The Philippines has been acknowledged as the home of some of the most talented people in the world in terms of performing arts.

Filipino performers are applauded around the world for winning in global competitions, but little did everyone know that the Philippines also excelled in illustrated visual arts and storytelling.

The country has been exporting drawings, illustrations and stories to the biggest global book publishers for years.

It is with this inspiration and the belief in the Filipino talent that the National Book Development Book brought together publishers, illustrators and writers to embark on a mission to break into the global book publishing stage and make a name for the country by joining the Bologna Children’s bookfair held in Bologna, Italy.

It is the biggest gathering of publishers, illustrators and writers in the world and this year, the Philippines made sure its presence is felt by the more than 100 countries in attendance.

Here’s a report from Oxy Alegre.