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Pedro Penduko: The Legend Begins
PEACEMAKER. PROTECTOR. WARRIOR.
Peter Harris feels like he doesn't belong. A Filipino who lived all his life in the US where he grew up being bullied since grade school. Now 20 years old, he has had enough and wants to escape. Just then, his adoptive father passes away in a tragic accident involving something supernatural that nobody can explain.
It will all unfold to him when he goes back to the Philippines to look for his mother whom he hasn't seen since he was an infant. When he finds her, he learns that she has been a victim of a curse given by the ruler of Eastern Kasamaan.
As he embarks on a journey to find a cure, he learns so much more than what he originally set out to discover. That he is no ordinary human, and that he may be the prophesied 'chosen one' who will save the entire town from the rising evil that threatens it.
However, does a loser and a whiny wimp like him has what it takes to take on the role of the new Pedro Penduko?
Peter Harris feels like he doesn't belong. A Filipino who lived all his life in the US where he grew up being bullied since grade school. Now 20 years old, he has had enough and wants to escape. Just then, his adoptive father passes away in a tragic accident involving something supernatural that nobody can explain.
It will all unfold to him when he goes back to the Philippines to look for his mother whom he hasn't seen since he was an infant. When he finds her, he learns that she has been a victim of a curse given by the ruler of Eastern Kasamaan.
As he embarks on a journey to find a cure, he learns so much more than what he originally set out to discover. That he is no ordinary human, and that he may be the prophesied 'chosen one' who will save the entire town from the rising evil that threatens it.
However, does a loser and a whiny wimp like him has what it takes to take on the role of the new Pedro Penduko?
- GenresGraphic NovelsComics
96 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2016
10 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
May 15, 2022
Got this book as a freebie from one of the shops I bought other graphic novels from so I had no idea jumping in (aside from the faint memory of the Matt Evans TV Show from my childhood).
That's why my enjoyment for it came as a pleasant surprise!
I breezed through the pages in one sitting, unconsciously wishing that it won't soon be over. Reading it felt like a modernized version of the old-school komiks I've read when I was young with its action packed panels and straightforward dialogue as well as the concepts of being the "chosen one" to fight evil. My dad even peeked while I was reading and there's immediate recognition of the komiks he enjoys back then.
In some way, Peter Harris - the freshly minted Pedro Penduko - reminded me of other wimpy chosen one tropes like Percy Jackson, Peter Parker, and our own local Janus Silang which I thought would bore me but I realized I didn't seem to mind. Some tropes really don't get old, huh?
The training montages were super fun (cue Mulan's I'll Make a Man Out of You) and Peter's bickering relationship with Ria feels like the beginning of a romance (blame the romance-reader). That part when she says "Promise me one thing?" and Peter thinks he just needs to defeat Apo Dautan but Ria responds with, "No, promise me you'll return home safe."? SCREAMING.
I just wish Peter's grief was given time to be processed instead of him moving from one thing to another but other than that, the plot was fast-paced without skipping on important parts.
Overall, I'm glad I got the chance to read Pedro Penduko: The Legend Begins ! To be honest, it's not something I would've purchased on my own but not I see myself looking forward if ever it gets a sequel. I mean, I've been wondering who is Peter's real father since the focus was finding his birth mom. The reveal at the end is brimming with potential! Looking forward to exploring that soon.
That's why my enjoyment for it came as a pleasant surprise!
I breezed through the pages in one sitting, unconsciously wishing that it won't soon be over. Reading it felt like a modernized version of the old-school komiks I've read when I was young with its action packed panels and straightforward dialogue as well as the concepts of being the "chosen one" to fight evil. My dad even peeked while I was reading and there's immediate recognition of the komiks he enjoys back then.
In some way, Peter Harris - the freshly minted Pedro Penduko - reminded me of other wimpy chosen one tropes like Percy Jackson, Peter Parker, and our own local Janus Silang which I thought would bore me but I realized I didn't seem to mind. Some tropes really don't get old, huh?
The training montages were super fun (cue Mulan's I'll Make a Man Out of You) and Peter's bickering relationship with Ria feels like the beginning of a romance (blame the romance-reader). That part when she says "Promise me one thing?" and Peter thinks he just needs to defeat Apo Dautan but Ria responds with, "No, promise me you'll return home safe."? SCREAMING.
I just wish Peter's grief was given time to be processed instead of him moving from one thing to another but other than that, the plot was fast-paced without skipping on important parts.
Overall, I'm glad I got the chance to read Pedro Penduko: The Legend Begins ! To be honest, it's not something I would've purchased on my own but not I see myself looking forward if ever it gets a sequel. I mean, I've been wondering who is Peter's real father since the focus was finding his birth mom. The reveal at the end is brimming with potential! Looking forward to exploring that soon.
January 15, 2023
Solid 💜
Nice art quality.
I have to admit I expected poor quality coz it's a local work (sorna). But it's surprisingly visually pretty!
I was also surprised it's written in English.
Interesting so far. I want volume 2!!
Nice art quality.
I have to admit I expected poor quality coz it's a local work (sorna). But it's surprisingly visually pretty!
I was also surprised it's written in English.
Interesting so far. I want volume 2!!
November 2, 2022
The story and art could've been better. However, I would always support any celebration of Philippine Mythology.
October 21, 2024
The graphic novel Pedro Penduko: The Legend Begins delivers a refreshing and heartfelt revival of a beloved Filipino icon, seamlessly blending Filipino folklore, mythology, and modern storytelling. This rendition by Epik Studios brings Pedro Penduko into the 21st century, and while it pays homage to the classic character, it reinvents him in a way that makes the story accessible to younger audiences, particularly those who have grown up exposed to both local and Western cultures. Having read it during the pandemic, I was struck by the rich tapestry of Filipino lore woven throughout, and rereading it now has only deepened my appreciation for its magic.
At the heart of the story is Peter Harris, a Filipino-American who has lived his life in the U.S. He’s a character torn between two worlds—his American upbringing and the call of his Filipino heritage. From the very beginning, Peter's journey is one of self-discovery, not only as the prophesied hero, Pedro Penduko, but also as a son, returning to reconnect with the roots and culture he hardly knows. The narrative choice to start his story in the States makes Peter relatable to many readers who may feel distanced from their own heritage, and his character arc is one that resonates deeply, both emotionally and culturally.
The plot picks up quickly when Peter’s adoptive father dies, which becomes the catalyst for his return to the Philippines. The grief Peter experiences is palpable, especially when it’s compounded by his feeling of responsibility for the car crash. These moments of internal struggle give the story an emotional weight that pulls you into Peter’s mindset—he is lost, vulnerable, and guilt-ridden. Yet, underneath it all, there's an emerging sense of destiny, which slowly unfolds as the story progresses.
Lourdes Guinto, Peter’s mother and a powerful babaylan (native priestess or healer), is a key figure whose story offers insight into Filipino mysticism and spirituality. Her battle with Apo Datuan, a mythical villain, adds richness to the tale, illustrating the babaylan's connection to the spiritual world. I loved how the comic gives babaylans a witch-like portrayal, casting spells and using enchantments, which was both familiar and mystical to Filipino readers like me. Her ultimate inability to defeat Apo Datuan emphasizes the towering strength of this supernatural villain and sets the stage for Peter's journey as her successor.
The villain Apo Datuan himself is deeply rooted in Filipino mythology, and his association with the kapre—typically a giant, cigar-smoking creature living in large trees—was a clever touch. The use of the cigarette as a means of attacking his foes not only modernizes the classic image of the kapre but also adds a symbolic layer to the character, grounding him in familiar folklore while giving him new dimensions. Apo Datuan is menacing, and his presence looms over the story even when he's not physically on the page, which builds suspense and heightens the stakes of Peter's eventual confrontation with him.
Peter’s transformation from a grief-stricken, seemingly ordinary teenager to the legendary Pedro Penduko is one of the most satisfying aspects of the novel. What I appreciated most was the sense of community and family that surrounded Peter’s development. His relationship with Maria, his sister, is one of the story’s emotional anchors. Their bond deepens as they reconnect after being apart for so long, and Maria becomes more of a sibling figure, helping Peter navigate his new responsibilities.
Mang Karding, the wise mentor, adds a layer of mentorship reminiscent of classic hero journeys, offering Peter guidance and training in a distinctly Filipino context. His challenge to Peter, testing whether he can wield the hiyas (the amulet central to his transformation), was a symbolic rite of passage. However, I liked that the first hiyas Peter received was a fake one, forcing him to confront his own limitations and reminding readers that heroism is not simply handed over; it must be earned.
Peter's internal battle with his newfound identity and his desire to avenge his mother’s curse are powerful narrative drivers. His decision to leave behind Mang Karding's advice and act impulsively speaks to the human flaws in his character—he is not yet the fully-formed Pedro Penduko, and this imperfection makes him relatable. This impulsiveness, however, places his mother in greater danger, and Peter must then live with the consequences of his actions. His journey of failure and redemption is handled beautifully, and the moment when he doubts his worthiness of the title "Pedro Penduko" is both tragic and triumphant. Maria’s encouragement is key here, reminding Peter that their mother’s teachings—the idea that if one can help, one should—must guide his actions.
The final showdown with Apo Datuan is both exhilarating and bittersweet. Peter’s victory is hard-won, but it comes at the cost of personal loss. In slaying Apo Datuan, he avenges his mother and fulfills his role as Pedro Penduko, yet the emotional scars of the journey remain. The question that lingers, however, is whether Peter can rise to the challenge and become the hero the world truly needs. His story may have just begun, and the stakes are bound to grow higher in the coming arcs.
Visually, the comic is stunning. The art direction, led by Jerome Jagonia, brings each character to life in a unique way. The contrast between Peter’s American life and his return to the Philippines is depicted through bold and distinct artistic choices. The color palette, dominated by rich, warm hues, complements the mystical and earthy tones of Filipino mythology. Every detail, from the way characters are drawn to the atmospheric elements surrounding the supernatural creatures, adds depth to the story. I particularly loved the vibrant portrayal of the creatures and landscapes, which transported me directly into the heart of Filipino folklore.
Pedro Penduko: The Legend Begins is a fantastic reimagining of a Filipino icon. It strikes a balance between tradition and modernity, introducing readers to the richness of Filipino mythology while crafting a fast-paced, emotionally charged narrative. The combination of heartfelt character development, stunning art, and action-packed scenes makes this a compelling read. Epik Studios has breathed new life into a classic character, and I’m eager to see where Peter Harris’s journey as Pedro Penduko will lead. If you’re a fan of mythology, fantasy, or simply great storytelling, this graphic novel is a must-read.
At the heart of the story is Peter Harris, a Filipino-American who has lived his life in the U.S. He’s a character torn between two worlds—his American upbringing and the call of his Filipino heritage. From the very beginning, Peter's journey is one of self-discovery, not only as the prophesied hero, Pedro Penduko, but also as a son, returning to reconnect with the roots and culture he hardly knows. The narrative choice to start his story in the States makes Peter relatable to many readers who may feel distanced from their own heritage, and his character arc is one that resonates deeply, both emotionally and culturally.
The plot picks up quickly when Peter’s adoptive father dies, which becomes the catalyst for his return to the Philippines. The grief Peter experiences is palpable, especially when it’s compounded by his feeling of responsibility for the car crash. These moments of internal struggle give the story an emotional weight that pulls you into Peter’s mindset—he is lost, vulnerable, and guilt-ridden. Yet, underneath it all, there's an emerging sense of destiny, which slowly unfolds as the story progresses.
Lourdes Guinto, Peter’s mother and a powerful babaylan (native priestess or healer), is a key figure whose story offers insight into Filipino mysticism and spirituality. Her battle with Apo Datuan, a mythical villain, adds richness to the tale, illustrating the babaylan's connection to the spiritual world. I loved how the comic gives babaylans a witch-like portrayal, casting spells and using enchantments, which was both familiar and mystical to Filipino readers like me. Her ultimate inability to defeat Apo Datuan emphasizes the towering strength of this supernatural villain and sets the stage for Peter's journey as her successor.
The villain Apo Datuan himself is deeply rooted in Filipino mythology, and his association with the kapre—typically a giant, cigar-smoking creature living in large trees—was a clever touch. The use of the cigarette as a means of attacking his foes not only modernizes the classic image of the kapre but also adds a symbolic layer to the character, grounding him in familiar folklore while giving him new dimensions. Apo Datuan is menacing, and his presence looms over the story even when he's not physically on the page, which builds suspense and heightens the stakes of Peter's eventual confrontation with him.
Peter’s transformation from a grief-stricken, seemingly ordinary teenager to the legendary Pedro Penduko is one of the most satisfying aspects of the novel. What I appreciated most was the sense of community and family that surrounded Peter’s development. His relationship with Maria, his sister, is one of the story’s emotional anchors. Their bond deepens as they reconnect after being apart for so long, and Maria becomes more of a sibling figure, helping Peter navigate his new responsibilities.
Mang Karding, the wise mentor, adds a layer of mentorship reminiscent of classic hero journeys, offering Peter guidance and training in a distinctly Filipino context. His challenge to Peter, testing whether he can wield the hiyas (the amulet central to his transformation), was a symbolic rite of passage. However, I liked that the first hiyas Peter received was a fake one, forcing him to confront his own limitations and reminding readers that heroism is not simply handed over; it must be earned.
Peter's internal battle with his newfound identity and his desire to avenge his mother’s curse are powerful narrative drivers. His decision to leave behind Mang Karding's advice and act impulsively speaks to the human flaws in his character—he is not yet the fully-formed Pedro Penduko, and this imperfection makes him relatable. This impulsiveness, however, places his mother in greater danger, and Peter must then live with the consequences of his actions. His journey of failure and redemption is handled beautifully, and the moment when he doubts his worthiness of the title "Pedro Penduko" is both tragic and triumphant. Maria’s encouragement is key here, reminding Peter that their mother’s teachings—the idea that if one can help, one should—must guide his actions.
The final showdown with Apo Datuan is both exhilarating and bittersweet. Peter’s victory is hard-won, but it comes at the cost of personal loss. In slaying Apo Datuan, he avenges his mother and fulfills his role as Pedro Penduko, yet the emotional scars of the journey remain. The question that lingers, however, is whether Peter can rise to the challenge and become the hero the world truly needs. His story may have just begun, and the stakes are bound to grow higher in the coming arcs.
Visually, the comic is stunning. The art direction, led by Jerome Jagonia, brings each character to life in a unique way. The contrast between Peter’s American life and his return to the Philippines is depicted through bold and distinct artistic choices. The color palette, dominated by rich, warm hues, complements the mystical and earthy tones of Filipino mythology. Every detail, from the way characters are drawn to the atmospheric elements surrounding the supernatural creatures, adds depth to the story. I particularly loved the vibrant portrayal of the creatures and landscapes, which transported me directly into the heart of Filipino folklore.
Pedro Penduko: The Legend Begins is a fantastic reimagining of a Filipino icon. It strikes a balance between tradition and modernity, introducing readers to the richness of Filipino mythology while crafting a fast-paced, emotionally charged narrative. The combination of heartfelt character development, stunning art, and action-packed scenes makes this a compelling read. Epik Studios has breathed new life into a classic character, and I’m eager to see where Peter Harris’s journey as Pedro Penduko will lead. If you’re a fan of mythology, fantasy, or simply great storytelling, this graphic novel is a must-read.
November 21, 2021
Generally this was a very fun read, the art work for me was a bit too dark but everything else I felt it was an overall fun graphic novel to read
August 29, 2018
3.5. Art could be better if it showed more details.
Story was great.
Dialogue was too safe or straight. Could be made more colorful perhaps with a little more prose or slang.
Story was great.
Dialogue was too safe or straight. Could be made more colorful perhaps with a little more prose or slang.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews