Nakikisilong: A Mangrove Tale Wins Recognition at the 2025 Severino Reyes Awards

We are proud to share that Nakikisilong, one of our beloved children’s storybooks, has received the 2025 Severino Reyes Awards as Best Story Book. This is a significant national recognition awarded by the Philippine Board on Books for Young People (PBBY). Written by a young author with a deep appreciation for environmental storytelling, and brought to life through the heartfelt illustrations of Richard Red Elli, Nakikisilong invites readers—both young and old—to take shelter in the quiet wisdom of nature.

A Story Beneath the Leaves

Set in a vibrant mangrove ecosystem, Nakikisilong follows the story of Betong and his friend Nimfa. They enjoy spending time in their treehouse perched on a mangrove tree, the “palapat.” However, the tree they thought was theirs turns out to be a shared home. It is filled with insects, birds, mollusks, and many other fascinating creatures. What starts as irritation grows into wonder and respect. Betong learns that humans are not the only ones seeking shelter.

This gentle, poetic story becomes a powerful invitation for children to practice empathy—not only toward others but toward nature itself. It helps them understand that every creature has its own space and rights to existence.

From Sketches to Shelter: The Illustrator’s Reflection

For illustrator Richard Red Elli, receiving the award is a heartfelt milestone.

“Sobrang saya at karangalan para sa akin ang pagkapanalo ng aklat sa Severino Reyes Award 2025. Sa bawat pahina na aking iginuhit, gusto kong ipakita ang damdamin ng bata at ang kanyang pagbabago—mula sa inis patungo sa pag-unawa at paggalang sa mga hayop na dati niyang ayaw.”

His layered illustrations tenderly mirror Betong’s emotional journey. The transition from annoyance to awe is a transformation that many young readers will find deeply relatable. Richard carefully crafted each image to evoke emotion and connect with the readers on a personal level.

A Journey Rooted in Nature

The author of Nakikisilong shares that the story began as an “ecopoem” during a creative writing class at De La Salle University. The initial inspiration came from a reflective morning spent observing a real mangrove tree in Hagonoy. Over the years, the piece evolved. It was shaped by experiences in environmental advocacy and creative workshops, transforming into a children’s story that is rich with empathy and ecological awareness.

"Nakakatuwang isipin na ang simpleng kuwento na ito ay na-appreciate at kinilala... Sana mas marami pang batang Pilipino ang makabasa ng Nakikisilong at matuto mula sa karanasang ipinapakita sa aklat."

The narrative embodies lived experiences and reflections on the environment. It reminds us that the natural world is not merely a backdrop for our lives—it is a shared home we must learn to respect and protect.

More Than a Medal

Receiving recognition from PBBY and the IBBY Philippines Selection Committee highlights the importance of stories that advocate for nature. Stories like Nakikisilong serve to remind us of our smallness, our interconnectedness, and our responsibilities toward the environment.

To everyone who contributed to this book—teachers, mentors, illustrators, environmental advocates, and children—you play a vital role in fostering a love for literature and the earth. It is your passion and dedication that make stories like this possible.

This award is not just for the book—but for the forest, the tide, and the tiny beings that dwell beneath the palapat.

Join the Adventure

Haven’t read Nakikisilong yet? This is your sign. Find shelter in its pages. The book is available now through Southern Voices Book Collection. By immersing yourself in this story, you will not only enjoy a captivating narrative but also learn valuable lessons about empathy and ecological awareness.

In a world where nature is often taken for granted, let Nakikisilong be your guide to appreciating the beauty that surrounds us. This enchanting tale encourages young readers to connect with the environment and recognize their role within it. In doing so, they become stewards of the earth, ready to make a difference.

Let’s celebrate the beauty of nature together and inspire the next generation through the pages of Nakikisilong.