Philippine Stand rises in Frankfurt; Legarda: Our stories speak with one soul

“Almost a decade ago, we arrived with a modest booth and a flicker of hope. Today, the Filipino imagination stands at the center of the world’s largest book fair.”

With these words, Senator Loren Legarda set the tone for the Philippines’ historic role as Guest of Honour at the opening of the Philippine Stand at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025. Her message offered a strong reflection on the country’s literary journey, from early hopes to global presence.

Legarda, who is the visionary and project principal of this milestone, spoke of the writers, publishers, translators, designers, and cultural workers whose collective labor built the Philippine Stand.

“This stand represents more than books. It represents the ecosystem of creativity that builds the soul of our nation,” she said.

Books authored by and supported through Legarda’s initiatives will be featured at the Philippine Stand. These titles reflect the Senator’s enduring commitment to cultural preservation and inclusive storytelling. Among the works on display are Hunting for Artifacts, Cordillera Heritage, Journey to Climate Resilience, Himig Himbing, Lemlunay (in both hardbound and paperback editions), Dayaw, Everyday Culture Volume 2, Panagway, Badbad, Pagdahu Ka Surundun, From the Seas to the Mountains, the Philippine Studies Book, and AFP in the Humanitarian Space.

Legarda emphasized that the Filipino imagination, through these books, is not confined to genre or geography.

“It peoples the air, crosses oceans, and continues to grow and adapt to different tongues and forms. Despite differences in discipline or belief, our storytellers speak with one voice, one soul.” the senator declared.

Her message also included a reminder to stay aware of those outside the celebration.

“Even as we celebrate this proud moment, we remain mindful of the many lives beyond these halls, farmers, families, and communities still striving for justice, resilience, and dignity,” she said.

Closing with a line from the national anthem, Legarda affirmed the symbolic power of the Philippine Stand: “Ang kislap ng watawat mo’y tagumpay na nagniningning.” She invited the global community to engage with Philippine literature more than as art, but as a force for connection and transformation.