Category: Education

  • Multi-Awarded Writer Irene Sarmiento makes history as First Filipino Author at Germany’s White Ravens Festival

    Multi-Awarded Writer Irene Sarmiento makes history as First Filipino Author at Germany’s White Ravens Festival

    Press Release (August 14, 2025) – Irene Sarmiento, award-winning writer of children’s book Tabon Girl and young adult novel Stray Cats, is the first author from the Philippines to be invited to this year’s White Ravens Festival, held from July 13 to 17 at the Blutenberg Castle in Munich, Germany. 

    A native of Quezon City, she moved from the Philippines to Texas in 2011 and now works as a pediatric occupational therapist for children with special needs in northern Colorado. 

    In an interview with the National Book Development Board (NBDB), Sarmiento shared that “it was in college when I won my first Palanca [award] in the now defunct future fiction category and made me realize I have two lives [studying occupational therapy and writing]. But I never really questioned whether I should stop or keep writing.”

    She added, “As a writer, I recognize that in this unequal world, we who are marginalized have to assert our humanity, and this is my way of doing that. I am a Filipino writer talking to multiple cultures in my works. I am both a writer and a healthcare practitioner.” 

    The White Ravens Festival is dedicated to international literature for children and young adults, bringing together authors and illustrators from different parts of the world to read from their most recent works, lead writing workshops and other interactive events, and discuss their life and works. The festival has hosted various prominent authors such as Ingo Siegner from Germany, Micaela Chirif from Peru, Shaw Kuzki from Japan, Anete Melece from Latvia, Tuutikki Tolonen from Finland, MG Leonard from the United Kingdom, André Letria from Portugal, Yves Grevet from France, Jamshid Khanian from Iran, and Ondřej Buddeus from the Czech Republic, to name a few. 

    It is hosted by the International Youth Library (IJB) in Munich, Germany. 

    “The invitation was a huge surprise. It is important because it gave me the opportunity to tell them about the Philippines. It prompted the audience to know more about us [Filipinos]. It helped me to bring our works to the global stage,” Sarmiento said. 

    Aside from a radio interview, as part of the festival she attended eight interactive reading events across Germany with 10 different participating schools (and with 50 to 150 students in attendance each session) from July 13 to 17 this year. The event was under the patronage of the Bavarian State Minister for Science and the Arts, and featured renowned, multi-award-winning writers.

    Sarmiento’s works, often about children overcoming challenges, have received recognition from prestigious organizations such as The Palanca Memorial Foundation, the Philippine Graphic/Fiction Awards, and Stories to Change the World. 

    “My family and I always love books and stories. When I was eight years old, I won a short story writing competition called Young Minds, and it was the first time that I got really published, which started me on that trajectory,” said Sarmiento. 

    Her novel, Stray Cats, was named one of the Kids’ Choice winners at the National Children’s Book Award in 2024. It tells the story of Elisa Paz, an eighth grader in search of her best friend.

    Her tips to aspiring Filipino writers? “You should speak in your own voice. Who knows? One of these days, someone might listen.” 

    Sarmiento’s participation in the festival coincides with the Philippines’ preparations as the Guest of Honour at the Frankfurt Book Fair on October 15 to 19, 2025. 

    For media inquiries, please contact: 

    Divine Reyes Caraecle

    Communications & Promotions Section

    communications@books.gov.ph

    0917-1396394

    About the National Book Development Board 

    The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is the book authority of the Philippines. The agency is at the forefront of developing the Philippine publishing industry and safeguarding the country’s vibrant culture of authorship and reading. To learn more, visit our social media pages (@nbdbphilippines).

  • Pru Life UK employees champion bayanihan spirit in Brigada Eskwela 2025

    Pru Life UK employees champion bayanihan spirit in Brigada Eskwela 2025

    Pru Life UK once again rolled up its sleeves for Brigada Eskwela, the Department of Education’s nationwide schools maintenance programme, rallying employee volunteers last month in support of Pleasant Hills Elementary School in Mandaluyong City.

    The initiative began at the Pru Life UK’s headquarters, where employees painted pots and planted vegetable seedlings. These were later donated during a school outreach, part of a wider effort to prepare classrooms for the new academic year.

    Volunteers spent the day painting walls, cleaning rooms, and organising books—bringing fresh energy to the school community. Pru Life UK also provided painting materials to support ongoing refurbishment needs.

    It’s fulfilling to give back in such a tangible way,” shares Maria Junifer Maliglig, one volunteer. “Seeing the impact first-hand is what makes it all worth it.”

    A long-time participant in Brigada Eskwela since 2012, Pru Life UK’s commitment to education goes far beyond paintbrushes. Through its flagship Cha-Ching Financial Literacy Programme, the company has empowered over 1.5 million students across the Philippines with essential money management skills. Read recent story on expanding and fully integrating it in Bicol region here. The Pleasant Hills Elementary School is also a partner school for Cha-Ching.

    Complementing this is the Adopt-a-Madrasah initiative, which supports Islamic schools in Mindanao with learning resources, teacher training, and tailored content on Takaful (Islamic insurance), digital skills, and sustainability. In 2025, the programme aims to reach over 1,500 learners across nine madaris.

    These efforts reflect Pru Life UK’s broader mission: to foster inclusion, champion financial education, and empower communities—one classroom at a time.

    Pru Life UK volunteers painted pots and classroom walls in support of Pleasant Hills Elementary School in Mandaluyong City’s Brigada Eskwela programme.

    Pru Life UK volunteers also helped prepare the classrooms of Pleasant Hills Elementary Schoolin Mandaluyong City for the new academic year.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Lariza Garcia

  • WORKS OF LOCAL AUTHORS TO BE TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH UNDER THE NATIONAL BOOK DEVELOPMENT BOARD’S TRANSLATION SUBSIDY PROGRAM

    WORKS OF LOCAL AUTHORS TO BE TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH UNDER THE NATIONAL BOOK DEVELOPMENT BOARD’S TRANSLATION SUBSIDY PROGRAM

    QUEZON CITY, Philippines—The National Book Development Board (NBDB) has announced on August 7, 2025 of the 20 grantees selected for its Translation Subsidy Program (TSP) this year “for local authors who wish to have their works translated into a foreign language.”

    Out of 32 proposals submitted to the NBDB, 20 grantees were selected. Among them are mBayuka Tanu! Maguindanaon Bayuk Translation, Transcription, and Annotation Volume 2 by Mansoor Limba, Aswanglaut by Allan N. Derain, Mga Lumadnong Sugilanon nga Mahinuklogon by Karl M. Gaspar, Si Lola Basyang sa Entablado by Christine Bellen-Ang, Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, Samtoy: Mga Kwentong Ilokano (Bagong Edisyon) by Danilo B. Antalan, Noli S. Dumlao, Aileen R. Rambaud, Arnold Pascual, Jose Sherma E. Benosa, N.M.E. Valdez, Ariel Sotelo Tabág, Juan Al. Asuncion, Roy V. Aragon, Daniel L. Nesperos, Joel B. Manuel, Prodie Gar. Padios, Mighty C. Rasing, and Selected Poetry of Gualberto Cea Manlangit by Gualberto Cea Manlangit, to name a few.

    The 20 grantees’ works, which were written in Filipino, Ilokano, Maguindanaon, Bikolano, and Bisaya, cover multiple genres such as fiction, poetry, short stories and essays, comics, novel, among others, and will all be translated into English. The amount of the grant ranges from PHP 70,000 to PHP 200,000.

    “We want to promote the literary works of Filipino authors through the translation of local books written in Tagalog and other Philippine languages not just into Tagalog or English, but likewise in other languages around the world so they would be known internationally. We
    believe translation is key to achieve that goal,” explains Ma. Carolina Tapia, NBDB’s Chief of the Creative and Professional Development Division.

    Under the selection criteria established by the NBDB, grantees are chosen based on their relevance to the publishing sector and the reading public, significance in promoting knowledge on the diverse culture, events, and topics of the Philippines, and a production plan or marketing plan that is feasible and effective for local distribution and promotion efforts.

    The TSP offers financial support to encourage the translation, publication, and distribution of Philippine books in foreign markets in order to introduce more Filipino stories, voices, and perspectives to readers across the globe.

    Being selected as a translation grantee is a pivotal opportunity for Filipino writers. It means they will be provided with formal support for translation, visibility at major international book fairs, and an open door into the global literary marketplace. For local authors, it’s not just funding: it’s launching their work into dialogue with the world.

    The program also has a separate edition designed to entice foreign publishers to translate Philippine books into foreign languages, also through a subsidy. It is a vital element of the Philippines as Guest of Honour 2025 (PhlGoH2025) initiative, an interagency collaboration led
    by the NBDB, together with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Office of Senator Loren Legarda. The event will be held in Frankfurt, Germany on October 15-19, 2025.

    Through the years, the NBDB’s Translation Subsidy Program has contributed to increasing the number of translated Philippine titles and opened different opportunities for Filipino authors. As the Philippines prepares to take center stage at “FBM,” the world’s largest book fair, the TSP underscores the country’s commitment to promoting Filipino literature, authorship, and publishing excellence on the global stage.

    It also reflects the NBDB’s strong commitment to empowering Filipino authors, fostering cultural exchange, and boosting the global presence of Philippine literature. By supporting the translation of Filipino books into foreign languages, the program brings Filipino voices and stories to a wider international audience—paving the way for richer cross-cultural
    understanding and meaningful global engagement as the country positions itself to become the content capital of Southeast Asia.

    “The NBDB believes that every translated book serves as a bridge between languages, cultures, and more importantly, people. The NBDB’s Translation Subsidy Program is not just about funding the translation of a book. It is a commitment to help fuel a movement that places Filipino stories where they belong: in conversation with the world,” NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade pointed out.
    For full details on the Translation Subsidy Program, send a message to grants@books.gov.ph.

    For media inquiries, please contact:
    Divine Reyes Caraecle
    Communications & Promotions Section
    communications@books.gov.ph
    0917-1396394

    About the National Book Development Board
    The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is the book authority of the Philippines. The agency is at the forefront of developing the Philippine publishing industry and safeguarding the country’s vibrant culture of authorship and reading. To learn more, visit our social media pages (@nbdbphilippines).

  • NBDB’S ALLIANCE OF READING ADVOCATES PUSH FOR A THREE-POINT AGENDA TO PROMOTE READERSHIP

    NBDB’S ALLIANCE OF READING ADVOCATES PUSH FOR A THREE-POINT AGENDA TO PROMOTE READERSHIP

    NBDB’s National Alliance of Reading Advocates (NARA) recently launched its 2025-2030 Agenda: Building a Reading Philippines from the Ground Up after a successful first year run

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The National Book Development Board’s National Alliance of Reading Advocates (NARA) is pushing to promote access and reading of Philippine books in the country. 

    In its State of the Reading Nation Address (SORNA) for the first semester of this year, NARA presented its progress in its 2025-2030 Agenda to further promote the access and reading of Philippine books by expanding access, foundational skills, and remediation through community-driven solutions, sustained partnerships, and scaling up of effective models. 

    “The NBDB continues to push for a stronger national readership by mobilizing its allies from around the country. The reading gap that we have now–as we have learned from recent surveys–deserves our immediate attention and action,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade. “This is exactly why we formed NARA: to mobilize both the public and private sectors in reversing this reading gap. It’s about responding to the issue at hand now, all while nurturing the next generations of readers.” 

    NARA is a project of the NBDB’s Readership Development Division, composed of 152 readership advocates and serves as an integral part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to boost the love for reading in the country. The alliance covers schools, universities, national government agencies, local government units, non-profit and small-scale organizations, and advocacy arms of corporations.

    NARA’s Best Practices

    “NARA has been instrumental in connecting us with partners who support our mission and advocacy at the center. The NBDB provided valuable insights, including notes on monthly surveys for book requests, a book return policy, and a library etiquette or code of conduct,” said Natalie Tabayan, Co-Lead of Better World Smokey Mountain (BWSM), an effort of AHA! Learning Center, which is one of NARA’s active members. 

    AHA! Learning Center is a non-profit organization that launched a reading campaign in Tondo, Manila last year to cultivate the love for reading and establish consistent reading habits among BWSM’s students. The initiative is an empathy-informed learning system, offering academic and social-emotional interventions for children, as well as support system skills development for parents and teachers. 

    With the help of other network members, AHA! Learning Center has significantly increased its collection of Filipino storybooks and improved its book spaces by adding more shelves, posters, and designs. It even established a dedicated reading corner for mothers, stocked with Filipino pocket books, Liwayway magazines, and other local fiction books. 

    “Through the NARA network, the Corazon Sanchez Atayde Memorial Foundation (CSAMF) had the opportunity to connect with like-minded organizations nationwide—sharing best practices, exchanging insights, and fostering meaningful collaborations in literacy development,” shared Rylene Ngeta-a, CSAMF’s Program Director, an active NARA member.

    Over the past year, the organization has reached 910 learners who are either struggling or have the least access to reading support from different areas such as Pasig City, Tawi-Tawi, Rizal Province, Bulacan, Pampanga, and Mountain Province. 

    Ngeta-a emphasized that through NARA members’ shared innovations, authors, writers, and readers in many areas have deeper engagement with Philippine books. 

    The NBDB’s Alliance of Reading Advocates Push for a Three-Point Agenda to Promote Readership was announced on July 25, 2025 in NBDB’s Press Release.

    REFERENCE & MEDIA CONTACT:

    For inquiries, please contact: 

    Divine Reyes Caraecle

    Communications & Promotions Section

    communications@books.gov.ph

    0917-1396394

  • Philippine International Comics Festival 2025 at SM Megamall Megatrade Hall 2

    Philippine International Comics Festival 2025 at SM Megamall Megatrade Hall 2

    Readers, creators and attendees are thrilled in attending and to celebrate with the Philippine International Comics Festival (PICOF) 2025 from July 5 – 6, 2025 at SM Megamall Megatrade Hall 2, Mandaluyong City.

    Sixteen (16) Things You Can Do at PICOF 2025

    1. Support over 200 indie comics creators launching over 100 new komiks!
    2. Check out the exhibits (Mars Ravelo: Tales from the Magic Makinilya; Enter the Mulberry Tree and Fly Free; Country of Highlight; PALESTINE & PICOF Official Selection).

    3. Learn from comics professionals from the Philippines and around the world at the comic masterclasses!

    4. Watch “Komiks With a K” by documentary film director/producer Jay Ignacio, National Book Award Winning Author For “Alandal.”

    5. Early birds get a FREE copy of the TUWA Comics anthology!

    6. Get your caricatures made at the Caricature Corner of the Samahang Kartunista ng Pilipinas!

      7. Watch Komiks in the making at the Panels for Palestine live drawing corner!

      8. Support Komiket U’s Batch 10 graduates & others student orgs!

      9. Read your komiks haul at the lounge area of NBDB’s Book Bar!

      10. Discover comics from other countries with the international delegates!

        11. Learn the lost of art style of Filipino komiks at HAGOD: The Filipino School of Brush Illustrations for Komiks by Randy Valiente!

        12. Share the love for komiks by taking a photo of your #picofhaul at the photo booth!

        13. Get a limited edition KOMET art toy in the KOMET corner!

        14. Support Palestine! This year’s Country of Highlight is PALESTINE!

        15. Learn from ‘Itaewon Class’ creator Gwang Jin in his masterclass INK & INDUSTRY: Korean Webtoons and the Industry Landscape!

        16. Festival Programming

        What to look out for:

        1. COMICS MARKET–support over 200 Filipino comics creators and publishers and international guests releasing over 100 new komiks!
        2. COMICS EXHIBITS–a tribute to Filipino komiks master Mars Ravelo, the country of highlight, Palestine, and the PICOF Official Selection!
        3. COMICS MASTERCLASSES–the Cartooning Workshop with Samahang Kartunista ng Pilipinas, the Live Drawing session, “Komiks With a K” film screening and workshops with our international guests!
        4. FESTIVAL PROGRAMMING–on the stage we have Artist Battles, Panel by Panel Comics Readings, a Komiks Trivia Night–and much more surprises
        5. NBDB BOOK BAR–take a break and lounge in NBDB’s book bar, and take a photo of your #picofhaul at the photobooth

        There’s so much more to love at #picof2025. The PICOF 2025 TEAM are glad to have the diverse attendees to celebrate Filipino komiks amongst others of Festival of Delight!

        Reference & Media Contact:

        #PICOF2025 TEAM

      1. Capacitating Educators for the Revised K–10 Curriculum: The 2025 COCOPEA–REX Regional Run

        Capacitating Educators for the Revised K–10 Curriculum: The 2025 COCOPEA–REX Regional Run

        From classrooms to communities, across institutions and islands—the COCOPEA–REX regional run gathers stakeholders and educators anew to lead, learn, and shape a better future for the Filipino learners.

        As a new school year begins, educators are presented with an important opportunity to improve their teaching practices, serve their students more effectively, and ultimately, contribute to elevating the quality of education in our country. This year, with the Revised K–10 Curriculum taking root in our classrooms, that opportunity has never felt more urgent and meaningful.

        This is the spirit behind the 2025 COCOPEA–REX regional run.

        Organized by the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA), the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), and Rex Education, in partnership with the Department of Education, this initiative aims to equip educators with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively implement the Revised K–10 Curriculum, particularly for Grades 2, 3, 5, and 8.

        A Transformative 2-Day Learning Journey Across the Archipelago

        This year’s regional run, themed “Capacitating the Private Education Sector for the Effective Implementation of the Revised K–10 Curriculum,” aims to ensure that every Filipino learner has access to quality, relevant, and responsive education. The run began in Davao City on February 27–28, hosted by the University of the Immaculate Conception, Bajada Campus, welcoming educators from Regions 11, 12, SOCCSKSARGEN, and parts of BARMM. From there, the initiative traveled across the country through five more major legs: Baguio City – St. Louis University for Regions I, II, CAR, and parts of Region III, Cebu City – Cebu Institute of Technology for Regions VII, VIII, and parts of Region IX, Iloilo City – Angelicum College for Region VI, Cagayan de Oro – Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan for Region X, parts of BARMM and Region IX and Muntinlupa City – San Beda College Alabang for Regions NCR, IV-A, and IV-B

        Over the 2-day program, participants were provided with the tools and platform to unpack the revised curriculum—not just in theory, but in practical, tangible ways. The first day opened with a plenary session that set the tone for the training—bringing together educators, administrators, and stakeholders to align on the goals and significance of the Revised K–10 Curriculum.

        Following this, the second plenary session titled “General Updates on the Revised K–10 Curriculum” provided participants with an overview of the recent changes and developments, focusing on curriculum content and structural updates for the priority grade levels.

        From there, participants moved into concurrent breakout sessions, grouped per learning area, for a curriculum walkthrough, where they engaged in two core activities:

        ● An In-depth Exploration of Learning Standards for Grades 2, 3, 5and 8, clarifying what students are expected to know and do at each grade level

        ● Curriculum Unpacking of Learning Competencies for Grades 2, 3, 5and 8, which involved breaking down each competency into practical, actionable teaching objectives

        As the run transitioned into the second day, the focus shifted from understanding the curriculum to implementing it effectively in the classroom. It began with the third plenary session, titled “Evidence-Based Intervention: Focus on Pedagogical Practices and the Importance of Assessment,” highlighting how research-based teaching methods and meaningful assessments can drive better student learning outcomes.

        School leaders, stakeholders, and educators nationwide take part in the 2025 COCOPEA-REX Regional Run—deepening their understanding and strengthening their readiness for the effective implementation of the Revised K–10 Curriculum, particularly for Grades 2, 3, 5, and 8.

        This was followed by morning breakout sessions, again organized per learning area, that explored the Pedagogical Practices that Integrate and Develop Literacy and 21st-Century Skills through theoretical discussions and strategy-sharing. Educators shared strategies and discussed how to incorporate these essential skills into their teaching methods.

        In the afternoon, educators participated in a series of hands-on workshops, still within their respective learning areas. These included:

        ● A workshop on pedagogical practices to further strengthen instruction that fosters literacy and 21st-century competencies

        ● A theoretical discussion and a workshop on effective assessment and feedback strategies, guiding educators in using assessment not only for grading but also for supporting student growth and reflective teaching.

        Anchored in Purpose, Rooted in Legacy

        This year’s run is especially meaningful as it coincides with REX’s 75th anniversary—a milestone that honors decades of commitment to supporting Filipino learners, educators, and institutions.

        For 75 years, REX has stood not only as a learning solutions provider, but as a katuwang sa buhay—a partner for life, in learning, growth, and transformation. The regional run serves as a continuation of this legacy, reaching out to private schools, listening to their needs, and assisting them in navigating the evolving educational landscape through collaboration and shared learning.

        Moving Forward, Together

        With COCOPEA, CEAP, REX, DepEd, and countless Edukampyons at the forefront, this movement proves that progress is possible when we lead with collaboration, compassion, and courage. Even in the face of shifting systems and emerging challenges, we can always rise—grounded in legacy, driven by purpose—Para sa bata. Para sa mamamayan. Para sa bayan.

        Reference & Media Contact:

        Richard C. Mamuyac

      2. MERANAW IDENTITY AND HERITAGE AT THE HEART OF THE 1ST MARAWI CHILDREN’S BOOK FEST

        MARAWI CITY, LANAO DEL SUR – The National Book Development Board (NBDB), in partnership with Aklat Alamid, will host the first-ever Marawi Children’s Book Fest on June 27-29, 2025 at the Mindanao State University’s main campus. 

        The event aims to equip authors, illustrators, and publishers with the necessary skills and knowledge in producing children’s books, while highlighting Meranaw culture and traditions. 

        “There should be available quality and accessible Maranao books that represent who they are and the way they live. In the 2023 National Readership Survey results, there was a notable decline in reading non-school books, which was at 43% for children. Access to books emerged as the primary reason for the decline, with limited awareness of public libraries and constraints in time and distance,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

        She added, “NBDB’s grant supports publishing stakeholders in enhancing their skills and knowledge through professional development events such as the Marawi Children’s Book Fest. We encourage other organizations to initiate events such as this.”

        In a list compiled by Aklat Alamid, only around 20 children’s books from different regions in the country feature Muslim stories from 1990 to 2012 but were mostly authored by non-Muslim Filipinos. The next year, 2013, marked a new milestone as the number of titles featuring Muslim stories increased to more than 100 titles by 2023.  With the implementation of Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education starting in the 2012-2013 school year, different mother tongues, including those spoken by Muslim Filipinos, were used in reading materials for early-grade level students. 

        “The seminar-workshop aims to orient the participants on the importance of books for Meranaw children and to guide the preselected authors and illustrators in the process of developing the picture books,” said M.J. Cagumbay Tumamac, popularly known as Xi Zuq to his readers, who is also the co-founder and administrative head of Aklat Alamid. 

        He added, “As part of a larger project, [we aim] to develop four picture books on Meranaw culture, created by Meranaw authors and illustrators, written in the Meranaw language, and for Meranaw readers.” 

        The festival takes on deeper significance in the context of post-siege Marawi, where the 2017 conflict left physical and emotional scars on the community. In the years since, educators, parents, and cultural advocates have underscored the role of storytelling in rebuilding Maranao identity and heritage, as well as promoting healing and fostering peace. 

        Meranaw Orthography, Storytelling Sessions, Bibliotherapy

        One of the main events at the workshop is a panel discussion titled Stories of Hope: Meranaw Voices from Marawi, which will present peacebuilding efforts in the community and share tools for education and empowerment with the participants. 

        Meanwhile, there will also be an expressive, interactive, and visual storytelling session on two culturally rich children’s books, Si Jalal Ago So Ranaw and Ranao Monster. These stories are rooted in Meranaw culture and the natural beauty of Lake Lanao, the largest lake in Mindanao. 

        The three-day event will also include discussions and workshops on the importance of Meranaw children’s books, Maranao orthography, children’s books illustration, and bibliotherapy. In a hybrid format, the book fest is expected to gather 150 participants including students, parents, teachers, authors, publishers, and novice illustrators. The speakers and facilitators are from the MSU-Main Campus, the City Schools Division of Marawi, Teach Peace Build Peace Movement Inc., and Aklat Alamid. 

        The event is in partnership with the university’s Meranaw Cultural Heritage Center, the City Schools Division of Marawi, and the Division of Lanao del Sur 1 under the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

        With the Marawi Children’s Book Fest, the NBDB and Aklat Alamid are working together to reclaim narrative spaces for a community whose stories deserve to be read, heard, and cherished. 

        Reference & Media Contact:

        Divine Reyes-Caraecle

        Chief, Communications & Promotions
        0917-1396394
        communications@books.gov.ph

      3. PW Philippines Corp Launches Marikina Branch to Offer Free Japanese Language Education to Filipino Youth

        PW Philippines Corp Launches Marikina Branch to Offer Free Japanese Language Education to Filipino Youth

        Marikina City, Philippines — PW Philippines Corp has officially opened its newest branch in Marikina City, aiming to provide accessible Japanese language education and Prometric review programs to more Filipino youth. The launch marks an exciting step forward in its mission to bring free language learning opportunities closer to learners in Luzon.

        Located within the Pamantasan Ng Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMar), the new branch offers a structured and focused approach to language instruction, grounded in learning and clear guidance. This expansion follows the continued growth of its main branch in Davao City.

        “The Marikina branch represents our desire to serve more communities through education that builds confidence and discipline,” the team behind PW Philippines Corp shared. “We believe that language learning is not only about acquiring skills but also about empowering individuals to grow and discover their potential.”

        The organization also clarified its role in the education sector: PW Philippines Corp is a language tutorial center—not a recruitment agency—and does not participate in any employment process.

        Qualifications for Enrollment

        To qualify for the free Japanese language and Prometric review program offered by PW Philippines Corp – Marikina, applicants must meet the following criteria:

        ● Must be 17 to 30 years old

        ● Must have a minimum height of 4’11

        ● Must be a Grade 12 graduate, a two-year vocational graduate, or a college graduate

        ● Must be able to commit to regular face-to-face classesfor a period of six months, held Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

        ● Must have no history of tattoos

        ● Must be physically and mentally fit to undergo intensive training

        Location

        Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMar)
        Rainbow Street corner Russet Street, SSS Village, Concepcion Dos, Marikina City

        Programs Offered

        PW Philippines Corp – Marikina provides the following free, in-person training programs:

        ● Special Nihongo for Caregiving

        ● Special Nihongo for Hotel Accommodation

        ● Special Nihongo for Food Service

        Each course includes targeted Japanese language instruction and Prometric review sessions. All classes are led by instructors who are certified passers of Japanese language proficiency exams, ensuring learners receive high-quality, goal-oriented education tailored to real-life applications.

        Schedule and Important Dates

        ● Trial Class: July 7, 2025 (Monday)

        ● Official Start of Classes: July 14, 2025 (Monday)

        ● Class Days: Mondays to Fridays

        ● Class Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

        ● Instruction Mode: Face-to-face only

        Registration and Contact Information

        Registration Form:
        https://bit.ly/our-register_marikina-2025

        Facebook Page:
        www.facebook.com/OnoderaUserRunPhilippinesMarikinaCenter

        Email Inquiries:
        veronica@ph.onodera-user-run.com

        lorenzo@ph.onodera-user-run.com

        our-fbphilippines012@ph.onodera-user-run.com

        Contact Number:

        0965 841 2342 / 0920 433 8625

        Uplifting Learning Through Language

        Through this expansion, PW Philippines Corp reaffirms its commitment to nurturing learners through clear instruction, language skills, and supportive classroom environments. The Marikina branch is envisioned to become a space where young Filipinos can explore the Japanese language while building discipline, confidence, and a passion for lifelong learning.

        Reference:

        Lariza Garcia