TARLAKENYO July 3, 2025 — Book Nook at SM Podium welcomed a historic celebration on June 19, 2025, the 164th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, as the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) launched Ang Batang Babaeng Nagtitinda ng Posporo — a children’s book translated into Tagalog by none other than Dr. Rizal himself.
Dr. Rizal translated Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Match Girl into Tagalog in 1886 as a heartfelt gift to his nieces and nephews. The translation, originally titled Ang Batang Babaing Mai Dalang Sakafuego, is part of a series of fairy tales Rizal worked on during his time in Germany. Among them were Ang Punong Pino (The Fir Tree), Ang Gahinlalaki (Thumbelina), Ang Pangit na Sisiu ng Pato (The Ugly Duckling), and Ang Sugo (The Angel).
Held at Book Nook’s space inside SM Podium, the engaging event also featured a special storytelling session by the Kuwentistas of the National Library of the Philippines, bringing Rizal’s words to life for the next generation.
“We are honored that Book Nook was chosen as the launch venue for this meaningful release. Book Nook was created to be more than just a reading space — it is a home for stories that shape who we are,” said Mr. Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing SM Supermalls. “This launch is yet another important milestone and part of our ongoing commitment to heritage learning, accessible education, and community storytelling.
More than just a library, Book Nook is a literacy and community engagement initiative under SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls. It is a space designed to inspire curiosity, celebrate local and global narratives, and make storytelling accessible to all.
With a dedicated NHCP Corner, Book Nook proudly supports history and heritage appreciation—bridging generations through books, culture, and meaningful partnerships.
This collaboration between NHCP and Book Nook reinforces their shared mission: to make Philippine history more accessible, engaging, and alive in the daily lives of Filipinos, especially the youth whom Rizal once called “the hope of the motherland.” If you or your organization would like to collaborate with Book Nook for storytelling sessions, workshops, or community events, we’d love to hear from you. Stay tuned and visit https://linktr.ee//smbooknook for more enriching activities in the coming months.
Visit Book Nook at SM Podium and be part of a growing community that celebrates reading and creativity. Bring a book to donate or swap with select titles from the collection, and discover a space where stories, art, and culture come to life. Let’s share the joy of reading— one book at a time!
