AMERICAN REGIME

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The Filipino Revolutionist won against the Spaniards who colonized us for more than
300 years. Our flag was hoisted on June 12, 1898 as a symbol of our independent. Gen. Emilio
Aguinaldo was elected the first President of the Philippine Republic but this was short-lived.
Many Filipinos started writing again and the nationalism of the people remained
undaunted. Filipino writers went into all forms of literature like news, reporting, poetry,
stories, plays, essays and novels. Their writings clearly depicted their love of country and
their longings for independence.
The active arousal in the field of literature started to be felt in the following
newspapers:
1. EL NUEVO DIA (The New Day). Established by Sergio Osmea in 1900. The American
censors twice banned this and threatened Osmea with banishment because of his
nationalistic writings.
2. EL GRITO DEL PUEBLO (The Call of the Nation)
3. EL RENACIMIENTO (The Rebirth)
There were also plays written then but after the first and second presentations, the
Americans put a stop to this because of the consistent theme of nationalism. Included here
were the following:
1. KAHAPON, NGAYON AT BUKAS (Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow) written by
Aurelio Tolentino depicting the suppression done by the Americans and their plan to
colonize the Philippines.
2. TANIKALANG GINTO by Juan Abad
3. MALAYA by Tomas Remigio
4. WALANG SUGAT by Severino Reyes
A. CHARACTERISTICS OF LITERATURE DURING THIS PERIOD
Three groups of writers contributed to the Philippine Literature during this period.
During the first year of the American period, the languages used in writing were
Spanish and Tagalog and the dialects of the different regions, but Spanish and Tagalog
predominated.
In 1910, a new group started to write in English. Hence, Spanish, Tagalog, the
Vernaculars and finally, English, were the mediums used in literature during these times.
While the three groups were one in their ideas and spirit, they differed in their methods of
reporting. The writers in Spanish were wont to write on nationalism like honoring Rizal and
other heroes.
The writers in Tagalog continued in their lamentations on the conditions of the country
and their attempts to arouse love for ones native tongue. The writers in English imitated the
themes and methods of the Americans.
1. Literature in Spanish
The inspiration of our Filipino writers in Spanish was Rizal not only because of his being
a national leader but also because of his novels NOLI and FILI. These two novels contained
the best qualities of a novel ever written, in English or in Filipino. Those who were inspired to
write in praise of him were Cecilio Apostol, Fernando Ma. Guerrero, Jesus Balmori, Manuel
Bernabe and Claro M. Recto.
a. CECILIO APOSTOL
Cecilio Apostol wrote poems dedicated to Rizal, Jacinto, Mabini and all other heroes but
his poem dedicated to Rizal is considered the best poem in praise of the hero of Bagumbayan.
b. FERNANDO MA. GUERRERO
It is believed that Fernando Ma. Guerrero shared with Apostol the reign in the
Balagtasan in Spanish during their time.
1

He also dedicated a poem to Rizal but he collected the best of his poems in a book
called CRISALIDAS, meaning, a kind of black, wooly caterpillar. Here are a few stanzas of his
call to Rizal which he wrote on June 19, 1901 to commemorate Rizals birthday.

c. JESUS BALMORI
Jesus Balmori is well-known for his pen name of Batikuling. He and Manuel Bernabe
participated in a debate on the topic (Remembrance and Forgetfulness). He was elected
Poet Laureate in Spanish besting Manuel Bernabe.
d. MANUEL BERNABE
Manuel Bernabe is a lyric poet and the fierceness of his nationalistic spirit was
unchanged in any topic he wrote about. In his debate with Balmori, he was more attractive to
the public because of the modious words he used. He defended OLVIDO (Forgetfulness).
e. CLARO M. RECTO
In nobility of speech and theme, Claro M. Recto can compare with the other
writers of Spanish. He collected his poems in a book entitled BAJO LOS COCOTEROS (Under
The Coconut Trees).
Other Writers in Spanish
1. Adelina Guerrea was the first woman poet in the Philippines who was good in
Spanish. She obtained the Zobel prize in her song El Nido. (The Nest).
2. Isidro Marpori became famous for his four books entitled Aromas de Ensueo
(Scents of Dreams).
3. Macario Adriatico wrote of a legend of Mindoro entitle La Punta de Salto (The Place
of Origin).
4. Epifanio de los Santos (known as Don PAnyong). He was a good leader and
biographer during the whole period of Spanish literature.
5. Pedro Aunario wrote the Decalogo del Proteccionismo.
2.

Filipino Literature
FLORANTE AT LAURA of Francisco Balagtas and URBANA AT FELISA of Modesto de
Castro became the inspiration of the Tagalog writers.
Julian Cruz Balmaceda classified three kinds of Tagalog poets: They were:
1. Poet of the Heart (Makata ng Puso). These included Lope K. Santos, Iigo Ed.
Regalado, Carlos Gatmaitan, Pedro Deogracias del Rosario, Ildefonso Santos, Amado V.
Hernandez, Nemecio Carabana, and Mar Antonio.
2. Poets of Life (Makata ng Buhay). Led by Lope K Santos, Jose Corazon de Jesus,
Florentino Collantes, Patricio Mariano, Carlos Garmaitan, and Amado V. Hernandez.
3. Poets of the Stage (Makata ng Tanghalan). Led by Aurelio Tolentino, Patricio
Mariano, Severino Reyes, and Tomas Remigio.
In the realm of short stories that started to appear in the column Pangsandaliang
Libangan (Short-time Leisure) and Dagli (Fast) we find here the names of Lope K. Santos,
Patricio Mariano, and Rosauro Almario. In the Liwayway Publications, we find Deogracias
Rosario, Teodoro Gener, and Cirio H. Panganiban.
Noted novelists or biographers were Valeriano Hernandez Pea, Lope K. Santos, Iigo
Ed. Regalado, Faustino Aguilar, etc.
Here are the autobiographies of some of the writers mentioned:
LOPE K. SANTOS
Lope K. Santos, a novelist, poet and author, and grammarian covered three periods of
Tagalog literature American, Japanese and the contemporary period. If Manuel L. Quezon is
called the Father of the National Language, Lope K. Santos is called the Father of the National
2

Language Grammar. He was also called the Apo of the Tagalog writers. BANAAG AT SIKAT
was his masterpiece.
JOSE CORAZON DE JESUS
Jose Corazon de Jesus is very popularly known as Huseng Batute. He was also called
the Poet of Love in his time. ANG ISANG PUNONG KAHOY (A TREE), an elegy, is believed to be
his masterpiece.
AMADO V. HERNANDEZ
Amado V. Hernandez was dubbed Makata ng mga Manggagawa (Poet of the Laborers)
in our literature because he pictures in his poem the intense love for the poor worker or
laborer. To him, a poem is a scent, bittersweet memories, and a murmur of flowing water.
The pen is powerful and according to him, even a king can be bent by the pen.
IIGO ED. REGALADO
Iigo Ed. Regalado was a son of a popular writer during the Spanish time known as
Odalger. He proved that he not only followed the footsteps of his father but also reached the
peak of his success by the sumpong (whim) of his pen. He also became a popular storyteller, novelist and newspaperman.
The Tagalog Drama
During the advent of the American period, Severino Reyes and Hermogenes Ilagan
started the movement against the moro-moro ( a play on the Spanish struggles against the
Muslims) and struggled to show the people the values one can get from the zarzuela and the
simple plays.
The people one should not forget in the field of writing are the following:
1. Severino Reyes. Father of the Tagalog drama and author of the immortal WALANG SUGAT.
2. Aurelio Tolentino. The dramatist in whom the Kapampangans take pride. Included in his
writings
were LUHANG TAGALOG, his masterpiece, and KAHAPON, NGAYONG AT BUKAS that resulted in
his incarceration.
3. Hermogenes Ilagan. Founded the group Campaa Ilagan that presented many dramas in
Central Luzon.
4. Patricio Mariano. Wrote the novel NINAY and ANAK NG DAGAT (Son of the Sea), his
masterpiece.
5. Julian Cruz Balmaceda. Wrote BUNGANGA NG PATING (Sharks Mouth). This gave him
much honor and fame.
The Tagalog Short Story
Two collections of Tagalog stories were published during the American Period. First was
the MGA KUWENTONG GINTO (Golden Stories) published in 1936 and %) KUWENTONG GINTO
ng 50 BATIKANG KUWENTISTA (50 Golden Stories by 50 Noted Storytellers) in 1939. The first
was written by Alejandro Abadilla and Clodualdo del Mundo that contained the 25 best stories
according to them.
The second was written by Pedrito Reyes. PAROLANG GINTO (Golden Lantern) and
TALAANG BUGHAW (Blue List) of Abadilla became popular during this period.
Tagalog Poetry
Almost all Tagalog writers during the American Period were able to compose beautiful
poems which made it difficult to select the best. Even if poetry writing is as old as history,
poetry still surfaces with its sweetness, beauty, and melody.
Other Forms of Literature
The following are those recognized in the field of Ilocano Literature:
3

1. Pedro Bukaneg. Father of Ilocano Literature. From his name was derived the word
Bukanegan, which means Balagtasan (a poetic contest) in Ilocano.
2. Claro Caluya. Prince of Ilocano Poets. Known as poet and novelist.
3. Leon Pichay. Known as the best Bukanegero (from Bukaneg). Also a poet, novelist, short
story writer, dramatist and essayist.
Literature of the Kapampangans (Pampango Literature)
Two stalwarts in the literature of the Kapampangans stand out: they are:
1. Juan Crisostomo Soto. (Father of Kapampangan Literature). The word CRISOTAN (meaning
Balagtasan) in Tagalog is taken from his name.
2. Aurelio Tolentino. He truly proved his being a Kaampangan in his translation of KAHAPON,
NGAYON AT BUKAS into Kapampangan which he called NAPON, NGENI AT BUKAS.
Visayan Literature
The following are the top men in Visayan literature:
1. Eriberto Gumban. (Father of Visayan Literature). He wrote a zarzuela, moro-moro and a
play in Visayan.
2. Magdalena Jalandoni. She devoted her talent to the novel. She wrote ANG MGA TUNUK
SAN ISA CA BULACLAC.
C. Philippine Literature in English
In a way, we can say that we can trace the beginnings of Philippine literature in English
with the coming of the Americans. For this purpose, we can divide this period into three time
frames, namely:
1. The Period of Re-orientation: 1898-1910
2. The Period of Imitation: 1910-1925
3. The Period of Self-Discovery: 1925-1941
(1) The Period of Re-orientation (1898-1910)
English as a literary vehicle came with the American occupation in August 13, 1898
and as they say, a choice bestowed on us by history. By 1900, English came to be used as a
medium of instruction in the public schools. From the American forces were recruited the first
teachers of English.
By 1908, the primary and intermediate grades were using English. It was also about
this time when UP, the forerunner in the use of English in higher education, was founded.
Writers of this period were still adjusting to the newfound freedom after the paralyzing
effect of repression of thought and speech under the Spanish regime. They were adjusting
the idea of democracy, to the new phraseology of the English language and to the standards
of the English literary style. Writers had to learn direct expression as conditioned by direct
thinking. They had to learn that sentence constructions; sounds and speech in English were
not the same as in the vernacular. They had to discard sentimentality and floridity of
language for the more direct and precise English language.
Not much was produced during this period and what literature was produced was not
much of literary worth. The first attempts in English were in two periodicals of this time:
(a) El Renacimiento: founded in Manila by Rafael Palma in 1901.
(b) Philippines Free Press: established in Manila in 1905 by R. McCullough Dick and D.
Theo Rogers.
POETRY
In 1907, Justo Julianos SURSUM CORDA which appeared in the Renacimiento was the
first work to be published in English.
In 1909, Jan F. Salazars MY MOTHER and his AIR CASTLES were also published in this
paper.
4

It was also in 1909 when Proceso Sebastian followed with his poem TO MY LADY IN
LAOAG, also in this same paper.
(2) The Period of Imitation (1910-1924)
By 1919, the UP College Folio published the literary compositions of the first Filipino
writers in English. They were the pioneers in short story writing.
They were then groping their way into imitating American and British models which
resulted in a stilted, artificial and unnatural style, lacking vitality and spontaneity. Their
models included Longfellow and Hawthorne, Emerson and Thoreau, Wordsworth and
Tennyson, Thackeray and Macaulay, Longfellow, Allan Poe, Irving and other American writers
of the Romantic School.
Writers of this folio included Fernando Maramag (the best editorial writer of this period)
Juan F. Salazar, Jose M. Hernandez, Vicente del Fierro.
The next group of writers introduced the informal essay, criticism and the journalistic
column. They spiced their work with humor, wit and satire. These group included Ignacio
Manlapaz, Godefredo Rivera, Federico Mangahas, Francisco B. Icasiano, Salvador P. Lopez,
Jose Lansang and Amando G. Dayrit.
SHORT STORIES
In the field of short stories, DEAD STARS by Paz Marquez Benitez written in the early
1920s stand out as a model of perfection in character delineation, local color, plot and
message. Other short stories published during this time were but poor imitations of their
foreign models.
The UP College Folio was later replaced by the Philippine Collegian. Newspapers and
periodicals also saw print during this time like the Bulletin, the Philippines Herald (1920), the
Philippine Review, the Independent, Rising Philippines and Citizens, and the Philippine
Education Magazine 1924.
D. Period of Self-Discovery and Growth (1925-1941)
By this time, Filipino writers had acquired the mastery of English writing. They now
confidently and competently wrote on a lot of subjects although the old-time favorites of love
and youth persisted. They went into all forms of writing like the novel and the drama.
1. POETRY
Noteworthy names in this field include Marcelo de Gracia Concepcion, Jose Garcia Villa,
Angela Manalang Gloria, Abelardo Subido, Trinidad Tarrosa Subido and Rafael Zulueta da
Costa. They turned not only love poems but patriotic, religious, descriptive and reflective
poems as well. They wrote in free verse, in odes and sonnets and in other types. Poetry was
original, spontaneous, competently written and later, incorporated social consciousness.
2. THE SHORT STORY (1925-1941)
Probably because of the incentives provided by publications like the Philippine Free
Press, The Graphic, The Philippine Magazine and college publications like the UP Literary
Apprentice, poetry and the short story flourished during these times.
Other writers during this time include Osmundo Sta. Romana, Arturo Rotor, Paz
Latorenas Sunset, and Jose Garcia Villas Mir-in-isa. From 1930 to 1940, the Golden Era of
Filipino writing in English saw the short story writers who have arrived, like Jose Lansangs
The Broken Parasol, Sinai C. Hamadas Talanatas Wife, Fausto Dugenios Wanderlust, Amando
G. Dayrits His Gift and Yesterday, Amador T. Daugios The Woman Who Looked Out of the
Window.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SHORT STORIES DURING THESE TIMES:
There were still remnants of Spanish influence in the use of expressions that were
florid, sentimental, exaggerated and bombastic. The influence of the Western culture also
was already evident.
3. ESSAYS AND OTHER PROSE STYLES (1925-1941)
5

Essays during this period improved with the years in quality and quantity, in content,
subject and style. Essayists like Carlos P. Romulo became even more eminent editorial
writers.
The notable writers of essays during this period were:
a. Political, social reflective essays: Through their newspaper columns the following
became very popular: Federico Mangahas, Salvador P. Lopez, Pura S. Castrence, Vicente
Albano Pacis, Ariston Estrada and Jose A. Lansang.
b. Critical essays were espoused by Salvador P. Lopez, I.V. Mallari, Ignacio Manlapaz, Jose
Garcia Villa, Arturo B. Rotor, and Leopoldo Y. Yabes. An example of this is Maximo V. Solivens
THEY CALLED IT BROTHERHOOD.
c. Personal or Familiar essays were written by F.B. Icasiano (Mang Kiko), Alfredo E.
Litiatco, Solomon V. Arnaldo, Amando G. Dayrit and Consuelo Gar (Catuca).
Some of the notable works during this time were:
1940: Salvador P. Lopez LITERATURE AND SOCIETY which is a collection of critical reflections
and serious essays won first prize in the Commonwealth Literary Contest of 1940.
1940: Camilo Osias published THE FILIPINO WAY OF LIFE, a series of essays on the Filipino way
of life as drawn from history, folkways, philosophy and psychology of the Philippines.
1941: F.B. Icasiano (Mang Kiko) was reprints of the best of Icasianos essays in the Sunday
Times Magazine under the column From My Nipa Hut. It is an essay of the common tao and
is written with humor and sympathy.
August 16, 1941: Carlos P. Romulo had an editorial printed in the Philippines Herald. Entitled
I AM A FILIPINO, it was reprinted in his book MY BORTHER AMERICANS in 1945 in New York by
Doubleday & Co.
OTHER ESSAYISTS INCLUDE:
Ignacio Manlapaz, Vicente Albano Pacis, I.V. Mallari, Jose M. Fernandez, Leopoldo Y.
Yabes, Isidro L. Ritizos, Pura Santillan.
The Philippine Writers League put out a collection of essays called Literature Under the
Commonwealth.
Amando G. Dayrit with his column Good Morning Judge led others like Leon Ma.
Guerrero, Salvador P. Lopez, Vicente Albano Pacis, Jose A. Lansang and Federico Mangahas.
4. BIOGRAPHY 1925-1941
In 1935, I.P. Caballero and Marcelo de Gracia Concepcion wrote about QUEZON.
In 1938, THE GREAT MALAYAN won a prize in the national contest sponsored by the
Commonwealth of the Philippines. This was written by Carlos Quirino, the most famous
biographer of the period. He also wrote Quezon, the Man of Destiny.
In 1940, I.V. Mallaris The Birth of Discontent revealed the sensitive touch of a writer
who in simple language was able to reveal his profound thoughts and feelings.
5. HISTORY
Not much about history has been written by Filipino writers. In 1937, with
regard to literary history, we can cite Teofilo del Castillos The Brief History of the
Philippine Islands.
6. PUBLICATIONS
The Philippine Free Press provided the first incentives to Filipino writers in English by
offering prizes to worthwhile contributions. Other publications followed suit.
7. THE DRAMA (1925-1941)
Drama during this period did not reach the heights attained by the novel or the short
story. The UP provided the incentives when they introduced playwriting as a course and
established the UP Little Theater.
THE JAPANESE PERIOD (1941-1945)
Historical Background
6

Between 1941-1945, Philippine Literature was interrupted in its development when the
Philippines was again conquered by another foreign country, Japan. Philippine literature in
English came to a halt. Except for the TRIBUNE and the PHILIPPINE REVIEW, almost all
newspapers in English were stopped by the Japanese.
This had an advantageous effect on Filipino Literature, which experienced renewed
attention because writers in English turned to writing in Filipino. Juan Laya, who used to write
in English turned to Filipino because of the strict prohibitions of the Japanese regarding any
writing in English.
The weekly LIWAYWAY was placed under strict surveillance until it was managed by Japanese
named Ishiwara.
In other words, Filipino literature was given a break during this period. Many wrote
plays, poems, short stories, etc. Topics and themes were often about life in the provinces.
A. FILIPINO POETRY DURING THIS PERIOD
The common theme of most poems during the Japanese occupation was nationalism,
country, love, and life in the barrios, faith, religion and the arts.
Three types of poems emerged during this period. They were:
1. Haiku a poem of free verse that the Japanese like. It was made up of 17 syllables
divided into three lines. The first line had 5 syllables, the second, 7 syllables, and the third,
five. The Haiku is allegorical in meaning, is short and covers a wide scope in meaning.
2. Tanaga like the Haiku, is short but it had measure and rhyme. Each line had 17
syllables and its also allegorical in meaning.
3. Karaniwang Anyo (Usual Form) like those mentioned earlier in the beginning
chapters of this book.
B. FILIPINO DRAMA DURING THE JAPANESE PERIOD
The drama experienced a lull during the Japanese period because movie houses
showing American films were closed. The big movie houses were just made to show stage
shows. Many of the plays were reproductions of English plays to Tagalog. The translators
were Francisco Soc Rodrigo, Alberto Concio, and Narciso Pimentel. They also founded the
organization of Filipino players named Dramatic Philippines. A few of playwriters were:
1. Jose Ma. Hernandez wrote PANDAY PIRA
2. Francisco Soc Rodrigo wrote sa PULA, SA PUTI
3. Clodualdo del Mundo wrote BULAGA (an expression in the game Hide and Seek).
4. Julian Cruz Balmaceda wrote SINO BA KAYO?, DAHIL SA ANAK, and HIGANTE NG
PATAY.
C. THE FILIPINO SHORT STORY DURING THE JAPANESE PERIOD
The field of the short story widened during the Japanese Occupation. Many wrote short
stories. Among them were: Brigido Batungbakal, Macario Pineda, Serafin Guinigindo,
Liwayway Arceo, Narciso Ramos, NVM Gonzales, Alicia Lopez Lim, Ligaya Perez, and Gloria
Guzman.
D. PHILIPPINE LITERATURE IN ENGLISH (1941-1945)
Because of the strict prohibitions imposed by the Japanese in the writing and publishing
of works in English, Philippine literature in English experienced a dark period. The few who
dared to write did so for their bread and butter or for propaganda.
Writings that came out during this period were journalistic in nature. Writers felt
suppressed but slowly, the spirit of nationalism started to seep into their consciousness.
While some continued to write, the majority waited for a better climate to publish their works.
Noteworthy writer of the period was Carlos P. Romulo who won the Pulitzer Prize for his
bestsellers I SAW THE FALL OF THE PHILIPPINES, I SEE THE PHILIPPINES RISE and his MOTHER
AMERICA AND MY BROTHER AMERICANS.
7

Journalists include Salvador P. Lopez, Leon Ma. Geurrero, Raul Manglapuz and Carlos
Bulosan.
Nick Joaquin produced THE WOMAN WHO LOOKED LIKE LAZARUS. Fred Ruiz Castro wrote a
few poems.
F.B. Icasino wrote essays in The Philippine Review.
Carlos Bulosans works included THE LAUGHTER OF MY FATHER (1944), THE VOICE OF
BATAAN, 1943, SIX FILIPINO POETS, 1942, among others. Alfredo Litiatco published With Harp
and Sling and in 1943, Jose P. Laurel published Forces that Make a Nation Great.
The Commonwealth Literary Awards gave prizes to meritorious writers. Those who won
were:
1. LIKE THE MOLAVE by Rafael Zulueta da Costa (Poetry)
2. HOW MY BROTHER LEON BROUGTH HOME A WIFE by Manuel E. Arguilla (Short
Story)
3. LITERATURE AND SOCIETY by Salvador P. Lopez (Essay)
4. HIS NATIVE SOIL by Juan Laya (Novel)
President Manuel L. Quezons autobiography THE GOOD FIGHT was published
posthumously.
Radio broadcasts echoed the mingled fear and doubts in the hearts of the people.
Other writers of this period were Juan Collas (19440, Tomas Confesor (1945), Roman A. de la
Cruz and Elisa Tabuar.
THE REBIRTH OF FREEDOM (1946-1970)
Historical Background
The Americans returned in 1945. Filipinos rejoiced and guerillas who fled to the
mountain joined the liberating American Army.
On July 4, 1946, the Philippines regained its freedom and the Filipino flag waved
joyously alone. The chains were broken.
A. THE STATE OF LITERATURE DURING THIS PERIOD
The early post-liberation period was marked by a kind of struggle of mind and spirit
posed by the sudden emancipation from the enemy, and the wild desire to see print.
Filipinos had, by this time, learned to express themselves more confidently but postwar problems beyond language and print-like economic stability, the threat of new ideas and
mortality had to be grappled with side by side.
There was a proliferation of newspapers like the FREE PRESS, MORNING SUN, of Sergio
Osmea Sr., DAILY MIRROR of Joaquin Roces, EVENING NEWS of Ramon Lopezes and the
BULLETIN of Menzi. This only proved that there were more readers in English than in any
other vernaculars like Tagalog, Ilocano or Hiligaynon.
Journalists had their day. They indulged in more militant attitude in their reporting
which bordered on the libelous. Gradually, as normality was restored, the tones and themes
of the writings turned to the less pressing problems of economic survival.
Some Filipino writers who had gone abroad and had written during the interims came back to
publish their works.
Not all the books published during the period reflected the war year; some were compilations
or second editions of what have been written before.
Some of the writers and their works of the periods are:
THE VOICE OF THE VETERAN a compilation of the best works of some Ex-USAFFE men
like Amante Bigornia, Roman de la Cruz, Ramon de Jesus and J.F. Rodriguez.
TWILIGHT IN TOKYO and PASSION and DEATH OF THE USAFFE by Leon Ma. Guerrero
FOR FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY by S.P. Lopez
BETRAYAL IN THE PHILIPPINES by Hernando Abaya
SEVEN HILLS AWAY by NVM Gonzales
POETRY IN ENGLISH DURING THIS PERIOD
8

For the first twenty years, many books were publishedboth in Filipino and in English.
Among the writers during this time were: Fred Ruiz Castro, Dominador I. Ilio, and C.B. Rigor.
Some notable works of the period include the following:
1. HEART OF THE ISLANDS (1947) a collection of poems by Manuel Viray
2. PHILIPPINES CROSS SECTION (1950) a collection of prose and poetry by Maximo
Ramos and Florentino Valeros
3. PROSE AND POEMS (1952) by Nick Joaquin
4. PHILIPPINE WRITING (1953) by T.D. Agcaoili
5. PHILIPPINE HAVEST by Amador Daguio
6. HORIZONS LEAST (1967) a collection of works by the professors of UE, mostly in
English (short stories, essays, research papers, poem and drama) by Artemio Patacsil and
Silverio Baltazar
The themes of most poems dealt with the usual love of nature, and of social and political
problems. Toribia Maos poems showed deep emotional intensity.
7. WHO SPOKE OF COURAGE IN HIS SLEEP by NVM Gonzales
8. SPEAK NOT, SPEAK ALSO by Conrado V. Pedroche
9. Other poets were Toribia Mao and Edith L. Tiempo
Jose Garcia Villas HAVE COME, AM HERE won acclaim both here and abroad.
NOVELS AND SHORT STORIES IN ENGLISH
Longer and longer pieces were being written by writers of the period. Stevan
Javellanas WITHOUT SEEING THE DAWN tells of the grim experiences of war during the
Japanese Occupation.
In 1946, the Barangay Writers Project whose aim was to publish works in English by
Filipinos was established.
In 1958, the PEN Center of the Philippines (Poets, essayists, novelists) was inaugurated.
In the same year, Francisco Arcellana published his PEN ANTHOLOGY OF SHORT STORIES.
In 1961, Kerima Polotans novel THE HAND OF THE ENEMY won the Stonehill Award for the
Filipino novel in English.
In 1968, Luis V. Teodoro Jr.s short story THE ADVERSARY won the Philippines Free Press
short story award; in 1969, his story THE TRAIL OF PROFESSOR RIEGO won second prize in the
Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature and in 1970, his short story THE DISTANT CITY won
the GRAPHIC short story award.
THE NEW FILIPINO LITERATURE DURING THIS PERIOD
Philippines literature in Tagalog was revived during this period. Most themes in the
writings dealt with Japanese brutalities, of the poverty of life under the Japanese government
and the brave guerilla exploits.
Newspapers and magazine publications were re-opened like the Bulaklak, Liwayway,
Ilang Ilang and Sinag Tala. Tagalog poetry acquired not only rhyme but substance and
meaning. Short stories had better characters and events based on facts and realities and
themes were more meaningful. Novels became common but were still read by the people for
recreation.
The peoples love for listening to poetic jousts increased more than before and people
started to flock to places to hear poetic debates.
Many books were published during this time, among which were:
1. Mga Piling Katha (1947-48) by Alejandro Abadilla
2. Ang Maikling Kuwentong Tagalog (1886-1948) by Teodoro Agoncillo
PALANCA AWARDS
Another inspiration for writers in Filipino was the launching of the Palanca Memorial Awards
for literature headed by Carlos Palanca Sr. in 1950. (Until now, the awards are still being given
although the man who founded it has passed away). The awards were given to writers of
short stories, plays and poetry.
9

The first awardees in its first year, 1950-51 in the field of the short story were the following:
PERIOD OF ACTIVISM (1970-1972)
Historical Background
According to Pociano Pineda, youth activism in 1970-72 was due to domestic and worldwide
causes. Activism is connected with the history of our Filipino youth.
Because of the ills of society, the youth moved to seek reforms. Some continued to believe
that the democratic government is stable and that it is only the people running the
government who are at fault. Some believed that socialism or communism should replace
democracy. Some armed groups were formed to bring down the democratic form of
government.
Many young people became activists to ask for changes in the government. In the expression
of this desire for change, keen were the writings of some youth who were fired with
nationalism in order to emphasize the importance of their petitions.
Many young activists were imprisoned in military camps together with rebel writers. As
early as this period of history we can say that many of those writers who were imprisoned
were true nationalists and heroes of their time.
Many books aptly record and embody these times but many of these are not known to many
and many of these writers still have to be interviewed. We just leave to scholars and
researchers the giving of credit where credit is due.
A. THE SEED OF ACTIVISM
The seeds of activism resulted in the declaration of Martial Law in 1972. We can,
however, say that he seeds were earlier sown from the times of Lapu-lapu, Lakandula, and
Rizal. The revolution against the powerful forces in the Philippines can be said to be the
monopoly of the youth in whose veins flow the fire in their blood. What Rizal said of the youth
being the hope of the Fatherland is still valid even today.
B. PERIOD OF THE BLOODY PLACARDS
Pineda also said that this was the time when the youth once more proved that it is not
the constant evasion that shapes our race and nationalism.
There is a limit to ones patience. It may explode like a volcano if overstrained.
Life? What avails like if one is a coward who does not take a stand for himself and for
the succeeding generations?
C. THE LITERARY REVOLUTION
The youth became completely rebellious during this period. This was proven not only
in the bloody demonstrations and in the sidewalk expressions but also in literature. Campus
newspapers showed rebellious emotions. The once aristocratic writers developed awareness
for society. They held pens and wrote on placards in red paint the equivalent of the word
MAKIBAKA (To dare!).
They attacked the ills of society and politics. Any establishment became the symbol of
the ills that had to be changed. The frustrations of youth could be felt in churches and school.
Even the priests, teachers and parents, as authorities who should be respected became
targets of the radical youth and were thought of as hindrances to the changes they sought.
The literature of the activists reached a point where they stated boldly what should be done
to effect these changes.
Some of those who rallied to this revolutionary form of literature were Rolando Tinio,
Rogelio Mangahas, Efren Abueg, Rio Alma, and Clemente Bautista.
WRITING DURING THE PERIOD OF ACTIVISM
The irreverence for the poor reached its peak during this period of the mass revolution.
It was also during this period that Bomba films that discredit our ways as Filipinos started to
come out.
WRITERS DURING THIS PERIOD

10

Jose F. Lacaba, in his book DAYS OF DISQUIET, NIGHTS OF RAGE; THE FIRST QUARTERS
STORM AND RELATED EVENTS, wrote of the tragic and tumultuous moments in our countrys
history.
Describing this period, he writes: That first quarter of the year 1970It was a glorious
time, a time of terror and of wrath, but also a time for hope. The signs of change were on the
horizon. A powerful storm was sweeping the land, a storm whose inexorable advance no
earthly force could stop, and the name of the storm was history.
Lacabas book is truly representative of writers who were eyewitnesses to this time of
terror and wrath.
Other writers strove to pour out their anguish and frustrations in words describing themselves
as gasping for the air, thirsting for the water of freedom. Thus, the Philippine Center for the
International PEN (Poets, Essayists, and Novelists) held a conference centering on the
writers lack of freedom in a climate of fear.
For a day they denounced restrictions on artistic freedom and passionately led a plea
for freedom. Among the writers in this group were: Nick Joaquin, S.P. Lopez, Gregorio
Brillantes, F. Sionil Jose, Petronilo Daroy, Letty Jimenez-Magsanoc, Mauro Avelina, and Jose W.
Diokno.
People in the other media participated in this quest for freedom. Journalists Jose
Burgos Jr., Antonio Ma. Nieva,; movie director Lino Brocka, art critic Anna Leah S. de Leon
were battling head on against censorship.
They came up with resolutions that pleaded for causes other than their own like the
general amnesty for political prisoners, and other secret decrees restricting free expression.
They requested editors and publishers to publish the real names of writers in their
columns. It called on media to disseminate information on national interest without partisan
leanings and resolved to be united with all causes decrying oppression and repression.
PERIOD OF THE NEW SOCIETY (1972-1980)
Historical Background
The period of the New Society started on September 21, 1972. The Carlos Palanca
Awards continued to give annual awards. Almost all themes in most writings dealt with the
development or progress of the country like the Green Revolution, family planning, proper
nutrition, environment, drug addiction and pollution.
The New Society tried to stop
pornography or those writings giving bad influences on the morals of the people. All school
newspapers were temporarily stopped and so with school organizations.
The military government established a new office called the Ministry of Public Affairs
that supervised the newspapers, books and other publications. The government took part in
reviving old plays like the Cenaculo, the Zarzuela and the Embayoka of the Muslims. The
Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Folk Arts Theater and even the old Metropolitan Theater
were rebuilt in order to have a place for these plays.
Singing both Filipino and English songs received fresh incentives. Those sent abroad
promoted many Filipino songs.
The weekly publications like KISLAP, and LIWAYWAY helped a lot in the development of
literature. These became outlets for our writers to publish many of their works.
A. FILIPINO POETRY DURING THE PERIOD OF THE NEW SOCIETY
Themes of most poems dealt with patience, regard for native culture, customs and the
beauties of nature and surroundings. Those who wrote poetry during this period were:
Ponciano Pineda, Aniceto Silvestre, Jose Garcia Revelo, Bienvenido Ramos, Vicente
Dimasalang, Cir Lopez Francisco, and Pelagio Sulit Cruz.
Many more composers added their bit during this period. Among them were Freddie Aguilar,
Jose Marie Chan and the group Tito, Vic and Joey. ANAK of Freddie Aguilar became an instant
11

success because of the spirit and emotions revealed in the song. There were even
translations in Japanese and in other languages.
B. THE PLAY UNDER THE NEW SOCIETY
The government led in reviving old plays and dramas, like the Tagalog Zarzuela,
Cenaculo and the Embayoka of the Muslims which were presented in the rebuilt Metropolitan
Theater, the Folk Arts Theater and the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
The following organizations contributed a lot to the development of plays during this period:
1. PETA of Cecille Guidote and Lino Brocka
2. Repertory Philippines: of Rebecca Godines and Zenaida Amador
3. UP Repertory of Behn Cervantes
4. Teatro Filipino by Rolando Tinio
C. RADIO AND TELEVISION
Radio continued to be patronized during this period. The play series like SI MATAR,
DAHLIA, ITO AND PALAD KO, and MR. LONELY were the forms of recreation of those without
television. Even the new songs were first heard over the airwaves.
However, many performing artists in radio moved over to television because of higher
pay. Among these were Augusto Victa, Gene Palomo, Mely Tagasa, Lina Pusing, and Ester
Chavez.
Popular television plays were GULONG NG PALAD, FLOR DE LUNA, and ANNA LIZA.
SUPERMAN AND TARZAN were also popular with the youth.
D. FILIPINO FILMS
A yearly Pista ng mga Pelikulng Pilipino (Yearly Filipino Film Festival) was held during
this time. During the festival which lasted usually for a month, only Filipino films were shown
in all theaters in Metro Manila. Prizes and trophies were awarded at the end of the festival in
recognition of excellence in film making and in role performances.
New kinds of films without sex or romance started to be made but which were
nevertheless well-received by the public. Among these were:
1. MAYNILA SA MGA KUKO NG LIWANAG written by Edgardo Reyes and filmed under
the direction of Lino Brocka. Bembol Roco was the lead role.
2. MINSAY ISANG GAMU-GAMO; Nora Aunor was the principal performer here.
3. GANITO KAMI NOOPAANO KAYO NGAYON: led by Christopher de Leon and Gloria
Diaz.
4. INSIANG: by Hilda Koronel
5. AGUILA: led by Fernando Poe Jr., Jay Ilagan and Christopher de Leon
Sex films could not be shelved. Foreign, as well as local films dealing the bold themes
were the vehicles of producers to earn more money.
E. COMICS, MAGAZINES AND OTHER PUBLICATIONS
During this period of the New Society, newspapers donned new forms. News on
economic progress, discipline, culture, tourism and the like were favored more than the
sensationalized reporting of killings, rape and robberies.
The leading papers during this period were:
1. BULLETIN TODAY
5. PILIPINO EXPRESS
2. TIMES JOURNAL
6. PHILIPPINE DAILY EXPRESS
3. PEOPLES JOURNAL
7. EVENING POST
4. BALITA
8. EVENING EXPRESS
LIWAYWAY had been an old-time favorite of the Filipinos since 1920. Other magazines were:
1. KISLAP
3. EXTRA HOT
2. BULAKLAK
4. JINGLE SENSATION
Like mushrooms, comics also proliferated everywhere and were enjoyed by the masses.
Among these were:
1. PILIPINO
4. HIWAGA
2. EXTRA
5. KLASIK
12

3. LOVE LIFE

6. ESPESYAL

G. AN OVERVIEW OF THE LITERATUE DURING THE NEW SOCIETY

Bilingual education which was initiated by the Board of National Education as early as
1958 and continued up to the period of Martial Rule in September 21, 1972, resulted in the
deterioration of English in the different levels of education. The focus of education and
culture was on problems of national identity, on re-orientation, renewed vigor and a firm
resolves to carry out plans and programs.
The forms of literature that led during this period were the essays, debates and poetry.
The short stories, like the novels and plays were no different in style from those written before
the onset of activism.
Some of the books that came out during this period were:
I Married a Newspaperman (essay) by Maria Luna Lopez (wife of newspaperman Salvador B.
Lopez), 1976
The Modern Filipino Short Story by Patricia Melendrez Cruz, 1980
Cross Currents in Afro-Asian Literature, by Rustica D. Carpio, 1976
Brief Time to Love by Ofelia F. Limcaco
Medium Rare and Tell the People (feature articles and TV Program) by Julie Yap Daza
PERIOD OF THE THIRD REPUBLIC (1981-1985)
Historical Background
After ten years of military rule and some changes in the life of the Filipino which started
under the New Society, Martial Rule was at last lifted on January 2, 1981.
To those in government, the lifting of military rule heralded a change. To their
perceptions, the Philippines became a new nation and this; former President Marcos called
The New Republic of the Philippines.
During this period, it cannot be denied that many people seethed with rebellion and protest
because of the continued oppression and suppression.
This was further aggravated when former Senator Benigno S. Aquno Jr., the idol of the Filipino
masses, whom they hoped to be the next president, was president, was brutally murdered on
August 21, 1983.
This stage of the nation had its effect on our literature. After the Aquino assassination,
the peoples voices could no longer be contained. Both the public and private sectors in
government were chanting, and shouting; women, men and the youth became bolder and
their voices were raised in dissent.
We can say that Philippine literature, in spite of the many restrictions, still
surreptitiously retained its luster.
THE PALANCA AWARDS
The Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for literature which was launched in 1950
(see Chapter 7, The Renaissance Period), continued its recognition of the best in the literary
fields poetry, short story, essays, and the one and three-act plays.
B. FILIPINO POETRY
Poems during this period of the Third Republic were romantic and revolutionary.
Writers wrote openly of their criticism against the government. The supplications of the
people were coached in fiery, colorful, violent, profane and insulting language.
C. FILIPINO SONGS
Many Filipino songs dealt with themes that were really true-to-life like those of grief,
poverty, aspirations for freedom, love of God, of country and of fellowmen.
D. PHILIPPINE FILMS DURING THE PERIOD
The yearly Festival of Filipino Films continued to be held during this period. The
peoples love for sex films also was unabated. Many producers took advantage of this at the
expense of public morality.
13

E. POETRY IN ENGLISH DURING THE THIRD REPUBLIC

Most especially, during the wake of the tragic Benigno Aquino Jr.s incident, people
reacted with shock, appalled by the suddenness and the unexpectedness of events.
Alfredo Navarro Salanga, a consistent writer of Philippines Panorama Magazine in his column
Post-Prandal Reflections aptly said it: darkness in the mind and soul is how some forgotten
poet puts it. Its suddenness was so profound that we couldnt but react to it in any other
way.
Elemental to us (poets or writers) was how to grasp to some meaning in a symbol, a phrase
or word in the language of heart and tongue, the poets only candles. So we tried to reach
out in the next and perhaps the only way we could: by putting pen to paper and speaking out
as partisans in a human drama.
Poets, surprisingly, by common consent, found themselves writing on a common subject.
Reproduction of some of them is reprinted here. We aptly call them Protest Poetry of the
80s.
The themes of most during this time dealt with courage, shock and grief over the treachery
inflicted upon Aquino.
F. MEDIA OF 1983
Sheila S. Coronel, a PANORAMA staff stalwart, reporting on the state of the media
during these times said: it was a year of ferment, and change, of old problems made more
oppressive by the new throbbing beat of the times.
For journalists, it was a year loaded with libel charges, lawsuits and seditious trials
which they gallantly bore as harassment suits.
Opposition tabloids flourished. They sold our papers with the red news to the starved public;
hence, smut magazines like the TIKTIK, PLAYBOY SCENE, and SAKDAL also played the
sidewalks.
Radio led by RADIO VERITAS started reporting coverage of demonstrations. Information
Minister Gregorio Cendaa called the tabloids the mosquito press and called their new
political pornography.
However, there was a perceptible liberalization of editorial policies in the major
newspapers.
G. CHILDRENS BOOKS
Among the well-loved forms of writing which abounded during this period were those of
childrens stories. The Childrens Communication Center (CCC) directed by poet and writer
Virgilio S. Almario already has built up an impressive collection of these kinds of books. The
following are some of the books of the period.
1982: PLAYS FOR CHILDREN by Jame B. Reuter S.J. (New Day Pub.)
1983: STORY TELLING FOR YOUNG CHILDREN
1983: JOSE AND CARDO by Peggy Corr Manuel
H. (PROSE) FABLES
The peoples cry of protest found outlets not only in poetry but also in veiled prose
fables which transparently satirized the occupants of Malacaang. Among those that saw
prints were:
1. The Crown Jewels of Heezenhurst by Sylvia Mendez Ventura
2. The Emperors New Underwear by Meynardo A. Macaraig
3. The Kings Cold by Babeth Lolarga
4. The Case of the Missing Charisma (unfinished) by Sylvia L. Mayuga.
In all the fables, the king, differently referred to as Totus Markus or the king or Haring
Matinik was meant to poke fun at the ruler at Malacaang; similarly, Reyna Maganda or the
Queen, was a veiled thrust at his queen. They were both drunk with power and were
punished in the end for their misdeeds.
1. THE STATE OF PHILIPPINE LITERATURE IN ENGLISH AT THIS TIME
14

Isagani Cruz, writing about Philippine literature in the Age of Ninoy, makes the
following observations:
Philippines literature is definitely changing, and he summarizes these as follows:
1. Change in the direction of greater consciousness in content and form.
2. Change in the number of readers and the number of writers and the kind of class of
writers. Writers who joined the ranks came not only from the established or professional
groups but from all ranks clerks, secretaries, drivers, housewives, students; in short, the
masses.
3. The resurgence of Balagtasismo and the continued dominance of Modernismo.
While Balagtasismo turned its back on the American challenge to Philippine literature its
conservative conventions, Modernismo adapted Americanization for its own ends.
4. The birth of a new poetic movement still dims in outline.
5. The apparent merging of the erstwhile separate streams of oral and written
literature.
PERIODS (1986-1999)
Historical Background
History took another twist. Once more, the Filipino people regained their independence
which they lost twenty years ago. In the span of four days form February 21-25, 1986, the socalled People Power (Lakas ng Bayan) prevailed. Together, the people barricaded the streets
petitioning the government for changes and reforms. Freedom became a reality won
through a peaceful, bloodless and God-blessed revolution.
Philippine society was in turmoil for a few weeks but the rejoicing after the Pres. Marcos
was toppled down from power was sheer euphoria. Singing, dancing and shoutings were the
order of the day.
The events created overnight heroes. In this historical event, the role played by two big
figures in history cannot be doubted. To Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile and Armed Forces
Chief of Staff Fidel V. Ramos, as well as to the cause of freedom do the Filipinos owe their
gratitude for the blessing of Independence?
To the Filipino people, this is the true Philippine Republic, the true Republic of the Philippines.
A. THE STATE OF LITERATURE DURING THIS PERIOD:
In the short span of the existence of the true Republic of the Philippines, several
changes already became evident.
This in noticed in the new Filipino songs, in the
newspapers, in the speeches, and even in the television programs.
1. On Newspapers and other publications: Newspapers which were once branded crony
newspapers became instant opposition papers overnight. This was true of BULLETIN TODAY
which became the opposition paper. The now crony newspapers that enjoyed an overnight
increase in circulation were THE INQUIRER, MALAYA, and the PEOPLES JOURNAL.
Newspapers felt that the shackles that muzzled their voices during the repressive years had
been broken and, like a bird trying its wings after a long time of bondage, the desire to write
about this miracle of change was electric.
Columnists became vocal and unrestricted in there are and a bumper crop of young
journalists emerged. The old stalwarts of the former dispensation like Maximo Soliven, Louie
Beltran, Hilarion Henares, and Francisco Soc Rodrigo came back with a vengeance.
By June 12, 1986, a total of 19 local dailies both in English and Filipino were in circulation.
None since the 1950s had there been such a big number of newspapers in circulation
(excluding tabloids).
These newspapers include: BULLETIN, TEMPO, BALITA, MALAY, MIDDAY, MASA, MANILA
TIMES, NEWS HERALD, TRIBUNE, NGAYON, and INQUIRER, EXPRESS TONIGHT, EVENING POST,
PEOPLES, DAILY MIRROR, BUSINESS DAY, and MANILA CHRONICLE.
2. On Books: Philippine literature is still in the makingwe are just beginning a new
era.
15

The Philippine revolution of 1986 and the fire of its spirit that will carry the Filipinos through
another epoch in Philippine history is still being documented just as they have been in the
countless millions who participated in body and spirit in its realization.
Two books were conceived during the period. PEOPLE POWER was produced under a
grant by the PCI Bank Human Resources Development Foundation, edited by Monina Allarey
Mercado and published by the James B. Reuter, S.J. Foundation.
Another one BAYAN KO was published by Project 28 Days LTD. in June, 1986 in Kowloon, Hong
Kong and co-published in the Philippines by Veritas Publications and Communications
Foundation.
In March 19, 1987 the Seventh National Book Awards cited several best books
published in 1987 according to the choices made by the Manila Critics Circle. Among those
awarded were: Dream weavers Selected Poems (1976-1986) by Marjorie Pernia and Awit at
Corrido: Philippine Metrical Romances by Damiana L. Eugenio.
Book fair Manila 88 organized by the Philippine Exhibit Company was held on February
20-28, 1988. It was held with the belief that requisition of knowledge not only enhances
individual skills and capabilities but more importantly, makes positive contributions to the
nations development program.
B.
FILIPINO SONGS DURING THIS PERIOD
Here are a few Filipino songs that were often heard. They were often aired in radio and
television and often accompanied the historical events that transpired in the Philippines and
gained for the Filipinos world-wide acclaim.
An album named HANDOG NG PILIPINO SA MUNDO carried a compilation of some of these.
The song that continued to be sung throughout the trying period of the Revolution, almost like
a second national anthem and which gave fire to the Filipino spirit was BAYAN KO. Its lyrics
were written by Jose Corazon de Jesus way back in 1928.

16