NBDB Highlights Filipino Authors, Creatives, Publishers, in Philippine Book Festival 2026.

THE National Book Development Board (NBDB) formally opened the 4th edition of the Philippine Book Festival today, March 12, at the Megatrade Hall of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City, marking the start of a four-day celebration of Filipino books, stories, and the industry that brings them to life.

NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade led the opening ceremonies alongside Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, before an audience of publishers, authors, illustrators, readers, educators, and industry stakeholders gathered to witness a milestone: for the first time in the festival’s history, opening day was fully open to the general public.

“This is also why the creative and cultural industries surrounding Filipino literature matter as much to this festival as the books themselves. The illustrators, the visual artists, the designers who shape how a book is seen before it is ever read—their presence here is not peripheral,” Aquino-Tugade said. 

A Filipino reader who has never thought of themselves as a reader is more likely to become one in a space that feels alive, that feels like it was made with some care and imagination, than in one that simply stocks titles. The argument the PBF keeps making, year after year, is that Filipino creative work deserves exactly that kind of space. Not a corner. Not a footnote. A room of its own, for a few days at a time, for as long as it takes for that to stop being something we have to fight for,” Aquino-Tugade added.

The presence of DepEd Secretary Angara at the opening underscored the festival’s role not only as a literary event but as a strategic platform for education. Day 1 brought together DepEd book evaluators, or “scopers,” from across the country, who used the PBF as an opportunity to review and identify locally produced titles for potential uses as Supplementary Learning Resources in public school classrooms and libraries.

Four Realms, One Rainforest

PBF 2026 reimagined its four signature realms within a rainforest-inspired setting drawn from this year’s theme, Gubat ng Karunungan. Aral Aklat highlights books as tools for learning and discovery, featuring textbooks and teaching guides. Booktopia invites visitors to explore the breadth of Filipino fiction and nonfiction. Kid Lit nurtures early readers through interactive, child-friendly experiences. Komiks celebrates the visual richness of Filipino comics and graphic storytelling.

This year’s lineup brings together the full spectrum of Philippine literary life. National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, and prominent historian Ambeth Ocampo will be on hand for book signings alongside trade-book superstars Jonaxx and Ron Canimo, kidlit masters Eugene Evasco and Luis Gatmaitan, and komiks legends Manix Abrera and Pol Medina. GMA Network, together with PaperKat Books, will also launch Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre at PBF 2026.

Beyond the realms, five activation spaces gave the festival its distinctive character. Lugar Lagdaan serves as the hub for book signings and reader-author meetups. Bahay Ilustrador puts the craft of visual storytelling front and center. Gubat ng Karunungan hosts workshops, talks, and masterclasses. The Fiesta Stage anchors major programming and performances. Umpukan provides space for informal community conversations.

In cooperation with the National Library of the Philippines, the NBDB also features facsimiles of Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, Doctrina Christiana, and Fr. Manuel Blanco’s Flora de Filipinas—rare works that anchor the festival in the Philippines’ deep literary heritage.

A highlight of the four-day run is the 43rd National Book Awards (NBA), to be held on March 14 at the Fiesta Stage. The NBA acknowledges the works of authors, illustrators, editors, translators, and publishers whose books have helped shape the country’s literary landscape.

Into the Gubat ng Karunungan

This year’s festival gathers under the theme 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 wove 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,” he said.

A Festival Dedicated to Philippine Literature

For Aquino-Tugade, the festival’s significance runs deeper than the four days it occupies. “The Philippine Book Festival is positioned not only as a literary event but also as a third place that connects key players in the publishing and education sectors,” she said. “By convening publishers, institutional buyers, educators, and readers in a single venue, the festival supports broader efforts to improve access to quality Philippine books and sustain the local publishing industry. Let’s make the Philippines not just a nation of readers, but a global powerhouse of authors and creators,” Aquino-Tugade concluded.

Philippine Book Festival 2026 Strengthens Its Commitment to the Growth of Local Publishing.

THE National Book Development Board (NBDB) is all set for the 4th Philippine Book Festival (PBF)— the country’s only marketplace dedicated exclusively to all-Filipino books and published works, and a shared third place for publishers, writers, illustrators, readers, educators, and industry stakeholders. The festival runs from March 12 to 15, 2026 at the Megatrade Hall, 5th Floor, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

“With the continued interest we saw in the last few years, we are encouraged by the growing appreciation for Filipino stories and content, ” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade. “The strong public response affirms that there is a meaningful demand for books that reflect our own culture, languages, and lived experiences. ”

Building on that momentum, the NBDB sees PBF 2026 as an opportunity not only to expand visitor turnout and exhibitor participation but also to strengthen access to locally produced books and learning materials. In a milestone for the festival, Day 1 (March 12) will be open to the general public for the first time, welcoming all readers alongside the Department of Education (DepEd) and its book evaluators from across the country.

Four Realms, One Rainforest

PBF 2026 reimagines its four signature realms within a rainforest-inspired setting. Aral Aklat highlights books as tools for learning and discovery, featuring textbooks and teaching guides. Booktopia invites visitors to explore the breadth of Filipino fiction and nonfiction. Kid Lit nurtures early readers through interactive, child-friendly experiences. Komiks celebrates the visual richness of Filipino comics and graphic storytelling.

This year’s lineup brings together the full spectrum of Philippine literary life. National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, and prominent historian Ambeth Ocampo will be on hand for book signings alongside trade-book superstars Jonaxx and Ron Canimo, kidlit masters Eugene Evasco and Luis Gatmaitan, and komiks legends Manix Abrera and Pol Medina. GMA Network, together with PaperKat Books, will also launch “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre” at PBF 2026.

NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

Beyond the realms, the festival offers a range of spaces for connection: Lugar Lagdaan for book signings and reader-author meetups; Bahay Ilustrador for a look into the world of visual storytellers; Gubat ng Karunungan for workshops, talks, and masterclasses; the Fiesta Stage for major programming and performances; and Umpukan for informal community conversations.

The NBDB, in cooperation with the National Library of the Philippines, will also feature facsimiles of Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, Doctrina Christiana, and Fr. Manuel Blanco’s Flora de Filipinas—rare works that anchor the festival in the Philippines’ deep literary heritage.

A highlight of the four-day run is the 43rd National Book Awards (NBA), to be held on March 14 at the Fiesta Stage. The NBA acknowledges the works of authors, illustrators, editors, translators, and publishers whose books have helped shape the country’s literary landscape.

Into the Gubat ng Karunungan

This year’s festival 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.

Artist and designer Joffrey "Pepot" Atienza.

Drawing on his daily life at the foot of Mount Banahaw in Lucban, Quezon, Atienza wove 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, ” he said.

A Festival Dedicated to Philippine Literature

“The Philippine Book Festival is positioned not only as a literary event but also as a third place that connects key players in the publishing and education sectors, ” Aquino-Tugade said. “By convening publishers, institutional buyers, educators, and readers in a single venue, the festival supports broader efforts to improve access to quality Philippine books and sustain the local publishing industry. ”

“Let’s make the Philippines not just a nation of readers, but a global powerhouse of authors and creators, ” Aquino-Tugade concluded.

The Digital Advantage: Introducing the PSA E-Certificate Service Powered by PSAHelpline.ph.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), in collaboration with its authorized online channel, PSAHelpline.ph, is pleased to announce the modernization of vital records access through the PSA E-Cert Service. This service represents a significant step forward in the digital transformation of public services, ensuring that authenticated copies of civil registry documents are secured and shared with maximum efficiency and security.

This initiative delivers an official, authenticated, digital copy of your civil registry document, offering a secure and immediate method for handling essential paperwork from your computer or mobile device. Designed for convenience across the Philippines, the PSA E-Cert acts as a readily available, verifiable version of documents like Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates. It is a digitized copy of the physical PSA certificate issued by the PSA that can be quickly utilized for submission and verification with government agencies and other stakeholders nationwide. The new service provides a fully integrated end-to-end digital journey—from initial request and secure payment to digital delivery offering the ultimate standard in user convenience.

What is a PSA E-Certificate?

The PSA E-Cert is an official, authenticated, digital copy of civil registry documents such as Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates, as well as the Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) and Certificate of No Death (CENODEATH).

Think of it as the official electronic version of your PSA certificate. It offers a secure and immediate way to handle essential paperwork, bypassing the time required for physical courier delivery. Since it is designed to be digitally verified, it is perfect for quick and secure online submissions to institutions that accept digital documents.

The document contains robust digital security features, notably a QR code, which allows the stakeholder to instantly confirm its authenticity and integrity through the secure e-cert portal (e-cert.psahelpline.ph).

Who are the Stakeholders?

A stakeholder is any local office or institution, including government agencies, schools, or private companies, that officially accepts and verifies your submitted PSA E-Cert.

These entities rely on the E-Cert's digital security features (like the QR code, reference number, and authorization code.) to instantly confirm that your document is authentic and was officially issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) via PSAHelpline.ph.

Common transactions where you may submit your E-Cert include:

• School Enrollment: For schools and universities when enrolling a student.
• Local Employment: When applying for a job within the Philippines that requires verification of a birth or marriage certificate.
• Government Transactions: For applying for claims and benefits, or other services from various government agencies (where the digital copy is accepted).
• Other Transactions: Including financial applications or legal services requiring proof of civil status.

The institution's acceptance of the E-Cert allows them to instantly verify your document's integrity, simplifying their process and ensuring maximum security.

Photo credit: Negative Space on Pexels.

Requesting the PSA E-Cert:

The PSA E-Cert service is initiated when an applicant places an order for documents such as Birth, Marriage, Death Certificates, CENOMAR, and CENODEATH on the PSAHelpline.ph website, specifically selecting the digital format.

1. Application: Visit e-cert.psahelpline.ph, select the document needed, and fill out the order form.
2. Payment: Pay through any of the payment channels integrated with the service (E-wallets, Credit/Debit, Online Banking).
3. Applicant Verification: A mandatory Identity Verification Process ensures that sensitive data only reaches the rightful owner.
4. Delivery: The requesting party receives a secure link via email to view and download their PSA certificate.

Verification by the Stakeholder

A core benefit of the PSA E-Cert is its robust digital verification system, allowing any local office or institution (Stakeholder) to instantly confirm the authenticity of the submitted document.

The Stakeholder can verify the authenticity of the E-Cert through two options:

• Option A (QR Scan): Simply scan the QR code on the document. It redirects to the e-cert portal to display the official PSA-issued copy for an immediate "side-by-side" comparison.
• Option B (Manual Entry): If a scanner is not available, the stakeholder (e.g., an employer, school, or a bank) can enter the Reference Number and Authorization Code found on the E-Cert cover page directly on the e-cert.psahelpline.ph website. An image of the official PSA-issued copy will be shown for "side-by-side" comparison

The PSA E-Cert portal allows the stakeholder to verify that the certificate was indeed issued by PSAHelpline.ph, ensuring the document's integrity and originality.

Cost and Pricing

Faster service at a lower price point.

Validity and Data Privacy

Protecting data through "Privacy by Design."

• Availability: The digital copy is accessible in the secure portal for 60 calendar days.
• Ownership: During this window, users can download the PDF to their personal devices for permanent storage.
• Privacy: To comply with the Data Privacy Act, the system automatically purges the copy from the portal after 60 days to ensure no sensitive data remains exposed online longer than necessary.

2025 Book Nook Conference | Uniting and Nurturing the Reading Culture.

Over 80 reading space advocates, storytellers, and educators across the Philippines gathered for the annual Book Nook Conference 2025, organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB).

The conference, held from August 20-22, aimed to consolidate the best practices as well as challenges faced by area coordinators for The Book Nook Project, a flagship program by the NBDB which aims to address the country’s reading crisis by setting up reading and storytelling spaces across the Philippines. Themed Sug-álaw: A Grand Encounter of Stories, Cultures, and Communities, the three-day event discussed the best sustainability practices and community-building tips to ensure book accessibility in different regions of the country.

Almost four years since its launch, The Book Nook Project has expanded its presence in different regions of the country. Over 100 Book Nook sites are currently established in various provinces, cities, and barangays, with more than 20 additional sites to be unveiled this year.

“The Book Nook Project has always been committed to making quality books more accessible not just in urban centers, but also in the most remote reaches of the country,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

The first two days of the conference included sessions and workshops centered on strengthening and digitalizing Book Nook services in the regions as well as developing effective literary engagements. For the third day of the conference, Book Nook area coordinators joined a two-part cultural tour within Iloilo City.

Reaching out to communities

The first half of the tour brought reading space advocates to the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) in Iloilo, where they visited the area’s local Book Nook site. Aside from the museum tour, participants also joined in on various activities, including the patadyong race, museum object hunt, and bookmark-making.

The Book Nook Project then visited the Book Nook Nabitasan Integrated School in Barangay La Paz, where the conference participants conducted storytelling sessions and literary activities with the students. Dr. Luis Gatmaitan, award-winning children’s book author, encouraged high school students to express themselves through movement and writing. Meanwhile, storyteller and inspirational speaker Rey Bufi showed future educators and librarians the process of building storytelling communities in Iloilo City.

“The stories we read from our books–from our local prose, our myths, poetry, and legends–are all creations of the Filipino community. It is only apt that we do right by the people who bring so much color, life, and richness to our nation’s culture. Our grand encounter this year, as we call it, bears fruit only when we see our reading communities more deeply involved in nurturing our nation’s reading culture,” NBDB Readership Development Division Officer-in-Charge Daniel Mariano said.

Addressing the country’s reading gaps

Spurred by the country’s reading gap, the conference urged participants to collaborate with fellow reading space advocates. Beyond a theoretical exercise, the three-day event featured a series of workshops which ranged from building sustainable community reading spaces to leveraging digital platforms for wider reach. The conference also highlighted Iloilo City's reading community, with a full day of reading activities that took place at the NMP-Iloilo City and the Nabitasan Integrated School in Barangay La Paz.

The Book Nook Project, one of the NBDB’s major projects under its Readership Development Division, was launched in 2021. It adheres to the belief that aklat para sa lahat (books for everyone) should be a basic human right. With over 100 Book Nook sites scattered across the country, the NBDB remains committed to fostering love of reading at a young age by making Filipino-published books more accessible and easily available to students and young readers.

To learn more about the National Book Development Board and its upcoming activities, visit https://books.gov.ph, and follow the NBDB through its social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X.

Meranaw Identity and Heritage at the Heart of the 1st Marawi Children's Book Fest.

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

Photo credit: Hanna Usman on Facebook.

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.

Philippine books make their mark at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025.

The Philippines made a stunning comeback at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) 2025, with a strong presence that highlighted the country's growing role in the international book market.

This year's event—which took place from April 26 to May 5, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre—was defined by the collaboration between the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP), alongside a number of Filipino publishers who were keen to make their mark in the Arab market. Notably, all participating publishers are members of the BDAP, further underscoring their commitment to elevating Philippine publishing on the global stage.

Photo credit: Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.

The Philippine delegation was jointly led by NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade and BDAP President Atty. Andrea Pasion-Flores. The publisher-focused lineup was composed of Atty. Pasion-Flores herself (Milflores Publishing), Ken Ortiz (Anvil Publishing), Jhorie Arciga (University of the Philippines Press), Gwenn Galvez (REX Education), Mary Ann Ordinario (ABC Educational Development Center), Cindy Wong (8Letters Bookstore and Publishing), Ruth Ann Octaviano (Central Books), and Jerico Silvers (J. Silvers Publishing). Together, they represented a variety of literary genres, from scholarly works and children's books to graphic novels and poetry.

The Philippine delegation at the ADIBF 2025.

Having a publisher-focused delegation is a strategic move, as the Philippine book industry targets more opportunities for distribution and translation. Each publisher promoted a carefully curated number of works that reflect the Philippines' literary diversity, from visual narratives in the form of comics to educational materials that convey the country’s culture and values.

“For the Philippines, the Arab book market is still largely untapped,“ said Aquino-Tugade, “and it’s time that we change that because, as our participation at Abu Dhabi has confirmed, our stories are very much in demand in this part of the world. To call it a significant market would be an understatement as it's also notably a point of convergence for many of the most interesting players in the book world, including Egypt, Azerbaijan, and Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan.” Aquino-Tugade continued, “These are countries that actually picked up our rights at the fair. We're setting our sights to new markets and readerships, and I think we were able to do just that at Abu Dhabi."

Interestingly, the genres that garnered the most attention during the ADIBF 2025 were Children and Young Adult, Literature, and General Interest, among others. This further highlights the fascination and curiosity as to what Philippine literature can offer to readers and publishers from the Arab market and beyond.

Aside from the showcase, the Philippine delegation also hosted a reception last April 27, during which key figures in the Arab publishing and literary circles attended to learn more about stories from the Philippines. The collaboration between the NBDB and BDAP has been vital in promoting the visibility of Philippine books on the global scene. BDAP's participation in the event emphasized the importance of cooperation in fueling the development of the local publishing industry, making the Philippines an influential player in the global book market.

“One of the biggest accomplishments of this delegation was having myself, the NBDB, and the Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ver meet with the Arab Language Center,” said Atty. Pasion-Flores. “I think we will be coming into the Arabic market stronger in the next couple of years, particularly in 2027 where we are aiming to be the ADIBF’s Guest of Honor.” Atty. Pasion-Flores added, “There was a wide variety of books that people were looking for in retail. In terms of rights selling, the quickest results can be seen from the sales of children’s picture books. Apparently, 10% of the UAE's population is Filipino. We found a hunger for Filipino books, both for children and adults, that distributors there want to address. I think we can make an even stronger showing of Filipino books in the coming couple of years.”

The participation of the Philippine delegation in the ADIBF is part of the strategy to cement the Philippines as a center for creative content in Southeast Asia. With the country's appointment as the Guest of Honour for the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025, the world's biggest book fair, the Philippines is poised to further expand its reach across global markets with the support of initiatives like the NBDB's translation subsidy program. This program provides funding assistance to foreign publishers who are willing to translate Filipino literary works into other languages, further boosting the international dissemination of Philippine literature.

Photo credit: Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.

At the closing of the event, the participation of the Philippine delegation in the ADIBF represents a major milestone in reaching the international market for Filipino-written books. The NBDB and BDAP are dedicated to further generating more avenues for Filipino authors and publishers to share their tales with readers around the world.

Philippine Book Festival 2025 - An Overwhelming Success and A Win for Local Authors and Publishers.

After four exciting days bustling with books and packed with fun-filled activities, the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) came to a close with an overwhelming attendance of more than 40,000 visitors, reaffirming its status as the country’s premier celebration focused solely on Filipino books, authors, and publishers.  

The National Book Development Board (NBDB), which founded the PBF in 2023, decided to hold the event at the Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. It was the perfect venue since PBF 2025 was not just a gathering of the who’s who in publishing but also a transformative moment for the local book publishing industry. There, the authors, publishers, educators, and readers gathered in an unprecedented show of support for Philippine literature.

Festival goers enjoyed browsing the thousands of books for sale, participated in the various exhibits, storytelling sessions, and even workshops for aspiring authors and illustrators. Visitors were in awe of the marvelous Pakyawan Plaza, which features an intricately designed Pahiyas-inspired bahay kubo.

Other realms highlighted popular festivals like the Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City, the famous Tuna Festival in General Santos City, and Panagbenga Festival of Baguio City. These four realms were all designed by renowned children’s book artists Pepot Atienza, Juno Abreu, Paul Eric Roca, and Danielle Florendo, respectively.

Heightened visibility and record-breaking engagement

As soon as the doors opened, the air of excitement was felt all over. Filipino authors and publishers could not hide their excitement as they were at the center of an enthusiastic audience’s attention, with visitors eager to meet their literary idols, discover new stories, and celebrate the richness of local storytelling in the next four days.

One author said the attention they received at the PBF 2025 was something that many other authors like himself can only dream of. Seeing the long lines of visitors eager to have their copy of the book signed by their favorite author was truly a sight to behold. He said that to see readers connect so deeply with their work is both humbling and inspiring.

For publishers, the agency’s support translated into heightened visibility and record-breaking engagement. Many expressed deep gratitude to the agency for its continuous and untiring efforts in elevating the Philippine book publishing industry to an even higher level. Kyra Ysabel, a solo exhibitor and independent publisher, was thankful for the PBF: “As a solo exhibitor and an indie publisher with only two books out, I sold about 150 copies in four days. It wouldn’t have been possible without this platform.”

Nida Ramirez of 19th Avenida Publishing House, the publisher behind the best-selling Trese series, also shared about her experience: “We're very happy, because this is a very successful Philippine Book Festival iteration. In terms of sales, what I can say is our sales last year from the entire 2024 PBF was our sale just for just Day 1 this year.”

Another exhibitor, PaperKat Books’ Head of Publishing Kath Eustaquio-Derla, shared that they were able to exceed their target sales three times, adding that the new venue likely helped draw more visitors: “The natural foot traffic and the easy access to public transportation helped in getting more people to come in and check out the event."

A historic boost for public schools and libraries

One of the festival’s most impactful outcomes was the landmark ₱3 billion worth of books procured for distribution to public schools and libraries nationwide—an investment that will empower millions of Filipino students with access to homegrown literature and learning materials. The scopers from the Department of Education (DepEd) carefully reviewed books for potential inclusion in public schools and libraries, received assistance and expert guidance from the NBDB’s book counselors, another innovative idea introduced by the NBDB for this year’s festival. This made the scoping process not only efficient but also engaging, allowing the scopers to explore a diverse selection of quality books that align with educational needs.

“With the help of NBDB’s book counselors, the scoping process of our partners from DepEd was more seamless and insightful than ever before,” according to NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade. “They were able to select books that will truly enrich the learning experience of students across the country.”

A festival that continues to elevate Philippine literature

After four fruitful days, the resounding success of the Philippine Book Festival 2025 proved to be a strong testament to the increasing appreciation for Filipino-authored books, and the critical role of initiatives introduced by the NBDB in fostering a thriving literary ecosystem.

With overwhelming public support, engaged publishers, and a historic milestone in book procurement for public schools, the festival also stands as a firm attestation of the power of literature in shaping the nation’s future.

 

Enrollment Made Easy: PSA Birth Certificate Delivery with PSAHelpline.ph

It's almost that time of the year again! With most schools now on break, the next step is enrollment for the upcoming school year which is now reverted to the month of June. That means the kids still have at two months of not worrying about schoolwork or studying. For us parents, that means we have over a month of preparation for the new school year, and that includes buying books and school supplies, having uniforms tailored, and of course, enrollment and paying for tuition fees.

For first-time parents, wading into the world of school requirements can be a bit daunting. Schools usually provide a checklist of things that you need to submit prior to enrollment, and the most essential of them all - the PSA birth certificate.

Yes, your child’s PSA birth certificate and, if needed, your PSA marriage certificate. Securing these can feel like a hurdle, especially when juggling other enrollment tasks. Thankfully, there’s a smooth, digital solution. And no, it does not involve a PSA online appointment either.

With the rise of online services, getting your documents is no longer a day-long ordeal. Now, you can easily handle the PSA certificate online process from home. This is especially helpful during this busy season when you need to focus on your child’s needs. If you are worried about PSA delivery, PSAHelpline.ph provides a reliable way to have those important documents delivered straight to your doorstep.

Imagine this: instead of taking time off from all your errands to go to a PSA office, you are calmly ordering your PSA certificates with a few taps on your phone. This is the reality of using PSAHelpline.ph. It is designed to simplify the process, offering a straightforward way to obtain your birth and marriage certificates without the usual stress.

Why Choose Online Ordering?

• Ultimate Convenience: Time is precious, especially during enrollment. Online ordering saves you hours, allowing you to focus on more important things, like spending quality time with your child.

• Effortless Ordering: The website is designed for ease of use and can be accessed with a mobile phone, tablet, or laptop.

• Budget-friendly: Consider the savings on transportation and potential missed work. Ordering online can be a cost-effective choice.

• Direct Delivery: Skip the travel altogether. Your certificates arrive at your door, safe and sound.

• Flexible Payment: A variety of payment options are available, so you can choose the method that suits you best.

• Pick Up Delivery Option: Have your PSA certificates dropped off at your preferred National Book Store or Robinsons Department Store branch and then pick it up later. This works for busy parents and those that can’t commit to waiting for home deliveries.

• Secure Transactions: Your personal information is treated with the utmost care, ensuring a secure and reliable experience.

• No Appointment Needed: Ditch the worry of scheduling a PSA online appointment. Ordering through PSAHelpline.ph bypasses this step entirely.

The Simple Three-step Process

1. Order: Use your phone, tablet, or computer to place your order on PSAHelpline.ph.

2. Pay: Select your preferred payment method from the available options.

3. Receive: Your certificates will be delivered directly to your chosen address.

Added Peace of Mind

PSAHelpline.ph understands the importance of transparency. That is why they provide order tracking on their website, so you can monitor the status of your delivery. And if you have any questions, their customer support team is just a hotline call (02-87371111, Monday to Saturday, 8AM to 5PM, except during holidays) or email away (help@psahelpline.ph), ready to assist you.

Enrollment season can be a whirlwind, but it does not have to be overwhelming. By leveraging the convenience of online services like PSAHelpline.ph, you can streamline the process and focus on what truly matters: your child’s education. Let us make this enrollment season a smooth and stress-free experience.

Philippine Book Festival 2025 | Bigger, Better, In a New Location.

The Philippine Book Festival (PBF), the country's biggest all-Filipino book festival is back - this time in a new location that is accessible to many. This year's PBF will be happening at the Megatrade Hall in SMM Megamall, Mandaluyong, City, from March 13 - 16, 2025.

Registration is FREE for the four-day book festival, organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB). Every year, this project puts Philippine Books at the center if a fiesta brimming with events, performances, and meet-and-greet sessions with your favorite authors.

The Philippine Book Festival is back!

"In just over a month, we are bringing back the Philippine Book Festival. Now in its third year, the PBF started in 2023 as an attempt to create the largest marketplace for Philippine books that the country has yet to see. Now, it has become an important annual gathering for families, educators, creatives, and avid readers - all in the name of Philippine books.” said Charisse Aquino - Tugade, NBDB Executive Director.

The PBF's third edition promises to be more exciting, putting the spotlight on the country's famnous festivals, each one designed by some of the best and brightest Filipino artists working today.

The creative minds behind the PBF 2024. 
NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade with National Artist and scriptwriter Ricky Lee, together with the artists of PBF 2025 Realms - Paul Eric Roca, Danielle Florendo, Joffrey "Pepot" Atienza, and June Abreau.

The first is the glorious Dinagyang Festival for Kid Lit (the PBF's section dedicated to children's literature), designed by Juno Abreau, and the Komiks realm inspired by the famous Tuna Festival in General Santos City, with design by illustrator and painter Paul Eric Roca. Aral Aklat, the section dedicated to textbooks, draws inspiration from the colorful Pahiyas Festival in Quezon courtesy of Joffrey "Pepot" Atienza, himself a native of the province, and finally, Panagbenga or the Baguio Flower Festival for Booktopia (the section for fiction, non-fiction and poetry), with design by Danielle Florendo.

The festive atmosphere is made all the more exciting as the PBF 12025 moves to a new venue - at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall. The NBDB believes this fresh location will bring new energy to the festival and draw and even larger audience.

NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

"The decision to move the PBF to a different and smaller venue is definitely a bold one. We hope to offset that with the venue's accessibility and generate higher foot traffic, as well as provide convenience for more visitors from other areas” shared Tugade.

The PBF is the largest all-Filipino book fair in the country and is one of the NBDB's flagship programs. NBDB, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this June has amped its readership efforts in the past four years, shifting to solutions-based programming to improve trade and distribution. Concerned with the lack of quality Philippine-authored books in libraries and bookstores across the country, Aguino-Tugade spearheaded the PBF in 2023, a retail activation space that celebrates Philippine books while bringing in revenue for publishing professionals.

The fair also showcases the creme dela creme of Philippine literature, culture, and content - all situated in an engaging, experienced-based setting that fuses entertainment, education, and learning. Positioning PBF as a favorite pastime (reading) among Filipinos, all for a good cause.

For complete details, visit the official Facebook page of the National Book Development Board (NBDB) https://www.facebook.com/NBDBPhilippines

Book Nook Conference 2024 Showcases Strength of Unity in Expanding Reading Access.

Deriving inspiration from the Cordillera folk song "Dong Dong Ay!”, the much-anticipated Book Nook Conference 2024 underscored the power of unity in promoting reading among the Filipino youth. The spirit of cooperation resonated throughout the event as attendees reaffirmed their commitment to the shared mission: “Aklat para sa lahat.”

Just like one big, happy family in a grand reunion, area coordinators and partners from 113 Book Nook sites across the Philippines convened from August 28 to 30 at the National Library of the Philippines (NLP) in Manila for the annual Book Nook Conference. Organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), the conference provided a collaborative space for volunteers and representatives to exchange insights, share best practices, and elevate the standards of their reading centers.

Collaborative discussions and goals

Participants engaged in robust discussions, tackling challenges, planning strategies, and exchanging success stories. The conference served as a platform for site partners to address ongoing issues and brainstorm solutions. Key sessions focused on refining decision-making processes, enhancing program execution, and fostering problem-solving approaches across the country’s diverse regions.

NBDB Chairperson Dante Francis “Klink” Ang II and NLP Director Cesar Gilbert Adriano opened the conference, welcoming 79 delegates representing 113 Book Nook sites. Over the next two days, NBDB officials led practical sessions to equip site partners with the tools and skills to enrich their community reading spaces.

Empowering site partners

In the opening session, the NBDB reviewed the core principles of the Book Nook Project. NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade gave an update on the project’s progress, emphasizing the importance of nurturing a nationwide reading culture and urging participants to rekindle their passion for the project’s mission. “Reading should not just be an event or program, but, above all else, a habit. With that, I call on everyone to take this conference as an opportunity to start thinking about the kind of future you hope to build for your Book Nook site,” she urged.

Daniel Mariano, Officer-in-Charge of NBDB’s Readership Development Division, and Ana Manalaysay, Head of the Reading Spaces Section, encouraged site partners to reflect on their success stories and envision a future where their communities evolve into self-sustaining, vibrant reading hubs. Allyn Canja, Book Nook Project Partnerships Committee Head, presented methods for improving public service, while Lyka Manglal-lan from the NBDB’s Policy and Industry Research Division shared insights from the 2023 National Readership Survey, highlighting innovative solutions to combat the nation’s reading crisis.

Building inclusive, innovative, and expansive spaces

Day 2 was headlined by actor, activist, and speaker Mae Paner (Juana Change), who moderated discussions on creating inclusive, forward-thinking reading spaces. Standout sites, including BN Guinobatan (Albay) for Innovation, BN Carles (Iloilo) for Inclusivity, and BN Sagay (Negros Occidental) for Expansion, were showcased for their unique strategies for overcoming challenges.

National Program Coordinator Carlo Ebeo shared fresh perspectives on how Book Nooks can forge deeper community connections. Breakout sessions featured NLP’s Melanie “Melai” Ramirez on dynamic storytelling techniques and Jean Ico, NLP Section Head of Rare Books, Manuscripts, and Special Collections, leading hands-on book care and binding.

In the closing session, Dr. Excelsa “Etchel” Tongson from UP Diliman introduced a framework for gender-fair practices, encouraging attendees to foster harmony within their reading communities.

Looking ahead: transforming spaces, inspiring readers

On the final day, participants toured the NLP, the Quezon City Public Library, and the Valenzuela City Library to observe exemplary models of excellence. These visits inspired attendees with new ideas for enhancing their own sites and building stronger community engagement through reading programs.

Though managing a Book Nook site comes with its challenges, participants left the conference energized, ready to advance the vision of thriving, accessible reading spaces across the Philippines.

Order PSA Birth Certificates Online - Home Delivery and National Bookstore Pick Up!

It feels like forever since I last updated this blog!

Life has been busy lately as I've been taking online courses, working on a new business venture, and squeezing housework in between. Thankfully, Yue is still on a school break, which means exams and school activities are the least of my worries at the moment. He will be going back to reality by the end of July though, and as a senior high school student at that. Also, I had him transferred to a different school because his previous school doesn't offer the strand that he wants. And yes, that meant securing documents required by the school. 

The need for official documents can often feel like a constant challenge in our lives. PSAHelpline understands this frustration and has established itself as a reliable partner for PSA certificate online ordering and delivery nationwide.By leveraging this user-friendly platform, individuals and businesses can navigate the task of acquiring PSA certificates with minimal effort. This translates to a significant reduction in administrative burdens, freeing up valuable time and resources. PSAHelpline empowers Filipinos to reclaim control of their time and resources, paving the way for greater efficiency and productivity.

How can I get my PSA birth certificate online? 

Here's a comprehensive guide on how to order PSA certificates online: 

1. Visit PSAHelpline.ph. Head to their user-friendly website to initiate the process. Explore the well-designed interface and familiarize yourself with the navigation to ensure a smooth experience. 

2. Choose your Certificate Type. Select the specific document you require, be it a birth, marriage, CENOMAR, or death certificate.

3. Request for Yourself or Someone Else. Indicate whether you're requesting the document for yourself or another person (parents, children). This ensures the document reaches the intended recipient.

4. Provide Requester Information. Fill out the required details, including your name, contact information, and address. Ensure accuracy to prevent delays. 

5. Specify your Purpose. State the reason for requesting the document (passport application, employment, etc.).

6. Delivery or Pick-up? Choose your preferred method of receiving the document - either convenient door-to-door delivery of pick-up at a designated National Bookstore branch. The National Bookstore pick-up option is currently available in select branches in Metro Manila and provincial areas like Batangas, Cabanatuan (Nueva Ecija), Paniqui (Tarlac), and Angeles (Pampanga). You may refer to ther FAQ page for the most updated list of National Bookstore branches where PSA certificate pick-up is available.

7. Multiple Payment Options. Select the most convenient payment method for you, whether it's digital wallets, credit/debit cards, or accredited payment centers.

Pick Up Your PSA Certificates at National Bookstore

Instead of home or office delivery that you might miss if you are often out, picking up your PSA certificate orders at a National Bookstore branch offers a convenient and secure alternative. Here's how:

1. Select "Pick-up" as your delivery option upon checkout. 

2. Choose your preferred branch from participating stores in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

3. Complete your order and wait for the SMS/email notification.

4. Bring a valid ID and the SMS notification to claim your PSA certificate at the branch.

Remember: Only you can claim it (no representatives allowed), and you have 30 days to pick it up!

Peace of Mind with Robust Security

Beyond its user-friendly interface and efficient service, PSAHelpline prioritizes the security and confidentiality of your document requests. The platform utilizes robust encryption methods and secure payment channels to safeguard sensitive information submitted throughout the process. This ensures your data is protected from unauthorized access or misuse.

Furthermore, PSAHelpline upholds strict data protection protocols. They respect each user's right to privacy by implementing measures that guarantee your personal information always remains confidential. Choosing PSAHelpline for your document procurement needs allows you to rest assured that your information is treated with the utmost care and security, providing peace of mind throughout the entire process.

How do I check the status of my PSA birth certificate order?

PSAHelpline offers a convenient solution to stay informed about the progress of your application.

The platform features a dedicated order status tracking page. Simply visit this page and enter the necessary details, such as your order reference number, to access real-time updates.

You will receive the latest information regarding the status of your request, be it for a PSA birth certificate, PSA marriage certificate, PSA CENOMAR, or PSA death certificate. This level of transparency and convenience allows you to stay informed and manage your expectations throughout the process.

Simplify Document Procurement with PSAHelpline.ph

For your personal or professional needs, PSAHelpline emerges as a reliable and efficient solution for obtaining essential documents. If you need assistance with your order or have other questions about their services, you may call their hotline at 02-87371111 (staffed from Monday to Saturday, 8am to 5pm excluding holidays) or send them an email at help@psahelpline.ph.

Through PSAHelpline.ph, obtaining PSA birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other PSA certificates becomes a streamlined online process, guaranteeing ease and comfort for all users. With just a few simple steps, you can effortlessly manage your document requests, freeing up valuable time to focus on what truly matters. For a smooth and hassle-free experience from start to finish, entrust your document procurement needs to PSAHelpline.ph.