Literature, at its core, is never a neutral entity; it mirrors the power structures and values of society. Yet, in today’s social media-driven literary communities like BookTok and BookTube, many dismiss the idea that reading books is inherently political. Some readers claim that literature is their escape, a temporary retreat from the chaos of daily life. While the allure of leisure is undeniable, this mindset ignores the more critical undertones of reading.
In reality, the very act of reading and engaging with texts is political. From the earliest works of fiction to contemporary bestsellers, books have been vehicles for social commentary, resistance, and reflection. Even during the Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines, works such as La Solidaridad and Liwanag at Dilim became an instrument for activism, awakening the consciousness of the people and mobilizing them for change.
To this day, literature continues to reflect the challenges faced by marginalized communities, helping readers gain a better understanding of issues like poverty, inequality, and racial injustice. Every written story provides an immersive experience. While we are not present at the very moments they happen, we capture their feelings and perspectives through these recorded chronicles.
However, access to literature is still not equal. In the Philippines, the cost of books—whether physical or digital—often hinders individuals from reading. There is also a limited number of libraries in the country. As of December 2024, the total number of affiliated public libraries with the National Library of the Philippines stands at 1,714. Moreover, the lack of resources to sustain library operations hinders effective functioning. This not only limits access to books but also creates substantial barriers to social mobility and civic participation.
Censorship is another pressing issue, with book banning still a serious concern in many countries, including the Philippines. Ironically, during the celebration of Buwan ng Wika in August 2022, the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) filed a memorandum to cease the publication and distribution of books deemed to incite terrorism, which is in line with Section 9 of Republic Act No. 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. This spurred reactions from labor groups, academics, and cultural organizations, saying that this ban is a violation of press freedom and the right to expression.
The works with “subversive” and “anti-government” themes include Teatro Pulitikal Dos by Malou Jacob, Kalatas: Mga Kuwentong Bayan at Kuwentong Buhay by Rommel B. Rodriguez, Tawid-diwa sa Pananagisag ni Bienvenido Lumbera: Ang Bayan, ang Manunulat, at ang Magasing Sagisag sa Imahinatibong Yugto ng Batas Militar 1975-1979 by Dexter B. Cayanes, May Hadlang ang Umaga by Don Pagusara, and Labas: Mga Palabas sa Labas ng Sentro by Reuel M. Aguila.
However, the pieces by Jacob, Rodriguez, and Pagusara have already been published by the KWF before the memorandum was filed. A month later, the KWF rescinded the ban, as some of the commissioners withdrew their signatures; therefore, the memorandum is void. The incident not only highlighted the fragile state of intellectual freedom in the country but also reinforced the political nature of literature, revealing both its power to challenge authority and its susceptibility to censorship.
Perhaps the biggest barrier to literature is the country’s persistent literacy crisis. The Philippines remains the weakest in reading, ranking sixth-lowest among all participating countries in the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment. Results show that only one in four Filipino students reached basic reading proficiency.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Statistics Authority conducted the 2019 Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) to test the basic literacy of 15-year-old students. The survey revealed that 94 percent of Filipino students are basic literate. However, lawmakers pointed out that the test does not include comprehension as one of its criteria. This raised concerns on the legitimacy of the test results in comparison to international assessments. The subsequent FLEMMS, which was conducted in 2024, will reveal the functional literacy rate of the students where it will include comprehension.
In a society where books remain out of reach for many, literature has the potential to bridge the gaps by sparking the imagination, promoting critical thinking, and providing the knowledge necessary for social and political engagement. Just by reading and supporting works that advocate for justice in any form, we actively participate in the ongoing struggle for equality and equity.
Protecting and destigmatizing access to literature is more than escapism during free time and preserving books—it is about protecting the right to engage with ideas and fight for change. In a time where prevalent misinformation and censorship threaten to silence diverse voices, the importance of reading as a political act cannot be overstated. By embracing the political nature of reading, we can harness its power to create an enlightened world.
This article was published in The LaSallian‘s March 2025 issue. To read more, visit bit.ly/TLSMarch2025.
