Philippines selected as guest of honor at Frankfurt Book Fair 2025
For the first time in its 500-year history, the Philippines has been selected as the guest of honor at the Frankfurter Buchmesse (FBM), the world’s largest book fair, which will be held in 2025. This historic moment will shine a spotlight on the rich cultural and literary heritage of the Philippines, showcasing over 70 Filipino authors and publishers, as well as around 700 Filipino titles, including books and graphic novels.
The Philippines' participation is inspired by the legacy of national hero José Rizal, who famously published his influential novel Noli Me Tangere in Germany. The theme for the country’s guest of honor role is "The imagination peoples the air," reflecting the deep connection between literature, imagination, and cultural identity.
According to Francis Ang II, Chairperson of the National Book Development Board, this opportunity will promote the growth of the Philippine book industry while garnering international recognition. Victorino Manalo, Chairperson of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, emphasized that the guest of honor role will enable the Philippines to share its diverse stories, culture, and experiences through various art forms.
Art critic and curator Patrick Flores and publisher Karina Bolasco will lead the preparations for the Philippines' presence at the 2025 fair. Esteemed authors such as Budjette Tan and Jaya Jacobo will also support the effort. A dedicated program during the 2024 Frankfurt Book Fair will introduce Filipino creatives and publishers, with notable Filipino figures like Jose "Butch" Dalisay, journalist-author Patricia Evangelista, and historian Ambeth Ocampo scheduled to give talks.
In addition, romance novelist Mina Esguerra will be featured on the New Adult Stage, while award-winning illustrators Isabel Roxas and Frances Alvarez will participate in talks on the ART+ Stage. Following the book fair, there will be a special program in Heidelberg and Wilhelmsfeld to honor José Rizal as a writer, hero, and thinker during his time in exile.
The 2024 Frankfurt Book Fair is set to run from October 16 to 20, paving the way for the Philippines’ official guest of honor role in 2025.
