Gio Paredes Blog

Now available in 58 Branches Nationwide

2012-02-14T23:46:00.001-08:00

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Prince of all, Master of none

2012-02-13T22:34:00.001-08:00

There are a few people now a days sends me a message asking me on what advice that I could give them. Because they say that they are an aspiring comics artist. While there are so many things that I could tell them, I just give them very simple and shot reply. I simply says that "Never give up on you dreams". I say that wholeheartedly because the moment you give up on your dreams, is the moment you fail. I also say that to them ("Never give up on you dreams"), because it is actually a TEST for them. A test on how really determine they are on to become a comic book creator or artist. Because I see so many new indie comics comes and then goes, never to be heard from them again. They probably have a misconception that if they become a comic book artist, they will be famous, have lots of money and girls flocking towards them. And nothing could be farther from the truth. I'm not famous, I'm broke and no girls flocking towards me in my many experience of attending comics event. Many new artist failed to continue for a second issue maybe because they are discouraged by the small number of their comics sold during events. They have probably think that with all their many months of hard work, the return is simply not that worth it. That is one of the hard facts that you must accept when you are just starting out. People still do not know you or your comics, so it is very much probable that your comics will not do well (initially).

I know this person that could be called a "Prince of all, but master of none". Many years ago when I was still on the early months of publishing my comics. This person politely asked me if he could draw a cover for the next issue of Kalayaan comics. He said that he wanted to help me and he is an aspiring comics that wanted to make his own comics. I turned him down and said, "Instead of you helping me, I think that it will be better if you devote your time on making your own comics. And by the way, I already have created many covers way ahead of the interior pages of my comics". To make the long story short, this guy did not finished his comics but instead just doodled around pin-up here and there. About a year later I saw him on a event that I attended. And I was actually surprised when I talked to him. He said that he is completely out of comics making and now busy with his new hobby, which is photography. And I was there in front of him, scratching my head and looking at his very expensive DSLR camera hanging around his neck. I was saying to my self..."okay, I guess this guy is not really serious on making comics". And what is more surprising, after not hearing from him for about 4 to 5 years or so, he is back as an exhibitor of a comics event. Yup.. an exhibitor in an indie comics. After 5 years or so, he finished his comics and already selling it. He even told me that he wanted my character to crossover to his comics. I was just shaking my head, and saying to my self that this guy simply could not make up his mind. I will not be surprise if I will not be seeing or hearing from him again for the next few years.

Many people just could not make up their mind on what they want to do. They want to be a doctor one minute and the next minute they want to be a Lawyer. For those people that really wants to go into the comics biz should really think very hard. If this is what they really want to do in life. If it's not, it's perfectly okay. Contemplate on your self, because it is not really that glamorous. The road is long and hard, and there will be plenty of disappointments along the way, It is not for every body. But if you really really like it, you will stay for good no matter what.

51 Branches na po

2012-02-10T00:03:00.001-08:00

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2nd Baguio Comicon

2012-02-09T23:33:00.000-08:00

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I'm still not yet 100% sure if I could make it this time. I really want to come, but lately I had a little financial problem because my resources had been depleated due to the printing cost of my graphic novel. :-(

But hopefully I will get some few returns on this coming months. :-)

Kalayaan #3 ready for download

2012-02-07T06:16:00.000-08:00

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Kalayaan #3 (English version) is up at Flipreads website and ready for download. It only P60 or around $1.41 per download.

Kalayaan #3 click here -> http://www.flipreads.com/book/kalayaan-3/

Kalayaan #2 click here -> http://www.flipreads.com/book/kalayaan-2/

Kalayaan #1 click here -> http://www.flipreads.com/book/kalayaan-1/

37 Branches na po

2012-02-04T07:20:00.000-08:00

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I will be concentrating on my deliveries on the provinces for this coming week. The reason is convenience. I could distribute more branches this way because there are only 2 main dropping point of NBS. It is much easier for me this way, because those dropping point are the one who is going to distribute my book to the provinces. Just by making a single drop in NBS Superbranch in Cubao, I will just give them around 60+ copies for 12 branches. And I could finish those transaction around 5 to 10 minutes or so. That is way more easier for me to go around 12 branches in Metro Manila which I dought that I could finish it in one day.

ALIPIN fan art

2012-02-03T06:22:00.000-08:00

ALIPIN fan art by J.A.Gatdula

Alipin first appeared in issue #7. He was extracted from the evil emotions of Kalayaan. This was done by Salamangkero, a being that came from a different dimension looking for the strongest hero in this universe to make him his personal slave, thus Alipin was created.

27 Branches na po

2012-02-01T09:05:00.000-08:00

I just came home from National Book Store Warehouse in Pasig. I just delivered copies of Kalayaan Vol.1 for the provinces. It might take a week or two before it reaches it's destination, but hope fully it will get there. At long last, I finally have a chance to distribute my work on a national level.

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So as of this writing, there are already 27 branches that will distributing Kalayaan Vol. 1: A New Pinoy Superhero. Cheers :-)

Please ask the customer service

2012-01-31T05:54:00.000-08:00

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This picture was taken at National Book Store - SM Megamall branch. Just below the TRESE books and besides the Zsazsa Zaturnnah is the Kalayaan Vol.1: A New Pinoy Superhero. The Filipino Heroes League of Paolo Fabregas and Elmer of Gerry Alanguilan is located on the far left of this book section. I really wish that the NBS staff could put all the Filipino Graphic novels in one place. Or at lease they know that there exist such a category.

Please ask the customer service desk for assistance for locating our books. Because most of the time, when I came back to an NBS branch that I recently delivered a copy, I could still not locate it. So I was forced to ask the lady on the customer service. And if there are no more stocks on that branch, it is good that they know about it because they are the one who handles the inventory of the books. They are the one who ask or orders for a new stock at the main office.

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But it is not that all bad news. Some branches like NBS - SM Fairview branch (picture above) had put Kalayaan Vol. 1 on the 'New Title' table. I also went to NBS - Robinsons Galleria and I saw the same thing. It was staratigically put on the center of the table of the newly released titles. When I saw that on Robinson, I could not helped it that it brought a smile on my face. :-)

14 Branches na po

2012-01-28T01:31:00.001-08:00

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K1 - Page 2 colored

2012-01-27T20:45:00.000-08:00

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I just got this newly colored page from my inbox last night. Pretty nice. :-)

Kalayaan #1 - Page 2
English Version
Pencil and Inks by : Gio Paredes
Colors by : Bryan Magnaye

Kalayaan Vol. 1 at NBS

2012-01-20T08:16:00.000-08:00

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At long last, Kalayaan Vol.1: A New Pinoy Superhero is now available at National Book Stores. I just delivered to the most nearest and most often NBS branches that I have been going. More branches will be added to the list soon.

Superhero comics are for Female too

2012-01-19T01:01:00.000-08:00

I just received this message/chat on Facebook from a reader of Kalayaan comics and it just brought a smile on my face. This kind of things just made my day. It proves that my Superhero comics are not only for boys, it can be for female too. :-)

"Tinawag ako ni misis sa kwarto.. pag pasok ko, nagbabasa ng kalayaan 9.. tas ask nya, asan daw ang 10.. sabi ko, wala pa ako dahil 1-9 lang ang meron ako..

aba hinampas ba naman ako ng komiks at sinabihang mag-order ng 10 hanggang 12 hahaha...

in short, nagustuhan nya. interested sya malaman kung ano nangyari kina john at maricar

next sweldo, gio ha?. order ako ulit.. miss ko na magbabasa."

NBS Delivery

2012-01-18T07:20:00.000-08:00

I just got the Purchase Order from National Book Store main office. I will start delivering Kalayaan Vol.1 copies to their branches tomorrow.

Fan picture by Nikko

2012-01-16T05:51:00.000-08:00

Fan picture by Nikko Valenzuela. Thanks man. :-)

ComicX Hub Poster

2012-01-09T09:17:00.000-08:00

Here is a ComicX Hub poster for the signing event. This poster is created by Ambush creator Andrew Villar.

Signing at ComicX Hub

2012-01-06T20:49:00.000-08:00

We will be having a book signing at ComicX Hub this coming January 14 (Saturday) from 10 AM to 6 PM. Together with me are indie comic artists John Felix Zamar, Andrew Villar and Rob Cham. Plus the comic book superstar Leinil Francis Yu will be there to sign also. This will be fun.

ComicX Hub address : 3f Bloomingdale Plaza Shaw Blvd Pasig City (near kapitolyo).

The Powerhouse Boys

2012-01-05T23:29:00.001-08:00

Pag-Asa, Kalayaan and Servant

The Powerhouse Boys

Art by : Gener Pedrina

K1 - Page 1 Colored

2012-01-03T21:50:00.000-08:00

This is the first page of the first issue of Kalayaan comics. I have always wanted to see my pages in full color. But the sad this is, I really suck in coloring :-(. But the good news is, there are people out there who is over talented when it comes to coloring comic book pages. And I might say that I have been very very lucky to have Bryan Magnaye to color my comic page. I was totally blown away on how he color this particular page. Thanks Bryan.

A new challenge

2012-01-02T20:14:00.000-08:00

I just finished listening to a podcast where they had a portion there where they read the likes and dislikes in comics that came from other people. One letter that been read says that "Ayoko ng comics na may Sun na Logo." Purkit may sun na logo ayaw mo na?

Most of the people are like that. Sad to say that "They Judge a comic book by it's cover." And saying that without knowing what is my comics is all about. I actually take that as a challenge to make more issues out there and prove them wrong. I guess that is why my issue #1 still sells. People are getting curious on what the heck on what this Flag Dude guy is all about. :-)

Kalayaan fan art by Michael

2011-12-29T04:49:00.000-08:00

Kalayaan fan art by Michael Layug

Kingdom Come Audio Book

2011-12-27T19:43:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed watching/listening to this.

iFanboy 235 - Robert Kirkman

2011-12-26T08:30:00.001-08:00

It's always a blast to watch Robert Kirkman on an interview. :-)

Kalayaan Fan art by Lowe Christian G. Beltran

2011-12-25T09:58:00.001-08:00

Kalayaan Fan art by Lowe Christian G. Beltran

To the fullest

2011-12-20T18:26:00.000-08:00

What will you do today if you know that you are going to DIE tomorrow?

Don't wait until everything is just right. It will never be perfect. There will always be challenges, obstacles and less than perfect conditions.

I rather take risk today, rather than to wake up one day only to regret that I did not make them.

People are saying "I can't do that. I can't afford that". But there is a better alternative to that, instead of saying "I can't do that", I think it will be much better if you say "HOW CAN I DO THAT?".

You can go out there in the world and do what you always want to do. There is no one stopping you except for yourself. Self doubt will not matter anymore if you think that we all have a finite time to live. So you might as well live your life to the fullest.

Batman reads Kalayaan Vol.1

2011-12-19T01:55:00.000-08:00

Batman already got his copy of Kalayaan Vol.1 : A New Pinoy Superhero, and so should you. Available at Comics Odyssey Robinsons Galleria and ComicsX Hub.

Kalayaan comics at ComicX Hub

2011-12-13T17:55:00.000-08:00

Kalayaan comics can now be bought online at Comicx Hub. And they will ship it to your doorstep for free anywhere with in the Philippines. CLICK HERE.

Kalayaan comics on GMA News TV

2011-12-12T06:32:00.000-08:00

The Good news with Vicky Morales aired Dec.11,2011. The topic is about Locally created Graphic Novel here in the Philippines. With me are Paolo C. Fabregas (Filipino Heroes League) and Budjette Tan (Trese). I'm so happy with the outcome of this video, Kalayaan Comics finally was showcased on TV.

Thank you Sputnik

2011-12-11T21:42:00.000-08:00

Thank you very much Chez of Sputnik for making our signing a complete success. I have sold plenty of Kalayaan Vol.1 and I just had a good time being with the guys there.

Patrict Rawwrr Enrique wanted a sketch on his copy of Kalayaan Vol.1. The very first buyer at the time. :-)

Omeng Estanislao also went to the event together with his girlfriend and bought a copy.

Thanks to Macoy for buying Kalayaan Vol.1. Kailan lalabas ang Shool Run #5 hehehe more pressure. :-)

With Michael David. Had a little accident on his left hand during the event. I hope that it gets better, and thanks for the support on my book man.

With Adam David, saluting after buying my book.

Jammed Packed.

With the WIP (Work In Progress) guys. Hub Pacheco and Teddy Pavon.

Teddy Pavon, Hub Pacheco, Chez Santander,Me and Macoy.

Thank you very much Chez and Sputnik for the memorable time. I hope we could do this again in the future. I had a lot of fun. :-)

Sputnik signing today

2011-12-10T18:47:00.000-08:00

Today is the Sptunik signing with Me,Macoy,Teddy Pavon and Hub Pacheco. I will be there 8PM up to 11PM. Please do come if you are with in the cubao area. CLICK HERE to view a map to get there.

I will be bringing along Kalayaan Vol.1. And I will be giving away Free Kalayaan #0 for every purchase of Volume 1.

My GMA News TV Interview

2011-12-09T00:16:00.000-08:00

Just finished an interview with GMA News TV. A segment on a show "Good News with Vicky Morales". It's about the good news that graphic novels are now flourishing in the country. Together with me that had been interviewed separately is Budjette Tan (Trese) and Paolo Fabregas (Filipino Heroes League). It will be shown this coming Sunday - Dec. 11,2011 at 8PM.

Minutes before the interview.

Showing the pages of my comics to the camera while I was talking and answering questions to the segment producer Maxie which I was very much surprised to know that she lives only on North Olympus village which is very near from our subdivision.

They asked me to do an on the spot sketches for them which I am very much happy to do. :-)

About at the end of the interview, they transformed our living room into an instant studio which they took a beautiful black back draft shot at all of my comics, the 3 graphic novel of Trese, FHL and my Kalayaan Vol.1. I was also very happy that they took interest on the Kalayaan action figure created by Randy Albert.

I really hope that this part will be shown on TV. I know that Randy Albert (the one who made the action figure) will be very happy. :-)

These are the 3 books that will be featured in "The Good News with Vicky Morales". The camera crew did a back draft of these but I forgot to take pictures with my own digital cam. So I just took this picture with out the black back draft.

Thanks to Maxie (Segment Producer), Alvin (Cameraman) and Richard (Assistant Cameraman) for everything. Sa uulitin po sana guys. :-)

Kalayaan 1 and 2 Digital Download

2011-12-08T20:25:00.000-08:00

Kalayaan #1 and #2 (English version) can now be downloaded through Flipreads dot com for only $1.3 (P60 in the Philippines).

For Kalayaan #1 click here -> http://www.flipreads.com/book/kalayaan-1/

and for Kalayaan #2 click here -> http://www.flipreads.com/book/kalayaan-2/

Issue #3 to #12 will be uploaded soon.

And while we are on the subject of digital publication. Please watch this video of Anthony de Luna, CEO of Flipside Digital Content. He guested in ANC’s Future Perfect last September 7, 2011. The topic of the show was on Digital Press.

Kalayaan Vol.1 : A New Pinoy Superhero

2011-12-07T08:20:00.000-08:00

Kalayaan Vol.1 : A New Pinoy Superhero is now available at Comics Odyssey in Robinsons Galleria in ortigas. I will also deliver a few copies to Comicsx Hub this coming Thursday in shaw. Comicx Hub is a new store in Metro Manila, and what's nice about this store is that it is both a physical store and an online store where you could just buy your favorite comics online and it will be delivered to your doorstep. And their delivery service is nationwide, and with a certain minimum amount of purchase they will deliver it to you for FREE. Now that is very nice.

And on this coming December 10,2011 (Saturday), I will also bring along copies to Sputnik Cubao and try to sell some copies there to the people that might drop by at our signing. I will be joining Macoy (School Run) , Hub Pacheco and Teddy Pavon (Work in Progress). If you do not know how to get there CLICK HERE to view a map going there.

The fan art that I have collected through out the years.

Gilbert Monsanto by the way did an honest and a very inspiring foreword for this book. I would also like to than Rain Beredo for coloring the cover. And Jon Zamar for helping me step by step on printing this book. Thanks to all of you guys. :-)

Radio Guesting at Stanley Chi Suplado Show

2011-12-06T20:31:00.000-08:00

Last night I went home very very late because I had a radio show guesting with Mr. Suplado himself, Stanley Chi. I was there with the other Bayan Knights Aaron (Gwapoman),Wan (Ang Morion) and Mike (Boy Ipis). Also there was Ruben Nacion, Lawrence (ComicX Hub) and the Pinoy Superman cosplayer Heubert Chavez.

Sputnik Comic Book Signing

2011-12-05T03:30:00.001-08:00

San Pablo Comics Festival

2011-12-03T20:01:00.001-08:00

I just recently attended the San Pablo Comics Festival in Laguna, and it was a lot of fun. I'm between 2 Filipino comic book Superstar. On the left (with the DSLR camera) is Carlo Pagulayan (Planet Hulk,Fantastic 4). And on the right is Gerry Alanguilan (inker Superior,Superman birthright).

I just got the copies of Kalayaan Vol.1 from Jon Zamar straight from the printing press. I was so happy with printed copy that it turned out so beautiful.

Thank you very much to Budjette Tan (creator of Trese) for Buying a copy of Kalayaan Vol.1.

I finally got my picture taken with the legendary catoonist Pol Medina Jr. The creator of Pugad Baboy.

With the cartoonist Freely Abrigo. The creator of Kulas and Kapitan Tog : ang superhero na laging na-uuntog.

With Randy Valiente doing only P50 per head sketches. And those were not really sketches in my eyes. Those were a real life portraits. People at San Pablo were very very lucky to get such a bargain. I was really impressed with the speed and quality of output art.

On the bus with the very tired Gener Pedrina (Sandugoan) going home.

Kalayaan #1 can now be downloaded

2011-11-28T20:50:00.000-08:00

Kalayaan comics can now be downloaded at www.flipreads.com

I just translated Kalayaan #1 to English and it can now be downloaded at this Link -> http://www.flipreads.com/book/kalayaan-1/

I have retained the original price of P60. That is roughly only around $1.3 (based on the current conversion of $1 equals to P43.77)

Issue #2 to #12 will be following soon.

Thank you very much.

-Gio

It's almost done

2011-11-27T06:48:00.000-08:00

We (me and Jon Zamar) are almost done with the layout of the Kalayaan Vol.1 and we already have received the quotation from the printing press. There is a probability that this book will be ready for the coming San Pablo Comics Fest this Saturday (Dec.3,2011).

I really just would like to give Jon Zamar a Big thanks on assisting me with this. It would really be very very difficult for me doing this without him. Thanks man.

The book will contain Kalayaan #1 to #4, a foreword by Gilbert Monsanto, creative process, Character profile and around 43 fan art. Here are a sample pages.

My own analysis

2011-11-26T01:36:00.000-08:00

After reading Macoy Analysis. I felt that I also must share my sales experience to other indies. Unlike him, my highest selling issue has always been (and I mean ALWAYS) the first issue an the latest issue. And on the last Komikon event, my latest issue is #12 and #0. So I was not surprised if I got this kind of sales chart.

K0 - ************

K1 - ************

K2 - ****

K3 - **

K4 - *

K5 - *

K6 - *

K7 - *

K8 - *

K9 - *

K10 - **

K11 - **

K12 - ************

My theory is this. People who buys my latest issue are most probably old existing readers that follows my series (GOD bless you guys). And people who buys my issue #1 are the new readers or existing Komikon event going people that had a second thought on buying my comics in the past. People that does not care on my comics before but I started to grew on them. People that got curious on what the heck is this flag based Superhero guy is all about. They finally gave in... hehehe.

Thinking about your future

2011-11-22T19:10:00.000-08:00

Some of the artist that I know have now a little bit of problems right now since they are getting fewer and fewer art commissions abroad. Maybe it's because of the economic crisis that is happening.

While it is nice to have an income right now doing what you love to do. But for me, as you grow older, you get to think about the future. You will start to think "Can I still draw when I'm 50,60 or even 70 years old?"

We must start to think about getting a passive income. So what is a 'passive income' you might say? In a nutshell, passive income is an income you get weather you work or not. A good example of it are the interest money you get from the bank, rental income (if you have real estate that you rent out to other people), and for artist there is this thing called Royalty.

Royalty are given to a (for example) recording artist each time his album/song are sold. It is a certain percentage that is agreed upon by the artist and the recording company during signing of a contract. For visual artist, it is almost the same thing. Ryan Ottley, the artist of INVINCIBLE (under image comics) does not have any page rate (I can imagine some eye brow are raising now). He does not get paid immediately, no instant gratification you may say (more eye brow). But instead, he gets a percentage from the sales of the comics for as long as it sells. For me that is much much better than any page rate. Just imagine, even when he is already an old guy sitting on his couch 30 to 40 years from now. He will still be getting money from the sales of his comics even if he is doing nothing anymore. And man... the sales of Invincible Trades on bookstores and specialty shops keeps getting higher and higher.

So you only draws it once, and get the benefit of a lifetime. Can you say that to an ordinary art commissions? There was a commercial slogan of Nike... "Just do it". Well in this instance, it would be better if we would say "Just do it ONCE".

I also get motivated each time there is a new Pinoy Superhero TV series or Movie that is being revive from the old komiks that we know. Some of them are Captain Barbel, Darna and Panday just to name a few. I think if he is still alive today, Mr. Mars Ravelo is very much happy knowing that his family is getting the benefit of his hard work. That is one of the reasons I work so hard on my comics. I also want my children to get the benefit of a multi-million peso royalty deal even if I'm already gone.

So for me (and this is only my personal opinion), it is better to be on a part of a creator owned comics, rather than making art commissions. Please do not get me wrong.... there is nothing wrong on doing art commission (I actually did some commissions in the past). Those are a very good source of income and a dream job for other people since you do what you love. All that I am saying is that you should be a little open minded. You should be open for other options, and there are plenty of them out there. Do not relay too much on one income. We must have multiple source of income while we are still young. And just like what I said, getting old (or getting married and having kids) will make you think of the future. Not only your future, but also the future of your family.

Komikon 2011 on Inquirer

2011-11-21T20:36:00.000-08:00

The Komikon was featured in Saturday (Nov. 19,2011) Inquirer newspaper. I just learned about this from a comics buyer during the Komikon event. He has this newspaper as a shopping checklist of comics. So what I did was went outside for a few minutes and bought a copy for my self.

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You can also check out the online version here -> http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/22967/your-komikon-shopping-list. Thanks to Budjette Tan for providing me the link.

Volume 1

2011-11-20T11:22:00.000-08:00

Thank you very much to all that have bought my comics yesterday at Komikon. I apologize to those that were asking about the Kalayaan Volume 1. Hindi po talaga na ka abot eh. But I will work on it right away.

I will just post any updates here.

Thanks again.

Kalayaan on DBZ Universe

2011-11-17T10:31:00.000-08:00

KAAAAAAAMEEEEEEHAAAAAAMEEEEEE HAAAAAAA.

Ever wonder what would Kalayaan would look like on the Dragonball Z Universe?

Now you know. :-)

---

Fan art by J.A.Gatdula

http://originalnameless.deviantart.com/

Ready for Komikon 2011

2011-11-15T21:25:00.000-08:00

I have just finished printing KALAYAAN #12. This issue, together with all the back issues (from #1 to 11) will be available this coming Nov.19 at KOMIKON 2011.

Aside from Kalayaan #12. I will also launch Kalayaan #0 on Komikon. This will contain a 2 page origin, characters profile and pin-ups. This black and white cover will sell for only P10. I am still working on the colored version which will sell at P20.

I apologize to those that are expecting Kalayaan Volume 1 to come out this Komikon. I'm afraid that it will not be available until early next year. As much as I want to release it this November, I just could not. This is due to the lack of funds (as usual). With that said, I just want to re-post about this painting for sale created by Ed Tadeo.

Kalayaan Painting for Sale.

This magnificent piece is done by international artist Edgar Tadeo. This painting is 10.5″w x 14.5″h watercolor paper, Gouache painting. He will be selling this piece at the upcoming Komikon 2011 on November 19 in Bayanihan Center in Pasig (Pioneer Street). The event will start from 10:00am and end at 7:00pm. The price will start at P2,000 to P3,000. If you ask my humble opinion. Getting this kind of quality art from an artist known world wide is very much a bargain. A painting of mountains and a bunch of trees from an unknown artist could already sell for around P5,000 to P10,000. So with only a fraction of that price, you could already get this one of a kind art.

Boss Ed was so kind enough to sell this for the benefit of raising funds for the printing of my comics. As you might know, independent comics creators here in the Philippines rarely profited from the sales of our comics. Most of the time, we are already happy if we even hit the break even line. So we(the indies) really need all the help we could get. That is why I was so happy when I receive a message from him about this. Thank you very much boss Ed. :-)

Book 2

2011-11-13T07:53:00.000-08:00

Bayan Knights - Books of Origin

Book #2 Cover

(Kalayaan, Kabalyero, Gobino and Gabriel Black)

(click image to enlarge)

Kalayaan Profile

2011-11-12T21:03:00.000-08:00

Kalayaan Profile - Books of Origin

(click the image to enlarge)

BK Books of Origins

2011-11-11T21:02:00.000-08:00

Bayan Knights - Books of Origins

K12 - Page 6

2011-11-10T01:00:00.000-08:00

Kalayaan #12 - Page 6

Pencil and Ink by Erwin Ropa

K12 - Page 5

2011-11-09T00:59:00.000-08:00

Kalayaan #12 - Page 5

Pencil and Ink by Erwin Ropa

K12 - Fan Art Section

2011-11-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

Kalayaan #12 - Fan Art Page.

Thank you very much to every one who had send me their work. I apologize that not all of it can be put on issue 12. The space is very limited. But I will do my best to put them on the next issue. Promise. :-)

Andong Agimat Animation

2011-11-07T20:06:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty much inspired by this short animation that Arnold Arre created with in only a short span of two weeks (Imagine that). I was so inspired I might do an Kalayaan animation my self. Wish me luck.

K12 - Page 4

2011-11-06T21:03:00.000-08:00

Kalayaan #12 - Page 4

Pencil and Ink by Erwin Ropa

K12 - Page 3

2011-11-05T20:29:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan #12 - Page 3

Pencil and Ink by Erwin Ropa

K12 - Page 2

2011-11-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan #12 - Page 2

Pencil and Ink by Erwin Ropa

K12 - Page 1

2011-11-03T20:07:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan #12 - Page 1

Kalayaan fan art by Patrict Enrique

2011-11-02T07:03:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan fan art by : Patrict Enrique

Kalayaan and Kapitan Bandila

2011-11-01T06:55:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan and Kapitan Bandila

Art by Jeff Benz

Kalayaan fan art by Gerry Alanguilan

2011-10-31T22:57:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Gerry Alanguilan for this wonderful fan art. :-)

Kalayaan 13

2011-10-27T06:19:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan 13 - to be release (hopefully) on February 2012.

GTMACCON 2011

2011-10-24T00:39:00.001-07:00

So here are the pictures of the recently concluded GTMACCON 2011 held at SM San Lazaro. I might say that seeing my character in real life moving person is such a thrill.

I arrived at SM San Lazaro around 11AM. I was held up by the traffic at Espana Ave. I did not anticipate that there were a huge construction there. It is like they are building a new MTR line there. But even I was delayed, I was still early for the 1PM start of the program.

Doc Carlo Callous cosplayer Veronica Vergara and Cal Duck was my seatmate for a while in front of the entrance. You can also read Dr. Carlo report here. Too bad that we could not sell out comics at the event. It was prohibited by the SM Management (It was a real bummer). But at lease we get to enjoy the event more than the usual because we are not tending to our possible buyers anymore.

Dany Acuna (comics veteran) also went there. And I was lucky enough that he sketched me on the spot (I will post the image here next time). Marami pong salamat mang Dany. :-)

All of the indie creators and was then called to seat in front row seat. While the cosplayers go at the back stage for preparation for their skit.

From L to R. Dr Carlo (Callous), Mike Ignacio (Boy Ipis), Me, Ramil Ibay (Maso) and sleepy guy Ner (Narra).

On the later part of the event, boss Kit Perez (the organizer) joined us at the front row. He just sat down at the floor with Mel Casipi (Mukat, Prince Erik). He is such a humble guy.

I want you to meet David Delano D'Angelo A.K.A. Kalayaan.

Me and Boss Kit Perez. The man behind the entire thing. This would not be possible without him. Thank you very much bossing. :D

Head of security Jhayz, David and Me.

Boy Ipis (Herbert Chavez) VS. Kalayaan.

Kalayaan and Luzviminda (Ira Orduna)

The Bayan Knights invades GTMACCON

From L to R. Maso, Narra, Maso, Luzviminda, Boy Ipis and Kalayaan.

Gio: "Sorry na, pag bubutihan ko na ang Story at Art sa next issue."

Kalayaan and Freely (Free-ly ... creator of Kapitan Tog)

Boss Kit, Kalayaan (David) and Oki-doki guy.

Kalayaan just came out of the pages of Kalayaan comics.

Painting for Sale

2011-10-17T20:18:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan Painting for Sale.

Imagine

2011-10-15T11:06:00.000-07:00

This kind of things makes me feel that I am still a very luck person.

Kalayaan Graphic Novel

2011-10-11T23:37:00.001-07:00

Kalayaan Graphic Novel. Volume 1: A New Pinoy Superhero. Colors by Rain Beredo. I'm such a lucky guy for him to color my artwork. It's truly an honor even just this time for a professional colorist of Marvel to work with my artwork. Special thanks also to John Felix Zamar for making the new Title/Logo of Kalayaan.

Steve Jobs (1955-2011)

2011-10-05T20:56:00.000-07:00

He is one of the person that had really inspired me. Many people call him the modern day Thomas Eddison. It deeply saddened me that he had just passed a way. Even this moment as I type this, I just can't believe that he is dead. I just could not imagine a world without Steve Jobs.

Konting tulog na lang

2011-09-28T20:35:00.001-07:00

Just a few more weeks before this event. I already filled up the entry form for the cosplay competition, with David Delano D'Angelo cosplaying my character KALAYAAN. This event will be covered by Hero TV so I'm very much happy with all the exposure of my character and comics. Hopefully, I could sell many copies of my comics on this event.

I'm also busy LETTERING the pages of Kalayaan #12. I'm doing it in every small free time I could get. I'm also happy with the few pages that I received from Erwin Ropa. Yup, he is back again to help me with the penciling and inking job of the pages. And I tell you, those pages that he just emailed me recently is just amazing. I will be posting some of them soon.

Gender Bender

2011-09-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

(click the image to enlarge)

September 25,2011 - Manila Bulletin. Kalayaan and Trese guest star in Ambush comic strip. An alternate earth where men are women and women are men. Many thanks to Andrew Villar for this.

A comics fan

2011-09-21T21:49:00.000-07:00

I have been self publishing my own comics since June of 2007. And until now, I am still not comfortable to call a comics reader that likes my comic 'my fans'. I'm still looking for a word substitute for it. One particular person that would fall in this category is J.A. Gatula (AKA Originalnameless in D.A.) . I am very happy that person would make a fan art of KALAYAAN, but this guy did not make one, not two but FIVE (5) fan art, and two of them even has colors. I am so happy that more people like him are popping up out of nowhere. :D

Kalayaan VS. Dino (Son of Zuma)

(click the image to enlarge)

Kalayaan VS. Captain Marvel

An angry hero on the Sky.

Floating Pinoy Superhero

A mock-up Kalayaan cover.

In his latest message, he was thanking me because I was giving an attention to a humble fan like him. Little that he know, it is the other way around. Comics creator like me is very much happy every time a comics reader took notice of us. With ...that let me just end this post with a BIG THANK YOU to all people that had been noticing my work. :-)

Vote in Komikon 2011

2011-09-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

Hello guys, I have just been nominated in this years Komikon on the category GRASSROOT AWARD and the BEST COMICS CREATOR. I would really appreciate it if you could vote for me. The instruction for voting on-line CAN BE FOUND HERE. Voting period start today September 15 to October 15,2011. Thank you very much in advance and good luck to all the nominees.

GMP Project: Final

2011-09-14T03:52:00.000-07:00

At long last, I finally finished this.

(click the image to enlarge.)

Andy Whitfield just passed away

2011-09-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

Andy Whitfield (Lead star of the hit TV series Spartacus) just passed away. I am so saddened with this news today. You can read the entire story HERE.

Kalayaan #0 is now ready

2011-09-08T00:27:00.000-07:00

These are the copies of Kalayaan #0 that I have already made. This will be available on October 22 at the GTMACCon event in SM San Lazaro. I will sell this all B/W version for ONLY P10 a copy. Yes, that's right, I'm sticking with the P10 a copy that I have previously said in this blog. So there is no more excuses like "Wala na po akong pera" this time around. I think it is pretty much safe to say that almost everybody (and I mean everybody, including beggars and the most poorest of the poor) has a P10 on their pocket right now. So this comics is very much affordable even to those money conscious people out there.

Aside from this, I am still looking for ways to print a 1,000 copies with a full colored cover with b/w internal pages. The only thing that's been stopping me to do so, is gathering the funds. If thing goes well, once it is printed. I will sell that colored version around P20. Even twice the selling price of the b/w version, it is still very much affordable.

Komikon Awards

2011-09-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

I have just been nominated in two categories of the Komikon Award this year. Best Comic Book Creator and the Grassroot Award category. The level of competition this year is very high. As always, I just keep my expectation very low. Thank you very much to the people who have just nominated me this year (who ever you are).

Best Comic Creator/Creators
- Budjette Tan & Kajo Baldissimo (Trese)
- Point Zero Comics (Kanto Inc, Digmaang Salinlahi, Kubori Kikiam, Pasig, Ibangis,
Cresci Prophecies, Codename: Bathala)
- Mervin Ignacio & Ian Sta. Maria (Skyworld)
- Freely Abrigo (Kapitan Tog)
- Gio Paredes (Kalayaan)
- Gilbert Monsanto (Bayan Knights, Boy Ipis, Tropa, Rambol)
- Ace Vitangcol & Jed Siroy (Love is in the Bag)
- Gener Pedrina (Sanduguan, Bato)
- Apol Sta. Maria (Alamat ng Panget and many other)
- Paolo Fabregas (Filipino Heroes League)

Grassroots Awards
- Macoy Tang (Ang Mascot, School Run, Taal Monster vs Alien Paru Paro, Operasyon)
- RH Quilantang (Goodbye Rubbit, Insomnior, Manila Man, Porkypine Rood)
- The Quarterly Bathroom Companion Comics Compendium (The QBCCC)
by Various
- Tepai Pascual (Maktan 1521, Mark)
- Omeng Estanislao (Love Story, Anak ng Tupang Itim, Hero, Lipad, Ondoy)
- Apol Sta. Maria (Alamat ng Panget)
- Gio Paredes (Kalayaan)
- Kai Castillo (Patintero)
- Mel Casipit (Baboy, MLU, Mukat)
- Erico Rollan Calimlim (Pag-Asa)
- Melvin Calingo (Pasig, Kanto Inc.)
- Joanah Tinio Calingo (Cresci Prophecies, Kanto Inc., Curtains for Hire)
- Silent Sanctum Manga by Various
- WIP Comics by Hub Pacheco & Teddy Pavon
- Kapitan Tog by Freely Abrigo
- Ninja Bear vs Robokat by Jonty Cruz & Javey Villones
- PUNXX by JP Cuison
- Ice Cream Indie by Kristone Bayoneta & Emil Dela Cruz
- Drop Dead Dangerous by Chad Cabrera & Mike Banting
- Wan Mananita (Ang Morion, Unos Mundos)
- Zombies in Manila by Kevin Justin Ang

Click the link below to view the complete list
http://www.facebook.com/groups/89009073692/doc/10150280192348693/

Comics Biz - Money Problem

2011-09-01T23:59:00.000-07:00

I just want to tackle something that has been bugging me for many years now every time I talk to a younger people than me that wants to create their own comics. Most of them have the talents and perseverance to do so. But there is this thing that always holding them back. And that is MONEY. When I ask them why don't they do their own comics. They would simply say "Wala po kasi akong Pera". Pero ang tanong? Sino nga ba ang may pera sa atin? Eh wala rin naman ako. I have a family with 3 kids to support, many bills that must be paid and yet I had produced 11 issues of comics.

While it is simply true that you need money to print your own comics, you really do not need that much. I want to bust this Myth that you need a ton of money to create your indie comics. You do not necessarily have to go all out producing thousands and thousands of copies on your first comics. I highly recommend that you start small. So that if your gonna fail, you will fail small. Not that your hoping that your gonna fail, but just being realistic that your comics is not going to sell. Specially since this is your first comics and people still do not know you or your character. You could simply print only 100 copies, or even only 50 copies of photocopied indie comics.

Let us compute for the cost of your indie comics. By applying on what we have learned on how to create your own indie. With an average 20 pages (24 if you include the covers) of your comics. You could photocopy your own comics with a 6 pages A4 size back to back (without the Pin-up). With a cost of P1.5 per side (mahal na ito ha, pero maganda ang quality[sa UP]), both side will cost you P3. Multiply that with 6 A4 size pages and you will get P18 per comics (which you can sell for P40 or P45).

With P18 cost per comics, you will be spending only P900 for 50 copies. And if you still do not have P900 to spend (which I dought), you can only photo copy 30 copies which will only cost you P540. By spending P900 for your cost of comics, you could turn that into P2,000 for a selling price of P40 each (assuming you sell all of your 50 copies). And with this money, you could fund your next printing again. And you can roll that money as time goes.

Of course, I overly simplified this. Because you will still have other expenses such as transportation, food, electric bill etc... But if you have the Will, there is a Way. Sa tagalog, kung talagang gusto, may paraan, kung ayaw, maraming dahilan.

In this world, we need to be street smart and gutsy sometimes to get what we want in life. Wag sana tayong umasa masyado sa ibang tao to help us. If opportunity does not come our way, we should make our own opportunity. We must learn how to stand on our own two feet.

Let us get back to the topic of money problem in comics biz. Here is the BIG question ... do you have P900 or P540 to spare? Only you can answer that.

Bayan Knights 3rd Year Anniversary

2011-08-31T21:02:00.000-07:00

I know that it is a little bit late, but what the heck. Happy 3rd year Anniversary to Bayan Knights.Sorry I could not make it this time. Bawi na lang ako sa susunod.

The cute fan art above is created by Gamaliel Paz

GTMACCon 2011

2011-08-29T08:05:00.000-07:00

(click the image to enlarge)

Three new fan art

2011-08-26T06:54:00.001-07:00

I just love the (Pinoy Naman) idea of this fan art :D. Created by International Indie artist Jethro Morales. After finishing his gig in the Hack/Slash title, he is now working on the Flying Sparks. I'm so happy that another fellow Filipino is making it's wave in the international scene. I hope that he would get more main stream projects in the future. Go go go Jethro, ang galing mo bro. :-)

When I first saw this one, I just went 'WOW' in m y head. I was totally Speachless. Thanks to Tots Valeza for making this wonderful art.

This one remind me of Son Gohan on his teens. Thanks to Gamaliel Paz for this one. He is actually a new fan of Kalayaan from the Bayan Knights Facebook group page. At first he got confused between Pag-Asa and Kalayaan. But right now I think he can already tell the difference between the two.

Write Ups

2011-08-24T23:15:00.000-07:00

From time to time, I would receive links from other people that have written something about me and my comics. And every time I read each and single one of them, it fuels my interest in producing more issues. It recharges my enthusiasm to make more stories and art. And each time I receive a link, I make sure that I add them to my collection of links. Thank you very much to every one who had supported me from the very beginning up to this day.

With that said, here are my collection of links of Write Ups that people had made for me and my comics.

Aug. 25,2011 - David Delano D'Angelo
http://pagodkanaba.blogspot.com/2011/08/kalayaan-for-country-and-justice.html#axzz1VyFMtMWK

June 12,2011
http://pinoysuperheroesuniverse.blogspot.com/2011/06/kalayaan.html

March 15,2011 - SPOT.PH Top 10 New Pinoy Komiks Character
http://www.spot.ph/featured/47846/top-10-new-pinoy-emkomiksem-characters-

Nov. 3,2010 - Flipgeek.com
http://flipgeeks.com/komiks-interview-with-gio-paredes/

Oct. 18,2010 - Flipgeeks.com
http://flipgeeks.com/komiks-preview-kalayaan-1/

AstigTV Interview
http://astigtv.ph/home/index.html

June 9,2010 - The Blurb by Jonas Diego and Johnny Danganan.
http://jonasdiego.com/theblurb/2010/06/gio-paredes/

May 17,2010 - POC (Philippine Online Chronicle) - by Macoy Tang
http://www.thepoc.net/thepoc-features/pinoy-pop/pinoy-pop-features/6886-stories-from-the-summer-komikon-part-two.html

March 5,2010 - Pinoy Herald -
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_QtwjQHCRHEU/S5I8t1tIZEI/AAAAAAAACWM/dalArJTtFsc/s1600-h/PHerald1.jpg
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_QtwjQHCRHEU/S5I8tahhgaI/AAAAAAAACWE/IgOeyNwMlmY/s1600-h/PHerald2.jpg

December 2009 - UNO MAGAZINE - by Mihk Vergara
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QtwjQHCRHEU/SzseaBW0TtI/AAAAAAAACNs/FzHNA33WG4w/s1600-h/Uno_Mag2_web.jpg

Dec. 10,2009 - Review: Kalayaan ni Gio Paredes - by Hazel Manzano
http://callworkcomics.blogspot.com/2009/12/review-kalayaan-ni-gio-paredes.html

Nov. 29,2009 - Living The Geek Dream - by Comicology
http://comicology.i.ph/blogs/comicology/2009/11/29/living-the-geek-dream/

Aug.27,2009 - Kalayaan #7 Comics Review - by Mark Rosario
http://www.planetmarkus.com/kalayaan-7-comics-review/

March 17,2009 - KOMIKS REVIEW: Kalayaan #6 - by Mark Rosario
http://komiks.i.ph/blogs/komiks/2009/03/17/komiks-review-kalayaan-6/

February 2009 - FHM Philippines
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QtwjQHCRHEU/SYAPDzt4mlI/AAAAAAAABj4/PAOA3a6hbmw/s1600-h/Komiks_FHM.jpg

Jan. 19,2009 - Komiklopedia : Creator Profile
http://komiklopedia.wordpress.com/2008/01/19/gio-m-paredes/

Oct.23,2008 - Kalayaan #1-4 Comics Review - by Mark Rosario
http://www.planetmarkus.com/kalayaan-1-4-comics-review/
http://komiks.i.ph/blogs/komiks/index.php?tag=kalayaan-comics

June 18,2008 - Kalayaan comic review - by Jaybhoi
http://jaybhoi.deviantart.com/journal/18908171/#comments

June 6,2008 - Kalayaan 4: Gio's bold, unprecedented move - by Robin Rivero
http://storyseamstress.deviantart.com/journal/18694958/#comments

Big K on GTMACCon

2011-08-22T20:21:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Mr. Kit Perez on making this promotional poster for this coming event. And I might say that we are very much on the same phase when it comes on our way of thinking regarding the local scene today. Please read below what he just said on the GTMACC Facebook group page.

----

To all those who were with us in this GTMACCON 2011 profile pic campaign, we thank you for being one with our effort of not only promoting our upcoming event... but also showing that you still have faith in the talent of our pinoy comic book artists.

We do hope your support for our local comic book industry will not end after 10.22.11 but rather your appreciation will continue to grow thus inspiring our local artists to come up with their best works yet.

If we can be fans of foreign cultures because we thing these are 'cool' why not look within our own bounds and see why the rest of the world thinks Filipinos artistry maybe second to none.

We cannot change public preference overnight. We are but one small group. But at least we can proudly say, we dared to take that first step.

It had to start somewhere and by your showing your support i say that change has begun here.

Thank you.
Kit Perez

GTMACC

2011-08-17T08:25:00.000-07:00

GTMACC stands for Gaming, Toys, Manga Anime, Cosplay and Comics.

It's a group in Facebook that had gotten so large that they will conduct their very own event this coming October 22 at SM San Lazaro, Manila. The event is being spear headed by Mr. Kit Perez and Andrew Villar (creator of Ambush comics). And what's very interesting on this event is that one of their aim, is to help Pinoy indie comics creator like me by encouraging cosplayers to cosplay Pinoy Superheroes (How cool is that). It's like they have read my mind.

First of, I just want to say I do not have anything against Manga, Anime or anything Japanese. In fact, I actually love Japanese cartoons. I grew up watching Voltez V, Bioman, Daimos and Dragonball Z. I also love the Japanese culture and movies. When I was in elementary, I wanted to be a Ninja so much I created countless Ninja weapons and Ninja clothes. They are all cool and that, but as I got older, I realize that I should also love my own culture. Napag isip-isip kong dapat din nating mahalin ang sariling atin. I guess, that is one of the reasons why I created my character KALAYAAN. At kapag umaatend ako ng mga event at nakikita ko na karamihan sa mga cosplayers natin ay banyagang character ang kanilang kino-cosplay ay napapaisip ako at sinasabi ko sa sarili ko na "Sana dumami pa sana ang nagco-cosplay ng mga Pinoy Characters. Pinoy naman sana". And thankful enough, this is what the organizers of GTMACC event is aiming for. I am realy optimistic and also excited on this event.

On this event, I will also realese Kalayaan #0. The promotional issue of Kalayaan comics that will only cost P10 a copy. This issue will only be in black and white (including the cover). But I am also working out on things that I might print a version of this with a colored cover. This colored cover will cost more than the black and white version but still very much affordable. I plan to sell the colored version around P20 each. So wish me luck that I could have additional funds on this coming weeks to come.

So you better mark your calendar now. October 22, that's Saturday from 10AM to 8PM at SM San Lazaro Manila. I hope to see all of you there. :-)

3D Printer

2011-08-12T00:25:00.000-07:00

I'm totally blown away with this new 3D printer. It makes the StarTrek replicator much much closer to reality. The only BIG question right now in my mind is the cost of the machine. Just like any other good idea. No matter how brilliant it is, if it cost too much, it will not be feasible and practical in the real world.

The Walking Dead Season 2

2011-08-10T03:18:00.000-07:00

Starts on October

K-site updated

2011-08-08T19:18:00.000-07:00

I just recently updated the Kalayaan Comics Official site. I have added many works of art on the Fan Art Section . Making it a whooping total of 96 pieces. Thank you very much to those people that created them. And what's interesting is that I'm not finished yet. I still have not added the recent fabulous art of Carlo Vergara and Bong Dacanay.

And if you have not seen it yet, there is already a 3 youtube videos on the site as well. And also the web comics 'Magkasanga' by Reno Maniquis and a comics strip section provided by Ramil Ibay and my self.

I hope like it.

K12 preview

2011-08-03T04:14:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan #12 page 23 preview

Kalayaan by Bong Dacanay

2011-08-01T20:35:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan fully digital Fan art by Bong Dacanay.

I am so impressed with this art work of Bong that as early as today, I will annouce that I will use this as the Back Cover of Kalayaan #13. He told me that when he was doing this, he was actually thinking of what could Kalayaan looked like if it is going to be created as a movie or a TV series.

Thank you very much Bong.

(click the image to enlarge)

Kalayaan Digital Fan Art

2011-07-30T23:58:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan fully digital Fan art by Bong Dacanay.

San Diego Comicon

2011-07-28T01:52:00.000-07:00

This is a heart warming video of the Filipino Invasion at the San Diego Comicon. I hope one day, I could attend this event.

I really like the end part of this youtube video where Whilce Portacio is being interviewed. Medyo bitin pa nga ng konte eh. I wish it was a little bit more longer because his words are just simply inspiring.

Kalayaan Fan Art by Carver

2011-07-20T21:27:00.000-07:00

Here is a spectacular Fan Art created by non other than Carlo Vergara, creator of Zsazsa Zaturnnah.

I was so surprised on morning when I open up my computer at home when I saw this beautiful artwork by boss Carlo. And what's more heartwarming is the message that goes along with it.

"Kalayaan is one of the more enduring Pinoy indie komiks around since its 2007 debut. The title character is currently a member of the Powerhouse Team of Bayan Knights. I found myself wanting to do some kind of pinup art of this guy after reading issue #11, where Paredes reveals more of the soft side of Kalayaan's alter ego John de la Vega. Uni PIN sign pens on bond paper"

-Carlo Vergara

I'm so happy that #11 is a memorable issue for him. But I also hope that he will not get disappointed on me on #12. Because I will do something unexpected in the story that may alienate some readers. I'm still long away from the completion of issue #12 since I am so busy with my office work. Getting the permit (paper works) for National Book Store (not to mention the printing of Kalayaan Vol.1 and also busy with the layout and printing of Kalayaan #0.

I'm so busy, but so happy. :-)

Baguio Comicon 2011

2011-07-18T01:18:00.000-07:00

I just came back from Baguio City and it was simply amazing. Its certainly a memorable experience for me. I think it is almost 20 years since I visited Baguio. So you could just imagine how happy I was when I attended the very first Baguio Comicon.

For those of you following this blog. You might have already know that I do not like taxi drivers very much. But when I went to Baguio, I have learned that not all taxi drivers are the same. The Baguio taxi drivers are more courteous and polite. And they ALWAYS gives you the exact change of your money. Hindi mo na kailangan pang sabihing "Ang sukli ko po?". Sinabi ko pa nga sa isang driver na "Keep the change na lang po", subalit tingangihan pa nya ito. Taxi drivers there are a totally different spiecies from the Metro Manila drivers. So I am very much happy travelling there from one point to another.

Anyway...... the first Baguio Comicon is one of the most memorable expericence for me. And thank you very much to Gerald Asbucan and DM Espiritu for organizing the event.

One of the noticable costplayer on the event was Spiderdan. No... that is not a typo, he is SpiderDan and not Spiderman.

And just to show you that this is a different spider from Marvel. Just take a look at the video below.

He even gave me and Doctor Carlo (Callous) a free Dancing tutorial.

Even when I was still at the bus somewhere in Pangasinan going to Baguio, I was already very happy. This is due to the text messege of Gerald(the organizer). He text me that there is already a Free lodging waiting for me at Baguio. This is due to the other participants of the event that could not make it. So I just simply took over their place. :-)

The picture below is an authentic Ifugao hut (named Dukligan) is the place assign to me. The comics veteran and Metro Comicon organizer Ernest Hernandez was assigned to different huts. The owner of the village said that they have a total of 9 huts, there where 15 before typhoon Pepeng arrived. These huts were originally from the mountain province of the ifugao which where transferred in Tam-Awan village piece by piece and reconstructed again.

The picture below is a cool restaurant (figurative and literally) that is just a few meters below my hut. They even provide guest with free wifi and free brewed coffee. This is a place full of paintings displayed and also for sale. It is like eating inside a museum.

Hanging around with the Komiks veterans.

Hanging around with my new idol (in all manner :D) ... Jun Lofamia

One of the things that I will miss on Baguio is the cool weather and the spectacular beauty of nature.

I hope that I could go back again to this beautiful place next year.

Kalayaan 0

2011-07-03T09:59:00.000-07:00

KALAYAAN #0
To be release on Komikon 2011, November 19 Saturday.

Bayanihan Center, Pioneer St., Pasig City.

Here is someting to look forward to on the coming Komikon. This issue is actually a promotional issue to promote the on going Kalayaan series. I am hoping that lots of people would be more interested in my comics once they have a copy of this one. And the only way to sell alot of copies of this introductory issue is to sell it very cheap. I plan to sell it only for P10. Thats right, only P10 a copy.

It will only have 12 pages(including the cover), and will not have a colored cover. It's an entirely photocopied issue. It will contain a 2 page Kalayaan origin that has been layout by Gilbert Monsanto and illustrated by Heubert Khan Michael, charater profile of the main characters, Pin-ups and other stuff.

Thank you very much to Jon Zamar for making this new Kalayaan Logo. I will start using this new one from Kalayaan #13 onwards.

I also plan to print 100 copies of this and I will give it away for FREE on the next years Free Comic Book Day. That's the first Saturday in May of 2012. But if you can't wait until then, you can buy it at Komikon 2011, and it's only P10. :-)

Nomination starts today

2011-07-01T03:04:00.000-07:00

3rd Komikon Readers’ Choice Awards 2011
special feature of the 7th Philippine Komiks Convention (Komikon 2011) November 19, 2011

To nominate your choice, copy/paste your nominations to these categories - http://www.komikon.org/komikon-awards-2011/ then email them to awards@komikon.org

Social Networking Etiquette

2011-06-29T02:02:00.001-07:00

Tamang tama ito sa pang kasalukuyang panahon. Napaka ganda ang technology kung gagamitin lang sa wastong paraan. The main purpose of this blog is to promote my Kalayaan Comics and Filipino Komiks in general. And that also goes to my Facebook account, Twitter and other accounts.

Sana naman ay konting hinay naman po sa pag-po-post ng kung ano ano sa mga social networking sites. Yung iba kasi ay halos bawat kilos nya ay inilalagay na nya rito. Minu-minuto ay nag-po-post. Masyadong bibo sa pag-popost. Masakit ang pakiramdam.... (post). Maliligo sa banyo... (post). Bibili ng pagkain sa kanto... (post). Kakain ng miryenda... (post). Magbabakasyon sa boracay ..... (syempre post). Kaya alam na alam ng buong bayan (kasama na run ang mga magnanakaw [hightech na rin sila.]) kung nasaan sya. Kaya pag balik nya galing sa bakasyon.... meron nanaman syang mai-po-post sa kanyang facebook.. "NANAKAWAN AKOO!!!"

Kalayaan on Wikipilipinas

2011-06-27T17:26:00.000-07:00

Kalayaan comics is now on Wikipilipinas. Many information has just been updated there. Please do check it out.

First Baguio Comicon

2011-06-25T17:15:00.000-07:00

This is going to be the first ever Comic Convention in Baguio City. With the possible appearance of Mr. Gerry Alanguilan (Wasted, Elmer, Wetworks, X-Men, Superman: Birthright, Wolverine, Fantastic Four, etc) and other known local and international comicbook personalities.
Meet and greet (and buy comics from) your favorite artists like Manix Abrera, Danny Acuna, etc. and Indie Comic book creators from Baguio City and all over the ...country!

Other events on the show:
Drawing Contests!
*1. Comic Strip Drawing Contest. Please click http://www.facebook.com/notes/gerald-l-asbucan/comic-strip-drawing-contest/2036032416974?notif_t=like for details
*2. Live Model Sketching Contest. Please click http://www.facebook.com/note.php?created&&note_id=2036084938287 for details
*3. Comic Book Drawing Contest Please click http://www.facebook.com/note.php?created&&note_id=2036101458700 for details
*4. Editorial Cartoon Drawing Contest. Please Click http://www.facebook.com/note.php?created&&note_id=2036108818884 for details
*5. Original Character Drawing Contest. http://www.facebook.com/note.php?created&&note_id=2036113699006 for details
Art Tutorials
Book Signing
Etc- will be updated

Let it be known that there's going to be an entrance fee of 100 Php (may change but will not go any higher) Free passes to special guests and committee-approved personalities.

For inquiries text or call Gerald "Majic" Asbucan at 09064746431
or email him at geraldasbucan@yahoo.com

My radio interview in mp3

2011-06-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

I just got the audio file of my second guesting at Sonshine Radio. I took the liberty of editing and removing the commercial part of the show, I just wanted it to be smaller and easier to download (I used the Audacity software to edit the file, this software really Rocks by the way, I really enjoy using it. :D). So... for those of you who did not had a chance to listen it live... you can download it here. To download the file, right click the link and choose the "save link as" option.

Second Radio Guesting

2011-06-09T23:53:00.000-07:00

I just received a call from Sonshine Radio today. They have asked me to guess on their Radio Show/Webcast for the second time around. It's a little bit of a short notice, since the schedule of the interview will be tomorrow already (June 10), from 1Pm to 2PM in the afternoon. I hope you can tune in on your AM radio at DZAR 1026 or you can go to the Sonshine Radio site and watch the live webcast.

Just in case you did not had the chance to listen on my first radio guesting. You can download it here (to download the file, right click the link and choose the "save link as" option ). It is a 27MB file download and about 29 minutes long.

Kalayaan 4 Uploaded

2011-06-08T02:12:00.000-07:00

I just received an email from Forex Cargo (my publisher abroad). They have just uploaded Kalayaan issue #4 at their website. And the printed version will be available for distribution in the U.S. soon.

Please do check it out. They have made this web comics very cool than I have anticipated. Click Here.

Something is wrong

2011-06-06T21:36:00.000-07:00

There is something wrong with this movie picture, but I just can't put my finger on it.

Copycat

2011-06-03T03:53:00.000-07:00

Is this a iPad2 rip-off or what?

I know that this will happen sooner or later. Microsoft will tend to copy another Apple product. Couldn't they just think of a good idea on their own? I got this video from the yahoo news site where I saw all of the comment were ALL negative.

COMING SOON

2011-05-24T08:52:00.001-07:00

Comic Odyssey FCBD & MCC

2011-05-09T20:17:00.000-07:00

May 7 and 8 was very tiring but very enjoyable. I got a lot of free comics, courtesy of boss Sandy of Comic Odyssey. I also did 3 sketches for the comic book fans on that day. Nightwing, Cyclops and Kalayaan.

Thanks to Antonio Adlawan for supporting my comics. He bought one set (11 issues) of Kalayaan comics. There were others who bought all 11 issues of my comics but I did not had a chance to get their names.

I sold plenty of comics during the whole two (2) day event of MCC. I totally sold out issue #2, #5, #7 and #10 (time to re-print those issues), that is despite of some conflict of schedules and the Pacquiao fight.

I had lots for fun with cosplayers during the 2nd day of MCC. Just look at Captain Barbel here.

I apologize of the quality of these preceding pictures. They came from my cheap/low resolution celphone camera.

Julio Valiente is in the house. I really love it when Filipino Cosplayers are trying these Filipino movie characters. Sana next time ay mas marami pa. Para maiba naman. :-)

Hahatiin ni Julio Valiente ang bala sa pamamagitan ng kanyan punyal. The Mythbusters really should try to bust this Movie Myth. I might send them an email about his. :-)

Grifter wanna blow my face off.