Republic of the Philippines

PAMANTASAN NG LUNGSOD NG MAYNILA

(University of the City of Manila)
General Luna corner Muralla Streets Intramuros
Manila, Philippines

ANALYZE PHILIPPINE POPULAR CULTURE REFLECTED IN LITERATURE

USING THE THEORIES DISCUSSED HIGHLIGHTING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND

POLITICAL IMPACTS

PPC 122-25 PHILIPPINE POPULAR CULTURE

Group 9 Written Report

Submitted by:

Bolivar, Christian Josef

Caponga, Angela B.

Dela Cruz, Kyle Nicole G.

Gallano, Tracy Ann S.

Pascua, Patricia G.

Usi, Maria Everlasting A.

Submitted to:

Dr. Margie U. Alcaide

January 2024
Culture is challenging to understand as the concept is often implicit but can be signified by

different categories. It is the integration of human knowledge, faiths, and manners. Culture

includes language, ideas, beliefs, customs, taboos, codes, institutions, tools, techniques and works

of art, among other items. Culture comprises an association of values, beliefs, knowledge, skills,

and practices that enhance the behavior of members of a social group at an individual definite

moment. It is the aesthetics, affirmations, skills, indigenous knowledge, and resources of a social

group. These can comprise craft and design, oral and written history and literature, music, drama,

dance, visual arts, celebrations, and traditional knowledge concerning the features of plants and

their remedial applications. Also, historic landmarks, traditional methods, standard curative

approaches, traditional natural utilization of natural resources, and forms of interacting socially

that promote the welfare of the group, the wider public and individuals are parts of culture. Usually,

it is accepted that culture embodies the way humans live with and treat others and how they

develop or react to changes in their environment.

Our cultural identity can be glimpsed through our personal as well as interpersonal behavioral

intricacies, both verbal and non-verbal. Culture is a very intricate phenomenon. It requires truthful

reflection and self-examination as human beings, and it takes many years to grasp even a minor

part of one's culture.

Literature comprises facets of its source culture. It should be applied as a means to expand

the skills needed to adjust to and to converse suitably in unknown cultures. Literature has always

been useful for expressing humanistic and social values and the interaction of literature and culture

is due to the involvement of culture in different areas like traditions, thoughts, and especially
human perspectives, thus literature acts as a powerful instrument. The relationship between

literature and culture is mutual. The reason for this is that on the one hand, poets consider the

elements of culture to be composed of traditions, beliefs, and values which create valuable

literature materials; therefore it helps to develop a culture. On the other hand, cultures assume

these materials as their accomplishments and enhance materials generally, and we should consider

that literature self-governs the culture of a society. Whenever that culture is vibrant and in

sympathy with the literature, the culture is enhanced and full of accomplishments. With an

emphasis on the nation’s history, the fame of different cultures and great civilizations of the world

relies on many aspects. One of the essential factors is that literature has a significant influence on

the grace of people. There is a direct association between literature and culture and they both align

with each other. The culture embraces the beliefs and values of society and the literature, on the

contrary, conveys them in different literary shapes. Thus, literature, in the end, praises and

influences culture.

Relation between Culture and Literature

Literature has always portrayed the feelings of its characters through their emotional

reactions and by the inner state of these characters. Literature has always emphasized bringing out

the inner self of characters. The association between culture and language has two main facets.

The first feature of culture is comparable to that between majority and particularity or that between

a super-ordinate literal item and a subordinate language. The second feature is that language and

culture are as indivisible as dance and dancer. This coherence provides language teachers

opportunities to familiarize their students with various cultures, and lexical, idiomatic,

grammatical, and pragmatic features of different aspects of a language. There is a close relationship
between culture and literature. Literature needs to be examined with its social, political and

economic context in which it has been written or has been received. It explores the relationship

between society and the artist.

Philippine Popular Culture and Literature

Philippine Popular Culture and Philippine Literature are closely intertwined components.

Philippine Popular Culture encompasses the collective customs, beliefs, practices, and expressions

widely accepted and enjoyed by the Filipino population. It includes aspects of daily life,

entertainment, traditions, and contemporary trends that contribute to shaping cultural identity.

Philippine Literature consists of written and oral works reflecting Filipino experiences, history,

culture, and societal values. It encompasses various forms such as epics, poems, short stories,

novels, essays, and plays, evolving from pre-Hispanic oral traditions to contemporary expressions.

Literature serves as a reflective medium, capturing the values and narratives inherent in popular

culture, drawing inspiration from cultural traditions and societal norms. Simultaneously, popular

culture influences the themes and styles found in literature, creating a symbiotic relationship that

contributes to the ongoing evolution of Philippine culture.

The historical context of Philippine Popular Culture and Literature reveals the resilience of

indigenous traditions against colonial erasure. The pre-Hispanic period featured oral epics like the

Maranaos' Darangen, passed down through generations. Colonial influences sought to erase

indigenous history, creating a gap in cultural understanding. However, efforts in the 1960s and
1970s spurred a resurgence of interest in Filipino heritage, leading to the recognition and

preservation of indigenous literary forms.

In the contemporary period, there is a conscious effort to reclaim and disseminate ethnic traditions

through schools and mass media, fostering a renewed sense of nationalistic pride.

As a reflection of culture, literature has a profound impact on Philippine society. Socially, it

portrays the everyday lives, struggles, and triumphs of Filipinos, fostering awareness and empathy.

Economically, literature depicts characters from various economic backgrounds, shedding light on

disparities, aspirations, and the impact of socio-economic factors. Politically, literature serves as a

tool for commentary and critique, exploring political themes, advocating for change, and

contributing to societal discourse.

Characteristics of Philippine Popular Culture reflected in its literature.

Philippine popular culture encompasses the dynamic and diverse traditions,

beliefs,practices,and expressions that define the collective identity of the Filipino people. Here are

some characteristics often reflected in Philippine literature that stem from its popular culture:

● Oral Tradition and Folklore

- Oral tradition and folklore play a significant role in Philippine culture and,

consequently, in its literature. These elements are foundational to the country's

storytelling traditions and reflect the rich cultural heritage passed down through

generations via spoken word rather than written texts.

-
 Filipino mythology is a common source for literary works, showcasing fantastical

characters such as tikbalang (human/horse hybrids), kapre (tree giants), and aswang

(vampires). Epics and Legends: Pre-colonial tales like "Hinilawod" and "Biag ni

Lam-ang" are repeated, holding onto the oral traditions of the many indigenous

peoples. Moreover, literature acts as a means of preserving and perpetuating these

oral traditions. Authors and poets retell these folk narratives, epics, and legends

through written forms, ensuring that these cultural treasures endure and remain

accessible to future generations. The essence of oral tradition and folklore in

Philippine literature lies in preserving the nation's cultural identity, celebrating its

diverse heritage, and conveying timeless wisdom and values that continue to

resonate with Filipinos today.

● Hybridity

- The concept of hybridity in Philippine literature is used to describe the blending of

many literary influences, such as current styles and components taken from

Western literature with traditional storytelling techniques used by the indigenous

people. Filipino writers have adopted a variety of Western literary forms,

 techniques, and genres into their works as a result of colonization and exposure to

Western literature. This covers literary works that have been introduced through

Western educational systems, such as plays, novels, short tales, and poems.

Examples:

- Noli Me Tángere and El Filibusterismo by José Rizal: These novels

seamlessly blend Western novelistic conventions with Filipino themes and

social critiques. They are a quintessential example of how Western

storytelling techniques were adapted to convey the Filipino struggle for

independence.

- Plays and Theater: Filipino playwrights often combine Western dramatic

structures with local stories and cultural elements. Works like "Ang

Paglilitis ni Mang Serapio" by Paul Dumol integrate both influences to

create unique theatrical experiences.

- Poetry: Filipino poets have embraced Western poetic forms while infusing

them with Filipino sensibilities. Poets like Jose Garcia Villa introduced

innovative techniques such as "comma poetry" to the Philippine literary

scene.

● Colonial Influences

Spanish Period

Literature during this period often revolved around religious themes due to the heavy

influence of Catholicism brought by the Spanish colonizers.

Epics, stories, ballads, riddles, and proverbs made up the majority of the oral literature that

the ethnic groups of the Philippines had at the time of their invasion and transition to
 Christianity. Spanish colonization of the Philippines began in 1565 but it was not until the

late 19th century that significant writing in Spanish by Filipino emerged. The first Filipino

alphabet is Alibata- when the Spanish colonized Philippines they changed alibata into

Roman Alphabet. Spanish colonization in the Philippines started in 1565 during the time

of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, the first governor-general in the Philippines. So, during

Spanish colonization, literature started to flourish during this time. Doctrina Christiana

(1593), the first book to be printed in the Philippines. It was a prayer book written in

Spanish with an accompanying Tagalog Transition.

American Period

Literature during this period revolved on expressing nationalism and called for the

independence and identity of the Filipino people. This combination of writing in a borrowed

tongue while dwelling on Filipino customs and traditions earmarked the literary output of major

Filipino fictionists in English during the American period. Thus, the major novels of the period,

such as the Filipino Rebel, by Maximo Kalaw, and His Native Soil by Juan C. Laya, are discourses

on cultural identity, nationhood and being Filipino done in the English language. Stories such as

“How My Brother Leon Brought Home a Wife” by Manuel Arguilla scanned the scenery as well
as the folkways of Ilocandia while N.V. M. Gonzales’s novels and stories such as “Children of the

Ash Covered Loam,” present the panorama of Mindoro, in all its customs and traditions while

configuring its characters in the human dilemma of nostalgia and poverty.

● Post-Colonial and Contemporary Themes: This category in Philippine literature

encompasses the exploration of modern-day issues, societal transformation, and the

evolving Filipino identity following the country's independence from colonial rule. Works

by authors like Nick Joaquin and Carlos Bulosan delve into the complexities of post-

colonial identity, reflecting the ongoing social and economic challenges faced by Filipinos.

These works often critique societal structures, addressing issues like poverty, inequality,

and political corruption.

- Example: "Dekada '70" by Lualhati Bautista: Set during the Martial Law period

in the Philippines, this novel explores the challenges faced by a middle-class family
 and their awakening to political and social issues. It reflects the struggle for civil

liberties and the fight against authoritarian rule.

● Economic Contexts in Literature: Economic conditions and class struggles are a

recurrent theme in Philippine literature. Many works illustrate the life of the working class

and the rural poor, offering insights into their daily struggles and aspirations. This focus on

economic realities helps in understanding the broader socio-economic landscape of the

Philippines.

● Example: "Bata, Bata... Pa'no Ka Ginawa?" by Lualhati Bautista: This novel delves

into the life of a working-class woman named Lea, who is a single mother striving

to make ends meet. The story explores her struggles as she faces economic

challenges, the demands of motherhood, and the complexities of her relationships.

Through Lea's journey, the novel sheds light on the economic realities and class

struggles faced by many Filipinos, particularly women, in urban settings. It offers

a poignant portrayal of the daily trials and aspirations of the working class,
 providing insights into the socio-economic landscape of the Philippines.

● Modern Media and Digital Influence: The rise of digital media and the internet has

transformed how Filipino stories are told and consumed. Platforms like Wattpad have

democratized literature, allowing for a wider range of voices and themes, often reflecting

contemporary issues like mental health, diversity, and globalization. This shift has

significant social implications, as it changes the way culture is shared and experienced.

Example:

"Diary ng Panget" (Diary of an Ugly) by HaveYouSeenThisGirL: Originally published on

the online platform Wattpad, this novel gained immense popularity in the Philippines. It

tells the story of a girl named Eya who, despite feeling unattractive, finds herself in a world

of unexpected romance and self-discovery. "Diary ng Panget" is a prime example of how

digital media, specifically Wattpad, has democratized literature in the Philippines. It

allowed aspiring writers to reach a vast audience with their stories, and this work, in

particular, resonated with young readers. The novel also tackles themes of self-esteem,

love, and identity, reflecting contemporary issues faced by Filipino youth in the age of

social media and globalization.

 Mass Media Influence on Philippine Literature

Philippine literature has evolved from the creation of different visual and interactive

representations into art and studies, whereas it has created literary pieces of various

expositions. In the realm of Philippine literature, we witness a transformative journey from

traditional literary forms to dynamic visual and interactive representations. The rise of 'interactive

novels' where readers actively engage with the storyline through choices that impact the narrative

trajectory. This departure from conventional storytelling not only embraces technology but also

invites readers to immerse themselves in a participatory literary experience. Furthermore, the

emergence of graphic novels, blending visual art with storytelling, exemplifies how Philippine

literature has evolved into diverse expositions, exploring new avenues of expression that resonate
with contemporary audiences. With the advent of television, radio, and the internet, various forms

of media have played a crucial role in shaping the literary landscape.

Here are some key points to consider:

Emergence of New Literary Forms: Mass media has introduced new literary forms in the

Philippines. The rise of digital platforms has given birth to online literature, including

blogs, web novels, and social media micro-fiction. These platforms provide a space for

writers to reach a wider audience and explore diverse storytelling methods.

Cultural Fusion: Mass media has facilitated the fusion of traditional Filipino literature

with global influences. Television shows, movies, and music from around the world have

contributed to a rich cultural tapestry, influencing the themes, styles, and narratives found

in contemporary Philippine literature.

Media as a Source of Inspiration: Writers often draw inspiration from current events,

news stories, and social issues highlighted by mass media. This incorporation of real-life

elements adds a sense of relevance and immediacy to literary works, making them more

relatable to readers.

Language Evolution: The language used in Philippine literature has evolved with the

influence of mass media. The integration of colloquial expressions, slang, and even

borrowed words from other languages used in media has found its way into literary works,

reflecting the dynamic nature of language.

Globalization of Literature: Mass media has played a pivotal role in the globalization of

Philippine literature. Through international film festivals, book fairs, and online platforms,

Filipino literature has gained visibility on the global stage, allowing for cross-cultural

exchanges and enriching the literary landscape.

 Challenges and Opportunities: While mass media has opened up new opportunities for

writers, it has also presented challenges. The demand for quick, digestible content can

sometimes overshadow the depth and complexity of traditional literary forms. However, it

also opens avenues for experimentation and innovation in storytelling.

In summary, the influence of mass media on Philippine literature is multifaceted, bringing both

challenges and opportunities. It has contributed to the evolution of literary forms, the global

recognition of Filipino literature, and the incorporation of diverse cultural elements into the

narrative fabric of Philippine stories.

Visual Literacy

Stimulation has helped students to be involved in literature by inciting creativity and critical

thinking. Visual elements can serve as bridges across cultural differences. In a diverse educational

setting like the Philippines, where students may come from varied backgrounds, visual literacy

provides a universal language. It helps convey ideas and themes in a way that transcends linguistic

barriers, making literature more accessible to a broader audience.

Culture is defined as “the way of living in a specific time and portrays the practices of certain

people”. The influence of pop culture extends beyond the realm of literature, establishing itself as

the very foundation of media in the Philippines. Media, encompassing newspapers, television,

radio, and digital platforms, thrives on the consumption and dissemination of pop culture. As

media, fueled by pop culture, becomes a formidable influencer, it assumes a role in shaping the

political and social dynamics of the Philippines. Media platforms serve as conduits through which

political narratives are constructed, disseminated, and, at times, contested. The power dynamics

between media, pop culture, and politics create a complex interplay that significantly impacts
societal perceptions and behaviors. In the contemporary landscape, various media platforms have

evolved into influential tools for shaping pop culture, thereby influencing literature. Social media,

in particular, has become a democratizing force, allowing individuals to contribute to and consume

pop culture in unprecedented ways. The emergence of viral trends, hashtag movements, and online

communities has transformed how pop culture is generated and consumed, subsequently

influencing the themes and narratives found in literature.

EXAMPLE:

Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah inspired by MarsRavelo’s Darna

whose character has become a gay icon in society because of the portrayal of the character as gay.

Seventeen years ago, when "Zsazsa Zaturnnah" first took the Philippine theater stage, it caused

quite a stir. Originally conceived by Carlo Vergara in 2002 as a graphic novel that went on to win

a National Book Award, "Zsazsa Zaturnnah" underwent a transformative journey when it was

adapted into a groundbreaking musical by Tanghalang Pilipino in 2006. This musical became a

sporadic yet significant presence until 2011.

 Future Directions

Assessing the future directions of literature in Philippine Popular Culture requires some

speculation, because cultural trends are impacted by a variety of factors that can shift promptly.

Here are the possible future directions of Philippine Literature in relation to Philippine Pop

Culture:

Diversity and Representation of Philippine Literature

In Philippine literature, there may be a greater emphasis on varied voices and representation, with

authors exploring a broader range of experiences, viewpoints, and identities. Narratives that

highlight marginalized communities and their stories could fall into this category. The abundance

and variety of Philippine literature emerged in line with the country's history.

Philippine Literature in new media and digital platforms

With the increasing effect of digital platforms and new media, literature may continue to adapt.

Online platforms, social media, and digital narrative formats may grow increasingly popular,

opening up new channels for authors to reach their readers. It is evident that commercial

technological improvements and the accessibility of the internet enable a type of transcendence

that is more rapid and far more inclusive than is potential in our country.

The possibility of Philippine Literature being forgotten

Some of the Literature on Philippine Pop Culture may be forgotten due to some factors, such as

the:

- Dominance of International Pop Culture

- Lack of Educational Emphasis

- Limited Universal Audience

- Loss of Physical Records.

Reimagining Indigenous Voices in Philippine Pop Culture

The Philippines has a rich heritage that can be woven into a colorful story shaping the country's

future culture. Picture Netflix featuring ancient epics like "Darangen" or video games taking

players to the magical world of Mariang Makiling. Dances like tinikling are revamped for TikTok,

and instruments like the kulintang find a place in today's music.

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Akhder, Tawhida (2022). Culture and Literature. Cambridge Scholars.

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Philippine Literature in Spanish. (n.d.). National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

https://ncca.gov.ph/about-ncca-3/subcommissions/subcommission-on-the-arts-sca/literary-

arts/philippine-literature-in-spanish/

Quindoza-Santiago, L. (2015). Philippine Literature during the American Period - National

Commission for Culture and the Arts. National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

https://ncca.gov.ph/about-ncca-3/subcommissions/subcommission-on-the-arts-sca/literary-

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