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With comic series ‘Anitu,’ Filipino folklore fans stay winning

If it ain’t obvious already, we can’t get enough of Philippine folklore. So, best believe we’ll help ourselves with the latest offering: the second issue of comic book series “Anitu.”

After a series of pandemic-related pushbacks, issue number two of the mythology-based series finally dropped last May. Titled “Pagbukadkad ng Sampaga,” the “Anitu” sequel picks up where the story left off, set in the mythic “land of Kampampangans.” Peace has reigned in the territory for eons, but the coexistence of humans, nature and spirits is soon threatened when a group of conquerors attempts to usurp the land.

Created by filmmaker Jason Paul Laxamana and illustrated by Ruel Enoya, “Pagbukadkad ng Sampaga” puts babaylan-in-training and title character Sampaga in the center stage, just as her mentor Apung Binyatu gets lured into the conquistadores’ new religion. She’s suddenly placed into a tight spot, considering that their religion has a vendetta for womenkind. This leaves her with a tough choice between being burned alive, or abandoning her independence and principles true to the babaylan.

Plus, to hype you up even further, P-Pop group Alamat has an OST to accompany your “Anitu” readthrough with the comics’ theme song “Sandigan.” 

“Anitu: Pagbukadkad ng Sampaga” is currently available at online stores and is all yours to cop at P199. But if you’re on the lookout for more to fill your Philippine mythology void, check out these locally-made games that have all your lola’s scary stories.

Read more:
Don’t sleep on the ‘Tabi Po’ series based on Mervin Malonzo’s comics
For your consideration: 5 TV shows based on Philippine mythology
QUIZ: Which Philippine mythical monster is your actual soulmate?

Still from “Anitu” animated trailer by WhiteFang Animation Studio

Katrina Maisie Cabral: