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Kalayaan 6 review by Markus

This is a landmark issue. As can be seen on the cover, Gio Paredes' Kalayaan comics #6 is a crossover with Gener Pedrina's iconic Pinoy superhero team, Sanduguan. Now dont make the mistake of thinking that this is just another superhero crossover story just for the sake of doing a crossover. The plot really shows Kalayaan's need of help from other heroes because he alone cant take his villain down this time around. I really like the story and, like Kalayaan #4 did, it made me think for several days.

For example, I thought a lot about Kalayaan's motives. When Kalayaan went berserk and attacked Malikmata, I thougt a alot about the real reasons why he did that. Was it really becasue of what the villain did to him or was it more becasue of what the villain almost did to Diwata? Taking that as my first clue and taking their "mental link" (page 11) as my secod, I went "hhhmmm..." Could this possibly be a 'loveteam' in the future? Has our hero finally found the girl who would accept him despite his "condition"(Kalayaan 4)? I wonder :)

With regards to the art department, Gio, as always, is showing a lot of improvement. Personally, I find it an exhilarating experience to be a witness of his growth both as a writer and as an artist at the same time. Checking out earlier issues of his comics would show that he's somehow having some challenge when it comes to drawing girls. This issue, however, simply proves that the guy has been doing a lot of practice lately. I really love the way he draws Diwata (like on page 8-panel 3), especially how he draws her hair.

On the other hand, Gener Pedrina does the artworks for the other half of the story (pages 11-20). Of course, the transition from Gio to Gener's arstyle was pretty obvious, even without looking at the credits but mind you! As different as their styles may be, it wasn't distracting in any way. Its a welcome treat for readers actually. Page 13, for example, was a very dynamic page that it became one of those moments when I wished the comic book was available in full colors (who knows in the future, right?) Overall, I'm sure followers of Kalayaan comics will enjoy reading this particular issue.

Now you got to pat Gio on the back for his consistency and perseverance. Way back issue #1, he shared with readers his desire of releasing a new issue every four months. The guy's now on his 6th issue and it looks like Gio's constantly achieving that goal, one issue at a time, sometimes even finishing an issue earlier than the intended schedule. As a reader, it gives you a good feeling knowing that you can count on him to release a new issue on a regular basis. So when he promises more action for the next issue, you can just be sure he'll be back after 4 months. Really.

I won't be surprised at all if, in due time, Kalayaan might indeed become the country's longest running indie comics. For that reason - and for many, many others - Gio Paredes deserves being praised.

Mark Rosario
(read his original post HERE)
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As always, Markus has been good supporter and a good critic. At first I was a little concern that readers will have trouble adapting the transition of art from mine (pages 1-10) to Geners style (pages 11-20). I am so glad that this is not the case here. Thanks you very much for this review. But I was a little bit nervous on your last few paragraph. Even with 6 issues, and lot of motivation. The future is still not in our hands and very much uncertain. Anything can happen at any time. The only thing I can promise for now is it that I will do my best.

In this issue, when I was making the script. I specifically took note of the individual characters (with Geners permission of course). I deliberately make each character distinguishable with their dialogs (sinadya ko talaga yun).
I envisioned Sandata as a good tactician.. Analise first, before doing action.
Bato being a comedian and always charging first.
Supremo an optimistic never looses hope hero type.
Bernardo an old fasioned hero that is pessimistic.
Diwata a sexy, jaw dropping enchantress.

As for a possible 'love team' of Kalayaan and Diwata, I asked Kalayaan about it and with a blushing face, he admits that he do have a BIG crush on Diwata. But he said to me that he is afraid to show his feelings to her because of his "condition". And he is a little bit shy when it comes to women (torpe ang damuho sa madaling salita).

I am already very busy working on issue 7 and 8 story arc. This will feature a darker side, not only of my character, but also in an environment that he lives in. Issue 7 will mirror the ugly side of the community and people that we live in. A lethal protector will be born that does not hesitate to kill. With that idea, I decided to have a 2 (two) version of issue 7. An ordinary version that is tone down that can be read by children that will be distributed to all existing stores (this is written in Tagalog). And a matured version (anything goes), for Adult only that will be a limited edition that will be available only on comic events and direct sales from me or thru mail order (this is written in English).

Issue 8, I assure you will be a very heavy in dialog and heavy in action. Heavy in dialog, because lots of idealism and belief of the characters will be thrown at each other.

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Not giving up

Again and again, trials have been there in my life. But I did not give up. And that is what this video is all about. If you tried and fail 100 times, you should never give up and continue moving forward.

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Francis M. is Dead

Yes, it is true. Francis Magalona, the master rapper had just passed away. At first, I did not believe it because I thought it was just a gossip. Because I often visit his blog and he guessed one time at Eat Bulaga, I thought that his condition is already doing well and he is already coming back to Eat Bulaga very soon permanently.

He is without a dought, one of the most talented artist in the Philippines. His songs can compete internationally anytime if you ask me. Growing up on my teens in the 90's, it is undeniable that I am one of his legions of fans. I still remember that I could memorize ALL of his rap songs together with the songs of Andrew E., which is also one of my favorite rapper. When there was a "happy battle" between Rock Metal and Hip-hip. I always say that am with the hip-hop.

R.I.P. master rapper.
You will surely be missed.

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Isang Lakas Photo Shoot

Is this cool or what. I could only Imagine the Bayan Knights would also a life sized action figure like these. If we only have the backing finances of a major TV network. That will be the day. For more information on Isang Lakas, you can go to KomikVerse.

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Dance Showdown - Michael Jackson Vs. MC Hammer

Who do you think is the better dancer? I know that this two are a little bit old now. But their move are still undeniably fantastic. But before you say your answer, you better see this video first and then decide who is better.

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