the key to
the restoration of our National heritage, cultures, and traditions.

LUZON
Whenever we hear the island group of Luzon, it is not surprising that the language mostly associated
with it is Tagalog. In fact, most literary works from Luzon are written in this language which coined the
term "Tagalog Literature" and flourished greatly during the Japanese occupation when the English
language was strictly banned. Specifically, bulk of Tagalog Literature comes from Southern Luzon,
Central Luzon, and National Capital Region or Metro Manila.
It is not surprising as well that the majority of the recognized National Artists came from this major
group of islands in the Philippines. Authors from Metro Manila seem to be widely accepted among
readers as their popularity is more observed and evident. This could be attributed to having NCR as the
central focus of politics, culture, and economics. Moreover, most of our influential historical figures who
were writers themselves were also from this island such as Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Jose P. Laurel,
and Amado Hernandez to name a few. Consequently, we can still trace modern literature reflecting the
country's historical development.

VISAYAS
"It is time to restore those pieces in the voices of our poets and storytellers in the local
languages'', Sugbu (n.d). The call to write in mother tongue has been the battle cry of many writers
from the other regions relative to acknowledging regional and local languages.
Many critiques consider literature from Visayas as the home of hybrid forms especially in their romance
novels where age-old pattern like corrido (metrical romances) is mixed with new trends and genre
mostly depicting social realities. These hybrid forms are also rich in local colors that significantly show
Visayan cultures and traditions. Unfortunately, lack of venue for publication hinders the flourishing of
fiction from this island according to Sugbu (n.d.). One of the longest known epics in the world called
Hinilawod is actually from Visayas. Truly, the love for poetry runs in the blood of Visayans. Modern
literature revolves around poetry and drama which are mostly satirical in nature that deal with social
behavior produced since the 1900s up to the present. Literature produced is widely written in Waray,
Cebuano, and English.

MINDANAO
People from Mindanao are divided into three groups: Christian settlers (mostly migrants from Visayas
and Luzon), Moro (mainly from ARMM groups), and Lumads (consisting of 18 ethnolinguistic groups).
Being the only island of the Philippines where majority is non-Christian, ignorance among Christians,
discrimination, and distortion are mostly felt by Muslim people. Some of the insensitive words
associated among Muslims are being immoral because they can marry as many wives as they can,
warlike, killer, and totally different from that of Christians. The conflict in Mindanao is mostly because of
two factors: political and religious. Unfortunately, this conflict extends up to their literature as it seems
to be widely invisible or inaccessible.
With reference to the compilation of Philippine literature by Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)
Encyclopedia of the Arts, Jaime An Lim of Encyclopedia stated that out of 272 recognized individuals,
only seven are from Mindanao (as cited by Santos; 2009). Attempts have been made to support
Mindanao Literature as CCP, National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and CHED take joint
efforts in tapping Mindanawons such as Jaime An Lim and Christina Godinez Ortega for journals
dedicated to Mindanao Literature.
The negative image portrayed among Muslims has perpetuated the so-called "Moro-Moro
Literature" representing them as “savage, barbarian, bandit, lawless and wicked”. In
the critical review focusing mainly on the inclusion of Mindanao in contemporary literary
made by Paz Verdades M. Santos and published in the Ateneo de Davao University Journal called
Tamara in 2009, she suggested that our history books should be rewritten and the "Moro-Moro
Literature" should be condemned in order to address the problem of distortion and discrimination. She
said that fairness should be observed in doing so and focus on the need for peace in Mindanao should
be prioritized instead.
Most literary works in this island are under oral tradition such as epics, folk stories, and folk poetry.
Santos (2009), stated that " literature of Mindanao has its own unique landscape, distinct from that of
Luzon and the Visayas, and marked by its peculiar history and tripeople character".
Some Writers across the Region
Filipinos of today, though separated by seas, cultures and languages, choose to maintain a united front
for equality and freedom as one nation. Understanding the different cultures across the country would
provide an opportunity to discover the literature of other regions to paint a better picture of who we are
as a nation. With the help of the new technology, we build bridges across the archipelago because many
contemporary authors are already publishing their work online such as blogs, online newspapers and
magazines, online journals, and video sharing sites. Below are some of the famous contemporary
authors associated with each group of islands in the Philippines who have been noted for their
exemplary works in the field of literature and are recipient of multiple national and international
awards:

LUZON: Among the country's eighteen recognized National Artists, sixteen are from Luzon who mostly
came from NCR such as Amado V. Hernandez, Jose Garcia Villa, Nick Joaquin, Carlos P. Romulo, Francisco
Arcellana, Rolando S. Tinio, Levi Celerio, Carlos Quirino, Alejandro R. Roces, and Cirilo F. Bautista. The
National Artists from the other regions are Lazaro Francisco (Bataan) and Virgilio S. Almario (Bulacan) for
Region III, NVM Gonzales (Romblon) for Region IV-B Mimaropa, F. Sionil Jose (Pangasinan) for Region 1,
Edith L. Tiempo (Nueva Viscaya) for Region 2, and Dr. Bienvenido Lumbera (Batangas) for Region IV-A.

● Lualhati Torres Bautista. Known as contemporary writer of Tagalog fiction, this

foremost Filipino female novelist from Tondo, Manila is also famous for her screenwriting career
as most of her works such as Dekada 70 and Bata, Bata, Pa'no Ka Ginawa already have
film versions. This realist writer often tackles issues among women who courageously face
difficult situations. She is a recipient of numerous literary awards such as Carlos Palanca
Memorial Awards for Literature.

● Roberto "Bob" Ong. This author's actual name and identity is unknown. He is the
author of various popular books such as ABNKKBSNPLAko?!, Bakit Baligtad Magbasa
ng Libro ang mga Pilipino, and Alamat ng Gubat to name a few. He is widely known for
his conversational and humorous writing style that often depicts Filipino cultures. His technique
of violating standard writing principles shows one unique characteristic of a 21st century literary
writer who applies latest trends in writing.
VISAYAS: Two of our National Artists are natives of this island such as essayist and literary historian
Resil B. Mojares of Cebu and novelist Ramon L. Muzones of Iloilo province.
● Peter Solis Nery. This Hiligaynon pride from Iloilo is an award-winning Filipino poet,
fictionist, and author of various books. He is a recipient of multiple awards from Carlos Palanca
Memorial Awards for Literature, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Literary Grant, and
the All-Western Visayas Literary Contest of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts
(NCCA). Among his notable and award-winning works are collection of poems Umanhon nga
Gugma (Love of the Rural Folks), Hiligaynon short story "Lirio", and screenplay "Buyong".
● Merlie Alunan. She is another pride of Iloilo who wrote award-winning collections of
poetry in English and Cebuano languages such as Susumaton: Oral Narratives of Leyte
and Sa Atong Dila, Introduction to Visayan Literature which earned her the title
National Book Award for 2016 and 2017 and Carlos Palanca Awards. Also, she is a recipient of
international awards such as ASEAN Poets in 2013 by the Kingdom of Thailand and Lillian Jerome
Thornton Award.
MINDANAO
● Anthony L. Tan. He was born in Siasi, Sulu whose writings have been appearing
locally and internationally in magazines, journals, and anthologies. This poet, essayist, and
fictionist is the author of The Bajao Cemetery and Other Poems and Poems for
Muddas. He has received multiple awards from Don Carlos Palanca for his poetry and essay.
● Myrna Peña Reyes. This poet from Cagayan de Oro is a recipient of Oregon Literary
Fellowship for poetry. Some of her works are the following: Memory’s Mercy: New and
Selected Poems (University of the Philippines Press, 2015), Almost Home: Poems
(University of the Philippines Press, 2004) and The River Singing Stone (Anvil, 1994). Her
works are published both in the Philippines and United States.