The International Board on Books for Young People — Philippines (IBBY-Ph) has named the winners of The Severino Reyes Medal in an awarding ceremony held at the National Library of the Philippines on 2 April, as the highlight of the inaugural Philippine celebration of International Children's Book Day.

Severino Reyes is the brains behind the famous Lola Basyang, a Filipino anthology of short stories for children.

The winners of The Severino Reyes Medal 2024 were I Like Wearing Rainbows for Best Story Book (published by Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development or CANVAS, written by Agay Llanera, illustrated by Lui Manaig); Kalambing for Best Picture Book (published by Adarna House, written by  Augie Rivera, illustrated by Al Estrella); and Moymoy Lulumboy: Ang Batang Aswang for Best Young Adult Book (published by Lampara Publishing House Inc., written by Segundo Matias Jr., illustrated by Jomike Tejido).

IBBY-Ph has partnered with the National Library of the Philippines and professional librarian organizations, such as the Philippine Librarians Association Inc., the Philippine Association of School Librarians Inc. and the Association of Librarians in the Public Sector, to organize the first-ever Severino Reyes Medal.

As custodians of knowledge and champions of literacy, librarians play a pivotal role in shaping young readers' literary experiences.

The National Book Development Board and the heirs of Severino Reyes also provided guidance and support to the award.

Children's Book Day

Meanwhile, IBBY-Ph led the inaugural Philippine celebration of International Children's Book Day on Tuesday, marking a significant stride in promoting children's literature and literacy in the country.

Hosted by IBBY-PH, a national section of the International Board on Books for Young People, the ICBD celebration aims to raise awareness about the importance of children's books and their impact on the development of young readers.

Several literary and literacy events are slated to take place throughout April, which is also National Literature Month.

SM Cares and SM Book Nook at SM Aura hosted a live storytelling event with the pupils of Sto. Niño Catholic School, Taguig.

Children from several private and public schools nationwide and 107 barangay day care centers in Manila and Quezon City join in the celebration through storytelling, story writing, reading aloud, book sharing and other literacy activities.

IBBY-PH will also donate and turn over to select DepEd Library Hubs copies of the 12 recognized Outstanding Books for Young People with Disabilities.

"We are honored and delighted to commemorate the ICBD and celebrate the profound impact of children's literature on young minds," said IBBY-PH president, Kristine Mandigma. "This day holds special significance as it encourages children to explore the world of books, fostering creativity, empathy and a lifelong love for reading."