Don’t miss these indie publishers at MIBF 2025
Indie publishers are expanding the horizons of Philippine literature with their artistic, social, and cultural pieces that showcase an array of genres and voices from rising authors. Their works are something you shouldn’t miss at this year’s Manila International Book Fair happening from Sept. 10 to 14 at SMX Convention Center Manila. And when you get into their pages, they just might earn a spot on your bookshelves.
19th Avenida Publishing House
What sets Avenida Books apart from other publishers is its strong emphasis on themes of identity, community, and progressiveness.
This year, Avenida Books, which is behind “Trese: Shadow Agents” by Budjette Tan, is bringing nine new titles including “Team Building” (Eskinita Novella) by Siege Malvar, “Daddy” (Eskinita Novella) by Chuckberry J. Pascual, and “Agaw-Anino 2: Tagapagtala ng Tumatakas na Gunita” (Nobela) by Erik Guzman Pingol.
Balangay Books / Isang Balangay Media Productions
Launched in 2011 as a community-based publication, Balangay Books has expanded its mission, harnessing the potential of literature to bring local communities together through literature.
Several works from Balangay have received awards including, “Pilipinas Kong Mahal With All The Overcoat at Iba Pang Mga Dula” by Eljay Castro Deldoc and “El Árbol de la Alegría” by RM Topacio-Aplaon.
Available for the first time at MIBF is the expanded edition of Mikka Ann V. Cabangon’s “Duongan” that comes with a free hand-painted tote bag by Maya Leon with every purchase.
Milflores Books
From heartfelt memoirs and modern life essays to fresh spins on pop culture, Milflores Books titles are designed to spark fresh insights.
What to look out for at MIBF? “Rizal in Saga: A Life for Students” by Nick Joaquin and “Neither Fear Nor Favor: The Life and Legacy of Conchita Carpio Morales” by Jose Dalisay.
8Letters Bookstore and Publishing
Nine years in the making, 8Letters Bookstore and Publishing is more than its name. Whether you’re into indie gems or popular reads, 8Letters books has curated a diverse range of titles and genres that caters to all book lovers.
New releases to find at the fair include “Sari: Isang Dagling Novella” by Eve P. Antonio and Gerome Nicolas Dela Peña, “Pagbilang Kong Tatlo” by Wilbert Ross, and “A Pocket Full of Regrets” by Anjel Reyes, among others.
Tambayang Pambata Books
With books designed to inspire creativity, Tambayang Pambata Books is a perfect start for kids to dive into reading
This children’s print collection will feature book stories including “Ang Munting Prinsipe” (Student Edition) translated by Dr. Lilia F. Antonio; “Ang Sapot ni Charlotte” by E.B. White, translated by Pia Perez and Jose Monfred Sy; “Parangal Kay Tatay,” written by Nisce Kagaoan and illustrated by Lauren Wee.
