Philippine history that is accessible and approachable. PODKAS envisions the mainstreaming of critical discussions on Philippine history, politics, and society to broader audiences using new media, accessible language, and relatable content.
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Podkas Team Podcasts
This episode uncaps the surprising history of the tansan—the humble metal crown that sealed our childhood sodas and our uncles' beers. We trace its journey from an unlikely Japanese brand name to the prized currency of sidewalk games like Tatsing. Learn how this piece of industrial waste was transformed into the sound of Christmas karoling and, tra…
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If you're like us, you grew up hearing that familiar ring of your favorite sorbetero's bell, so join us as we scoop into the history of the Philippines' favorite frozen dessert. In this episode, we trace the journey of sorbetes from an elite 19th-century luxury—made possible by ice shipped from around the globe—to the democratic "dirty ice cream" e…
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For generations of Filipino children, a single peso coin held immense power: the power to choose between a crumbly Choc Nut, a powdery Mik-Mik, a chewy White Rabbit, or a stack of Haw Flakes. This episode unwraps the surprisingly complex history of these iconic sari-sari store treats. We trace their origins from Malabon to Shanghai and explore the …
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In this episode, we unpack the immense economic and cultural power of the sari-sari store, the humble neighborhood shop that accounts for 70% of all manufactured goods sales in the Philippines. We trace its origins from pre-colonial barangay trade through the Spanish-era tiendas to its modern digital evolution, exploring how this institution has su…
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Locked in a vault 14,000 kilometers from Manila lies a 16th-century manuscript that survived a Nazi bomb: the Boxer Codex. Created in 1590 through an unlikely collaboration between Spanish colonizers, Chinese artists, and Filipino informants, its vibrant illustrations offer the most detailed visual record of our ancestors—from tattooed Visayan warr…
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Once a ubiquitous presence in Filipino life, passed around sari-sari stores, stacked on staircases, and even used as panggatong, komiks evolved from cheap newsprint entertainment into a powerful cultural force. This episode charts the journey of the art form, starting with the pioneering work of Rizal and the birth of the iconic Kenkoy, through the…
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How does a 19th-century painting of dying Roman gladiators become the most powerful artistic symbol of the Philippines? This episode uncovers the dramatic life of Juan Luna's Spoliarium: a masterpiece that was sliced into three pieces, survived wars and botched restorations, and inspired everything from revolutionary novels to a famous rock song. J…
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Why do so many Filipinos have Spanish surnames? This episode unpacks the story of the Catálogo Alfabético de Apellidos, a book distributed in 1849 by Spanish Governor-General Narciso Clavería to solve an administrative crisis. We explore how this single decree systematically renamed millions, assigning surnames alphabetically by town and creating r…
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For centuries, tarsilas have done far more than record family trees in Muslim Mindanao; they have defined power, preserved honor, and anchored entire communities to their history. These genealogical records connect local rulers to the Prophet Muhammad, authorize marriages and political alliances, and legitimize claims to land and sovereignty. Durin…
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The Okir is a sacred and intricate artistic tradition of Muslim Mindanao, and in this episode, we chart its 1,400-year journey. From its pre-Islamic, animistic roots seen in protective naga serpent carvings to its sophisticated evolution under Islamic aniconism, the Okir transformed its motifs into stylized, flowing patterns that became a symbol of…
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Long before it became a household name with a catchy jingle, Tiki-Tiki was a life-saving breakthrough. In this episode, we uncover the forgotten story of how a deadly beriberi epidemic, fueled by American colonial "progress," was stopped by a humble Filipino pharmacist. Discover how Dr. Manuel Zamora created a world-first vitamin supplement from ri…
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From makeshift courts under bridges to the roaring arenas of the PBA, basketball is more than a game in the Philippines: it's a core part of the national identity. In this episode, we explore how an American import became the Filipino soul. Join us as we trace basketball's surprising history as a women's sport, the legendary rivalries that divided …
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For millions of Filipinos, it's a core memory of childhood and school days: a dense, fortified bread distributed or sold in schools. But was the famous Nutribun a symbol of genuine care or a masterful tool of political propaganda? In this episode, we unwrap the complex history of this iconic bread, tracing its journey from a US-funded aid program t…
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It's the iconic, buff-colored canvas that triggers instant nostalgia for generations of Filipino students. In this episode of PODKAS, we unfold the story behind this humble school supply. We trace its journey from recycled abaca ship ropes in 19th-century America to its central role in post-war Philippine classrooms. We reminisce about the collabor…
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From the anxious moments before a life-changing entrance exam to the simple joy of learning to write your name, one object has been a constant companion for generations of Filipinos: the iconic yellow Mongol pencil. In this episode, we sharpen our focus on this seemingly simple tool to tell a surprisingly complex story of international branding, lo…
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Found in virtually every Filipino bathroom from the humblest provincial home to the most luxurious Manila condo, the tabo—that simple plastic water dipper—carries far more cultural weight than its unassuming appearance suggests. In this episode, we trace the tabo's fascinating journey from coconut shell origins in pre-colonial times to its status a…
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San Juanico Bridge: Steel, Scandal, Symbol
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In this episode, we bridge the gap between myth and reality as we explore the history and infamy of the San Juanico Bridge. Often romanticized as Ferdinand Marcos’s “gift of love” to Imelda, this iconic structure connecting Leyte and Samar is also a concrete symbol of the Marcos regime’s controversial “edifice complex,” cronyism, and international …
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Join us as we peel back the layers on a beloved Filipino condiment staple: banana ketchup. We trace the surprising history of this sweet and tangy red condiment, from its ingenious creation by food scientist and war hero María Orosa during a time of scarcity to its status as a global symbol of Filipino resourcefulness and cultural identity. Discove…
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We launch our new series "Bagay-Bagay: Objects of Philippine Life" on Independence Day with the most fitting symbol of all: our national flag. Join us as we trace the flag's storied journey from revolutionary banners to a flag sewn by three women in Hong Kong exile, unfurled at independence, banned for twelve years, and restored as our national sym…
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Our season finale features a discussion on Soledad Duterte, a prominent activist from Davao, exploring her crucial role in local activism and advocacy during and after the EDSA Revolution. Through her life, we examine how Martial Law and the EDSA Revolution impacted regions beyond the capital, particularly Mindanao. Join us!…
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In this new episode, we tackle the life and legacy of Chito Gascon, whose activism began as a student during the EDSA Revolution and culminated in his tenure as the chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR). Join us as we unpack and retell Gascon's journey, an unwavering commitment to justice and democracy that serves as an inspiration fo…
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We tackle the nexus between politics, media, and elite families in this new episode as we spotlight the powerful Lopez family. We explore their rise to power, the closures of ABS-CBN, their struggles during Martial Law, and their subsequent resurrection in the post-EDSA political environment.
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We reflect on the EDSA People Power and the role of cinema in shaping public sentiment in this episode, where we highlight the legendary Filipino filmmaker, Lino Brocka. How do media, film, and music have historically acted as catalysts for reform and resistance during Martial Law? Through Brocka's classic films, such as Maynila, Sa Mga Kuko ng Liw…
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In this new episode of Shakers and Shapers, we tackle the complex figure of Jose Maria Sison, founding chairman of the Communist Party of the Philippines. We look back at his journey, from his aristocratic roots and eventual radicalization at the University of the Philippines, the formation of Kabataang Makabayan, the ideological underpinnings of n…
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How intertwined were religion and politics during the tumultuous Martial Law period? We approach the role of the Catholic Church during the Marcos years and the EDSA Revolution through the life and complex legacy of Jaime Cardinal Sin, a key religious leader whose words and actions shaped the Church's involvement in political affairs and left an in…
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We revisit the complex legacies of Juan Ponce Enrile, Fidel Ramos, and Gregorio Honasan, pivotal figures in the EDSA Revolution, in this episode. Exploring their roles in martial law implementation, their eventual defection from Marcos, and their subsequent political careers, we uncover the intertwined narratives of power, betrayal, and redemption …
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In this episode, we take a look into the lives of opposition senators Jovito Salonga and Jose Diokno. Both followed unique paths, from humble beginnings and wartime heroics to their instrumental roles in challenging the Marcos dictatorship and shaping Philippine democracy. Through their stories, we explore the complexity of resistance, the necessit…
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We proceed with our season by transitioning to the EDSA People Power Revolution, examining it through the lives and actions of its key shapers and shakers. In this episode, we dive into the story of Cory Aquino, the central figure around whom the nation coalesced to dismantle the Marcos dictatorship and inaugurate a renewed era of democracy. Furthe…
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Ep. 13: Bakit Inaalala ang EDSA? With Edcel Lagman
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Today, February 25, marks the 38th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, a cornerstone in the Philippines' march towards democracy. In this special episode, "Bakit Inaalala ang EDSA?" we partnered with the Human Rights Violations Victims' Memorial Commission (HRVVMC) and interviewed Congress Rep. Edcel Lagman to tackle the efforts to pre…
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In our final episode, we look at Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s early life during the time of Martial Law. Being the son of President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., Bongbong was surrounded by a lot of power and some big controversies that have left a lasting mark on the country's politics. We'll try to figure out how much Bongbong was involved in what hi…
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Our focus in this episode is the life of Lean Alejandro, a symbol of Philippine student activism during the Marcos era. As Secretary-General of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, Lean championed democracy against dictatorship, but his life was tragically cut short at 27. His influence and legacy as a beacon for justice and freedom endures to this day.…
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Maliit pa nga ba si Imee Marcos noong panahon ng Batas Militar? Let's look at the life and controversies of the eldest of the Marcos brood. From her education in prestigious institutions abroad to her early foray into politics, Imee's path was seemingly paved by her family's political legacy. However, like Marcos name, her own journey hasn't been w…
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In another episode of #ShapersAndShakers, we discuss the life of Gen. Fabian Ver, a trusted confidant and chief enforcer of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos. Ver, from humble beginnings, rose through the military ranks to become one of the most powerful figures in the country. We unravel the complex relationship between Marcos and Ver, and the pivotal…
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In this episode, we explore the Martial Law period in the Philippines, focusing on the brave Lorena Barros. As an activist and co-founder of MAKIBAKA, a women's revolutionary group, Barros fought against tyranny. The undying spirit of resistance that Lorena embodied and the profound impact she left on the struggle for justice and equality remains a…
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In Episode 7 of our #ShapersAndShakers series, we talk about the cronyism during the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos through the experience of Lucio Tan, a business tycoon and one of the richest men in the Philippines, who got his biggest business opportunities as a Marcos crony. What is the link between cronyism and the country's economic crisis du…
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Episode 6 of Shapers and Shakers features the work of Pete Lacaba, a Filipino journalist, poet, and cultural luminary who left an indelible mark on journalism, arts, and culture during the turbulent Martial Law period in the Philippines.
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In this episode, we explore the influential role of Cesar Virata during Martial Law in the Philippines. As Prime Minister under Ferdinand Marcos, Virata, a respected economist, steered the nation's economic policies. In this episode, we dissect Virata's challenges, his impact on the economy and infrastructure, and the ethical dilemmas he faced as a…
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Our fourth episode spotlights the life and activism of Edgar Jopson or Edjop, a charismatic and passionate advocate for democracy, social justice, and human rights. His story is not only about defiance against dictatorship but also, and more importantly, a testament to the unyielding spirit of those who fought for freedom.…
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In our third episode, we delve into the life and controversial legacy of Imelda Marcos, the former First Lady of the Philippines, and her intimate connection to one of the darkest chapters in the nation's history – Martial Law.
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No conversation on the Philippines' Martial Law Era will be complete without a mention of its main man, Ferdinand E. Marcos. In this episode, we take a look back at his life and his rationale for declaring martial law.
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We start our season on select martial law personalities with the person that sparked the end of the era: Ninoy Aquino. How did his life and death impact the country's authoritarian period? Find out in this episode.
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Season 6 is here! Starting August 19, we will look at the Martial Law period through the lives of twelve individuals, and ask: were they shapers or shakers?
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Iba't Ibang EDSA: A PODKAS Special with HRVVMC
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Today, February 25, we commemorate the 37th anniversary of the EDSA Revolution. We partnered with the Human Rights Violations Victims' Memorial Commission for this special episode on the many ways we can look at EDSA: as an event, a memory, a commemoration, and as a space. Join us in this discussion!…
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Two Years of PODKAS! Second Anniversary Episode
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We look back at two years of conversations on Philippine history, politics, and society! We'll be on a (well-deserved) break, so for now, listen to our earlier episodes and chill as we prepare for new seasons in 2023!
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It's our final #RizalOnAir episode! And there's no better time to end this season as we celebrate Rizal Day. We talked about Rizal's last poem, untitled but more popularly known as Mi Ultimo Adios. There's a lot to talk about this poem, as it is one of the most controversial pieces written by Rizal. Find out in this episode. It was great doing this…
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After El Filibusterismo, Rizal put pen to paper to produce his third novel. However, due to the many circumstances of having to return to the Philippines and his exile to Dapitan, this third novel never materialized and was left to the depths of oblivion until a draft of its manuscript, several pages written in Lagueño Tagalog, was found. Join us i…
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We include La Liga Filipina in the discussion of Rizal's works because even if the association immediately failed, it marks an essential change in Rizal's evolving ideas and objectives. What is the Liga, and what did it hope to achieve? And how is it linked to the Katipunan? Find out in this episode of #RizalOnAir.…
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After discussing some of the old and new characters of the El Fili, we now focus on the main plot of the novel (Simoun's revenge) and its other story arcs and subplots, such as the story of Kabesang Tales, his quest for justice, and how the system was so rotten he decided to seek justice through other means. The Fili is a more political novel, and …
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Rizal followed up the Noli with a sequel titled El Filibusterismo, an attempt to tie the loose ends he left in his earlier novel. In this episode, we introduce El Fili, its major plot points, and its new characters.
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Del Pilar prodded Rizal to write a letter to a select group of women in Malolos, who, after some struggle and resistance, were able to establish a school so they could learn Spanish. Rizal happily obliged. The letter is now known as The Letter to the Women of Malolos, a lengthy reminder on many things, but most importantly, praise for the women's d…
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