If there’s one thing Filipino bookworms know by heart, it’s that Big Bad Wolf has become a tradition. Every time it comes to town, it turns into a full-on pilgrimage for readers, collectors, and even casual browsers who swear they’re “just looking” but end up leaving with tote bags stuffed with new reads. After all, how often do you stumble across a chance to buy books at up to 95% off?
This year, the world’s biggest book fair returns to Metro Manila at the Filinvest Tent in Alabang from October 2 to 13, 2025. Bigger discounts, longer hours, and a wider selection await—from BookTok favorites and romance novels to self-help, business, and children’s titles. Whether you’re building a personal library, searching for study resources, or looking for a new comfort read, here’s what you can expect from Big Bad Wolf 2025.
Photo: Big Bad Wolf
Discounts Up to 95% Off
At the heart of the Big Bad Wolf experience are the discounts, with books priced at up to 95% off, making the dream of building a personal library within reach. The markdowns vary by genre, with signages guiding shoppers across romance, young adult, self-help, business, and more. This year also brings an expanded selection of fresh titles and curated bundles, including book sets in time for the festive season. And yes, there are books for as low as ₱20.
As Bernard Lee, Big Bad Wolf Books Business Director for Malaysia, explains: “We’ve always believed that books should never be a luxury. That’s why we work hard to keep prices low, sometimes up to 50 to 90 percent off retail, while still offering a wide and diverse selection. The end goal is simple: more readers and non-readers discovering the joy of reading without financial barriers.”
Extended Shopping Hours and Free Admission for Everyone
Big Bad Wolf understands that browsing through thousands of titles can’t be rushed. This year’s schedule gives readers more room to wander, with doors open from 10 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and extended hours until midnight on weekends. The best part? Admission is free, making it easy for anyone to drop by—whether you’re with friends, family, or setting aside a day for a solo trip.
As Ley Almeda, Big Bad Wolf Books Philippines Country Head, advises first-time visitors: “My advice is to come with an open mind and enough time to explore. The joy of Big Bad Wolf Books Sale is in the discovery—you might come looking for one title but leave with books you never expected to fall in love with. Bring a bag, or two, because you’ll be surprised how quickly your hands get full.”
Raffles and Exclusive Prizes
Your book haul could win you even more. For every P5,000 single-receipt purchase, you automatically enter a raffle for incredible prizes. The lucky winners could walk away with an IKEA bookshelf filled with 100 books, a brand-new iPad, or the grand prize: a 3-day trip for two to Hong Kong!
FAQs and Pro Tips
One detail every shopper should know: the book sale does not provide paper bags. To avoid hauling stacks of books, bring your own eco-friendly carriers or pick up official Big Bad Wolf merchandise. Tote bags and eco-bags are available at the venue starting at ₱25. For those planning a long hunt through the aisles, coffee and food stalls are set up outside for a quick recharge between book runs.
Checking out is equally straightforward, with multiple payment options available including cash, credit and debit cards, and QRPH (GCash and Maya). Readers who want to stretch their pesos further can sign up as members at the cashier for free, a move that more discounts and extra perks depending on the total purchase.
Make the Most of Your Trip
Big Bad Wolf is more than a sale. It is an annual celebration of reading that thrives on exploration. As Lee shares, “Plan ahead but stay flexible. Check the opening hours, bring comfortable shoes, and set a budget if you need to, but also allow yourself the freedom to explore. Some of the best finds are the ones you weren’t looking for.”
With thousands of titles waiting, the event proves once again that affordable books can open doors to entire worlds. Don’t miss the chance to bring home your next great read.
How many books will you take home? Let us know in the comments!
READ MORE: The Organizers of the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale Share Their Favorite Reads
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links. The actual color, appearance, size, and shape of the item might be slightly different from the ones shown in the pictures.
Do you have a story for the WhenInManila.com Team? Email us at wheninmanila@gmail.com or send us a direct message at WhenInManila.com Facebook Page. Interact with the team and join the WhenInManila.com Community at WIM Squad! We also share our stories on Viber, join us!
