In exploring the rich tapestry of Philippine literature, it becomes evident that it is a product of a

historical journey, one that traverses through various periods and societal shifts. To understand the
contemporary literature of the Philippines in the 21st century, it is essential to trace its roots back to
its origins. This reaction paper delves into the key points of Philippine literature, with a particular
emphasis on the 21st Century Literature from The Philippines and The World with a Focus on the
Traces of Philippine Literature

The Pre-Colonial Period is a vital foundation for understanding the literature of the Philippines.
During this era, life was simple, characterized by indigenous forebears who laid the groundwork for
today's Filipino people. They lived in harmony with nature, and their belief system was deeply
intertwined with the natural world. It was during this time that the first Filipino alphabet, known as
ALIBATA, emerged, a testament to the intellectual capabilities of early Filipinos.

Indigenous Philippine literature was not uniform but rather based on the traditions and customs of
particular regions. It was a diverse array of narratives, each reflecting the unique culture and
practices of different communities. Interestingly, these ancient literatures were not recorded on
conventional mediums but on perishable materials like dried leaves, bamboo cylinders, and bark of
trees, showcasing the resourcefulness of the people.

In this period, literature took both written and oral forms. Written literature included riddles or
bugtong, which were intellectual puzzles that challenged the mind, epigrams or salawikain, which
were concise yet profound sayings, and poems in the form of tanaga, which expressed emotions and
stories in a structured manner. These written works provided insights into the intellectual and
artistic prowess of the early Filipinos.

Oral literature, on the other hand, was equally significant. Chants and balagtasan were performed
orally, showcasing the vibrant oral tradition of storytelling and debate. These oral narratives were
not only sources of entertainment but also vehicles for passing down cultural heritage and
knowledge from one generation to the next.

In conclusion, the Pre-Colonial Period serves as a foundation and a testament to the richness and
diversity of Philippine literature. The simplicity of life, the indigenous belief systems, and the literary
forms that emerged during this period have left indelible traces in the tapestry of Philippine
literature. Understanding this historical context is crucial when exploring the literary expressions of
the 21st century in the Philippines, as it provides a profound appreciation for the cultural heritage
that continues to influence contemporary Filipino writers and their works

Moving on to the Spanish Colonial Period in the Philippines that marked a significant juncture in the
evolution of Philippine literature.
One of the most profound effects of the Spanish Colonial Period was the deprivation of indigenous
Philippine literature. The Spanish conquerors sought to impose their language and culture, resulting
in the marginalization and, in some cases, the obliteration of native literary traditions. This cultural
suppression reflected the colonizers' desire to assert their dominance and reshape the Filipino
identity.

The monopolization of literature under religious orders played a pivotal role during this period. The
Catholic Church, through the work of Spanish friars and missionaries, became the gatekeeper of
knowledge and literature in the Philippines. This religious hegemony not only controlled access to
education but also influenced the content of literary works, infusing them with themes of Spanish
and European culture, as well as the Roman Catholic religion.

The story of Magellan's arrival in the Philippines symbolizes the colonization of the Philippines, not
only in terms of land but also in the realm of religion. Magellan's expedition brought Catholicism to
the islands, laying the foundation for the widespread adoption of the Roman Catholic faith among
the Filipino people. This religious conversion had a profound impact on the collective consciousness
of Filipinos, shaping their beliefs and values for centuries to come.

One of the most notable literary achievements of this period was the publication of the "Christian
Doctrine" in 1593 by the Dominicans. This work holds the distinction of being the first book ever
printed in the Philippines. It was instrumental in disseminating the Christian faith and reinforcing
Spanish cultural and religious influence.

In conclusion, the Spanish Colonial Period in the Philippines left an indelible mark on the country's
literature. It led to the suppression of indigenous literary traditions, the monopolization of
knowledge by religious orders, and the infusion of Spanish culture and Catholicism into Filipino
literature. While this period brought significant changes to Philippine society, it also underscores the
resilience of Filipino culture, as it found ways to adapt, resist, and eventually synthesize these
foreign influences into a unique and vibrant literary tradition that continues to evolve in the 21st
century.

The American Period in Philippine history left an indelible mark on the country's literature, ushering
in a new era of expression and transformation.

During the American Period, the Philippines was a hotbed of revolutionary fervor and patriotic
sentiments. Filipinos were engaged in discussions about the struggle for independence and the need
for societal reform. These themes of revolution and patriotism were not only echoed in political
discourse but also found their way into the realm of literature. Writers and intellectuals used their
literary works to champion the cause of freedom and justice, becoming the voices of resistance
against colonial rule.
A significant shift during this period was the use of the English language in literature. While Spanish
had previously been the language of literary expression under Spanish colonization, English became
the new medium for conveying ideas and stories. This linguistic transition broadened the reach of
Philippine literature, making it accessible to a wider audience both locally and internationally.

Poetry in English began to take shape during this period, marking the emergence of a distinct Filipino
English poetry tradition. Poets like Jose Garcia Villa and Amado V. Hernandez experimented with
language, form, and themes, contributing to the development of Philippine English literature. Their
works not only showcased artistic prowess but also addressed the complexities of Filipino identity
and aspiration.

English drama also gained prominence during the American Period, overshadowing the traditional
Sanzuela. American-style theater productions became popular, and English-language plays became a
vehicle for cultural expression and entertainment.

One of the most enduring legacies of the American Period was the arrival of the Thomasites, the first
English teachers in the Philippines. These dedicated educators played a pivotal role in introducing
the English language to Filipino students. As a result, Filipinos learned English and began to use it in
their writings, allowing for the continued growth and evolution of Philippine literature in English.

In conclusion, the American Period in the Philippines was a period of transformation and innovation
in literature. It witnessed the infusion of English as the new language of expression, the emergence
of English poetry and drama, and the significant contributions of Filipino writers to the global literary
stage. This period not only shaped the literary landscape but also empowered Filipinos to use
literature as a means of expressing their aspirations, identities, and calls for social change.

The period of Japanese colonization in the Philippines was a tumultuous and challenging time,
leaving an indelible mark on the nation's history and literature.

The Japanese colonization of the Philippines lasted for three years, marked by a brutal and
oppressive regime. One of the most harrowing events during this period was the Bataan Death
March, a tragic episode that saw American and Filipino defenders subjected to unimaginable
suffering, starvation, and sickness. The horrors of this march serve as a stark reminder of the
brutality of war and colonization.

The occupation brought significant changes to Philippine society, including the plight of Filipino
women who were forced into prostitution as a means of survival. This dark chapter highlighted the
vulnerability and exploitation faced by women during times of conflict.
Filipinos were also subjected to forced labor under Japanese rule, enduring grueling conditions and
hardship. These experiences further fueled the desire for independence and self-determination,
themes that would echo in Philippine literature during this period.

The Japanese occupation led to a halt in the production of Philippine literature in English, except for
a few publications like the Tribune and the Philippine Review, which continued to resist the
occupiers' influence. Many English writers of the time transitioned into writing in Filipino, adapting
to the changing linguistic landscape.

A notable figure in this transition was Liwayway, who became Ishiwara, a pseudonym that reflected
the shift towards Japanese influence. Filipino writers found new ways to express their thoughts and
experiences, creating plays, poems, and short stories that addressed common themes of
nationalism, love, life in the barrios, faith, religion, and the arts. These literary works served as a
form of resistance and cultural preservation.

During this period, various types of literature emerged, including Haiku, Tanaga, Karaniwang Anyo
(common form), Filipino drama, Filipino short stories, and even a unique blend of Philippine
literature in English. These diverse forms of expression highlighted the resilience and adaptability of
Filipino writers in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the Japanese colonization of the Philippines left an indelible impact on the nation's
literature. It was a period of hardship and suffering, but also one of resilience and artistic innovation.
Filipino writers turned adversity into inspiration, using literature as a means to reflect their
experiences, preserve their culture, and continue the quest for independence and self-expression.
This period serves as a testament to the enduring power of literature in the face of adversity and
oppression.

In the Contemporary Period, marked by a resurgence of youth activism and a quest for social
change, the landscape of society underwent profound transformations.

One of the most striking features of the Contemporary Period was the rise of young people as
activists demanding change in government policies and societal norms. This generation, fueled by a
desire for a better future, played a vital role in shaping the course of history. They were unafraid to
challenge the status quo, using their voices and actions to demand a more just and equitable society.

Youth rebellion became a significant force during this period. Frustrated by the inequities they
witnessed, young individuals pushed boundaries and questioned authority. Their actions reflected a
deep-seated desire for social justice and a rejection of the oppressive systems that had held sway for
so long.
The irreverence for the poor reached its peak during the mass revolutions of this era. The
marginalized and disenfranchised were no longer willing to accept their fate. Instead, they joined the
movements for change, demanding their fair share of resources and opportunities.

Writings during this time often centered on the development and progress of the country. Writers
became advocates for social change, using their words to inspire and mobilize the masses.
Moreover, they recognized the need to curb the influence of morally detrimental writings, taking a
stand against pornography and content that negatively impacted society's values.

Another notable aspect of this period was the revival of old plays and dramas, such as Tagalog
zarzuela, cenaculo, and the embayoka. These cultural expressions served as a powerful means of
reconnecting with the past and rekindling a sense of identity and pride.

In the midst of these social and cultural shifts, technology played a pivotal role. The rise of
technology empowered individuals with unprecedented access to information and communication.
It facilitated the dissemination of ideas, allowing activists and advocates to connect and coordinate
on a global scale. The internet, in particular, became a platform for sharing stories, organizing
protests, and spreading awareness.

In conclusion, the Contemporary Period was a time of dynamic change and societal evolution. The
youth emerged as a driving force for social transformation, challenging norms and demanding
justice. The era was characterized by a renewed sense of cultural pride and the harnessing of
technology to further the cause of independence and social progress. This period serves as a
testament to the power of collective action and the resilience of the human spirit in the pursuit of a
brighter future.