FILIPINO classical literature—with its profound historical significance and cultural richness—faces a growing disconnect with younger generations. Works like “Noli Me Tangere,” “El Filibusterismo,” and the poetry of Francisco Balagtas that once shaped national identity are now getting lost in the minds of the youth. This indifference
threatens not just literary appreciation but the very transmission of cultural values and historical awareness that define Filipino identity.
Several factors contribute to this declining interest, including digital competition from short-form content and international media; teaching methods that emphasize memorization over appreciation; limited accessibility of classical works in formats appealing to youth; and perception of classical literature as outdated or irrelevant to modern concerns, among others.
During the Araw ni Balagtas celebration, Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino Regional-Director Atty. Marites Barrios-Taran lamented the lack of interest of the Filipino Youth in classic Filipino Literature. “Kakaunti nalang sa ating mga kabataan ang talagang interesado sa mga obra ng ating mga bayani at kailangang kailan po natin silang hikayatin muli na mahalin ang ating kultura at ano ang atin.”
(Only few of our youth are truly interested in the works of our heroes, and we need to encourage them again to love our culture and what is truly ours.)
Philippine literature is a tapestry woven from the threads of diverse cultural influences, historical experiences, and social realities. From Jose Rizal’s compelling novels that sparked a revolution to the poignant poetry of Francisco Balagtas, the works of the Philippines’ literary giants offer timeless themes of identity, love, and social justice. These old literary treasures provide invaluable insights into the Filipino psyche and the nation’s history. However, despite their significance, there’s a growing disconnect between these classic works and today’s youth.
Some young Filipinos struggle to connect with texts that use ‘deep’ Tagalog words.
“Interested po ako magbasa ng classic literary books,” Jasrel, a senior high-school student, said. “pero not to the point na gustong gusto mong pag aralan. Sa sobrang lalim po ng Tagalog, parang medyo nakakatamad po siyang basahin.”
(I’m interested in reading classic literary books… But not to the point where I really want to study them. Tagalog is so deep that it feels a bit tiring to read.)
Just like other high school students, he and his colleagues have read Florante at Laura, Noli Me Tangere, and El Filibustirismo as a school requirement.
Others like Jan, a Pasig college student who frequently reads Wattpad stories, feel less interested in reading classic Filipino literature. She shared her sentiments about the difference between reading a school requirement book and a Wattpad story.
“Iba po kasi siya pag yung binabasa is a school requirement compared sa binabasa mo kasi gusto mo talaga siya basahin,” Jan said.
(It’s different when you’re reading something as a school requirement compared to when you’re reading it because you genuinely want to.)
The advent of digital technology and the rapid pace of modern life may have also redefined the way younger generations consume content. Social media, short videos, and fast-paced entertainment often overshadow the slower and more contemplative nature of reading traditional literature.
“Mas pina-prioritize na po nila (Filipino youth) yung easy access na information kesa gugulin nila yung oras nila sa pagbabasa,” Joy Marie, a female classmate of Jasrel, shared. “Marami na din pong social media distraction na mas na e-entertain sila like K-drama, online games, or movies.”
(Filipino youth prioritize easily accessible information rather than spending time reading…There are also many social media distractions that entertain them more, like K-dramas, online games, or movies.)
Also, we now have social storytelling platforms like Wattpad where writers and readers connect and share stories.
“Madali pong makarelate sa stories sa Wattpad,” Jan shared when asked why she reads Wattpad stories often. “And nasa phone lang po siya kaya very accessible siya kaysa sa mga libro na printed.”
(It’s easy to relate to stories on Wattpad…And it’s just on my phone, so it’s very accessible compared to printed books.)
The portrayal of colonial struggles in Rizal’s “Noli Me Tangere” or the emotive depth found in Balagtas’ “Florante at Laura” may not resonate as powerfully in the digital age, where instant gratification is the norm.
These problems could lead to a lost understanding of Filipino identity and history. These are intrinsically tied to our rich literary tradition. Without this foundational knowledge, how will future generations appreciate the depth of their culture and value the lessons embedded in these classic texts?
Schools and colleges play a pivotal role by integrating classic literary works into curricula in engaging and relevant ways.
“Dati, gumawa po kami ng play about El Filibusterismo,” Jan shared. “Ayun siguro yung pinaka naiintindihan ko sa mga classic Filipino books. Naintindihan ko yung motivation ng character ni Paulina.”
(Before, we did a play about El Filibusterismo…That was probably the classic Filipino book I understood the most. I understood the motivation of Paulina’s character.)
Some students retain more information when visuals are used. Perhaps, interactive discussions, dramatizations, and creative projects can help demystify older texts, making them more accessible and enjoyable for young readers. Utilizing digital platforms to present these works in novel formats, such as audiobooks, podcasts, or visual storytelling, can also attract the attention of a tech-savvy generation.
Literary festivals and events can also serve as platforms for experiential learning. While we have the Philippine Book Festival that promotes the work of Filipino writers, we also need more effort in promoting classic literary works.
Ultimately, the responsibility lies not only with educators and literary institutions but with parents, communities, and the youth themselves. By fostering environments that encourage reading and critical thinking, families can cultivate a love for literature that honors the past. Parents can introduce children to Filipino classics at a young age, allowing them to appreciate literary devices and cultural nuances from an early age.
Moreover, youth-led initiatives can be powerful in revitalizing interest in old literary works. Book clubs, writing competitions, and creative arts programs organized by young people can help bridge the gap, encouraging their peers to explore and celebrate Filipino literary heritage.
As we celebrate Philippine Literary Month, let us use this opportunity not just to honor our literary past but to inspire a new generation of readers of classical Filipino works. By fostering connections between the youth and classic Filipino literature, we ensure that the voices of the past continue to echo in the hearts and minds of future generations. In doing so, we not only preserve our rich literary heritage but also empower young Filipinos to navigate their identity and place within an ever-evolving cultural landscape. (JLN/PIA-NCR)
