
Aklat Sining: A Pinoy Books and Art Expo — Triumphing Against All Odds
On June 29, 2025, something extraordinary happened at Eastwood Central Plaza—Filipino stories, voices, and visions came together to shine.
Aklat Sining: A Pinoy Books and Art Expo, organized by Pinoy Indie Authors (PIA), brought together a vibrant mix of local authors, artists, and readers for a full-day celebration of literature, creativity, and community.
More than an event, Aklat Sining was a milestone. It was proof that passion, purpose, and perseverance can come together to create something truly impactful—an inspiring space where indie creators could connect, share, and grow.
A Platform for Filipino Stories and Creativity
The expo featured a rich lineup of activities, including:
* Back-to-back book launches
* Author meet-and-greets and signings
* Art and merchandise booths
* Live talks and panel discussions on self-publishing and storytelling
* Networking opportunities with fellow creatives and readers
According to PIA founder Mayumi Cruz, the event was born from a simple yet powerful idea: “We wanted to create an accessible space where Filipino indie authors and artists could showcase their work and be seen, heard, and supported.”
For the creators who joined, Aklat Sining became a space of validation and visibility—a place where readers could discover books they never knew they needed, and artists could share their work with genuine appreciation.
Back-to-Back Book Launches:
Pinoy Indie Authors launched two Book Collaborations:
- Musings & Conversations: The 1st Pinoy Indie Authors Poetry Collab
- Time Traveling Tikbalang Thief: The 4th Pinoy Indie Authors Collab

Redefining Success: Heartfelt Moments from the Indie Community
During one of the most talked-about sessions, “The Self-Publishing Talk,” someone asked: “How do you define success as an indie author?”
The answers struck a chord with everyone present:
“Success is finishing the story you didn’t think you could.”
“It’s seeing a stranger buy your book and say, ‘I get you.'”
“It’s holding your printed book for the first time and realizing: I made this.”
“It’s being surrounded by people who believe in your vision and help carry it forward.”
These stories reminded everyone that success doesn’t always come with loud fanfare. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet, powerful moments of creation, connection, and community.
Gratitude in Action: A Community-Led Triumph
Aklat Sining was the result of countless helping hands and generous hearts.
We are deeply grateful to Eastwood City, Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, and General Manager Ms. Kux Quiogue, for their support in making the event possible.
Special thanks to Sir Kenneth G. Yu, who joined us during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and to everyone who made the logistics smooth and joyful.
To the housekeeping, maintenance, and security teams: thank you for staying with us from setup to closing—cleaning, building, rearranging, and even providing last-minute items (like tape and tools we forgot to bring!). Your smiles and camaraderie made a difference.
To our volunteers—Elaine Paredes, Rina Haw, Erin Pulmano, and our energetic host Mia Daquial—you made the experience seamless and unforgettable. From pre-event prep to booth management and hosting insightful interviews, we couldn’t have done it without you.
Even a friendly neighborhood cat lounged by our booth as if to say, “These books are worth guarding.” (We agree.)
Aklat Sining in Review: Celebrating Creativity, Connection, and Community
The most meaningful part of Aklat Sining wasn’t just the books sold or the art admired—it was the sense of belonging and belief it cultivated.
Authors, artists, readers, and supporters came together not just to trade stories, but to tell a collective one: that Filipino creativity is alive, thriving, and ready to be celebrated.
Support the Movement: Buy Indie, Read Filipino
You can support Filipino indie creators by:
- Buying their books
- Sharing their work
- Reaching out for collaborations or commissions
- Attending future events and expos
Send us a message to purchase indie books or learn more about upcoming events with Pinoy Indie Authors.
Together, we build a culture that lifts up every voice, every story, and every creator—one book, one artwork, and one reader at a time.
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