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What happens when history, myth, and family intertwine?
After ten years of research and writing, Filipino lawyer, entrepreneur, and storyteller Atty. Darwin De Jesus Mariano finally unveiled his debut novel Namwaran and the Golden Tara—a sweeping historical fantasy inspired by two of the country’s most treasured pre‑colonial artifacts: the Laguna Copperplate and the Golden Tara of Agusan.
The launch coincided with the Philippines’ landmark bid to inscribe the Laguna Copperplate in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Registry, underscoring the novel’s cultural relevance. The book was introduced at the Manila International Book Fair 2026 and celebrated with a heritage‑themed tour at the National Museum of Anthropology, attended by cultural leaders, diplomats, and advocates of Philippine history.
A Journey Rooted in Heritage
Dating back to 900 CE, the Laguna Copperplate is the earliest known written document in the Philippines, offering a rare glimpse into Southeast Asia’s interconnected past. Meanwhile, the Golden Tara—a 21‑karat gold statue discovered in Agusan del Sur in 1917—remains a symbol of the region’s artistry and spirituality. These artifacts serve as the foundation of Darwin’s narrative, where history becomes the stage for a timeless story of survival and identity.
The Story Within the Epic
At the heart of the novel are three siblings—Namwaran, Angkatan, and Bukah—whose names appear on the Copperplate. Their lives are upended when their mother vanishes and the priceless Golden Tara is stolen. Gifted with black‑stone amulets that grant long life, they embark on a centuries‑long odyssey across the Srivijaya and Majapahit Empires, eventually confronting the arrival of the Spanish in Luzon. Themes of grief, resilience, and the cost of living beyond one’s time resonate deeply with modern readers navigating questions of heritage and belonging.
A Regional Collaboration
The novel is not just a literary work but a creative collaboration across Southeast Asia. Filipino comic artist Miko Pica provided illustrations, Indonesian colorist Fauzi Nugraha brought the cover to life, and Singaporean designer John Poh crafted a custom typeface. This cross‑cultural synergy mirrors the interconnected histories the book celebrates.
A Decade of Passion and Purpose
For Darwin, who has built a career in technology, entrepreneurship, and public policy, the novel represents a deeply personal pursuit. His background in Psychology, Law, and Science Communication, combined with his work across the Asia‑Pacific, allowed him to weave together research, history, and human emotion into a narrative that bridges past and present.
Where to Find It
Namwaran and the Golden Tara is now available nationwide through CentralBooks, inviting readers to step into a centuries‑spanning tale of family, survival, and Philippine heritage.
