THE Quezon City government is preparing for the four-day All aBoard Expo 2026 from May 28 to 31, an inclusive tabletop gaming event aimed at promoting skill-building and family engagement for all ages.
At a news conference, Quezon City Administrator Michael Alimurung said the Philippines’ premier tabletop gaming event is returning to the city following the success of last year’s expo.
“This is not only a form of games but creating a space for the family,” Alimurung said.
He noted that more than 10,000 people attended the 2025 edition, with over 6,000 participants coming from Quezon City.
“This year, we are expecting 15,000 attendees from Quezon City and participants from many other countries,” he added.
Alimurung said organizers plan to introduce new activities and experiences for participants.
“There’s really something new for everyone. We would love to have the expo frequently. Once a year is probably the best thing to do,” he said.
He also highlighted the growing popularity of board games during the pandemic and the city’s efforts to provide alternative learning and recreational opportunities for children.
“Our library is not only with physical location but also with digital location, online,” Alimurung said. “One of our objectives is to provide an opportunity to children to something different.”
Mayor Joy Belmonte underscored the importance of encouraging families to spend more time together indoors.
“There were over 10,000 attendees last year with 61 percent from Quezon City,” Belmonte said.
She added that board games are also being used in other countries to develop critical thinking skills.
“In South Korea, outdoor board games are used to sharpen critical thinking,” she said.
Giana Aira Barata, officer in charge of the city’s Tourism Department, said the event is expected to attract visitors and further promote Quezon City as a destination for cultural and recreational activities.
“It’s an accepted fact that if it’s a historical place, many are visiting the place,” Barata said.
Alimurung said the event would remain accessible to both residents and non-residents.
“It is free for all QCitizens and for non-residents. It’s not expensive,” he said.
Publishers and around 280 volunteers from the Quezon City Bayanihan portal will participate in the event to assist new players and visitors.
Hans Kenner Fernandez, president and chief executive officer of Gaming Library, said this year’s expo would carry the theme “Kalikasan.”
“Today marks a special day because All aBoard will evolve to something,” Fernandez said.
“This year’s theme is Kalikasan, which features five animals in the Philippines,” he added.
