Multi-platinum, chart-topping, award-winning artist Lil Nas X has unveiled his new single “HOTBOX” via Columbia Records. The song was produced by his previous collaborators Take a Daytrip, Omer Fedi, and Ojivolta and arrives with an official video that was directed by Elias Talbot.
Stream the dynamic, bouncy and steamy single watch Nas take a dip in a pink pool, turn into a pink transformer, get KO-ed in a pink boxing ring, and frolic through various other hot pink dreamscapes in the official video.
“HOTBOX” marks a pivotal moment in Nas’ new DREAMBOY era. This new chapter is infused with joy, self-affirmation, and unapologetically taking up space as the most confident, buoyant, and carefree iteration of himself.
“DREAMBOY”, “BIG DUMMY”, “SWISH” AND “RIGHT THERE” have all come together with “HOTBOX” to establish his exciting return and to show all the dynamic sides of Nas’ one-of-a-kind artistry.
Stay tuned for more of the DREAMBOY era coming soon!
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), one of the world’s most popular Multiplayer Online Battle Arena games, is teaming up with global leading smartphone brand, OPPO, to host the MLBB x OPPO Smooth Legend Cup APAC Grand Finals! Taking place from 27 to 29 March, the MLBB x OPPO Smooth Legend Cup APAC Grand Finals will materialize as an electrifying esports battleground in Gandaria City Mall, Jakarta.
Fans can look forward to legendary and champion grassroots teams from Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, as they compete for glory and a combined USD 76,500 prize pool! All tournament matches will be played on the OPPO Reno13 5G, designed even for the most competitive gamers. Delivering unparalleled smoothness, high-performance and lag-free gameplay, players can compete at their best, worry-free!
Witness the legends rise again
The Legendary Team APAC Grand Finals will bring together former MLBB professional players who will compete for a USD 52,500 prize pool. Each of the six nations will be represented by Legendary teams, formed by high-profile ex-professionals. Excitingly, old school MLBB esports fans will be able to witness the reunion of IDONOTSLEEP, the inaugural champions of the Mobile Legends: Southeast Asia Cup (since rebranded to the MLBB Mid Season Cup).
Country
Team Members
Thailand
Framezy (Team Leader), May, Ampzy, Izy, and Azy
Malaysia
Ombong (Team Leader), 2ez4Jepv, Obot, Saiful, and Rush
Singapore
OhDeerBambi (Team Leader), Aeon, Pokemon, Potato, and Remaniscent
Philippines
Rafflesia (Team Leader), Jeffqt4ever, Dysania, Killuash, and kambs
Benthings (Team Leader), Yakou, Scyte, Fuzaken, and Eyon
Indonesia
Luminaire (Team Leader), Wann, Caramel, Pica, and Rexxy
Clayyy (Team Leader), Tuturu, Liam, AyamJAGO, and Banana
Cambodia
CatGod(Team Leader), LEEXIN, ATM, ATEV, and HENGLOL
Grassroots teams rise up
Spanning six nations, the Grassroots Team APAC Grand Finals marks MLBB’s largest-ever grassroots tournament. The local qualifiers saw close to 300 grassroots teams from Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, and Cambodia, compete at OPPO retail stores for a chance to emerge as local champions to represent their nations. Showcasing the prowess of grassroots gaming talent, these champion grassroots teams will battle for the title and the lion’s share of the USD 24,000 prize pool. Separate awards will be presented for both Legendary and Grassroots teams, celebrating excellence at every level!
Eric Wu, Senior Partnerships Manager, Esports Ecosystem at MOONTON Games, said: “The MLBB x OPPO Smooth Legend Grand Finals is a celebration of emerging and veteran esports talent across Southeast Asia. This largest-ever grassroots event highlights the importance of fostering grassroots teams and ecosystems. By supporting these rising stars and bringing back legendary ex-professional players, MOONTON Games is not only celebrating the rich history of MLBB esports but also paving the way for the next generation of talent to thrive and make their mark on the global stage.”
Watch the Grand Finals to win gifts and 5,000 MLBB Diamonds!
Spectators attending the MLBB x OPPO Smooth Legend Grand Finals at Gandaria City Mall can also look forward to fun, interactive activities and exclusive giveaways, with chances to win 5,000 MLBB Diamonds and take home the exclusive OPPO x MLBB Limited-edition Gift Boxes.
Inside each gift box contains an OPPO x MLBB Co-Branded Mystic Sea Ollie, a MLBB New Skin Redemption Card with a chance to get MLBB’s Special or Zenith hero skin, and a MLBB Official Phone Stand. In addition, spectators can get their hands on MLBB skins and tournament chests (worth up to 899 Diamonds), and more, which will also be given away every day at the match battleground! OPPO and MLBB welcomes everyone interested in e-sports to watch the game live!
Whether a die-hard MLBB fan or a casual gamer, fans should not miss their chance to witness this esports event unfold. For more information about the OPPO x MLBB Smooth Legend Cup APAC Grand Finals, including details on the livestream, match schedules and co-branded OPPO x MLBB Gift Boxes, please visit OPPO’s official website at www.oppo.com.ph/or OPPO Philippines’ official Facebook page.
As a special treat for both music and movie fans, the Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will be hosting a surprise Pop-Up Performance Lottery, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a lucky audience. From March 21-23, 2025, the iconic band will visit an unsuspecting cinema and perform during the weekend theatrical run of the highly anticipated documentary.
(L-R) Diane Ventura, Ely Buendia – Photo taken at Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico
Producer and filmmaker Maria Diane Ventura shares that the exact location and time of the surprise performance will remain a mystery. “It’s a lottery, after all,” she explains. “The thrill lies in the unpredictability: it could take place at any theater, at any moment, and not even I have the slightest clue. What we can promise, however, is that these lucky ticket holders will have the rare opportunity to see the Eraserheads in such an intimate setting. It’s a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
Ventura further explains that the pop-up performance aims to reignite the magic of movie-going at a time when streaming has overtaken traditional movie-watching.
“I think some movies are meant to be experienced in the cinema, shares Ventura. “And I feel Combo on the Run is one of those films. It’s in Dolby Atmos, a technology that lets the fans hear the Eraserheads’ music in a way they’ve never had.”
“Imagine having the band playing right after just watching their film. That would definitely heighten the audio-visual film experience. I’m excited for the lucky viewers that get to have that chance for such an immersive treat for the senses.”
The band’s idea for a pop-up performance was born from their desire to connect with fans in a fresh and unique way. “This is entirely their concept, and it’s original, fresh, and unprecedented,” Ventura adds. “There’s really nothing like it out there. It’s an extraordinary way for fans to experience the band’s story and music in a new, exciting context.”
Eraserheads: Combo On The Run provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the Huling El Bimbo reunion concert in 2022, set against a backdrop of political division and post-pandemic uncertainty. Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews, the documentary offers a deep dive into the band’s history, struggles, and triumphs. With its compelling narrative and intimate portrayal of the band, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is already being hailed as one of 2025’s most important films by both film critics and pop culture pundits.
Ventura, who served as producer and filmmaker, describes the film as a careful and balanced depiction of the band’s complexity. She reveals, “I don’t want to give too much away. Suffice it to say, the film will speak for itself.”
Despite the scrutiny the band members have faced over the years, Ventura remains committed to presenting an honest portrayal. According to Ventura, the film aims to present a candid and honest portrayal of their story. “What the fans can expect is that nothing is swept under the rug. Everything is explored. This is a documentary, and I’m honoring the truth. My priority is the story. It’s anyway the only way I can truly honor the trust given to me in sharing themselves. I’m not one to pander to anyone’s approval. I’m here to seek the truth and bring to light things unsaid.”
The filmmaker emphasizes that the film is ultimately about growth, redemption, and self-reflection. “I have no doubt about the legacy of the band. Objectively, they are the best musicians in the country; they changed the game. They’re the only artists I know whose work is able to transcend differences and capture such a diverse audience. Their legacy is undeniable. Their untold story, on the other hand, and their fascinating, intriguing dynamic, personalities and humanity are what this film really is about. The highs and the lows, the triumphs and mistakes, I think this is what would really resonate with the audience. We can all relate to being human.”
Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is brought to you by Dvent Pictures and WEU and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. It will be the first Philippine documentary to be screened in Dolby Atmos, providing the most immersive sound experience available today.
The documentary will be screening nationwide for a limited time, from March 21 to 23, 2025.
Summer may not have officially arrived yet, but the temperatures are already soaring to dangerous levels, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
With the heat index set to climb into the “danger” zone—ranging from 42ºC to 51ºC—it’s crucial to stay cool and hydrated. This kind of extreme heat doesn’t just bring discomfort; it poses serious health risks like heat cramps, exhaustion, and even heat stroke with prolonged exposure.
Luckily, SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela have the perfect lineup of refreshing and healthy drinks to help you beat the heat while treating your taste buds to something delicious. Whether you’re craving fresh fruit juices, cooling yogurt drinks, or revitalizing coconut water, these hydrating options will keep you refreshed all day long.
A YOGURT BOOST: YOWELL ALL YOU CAN
For those who love a creamy and tangy refreshment, Yowell All You Can offers a delightful yogurt drink packed with probiotics. Located at SM Center Sangandaan and SM City Valenzuela, these yogurt drinks not only keep you hydrated but also promote gut health, making them a smart and delicious choice for cooling down.
TEA FOR TRANQUILITY: COCO FRESH TEA AND JUICE
A cold, refreshing tea is the perfect antidote to the sweltering heat. Coco Fresh Teas and Juice, available at SM Center Sangandaan and SM City Grand Central, offers an array of fruit-infused teas that provide hydration with a hint of natural sweetness. Whether you prefer classic lemon tea or a fruitier option, these drinks are a great way to refresh and re-energize.
CITRUS BURST: FRUITY LEMONS
Nothing cuts through the heat quite like citrus. Fruity Lemons at SM Center Sangandaanand SM City Valenzuela’s Foodcourt serve up fresh, tangy lemonade blends that are rich in Vitamin C and electrolytes, keeping you hydrated while adding a zesty kick to your day.
TROPICAL HYDRATION: BUKO JUAN
A natural way to replenish lost fluids is with fresh coconut juice, and Buko Juan at SM Center Sangandaan serves it straight from the shell. Packed with essential electrolytes, coconut juice is a great way to rehydrate and cool down naturally, making it a go-to drink when the heat becomes unbearable.
FRUITY GOODNESS: FRUITAS
If you’re looking for a variety of fresh fruit shakes, Fruitas at SM City Valenzuela and SM City Grand Central offer a wide selection of blended fruit drinks. Made from real fruits and without artificial sweeteners, these shakes provide hydration while giving your body essential nutrients to help you power through a hot day.
With temperatures continuing to rise, make sure to prioritize hydration and choose beverages that nourish your body. The right drink can make all the difference, helping you stay energized, refreshed, and protected from heat-related illnesses. These thirst-quenchers are all conveniently available at SM City Grand Central,SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela. So, the next time the heat gets unbearable, head over to these refreshing spots and sip your way to cool relief!
For Millennials and Gen Zs, shopping isn’t just about making a purchase—it’s about finding pieces that express their individuality, fuel their creativity, and make everyday moments Instagram-worthy. Good news: SM Center Sangandaan is home to hidden gems that deserve a prime spot in your wardrobe and self-care routine. Whether you’re refreshing your style, upgrading your skincare, or hunting for that perfect accessory, these five must-visit stores have got you covered.
THE FACE SHOP: Skin Goals, Achieved
They say great skin is always in, and The Face Shop is here to make sure yours is glowing 24/7. Whether you’re all about that dewy K-beauty glow or looking for a game-changing skincare routine, this cult-favorite brand has it all. From hydrating serums to skin-loving makeup, The Face Shop at SM Center Sangandaan is your passport to looking effortlessly fresh. Because let’s be real—clear skin is the best accessory.
DENIMHUB: Because Denim Never Fades
Trends come and go, but denim? It’s forever. DenimHub at SM Center Sangandaan understands that a great pair of jeans is a wardrobe essential. Whether you’re going for classic blue jeans, a trendy denim jacket, or stylish overalls, DenimHub offers timeless yet edgy pieces that fit every vibe—casual, cool, and undeniably iconic.
MACBETH: The Streetwear Revolution
Fashion meets attitude at Macbeth, a brand built for those who live loud and stand out. Originally a go-to for musicians and skaters, Macbeth has evolved into an edgy lifestyle brand that blends streetwear with a bold, rock-inspired aesthetic. If you’re the type who believes that clothes should speak volumes, then consider this your ultimate fashion statement.
ANYTHING CREATION: Bags That Speak Personality
A good bag isn’t just an accessory—it’s a statement. Whether you’re all about sleek leather backpacks, trendy crossbody bags, or chic wallets that fit your essentials, Anything Creation is all about craftsmanship that lasts. Perfect for those who want function without sacrificing fashion, these bags are designed to take you from work to weekend in style.
BROADWAY GEMS: Shine Bright, Anytime, Anywhere
No outfit is complete without the perfect accessories. Broadway Gems at SM Center Sangandaan takes accessorizing to the next level with their collection of jewelry pieces—from statement earrings to delicate necklaces that add just the right amount of sparkle. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or just want to glam up your daily look, Broadway Gems ensures that you shine effortlessly.
Your next-door hangout just got even better. Whether you’re revamping your wardrobe, searching for a statement piece, or simply looking for quality finds, SM Center Sangandaan is home to stylish surprises waiting to be discovered. Time to explore, shop, and upgrade your style—one hidden gem at a time. Discover, Shop, and Elevate Your Style at SM Center Sangandaan.
Great news for moms and their babies as Mustela and Lactation Treats by RCG—two brands trusted by many—finally open branches at SM Bulacan malls.
Mustela, one of the leading brands that provides clean and expert skincare products of natural origin for babies, children, and pregnant women, is now available at the ground level of SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag. Because nothing is as precious as your little ones, Mustela is here to provide organic essentials suited for baby’s skin, even the most delicate ones. Mustela physical stores at SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag conveniently carry a wide range of products, including bestsellers such as Gentle Cleansing Gel, No Rinse Cleansing Water, Vitamin Barrier Cream, and Cicastela Moisture Recovery Cream. Not to mention their bundles and gift sets are such a steal you won’t dare resist upon your visit.
Breast milk will always be best for babies. That being said, SM City Baliwag welcomes Lactation Treats by RCG, a breakthrough brand that serves as a milk booster for expecting and breastfeeding moms in the form of yummy pastries. Lactation Treats by RCG is a guilt-free snack packed with nutrients, high in protein, rich in omega 3, good in digestion, free from any preservatives, and loaded with antioxidants. With these benefits, moms are expected to increase their milk supply while indulging in delightful treats in between.
Explore the many ways to provide care for moms and babies with a lot of offerings available at SM Bulacan malls. For updates, check out the official Facebook pages of SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan.
While our love for the special women in our lives knows no season, it’s safe to say that there are certain occasions that best describe how much they mean to us. This Women’s Month, SM Center Pulilan serves as your guide to expressing your love through gifts. Take a closer look and check which among these treasures perfectly fit the best women in your life.
For the Fashionista
Because the term “women” is often associated with style, SM Center Pulilan makes room for ForMe, a unique fashion brand that caters to all must-have items for ladies, including trendy bottoms and dresses as well as modern footwear. To complement the look, check out Bagel Girl, a concept store that offers trendy girl accessories fit for any occasion.
For a Homebody
If she’s a certified “hermit,” HStex Home at SM Center Pulilan is a perfect place to bring her with. The store has an extensive and updated collection ranging from accent chairs, stylish storage stools, multi-functional tables, uniquely designed ottomans, edgy couches, and velvet benches. They also offer outdoor sets, camping chairs, and foldable pet houses, among others.
For the Beauty Queen
When it comes to self-care, there are a lot of spa-worthy options to choose from at SM Center Pulilan. Book her a visit to AiNails and Body Talk, Gwiyomi Gluta Spa, or Skin Station. If she’s into revamping her looks and style, an appointment at David’s Salon might also be a great idea.
For the Tech-Savvy
Ladies turned tech geeks will love The Loop by Power Mac Center at SM Center Pulilan. It’s the perfect time to gift her those dream gadgets, as the store offers the latest iPhone, MAC, iPad, Watch, TV, audio, and accessories.
For the Fitness Enthusiasts
Support her fitness goals and plan a visit to Sports Central. The store offers great discounts on high-quality sports and fitness gear she would love. You may also go all out and avail yourself of a membership plan at Danbhels Fitness Gym to kickstart her fitness journey. This all-in-one fitness, fully air-conditioned gym is equipped with clean facilities and modern heavy-duty equipment. Furthermore, Danbhels Fitness Gym also offers personal coaching for members who want to fully achieve their fitness goals.
Let these thoughtful gifts serve as a reminder of how much we value our queens this Women’s Month. For updates and offers dedicated for the month of March, visit the mall’s official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/smcenterpulilan.
Manila, Philippines – Big Bad Wolf Books remains steadfast in its mission to nurture community empowerment through books at its first Book Sale of 2025 in Clark. Pampanga. Pursuing its commitment to spread knowledge and share the joy of reading to even more people, Big Bad Wolf Books partners with Anak Bale-Balayan as the beneficiary of the Red Readerhood CSR Program at the Big Bad Wolf Books Clark 2025 sale.
Celebrating Women’s Month, Big Bad Wolf spotlights stories of real-life women with the “Women In My Life” Contest. The Big Bad Wolf Clark 2025 Book Sale is running from March 14 to 23 at SMX Convention Center Clark, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
Sharing the Gift of Knowledge through Books with Anak Bale-Balayan
Anak Bale-Balayan, which translates to “house of gathering,” is a vibrant hub in Pampaanga where people come together to celebrate culture and the arts. Driven by a passion to make a difference in the community, particularly among the youth, Anak Bale-Balayan creates avenues for personal development through music.
This community center helps young individuals discover their talents, build their confidence, and develop a strong sense of belonging and purpose. By providing a creative outlet and a nurturing environment, Anak Bale-Balayan is helping foster a generation of empowered individuals.
Supporting this mission, Big Bad Wolf Books has enlisted Anak Bale-Balayan as the beneficiary of the Red Readerhood Program to bring the transformative power of reading to Kapampangan youth. Visitors to the Sale are invited to support the initiative by purchasing one or more books from the designated Red Readerhood corner and donating them to the Program. For every book contributed by the public, Big Bad Wolf Books will match the donation. Through this initiative, Big Bad Wolf Books strives to provide Anak Bale-Balayan youth books that inspire them to explore new ideas, expand their knowledge, and pursue their passions.
Empowering Women with Inspiring Stories
In honor of Women’s Month, Big Bad Wolf Books uplifts the stories of remarkable women with the “Woman In My Life” contest. With this contest, Big Bad Wolf Books invites everyone to empower and celebrate the women in their lives through books that educate, enlighten, and inspire them to unlock their fullest potential.
The contest aims to honor and amplify the stories of women who have made a positive impact in the lives of others. To join, residents of Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Bataan, or Metro Manila, aged 15 and above, can nominate a woman in their life whom they want to honor this Women’s Month. Share her remarkable story and post it on Facebook using the hashtags #BBWClarkWomenEmpowerment and #BBWClark2025. Submission of entries is open until March 19.
Start Your Success Story at the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale
Embodying “Your Story, Our Story,” Big Bad Wolf Books kicks off the first 2025 Book Sale in Clark, where each book is a step towards a story of a transformed life. With over two million books at up to 95% off, jaw-dropping deals, and fun surprises, this book sale marks the beginning of another year dedicated to uplifting communities across the Philippines.
Empower yourself and your tribe at the Big Bad Wolf Clark Book Sale. Follow Big Bad Wolf Books’ social media to keep up with the latest updates.
For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)
Score an exclusive deal to top travel destinations from March 18-19 with GCash and Klook!
Manila, Philippines – The month of March marks one of the biggest travel months in Asia, because it’s when the streets and parks in countries like Japan and Korea are lined with beautiful, blooming cherry blossoms. With the season only lasting until April, it’s important that you and your travel buddies plan ahead to make unforgettable memories together.
If you need help deciding where to spend cherry blossom season, read on to learn more about Asia’s top sakura destinations!
Blossom unforgettable memories in Japan and Korea
Japan is renowned as the ultimate cherry blossom season destination, with so many cities offering different activities, but one of the most iconic experiences is taking a day tour of the city of Hakone, and the UNESCO World Heritage site and highest mountain in all of Japan: Mount Fuji.
Hakone is a few kilometers away from Mount Fuji that boasts of beautiful flora, a perfect city to go to for stunning views of the mountain, especially when the sakura trees are in full bloom. Tours offer you a comfortable, air-conditioned bus ride to Mount Fuji and Hakone and have exciting scenic experiences, such as the Hakone Ropeway cable car ride and a stunning yet serene cruise in Lake Ashi. If you want gorgeous selfies with both Mount Fuji and the cherry blossoms as your backdrop, this is the perfect travel experience for you!
Are you looking for a more thrilling spring attraction, why not zoom through the streets of Osaka in a go-kart? As adventurous as it is, you’ll definitely have a one-of-a-kind experience of enjoying the cherry blossoms at high speeds! For an hour (or longer!), you will have the chance to dress up as your favorite character while driving at the speed of 60 kilometers per hour, passing by historical sights and tourist spots such as Namba, Dotonbori, Osaka tower, and more. Don’t be camera shy, as the tourists will take photos of the sakura blossoms, and you too!
If you want to experience the cherry blossoms outside of Japan, consider booking a day tour to the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival in South Korea, also known as “Jinhae Gunhangjae”. The festival is a perfect way to experience both the beautiful cherry blossoms while immersing yourself in Korean culture, with various cultural and military performances happening throughout the festival. During the tour, you will be able to visit the Gyeonghwa Station Park. The station is no longer operational, but has trains displayed on its tracks that cut through stunning cherry blossom trees. After touring the park, you can enjoy a beautiful lunch at Yeojwacheon Stream – one of the most well-known areas in the country to view the beautiful blooms. The stream is idyllic and tranquil, with cherry blossom trees lined on its sides.
Soak up summer adventures
Not everyone’s got cherry blossoms or spring adventures on their travel list, but opt to have summer fun at other destinations in Asia.
For international summer trips, countries like Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam are great choices. Beat the heat by snorkeling and island hopping in Penghu, Taiwan, a very popular activity in the area, known for its lavender and rose corals. If you want something more family-friendly, why not go on a trip to Andamanda Phuket Waterpark in Thailand? The waterpark is filled with rides and attractions, and also showcases gorgeous Thai architecture, a perfect attraction for both kids and adults. If you’re a big foodie, take cooking classes in Hanoi, Vietnam – some even have a local market tour where you can buy ingredients for the dishes you’ll be cooking!
Make your travel dreams bloom with GCash and Klook
From March 18-19, GCash is teaming up with Klook to celebrate Super Brand Day with an exclusive offer to help you easily turn your magical cherry blossom and summer travel dreams into reality.
If you want to experience any of the above tours and activities, book your desired activity on Klook and get up to PHP 500 off with a minimum purchase of PHP 3,000 when you choose GCash as your payment method! From March 18-19, use the code KLOOKGCHERRY at checkout to unlock the discount. You can also book your chosen Klook activities and enjoy 0% installment plans with GGives.
NEW LOCATION, MORE BOOKS—SEE WHAT’S IN STORE AT THE PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2025
The Philippine Book Festival (PBF), the country’s largest all-Filipino book festival, is back—this time at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, from March 13-16, 2025.
The free four-day festival by the National Book Development Board (NBDB) puts Philippine books at the center of a fiesta brimming with events, performances, and meet-and-greet sessions with authors.
A Fiesta of Filipino Culture through Literature
The PBF 2025 promises to be more festive, putting the spotlight on the country’s famous festivals, each one designed by some of the best Filipino artists working today.
The first is the glorious Dinagyang Festival for Kid Lit (the PBF’s section dedicated to children’s literature), designed by Juno Abreu, and the Komiks realm inspired by the famous Tuna festival in General Santos City, with design by illustrator and painter Paul Eric Roca. Aral Aklat, the section dedicated to textbooks, draws inspiration from the colorful Pahiyas Festival in Quezon courtesy of Joffrey “Pepot” Atienza, himself a native of the province, and finally, Panagbënga or the Baguio Flower Festival for Booktopia (the section for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry), with design by Danielle Florendo.
A design highlight is the Pakyawan Plaza, the festival’s centerpiece which has become a crowd favorite. The intricately designed Pahiyas Festival-themed activation space features a large bahay kubo, inside which fairgoers can browse collections of children’s books.
A New Location for a More Accessible Experience
The festive atmosphere is made all the more exciting as the PBF 2025 moves to a new venue—at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall. The NBDB believes this fresh location has brought new energy to the festival and can draw an even larger audience.
For one, the new PBF site is strategically located in a mall at the heart of Metro Manila, making it easily accessible. Visitors can reach it via the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) 3 and the EDSA Busway, providing convenient transport for those coming from surrounding areas like Caloocan City, Quezon City, Makati City, Taguig City, and even from those on the eastern side such as Cainta, Taytay, and the cities of Antipolo, Pasig, and of course, Mandaluyong.
“The decision to move the PBF to a different and smaller venue is definitely a bold one. We hope to offset that with the venue’s accessibility and generate higher foot traffic, as well as provide convenience for more visitors from other areas,” explained NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.
Strides Toward Addressing Systemic Gaps
Led by Aquino-Tugade and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, the PBF has achieved a groundbreaking milestone—procuring over PHP 925 million worth of Philippine trade books and textbooks.
Through the PBF, the NBDB, an attached agency of the DepEd, provides space for DepEd’s regional and district offices to purchase quality books and engage with fellow educators and professionals from the book publishing industry. The large-scale institutional purchase by DepEd addresses the issues of access and readership, bringing books to thousands of readers all over the Philippines.
“The PBF is our love letter to Philippine books—its creators and its readers, and the many stories they have told about our people. It’s also our response to our country’s reading crisis, which is largely a problem of access. The PBF creates that marketplace for quality Filipino titles, and serves as a bridge between those books and readers across the country,” Aquino-Tugade said.
“We have a large role to play in not just growing the book industry but in shaping the environments that make reading possible for all sectors of the population. The NBDB and its partners will continue to work against lack of access by saturating the market and our schools with quality Philippine-authored and published books,” Aquino-Tugade concluded.
For media inquiries, please contact: Divine Reyes-Caraecle, Chief of Communications & Promotions 09171396394 news@books.gov.ph
About the National Book Development Board
The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is the book authority of the Philippines. The agency is at the forefront of developing the Philippine publishing industry and safeguarding the country’s vibrant culture of authorship and reading. To learn more, visit our social media pages (@nbdbphilippines).
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