The history of Philippine literature can be traced back to ancient times, when oral traditions and folktales were passed down from one generation to the next. In the 16th century, Spanish colonizers began to write about Philippine culture and history, which helped to form the foundation of modern Philippine literature. During the colonial period, writers such as José Rizal and Marcelo H. del Pilar sought to promote national pride and identity through their writing. After independence in 1946, Filipino writers continued to explore themes of social justice and political activism. Today, Filipino literature is widely read and appreciated around the world for its unique perspective on society and culture. ..