Insider Tips on How You Can Make the Most Out of Your MIBF Experience

Hello avid readers and book lovers!

The Manila International Book Fair is definitely one of the most awaited events every year. I remember going crazy seeing all the books at the SMX Convention Center last year and the year before that since all the big book publishing and distributors are all in one place. Not to mention, most of the books are available at a discounted price. There were lots of irresistible deals and offers. It was also a wonderful experience to meet some of our favorite authors who graced the event and was available to sign our precious books. 

However, this year is going to different. Due to the pandemic, it was impossible to have a live event. Thus, the organizers decided to have the first-ever Manila International ONLINE Book Fair. Since it's ONLINE, anyone can now join and buy their books as long as they have an internet connection. Yes, they can even cater to international orders. 

Anyway, let me share 6 tips on how you can make the most out of your MIBF experience. 

1. Registration is FREE - No need to pay anything to join the book fair. All you need to do is enter your name, email address, and phone number when signing-up in order to get access to the website. 

2. Attend Free Events and Seminars -  There are a lot of FREE webinars and talks from November 24-30. These are hosted on MIBF's Facebook Page, Youtube Channel, and Zoom. Some events even provide certificates (in case you need one for work) Other event hosts and sponsors are also giving away exciting freebies and prizes.  

You may check the full schedule of upcoming events here. 

3. 24-hour Shopping Experience - The website is open 24 hours so you are free to browse and order at your most convenient time. 

4. Get First Dibs on Newly Launched Books - There are a lot of books that will be launched during the Manila International Book Fair. Thus, this is your chance to be one of the first few book buyers. 

You may order these newly launched books here. 

5. Order from Multiple Sellers - There are a total of 58 exhibitors joining the event with thousands of book titles available. So feel free to add-to-cart. 

6. Discounts and Promos - You can check both the Special Offers Page and Exhibitors’ Homepage for surprises and exclusive deals

BDO Unibank and Network Bank Branches are all open with longer banking hours

It's almost 250 days since the quarantine period started in the Philippines and we can say that this pandemic has definitely changed the way we live. With almost everything shifting to online and digital transactions like e-commerce, webinars, virtual events, and online classes, there are still some things that we have to do offline.

For us, these are bank transactions. Despite the availability of online banking, there are still instances that we need to go to the branch to transact and this is the reason why are happy to know that the branches of BDO Unibank, Inc. and BDO Network Bank are all open to serve more clients. 

It is great that BDO is able to keep its products and services within reach amid the General Community Quarantine (GCQ) or Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) guidelines and keeping their promise to find ways for their clients.

When ECQ was declared, BDO strived to keep as many of its branches open while observing health and safety measures. In Luzon, about 130 stayed open in March. This number would more than double to 500 a month later and reach the 800th mark in May. Come June, as more cities were placed in GCQ, 1,000 or nearly all of its Luzon branches have been serving clients.

Meanwhile, in Visayas and Mindanao, all branches remained open.

“We understand the value of having financial access during this challenging time, be it for paying for utilities, loans, or everyday essentials to survive the day. Today, we are operating at a 100% nationwide, thanks to the commitment and resilience of BDO’s 38,000-strong workforce, a true testament to our ‘We Find Ways’ service philosophy,” said Nestor V. Tan, president, and CEO.

While many establishments are still operating on shortened business hours, BDO and BDO Network Bank branches are open until 4:00 pm and ready to accommodate various banking needs, including Forex and encashment requirements.

BDO assures clients that its branch personnel, including its office-based employees undergo regular health checks while its premises are managed under the most stringent safety protocols. Inside every branch, personnel, and clients are required to wear facemasks and face shields at all times, apply hand sanitizers, and observe social distancing.

“We would like to thank our clients for their continued trust in BDO. We remain committed to finding ways for you and your business,” concluded Tan.