New digital platform aims to open more opportunities for Filipino writers

MANILA — A new Filipino literary platform is looking to connect local writers with readers and publishers while opening up opportunities to bring their stories beyond books and into other forms of media.

Litera PH recently launched a digital platform aimed at making Filipino stories more accessible and providing local writers with additional opportunities to develop and publish their work.

The platform connects authors, readers, publishers and other creative professionals, with plans to bring Filipino stories to audiences through e-books, audiobooks, graphic novels, film and other formats.

One of its key initiatives is Litera30, a writing program that will accept up to 30 writers twice a year for a 90-day writing challenge. Participants will develop their manuscripts for evaluation by the platform’s Council of Scribes, with up to 10 works eligible for publication deals.

The program is designed to give writers a structured path toward publication, although participation does not guarantee a publishing contract. Details on how to apply and take part will be announced separately.

Litera PH CEO Kristel Coleongco said the platform aims to help Filipino stories reach wider audiences while creating opportunities for their authors.

“Filipino stories deserve every opportunity to travel further. Let’s build those connections. Let’s bring those stories to life,” Coleongco said in a press release.

Among the platform’s offerings is the Litera StoryCard, a collectible card inspired by trading card games that gives readers access to an e-book through a QR code. The initiative combines physical collectibles with digital reading to introduce audiences to local literary works.

The launch also featured demonstrations of Litera’s website and audiobook production capabilities. The platform works with professional audiobook producers and voice actors, while also giving authors the opportunity to experience the recording process in a studio.

Litera also plans to introduce a print-on-demand service in partnership with Filipino service providers, giving authors another option for bringing their works to print.

Beyond books, the platform aims to connect writers with illustrators, narrators, filmmakers, publishers and other creative professionals who can help develop literary works into different formats.

Litera30 will be guided by its Council of Scribes, which will assess submissions and determine which manuscripts meet the platform’s publishing standards.

The council includes published authors Mayumi Cruz, Yeyet Soriano and Berlin Domingo-Maynigo, alongside Coleongco, managing editor Adee Caluag and public relations director Li-Anne Roa-Patricio.

Through Litera30 and its other initiatives, Litera PH aims to make local literature easier to discover while creating more opportunities for Filipino writers to develop, publish and earn from their work.