KomiKon

Tita Raquel was our supplier of Pinoy comics. Every time she visits us in Marikina, she has a pile of comics for our consumption. It had been a wide variety of genre like horoscope, love stories, horror and even, sexy (gasp!). Lazy afternoon after classes, I spent reading these comics which I thought was better than taking a ‘siesta’ which my strict aunties forced upon me and my other cousins or else we can’t go out to play or no merienda for us. Reading Filipino comics was also a good material for me to practice reading Filipino at a young age. Even my parents encouraged us to such literature as my dad buys Liwayway magazine which featured comic stories. And my mom who also had been exposed to the genius and creativity of early Pinoy comic creators, had been knowledgeable on background information about classic masterpieces which are now popularly adapted as TV series.



The story of Filipino comics was sadly narrated as it already passed its’ glory days. But at the end, there is always a glint of hope for this industry. Finances may really be difficult, but the talent and ingenuity of local comic artists are overwhelming. So, as long as there are enthusiasts who will translate original ideas into comic art forms, we are in the verge of renaissance of Filipino comics.

My all-time contemporary Pinoy comic favorite, Culture Crash, had an incredible run. It may be short-lived, but the artistry and brilliance were overflowing. Carlo Vergara’s Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah had also been a success that it had its’ very own theater and movie versions. Those are only two of many projects that showcased the incredible potential of Filipino comics. That there are many fun and interesting stories to tell, to be drawn in mix styles but remarkably our very own.

“Manga is the pride of our Japanese culture!” aspiring manga collaborator Takagi remarked in the first volume of Bakuman. I am indeed amazed how manga had been an effective and influential platform to promote their culture. Reading stories in a graphic novel is a distinctive experience from reading a paperback novel or watching a movie. It is special on its’ unique and highly artistic way.


The Wallflower (Yamatonadeshiko Shichihenge) by Tomoko Hayakawa


Fruits Basket by Natsuki Takaya