Since declaring April as National Literature Month or Buwan ng Panitikan as supported by Proclamation no. 968 s. 2015, the National Book Development Board (NBDB), in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF), has continuously promoted Philippine literature, supported growth of independent book stores, and encouraged reading of excellent Filipino-authored books.

This year, Buwan ng Panitikan aims to present and promote the different aspects of the book publishing industry in a new light. Themed Banyuhay Panitikan, the month of April will feature new works and new perspectives to encourage the development of new literary form, ideas, and expressions.

The NBDB will kick off the festivities with the Pinoy Book Stop Tour highlighting libraries and independent and campus-based bookstores within and south of Metro Manila on April 7-8, 2017. National-Book-Award winners will be featured through book talks, poetry readings, and music performances.

On April 23, 2017, various book-related activities will be held in celebration of World Book and Copyright Day (WBCD). As declared by UNESCO in 1995, WBCD aims to pay tribute to books and authors and to encourage more Filipinos to discover the pleasure of reading. This year, NBDB will spearhead another Book Fiesta where book lovers and copyright advocates will be treated to a whole day of festive gathering with a book market by Philippine publishers and activity/exhibit booths by various book clubs and writers’ groups.

As NBDB’s culminating activity for the National Literature Month, the 8th Philippine International Literary Festival (PILF) will be held on April 27-28, 2017. Plenary sessions and parallel working group sessions will explore socially relevant issues in literature and the book industry. Coinciding with the festival is a book fair that will showcase the latest Filipino-authored titles.

With these activities lined up to promote Philippine literature, the month of April promises to be a venue for the development of literary forms, discovery of new literary artists through workshops and performances, and promotion of indigenous and community knowledge, history, and tradition as framework of various literary expressions.

For inquiries regarding Pinoy Book Stop Tour and World Book and Copyright Day, call or write Ryan at (02) 929 3887 loc. 804 or at events@nbdb.gov.ph.

For inquiries regarding the Philippine International Literary Festival, call or write Debbie at (02) 929 3887 loc. 804 or at litfest@nbdb.gov.ph.

* * * * * * * * * *
For updates on NBDB’s other programs, please visit www.booksphilippines.gov.ph. Like us on Facebook (National Book Development Board), and follow us on Twitter @NBDB_PHIL and Instagram @nbdb_phil.