Asia Stage: Amplifying Asia’s Voice at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025

Books have the power to cross borders, carrying the voices, experiences, and cultures of those who create them. This capacity to bring people together takes center stage at the Asia Stage of the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025. From October 15 to 19, illustrators, writers, publishers, and thought leaders from across Asia will gather to share their stories, celebrate their craft, and showcase the richness and diversity of Asian literature to the world.

The Asia Stage is the vision of Rex Education, brought to life in partnership with Frankfurt Buchmesse and supported by the National Book Development Board. Its journey began in 2018 as the ASEAN Forum, evolved into the ASEAN Stage in 2019, and in 2024, it embraced its current identity: the Asia Stage. What began as a noble idea to highlight regional publishing has grown into a recognized platform, a stage where the depth of Asia’s literary voices can shine on the global scene. 

At the heart of this initiative is Atty. Dominador D. Buhain, Chairman and President of Rex Education. His lifelong passion for literature and publishing has guided this vision from the start. As a co-founder of the Asia Pacific Publishers Association and the ASEAN Book Publishers Association, he has long believed that the stories of Asia deserve a wider audience. Through this initiative, he has sought to open doors for publishers to share works that mirror their nations’ creativity, hopes, struggles, and resilience.

For REX, the Asia Stage has grown beyond a program. It has become a brand, a symbol of years of dedication to supporting Asian publishers and content creators at one of the world’s most important book fairs. 

This year, with the Philippines as Guest of Honor, the Asia Stage brings a deeper dimension to the country’s participation. It reminds us that Filipino literature is part of a much larger story—one that connects with the voices and visions of Asia. For 5 days, the Asia Stage will host conversations, panels, and presentations that explore the education landscape, the evolving world of publishing, and the many ways culture continues to shape and inspire the region’s literature. Through this collaboration, REX and Frankfurt Buchmesse renew their shared commitment to uplifting Asian stories and ensuring that these voices continue to be heard, seen, championed, and remembered.

As the Frankfurt Book Fair opens its doors, the Asia Stage will stand with much gratitude and pride, inviting the world to witness and listen. It is a reminder that stories carry power. They connect us, inspire us, and transform us. For 5 days, Asia will speak, and the world will listen. 

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝘀𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗥𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗙𝗮𝗶𝗿-𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗹𝗮 R𝗲𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗶𝘁𝘀 S𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 E𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, U𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 S𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 R𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 P𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴

Manila, Philippines – The National Book Development Board (NBDB), the Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP), and Primetrade Asia, Inc. opened the second Asian Rights Fair–Manila (ARF-MNL) 2025 today, 8 September, at the SMX Convention Center.

Under the theme Archipelago of Stories, the ARF-MNL is the first of its kind in the country, bringing together publishers, agents, and industry leaders from across Asia and beyond to explore translation opportunities, rights exchanges, and regional collaborations. It follows the Philippine publishing industry’s renewed efforts to strengthen ties within Asia, and comes as the country prepares to be Guest of Honour at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair, the world’s largest book fair.

In her welcome remarks, NBDB Executive Director and Philippines as Guest of Honour Project Co-Director Charisse Tugade emphasized the importance of stories crossing borders, noting that while “a Malaysian reader may rarely encounter Philippine works, and a Filipino student may not know the powerful voices from Indonesia, Thailand, or Central Asia, these stories—our stories—deserve to be shared.”

READ: https://books.gov.ph/the-asian-rights-fair-manila-returns-for-its-second-edition-urging-stronger-regional-ties-in-publishing/

Rex Education Offers FREE Books, Discounts, and Exciting Deals at MIBF 2023

Are you looking for budget-friendly quality books and educational materials? Rex Education has got you covered! As part of its continued participation in the renowned Manila International Book Fair (MIBF), this year, REX treats book lovers, young and adult learners, parents, educators, and other professionals with free tickets, exclusive discounts, promotions, and fun and exciting activities.

The 44th MIBF will be held from September 14–17, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM, at the SMX Convention Center Manila, which has become the fair’s home for many years. More than an event, MIBF is a platform for beneficial partnerships highlighting more than 200 local and international exhibitors, showcasing the largest and most comprehensive selection of books, educational resources, and engaging activities for everyone. It has been attended by more than 160,000 visitors consistently in the last 3 years—all gathered for one purpose—to celebrate books!

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time fan, getting entrance tickets is now a breeze. All you need to do is register with Rex Education through this link: http://bookfair.winposunlimited.com and save the e-ticket to enter the venue. Also, make sure to put Rex Education as the invitation source when you register. Registration is open until September 8, so sign up early and claim limited freebies, including free college books.

Along with freebies, REX will also provide exclusive discounts on storybooks, activity books, and educational materials, including bestsellers in Basic Education, Higher Education, and Law. Prepare your shopping list now and visit the REX booth as early as possible to get your much-needed books.

Moreover, you can seal great deals with REX's Bookay-Bookay, where you can avail of K–12 books for as low as PHP 50.00 and college books for PHP 100.00 or less. Take advantage of up to 50% discount on selected titles, and join the raffle to win additional prizes.

Yes, there’s more from REX! For extra fun and creative experiences, REX will also host a face painting activity to nurture the artistic expressions of your little explorers. A storytelling activity will also be featured to keep them entertained and engaged while learning. Lastly, what a great opportunity to capture memories through a roving photographer! So, celebrate books, visit the Rex Education booth, and satisfy your book cravings.
Championing lifelong learning at MIBF

MIBF is essential to Rex Education's advocacy of championing education. It offers an excellent opportunity for REX to spread its mission of nurturing every child for lifelong learning, inspiring every individual to advance oneself, uplifting others, and sustaining the environment for a better world. It has been a cherished tradition for REX to participate in the fair to provide access to more affordable, high-quality books and educational resources.

With the theme "Masterpieces of Human Civilization with UNESCO Highlights," this year's booth will be greatly inspired by and will feature 12 countries and their most significant contributions to human civilization, including artifacts and UNESCO tidbits. These countries are Iraq, India, Egypt, China, Mexico, Greece, Iran, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, the USA, and the Philippines.

The MIBF, the Philippines' largest and longest-running book fair, brings together local and international exhibitors, authors, and book lovers, celebrating books and collaborating and converging for the love of reading and learning.

For more updates on Rex Education's MIBF offers and promos, follow REX’s Facebook page and Instagram page, or visit the MIBF official website at www.manilabookfair.com. Stay tuned, and see you at the fair!

Here are the Best Filipino Books You can Score at the Aklatan Book Fair on Shopee

MANILA, JUNE 18, 2021 - Looking for new reads? After celebrating Independence Day just a few days ago, it only seems fitting to explore the abundance of Filipino books out there. Whatever genre you're into—be it self-help, adventure, or romance- there are plenty of brilliant local works to choose from. 

From June 19-21, you can check out the Aklatan Book Fair on Shopee to add local literature to your reading list. Even if you can’t visit in-person book fairs again just yet, you can still enjoy perusing a wide selection at the online book fair. The best part is, you can get discounts up to 90% off!

Support local authors by checking out the following titles: 

Enjoy tales of local mythology set in modern times. Go along with Alexandra Trese’s encounters with monsters and demons in Trese: Bloodlines, read Nick Joaquin’s fascinating anthologies on mythical creatures in May Tiktik sa Bubong, May Sigbin sa Silong, follow a steampunk quest set in a dystopian Intramuros in the comic book Incognito, and tag along an action-filled mythical adventure in Si Janus Silang at ang Pitumpu't Pitong Pusong.

In the mood for a lighthearted, feel-good read? Feel amused and touched by turns with a series of love stories in Para Kay B, enjoy a kilig-worthy high school romance in Ang Mutya ng Section E, and follow an ordinary girl’s journey to success in both her career and relationships in That Promdi Girl.

We could all do with a little guidance in life from time to time. Spruce up your cooking skills with Dishkarte sa Kusina, learn more about the psychology of money with Why Financial Education Alone Does Not Work, and take a little time to reflect by reading motivational speaker Francis Kong’s ruminations on family, work, and self-improvement in All That Matters.

Want to encourage your little ones to discover the wonderful world of books? You’ll both enjoy a touching story of motherly love with Inay, Inaaay Ko!, learn more about sharing in Hating Kapatid, and recognize the value of hard work in Ang Langgam at Ang Tipaklong. 

Enjoy a series of creative works by local writers and artists with these picks. Komiks Cum Laude features works from 15 student creators from the Komiket Awards, while Sacada contains an experimental catalog of doodles, poetry, and quotes coupled with eccentric photographs.

For more amazing deals on books by local authors, visit the Aklatan Book Fair on Shopee this June 19-21. 

To enjoy more deals, don’t forget to top up your ShopeePay through debit card, online banking, TouchPay machines, and over-the-counter. Use ShopeePay at checkout to get 15% daily cashback and free shipping with a minimum spend of ₱199.

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

About Shopee

Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee connects shoppers, brands, and sellers across Asia and other fast-growing markets, empowering anyone to buy and sell anywhere and at any time. 

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. It offers a wide product assortment, supported by integrated payments and logistics, as well as popular entertainment features tailored for each market. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

Shopee is a part of Sea Limited (NYSE:SE), a leading global consumer internet company. In addition to Shopee, Sea’s other core businesses include its digital entertainment arm, Garena, and digital financial services arm, SeaMoney. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology.

About Shopee Mall

Shopee Mall is the region’s leading online mall offering one-stop access to a wide range of international and local brands and retailers. Shoppers can enjoy three guarantees delivered by Shopee Mall -- 100% authentic products, free returns and free shipping. With always-on deals, entertainment and a robust loyalty programme, Shopee Mall offers an unparalleled online shopping experience and best value all year round.

About ShopeePay

ShopeePay is an integrated mobile wallet that offers users easy access to digital payment services. Launched in the Philippines in 2019, ShopeePay enables a seamless shopping experience by allowing users to make online payments on Shopee, top-up their wallets, and transfer and withdraw funds.

ShopeePay makes it easier to shop and do business. It provides users with a convenient, secure, and rewarding payment option; it empowers businesses and helps them capture new opportunities. 

ShopeePay is part of SeaMoney, the digital financial services arm of Sea Group. A leading digital payments and financial services provider in Southeast Asia, SeaMoney’s mission is to better the lives of individuals and businesses in the region with financial services through technology.