MANILA – The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in partnership with the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) and the National Book Development Board (NBDB), held the “Bekët Panitikan” press launch on March 19, 2026, at the Metropolitan Theater (The MET) Ballroom to officially announce plans for the April 2026 celebration of National Literature Month (NLM).
The event centered on this year’s theme, “Bekët Panitikan / Para sa Katwiran at Kalikasan” (Literature for Reason and Nature), emphasizing literature’s role in advancing environmental awareness and fostering critical thinking among Filipinos.
Bekët derived from Agutaynen language of Palawan, Bekët means unity and togetherness
In his opening remarks, NCCA Chairman and Executive Director Dr. Eric Zerrudo underscored the importance of literary arts in addressing contemporary issues, noting that stories and poems can serve as powerful tools to advocate for both ecological protection and social justice.
The launch featured a series of highlights showcasing Philippine literary heritage and modern works. Kakki Teodoro presented an excerpt from “A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino” by National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin, while John Enrico Torralba outlined the full lineup of programs and activities for NLM 2026.
KWF Commissioner Benjamin Mendillo Jr. echoed this sentiment, noting that promoting Filipino languages and literature goes hand in hand with advocating for environmental stewardship. “Our tongues carry the wisdom of our ancestors about the land we inhabit – it is our duty to pass this on through words,” he added.
The event was organized and managed by the NCCA Public Affairs and Information Office (PAIO), led by head Rene Napenas. Anne Cabrera and the NCCA PAIO staff coordinated media coverage, guest arrangements, and program flow to ensure the launch reached a wide audience of literary enthusiasts, educators, and the public.
The National Artist Reads series will be held in Zambales,Iloilo and Bukidnon which provides opportunities for community to engage the country’s literary heritage. Upcoming celebration will also include Araw ni Balagtas in Orion,Bataan and in Bulacan on April 2 led by KWF.Litera Tour in Cubao,Quezon City the month conclude on April 30 Puitang Panitikolab : CBSUA and Bicol Writers in Naga ,Bicol and Pistang Panitikolab: Pawikan Writers in Palawan.
Intermission segments included readings from acclaimed authors: Dr. Edgar Samar shared a piece from his own body of work, and RR Cagalingan of KWF delivered a performance highlighting the richness of Filipino languages. Director Maria Carolina Tapia of NBDB discussed initiatives to support local writers and publishers, and the event concluded with a reading of “Sinaunang Poot” by National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario.
