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Pinoy graphic novels worthy of an anime adaptation

By Bong Godinez
Published October 28, 2020 11:05 AM PHT

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After Lambana


From aswang to a senior citizen superhero to a talking chicken - these comic books would make for good animation series.

It's finally happening! Trese, the Filipino graphic novel created by Kajo Baldisimo and Budjette Tan, will be seen as an anime series on Netflix starting next year.

This is certainly good news for our thriving yet underappreciated comic book industry.

Many are hoping that this latest development will open the door for local graphic novels to be noticed by large audiences here and abroad.

With that being said, here are just some Pinoy comic books that would look good in anime format.

The Mythology Class

The Mythology Class / source: Amazon

Arnold Arre's graphic novel tells the story of a group of UP students who join a workshop on how to catch mythical creatures or engkantos. They embark on a supernatural journey, meeting kapres, tikbalangs, and other folklore creatures along the way. This landmark work combines local myths with humor and emotions relatable to us Filipinos.

After Lambana

After Lambana / source: Goodreads

Written by Eliza Victoria and illustrated by Mervin Malonzo, After Lambana was praised by critics for its unique storytelling. Desperate to get treatment for his heart ailment, Conrad finds himself being drawn to magic. He meets a good friend who promises to introduce him to Diwata for his much-needed mystic treatment.

The Filipino Heroes League

The Filipino Heroes League / source: Literary Treats

We've all heard about The Avengers and Justice League, but how about a collection of Pinoy superheroes? Paolo Fabregas plots this concept of Filipino superheroes working overseas to make ends meet while being part of The Filipino Heroes League - an underfunded government-run organization tasked to help keep peace and order in the country. The narrative is hilarious while at the same time brimming with political and societal undertones that reflect our country's situation.

Sixty-Six Anino

Sixty-Six Anino / source: Goodreads

Mang Tino, a 66-year-old retiree wakes up one day only to discover he has extraordinary powers. Writer Russell Molina and illustrator Ian Sta. Maria show what happens when a person past his prime suddenly becomes a superhero.

Ang Subersibo

Ang Subersibo / source: Flipgeeks

Writer Adam David and illustrator Mervin Malonzo blend Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo to come up with a refreshing take on Jose Rizal's groundbreaking novels. Well-thought, research-heavy, and fascinating - Ang Subersibo is a great read for both comic book fans and history nerds.

Elmer

Elmer / source: Amazon

Set in a world where chickens can think and talk. This graphic novel combines fantasy, humor, and loads of silliness to produce a story that would make one ponder about our values and humanity. Elmer was written and illustrated by acclaimed comic book artist Gerry Alanguilan.