SANTOS, XYZA ALEXA E.

24-01954
MA English
Modern Literary Trends

REFLECTION PAPER 8

1. In what ways do contemporary Philippine authors incorporate themes of national

ANSWER: Contemporary Philippine authors explore themes of national identity and cultural
heritage, reflecting the nation’s complex history and evolving sense of self. They delve into the
country’s colonial past, highlighting how events like Spanish and American rule continue to
shape Filipino identity. Writers such as Lualhati Bautista, in Dekada '70, examine how historical
events impact personal and collective identity. Many authors also incorporate Filipino traditions,
mythology, and folklore, celebrating heritage while critiquing contemporary social issues. In
Mga Ibong Mandaragit, Edgardo M. Reyes blends local myths with modern struggles, grounding
the Filipino experience in cultural history. Language plays a key role in shaping identity, with
authors like Jose Dalisay using both Filipino and English to reflect the blending of local and
global influences. Contemporary works also address pressing social issues, such as poverty and
corruption, as seen in F.H. Batacan’s Smaller and Smaller Circles, revealing how these struggles
define national identity. The Filipino diaspora is another central theme, with authors like F. Sionil
José in The Lizard's Tail exploring the tension between homeland and foreign lands.
Additionally, works like Bob Ong’s Ang Mga Kaibigan ni Mama Susan critically reimagine
traditional Filipino values, while modern authors address the intersections of gender, class, and
sexuality. In sum, contemporary Filipino literature offers nuanced portrayals of identity, shaped
by history, culture, social issues, and globalization, inviting readers to reflect on the past and
envision a more inclusive future.

2. How has Philippine literature been instrumental in shaping or supporting social

ANSWER: Philippine literature has long been a powerful tool in shaping and supporting social
movements, offering a platform for resistance and advocacy for change. Throughout the
country’s history, Filipino writers have used literature to critique oppressive systems, raise
awareness about social issues, and inspire collective action. During the Spanish colonization,
works like José Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo became rallying points for the
Filipino struggle for independence. These novels exposed the abuses of the Spanish colonial
government and clergy, igniting nationalist sentiment and fueling the Philippine Revolution.
Under American rule, Filipino writers continued to critique colonial policies and racism, with
Carlos Bulosan's America Is in the Heart giving voice to the plight of Filipino laborers in the
United States. The period also saw the rise of nationalist and proletarian literature, with authors
like Amado V. Hernandez advocating for workers' rights and social justice. In the Martial Law
era (1972–1981), literature became a tool for resisting the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos.
Authors like Lualhati Bautista and José F. Lacaba used their writing to expose human rights
abuses and inspire opposition to authoritarian rule, contributing to the People Power Revolution
in 1986. Today, Philippine literature continues to address contemporary social issues such as
poverty, gender equality, and political corruption. Writers like Lourd de Veyra and Mia Alvar
engage with the struggles of marginalized communities, using their works to promote social
justice and advocate for human rights. In conclusion, Philippine literature has consistently been
instrumental in driving social movements, serving as both a reflection of the nation’s struggles
and a catalyst for change. Through its powerful narratives, literature continues to inspire
Filipinos to question injustices and work toward a more equitable society.

3. In what ways has globalization impacted the themes, styles, and distribution of
Philippine literature, and how might this continue in the future?

ANSWER: Globalization has deeply impacted Philippine literature, influencing its themes,
styles, and distribution. As the world becomes more interconnected, Filipino writers are
embracing new opportunities while also adapting to global cultural trends. Globalization has
encouraged Filipino authors to explore broader themes like migration, diaspora, and global
capitalism, in addition to traditional topics such as identity and socio-political struggles. The
experiences of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and the diaspora have become central in
works by authors like Mia Alvar (In the Country) and F. Sionil José, who explore displacement
and the complexities of living between two worlds. Additionally, global issues like climate
change and economic inequality are becoming more prominent in contemporary Filipino
literature. Globalization has led to a fusion of traditional Filipino literary forms with Western
influences, creating a hybrid literary culture. Writers are blending local storytelling traditions
with global genres such as postmodernism, magic realism, and graphic novels. Code-switching
between Filipino, English, and local dialects reflects the multicultural reality of modern Filipino
life. Authors like Miguel Syjuco (Ilustrado) demonstrate this fusion, using diverse styles to reach
both local and international audiences. The rise of digital platforms has allowed Filipino writers
to reach global audiences more easily. E-books, blogs, and social media have amplified their
voices, making it possible for Filipino authors to connect directly with readers worldwide.
Writers like Lualhati Bautista and Jessica Hagedorn have gained recognition beyond the
Philippines, further solidifying the global interest in Filipino stories. With the rise of global
publishing giants, there is greater commercial pressure on Filipino literature. This has led some
authors to write with international markets in mind, focusing on commercially viable genres such
as romance or fantasy. While this increases global appeal, it also risks overshadowing indigenous
literary forms and local dialects. Self-publishing has democratized the publishing process but
also led to market saturation, making it harder for certain works to stand out. Technology,
especially social media, has reshaped how Filipino writers engage with readers. Writers now
have direct access to a global platform to discuss political issues like corruption and human
rights. Online platforms like Wattpad have also fostered a new generation of Filipino writers,
offering immediate feedback and global recognition, further democratizing the literary process.
Looking ahead, Philippine literature is likely to continue embracing global themes while
maintaining its connection to local traditions. The challenge for Filipino authors will be
balancing these influences to ensure their work remains authentic while engaging with global
literary trends. Digital platforms will further facilitate cross-cultural exchanges, leading to a
more hybridized literary tradition. In conclusion, Globalization has broadened the themes and
reach of Philippine literature, enabling Filipino writers to engage with international issues while
staying rooted in their cultural heritage. As the digital world continues to grow, the future of
Philippine literature will be shaped by a dynamic interaction between local and global influences,
ensuring its continued relevance in an interconnected world.

REFERENCES:
https://www.scribd.com/document/536938686/PHILIPPINIE-LITERATURE-IS-THE-
REFLECTION-OF-OUR-HUMANITY#:~:text=and%20secular%20dramas.-,Studying
%20Philippine%20literature%20helps%20trace%20ideas%20handed%20down%20through
%20generations,foreign%20rulers%20like%20the%20Spanish.

https://kyotoreview.org/issue-8-9/literature-and-contemporary-philippine-politics/

https://webapps.ilo.org/public/english/wcsdg/docs/rep2.pdf