Philippines

IBBY Philippines is dedicated to promoting children’s literature and nurturing a love of reading across the country. Its mission supports the right of every Filipino child to experience high-quality, culturally relevant books in their own languages and to enjoy the transformative power of stories.

As an active member of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), IBBY Philippines works with writers, illustrators, educators, publishers, librarians, and reading advocates to champion literacy and inclusion. Its initiatives focus on reaching marginalized and underserved communities, celebrating Filipino identity and heritage through books.

Activities and Projects

• Promotion of Filipino Children’s Books
  IBBY Philippines celebrates and promotes the rich literary traditions of the Philippines through advocacy, awards, and partnerships.

  • The annual Severino Reyes Medal, now in its second year (2025), recognizes excellence in Filipino children’s and young adult literature, honoring the legacy of Severino Reyes, creator of Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang. The 2025 awarding ceremony was held at the National Library of the Philippines, supported by the National Book Development Board, PLAI, ALPS, PASLI, and the heirs of Severino Reyes. This year’s winners were:

    • Nakikisilong by Eljay Castro Deldoc, illustrated by Richard Red C. Elli (Southern Voices Printing Press), Best Storybook

    • Sa Iisang Batya by Christopher Rosales, illustrated by Rommel Joson (Brilliant Creations Publishing), Best Picture Book

    • Oha: A Story Told in One Eternal Second by Krie R. Lopez, illustrated by Mikke Gallardo (Milflores Publishing), Best Young Adult Literature

    • Special citation: Mga Tagapagtanggol ng Lupang Ninuno by Mon Sy, illustrated by Ara Villena (Adarna House)

    • The Severino Reyes Medal Honor List was also recognized for their inspiring contributions to Philippine children’s literature.

  • In March 2025, IBBY Philippines commemorated “100 Years of Lola Basyang” at the Philippine Book Festival, featuring a panel discussion, a spoken word performance, and an animated screening in collaboration with NBDB, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and Vibal Foundation.

  • For Women’s Month 2025, IBBY Philippines highlighted Nadia and the Blue Stars by Francesca Nicole Chan Torres and Liv Romualdez Vinluan — a moving, award-winning tale of hope and resilience.

• Literacy and Reading Advocacy
  IBBY Philippines organizes dynamic storytelling sessions and reading programs to spark children’s imagination, with a strong emphasis on reaching disadvantaged or rural areas.

  • For International Children’s Book Day 2025, IBBY Philippines, together with the National Library of the Philippines, National Parks Development Committee, and Manila Department of Social Welfare, held storytelling, puppet shows, and games at Luneta Park, engaging preschoolers from Barangays 766 and 774 through the lively performances of the NLP Kuwentistas.

  • The celebration also reached 100 Manila Child Development Centers, empowering children to dream and explore through books.

  • During National Women’s Month, IBBY Philippines and SM Cares organized a Read With Us session with Bambi Rodriguez, author of the Super Maya series, at The Book Nook in SM Podium, encouraging children to express their own “superpowers” through art and storytelling.

  • For Earth Day, IBBY Philippines partnered with SM Cares, Book Nook, and ANK Publishing for a Read With Us event with author Anya Santos-Uy, who inspired children from the Bear Ye One Another’s Burden Orphanage to care for nature through engaging storybooks.

• Capacity Building for Book Creators
  IBBY Philippines supports Filipino authors, illustrators, and publishers through professional development initiatives, including workshops, seminars, and creative exchanges that help strengthen the children’s book industry.

• Community Outreach
  By partnering with libraries, schools, community centers, and child welfare organizations, IBBY Philippines ensures that even the most marginalized children can enjoy the transformative power of books. Their outreach projects help build inclusive spaces where reading and storytelling can thrive.

News and Updates

IBBY Philippines regularly posts updates about its projects, partnerships, awards, and activities on its Facebook page. Follow them there to stay connected and discover ways to get involved.