Quezon City kids join IBBY Philippines’ Read With Us program

Photos courtesy of the IBBY Philippines

February 21, 2026 — Quezon City

On the afternoon of February 21, 33 kids from Barangay Vasra and Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City gathered at the SM Book Nook in The Annex, SM North EDSA for a day of art and stories.

The International Board on Books for Young People Philippines (IBBY Philippines) held Read With Us, a program aiming to encourage a love for reading.

Jake Advincula from the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines (UNACOM) welcomed them with a message promoting a love for reading and a space for conversations about climate change. Aya Licsi from CANVAS sent a recorded message, sending well wishes from the organization.

After the messages, the children participated in a storytelling session led by Jasmin Helen Dudley-Scales. She is a Star Magic artist and youth leader from Dumaguete—which has been named a UNESCO Creative City of Literature. She read aloud Inang Kalikasan’s Bad Hair Day by Recle Etino Vibal and John Paul Antido.

An art workshop followed the storytelling session. The kids created their own paper crowns, adorning their heads just like Inang Kalikasan in the story.

The children were also given copies of various CANVAS booksto continue reading in their own time and safe space.

Rio Lim from the International Board of Books for Young People Philippines (IBBY Philippines) closed the program, thanking partners UNACOM, SM Cares, SM Book Nook, and CANVAS for making the program possible.

IBBY Philippines told CANVAS, “The Read With Us program successfully delivered a meaningful and engaging literacy experience through storytelling, creative expression, and multi-sectoral collaboration. The initiative reinforced the importance of partnerships in expanding access to reading materials and fostering a love for reading among children.

“IBBY Philippines expresses its sincere appreciation to CANVAS for its generous support through the provision of books, which contributed significantly to the success and impact of the program.”