12 New Filipino Books Perfect for Christmas 2025 Gifting
As the holiday rush intensifies across our archipelago's cities and provinces, from the bustling malls of Metro Manila to the quieter bookshops in regional centers, there's something deeply comforting about settling into a peaceful corner with a good book. This Christmas season brings an exceptional collection of works by Filipino authors that celebrate our diverse literary voices, from Luzon to Mindanao.
Poetry and Prose That Speaks to the Filipino Soul
"A Chain is a House to Sleep In" by Deirdre Z. Camba offers readers a fresh collection of poems that range from the deeply spiritual "Brunch with Jesus" to nostalgic pieces like "Mr. Pogi 1996." Camba's vulnerability shines through as she describes the emotional journey of bringing this collection to life, admitting she "often considered publishing it impossible."
For those drawn to visual poetry, "Factory of Alleged Virtues" by Alfonso Manalastas presents a powerful meditation on survival amid colonialism, capitalism, and climate change. Published by Ateneo De Manila University Press, this collection captures how Filipinos "endure, resist, and remake" themselves in challenging times.
Journalism That Captures Our Nation's Heart
Award-winning journalist Atom Araullo's "A View from the Ground" represents eight years of dedication to narrative journalism. The Kapuso reporter explains his motivation: "Isa itong paraan para ma-capture 'yung napakaraming emotions na nararamdaman natin bilang mga mamamahayag." The book amplifies voices from the margins of society, accompanied by Araullo's own photography.
Veteran screenwriter Ricky Lee contributes "Agaw-Tingin," a collection spanning from the Martial Law era of 1976 to 2009. Lee emphasizes the importance of reading in our digital age: "Mahalaga ang pagbabasa, iba ang ginagawa ng pagbabasa sa panonood."
Contemporary Filipino Stories
"Ashura: A Filipino Reckoning" by Quintin Jose V. Pastrana weaves political thriller elements with historical fiction, addressing human rights and state impunity. The narrative spans from Metro Manila to Mindanao, Washington DC to The Hague, reflecting our nation's complex relationship with justice and accountability.
Chuckberry Pascual's "Daddy" breaks new ground in queer Filipino literature, following 44-year-old Ryan through a journey of self-discovery that begins in an unexpected encounter at an MRT restroom.
Stories for Every Generation
"Trese" creator Budjette Tan brings whimsy with "Kwentoys," featuring eight short stories about seemingly ordinary toys with extraordinary powers. The artwork by Brandie Tan adds visual appeal to these imaginative tales.
For younger readers, singer-actress Mika Salamanca offers "Lipad," illustrated by Jewelle Villarisco. The story of diwata Mahika celebrates uniqueness and self-acceptance, with Salamanca noting, "Mas malungkot kayo kung 'di kayo iba."
Challenging Contemporary Themes
J.L. Chua's "Kuwentong Butsero" presents thriller stories that explore inequality and social horror. Chua probes the limits of human endurance: "Saan ba 'yung hangganan ng tao?"
A.A. Patawaran's debut novel "Misericordia" captures the Philippines "from the Manila Polo Club to Lake Caliraya," exploring how comfort becomes precarious when the country reaches a tipping point.
Chuck D. Smith's "Son of a Dead '80s Bold Star" offers a deeply personal essay collection about growing up believing he was the son of Pepsi Paloma, using writing as "a way of trying to make sense of it."
Finally, Segundo Matias Jr.'s "Stigma: Mga Batang Poz 2" continues addressing HIV stigma among Filipino youth, introducing 15-year-old pregnant Melody to challenge misconceptions about who faces this health crisis.
These twelve books represent the rich tapestry of Filipino storytelling, from our urban centers to rural communities, reflecting the linguistic diversity and cultural depth that makes our archipelago unique. Whether gifting to loved ones or treating yourself, these works offer windows into the Filipino experience that resonate across all islands and communities.