Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte

Why We Need More Children's Books for Filipino Kids

How many Filipino kids can say they've read a story that looks and sounds like home?
Most of us grew up finding our school libraries and bookstores filled with foreign titles. While there's nothing wrong with loving Harry Potter, Wimpy Kid, or Percy Jackson, it often meant Filipino kids didn't get to see themselves — their families, their towns, their culture — in the stories they read. That's something we can change.
As someone who writes middle-grade and children's books, I've learned firsthand how powerful stories rooted in Filipino culture can be. We need stories written for and about Filipino kids now more than ever.
The Book Shelves Say It All
If you walk into most bookstores in the Philippines today, you'll still find that foreign titles dominate the children's section. Local books exist, but they're often tucked away in smaller shelves or limited in variety. The search isn't always easy for parents or teachers looking for children's books for Filipino kids.
This gap in availability creates a bigger gap in connection. When kids don't see their language, culture, or environment in books, it's harder for them to relate — and, more importantly, to fall in love with reading.
Why Representation in Children's Books Matters
When kids read stories that reflect their everyday experiences — riding a tricycle, attending fiesta celebrations, or dealing with family quirks — it affirms their identity. It tells them that their world is worth writing about.
Middle-grade books, in particular, are powerful because they reach children at an age when they're forming opinions about who they are. Including Filipino voices and settings in these books encourages cultural pride and confidence.
It's not just about tradition either. Representation also helps boost literacy and reading engagement. If the book feels familiar, it becomes more fun. And when kids enjoy reading, they learn faster and dream bigger.
Reimagining Folklore for a New Generation
Despite being one of the country's richest storytelling traditions, many people see Filipino folklore as scary, outdated, or too dark for kids. I wanted to challenge that idea.
That's how Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan was born — my first middle-grade novel that reimagines the notorious legend of Teniente Gimo from his child's perspective. It's spooky, funny, and packed with modern references to keep today's young readers engaged. Think of it as a gateway into our weird, wild world of Philippine urban legends, but written with kids in mind.
By mixing pop culture with traditional stories, we ensure these legends survive — and thrive — in new forms.
We Need More Filipino Stories
One book can't fix the gap. We need more. There are more stories about provinces and cities and kids who speak Cebuano, Ilocano, Kapampangan, or Hiligaynon. Many stories celebrate Filipino imagination, humor, and heart.
That's why I started Gully Books — a platform to promote and share children's books for Filipino kids. Whether you're a parent looking for a bedtime story, a teacher sourcing classroom material, or a fellow writer with a story to tell, we're here to support and amplify Filipino voices in children's literature.
Let's Build the Bookshelves We Never Had
It's a big mission, but it starts with small things: buying local, sharing books, and telling our kids stories about them. As a writer, I want to be part of that movement — and invite you to be part of it, too.
If you'd like to check out Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan, click here to get your copy. I'd love to hear from you if you're a writer or reader with a story to share.
Let's create a future where Filipino kids know their stories matter.
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📚 Looking for more children's books for Filipino kids?
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