Learn more about the community that supports Bigay Puso
Name: Angelo Mendez
Location: Right now, I’m based in the Inland Empire, also known as the "Init Empire." We moved here in 2023 after spending over 15 years in the Philippines.
Supporter since: 2017
Tell us a bit about yourself.
In the Philippines, I wore many hats across different industries—from hospitality, hotels, and nightclubs like Black Market… to even dabbling in tech. I co-founded one of the fastest-growing tech startups in Southeast Asia, Kumu. Nowadays, I'm focused on learning e-commerce and spreading Filipino komiks and children's literature to the world through Hot Tropiks.
How did your journey with Pinoy komiks begin?
My journey with Pinoy komiks started during the pandemic in the Philippines. When Netflix announced the adaptation of Trese, my curiosity was piqued. A quick trip to a bookstore near Rockwell led me to Trese Vol. 1: Murder on Balete Drive. To my surprise, it was tucked away with children's books, not with other graphic novels or manga.
Reading Trese was transformative—it took me to a magical version of Manila, a city I knew so well, but now with a captivating and eerie twist. I quickly devoured every volume I could get my hands on.
From there, I discovered Penlab online, a treasure trove of creator-owned Filipino comics, and stumbled upon Komiket and Secret HQ, located in the iconic brutalist building, Atrium Makati. At Komiket, I met Paolo Herras, who introduced me to more titles like Mythology Class by Arnold Arre and Elmer by Gerry Alanguilan. Inspired by this community, I teamed up with Sigmund Torre to create AmBoys, our own komik. We worked booths at Komiket and attended the Manila International Book Fair, further deepening our connection with the Pinoy komiks scene.
When I returned to the U.S., I realized how hard it was to find these titles. That was the spark behind Hot Tropiks — we’re on a mission to bridge the gap by bringing these incredible stories from Asian creators to America, sharing them with the diaspora, and making sure the magic of Pinoy komiks is felt far and wide.
Why do you think it's important to promote Filipino literary works?
Filipino stories are cool AF—wild, weird, and imaginative. A lot of what we get from Filipino TV in the US is very tame compared to other forms of independent Filipino media. Plus, producing high-quality video content requires a huge budget. But with books and komiks, it’s a level playing field. The only limitation is our imagination.
What is your favorite Filipino children's book to read to your daughter?
She really loves Penpen de Sarapen illustrated by Manix Abrera.
Why do you support Bigay Puso?
I believe in their mission and have seen the team in action. I admire that the people behind Bigay Puso have boots on the ground, making an immediate impact on the communities they serve.
Photo: Angelo volunteering at Bigay Puso sa Pasko in Payatas, Quezon City (2018)
Check out Hot Tropiks and follow Angelo on Instagram.
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