The Philippines achieved a historic milestone in global literature as it served as Guest of Honour for the first time at the prestigious Frankfurt Book Fair 2025, held from October 15 to 19 in Frankfurt, Germany.
Record-Breaking International Celebration
The 77th Frankfurt Book Fair, recognized as the world's largest and oldest international publishing event, attracted more than 7,500 exhibitors from 100 countries. Thousands of authors, publishers, and readers gathered for this monumental occasion that celebrated literary excellence worldwide.
The Philippine delegation made an impressive showing with 500 participants, including authors, illustrators, and literary organizations. This prestigious role provided an unprecedented platform to share Filipino stories and voices with international audiences.
Southern Philippine Voices Take Center Stage
The Visayas and Mindanao regions were prominently represented among the Philippine contingent. From the Visayas, acclaimed novelist Cecilia Manguerra Brainard participated, known for her works exploring diaspora and identity themes.
The Buglas Writers Guild from Dumaguete, led by Ian Rosales Casocot, showcased the region's literary strength alongside prominent writers Merlie Alunan, Marjorie Evasco, and Ester Tapia. They were joined by other notable Southern Philippine voices including Alberto Alejo, S.J., Gen Asenjo, Yasmin Arquiza, Kahlil Corazo, and Levy Lumapas.
Among the distinguished participants was Danton Remoto, an author, academic, and LGBTQ+ advocate whose works like Riverrun: A Novel and Boys' Love represent contemporary Filipino writing. Remoto, currently serving as editor for the Queer imprint at Vibal Foundation and columnist for The Manila Times, contributed to discussions on identity and literature.
From Mindanao, Darwin Absari of the UP Institute of Islamic Studies highlighted Islamic history and culture in the region, adding depth and diversity to the Filipino narratives presented.
Comprehensive Cultural Showcase
The Philippine program at Frankfurt featured an extraordinary range of events including:
- 100 talks and panel discussions
- 77 literary events
- 50 art exhibits
Leading Filipino intellectuals and writers such as Maria Ressa, Virgilio Almario, Ambeth Ocampo, and Patricia Evangelista headlined the events. The Philippine Pavilion organized its presentations around thematic clusters including That You May Know Us, What Moves Us, and What We Imagine, exploring Filipino history, poetry, and identity.
Cultural performances formed an integral part of the Philippine presentation, with the Philippine Madrigal Singers, Morobeats, Justin and Janna Texon, and Song Weavers Philippines demonstrating the connection between literature and music.
For writers from Southern Philippines, the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025 represented more than just a historical moment—it served as a global stage to amplify Cebuano, Visayan, and Mindanaoan identities, showcasing the richness, plurality, and spiritual strength of Filipino literature to the world.
