It's a rare thing now, seeing people read—even more so reading with actual physical books. Because of this, we are very excited about this latest announcement by the National Book Development Board (NBDB).
The NBDB, best known for the Book Nook, is a program where the agency sets up reading and storytelling spaces across the country. And it's kicking off the largest traveling book festival in the Philippines with the Philippine Book Festival (PBF).
The three-day event will take place on June 2, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and on June 3 and 4 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
It’s not just a normal book fair, explained the organizers, during a media press conference at the Manila Hotel. "It’s a book experience," they said.
“How come we know about Shakespeare? How come we know about all of these global authors, but we don’t even know the works of our own? We have amazing Filipino authored content yet we lack access. We’ve created a space where the entire family can enjoy all genres—from children’s books to comics, textbooks, non-fiction books, and everything in between. That’s what the Philippine Book Festival is all about,” says NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade, during the media press conference.
NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade
"It’s the first ever in the country, where the spotlight is on Filipino books, creators, and readers. The PBF is an event that celebrates the best of Philippine literature, culture, and content, that brings education, entertainment, and shopping together in one thrilling festival for families, friends, and book enthusiasts alike."
The three-day festival will hold special meet-and-greet events with celebrated writers such as award-winning author and historian Ambeth R. Ocampo and rising star Gwy Saludes.
Apart from the meet-and-greets and book signings with authors, there will also be talks and workshops on creating webtoon stories, visual storytelling, illustrating books for children, and more.
Attendees can participate in literary discussions and debates, enjoy live performances and storytelling, and immerse themselves in various stories with the festival’s very own Book Nook with a curated selection of books and comfortable lounge areas.
Entrance is free for all. Most of the workshops and programs are free of charge, but some will require a fee starting at P400.
More than 150 exhibitors, more than 50 seminars and events, and a ton of fun activities are all scheduled. SMX Davao will be home to the next Philippine Book Festival from August 18 to 20, 2023.
Register for FREE at www.philippinebookfest.com. Follow the National Book Development Board and Philippine Book Festival on Facebook, and @bookfestph on Instagram and TikTok.