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Trese #2
Unreported Murders
When dusk arrives in the city of Manila, that's when you become the most likely prey of the criminal underworld.
Kidnappers and thieves will be the least of your worries.
Beware the criminals that can't be bound with handcuffs nor harmed with bullets.
Beware the ones that crave for your blood, those who hold your heart ransom, and the ones that come to steal your soul.
When crime takes a turn for the weird, the police call Alexandra Trese.
Kidnappers and thieves will be the least of your worries.
Beware the criminals that can't be bound with handcuffs nor harmed with bullets.
Beware the ones that crave for your blood, those who hold your heart ransom, and the ones that come to steal your soul.
When crime takes a turn for the weird, the police call Alexandra Trese.
88 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2008
25 people are currently reading
847 people want to read
About the author
Budjette Tan
80 books382 followersBudjette Tan is the writer of the award-winning comic book TRESE, which he co-created with his partner/illustrator Kajo Baldisimo.
TRESE has been adapted into an anime series by Netflix.
He was a founding member of ALAMAT COMICS in the 1990s.
He's also the writer and co-creator of THE DEMON DUNGEON / DARK COLONY books, which he made with Bow Guerrero and JB Tapia.
He was also the co-editor of the KWENTILLION scifi/fantasy comics magazine (published by Summit), the UNDERPASS horror anthology (Summit), and SOUND: A Comic Anthology (published by Difference Engine).
TRESE has been adapted into an anime series by Netflix.
He was a founding member of ALAMAT COMICS in the 1990s.
He's also the writer and co-creator of THE DEMON DUNGEON / DARK COLONY books, which he made with Bow Guerrero and JB Tapia.
He was also the co-editor of the KWENTILLION scifi/fantasy comics magazine (published by Summit), the UNDERPASS horror anthology (Summit), and SOUND: A Comic Anthology (published by Difference Engine).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
March 3, 2024
Unreported Murders is another fantastic installment in the Trese title.
Each issue is an individual case that could be read as a stand-alone in no particular order, which might bother some people who were hoping that this volume would answer some of the questions they have about Alexandra's family & origins. I'm fine with this just being a paranormal detective story for now because I think the issues are really interesting and well-written.
The art is still phenomenal. I can't say enough about how much I enjoy looking at Kajo Baldisimo's work. I've never been such a huge fan of black and white, but everything is so crisp that I'm not having any trouble figuring out what's happening in the panels.
Recommended.
April 7, 2023
If you're new to the Trese series of graphic novels, I prepared a primer on the main character Alexandra Trese on YouTube. If you enjoyed my Trese content, feel free to subscribe to my channel.
September 3, 2011
Unreported Murders seems like just a continuation of the first book. Four short stories about murders and they are not as interesting as those in the first. Primarily, Tan did not use any Philippine mythological characters except the tiyanak (devil child) in the 3rd story. The duendes (dwarves) in the first can also be found in Latin American mythologies while the zombies in the second is like cockroaches as they can be found in all kinds of books in this genre. Although his name sounds so Filipino, Kulimlim in the fourth seems like a take-off from the villain characters in the X-Men series. So, this second book seems not to be promoting anything about our own mythology.
The stories are just tiresome rehash of scenes with the scattering of blood, blasting of bodies, shooting of high powered guns, plucked eye in the glass of water, etc. Even Amang Paso seems to have gotten tired of staying under the manhole cover so he appears on Alex Trese's hand. I am not sure if the sad-looking Amang can change his size depending upon the size of the frame but I think the illustrator made a mistake of using the right proportion of the Amang's body in relation to Alex's hand. In the first book, he seemed to be a little bit smaller than the manhole and yet now in this book, he is able to stand on Alex Trese's hand while talking to her.
The best story for me is the first one, A Little Known Murder in Studio 4 since it has Heather Evangelista (parody of the local actress name, Heart Evangelista) and very showbiz-y. The has-been actress killing the up and coming starlet. The thing that most irritated me is the anti-rich undertone in the 4th story, The Association Dues of Livewell Village insinuating that rich villagers raise hell in just few minutes of brownout because they feel hot and uneasy perspiring and missing their air-conditioning units and cable TV. Didn't Tan know that rich people have gensets? Nevertheless, maybe Tan does not target the rich people to read his book so he can afford to alienate them.
Overall, this is still okay. Those lapses are forgivable because the succeeding book explains almost everything.
The stories are just tiresome rehash of scenes with the scattering of blood, blasting of bodies, shooting of high powered guns, plucked eye in the glass of water, etc. Even Amang Paso seems to have gotten tired of staying under the manhole cover so he appears on Alex Trese's hand. I am not sure if the sad-looking Amang can change his size depending upon the size of the frame but I think the illustrator made a mistake of using the right proportion of the Amang's body in relation to Alex's hand. In the first book, he seemed to be a little bit smaller than the manhole and yet now in this book, he is able to stand on Alex Trese's hand while talking to her.
The best story for me is the first one, A Little Known Murder in Studio 4 since it has Heather Evangelista (parody of the local actress name, Heart Evangelista) and very showbiz-y. The has-been actress killing the up and coming starlet. The thing that most irritated me is the anti-rich undertone in the 4th story, The Association Dues of Livewell Village insinuating that rich villagers raise hell in just few minutes of brownout because they feel hot and uneasy perspiring and missing their air-conditioning units and cable TV. Didn't Tan know that rich people have gensets? Nevertheless, maybe Tan does not target the rich people to read his book so he can afford to alienate them.
Overall, this is still okay. Those lapses are forgivable because the succeeding book explains almost everything.
October 30, 2021
More disconnected but still interesting stories combining noir tropes and concerns with Pilipino mythology. Trese is a it of an empty suit, but the stories are well written, the mythology is really interesting to learn, and the art, while a bit scratchy, fits the noir setting.
April 6, 2022
This was similar to the first volume, but I found the stories on average less interesting. I was hoping for more long-arc or background info about Trese's family, but that didn't appear.
Also, taking a point off for the genitalia-and-womb-eating story in which the explanation is that women who have abortions deserve this fate. As do women who give up unwanted children. And abortion doctors, also evil (including the character who only started providing them after her sister died due to not being able to obtain an abortion).
I think I'm done with this author.
Also, taking a point off for the genitalia-and-womb-eating story in which the explanation is that women who have abortions deserve this fate. As do women who give up unwanted children. And abortion doctors, also evil (including the character who only started providing them after her sister died due to not being able to obtain an abortion).
I think I'm done with this author.
August 9, 2021
I'm glad to see Ablaze reprint these Filipino horror comics. Trese is a John Constantine type, helping the police with supernatural cases. These stories are very good with some nice black and white artwork. I like all of the use of Filipino supernatural creatures as well.
October 24, 2011
Equally as good as the 1st one, the second TRESE book continues the supernatural adventures of paranormal consultant & investigator, Alexandra Trese & her magical gun-wielding & flying righthand men, The Twins.
Focusing more & utilizing the appearance of elemental forces than the plethora of philippine mythological beings, the collection has Aswangs, Tiyanaks & zombies to keep you busy while keeping the suspense & mystery surrounding Trese with lotsa hints about who her father is & was in the supernatural underground community.
Book 2 also has a lot of crafty re-naming & association to real life urban legends like the Robinsons mall creature that abducts ladies in their dressing room or the evil conglomerate of a power company that require sacrifice for usage.
All in all this 2nd is another great read but like me I suggest you start from the first & work your way to the more recent book. Coz thats how good ideas are, like seeds of a tree in book 1 they are introduced & planted. It grows beautifully into Book 2 & now as I write this has blossomed to fruition in Book 3 & has grown into an orchard in Book 4.
So watcha waiting for, go get hooked on Trese. Coz if I had my way, I wanna be dressed as one if the Twins this Halloween 2011.
Ok off to start Book 3 now, with Book 4, the current & recently released on stand by in my room...
Ps. End of the book has sample art by my faves Oliver Pulumbarit, Carlo Vergara, Ian. Sta Maria, Reirand Santos and Reno Maniquis. So go and get your copy now...
Focusing more & utilizing the appearance of elemental forces than the plethora of philippine mythological beings, the collection has Aswangs, Tiyanaks & zombies to keep you busy while keeping the suspense & mystery surrounding Trese with lotsa hints about who her father is & was in the supernatural underground community.
Book 2 also has a lot of crafty re-naming & association to real life urban legends like the Robinsons mall creature that abducts ladies in their dressing room or the evil conglomerate of a power company that require sacrifice for usage.
All in all this 2nd is another great read but like me I suggest you start from the first & work your way to the more recent book. Coz thats how good ideas are, like seeds of a tree in book 1 they are introduced & planted. It grows beautifully into Book 2 & now as I write this has blossomed to fruition in Book 3 & has grown into an orchard in Book 4.
So watcha waiting for, go get hooked on Trese. Coz if I had my way, I wanna be dressed as one if the Twins this Halloween 2011.
Ok off to start Book 3 now, with Book 4, the current & recently released on stand by in my room...
Ps. End of the book has sample art by my faves Oliver Pulumbarit, Carlo Vergara, Ian. Sta Maria, Reirand Santos and Reno Maniquis. So go and get your copy now...
September 29, 2022
Actual rating: 4.5
About as good as the first volume, though the first case was a little boring. Still love the art style and the stories. The cases seem to be building up to something so I hope there is some payoff in future volumes because each case feels way too short and I kind of want to follow a longer story.
About as good as the first volume, though the first case was a little boring. Still love the art style and the stories. The cases seem to be building up to something so I hope there is some payoff in future volumes because each case feels way too short and I kind of want to follow a longer story.
June 20, 2011
Full post at One More Page
The second Trese volume takes a turn to include some of the Filipino urban legends instead of just sticking with the usual lower Philippine mythology. It still has the same approach as the first book, only I find the stories here closer to what I know. Growing up in the city has obviously lessened my exposure to the remote areas of my country. That's where most of the creatures are said to lurk, so I've always been more secure with the idea that there were less things that go bump in the night here. Or ...so I thought. The second book had dark parking lots, mall urban legends, and creepy villages that make living in the city a little bit more creepy than usual.
I'm not a fan of horror, so I'm easily freaked out by other things, and Trese Book 2 successfully did that for me. I liked it, I liked that it had a lot of action and interesting stories. This book had zombies in it, too. But I did have that freaked out feeling after finishing this book -- the one that made me open all the lights in the darkened areas of the house, one that made me retreat inside the house from the terrace after realizing that open air could mean aswang. LOL, how lame of me, I know. But kudos to this book for doing that to me.
On another note, though, I liked how they always tied up the paranormal creatures with values that us humans have. Things like selfishness and greed and apathy always had a bad effect on others, only amplified here because the underworld was disturbed by our own evil. I liked it how when Trese said that the underworld is just like our world, only payback is different. I think it gave this more substance, and not just fantasy for the sake of having magical creatures in and whatnot.
I'm not one to comment on the art, but I do kind of feel bad about the book's binding. The paper quality leaves a bit more to be desired, but the binding is weak. Some pages are ready to fall off after I opened them a little bit too wide. :/ Nevertheless, the second book, while short, is a good follow up.
The second Trese volume takes a turn to include some of the Filipino urban legends instead of just sticking with the usual lower Philippine mythology. It still has the same approach as the first book, only I find the stories here closer to what I know. Growing up in the city has obviously lessened my exposure to the remote areas of my country. That's where most of the creatures are said to lurk, so I've always been more secure with the idea that there were less things that go bump in the night here. Or ...so I thought. The second book had dark parking lots, mall urban legends, and creepy villages that make living in the city a little bit more creepy than usual.
I'm not a fan of horror, so I'm easily freaked out by other things, and Trese Book 2 successfully did that for me. I liked it, I liked that it had a lot of action and interesting stories. This book had zombies in it, too. But I did have that freaked out feeling after finishing this book -- the one that made me open all the lights in the darkened areas of the house, one that made me retreat inside the house from the terrace after realizing that open air could mean aswang. LOL, how lame of me, I know. But kudos to this book for doing that to me.
On another note, though, I liked how they always tied up the paranormal creatures with values that us humans have. Things like selfishness and greed and apathy always had a bad effect on others, only amplified here because the underworld was disturbed by our own evil. I liked it how when Trese said that the underworld is just like our world, only payback is different. I think it gave this more substance, and not just fantasy for the sake of having magical creatures in and whatnot.
I'm not one to comment on the art, but I do kind of feel bad about the book's binding. The paper quality leaves a bit more to be desired, but the binding is weak. Some pages are ready to fall off after I opened them a little bit too wide. :/ Nevertheless, the second book, while short, is a good follow up.
December 30, 2020
Engaging, but I hated the anti-abortion arc. Also, most malignant characters are actually victims of injustices and I just dislike how they are painted in this series as creatures who deserve to be banished.
October 31, 2025
A very good collection of four fantastic stories using Filipino folklore and the no-nonsense intervention of Alexandra Trese.
Since I enjoy this series so much, I admit that at this point I would like to start learning more about Trese herself, her assistants, and why not her father, who is often referred to.
In the meantime, it is soberly told, a little macabre but not too much, and very well drawn
Since I enjoy this series so much, I admit that at this point I would like to start learning more about Trese herself, her assistants, and why not her father, who is often referred to.
In the meantime, it is soberly told, a little macabre but not too much, and very well drawn
July 14, 2021
A thousand times better and more exciting than the first! I loved every case - so so so interesting and rich! I feel like this is where the Trese series is beginning to pick up. Although at this point, I want to get to know know Alexandra Trese already but we only get a peek into her difference from her dad. The cases here definitely have more substance than the ones from the first since they’re beginning to have a say on real life issues.
Case 5 - As someone who literally works in ABS and adores chismis, I loved this! It was enjoyable. The references made it more exciting too. This was my favorite!
Case 6: Another favorite!! Albeit quite short, I thought this had the most potential. I prefer how the series portrayed this case since it was definitely deeper and said more about our police culture. Still, this was a really beautiful story and the art was at its peak here.
Case 7: Personally, it goes against my beliefs on abortion, but I understand that this is their twist on tiyanaks. Could it have been dealt better? Definitely! But I love the take on the lizard sa Robinsons since fave ko talaga yon. The weakest of the bunch.
Case 8: Oooh things are getting more exciting! A storm is brewing!! Eme. Ganda ganda ganda nung Livewell Village. I wish we could have tackled that a bit more. But it was overall a very interesting story on tycoons and the power they hold over our city. The fight scene was a bit bitin pero pwede na.
Overall, this was a good sequel and I’m excited to pick up the third!
Case 5 - As someone who literally works in ABS and adores chismis, I loved this! It was enjoyable. The references made it more exciting too. This was my favorite!
Case 6: Another favorite!! Albeit quite short, I thought this had the most potential. I prefer how the series portrayed this case since it was definitely deeper and said more about our police culture. Still, this was a really beautiful story and the art was at its peak here.
Case 7: Personally, it goes against my beliefs on abortion, but I understand that this is their twist on tiyanaks. Could it have been dealt better? Definitely! But I love the take on the lizard sa Robinsons since fave ko talaga yon. The weakest of the bunch.
Case 8: Oooh things are getting more exciting! A storm is brewing!! Eme. Ganda ganda ganda nung Livewell Village. I wish we could have tackled that a bit more. But it was overall a very interesting story on tycoons and the power they hold over our city. The fight scene was a bit bitin pero pwede na.
Overall, this was a good sequel and I’m excited to pick up the third!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2019
Quality-wise, this is consistent with the first volume. I just couldn't give it a four because of the conflict between my personal views and the underlying message of one of the stories, which I would rather not separate.
Case 5: A Little Known Murder in Studio 4 - Very fun showbiz references! Interesting take on fame, patronage, and the duwende myth. I don't really have much commentary about it but this was a nice read.
Case 6: The Outpost on Kalayaan Street - Not really a classic Philippine mythology one (nice use of black magic to stay consistent with the theme though) but nevertheless, I love zombies. , I don't mind because it's a classic motivation and it's very realistic but it can get old if not fleshed out, so I'm hoping future characters and storylines driven by the same thing, or in general actually, are more well-developed.
Case 7: Embrace of the Unwanted - Spoiler alert! Putting this here because I don't want to use the spoiler tag because this particular case knocked one whole ass star from my rating. Started out promising, but ended up disappointing. Art was amazing. I found the character of Jeremy and the associated reference very entertaining. What went wrong? I am not a fan of the anti-abortion overtones. The myth of the tiyanak is easy to associate with the issue of abortion (though it must be noted that of course the tiyanak myth encompasses not only aborted fetuses and in fact was originally about abandoned babies) and I found it cliche. Also, the doctor made sense but I agree that she could have been more tasteful with regards to her waste disposal methods. I was really hoping for this one to go a different direction. So far, the cases have been unique in their way of translating Philippine folklore to the modern, urban setting and noteworthy in their portrayal of certain issues—so why now?
Case 8: The Association Dues of Livewell Village - I love the title. The reveal wasn't very creepy but still interesting and it made sense, you can't really expect everything to be creepy (just biased because I've read plenty of stories involving creepy townspeople). Makes you think about the morality of . Then again, I guess it's something that drives the plot forward and to be fair, it's still pretty early in the story to judge; as an audience I'm sure there are a lot of things I don't know yet.
Overall, I also find that the art is more detailed and I'm looking forward to the overarching storyline, which I believe will become more prominent in the upcoming volumes, as hinted in the last case. I'm excited to see how this will be executed while maintaining the episodic nature (which has its own charm and set of advantages) of the series because it's fun to see how the little threads in different stories connect and intertwine into something bigger. I'm hoping that with future developments the stories and characters will become more fleshed out and dimensional as well.
Case 5: A Little Known Murder in Studio 4 - Very fun showbiz references! Interesting take on fame, patronage, and the duwende myth. I don't really have much commentary about it but this was a nice read.
Case 6: The Outpost on Kalayaan Street - Not really a classic Philippine mythology one (nice use of black magic to stay consistent with the theme though) but nevertheless, I love zombies. , I don't mind because it's a classic motivation and it's very realistic but it can get old if not fleshed out, so I'm hoping future characters and storylines driven by the same thing, or in general actually, are more well-developed.
Case 7: Embrace of the Unwanted - Spoiler alert! Putting this here because I don't want to use the spoiler tag because this particular case knocked one whole ass star from my rating. Started out promising, but ended up disappointing. Art was amazing. I found the character of Jeremy and the associated reference very entertaining. What went wrong? I am not a fan of the anti-abortion overtones. The myth of the tiyanak is easy to associate with the issue of abortion (though it must be noted that of course the tiyanak myth encompasses not only aborted fetuses and in fact was originally about abandoned babies) and I found it cliche. Also, the doctor made sense but I agree that she could have been more tasteful with regards to her waste disposal methods. I was really hoping for this one to go a different direction. So far, the cases have been unique in their way of translating Philippine folklore to the modern, urban setting and noteworthy in their portrayal of certain issues—so why now?
Case 8: The Association Dues of Livewell Village - I love the title. The reveal wasn't very creepy but still interesting and it made sense, you can't really expect everything to be creepy (just biased because I've read plenty of stories involving creepy townspeople). Makes you think about the morality of . Then again, I guess it's something that drives the plot forward and to be fair, it's still pretty early in the story to judge; as an audience I'm sure there are a lot of things I don't know yet.
Overall, I also find that the art is more detailed and I'm looking forward to the overarching storyline, which I believe will become more prominent in the upcoming volumes, as hinted in the last case. I'm excited to see how this will be executed while maintaining the episodic nature (which has its own charm and set of advantages) of the series because it's fun to see how the little threads in different stories connect and intertwine into something bigger. I'm hoping that with future developments the stories and characters will become more fleshed out and dimensional as well.
July 23, 2015
And it is getting better and better!
Trese: Unreported Murders is the second volume in the Trese series by Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo.
It is my habit of picking up short reads while I am in the middle of reading long novels. And I am happy that I eventually picked up this second volume. It was not so long time ago when I finished reading the first volume. I can say that the second volume in the series is even more better. That is in terms of storyline, depth and animation. The story still revolves around justice.
Same as with the first volume, the second volume has four stories in it. The first being A Little Known Murder in Studio which is a story of an actress who was helped by a creature (no name was given and I am not sure if it was an elf or what) rise to fame but eventually got blinded by fame and money; the second, The Outpost on Kalayaan Street, which is about an onslaught of zombies; the third, Embrace of the Unwanted, which is about tiyanaks (baby gremlins) roaming in a mall; and lastly, The Association Dues of Livewell Village, which is about a village that sacrifices lives of people to a lightning god to continuously get a good life.
The second volume has more references to things that are really present like well known individuals and things with of course touches of urban legend and Filipino folklore. This volume/series continuously amuse me as how it gives fresh views about that subject despite being used numerous times. Being so like akin to the present I feel like I live among the characters in the story. Like for instance, the series has a TV station called ABC-ZNN, actresses called Heather Evangelista and Nova Aurora, shopping malls named Magna Mall, Megawatt Mall and Robertson Mall an an emectric company called Maharlika Electric Company. How witty is that!
The second series is more intense than the first volume. And I was thrilled that they incorporated zombies! The Walking Dead is my most favorite TV series (second being the Game of Thrones :D) and having zombies around Metro Manila got me really thrilled (not that I'm wishing it to happen in real life of course :P).
Although this second series shed some light to the background of the characters, I am still hungry for more. Hopefully the third book, which is much thicker than the first two volumes, will shed some light on the back stories of some of the characters.
Overall, this is a good follow up to the first volume. I hope it will continue its consistency until the last volume. :)
4/5
Trese: Unreported Murders is the second volume in the Trese series by Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo.
It is my habit of picking up short reads while I am in the middle of reading long novels. And I am happy that I eventually picked up this second volume. It was not so long time ago when I finished reading the first volume. I can say that the second volume in the series is even more better. That is in terms of storyline, depth and animation. The story still revolves around justice.
Same as with the first volume, the second volume has four stories in it. The first being A Little Known Murder in Studio which is a story of an actress who was helped by a creature (no name was given and I am not sure if it was an elf or what) rise to fame but eventually got blinded by fame and money; the second, The Outpost on Kalayaan Street, which is about an onslaught of zombies; the third, Embrace of the Unwanted, which is about tiyanaks (baby gremlins) roaming in a mall; and lastly, The Association Dues of Livewell Village, which is about a village that sacrifices lives of people to a lightning god to continuously get a good life.
The second volume has more references to things that are really present like well known individuals and things with of course touches of urban legend and Filipino folklore. This volume/series continuously amuse me as how it gives fresh views about that subject despite being used numerous times. Being so like akin to the present I feel like I live among the characters in the story. Like for instance, the series has a TV station called ABC-ZNN, actresses called Heather Evangelista and Nova Aurora, shopping malls named Magna Mall, Megawatt Mall and Robertson Mall an an emectric company called Maharlika Electric Company. How witty is that!
The second series is more intense than the first volume. And I was thrilled that they incorporated zombies! The Walking Dead is my most favorite TV series (second being the Game of Thrones :D) and having zombies around Metro Manila got me really thrilled (not that I'm wishing it to happen in real life of course :P).
Although this second series shed some light to the background of the characters, I am still hungry for more. Hopefully the third book, which is much thicker than the first two volumes, will shed some light on the back stories of some of the characters.
Overall, this is a good follow up to the first volume. I hope it will continue its consistency until the last volume. :)
4/5
May 5, 2015
Originally posted here.
The second volume in the Trese series, Unreported Murders delves deeper into the world of the paranormal, much to my delight and horror. I have revived my old high school habit of reading during the thin sliver of time between studying and sleeping, and reading about monsters that could probably be a-creepin' around my room at the moment doesn't really help in the sleeping part. Nevertheless, I was able to revel more in the interesting aspect of this volume rather than the scare factor, which leads me to mention my thoughts after finishing the last case.
There are four cases featured in Unreported Murders. I was very much amused to find so many references to things that exist in our collective consciousness, parodies of well-known people and places, and urban legends that get passed on from generation to generation. Exhibit A: In A Little Known Murder in Studio 4, ABC-ZNN sounds very much like ABS-CBN, a real-life Philippine TV network that is presently located along Mother Ignacia Street, and Heather Evangelista, the victim, clearly references Heart Evangelista. Exhibit B: Embrace of the Unwanted. This case clearly plays on the infamous Robinsons malls urban legend about a snake that kidnaps and eats women in dressing rooms. There are much more, and finding these Easter eggs definitely adds to the fun of reading this volume, and every volume in the Trese series.
So far, this is the more graphic of the first two Trese books. Because one of the cases involves zombies, and another involves a horde of the creatures, there are naturally more fight scenes between the monsters and Alexandra with her kambal. If you enjoy that sort of thing, you will definitely enjoy this volume.
I still like the first book more, but this volume doesn't trail too far behind. I liked Unreported Murders, and it's doing a really good job of keeping the next books hyped up and keeping my interest. There are still things about Alexandra Trese and the other characters that I wished to be explored ever since the first book, but since this is part of a series, I am not without hope that the next book will explain the mystery of their identities.
The second volume in the Trese series, Unreported Murders delves deeper into the world of the paranormal, much to my delight and horror. I have revived my old high school habit of reading during the thin sliver of time between studying and sleeping, and reading about monsters that could probably be a-creepin' around my room at the moment doesn't really help in the sleeping part. Nevertheless, I was able to revel more in the interesting aspect of this volume rather than the scare factor, which leads me to mention my thoughts after finishing the last case.
There are four cases featured in Unreported Murders. I was very much amused to find so many references to things that exist in our collective consciousness, parodies of well-known people and places, and urban legends that get passed on from generation to generation. Exhibit A: In A Little Known Murder in Studio 4, ABC-ZNN sounds very much like ABS-CBN, a real-life Philippine TV network that is presently located along Mother Ignacia Street, and Heather Evangelista, the victim, clearly references Heart Evangelista. Exhibit B: Embrace of the Unwanted. This case clearly plays on the infamous Robinsons malls urban legend about a snake that kidnaps and eats women in dressing rooms. There are much more, and finding these Easter eggs definitely adds to the fun of reading this volume, and every volume in the Trese series.
So far, this is the more graphic of the first two Trese books. Because one of the cases involves zombies, and another involves a horde of the creatures, there are naturally more fight scenes between the monsters and Alexandra with her kambal. If you enjoy that sort of thing, you will definitely enjoy this volume.
I still like the first book more, but this volume doesn't trail too far behind. I liked Unreported Murders, and it's doing a really good job of keeping the next books hyped up and keeping my interest. There are still things about Alexandra Trese and the other characters that I wished to be explored ever since the first book, but since this is part of a series, I am not without hope that the next book will explain the mystery of their identities.
June 6, 2021
My 2nd read but my first review. 😉
Little Trese is getting in-demand in the city. Capt. Guerrero have more case for Alex. There is a murder case of an actress and a lamang lupa. A zombie attack on a police outpost. One of my fave is Case 7, Embrace of the unwanted. Tyanak and some urban legend on a mall are mixed into the story to concoct a nightmarish story. Last the sacrifice of a well-off subdivision to the bagyon kulimlim for a bountiful year, where alex teams up with lamang lupa and at the end it is hinted that a storm is coming and the lightning tribe wont help Alex.
The story gets wierder..
Little Trese is getting in-demand in the city. Capt. Guerrero have more case for Alex. There is a murder case of an actress and a lamang lupa. A zombie attack on a police outpost. One of my fave is Case 7, Embrace of the unwanted. Tyanak and some urban legend on a mall are mixed into the story to concoct a nightmarish story. Last the sacrifice of a well-off subdivision to the bagyon kulimlim for a bountiful year, where alex teams up with lamang lupa and at the end it is hinted that a storm is coming and the lightning tribe wont help Alex.
The story gets wierder..
June 3, 2021
What I really like about these stories is that it is a good representation for mythology (at least for me). While mythology gives an explanation for the unknown, it is also a reflection of human nature - the good and the bad, and also what results from it. The supernatural creatures that Alexandra Trese encountered in her criminal investigations were like manifestations of humanity's ambition, hatred, pain, desire for vengeance, greed, etc.
Also, even though the stories were somewhat predictable (i.e. Trese defeats the bad guys in the end) and follow a certain pattern, they are still very engrossing.
I need to get my hands on the next volumes!!!
Also, even though the stories were somewhat predictable (i.e. Trese defeats the bad guys in the end) and follow a certain pattern, they are still very engrossing.
I need to get my hands on the next volumes!!!
April 29, 2012
I recommend Unreported Murders.
*****
This second book in the series is still good. i liked two out of the four cases that Trese dealt with. By now, I am already a fan of the Kambal (twins). very intriguing characters!
Unreported Murders is consistent with the first book. Trese is getting impressive by the minute! More dealings with the common Filipino folklore but with a twist; it is surely an enjoyable read. :)
*****
This second book in the series is still good. i liked two out of the four cases that Trese dealt with. By now, I am already a fan of the Kambal (twins). very intriguing characters!
Unreported Murders is consistent with the first book. Trese is getting impressive by the minute! More dealings with the common Filipino folklore but with a twist; it is surely an enjoyable read. :)
June 21, 2021
Look, it’s not my fault the second volume arrived before the first 🥲
December 9, 2022
Similar to the first volume. Lots of murder, mystery, and mythical beings. I'd like to see a bit more of an ongoing plot that progresses in the following volumes!
3.75 stars rounded up ⭐⭐⭐⭐
3.75 stars rounded up ⭐⭐⭐⭐
June 10, 2021
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An e-copy of the book has been provided by Diamond Book Distributors via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
‘Trese Vol 2: Unreported Murders’ is an episodical comic series that follows four stories of, you guessed it right, murder that involves creatures from the Philippine mythology. The stories are not directly interrelated with one another but there are recurring characters aside from our main character [Alexandra Trese] that gives texture to the story.
Seamless in giving details about the world and characters, it extends a well-rounded storytelling and world-building. It doesn’t offer a complicated world as it is has an urban fantasy setting—the possibility of magical realms could be highly likely though have yet to be introduced. A variety of characters are present but not everyone has a concrete background to them. This, I believe, is also a strong point for the book as it gives a sense of curiosity and intrigue. It pulls the readers in. Feeding their hunger but providing them just enough to come back for more. On the other hand, there are panels that were weird and confusing [definitely something personal] but the overall sequencing was effortless and simple. It gave a structure that is easy to follow and isn’t tiring to read.
For a comic that is made in a more modern era, this book exudes a nostalgic feeling with how the art style is done. The gritty, dark, and crisp work is highly reminiscent of those comic strips that we [Filipinos] are so used to reading in newspapers. It doesn’t only tug the heartstrings in bringing those wonderful moments, it also didn’t fail to provide us with an extraordinary story.
If you’re looking for something to introduce you to Philippine mythological beings, the ‘Trese’ franchise is undeniably a brilliant book that will satiate that hunger.
An e-copy of the book has been provided by Diamond Book Distributors via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
‘Trese Vol 2: Unreported Murders’ is an episodical comic series that follows four stories of, you guessed it right, murder that involves creatures from the Philippine mythology. The stories are not directly interrelated with one another but there are recurring characters aside from our main character [Alexandra Trese] that gives texture to the story.
Seamless in giving details about the world and characters, it extends a well-rounded storytelling and world-building. It doesn’t offer a complicated world as it is has an urban fantasy setting—the possibility of magical realms could be highly likely though have yet to be introduced. A variety of characters are present but not everyone has a concrete background to them. This, I believe, is also a strong point for the book as it gives a sense of curiosity and intrigue. It pulls the readers in. Feeding their hunger but providing them just enough to come back for more. On the other hand, there are panels that were weird and confusing [definitely something personal] but the overall sequencing was effortless and simple. It gave a structure that is easy to follow and isn’t tiring to read.
For a comic that is made in a more modern era, this book exudes a nostalgic feeling with how the art style is done. The gritty, dark, and crisp work is highly reminiscent of those comic strips that we [Filipinos] are so used to reading in newspapers. It doesn’t only tug the heartstrings in bringing those wonderful moments, it also didn’t fail to provide us with an extraordinary story.
If you’re looking for something to introduce you to Philippine mythological beings, the ‘Trese’ franchise is undeniably a brilliant book that will satiate that hunger.
April 13, 2021
"The underworld is not as forgiving as others."
I received an e-copy of this graphic novel from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I found myself enjoying this second volume more than the first one, and the art had just become even more vivid and elevated. It was definitely a more gruesome yet very detailed work compared to its predecessor. I'm not a horror fan, but the fantasy lover in me adored its even more detailed and pristine execution.
As its usual take on the Philippine folklore and mythology with its unique presence in the World Above, I actually appreciated that not only did this volume looked into the notable folklore creatures, such as the duwende and tiyanaks, but it also added other significant real and fictional personalities in its tales, and spun it around to make it fit into the story better. This volume also explored how different current true issues and events had given the author an inspiration to incorporate it into the story. It was really amusing to see popular names of real-life businesses, celebrities, and locations given a spotlight in this volume, and any Filipino could immediately get the reference.
I even liked how there were additional diary entries from Alexandra Trese at the end of each story, because it explained more every creature that appeared in the story, which is very helpful especially for those who aren't familiar with the tales.
My absolute favorite stories in this volume were A Little Known Murder in Studio 4 and Embrace of the Unwanted.
I'm now really looking forward in continuing on with the rest of the series!
I received an e-copy of this graphic novel from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I found myself enjoying this second volume more than the first one, and the art had just become even more vivid and elevated. It was definitely a more gruesome yet very detailed work compared to its predecessor. I'm not a horror fan, but the fantasy lover in me adored its even more detailed and pristine execution.
As its usual take on the Philippine folklore and mythology with its unique presence in the World Above, I actually appreciated that not only did this volume looked into the notable folklore creatures, such as the duwende and tiyanaks, but it also added other significant real and fictional personalities in its tales, and spun it around to make it fit into the story better. This volume also explored how different current true issues and events had given the author an inspiration to incorporate it into the story. It was really amusing to see popular names of real-life businesses, celebrities, and locations given a spotlight in this volume, and any Filipino could immediately get the reference.
I even liked how there were additional diary entries from Alexandra Trese at the end of each story, because it explained more every creature that appeared in the story, which is very helpful especially for those who aren't familiar with the tales.
My absolute favorite stories in this volume were A Little Known Murder in Studio 4 and Embrace of the Unwanted.
I'm now really looking forward in continuing on with the rest of the series!
December 18, 2019
The series follows up on its promising debut with another quartet of supernatural mysteries set in the haunting/haunted streets of Manila, and it doesn't disappoint. Episodic as it is, there's a red thread of pathos and tragedy running through the stories that imbues them with a world-weary appeal. While these may be a step down from the initial volume plot-wise, they're still very much worth reading. Eight stories so far and only one left me lukewarm at worst.
I especially liked A Little-Known Murder in Studio 4, which is about the wages paid by the twin stars of fame and resentment, and The Association Dues of Livewell Village, which investigates the lengths the denizens of an affluent village would go through to preserve their prerogatives.
I think the book would benefit from a mythological bestiary of sorts, which would explore the lore and legends associated with the creatures featured in this book. It would help those who have no/limited exposure to the fascinating world of Philippine monsters. Nothing too fancy - a page or two would suffice. The commentaries in the Trese blog would make a wonderful addendum too.
I'm rating this 7/10 or 3 stars out of 5.
I especially liked A Little-Known Murder in Studio 4, which is about the wages paid by the twin stars of fame and resentment, and The Association Dues of Livewell Village, which investigates the lengths the denizens of an affluent village would go through to preserve their prerogatives.
I think the book would benefit from a mythological bestiary of sorts, which would explore the lore and legends associated with the creatures featured in this book. It would help those who have no/limited exposure to the fascinating world of Philippine monsters. Nothing too fancy - a page or two would suffice. The commentaries in the Trese blog would make a wonderful addendum too.
I'm rating this 7/10 or 3 stars out of 5.
June 8, 2021
TRESE by @budjette and @kajobaldisimo
My copy of these volumes has arrived yesterday and read them immediately. Thats how excited I was because of all the good reviews I've read and much more because of the upcoming release of its series adaptation on Netflix.
As a non-comic fan, I was surprised that I actually got engrossed with the series and that not a single dismissive thought has dawned on me while reading each volume.
I was really delighted to read fresh takes on some Filipino superstitions which stories I have learned from the television and the elders. I found myself smiling everytime I realize that a character is a familiar one.
My most favorite case would be A Little Known Murder in Studio 4.
My copy of these volumes has arrived yesterday and read them immediately. Thats how excited I was because of all the good reviews I've read and much more because of the upcoming release of its series adaptation on Netflix.
As a non-comic fan, I was surprised that I actually got engrossed with the series and that not a single dismissive thought has dawned on me while reading each volume.
I was really delighted to read fresh takes on some Filipino superstitions which stories I have learned from the television and the elders. I found myself smiling everytime I realize that a character is a familiar one.
My most favorite case would be A Little Known Murder in Studio 4.
November 15, 2021
Second volume of Trese.
This book wasn't quite as interesting as the first book was to me, although the story with the duwende was really quite good. The stories continue to be disparate things, the only constant within them being the setting of Manila and Trese being called in to solve the crimes. I'm really enjoying the afterward where the author shares what story and folklore it was that inspired each particular story...
The final entry in the volume does promise a more interconnected story existing behind the scenes. Like the first book, this feels like something large is being built up to, odd tendrils just beneath the surface beginning to wrap around a grand story. I'm excited to see where it all goes.
Why is it so darn difficult to find these books?
This book wasn't quite as interesting as the first book was to me, although the story with the duwende was really quite good. The stories continue to be disparate things, the only constant within them being the setting of Manila and Trese being called in to solve the crimes. I'm really enjoying the afterward where the author shares what story and folklore it was that inspired each particular story...
The final entry in the volume does promise a more interconnected story existing behind the scenes. Like the first book, this feels like something large is being built up to, odd tendrils just beneath the surface beginning to wrap around a grand story. I'm excited to see where it all goes.
Why is it so darn difficult to find these books?
September 21, 2024
Every case is well-thought-out I am overwhelmed with excitement and frustration at the same time.
The first volume gave me a satisfying end for each case, while this volume got me more of a cliff-hanger type of ending which makes me want more. Makes me DEMAND more.
Re-read:
Mas gusto ko yung mga cases dito sa 2nd volume, though 'di ako masyadong fan ng zombie theme. Oks naman na episodic ang atake ng Trese, looking forward lang ako sa main storyline ni Alex to get to know her better. So far nasa shadow lang siya halos lagi ng father niya.
The first volume gave me a satisfying end for each case, while this volume got me more of a cliff-hanger type of ending which makes me want more. Makes me DEMAND more.
Re-read:
Mas gusto ko yung mga cases dito sa 2nd volume, though 'di ako masyadong fan ng zombie theme. Oks naman na episodic ang atake ng Trese, looking forward lang ako sa main storyline ni Alex to get to know her better. So far nasa shadow lang siya halos lagi ng father niya.
April 12, 2021
*3.75
I think I like this a lot more than the first one! Trese Vol 2 follows the same format as the first volume, but in this one there were a lot of winks to Filipino urban legends (such as the Robinsons mall snake, the tiyanaks, etc) and pop culture that made me enjoy it more. I also liked the little case files in this edition that gave short descriptions about the different mythological creatures Alexandra Trese encounters. Would definitely recommend to anyone interested in Filipino mythology and detective stories.
I think I like this a lot more than the first one! Trese Vol 2 follows the same format as the first volume, but in this one there were a lot of winks to Filipino urban legends (such as the Robinsons mall snake, the tiyanaks, etc) and pop culture that made me enjoy it more. I also liked the little case files in this edition that gave short descriptions about the different mythological creatures Alexandra Trese encounters. Would definitely recommend to anyone interested in Filipino mythology and detective stories.
October 14, 2021
i'm a sucker for darker mystery stories! i really just wish each one were longer (or its own volume!)
the first three stories are close to my favorites -- creepy legends that connect to our society. i was most indifferent to the last one
i'm not sure of the writer's stance on abortions but turning this particular issue/legend left me with weird feelings about the tiyanak story line (esp being written by cis-het men). abortion is a heated reproductive justice issue where i'd side with the doctor who was helping women out
the first three stories are close to my favorites -- creepy legends that connect to our society. i was most indifferent to the last one
i'm not sure of the writer's stance on abortions but turning this particular issue/legend left me with weird feelings about the tiyanak story line (esp being written by cis-het men). abortion is a heated reproductive justice issue where i'd side with the doctor who was helping women out
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