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  • OFFICIAL LIST: The Finalists of the 42nd National Book Awards

    The National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Manila Critics Circle (MCC) are proud to announce the finalists of the 42nd National Book Awards (NBA).

    An annual prize that honors the most outstanding book titles written, designed, and published in the Philippines, the National Book Awards celebrates the enterprising creative labor involved in book publishing. The 42nd National Book Awards coincides with the two-year preparation of the Philippines as it makes history as the second Southeast Asian country to be chosen as Guest of Honour in 2025 at the world’s biggest book fair, the Frankfurter Buchmesse.

    For this cycle of the National Book Awards, a total of 326 titles were submitted across 31 categories consisting of four languages: English, Filipino, Bikol, and Ilokano. Following the awarding of winners during the 41st cycle last February 2024, the 42nd iteration of the awards is set to be held in November 2024.

    Below is the full list of finalists for the 42nd National Book Awards.

    LITERARY DIVISION

    NOVEL (ENGLISH)

    1. 1762: A Novel
    2. The Awakening Volume One of Alamat, A History of the Awakened
    3. But for the Lovers
    4. Specimen Zero: A Science Fiction Novel
    5. Wild Song

    Vin dela Serna Lopez Kadi Serafica

    Wilfrido D. Nolledo Joel Pablo Salud

    Candy Gourlay

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    HS Grafik Print

    Exploding Galaxies

    San Anselmo Publications, Inc. Anvil Publishing, Inc.

    NOVEL (FILIPINO)

    1. Hoy, Pong!
    2. Materyales sa Komplisidad
    • Teorya ng Unang Panahon

    Macky Cruz

    Amado Anthony G. Mendoza III Edgar Calabia Samar

    19th Avenida Publishing House The University of the Philippines Press and UP Institute of Creative Writing

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    SHORT FICTION (ENGLISH)

    1. Barcelona
    2. The Collected Stories of Gregorio C. Brillantes

    Criselda Yabes Jonathan Chua (Editor)

    19th Avenida Publishing House Ateneo de Manila University Press

    SHORT FICTION (FILIPINO)

    1. 26: Dagli Diagrams
    • Mga Kalansay sa Hardin ng Panginoon: Isang Koleksiyon ng Maikling Kuwento
    • Mula Ilog at Iba Pang Kuwento
    • Pamalakaya
    • Pamarapara

    Jayson Visperas Fajardo Ronaldo Soledad Vivo, Jr.

    Romulo P. Baquiran Jr.

    Arnold Matencio Valledor Arnold Matencio Valledor

    Isang Balangay Media Productions

    Self-published

    The University of the Philippines Press and UP Institute of Creative Writing

    Isang Balangay Media Productions

    Isang Balangay Media Productions

    NONFICTION PROSE (ENGLISH)

    1. Balik-Tanaw: The Road Taken
    • Daraga: Mirrors & Memory Essays
    • Everything Is Fiction: Essays
    • The Singing Detainee and the Librarian with One Book: Essays on Exile
    • Will You Happen, Past the Silence, through the Dark? Remembering Leonard Ralph Casper

    Soledad S. Reyes Marne Kilates

    Vicente Garcia Groyon Michael Beltran

    Linda Ty-Casper

    De La Salle University Publishing House

    Savage Mind Publishing House

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    NONFICTION PROSE (FILIPINO)

    1. Oas: Mga Sanaysay
    2. Patining at Iba Pang Sanaysay
    3. Virac: Tatlong Sanaysay

    Abdon M. Balde Jr. Soliman A. Santos Emmanuel Barrameda

    Savage Mind Publishing House The University of the Philippines Press

    Savage Mind Publishing House

    ANTHOLOGY  (ENGLISH)

    1. Bordered Lives No More: The Humanities and the

    Post-COVID-19 Recovery

    • Route 55: 55-Word Workforce Narratives during the

    COVID-19 Pandemic

    Dinah Roma (Editor) Joey A. Tabula (Editor)

    De La Salle University Publishing House

    Alubat Publishing

    • Rx Narratives: Anthology of Creative Nonfiction of Filipino Internists

    Joey A. Tabula, Noel P. Pingoy, and Sandra A. Tankeh-Torres (Editors)

    Alubat Publishing

    ANTHOLOGY  (FILIPINO)

    1. Anti-Katha: Agos sa Experimental na Kuwento sa Pilipinas
    2. Bata, Hiwaga, Bansa: Pamana ni Rene O. Villanueva sa Panitikang Pambata
    3. Bio(Lente): Mga Bagong Katha sa Danas ng Dahas at Banwa

    Rolando B. Tolentino and Rommel B. Rodriguez (Editors)

    Eugene Y. Evasco and Cheeno Marlo M. Sayuno (Editors)

    Rolando B. Tolentino, German Villanueva Gervacio, and Januar Yap

    The University of the Philippines Press and UP Institute of Creative Writing

    The University of the Philippines Press

    The University of the Philippines Press and UP Institute of Creative Writing

    • Ningning at Liwanag: Antolohiya Alma Cruz Miclat (Editor) ng 10 Nagwagi sa Gawad

    Maningning Miclat Sa Tula (2003-2021)

    Maningning Miclat Art Foundation, Inc. and Erehwon Artworld Corporation

    • Pintanaga: Linya-Linya ng Pagsinta

    Joey A. Tabula (Editor)

    Linangan sa Imahen, Retorika at Anyo (LIRA), Inc.

    LITERARY CRITICISM/CULTURAL STUDIES

    1. Ang Bisa ng Pag-uulit sa Katutubong Panitikan
    2. Everything is Realism: Essays on Narrative Craft
    3. Lualhati Bautista, Nobelista: Ang Mapagpalayang Sining ng Kababaihan sa Pilipinas
    4. Pagmangno: Woman, Nation, Ecology, Bikol

    Alvin B. Yapan

    Vicente Garcia Groyon

    E. San Juan, Jr.

    Paz Verdades M. Santos

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    University of Santo Tomas Publishing House University of Santo Tomas Publishing House

    De La Salle University Publishing House

    MEDIA STUDIES

    1. Ang Mahaba’t Kagyat na Buhay ng Indie Sinema
    • Martial Law Melodrama: Lino Brocka’s Cinema Politics
    • Sine Tala Volume 1: Philippine Cinema and History, Sine Tala Volume 2: Philippine Cinema and Culture, and Sine Tala Volume 3: Philippine Cinema and Literacy

    Rolando B. Tolentino and Aristotle J. Atienza (Editors)

    José B. Capino Nick Deocampo

    The University of the Philippines Press and QCinema International Film Festival Ateneo de Manila University Press

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    POETRY (ENGLISH)

    1. It Is Time to Come Home: New & Collected Poems
    2. Kafka in the Tropics: Poems
    3. Moving with Moonrise: Haibuns
    • A Row of Lamps: Poems
    • Planet Nine: Poems

    Marjorie Evasco

    Krip Yuson

    Ma. Milagros T. Dumdum Jaime Dasca Doble

    Joel M. Toledo

    Milflores Publishing, Inc.

    San Anselmo Publications, Inc. Ateneo de Manila University Press

    The University of the Philippines Press and UP Institute of Creative Writing

    University of Santo Tomas Publishing House

    POETRY (FILIPINO)

    1. Ang Aming Lungkot ay Amin
    • Sa Antipolo pa rin ang Antipolo
    • Arasahas: Mga Tula
    • Arawán
    • Turno Kong Nokturno: Mga Bago at Piling Tula

    Mesándel Virtusio Arguelles Abner E. Dormiendo

    Jaya  Jacobo Christian Rey Pilares

    Lamberto E. Antonio

    Linangan sa Imahen, Retorika at Anyo (LIRA), Inc.

    Linangan sa Imahen, Retorika at Anyo (LIRA), Inc.

    Savage Mind Publishing House Linangan sa Imahen, Retorika at Anyo (LIRA), Inc.

    The University of the Philippines Press and UP Institute of Creative Writing

    GRAPHIC NOVELS AND COMICS (ENGLISH)

    1. Parched Earth Chronicles: The Complete Edition
    • Trese 8: Shadow Agents
    • Sa Wala
    • Whatcha Saying?

    Written and illustrated byJefe Bagabundo, Mark Anthony Mijares, Erik Guzman Pingol, Franco Sarmiento, Alfred John Lauzon, and Mauro Vargas Written by Budjette Tan and illustrated by KaJo Baldisimo Written and illustrated by

    Ren Galeno

    Written and illustrated by CJ Reynaldo

    Central Book Supply, Inc.

    19th Avenida Publishing House Komiket Inc.

    Komiket Inc.

    GRAPHIC NOVELS AND COMICS (FILIPINO)

    1. Ella Arcangel Tomo Pangatlo: Basbas ng Apoy
    2. Meläg II: Balikbayan
    • Sining Killing
    • Sskait Comics 3: Multoserye

    Written and illustrated by Julius Villanueva

    Written and illustrated by

    B. Redila

    Written and illustrated by Randy Valiente

    Written and illustrated by AJ Bacar

    Self-published Adarna House, Inc. Komiket Inc.

    Self-published

    • Tabi Po: Harana ng Aswang           Written and illustrated by

    Mervin Malonzo

    Self-published

    TRANSLATED BOOK (ENGLISH)

    1. Ikigai Ug Ubang Piniling Mga Sugilanon (And Other Selected Stories)
    2. Húbad: Ester Tapia
    • The Ravaged World
    • The Vanished

    Translator: Marjorie Evasco; Author: Manu Avenido

    Translator: Merlie M. Alunan; Author: Ester Tapia

    Translator: Soledad S. Reyes; Author: Rosario de

    Guzman-Lingat Translator: Ned Parfan;

    Author: Chuckberry Pascual

    Advaux

    The University of the Philippines Press and UP Institute of Creative Writing

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    19th Avenida Publishing House

    TRANSLATED BOOK (FILIPINO)

    1. Benjamin
    • It Ends with Us
    • Mga Kuwentong Bayan para sa Gabing Maulan (Tales for a Rainy Night)
    • Palâisgën: Epikong-bayan ng mga Tagbanua ng Aborlan, Palawan

    Translators: John E. Barrios and Fennie Mae T. Tanangonan; Author: Angel Magahum Translator: Sheila Mendoza; Author: Colleen Hoover Translator: Chuckberry J. Pascual; Author: Cristina Pantoja Hidalgo

    Translators: Paul D. Jagmis, Sr. and Mary Grace A. Jagmis; Contributors: Paul D. Jagmis Sr., Gem-Gem  Bagued,  Fernando Lingsa, and Delia Jardinero

    The University of the Philippines Press and UP Institute of Creative Writing

    Precious Pages Corporation

    University of Santo Tomas Publishing House

    National Commission for Culture and the Arts

    TRANSLATED BOOK (ILOKANO)

    1.  Ti Bassit a Prinsipe (The Little Prince)

    Translators: Cles B. Rambaud and Faye Q. Flores-Melegrito; Author: Antoine de

    Saint-Exupéry

    Southern Voices Printing Press

    DRAMA AND FILM

    1. Collected Plays 1: Revitalizing Tradition in Three Full-Length Films

    Nicanor G. Tiongson                      Ateneo de Manila University Press

    • Collected Plays 2: Resurrecting History in Three Full-Length Musicals
    • Lutong Bahay
    • Ang Paglalakbay ni Prinsipe Bahaghari

    Nicanor G. Tiongson

    Glecy Cruz Atienza

    Aina Ysabel B. Ramolete and Vladimeir B. Gonzales

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    Sentro ng Wikang Filipino – Unibersidad ng Pilipinas Diliman The University of the Philippines Press and UP Institute of Creative Writing

    SHORT FICTION IN BIKOL

    1. Dyurnal Intris
    2. Kalatraban sa Alkawaraan

    Jerome M. Hipolito Niles Jordan Breis

    Ateneo de Naga University Press Ateneo de Naga University Press

    POETRY IN BIKOL

    1. An Santero Kan Santo Entierro
    • Dios Mabalos: Mga Rawitdawit
    • Kalagnon: Mga Rawitdawit
    • Kinalburong Lanub
    • Mayong Katapusan na Pabalon asin iba pang Huyon-Huyon: Mga Rawitdawit
    • B. Gonzaga

    Jaime Jesus Uy Borlagdan Jaime Jesus Uy Borlagdan Kristian Sendon Cordero Raul Giga Bradecina

    Bikol Historical Research Center and Partido State University Ateneo de Naga University Press Self-published

    Ateneo de Naga University Press Ateneo de Naga University Press

    NON-LITERARY  DIVISION

    ART

    1. Julio Nakpil (1867-1960) Collected Works Volume Two: Band and Orchestral Music
      1. Nineteenth-Century Masters of Angono Art
      1. Philippine Colonial Photography of the Cordilleras (1860-1930)

    Maria Alexandra Iñigo Chua (Editor)

    James Owen Saguinsin Jonathan Best

    University of Santo Tomas Publishing House

    Vibal Foundation, Inc. Vibal Foundation, Inc.

    SOCIAL SCIENCES

    1. Conflict’s Long Game: A Decade of Violence in the Bangsamoro
    2. Plural Entanglements: Philippine Studies

    Francisco J. Lara, Jr. and Nikki Philline C. de la Rosa (Editors)

    Dada Docot, Stephen B. Acabado, and Clement C. Camposano (Editors)

    Ateneo de Manila University Press Ateneo de Manila University Press

    • Re-Imagining Post-Pandemic Societies: Alternative Practices across Southeast Asia Volume 2
    • Saints of Resistance: Devotions in the Philippines under Early Spanish Rule
    • Tinipong Tinig ng Kababaihan (Anthology of Women’s Voices): Priestesses to Presidents

    Eduardo C. Tadem, Benjamin B. Velasco, Jose Monfred C. Sy, Ananeza P. Aban, Rafael Vicente V. Dimalanta, Honey B. Tabiola, and Ryan Joseph C. Martinez (Editors)

    Christina H. Lee

    Nenita Pambid Domingo (Editor) and Brandon J. Macapagal Reilly (Associate Editor)

    University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Development Studies

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    The University of the Philippines Press

    PHILOSOPHY

    1. Critical Theory at the Margins: Applying Herbert Marcuse’s Model of Critical Social Theory to the Philippines
    2. The Metaphysics of the Holy Eucharist

    Jeffry Ocay

    Raymun J. Festin, SVD

    Aletheia Printing and Publishing House

    Logos Publications, Inc.

    HISTORY

    1. Abaca Frontier: The Socioeconomic  and  Cultural Transformation of Davao, 1898-1941
    2. Dauntless
    3. Dogs in Philippine History
    • Tales of the Post-Plantation: Unlikely Protagonists of Modern Philippine Banana History
    • Tigaon 1969: Untold Stories of the CPP-NPA, KM, and SDK

    Patricia Irene Dacudao

    Marie Silva Vallejo

    Ian Christopher B. Alfonso Robin Thiers

    Soliman M. Santos Jr.

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    Self-published

    Philippine Historical Association, Project Saysay Inc., and Alaya Publishing

    Ateneo de Manila University Press Ateneo de Manila University Press

    HUMOR, SPORTS, LIFESTYLE, AND BUSINESS

    1. Expanding Strategic Perspective: Revisiting Lessons from History and the Classics
    2. Paseos de Intramuros:

    A Guidebook to Manila’s Walled City

    René B. Azurin

    Jose Victor Z. Torres

    The University of the Philippines Press

    Vibal Foundation, Inc.

    • Salumpuwit: Chairs, Lifestyle, Furniture
    • Thrive! A Parent’s Journey to Resilience
    • The Way Out Is In: Living and Loving, Pandemics and Beyond

    Gerard Lico

    Cherie Ann Lo, Joanna Herrera, Karyl Christine A. Abog, Maria Lyn Domingo, Rhoanne N. Ramas, and Melinda Tan

    Ma. Lourdes Arellano Carandang

    Arc Lico International Services and University of the Philippines College of Architecture

    Anvil Publishing, Inc.

    De La Salle University Publishing House

    FOOD

    1.  Heritage Dishes of the Philippines

    Lady Camille L. de Guia                  Vibal Group, Inc.

    SCIENCE

    1. Abaca Virus Diseases: Epidemics and Control
    2. Rediscovering Laguna de Bay:

    A Vital Natural Resource in Crisis

    • Wild City: A Photographic Guide to Amphibians, Mammals, and Reptiles of Metro Manila

    Avelino D. Raymundo

    Josefino C. Comiso, Maria Victoria O. Espaldon, and Decibel V. Faustino-Eslava (Editors)

    Jelaine Gan, Trinket Constantino, and Abby Favis

    The University of the Philippines Press

    The University of the Philippines Press

    The University of the Philippines Press

    SPIRITUALITY AND THEOLOGY

    1. Babaylan Sing Back: Philippine Shamans and Voice, Gender, and Place
    2. The Eucharist: Continuing Global Project
    3. Pinoy Devotional: Ang kapartner na devo ng Ang Bible: Pinoy Version
    4. Providence is Enough: Trusting God’s Control in Crisis
    5. What do you Seek? Pastoral Accompaniment of Couples Living Together in A New Union

    Grace Nono

    Aurelio C. Joaquin

    Kerlyn Bobadilla, Ru dela Torre, Rigel Fortaleza et al.

    Mel Caparros Bobby V. Cena

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    Claretian Communications Foundation, Inc.

    OMF Literature Inc.

    OMF Literature Inc.

    Claretian Communications Foundation, Inc.

    PROFESSIONS

    1. A Cardiologist’s Guide To Lowering High Blood Pressure

    Alan S. Tenerife                                Self-published

    • Hospital Bullies in the Philippine Clerkship and Residency Training: A Book of Discernment for Physicians, Nurses, and Psychologists Volume 3
    • PR Matters: A Communicator’s Guide to the Dynamic World of Public Relations
    • Workplace Well-being in the Philippines: A Guidebook
    • The Written Property: A Freelance Writer’s Guide to Copyright

    Erwin L. Manzano

    Members of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) Philippine Chapter

    Ma. Tonirose D. Mactal, Emerald Jay D. Ilác, and Jaimee Felice Caringal-Go (Editors)

    Imelda Morales and Mark Robert Dy (Editors)

    Central Book Supply, Inc.

    Buensalido Public Relations Agency Ateneo de Manila University Press LitArt Publishing

    JOURNALISM

    1. COVID-19 in the News of Seekers, Scoundrels, and Saints
    2. Serve
    3. View from the Foxhole: Shaping the Political into the Personal

    Ma. Ceres P. Doyo

    Jo-Ann Q. Maglipon (Editor) Joel Pablo Salud

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    Ateneo de Manila University Press The University of the Philippines Press

    DESIGN

    DESIGN

    1. A Death Foretold: The Ninoy Aquino Assassination Remembered
    • Dogs in Philippine History
    • Everything Is Fiction: Essays
    • It Is Time to Come Home: New

    & Collected Poems

    • Piña Futures: Weaving Memories and Innovations

    Editors: Sarge Lacuesta, An Mercado-Alcantara, and Mookie Katigbak-Lacuesta Designer: Tom Estrera III

    Author and Designer:

    Ian Christopher B. Alfonso

    Author: Vicente Garcia Groyon Designers: Troy Binco and Ace Vincent Molo

    Author: Marjorie Evasco Designer: Felix Mago Miguel Author: Randy M. Madrid Designer: Felix Mago Miguel Jr.

    Good Intentions Books, Inc. and Aurora Oreta

    Philippine Historical Association, Project Saysay Inc., and Alaya Publishing

    Ateneo de Manila University Press

    Milflores Publishing, Inc.

    Far Eastern University and HABI: The Philippine Textile Company

    *NOTHING FOLLOWS*

    For clarifications or queries, please contact:

    CHARISSE AQUINO-TUGADE

    Executive Director

    awards@books.gov.ph

    National Book Development Board (NBDB)

    3F Regalado Hive Building, Regalado Avenue, Fairview, Quezon City 1118

  • 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬’ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬

    The National Book Development Board (NBDB) believes that the determination of reading advocates in the Philippines remains strong despite the current challenges facing the state of reading in the country.

    The State of the Reading Nation Address (SORNA) for the second quarter of this year was presented during the inaugural Milestone Meeting of the National Alliance of Reading Advocates (NARA). This initiative, a project of the NBDB, brings together numerous readership advocates and plays a crucial role in the NBDB’s ongoing efforts to foster a love for reading in the Philippines.

    The second-quarter SORNA highlighted three key areas: the importance of community engagement and support networks, the necessity of teacher training and professional development, and the critical issue of access to resources and materials.

    “To address these vital points, advocates and stakeholders across government, non-government, and private sectors are working tirelessly to rekindle a love for reading among Filipino adults and children and to prevent a reading crisis,” emphasized Daniel Lorenzo Mariano, OIC of NBDB’s Readership Development Division (READ).

    Established in the second quarter, the NARA and its members are collaboratively working to enhance Philippine readership. In April, the NBDB hosted the second edition of its flagship event, the Philippine Book Festival (PBF), a four-day fair attended by over 30,000 people. This event also served as the platform for the soft launch of NARA. The all-Filipino book fair aims to promote a culture of reading and simultaneously support the growth of the publishing industry in the country.

    In response to the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results, which underscored the need to address literacy and reading issues, the Department of Education (DepEd) has adopted a science-based approach to teaching reading. Stakeholders are hopeful that the incoming DepEd chief, Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, will advocate for reading and address the country’s literacy challenges.

    In collaboration with DepEd, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is promoting a reading mindset through its nationwide tutoring program, “Tara, Basa.” This initiative has trained thousands of student-tutors and youth development workers to conduct reading sessions for struggling and non-reader Grade 2 learners in public elementary schools. The program also includes “Nanay-Tatay” teacher sessions to empower parents and guardians to actively support their children’s reading journeys.

    Several Local Government Units (LGUs), along with private and non-profit organizations, have also launched their own readership development programs.

    Other efforts implemented during the second quarter aim to foster a reading culture among Filipinos and shape the country’s reading landscape.

    “The NBDB, through NARA, is working on developing a NARA Readers’ Agenda. Alongside passionate advocates such as educators, librarians, publishers, community leaders, and students, we will continue to raise our collective voice to highlight the power of reading and make it an exciting and enriching adventure,” added Mariano.

    NBDB PRESS RELEASE – 19 July 2024

    Communications and Promotions

    National Book Development Board

    View Books Philippines Catalog

    Visit the www.philippinebookfest.com

  • Reading Advocates Decry Lukewarm Reading Culture, Draft Provisional Readers’ Agenda Presented in First-of-Its-Kind Milestone Meeting

    THE National Alliance of Reading Advocates (NARA), a group composed of readership advocates in the country and a project by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), held its first important NARA Milestone Meeting recently, where the provisional outline of the NARA Readers’ Agenda was presented.

    The group also decried the lukewarm state of reading culture in the country, as shown in the country’s State of the Reading Nation (SORNA) for the second quarter of the year.

    The alliance will work collaboratively in drafting and finalizing the NARA Readers’ Agenda, and hopes to finish it in time for the grand launch on November 16, 2024. Once fully ratified, NARA will then support activities and interventions in line with its contents, and shall form the basis of the NBDB’s readership interventions for the upcoming year, both as an individual readership advocacy agency and as the NARA secretariat.

    The NARA Readers’ Agenda is a guidebook that will contain NARA’s concrete vision for readership in the Philippines based on its analysis of the state of the reading nation. In laying out advocacy areas, it will be able to concretely grasp and measure its influence on reading communities and the reading culture.

    The second quarter SORNA, meanwhile, highlighted three key points, namely, the importance of community engagement and support networks, teacher training and professional development, and the issue of access to resources and materials. It also noted that efforts to boost reading should now extend to the farthest and underserved areas of the country to boost readership and spark a love for reading.

    The National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP), one of the organizations that attended the milestone meeting, earlier expressed its intention to work with the NBDB with regard to the quarterly SORNA, as expressed by NRCP Executive Director, Bernardo Sepeda, such as the provision of research assistance to NBDB members.

    The NARA is a unified network anchored on a collaborative working environment in order to better spread the news on existing readership initiatives. This is a project that serves as an integral part of the NBDB’s ongoing efforts to boost readership, given declining reading scores among Filipinos.

    Aside from the NRCP, more than 20 other organizations attended the meeting, such as the National Museum of the Philippines, National Library of the Philippines, AHA Learning Center, Ayala Foundation, Inc., St. Mary’s Publishing, Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation, Libro Mo, Kaalam Ko Project, The Inteligente Publishing, Inc., Association of Progressive and Orthodox Litterateurs and Literature Originators, Pinoy Reading Buddies, Inc., Kuwento at Kultura à Paris, St. Mary’s Publishing Corp., Pinoy Reads Pinoy Book, Laguna Province Private Schools and Administrators Association, The Storytelling Project, Iloilo Provincial Library and Archives, BINHI English Literacy Foundation, Sadiri Publishing, UST Library, International Board on Books for Young People, IBBY Ph, and Anak han Sta. Rita.

    For media inquiries, please contact: (NBDB PRESS RELEASE-12 July 2024)

    Divine Reyes-Caraecle

    NBDB Communications

    news@books.gov.ph

    0919-9749770

  • PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL (PBF) 2024 Grand Opening: NBDB opens PBF 2024 from April 25 to 28, 2024 at World Trade Center Metro Manila

    PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL (PBF) 2024 Grand Opening: NBDB opens PBF 2024 from April 25 to 28, 2024 at World Trade Center Metro Manila

    On the 25th day of April 2024, the National Book Development Board (NBDB), a government agency of the Philippines in charge of the book publishing sector and the promotion of readership has launched the Grand Opening of Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2024 at World Trade Center Metro Manila.

    The PBF is the first and largest traveling book festival in the country, promoting the best Philippine books and educational materials. It is not your traditional book fair—guests can enjoy educational exhibitions and informative workshops, meet their favorite authors, and purchase quality Pinoy books.

    PBF 2024 is open from 8AM to 8PM from April 25 to 28, 2024 for free entrance and accepting walk-ins to join the diverse book fair in Metro Manila. It’s Not Just a Book Fair, It’s a Book Experience for all who travels from the diverse cities and communities locally and abroad to enjoy education exhibitions, informative workshops and invest quality books of diverse authors of the PBF 2024. Besides, guests can also meet their favorite authors and artists during the launch of their newest books and upcoming tv shows for the excitement of their readers and viewers in the community.

    Philippine Book Festival…

  • The National Book Development Board’s Philippine Book Festival Is Back: Join the Grandest Philippine Book Festival 2024 on April 25 – 28, 2024 at World Trade Center Pasay, Metro Manila

    The National Book Development Board’s Philippine Book Festival Is Back: Join the Grandest Philippine Book Festival 2024 on April 25 – 28, 2024 at World Trade Center Pasay, Metro Manila

    The National Book Development Board, an agency of the Philippine government under the Department of Education formed through Republic Act No. 8047, cordially invites you to join Philippine Book Festival (PBH) 2024 on April 25 – 28, 2024 at World Trade Center Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines to experience the essence of investing and supporting the books of the authors, publishers and artists related to the culture, literature, history and arts of the Philippines for all the readers of the generations to this day and beyond.

    For me, the PBH 2024 is a book experience and art of investing books for all the readers that starts in our family and next to schools, offices & other organization in the community, especially those who need books as part of their lifestyle and as references to Philippines literature, art, education and culture.

    Why you should join the Philippine Book Festival 2024? The PBF is the first and largest traveling book festival in the country, promoting the best Philippine books and educational materials. The attendees or guests can enjoy educational exhibitions and informative workshops, meet their favorite authors, artists, publishers and purchase quality Pinoy books.

    On April 25, 2024 (Day 1), the activities for the main stage are as follows: SIMULA: A Celebratory Ritual; The UST Publishing House Presents: SINAG 2024; Balagtasan by NCCA x PCEP; Read Along with the Cast of Encantadia: Faith Da Silva (Flamarra), Kelvin Miranda (Adamus), Angel Guardia (Deia), and Bianca Umali (Terra); Translation Matters! with Evelyn Caldera Soriano, Gene Alcantara, and Kristian Cordero; and A Toast to Books: Industry Reception.

    On April 26, 2024 (Day 2), the program for the main stage are the following: Kumustahan with DepEd; Creating for Young People with Disabilities; Turning Clicks to Reads: A Roundtable Discussion with Jerico Silvers; Mama Meme Reads with Meryll Soriano Featured Book: Ang mga Alitaptap ng Pulang Buhangin by R. H. Quilantang; Si Gren, Ang Kaibigan Kong Alien: A Book Launch with Marian Rivera, Gabby Concepcion, and Raphael Landicho; Performance by Bry Cimafranca of NCCA x PCEP; Dahling Nick: Tribute; Ballet Manila “Tatlong Kuwento ni Lola Basyang”; Trip to Quiapo: In conversion with Ricky Lee; Scrubs & Scribbles: The Double Lives of Doctor-Authors with Dr. Joti Tabula, Dr. Will Laingco,Dr. Alice Sun-Cua, and Dr. Angeli Dumatol; and Finding Your Readig Allies: The Book Nook Present NARA.

    On April 27, 2024 (Day 3), you may consider the main stage’s activites as follows: The Usual Suspects: Let’s Talk About Crime Fiction; Performance by Lakbai Guitar Due of NCCA x PCEP; PaperKat: Pitching Works to Filmmakers; Ambeth Ocampo Without the Overcoat; Teatrong Mulat ng Pilipinas; Firefly Book Signing; Meet Morena Book Reading Event with Ayn Bernos; and Poetry Slam! Book Development Association of the Philippines.

    Finally, on April 28, 2024 (Day 4), the program for main stage are as follows: Reading the Readers: Education and the Power of Reading by National Committee on Literary Arts; Ang Suklam sa Ating Nanagnas na Balat by Ronaldo Vivo, a Book Launch; A Day with Gwy Saludes; Explore and Eat your History with Clang Garcia, Claude Tayag, Ige Ramos, and RG Enriquez-Diaz; Cosplay Filipiniana! Philippine Literary Characters Cosplay Competition; A Beautiful Day (Inkspiration: A Decade of Life is Beautiful Stories); and PANITIKolab The Joys of Reading: Ba’t kami nagbabasa?

    In this digital age, the creation of digital books are already accessible to the internet for reading, but I think and believe that we should still consider the value and essence of having books for own reading just like how our ancestors had read books during their times, that is applicable to these days and beyond.

    Join now the grandest Philippine Book Festival 2024!

  • The Philippine Book Festival Is Back, And It’s Bigger Than Ever!

    The Philippine Book Festival Is Back, And It’s Bigger Than Ever!

    For the second year running, the National Book Development Board Philippines (NBDB) is brining together publishers, authors, artists, education, and readers at the country’s biggest traveling book festival.

    Taking place at the World Trade Center in Pasay from April 25 to 28, 2024, the PBF is a four-day celebration showcasing the richness of Philippine literature, culture, and arts. This unique book fair integrates education, entertainment, tourism, and shopping into family-friendly event.

    In addition to the extensive collection of published works and titles from the Philippines, this year’s festival offers a diverse range of talks and workshops.

    Highlights include “A day with Gwy Saludes.” featuring an exclusive book signing and meet-and-greet session with the author. Historian and bestselling author Ambeth Ocampo will lead “Ambeth Without the Overcoat,” a book signing session. National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, Ricky Lee, will present “Trip to Quiapo,” while “Dahiling Nick: A Tribute to National Artists Nik Joaquin” will honor the renowned writer. Other sessions include “Aklat Para Sa Accla: New Trends in Boys Love and Girls Love,” “Comics Can Change the World” with Patti Ramos, and “Zine-making 101,” a workshop on crafting independent-produced “fanzines” led by Komiket’s Bunny Luz.

    Attendees can anticipate the comeback of the Rare Book Collection by the National Library of the Philippines, which will feature a new selection of rare manuscripts and facsimiles; the Book Bar -a library of sorts filled with award-winning books; Cosplay Filipinia, a cosplay competition allowing fans to portray their beloved Philippine literacy characters; and Guhit Pambata, an exhibit highlighting the creations of some of our best children’s book illustrators. This year, the PBF will launch Tabuan Food Hall, wherein guests can feast in between pages.

    The festival brings back its four popular realms: Kid Lit, a land just for children, Komiks, which puts the spotlight on Pinoy komiks, Booktopia, home to an abundance of fiction and non-fiction titles, and Aral Aklat, which is devoted to textbooks and educational materials. There will be a Creators lab, Main Stage, and Kids-at-Play that highlight exciting talks, activities, and workshops more specific to the interests of readers and fans of those pages.

    Panels, puppet shows, storytelling with surprise television and movie celebrities, and live performances are excluded throughout the four-day festival.

    NBDB Executive Director Charise Aquino-Tugade

    This year, we have more authors and we bring together the best Philippine content for the entire family. The country needs more reading spaces that encourage conversation, creation and collaboration. Ang Philippine Book Festival ang nagsisilbing panghikayat ng NBDB sa iba pang mga organisasyon na lumahok at makiisa sa mga programang magtutulak sa mga Filipino na magbasa dahil ang aklat ay para sa lahat,” said NBDB Executive Director Charise Aquino-Tugade.

    The event is longer this year to give ample time for teachers, librarians, and organizations to research the books they need for their schools. Similar to last year, NBDB is working closely with Department of Education (DepEd) to train more than 750 book evaluation and procurement officers to scope and evaluate books to purchase for public school libraries and library hubs. Evaluators from all over the country will fly in to source educational books for the students of their regions.

    A Feast for the Eyes

    The festival will be a feast for the eyes too as it features the designs of talented graphic designer and children’s book illustrators. Marc Vincent Soriano, Liza Flores, and Beth Parrocha. Parrocha designed the four realms, finding inspiration in the four major elements: water for Kid; earth for Komiks; fire for Aral Aklat; and air for Booktopia. Each realm has its color as well – pink, purple, yellow, and aqua – to make it easy for guests to figure out which part of the festival they’re in.

    “I had fun doing all the visuals. It’s great opportunity for any artist to be given the whole World Trade Center as a canvas for my art,” Parrocha said.

    A Strongest Culture of Reading

    The Philippine Book Festival is part of the National Book Development Board’s effort to promote a culture of reading and development industry in the Philippines.

    “The Philippine Book Festival is part of the National Book Development Board’s effort to promote a culture of reading and develop the publishing industry in the Philippines.

    “The Philippine Book Fair is a program that, on the one hand, is all about celebrating Philippine culture, but on the other hand, encompasses our agency’s long-term plans: improve access for every Filipino reader, democratize distribution, and enable our publishers and authors to keep Philippine books,” said Chairperson Ang.

    The fair is open to the public from 8:00AN to 8:00PM on April 25-28, 2024, with no entrance fees. For more information on the Philippine Book Festival and to register for free, visit www.philippinebookfest.com.

    Reference & Media Contact (Press Release dated April 03, 2024):

    National Book Development Board Philippines (NBDB)

    Ma. Divine R. Caraecle
    Project Development Officer
    mcaraecle@books.gov.ph
    +63 919 974 9770 (Viber)
    books.gov.ph

  • NBDB urges focus on readership and literacy initiatives; ramps up efforts to boost reading among Filipinos

    NBDB urges focus on readership and literacy initiatives; ramps up efforts to boost reading among Filipinos

    The National Book Development Board (NBDB) urges policymakers, educators, community leaders, and stakeholders to prioritize readership and literacy initiatives, while also involving parents in efforts to make reading more accessible to all segments of the population.

    This call follows the release of the 2023 National Readership Survey (NRS) results, showing a notable decline in non-school book readership among Filipino adults and children. The survey revealed adult readership at 42% and children at 47% in 2023. Access to books emerged as the primary reason for the decline, with limited awareness of public libraries and constraints like time and distance cited as barriers to visits.

    These results have prompted the NBDB to reaffirm its commitment to bolstering existing programs and policies to reignite a love for reading among Filipinos.

    “These findings, which provide a much-needed nuanced understanding of Filipinos’ reading habits and preferences, reinforce the fact that access to quality books remains a pressing issue in book publishing and education, so the sectors’ focus now clearly has to be on addressing gaps in access,” said NBDB Chairperson Dante “Klink” Ang II.

    Moreover, Chairperson Ang stated that the NBDB and its partners will examine various proposals to develop meaningful policy directives aligned with the objectives of Republic Act No. 7743, which aims to establish congressional, city, and municipal libraries, along with barangay reading centers nationwide. According to a 2018 study by the National Library of the Philippines, only 3% of LGUs have local libraries across the country.

    “One of the main hindrances to reading revealed by the survey is access to reading facilities such as public libraries, particularly in the provinces. Some of them are really beyond the reach of those living in mountainous areas, for example. Besides expanding the Book Nook project, we will also work to bring libraries closer to the people,” Chairperson Ang added.

    Meanwhile, NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade emphasized the significance of enhancing NBDB’s readership efforts, particularly through initiatives like the Book Nook project. This project establishes reading and storytelling centers across the Philippines, featuring locally published books and serving as distribution hubs for publishers. By offering quality books in various Philippine languages, the Book Nook project addresses access and literacy issues in a single space, fostering education and community engagement in a safe and inclusive environment where visitors can participate in activities, borrow books, and take them home at no cost.

    Additionally, the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) promotes a robust reading culture while providing guidance on institutional book purchases. Like the Book Nook project, the PBF brings quality books to readers nationwide while facilitating collaboration between major buyers of educational resources and Philippine publishers.

    To encourage involvement in the local book economy, NBDB launched Booklatan sa Bayan, inviting both avid and passive readers to explore literature and culture. NBDB collaborates with reading advocacy groups such as the Reading Association of the Philippines, the Philippine Librarians Association, Inc., and the Adarna Group Foundation, Inc., to synergize efforts in enriching the nation’s reading culture.

    “Programming must work hand in hand with policy. Besides readership programs, we will push for policies that democratize distribution and enable publishers to publish more affordable books,” Executive Director Tugade emphasized.

    “These survey findings should serve as a call to arms: an opportunity to acknowledge and better understand the current state of readership, to reframe the problems they pose in a way that we are pushed to act and change them rather than dwell on them. If attitudes toward reading are less than desirable, then the responsibility to create environments that make reading possible lies with us. The NBDB is hopeful and renews its commitment to better its programs and policies,” Executive Director Tugade added.

    The NBDB highlighted that, according to the survey findings, overall attitudes towards books and reading remained positive. The majority of respondents recognized the importance of books beyond educational and professional contexts. Key insights from the survey included the most popular non-school book (NSB) genres among adults (the Bible) and children (picture books), the preferred reading language (Filipino for both age groups), preferred formats (printed books for both age groups), and primary considerations when selecting NSBs (availability for both age groups).

    The NBDB enlisted the Social Weather Stations (SWS) to conduct the 2023 National Readership Survey from November 14th to 20th, 2023, with a sample size of 2,400 adults aged 18 and above, and 2,400 children aged 8-17. This survey is the most comprehensive examination of Filipinos’ reading habits and preferences and is expected to provide invaluable insights for the agency’s readership-focused initiatives.

    Reference: (PRESS RELEASE ON THE 2023 NATIONAL READERSHIP SURVEY – March 22, 2024)

    National Book Development Board