Dive into the compelling world of Renren Galino’s debut graphic novel, Sa Wala (Nothing to Lose), where ambition collides with fear, and success comes with profound consequences. Through the riveting tale of Anding, a man whose life takes an unexpected turn after discovering a rooster with mysterious powers.
Galino crafts a narrative that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.

The story begins when Anding encounters a stray rooster with supernatural strength, quickly transforming the bird into a champion in cockfighting arenas. As his newfound fortune helps him clear family debts, Anding realizes that the rooster’s insatiable hunger for blood carries a menacing cost. His journey of triumph evolves into a gripping battle with his conscience and the looming dangers surrounding him.

Set against the rich tapestry of Filipino society, Sa Wala explores themes of life’s challenges, class disparities, and cultural heritage, blending realism with symbolism to reflect on the price of success and the unyielding grip of destiny. Galino skillfully highlights Anding’s struggle with temptation and ambition, presenting not just a story of power and glory but a deeper meditation on the choices we make and their repercussions.

Renren Galeno

Renren Galino is a talented Filipino artist and illustrator based in Davao City, Philippines. A graduate in Fine Arts from the University of the Philippines Diliman, Galino has pursued a career in comic art and illustration. Her works include I Pray You’re Born With Gills (part of the anthology Ten Years to Save the World) and Paghahanap kay Maura for The Washington Post. Sa Wala marks her first graphic novel.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Galino has an affinity for animal-shaped figurines and oversized frogs—a touch of whimsy that reflects her vibrant creative spirit.