Talas: Tungo sa Mapanuri at Malikhaing Pag-iisip

Fiilipino

Tools for Life: Mastering Tech and Trade Skills (Grades 6–10)

Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE)

Gawa at Galing: Kasanayan para sa Kinabukasan

Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkalusugan (EPP) / Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE)

Beats and Vision: Exploring Music and Arts

PE and Health; Music and Arts

More Postcolonial Than We Admit 1

How I Became a Writer

A Visual Guide to Philippine Ancient History

Windows on Writing: A Practical Guide on writing Across Genres

IBBY-Philippines announces 2026 Honour List Selections Trending

FRANKFURT, Germany (Oct. 17, 2025)—The International Board on Books for Young People Philippines (IBBY-Ph), the Philippine national section of the international non-profit IBBY, has officially announced the Philippine nominees to the 2026 IBBY Honour List. Every two years, IBBY national sections select the best books from their respective countries and submit them to the IBBY Honour List—one of the most prestigious children’s book awards in the world. Three books are chosen for their excellent and outstanding writing, illustrations, and translation. The books that will make the list will be formally presented at the IBBY World Congress in 2026 and will be exhibited at international book fairs and conferences. The 2026 Philippine honorees are Sayaw ng mga Ilaw, by Cheeno Marlo Sayuno for writing; Sa Iisang Batya, by Rommel Joson for illustration; and Zona Cero, by Christine Faye Villanueva-Chelabian, for translation. Sayaw ng mga Ilaw (Dance of the Lights) tells the story of two sisters whose lives are forever changed when their father disappears in the tragic 1981 Manila Film Center collapse—forcing their family to confront grief, rebellion, and hope amid the shadows of Martial Law. Its author, Sayuno, is an educator, cultural dance performer, and writer of storybooks for children. He is currently an Associate Professor of Communication, Research, and Children’s Literature at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, as well as a postdoctoral research associate at the School of Information Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Sa Iisang Batya (In the Same Basin) meanwhile tells the inspiring story of Migs, a boy who braves a devastating flood in a makeshift basin-boat, while he learns the true meaning of hope, sacrifice, and shared humanity amidst disaster. The picture book is brought to life by Joson, who is an award-winning painter, illustrator, sculptor, and college instructor. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the Ateneo de Manila University in 1999, where he was awarded the Dean’s Awards for Visual Arts. In 2006, he graduated magna cum laude from the University of the Philippines, College of Fine Arts where he currently serves as a lecturer while completing his Masteral Degree.  Zona Cero is a steampunk alternate-history novel that follows Antonio Malik, a young soldier of the revived Hidalgo unit, as he uncovers betrayal and hidden ambitions amidst a brutal war between Intramuros and the island of Manuvu, forcing him to question the true cost of loyalty and empire. The author herself also served as English translator of the book. Villanueva-Chelabian is a published illustrator, editor, and writer of several books in the Philippines. Before venturing into graphic novels, she fulfilled her dream of publishing her first novel, which later evolved into the graphic series Incognito—a story she began writing at the age of fourteen. She graduated with a degree in Mass Communications and has built over ten years of professional experience, ranging from content production to serving as a marketing manager at a local publishing house. This year’s selection committee is composed of esteemed names in the Philippine children’s book scene: award-winning author Zarah Gagatiga, Dr. Will Ortiz from the University of the Philippines’ Filipino Department, and multi-awarded illustrator Ms. Beth Parrocha.  Parrocha stated: “The illustrations (of all submitted entries) are beautiful, but only one book truly captured what a picture book should be—visual storytelling—where the story can be clearly understood even without reading the text.” For the winning translation, Ortiz noted: “Villanueva’s translation of Zona Cero is truly outstanding. There’s no awkward dialogue or sentence—the author/translator has a perfect grasp of the language, diction, and tone.” Gagatiga shared her criteria in selecting the winning entry for writing: “Sayaw ng mga Ilaw has strong historical and socio-cultural resonance. Being a story set after Martial Law during the Marcos era, Sayuno honors the fallen and the forgotten by crafting a narrative of hope and remembrance. The story demonstrates the child character’s sense of agency as she carves her own space in dance, culture, and the arts. It is a powerful reminder that acts of resistance and subversion can be gentle, tender, and healing.” IBBY Philippines is mandated to fulfill IBBY’s commitment to bring books and children together. It supports literacy initiatives to promote the love for reading and children’s books in schools, communities, and among the general public. Its flagship projects are opening a research library on children’s literature, publishing and funding a professional journal review of children’s books, and organizing seminars, workshops, and conferences on children’s literature for authors, illustrators, translators, publishers, teachers, parents, and readers. To learn more about IBBY Philippines, please email ibbyph@gmail.com.

October 17, 2025

Vibal showcases Philippine books to the world at Frankfurt Book Fair 2025 Trending

FRANKFURT, Germany (15 October 2025) — Vibal joins today the world’s largest and most prestigious book fair, the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025 (Frankfurter Buchmesse), as part of the Philippines’ Guest of Honour delegation. This landmark event is a historic moment for Philippine publishing, shining an international spotlight on the nation’s diverse literary and cultural heritage. As one of the country’s leading publishers, Vibal will feature its wide range of titles—from children’s books and textbooks to literature, non-fiction, and scholarly works—at its own dedicated booth within the main pavilion of the Frankfurt Trade Fair grounds. The display will highlight the breadth of Vibal’s publishing program, showcasing the richness of Filipino creativity, scholarship, and storytelling to an international audience of publishers, readers, and rights professionals. “We are proud to bring the best of Philippine publishing to Frankfurt,” said Gelo Lopez, Publishing Manager of Vibal Group Inc. “As the Philippines steps onto the center stage as Guest of Honour, Vibal is excited to share our curated books that reflect our history, imagination, and identity as a people.” “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to present the Philippines and Vibal’s finest books to a global audience,” said Rio Lim, Marketing Manager of Vibal Group. “We are honored to represent not only our company but also our country, and to show prospective rights buyers that Philippine books can truly appeal to a global readership.” For Vibal, this participation affirms its longstanding commitment to advancing Philippine knowledge and culture through publishing innovation, digital transformation, and international collaboration. The fair provides a platform to connect with global partners, explore translation and rights opportunities, and expand the reach of Filipino works beyond national borders. Among the Vibal titles to be exhibited are the Arte Filipino series, which chronicle the colorful legacies of great Filipino artists like Botong Francisco, David Medalla, Isabelo Tampinco, and Damian Domingo; classic graphic novels by Francisco Coching under the Grafika imprint; critical editions of Filipino novels 𝘕𝘰𝘭𝘪 𝘔𝘦 𝘛𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘦 and 𝘌𝘭 𝘍𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘣𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘮𝘰; scholarly works under Academica Filipina+; the 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘞𝘦 𝘈𝘥𝘮𝘪𝘵 series that brings together diverse voices and perspectives on Philippine cultural history; acclaimed books by Jose “Butch” Dalisay, Jose Victor Torres, Ma. Luisa Camagay, Cecilia Manguerra Brainard, Luis Gatmaitan, Danielle Florendo, Randy Valiente, Charlie Veric, Gene Navera, and Sheree Domingo; plus newly released works by esteemed authors like Dean Francis Alfar, Victor Ocampo, Ige Ramos, Harold Fiesta, Allan Derain, Andyleen Feje, Andrea Tubig, Jim Pascual Agustin, Mina V. Esguerra, and Carla de Guzman, among others. The Philippine Guest of Honour Pavilion, for its part, will feature hundreds of Philippine titles, author talks, performances, and exhibits under themes of memory, imagination, hope, and resilience. The program will also include literary and cultural events across Frankfurt and other German cities, offering global readers a chance to experience the depth and diversity of Filipino expression. The Frankfurt Book Fair 2025 runs from October 15 to 19, 2025, in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.  

October 15, 2025

Revised K–10 Curriculum Textbooks unveiled at CEAP National Convention 2025 Trending

For more than 70 years, Vibal Group, Inc. has been a trusted name in Philippine education, shaping generations of learners with quality and innovative textbooks and learning materials. This year, Vibal proudly joins the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) National Convention to reaffirm its core mandate: Reigniting the Passion for Education. At the convention, Vibal will unveil its latest batch of textbooks that are fully aligned with the Department of Education’s Revised K–10 Curriculum under the K–12 Program. These learning materials are crafted to meet the evolving needs of 21st-century education—engaging, inclusive, and attuned to the realities of today’s classrooms. “Education is not just about creating books or meeting standards; it’s about sparking a lifelong love for knowledge,” said Nila Vibal-Mata, President of Vibal Group Inc. “With our new textbooks, we aim to equip both teachers and students with purpose.” Beyond publishing, Vibal also continues to support schools and educators through teacher training, product presentations, educational seminars/summits, CPD conferences, and other engagement programs, ensuring that its learning solutions go hand-in-hand with professional growth and innovation. As the country’s largest gathering of Catholic educators, the CEAP National Convention provides a conducive platform for Vibal to share its vision and commitment to advancing Philippine education—one that celebrates both tradition and innovation. Mrs. Vibal-Mata added: “Now, more than ever, we need to make our mission clear: to stand with schools, teachers, and learners in reigniting the passion for education. Because together, we have the will and the capability to help shape a brighter, stronger future for Philippine education—and with it, the nation.” The new Vibal textbook series that will be presented to CEAP attendees are: TRAILs or Text Reading and Acquisition of Languages Grades 1–10: a series designed and grounded on the science behind how literacy is developed and learned in various contexts and societal demands, represented in the texts used in the lessons that facilitate acquisition of the English language as used in Math, Science, Technology and Livelihood Education, and the Humanities. Real-world Math Grades 1-10: features the three content domains, namely, number and algebra, measurement and geometry, and data and probability. They are now arranged in vertical and horizontal articulation, ensuring that standards and competencies are logically sequenced. Significantly emphasized in the series is the use of both the inductive learning approach and the mastery learning approach, especially evident in the assessment. Linangan Tungo sa Maginhawang Lipunan, Baitang 1–10: Ang baitang 1-3 ng Linangan Tungo sa Maginhawang Lipunan serye ay sumasaklaw sa asignaturang Makabansa—ang integratibong pagtalakay sa mga disiplinang sining at kultura, sibika, kasaysayan, at kagalingang pangkatawan. Ang baitang 4 hanggang 10 naman ay sumasaklaw sa pag-aaral ng Araling Panlipunan na may pangunahing layunin na hubugin ang pangkabuoang pag-unlad ng Pilipinong mag-aaral na nagtataglay ng mga kakayahang kinakailangan para sa ika-21 siglo. Science for Futures Thinking Grades 1–10: This series aims to help learners develop scientific, environmental, technological, and engineering literacy. It will help them learn key scientific concepts and develop the skills, values, and attitudes necessary to succeed in an increasingly scientific, technologically advanced, and competitive world. TÁLAS: Tungo sa Mapanuri at Malikhaing Pag-iisip, Baitang 1-10: idinisenyo upang humubog ng mga mag-aaral na may kapakipakinabang na literasi, may mahusay na kakayahan sa paggamit ng wika, at may natatanging kaalaman sa pagsusuri at paglikha ng iba’t ibang uri ng teksto. Pinatatalas ng serye ang pagkamalikhain, inobasyon, kolaborasyon, at mapanuring pag-iisip ng mga mag-aaral upang maging mga mamamayang globally competitive at handa sa hinaharap (future-ready). Mabuting Gawi, Dangal ng Lahi, Baitang 1–10: alinsunod sa Revised K to 10 Kurikulum ng K to 12 Program para sa Kabutihang Asal at Wastong Pag-uugali sa elementarya at Edukasyon sa Pagpapahalaga sa junior high school, upang makatulong sa mga mag-aaral habang sila ay sabay-sabay na umiiral at nakikipag-ugnayan sa iba sa etikong paraan. Beats and Vision: Exploring Music and Arts series: combines Music, Theater, Dance, and Arts into one integrated program. Covering seven books, it spans Key Stage 2 (Grades 4–6) with regional and national themes and Key Stage 3 (Grades 7–10) with Asian and global concepts. Key Stage 1 (K–3) is part of the Makabansa series, which integrates Music, Arts, PE, Health, and Araling Panlipunan. Power Up: Active Bodies, Healthy Lives: a new series that integrates the previously separate subject areas of Physical Education and Health to provide a holistic approach to wellness. The merging of these complementary subject areas addresses different aspects of wellness: physical education focuses on developing physical fitness and motor skills, while health education covers such topics as nutrition, disease prevention, mental health, and personal safety. Gawa at Galing: Kasanayan para sa Kinabukasan Baitang 4-5: ang bagong serye sa Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP) na naaayon sa Revised K to 10 Kurikulum ng Department of Education (DepEd). Nilalayon nitong bigyan ang mga mag- aaral ng panghabambuhay na mga kasanayan sa pag-aaral na magbibigay-daan sa kanila na maging produktibong indibidwal, handa para sa mundo ng trabaho, at mag-ambag sa pagkamit ng mga pambansang layunin. Tools for Life: Mastering Tech and Trade Skills Grades 6-10: is the new Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) series in line with the Revised K to 10 Curriculum of the Department of Education (DepEd). It aims to equip learners with lifelong learning skills that enable them to be productive individuals, ready for the world of work, and to contribute to achieving national goals.

October 7, 2025

Vibal premieres weekly online show on Philippine education Trending

Vibal Group, Inc. affirms its commitment to “reigniting the passion for education” through TalkEd: Beyond the Bell, a new weekly online talk show that showcases timely, reflective, and experience-driven conversations centered on the ever-evolving landscape of Philippine education, social development, cultural discourse, and the broader impact of communication and learning. Filmed at Vibal’s Quezon City headquarters, each episode—streamed on Facebook and YouTube—focuses on timely issues in education, culture, and social development. The title reflects the show’s mission: to spark meaningful dialogue that continues “after class ends,” inspiring lifelong learning, reflection, and transformation. It captures the idea that some of the most meaningful learning, reflection, and transformation happen outside formal instruction hours. This includes mentorship, storytelling, advocacy, and personal reflection, which are areas that are often left out of traditional lesson plans but are crucial to personal and professional growth. Hosted by Dr. Joram Kim B. Corcuera and produced in partnership with Vibal, the program features conversations with educators, school leaders, researchers, writers, and professionals from allied sectors such as publishing, media, and the arts. Dr. Corcuera is a licensed teacher, academic researcher, and continuing professional development (CPD) speaker from the University of Santo Tomas (UST), bringing his extensive experience in communication, education, and research to the program. His background in teaching, publication advising, and academic work ensures insightful exchanges with guests and audiences alike. In addition, the tagline “Where conversations continue after class ends” reinforces the show’s aim to provide a platform for insights, questions, and perspectives that extend beyond the physical classroom and fixed teaching schedules. This tagline conveys that TalkEd is not only a program for educators but a space for anyone invested in lifelong learning, equity, and systemic improvement. Whether the viewer is a teacher, student, policymaker, or advocate, they are invited to join and engage with ideas that challenge, support, and inspire. The inaugural episode, “Transitioning from teaching to policy leadership in curriculum, teacher development, and literacy” was uploaded on September 5, featuring Ms. Ayette Ferriols, Supervising Education Program Specialist at the Department of Education, as the show’s first guest. Ferriols discussed the evolution of the national curriculum, systemic issues such as the reading crisis, and the importance of empowering teachers with flexibility and autonomy. Her message resonated with the celebration of National Teachers Month: teachers remain the lifeblood of education, fueling resilience, dedication, and hope for the nation’s learners. The discussion shed light on the rigorous and inclusive process of national curriculum development. It’s not merely a “top-down” approach, but also “bottom-up,” involving a pool of experts and extensive public review. This ensures the curriculum is truly relevant to the needs on the ground—engaging teachers, learners, and external stakeholders, including industry members, to prepare students for higher education, employment, entrepreneurship, or middle-level skills development. The curriculum aims to set “idealistic” standards, serving as a reminder of the goals learners should strive to achieve. A significant portion of the episode also focused on the pressing issue of reading literacy in the Philippines. The specialist highlighted alarming statistics from international and local assessments, revealing that a large percentage of students struggle with reading comprehension. She emphasized that this is not solely a curriculum problem, but a “systemic issue” rooted in broader challenges like poverty, which can affect a child’s physiological brain development and access to quality nutrition. As the episode aired during National Teachers Month, Ferriols offered a powerful message of appreciation and advice. She urged teachers to “always keep that fire burning,” acknowledging their resilience but emphasizing the need for a supportive system. Despite the many challenges, she believes that the dedication and love teachers have for their students are what truly make a difference, inspiring children and making their lives better. The episode underscored that while the curriculum is the heart of the education system, teachers are its lifeblood, breathing life into the documents and shaping the future of the nation. With TalkEd: Beyond the Bell, Vibal continues to enrich Philippine education by providing a platform for voices that challenge, support, and inspire educators and learners alike.

October 7, 2025

A new book on autism parenting journey launched at the MIBF Trending

PASAY CITY, Metro Manila – September 13, 2025 – Vibal Foundation, Inc. is proud to announce the launch of Strength in the Spectrum: A life Journey of Resilience in Autism Parenting, by Dr. Karen Develos-Sacdalan. This timely publication offers an in-depth, empathetic, and professionally informed exploration of the unique experiences of parents raising children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The book will be unveiled during a special program, “Parenting the Ausome Way” on the main stage of the SMX Convention Center as a highlight of Day 4 of the 2025 Manila International Book Fair. The event, from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, is open to the public and will feature a discussion with Dr. Sacdalan moderated by the Chair of Educational Psychology of the Psychological Association of the Philippines, Dr. Oliver Santa Ana. This new title under the Referencia imprint of Vibal Foundation aims to serve as a vital resource for families, educators, therapists, and advocates navigating the complexities of autism. Authored by Dr. Sacdalan, a registered psychologist, licensed professional teacher, human resource consultant, and—most importantly—a mother to a neurodivergent child, the book effectively blends personal narratives with psychological insights and practical guidance. The book is thoughtfully structured around three core life lessons that have profoundly shaped Dr. Sacdalan’s own journey and the experiences of the many parents she interviewed: Acceptance, which emphasizes that acceptance is not a passive surrender but an ongoing, courageous act of embracing reality; Adjustment, which highlights the continuous process of personal reinvention and adaptation parents undertake to meet their child’s evolving needs; and Advocacy, which underscores the critical role parents play in championing understanding, inclusion, and policy change for neurodivergent individuals. Strength in the Spectrum: A life Journey of Resilience in Autism Parenting explores the initial shock and emotional turmoil of diagnosis, the “death of dreams” parents often experience, and the profound financial and practical challenges families confront. Through candid stories of resilience, the book showcases how parents cultivate unwavering love, find unexpected silver linings amidst adversity, and build essential support networks—a.k.a. their “tribe”—to navigate the unpredictable journey of autism parenting. Each of the nine chapters is complemented by mental health worksheets, offering readers practical tools to apply the book’s lessons to their daily lives. This new publication reflects Vibal Foundation’s commitment to enriching minds across generations through thoughtfully curated reference materials and impactful works by experts in their fields. Strength in the Spectrum will be an essential contribution to disability advocacy, mental health awareness, and the ongoing dialogue about creating a more inclusive and compassionate society. “We speak out not just to be heard, but to create change,” states Dr. Sacdalan. “Acceptance builds understanding, adjustment builds courage, and advocacy builds hope.” Vibal’s books are available on Shopee, Lazada, Vibal’s online shopping portal, at Fine Philippine Books branches, and at partner bookstores nationwide.

September 13, 2025

An inspiring new book on entrepreneurship by Joel Cruz Trending

PASAY CITY, Metro Manila – Sept. 12, 2025 – Vibal Foundation, Inc. is proud to announce the official launch of Business 101: What Worked for Me by Joel Cruz by renowned entrepreneur and Aficionado founder, Joel Cruz. This compelling new book offers an authentic and insightful look into the journey of building a successful business from the ground up, providing essential wisdom for aspiring and established entrepreneurs alike. In Business 101: What Worked for Me by Joel Cruz, authored by the renowned “Lord of Scents,” Cruz shares his unique path from his humble beginnings in Sampaloc, Manila, to leading a multi-faceted enterprise centered on the Aficionado brand, which is now in its 25th year. A psychology graduate of the University of Santo Tomas, Cruz turned his entrepreneurial spirit into a thriving, multi-faceted enterprise that has since expanded into personal care, real estate, hotels, and franchising. Beyond his success as a distinguished Filipino entrepreneur, he draws daily inspiration from being a father of eight, a role that fuels his drive to keep growing. This book offers an honest, meticulously crafted account of his experiences, decisions, setbacks, and triumphs across four decades in business. Through the seven chapters of the book published by Vibal Foundation, readers will discover the dynamic interplay of “Education Versus Experience” where Cruz champions the synergistic power of formal learning and real-world application. In “Mapping Your Career Path” they will get insights on navigating career choices, self-discovery, and adapting to unforeseen opportunities. In Employment or Entrepreneurship, Cruz challenges the notion that one must choose between the two, showing how both paths can lead to success. Meanwhile, in “Franchising Versus Making Your Own Brand,” he reveals why he chose to build Aficionado from scratch instead of franchising an existing business. Lessons learned from securing initial capital and the responsibilities inherent in debt are discussed in “Funding Your Business Venture,” while “Back to Basics: Business Essentials” focuses on the critical role of disciplined planning (including the integration of prayer), meaningful goal-setting, strategic budgeting, effective communication, and constant adaptability. Lastly, the chapter on “Moving Forward with Gratitude” is an expression of gratefulness for Cruz’s remarkable journey, the people who supported him, and the lessons learned from both struggles and triumphs. He sees sharing his story as a responsibility to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing perseverance, integrity, and faith. He believes in continuous learning and growth, both personally and professionally. Joel Cruz’s new book is already being praised for its honesty and depth. Reviewers declare: “Joel’s journey… beautifully captures the grit, heart, and wisdom that made him who he is today. This book is an inspiring companion for anyone dreaming of starting their own business.” Others commend it as “a remarkable account of grit and determination. A must-read for those who want to learn from real challenges and real triumphs.” Business 101: What Worked for Me by Joel Cruz aims to be an invaluable resource for young minds, career professionals, and experienced businessmen seeking guidance grounded in practical application and unwavering determination. It underscores the belief that success is attainable through perseverance, integrity, and a willingness to learn from every experience. Vibal’s books are available on Shopee, Lazada, Vibal’s online shopping portal, at Fine Philippine Books branches, and at partner bookstores nationwide.   RELATED CONTENT Business 101 book launch by Jojo Panaligan (Instagram) Joel Cruz book launch by Rider PH Studios (YouTube) From scent to sentence: Joel Cruz turns the pages of his entrepreneurial story by Roel Manipon (Daily Tribune)

September 12, 2025