The Philippines Shines at the 2025 IBBY Asia-Pacific Regional Conference in Suwon, South Korea
By chardinet
The Philippines proudly joins the 2025 International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) Asia-Pacific Regional Conference, held in Suwon, Republic of Korea on August 30–31, 2025.
With the theme “Living in Harmony with Our Planet,” the conference gathered authors, illustrators, educators, publishers, librarians, storytellers, and advocates from across the Asia-Pacific region to explore how children’s and adolescent literature can deepen our understanding of the environment and inspire coexistence with Earth’s ecosystems.
Voices from the Philippines ✨
The Philippine delegation made a powerful impact at the conference through inspiring talks and storytelling sessions:
- Dr. Lara Saguisag (author and educator) delivered a keynote address, “Soaked in Oil: Childhoods and Children’s Literature in an Era of Fossil Fuel.”
- Cheeno Marlo Sayuno (author), Melanie “Ate Melai” Ramirez (storyteller), and Rajee Florido (Programme Officer for Culture at the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines) took part as presenters and moderators, advancing discussions on environmental storytelling, education, and sustainability.
Their presence highlighted the Philippines’ strong commitment to using literature and education as tools for advocacy and awareness in a rapidly changing world.
Philippine Picture Books on the Environment 🌱📖
Showcased at the exhibition were impactful Filipino titles that raise ecological awareness and foster empathy among young readers:
- Nakikisilong — Eljay Castro Deldoc & Richard Red Elli (Southern Voices Printing Press)
- Bayan ng Basura (Town of Trash) — Augie Rivera & Jill Arteche (Adarna House)
- Olive Ridley Comes Home — Rhandee Garlitos & Yasmin Doctor (Vibal Group Chikiting Books)
- Ang Huling Puno (The Last Tree) — Richard G. Reynante & Jericho Moral (Lampara Publishing House, Inc.)
- A Whale in Prison — Mary Ann Ordinario & Danielle Florendo (ABC Educational Development Center Children’s Book, Inc.)
- Robin: Ang Nakakulong na Ibon (Robin: The Caged Bird) — Neil Omar Gamos & Rhea Kristine Elnar (Johnny and Hansel Publications)
Each story brought to light pressing environmental issues—from deforestation and marine conservation to waste management—through the lens of children’s experiences and imagination.
Johnny and Hansel Publications Joins the Movement 🌍
Representing Filipino creativity, Johnny and Hansel Publications proudly presented titles that echo the conference theme and celebrate the richness of Filipino storytelling:
- Si Islaw at ang Misteryo ng Kagubatan (Islaw and The Mystery of the Forest)
✍️ Mariel Balacuit | 🎨 Neil Arado - Robin: Ang Nakakulong na Ibon (Robin: The Caged Bird)
✍️ Neil Omar Gamos | 🎨 Rhea Kristine Elnar - Ang Asul na Kumot (The Blue Blanket)
✍️ Trist’n Buenaflor | 🎨 Jem Delos Reyes
Supported by ML Valdivia-Saputil, these books reflect themes of identity, empathy, and environmental awareness, resonating strongly with the conference’s call to live in harmony with our planet.
A Message from Our Publisher 💬
“It is truly humbling and inspiring for us at Johnny and Hansel Publications to be part of this international gathering of storytellers and advocates for children’s literature. Bringing Filipino stories to the global stage is not just about showcasing our culture, but also about sharing universal values of kindness, resilience, and harmony with nature.
We dedicate this milestone to all our authors, illustrators, and readers who continue to believe in the power of books to change lives. Maraming salamat, IBBY Philippines and IBBY Asia-Pacific, for this opportunity.”
— Ms. Batch Marasigan, Publisher
Looking Ahead 🌏✨
This year’s IBBY Asia-Pacific Regional Conference reaffirms the importance of children’s books in shaping a sustainable future. Through the combined efforts of Filipino authors, illustrators, educators, and publishers, the Philippines proudly contributes to global conversations on literature, environmental stewardship, and children’s rights.
Indeed, we are blessed and honored to stand with fellow nations in Suwon and to keep nurturing stories that inspire children to dream, care, and take action for the world they will inherit.
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