In celebration of Heritage Month, Lampara Books launched its 2026 collection of Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang, bringing the beloved stories of iconic Filipino storyteller Severino Reyes to a new generation through modern retellings by acclaimed author Christine S. Bellen-Ang and award-winning Filipino illustrators.
“Through these modern retellings, Lampara Books continues its mission of nurturing imagination, hope, and a love for reading among young readers while preserving the richness of Filipino storytelling traditions,” said Segundo Matias Jr., President of Lampara Books.
“More than a celebration of literature, the event highlights a deeper advocacy: making quality Filipino books accessible to children with limited or no access to reading materials. At its heart is the belief that imagination, learning, and hope are not privileges, but rights that every Batang Pilipino deserves,” he added.
Featured in the collection are newly retold and illustrated classics, including:
Ang Plawta ni Periking — illustrated by Jhucel A. del Rosario
Anting-Anting — illustrated by Domz Agsaway
Ang Binibining Tumalo sa Mahal na Hari — illustrated by Tin Javier
Ang Pag-ibig ni Maryang Sinukuan — illustrated by Jonathan G. Rañola
Ang Pitong Tanga — illustrated by John Ronnel G. Popa
Rosamistica — illustrated by Liza Flores
Ang Parusa ng Duwende — illustrated by Joza Nada
The celebration also featured other treasured Filipino literary works and educational titles that underscore the enduring value of reading and storytelling in nation-building and literacy development.
Among the featured works are:
Ibong Adarna
Editor: Eugene Y. Evasco
Cover Illustrator: Arnaldo Mirasol
Inside Illustrations: Randy Valiente
Florante at Laura
Editor: Eugene Y. Evasco
Cover Illustrator: Arnaldo Mirasol
Inside Illustrations: Rowin Agarao
Disaster Ready-Kids
Series by Zarah C. Gagatiga
Illustrations by Juno Abreu
Kaligtasan para sa mga Bata
Series by Mark Norman Boquiren
Illustrations by Aldy C. Aguirre
Kids Have Rights!
Series by Michellan Sarile-Alagao
Illustrations by Kim Alexis Santiago
Sari-Sari Books
Series by Genaro R. Gojo Cruz
Illustrations by Domz Agsaway
Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature, 2nd Prize 2025 – Tula para sa mga Bata
Decodable Comics for Fluency: Filipino (Marungko Approach)
Decodable Comics for Fluency: English (Systematic Phonics)
Written by Daisy Jane Calado
Coordinator: Victor A. Villanueva
Illustrations by Rowin Agarao
“As Lampara Books honors Filipino literary heritage this Heritage Month, the launch serves as a reminder that stories remain powerful tools for shaping values, strengthening literacy, and inspiring future generations to dream, discover, and thrive,” Segundo said.
Through these enduring classics and educational works, Lampara Books continues its commitment to championing Filipino stories that educate, empower, and ignite the imagination of every child.
