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What to expect at the 2026 Philippine Book Festival at SM Megamall • PhilSTAR Life

by Rachel Morgan News Editor March 2, 2026
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The Philippine Book Festival will return this March for its third edition, running from March 12 to 15 at the Megatrade Hall at SM Megamall.

A Celebration of Filipino Literature

The festival will highlight Filipino authors and their works, offering a space for readers, writers, illustrators, publishers, students, and literary enthusiasts to explore and purchase Filipino books and educational materials.

Four Realms of Literature

This year’s festival is themed “Gubat ng Karunungan – The Rainforest of Knowledge” and will feature four distinct “realms.” These include “Kid Lit” for young readers, “Komiks” showcasing visual storytelling, “Booktopia” encompassing fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and essays, and “Aral Aklat” dedicated to textbooks and educational resources.

Did You Realize? The first Philippine Book Festival was held in 2023.

Beyond Books: Art and Interaction

Attendees can also experience art installations and exhibits, including “Lugar Lagdaan” for author meet-and-greets, “Bahay Ilustrador” to connect with illustrators and comic artists, “Gubat ng Karunungan” for workshops, “Fiesta Stage” for performances and panels, and “Umpukan” for intimate conversations.

A Stellar Lineup of Authors

The festival will feature a notable lineup of writers and artists, including National Artist for Film and Broadcast Ricky Lee, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, historian Ambeth Ocampo, and authors Jonaxx, Rob Canimo, Eugene Evasco, Luis Gatmaitan, Manix Abrera, and Pol Medina.

Expert Insight: A festival of this scale, drawing over 120,000 visitors from 2023 to 2025, demonstrates a clear appetite for Filipino literature and provides a vital platform for authors and publishers to connect with a broad audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where will the Philippine Book Festival be held?

The festival will be held from March 12 to 15 at the Megatrade Hall at SM Megamall.

What are the four realms featured at the festival?

The four realms are “Kid Lit,” “Komiks,” “Booktopia,” and “Aral Aklat.”

Who are some of the authors attending the festival?

Some of the authors attending include National Artist for Film and Broadcast Ricky Lee, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, historian Ambeth Ocampo, Jonaxx, Rob Canimo, Eugene Evasco, Luis Gatmaitan, Manix Abrera, and Pol Medina.

As the Philippine Book Festival continues to grow, what role do you witness it playing in shaping the future of Filipino literature?

March 2, 2026 0 comments
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Health

Risk of Nipah spread low after cases in India, Bangladesh: WHO • PhilSTAR Life

by Chief Editor February 15, 2026
written by Chief Editor

Nipah Virus: A Looming Threat or Contained Concern?

Recent confirmed cases of Nipah virus in India and Bangladesh have sparked renewed concern about this deadly zoonotic disease. While the World Health Organization (WHO) currently assesses the risk of widespread transmission as low, the virus’s high fatality rate and potential for mutation demand ongoing vigilance.

Understanding the Nipah Virus

Nipah virus (NiV) was first identified in 1998 during an outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia. Since then, cases have been reported in Bangladesh, India, the Philippines, and Singapore. The virus is typically transmitted from animals – particularly fruit bats – to humans, and can also spread through contaminated food or direct contact with infected individuals.

The case fatality rate for Nipah virus is alarmingly high, ranging from 40% to 75%, depending on the quality of healthcare available. Symptoms initially resemble other respiratory illnesses, including fever, vomiting, and respiratory infection, but can rapidly progress to severe neurological complications like seizures, brain inflammation, and coma.

Recent Outbreaks and Geographic Trends

In the past few weeks, two cases were confirmed in West Bengal, India, and one case resulted in death in Bangladesh. Notably, the WHO has stated these outbreaks were not related, despite occurring near the India-Bangladesh border and sharing similar ecological conditions, including populations of the fruit bat species known to carry the virus.

India has experienced previous Nipah outbreaks, including one in West Bengal in 2001, and more recently in Kerala in 2018 (resulting in at least 17 deaths) and 2023 (resulting in two deaths). Bangladesh experiences regular, smaller outbreaks, typically occurring between December and April, coinciding with the harvesting and consumption of date palm sap.

Why is Nipah a Persistent Threat?

Several factors contribute to the ongoing risk of Nipah virus outbreaks. The natural reservoir of the virus is fruit bats, and their range overlaps with densely populated areas in South and Southeast Asia. Consumption of raw date palm sap, often contaminated with bat saliva, is a significant transmission route in Bangladesh. Close contact with infected animals and humans also facilitates spread.

Currently, there are no licensed vaccines or medications specifically for Nipah virus. Treatment focuses on intensive supportive care, which can improve survival rates, but is not always sufficient. Several candidate vaccines and treatments are under development, but are not yet widely available.

Future Trends and Potential Concerns

Experts anticipate that climate change and deforestation could exacerbate the risk of Nipah virus outbreaks. Changes in habitat may force bats to seek food sources closer to human populations, increasing the likelihood of transmission. Increased human encroachment into bat habitats also raises the risk of contact.

The potential for the virus to mutate is another concern. Genetic changes could alter the virus’s transmissibility, virulence, or ability to evade the immune system. Ongoing surveillance and research are crucial to monitor for such changes.

Did you know? Fruit bats are the natural host of the Nipah virus, but they do not typically show symptoms of the infection.

FAQ

What are the symptoms of Nipah virus? Initial symptoms include fever, headache, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, weakness, and vomiting. These can progress to disorientation, seizures, and coma.

How is Nipah virus transmitted? The virus spreads from animals to humans through contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids, or through contaminated food. It can also spread directly between people.

Is there a vaccine for Nipah virus? Currently, there is no licensed vaccine available, but several candidates are under development.

What is the fatality rate of Nipah virus? The fatality rate ranges from 40% to 75%, depending on the quality of healthcare available.

Pro Tip: Avoiding consumption of raw date palm sap and practicing good hygiene when handling animals can significantly reduce your risk of infection.

Stay informed about emerging health threats and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your community. Explore the WHO’s Nipah virus information page for the latest updates and guidance.

February 15, 2026 0 comments
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World

Cebu Pacific offers P699 one-way base fare to select destinations until Feb. 28 • PhilSTAR Life

by Chief Editor February 16, 2025
written by Chief Editor

Unlock Affordable Travel: Cebu Pacific’s Exciting Seat Sale

Ready to explore the world without breaking the bank? Cebu Pacific offers a great opportunity to satisfy your wanderlust through its recent seat sale, slashing prices on trips to both local and international destinations. From February 15 to 28, travelers can grab one-way tickets starting at only P699, base fare exclusive of fees and surcharges.

Domestic Destinations on Sale

For those eager to explore the Philippines, Cebu Pacific’s sale includes competitive deals to key domestic destinations like Butuan, Zamboanga, and Davao. This fantastic opportunity not only makes domestic adventures more accessible but also allows travelers to experience the rich diversity of the Filipino archipelago.

Did you know? The travel period for these sales extends from February 15, 2023, to July 31, 2025, offering ample time to plan your perfect local getaway.

International Travel at Unbeatable Prices

For the global explorers, get ready to jet off to exciting destinations such as Chiang Mai, Thailand; Badar Seri Begawan, Brunei; Bangkok, Thailand; Hong Kong; and Jakarta, Indonesia. All these flights come with attractive base fares during the sale period, presenting an irresistible temptation for budget-conscious adventurers.

These ticket deals are inclusive of a 7 kg hand-carry baggage allowance. Keep in mind, however, that several additional charges such as web admin fees, 12% VAT, terminal fees, and fuel surcharges apply.

Plan Your Trip with Ease

Booking your next adventure is as simple as visiting Cebu Pacific’s seat sale section, selecting your preferred destination, and clicking “book now.” Imagine savoring stirring Southeast Asian flavors or gazing in awe at cultural landmarks—all made possible by this unbeatable sale!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the sale period?

The sale period runs from February 15 to 28, 2023. Be sure to plan ahead to take full advantage of these incredible offers.

Are international flights included in the sale?

Yes, the seat sale includes a variety of international destinations such as Thailand, Brunei, Hong Kong, and Indonesia.

What baggage allowance is included?

Each ticket comes with a 7 kg hand-carry baggage allowance.

Pro Tip: Check additional fees like web admin charges and fuel surcharges when planning your budget to avoid surprises.

Seize the Opportunity

Don’t miss out on this incredible travel offer. Visit Cebu Pacific’s seat sale section today and start charting plans for both local and international excursions. From unwinding in paradise to exploring bustling cityscapes, the world awaits your arrival. Dream big, book wisely, and embark on your next unforgettable journey now!

Stay Connected

For more travel tips and special deal alerts, consider subscribing to our newsletter. Be sure to explore related articles on our website for additional travel insights.

February 16, 2025 0 comments
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