Philippine Book Festival Returns to Manila in March 2026

The Philippine Book Festival (PBF), the country’s largest all-Filipino book fair, will return to Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City from March 12 to 15, 2026. Admission to the four-day event is free.

A Celebration of Filipino Literature

Organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), the festival aims to gather the best of Filipino publishing under one roof, offering a space for readers, writers, illustrators, publishers, students, and literary enthusiasts to explore and purchase Filipino books and educational materials.

“Gubat ng Karunungan” – Forest of Knowledge

This year’s festival carries the theme “Gubat ng Karunungan” (Forest of Knowledge). The PBF will feature four distinct realms representing different areas of Philippine literature:

• Kid Lit: Focusing on picture books, learning materials, and titles for young readers.
• Komiks: Showcasing visual storytelling and graphic novels.
• Booktopia: Including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and essays.
• Aral Aklat: Dedicated to textbooks and educational resources.

Evaluators from the Department of Education regional offices will be present to review and select books for use as references in public school lessons, and to replenish the shelves of 46,000 public school libraries.

More Than Just a Book Fair

The Philippine Book Festival offers more than just books. Attendees can expect art installations, exhibits, author meet-and-greets, panel discussions, and workshops. Specific spaces within the festival include:

• Lugar Lagdaan: A space to meet local authors.
• Bahay Ilustrador: An area to interact with illustrators, graphic storytellers, and comic artists.
• Gubat ng Karunungan: A workshop area.
• Fiesta Stage: Hosting performances and panel discussions.
• Umpukan: A venue for intimate talks and conversations.

Featured Authors and Artists

The festival will feature a stellar lineup of Filipino writers and artists, including National Artist for Film and Broadcast Ricky Lee, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, historian Ambeth Ocampo, and authors Jonaxx, Rob Canimo, Eugene Evasco, Luis Gatmaitan, Manix Abrera, and Pol Medina.

Growing Attendance

Since its inception in 2023, the Philippine Book Festival has drawn over 120,000 visitors. The 43rd National Book Awards, honoring the best books released in 2025, will also be held during the festival on March 14.

Plan Your Visit

The Philippine Book Festival will be held from March 12-15, 2026, at Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. For more information, visit the official website or the festival’s Facebook page.