March is shaping up to be an exciting month in Manila, with a lineup of events that promise to bring the city to life. From experimental art exhibitions to international film screenings, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these weekend happenings will make sure you experience the best of what Manila has to offer this month.
Philippine Book Festival
Megatrade Hall, 5th floor of SM Megamall, Bldg B, J. Vargas St Brgy, Mandaluyong
March 13 to 16
10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Free entrance
The country’s first and largest all-Filipino book fair returns for its third edition to spotlight local fiction and literature. The festival brings together a multitude of publishing presses, educational textbook distributors, and independent writers across the country. This year, following its fiesta theme, the Philippine Book Festival transforms its venue at SM Megamall into a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture, with colorful decorations inspired by traditional fiesta parades. Admission into the event is free, although visitors are encouraged to preregister here.
Manila Pen Show
The Peninsula Manila
March 15 to 16
9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Day passes are priced at P350 and available here or upon entry
Now in its fifth year, the 2025 Manila Pen Show is an eagerly anticipated event that brings together pen enthusiasts, collectors, and artisans from around the world. Organized by the non-profit organization Fountain Pen Network Philippines Inc., the show brings together 45 local and international exhibitors, workshops, discussion panels, and meet-ups with fellow pen enthusiasts.
TAO by JC Jacinto
Galleries 2 and 3, Artinformal Gallery, The Alley at Karrivin, Chino Roces Ext. Makati
March 19 to April 18
Gallery hours apply
Free entrance
Filipino visual artist JC Jacinto presents his latest exhibition TAO, which acts as a reflection on his ongoing exploration of the interconnectedness within his painting practice. Moving beyond a linear process or isolated outcomes, Jacinto embraces the interdependence of decisions, materials, and actions — each element influencing and shaping the whole. Admission is free and open to the public.
Worshipthegays’ Book Release
Multiple locations:
2F George S.K. Ty Learning Innovation Wing, Areté, Department of Fine Arts, Ateneo de Manila University
Gravity Art Space
Masukal Bistro, Maginhawa
March 18 to 31
Specific location times apply
Free entrance
WORSHIPTHEGAYS | Radicalizing Drag: Examining the Filipino Alternative delves into the art and performance of Filipino alternative drag performer Worshipthegays. Drag, as explored in this project, is not just entertainment but a powerful act of self-expression, resistance, and cultural reclamation. In the context of the Philippines, drag is influenced by indigenous traditions, colonial history, and evolving LGBTQ+ identities, with alternative drag emerging as a subversive and experimental force. This undergraduate thesis by Jacob Tredente Arabes from Ateneo de Manila University’s Art Management Program will be available for browsing at three locations and was created in collaboration with Worshipthegays, Art Management Morning Projects, Gravity Art Space, and Drag Fans Philippines.
For further inquiries, contact Jacob at [email protected] or 0945 500 0760.
A Brave New World: Authorship, Agency, Anarchy
WHYNoT Manila, 4th floor of Karrivin Studios, 2316 Chino Roces Ave Ext. Makati
March 15
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Free entrance, but registration is required and available here
Join the first installment of a series of participatory conversations in A Brave New World, where the focus will be on exploring the role of artificial intelligence for artists and creatives. The discussion will delve into the possibilities and challenges of AI, including ethical issues like privacy, digital rights, and surveillance. Featured in the event will be a collection of AI-generated images by photographer Jake Verzosa, creative coding projects presented by IC Jaucian, and writings on AI and pop culture by Carl Javier and Tad Ermitaño. Curator and art theorist Gunalan Nadarajan will provide insights into the intersection of art, science, and technology.
