Filipino celebrities are go-getters at heart, and because of their discipline and can-do attitudes, our favorites have evolved into stars of many skills and talents. Their well-deserved places in the entertainment industry have helped them transform into performers, advocates, academic achievers, and even published authors. Who wouldn’t beam with pride upon seeing the celebrities they follow excel, from magazine covers to their own stories on paper?
If you grew up taking regular side quests to your local bookstore, you’ve probably seen some of the country’s established public figures lined up on display shelves. Their star-studded contributions to Philippine literature shine with witty titles, relatable blurbs, and heartfelt testimonials from their dearest industry friends.
Photo: Pia Wurtzbach, Mika Salamanca, Wilbert Ross, Ayn Bernos/Instagram
For some local artists, writing a book is a new item to check off their bucket lists. Others might count it as a milestone for their advocacies. A few of them even consider it a stepping stone to their lifelong dream of becoming a bestselling novelist—alongside the likes of Jennette McCurdy, author of I’m Glad My Mom Died, and Chris Colfer, author of The Land of Stories series.
These four Filipino celebrities aren’t afraid to flaunt their knack for storytelling. Here’s why their work deserves a spot on your bookshelves and reading lists:
Pagbilang Kong Tatlo by Wilbert Ross (2025)
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Wilbert Ross, one of this generation’s most promising actors, is a leading man of many words. All of which shine through his original songs, his “chronically online” humor, and even his debut novel, Pagbilang Kong Tatlo. If you’re in the mood for an action-packed read brimming with twists and turns, this page-turner doesn’t hold back.
Pagbilang Kong Tatlo might be the closest we’ll get to a Filipino version of Squid Game. The story follows a group of former classmates who reunite at an alumni event, only to end up playing an intense series of traditional Pinoy parlor games where they can’t escape, break the rules, or lose under any circumstances. Every chapter will have you on the edge of your seat, wondering who makes it out alive.
Wilbert held his first book-signing event for Pagbilang Kong Tatlo at the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) on September 14, 2025. You can grab a copy of the book at the 8Letters official website.
Lipad by Mika Salamanca (2025)
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This year has brought in numerous breakthroughs for Mika Salamanca, our Big Winner with a selfless heart. Despite her various new endeavors since winning Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition, she remains true to the causes and charitable initiatives she has advocated for long before joining the reality show. One of which is empowering future generations and nurturing their dreams against all odds. She does this purposefully through her children’s book, Lipad.
In Lipad, we meet Mahika, a fairy who struggles to fit in and recognize her worth due to her unique pair of wings. Mahika’s journey of acceptance and self-discovery signifies Mika’s hardships and the magic of rising above them. Mika rightfully deems Lipad a story for all ages, “no matter what season of life you’re in.” She hopes that her heartwarming tale will inspire readers to take flight, too, just as she did throughout her time as a housemate.
Queen of the Universe by Pia Wurtzbach (2023)
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Identity, integrity, and girl power take center stage in Pia Wurtzbach’s debut novel, Queen of the Universe. The book draws inspiration from Pia’s impactful experiences that led up to her grand crowning moment as Miss Universe in 2015 (and the resounding success that followed).
In this glamorous and upbeat story, the spotlight shines on Cleo, an up-and-coming beauty queen who faces life-changing decisions that will determine the fate of her goals and dreams. Like Pia, Cleo conquers the cut-throat world of pageantry with grace and compassion in every step. She endures the ups, downs, and in-betweens of the industry that help her discover the true meaning of victory, self-worth, and happiness in the long run.
My Name Is Morena by Ayn Bernos (2023)
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From our social media timelines to the vibrant world of pageantry, Ayn Bernos has remained committed to redefining Filipina beauty through a more inclusive lens. Her bilingual children’s book, My Name Is Morena, is a culmination of her extensive studies on Filipino women’s rights, history, and impact on pop culture. The story also highlights her prominence as an advocate, educational content creator, and a beauty queen, which she remarkably showcased during her Miss Universe Philippines run in 2021.
Ayn’s book tells the story of Morena, the titular sun-kissed character who embarks on an adventure of learning to love her skin and encouraging others to do the same. Through Morena’s radiant, fun-loving personality, Filipinas of all ages can build their confidence and fearlessly flaunt their natural skin tones amid dated beauty standards that may tell them otherwise. Who better to give our self-esteem a much-needed boost than Ayn, a morena beauty whose words have inspired thousands of Filipinos?
ALSO READ: This Challenge Is Encouraging Everyone to Read Filipino Books This Buwan ng Wika
What are your favorite books by Filipino celebrities? Share your picks with us in the comments below!
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