From the young age of fifteen, I have escaped burning mansions, bested powerful wizards, and visited Mount Olympus in Manhattan—jumping from one fictional world to another. Yet it wasn’t until much later in life that I realized I hadn’t read a novel series that explored aspects of my culture and history as a Filipino. I used to believe that novel series only existed in the West. To me, the Filipino publishing industry only seemed to hold space for classic stories or political fiction, as those were the only kinds of books I could find on the shelves of local bookstores when I was much younger.

It was while I was making a conscious effort to start a book blog that mainly focused on amplifying Filipino-authored books that the Alipin Trilogy by Joel Donato Ching Jacob found its way to me. The premise of the book definitely enchanted me as it focused on the art of pambabarang, which is a form of black magic in the Philippines that uses insects to inflict harm on the user’s intended victim. Needless to say, this aspect of our culture is often villainized in popular media. But the Alipin Trilogy subverts that and even spotlights the art in the entire series.

Whether you are looking for something to make this monsoon season even more mystical or you want to uncover what Filipino literature truly has to offer, here are 9 spellbinding reasons why you should start reading the Alipin Trilogy by Joel Donato Ching Jacob today.

1. Redefining the Portrayal of Mambabarangs

   

   In most, if not all, portrayals across the very few pieces of media that feature them, mambabarangs are singularly depicted as evil hags in remote places, cursing their enemies with hexes that cause insects to erupt from every orifice of their intended victims. In the Alipin trilogy, mambabarangs are reimagined as powerful and respected figures within society. They are both feared and valued, serving as unseen forces and acting as agents of change who hold sway over the life and death of the enemies of the leaders they serve.

2. A Vivid Glimpse into Precolonial Philippines

   In Wing of the Locust, the first book in the Alipin Trilogy, Jacob introduces the daily life of an aliping saguiguilid through the eyes of the main character, Tuan. From weaving textiles to defending their food supply from a plague of locusts, Jacob narrates each task methodically, allowing you to witness what it’s like to live in that era. Jacob stays consistent in this manner of storytelling throughout the series, slowly building the world around you with one minor detail after another.

3. Refreshing Takes on Gender Roles and Dynamics

   Building on the themes introduced in the first book, Jacob expands his exploration of gender roles and dynamics in precolonial Philippines in Orphan Price. Though many know little about the significant roles women played in precolonial times, overshadowed by the popular Maria Clara trope, Jacob blurs traditional gender roles and dynamics. Men and women take on roles that defy common stereotypes, without feeling forced or unnatural.

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4. Masterful Slow-Burn Narration

   

   One of the charms of the novel series for me is the gradual unfolding of events. This narration style allows the story to breathe and expand on its own. It makes the story even more grounded. However, it can also be a double-edged sword, especially in a fantasy novel series such as this one. A common critique of the first book on Goodreads is that the book takes time to build momentum. So really, I guess it all boils down on the readers’ preference.

5. Accessible Yet Beautiful Prose

   The language used in the Alipin Trilogy is simple in a way that’s accessible for readers of most levels. But the magic is in how Jacob strings his words together. His prose comes off as poetic whenever he describes the world, yet it never veers into obscurity. I’d even recommend it to beginner readers whose age are appropriate for the material. Jacob manages to make each moment feel necessary, guiding readers through the bigger ideas with ease.

6. A One-of-a-Kind Power System

   I’m genuinely blown away by the power system in this novel series. I’ve read plenty of fantasy stories, but nothing quite compares to what Jacob employs—especially in the antagonists featured in Heirs to Flame, the final installment. The complexity of the origin and inner workings of the characters’ supernatural powers is unlike anything I’ve encountered in popular media.

7. Centering the Harsh Realities of Slavery

   

   The series is called the Alipin Trilogy for a reason: the central dramatic characters are slaves, and the entire series revolves around their fight to abolish the slave trade, to ultimately emancipate themselves and reclaim their autonomy over their lives. We witness the lengths the characters go to accomplish this goal across all three books. The dialogues that pertains to this topic are not spelled out in a superficial way but in a grounded language that’s clear to everyone. I think it is still an important conversation to have, as slavery still exists today, in one form or another. The themes Jacob explore adds to the human rights discourse and reminds as why it is important to talk about.

8. Nature as a Constant Presence

   Jacob’s Ma-i is lush, abundant, and evergreen. It is such an enchanting world to tread, as Jacob takes his time to acknowledge the presence of every leaf and creature that inhabits his pages. The imagery he uses are vivid and evocative, even when the scenes that take place are upsetting. You are not just reading about talking heads having a conversation; you are bearing witness to the unfolding of a complete series of events within living spaces.

9. Rich and Nuanced Characterization

   The characters in the Alipin trilogy have managed to burrow in my heart. Jacob’s character work is a masterclass. There’s a certain familiarity in the way they’re written that adds to their vitality. Even when descriptions aren’t directly laid, you sort of build them in your head from the small details Jacob provides. Though, I would have to say, there are a handful of characters whose storylines I think had so much potential that I would have wanted to be explored further. Nonetheless, I still enjoyed reading the entire series.

   Conclusion

   

   Like any other body of work, The Alipin Trilogy by Joel Donato Ching Jacob is not perfect. Still, it has brought Filipino literature toward new horizons. It has tipped the scale in how readers can see stories that originate in the Philippines, and what our homegrown writers can offer in the genre.

   I am immensely grateful and fortunate knowing I live in the same time and space as authors like Jacob, because I am reminded that the stories I read are written by real humans within my reach, and that the stories they tell are also my own.

   The Alipin Trilogy is available at both National Book Store and Fully Booked.

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How I Ended Up Reviewing Plot Twist Amid a Hectic Schedule

Last March, I received an email from Akdang Pinoy inviting me to read and review an advance reader’s copy of Plot Twist: Navigating and Surviving Life’s Unexpected Turns, Anthology Vol. 1. The email laid out everything I needed to know, including its editor Claire Betita De Guzman, a synopsis of the book, and details about its upcoming launch a month later.

At the time, I wasn’t familiar with De Guzman’s work, but I recognized many of the contributors as friends and familiar names from the local book community, so I said yes without hesitation. The opportunity aligned with my more conscious effort to support Filipino-authored books, authors, and publishers.

That being said, I have a tendency to overcommit. For context, when you’re actively creating Filipiniana-related content, you naturally end up on the radar of authors, publishers, and event organizers even with a relatively small following. This often leads to getting invites to book launches and festivals or receiving complimentary packages or PR Kits in exchange for event coverage, book features, or reviews.

But as exciting as they are, these things also demand your time and energy. And with a full-time job as a web content writer for a digital marketing agency and a life beyond the internet, it becomes a constant balancing act.

Still, the moment the package arrived, I allotted time to film an unboxing video, take promotional photos of and with the book, and read and film a review of the book. And once I did, I understood why this collection matters. You can watch my full review below:

Where the Weekend Led Me

Cut to the weekend of the book launch and other literary events. I was nursing a pounding headache, and the right side of my face was visibly swollen, as seen in the photos. These were just some of the consequences of a late-night celebration with coworkers the night before. I got home well past midnight and had to get ready the next morning with barely any rest.

I had two events lined up that day and two more the next, making it four events within a 48-hour window. It all started with Día del Libro, a celebration of World Book Day hosted by Instituto Cervantes de Manila. From a robust book market and author signings to live music, street art, Spanish cuisine, and free classes, the event had everything.

Unfortunately, I arrived around noon, after most of the morning activities had wrapped up. Still, I made it in time to snap a few photos, catch up with friends from the book community, browse new titles to add to my TBR list, and chat with the team from the National Alliance of Reading Advocates (NARA).

Closing the Month of April with a Plot Twist

After Día del Libro, I hitched a ride with fellow book content creators to the launch of Plot Twist: Navigating and Surviving Life’s Unexpected Turns. I felt deeply grateful to be part of that space. I saw friends and people I look up to, whose work in the book community I respect and admire, begin their journeys as writers. During the program, I finally met people I had only known through screens, listened to moving excerpts from the anthology, and felt the room pulse with a sense of pride and joy for the contributors.

Out of all the book events I have attended, the Plot Twist Anthology book launch is easily one of the ones I have enjoyed the most because it truly felt like a celebration of the book community. We do get to celebrate Filipino literature from time to time, though not as often as we should, but it’s rare to celebrate the community itself.

I almost didn’t go. I nearly let exhaustion win. But walking into that room, I was reminded why I said yes to this in the first place. It wasn’t just about the book. It was about being reminded, in the company of others, why we keep showing up—for stories, for each other, and for this community.

You can get your copy of Plot Twist through this link: bit.ly/PlotTwistPreOrder

Strolling around the walkable streets of Marikina can often lead to sweet serendipities like chancing upon a cozy community café, tucked away for bookworms like me to find. So, you can assume that I go on these strolls whenever I can. Along my frequent escapades, I have stumbled upon quaint niche cafés that offer not just palatable coffee blends but also atmospheres that are perfect for friendly catch-ups, intimate dates, or reading— whether alone or with other bookish friends. If you are a bookworm looking for your next favorite reading spot, here are my recommendations for five must-visit community cafés in Marikina that every bookworm should check out.

1. Kape Benito Community Cafe

First on my list, the apple of my eye, the light of my life, is Kape Benito Community Café. It’s my favorite because it’s the one closest to where I live, right at the center of the city, with a great ambiance and good coffee. My favorite time to visit is in the late afternoon because the white walls and minimalist design look their best, giving off a refreshing vibe when the sun is up but not scorching hot.

The gravel courtyard, paired with lush potted plants and a black umbrella-shaded seating area, creates a modern feel. I love reading here during this time because there are fewer people after lunch, though it does get crowded at night.

As for their coffee, I highly recommend Woop’s Latte, but my new favorite is Kiko’s Salted Kreme Special with oat milk. Oh, and I also tried their Rose Pasta, which I loved. The prices of their coffee are affordable and pretty reasonable. They also host fun activities occasionally, like coffee-making workshops, watch parties, and more.

Kape Benito Community Café is located at 48 Sparrow St., Sta. Elena, Marikina City, and is open daily from 12 PM to 10 PM.

2. Casitas Café

This next one is for the anik-anik freaks. Casitas Café is one of my favorite discoveries because the street where it’s located is very residential, so you wouldn’t expect a café to be here. What’s interesting is that the café seems to be part of the owner’s house so you’re literally lounging in someone’s home.

The interior feels just as domestic, making you feel right at home, with all the organized clutter looking like a Ghibli film in the flesh.

As for their coffee, I highly recommend their Toffee nut blend, it’s one of the best drinks I’ve had in a while. To say that their Toffee nut blend is my Roman Empire is an understatement.

What makes this café even more exciting is that they stay open until 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, making it the perfect place if you’re pulling an all-nighter for school or work.

You can find Casitas Café at #3 SW Dao St., Marikina Heights, Marikina City, 1810.

They’re open on:

• Sun, Mon, Wed, Thurs: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Fri, Sat: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM

• Closed on Tuesdays

3. Agimat : Kape + Kultura

I have a soft spot for this next one—Agimat: Kape + Kultura—because my first impression and experience with it were unforgettable.

I had just come home from the media launch of this year’s Philippine Book Festival when I decided to explore new cafés to include in this list. I opened my maps app, looked for pins tagged as coffee shops or cafés in my area, and Agimat was one of the places that popped up. So, I went out and started walking.

Agimat was hard to find because it’s literally hidden in an alley. Arriving there felt like a reward. It was already evening, and there were only a few people, so when I ordered, I had the chance to chat with the owner and the barista.

The concept of the café was amazing. There were all sorts of trinkets and weird stuff—even the menu was quirky, definitely a conversation piece. When I ordered, I laughed because the name of my coffee was “Walang Katapusang Spanish Latte.” Hearing me laugh made the owner and the barista giggle too.

While I was there, the owner was doing research and development for a menu update, brewing a new drink. He was kind enough to let me try it for free. Needless to say, you can feel the passion behind this café—not just in the way they run the business, and connect with their community but also in how they serve great coffee.

You can find Agimat: Kape + Kultura at 2 Kapt. Antonio, Marikina, 1800 Metro Manila, Marikina City, Philippines.

They’re open:

• Daily: 5 PM – 11 PM

• Weekend mornings: 7 AM – 11 AM

4. 1990 Cafe

For someone born in the late '90s, 1990 Café already sounds enticing. I had heard about it once or twice before finally visiting. From what I saw online, it seemed like the kind of café that would be on the main road, easily accessible to people—but no, this one is another community café tucked away inside a quiet neighborhood.

I visited in the afternoon and was the only customer, making it the perfect place to read. The atmosphere was cool and crisp, and the peaceful setting made it easy to get lost in a book.

The industrial, masculine design adds to the calm and cozy vibe, creating a space that feels both stylish and inviting. From what I’ve gathered, this café is actually more popular at night.

I ordered the Salted Caramel Latte, and it was absolutely delectable. I’d definitely come back here to read.

You can find 1990 Café at 144 Dragon Street, San Roque, Marikina City, 1801.

They’re open:

• Tuesday – Saturday: 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Sunday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM

5. Layman’s Café

Finally, we have Layman’s Café. This one was recommended by a friend and is probably the most aesthetically pleasing café on this list. It was also the last café I visited, the one that completed this roundup.

Last Saturday, I attended Layman’s Café’s open mic event, "Powered by Women," in celebration of International Women’s History Month to support a friend who was invited to perform—Salomé, who frequents performing at Layman’s.

Follow her:

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The café’s exterior was artistic and vibrant, featuring artworks and a nook for ukay. Inside, the tatami chairs, low tables, and thoughtfully decorated spaces made every corner Instagram-worthy.

I didn’t get the chance to explore their drinks as much—I only ordered a Spanish Latte—but the vibes completely won me over. I definitely have to go back and try more of their menu. From what I’ve seen online, Layman’s Café offers a wide variety of drinks, and it’s clearly attracting a lot of creatives and regular patrons. I enjoyed my time here and can’t wait to return.

You can find Layman’s Café at 53 Dragon St., San Roque, Marikina City

Open Daily:

• Wed–Mon: 1 PM – 12 AM

• Tues: 4 PM – 12 AM

Final Thoughts

Marikina’s community cafés aren’t just places to grab coffee—they’re hidden gems that offer cozy spaces for bookworms to read, relax, and connect. Whether you enjoy cafés with open mics, trinkets, ukays, or quirky events, there’s a spot that feels just right for you.

If you’re looking for your next reading nook, these cafés are must-visits. Who knows? You might just find a new favorite corner to sip coffee and get lost in a book.

An Unexpected Invitation

I received a message on Instagram last week from a book content creator, itsme_sundayy, asking if I had received an invite for the Philippine Book Festival 2025. I didn’t think much of it since I had attended last year’s festival on my own. But the question felt a bit out of place, especially since the festival wasn’t until March. So I simply replied, "Hello! Wala pa po."

To my surprise, the invite wasn’t for the festival itself but for its media launch, and I was being asked to be one of its ambassadors.

Meeting Fellow Book Ambassadors

That weekend, I met up with Sunday and a few other book content creators for an interview with MNLtoday. In between takes, we talked about the festival, our experiences as book content creators, and the growing local literary scene. I had the chance to chat with katonthejellicoe, one-half of the Akdang Pinoy project, which highlights local books; si_geloooo, a student who also runs a BookTok account and is passionate about local literature; and _giasantos, the founder of BookSpine PH and REKO, as well as a dedicated book enthusiast.

The Philippine Book Festival 2025 Media Launch

The Philippine Book Festival 2025 Media Launch was held at Pardon My French, and I arrived early while the organising team was still setting up. A few familiar faces were already there—Sunday, along with Air Urquiola from MNLtoday.PH, who had interviewed us the previous weekend. Soon, more content creators arrived, and Sunday introduced us to some of the key people behind the event.

We got to meet Randy Valiente, winner of the 2024 National Book Award for Best Graphic Novel in Filipino for Sining Killing!, as well as Sam Oh, the event’s host, and Charisse Aquino-Tugade, Executive Director of the National Book Development Board (NBDB). They took the time to introduce themselves and chat with us, which made the whole experience feel even more special.

A Surprise Encounter with Ricky Lee

Before heading upstairs, we were introduced to National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, Ricky Lee. He talked about how he had come across BookTok and book bloggers, mentioning how his most recent book, Kalahating Bahaghari, had been featured in a BookTok video that led to a spike in sales. He shared how much he appreciated the role we played in promoting literature, which was both surreal and deeply encouraging to hear.

After that, we made our way to registration, received loot bags with two books each, and headed upstairs to get a better view of the event.

The Festival’s Journey and Growth

The event kicked off with Charisse Aquino-Tugade sharing the history of the festival—how it started, the challenges it faced, and how it evolved despite having no initial funding. She explained how the industry shifted from being dominated by 90% Western books to now having billions of Filipino books procured and made available across all regions of the country, thanks to government support.

Hearing about this transformation was genuinely inspiring. Based on my experience, finding local books—whether in traditional bookstores or libraries—has always been a struggle. Now, with digital access and festivals like this, Filipino literature is reaching more people. Even though the Philippine Book Festival is only in its fourth year, it’s already gaining incredible traction.

Next, Ricky Lee shared a message of support for the festival. He joked that, as an author, when sales weren’t doing well or when he saw his books hidden in bookstores, he and his assistant would move them to more visible spots on the shelves before leaving. And now, here he was at an event dedicated entirely to local books and Filipino authors—something that would have seemed impossible before.

Can Filipino Stories Change the World?

The panel featured:

• Mina V. Esguerra, founder of RomanceClass, a community that grew out of a free writing class she started in 2013 to encourage Filipino readers of chick lit and contemporary romance to write and publish their own stories.

• Edgar Calabia Samar, a poet, novelist, and professor who has received the Philippine National Book Awards and Palanca Awards. He is best known for his novel series, Si Janus Silang.

• Randy Valiente, a renowned artist and writer in the Filipino comics industry, best known for his graphic novel Sining Killing!, which won the 2024 National Book Award for Best Graphic Novel in Filipino.

Each panelist shared their perspectives on how Filipino storytelling shapes local and global narratives. The discussion was engaging, and each speaker brought a unique viewpoint from their respective genres.

Unveiling the Festival’s Key Visual

After the panel, the festival’s key visual was introduced, showcasing the collaborative work of four artists: Juno Abreu, Paul Eric Roca, Danielle Florendo, and Pepot Atienza. Each artist came from different regions in the country and incorporated their cultural roots into the artwork. The final piece featured characters inspired by various local festivals, reflecting the rich diversity of Philippine traditions and folklore.

The artists spoke about their creative processes, the challenges of working together despite their drastically different styles, and the importance of collaboration in bringing Filipino stories to life.

A Closing Discussion on the Future of Filipino Literature

The final panel brought together all the speakers for a reflective conversation. While the questions were just as deep as in the earlier discussion, the atmosphere remained lighthearted.

The key takeaway? Filipinos love literature, but accessibility remains a challenge.

Charisse Aquino-Tugade emphasized the need for a "third space"—a place outside work and home where people can immerse themselves in literature and learning. She stressed the importance of creating environments that allow Filipinos to fully embrace reading and storytelling.

Edgar Calabia Samar spoke about the passion readers have for books, saying, "If we truly love something, we will do everything to support it." He emphasized the need to normalize reading in public spaces and to cultivate a culture where books are a natural part of everyday life.

Wrapping Up the Event

The event concluded with a delicious lunch courtesy of Pardon My French. Between bites, we had lively conversations with fellow book content creators, took lots of pictures, and celebrated our shared love for literature.

Thinking back, it still feels incredible to have been part of something like this—especially with Pinoy Page Turners still in its early days. Getting an inside look at events like this and meeting so many inspiring people? It’s the kind of experience that makes everything even more exciting.

Join Us at the Philippine Book Festival 2025!

Pinoy Page Turners has always been about putting Filipino books, authors, artists, and creators in the spotlight—connecting readers with the stories that deserve to be heard. Being part of this event was truly special.

At the launch, I met inspiring authors, bonded with fellow book ambassadors, added more books to my collection, and enjoyed great food. But the celebration isn’t over yet—there’s still so much more to experience!

Come and be part of the Philippine Book Festival on March 13-16, 2025, at Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall. Let’s celebrate local stories together. See you there!

#PhilippineBookFestival #PBF2025 #MagbasaTayo #AklatParaSaLahat #NBDB

A few months ago, I received a reader’s copy of Sojourn by CJ Edmunds, sent by the author himself in exchange for an honest review. While I intended to dive into it immediately, life’s demands delayed my plans. Once I finally found the time, I eagerly began reading. Sojourn is a novella and prequel to the Dark District series. It follows David Lansing, a half-Filipino call centre trainer, who wakes up in an otherworldly realm filled with mythological creatures. David faces relentless pursuit from an unknown adversary while trying to navigate this mysterious new world. Thankfully, he finds a guide who helps him along the way. Published in 2023 by Spine Books, the 159-page paperback introduces an intriguing premise within the urban fantasy genre.

First Impressions

The title, Sojourn, aptly reflects the transient nature of the protagonist’s journey. By definition, a “sojourn” refers to a temporary stay, mirroring David’s experience in this surreal realm. The cover, designed by Meili Merin, effectively captures the novella’s ethereal and dreamlike atmosphere. The design echoes the story’s tone, where events unfold like fleeting visions. While Dark District is rooted in urban fantasy, it takes a unique approach by delving into the astral plane, a rarely explored concept in Philippine literature. The novella’s dark academia undertones and its depiction of governing bodies overseeing fantastical elements set it apart. Although the idea of such structures isn’t entirely new, CJ Edmunds offers a fresh take on it, lending the story its distinct charm.

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Strengths of the Story

One of the novella’s standout aspects is Edmunds’ deep exploration of Filipino mythology. The author enriches well-known mythological creatures with detailed lore and origin stories, presenting them in an innovative and engaging manner. This depth of storytelling feels like a first in Philippine urban fantasy, making it all the more compelling. The Council and the organisation governing the Dark District add another layer of intrigue, though their presence is limited, leaving the reader wanting more.

Edmunds’ first-person narrative style provides a lens into the protagonist’s inner world, offering rich introspection and expository detail. However, this focus on David’s internal journey sometimes diminishes the sense of immediate danger or conflict. That said, the author’s foreword clarifies his intentions: the story is centred on the pain and healing of losing a parent. While I haven’t personally experienced this kind of grief, the narrative’s genuine emotional core is evident. Edmunds’ exploration of themes such as grief, parenthood, queerness, and the astral plane speaks to a specific audience, and while it may not fully resonate with every reader, it offers much to appreciate.

Personal Reflections

Despite its fantastical setting, it feels deeply personal, particularly in its dialogue and narrative tone. However, as someone who prefers stories that ground characters in their surroundings and interactions, I found the introspection-heavy approach less engaging at times. The lack of immediate, external tension made the plot feel more contemplative than action-driven. Still, I recognise that Sojourn speaks to a demographic or emotional state I don’t yet share, but that doesn’t take away from its craftsmanship.

About CJ Edmunds

CJ Edmunds is a voice actor by day and an author by night, chronicling the stories of the Dark District inspired by his vivid imagination. Formerly a radio personality, he brings his rich creative background into his work. Edmunds also hosts the Urban Fantasy PH podcast, promoting local creators across various mediums, from literature to comics. A dedicated cosplayer, singer-songwriter, and fan of multiple fandoms, he channels his passions into everything he creates.

In addition to Sojourn, Edmunds has authored Take Me Now, the first full-length entry in the Tales from the Dark District series, which was recently showcased as part of the Philippine delegation to the 2024 Frankfurt Book Festival. His multifaceted creative pursuits and genuine love for storytelling shine through in his work, inviting readers to explore the rich worlds he builds.

For more reviews of Filipino literature, visit Pinoy Page Turners. Authors interested in having their books reviewed can reach out via email at pinoypageturners@gmail.com.

The Philippine International Comics Festival (PICOF) 2024 was an exciting, immersive weekend into the world of Filipino comics. Held on July 20-21 at The Podium Hall in Ortigas and organized by Komiket in collaboration with the National Book Development Board (NBDB), the festival showcased an impressive range of talent and creativity, drawing together artists, fans, and industry enthusiasts. It was more than just a showcase—it was a gathering of Filipino creators, celebrating the stories, art, and unique voices that make the local comics scene vibrant.

I’ve only been blogging about Filipino books for a few months, so when I received an invitation from Paolo Herras, the festival director and Komiket’s co-founder, I was both thrilled and a bit nervous. I had no idea what to expect. The invitation was extended to other book bloggers, and I decided to bring along my friend Daniella, who used to work for the NBDB and shares my love for Filipino literature. We planned to meet around 10 a.m., grab brunch nearby, and then head over to The Podium to explore what PICOF had in store.

We met at a mall near the venue and enjoyed a casual brunch before heading to the festival. Our meal of yang chow rice, tofu skewers, and cucumber juice gave us the energy we’d need for the day ahead. As soon as we arrived, it became clear that this was no ordinary comics event. The hall was alive with color and creativity, with stalls filled with intricate illustrations, charming stickers, and various "anik-aniks" that were hard to resist. It was almost overwhelming; every table seemed to offer something new and unique, and it was all so enticing that I could have easily blown through my budget in minutes. I couldn’t resist capturing the moment, taking plenty of photos, some of which I later shared on my Instagram.

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When it came to the comics themselves, there was a fantastic range of titles and styles on display. A few books caught my eye right away, such as In the Jaws of Saint Camillus and Sa Wala, which seemed to offer a mix of thought-provoking themes and storytelling styles. This was only my second big event—my first was the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) earlier in the year—so I knew what to expect in terms of budgeting. I had come prepared with enough funds to buy a handful of titles and some artwork, and I wasn’t disappointed. By the end of the day, I’d picked up at least ten new titles and a couple of prints from local artists, each one a small piece of the creativity that filled the venue.

One of the best parts of the event was meeting some of the artists and creators whose work I’d admired from afar. There’s something inspiring about seeing the faces behind the work and getting to chat with them briefly. It was also wonderful to run into familiar faces from my book club and fellow bloggers from the “Talk Bookish to Me” community. These interactions added a personal touch to the festival experience, reinforcing the sense of connection within the Filipino literary and comic scene. Each conversation reminded me how much passion and dedication goes into creating these comics, making each purchase feel that much more meaningful.

Around noon, Daniella and I took a break to recharge at Ramen Nagi, enjoying a hot bowl of ramen after a morning filled with excitement and discoveries. We capped off our afternoon with coffee, reflecting on all the stories, art, and people we’d encountered throughout the day.

PICOF 2024 wasn’t just a festival; it was a celebration of the Filipino comics community and the creativity that makes it special. The event highlighted how comics in the Philippines are becoming a powerful medium for storytelling, tackling complex themes and resonating with local audiences. Events like this aren’t just about buying comics—they’re about supporting the creators and connecting with a community that values the beauty and potential of Filipino storytelling. I left PICOF feeling inspired and grateful for the experience, excited to dive into the new stories I’d brought home and to continue supporting the vibrant Filipino comics scene.

Upon entering, you’re transported to a rustic countryside retreat. With its vintage knick-knacks, lush greenery, and cozy décor, the ambiance feels like a hidden garden—minus any unwelcome critters. It's an enchanting backdrop that allows you to unwind, enjoy a leisurely meal, and soak in the calming atmosphere.

For seating, you have two inviting options. You can dine indoors, enjoying the refreshing air-conditioned comfort, or opt for al fresco dining. My friend and I chose to sit outside, where sunlight filters through the trees, creating a pleasant, natural atmosphere. Many patrons prefer this outdoor option, and it’s easy to see why; the open-air experience adds an extra layer of charm.

Adding to its appeal, Rustic Mornings features art installations crafted by the owners, adorning various corners and walls. These unique pieces create a visually rich dining space, giving the place an artistic and personal touch. And if you’d like to take a piece of this artistry home, just ask the friendly staff at the counter—they’re happy to assist.

Of course, the food itself is a highlight. Rustic Mornings offers a diverse menu with hearty Filipino and international options. We tried the Filipino platter, a generous spread with rice, eggs, bangus, beef tapa, tomatoes, and sausages. Each element was expertly prepared, and the portion was more than ample for two. The quality of the ingredients and the care put into each dish made it truly satisfying.

Overall, Rustic Mornings by Isabelo delivers an exceptional dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot, a serene brunch, or just a break from city life, this place has you covered. If you’re in Marikina, it’s a must-visit spot that promises to refresh and delight.

Growing up as an avid reader with a penchant for foreign literature, I often dismissed local books as archaic, difficult to read, or riddled with clichés. However, I later decided to give Filipino literature a chance and became a content creator focused on documenting my personal experiences exploring this genre to share with my community. This led me to the Philippine Book Festival 2024—my first book festival—where I unexpectedly discovered a newfound passion for local literature.

A Shift in Perspective

Normally a homebody uninterested in huge gatherings, I decided to step out of my little bubble in search of new experiences and connections. Starting my blog gave me the push I needed, and I initially thought attending the festival would simply provide content. What I didn’t expect was how much I would genuinely enjoy it. The festival highlighted how Filipino literature brings people together and fosters a budding yet formidable readership in the country, especially among younger generations, underscoring the importance of continuing such events for the future.

Pre-Festival Preparations

To ease the anxiety of attending such a large event alone, I met up with Carein, a college friend who shares my love for books, hours before arriving at the venue. We caught up over coffee in Cubao, reminiscing about old times and updating each other on our recent happenings. After our caffeine fix, we boarded the train to Taft and then took a ride to the World Trade Center in Pasay. Although I usually avoid long commutes due to my tendency to get car sick and Manila’s notorious traffic, the journey was well worth the discomfort. The excitement of the festival made the trip feel shorter and the stress of commuting faded away.

A Thrilling Arrival

Arriving at the World Trade Center in Pasay was exhilarating from the moment we stepped through the doors. The venue, a vast expanse I had never visited before, was filled with vibrant energy and bustling activity. Rows of booths from publishing houses, independent publishers, and literary collectives stretched endlessly, each adorned with eye-catching displays and captivating book covers. The air crackled with the buzz of conversations, the rustle of pages, and the resonant voices of authors speaking over the microphone. Navigating through the maze of booths, Carein and I felt momentarily disoriented, unsure where to start. Despite being the third day of the festival, the venue was alive with mini-events, book signings, and an overwhelming sensory experience.

Memorable Moments and Encounters

Several standout moments marked my time at the festival. One was the surprise of being recognized by Diane, a fellow book blogger whose handle is @bookandthensome. Although we hadn’t interacted much before, we were both a book club member of Talk Bookish To Me PH and part of the blog tour for Brian Zantua’s debut novel, Stories from an Undisciplined Heart. As a relatively new book blogger, it was incredibly validating to meet someone who shared my passion for literature. We snapped a quick photo and had a brief chat before going our separate ways.

Another highlight was meeting Kadi Serafica, the author of The Awakening (Volume One of Alamat: A History of the Awakened), published by PaperKat. Having just finished reading the book, which the author had generously sent me, I was genuinely excited. Meeting an author whose work I admired was a thrill, and I couldn’t help but feel like a fanboy in the best possible way.

Quite frankly, I hadn’t prepared financially for the festival, as my initial goal was simply to enjoy the experience. However, I felt compelled to purchase a few items. I bought a supplementary book from Kadi Serafica’s Alamat Series, titled Behind the Veil, along with captivating artworks: an illustration of "The Birth of Venus" by @illustrationsbyalissa and a vibrant Manila street scene by @mariusblackarts. Despite my initial planning oversight, these purchases were a perfect way to commemorate the festival.

Reflections on a Day Well Spent

A few hours in, Carein and I were already feeling exhausted, but we pushed on to explore as many booths as we could before heading to dinner in Parqal. Even after we got home, the day’s excitement lingered. The festival, organized by the National Book Development Board and other supporters, highlighted the potential of collaborative efforts to revive reading in a time of declining literacy. As I got into bed that night, I couldn’t shake the feeling that if we keep this momentum going, we might just rekindle the nation’s love for books.