SAN FRANCISCO PCG HONORS LEGACY OF FILIPINO AMERICAN AUTHOR IN LAUNCH OF THE SAGA OF LEYTE GULF
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA — The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco, represented by Consul Rowena Pangilinan-Daquipil, joined the U.S. launch of The Saga of Leyte Gulf, a work of historical fiction by the late Filipino American author Mr. German Palabyab, held recently on 24 October 2025 at Embassy Suites in South San Francisco.
During the event, Ms. Mutya Palabyab, daughter of the late author, read excerpts from the book, while Mrs. Lina Palabyab, his wife, shared insights into the inspiration and process behind its creation. Friends and colleagues of Mr. Palabyab also reflected on his literary contributions and the depth of emotion conveyed in his work.
Originally published in 2019 and already launched in the Philippines, The Saga of Leyte Gulf, goes beyond a retelling of the historic Battle of Leyte Gulf. It is a sweeping narrative of the Filipino and Filipino American experience, tracing the struggles for recognition and empowerment from 1898, when the Philippines came under American rule, through the war years of 1941 to 1945, and up to the country’s independence in 1946.
Through vivid storytelling, the novel captures both the heroism and sacrifice of the period, as well as the enduring quest of Filipinos—both in the Philippines and in the United States—to find belonging, purpose, and pride in their identity. While fictionalized, the story draws deeply from historical events surrounding the Leyte landings and the great naval battle that helped liberate the Philippines during World War II.
The event also drew attention to the province of Leyte, whose shores witnessed one of the most decisive turning points in world history. Today, Leyte stands as a symbol of courage, resilience, and renewal – a vibrant destination where history and nature coexist, and whose people continue to embody the Filipino spirit.
The Philippine Consulate General commends the late Mr. Palabyab for using literature to celebrate Filipino heritage and deepen understanding of the Filipino journey across generations. His work serves as a reminder that the story of Leyte is not only a tale of war and liberation, but also one of hope, renewal, and connection among Filipinos around the world.
The Philippine Consulate General remains steadfast in its support for Filipino writers, artists, and cultural advocates whose works honor the nation’s history, culture, and people.
The book The Saga of Leyte Gulf is available on Amazon. END
A 2019 recorded video of the late Mr. German Palabyab describing his book The Saga of Leyte Gulf was played during the event. (San Francisco PCG photo)
Left: Mrs. Mrs. Lina Palabyab, wife of the late Mr. German Palabyab, shared insights into the inspiration and process behind the creation of the book The Saga of Leyte Gulf. Right: Ms. Mutya Palabyab daughter of the late author, read excerpts from the book. (San Francisco PCG photo)