Filipinos still into books, according to survey

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MANILA, Philippines – We might be an internet-obsessed country, but here’s some pleasantly surprising news: majority of Filipinos still read books. 

In a survey by the National Book Development Board, 76.75% of adults and 84.99% of kids say they’ve read a printed book within the past year. 

Their top reasons for reading include learning new things, expanding their knowledge, and keeping up with current events.

Whatever their reasons, most Filipinos – young or old – say they just really enjoy reading.

The survey says that adults spend more time on e-books than printed books, but seems like this hasn’t slowed down Filipinos’ appetites for the latter, if the growth of the Manila International Book Fair is anything to go by. The biggest book fair in the country’s visitor count has grown from 85,000 to over 150,000 in just six years. 

Are you going to MIBF this week? If for some unfortunate reason you can’t attend, don’t worry – here are a few good reads to tide you over until the next book fair! 

Altar of Secrets

Journalist Aries Rufo exposes sexual scandals and financial management issues, hidden carefully within the confines of the Church. Get it here.

Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes, 75th Anniversary Illustrated Edition

Brush up your knowledge of Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology! Get it here. 

Taguan-Pung at Manwal ng Pagpapatiwakal

This collection of short stories and essays by Eros Atalia is simultaneously witty, morbid, and philosophical. Get it here.

Trese: Murder Series

Join Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo’s Alexandra Trese as she investigates the criminal and the occult in a different side of Manila. Get it here. 

The Handmaid’s Tale

In this dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood, a theocracy has taken place. Women lose all their autonomy to men – and attempt to gain them back. Get it here.

You can also get discounts off books on Shopee with this voucher. 

When was the last time you read a book for fun? Share your favorite books with us in the comments below! – Rappler.com