Pasyon Komiks Launches Gritty New Titles on EJK, Corruption, and Aswangs

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By Noel Galon de Leon

On August 2, 2025, in Iloilo City, it was more than just a comic book launch, it was a politically charged homecoming, an unapologetic reunion, and a defiant celebration of Ilonggo creativity that dared to speak uncomfortable truths. At the center of it all was Pasyon Komiks, a fiercely independent local collective known for weaving raw, unfiltered narratives that challenge authority and elevate grassroots voices. Their two newest titles, Amaranhig: Retaliation and EJK Zombies: Tallano Gold Heist, didn’t pull any punches, each page served as both storytelling and social commentary, diving into local folklore and state-sanctioned violence with equal intensity. The event was held at Kape Guid, a cozy yet symbolically potent coffee shop in Jaro that felt more like a guerilla art hub for the night. The crowd was a blend of comic creators, student writers, indie artists, cultural workers, and first-time readers drawn by word of mouth and a desire to witness something raw and real.

Amaranhig revisited the undead of Ilonggo myth with an ominous twist that mirrored present anxieties, while EJK Zombies dared to satirize the darkest elements of recent Philippine history, extrajudicial killings, Tallano gold conspiracies, and political opportunism, wrapping them in horror, humor, and unflinching critique. The atmosphere buzzed with more than just excitement; it felt subversive, even revolutionary, as creators sketched beside each other, students shared zines, and live acoustic music underscored conversations that danced between the fictional and the all-too-real. Attendees left not just with new comics, but with the fire of ideas rekindled, proof that in Iloilo, the komiks scene is not only alive, it’s unafraid.

From the moment the doors opened, the space buzzed with excitement and familiarity. The scent of coffee mixed with the sound of laughter and the scratch of pens on sketchpads as attendees mingled, shared stories, and discovered new art. It wasn’t just a crowd, it felt like a creative family coming together. The night’s main attractions were the two newly released comics. Amaranhig: Retaliation, a chilling sequel rooted in local folklore, was inked and colored by indie veteran Frances John Haro, whose distinctive style brought the story’s haunting atmosphere to life. Alongside it was the genre-bending EJK Zombies: Tallano Gold Heist, packed with satire, supernatural thrills, and sharp social commentary, made even more vivid by Autari’s vibrant artwork.

The spotlight also warmly shone on two promising young voices: Clarence Ceriola and Gab, both students and first-time contributors whose original short stories were published in the newly launched titles. Their inclusion wasn’t just a nod to youth, it was a declaration that the next generation of Ilonggo storytellers is already making waves.

One of the night’s most exciting surprises came from Alden Sorongon, the meticulous artist responsible for the production and layout of Pasyon Komiks’ books. Alden debuted his own solo story, OTW, a deeply personal and slice-of-life comic that resonated so strongly with readers, it sold out before the event was over. “Comics and coffee shops are kindred spirits,” reflected Hermz Gacho, co-founder of Pasyon Komiks. “They’re both places where stories are shared, where ideas start quietly and grow into something powerful. Our first project, Owamat, was born over cups of coffee with Zak Bravo at Brews and Cons. This—tonight—is just a continuation of that creative spark.”

The event featured more than just books. Attendees enjoyed live sketching and an art jam where creators drew side by side, an intimate acoustic performance that added soul to the already electric atmosphere, and a trivia night that brought laughter and just a little friendly competition.

At its heart, the evening was a love letter to community, an embodiment of what happens when people believe in each other’s stories and invest in homegrown talent. It was also a proof to how far Iloilo’s indie comics scene has come, and how much farther it can go.  As the night wound down, attendees left with comics in their bags, smiles on their faces, and the feeling that something special had just taken place, not just a launch, but a landmark moment for local storytelling.

To stay updated on future releases and events, follow Pasyon Komiks on Facebook and Instagram.

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Noel Galon de Leon is a writer and educator at University of the Philippines Visayas, where he teaches in both the Division of Professional Education and U.P. High School in Iloilo. He serves as an Executive Council Member of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts-National Committee on Literary Arts.