Meet the country’s literary creators, sit in on special talks, and explore the rich, ever-expanding world of Philippine literature from March 12 to 15, 2026.
The local literary scene is booming, and as it always has been, it remains a point of pride and a landscape that merits special attention. Whether through children’s literature—pivotal in shaping a future generation—or novels by masters and emerging writers alike, literature stands as a mirror to a country’s past and present, its hopes and troubles, desires and contentions. Now in its third edition since the National Book Development Board (NBDB) launched it in 2023, the Philippine Book Festival 2026 stands as a key platform championing both the creators of our treasured literature and its vital place in society.
This year’s Philippine Book Festival will be held at the Megatrade Hall of SM Megamall from March 12 to 15, 2026. For book lovers and anyone eager to dive into great reads, it’s the perfect opportunity to expand your knowledge, as well as discover new authors and insights along the way.
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What To Expect At The Philippine Book Festival 2026
Like its past editions, the Philippine Book Festival 2026 features a schedule packed with leading publishers, author signings, workshops, and special talks, among other activities.
There won’t be any shortage of titles to check out with an impressive roster of 106 exhibitors, which you can find in the images below. These booths are divided into different categories: Booktopia for your literary finds; Komiks for all things graphic narrative; Kid Lit for children’s literature; Aral Aklat for education-based publishers or academic publishing houses; and Collective Stand for indie gems and creators.
And yes, there’ll be exclusive festival deals to look forward to as well as you browse through the festival’s selection of local literature. Make plans with friends or plan a solo book excursion all on your own—either way, bring a tote bag and get ready to fill up your TBR pile.
The Philippine Book Festival 2026 will take place from March 12 to 15 at the SM Megamall Megatrade Hall, from 10 AM to 8 PM. Entrance is free through registration via bit.ly/PBF2026Registration. Walk-ins are also welcome. For more updates and information, follow the festival’s official Instagram @bookfestph.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Philippine Book Festival is an annual literary event organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB). Now in its third edition, it serves as the country’s key platform for celebrating Filipino literature, supporting local authors and publishers, and promoting a culture of reading across the Philippines.
The Philippine Book Festival 2026 runs from March 12 to 15, 2026, at the Megatrade Hall of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong. Daily hours are 10 AM to 8 PM. Entrance is free with advance registration, and walk-ins are also welcome.
The festival hosts 106 exhibitors organized into five categories — Booktopia for literary titles, Komiks for graphic narratives, Kid Lit for children’s books, Aral Aklat for academic publishers, and Collective Stand for independent creators. Activities include author signings, workshops, and special talks.
By bringing together publishers, independent creators, and readers under one venue, the festival creates visibility for Filipino authors across genres and career stages. It also highlights the role of children’s literature, komiks, and academic publishing in sustaining a broader reading culture in the country.
Yes. Entrance to the Philippine Book Festival 2026 is free through prior registration at bit.ly/PBF2026Registration. Walk-ins are also accommodated. The festival takes place at SM Megamall’s Megatrade Hall from March 12 to 15, 2026.
