Cartas Philippinensis (2016)

In deluxe and regular editions

From learned and lengthy footnotes to our history, to the varied and vivid labels of Philippine made cigars and cigarettes and now, this exotica—indigenized Tarot cards and their historical background. All these illustrate the wide reach of Saul Hofileña’s interests—this is scholarship made familiar and popular for seekers of knowledge. I expect next from this erudite lawyer and traveler a majestic and insightful volume on his
travels and expertise on international law.” — National Artist F. Sionil Jose.

“Saul Hofileña Jr’s opus, Cartas Philippinensis, with images by the artist Guy Custodio, is a set of Tarot cards that reflect an esoteric religiosity. The cards are glimpses of syncretism of the Catholic faith which when fused with the forces of nature, enrich and balance what is sacred to the Filipino people and bring to the fore a Spanish identity rooted in Christian tradition.” — Maria Cristina Barrón Soto, PhD, Universidad Iberóamericana, Ciudad de México