Pat on NBDB’s back

created a space where the entire family can enjoy all genres — from children’s books to comics, textbooks, non-fiction books, and everything in between.

That’s what the Philippine Book Festival is all about.”

More than 150 exhibitors, over 50 seminars and events, and a ton of fun activities are all scheduled at the PBF.

KUDOS to the National Book Development Board on their latest major activity for this summer – the first Philippine Book Festival that runs from June 2 to 4 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Entrance to the venue is free, and this is definitely a family-friendly event because it has activities for all ages.

The PBF provides a platform for publishers, writers, illustrators, and readers to come together and showcase their works, share ideas, and have a conversation.

The event is organized by the NBDB and supported by various government agencies and private organizations and is free for the public.

The festival will feature various booths from hundreds of publishers, and activities such as book launches, book signings, panel discussions, workshops, and exhibits.

It aims to promote literacy and reading, encourage the development of the Philippine publishing industry, and showcase the richness and diversity of Philippine literature and culture.

For the ardent fan, there will be meetand-greet events with celebrated writers such as award-winning author and historian Ambeth R. Ocampo (who wrote popular history hits such as Rizal Without the Overcoat) and rising star Gwy Saludes (famous for the “University Series” of novels on Wattpad and in print).

The NBDB is broadening its reach and making Filipino-authored and -published books available to more readers

There will also be a talk with actress and writer Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio about her latest book on marriage, Eleven Eleven: Painting the Challenge and Beauty of Marriage.

The PBF will also feature talks and workshops on creating webtoon stories, visual storytelling, illustrating books for children, and more.

Attendees can participate in literary discussions and debates, watch live performances and storytelling, and enjoy the Book Nook with its curated selection of books and comfortable lounge areas.

According to NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade, the PBF is all about giving Filipino publishers and creators a platform to showcase their work.

“How come we know about Shakespeare? How come we know about all of these global authors, but we don’t even know the works of our own?” Aquino-Tugade said.

“We have amazing Filipino-authored content yet we lack access. [So] we’ve