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It is perhaps one of the great ironies of literature that when readers think of speculative fiction—a genre encompassing science fiction, fantasy, dystopian fiction, apocalyptic horror, etc.—they often turn to Western works, New York Times-listed authors, or worse, Hollywood. Rarely do they look to Philippine literature as a reference, despite the country’s deep and rich tradition in this genre.
Unbeknownst to many, even avid readers of Philippine literature, the country holds the distinction of being the first in Southeast Asia to develop a written speculative fiction tradition.
Victor OcampoThis is according to noted writer Victor Ocampo, whose research traces Filipino speculative fiction as far back as 1933. It progressed further that in 1945, Mateo Cruz Cornelio had published Doktor Satan, a short novel in Tagalog that stands as one of the earliest examples of Filipino science fiction.
“Doktor Satan was a tale inspired by R.L. Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” Ocampo wrote on his website. “It follows a brilliant chemist and medical doctor, Alberto Estrella, who is desperate to find a cure for his mother’s illness. After testing a secret formula that seemingly restores life, he drinks it himself, believing he has discovered the key to immortality. Instead, he transforms into a monstrous being with red eyes, fangs, and horns. Consumed by his new demonic nature, he goes on a rampage, killing his fiancée, Nena, before ultimately being stopped by the police. Ironically, his mother recovers completely from her illness.”
Zapping misconceptions
Despite this long history, Ocampo believes that Philippine speculative fiction remains “underrated,” overshadowed by the misconception that Filipino writers lag behind their neighbors in the genre.
“In reality, nauna tayo (we were first)—we were ahead in many ways,” he said. “Until 1967, we had a steady stream of science fiction works, including stories written in Hiligaynon and even Spanish by a Filipino author living in Madrid. So when people say we’re behind, it’s simply not true. We have a treasure trove of speculative fiction that dates back decades, waiting to be rediscovered.”
For those eager to explore contemporary Filipino speculative fiction, Ocampo’s latest book, “The Infinite Library and Other Stories,” provides an excellent starting point. The collection, published by Vibal Foundation Inc., is described as “an exciting collection of loosely connected stories that push the boundaries of form and genre, blending realism, speculative fiction, and experimental narrative.”
Recently launched at Big Sky Mind and featured at the Philippine Book Festival 2025, “The Infinite Library and Other Stories” is part of Vibal’s new imprint, Paradox, which is dedicated to speculative fiction. According to the publisher, Paradox offers readers “the fruits of unfettered imagination,” celebrating Filipino creativity through fantasy, science fiction, and horror—genres that remain grounded in contemporary realities while also exploring the distant past and possible futures.
'The Infinite Library and Other Stories' by Victor Ocampo Important genre
For Ocampo, speculative fiction is more than just entertainment—it is a vital literary form, particularly in today’s turbulent times, when political theater seems to abnormally burden us.
“We live in really challenging times, and speculative fiction helps us cope,” he said. “Horror prepares us for scary stuff. Fantasy provides escape. On the other hand, science fiction reassures us that there is still a ‘tomorrow.’”
Ocampo echoes historian Yuval Noah Harari’s assertion that “the most important genre is science fiction.”
“It’s through speculative fiction that people dream,” he said. “And if you don’t write or imagine your own dreams, someone else will do it for you. That’s why Filipinos should read and write speculative fiction.”
As he looks to the future, Ocampo is already working on three new books. He is particularly excited about a collaboration with the granddaughter of the writer behind the earliest known science fiction story in Southeast Asia—a work written by a Filipino writer in 1933.
“Yes, a Filipino wrote it—before our Southeast Asian neighbors did. That’s why it always baffles me when people say Filipinos can’t write science fiction.”
For those eager to learn more about the history, the inroads, and future of Philippine speculative fiction, Ocampo’s website, vrocampo.com, offers valuable insights. And for readers looking to immerse themselves in the best the genre has to offer, “The Infinite Library and Other Stories”—which Ocampo considers the “definitive edition” of his work—is a must-read.
“This edition represents the culmination of years of effort and experience. It finally allows my transnational Filipino characters—who navigate complex cultural and existential spaces—to come home to their intended audience,” Ocampo said. “I hope more Filipinos read this book because, as I’ve always believed, speculative fiction gives us hope that there is a future—whether perfect or imperfect.”
