"Banyaga: A Song of War" is a historical drama novel that follows the lives of four Chinese youths—Ah Puy, Ah Kaw, Ah Tin, and Ah Sun—who journey to Manila in the late 1920s seeking better lives. Upon arrival, they face challenges integrating into Filipino society, each taking different paths that lead to their separation. The novel explores the impacts of World War II, martial law, and political and social transformations in the Philippines over eight decades, through the lens of the Chinese-Filipino community.
Charlson Ong is a prominent Filipino writer and director, recipient of the Philippine National Book Award for both short fiction and novel. His notable works include "An Embarrassment of Riches," "Blue Angel, White Shadow," and "White Lady, Black Christ." He also co-wrote and directed the award-winning film "Tanabata’s Wife."
