Discover the Magic of Pinoy Komiks with Hottropiks.com
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When it comes to the rich tapestry of Filipino culture and storytelling, the medium of komiks – or comic books – holds a special place. For years, these komiks have woven tales of folklore, history, romance, and adventure that have captured the imaginations of generations. And thanks to Hottropiks.com, the largest collection of Filipino Comics in North America, this unique storytelling format is now accessible to a wider audience than ever before.
My journey with Pinoy komiks began in the Philippines during the pandemic. With news of the adaptation of Trese by Netflix, my curiosity was piqued. A quick trip to a local bookstore near Rockwell led me to 'Trese Vol 1: Murder on Balete Drive'. To my surprise, this gem was tucked away with children’s books, away from other graphic novels and mangas.
Reading it was an experience in itself. The narrative transported me to a magical version of Manila - a place I knew well but presented with an enchantingly different history. My fascination grew, and soon, I devoured every volume of Trese I could find.
My thirst for Pinoy komiks led me to Penlab online, a treasure trove of creator-owned and published comics. It introduced me to diverse worlds beyond Trese. My search didn’t end there, though. I stumbled upon Komiket and Secret HQ, which I soon visited in the iconic brutalist building, Atrium Makati.
It was at Komiket where I met Paolo Herras. He opened the doors to titles like 'Mythology Class' by Arnold Arre and 'Elmer' by Gerry Alanguilan. Inspired, I decided to contribute to this vibrant community by starting 'AmBoys' with Sigmund Torre and Keith Arao. As we worked the Komiket booths and attended MIBF, I connected with the heart of the komiks community.
After returning to the states, I realized the gaping absence of these treasured titles. It seemed nearly impossible to acquire them. That realization was the spark behind Hottropiks.com. We made it our mission to bridge this gap, bringing titles directly from Asian creators to America. Our goal is to share these narratives with our diaspora and ensure that the magic of Pinoy komiks is felt far and wide.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Pinoy komiks or a newcomer looking to dive into a new world of storytelling, Hottropiks.com is your one-stop destination. Explore, relish, and celebrate the rich narratives that Filipino komik creators have to offer. Let's cherish these stories and spread the magic together.
- Angelo