The Philippine Book Festival (PBF), organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), is the country’s premier all-Filipino literary event, celebrating the richness of Philippine literature, culture, and arts. Now in its third year, the 2025 edition, held from March 13 to 16 at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, promises to be an immersive experience that goes beyond a traditional book fair. With its Filipino fiesta-inspired theme, the festival transforms the literary landscape into a vibrant celebration of storytelling, creativity, and community. This guide explores the myriad activities and experiences awaiting book lovers, families, educators, and creatives at the PBF 2025, ensuring you make the most of this four-day literary extravaganza.
- Explore the Four Festival Realms
The PBF is uniquely structured into four thematic “realms,” each designed to cater to different literary interests and inspired by iconic Philippine festivals. These realms offer a curated selection of books and activities, making it easy to navigate the festival based on your preferences.
Kid Lit: A Haven for Young Readers
Theme: Dinagyang Festival (Iloilo City), designed by Juno Abreu
What to Expect: This realm is a magical space for children and young adults, featuring picture books, chapter books, and young adult novels. The vibrant Dinagyang Festival theme adds a playful, colorful backdrop to engage young readers. Expect interactive storytelling sessions, arts and crafts workshops, and puppet shows that bring stories to life. The “Kids-at-Play” area within Kid Lit offers kid-friendly activities to spark creativity and a love for reading.
Highlight Activity: The “Dream Book Cover” contest, where young artists can create on-the-spot illustrations for their own book covers, is perfect for budding creatives. This activity encourages children to express their imagination through art, with opportunities to win prizes and recognition.
Why Visit: Kid Lit is ideal for families, young readers, and educators looking for quality children’s literature by Filipino authors. It’s a space where kids can interact with stories, meet young authors like 13-year-old Xander Gabriel Antazo, and discover the joy of reading.
Komiks: Celebrating Filipino Graphic Storytelling
Theme: Tuna Festival (General Santos City), designed by Paul Eric Roca
What to Expect: Komiks is a paradise for comic book fans, showcasing the rich tradition and evolution of Philippine graphic storytelling. From classic comics to modern graphic novels and zines, this realm highlights the creativity of Filipino artists. Expect to find exclusive releases, artist meet-and-greets, and workshops like “Zine-making 101” with Komiket’s Bunny Luz.
Highlight Activity: The “Cosplay Filipiniana Fiesta” is a must-see, where fans can dress up as their favorite characters from Philippine literature or comics. This contest adds a fun, interactive element, blending literature with pop culture.
Why Visit: Whether you’re a seasoned comic collector or new to Filipino komiks, this realm offers a chance to explore unique stories and support local creators. The Tuna Festival theme adds a vibrant, cultural flair to the experience.
Booktopia: A World of Fiction and Non-Fiction
Theme: Panagbenga Festival (Baguio City), designed by Danielle Florendo
What to Expect: Booktopia is the go-to realm for fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and more, catering to diverse literary tastes. From contemporary novels to historical accounts and self-help books, this section offers a treasure trove of Filipino-authored works. Look out for talks and workshops, such as “How to Create Your Brand as an Author,” a styling workshop for aspiring writers.
Highlight Activity: The “Echoes of Fiction: Music and Visuals from Philippine Tales” session on March 15 at 2 p.m., featuring Renato Tranquilino, Che de Leon, and Rommel Carrera, explores how music and visuals enhance storytelling. This multimedia experience is a unique blend of art and literature.
Why Visit: Booktopia is perfect for readers seeking universal and uniquely Filipino stories. It’s also a great place to meet authors like Edgar Calabia Samar, known for his “Janus Silang” novels, and discover new favorites.
Aral Aklat: Educational Resources for All
Theme: Pahiyas Festival (Lucban, Quezon), designed by Pepot Atienza
What to Expect: Aral Aklat is dedicated to educational materials, including textbooks, study guides, and teacher’s manuals. This realm is a hub for students, educators, and institutions, with book counselors from the NBDB available to assist in selecting quality resources for schools and libraries.
Highlight Activity: The presence of over 650 DepEd scopers and teachers on the first day, reviewing titles for the Supplementary Learning Resources (SLR) program, underscores the realm’s importance in enhancing educational access. Visitors can engage with these professionals and explore materials approved for school use.
Why Visit: Aral Aklat is essential for educators and students looking to source high-quality, Filipino-authored educational materials. The Pahiyas Festival theme adds a festive, community-driven vibe to the experience.
- Attend Author Meet-and-Greets and Book Signings
One of the PBF’s biggest draws is the opportunity to meet and interact with renowned Filipino authors and creators. The 2025 festival features an exciting lineup of literary figures, offering book signings, talks, and casual interactions that make the event a “third space” for book lovers.
Ambeth Ocampo’s Book Signing: On March 15 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., historian and bestselling author Ambeth Ocampo hosts “From Noli to Now: The Ambeth Ocampo Special.” Bring your copies of his works for signing and enjoy a discussion on Philippine history and literature. Ocampo’s engaging storytelling makes this a must-attend for history buffs.
Ricky Lee’s Meet-and-Greet: National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee will host “Para Kay B: A Meet and Greet with Ricky Lee” on March 15 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Known for his novels and screenplays, Lee’s session promises insights into his craft and a chance to get your books signed.
Young Authors in the Spotlight: Meet young writers like Xander Gabriel Antazo, who published his first book at age 10. His session at the Kid Lit realm highlights the potential of young storytellers and inspires aspiring writers of all ages.
Tips for Attendees: Check the festival’s official schedule on philippinebookfest.com or the PBF Facebook page for specific times and locations. Bring your own books for signings, as some authors may have limited copies available. Arrive early to secure a spot, as these events are popular.
- Participate in Interactive Workshops and Talks
The PBF is more than a marketplace—it’s a hub for learning and creativity. The festival’s Creator Lab and Main Stage host a variety of workshops and talks that cater to writers, artists, educators, and readers.
“How to Create Your Brand as an Author”: This styling workshop on March 15 at 1 p.m. offers practical advice for aspiring authors on building their personal brand and navigating the publishing industry.
“Baklaan at Bahaginan: Gender-Inclusive Voices in Philippine Literature”: On March 15 at 4 p.m., join Chuckberry Pascual, Chi Yu Rodriguez, Bernadette Neri, and H Bentham, moderated by Mitch Balladares, for a discussion on diversity and inclusion in Filipino literature. This session is a must for those interested in contemporary social issues.
“Zine-making 101”: Led by Komiket’s Bunny Luz, this workshop teaches participants how to create independently-produced fanzines, perfect for comic enthusiasts and DIY creators.
Spoken Word Poetry Competition: A highlight for poetry lovers, this contest allows participants to perform their work, celebrating the oral tradition of Filipino storytelling.
Why Participate: These sessions offer hands-on learning and networking opportunities with industry professionals. They’re ideal for aspiring writers, illustrators, and educators looking to hone their skills or gain inspiration.
- Discover Rare Books and Filipiniana Treasures
In collaboration with the National Library of the Philippines, the PBF features a Rare Books Collection near the entrance, showcasing first editions, manuscripts, and Filipiniana titles. Highlights include facsimiles of Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, as well as the first novel written by a Filipino and the first book printed in the Philippines.
What to Do: Take time to explore this exhibit to understand the evolution of Philippine literature. The curated display provides context for why Filipino books have endured and continue to shape national identity.
Why Visit: This is a rare opportunity to see historical literary artifacts up close, making it a must for bibliophiles and history enthusiasts. The exhibit is designed to be one of the first things you see, setting the tone for the festival’s cultural significance.
- Shop for Books and Support Local Publishers
With 104 exhibitors, 95% of which are local publishers, the PBF is a treasure trove of Filipino-authored books across genres. From horror anthologies like Yvette Tan’s Insect Hag and Other Stories to Kenneth Yu’s The Greatest Fight of Sunny Granada and Other Stories, there’s something for every reader. The festival also supports emerging independent presses, with vendor fees waived this year to encourage participation.
Book Nook: After shopping, relax in the Book Nook, a dedicated reading space modeled after NBDB’s community reading sites. It features curated Filipiniana titles and a cozy atmosphere for diving into your new purchases.
Tips for Shoppers: Set a budget to avoid overspending, as discounts and exclusive releases are tempting. Bring a tote bag for your haul, and check publisher booths for festival-exclusive deals. Some booths may offer signed copies or bundled promotions.
- Immerse Yourself in the Filipino Fiesta Theme
The PBF’s 2025 theme, inspired by iconic Filipino festivals, infuses the event with cultural vibrancy. Each realm’s design reflects a specific fiesta, from the colorful Panagbenga to the lively Dinagyang, creating an immersive experience that celebrates Philippine heritage.
What to Do: Engage with the festival-inspired visuals and activities, such as the Cosplay Filipiniana Fiesta or the art exhibit “Guhit Pambata,” showcasing children’s book illustrations. These elements blend literature with cultural pride, making the PBF a unique celebration.
Why Participate: The fiesta theme makes the festival accessible and engaging for all ages, fostering a sense of community and cultural connection.
- Network with Educators and Industry Professionals
The PBF serves as a marketplace for institutional buyers, with over 650 DepEd scopers and teachers evaluating books for school libraries. Book counselors in each realm assist in selecting quality materials, making the festival a hub for educational networking.
What to Do: If you’re an educator or librarian, connect with NBDB book counselors and DepEd representatives to discuss procurement and curriculum needs. Attend sessions like the Grand Reception, hosted by the Philippine Educational Publishers Association, to network with industry leaders.
Why Network: These interactions can lead to collaborations and access to resources for enhancing educational programs.
- Enjoy Free Admission and Easy Access
Admission to the PBF is free, making it accessible to all. Register online at philippinebookfest.com for a QR code to streamline entry. The move to SM Megamall ensures greater accessibility for Metro Manila residents, with the festival open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get first dibs on books and event slots. Follow the PBF’s Facebook page for updates on registration and schedules.
Conclusion
The Philippine Book Festival 2025 is more than a book fair—it’s a celebration of Filipino creativity, culture, and community. From exploring the four festival realms to meeting authors, participating in workshops, and discovering rare books, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a bookworm, a family looking for kid-friendly activities, an educator sourcing materials, or an aspiring creator seeking inspiration, the PBF offers a rich, immersive experience. Mark your calendars for March 13 to 16, prepare your tote bag, and dive into the literary fiesta at SM Megamall’s Megatrade Hall. For more details, visit philippinebookfest.com or follow the Philippine Book Festival on Facebook.
