For those who wish to prepare for a trip to the Philippines culturally, exploring local literature, cinema, documentaries, comics, and even podcasts offers a unique and exciting immersion well before departure. Here are expert recommendations from our local Philippines travel experts, enriched by two decades of passion for the archipelago.
Before visiting the Philippines, many works can be worth exploring to immerse yourself in the country and its culture. Beyond the classics, newer references will allow you to discover lesser-known aspects of Philippine society:
Literature to Discover the Philippines
You can begin by reading the seminal works of national hero José Rizal:
- Noli Me Tangere (Touch Me Not)
- El Filibusterismo (The Subversive)
These two books symbolize the revolt against Spanish occupation and serve as an excellent introduction to the history and national identity of the Philippines.
Other books offer a more contemporary or fictionalized approach to the country:
- The Tesseract, Alex Garland: A psychological thriller set in Manila and the islands.
- Po-on, Francisco Sionil Jose, Part of the Rosales Saga, exploring history and social inequities.
- Viajero, F. Sionil José: Stories exploring identity, historical memory, and the Filipino diaspora.
- Dogeaters, Jessica Hagedorn: A lively portrait of modern society during the Marcos era.
- The Woman Who Had Two Navels and Tales of the Tropical Gothic, Nick Joaquin: Key works in Filipino literature.
- America Is in the Heart, Carlos Bulosan: A poignant classic exploring the Filipino-American experience.
Exploring Contemporary and Traditional Philippine Literature
- In the Country by Mia Alvar: Short stories portraying the Filipino diaspora and everyday life abroad.
- Candido’s Apocalypse by Nick Joaquin: For a contemporary urban perspective on Manila.
- Philippine Folk Literature: The Myths by Damiana L. Eugenio and** Legends of Lower Gods** and The Creatures of Midnight by Maximo D. Ramos: Essential reads on Filipino mythology.
- "Myths and Symbols: Philippines" by Francisco Demetrio, S.J.: Insights into the superstitions, practices, and collective imagination of the nation.
Filipino Comics and Graphic Novels
Comics (Komiks) are an excellent way to discover popular Philippine narratives, legends, and traditions:
- Maktan 1521 by Tepai Pascual: Tells the story of Lapu-Lapu's resistance against Ferdinand Magellan.
- The Mythology Class by Arnold Arre: An acclaimed graphic novel to discover supernatural creatures and folklore revisited in a contemporary style.
- Independent Komiks: When in Manila, don't miss local comics inspired by traditional games, street life, or historical events – often available at events like the Metro Comic Con!
What to Watch Before You Go?
Documentaries to Understand Philippine Issues
- Batas Militar (1997): An essential documentary on the troubled period of martial law under the Marcos regime.
- Give Up Tomorrow: Questions justice and society through a resonant legal case.
- The Kingmaker: A portrait of Imelda Marcos and a reflection on political dynasties in the Philippines.
- Philippines, the Jeepney Trail (French, Pierre Brouwers, 2006): Insights into ethnic diversity and traditions like the suspended coffins in Sagada or the rice terraces.
- Human: daily life and resilience of Filipinos facing poverty.
- Our Fathers (2025): Explores the ritual crucifixion in Pampanga and the power of local beliefs.
Films for Visual Immersion
Over the years, certain films have become essential to learn about Filipino society:
- Metro Manila, Sean Ellis: A gripping story about a family navigating life in the capital.
- Ma’Rosa, Brillante Mendoza: Realistic look at urban hardship (Jaclyn Jose won Best Actress at Cannes).
- Apocalypse Now, Francis Ford Coppola: Though not strictly Filipino, it was filmed in the dramatic landscapes of the Philippines, including the Pagsanjan River.
- Dekada 70, Chito S. Roño: A powerful drama on a middle-class family navigating political dissent and censorship during the Martial Law era.
- GomBurZa (2023, available on Netflix): A poignant account of the struggle for independence.
- Oro, Plata, Mata and Insiang: Ultra-realistic classics of Philippine cinema.
- Heneral Luna and Goyo: The Young General: Dramatic dives into the revolution and national history.
- Norte, the End of History: contemporary film with a profound political perspective.
Podcasts, Audio Series and Digital Content
To complement your preparations, listen to podcasts dedicated to Filipino society:
- Banana Q: a Filipino-Flavored Podcast: Humorous reflections on daily culture.
- Philling In The Gaps and Bagong Bayani: Straightforward discussions on historical, cultural, and social subjects.
- Between Two Worlds: Views on Filipino-American identity through sports.
- Go Filipino: Let’s Learn Tagalog: Learn the local language in small doses, ideal for discovering cultural subtleties.
Expert Advice
Our travelers who enjoy literature, popular culture, or documentaries always return delighted to have explored these works before leaving. They offer a deeper understanding of social codes, myths, and contemporary dynamics of the archipelago—valuable keys to enjoying an authentic stay in the Philippines, whether you opt for the rice terraces of Banaue, the modernity of Manila, or the wild islands of Palawan.
Blogs and Resources to Go Further
- Shanti Travel Asia Blog: https://blog.shantitravel.com/
- Brice’s travel blog (Shanti Travel): http://worldwildbrice.net/category/philippines/
By being informed, curious travelers, you will be able to build a bridge between the past and present, and truly experience the rich diversity of the Philippines—happy reading, and happy viewing!
