The Philippines is home to a strong community of independent bookstores that go beyond just selling books. These spaces serve as cultural hubs where readers, writers, and the literary-minded gather to celebrate local literature, share stories, and build connections.
While this list is by no means exhaustive of all the stores across the country, here are 9 standout spaces that are shaping the country’s literary landscape today.
Solidaridad Bookshop
531 Padre Faura St, Ermita, Metro Manila
Although Solidaridad Bookshop recently made national headlines for being put up for sale, it has served as a literary third space for writers since it first opened its doors in 1965. The store was founded by the late National Artist for Literature F. Sionil José, who turned Solidaridad into a key venue for Filipino authors to gather, share ideas, and learn from one another.
Owl Stories and Spirits
Atúa Midtown, Manalo St, Cebu City, Cebu
For anyone wanting to look mysterious, sipping a strawberry mojito while reading a collection of Japanese poetry, Owl Stories and Spirits (also known as Owl) is the place to be. The bookstore-cum-bar proudly calls itself a place for introverts, granting the shyest of introverts a safe space to unwind, order a drink, and pick up a book or two on topics ranging from Southeast Asian cinema to arboreal kinship.
Everything’s Fine PH
Unit G8, Prince Tower, 14 Tordesillas, Makati, Metro Manila
Everything’s Fine PH might be a bit tricky to spot at first, especially since it’s located at the back of Prince Tower. But once you find it, the store boasts an impressive collection of Filipino titles from authors such as Gregorio Brillantes, F.H. Batacan, and Ishmael Bernal. Its cozy, cubby-like shelves invite visitors to explore a rich variety of works, from Filipino poetry and food writing to insightful accounts of the EDSA Revolution. They also publish contemporary Filipino literature that has won awards and made year-end best-of lists since they began publishing in 2019.
Mt. Cloud
1 Yangco Road, Corner Brent Rd, Baguio, Benguet
When Mt. Cloud first opened in 2010, it carried a modest 100 titles. Fast forward 15 years, and the bookstore now boasts over 3,000 Filipino titles, spotlighting both distinguished authors nationwide and writers from Baguio. The shop has become a cultural landmark in Baguio, known specifically for its curated collection of Filipino literature. It also carries titles that are typically harder to find, such as F. Sionil José’s The Molave and The Orchid and Other Children’s Stories, Jessica Zafra’s The Adventuress, A Story of Love and Money, and Roy Franklin Barton’s Ifugao Law, among others.
Libraria PH
58 E J. Blanco Dr, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental
Dumaguete has long been known as one of the country’s thriving literature hubs (and could potentially be a UNESCO Creative City of Literature), and Libraria PH pays homage to this rich literary legacy by creating a space where written Filipino stories can flourish. Libraria PH spotlights both Filipino writers and artists, providing a platform where their books and pieces are sold and celebrated through regular events, readings, and creative gatherings.
PUÓN
1 F., Ortega Highway, San Fernando, La Union
PUÓN proudly describes itself as the only neighborhood bookshop café and cultural space in La Union. It sells local books, publications, and zines while also providing a space for the neighborhood to host events, like film screenings, pop-ups, and readings. The proceeds from the store support the Alfredo F. Tadiar Library, located in the same building.
Good Intentions
Comuna, 238 Pablo Ocampo Sr. Ext, Makati, Metro Manila
Good Intentions Publishing, an independent literary publishing house based in Manila, has its headquarters in Comuna, which doubles as a retail space. Here, readers can browse titles written by Filipino authors, such as their publications: a reprint of Luis Katigbak’s Happy Endings and Allan Justo Pastrana’s Field: Poems, among others. Some titles are cleverly wrapped as part of their Mystery Book series for a playful twist. The store also features literary-themed merchandise, such as Good Intentions tote bags.
Lost Books Cebu
CAO Mercado Building, Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City, Cebu
Once an old ATM kiosk, Lost Books Cebu is now an intimate, independent bookshop in the heart of the city. Marked by its cheerful green sign and the inviting aroma of coffee from its in-store café, the shop opened in 2024 with a curated mix of local and international titles. Founder Donald Villamero envisions it as a growing haven for Visayan authors and their work.
Istorya Studios
168 San Vicente Ferrer St, Guiguinto, Bulacan
Istorya Studios is a creative, artist-led space that blends a bookshop, café, gallery, and storytelling studio. Founded by artists Rodel Tapaya and Marina Cruz, Istorya hosts community events such as Friday afternoon readings for kids, typewriter workshops, and art exhibits. It offers a curated selection of Filipiniana titles, original publications, and cultural card games, all designed to foster a deeper connection to Philippine history and culture.
