The National Book Development Board (NBDB), in partnership with Aklat Alamid, is set to hold the first-ever Marawi Children’s Book Fest from June 27 to 29, 2025, at Mindanao State University in Marawi City.
The event aims to train authors, illustrators, and publishers in producing culturally rooted children’s books that reflect Meranaw traditions and language.
NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade emphasized the need for accessible quality books for Muslim Filipino children, citing low readership rates due to lack of access.
Aklat Alamid co-founder M.J. Cagumbay Tumamac (a.k.a. Xi Zuq) said the festival will guide creators in developing four Meranaw-language picture books for local readers.
The three-day festival will also feature storytelling sessions, discussions on Meranaw orthography, bibliotherapy, and a panel on peacebuilding.
With 150 expected participants, the hybrid-format event is a collaborative effort with MSU, the City Schools Division of Marawi, and other education partners in BARMM.
