Our trip to the U. S. part 2

Our second day in San Diego, we decided to use a Trolley bus. So, we can look around all over the city. The great thing about this one is that you'll learn about the history of the place as you go, if you decide to drop by a certain place. When you ride again, even with a different number, you'll still continue to learn new things but in a different point of view, coming from a specific driver/comedian, they want the trip to be entertaining as well.




Our first stop is at the harbor to go inside the ships and submarine turned museums. It was neat to be able explore and talk about stuffs inside, it can really stir up you imaginations :)








After that, we waited for the next trolley to arrive, it took like 15 mins wait but you know what? we looked at the schedules of arrival and it turned out that they seldom get late. Almost on time all the time.

Our next stop is supposedly another tourist spot where later on found out that it was just located just behind Hyatt Hotel which is near the Convention center where the SDCC was held. Anyways, it was a tourist trap of sort, lots of souvenir shops there. Danger zone for us, our Spidey senses are tinggling the whole time. We had to get out there soon :)

After that we headed to the beach, if I remember it right the CORONADO beach. We ate mexican food where the taco was superb! The serving was also big that I was not able to finish my plate? Glenda was actually shocked I couldn't hehe. Getting old I guess haha. Glenda likes mexicali in the Philippines, but this is the real thing.





After eating, we went to the beach front at the Hotel del Coronado.

Our Trip to the U.S.

I really don't know how to start this one, we've (my wife and I)been to San Deigo and Hawaii for 2 weeks and it was definitely a memorable trip for me,since this is my first time to set foot on american soil. As a kid I grew up watching Sesame Street and Hollywod movies and I've always wondered what it was like to be there. I've heard stories from relatives and friends about their trips and it always sounds so different. Now at 36, It finally happened. My wife makes things happen for me, she's always been there to push me towards the things I wouldn't have tried when I was single. "Thanks Lovey."


I've always been scared of flying but, I always go and look out the window hehe. Here saying bye to the Philippine air space :)

One thing I realized first is that we'll be sitting inside an airplane for long hours. Good thing we know that drinking coffee is not good for our body chemistry so we tried our best to avoid drinking any. On our stop in Japan, we get to order McDonalds and like a game, we usually compare prices and taste of any brand and try to figure out what they might have done to try and make their brand acceptable to other countries. One thing is for sure, it is expensive in Japan hehe. The serving is not much bigger than in the Philippines so I guess it is really expensive to live there.

Hello American air space :)

Our point of entry is L.A. and as we head off the exit, an officer asked us a few questions. We realized he's pinoy when heasked if there is "la balot? " I actually checked his name tag as we approached them, I think it lugauit or something. It just got confirmed when he said some tagalog :)

We got a bit lost so we missed our connecting flight to San Diego. Good thing we didn't have to wait for the 6pm flight. We got on the next flight within that hour.

We arrived in San Diego around 1-2pm so we head on straight to Best Western Seven Seas hotel. It was a nice place, they said it got renovated just recently so maybe that is good thing we picked that place. Pretty far from the Convention Center but at least it's decent.




My wife is always on the go during trips like these, so off we go to Sea World that same day! We just took a trolley and a bus to get there. We are quite adventurous that way. One thing about the trolley, we paid for our ride using a machine but we found out that there was no conductor, nothing to check your ticket. We just looked at each other thinking people here must be honest enough not to just hitch a ride for free. Will never happen here in our country :) Now the bus driver never carries any cash, there is a machine for that, no change folks, only exact fare. If that could only happen here in Manila, things would be better. Although no conductor means less employment huh? :(







Another chance for us to compare food servings :) This is too much for a single order don't you think? so we usually share hehe.



We went back to the hotel around 11pm. Went to a convenience store to get some ice cream and food, then went back and called it a day.

to be continued...

MANILA COMIC CON the press release

The long wait is finally over. Buckle up, Manila, because the Mecca
of Comic Culture is coming to town. On 18th and 19th of October 2008,
the Glorietta Activity Center and Glorietta Tent will be transformed
to a Comic Culture Wonderland as Hobbylink Productions, Inc. presents
the first world-class comic convention to hit the Philippines, The
1st Manila Comic Con.

The 1st Manila Comic Con will bring together the best and the
brightest comics talents the country has to offer. Celebrated Filipino
comics artists will honor their patrons, staunch comic book
aficionados, by conducting an exclusive book signing and book
launching all throughout the event. Not to be outdone, Filipino
sculptors will join in and exhibit their masterpieces. To top it all
off, a Cosplay Masquerade Party will be held on October 18 at the
Glorietta Tent to create an awesome venue where enthusiasts, hobbyists
and artists can get together socialize and build a positive comics energy!

Too good to be true? Think again! The 1st Manila Comic Con will go
where no other comic convention has dared. It will bring a hail storm
of toy sale, panel discussions, life-size and museum-type displays -
all done in an international- convention style.

What are you waiting for!? Spread the word and Get ready for the next
Big Thing!


For updates please check www.manilacomiccon. com

join the Yahoogroups: manilacomicconventi on@yahoogroups. com

TAGGED by Gerry Alanguilan

Just Got home from a 2-week vacation in the US and guess what? Gerry Alanguilan Tagged me :)

1. What do you want for your birthday?

Hmmm, I don't usually expect anything. If there is one thing, I'd like to

2. Who will be your next kiss?

Glenda,then our babies Kyle and Shawn

3. When was the last time you went to the mall?

A few days ago, at the ALA MOANA mall in Honolulu.

4. Are you wearing socks right now?

Nope.

5. How did you spend your summer?

It is still summer in the U.S. so I guess, we went to San Diego Comicon and Hawaii. The tours and hiking are so tiring and exciting at the same time.

6. Have you been to the cinema in the last 5 days?

Went to see Hellboy 2 with Glenda in Hawaii. Expensive tickets(500 Php) but we just wanted to find out if it was any better. I am pleased to say, our local cinemas are better and cheaper at that.

7. What was the last thing you had to drink?

Ovaltine, I bought it in hawaii because I think our local Ovaltine is not the same, not like the Ovaltine I loved when I was a kid. My verdict? I was RIGHT!!!!!

8. What are you wearing right now?

White T-shirt, shorts, slippers, make-up with a big grin--- "why so serious?"

9. What was your last purchase?

Last purchased? GI Joe Snake eyes action-figure.

10. What was the last food you ate?

Hungarian Hotdog, egg and fried rice.

11. Who would be the person you would call if you were up in the middle of the night and couldn’t sleep?

ikaw ba'y nalulunggkot? walang makausap? (joke) I'd call no one.

12. Have you bought any clothing items in the last week?

nah.

13. Do you have a pet?

None

14. What made you laugh in the last 5 days?

My kids.

15. If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?

In front of my computer writing something on my blog before I can get back to my work. Hey! I'm doing that right now. Cool :)

16. What is the last thing you purchased online?

hmmm, if that includes tours... Nah my wife did that.

17. One thing you hate about yourself?

tummy's getting a bit bigger everyday. Need to exercise more :)

18. Do you miss anyone?

anyone.

19. What are your plans for the day?

finish pending projects. A lot of them got hold because of the trip/vacation.

20. Last person you msg’d?

like email? Francis Takenaga

21. Ever went to a camp?

I can't remember.

22. Are you a good student in school?

average.

23. What do you know about the (your) future?

the future is always a day after today. I'll take it one day at a time thank you.

24. Are you wearing any perfume or cologne?

natural scent all the way baby! yeah!

25. Where is/are your best friend/s right now?

always there when I truly need them. I don't don't usually ask favors, but my friends would usually anticipate whenever they think I need one.

I inflict this tag on my Renie, Reno and whoe ever reads this! hah! beat that tagging folks!

Don't get your hopes up :)

Talked to the editors later that day and I still need to prove something to them before I can get a project. Good thing is, I now have actual editors who will be waiting for new pages from me :)

It is now truly up to me, really.

SanDiego (Sea World)

Kararating lang sa San Diego, nag Sea World muna hihi. Kwento ako more soon :)

MARVEL vs DC spread sample art

I am a man without sleep :)

PARENT - Job Description

PARENT - Job Description

This is hysterical. If it had been presented this way,

I don't believe any of us would have done it!!!!


POSITION :

Mom, Mommy, Mama, Ma

Dad, Daddy, Dada, Pa, Pop


JOB DESCRIPTION:


Long term, team players needed, for challenging

permanent work in an

often chaotic environment.

Candidates must possess excellent communication

and organizational skills and be willing to work

variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends

and frequent 24 hour shifts on call.

Some overnight travel required, including trips to

primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities!

Travel expenses not reimbursed.

Extensive courier duties also required.


RESPONSIBILITIES:


The rest of your life

Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily,

until someone needs $5.

Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly.

Also, must possess the physical stamina of a

pack mule

and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat

in case, this time, the screams from

the backyard are not someone just crying wolf.

Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges,

such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets

and stuck zippers.

Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and

coordinate production of multiple homework projects.

Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings

for clients of all ages and mental outlooks.

Must be willing to be indispensable one minute,

an embarrassment the next.

Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a

half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices.

Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.

Must assume final, complete accountability for

the quality of the end product.

Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and

janitorial work throughout the facility.


POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT &PROMOTION :


None.

Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills,

so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you


PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE:


None required unfortunately.

On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.


WAGES AND COMPENSATION:


Get this! You pay them!

Offering frequent raises and bonuses.

A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because

of the assumption that college will help them

become financially independent.

When you die, you give them whatever is left.

The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that

you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.


BENEFITS:


While no health or dental insurance, no pension,

no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and

no stock options are offered;

this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth, unconditional love,

and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right.


Forward this on to all the PARENTS you know, in appreciation for everything they do on a daily basis,

letting them know they are appreciated

for the fabulous job they do...

or forward with love

to anyone thinking of applying for the job.

** AND A FOOTNOTE ?

THERE IS NO RETIREMENT -- EVER!!! **

If you are fortunate enough you will become grandparents!


Keep Laughing,


Best medicine for the heart and mind.

HELLSWORD preview time

Did this one while waiting for my son at his school :)

new samples :)

PAYPALable commissions gallery :)

Here are just some of the commissions I've done within a month, mostly the reason why I was not so active here.

Anyways, I am thankful for all the guys who placed their trust in me and my art.

If you want me to do commissions for you. please email me at smp_letters@yahoo.com

Paypal is cool :)

CHIBITROG fan art by Xtianity

"good day sir, pa post naman ito sa blogsite mo, sa santomon's name. pagpasensyahan mo na kasi sira talaga ako pagdating sa colorings.... i'm trying to learn photoshop. nga pala, wat happen na sa digmaan? salamat sa inspirasyon na ibinigay mo samin... mula pa noong panahon ng bata-batuta at kick fighter... xtianity"


Salamat sa nakatutuwang drawing :)

Almost finish with these pages :)

http://www.comicspace.com/augustine_mar/comics.php?action=gallery&comic_id=21284

Whole day without electricity because of "FRANK"

Frank is the name of the storm that our country is experiencing right now. As early as 5am yesterday up to 4am this morning, there was no electricity. We still went to church without the kids, and went straight to the mall for our weekly grocery. We were suppose to go to a kiddie birthday party that afternoon but were informed that it was postponed; the area around the venue was flooded.

Back at home later that day, I tried to draw even though it was a bit dark. The whole time, I realised that our work relies too much on electricity. Without it, all I can really do is draw without any ways of scanning and sending the images via email. I felt trapped and although it was a chance to really play with the kids and rest, I'm still wondering about how things will be like if the brownout was frequent like a few years back?

We relied on my father in law's portable radio that has a wind up feature to store battery. He said it was new and he'd not recharged the batteries yet so I volunteered to wind it up every 5 minutes or so hehe. It was fun to do. The news was of course dreadful, lots of accidents and casualties.

During the night we had to stay up late because there was no electric fan and my wife and I had to take turns and be the fan for the kids :)It was not really hot but we are making sure that they won't sweat and catch cold in the process. The kids getting is far worse than staying up to make sure they won't get sick we figured.

I just hope the storm ends soon. And pray that everyone I know is safe.

Got this Aries horoscope on friendster :)

"A huge workload doesn't have to intimidate you. You can do this! You are a star."

Bagay na bagay di ba? hehehe.

RAMBOL 3 preview

A page preview of METROPOLITAN inside Rambol issue 3.
Although the actual page might be printed in grayscale. As much as I want to print it like the first and second issue, I am afraid, reality has sunk in and in order to survive, we have to accept some compromises. :(

Lumabas sa Manila Bulletin nung Saturday

Nasa toy con ako nung inabot sa akin ito ni Ner P :)

Poor scanning hehe sorry.

just copy and past this link to your browser:
http://www.mb.com.ph/issues/2008/06/14/YTCP20080614127280.html

Rambol komiks- hard to find? Click the link

I've heard this story from different people already, this is the first time that somebody actually wrote something about it. Please click the link to read Mark's tale.

PlanetMarkus


Thanks Mark for sharing this one.

Kyle's latest work :)

My son Kyle showed me his work this morning so I decided to post it here. Don't ask me why he wrote NO CAT hehehe.

Family time in IslandCove June 7, 2008

We went to Island Cove in Bacoor Cavite. The place has new sections that the family will surely enjoy. Since I was a kid, I've had nothing but fond memories here, the place was named differently before, I think it was Covelandia. I think it just got even better with its addition of the mini Zoo.

We went swimming 'til noon then straight to the mini-zoo after Shawn took a nap in the car. The animals here are all healthy looking and it is so easy to go around. There is a bike rental or you can ride to what my kid refers as the Toy Car :) that will get you to the crocodiles. They fed the crocs when we went in with a chicken (dead one). At firt Kyle got excited and said. " I'm Happy! " Then we explained how deadly these creatures are so he won't go too near the fences.

Within the farm are the monkeys surrounded by water, my wife told me, it reminded her of the show "LOST" they are stranded in a man made island hehe. the funny this is. If even the crocs escape, they will the first to get eaten. Yikes. We went back to the where the birds and the tigers are kept. We saw this young Hawk that got his wing trapped between the screen cage. Its attempt to free himself only caused more injury because it was using it's sharp beak wounding the wing, blood trickling down already. I rush to call the caretaker, they managed to fix the prob and thanked us. They'll just call the doctor I guess to fix the wounds. After that we enjoyed the geese as they came close as if talking to us but I knew they wanted to chase us away hehe. Anyway, they are making funny noises. We then saw a Cassowari bird, a big strange lookig one that reminded me of the Jurassic park film. I told my wife that the strange thing on its head would give out a noise akin to the dinosaurs in the film I was looking at the female, I was making bird noise then it happened. The male bird shout at me full blast, he was in a different cage but he was staring at me, maybe got jealous. I was right! It really was a scary dinosaur sounding voice. This bird is taller than me so you could imagine it was one hehe.

After that we went back to the other kiddie pool where me and my kids stayed until 5:30 pm.

Not much time to go around but the stay was worth it in my book. I'd recommend that place anytime.

My wife still asks the question, Why do they breed deadly Crocodiles?

:)

My niece's work

During the M3 event, my niece Tintin came and it was also the first time I showed her how I draw,teaching her in a way. This is her drawing that she drew during the event. Fast learner eh? :)

...

Haven't posted anything here since my return home from M3 on the last day of May. It is now June and I've been hammering away with new pages from all sides. I have come to realize a lot of things after Mangaholix 3. The event was successfull and I'd like to thank the Mangaholix crew for letting us join the fun.

Fun, he he he, I came to realize that I am not young anymore. The music was too loud for me, we were so err too close to the stage/speakers and most of the time I can't hear myself. One of the rare times that I'd shut up because my motormouth was useless there hehe. I also found out that COSPLAYERS are the real star of the show. They are fantastic to look at and I think that even without anything under that roof, the event will be successfull. You don't have to put anything there to show. The showcased artworks all came in eventually, The cosplayers were the walking artworks there. It is an amazing sight.

Urbandub rocks!!! Me and my wife agrees on that.

I'd also like to thank Renie and Levy for always giving us a helping hand.

I can't write much yet, need to draw faster to meet deadlines so ciao for now. Will post previews soon though.

link sa mga pix: http://gilbertm.multiply.com/photos/album/23/Some_M3_pics

Stay tuned :)

Update on M3 this coming Saturday!

Our New booth Number is C-18.
Sacred Mountain Publications will be with
Gio Paredes(Kalayaan)
and
Gener Pedrina(Sanduguan)

Please do visit us there this Saturday, May 31, 2008
at the SMX, Mall of Asia, Pasay City.

Sketches for only 250 pesos.
free 3 minute sketches for any one who will buy 3 items from our booth.

Big Thanks for the Mangaholix group!

-Gilbert Monsanto

Bisita sa Brewrats

Nagguest kami nung May 21 sa Brewrats. Kasama ng Sacred Mountain Publications ang Point Zero. Thank you Tado, Dj Angel at Ramon sa nakakatuwang gabi.

L to R: Jon Zamar, Michael David, Melvin Calingo, Gilbert Monsanto, Ramon Bautista, Renie Palo at Levy Ramirez

Tagalog ngayon, tinatamad ako mag ingles :)

COVER MOCK up part 2

This time with the logo I designed :)

Trying on the SMP shirts :)

The T-shirts have arived, Just 76 pcs. all in all. So I hope people will grab one quickly, come this 31st at the Mangaholix Manga Mania event.

Available sizes, xs, s, m, and L
White shirts for 200 pesos
and Black shirts for 225 pesos only.

Apologies for the all the XL people. But you can still place an order at the booth for the next printing. :)

Our booth is D-16, near the entrance. See you there guys!

The painted version

Tropa and Rambol komiks available in Marikina!

If you are living in or near marikina and you are looking for Tropa and Rambol Komiks. Visit this place :)

LIMITADO dressed to kill & other things 57 N.Roxaz st. brgy Kalumpang Marikina....
malapit kme sa Sanroque Elem Skul, or china trust bak kalumpang... from marcos h-way goin staLU.. lampasan mu ang sta.lu mall tas U turn pabalik cubao.... after
caltex my kalsada ryt ka dun...konting dre tsoooo lang... dyarrraaannnn...left
side Limitado... katabe ng freestyle barber shop.... tapat ng queen annie
store. open kme 3pm onwards.

It's Arvin "TADO" Jimenez's shop.
Listen to their Radio show mon-thursday 9pm-12mn- The BrewRATS 99.5 campus fm


BrewRats logo by Renie Palo

Something new...

A joint venture with Arnel Abeleda.

Note: Just a mock up cover, changes will be made.

TROPA

Rolkol:

Formula Juan
Liksi
Divina Diuata
Sugar Shock
Maligna

New style practice 2

Practice practice!

BACK END DEALS--- anyone?

I have had it. I have to announce that I do not accept back end deals. I have always been willing to help people especially young creators but they do not seem to get the word investment. Artists are people too, we work and we need to get paid. Not AFTER the release of a book, but DURING even BEFORE.

I received an email with this kind of setup, I'll post here what it read but won't expose the writer's name so so he does not need to react. Generally I usually get this kind of deal that I am now sick of seeing.

============================================
the terms read:
Here's my terms. 1. You must work with me for at least one year, you MAY work with others too, but you have to remain working with me as well. 2. As long as we are working together, I MAY post any work that you've done for my book on the web, this is strictly for publicity, nothing else, I'M NOT TRYING TO CHEAT YOU!! I'm only trying to boost our success. 3. I WILL pay you a price of anywhere between 60-70$ USD per page for my book, "xxxxx." 4. You will not recieve any payment for the book until TWO WEEKS after the book is released, after two weeks, you will receive anywhere between 60-70$ USD for every page that you did. 5. You must meet all deadlines. 6. If you do not meet the expectations I have for you, or if any part of this agreement is not followed, this contract is null and void. If you have any questions or disagreements, let me know. Oh, and if you need me to, I will buy supplies for you. Hope this goes well.
============================================
Two years? and if you don't or took a break, you won't get nothing, even if you produced a thousand pages for the book.

The words saying that he is not trying to cheat me, seems to me that MAYBE he is or he might.

the release of a book is very very flexible, what if he won't or can't? What all the work for free?

Meet your expectations? well, you have not met my expectation for you to pay up front also.

Please creators! If you can't afford to do a book, don't go looking for cheap or naive artists to work on your book that may cause grief to these poor souls. Go to family members perhaps?

I hope this is clear, NO MORE BACK END DEALS.

Learn comics through comics.

How do we really learn making comics? Is it by learning how to do portraits? paint a tree? Learning to draw, you DO need to draw the real world. But creating comics is quite different for me. There are no straight rules. There are some modifications and even exxagerations to make an interesting comics. Even if I can draw really good, I may not be a great storyteller. Like I said before, You'll learn by living the life. As a kid growing up, I've seen and tried to copy all sorts of style while I was reading comics. I know the names of the artists I admire and can identify which one is who's work just by looking at the strokes of their art. In fact, the changes in style from Jack Kirby to John Byrne to Jim Lee is one of the evidence that style evolves in comics, Each style give out an era in comics. Even the tools being used is an outstanding giveaway.

Comics has its own special quality that only and only comics can give. Some people may think that it may be limiting and they'd rather do animation or doing a movie to tell a story. But that is where the real challenge is, telling a complete story with just so much space. That is why we call our idols, comics geniuses. I learned from them, not by talking to them personally but through their works.

If you could ask anyone from the professional community if they have ever copied from comics before? The aswer will be YES! I don't see why we should change that tradition. That is where evolution unfolds right before our very eyes. It is something beautiful when I can see one artist developed a new style by merging not 2 but sometimes 4 different styles or even more and will end up with something that is really unique.

Now, developing a style is very tricky process and sometime soon, you will have to stop looking at other people's work, if you feel that you are truly ready to do so. This way, real time influences will be avoided. By doing this, you will be able to draw without references. In time you'll see, a new style will be born.

We do need references almost always, but mostly for backgrounds items and all the props.

Jon Zamar's Digmaang Salinlahi now ONLINE!

click here
Check it out!

SMP Tshirts

For more info you can email us at smp_letters@yahoo.com if you want to order.

Trying out a new approach to my art

Trying out a new style. This is done within 3 hours, not yet perfected, ink washing needs patience :) Colored using photoshop but with a different approach.

Hope you guys like it.

TOYCON 2008

June 14-15, 2008

click the link for more about the event :)


click here

Learning Comics is not like KUNG FU

The last time I was with Gerry, he asked if I'd like to teach again. Got me thinking and remembering about the good 'ol LEARN days. Teaching for Whilce Portacio's comics creation course is one experience so dear to me. At first, when he pushed me almost literally to teach for his class. I was reluctant and nervous to face the students who have so many expectations coming there. Some were surprised to find that I was the one to continue the class. It was funny that when I finally started drawing, someone from the class asked if I was Gilbert Monsanto. I said yes, and like a sigh of relief some cheered that I was BIOTROG! Actually that meant I created Biotrog. Instantly some of them placed their trust that this going to be a great session. After six years working on the local komiks scene, that was the first time that people actually acknowledged that they knew my work personally. I have received fan mails during the early 90's in the publications where I worked but this is different. I was there in person as they were, and they are now giving their trust in me. Luckily, I was teaching in behalf of Whilce's teachings. It was easier that way. The first few sessions was tough and well, I felt just teaching by the book was enough. I am not sure they can follow all the techniques presented to them.

I then realized something. It is not like KUNG FU. If I teach them the snake style, they won’t come out using snake style. There are too many factors in comics that if we try to enumerate all they needed to learn it almost impossible. I then changed the focus of the class. Instead of teaching what they cannot possible do. I tried to explore what they are capable of now, and try to point them towards that direction. In one classroom I would ask them if there was a position in comics they wanted to be, what would that be? Guess, what is the popular answer? Almost all wanted to be a penciller. Every class it was the same. It was clear that most of them are into this because of two things, fame and money.

So, I would run some tests secretly to find out what they can do, how far are they with those skill. Some are so reluctant when I try to convince them to ink or write or try to change their precious style. In fact, some would just walk out. Luckily a few returned to finish the class. Some are rich kids who just can't seem figure out why the hell they have to work for the class; they have parties to go to. Some are poor but managed to save enough just to try his luck thinking he might find something along the way. Slowly, even if they are not so happy not being the penciller. I was able to find out who they should be at the moment. I told them, “Did you know that Whilce Portacio started as an inker? " Some still thought I was joking just trying to convince them to try something they don't want to do. The truth is I knew that after the class, most of them will turn their backs and will be working on different fields of work. Not for me to say, they'll just have to learn that for themselves.

For those I think deserves to be checked out? I usually scatter all their works on my table hoping that Whilce will see something there, who knows he might discover a few of them and could get a job doing comics. It did work; the lucky few are now successful doing comics. The best thing about LEARN located inside Megamall is that everyone is welcome. People from different schools, age, gender or even nationalities are welcome to learn there.

Actually, I found my beautiful wife there, it is always so funny when we get asked where we met and our reply would be in megamall. Maybe you are wondering, no. I did not court her when she was still my student, all the romance happened after, when she was studying aikido lessons, she was no longer my student so it was ok. She even ignores me during classes because according to her I seemed to be very cocky at times and even uncaring. I do that actually on purpose. I have this policy when I was teaching, ignore this class and you will be ignored by it. I will only remember your names if your work with your signature shows some promise. Because that is how comics work, we remember talents when their work interests us enough for us to look up their names on the credits.

In the end, a few made it big and some did not. I wish I could have done more for them. In truth, some of them might think that the school did not meet their expectations. But it was never about the Kung Fu, it was all about them, all unique individuals. Learning comics is not by knowing all the terminologies and all the tricks, it is by living it. Comics making needs only one thing... your heart.

I just hope that whatever they took from those classes have helped them in some small ways with the choices they make today.

As for teaching again? Want to learn? just ask me.

M3 2008

We'll be at the Mangaholix Manga Mania '08 which will be held on a saturday, May 31st at SMX, mall of ASIA.

Sacred Mountain Publications will be with Gio Paredes and Gener Pedrina. So, I guess you can call us the G3 since Gilbert starts also with G hehe.

Will be selling comics there including Tropa#2, our latest installment.

Sketches anyone?

If you want to request sketches please email me at smp_letters@yahoo.com 300 pesos each. I think this is for the best since I won't be rushing artwork during the actual event.

T-shirt?
We are working this one out. If anyone want to pre order please do email us as well. I'll update you more on this.

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (late entry)

As always, I'm late with this entry hehe. Last saturday, I went to Comic Oddyssey Galleria for the Free Comic Book day 2008. I never imagined how long the line will be during a day like this, it was a looooong blockbuster like line. I decided just to hang around and talk to my buddies. I did manage to purchase Budjette Tan's Trese. It is a lovely book, the look and all. Also, got Graphic Classics from Gerry Alanguilan. It is always fun to go to an event like this, meeting with friends in a single place all at the same time seemed like a big party. Sandy and Co./family are always so warm with people.

It is evident that the free comic book day was a smashing success!

Congrats Comic Oddyssey!

IRON AGE Productions

I just did the logo for them :)

Check out their sites:

IRON AGE

and a video:

VIDEO

the LINK between MAN and GOD

Got this from nefar007's deviantart journal :)


An Atheist Professor of Philosophy speaks to his Class on the Problem Science has with GOD, The ALMIGHTY.
He asks one of his New Christian Students to stand and . . ....
Professor : You are a Christian, aren't you, son ?
Student : Yes, sir.
Professor : So you Believe in GOD ?
Student : Absolutely, sir.
Professor : Is GOD Good ?
Student : Sure.
Professor : Is GOD ALL - POWERFUL ?
Student : Yes.
Professor : My Brother died of Cancer even though he Prayed to GOD to Heal him.
Most of us would attempt to Help Others who are ill.
But GOD didn't.
How is this GOD Good then ? Hmm ?
( Student is silent )

Professor : You can't answer, can you ?
Let's start again, Young Fella.
Is GOD Good ?
Student : Yes.
Professor : Is Satan good ?
Student : No.
Professor : Where does Satan come from ?
Student : From .. . . GOD . .. .
Professor : That's right.
Tell me son, is there evil in this World ?
Student : Yes.
Professor : Evil is everywhere, isn't it ?
And GOD did make Everything. Correct ?
Student : Yes.
Professor : So who created evil ?
( Student does not answer )
Professor : Is there Sickness ? Immorality ? Hatred ? Ugliness ?
All these terrible things exist in the World, don't they ?
Student : Yes, sir.
Professor : So, who Created them ?

( Student has no answer )

Professor : Science says you have 5 Senses you use to Identify and Observe the World around you.
Tell me, son . . . Have you ever Seen GOD ?
Student : No, sir.
Professor : Tell us if you have ever Heard your GOD ?
Student : No , sir.
Professor : Have you ever Felt your GOD, Tasted your GOD, Smelt your GOD ?
Have you ever had any Sensory Perception of GOD for that matter ?
Student : No, sir. I'm afraid I haven't.
Professor : Yet you still Believe in HIM ?
Student : Yes.
Professor : According to Empirical, Testable, Demonstrable Protocol, Science says your GOD doesn't exist.
What do you say to that, son ?
Student : Nothing. I only have my Faith.
Professor : Yes. Faith. And that is the Problem Science has.
Student : Professor, is there such a thing as Heat ?
Professor : Yes.
Student : And is there such a thing as Cold ?
Professor : Yes.
Student : No sir. There isn't.
( The Lecture Theatre becomes very quiet with this turn of events )

Student : Sir, you can have Lots of Heat, even More Heat, Superheat, Mega Heat, White Heat,
a Little Heat or No Heat.
But we don't have anything called Cold.
We can hit 458 Degrees below Zero which is No Heat, but we can't go any further after that.
There is no such thing as Cold.
Cold is only a Word we use to describe the Absence of Heat.
We cannot Measure Cold.
Heat is Energy.
Cold is Not the Opposite of Heat, sir, just the Absence of it.
( There is Pin - Drop Silence in the Lecture Theatre )

Student : What about Darkness, Professor ? Is there such a thing as Darkness ?
Professor : Yes. What is Night if there isn't Darkness ?
Student : You're wrong again, sir.
Darkness is the Absence of Something.
You can have Low Light, Normal Light , Bright Light, Flashing Light . . .
But if you have No Light Constantly, you have Nothing and it's called Darkness, isn't it ?
In reality, there is no Darkness.
If there is, you would be able to make Darkness Darker, wouldn't you ?
Professor : So what is the point you are making, Young Man ?
Student : Sir, my point is your Philosophical Premise is Flawed.
Professor : Flawed ? Can you explain how ?
Student : Sir, you are working on the Premise of Duality.
You argue there is Life and then there is Death, a Good GOD and a Bad GOD.
You are viewing the Concept of GOD as something finite, something we can measure.
Sir, Science can't even explain a Thought.
It uses Electricity and Magnetism, but has never seen, much less fully understood either one.
To view Death as the Opposite of Life is to be ignorant of the fact that
Death cannot exist as a Substantive Thing.
Death is Not the Opposite of Life : just the Absence of it.
Now tell me, Professor, do you Teach your Students that they Evolved from a Monkey ?
Professor : If you are referring to the Natural Evolutionary Process, yes, of course, I do.
Student : Have you ever observed Evolution with your own eyes, sir ?

( The Professor shakes his head with a Smile, beginning to realize where the Argument is going )

Student : Since no one has ever observed the Process of Evolution at work and
cannot even prove that this Process is an On - Going Endeavor,
are you not Teaching your Opinion, sir ?
Are you not a Scientist but a Preacher ?
( The Class is in Uproar )

Student : Is there anyone in the Class who has ever Seen the Professor's Brain ?
( The Class breaks out into Laughter )
Student : Is there anyone here who has ever Heard the Professor's Brain, Felt it, Touched or Smelt it ? . ... ..
No one appears to have done so.
So, according to the Established Rules of Empirical, Stable, Demonstrable Protocol, Science says that
you have No Brain, sir.
With all due respect, sir, how do we then Trust your Lectures, sir ?
( The Room is Silent. The Professor stares at the Student, his face unfathomable )
Professor : I guess you'll have to take them on Faith, son.
Student : That is it sir . . .
the Link between Man & GOD is FAITH.
That is all that Keeps Things Moving & Alive.

It turned out later that the student is Albert Einstein...


“Only in obedience can we discover the great joy of the will of God.”

WORST COMMENT I GOT ABOUT MY WORK.

Well, this was a long time ago. A guy who was kinda courting my first GF told her. "Wala yang si Gilbert. Komiks? Putsa, walang pera yan. Drawing lang ng drawing, nabubulok naman ang papel, tatapon ko lang yan eh." So, I told her it is okay he felt that way about my work but understand, if he think that low about drawings, why does he keep his money? "May drawing din naman ang pera ah, sige nga itapon niya?"

Hehehe.

Availability update

Tropa #2 and Rambol #2 copies are now available at the Market Market NBS branch.

Available soon(within the week)at these NBS branches:
CAGAYAN
DAGUPAN-CITY MALL
GAPAN- WALTERMART CENTER
LEGASPI-NE PACIFIC MALL
BATANGAS-BAY CITY MALL
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY-LIMKETKAI CENTER
BACOLOD-GAISANO CITY
SM ILOILO
SM CITY CAGAYAN DE ORO
SM CITY DAVAO
SM LIPA CITY
SM BATANGAS
DAVAO-GAISANO MALL
ROBINSONS ILOILO
CABANATUAN- NE PACIFIC SHOPPING MALL
ROBINSONS-LIPA

I do hope people there will pick up a copy. Although, it really is surprising that we've sold more copies outside Metro Manila. There are more komiks readers there then?

HELLSWORD colored page again

ilang pages na lang tapos na ang Hellsword :)