Celebrated Filipino rapper Gloc-9 is bringing his storytelling beyond music and into the world of poetry with the launch of a new literary project that reflects nearly three decades of his work as a lyricist.
On March 12, 2026, the artist—whose real name is Aristotle Pollisco—unveiled seven poetry chapbooks collectively titled Makata Sa Pinas during the Philippine Book Festival 2026 at SM Megamall. The title echoes a hashtag Pollisco has used for more than a decade, symbolizing how he has long viewed himself not just as a rapper but as a poet chronicling the lives and struggles of Filipinos.
The collection gathers poems inspired by themes that have consistently appeared throughout Pollisco’s 28-year discography. Through the chapbooks, the rapper revisits the ideas, stories, and perspectives that shaped many of his songs, presenting them in a literary form that invites readers to engage with his words in a new way.
Unlike his previous poetry release, Akin Lang Naman, which came out in 2017 through ABS-CBN Publishing, this latest project adopts a different format. Instead of compiling everything into a single volume, Pollisco envisioned a series of shorter books, each focused on a specific theme. The concept was developed alongside the independent press Everything’s Fine, which worked with the rapper to revisit his body of work and identify the recurring subjects that define his writing.
The seven chapbooks are arranged as a journey—beginning with personal reflection, expanding into stories about everyday life, and eventually addressing broader social realities.
The first three books center on Pollisco’s inner world and creative beginnings. Pagkatao explores his formative years in Binangonan, Rizal, and the experiences that helped shape his identity as a writer and performer. Pangarap gathers poems about ambition and his dream of becoming a rapper and songwriter, including reflections on what it means to achieve those goals. Pursigi focuses on perseverance, highlighting the determination and discipline required to stay true to one’s aspirations and values.
From there, the collection widens its scope. Pagibig reflects on love in its many forms—from family connections to romantic relationships, including those that end in heartbreak. Meanwhile, Komunidad paints snapshots of life in local neighborhoods, telling the stories of people often encountered in everyday spaces but rarely centered in mainstream narratives.
The final two chapbooks address larger societal themes. Lipunan contemplates the kind of society people have collectively shaped, influenced by both compassion and division. Bayan turns its attention to the nation itself, telling stories from the perspective of ordinary citizens whose struggles are often overlooked by those in power.
To pre-order, click https://bit.ly/EFpreorderMSP
We love a link up between legends and the next generation! The P-Pop kings SB19 joined forces with hip-hop royalty Gloc-9 on “Kalakal,” a track that not only has immense repeat value, but also celebrates human connection and unity throughout Filipinos from all different walks of life. The track has anthem vibes due to its empowering nature that promotes listeners to stay humble while carving out their own legacy. On a deeper level, the song also reflects on Filipino consumerism. Check SB19’s and Gloc-9’s “Kalakal” below!
Life comes full circle as our Paboritong Makata reminisces his humble beginnings as a dreaming lad from the municipality of Binangonan in Rizal, looking up at the starlit night wishing that one day he’ll become part of the constellation of famous rap stars. And from that certain perspective, he crafted a song called “Kamusta Ka Na”.
The song is simple yet profound introspection. It is a monologue where Gloc-9 chats to his young self; looking back to the tune when he took the road less travelled.
The journey of the seemingly countless rejections, armed with only his unwavering belief that with each trial he surpassed is one step closer to making his dream become a reality.
Success is in the journey and what a ride it has been! Twenty-five years and he’s still riding the waves. According to his manager, Asintada Management’s chairman and CEO Thea Pollisco aka Mrs. 9, feeling age creeping in and yet he still spurred to keep going but this time as a beacon, trailblazing his way for the young rap artists to follow, stoking within each of them the very same fire that once upon a time he had.
Recently, Gloc-9 has been actively releasing several other projects, including the launch of their first collaboration with Greyhoundz since 2006, “XXV” and a song called “Kwentong Barbero” with newly signed UR artist Ramdiss.
The single artwork of the song was made by CLMarts.
Two of the biggest names in OPM and Filipino hip-hop, Gloc-9 and Skusta Clee are back with a new song! The two cultural icons, who have connected before on “Karma,” are back once again on the powerful “Kumpisal.”
Gloc-9’s career in the music industry is 25 years strong and we’ve heard the MC touch base on a wide variety of topics throughout his discography, but his latest collaboration is his first song about religion and spirituality. “Kumpisal” looks into the dynamics of the Catholic sacrament of confession from the perspective of an individual practicing the sacrament.
The music video for the song was shot inside a church and features guest appearances by Shanti Dope, DJ Klumcee, and more. Watch the music video for “Kumpisal” below.
Success is fickle minded.
We have seen many one hit wonders rise and fall out of the limelight since they can only do, well, only one hit. But to continually attain success is a sign of dedication and love for the craft. Such is what Aristotle Pollisco aka Gloc-9 has been doing the past 24 years as he established his niche as a major influencer in the Philippine hip hop scene.
Twenty-four years---WOW!
Gloc-9 rose from the ranks of hip hop wannabes in 1997 setting his roots from doing collaborations with other hip hop artists and doing underground album releases. It is no secret as to how hard he struggled and how much he sacrificed to claw his way out of anonymity---but as they say, "You can't put a good man down." His remarkable climb to being one of the pillars of Philippine hip hop only proves the fact that hard work, dedication, and love of what you're doing can lead to success. A story that reverberates as an inspiration to young aspiring artists.
With a career spanning almost a quarter of a century, Gloc-9 is more into making sure that the hip hop industry continue on into the next generation by opening the flood gates of opportunity to the many talented Filipino rappers using his social media clout as a platform for collaborations.
His recent "44 Challenge" generated thousands of responders that showcased how much talented Pinoy rappers are just hiding at the seams waiting for their chance to take center stage.
Gloc-9 is now paying it forward. He was that talented youngster waiting for his chance when a Man from Manila took notice and welcomed him into his house, gave him the needed push and guidance to succeed in the cutthroat world of showbusiness. In like manner, Gloc-9 goes out of his way to help young talents, inspiring them to love their craft, and sharing the stage with them to showcase their talent.
Gloc-9 has nothing more to prove as an artist. His awards cabinet is already filled to the brim. Just recently, he was one of the recipient of the prestigious SUDI National Music Award bestowed by the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts. Another affirmation of his impact in the industry he loves so much.
He is Aristotle Pollisco, Gloc-9, rapper, songwriter, the blacksmith of words, a true Filipino poet, an icon.
Congratulations and looking forward to many more productive years ahead!
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