If a Japanese television show taught us something about pop culture, it would be that almost every Filipino can and will be able to identify Voltes V no Uta and sing it on the spot, parody or otherwise.
Since its back in 1978, the mecha anime has captured the hearts of every Filipino and remained in our culture. Its popularity even created a domino effect, paving the way for the local otaku ethos to grow, expand and be loved by fans of all ages.
Years later, and with an increasing and dedicated following, the Philippine otaku culture also introduced other Japanese-based trends from manga, J-Pop and yes, even J-Fashion.
Otaku, the Japanese slang for “nerd” or “geek,” became an integral part of the branding for events that cater to the same interest like the increasingly popular Pinoy Otaku Festival, Otakufest PH and Otaku Expo. This paved the way for cosplaying, or the art of portraying a character in real life through costumes and props, as a weekend sight in malls and other establishments.
1970s to 1990s — Questor, Voltes V, and Filipino Dubbing
To examine the growth of otaku culture in the Philippines, let’s go back in time to where it all began.
In 1978, Questor International (later known as Telesuccess Productions) agreed to broadcast the mecha anime on GMA-7’s 6:00 – 6:30 pm block on Fridays. Questor also allowed the TV network to air other anime shows, including Mechander Robo and Daimos, on the same block time on weekdays.
Airing these shows during the evening block time would be effective, as Filipino children were glued to their TV sets. They would go home right after school and watch to their delight giant robots fighting against the invading monsters of the week.
But it was Voltes V who captured the hearts of many.
BANNED
1979. Martial Law. Its strict regulations banned the broadcast of anime on TV, including Voltes V’s finale. GMA 7 ceased to air anime during this time and later made a dramatic comeback shortly after the People Power Revolution in 1986.
In the 1990s, local channels like RPN-9, IBC-13, and ABC-5 (now TV5) began airing Filipino dubbed anime. In 1999, GMA Films finally aired the Filipino dub of the long-awaited Voltes V finale, Voltes V: The Liberation.
Dubbing and localization would become crucial to the country’s slow-emerging otaku culture at that time. It made anime more relatable and accessible to the Filipino audience.
2000s to 2010s — From Local Cable to the Internet
Our interest in anime and Japanese pop culture skyrocketed during the 2000s when TV networks began buying anime and J-Drama rights. These programs were dubbed in Filipino, giving a much-needed break and variety from soap operas that dominated block times.
Then came local cable channels Hero TV and Animax which aired a ton of anime programs. TV5 did the same for non-cable viewers with its AniMega block.
The Internet would further expose Filipinos to Japanese pop culture. Websites with fan-translated anime and manga became available; blogs about the otaku culture were accessible and online forums allowed for an open exchange between like-minded otakus.
Meanwhile, the 2000s saw the rise of conventions, becoming a perfect place for otakus to gather and enjoy. Anime Explosion, an event held at the SM Megamall in 2000, became the first anime-centric convention. The event also introduced cosplaying and the chance to talk with voice actors, producers and other key figures.
A decade later, the rise of streaming services in the Philippines gave local otaku legal access to Japanese shows, including anime.
Major conventions, such as Cosplay Mania, Toycon, and Otaku Expo, were huge hits as organizers created spaces, such as an Artists’ Alley and Dealer’s Hall, for the con-goers to purchase fan-made items.
The Present — A Lasting Influence
With a long and enduring history and the continuing influence of anime, it is no wonder that the otaku culture remained in the country for a long time.
Fans pursued Japanese lessons to level up their devotion. Anime would inspire artists to integrate the animation style into their work. Cosplaying became a profession for many. Several schools taught anime culture.
These would not have been possible if Voltes V had not aired on every Filipino TV screen.
