What do you think?
Rate this book
12:01
12:01.
Hatinggabi na.
Nasa labas ka pa rin? Hala.
Nakalimutan mo ba ang curfew?
12:01.
Midnight.
You're still out. Oh no.
Did you forget about the curfew?
Hatinggabi na.
Nasa labas ka pa rin? Hala.
Nakalimutan mo ba ang curfew?
12:01.
Midnight.
You're still out. Oh no.
Did you forget about the curfew?
48 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2016
9 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
Russell Molina
28 books62 followersRUSSELL MOLINA is a Filipino children’s book author and graphic novelist.
Reflecting current Filipino realities and mirroring the local milieu and culture, his stories embrace a wide range of themes: From difficult issues like discrimination and apathy to real-life experiences like sibling rivalry and the reinvention of the family structure. With books like “Madyik Silya ni Titoy” (Titoy’s Magical Chair) and “Sampu Pataas, Sampu Pababa” (Ten Up, Ten Down), Molina has inspired children to conquer physical disabilities with a dose of creativity and imagination.
For his stories, he has won in numerous awards shows, including the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature, The PBBY Salanga Writer’s Prize, The PBBY Alcala Illustrator’s Prize, the National Children’s Book Awards and the National Book Awards.
In 2022, he was awarded the lifetime achievement award, UMPIL’s Gawad Alagad ni Balagtas, in recognition of his contribution to children’s literature.
Reflecting current Filipino realities and mirroring the local milieu and culture, his stories embrace a wide range of themes: From difficult issues like discrimination and apathy to real-life experiences like sibling rivalry and the reinvention of the family structure. With books like “Madyik Silya ni Titoy” (Titoy’s Magical Chair) and “Sampu Pataas, Sampu Pababa” (Ten Up, Ten Down), Molina has inspired children to conquer physical disabilities with a dose of creativity and imagination.
For his stories, he has won in numerous awards shows, including the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature, The PBBY Salanga Writer’s Prize, The PBBY Alcala Illustrator’s Prize, the National Children’s Book Awards and the National Book Awards.
In 2022, he was awarded the lifetime achievement award, UMPIL’s Gawad Alagad ni Balagtas, in recognition of his contribution to children’s literature.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 10, 2016
12:01 is a graphic novel set in one of the darkest chapters of modern Philippine history. A minute after midnight mean its a minute past the midnight curfew during Martial Law and that's where our intrepid cast of four teenagers found themselves after being stranded when their ride broke down.
Their situation captured the atmosphere that was pervasive during the era. Upon breaking curfew, faced warrant-less arrests and thugs in police uniforms. This was a dark time, especially since more often than not, those arrested became the disappeared, a lost generation that Philippines society is still feeling the repercussions.
The creative team is no stranger to local comics. The illustrator, Kajo Balidisimo is more known as the co-creator of Trese, an occult investigator that has come to embody this current bountiful phase of Philippine comics. This is the first locally published book of Balidisimo that I've read that doesn't feature Trese.
The writer has already have a published graphic novel, Sixty-Six and with both that and 12:01, betrays a handle and a fondness for 70's era slang.
This a timely work, in more ways than one. Released 25 years after the fall of the dictator who declared Marital Law; it brings to younger readers the experiences, albeit fictionalized, the story of of teenagers not much older or younger than today's millennial generation, who were lucky enough not to experience those dark days. There is the hope that it informs a generation who are coming into voting age, especially in the face of revisionist history perpetrated by the dictator's son who has designs on the vice-presidency of the country. Because as a people, the Filipino has proven to be forgiving lot and of times, it has proven to be a strength. Hopefully, the lessons of Martial Law are not forgotten.
Their situation captured the atmosphere that was pervasive during the era. Upon breaking curfew, faced warrant-less arrests and thugs in police uniforms. This was a dark time, especially since more often than not, those arrested became the disappeared, a lost generation that Philippines society is still feeling the repercussions.
The creative team is no stranger to local comics. The illustrator, Kajo Balidisimo is more known as the co-creator of Trese, an occult investigator that has come to embody this current bountiful phase of Philippine comics. This is the first locally published book of Balidisimo that I've read that doesn't feature Trese.
The writer has already have a published graphic novel, Sixty-Six and with both that and 12:01, betrays a handle and a fondness for 70's era slang.
This a timely work, in more ways than one. Released 25 years after the fall of the dictator who declared Marital Law; it brings to younger readers the experiences, albeit fictionalized, the story of of teenagers not much older or younger than today's millennial generation, who were lucky enough not to experience those dark days. There is the hope that it informs a generation who are coming into voting age, especially in the face of revisionist history perpetrated by the dictator's son who has designs on the vice-presidency of the country. Because as a people, the Filipino has proven to be forgiving lot and of times, it has proven to be a strength. Hopefully, the lessons of Martial Law are not forgotten.
January 22, 2021
Read for Wikathon 2020.
August 21, 2020
Maikli lang pero napaka-meaningful nang sinasabi. Hindi ko rin inexpect ang ending.
February 22, 2016
Just in time for the 30th EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary.
Pero mas maganda sana kung mas mahaba pa ang kwento.
Pero mas maganda sana kung mas mahaba pa ang kwento.
July 26, 2022
ang galing .
November 25, 2020
Napakaganda ng mensahe! Isang bagay na mananatiling napapanahon, sa palagay ko.
https://writtenbyal.wordpress.com/202...
https://writtenbyal.wordpress.com/202...
July 1, 2016
For something short, this book hits the right note at about everything.
Russell Molina and Kajo Baldisimo aims to tell a story that would serve as a realization to most millenials in regards to the life under the dictatorial rule of the Marcos family before the EDSA revolution. In a way they managed to show a proper imagery in a very brief and concise effort through the comic medium. Like what someone here said, "It is the youth's responsibility to read this comic book, and the adult's responsibility to tell the story." I have to say that I think Russel and Kajo managed to share their thoughts about the matter and displayed a proper representation of the era. Now it's your responsibility to pick it up and understand it. Especially when after the 2016 elections, most of our nation's people were ready to put another Marcos as close as he can to the Malacañang Palace once again. Thank God, he didn't get that seat though.
Now for the comic book itself, since this is a review anyway. Props to Kajo for moving away from his art style with the Trese series. Even with a bit of somewhat different sort of art style, Kajo manages to make his work brilliant. The artwork is none the less brilliant as how I expected it to be. Storywise, Russell Molina displayed an articulated plot about something that's non fictional and added a few fabricated stories here and there to show heart and depth of the events that transpired during the said era. Through a few song lyrics within the book, he comes up to teaching the reader a lesson which was a nice touch in my own personal opinion. Overall, the book is an illustrious material. I dare you kids to pick it up and comprehend the material properly.
Russell Molina and Kajo Baldisimo aims to tell a story that would serve as a realization to most millenials in regards to the life under the dictatorial rule of the Marcos family before the EDSA revolution. In a way they managed to show a proper imagery in a very brief and concise effort through the comic medium. Like what someone here said, "It is the youth's responsibility to read this comic book, and the adult's responsibility to tell the story." I have to say that I think Russel and Kajo managed to share their thoughts about the matter and displayed a proper representation of the era. Now it's your responsibility to pick it up and understand it. Especially when after the 2016 elections, most of our nation's people were ready to put another Marcos as close as he can to the Malacañang Palace once again. Thank God, he didn't get that seat though.
Now for the comic book itself, since this is a review anyway. Props to Kajo for moving away from his art style with the Trese series. Even with a bit of somewhat different sort of art style, Kajo manages to make his work brilliant. The artwork is none the less brilliant as how I expected it to be. Storywise, Russell Molina displayed an articulated plot about something that's non fictional and added a few fabricated stories here and there to show heart and depth of the events that transpired during the said era. Through a few song lyrics within the book, he comes up to teaching the reader a lesson which was a nice touch in my own personal opinion. Overall, the book is an illustrious material. I dare you kids to pick it up and comprehend the material properly.
July 31, 2020
The only thing wrong with this book is it's short.
August 22, 2021
Hindi dapat ibaon sa limot ang madilim na nakaraan. Magpahanggang ngayon, mahalagang maging mulat ang lahat lalo na ang mga kabataan sa kalupitang nangyari sa bansa kahit noong hindi pa sila buhay. Hindi kailanman dapat isantabi ang kasaysayang humugis sa kasalukuyan. Walang sinuman ang may karapatang baguhin ang kasaysayan, bagkus, may tungkulin ang bawat isa sa ating isiwalat ang katotohanan lalo na sa mga panahong marami ang nakalilimot at nagbubulag-bulagan.
Hindi nalalayo ang nararanasan natin sa ngayon sa mga pangyayari noon. Hindi ganap at tunay ang pagiging malaya kung hindi lahat ay natatamasa ito.
Hindi nalalayo ang nararanasan natin sa ngayon sa mga pangyayari noon. Hindi ganap at tunay ang pagiging malaya kung hindi lahat ay natatamasa ito.
January 22, 2025
It's so crazy to me that a 48-page graphic novel would hit me this hard. This story was set decades ago, but it's still very much relevant today. What a rotten, cruel society we live in even in 2025.
May 21, 2023
A thoughtful and creative way to remember the essence of Philippine EDSA revolution.
April 13, 2016
Hey you. Yes you.
Before you go running off at your gimik/lakad on Feb 25, make sure you read this comic. A little bit of respect for our history wouldn't hurt you.
Our generation takes so many things for granted, that we forget where we came from. I'm pretty sure we're both part of the generation who only heard stories from our parents and relatives, and read from history books. So read this up, it won't take long (50 pages tops). The experience of goosebumps-while-reading are real (while seeing those wristwatches,especially). The story and art don't disappoint.
After reading, I sure hope you realize how much our country has been through just for you to be able to *~freely express~* your sentiments, especially within social media.
Before you go running off at your gimik/lakad on Feb 25, make sure you read this comic. A little bit of respect for our history wouldn't hurt you.
Our generation takes so many things for granted, that we forget where we came from. I'm pretty sure we're both part of the generation who only heard stories from our parents and relatives, and read from history books. So read this up, it won't take long (50 pages tops). The experience of goosebumps-while-reading are real (while seeing those wristwatches,especially). The story and art don't disappoint.
After reading, I sure hope you realize how much our country has been through just for you to be able to *~freely express~* your sentiments, especially within social media.
February 28, 2017
I love the cover. I love the title. I love the story. I love the art.
I wasn't even born yet when Martial Law was declared. And I was too young to understand the power and meaning when it ended with the EDSA Revolution. But I can appreciate--and will forever be grateful to--those whose great sacrifice allowed me to enjoy the freedom I know now.
This short graphic novel captured the feeling of the time. Even the language and expressions used were true to the time period. The transition from one story to the next was well executed. It's an excellent work, albeit, too short.
I wasn't even born yet when Martial Law was declared. And I was too young to understand the power and meaning when it ended with the EDSA Revolution. But I can appreciate--and will forever be grateful to--those whose great sacrifice allowed me to enjoy the freedom I know now.
This short graphic novel captured the feeling of the time. Even the language and expressions used were true to the time period. The transition from one story to the next was well executed. It's an excellent work, albeit, too short.
February 29, 2016
3.5 out of 5 stars: Simple't mabilis lamang ang kuwento ngunit tumatagos ang mga isyu sa mambabasa.
September 1, 2016
It is the kid's responsibility to read this comic book.
And the adult's responsibility to share this information of the darker years.
And the adult's responsibility to share this information of the darker years.
September 17, 2016
Timely and powerful. Bonus: a very quick read.
December 22, 2025
It is a graphic novel focusing on bandmates trying to get home as the clock strikes the curfew hours mandated by the government. Afraid of being caught, they find refuge in many places.
We as students before knew through academic books how difficult the Martial Law era was, when freedom was limited. If it was such a struggle to live during those times, what more for a musician? Their stage was limited. Their songs couldn’t be heard if they went against the government or triggered nationalistic awareness.
The novel subtly shows the constant running away from fear—being caught and being imprisoned for being outside beyond curfew hours or for a non-existent reason. This was a reality during those times, and it was really hard to intervene when others suffered. It was a constant fear. Russell and Kajo show the authenticity of these emotions through each page. Every page depicts fight-or-flight situations.
As for the story itself, it leaves the reader with an afterthought about the unexpected events. It shows that freedom comes with a price.
12:01 is such an interesting story about one of the darkest times in the Philippines.
We as students before knew through academic books how difficult the Martial Law era was, when freedom was limited. If it was such a struggle to live during those times, what more for a musician? Their stage was limited. Their songs couldn’t be heard if they went against the government or triggered nationalistic awareness.
The novel subtly shows the constant running away from fear—being caught and being imprisoned for being outside beyond curfew hours or for a non-existent reason. This was a reality during those times, and it was really hard to intervene when others suffered. It was a constant fear. Russell and Kajo show the authenticity of these emotions through each page. Every page depicts fight-or-flight situations.
As for the story itself, it leaves the reader with an afterthought about the unexpected events. It shows that freedom comes with a price.
12:01 is such an interesting story about one of the darkest times in the Philippines.
January 22, 2021
Yesterday, Filipinos commemorated the death anniversary of Ninoy Aquino - a known senator who stood up against what the Marcos regime represented.⠀
⠀
While we do not want to put people on pedestals and make them into heroes, the impact of his death during the Martial Law Era is undeniable; a death followed by the EDSA revolution, resulting to the toppling of a dictator.⠀
⠀
Albeit short, 12:01 gives us a glimpse of what happened during that dark period. It is an important read especially for us who didn't live through it but is now experiencing eerie similarities in the present day - silencing of the press, police brutality, unjust killings, suspicious disappearances, and all the other things that go bump in the night.⠀
⠀
12:01 shone light on the youth's voice and the power of the masses. So let us #NeverForget all the atrocities and horrors, let us not allow history to be revised (#MarcosNotAHero), and more importantly, let us make sure that those playing a part in repeating this history of terrors do not get away with it. #NeverAgain
⠀
While we do not want to put people on pedestals and make them into heroes, the impact of his death during the Martial Law Era is undeniable; a death followed by the EDSA revolution, resulting to the toppling of a dictator.⠀
⠀
Albeit short, 12:01 gives us a glimpse of what happened during that dark period. It is an important read especially for us who didn't live through it but is now experiencing eerie similarities in the present day - silencing of the press, police brutality, unjust killings, suspicious disappearances, and all the other things that go bump in the night.⠀
⠀
12:01 shone light on the youth's voice and the power of the masses. So let us #NeverForget all the atrocities and horrors, let us not allow history to be revised (#MarcosNotAHero), and more importantly, let us make sure that those playing a part in repeating this history of terrors do not get away with it. #NeverAgain
February 20, 2022
4.5
Simple yet eye-opening, 12:01 vividly illustrates the martial law experience, and how Filipino solidarity can prevail even in the darkest of times. While it was a bit too short for my liking, it is perfect for those who are looking for something that can be read in one sitting, making it more recommendable to young readers. I hope that more people, especially the youth, will be able to read this as it is highly relevant now more than ever. Let us never forget the terror, and anguish that this dreadful era has brought us – never again.
Simple yet eye-opening, 12:01 vividly illustrates the martial law experience, and how Filipino solidarity can prevail even in the darkest of times. While it was a bit too short for my liking, it is perfect for those who are looking for something that can be read in one sitting, making it more recommendable to young readers. I hope that more people, especially the youth, will be able to read this as it is highly relevant now more than ever. Let us never forget the terror, and anguish that this dreadful era has brought us – never again.
September 21, 2017
Bought this from last year's MIBF but I only had the time to read it now.
A short read, but I think it pretty much summed up the country's situation during Martial Law - the curfew, closing down of news agencies, sudden disappearance of people, abusive people - in 50 pages. To the person reading this review, I recommend you read this book too. :)
A short read, but I think it pretty much summed up the country's situation during Martial Law - the curfew, closing down of news agencies, sudden disappearance of people, abusive people - in 50 pages. To the person reading this review, I recommend you read this book too. :)
June 5, 2018
This is actually a comic to celebrate the People's Power Revolution.
Una, curious ako sa cover nito kasi di ko talaga magets. Pangalawa, sa title so I decided to read it. Maiksing comic lang siya but still, it's important for us Filipinos kasi part ng history. Kudos to the author! (I'm still waiting for 66 part 2!)
Una, curious ako sa cover nito kasi di ko talaga magets. Pangalawa, sa title so I decided to read it. Maiksing comic lang siya but still, it's important for us Filipinos kasi part ng history. Kudos to the author! (I'm still waiting for 66 part 2!)
May 19, 2022
"Authoritarianism does not let people decide; its basic premise is that people do not know how to decide. It promotes repression that prevents meaningful change, and preserves the structure of power and privilege." -former Senator Jose "Pepe" Diokno (1922 to 1987)
February 19, 2019
Paano po iopen itong mga books?
May 11, 2019
12:01 narrates an encounter of band members before they were popular, as they struggle to avoid authorities as they have reached curfew. This was sad and revolutionary at the same time.
March 29, 2021
Wish it was longer. Powerful message.
April 16, 2021
A short and sweet read about the EDSA Revolution. Too short, I think. Everyone should read this.
May 12, 2021
Maikli man ang kuwento, makikita natin dito ang mahusay na paglalahad kung ano ang sitwasyon noong panahon ng Martial Law.
August 10, 2021
Read for August: Buwang Wika. Mabuhay ang mga pilipinong manunulat at komikero.
September 21, 2021
#NeverAgainToMartialLaw
March 7, 2022
Maikli man ang akda, ngunit ang aral na ipinararating nito ay makapangyarihan at magtatagal sa puso ng mga Pilipinong handang ipaglaban ang tamang paninindigan.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews