Mika Salamanca couldn’t hold back her tears. “Mahika is me. Ako po siya. Kabuuhan siya ng mga pinagdaanan ko mula pagkabata,” the Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition winner shared, her voice quivering as she read passages from her new children’s book before entertainment media on Sept. 1.
She paused several times, overcome with emotion. The book, which she describes as a fairy tale for kids and grown-ups alike, mirrors her life experiences, insecurities, and lessons learned, making the moment intensely personal.
children’s book ‘Lipad’
“I poured everything into this. That’s why it touches me deeply,” she told Manila Standard Entertainment. While Lipad speaks to children, Mika crafted it so adults can discover meaning and inspiration too. “It’s for kids. Yet whenever you read it—whatever season of life you’re in, you can find something valuable.”
The story tackles fears and challenges and the courage to leave comfort zones, face the unknown, and navigate life’s twists.
“As life unfolds, you learn and grow. If you feel lost, like me right now, this story can offer guidance and hope,” the Aguila Entertainment talent explained.
For Mika, writing children’s books flows from experience. “It comes from what I observe, feel, and live. This is my heart, something I give fully,” she said.
Her passion began in childhood, filling journals with dreams and letters to family. “My sister noticed how I remembered details everyone else forgot. She encouraged me to capture everything, and my family always believed in me,” she recalled.
With Lipad, Mika achieves another milestone. From winning the landmark season of PBB Celebrity Collab Edition to releasing her single “Sino Nga Ba Sya?,” she now adds author to her accomplishments.
Lipad tells the story of Mahika, a young fairy who feels different because her wings are small and unique. The story encourages children to embrace their individuality, find confidence, and soar with their own wings.
“I want kids to know they are beautiful, valuable, and capable of anything when they believe in themselves,” Mika said.
Aware of social media’s influence on young minds, Mika aims to guide children through a world of curated, idealized images. She continues her advocacy for children and senior citizens, planning to donate copies of Lipad to charities nationwide.
The book will debut at the Manila International Book Fair 2025, featuring a reading and signing session. Limited copies will be available at PaperKat Books Booth #2-122, SMX Convention Center, Pasay, Sept. 10 to 14.
