Renowned comic strip creator and director Carlo J. Caparas passed away on May 25, 2024 at 80. After his daughter Peach Caparas made the announcement, many were shocked and saddened after losing such a celebrated figure in Philippine pop culture. He is best known for his extensive work in comics and film, and his storytelling prowess has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Philippine popular culture.

To honor and remember him, let’s take a stroll through 8 of his most celebrated masterpieces, which have captivated hearts and minds across generations and showcased his versatility and enduring legacy.

1. Ang Panday

Serialized in 1979, Caparas’ most iconic creation, Panday (The Blacksmith), follows Flavio, a blacksmith who forges a magical sword from a meteorite to fight evil forces. The story’s rich mythology and themes of heroism resonated deeply with readers, leading to numerous adaptations in film, television, and theater. Panday has become a cultural icon, symbolizing the struggle against oppression. It’s more than just a story; it’s a symbol of heroism and the fight against oppression. With numerous adaptations in film, TV, and theater, Panday has become a true cultural icon.

You can watch the 2005 teleserye adaptation starring Jericho Rosales and Heart Evangelista on Jeepney TV’s official Youtube channel.

2. Joaquin Bordado

Joaquin Bordado is a gripping story about a tattooed assassin whose body art holds mystical powers. First serialized in the 1970s, the tale explores themes of redemption and inner turmoil. The character’s transformation from a hardened killer to a hero seeking redemption struck a chord with audiences. In 2008, the comic was adapted into a successful television series starring Robin Padilla, further cementing its status in Filipino pop culture.

While the teleserye’s episodes are not available to stream online, the 1988 Joaquin Bordado movie is available on the official Youtube channel of Cinema One. 

3. Ang Babaeng Hinugot sa Aking Tadyang

This thriller comic, which literally translates to The Woman Pulled from My Rib, showcases Caparas’ skill in blending suspense with romance. The story revolves around a rich and successful man who becomes involved with a mysterious woman, leading to a series of dangerous and romantic entanglements. The intricate plot and compelling characters made it a hit, getting adapted into both a film and a series.

4. Tasya Fantasya

Tasya Fantasya is another notable creation by Carlo J. Caparas that was adapted into both film and television formats. This fantasy story follows the adventures of Tasya, a young woman who finds herself in a magical world filled with whimsical characters and extraordinary events.

The 1994 film adaptation starring Kris Aquino brought the enchanting tale of Tasya to the big screen, capturing the heart of audiences with its fantastical elements and engaging storyline. Meanwhile, in 2008, GMA Network produced a television adaptation starring Yasmien Kurdi as the titular character. The teleserye expanded on the original story, adding more depth to the characters and plot. And in 2016, TV5 broadcasted a weekly series of Tasya Fantasya starring Shy Carlos as the titular character.

You can watch the 1994 film Tasya Fantasya on Cinema One official Youtube channel. 

5. Totoy Bato

Totoy Bato follows the journey of an underdog boxer who rises to fame despite numerous obstacles. The story is a classic rags-to-riches tale, embodying themes of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams. Its gritty depiction of the boxing world and the personal struggles of the protagonist resonated with the Filipino audience, inspiring adaptations in film and television.

The latest adaptation of this series was released in 2009. It starred Robin Padilla as Totoy Bato, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid as his leading lady, and Manny Pacquiao as himself.

6. Kamandag

In Kamandag (Venom), Caparas explores the life of Vergel, who discovers he is the half-human, half-snake heir to a powerful kingdom. The narrative blends fantasy and action, depicting Vergel’s journey to reclaim his birthright and protect his people. The story’s elaborate world-building and epic scope made it a standout series, leading to a successful TV adaptation in 2007 that introduced the character of Richard Gutierrez as Vergel to a new generation of fans.

7. Bakekang

Bakekang is a dramatic tale centered on a woman scorned for her unconventional looks but driven by an unyielding determination to succeed. The story highlights issues of beauty, self-worth, and societal standards. Caparas’ nuanced portrayal of Bakekang’s struggles and triumphs made it a powerful narrative that challenged societal norms and inspired empathy from its readers. The 2009 adaptation starred Sunshine Dizon in the titular role of Bakekang.

8. Pieta

Pieta is a heart-wrenching story about a mother’s unwavering love for her son amidst a backdrop of poverty and violence. The narrative’s emotional depth and realistic portrayal of familial bonds struck a chord with many readers. Its themes of sacrifice, love, and resilience have made Pieta a timeless piece in Caparas’ oeuvre, reflecting the hardships and hopes of many Filipino families.

Starring Ryan Agoncillo as Rigor and Cherie Gil as Amanda, among other notable actors, the 2008 adaptation brought the emotional depth and powerful narrative of Caparas’ original story to the television audience. This was also adapted into a film in 1983 starring the acclaimed actress Charito Solis and the popular action star Ace Vergel.

In celebrating these eight masterpieces, we recognize not only Caparas’ talent but also his lasting impact on the cultural fabric of the Philippines. His stories are not just tales of fantasy and drama; they are reflections of the human experience, offering lessons and inspiration to generations of readers and viewers.

How about you? What is your favorite masterpiece from the late Carlo J. Caparas? Let us know in the comments!

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