Notable personalities attended the book launch and signing session of historian, columnist, and professor Ambeth R. Ocampo at the three-day Manila International Book Fair, which ended yesterday.

The 32nd anniversary edition of Ocampo's most popular book, Rizal Without the Overcoat, was launched on 17 September. Made available during the event were copies sporting limited-edition covers, which depict hero, writer, and revolutionary Jose Rizal wearing a mask. "A reminder of the pandemic we survived," said Ocampo. Succeeding covers will have Rizal without the mask.

Ocampo expressed delight about the on-site meet-and-greet after two years of lockdowns and restrictions because of the pandemic. He also posted photos of celebrities who attended on his Facebook acount including the first and only Filipino Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz; writer and professor Jose "Butch" Dalisay Jr.; inspirational speaker Francis Kong; and cookbook writer Cris C. Abiva.

"If books are like children, Rizal without the Overcoat is my second born, in a brood of 35. I don't consider Overcoat my favorite child, lest the other titles get jealous, but I must say Overcoat is the most famous, and has been around a long time," Ocampo said.