essay written by filipino

Kathang Pinoy

Filipino in thoughts and words.

Famous Essays and Speeches by Filipinos

My Husband's Roommate
Where is the Patis?
I Am A Filipino
This I Believe
The Philippines A Century Hence by José Rizal (Translated by Charles E. Derbyshire) Part I
The Philippines A Century Hence by José Rizal (Translated by Charles E. Derbyshire) Part II
The Philippines A Century Hence by José Rizal (Translated by Charles E. Derbyshire) Part III
The Philippines A Century Hence by José Rizal (Translated by Charles E. Derbyshire) Part IV
The Indolence of the Filipinos by José Rizal (Translated by Charles E. Derbyshire)
The Filipino Is Worth Dying For
1983 Arrival Speech of Ninoy Aquino

What Makes Filipino Essays Unique and Compelling?

Filipino essays, a blend of rich history, diverse culture, and heartfelt emotion, stand out in the world of literature. But what exactly sets them apart? Let’s dive into the essence of Filipino essays, drawing insights from both the Quora discussion on Filipino authors and additional online resources.

The Heart and Soul of Filipino Essays

Filipino essays often reflect the country’s complex history and the resilience of its people. From the poignant works of Jose Rizal, which ignited a revolution, to the contemporary pieces that explore everyday life in the Philippines, these essays are more than just written words; they are the soul of the Filipino experience.

Kathang Pinoy , a notable blog, highlights essays like Carmen Guerrero-Nakpil’s “My Husband’s Roommate” and Carlos P. Romulo’s “I Am A Filipino.” These works exemplify the depth and diversity of Filipino writing, showcasing personal narratives that resonate with readers globally.

The Influence of Culture and History

Filipino essays are deeply rooted in the nation’s culture and history. For instance, Carlos Bulosan , an influential Filipino writer, depicted the struggles and aspirations of the Filipino diaspora in America. His works, born from personal experiences, offer a window into the lives of Filipinos grappling with identity and belonging in a foreign land.

Similarly, cultural anthropologist Niels Mulder provides a unique perspective on Filipino life through his collection of essays. He compares Filipino culture with that of Javanese and Thai, using everyday life examples to illustrate the distinct Filipino identity.

The Contemporary Filipino Essay

The evolution of Filipino essays reflects the changing times and the dynamic nature of Filipino society. A notable contribution to this genre is the first collection of personal essays in Kinaray-a, a language from Panay Island. This work, as discussed on ResearchGate , represents the linguistic and cultural diversity within the Philippines, offering fresh perspectives and narratives.

Engaging with the Filipino Essay

As a reader, engaging with Filipino essays means immersing oneself in a world of rich storytelling, profound insights, and emotional depth. These essays are not just about the Filipino experience; they are universal in their themes of struggle, resilience, and hope.

To truly appreciate the beauty of Filipino essays, one must look beyond the words and understand the context from which they arise. It’s about connecting with the authors’ experiences, empathizing with their struggles, and celebrating their triumphs.

Filipino essays are a testament to the country’s rich literary heritage. They are a mirror reflecting the soul of the Filipino people, their history, culture, and aspirations. As we explore these works, we not only gain insight into the Filipino experience but also find universal themes that resonate with us all. The uniqueness and compelling nature of Filipino essays lie in their ability to connect deeply with readers, regardless of their background.

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18 Best Filipino Authors on Your Must-Read List

Are you looking for a new book to read? Check out these 18 best Filipino authors that you will absolutely love.

Many people living in the Philippines have had intense struggles through poverty, crime, and cultural challenges. Those who are skilled writers take those challenges and transform them into great works of literature. If you want to get a feel for the human struggle that the people of the Philippines experiencing, reading one of these Filipino authors could give you that insight.

Throughout the works created by famous authors from the Philippines, you will find something to fit almost any taste. From historic to modern, here are the Filipino authors you need to read.

1. Carlos Bulosan

2. jessica hagedorn, 3. jose rizal, 4. randy ribay, 5. barbara jane reyes, 6. elaine castillo, 7. f. sionil jose, 8. gina apostol, 9. joanne ramos, 10. malaka gharib, 11. melissa de la cruz, 12. mia alvar, 13. nick joaquin, 14. marcelo hilario del pilar y gatmaitan, 15. meredith talusan, 16. lysley tenorio, 17. mia hopkins, 18. tess uriza holthe.

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Best Filipino Authors Ranked

Born in the Philippines in a small farming village called Mangusmana, Carlos Bulosan came from a family who struggled to make ends meet. Determined to help his family and improve his education, Bulosan emigrated to the United States at the age of 17. He started working low-paying jobs while facing racism and illness until he finally learned how to write and put a voice to the struggles of the Filipino people in the United States.

His best-known work is a semi-autobiographical book called America Is in the Heart. He also wrote The Freedom from Want. Bulosan was both a novelist and a poet, and he died in Washington in 1956. If you enjoyed our round-up of the best Filipino authors, we have many more articles on the best authors from around the globe. You might want to check out our list of the best Korean authors . Or use the search bar at the top right of the page to search for authors in a country or region you are interested in.

America Is in the Heart: A Personal History (Classics of Asian American Literature)

Carlos Bulosan (Author)
English (Publication Language)
327 Pages - 04/01/2014 (Publication Date) - University of Washington Press (Publisher)

Born in 1949 in Manila, Jessica Hagedorn is a modern playwright, poet and writer. She came to the United States in 1963 to get her education at the American Conservatory Theater training program. She lives in New York City and has won an American Book Award and the Lucille Lotel Foundation fellowship.

Hagedorn has many famous works to her name, but Mango Tango, her first play, is one of her most famous. She also wrote Burning Heart: A Portrait of the Philippines and the fiction novel Dream Jungle.

Jose Rizal came from a wealthy Filipino family He was well-educated and spent much of his time as a young adult traveling Europe to discuss politics. He also studied medicine at the University of Heidelberg and pushed for Filipino reforms under the Spanish authorities. His execution at the age of 36 put a fast end to his writing career.

Rizal wrote a number of poems as a teenager. He also wrote an Operetta called On the Banks of the Pasig. His first novel, Noli Me Tangere, offended the religious leaders of his area and caused him to be deemed a troublemaker. This likely led to his later arrest for political and religious problems.

Randy Ribay is a Filipino author who writes middle-grade and young-adult fiction. Though he was born in the Philippines, he was raised in the United States and majored in English literature at the University of Colorado with a graduate degree from Harvard. In addition to writing, he teaches English in San Francisco.

Ribay’s first works were poetry, but his book Patron Saints of Nothing is an award-winning work of adult fiction. He also wrote An Infinite Number of Parallel Universes and After the Shot Drops. You might also be interested in our round-up of the best Indian authors of all time.

Poet and author Barbara Jane Reyes was born in Manila and moved to the United States as a child. She studied literature and writing in California before launching her award-winning career. She now serves as an adjunct professor at the University of San Francisco.

Reyes’s published works include full-length poetry collections and chapbooks. Gravities of Center, Easter Sunday and Poeta en San Francisco all won awards, including the James Laughlin Award of the Academy of American Poets. Letters to a Young Brown Girl is another popular collection.

Elaine Castillo is an American writer who is of Filipino descent. She studied at the University of California Berkeley and the University of London. She is passionate about equality for the people of the Philippines, and that comes out in her work.

In 2018 Castillo published her first novel America is Not the Heart. Though this is the only publication she has so far, many reviewers consider her an up-and-coming name in literature. NPR named it one of the best books of the year.

Francisco Sionil Jose was a Filipino writer who is one of the most widely read in the English language. He writes about the social struggles of his culture, and his books and short stories have a huge following. He was born in Pangasinan and attended the University of Santo Tomas before starting his journalism and writing career.

Jose has many novels in his name, including The Pretenders and The Rosales Saga. He also wrote Dusk: A Novel. He won the National Artist of the Philippines award for his literary works. He died at the age of 97 in 2022.

Gina Apostol is a modern Filipino author who was born in Manila and attended Devine World College and the University of the Philippines before coming to the United States to earn her master’s degree at Johns Hopkins University.

Apostol’s first book, Bibliolepsy, recently received republication. She also wrote The Revolution According to Raymundo Mata and Gun Dealers’ Daughter. She has non-fiction works about Filipino American History and short stories to her name as well.

Born in the Philippines, Joanne Ramos moved to Wisconsin when she was just six years old. She attended Princeton University, where she received a bachelor’s degree. She worked in investment banking and private investing before becoming a staff writer for The Economist.

In 2019 Ramos published The Farm, her first novel. It tells the tale of a facility named Golden Oaks, where women serve as surrogate mothers for wealthy clients, and the main character is Filipino, shedding some light on the plight of poor Filipino women and where current cultural ideals could lead them.

Malaka Gharib works for NPR as the digital strategist and deputy editor for their global health and development team. She started this position in 2015, and before that worked with the Malala Fund, which raises money for educational charities.

Gharib is the author of the graphic novel I Was Their American Dream: A Graphic Memoir. It talks about what she faced growing up as a Filipino Egyptian American and introduces young readers to the culture of the Philippines. She also wrote How to Raise a Human and #15Girls, both of which won Gracie Awards.

Melissa de la Cruz grew up in Manila and made the move to San Francisco as a teenager. She majored in art history at Columbia University. She lives in West Hollywood, where she continues to write novels and middle-grade fiction.

Many of de la Cruz’s works are quite famous, including several New York Times bestsellers. She published The Isle of the Lost, a prequel to the 2015 Disney movie Descendants, which spent weeks on the bestseller list. She is also famous for her Blue Bloods series, which has three million copies in print, and she has over 50 books to her name.

Mia Alvar was born in the Philippines and raised in the United States and Bahrain. She attended Harvard College and Columbia University and currently resides in California.

Alvar won the PEN/Robert W. Bingham Prize for Debut Fiction for her short story collection In the Country. She serves as the writer in residence at the Corporation of Yaddo. Sech also earned the Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers award for her work.

Best known for his short stories and novels, Nick Joaquin often wrote under the pen name Quijano de Mania. He was born in 1917 and fought in the Philippine Revolution. After winning a nationwide essay competition, he started contributing poems and stories to magazines and newspapers. He was named the National Artist in 1957.

Joaquin has several novels to his name, including The Woman Who Had Two Navels and A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino. He focused on trying to explain and showcase Filipino culture and its history.

Marcelo Hilario del Pilar y Gatmaitan was often called Plaridel, his pen name. He was born in 1850 and lived in many parts of the Philippines before moving to Barcelona, Spain. Well-educated as a young man, especially in the arts, he became a well-known Filipino writer as an adult. He also attended law school and wrote on legal topics quite often.

Del Pilar was a prolific writer who published many works during his lifetime. The Greatness of God and The Triumph of the Enemies of Progress in the Philippines were some of them.

Meredith Talusan is a Filipino-American author who moved to the United States at the age of 15. He has many excellent essays, stories, and books to her name. She attended Cornell University, where she received an MFA degree, and she worked as a journalist for many well-known publications. In addition to writing, Talusan trained as a dancer.

Talusan has hit the New York Times Bestsellers list with Not That Bad: Dispatches from Rape Culture. She earned the Marsha P. Johnson Fellowship and the Poynter Fellowship at Yale. Many of her books talk about the LGTBQ+ community, and Fairest is her most recent publication.

Lysley Tenorio is a Filipino writer who wrote The Son of Good Fortune and Monstress. His work won many awards, including a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship, an Edmund White Award, and the Rome Prize. Many of his works have become plays.

Tenorio focuses much of his writing on short stories . He was born in the Philippines and moved to San Francisco to pursue his passion for the arts. He works as an associate professor at Saint Mary’s College of California.

Mia Hopkin s is a Filipino-American writer known for her romance novels. She lives in Los Angeles and continues to publish new novels today. She likes to use working-class heroes in her works.

Mia Hopkins’ novels are full of steamy stories. Trashed is one of her most recent, and it is written from the point of view of the anti-hero of her previous novels. Her books have been featured in Entertainment Weekly, USA Today, and The Washington Post. Several of her works are part of a larger series, which gives the reader the chance to get to know her characters.

Tess Uriza Holthe is a Filipino-American writer who was raised in San Francisco. She attended Golden Gate University and works as an accountant in addition to her work as a writer.

Of her books, When the Elephants Dance is her most famous, hitting several national bestseller lists. She wrote the book during her breaks at work, and she drew information from her own father’s experience in the Philippines to inspire the story. She also wrote The Five-Forty-Five to Cannes. If you enjoyed this guide on the top Filipino authors, you might be interested in our round-up of the best Ukrainian authors .

Nicole Harms has been writing professionally since 2006. She specializes in education content and real estate writing but enjoys a wide gamut of topics. Her goal is to connect with the reader in an engaging, but informative way. Her work has been featured on USA Today, and she ghostwrites for many high-profile companies. As a former teacher, she is passionate about both research and grammar, giving her clients the quality they demand in today's online marketing world.

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The Filipino Authors You Should...

The 7 Most Legendary Filipino Authors

A country shaped by centuries of colonization by violent wars, long-lasting political upheaval, and the idyllic beauty of its islands, the Philippines offers writers plenty of material to work with. In stories drawn from this complex heritage, Filipino authors stand out for their creative, compelling voices. Culture Trip rounds up seven of the best literary talents to come from the Philippines.

Jessica hagedorn.

Best known for her 1990 novel Dogeaters , Jessica Hagedorn was born and raised in the Philippines and relocated to San Francisco in her teens. Hagedorn’s ethnic heritage is a mix of Spanish, Filipino, French, Irish, and Chinese. Dogeaters , which won the American Book Award and was a finalist for the National Book Award, shines a light on the many layers of Filipino society, especially the American influence prevalent in the entertainment industry. Hagedorn is also a poet and playwright. Her first play, Mango Tango , was produced by Joseph Papp in 1978, the same year she moved to New York, where she currently lives with her daughters.

Sionil Jose

Nick Joaquin

Winning the National Artist award for Literature, Nick Joaquín is probably the most esteemed writer the Philippines has produced. Joaquin came from a well-educated family and was published at the early age of 17. After winning a scholarship in a nationwide essay contest, he left the Philippines to study in Hong Kong. On his return to Manila he worked for many years as a journalist, and his highly intellectual writing raised the standards of journalism in the country. Joaquin’s book, The Woman With Two Navels is essential reading in Philippine literature. However many of his short stories, such as “May Day Eve,” are extremely accessible and enjoyable for those new to the Philippines.

Merlinda Bobis

Award-winning writer Merlinda Bobis started off as a painter, but grew into a writer as “painting with words was cheaper.” Bobis’ books, short stories, and poems tell of lesser-known aspects of Filipino life, often from a strong feminist stance. One of her most well-known novels, Fish-Hair Woman , describes a romance between a young village woman and an Australian soldier in the middle of a harrowing conflict that threatens the entire province. The Australian called it a “superb novel” that “maintains its tragic intensity throughout.” Bobis has also won the international Prix Italia award for her play Rita’s Lullaby and the Steele Rudd Award for her short story “White Turtle.”

Jose Dalisay Jr.

Jose Dalisay Jr. writes a popular online column where he’s more commonly known by his pen name, Butch Dalisay. Dalisay was imprisoned during Martial Law, and his experiences from this portion of Philippine history are brought to life in his first novel, Killing Time in a Warm Place . His second novel, Soledad’s Sister tackles the plight of overseas Filipino workers, and was shortlisted for the Man Asian Literary Prize in 2007. Within the Philippines, Dalisay has won 16 Palanca Awards, the country’s highest prize for literature.

Luis Francia

Award-winning author Luis Francia has lived in New York for decades, but his experiences of growing up in the Philippines continue to shape the stories he tells the world. The poet, author, and teacher emigrated to the U.S. after finishing college, where he wrote and co-edited the Village Voice newspaper for more than 20 years. His memoir Eye of the Fish: A Personal Archipelago won a PEN Open Book Award and an Asian American Literary Award. Amitav Ghosh, author of The Glass Palace , described Francia’s memoir as “a hugely readable travelogue and an indispensable guide to a fascinating and richly varied archipelago.”

The Philippines’ national hero was also a prolific writer, poet, and essayist. Jose Rizal’s two novels, Noli me Tangere and El Filibusterismo were social commentaries that sharply revealed the injustices of Spanish colonization while praising the Filipino in his most natural state. The novels, which are surprisingly wry and romantic, crystallized the growing anti-Spanish sentiment and were banned within the Philippines. The execution of Jose Rizal at 35 years old set off the Philippine Revolution and paved the way for the country’s independence. Even without these dramatic events, Rizal’s books and his final poem, “Mi Ultimo Adios,” stand on their own literary merit, and have influenced scores of Filipino writers since.

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Exhilarating ways to experience the great outdoors in the philippines.

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I am a Filipino

I am a Filipino is an essay written by Carlos Peña Romulo, Sr. which was printed in The Philippines Herald on August 16, 1941.

A Pulitzer Prize winner, passionate educator, intrepid journalist and effective diplomat, Romulo graduated from the University of the Philippines in 1918 with a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences degree. He earned his Master of Arts degree in Philosophy from Columbia University in 1921. He would join the ranks of the UP faculty in 1923 as an Associate Professor in what was then the English Department. He would be later be appointed to the Board of Regents in 1931. Almost three decades later, he would once again be reunited with the University, serving as its 11th President in 1962.

I am a Filipino–inheritor of a glorious past, hostage to the uncertain future. As such I must prove equal to a two-fold task–the task of meeting my responsibility to the past, and the task of performing my obligation to the future.

I sprung from a hardy race, child many generations removed of ancient Malayan pioneers. Across the centuries the memory comes rushing back to me: of brown-skinned men putting out to sea in ships that were as frail as their hearts were stout. Over the sea I see them come, borne upon the billowing wave and the whistling wind, carried upon the mighty swell of hope–hope in the free abundance of new land that was to be their home and their children’s forever.

This is the land they sought and found. Every inch of shore that their eyes first set upon, every hill and mountain that beckoned to them with a green-and-purple invitation, every mile of rolling plain that their view encompassed, every river and lake that promised a plentiful living and the fruitfulness of commerce, is a hallowed spot to me.

By the strength of their hearts and hands, by every right of law, human and divine, this land and all the appurtenances thereof–the black and fertile soil, the seas and lakes and rivers teeming with fish, the forests with their inexhaustible wealth in wild life and timber, the mountains with their bowels swollen with minerals–the whole of this rich and happy land has been, for centuries without number, the land of my fathers. This land I received in trust from them and in trust will pass it to my children, and so on until the world is no more.

I am a Filipino. In my blood runs the immortal seed of heroes–seed that flowered down the centuries in deeds of courage and defiance. In my veins yet pulses the same hot blood that sent Lapulapu to battle against the first invader of this land, that nerved Lakandula in the combat against the alien foe, that drove Diego Silang and Dagohoy into rebellion against the foreign oppressor.

That seed is immortal. It is the self-same seed that flowered in the heart of Jose Rizal that morning in Bagumbayan when a volley of shots put an end to all that was mortal of him and made his spirit deathless forever, the same that flowered in the hearts of Bonifacio in Balintawak, of Gergorio del Pilar at Tirad Pass, of Antonio Luna at Calumpit; that bloomed in flowers of frustration in the sad heart of Emilio Aguinaldo at Palanan, and yet burst forth royally again in the proud heart of Manuel L. Quezon when he stood at last on the threshold of ancient Malacañan Palace, in the symbolic act of possession and racial vindication.

The seed I bear within me is an immortal seed. It is the mark of my manhood, the symbol of dignity as a human being. Like the seeds that were once buried in the tomb of Tutankhamen many thousand years ago, it shall grow and flower and bear fruit again. It is the insignia of my race, and my generation is but a stage in the unending search of my people for freedom and happiness.

I am a Filipino, child of the marriage of the East and the West. The East, with its languor and mysticism, its passivity and endurance, was my mother, and my sire was the West that came thundering across the seas with the Cross and Sword and the Machine. I am of the East, an eager participant in its spirit, and in its struggles for liberation from the imperialist yoke. But I also know that the East must awake from its centuried sleep, shake off the lethargy that has bound his limbs, and start moving where destiny awaits.

For I, too, am of the West, and the vigorous peoples of the West have destroyed forever the peace and quiet that once were ours. I can no longer live, a being apart from those whose world now trembles to the roar of bomb and cannon-shot. I cannot say of a matter of universal life-and-death, of freedom and slavery for all mankind, that it concerns me not. For no man and no nation is an island, but a part of the main, there is no longer any East and West–only individuals and nations making those momentous choices which are the hinges upon which history resolves.

At the vanguard of progress in this part of the world I stand–a forlorn figure in the eyes of some, but not one defeated and lost. For, through the thick, interlacing branches of habit and custom above me, I have seen the light of the sun, and I know that it is good. I have seen the light of justice and equality and freedom, my heart has been lifted by the vision of democracy, and I shall not rest until my land and my people shall have been blessed by these, beyond the power of any man or nation to subvert or destroy.

I am a Filipino, and this is my inheritance. What pledge shall I give that I may prove worthy of my inheritance? I shall give the pledge that has come ringing down the corridors of the centuries, and it shall be compounded of the joyous cries of my Malayan forebears when first they saw the contours of this land loom before their eyes, of the battle cries that have resounded in every field of combat from Mactan to Tirad Pass, of the voices of my people when they sing:

Land of the morning, Child of the sun returning– Ne’er shall invaders Trample thy sacred shore.

Out of the lush green of these seven thousand isles, out of the heartstrings of sixteen million people all vibrating to one song, I shall weave the mighty fabric of my pledge. Out of the songs of the farmers at sunrise when they go to labor in the fields, out of the sweat of the hard-bitten pioneers in Mal-lig and Koronadal, out of the silent endurance of stevedores at the piers and the ominous grumbling of peasants in Pampanga, out of the first cries of babies newly born and the lullabies that mothers sing, out of the crashing of gears and the whine of turbines in the factories, out of the crunch of plough-shares upturning the earth, out of the limitless patience of teachers in the classrooms and doctors in the clinics, out of the tramp of soldiers marching, I shall make the pattern of my pledge:

“I am a Filipino born to freedom, and I shall not rest until freedom shall have been added unto my inheritance—for myself and my children and my children’s children—forever.”

4 Award-Winning Must-Read Filipino Authors and Poets

Whether you’re just starting to take interest in reading books or looking for ways to finally catch up on your to-read list, reading the works of these four Filipino authors might just be the push that you needed. As these authors immerses its readers to the Filipino experience, their books will definitely tug unseen emotions and thoughts. It’s no wonder that they have received received global recognition for their work.

Allan Popa at Saringsing Bikol Writers Workshop 2019 held in Catanduanes

Courtesy of Irvin Parco Sto. Tomas

If you’re into poetry, Allan Popa is one of the first names that come up if you’re asking any scholar in the Philippines. As of 2022, he has published more than ten collections of poetry including Morpo and Samsara , in which he received a National Book Award for Poetry in 2001 and 2002, respectively. Other national recognitions that Allan Popa has received are the Philippines Free Press Literary Award and the Manila Critics Circle National Book Award. Aside from national recognition, he has also earned an MFA degree in poetry at Washington University in Saint Louis. Not only that, but he also won the Norma Lowry Prize and the Academy of American Poets Graduate Prize during his stay in the university.

While the majority of his works are published in Tagalog, there are many translated editions and you can find many of them online.

“The poems...work like parables...(they) are mystical, mysterious, and mystifying, and so require to be read with deliberation and savored with fine discrimination,” says Bienvenido Lumbera, Editor of Sanghaya 2003: Philippine Arts and Culture Yearbook.

Lysley Tenorio

Courtesy of Jessica Christian via The Chronicle

Fiction writer, Lysley Tenorio has both published and received awards in the United States for writing stories about Filipinos and mostly, their experience in another country. His book titled Monstress (2012), which contains eight short stories, was named a book of the year by the San Francisco Chronicle. His recognitions in the field of literature includes receiving a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship, a Whiting Award, a Stegner fellowship, the Edmund White Award, and the Rome Prize from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Aside from having his stories appear in The Atlantic and Zoetrope: All-Story, and Ploughshares, The American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco and the Ma-Yi Theater in New York City has also adapted his stories for stage.

Lysley Tenorio’s most recent book is The Son of Good Fortune (2020) and is beautiful reflection of how vibrant and empathetic his characters are. Voted a Best Book by Amazon in July of 2020, The Son of Good Fortune is a novel about a mother, Maxima, and her son, Excel, who are undocumented Filipino immigrants living in California. Both of them do their best to assimilate. make money and not get caught by the INS. But what they do not know about each other is the ultimate challenge: Maxima seduces men on the internet, eventually cajoling them to wire her money, while Excel flees to a hippie commune with his girlfriend and begins to wonder if he could make it his home.

Conchitina Cruz

Courtesy of Conchitina Cruz

Another poet, Conchitina Cruz, also known as Chingbee Cruz, has written multiple poetry collections, and has published her works in both Philippine and American journals. Her collection of prose poetry, Dark Hours (2005) , where Chingbee Cruz navigates the city through the experiences of different characters, won the National Book Award in 2006. She also holds two Palanca Awards, an esteemed award giving body in the Philippines.

Although she is a Manila-based author, her audience expands in other corners of the world. She has earned her MFA degree at the University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and her PhD in English from State University of New York (SUNY) Albany. Other works of Conchitina Cruz includes elsewhere held and lingered (2008) , There is no emergency (2015) , and book of essays The Filipino Author as a Producer (2017) and Partial Views: On the Essay as a Genre in Philippine Literary Production (2021). Aside from writing, she currently also co-runs a small press, the Youth & Beauty Brigade.

Cruz’s work is known to be very lyrical and memoir-based stream of consciousness. Her poems illicit deep experience and response from fans of her work.

Gina Apostol

Courtesy of Margarita Corporan via ginaapostol.com

A US-based author, Gina Apostol, without fail, have always gotten a recognition for her published works. If you’re into reading stories of fiction based on the history of the Philippines, you might want to pick up one of her books. Her debut novel, Bibliolepsy (1997) has won the Juan Laya Prize for the Novel Category (Philippine National Book Award). This also holds true for her work, The Revolution According to Raymundo Mata (2009) has also won the same award. She follows these two works with Gun Dealers’ Daughter (2010) in which it won the 2013 PEN/Open Book Award, an award given to authors of color that has published in the United States. Her latest book, Insurrecto (2018), has garnered multiple recognitions such as Publisher Weekly’s one of the Ten Best Books of 2018, Editor’s Choice of the NYT, and being shortlisted for the Dayton Prize. Gina Apostol has also recently won the 2022 Rome Prize in Literature for her next novel.

Written by Maria Manio

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Philippine Historiography and Colonial Discourse: Eight Selected Essays on Postcolonial Studies in the Philippines (An Introduction to the Japanese Translation)

This essay discusses the transnational tensions that emerged in recent Japanese translations of studies of Philippine history. It focuses on an anthology of eight essays written by historians Reynaldo C. Ileto, Vicente L. Rafael and Floro L. Quibuyen, as well as on the Japanese edition of Reynaldo C. Ileto’s seminal text, Pasyon and Revolution: Popular Movements in the Philippines, 1840-1910. By reflecting on the process of translating the works of Filipino scholars into a Japanese context, this essay shows how translation becomes a kind of transcultural intellectual battlefield, revealing the different stakes of Filipino and Japanese writers in their approach to Philippine history.

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This essay discusses the transnational tensions that emerged in recent Japanese translations of studies of Philippine history. It focuses on an anthology of eight essays written by historians Reynaldo C. Ileto, Vicente L. Rafael and Floro L. Quibuyen, as well as on the Japanese edition of Reynaldo C. Ileto's seminal text, Pasyon and Revolution: Popular Movements in the Philippines, 1840-1910. By reflecting on the process of translating the works of Filipino scholars into a Japanese context, this essay shows how translation becomes a kind of transcultural intellectual battlefield, revealing the different stakes of Filipino and Japanese writers in their approach to Philippine history.

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Philippine Authors and Their Works – Some Legendary Authors In PH

Here are some of the most famous philippine authors and their works that left remarkable mark in the ph literature..

PHILIPPINE AUTHORS AND THEIR WORKS – These are the legendary Filipino authors and their remarkable contributions.

The Philippine literature has improved greatly over time. We have authors who write fully in Filipino, while others scribbled their thoughts and letters in English adapting the Western style and language. But what most definitely will be of significance is how these creations have shaped and enriched the literature of the country.

Meet some of the most legendary and iconic authors from the Philippines below and a few of their masterpieces:

She wrote the 1990 novel Dogeaters which won the American Book Award and was declared a finalist for the National Book Award. She also created the play Mango Tango which happened to be her first-ever play.
He is one of those writers who deeply tackled social justice and issues. He created Rosales Saga – a a five-volume work. He is one of the most widely read Filipino authors. In 1980, he won the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Literature.
He is a National Artist. He published a work at the age of 17 and his skill has made him won a scholarship from an essay contest where he topped. Among his most famous works is The Woman With Two Navels .
She wrote numerous books, short stories, and poems which told the lesser-known facts about the life of a Filipino. Fish-Hair Woman is one of her greatest stories that narrated the story of a woman who fell in love with an Australian soldier. Her works Rita’s Lullaby and White Turtle won the international Prix Italia Award and the Steele Rudd Award, respectively.
He is popularly called Butch Dalisay, his pen name. He lived and got imprisoned in the time of Martial law. his writings include Killing Time in a Warm Place (his first novel) and Soledad’s Sister (his second novel). In his career, he has won 16 Palanca awards.
He is a poet, author, and a teacher. His Eye of the Fish: A Personal Archipelago won the PEN Open Book Award and an Asian American Literary Award.
Our very own national hero is a prolific writer. He wrote Noli me Tangere and El Filibusterismo m, which, at current times, is deeply discussed in academic institutions. Mi Ultimo Adios is the last poem he wrote before his execution.
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6 pieces of Filipino literature that deserve your undivided attention

I don’t know about you, but a good read always seems to make things better. For some of us, there’s nothing more satisfying than the solace of stumbling across pieces that makes us think and feel things indescribable. Either we’ve grown numb to these feelings or have never felt them at all. While everyone seems to be caught up with cheesy Y.A. novels and Lang Leav poems, there are actually tons of literary gems made by Filipino authors that are much, much more worth your time. We’ve compiled a short but exemplary list of Filipino literature to get you started on your binge-reading:

1. Ang Pagitan by Carlos M. Piocos III

“Kung lalayo ka pa ng ilang kilometro, isang milya, Tutunog ang katabi mong telepono sa loob ng opisina, at sa ganito kalayong distansiya, ibubulong ko kung natatandaan mo pa ba ang pangalan ko?”

We open this list with a short poem that can initially be interpreted to be as simple as moving on from someone you love or have loved. But the more you reread it, the more you interpret it differently. Can we ever measure somethings as abstract as love and longing through distance and numbers? This piece of literature attempts on our behalf. You may purchase it via National Bookstore and Powerbooks.

2. Geyluv by Honorio Bartolome de Dios

“Okey, okey, aaminin ko. Sa kanya ko unang naranasang magkaroon ng lakas ng loob na ihinga ang lahat ng nararamdaman ko. ‘Yun bang pouring out of emotions na walang kakaba-kabang sabihan kang bakla o mahina. At pagkaraan ay ang gaan-gaan ng pakiramdam mo. “

Geyluv from Sa Labas ng Parlor remains to be a favorite. While the title itself already gives you an obvious idea of what the story is about, there’s a lot more to this story that can only be explored once you actually read it. More than just a story of a “gay love,” it’s a story of two people meeting halfway and possibly arriving at their own conclusions by the end.

Best part? The ending. So. Many. Questions.

3. We Filipinos are Mild Drinkers by Alejandro Roces

“We Filipinos are mild drinkers. We drink for only three good reasons: We drink when we are very happy; We drink when we are very sad; And we drink for any other reason.”

Contains lambanog . That’s it, that’s the highlight. Kidding aside, the setting of this story takes place during the Japanese-Filipino war wayback 1945. The title serves to be an irony–we know that Filipinos are, in fact, not mild drinkers. But at the face of a proud American soldier basking about how he has drank every kind of liquor, a Filipino farmer humbles himself and says, “No, thank you Joe. We Filipinos are not mild drinkers.” Of course, he did this so the soldier is dead-drunk by the end of their drinking session. Too real? Yeah it is.

4. Boys Who Like Boys by Vicente Groyon III

“Your pretty girlfriend flickers for a moment in your mind. But she is whisked helplessly away as you think how much you like being with him and as, unwilled, your eyes begin to sparkle for real.”

Similar to Geyluv , this short story is about a boy who’s having troubles exploring and expressing his sexuality because of a homophobic society. Boys Who Like Boys is a fun and casual read, all without compromising the message the author wants to give out. It’s divided into eight chapters, namely: The French-Fries Man & the Moviegoer, The Narcissist, The Virgin Chapter, The Home Theater, The Professor and his boyfriend, The Retreat, The sleepover, and The Reunion . If those titles don’t intrigue you, I don’t know what will.

5. I Never Sang For My Father by Resil Mojares

Ah, yes. Calling all those with daddy issues, this piece of literature is for you. Mojares’ personal essay hits home too hard for some of us.A seemingly apathetic father and an equally apathetic son always make up for a good story doesn’t it? But this one isn’t as shallow as that. I Never Sang For my Father is about a son’s epiphany after the death of his father and his realization of how words can never really amount to what the heart feels.

If you do no not appreciate emotions from your subconscious being dug up, then do not read this. Otherwise, read up and try not to cry.

6. Utos Ng Hari by Jun Cruz Reyes

“Ay buhay estudyante, maka-uno lang, kahit lulunin ang sariling dila. Kumontra ka sa kanila, singkong maliwanag. Tumangu-tango ka naman para maka-uno, ibig sabihin noon sarili mo na ang kailangang lokohin. Pakisama lang talaga. Konting kompromiso, konting tango at “Yes Ma’am” lang. Dos na ‘yon o tres.”

Closing this list is another favorite classic by Jun Cruz Reyes. You may have come across this at least once during your high school or college life. If you’re nodding your head, then you would know just how much we sympathized with Jojo. Jun Cruz Reyes’ literature basically summarized all the things we hated about school in this short story–from repressive policies, teachers sent from hell, to gossips and “darted” grades–it has it all.

Featured image from Sa Labas ng Parlor by Honorio Bartolome de Dios You know what’s cool? Newsletters. Get exclusive updates on everything SCOUT through our newsletter. Sign up here .

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10 Filipino poets and poems to explore on World Poetry Day

21 March, 2022
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March 21 is World Poetry Day, and what better way to celebrate than by exploring our country’s own rich poetry scene?

With so many languages and dialects to utilize when describing our rich history and experiences, the Philippines has a lot to offer to the poetry world. Here are 5 poets and 5 poem collections/works to discover on World Poetry Day.

Dovegelion by Jose Garcia Villa

A National Artist for Literature in the Philippines, Jose Garcia Villa was a poetry giant both in the Philippines and in America. Dubbed the “Pope of Greenwich Village”, Villa wrote amongst other literary giants including W.H. Auden, Tennessee Williams, and Gore Vidal.

Dovegelion contains rare and never before published works by Jose Garcia Villa. The title coming from his pen name “Dovegelion” for dove, eagle, and lion. Jose Garcia Villa was definitely a prolific poet, leaving behind numerous works and never shying away from playing with the structure and content of his poems.

Ophelia Dimalanta

Author of collections Flowing On , Love Woman , and Lady Polyester: Poems Past and Present , Ophelia Dimalanta uses sensual stanzas to express her stories and observations. Dimalanta embraces eroticism, saying that it “can be applied if it is functional; if it is important to what you are writing about.”

We Belong by Cookie Hiponia Everman

A contemporary take on a novel-in-verse, We Belong is Cookie Hiponia Everman’s ambitious debut that intertwines a Filipina immigrant story with the mythology of our country.

There isn’t much that Stella and Luna know about their mama, Elsie, other than she immigrated from the Philippines when she was young. As Elsie prepares her kids for bed, they ask her for a story. Elsie gifts them with two—one about her own childhood as a resolute middle child adjusting to the life of immigration, and that of Mayari, the legendary daughter of a god.

Benilda Santos

A recipient of 3 Carlos Palanca Awards for Literature in poetry (for both English and Filipino works), Benilda Santos has proved herself as a poetic power.

Santos’ Kuwadro Numero Uno: Mga Tula was the winner of the National Book Award. Her other poetry collections include Pali-palitong Posporo and Alipato: Mga Bago at Piling Tula .

Santos is also known for her poem Medusa , which is her own rendition of a Greek myth from the point of view of a female monster.

HAI[NA]KU and Other Poems by AA Patawaran

A mix of poems about the big and little things in life. This collection provides humorous and witty takes on love and loss, independence, introspection, and the people/things that walk in and out of your life.

Merlie Alunan

Fluent in languages other than English and Tagalog, Merlie Alunan’s works are sometimes conceived and drafted in Cebuano or Waray before taking their final form in English.

Merlie Alunan’s work includes both poetry and non-poetry collections: Pagdakop sa Bulalakaw ng Uban Pang Mga Balak , Sa Atong Dila: Introduction to Visayan Literature , and Tinalunay: Hinugpong mga Panurat .

To inspire other non-Tagalog writers of the country, Merlie Alunan has organized and facilitated numerous writing workshops in the hopes to get more Waray poems released in the mainstream poetry scene.

In Case You Come Back: Poems, Confessions, Apologies, and Promises by Marla Miniano and Reese Lansangan

Musician Reese Lansangan collaborates with writer Marla Miniano to create a poetry collection chronicling the fascinating intricacies and rituals that make-up everyday life.

From adventures to marshmallows and paper cuts to pixie dust, no rock is left unturned, and no topic is brushed past in this all-encapsulating poetry collection.

Edith Tiempo

Edith Tiempo displays masterful power over language as she vividly describes scenes and events while still scattering various symbols across her stanzas. Another recipient of the National Artist Award for Literature, Edith Tiempo may best be known for her poem The Return . It is a chilling poem about a case of dark nostalgia that comes upon an old man as he tries to relive his youth.

The Last Time I’ll Write About You by Dawn Lanuza

The Last Line I'll Write About You, World Poetry Day

Veteran Filipino YA and romance author Dawn Lanuza makes her debut into poetry with The Last Time I’ll Write About You .

Dawn Lanuza explores any and all things love, the perfect poetry collection for anyone coming from the month of love with any lingering feelings (whether they be good or bad).

Barbara Jane Reyes

With work like Letters to A Young Brown Girl and Diwata , Barbara Jane Reyes is a poetic powerhouse to watch out for.

In Letters to A Young Brown Girl , Reyes expresses all the complicated emotions that come from growing up not only as a young girl, but as a young brown girl. Reyes calls out all the hurts brought upon young brown girls’ fragile and precarious sense of self as they grow-up. Candid and raw, Reyes’ voice is that of an empowered woman standing up for herself, and an encouraging light leading the way for the young brown girls following after her.

In Diwata , Reyes brings to light, not monsters or paranormal beings, but the real-life horrors within our Filipino history and culture. Reyes puts a spotlight on the mistreatment of Filipinas through the years and the overbearing control that was forced upon both their bodies and minds.

And that’s 10 poetry collections/works and poets for you to check out to celebrate World Poetry Day.

Roses are red Violets are blue We love poetry, and you should too!

Don’t be afraid to dip your pen into the poetry scene and even write a few stanzas yourself if you feel so inclined.

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The philippines:a century hence.

Rizal’s “Filipinas Dentro De Cien Años”

Rizal’s “Filipinas Dentro De Cien Años” (translated as “The Philippines within One Hundred Years” or “The Philippines A Century Hence”) is an essay meant to forecast the future of the country within a hundred years. This essay, published in La Solidaridad of Madrid, reflected Rizal’s sentiments about the glorious past of the Philippines, the deterioration of the Philippine economy, and exposed the foundations of the native Filipinos’ sufferings under the cruel Spanish rule. More importantly, Rizal, in the essay, warned Spain as regards the catastrophic end of its domination – a reminder that it was time that Spain realizes that the circumstances that contributed to the French Revolution could have a powerful effect for her on the Philippine islands. Part of the purpose in writing the essay was to promote a sense of nationalism among the Filipinos – to awaken their minds and hearts so they would fight for their rights.

La Solidaridad, the newspaper which serialized Rizal’s Filipinas Dentro De Cien Años

Causes of miseries, 1. spain’s implementation of her military laws.

Because of such policies, the Philippine population decreased significantly. Poverty became more widespread, and f armlands were left to wither. The family as a unit of society was neglected, and overall, every aspect of the life of the Filipino was retarded.

2. Deterioration and disappearance of Filipino indigenous culture

When Spain came with the sword and the cross, it began the gradual destruction of the native Philippine culture. Because of this, the Filipinos started losing confidence in their past and their heritage, became doubtful of their present lifestyle, and eventually lost hope in the future and the preservation of their race. The natives began forgetting who they were – their valued beliefs, religion, songs, poetry, and other forms of customs and traditions.

3. Passivity and submissiveness to the Spanish colonizers

One of the most powerful forces that influenced a culture of silence among the natives were the Spanish friars. Because of the use of force and intimidation, unfairly using God’s name, the Filipinos learned to submit themselves to the will of the foreigners.

Rizal's Forecast

What will become of the Philippines within a century? Will they continue to be a Spanish Colony? Spain was able to colonize the Philippines for 300 years because the Filipinos remained faithful during this time, giving up their liberty and independence, sometimes stunned by the attractive promises or by the friendship offered by the noble and generous people of Spain. Initially, the Filipinos see them as protectors but sooner, they realize that they are exploiters and executers. So if this state of affair continues, what will become of the Philippines within a century? One, the people will start to awaken and if the government of Spain does not change its acts, a revolution will occur. But what exactly is it that the Filipino people like? 1) A Filipino representative in the Spanish Cortes and freedom of expression to cry out against all the abuses; and 2) To practice their human rights. If these happen, the Philippines will remain a colony of Spain, but with more laws and greater liberty. Similarly, the Filipinos will declare themselves ’independent’. Note that Rizal only wanted liberty from Spaniards and not total separation. In his essay, Rizal urges to put freedom in our land through peaceful negotiations with the Spanish Government in Spain. Rizal was confident as he envisioned the awakening of the hearts and opening of the minds of the Filipino people regarding their plight. He ‘prophesied’ that the Philippines will be successful in its revolution against Spain, winning their independence sooner or later. Though lacking in weapons and combat skills, the natives waged war against the colonizers and in 1898, the Americans wrestled with Spain to win the Philippines. Years after Rizal’s death, the Philippines attained its long-awaited freedom — a completion of what he had written in the essay, does not record in its archives any lasting domination by one people over another of different races, of diverse usages and customs, of opposite and divergent ideas. One of the two had to yield and succumb.” Indeed, the essay, The Philippines a Century Hence is as relevant today as it was when it was written over a century ago. Alongside Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, Rizal shares why we must focus on strengthening the most important backbone of the country – our values, mindsets, and all the beliefs that had shaped our sense of national identity. Additionally, the essay serves as a reminder that we, Filipinos, are historically persevering and strong-minded. The lessons learned from those years of colonization were that all those efforts to keep people uneducated and impoverished, had failed. Nationalism eventually thrived and many of the predictions of Rizal came true. The country became independent after three centuries of abusive Spanish rule and five decades under the Americans.

SOBRE LA INDOLENCIA DE LOS FILIPINOS (The Indolence of the Filipinos)

This is said to be the longest essay written by Rizal, which was published in five installments in the La Solidaridad, from July 15 to September 15, 1890. The essay was described as a defense against the Spaniards who charged that the Filipinos are inherently lazy or indolent. The Indolence of the Filipinos is said to be a study of the causes why the people did not, as was said, work hard during the Spanish regime. Rizal pointed out that long before the coming of the Spaniards, the Filipinos were industrious and hardworking. The Spanish reign brought about a decline in economic activities because of the following causes: First, the establishment of the Galleon Trade cut-off all previous associations of the Philippines with other countries in Asia and the Middle East. As a result, business was only conducted with Spain through Mexico. Because of this, the small businesses and handicraft industries that flourished during the pre-Spanish period gradually disappeared. Second, Spain also extinguished the natives’ love of work because of the implementation of forced labor. Because of the wars between Spain and other countries in Europe as well as the Muslims in Mindanao, the Filipinos were compelled to work in shipyards, roads, and other public works, abandoning agriculture, industry, and commerce. Third, Spain did not protect the people against foreign invaders and pirates. With no arms to defend themselves, the natives were killed, their houses burned, and their lands destroyed. As a result of this, the Filipinos were forced to become nomads, lost interest in cultivating their lands or in rebuilding the industries that were shut down, and simply became submissive to the mercy of God. Fourth, there was a crooked system of education, if it was to be considered an education. What was being taught in the schools were repetitive prayers and other things that could not be used by the students to lead the country to progress. There were no courses in Agriculture, Industry, etc., which were badly needed by the Philippines during those times. Fifth, the Spanish rulers were a bad example to despise manual labor. The officials reported to work at noon and left early, all the while doing nothing in line with their duties. The women were seen constantly followed by servants who dressed them and fanned them – personal things which they ought to have done for themselves. Sixth, gambling was established and widely propagated during those times. Almost everyday there were cockfights, and during feast days, the government officials and friars were the first to engage in all sorts of bets and gambles. Seventh, there was a crooked system of religion. The friars taught the naïve Filipinos that it was easier for a poor man to enter heaven, and so they preferred not to work and remain poor so that they could easily enter heaven after they died. Lastly, the taxes were extremely high, so much so that a huge portion of what they earned went to the government or to the friars. When the object of their labor was removed and they were exploited, they were reduced to inaction. Rizal admitted that the Filipinos did not work so hard because they were wise enough to adjust themselves to the warm, tropical climate. “An hour’s work under that burning sun, in the midst of pernicious influences springing from nature in activity, is equal to a day’s labor in a temperate climate.” He explained, “violent work is not a good thing in tropical countries as it would be parallel to death, destruction, annihilation.” It can clearly be deduced from the writing that the cause of the indolence attributed to our race is Spain: When the Filipinos wanted to study and learn, there were no schools, and if there were any, they lacked sufficient resources and did not present more useful knowledge; when the Filipinos wanted to establish their businesses, there was not enough capital nor protection from the government; when the Filipinos tried to cultivate their lands and establish various industries, they were made to pay enormous taxes and were exploited by the foreign rulers.

LETTER TO THE YOUNG WOMEN OF MALOLOS

Jose Rizal’s legacy to Filipino women is embodied in his famous essay entitled, “To the Young Women of Malolos,” where he addresses all kinds of women – mothers, wives, the unmarried, etc. and expresses everything that he wishes them to keep in mind. On December 12, 1888, a group of 20 women of Malolos petitioned Governor-General Weyler for permission to open a night school so that they may study Spanish under Teodor Sandiko. Fr. Felipe Garcia, a Spanish parish priest in Malolos objected. But the young women courageously sustained their agitation for the establishment of the school. They then presented a petition to Governor Weyler asking that they should be allowed to open a night school (Capino et al, 1977). In the end, their request was granted on the condition that Señorita Guadalupe Reyes should be their teacher. Praising these young women for their bravery, Marcelo H. del Pilar requested Rizal to write a letter commending them for their extraordinary courage. Originally written in Tagalog, Rizal composed this letter on February 22, 1889 when he was in London, in response to the request of del Pilar. We know for a fact that in the past, young women were uneducated because of the principle that they would soon be wives and their primary career is to take care of the home and their children. In this letter, Rizal yearns that women should be granted the same opportunities given to men in terms of education. The salient points contained in this letter are as follows: 1. The rejection of the spiritual authority of the friars – not all of the priests in the country that time embodied the true spirit of Christ and His Church. Most of them were corrupted by worldly desires and used worldly methods to effect change and force discipline among the people. 2. The defense of private judgment 3. Qualities Filipino mothers need to possess – as evidenced by this portion of his letter, Rizal is greatly concerned of the welfare of the Filipino children and the homes they grow up in. 4. Duties and responsibilities of Filipino mothers to their children 5. Duties and responsibilities of a wife to her husband - Rizal states in this portion of his letter how Filipino women ought to be as wives, in order to preserve the identity of the race. 6. Counsel to young women on their choice of a lifetime partner

QUALITIES MOTHERS HAVE TO POSSESS

Rizal enumerates the qualities Filipino mothers have to possess: 1. Be a noble wife - that women must be decent and dignified, submissive, tender and loving to their respective husband. 2. Rear her children in the service of the state – here Rizal gives reference to the women of Sparta who embody this quality. Mothers should teach their children to love God, country and fellowmen. 3. Set standards of behavior for men around her - three things that a wife must instill in the mind of her husband: activity and industry; noble behavior; and worthy sentiments. In as much as the wife is the partner of her husband’s heart and misfortune, Rizal stressed on the following advices to a married woman: aid her husband, share his perils, refrain from causing him worry; and sweeten his moments of affliction.

RIZAL’S ADVICE TO UNMARRIED MEN AND WOMEN

Jose Rizal points out to unmarried women that they should not be easily taken by appearances and looks, because these can be very deceiving. Instead, they should take heed of men’s firmness of character and lofty ideas. Rizal further adds that there are three things that a young woman must look for a man she intends to be her husband: 1. A noble and honored name 2. A manly heart 3. A high spirit incapable of being satisfied with engendering slaves.

In summary, Rizal’s letter “To the Young Women of Malolos,” centers around five major points (Zaide &Zaide, 1999): 1. Filipino mothers should teach their children love of God, country and fellowmen. 2. Filipino mothers should be glad and honored, like Spartan mothers, to offer their sons in defense of their country. 4. Filipino women should educate themselves aside from retaining their good racial values. 5. Faith is not merely reciting prayers and wearing religious pictures. It is living the real Christian way with good morals and manners.

Essay on Proud Of Being A Filipino

Students are often asked to write an essay on Proud Of Being A Filipino in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Proud Of Being A Filipino

Introduction.

Being a Filipino is a matter of pride. We are known for our warm hospitality, rich culture, and resilience. These traits make us unique and distinguish us from the rest of the world.

Rich Culture

Filipinos have a rich culture, influenced by various civilizations. Our traditional music, dance, and art reflect our diverse history. We celebrate festivals with joy and enthusiasm, showcasing our vibrant traditions.

Filipinos are known for their resilience. Despite facing natural disasters and challenges, we rise again with a smile. Our spirit of ‘Bayanihan’, or community cooperation, helps us overcome difficulties together.

Warm Hospitality

Our hospitality is world-renowned. We welcome guests with open hearts, treating them like family. This trait reflects our caring and loving nature.

Being a Filipino is a privilege. Our rich culture, resilience, and warm hospitality make us stand out. These are reasons enough to be proud of being a Filipino.

250 Words Essay on Proud Of Being A Filipino

Filipinos are known for their vibrant culture, rich history, and strong values. Being a Filipino, I am proud of my heritage and the unique qualities that set us apart from the rest of the world.

Filipino Culture

Our culture is a colorful mix of influences from the East and West. We have our own music, dance, art, and food that are unique to us. We celebrate fiestas with joy, showcasing our love for life and community. Our traditions and customs are a true reflection of our strong spirit and resilience.

Rich History

The history of the Philippines is a testament to our strength and resilience. From our ancestors who fought bravely for our independence to the modern-day heroes who strive for progress, every Filipino has a story of courage and determination. This rich history makes me proud to be a Filipino.

Filipino Values

Being Filipino means embracing our core values. We are known for our “Bayanihan” spirit, which means helping each other in times of need. We value family above all, and we are known for our respect towards elders. Our sense of “kapwa,” or shared humanity, is a value that binds us together.

Being a Filipino is not just about the place of birth, it’s also about being part of a community with a unique culture, rich history, and strong values. It’s about being part of a nation that values unity, respect, and resilience. I am proud to be a Filipino because of these qualities that define us as a people.

500 Words Essay on Proud Of Being A Filipino

Feeling proud of one’s heritage is a wonderful thing. I am a Filipino and I am very proud of it. The Philippines, my homeland, is a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. There are many reasons why I am proud to be a Filipino, and in this essay, we will explore some of them.

Rich History and Culture

The Philippines has a rich history and culture. Our ancestors fought bravely for our freedom. Their courage and love for our homeland are inspiring. We have a unique culture that is a mix of native traditions and influences from other countries. Our music, dance, art, and food reflect our rich cultural heritage. We celebrate many colorful festivals throughout the year. These celebrations showcase our traditions and bring us closer as a community.

Beautiful Natural Resources

Our country is blessed with stunning natural beauty. We have beautiful beaches, mountains, forests, and rivers. Our biodiversity is one of the richest in the world. We have unique plants and animals that are not found anywhere else. These natural resources are a source of pride for us Filipinos.

Friendly and Hospitable People

Filipinos are known for being friendly and hospitable. We treat our guests with respect and kindness. We go out of our way to make them feel welcome. This warmth and hospitality make us proud to be Filipinos.

Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Filipinos are resilient people. We face many challenges, such as natural disasters and economic difficulties. But we always find a way to overcome these challenges. We help each other and stay strong together. This resilience is a testament to our spirit as Filipinos.

Love for Family and Community

Family and community are very important to us Filipinos. We value our relationships with our family members and neighbors. We support each other in times of need. This strong sense of community and family ties makes us proud to be Filipinos.

Being a Filipino is something to be proud of. Our rich history and culture, beautiful natural resources, friendly and hospitable people, resilience in the face of challenges, and love for family and community are just some of the reasons why I am proud to be a Filipino. I am grateful for these blessings and I celebrate them with joy and pride.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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After leaving the grind in Asia, Filipino women find exploitation in Poland

Filipino migrant workers in European country allege wage theft, salary deductions and passport confiscation.

Warsaw/Katowice, Poland – Not long after walking through the doors of an employment agency on the ninth floor of a skyscraper in Hong Kong, Stephanie* was captivated by the idea of working in Poland.

Sitting on her bed in her employer’s home later that evening in late 2021, the domestic worker from the Philippines contemplated leaving behind the neon lights of Asia for a brighter future in Europe.

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Less than a year later, Stephanie landed in Warsaw, joining the growing ranks of Filipinos filling factories, warehouses, farms, hotels, households and construction sites in Poland.

There, Stephanie’s dream collided with the harsh reality of menial work in the central European country.

After getting a job at a poultry factory in a small town in western Poland, Stephanie was paid just 700 zlotys ($175) for a month’s work, she said, a fraction of the some $1,000 promised to her by recruitment agents.

While Stephanie did not fully understand how her salary was calculated, her employer made deductions to cover her dormitory accommodation, uniform, work shoes, and the application for her Temporary Resident Card, she said.

Stephanie found the work itself gruelling, struggling with the repetitive motions of cutting up frozen chicken parts in the bitter cold and cramped conditions that forced her to hunch her shoulders to avoid brushing up against her co-workers.

To make matters worse, Stephanie’s supervisor would often yell at her and her co-workers, she said, and forbid them from speaking to each other or using the toilet without permission.

Two other Filipino women described similar conditions at the poultry factory.

“One day, I felt like I was about to collapse,” Stephanie told Al Jazeera. “I couldn’t do that job.”

Stephanie’s experiences at two other jobs in the country were not much better.

While working at a factory for plastic toolboxes, she had to walk for an hour each day to reach her accommodation, she said.

“It was very difficult … because you are so tired after standing for 12 hours. Then you need to walk for one hour. You just don’t feel your feet,” she said, showing a video of two workers trudging through a road covered in snow.

Stephanie said she was eventually fired without notice after taking three days off while sick.

She claimed she did not receive her last month’s salary, after being told to sign a document written in Polish that she later realised stated that nothing was owed to her.

One of her next jobs was as a kitchen assistant in Warsaw, where she worked without a contract for about six months. Her monthly salary, paid in cash, came to about 3,500 zlotys ($875), she said.

Stephanie said her employers, who had promised to get her papers in order, then “ran away” without paying her last two pay cheques.

Stephanie’s experiences are not isolated.

As part of a year-long investigation, Al Jazeera spoke to 22 Filipino women working in Poland, almost all of whom claimed to have suffered exploitation or unfair labour practices, including wage theft and unreasonable salary deductions, unlawful termination, passport confiscation, and being forced to sign documents in a language they did not understand.

The majority of the women reported receiving lower salaries than promised by agents who charged them recruitment fees as high as $5,000 – well above limits set by the Philippine government and also at odds with Polish regulations.

Poland has recruited Filipino workers in large numbers in recent years to fill labour shortages stemming from the country’s rapid economic rise and ageing population.

Official data shows that Polish authorities issued 29,154 work permits for Filipino workers last year, up from 2,057 in 2018.

Filipino workers are among those at greatest risk of forced labour in Poland, particularly in industries such as agriculture and hospitality, according to the latest Trafficking in Persons report released by the United States Department of State.

Mikołaj Pawlak, an associate professor of sociology at the University of Warsaw, said the fact that workers’ visas and residence permits are often linked to their employers creates a power imbalance.

While most can look for new jobs, Pawlak said, not all workers are aware of Polish law and those working in remote locations are likely to be more vulnerable.

“The majority of cases are not of trafficking, they involve harsh working conditions … and precarious employment,” Pawlak told Al Jazeera.

“Still, [workers] believe they are OK because they compare it with what they faced in the Philippines or the Gulf states,” Pawlak said, adding that some workers also hold onto the idea of eventually bringing their families to Poland.

‘I need to be patient’

Most workers who spoke to Al Jazeera shied away from filing official complaints, saying they were willing to tolerate unfair labour practices as long as they were not physically mistreated and could send money home.

At least 10 women reported poor conditions in their living quarters, such as a lack of heating and sharing a single toilet with two dozen other workers.

Some alleged that they were denied basic freedoms, such as having to inform their supervisors before going out to buy groceries or attending church.

Others said they had their passport withheld at some point or had to pay 50 zlotys ($12.56) to their employer if they missed a day of work, practices that are included on the International Labour Organization’s list of indicators of forced labour.

Miriam* arrived in Poland in 2019, leaving behind a job at an electronics company in Taiwan, where she received a salary of about $1,250 in addition to other perks.

Lured by promises of higher salaries, she paid about $5,000 to an employment agency in the Philippines.

But since moving to Poland, Miriam has faced language barriers, harsh winters, and strenuous six-day workweeks.

At a car parts factory in southern Poland, Miriam earns 3,000 to 4,000 zlotys ($752 to $1,003) a month under a “mandate contract”, meaning she does not have paid days off or holidays, she told Al Jazeera.

Inside the factory, “we only wear T-shirts. It’s too hot because we need to work fast”, she said, adding that she sometimes makes 1,500 plastic car parts, such as door handles, in a single day.

The 12 hours of standing are only interrupted by two 20-minute daily breaks when Miriam eats white rice and smokes a cigarette – the “best part” of her day.

“I have no choice, so I need to be patient to earn and have a vacation,” Miriam told Al Jazeera.

Rosalinda* shares her resolve.

After three years as a domestic worker in Hong Kong, she applied online for a job in Poland in 2021.

Her first two jobs at food processing plants, where she made about 14 zlotys ($3.54) per hour, came as a shock.

“I was so upset … It’s embarrassing. You pay big money, then you only get this,” she told Al Jazeera, adding that she took a loan to cover her placement fees.

Rosalinda, 51, then became a mushroom picker, often starting at 7am and finishing at 3am the following day.

“I felt very tired and sleepy … it’s dangerous when you’re on the sixth level,” she said, referring to the shelves where mushrooms grow, which workers have to reach by standing on a moving platform.

Rosalinda – who said she was paid about 100 zlotys ($25) per day – eventually quit the job after slipping on the greenhouse’s floor.

She said the company did not provide her with any assistance even though she was not able to walk or sleep properly for a few days.

“You regret coming here to Poland. But then you are here already, so you must find a way,” she said. “You can’t lose hope.”

After a few months without a valid visa or a stable job, picking up work as a part-time dishwasher, pet carer, and cleaner, Rosalinda struck it lucky when a Polish family hired her as a nanny in the summer of 2022.

She was paid 45 zlotys ($11) per hour for eight hours of work a day, had the weekends off, and eventually received a Temporary Resident Card.

At one point, Rosalinda dreamed that her employers might even support her nine-year-old son’s studies in Poland.

But in recent months, they have grown more demanding, she said.

“I am overworked now … instead of having a rest day, they started asking me to work for two to three hours,” Rosalinda said.

Pawlak, the sociology professor, said Filipinos tend to be older and skew female compared with other migrant workers in Poland.

He said some workers turn to Poland as “their second or third choice” due to being unable to meet the higher thresholds and age limits in Western countries.

Most women interviewed by Al Jazeera arrived in Poland directly from other popular migrant worker destinations , such as Hong Kong and Taiwan.

According to a spokesman for Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, from 2021 to November 2023, 2,980 visas for Filipinos were processed in Hong Kong; 2,969 in Taiwan; and 1,006 in the United Arab Emirates’ Abu Dhabi.

The Philippine labour attache in Prague, Llewelyn Perez, who also handles cases involving workers in Poland, said those migrating via agencies accredited by Manila usually get better contracts and face fewer problems.

Otherwise, “if there [are] violations of the labour agreement, I admit there is very minimal power or authority on [our] part”, Perez told Al Jazeera.

Although Philippine authorities forbid third-country recruitment, overseas workers often cannot afford to return home and wait until their applications are concluded.

According to Perez, her office handled 66 cases involving Filipino workers in Poland last year.

Most of the claims are related to non-payment or salary delays, lack of documentation for legal stay, wrongful termination, and poor working and living conditions.

A spokesman for Poland’s Chief Labour Inspectorate said it received 76 complaints from Filipino nationals between January 2021 and November 2023, 29 of which were considered unfounded.

In addition to conducting workplace inspections, the spokesman said the inspectorate provides training for Filipinos in collaboration with the Philippine embassy in Poland.

In Warsaw, local experts at La Strada, an anti-human trafficking non-profit, told Al Jazeera that Poland’s official structures had not efficiently responded to the growing number of migrant workers and the challenges they faced, adding that court cases involving human trafficking and forced labour often take years to be resolved.

Pawlak, the sociology professor, said the previous Polish government had peddled a negative narrative around migration, despite the country sorely needing foreign labour.

He said he hopes that the new administration, elected in October, will revamp the system and develop a migration policy that better protects workers.

“The state should be a more active player. Not active in the sense of [having] stronger border police and fences on some parts of the border, but more active in regulating migration and labour conditions,” he said.

Facing mounting stress in her nanny job, Rosalinda is weighing her options.

For Miriam, the worker at a car parts factory, the priority is to save enough money to see her family.

This past Christmas was the fifth consecutive year that she spent away from her teenage daughter and husband.

“I did not have any vacation [since arriving in Poland], because the plane ticket is expensive and I have a very low salary,” Miriam said.

Stephanie, who still remembers feeling “excited” about travelling to Europe, cannot help but think that leaving her job in Hong Kong was a mistake.

After a year and a half of pinning her hopes on Poland, she feels more vulnerable than ever.

Currently at a shelter without a work visa and practically no money, Stephanie sees an uncertain future.

“I am illegal now, it’s probably better if I return to the Philippines,” she said.

Raquel Carvalho reported from nine locations across Poland with the support of the Journalismfund.eu

*Names changed to protect privacy.

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essays as a requirement in the academe across disciplines could provide appropriate scaffolding in guiding the Filipino ESL writers. The original essays written within an hour by 51 (from 108) Filipino ESL senior high school writers were encoded and processed using the Antconc software to identify the language features that characterize the essays.
Essay Written By Filipino Writers
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After leaving the grind in Asia, Filipino women find exploitation in
Filipino migrant workers in European country allege wage theft, salary deductions and passport confiscation. ... after being told to sign a document written in Polish that she later realised ...