The Philippines is set to participate once again in one of Asia's most significant gatherings for children's literature this May. A delegation of writers, illustrators, and educators will represent the country at the 2026 Asian Festival of Children's Content (AFCC), scheduled from May 21 to 24 at the National Library in Singapore.
AFCC 2026: A Platform for Asian Children's Content
Now in its 16th year, the AFCC brings together creators, publishers, educators, translators, and media professionals from across the region. This year's theme, "The Worlds We Make," resonates deeply with Filipino creators, who draw inspiration from over a hundred languages, more than seven thousand islands, and the diverse childhood experiences that define life in the Philippines.
The festival is recognized as one of Asia's foremost platforms for children's literature and young adult (YA) fiction. It offers a comprehensive program that includes panel discussions, presentations, workshops, lectures, masterclasses, and networking sessions, all aimed at creating and appreciating quality children's content rooted in Asian experiences and narratives.
Filipino Delegation and Their Contributions
The Philippine delegation consists of grantees under the National Book Development Board's (NBDB) Children's Creative Nation Grant (CNG). This program supports Filipino creators in developing stories for children and young adults while building connections within the regional publishing community.
- Angela B. Napeñas will participate in the panel "Anthropomorphism & Learning to Care: Building Nature Stewardship Through Animal Stories" on May 21. The panel explores how animal characters can help young readers understand nature and environmental responsibility.
- Kristin Garanchon will lead a workshop titled "Worldbuilding for Picture Books: From Concept Sketch to Narrative Universe" on May 21, focusing on building cohesive story worlds through illustration and narrative design.
- Tori Tadiar will take part in several sessions on May 23, including the "Illustrator's Portfolio Review," "Worlds of Fantasy Comics," and "Young Heroes Claiming Old Myths: Big Worlds, Bravery, and Fantasy for Kids." These sessions explore Philippine fantasy comics, folklore, mythology, and young heroes in children's literature.
NBDB's Vision for Philippine Children's Literature
NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade emphasized the significance of the delegation's participation. "Every time Filipino creators take their work to an international stage like AFCC, they are doing more than presenting their books. They are making the case that our stories have always had something distinct and necessary to say, and that the next generation of readers, here and across Asia, deserves to encounter them," she said.
NBDB Director Maria Carolina Tapia will also represent the Philippines in an industry sharing and networking session on the international children's content landscape on May 23. "Filipino children's stories carry the richness of our islands, languages, and lived experiences. Through AFCC 2026, we hope to bring these stories to more readers, publishers, and partners across the region, and affirm the place of Philippine children's literature in the wider Asian and global publishing landscape," Tapia stated.
Growth of Philippine Children's Book Sector
The NBDB noted that the country's participation in AFCC 2026 reflects the continued growth of the Philippine children's book sector, which remains one of the most active and widely read segments of local publishing. Through classrooms, libraries, homes, and translation initiatives, Filipino children's books continue to reach young readers in the Philippines and abroad.
Participation in AFCC offers Filipino creators an opportunity to present Philippine children's content to a broader regional audience and strengthen their presence in the global publishing landscape. The NBDB continues to support Filipino authors, illustrators, publishers, and creatives through programs that expand the reach of Philippine literature for children and young adults.
For updates on AFCC 2026, visit the official festival website or follow NBDB's official platforms.
