Did you know that the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2026 brings together the full spectrum of of Philippine literary life?
The writers whose pages many of us grew up with – Ricky Lee, Virgilio Almario, Ambeth Ocampo-will be on hand along side trade-book favorites Jonaxx and Ron Canimo, kidlit masters Eugene Evasco and Luis Gatmaitan, and komiks legends Manix Abrera and Pol Media. Viral reads, poetry, pop fiction, indie zines, and award-winning titles every kind of reader finds their people here.
On March 14, 2026, the Final Stage will host the 43rd National Book Awards (NBA) – honoring the authors, illustrators, editors, translations, and publishers whose work has shaped and sustained Philippine literature. It is the festival’s day set aside entirely for the recognition of excellence and affirmation of the strength, creativity, and diversity of Filipino story telling this day.
The PBF is more than gathering of books. It is a gathering of the nation’s voices – where writers meet readers, teachers meet students, and communities come together around stories that are unmistakably ours. Literature lives beyond if it is shared, celebrated, and felt together.
National Book Development Board (NBD)’s Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2026 was launched on February 26, 2026. During the PBF 2026 Media Launch, Joffrey “Pepot” Atienza has revealed the theme of PBF 2026.
This year’s PBF gathers under the theme Gubat ng Karunungan—The Rainforest of Knowledge. A gubat is alive, layered, and interconnected, and our literary ecosystem is no different. Featured as the festival’s four signature realms, each one represents a distinct corner of Philippine literature and learning: different audiences, different genres—one forest, thriving and alive.
Kid Lit is built for young readers, featuring picture books, learning materials, and titles that nurture a lifelong love of stories.
Komiks brings the universe of Filipino comics to life, honoring the legends of the form while spotlighting emerging visual storytellers.
Booktopia is a meeting ground for the many voices shaping the Filipino literary imagination—fiction, nonfiction, poetry, essays, and more.
Aral Aklat is dedicated to learning, featuring textbooks, teaching guides, and educational resources for classrooms, teachers, and library hubs across the country.
The PBF 2026 takes its theme from the richness underfoot and overhead: Gubat ng Karunungan or Rainforest of Knowledge. The key visual, crafted by returning artist and designer Joffrey “Pepot” Atienza, follows two characters, Yaz and Ye-ey, as they journey through a teeming rainforest, taking in its flora, fauna, and falls.
Drawing on his daily life at the foot of Mount Banahaw in Lucban, Quezon, Atienza wave recycled paper into the artwork as a deliberate gesture: the same trees that give us paper carry the stories we tell. “Our stories, our books, and our karunungan all start here – in the biodiversity we need to protect.”
PBF 2026 runs from March 12 to 15, 2026 at the Megatrade Hall, 5th Floor, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. FREE Entrance for ALL.
During the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2026 Media Launch on February 26, 2026, Charisse Aquino-Tugade, Executive Director, National Book Development Board (NBDB), has shared the PBF 2026 Programs and Feature Events.
DAY 1 (MARCH 12) FEATURED EVENTS:
FIESTA STAGE
Layag Pahina: The Opening Ceremonies; Fragile Frontier: The Climate Study of Palawan Film Launching UNESCO by National Commission of the Philippines; and Makata sa Pinas with Gloc-9 by Everything’s Fine
GUBAT NG KARUNUNGAN
The History Q&A with Prof. Xiao Chua by San Anselmo Press
BAHAY ILLUSTRADOR
Concept Character Making: From Idea to Visual Form by Jerome Supler
UMPUKAN
Making Learning Araling Panlipunan Fun with Alamin, and Alamin! by Adarna House
DAY 2 (MARCH 13) FEATURED EVENTS:
FIESTA STAGE
Culinary Calling: Pinoy Chefs’ Roundtable; and Mafia-mafihan, literary, literaryhan?
GUBAT NG KARUNUNGAN
Owver-owver sa Hiraya: Writing Queer; and Fantasy by GAD-NBDB
BAHAY ILLUSTRADOR
Make Your Little Dream House by Danielle Florendo)
UMPUKAN
Wellness for Authors by PaperKat Books
DAY 3 (MARCH 14) FEATURED EVENTS:
FIESTA STAGE
National Book Awards Ceremony & VivaOne Soecial Program
GUBAT NG KARUNUNGAN
PITCH, PLEASE by NBDB x PaperKat Books
BAHAY ILLUSTRADOR
HAGOD (The Brush Inking Techniques of the Filipino Komiks Masters) by Randy Valiente
UMPUKAN
PITCH, PLEASE! From Print to GMA Pictures by NBDB x GMA Pictures
DAY 4 (MARCH 15) FEATURED EVENTS:
FIESTA STAGE
Encantadia Chronicles Sang’gre Book Launch by GMA x PaperKat Books
GUBAT NG KARUNUNGAN
Malong: The Magic Cloth by Teatro Arellano
BAHAY ILLUSTRADOR
Paint Your Own Jeep by Patricia Ramos
UMPUKAN
Hayop na Booklaunch! With Naldo Vivo by Avenida Books
Join the Philippine Book Festival, from 12 to 15 March at Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, where books, art, and culture come together in one unforgettable experience!
The Philippine Book Festival isn’t just another typical book fair—it offers a diverse array of events, including talks, workshops, meet-and-greets, book signings, exhibitions, and musical and literary performances. It’s an immersive book experience where attendees can purchase their favorite Filipino books, meet esteemed authors, participate in workshops, and even enjoy different contests. With special features like walking tours with National Artists, the festival presents an ideal opportunity to reintroduce the joy of reading to students in an engaging learning environment.
See you at the Philippine Book Festival!
PBF 2026 runs from March 12 to 15, 2026 at the Megatrade Hall, 5th Floor, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. FREE Entrance for ALL.
Coca-Cola illuminates sites to spread bright Christmas magic nationwide this year.
Christmas is a cherished tradition in the Philippines that embodies joy, hope, and togetherness. It’s a time when families reunite, communities come alive with parol and carols, and even the simplest gatherings become moments of magic.
Staying true to the spirit of spreading happiness all year round, Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP)—the bottling partner and official distributor of Coca-Cola products in the country—brings to life its highly anticipated annual Christmas light-up across its sites.
This year, over 30 CCEAP sites in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao shines bright with the theme “Bituin ng Pag-asa: Guiding Light for a Brighter Future.” Each lighted site serves as a beacon of festive cheer and Filipino spirit, celebrating the enduring hope that binds communities and uplifts spirits.
This long-standing tradition honors the total beverage company’s nearly 9,000-strong workforce, whose dedication ensures that Coca-Cola products reach homes and its customers—keeping communities refreshed every single day.
The annual Christmas light-up has turned Coca-Cola’s sites into local attractions nationwide, drawing visitors and hosting shared moments among friends and families. Among the sites are Naga, Santa Rosa, Calasiao, Iloilo, Misamis Oriental, and Davao. In Santa Rosa, the light-up complements its iconic landmark of giant Coca-Cola cans, making it a must-see destination during the holidays.
Associates at Coca-Cola’s Calasiao Plant smile as they transform the site into a festive spectacle. This is part of CCEAP’s yearly tradition of coming together to light up their different sites to spread Christmas cheer.
Festive lights illuminate the Coca-Cola Tarlac Distribution Center, celebrating the joy and hope that its associates bring communities year-round.
Each light-up installation was conceptualized by CCEAP associates, and uses ornaments handcrafted using recycled and upcycled materials. These displays reflect what makes a Filipino Christmas truly special: making celebrations meaningful by finding joy in the simple act of coming together. Adding to the festive spirit, the iconic Coca-Cola Christmas Truck continues its journey across the country, spreading the magic of Christmas wherever it goes.
Coca-Cola’s Ilocos Plant shines bright as it’s decked with Christmas decorations conceptualized and handcrafted by Coca-Cola associates.
In celebrating Christmas, CCEAP also honors the passion and perseverance that carried communities through challenging times, including the numerous natural disasters that the country has faced this year. CCEAP stands alongside the communities it serves in times of need by mobilizing relief efforts, ensuring the safety of its people, and delivering safe drinking water and essential supplies to those affected.
“In every challenge Filipinos faced this year, there was always a reason to hold on to hope, and we are deeply grateful for the dedication and support of our people and the communities we serve,” said Gareth McGeown, President and CEO of CCEAP. “As we continue the Coca-Cola tradition of lighting up our sites, we aim to spark joy and serve as a beacon of hope not just for the holidays, but as we look ahead to a brighter, more promising tomorrow. Because even in the most difficult times, hope shines brightest when people come together,” added McGeown.
Having been woven into the fabric of Filipino culture for over 113 years, CCEAP has been an integral part of Filipino festivities—from beloved beverages enjoyed during everyday occasions to delivering refreshment, sparking shared moments, and bringing an extra light to life during the holidays.
CCEAP is locally rooted and deeply connected to the communities it serves, with products proudly made by Filipinos, for Filipinos. With a vast footprint spanning 18 manufacturing sites, and nearly 70 distribution and sales offices, CCEAP remains committed to uplifting communities nationwide all year round.
About Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP)
Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP)—the bottling partner and official distributor of Coca-Cola products in the Philippines — operates across 18 manufacturing facilities and almost 70 distribution centers and sales offices nationwide, offering 20 brands in its beverage portfolio and employing around 9,000 Filipinos. Formerly Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CCBPI), CCEAP is jointly owned by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) and Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV) following the completed acquisition on 23 February 2024. CCEAP remains committed to its vision of refreshing Filipinos and making a difference across the Philippines through its great people, great beverages, great execution, and great partners, all while keeping sustainability at the heart of its operations.
The Book Launch: “The Life and Adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu,” was held on August 20, 2025 at Manila Diamond Hotel, 27th FL-Constellation, Roxas Blvd., Cor. Dr. J. Quintos St., City of Manila.
The book tells the inspiring journey of a young man who dared to dream and persevered through life’s challenges to achieve those dreams.
It offers an inside and intimate look at an extraordinary success story than began with the most humble beginnings.
A Filipino-Chinese born and raised in Manila, Yu would become not just one of the country’s most prominent and successful architects of his time, but also an enduring pillar of Philippine Architecture. His story is a timeless blueprint for triumph, shared prosperity and lasting success.
During the event, speakers shared their views and lessons about the life and adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu.
Architect Gilbert Yu shared three lessons for the next generation of designers during the Book launch, celebrates a life from zero to skyscrapers. Some lessons he wants to impart to architects are Architectures goes beyond design, Architects must be knowledgeable in business, and Architects must be forward thinking. He mentioned about the advocacy of building lives and structures in the community – an eco-friendly and sustainable living.
Starting from humble beginnings as one of nine children of a sari-sari store owner, Yu worked his way through school and became a licensed architect in 1970. He co-founded G&W Architects, which delivered several landmark developments in Bonifacio Global City, including Sapphire Residences, Kensington Place, Grand Hamptons, and Blue Sapphire.
Architect Gilbert Yu has been an advocate for housing affordability, high construction standards and consumer protection in the real estate industry.
The Authors of Book is Ms. Iris Gonzales, a journalist and columnist for The Philippines Star.
Slim and Powerful Battery is the secret sauce of HONOR Magic V5.
Manila, Philippines – Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is gearing up for the arrival of its newest and thinnest foldable phone – the HONOR Magic V5! Coming this September 5, HONOR Magic V5 sports the biggest battery out of all its counterparts in the market to date. Catch the launch live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MagicV5Launch_FB.
“With HONOR Magic V5, we combined portability, durability, and superb performance especially with its camera that competitors lack. We are very excited to share this new benchmark for foldable smartphone so join us tomorrow,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
Exceptional Telephoto Capabilities with the 64MP Periscope Telephoto Camera
The HONOR Magic V5 is equipped with the HONOR AI Falcon Camera System, offering a professional-grade photography experience. The setup comprises an upgraded 64MP Periscope Telephoto Camera Lens, a 50MP Wide Camera, and a 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera. Combining powerful optics with advanced AI image processing, users can capture vivid, detailed photos and videos in any scenario or zoom level.
Don’t miss the arrival of #MyFirstFoldable HONOR Magic V5 on September 5, live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MagicV5Launch_FB. For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.honor.com/ph/retailers/.
About HONOR
HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.
Reference & Media Contacts (Press Release – September 4, 2025):
Beyond spin through the holidays at the One Stop Record Fair in Trinoma.
Audiophiles and collectors have a reason to celebrate the holiday season early as the One Stop Record Fair: Vinyl in Motion makes a comeback at the Ayala Malls TriNoma Activity Center from September 12 to 16, 2025.
Get into the holiday vibe at this five-day record fair and score early the best vinyl records, turntables, other audio equipment and various collectibles from 40 participating sellers.
Be ready to dig through crates filled with vintage and newly released vinyl records—with most at a discounted price—spanning all genres, as well as cassette tapes and CDs, from Mamsy Records, Spin the Reel Music Trade, Perfect Day Records, Sounds Inc.,Vinyl Fields Records, Rudys Record Store, D’ Neighbor’s Stuff ,Vicor Records among others. Buy that dream turntable or just window shop from Rega and Audio Technica. Speakers, headphones, earphones and other audio gear from Marshall and vivo will also be available.
Adding the warmth to the chilly days ahead are live DJ sets from Lourd de Veyra, Par Satelite, DJ Beejay Groovey D, Carlo Cordova, DJ Girltrendo, Bong Bautista, Sherwin Porta, Christian Combate, Carlo Tayag, Jojo Ortiz, Emil Catalan, Richard Ronquillo, Ely Carag and Kenneth Tanso.
Beyond music, the fair will also showcase art from Gigzilla, Fine Time Studios, Thet and Jurassic Crafts PH, Jecman and Dibuholabs, who will be offering prints, stickers and handcrafted works that highlight the creative energy of Manila’s art scene.
“This coming record fair is extra special because we’re welcoming the Christmas season with more merchants than ever before,” event organizer Sari Osorio said.
“We invite everyone to come, dig and discover music in all its forms. With 40 merchants and a festive lineup of activities, it is going to be our biggest fair yet.”
From carols on the streets to curated holiday playlists played at home, music has always added joy in the country’s famously long holiday season.
As Christmas draws near, the One Stop Record Fair: Vinyl in Motion promises to bring a festive gathering for people to start the holiday season with music that lasts beyond December 25, 2025.
Manila, Philippines – Global lighting solutions leader Godox has officially made its mark in the Philippines with a landmark launch event held on August 19, 2025, at Shooting Gallery Studios, Makati City, hosted by JG Distribution.
Timed perfectly with World Photography Day, the launch gathered hundreds of creatives – photographers, videographers, filmmakers, directors, content creators, and industry professionals – for an immersive, hands-on show case of Godox’s latest innovation in professional lighting technology.
Empowering Creativity Through Innovation
Since its funding in 1993, Godox has been at the forefront of professional lighting solutions, pushing the boundaries of technology to make world-class tools accessible to both professionals and aspiring creators. From studio photography to large-scale film productions, Godox products have become trusted tools for storytellers around the globe.
Guided by the mission to provide “lighting solutions that empower creativity,” Godox believes every idea deserves the right tools to shine. Its entry into the Philippine market marks a new chapter of support for local creatives, equipping them with the technology to bring their visions to life.
A celebration of Creativity
The launch event served not only as a product showcase but also as a celebration of the Filipino creative community. The program opened with remarks from JG Distribution Founder and Vice President Jill Tan, followed by insights from Ally Xiong of Godox Global and a product presentation from Mulawin Galang, Godox Philippines Brand Manager.
Adding depth to the program were testimonial videos from two of the country’s top equipment rental companies, CMB Film Services Inc. and RSVP Film Studios. Kirk Baltazar of CMB shared that ‘the majority of the lights we are now using are Godox,” underscoring the brand’s growing dominance in professional production environments. Likewise, Rafa Laperal of RSVP Film Studios spoke about how Godox lighting has strengthened their workflow and offered reliable solutions for high-demand projects. Their endorsements highlighted Godox’s reputation as a trusted partner for industry leaders and professionals.
The afternoon was capped by the live contract signing of the Godox Ambassadors, solidifying the brand’s commitment to working closely with Filipino creators. By evening, the celebration continued with interactive “touch and try” stations, launch-exclusive promos, raffle prizes, and a high-energy live performance from OPM favorite Mayonnaise.
Spotlight on Godox Ambassadors
A highlight of the launch was the introduction of the firs-ever Godox Ambassadors in the Philippines – a diverse group of renowned creatives who represent excellence in photography, videography, and visual storytelling:
Abigail Miguel
Arlu Nepomuceno
Chapters by Mayad
Jay Tablante
Ricky Ladia
Toto Villaruel
Treehouse Story
Partners in Innovation
The launch was made possible with the support of global and local partners who share the vision of empowering creators. Brand partners included Scandisk, Sony, Canon, Blackmagic, Lumix, Audio-Technica, Shure, Zoom, IM Rentals, Atomm Studios, Mono Studios, and I Am Abi Masterclass.
To complete the experience, food and beverage partners such as Soimai House, Empanada Royale, Dydo Blend, Naru Cafe, Nutritzz, Sip Water, and Tomoro Coffee kept guests energized and connected throughout the day.
Building a Creative Community
The Godox Philippines launch stood out as one of the most significant creative gatherings of the year, uniting hundreds of the country’s brightest talents under one roof.
“This launch is more than just about products – it’s about building a community where Filipino creators can be inspired, equipped, and empowered,” said Jill Tan, Founder & Vice President of JG Distribution.
About Godox
Founded in 1993, Godox is a global leader in professional lighting solutions, dedicated to empowering photographers, videographers, filmmakers, and creators worldwide. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and accessibility. Godox products are now trusted in more than 150 countries.
About JG Distribution
JG Distribution is one of the Philippines’ leading distributors of creative technology brands, bringing world-class tools and innovations to local creatives through retail, distribution, and community initiatives.
