21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
Quarter 1 – Lesson 1
Module 1: Geographic, Linguistic and Ethnic Dimensions of Philippine Literary
History from Pre-Colonial to the Contemporary
Pre-Before
Colonial-concerning or pertaining to a colony or colonies.
PRE-SPANISH LITERATURE –(1565) The pre-spanish period in the Philippines began roughly
in the late thirteen century and lasted until the arrival of the Spanish colonial powers in the
latter half of the sixteenth century.
So, before the Philippines was conquered by the other countries, we already have literature
that is being practiced or literature produced by our ancestors. And this is the chants, riddles-
kapag hiniwa mo, Naghihilom nang walang pilat( Tubig) proverbs, songs, and folk narratives
and these were all passed down from generation to generation by word of mouth.
is characterized by:
• Folk tales. These are made up of stories about life, adventure, love, horror, and humor
where one can derive lessons.
An example of this is THE SUN AND THE MOON- story is about what? That we need to respect
everything, and everyone around us, and appreciate what we have received from our family
and friends.
JUAN GATHERS GUAVAS (A tagalog folktale), story is about the JUAN PUSONG AND HIS
FATHER’S COW (a Visayan folktale),
Fable- this feature animal character or inanimate objects that behave like people.
Examples: THE MONKEY AND THE CROCODILE (a tagalog fable),
Legend- this is presented as history but is unlikely to be true.THE FLOOD STORY(a legend
of Bukidnon), THE FLOOD STORY (a legend of the igorot)
Myth- this is told to explain a belief, a practice, or a natural phenomenon. Examples: THE
CREATION( an igorot myth), THE CREATION ( a tagalog myth),
• The Epic Age. Epics are long narrative poems in which a series of heroic achievements or
events, usually of a hero, are dealt with at length.EX. BIAG NI LAM-ANG, HINILAWOD,
DARANGAN
• Folk Songs. These are one of the oldest forms of Philippine literature that emerged in the
pre-Spanish period. These songs mirrored the early forms of culture. Many of these have 12
syllables.
Examples of which are Kundiman, Kumintang o Tagumpay, Ang Dalit o Imno, Ang Oyayi o
Hele, Diana, Soliraning and Talindaw
Understanding Literary History
Literature in this period may be classified as religious prose and poetry and secular prose and
poetry.
• Spanish Influences on Philippine Literature- started in 1565 during the time of Miguel
lopez de legazpi, the first Spanish governor- general in the Philippines. Literature started to
flourish during his time. The spurt continued unabated until the cavite revolt 1872.
Philippine literature was born in Spanish. There had been a rich literary tradition in the
islands before the Spaniards arrived, but it was the Spanish who started to publish those tales
and stories.
The first Filipino alphabet, called ALIBATA, was replaced by the Roman alphabet. Also, the
teaching of the Christian Doctrine became the basis of religious practices. European
legends and traditions brought here became assimilated (becoming a part) in our songs,
corridos, and moro-moros.
• Folk Songs
It manifests the artistic feelings of the Filipinos and shows their innate appreciation for and
love of beauty. The examples are Leron-Leron Sinta(tagalog), Pamulinawen (iloko),
Dandansoy (Bisaya), Sarong Banggi(bicol), and Atin Cu Pung Sing-sing(Kapampangan).
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
• Recreational Plays
There were many recreational plays performed by Filipinos during the Spanish times. Almost
all of them were in a poetic form such Cenaculo-dramatic performance of the passion and
death of christ, Panunuluyan-philippine Christmas dramatic ritual narrating the whole
family’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem for jesus christ’s birth through songs,
Salubong-dramatizes the reunion of the risen christ and his mother, and Zarzuela-the father
of drama, a musical comedy or melo-drama three acts which death with men’s passion and
emotions like love, hate, revenge, cruelty, avarice or some political, Lagaylay- a special
occasion for the pilareños of Sorsogon during maytime to get together.
PERIOD OF ENLIGHTENMENT (1872- 1898) (PANAHON NG KALIWANAGAN O
PAGKAMULAT)
In 19th Century, Filipino intellectuals educated in Europe called Ilustrados began to write
about the hitch of colonization.
The Propaganda Movement (1872-1896) - This movement was spearheaded mostly by
the intellectual middle-class like Jose Rizal, Marcelo del Pilar; Graciano Lopez Jaena, Antonio
Luna, Mariano Ponce, Jose Ma. Panganiban, and Pedro Paterno.
Some of Rizal’s writings: Noli Me Tangere, Mi Ultimo Adios, Sobre La Indolencia
Delos Filipinos and Filipinas Dentro De Cien Aňos.
Some of Mracelo H. Del Pilar’s writings: Pagibig sa Tinubuang Lupa (Love of
Country), Kaingat Kayo (Be Careful), and Dasalan at Tocsohan (Prayers and Jokes).
Some of Graciano lopez Jaena’s writings: Ang Fray Botod, La Hija Del Fraile (The
Child of the Friar), and Everything Is Hambug (Everything is mere show), Sa Mga
Pilipino...1891), and Talumpating Pagunita Kay Kolumbus (An Oration to Commemorate
Columbus).
THE AMERICAN REGIME (1898-1941)
Linguistically, Americans influenced Filipino writers to write using English language. Jose
Garcia Villa became famous for his free verse. Footnote to youth by Jose Garcia Villa,
Kahapon, Ngayon at Bukas (Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow) written by Aurello Tolentino,
Tanikalang Ginto of Juan Abad, Malaya by Thomas Remigio and Walang Sugat by Severinio
Reyes.
Characteristics of Literature during this period:
The languages used in writing were Spanish and Tagalog and the dialects of the different
regions. But the writers in Tagalog, continued in their lamentations on the conditions of the
country and their attempts to arouse love for one’s native tongue and the writers in English
imitated the themes and methods of the Americans. Many filipino started writing again and
nationalism of the people remain undounted. Filipino writers want into all forms of literature
like news reporting, poetry, stories, plays, essay and novels. Their writings clearly depicted
their love of country and their longings for independence.
The major contribution brought to the Philippine Literature under the American Regime is the
production of the Philippine Literature in English language and English Literary, which is
divided into three different time frames. The period of Re-Orientation (1898-1910), Imitation
(1910-1925), and Self-Discovery (1925).
The greatest contribution of America to the Philippines was the introduction of American
system of Education.
THE JAPANESE PERIOD (1941-1945)
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
Philippine Literature was interrupted in its development when another foreign country, Japan,
conquered the Philippines between1941-1945. Philippine literature in English came to a halt.
This led to all newspapers not to be circulated in the community except for TRIBUNE and
PHILIPPINE REVIEW, PILLARS, FREE PHILIPPINES. All newspapers in English were
stopped by the Japanese.
During this time, there was no freedom of speech and of the press.
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:
a. Haiku , a poem of free verse that the Japanese like. It was made up of 17 syllables divided
into three lines and
b. Tanaga – like the Haiku, is short, but it had measure and rhyme.
c. Karaniwang Anyo (Usual Form)
PHILIPPINE LITERATURE IN ENGLISH (1946-1970)
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. For the first twenty
years, many books were published both in Filipino and in English.
In the New Filipino Literature, Philippine literature in Tagalog was revived during this period.
Most themes in the writings dealt with Japanese brutalities, the poverty of life under the
Japanese government, and the brave guerilla exploits.
PERIOD OF ACTIVISM (1970-19752)
According to Pociano Pineda, youth activism in 1970-72 was due to domestic and worldwide
causes. Because of the ills of society, the youth moved to seek reforms.
The Literary Revolution
The youth became vocal with their sentiments. They demanded a change in the government.
It was manifested in the bloody demonstrations and the sidewalk expressions also in
literature.
PERIOD OF THE NEW SOCIETY (1972- 1980)
The period of the New Society started on September 21, 1972. The Carlos Palanca Awards
continued to give annual awards. Poems dealt with patience, regard for native culture,
customs, and the beauties of nature and surroundings. 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. Filipinos before were hooked in
reading magazines and comics.
PERIOD OF THE THIRD REPUBLIC (1981-1985) ( REBIRTH FREEDOM)
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. The Philippines
became a new nation, and this, former President Marcos called “The New Republic of the
Philippines.” Poems during this period of the Third Republic were romantic and revolutionary.
Many Filipino songs dealt with themes that were true-to-life like those of grief, poverty,
aspirations for freedom, love of God, of country and fellowmen.
POST-EDSA 1 REVOLUTION (1986-1995)
History took another twist. Once more, the Filipino people regained their independence, which
they lost twenty years ago. In four days from February 21-25, 1986, the so-called People
Power (Lakas ng Bayan) prevailed. In the short span of the existence of the real Republic of
the Philippines, several changes already became evident. It was noticed in the new Filipino
songs, newspapers, speeches, and even in the television programs. The now crony
newspapers that enjoyed an overnight increase in circulation were THE INQUIRER, MALAYA,
and the PEOPLE’S JOURNAL.
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
21st CENTURY PERIOD ( 2001-PRESENT)
The new trends have been used and introduced to meet the needs and tastes of the new
generation. 21st Century learners are demanded to be ICT inclined to compete with the style
and format of writing as well. New codes or lingos are used to add flavor in the literary pieces
produced nowadays.
LESSON 2: Identifying Representative Texts from the Regions
A Taste of Philippine Poetry
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
Prior to Spanish colonial period the Ilocano literature is purely alive in form of written and oral
literature. Ancient poets expressed themselves through folk and war songs.
Father of Ilocano Literature- Blind since birth, he is the acknowledged author of the
Ilocano epic Biag NI Lam-ang (Life of Lam-ang). He is considered the Father of Ilocano
Literature. Pedro Bucaneg.
Leona Florentino- she is considered as Mother of Philippine women’s literature and
the bridge from oral to literary traditions. Born to a wealthy and prominent family in
Vigan, Ilocos Sur, she began to write her first verses in Ilocano at a young age.
Popular works from Ilocos Region
Biag ni Lam-ang
The God Stealer
My father’s tragedy
A wedding dance
Morning in Nagrebcan
Through the dawn of the 21st century , a new breed of young and vibrant Ilocano writers has
emerged like Roy V. Aragon, Mighty C. Rasing, Ariel S. Tabang and others.
Writers in 21st century that has notable works in Cagayan Valley
Edith L. Tiempo, Florentino Hornedo, Fernando Maramag
The Rural Maid, Nalpay a Namnama,
People of Consequences
Cordillera administrative region
Ma. Luisa Aguilar-Carino
Dr. Ryan GUINARAN
KIDLAT TAHIMIK
Their notable works
To my fellow igorot youth: poems,stories and essays
Configuring the gods and other poems
Perfumed nightmare
Tagalog literature
South Luzon, central Luzon metro manila (NCR)
Tagalog region is the birthplace of a rich tradition of Philippine culture in language, politics,
economy, and literature. The first printing press was established in Manila. THE LIFE OF
CHRIST in epic tradition known popularly today as PASYON was written in Tagalog, various
writers like GASPAR AGUINO DE BELEN AND FR. MARIANO PILAPIL.
BICOL REGION
MARIANO PERFECTO-was the fifth governor of ambos camarines (1990-1913) known as a
prolific writer, he is considered as the father of bikol literature and father of Bisayan literature.
He published the first newspaper in the bikol language, AN PARABARETA (1899-1900). His
literary output ranged from translations of religious tracts, novenas to poems, short dramas,
and linguistic work both in the Ilonggo and bikol languages.
Gregorio Sr. was a Bicolano musician who composed Sarung Banggi(One Evening), the most
famous song in the Bikol Language.
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
Module 1: Geographic, Linguistic and Ethnic Dimensions of Philippine Literary
History from Pre-Colonial to the Contemporary
PRE-SPANISH LITERATURE –(1565) The pre-spanish period in the Philippines began roughly
in the late thirteen century and lasted until the arrival of the Spanish colonial powers in the
latter half of the sixteenth century.
• Folk tales. These are made up of stories about life, adventure, love, horror, and humor
where one can derive lessons.
An example of this is THE SUN AND THE MOON
JUAN GATHERS GUAVAS (A tagalog folktale),
JUAN PUSONG AND HIS FATHER’S COW (a Visayan folktale),
Fable- this feature animal character or inanimate objects that behave like people.
Examples: THE MONKEY AND THE CROCODILE (a tagalog fable),
Legend- this is presented as history but is unlikely to be true.THE FLOOD STORY(a legend
of Bukidnon), THE FLOOD STORY (a legend of the igorot)
Myth- this is told to explain a belief, a practice, or a natural phenomenon. Examples: THE
CREATION( an igorot myth), THE CREATION ( a tagalog myth),
• The Epic Age. Epics are long narrative poems in which a series of heroic achievements or
events, usually of a hero, are dealt with at length.EX. BIAG NI LAM-ANG, HINILAWOD,
DARANGAN
• Folk Songs. These are one of the oldest forms of Philippine literature that emerged in the
pre-Spanish period. These songs mirrored the early forms of culture. Many of these have 12
syllables.
Examples of which are Kundiman, Kumintang o Tagumpay, Ang Dalit o Imno, Ang Oyayi o
Hele, Diana, Soliraning and Talindaw
Understanding Literary History
Literature in this period may be classified as religious prose and poetry and secular prose and
poetry.
• Spanish Influences on Philippine Literature- started in 1565 during the time of Miguel
lopez de legazpi, the first Spanish governor- general in the Philippines. Literature started to
flourish during his time. The spurt continued unabated until the cavite revolt 1872.
Philippine literature was born in Spanish. There had been a rich literary tradition in the
islands before the Spaniards arrived, but it was the Spanish who started to publish those tales
and stories.
The first Filipino alphabet, called ALIBATA, was replaced by the Roman alphabet. Also, the
teaching of the Christian Doctrine became the basis of religious practices. European
legends and traditions brought here became assimilated in our songs, corridos, and moro-
moros.
• Folk Songs
It manifests the artistic feelings of the Filipinos and shows their innate appreciation for and
love of beauty. The examples are Leron-Leron Sinta(tagalog), Pamulinawen (iloko),
Dandansoy (Bisaya), Sarong Banggi(bicol), and Atin Cu Pung Sing-sing(Kapampangan).
• Recreational Plays
There were many recreational plays performed by Filipinos during the Spanish times. Almost
all of them were in a poetic form such Cenaculo-dramatic performance of the passion and
death of christ, Panunuluyan-philippine Christmas dramatic ritual narrating the whole
family’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem for jesus christ’s birth through songs,
Salubong-dramatizes the reunion of the risen christ and his mother, and Zarzuela-the father
of drama, a musical comedy or melo-drama three acts which death with men’s passion and
emotions like love, hate, revenge, cruelty, avarice or some political, Lagaylay- a special
occasion for the pilareños of Sorsogon during maytime to get together.
PERIOD OF ENLIGHTENMENT (1872- 1898) (PANAHON NG KALIWANAGAN O
PAGKAMULAT)
In 19th Century, Filipino intellectuals educated in Europe called Ilustrados began to write
about the hitch of colonization.
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
The Propaganda Movement (1872-1896) - This movement was spearheaded mostly by
the intellectual middle-class like Jose Rizal, Marcelo del Pilar; Graciano Lopez Jaena, Antonio
Luna, Mariano Ponce, Jose Ma. Panganiban, and Pedro Paterno.
Some of Rizal’s writings: Noli Me Tangere, Mi Ultimo Adios, Sobre La Indolencia
Delos Filipinos and Filipinas Dentro De Cien Aňos.
Some of Mracelo H. Del Pilar’s writings: Pagibig sa Tinubuang Lupa (Love of
Country), Kaingat Kayo (Be Careful), and Dasalan at Tocsohan (Prayers and Jokes).
Some of Graciano lopez Jaena’s writings: Ang Fray Botod, La Hija Del Fraile (The
Child of the Friar), and Everything Is Hambug (Everything is mere show), Sa Mga
Pilipino...1891), and Talumpating Pagunita Kay Kolumbus (An Oration to Commemorate
Columbus).
THE AMERICAN REGIME (1898-1941)
Linguistically, Americans influenced Filipino writers to write using English language. Jose
Garcia Villa became famous for his free verse. Footnote to youth by Jose Garcia Villa,
Kahapon, Ngayon at Bukas (Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow) written by Aurello Tolentino,
Tanikalang Ginto of Juan Abad, Malaya by Thomas Remigio and Walang Sugat by Severinio
Reyes.
Characteristics of Literature during this period:
The languages used in writing were Spanish and Tagalog and the dialects of the different
regions. But the writers in Tagalog, continued in their lamentations on the conditions of the
country and their attempts to arouse love for one’s native tongue and the writers in English
imitated the themes and methods of the Americans. Many filipino started writing again and
nationalism of the people remain undounted. Filipino writers want into all forms of literature
like news reporting, poetry, stories, plays, essay and novels. Their writings clearly depicted
their love of country and their longings for independence.
The major contribution brought to the Philippine Literature under the American Regime is the
production of the Philippine Literature in English language and English Literary, which is
divided into three different time frames. The period of Re-Orientation (1898-1910), Imitation
(1910-1925), and Self-Discovery (1925).
The greatest contribution of America to the Philippines was the introduction of American
system of Education.
THE JAPANESE PERIOD (1941-1945)
Philippine Literature was interrupted in its development when another foreign country, Japan,
conquered the Philippines between1941-1945. Philippine literature in English came to a halt.
This led to all newspapers not to be circulated in the community except for TRIBUNE and
PHILIPPINE REVIEW, PILLARS, FREE PHILIPPINES. All newspapers in English were
stopped by the Japanese.
During this time, there was no freedom of speech and of the press.
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:
a. Haiku , a poem of free verse that the Japanese like. It was made up of 17 syllables divided
into three lines and
b. Tanaga – like the Haiku, is short, but it had measure and rhyme.
c. Karaniwang Anyo (Usual Form)
PHILIPPINE LITERATURE IN ENGLISH (1946-1970)
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
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. For the first twenty
years, many books were published both in Filipino and in English.
In the New Filipino Literature, Philippine literature in Tagalog was revived during this period.
Most themes in the writings dealt with Japanese brutalities, the poverty of life under the
Japanese government, and the brave guerilla exploits.
PERIOD OF ACTIVISM (1970-19752)
According to Pociano Pineda, youth activism in 1970-72 was due to domestic and worldwide
causes. Because of the ills of society, the youth moved to seek reforms.
The Literary Revolution
The youth became vocal with their sentiments. They demanded a change in the government.
It was manifested in the bloody demonstrations and the sidewalk expressions also in
literature.
PERIOD OF THE NEW SOCIETY (1972- 1980)
The period of the New Society started on September 21, 1972. The Carlos Palanca Awards
continued to give annual awards. Poems dealt with patience, regard for native culture,
customs, and the beauties of nature and surroundings. 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. Filipinos before were hooked in
reading magazines and comics.
PERIOD OF THE THIRD REPUBLIC (1981-1985) ( REBIRTH FREEDOM)
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. The Philippines
became a new nation, and this, former President Marcos called “The New Republic of the
Philippines.” Poems during this period of the Third Republic were romantic and revolutionary.
Many Filipino songs dealt with themes that were true-to-life like those of grief, poverty,
aspirations for freedom, love of God, of country and fellowmen.
POST-EDSA 1 REVOLUTION (1986-1995)
History took another twist. Once more, the Filipino people regained their independence, which
they lost twenty years ago. In four days from February 21-25, 1986, the so-called People
Power (Lakas ng Bayan) prevailed. In the short span of the existence of the real Republic of
the Philippines, several changes already became evident. It was noticed in the new Filipino
songs, newspapers, speeches, and even in the television programs. The now crony
newspapers that enjoyed an overnight increase in circulation were THE INQUIRER, MALAYA,
and the PEOPLE’S JOURNAL.
21st CENTURY PERIOD ( 2001-PRESENT)
The new trends have been used and introduced to meet the needs and tastes of the new
generation. 21st Century learners are demanded to be ICT inclined to compete with the style
and format of writing as well. New codes or lingos are used to add flavor in the literary pieces
produced nowadays.
LESSON 2: Identifying Representative Texts from the Regions
A Taste of Philippine Poetry
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
Prior to Spanish colonial period the Ilocano literature is purely alive in form of written and oral
literature. Ancient poets expressed themselves through folk and war songs.
Father of Ilocano Literature- Blind since birth, he is the acknowledged author of the
Ilocano epic Biag NI Lam-ang (Life of Lam-ang). He is considered the Father of Ilocano
Literature. Pedro Bucaneg.
Leona Florentino- she is considered as Mother of Philippine women’s literature and
the bridge from oral to literary traditions. Born to a wealthy and prominent family in
Vigan, Ilocos Sur, she began to write her first verses in Ilocano at a young age.
Popular works from Ilocos Region
Biag ni Lam-ang
The God Stealer
My father’s tragedy
A wedding dance
Morning in Nagrebcan
Through the dawn of the 21st century , a new breed of young and vibrant Ilocano writers has
emerged like Roy V. Aragon, Mighty C. Rasing, Ariel S. Tabang and others.
Writers in 21st century that has notable works in Cagayan Valley
Edith L. Tiempo, Florentino Hornedo, Fernando Maramag
The Rural Maid, Nalpay a Namnama,
People of Consequences
Cordillera administrative region
Ma. Luisa Aguilar-Carino
Dr. Ryan GUINARAN
KIDLAT TAHIMIK
Their notable works
To my fellow igorot youth: poems,stories and essays
Configuring the gods and other poems
Perfumed nightmare
Tagalog literature
South Luzon, central Luzon metro manila (NCR)
Tagalog region is the birthplace of a rich tradition of Philippine culture in language, politics,
economy, and literature. The first printing press was established in Manila. THE LIFE OF
CHRIST in epic tradition known popularly today as PASYON was written in Tagalog, various
writers like GASPAR AGUINO DE BELEN AND FR. MARIANO PILAPIL.
BICOL REGION
MARIANO PERFECTO-was the fifth governor of ambos camarines (1990-1913) known as a
prolific writer, he is considered as the father of bikol literature and father of Bisayan literature.
He published the first newspaper in the bikol language, AN PARABARETA (1899-1900). His
literary output ranged from translations of religious tracts, novenas to poems, short dramas,
and linguistic work both in the Ilonggo and bikol languages.
Gregorio Sr. was a Bicolano musician who composed Sarung Banggi(One Evening), the most
famous song in the Bikol Language.
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
Activity 2. Thinker’s View Directions: Given below is a sample of a Filipino Folktale in the Pre-
Spanish Period. Answer the questions that follow.
1. What is the concern of the moon regarding his stars?
2. Why does the moon anger the sun?
3. What phenomenon is described in the Filipino Folktale?
THE SUN AND THE MOON (Tingguian folk tale)
In the olden days, like the moon, the sun had also star children which were yellowish in
color, very bright and very hot. The star children of the moon, however, were reddish and
cool. That moon was scared that his stars would wither and die if they play with the star
children of the sun. The moon suggested to the sun that they kill their children who were
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
crowding the heavens with their number. When the sun had killed her children, the moon
merely hid behind the clouds. In the evening, when the clouds faded, the moon stars
appeared. This angered the sun, so he gave chase to the moon. Thus, when he overtakes
the moon, we have the so-called eclipse. Every morning, the sun kills the moon stars that
he catches. Until now, this chase continues and because the moon continues…
Activity 3.
Gabu by Carlos A. Angeles
The battering restlessness of the sea Insists a tidal fury upon the beach At Gabu, and its
pure consistency Havos the wasteland hard within its reach. Brutal the daylong bashing of
its heart Against the seascape where, for miles around, farther than sight itself, the rock-
stones part and drop into the elemental wound. The waste of centuries is grey and dead.
And neutral where the sea has breached its brine, Where the spilt salt of its heart lies
spread Among the dark habiliments of Time. The vital splendor misses. For here, here At
Gabu where the ageless tide recurs All things forfeited are most loved and dear. It is the
sea pursues a habit of shores.
1. What image does the poem, Gabu, try to create?
2. Which word or group of words from the poem help you form this image? Draw this in a
bond paper.
21 st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World
CRISTI, RIZALYN C.
Activity 4
1. Watch the short video on YouTube entitled “Salbabida Story”. Video Link:
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYNv32ZqwmQ)
2. Pick out some lines (at least three) wherein the speakers look back at some of their
experiences like the example below: “Kasi dati, nabubully ako sa school. Ang pumasok
lang sa isip ko nun, gumanti. Siya (KB) yung tutulong sa ‘kin na makipagresbakan, and
akala ko nun ano e, ‘makikipagbugbugan’ kami e, sapakan. Tinuruan ako ni KB kung paano
maging Salbabida rin sa iba.”
2. After writing down some of the lines about their memories, compose your own
interpretation of what you think the video is about. Write a text tula as a tribute to the
people in the video and acknowledge their share in the society by helping other
people.
Activity 5. Answer the following questions based on the video clip you have watched. Write
your answers on a separate sheet of paper.
1. In the first part of the video, we are introduced to Efren Peñaflorida, 2009 CNN Hero of the
Year. To whom does he compare his friend and mentor, KB Manalaysay?
2. What does he mean by this comparison?
3. What was Efren’s problem when KB met him? How was the latter able to help him?
4. How has KB’s simple act of kindness affected Efren? How was it able to affect not only Efren
but many other kids like Kesz, for example?
5. What do you think is the message of the video? What lesson does it want to share to the
viewers?
