About Us

Welcome to Hot Tropiks
The leading distributor of Filipino komiks and children’s lit in the USA. We are dedicated to promoting Filipino culture through books.

Our Story
Founded by Angelo Mendez and his wife, Nadine, whose journey with Filipino comics (Pinoy komiks) began in the Philippines during the pandemic, Hot Tropiks was inspired by their discovery of local gems like Trese and other unique titles. Their fascination led them to explore comic hubs like Komiket and connect with creators, sparking their mission to share these stories internationally. Today, Hot Tropiks bridges the gap between Asian creators and American readers, inviting fans and newcomers alike to explore the rich storytelling of Filipino komiks.

Mission + Vision
Mission
Promote Filipino Culture: We are dedicated to showcasing the culture and stories of the Philippines through our carefully curated products.
Connect Communities: We aim to connect Filipino creatives with global audiences, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.
Customer Satisfaction: We are committed to ensuring every customer's experience is exceptional, from the moment they browse our store to the delivery of their cherished items.
Vision
To be the premier global distributor of independent Filipino media, bringing the best Filipino stories, voices, and culture to audiences worldwide, fostering a deep appreciation for Filipino heritage and creative talent.
Let customers speak for us
from 50 reviewsGood stuff all around. Needs more sho tho
![Knights of the Wandering Castle Vol. 1: A Blanc Page - Written and Illustrated by Luny [Paperback, English]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0718/8689/7427/files/Screenshot2024-06-18at3.56.09PM_70x70.png?v=1718751413)
Love it! My God sons ask me to read it to them non-stop!
![The Forlorn Rice Cooker by Nina Daza Puyat, Oliver Kryzz Bundoc - [English/Softbound]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0718/8689/7427/files/54_79dade2c-6e95-45a9-b861-ec856720a6f5_70x70.webp?v=1739818832)
Really appreciate the fast delivery, can't wait to read. 🤙
![Trese Vol 1: Murder on Balete Drive by Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo [English, Paperback, Black-and-White Illustrations]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0718/8689/7427/files/81fJ660OHZL._SL1500_70x70.jpg?v=1734500485)
I've recently gotten into Trese and all I can say is it was great! The book arrived speedily and the art was breathtaking!

Gorgeous artwork and art deco style paired with a really sweet story about family and fame, all with a really unique, magical realist premise.
![TWINKLE, TWINKLE by Tori Tadiar [English, Softbound]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0718/8689/7427/files/Screenshot2023-08-13at6.46.14PM_70x70.png?v=1691936525)
So cool!! Arrived in perfect condition!
![El Filibusterismo Comics By: Jose Rizal Adapted by: Grace R. Miranda [English, Comic Book]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0718/8689/7427/files/9BE15259-B465-4B04-B75E-2E6800D979AA_Img100_70x70.jpg?v=1726235580)
Beautiful book by Jean, could have used less plastic in the packaging though
![Stretch Marks: A Psychologic Autobiography by Jean Munson [English, Softbound]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0718/8689/7427/files/62762508_70x70.jpg?v=1725665499)
Hot Tropiks is my new go-to for Filipino books! Fast shipping within the US, amazing selection of titles and variety in age groups. If only you guys shipped to Canada 💔
![GIGIL: A Sapphic Anthology [English, Paperback]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0718/8689/7427/files/Screenshot_2024-11-04_at_9.03.03_AM_70x70.png?v=1730739799)
Our baby is about to start solids and this is the perfect board book to introduce Tagalog adjectives for flavor to her! The illustrations are so cute!

It’s a short book but the story has you wanting to keep reading. The characters are well written and the story is easy to follow. Can’t wait for more to come out.

We love this bag! The fabric is sturdy, the design is clean, and it can hold more than 15 picture books!

Fantastic book! A must read. If you love comics and Filipino literature, this belongs in your bookshelf.

The first two and the very last story didn't really do anything for me, but I liked everything else. My favorites were Cosplaya' Hata' and Present. One is about a cosplayer who runs into his former bully, and the other is about two coworkers talking and reminiscing while outside a Christmas party. It's really great to see these moments in the characters' lives, and to see what the creators were able to accomplish within so few pages.

This is the first book I read in Tagalog! I had to read it out loud to myself to understand, but I definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to read Tagalog but only understands it in conversation. I love the art and found the story super fun. I highly recommend, and I hope the store gets more Super Proxies soon! Salamat for including Filipino language komiks!
![Super Proxies vol. 1 by Sampay SDCC Edition [Digest Comic, Filipino]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0718/8689/7427/files/Screenshot2024-07-06at11.58.50AM_70x70.png?v=1721609941)
I'm so happy to have Luny's work in a physical book. The book is super high quality!
![Knights of the Wandering Castle Vol. 1: A Blanc Page - Written and Illustrated by Luny [Paperback, English]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0718/8689/7427/files/Screenshot2024-06-18at3.56.09PM_70x70.png?v=1718751413)
Press
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Esquire Magazine
Read MoreThese Filipino Comic Books Are Heading to San Diego Comic-Con 2024
The annual San Diego Comic-Con is the pinnacle of pop culture conventions, drawing fans from around the globe....
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spot.ph
Read More...Hot Tropiks Brings Filipino Books to San Diego Comic-Con
Here's what went down at Hot Tropik's booth in the massive convention.
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Bigay Puso
Read MoreCOMMUNITY: A Chat with Angelo Mendez
I'm focused on learning e-commerce and spreading Filipino komiks and children's literature to the world through Hot Tropiks...