Gloc-9, Hindi Lang Rapper — Makata Na Rin! 7 Poetry Books Inilunsad sa Book Festival
Aristotle Pollisco — yes, that's Gloc-9's real name — is adding a whole new chapter to his legacy. The legendary Filipino rapper is launching not one, not two, but seven poetry chapbooks under the series 'Makata sa Pinas' at the Philippine Book Festival 2026, happening today, March 12, at SM Megamall's Megatrade Hall.
This isn't Gloc-9's first foray into poetry — he released 'Akin Lang Naman' back in 2017 with ABS-CBN Publishing. But 'Makata sa Pinas' is something different: a deep, seven-part reexamination of his entire discography, tracing the themes that have consistently surfaced throughout his music career. The chapbooks are published in collaboration with Everything's Fine, with book design by Dan Durante and covers by JC Lo.
The first three volumes — 'Pagkatao,' 'Pangarap,' and 'Pursigi' — are deeply personal. 'Pagkatao' traces Gloc-9's roots in Binangonan, Rizal and his development as a poet. 'Pangarap' is about his dreams of becoming a songwriter and rapper, while 'Pursigi' explores the hard work and persistence that reaching those ambitions demands.
The next pair shifts focus: 'Pagibig' covers all forms of love — familial, romantic, and the painful kind that unravels. 'Komunidad' looks at the people in one's neighborhood, both those we constantly care for and those we overlook. The final two chapbooks turn political: 'Lipunan' examines the society we've collectively built, while 'Bayan' tells the stories of the struggling majority na madalas hindi binibigyan ng boses.
From the man who gave us 'Upuan,' 'Sirena,' and 'Lando,' this move from mic to manuscript makes perfect sense — Gloc-9 has always been a poet first. Fans who want to grab a copy and meet the man himself can head to the Philippine Book Festival today from 5 to 7 PM.
Source: Philstar.com
