This February, the Philippine literary scene is buzzing as the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Filipino Critics Circle (FCC) reveal the winners of the 43rd National Book Awards.

Out of 385 submissions across 30 categories—spanning Filipino, English, Hiligaynon, and Kinaray-a—30 standout books have been chosen, celebrating the best in local publishing.

From poetry and fiction to art, food, lifestyle, and journalism, these works showcase just how rich, diverse, and vibrant Philippine literature truly is. With 139 finalists narrowed down to these top picks, the awards honor not only brilliant writing but also stunning book design.

Literary Division: Books You Need to Know

Here’s a peek at the literary gems that took home honors this year:

• Best Novel in English: Isabela by Kaisa Aquino (Ateneo de Manila University Press)

• Best Novel in Filipino: Antimarcos by Khavn (Ateneo de Manila University Press)

• Best Short Fiction in English: Sojourner, Settler, Seer by Charlson Ong (Milflores Publishing, Inc.)

• Best Short Fiction in Filipino: Tatlong Proposisyon ng Puting Hangin by Luna Sicat Cleto (Isang Balangay Media Productions)

• Best Nonfiction Prose in English: Weaving Basey: A Poet’s History of Home by Dinah Roma (Katig Writers Network, Inc.)

• Best Nonfiction Prose in Filipino: Tokhang at Iba Pang Nanlabang Sanaysay by Vim Nadera (University of the Philippines Press)

• Best Anthology in English: Mapping New Stars: A Sourcebook on Philippine Speculative Fiction edited by Gabriela Lee, Anna Felicia Sanchez, and Sydney Paige Guerrero (University of the Philippines Press)

• Best Anthology in Filipino: Ragasa: Apat na Dekada ng Pagsulong ng mga Kuwentistang Katha edited by Rolando B. Tolentino and team (University of the Philippines Press)

• Best Literary Criticism or Cultural Studies: Ang Bayang Panitikan: Ang Pagtatanghal ng Kabanalan sa Pakil, Laguna by Jerry C. Respeto (Ateneo de Manila University Press)

• Best Literary History: Collected Essays I: Philippine Theater History and Genres by Nicanor G. Tiongson (Ateneo de Manila University Press)

• Best Media Studies Book: Disconnected Media and Other Essays by Clodualdo del Mundo Jr. (De la Salle University Publishing House)

• Best Poetry in English: With Decade by Austere Rex Gamao (Grana-PH Book Publishing)

• Best Poetry in Filipino: Landas sa Ilang by Ronald Araña (LIRA, Inc.)

• Best Graphic Novel/Comics in English: Lucia Dreaming by Lucia Asul

• Best Graphic Novel/Comics in Filipino: Elipsis by Ran Manansala

• Best Translated Book: Doña Perfecta by Benito Pérez Galdós, translated by Wystan dela Peña

• Best Book on Drama and Film: Natal/National: Three Plays by Guelan Varela-Luarca

• Best Poetry in Hiligaynon/Kinaray-a: Humadapnon (Ginlawan) Sugidanon (Epics of Panay Book 8, Volume 4) researched and translated by Alicia P. Magos, Anna Razel Limoso Ramirez, and team; chanter Federico “Tuohan” Caballero (University of the Philippines Press)

These titles highlight the creativity and depth of Filipino writers today, offering everything from epic poetry to innovative graphic storytelling.

Non-Literary Division: Beyond Stories

The awards also celebrate books that explore culture, lifestyle, and knowledge in unique ways. Some of the standout winners include:

• Best Book on Art: Haegue Yang: The Cone of Concern

• Best Social Sciences Book: More Mindanawon Than We Admit by Jhoanna Lynn B. Cruz (Vibal Foundation)

• Best Philosophy Book: Towards a Mindanawon/Lumad Philosophy by Jerry D. Imbong

• Best History Book: Typhoons: Climate, Society, and History in the Philippines by James Francis Warren

• Best Humor, Sports, and Lifestyle Book: The Call to Lead: Ignatian Wisdom and The Journey of Leading by Jake de Guzman

• Best Business Book: Covering Nanay: The Philippine Microinsurance Journey by Dr. Jaime Aristotle Alip, Lorenzo O. Chan Jr., and Pia Benitez Yupangco

• Best Food Book: Secret Kitchens of Samar (Volumes 1–5) by Clang Garcia

• Best Science Book: Birds of Subic Bay by Vinz Pascua

• Best Spirituality/Theology Book: Discipleship For Today’s Filipino by Rico Villanueva and Jayeel Cornelio

• Best Book on Professions: The Road to Peace: Crafting the Bangsamoro Organic Law by Juan Miguel F. Zubiri

• Best Journalism Book: Carabeef Lengua by Jose F. Lacaba (University of the Philippines Press)

Design Matters

A book isn’t just about words—it’s also about presentation. This year’s Best Book Design went to Matayog na Puno: The Life and Art of Hugo C. Yonzon, Jr., designed by Paula Yonzon, proving that beautiful design can bring a story to life.

Why This Matters

The 43rd National Book Awards remind us that Philippine literature isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving. Whether you’re a reader, a collector, or just looking for inspiration, this year’s winners offer a colorful snapshot of the country’s creativity, ideas, and stories.

The awarding of the aforementioned awardees is set on March 14 along with the 3rd annual Philippine Book Festival which will be held on March 12-15, catering local authors and literature for boosting Filipino craft and readership.