Jesuit Communications Foundation (JesCom) once again made its mark at the 2024 Manila International Book Fair (MIBF), held from September 11 to 15 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex. JesCom’s Booth 257 featured a wide selection of inspirational books, uplifting music albums, statement t-shirts, and other official merchandise, throughout the Philippines’ largest and longest-running book fair which gathered thousands of publishers, authors, and readers.
The highlight of JesCom’s participation came on Day 2, September 12th, during the prestigious 18th Cardinal Sin Catholic Book Awards, where JesCom publications were well-represented among the finalists. Three of JesCom’s titles made it to the final cut: But Only Say the Word by Fr. Arnel Aquino, SJ (Homiletics Category), Balik Lantaw: Diary of a Jesuit Missionary by Fr. Mateo Sanchez, SJ (Ministry Category), and Catholic Comedy Libruh by Mr. Romar Chuca (Youth Category).
JesCom’s celebratory moment came when Fr. Arnel Aquino SJ’s But Only Say the Word won Best Book in Homiletics, continuing his record of excellence in religious writing. This marked Fr. Arnel’s second victory in the Homiletics Category, following his 2020 win with Empty Boat… Full Nets. An anthology, But Only Say the Word, offers a conversational yet deeply reflective collection of homilies that invite readers to engage in a dialogue with Scripture. Fr. Arnel’s powerful insights on Christ’s presence in the poor and marginalized resonate throughout the book, inspiring readers to embrace mercy, compassion, and love in their everyday lives.
Accepting the award on behalf of Fr. Arnel were JesCom Special Projects and Publications Officer Ms. Editha Sablan and Sales Manager Ms. Alice Bartlett. This recognition further cements JesCom’s reputation for producing profound and impactful Catholic literature that touches the hearts of both the clergy and laypeople alike.
Another finalist, Fr. Mateo Sanchez SJ’s Balik Lantaw: Diary of a Jesuit Missionary, provided readers with a heartwarming account of his decades-long missionary journey among the Umayamnon indigenous community in Bukidnon. His diary-style narrative showcases Fr. Mat’s deep passion and commitment to serving God’s people, even well into his later years.
Meanwhile, Romar Chuca’s Catholic Comedy Libruh, a finalist in the Youth Category, combined humor and faith, bringing a lighthearted yet meaningful perspective on Catholic teachings. Chuca, known as the “Catholic Comedian,” on social media, made his mark by proving that “being holy doesn’t have to be boring”.
JesCom’s strong presence at MIBF, combined with the sterling recognition of its works at the 18th Cardinal Sin Catholic Book Awards, underscores its unwavering commitment to evangelization and education through media. As the official media arm of the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus, JesCom continues to enrich the lives of its audiences through publications that engage, inspire, and educate.
With this year’s success at MIBF, JesCom indeed remains a frontrunner in producing award-winning publications that further its mission of bringing God’s Word to life, in ways that resonate with today’s diverse readers.
Visit the JesCom official website to explore our wide selection of products:https://jescom.ph/josh
Product inquiries may be directed to our JesCom Sales Team via sales@jescom.ph or 0929 864 9010 / 8-426-59-71 loc 127.
