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Maharlika #2
Maharlika Vol. 2
What just happened?
In the heart of the great and rotten Philippine empire, Mal and the supersoldiers of Agila find more than they bargained for in their pursuit of answers.
Time is running out—and their enemies have just decided to move up the timeframe on the scheduled apocalypse.
In the heart of the great and rotten Philippine empire, Mal and the supersoldiers of Agila find more than they bargained for in their pursuit of answers.
Time is running out—and their enemies have just decided to move up the timeframe on the scheduled apocalypse.
148 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2025
2 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 1, 2025
now we’re talking!!!! building on the world and tone set in volume 1, volume 2 is a level up on the action, plot, and characters 🔥 the new people more deeply introduced here are interesting and bring a lot more to the story - excited to see how they develop / what their arcs are as Maharlika progresses!
think: cyberpunk, tech gadgets, time loops, and supersoldiers
can’t wait for the release of volume 3 (or tracks 11+) 🤯
gabby is a personal favorite, who’s yours?
think: cyberpunk, tech gadgets, time loops, and supersoldiers
can’t wait for the release of volume 3 (or tracks 11+) 🤯
gabby is a personal favorite, who’s yours?
July 31, 2025
What can I say?
This comic series is keeping me on the edge of my seat! Grabe yung development ng story at sobrang galing ng mga characters. Even the scenes - mind you illustrated pa lang ito pero para na akong nanunuod ng animated film. Ganon kagaling si Rexy magkwento at gumuhit si Johnray!
Dadalhin ka nila sa kanilang mundo na napaka immersive at interactive na feeling mo nandun ka kasama ng mga karakter sa storya.
Full review will be posted soon! So far, these are my initial thoughts sa Volume na ito.
This comic series is keeping me on the edge of my seat! Grabe yung development ng story at sobrang galing ng mga characters. Even the scenes - mind you illustrated pa lang ito pero para na akong nanunuod ng animated film. Ganon kagaling si Rexy magkwento at gumuhit si Johnray!
Dadalhin ka nila sa kanilang mundo na napaka immersive at interactive na feeling mo nandun ka kasama ng mga karakter sa storya.
Full review will be posted soon! So far, these are my initial thoughts sa Volume na ito.
January 24, 2026
Gets messy and convoluted at times but still holds a lot of promise. The authors have made such an interesting lineup of characters that you can't help but be intrigued by.
October 19, 2025
This volume is full of action and amazing art that captures the strength and pride of Filipino heroes. I like how this volume dives deeper into the story and blends mythology with today’s world.
July 14, 2025
Maharlika is a comic book series set in the Republic of Maharlika, a reimagined Philippines where it’s an unstoppable global empire that isn’t as flawless and peaceful as they make it appear.
What do I love about this series?
1. Maharlika has a rich and vivid worldbuilding paired with art that can rival international titles! The setting offers a lot but not too much because there’s still so much more to unpack
2. The plot is thick with the triple Cs. Politics, state secrets, and corruption aren’t the backdrop; they are what drives the plot
3. In terms of characters, I also love how they’re all pretty much still a mystery even at Volume 2. As more tidbits of information were presented, the number of questions surrounding each character also increased. All of them are flawed, driven by different motives, and well, hot.
If you’re looking for a Filipino sci-fi comic series riddled with a good balance of action, political intrigue, mysterious (and hot) characters, amazing art, and heartstopping plot and twists to boot, then you should definitely pick this up as soon as possible before Volume 3 comes out!
Watch my full review here!
What do I love about this series?
1. Maharlika has a rich and vivid worldbuilding paired with art that can rival international titles! The setting offers a lot but not too much because there’s still so much more to unpack
2. The plot is thick with the triple Cs. Politics, state secrets, and corruption aren’t the backdrop; they are what drives the plot
3. In terms of characters, I also love how they’re all pretty much still a mystery even at Volume 2. As more tidbits of information were presented, the number of questions surrounding each character also increased. All of them are flawed, driven by different motives, and well, hot.
If you’re looking for a Filipino sci-fi comic series riddled with a good balance of action, political intrigue, mysterious (and hot) characters, amazing art, and heartstopping plot and twists to boot, then you should definitely pick this up as soon as possible before Volume 3 comes out!
Watch my full review here!
December 4, 2025
Maharlika Vol. 2 readily picks up where Vol. 1 left off. The artstyle is crisp, detailed, and showed more of the creative futuristic alternate Philippines as seen from the architecture featured, and sceneries in this comic series. It expands the world building by giving us more pieces of the puzzle. But as I was reading through this, I realized that the puzzle is bigger than I initially thought, so many more mystery, and questions that need answers. In this volume we meet new characters, we get to learn more about the Maharlika Republic, and new secrets that I hope will be answered in Vol 3!
May 9, 2025
Wow! If you thought the first one delivered a punch, this one doubled it AND hit even harder. It was fast paced yet delivered the intricate details of the story so well. It was powerful all throughout, from beginning to end! If there is a series you should watch out for it's MAHARLIKA!
June 27, 2025
You can also read my review here.
What do you get when you mix gripping storytelling with jaw-dropping art? A graphic novel you won’t be able to put down and Maharlika Comics is exactly that. It’s bold, brilliant, and honestly? One of the most exciting series I’ve read in a while.
I was first introduced to Mal and Yari when several friends of mine talked animatedly about how good the story was. This got me intrigued, so when Kat (@katonthejellicoe) invited me to join the launch of the follow-up to the first book, I immediately said yes and the rest is history.
☀️ Maharlika Vol 1 truly captivated me with its worldbuilding, offering glimpses into the country’s past and how it became the most powerful nation. The pacing felt just right— not too slow or fast. I savored reading it but also couldn’t help turning the page quickly, eager to know what happens next. As for the ending? Don’t get me started. Luckily, I already have the sequel, so I started reading it right away.
☀️ Now listen — the first book in any series sets the tone, follow-ups are tough, especially when the first book already made waves, but Rexy Dorado handled it effortlessly. I will say this: If Volume 1 hooked me, Volume 2 had me committed. Maharlika Vol. 2 delivers intense action, deeper character moments, and even more incredible art. It’s the kind of sequel that deepens your love for the story and makes you root harder for everyone involved.
☀️ This series is everything I want in a graphic novel: rich worldbuilding, memorable characters, high-stakes action, and moments that hit you right in the gut. It’s unapologetically Filipino in the best way: proud, bold, and full of heart. Maharlika deserves a place on your shelf, in your collection, and in your heart.
There’s so much to say about Filipino comics, but stories like Maharlika will make you pause and go, “Damn right we belong on the international stage.” With talents like Rexy Dorado and John Ray? You’d be sleeping on them at your own loss.
What do you get when you mix gripping storytelling with jaw-dropping art? A graphic novel you won’t be able to put down and Maharlika Comics is exactly that. It’s bold, brilliant, and honestly? One of the most exciting series I’ve read in a while.
I was first introduced to Mal and Yari when several friends of mine talked animatedly about how good the story was. This got me intrigued, so when Kat (@katonthejellicoe) invited me to join the launch of the follow-up to the first book, I immediately said yes and the rest is history.
☀️ Maharlika Vol 1 truly captivated me with its worldbuilding, offering glimpses into the country’s past and how it became the most powerful nation. The pacing felt just right— not too slow or fast. I savored reading it but also couldn’t help turning the page quickly, eager to know what happens next. As for the ending? Don’t get me started. Luckily, I already have the sequel, so I started reading it right away.
☀️ Now listen — the first book in any series sets the tone, follow-ups are tough, especially when the first book already made waves, but Rexy Dorado handled it effortlessly. I will say this: If Volume 1 hooked me, Volume 2 had me committed. Maharlika Vol. 2 delivers intense action, deeper character moments, and even more incredible art. It’s the kind of sequel that deepens your love for the story and makes you root harder for everyone involved.
☀️ This series is everything I want in a graphic novel: rich worldbuilding, memorable characters, high-stakes action, and moments that hit you right in the gut. It’s unapologetically Filipino in the best way: proud, bold, and full of heart. Maharlika deserves a place on your shelf, in your collection, and in your heart.
There’s so much to say about Filipino comics, but stories like Maharlika will make you pause and go, “Damn right we belong on the international stage.” With talents like Rexy Dorado and John Ray? You’d be sleeping on them at your own loss.
July 11, 2025
This second volume introduced new characters to the Maharlika story line, and I liked how the story got a bit more complex leaving me with more questions than answers (I hope we'll get big answers in Volumes 3 and 4).
I liked seeing a certain character again that was introduced very early in Volume 1 and also liked how action packed the ending was. The revelation was such a cliffhanger.
I liked seeing a certain character again that was introduced very early in Volume 1 and also liked how action packed the ending was. The revelation was such a cliffhanger.
July 12, 2025
4.75 ✨
I’m so glad to finally be back to the world of Maharlika! It’s been a while since I’ve read the first volume but I’m so happy that the second installment started right where vol 1 left off. I was so curious how Rexy was going to continue the story after what happened with Yari and Mal and I was not disappointed! As a matter of fact, I was blown away.
As always, the illustrations were amazing! We got background stories, new characters, locations, and the outfits were always so fire! The time loop has always been so interesting for me whether it’s from literature or movies. And in Maharlika there’s a person who can control it? That gave the story more razzle dazzle.
I love that we get to see glimpses of the other parts of the Philippines. The world building for this series is insane - I think I’ve mentioned that before in my review of the first volume. I love how very Filipino this series is and honestly, it makes me so proud.
Again, it ended where it was just getting good. Nakakabitin! We need the third volume as soon as possible! We have to know what happens next!
I’m so glad to finally be back to the world of Maharlika! It’s been a while since I’ve read the first volume but I’m so happy that the second installment started right where vol 1 left off. I was so curious how Rexy was going to continue the story after what happened with Yari and Mal and I was not disappointed! As a matter of fact, I was blown away.
As always, the illustrations were amazing! We got background stories, new characters, locations, and the outfits were always so fire! The time loop has always been so interesting for me whether it’s from literature or movies. And in Maharlika there’s a person who can control it? That gave the story more razzle dazzle.
I love that we get to see glimpses of the other parts of the Philippines. The world building for this series is insane - I think I’ve mentioned that before in my review of the first volume. I love how very Filipino this series is and honestly, it makes me so proud.
Again, it ended where it was just getting good. Nakakabitin! We need the third volume as soon as possible! We have to know what happens next!
August 22, 2025
4.75★
I really enjoyed this volume! It took the foundation of Vol. 1 and built a massive storyline on it. It opened up the series to a lot of questions to which I'm very eager to uncover the answers to.
New characters were introduced, relationships between existing characters were developed and we find out a little bit more about all of them. This volume also confirms that we're dealing with a type of plot and I AM HERE FOR IT.
I'm quite curious about the brutalist architecture that seems to be prominent with this alternate Philippines. The battleship Buwan and the Presidential Palace both have brutalist designs. I wonder if it's intentional to invoke a sense of might. It works well with the mech-industrial look that Akira's team sports. I'm really interested to learn more about the style choices made in the illustration!
Overall, I'm a big fan of Maharlika and I can't wait for the next volume to drop!
⋆𐙚₊˚⊹♡
booktube / bookstagram / storygraph
I really enjoyed this volume! It took the foundation of Vol. 1 and built a massive storyline on it. It opened up the series to a lot of questions to which I'm very eager to uncover the answers to.
New characters were introduced, relationships between existing characters were developed and we find out a little bit more about all of them. This volume also confirms that we're dealing with a type of plot and I AM HERE FOR IT.
I'm quite curious about the brutalist architecture that seems to be prominent with this alternate Philippines. The battleship Buwan and the Presidential Palace both have brutalist designs. I wonder if it's intentional to invoke a sense of might. It works well with the mech-industrial look that Akira's team sports. I'm really interested to learn more about the style choices made in the illustration!
Overall, I'm a big fan of Maharlika and I can't wait for the next volume to drop!
⋆𐙚₊˚⊹♡
booktube / bookstagram / storygraph
February 4, 2026
Maharlika took me on a ride I didn't see coming. From page one, it pulls you into a reimagined precolonial Philippines—alive with grit, action, and so much heart.
Volume 1 had me completely hooked. The world-building is so rich and vibrant, and the ending? Jaw. Dropped. I couldn't believe how it ended—I was flipping the last page in shock and awe, immediately needing more. And then came Volume 2, which somehow managed to top that. It was absolutely mind-blowing. Everything expanded—the stakes, the emotion, the action—and I loved every bit of it.
I also have to say… I'm obsessed with Akira. Such a strong, layered character with depth and presence. It's characters like him that make Maharlika not just exciting, but deeply personal and unforgettable.
This series isn't just a sci-fi—it's a powerful love letter to Filipino identity and heritage. If you're into epic storytelling, and badass characters wrapped in rich cultural roots, Maharlika is a must-read.
Counting down the days until Volume 3. 🔥
Volume 1 had me completely hooked. The world-building is so rich and vibrant, and the ending? Jaw. Dropped. I couldn't believe how it ended—I was flipping the last page in shock and awe, immediately needing more. And then came Volume 2, which somehow managed to top that. It was absolutely mind-blowing. Everything expanded—the stakes, the emotion, the action—and I loved every bit of it.
I also have to say… I'm obsessed with Akira. Such a strong, layered character with depth and presence. It's characters like him that make Maharlika not just exciting, but deeply personal and unforgettable.
This series isn't just a sci-fi—it's a powerful love letter to Filipino identity and heritage. If you're into epic storytelling, and badass characters wrapped in rich cultural roots, Maharlika is a must-read.
Counting down the days until Volume 3. 🔥
January 18, 2026
4.5 🌟
We are now plunged into the real story now. And what with all the time loop happening in the story, I know I am in for a treat!! I can’t wait for the next installments.
We are now plunged into the real story now. And what with all the time loop happening in the story, I know I am in for a treat!! I can’t wait for the next installments.
August 23, 2025
vol 3 right now pls 😭
August 24, 2025
and the questions are piling up. what the actual FU* K is happening
February 8, 2026
the plot just got 7000% thicker, and maybe, MAYBE!!!! he's not really a villain and just a misunderstood hot man ✋🏼😔
May 3, 2025
Bringing this komik anywhere ( literally ) because Maharlika Volume 2 is what happens when you take Filipino mythology, mix it with Gundam-level mechas, add a dash of post-colonial trauma (lol), and drop it into a world where the Philippines is the most powerful country —and no, I’m not okay.
In this version of the Philippines 🇵🇭, we’re not the underdogs—we’re the top dogs (arf) . It’s so gloriously absurd and patriotic that I wanted to stand up and sing Lupang Hinirang at full volume in a filipiniana made of holograms.
And the characters? Whew.
Mal and Yari are back and yes, I am once again emotionally compromised. They’ve got that “slow burn but also emotionally volatile but also are-we-even-allowed-to-be-together-because-the-fate-of-the-nation-hangs-in-the-balance” dynamic that has me pacing like a tita waiting for a teleserye to finally let the main couple kiss. Every panel they share is like, “Okay, kiss or kill each other—just decide already!”
But the writing is so good, I forgive Rexy for making me suffer. The world-building is next-level. There are flying cars. There are mecha suits. Thelepatic devices. Even the barangay tanod probably has a jetpack. The economy runs on palay-based energy. (Okay, that last one’s not real—but honestly, would you be surprised?)
Now, be warned: this volume ends in a way that makes you want to grab Rexy Dorado by the shoulders and say, “Sir, I will fold my laundry, eat my vegetables (wheee), and fix my life (this one I'm not sure yet) —just please release Volume 3 NOW.”
Because I need more Mal and Yari. I need answers. I need explosions. 💙
In this version of the Philippines 🇵🇭, we’re not the underdogs—we’re the top dogs (arf) . It’s so gloriously absurd and patriotic that I wanted to stand up and sing Lupang Hinirang at full volume in a filipiniana made of holograms.
And the characters? Whew.
Mal and Yari are back and yes, I am once again emotionally compromised. They’ve got that “slow burn but also emotionally volatile but also are-we-even-allowed-to-be-together-because-the-fate-of-the-nation-hangs-in-the-balance” dynamic that has me pacing like a tita waiting for a teleserye to finally let the main couple kiss. Every panel they share is like, “Okay, kiss or kill each other—just decide already!”
But the writing is so good, I forgive Rexy for making me suffer. The world-building is next-level. There are flying cars. There are mecha suits. Thelepatic devices. Even the barangay tanod probably has a jetpack. The economy runs on palay-based energy. (Okay, that last one’s not real—but honestly, would you be surprised?)
Now, be warned: this volume ends in a way that makes you want to grab Rexy Dorado by the shoulders and say, “Sir, I will fold my laundry, eat my vegetables (wheee), and fix my life (this one I'm not sure yet) —just please release Volume 3 NOW.”
Because I need more Mal and Yari. I need answers. I need explosions. 💙
May 1, 2025
Both the literary and visual elements of Vol. 2 live up to the hype of Vol. 1 so it goes without saying that you should check that one out before diving into this continuation of the high-octane set-up seen in the previous volume.
What’s new with Vol. 2 is the expansion of the cast as new players are introduced into the ongoing socio-political struggle and intrigue that permeates Maharlika as a nation. Aside from fresh faces, we also get the backstories of other characters that we’ve been introduced to already. One thing to note is that juggling multiple characters and storylines on top of core themes like Maharlika’s may prove to be a challenge. Fortunately, the newest batch of personalities has been given a strong welcome.
The newest visuals and locations in Vol. 2 are simply awe-inspiring, combining the country’s natural beauty with the unnatural but impressive capabilities of future tech. At the same time, one can’t help but lament what could’ve been for the country in terms of progress and innovation. That is until you remember what it cost Maharlika to get to that point. Regardless, the sights that we’re presented with in Vol. 2 are worthy successors to the inspired visuals of the first novel.
Just like with Vol. 1, I sped through this volume like a bullet train strapped with nitro boosters and safe to say that I’m sticking by this series until its eventual conclusion.
What’s new with Vol. 2 is the expansion of the cast as new players are introduced into the ongoing socio-political struggle and intrigue that permeates Maharlika as a nation. Aside from fresh faces, we also get the backstories of other characters that we’ve been introduced to already. One thing to note is that juggling multiple characters and storylines on top of core themes like Maharlika’s may prove to be a challenge. Fortunately, the newest batch of personalities has been given a strong welcome.
The newest visuals and locations in Vol. 2 are simply awe-inspiring, combining the country’s natural beauty with the unnatural but impressive capabilities of future tech. At the same time, one can’t help but lament what could’ve been for the country in terms of progress and innovation. That is until you remember what it cost Maharlika to get to that point. Regardless, the sights that we’re presented with in Vol. 2 are worthy successors to the inspired visuals of the first novel.
Just like with Vol. 1, I sped through this volume like a bullet train strapped with nitro boosters and safe to say that I’m sticking by this series until its eventual conclusion.
July 11, 2025
It’s becoming clearer now in Maharlika Volume 2. Although the time-loop concept can be confusing at first, the author has skillfully crafted the story, making sure to keep the reader engaged and curious about the twisted Philippine empire. The scenes are straightforward, fast-paced, and filled with intense action. Character development has deepened, and new characters are being introduced.
Maharlika Volume 1 and 2 are closely connected. Rereading Volume 1 is definitely worth it to better understand Volume 2, which will only enhance your connection to the story. Following the journey of Mal and Yari is truly a rewarding experience. You won’t be able to stop reading, especially with the suspenseful events and intense action that are paired with stunning illustrations on each panel.
What makes the story so captivating is how thoughtfully it was crafted—every aspect of the plot, characters, and setting feels intentional. I also appreciate the strong representation of Filipino culture. Aside from the Alibata, there are also basic Filipino words used that make the scenes feel more authentic and grounded.
Maharlika Volume 1 and 2 are closely connected. Rereading Volume 1 is definitely worth it to better understand Volume 2, which will only enhance your connection to the story. Following the journey of Mal and Yari is truly a rewarding experience. You won’t be able to stop reading, especially with the suspenseful events and intense action that are paired with stunning illustrations on each panel.
What makes the story so captivating is how thoughtfully it was crafted—every aspect of the plot, characters, and setting feels intentional. I also appreciate the strong representation of Filipino culture. Aside from the Alibata, there are also basic Filipino words used that make the scenes feel more authentic and grounded.
May 1, 2025
It's impressive to me how the creators of this manga can layer so many ideas and elements over a core setup that is already so high-concept. I've gotten to know and love some of John Ray and Rexy Dorado's other works, but those were short one-offs and more concentrated you could say. This time around, they have built something that's dense with ideas yet thrilling in an accessible way. You feel a sense of momentum with every page turn that's addicting.
Still too early to say if they can bring all the threads together to make a satisfying conclusion. But they have done a lot to earn my trust and I'm buckled in for the ride ahead.
Still too early to say if they can bring all the threads together to make a satisfying conclusion. But they have done a lot to earn my trust and I'm buckled in for the ride ahead.
May 1, 2025
Vol. 2 of Maharlika keeps up the fast paced suspense, but also carves out room to deepen the worldbuilding and characters. I’m in love with the rebel group and eapecially enjoyed seeing a familiar face from early in volume one.
I was worried that the reveal at the end of vol. 1 might lessen the stakes of the story but the authors found a way to make it clear there can be permanent consequences. Not as game-changing of a twist as volume 1, but it’s clear that there’s more coming up and I don’t know what to expect next!
I was worried that the reveal at the end of vol. 1 might lessen the stakes of the story but the authors found a way to make it clear there can be permanent consequences. Not as game-changing of a twist as volume 1, but it’s clear that there’s more coming up and I don’t know what to expect next!
February 16, 2026
I was expecting an explanation for the shocking ending of Book 1, but I was in awe of this book’s storyline. From Book 1’s focus on advanced robotics, machines, and gadgets, this installment introduces a strong mystery element to the series. This shift helped me understand why the story has a different flow.
I personally liked the use of Siquijor—not portrayed as a place of horror (which locals dislike), but as a place of mystery in terms of its land structure. A little spoiler: a floating island.
I personally liked the use of Siquijor—not portrayed as a place of horror (which locals dislike), but as a place of mystery in terms of its land structure. A little spoiler: a floating island.
May 4, 2025
The expanded world and nation in vol2 takes the story to an exhilarating new level. Wonderful added depth on the characters from vol1, and newly introduced characters that truly adds color to a wider world with deep conflict and complexity leaving you needing more.
January 1, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
That was crazy work! Anuna, Volume 1. Okay, some questions have been answered directly and indirectly. I love the mystery, revelations, and actions on this one. Also, Jisoo Jang! February ka rin pala.
That was crazy work! Anuna, Volume 1. Okay, some questions have been answered directly and indirectly. I love the mystery, revelations, and actions on this one. Also, Jisoo Jang! February ka rin pala.
December 4, 2025
VOL. 3 WHEN??????
January 7, 2026
In Volume 2, we are introduced to more characters. It’s a continuation of the story from Volume 1. We see some answers to our questions, things are coming together, slowly revealing the mystery behind. Lots of actions and the graphics are so good!
If you are a fan of Filipino comics, or a sci-fi fanatic or simply want to support Filipino talents, go get yourselves a copy or two of Maharlika Volume 1 and 2. After reading these two volumes, it will leave you wanting for more!
If you are a fan of Filipino comics, or a sci-fi fanatic or simply want to support Filipino talents, go get yourselves a copy or two of Maharlika Volume 1 and 2. After reading these two volumes, it will leave you wanting for more!
February 23, 2026
can i say that rexy and john ray are our community’s russo brothers? the way they are expanding the world of maharlika by teasing the readers with the possibilities while giving answers and drawing new questions at the same time is just perfection.
i am seated for the next volume (and compendium!)
first reread, Feb2026: volume two felt bigger and more integrated now that i know what happens next! i just can’t point out the motives from our set of main characters, if it’s rooted on moral relativism or consequentialism, but that’s for me to find out in the next releases?!
i am seated for the next volume (and compendium!)
first reread, Feb2026: volume two felt bigger and more integrated now that i know what happens next! i just can’t point out the motives from our set of main characters, if it’s rooted on moral relativism or consequentialism, but that’s for me to find out in the next releases?!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews