“Miracles of Quiapo” by Ingming Aberia champions “little good deeds”

The Philippines is known for its strong ties to Catholicism, spanning a long and rich history of traditions and faith in the Church. At the heart of these traditions lies Manila, particularly Quiapo, where the annual Black Nazarene processions are held.

It is no wonder that author and columnist Ingming Aberia chose the district as the focal point of his novel, “Miracles of Quiapo“.

“Quiapo is where the poor blend with the rich, it is where the pious among us mix with criminals and underworld characters,” Aberia explains to 8letters.

When asked whether his characters were inspired by real people, he shares that “the main character—Boy Deo—represents those who have been orphaned by military atrocities in Samar (all 3 provinces) during martial law.

Ninety percent of the time these orphans would grow up to become rebels themselves, perpetuating the armed conflict between government troops and communist rebels or terrorist groups. But fate brought Boy Deo to Quiapo where his deprivation helped build his character and ended up being a community organizer.”

From the title alone, one could easily presume that “Miracles of Quiapo” is about prayers being answered. In truth, the heart of the book’s advocacy beats for “Little Goods Deeds”.

“By “Little Good Deeds” I mean to dissociate the Black Nazarene from superhuman phenomena. Miracles do happen every day with every little act of kindness we spread around,” Aberia points out.

The novel itself is an expanse of Boy Deo’s experiences, a coming-of-age of sorts, but that which quickly transforms into a reflection of everyday miracles that happen even in the dangerous parts of Manila.

Paperback and ebook editions of “Miracles of Quiapo” are available at 8letters’ platforms.