Asia in Comics 2004 - The World of Comics by Asian Women

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NOTE: The translations were typed as they appeared in the program, though the English is awkward at times. Asia In Comics 2004 - Comics by Asian Women February 21, 2004 (Sat.) 14:00-17:00 February 22, 2004 (Sun.) 14:00-17:00 The Japan Foundation Forum Organized by The Japan Foundation Asia Center [page 10] (Japanese-language version of presentation) [page 11] Session 1/Presentation No. 3 The Present Condition of Female Comics in the Philippines by Terry C. Bagalso Born in 1959. Graduated from Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Entered Magellan Publishing Co., Inc. in 1981. After working as editing staff of aforementioned company, entered Atlas Publishing Co., Inc. to edit comics in 1995. Editor in Chief of comics and pocketbooks since 1998. Publishing comic magazines is more than just a lucrative business. It goes beyond merely surviving stiff competition of making sure the publication hits it big on the stands. Indeed, there's more to it than fame or big bucks. It's more about social responsibility. Every word written and every single illustration manifested in comics when published, become potent tools to impart knowledge, inspire action, elicit views, share joy and hope, create a vision and even realize dreams. Filipinos (especially women) have laughed, cried, loved, hoped, dreamed and have been better individuals with comics. Filipino writers and illustrators have a powerful sense and insight into what people want to read. And you can notice it with our comics. Most of our stories are based on love, drama, fantasy and comedy. Compared to other reading materials available in the market today, comics are the most affordable form of entertainment, the cheapest source of information and knowledge. Comics are the most effective channel of communication. Politicians, educators and religious organization prefer comics as their way of reaching and informing people. In the Philippines, 80% of comic readers are women: wives, career women, and single girls. Women who stay at home, are at workplace, or are in school. For them, comics fulfill women's need to gain knowledge, which they can impart to their peers, husbands, children, etc. Because comics also contain items which give practical tips and aids to males in their daily lives. Articles on homecraft, tips on health and cleanliness, advice, pen pal corners and some other human interest stories. Atlas Publishing Co., Inc. made history when it pioneered and popularized comics in the early 50s. Atlas comics such Pilipino, Tagalog, Espesyal, Hiwaga, Love Story, Horoscope, Happy and many others have been woven into the Filipino culture so much that almost five decades later, they remain the weekly reading fare among millions of women, men and children hanging on to every story of love, mystery, inspiration and humor. The circulation of comics has greater number in the provinces. Majority of Filipinos in the provinces belong to the lower and middle class who enjoy and seek pleasure from comics. These are people who can't afford to buy computers, VCD videoke and other high tech electronics. It was during the 70s and 80s when we can consider the highest peak of the comics industry in the Philippines. Many new publications came out. More than hundred titles come out in a week that really affects the quality of comics. This factor can be considered one of the reasons why comics suffered. However, with the birth of high technology, comics have slowly declined in popularity. Nowadays, comics are done using computers with illustrations being enhanced or generated. Some comics in the Philippines are being patterned in Japan and US style of illustrations and colors. Manga and Western style comics have a big influence on our comics. Which is why, comics here are divided into two markets. One for the young generations and one for the traditional readers. The new and modern kind of comics is available in national Bookstores, Fil-bars, Comics Quest, Book Sale and other outlets in malls. These comics are illustrated and colored on computer and printed on quality and coated paper. While the traditional comics we considered are available in newsstands, stores, and also National Bookstores. The target market is the "masa" or the common people. These traditional comics are cheaper in price and quality of paper. But despite their decline, comics remain part of the Filipino culture that is hard to take away. And Atlas is doing everything to save the industry. We have plenty of good writers who give pride to the country. Filipino artists can be considered first class for their fine and beautiful work of art. Many of our great illustrators are now working abroad getting good pay. Some do their works here using the Internet in transmitting and receiving infos, instructions and illustrations. To go with the times, Atlas has come out with works comparable to foreign counterparts in terms of amazing stories, new style of illustrations using the state of the art technology. We have done several comics with different kinds of approach, such as CHARM, ATX, K2K, etc. Indeed, comics are and will always be in the hearts, minds, and culture of every Filipino.

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