It’s going to be a busy day for fans of superheroes, comics, anime, manga and J-Pop all over the world on May 3. For those in Metro Manila, here’s the deal:
1. Get free comic books. To win back old comic book readers and lure in younger ones, retailers across Metro Manila celebrate Free Comic Book Day.
— Planet X Comics Glorietta will give away three comic books from 10am until supplies last.
— Comic Odyssey-Fullybooked at the Fort will give away three comic books from 10am until supplies last. Around 100 artists and writers will be in attendance, including Image Comics co-founder Whilce Portacio, Marvel Comics artist Leinil Yu and Eisner-nominated creator Gerry Alanguilan.
— Druid’s Keep at The Fort Strip will give away two comic books from 1pm-6pm or until supplies last.
— Filbar’s SM Megamall will be open till midnight and give away two comic books from 10am until supplies last. As part of their 35th anniversary, the first 35 customers will receive a free hardcover copy of Stephen King’s The Dark Tower; first 300 customers will receive a copy of an exclusive Filbar’s “Sketch Book” ashcan.
2. Listen to anime tunes live. Watch 15 of the best local Japanese music bands battle it out onstage at Otaku Summer Jam 2014. While the bands play J-Rock tunes, join in on the fun by dressing up as your favorite character in the cosplay competition, or show off your creative and artistic skills in the fan art contest. Check out exhibitions and booth displays for the latest trends and products in anime and manga. Fan favorite cosplayer Dave D’Angelo (more popularly known as Master Pogi from Dragon Ball Z) hosts the event. 10am-6pm. B-Side at The Collective, 7274 Malugay St, Bgy San Antonio, Makati City. PHP150.
3. Get real. These guys don’t possess superhuman powers but they are doing heroic things just the same. In Kung Sila Ay Mga Comic Book Superheroes, CoRe Studios artists Ernest Caritativo (Megawoman), Julius Villanueva (Life in Progress), Amos Villar (No Parking) and Andrew Villar (Ambush) situate Filipino laborers in comic scene settings. Exhibit opens at 5pm. Till May 30. Conspiracy Bar, 59 Visayas Ave, Quezon City; +63 2 4532170. Free.
