Filipino Children’s Books to Shine at Frankfurt Book Fair 2025

The Philippines has officially unveiled its exciting lineup for the 2025 Frankfurter Buchmesse, where it will serve as Guest of Honour. The announcement highlights a rich celebration of Filipino literature, with a strong emphasis on Filipino children’s books, alongside a wide array of other genres. In a press event in Berlin, the National Book Development Board (NBDB), together with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, introduced the cultural and literary programming that will represent the country on the global stage.

Frankfurt Book Fair to Highlight Filipino Children’s Books

The Philippines will present its theme, “The imagination peoples the air,” drawn from José Rizal’s classic novel Noli Me Tangere. This theme celebrates the country’s vibrant literary tradition and diverse cultural identity. The organizers designed a visual identity around this theme, featuring an ascending grid that symbolizes collective aspirations. The design incorporates colors and typefaces inspired by Rizal’s work and the ancient Baybayin script, offering a visual bridge between tradition and modern creativity.

As part of its preparations, the Philippines already made its debut at the Leipziger Buchmesse. The delegation included seven notable Filipino authors, three translators, and over 150 titles, among which Filipino children’s books held a prominent spot. Several of these titles appeared in German translations, opening new doors for Filipino storytelling in European markets. Authors such as Daryll Delgado, Jessica Zafra, and J. Philip Ignacio participated, offering fresh and authentic voices from the Philippines.

Expanding Philippine Presence with Books Across Genres

At the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025, the Philippines will feature over 70 publishers, authors, and creatives. The delegation plans to present approximately 700 titles that cover a broad spectrum of genres, including graphic novels, academic publications, educational materials, and Filipino children’s books. The country’s showcase aims to reflect its dynamic publishing industry and its evolving literary voice, without losing touch with its roots.

The Philippine Pavilion will serve as a vibrant venue for conversation and exchange. Visitors can look forward to panels, lectures, and interactive exhibits designed to explore how literature can act as an agent of social change. This setup reflects the country’s intention to use the platform not just for visibility but also for engagement with global readers, writers, and publishers. Filipino children’s books, in particular, will play a key role in showing the early imagination and cultural richness embedded in Philippine society.

Berlin Event Marks a New Chapter

The announcement in Berlin signals the seriousness of the Philippines’ preparations for the Frankfurter Buchmesse. By choosing a theme rooted in its national literature and designing a visual identity that bridges past and present, the country presents itself as a confident, creative participant on the world literary stage.

The collaboration among the NBDB, NCCA, DFA, and the Office of Senator Loren Legarda reveals a well-coordinated effort. Each institution contributes its expertise, ensuring that the Philippines’ presence at the fair highlights its strongest literary assets, including the growing body of Filipino children’s books.

A Year Ahead for Filipino Literature

With the road to Frankfurt now clearly mapped out, the Philippines continues to build excitement around its upcoming participation. Filipino children’s books, along with titles from other genres, are poised to capture the imagination of international audiences. The variety and depth of works reflect a nation proud of its literary achievements and eager to share its stories with the world.

At the Leipziger Buchmesse, the early engagement through translated works already opened significant opportunities for Filipino writers and publishers. The upcoming Frankfurt event promises even greater exposure, allowing the country’s stories to travel beyond traditional borders. Filipino children’s books, with their universal themes and distinctive cultural flavor, will form an essential part of this literary journey..