Legarda Supports PH Participation in 2016 Frankfurt Book Fair

Senator Loren Legarda strongly supports this year's official participation of the Philippines in the world's largest trade fair for books, the Frankfurt Book Fair, on October 19-23, 2016.

"I am glad that we are able to participate again in the Frankfurt Book Fair. This is a good opportunity for the Philippines not only to promote our publishing industry in the global arena but also to showcase the world-class talents of our Filipino writers and the gems of Filipino literature, espousing our rich culture and traditions," said Legarda.

Annually held in Frankfurt, Germany, the Frankfurt Book Fair remains to be the most important marketplace for publishers, authors, literary agents, media professionals, illustrators, and book and trade associations to negotiate their publishing and licensing rights.

Remarkably, the Philippines has been chosen to share an overview of its markets on books at the pre-fair conference, The Markets: Global Publishing Summit 2016, along with six other countries - Brazil, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, United Kingdom, and United Arab Emirates. The situation of our country's publishing industry, deemed as vibrant and complex, shall be presented to 300 publishing and media executives from over 20 countries by one of the representatives of our National Book Development Board (NBDB), Karina Bolasco.

Meanwhile, Ani Rosa Almario, President of the Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP) and Alvin Juban, President and Chairman of the Game Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP) will present the vision of the book publishing industry. Ms. Almario will share upcoming developments and new trends in the book publishing industry, while Mr. Juban will tackle how book publishing is crossing over from print to applications and games.

"I am proud that the Philippines was recognized to share the overview of our market on book industry in a Summit set forth for inspiring presentations, profound exchange of ideas and networking opportunities. This is a good opportunity for cultural diplomacy," the Senator said.

Legarda, however, noted that there are several challenges in our book industry, especially in terms of book production as our country ranks at the bottom among nations in Asia-Pacific region despite the fact that our population has a reading-oriented and well-educated youth.

With the Philippines represented at the Frankfurt Book Fair, Legarda is hopeful that this will stimulate greater international interest and attention in our local literature and publishing industry.