A rich diversity of books presented at the Manila International Book Fair 2025

The recently concluded Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) which ran from Sept. 10 to 14, 2025, once again brought together the country’s biggest readers, book collectors, writers, publishers, authors, illustrators, and educators—and Vibal proudly stood at the forefront of this celebration of books and publishing.

At this year’s fair, Vibal highlighted its wide range of offerings: from its latest fiction and non-fiction titles and children’s books, to its backlist of popular reads, textbooks, modules, and other publications. Visitors also rediscovered Vibal’s hallmark publications in Philippine history, culture, and heritage, which continue to inspire both educators and general readers.

Throughout the five-day fair, the Vibal booth buzzed with energy as it hosted author signings and interactive activities for teachers, students, book lovers, and visitors from all over. Amazing deals on books were offered, urging book lovers, librarians, and other buyers to take advantage of an impressive haul of titles and even limited edition merchandise items.

Joining the event to meet readers and sign their books were Jose “Butch” Dalisay, author of Windows on Writing; Maria Luisa Camagay, editor of More Pinay Than We Admit 2; Fernando Zialcita, author of Insular Yet Global; Gene Segarra Navera, author of Beauty Spectacle; Charlie Samuya Veric, editor of More Postcolonial Than We Admit; Jose Victor Torres, author of Emilio Aguinaldo: Politics and Remembrance (1901-1963), Intramuros: The Story of Old Manila, and Paseos de Intramuros; Dr. Hope Sabanpan Yu, editor of More Cebuano Than We Admit; Jonathan Best, author of Philippine Colonial Photography of the Cordilleras; Allan Derain, author of Pamimintana sa Pintong Rosas Budget Hotel; Andy Tubig, author of Tonight We Slurp in Color; Harold Fiesta, author of Panunumbalik sa Gomorrah; Andy Feje, author of Magsimula Tayo sa Panghalip; Eugene Evasco, author of Ang Mga Inskrapbuk ni Purita, Bahay ng Masasayang Ingay, and Ang Tiyanak na Nagngagalang Bungisngis, among others; Neil Omar Gamos, author of Puti and Kulay ng Aking Balat; Edgar Aladeza, author of Ang Unang Salamin and Koronang Mais; Mark Angeles, author of Kamot nang Kamot nang Kamot!; Sally Eugenio, author of Bakit Tumataba si Bampi? and Dear Lady S; Doc Luis Gatmaitan, author of Rock and Roll Eyeball!; and Vida New Adult romance novella authors Carla de Guzman, Katrina Atienza, and Celestine Trinidad with their editor Mina Esguerra.

Book illustrators were also present during the book signing sessions, among them Dani Florendo for Rock and Roll Eyeball!, Joey Ellson for Ang Unang Salamin, EJ Uy for Puti and Kulay ng Aking Balat and Kamot nang Kamot nang Kamot!, among others; Jan Rex Casiroman for Maruray: Ang Diwatang Hindi Kagandahan and The Adventures of Ino and the Giant Taklobo, and Tinsley Garachon for Koronang Mais.

Also present were Step Into Our Kitchens: Theresian Recipes and Tales contributors Mariquit Soriano, Isi Laureano, and Noemi Lardizabal-Dado; along with How I Became a Writer: Essays by Filipino and Filipino American Writers contributors Jack Wigley and Joel Pablo Salud. Xiao Time author Prof. Xiao Chua also dropped by the Vibal booth to sign his books.

On Days 3 and 4, book launches were also presented on the main stage of the SMX Convention Center, with Aficionado founder and Lord of Scents Joel Cruz officially launching Business 101: What Worked for Me by Joel Cruz. The well-attended gathering featured a fireside chat between Joel and Carl Balita, who interviewed the author about his humble beginnings and how he now wishes to share his knowledge and inspire budding entrepreneurs.

Dr. Karen Develos-Sacdalan meanwhile had a more intimate gathering for the launch of her inspiring book Strength in the Spectrum: A Life Journey of Resilience in Autism Parenting on Day 4. 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).