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‘Warriors of Heaven’:Marlene Aguilar ‘bares her fangs’

10/31/2009

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Book publisher and self-styled patriot Marlene Aguilar shifts to higher gear with the launch of her first novel, Warriors of Heaven, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 21, at 6 p.m. at the main hall of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

In her initial foray as an author, Aguilar immediately “bares her fangs,” so to speak, and makes no disguise of her very strong opinions on western supremacist machinations and the role foreign powers play in the political, military, economic and societal destinies of less developed countries under their patronage. Branded as both “explosive” and “energizing” by early reviewers, Warriors of Heaven chronicles the author’s real-life discussions and arguments with some very powerful members of the US military. The discourse is interwoven with her own beliefs, her foresight and personal reflections, as well as her prevailing spirit and her continuing fight for a genuine and independent Philippine identity.

Inspired by her favorite heroine, fellow llocana Gabriela Silang, the audacious Aguilar makes no bones about her distaste for oppression. She points out, however, that she is not anti-American, but rather anti-establishment, adding that she has no qualms about standing up to excesses by international institutions that are supposed to serve and defend developing countries.

“I grew up poor in material possessions, but with a very rich soul, along with total freedom of mind and spirit,” says the author, who is also the sister of famous singer and nationalist Freddie Aguilar. Her upbringing, she added, “armed me with a burning passion for life, with humility, wisdom and a brave heart.” That brave heart is certainly put to the crucible with the publication of what promises to be a controversial and intriguing first novel.

Known widely as an outspoken and fiercely independent book publisher, Marlene Aguilar has created 11 coffee-table books, all promoting Philippine art, culture and identity, some of which have received awards and citations from both local and international award-giving bodies. Among her publications are Philippine Coral Reefs, Encyclopedia of Philippine Art, Fine Artists of the Philippines, as well as art books featuring choice works of established icons and promising talents, in the world of visual arts. She is currently wrapping up work on her follow-up piece, her second novel Tales of the Black Widow due to launch in 2010.

Warriors of Heaven is available at all National Book Stores nationwide. For further information, visit www.marleneaguilar.com, or send SMS or call 0927-7522641.