While I was casually scrolling through Facebook, I saw a post from a college classmate. Being a Literature teacher and total bookworm, a festival dedicated to all things Biblio instantly caught my attention. I just found out about a Book Festival!
Upon reading further, I discovered that two events were happening simultaneously in the area - the Philippine Book Festival and a Coffee Expo. It was a great day, as these are two of my favorite things. Without a second thought, I messaged Wil, who happens to visit Manila from Singapore during those dates, inviting her to join me in this literary festival.
Our Philippine Book Festival Experience
The National Book Development Board (NBDB) organized the Philippine Book Festival to promote Philippine Literature and culture. From June 2-4, 2023, the event happened at the World Trade Center, and it was free for everyone to attend.
Wil and I simply registered on their website, generating a unique QR code to enter the literary world.
Upon entering the festival, we encountered four realms of literature: Komiks, Kid Lit, Booktopia, and Aral Aklat. Each realm had something different to offer in terms of literature, depending on what you're into.
Komiks Realm
In the Komiks section, we encountered the Philippine version of graphic novels. Trese, one of the familiar titles that played a crucial role in our thesis back in college about teaching literature through graphic novels. Who says learning can't be fun?
Kids Litt Realm
This section is a haven for child-friendly books, featuring the well-known Adarna House and Lampara Books.
There's also a book signing session with Genaro Gojo Cruz, my Children's Literature professor from college, a well-known figure in Philippine Children's Literature with some of his works Ang Batang May Maraming Maraming Bahay "The Child with Many Houses" and Ako Ay May Titi "I Have a Penis".
Booktopia and Aral Aklat Realms
Exploring further, Booktopia is a section for all fiction and non-fiction selections for all readers. On the other hand, Aral Aklat catered to educational books, housing renowned publishers like Diwa Learning Systems Inc., where a friendly chat at the booth even led me to a job offer as a book editor. I considered it, but I'm happy with my current job. Vibal Foundation, REX Education, and Phoenix Publishing House were there too.
Beyond those realms are activities like storytelling sessions, literary debates, discussions, meet and greets with local authors, writing workshops, and signing sessions.
I stumbled upon the booth of the Literature Educators Association of the Philippines, Inc. (LEAP, INC.). It was led by one of my favorite professors from college, who also happened to be our dean back then. A nostalgic encounter indeed!
Special Spot
This festival also provided a cozy Book Nook for those who want to unwind. It's got these banderitas or fiesta banners that totally give off a Filipino party vibe. And for me, the highlight was the Potato Corner booth! You can't expect me to visit 150+ booths without snacking on something 😅
Philippine Literature, in all its different forms, feels like a cozy embrace that embodies the essence of home. I hope this event becomes an annual thing, like Art Fair PH.
I'm in for this year's Philippine Book Festival! Are you planning on coming to the literary festival this year?
All images are mine unless otherwise stated.
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