10/08/2026
Ibanag Children’s Book “Papa Teyo” earns UNESCO recognition
| A children’s book showcasing the Ibanag language and family traditions has gained international acclaim after being selected for the prestigious IBBY-UNESCO Collection of Remarkable Books for Young Readers in Indigenous and Endangered Languages.
“Papa Teyo,” written by Tuguegarao-based author Mielmia Baquiran and illustrated by Juno Abreu, is among 170 titles chosen from more than 500 entries worldwide for this year’s collection.
Seven of the selected books came from the Philippines.
The collection was unveiled on August 6, 2026, during the 40th International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) World Congress in Ottawa, Canada, where the selected works are being featured in an international exhibition.
Published by Aklat Alamid, “Papa Teyo” originated from a writing workshop conducted through the National Book Development Board’s Booklatan sa Bayan project.
Written in both English and Ibanag, the book draws inspiration from the author’s own family experiences.
The story centers on a young girl named Lucy, a character inspired by Baquiran’s daughter, Itchie, and her close relationship with her grandfather, Tatay Ted, whom she lovingly calls Papa Teyo.
Beyond its portrayal of a loving grandparent-grandchild relationship, the book explores themes of family, forgiveness, childhood mistakes, and the importance of having a caring and supportive figure while growing up.
Through its use of Ibanag, the book also highlights the value of indigenous languages in children’s literature.
Its inclusion in the international collection places Ibanag alongside more than 150 other languages represented in the global selection.
The recognition further emphasizes the role of mother-tongue literature in preserving cultural traditions, strengthening linguistic identity, and ensuring that children can see their own language and experiences reflected in books.
Baquiran, a creative writer, editor, and visual artist, is a native of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.
She currently works with the Cagayan Provincial Information Office under the Provincial Government of Cagayan.
The international selection of “Papa Teyo” marks a significant milestone not only for its creators but also for Ibanag literature, bringing a local story and language to a wider global audience.
