The Philippines joins the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) 2025, bringing a vibrant delegation of writers and publishers to the event from April 26 to May 5 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). As reported by Gulf Today, the country’s participation focuses on promoting Philippine literature and highlighting Filipino children’s books to a wider global audience.

Through a strong public-private partnership (PPP), the Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP) leads the preparations, while the National Book Development Board (NBDB) heads the official 10-member delegation. Established in 1995 under the Department of Education, the NBDB has long carried the responsibility of growing the Philippine book publishing industry.

Expanding Global Reach Through Filipino Children’s Books

The NBDB organized a delegation that includes a diverse lineup of publishing houses such as Milflores Publishing, Anvil Publishing, University of the Philippines Press, Rex Education, ABC Educational Development Center, Central Books, and J. Silvers Publishing. Each participant carries the mission of bringing Philippine stories to the world, with a special focus on promoting Filipino children’s books and nurturing new opportunities for cross-cultural literary exchange.

One of the primary goals at ADIBF 2025 is to develop partnerships for the translation of Philippine works into Arabic. This move aims to open doors for Filipino stories to reach readers across the Middle East and North Africa. The Philippine delegation envisions a deeper connection between Filipino culture and Arabic-speaking communities through this effort.

The Translation Subsidy Programme plays a key role in this initiative. Launched in 2023, the program supports foreign publishers who acquire the rights to translate Philippine books. This support system encourages the growth of translated works, including Filipino children’s books, ensuring that younger audiences abroad can experience Philippine storytelling firsthand.

Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025: A Cultural Gathering

The ADIBF 2025 embraces the theme “Knowledge Illumines Our Community,” signaling the fair’s dedication to promoting cultural exchange and knowledge sharing. With 96 countries participating, alongside 87 government entities, 15 universities, and 13 self-publishers, the event marks a grand celebration of literature.

The UAE also pays tribute to the 1,000th anniversary of Ibn Sina’s “The Canon of Medicine,” honoring a milestone in Arab heritage. The fair’s celebration of literary history aligns with the Philippines’ aim to broaden its international ties through storytelling.

The Gulf Today article emphasizes that the Philippines’ presence at ADIBF 2025 strengthens its commitment to building a global platform for its authors, illustrators, and publishers. The government and private sector collaboration demonstrates a united front in bringing Philippine literature, especially Filipino children’s books, to new readers.

By stepping onto the world stage in Abu Dhabi, the Philippine delegation continues to champion the country’s literary talent, promote cultural understanding, and create meaningful exchanges across borders.