Manila International Book Fair 2026 returns to Pasay this September

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 07, 2026

Photo courtesy: Manila International Book Fair

MANILA — The Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) is set to return this September, bringing together readers, authors, publishers, educators and book lovers for five days of books, learning, and literary activities.

MIBF 2026 will be held from September 9 to 13 at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City. The fair will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

This year’s theme, “Get Lit: Reading in a New Light,” highlights the changing ways people discover, experience and connect with books and stories.

More than 100 exhibitors are expected to participate in the event, featuring books, educational materials and other publications across a wide range of genres and interests. MIBF brings together publishers, bookstores, educational institutions, authors and other members of the Philippine book industry under one roof.

Aside from book exhibits and shopping, visitors can attend book launches, author signings, storytelling sessions, forums, workshops, performances and other activities scheduled throughout the five-day event.

The fair also serves as a platform for Filipino authors, publishers and creators to connect directly with readers while promoting local literature, literacy and lifelong learning.

Among the scheduled programs are discussions on Philippine collections and literature, children’s storytelling activities, book launches and panels exploring how Filipino books can be adapted across different forms of media.

For more than four decades, MIBF has grown into the country’s largest and longest-running book fair. Organizers say the event attracts more than 120,000 visitors annually, making it one of the biggest gatherings of the Philippine reading and publishing community.

General admission for MIBF 2026 is P50, while students, senior citizens and persons with disabilities with valid identification may avail themselves of a discounted P35 ticket.

The Manila International Book Fair 2026 runs from September 9 to 13 at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City.