Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista is part of the publishing house’s broader literacy efforts while encouraging children to find joy in reading
Lampara Books continues to champion children’s reading literacy in the Philippines through Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026, a nationwide search that celebrates young Filipino storytellers and their creativity. The program culminated in its Grand Finals on September 12, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, where the top three finalists in two separate categories competed for the championship title.
More than a storytelling competition, Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 forms part of Lampara Books’ continuing advocacy to nurture children’s interest in reading and storytelling. The initiative also complements the literacy goals of the Department of Education’s ARAL Program, which provides structured learning interventions for students who need additional support in key academic competencies, particularly reading.
Lampara Books has also championed its literacy programs, including Magbasa Tayo! (Marungko Approach) and Let’s Read! (Systematic Phonics). These initiatives form a continuum in Lampara Books’ varied reading advocacies, helping children develop a lasting appreciation for books and literature.
Category A (Grade 1-3):
- 1st Place: Catriona Xia C. Gacutan
- 2nd Place: Zander Skye H. Saplagio
- 3rd Place: Ameera Estelle E. Incognito
The winners of the Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026, were announced during a key segment at this year’s Manila International Book Fair.
Category B (Grade 4-6):
- 1st Place: Czarina Sophia L. Hinanay
- 2nd Place: Ma. Daniela C. Mejos
- 3rd Place: Alamela G. Cacho
The finalists were evaluated by a panel composed of multidisciplinary artist and children’s rights advocate Pepot Atienza; storyteller, puppeteer, and professor Melanie Ramirez; UP Diliman creative writing and literature professor Eugene Evasco; UP Diliman Professor of Reading Education and children’s author Portia Padilla; and senior member of the Philippine Educational Theater Association, Csairus John Habla.
Inclusivity and Representation
This year’s Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 attracted 416 young participants from 139 schools across the Philippines, with 45% coming from cities and provinces outside the National Capital Region (NCR). By accepting online submissions, the nationwide storytelling competition opened its doors to children from both remote communities and urban areas, allowing them to participate without the added challenges and expenses of traveling to Manila.
According to Segundo Matias Jr., co-founder and president of Lampara Publishing House, Inc. (Lampara Books), this year’s participants demonstrated a distinct approach to storytelling. Rather than relying heavily on rehearsed performances, many young storytellers delivered their interpretations with creativity, authenticity, and spontaneity—showcasing impressive confidence and imagination despite their age.
“Hindi maikakailang malikhain ang mga bata,” Matias admits, describing the participants’ performances this year as natural and highly creative. He noted that this quality gave the presentations a refreshing rawness, with the children interpreting the material with their own creative flavor.
A National Concern
Reading advocacy remains a pressing national concern, underscoring the importance of encouraging children to develop a lasting appreciation for books and storytelling. Matias emphasized the need to nurture a new generation of young readers who view reading not only as an educational tool, but also as a meaningful and enjoyable activity they can return to throughout their lives.
“Ang Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista ay isang inisyatibo para lalo pang matutong magbasa ang mga bata. Hindi tayo dapat magpabaya. Gusto ihatid ng Lampara Books na mas masaya ang pagbabasa, kaya ginawa itong pagtatanghal para lalo pang mapalaganap ang pagbabasa.”
As children become increasingly exposed to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista provides a meaningful and sustainable platform for reinforcing the value of reading in the digital age. Rather than resisting technological advancement, the initiative highlights the importance of embracing innovation while ensuring that children maintain a strong and lasting connection to books, stories, and the joy of reading.
