Lipad, Darna! 75: From Panels to Legacy

April 17, 2025

DARNA!!!
The name alone stirs something deep in the Filipino soul. For 75 years, Darna has been more than a superhero—she’s a cultural icon. A symbol of justice, strength, and hope.

This May, we celebrate her legendary journey.

“From Panels to Legacy: Lipad, Darna! 75” is a special exhibit honoring the Philippines’ most iconic superhero. Held at the beautiful Casa San Pablo and launching during the Seven Lakes Komiks Festival, this tribute invites fans old and new to revisit Darna’s powerful story—from her comic book beginnings to her place in our hearts today.

💫 Exhibit Details:

Opening Date: May 17, 2025
Location: Casa San Pablo, San Pablo City, Laguna
In partnership with: Seven Lakes Komiks Festival

The Origins of a Legend

Darna was created by komiks legend Mars Ravelo and first illustrated by Nestor Redondo in 1950. But her earliest version, Varga, actually appeared in 1947. After legal issues with her first publisher, Ravelo reimagined the character as Darna—stronger, bolder, and more grounded in Filipino identity.

Her story begins with Narda, a humble barrio girl who finds a magical stone. When she swallows it and shouts “DARNA!”, she transforms into a warrior of justice. That transformation—instant, powerful, and righteous—resonated with Filipinos who were rebuilding their lives after World War II.

Darna wasn’t just fantasy—she was hope, wrapped in red and gold.

Why Darna Matters

What sets Darna apart isn’t just her powers, but what she stands for.

In a male-dominated superhero world, Darna broke barriers as a woman who fought monsters, corruption, and injustice without losing her compassion. Her villains were often symbolic of larger social issues—from colonial trauma to environmental destruction to class inequality.

She represented moral courage. She stood for the small and the silenced. She reminded us that power means protecting others.

That’s why Darna endures. Because she reflects the best of what we hope to be.

From Page to Screen

After her debut in Pilipino Komiks #77, Darna quickly became a household name. In 1951, she leapt from page to screen with actress Rosa del Rosario playing the first live-action Darna.

Since then, many beloved actresses have taken on the role—including Vilma Santos, Nanette Medved, Anjanette Abayari, Angel Locsin, Marian Rivera, and most recently, Jane de Leon in the 2022 television reboot.

Each generation brought its own Darna—evolving with the times but always rooted in the same ideals.

Darna also became a muse for artists, cosplayers, musicians, and designers. She’s appeared in stage plays, fashion shows, academic papers, protest art, and political cartoons. Her influence goes beyond entertainment—she’s a national symbol.

What to Expect at the Exhibit

“Lipad, Darna! 75” is a deep dive into her legacy. Visitors can explore:

Rare original artwork from Darna’s early komiks
Film memorabilia and photos from her many on-screen portrayals
A tribute to Mars Ravelo’s creative genius
Reflections from fans and creators influenced by Darna
A space for new artists to share how Darna inspires them today

And since this launches during the Seven Lakes Komiks Festival, expect a full day of storytelling, creativity, and cultural pride—all in one place.

Darna’s Flight Continues

Why celebrate her now?

Because 75 years later, the world still needs heroes like Darna. Not just to fight monsters—but to remind us that courage can come from anywhere. From small towns. From quiet people. From the Nardas of the world.

Darna is more than nostalgia. She’s a living legacy. A symbol that continues to evolve and inspire.