Anvil Publishing was founded in 1990 by Karina Bolasco as the publishing division of National Book Store. At a time when Philippine publishing was largely focused on textbooks and academic materials, Anvil pioneered the development of a vibrant trade publishing industry by producing books aimed at general readers. Under Bolasco’s leadership, the company helped elevate Philippine publishing standards through improved editorial quality, book design, and nationwide distribution. 2

After serving the company for 25 years, Karina Bolasco stepped down in 2016, leaving behind a legacy that significantly influenced modern Philippine publishing. Today, Anvil continues to operate under National Book Store while expanding into digital publishing formats, including e-books and audiobooks. 3

Anvil Publishing aims to cultivate a genuine love for reading among Filipinos by producing books that people choose to read—not simply books required for school. The company focuses on publishing works that are engaging, culturally relevant, and accessible to readers across different age groups and interests. Its mission emphasizes promoting Filipino authors, preserving local literature, and making quality books widely available throughout the country. 4

Anvil publishes hundreds of titles across numerous categories, including:

• Literary and commercial fiction
• Historical and political works
• Biographies and memoirs
• Poetry
• Children’s and young adult books
• Cookbooks
• Self-help and psychology
• Business and entrepreneurship
• Travel and culture
• Religion and spirituality
• Graphic novels and comics
• Educational reference books

In addition to printed books, the company also publishes e-books and audiobooks, expanding its reach to digital readers. 5

Anvil operates several specialized publishing imprints, including:

• Bliss Books – Young adult fiction
• Pride Press – LGBTQ+ literature
• Anvil Audio – Audiobooks
• Anvil Starters – Introductory and educational book series

These imprints allow the publisher to reach diverse audiences while supporting emerging and established authors. 6

Throughout its history, Anvil has published works by many of the Philippines’ most respected writers, including:

• Nick Joaquin
• Lualhati Bautista
• Ambeth Ocampo
• Carlos Bulosan
• Alfred A. Yuson

The company has also published works by National Artists, historians, academics, journalists, and emerging Filipino writers. 7

Some of the well-known books published by Anvil include:

• Noli Me Tangere
• El Filibusterismo
• The Woman Who Had Two Navels
• May Day Eve and Other Stories
• America Is in the Heart
• The Looking Back series by Ambeth Ocampo

These publications reflect Anvil’s commitment to preserving Filipino literary heritage while promoting contemporary voices. 8

Anvil Publishing is widely regarded as one of the most influential publishing houses in the Philippines. It has been named Publisher of the Year by the Manila Critics Circle eleven times through the National Book Awards. The company is recognized for its editorial excellence, innovative publishing practices, and significant contribution to Philippine literature and literacy. 9

As a subsidiary of National Book Store, Anvil benefits from one of the country’s largest retail book distribution networks. Its books are available through National Book Store branches, independent bookstores, online retailers, libraries, schools, and digital platforms. The company also participates regularly in national and international book fairs and literary events. 10

Anvil Publishing’s headquarters are located in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, Philippines, where it manages editorial, design, production, marketing, and publishing operations. 11

Over more than three decades, Anvil Publishing has played a central role in shaping the Philippine publishing landscape. By combining strong editorial standards with broad commercial reach, it has helped bring Filipino literature to wider audiences and has contributed significantly to the growth of the country’s reading culture. Today, Anvil remains one of the Philippines’ most respected publishing companies, continuing its mission of producing books that inform, inspire, and celebrate Filipino stories. 12

1. Anvil Publishing
2. Anvil Publishing Inc
3. Anvil Publishing | LinkedIn
4. Anvil Publishing | Devex
5. Anvil Press: About
6. About Us | Anvil Media
7. Anvil Publishing | LinkedIn
8. Anvil Publishers, Inc. Company Profile – PR.com
9. Anvil Publishing, Inc.
10. Exhibitors info
11. Dettaglio espositore
12. Anvil Publishing Inc. | (02) 8477 4752 | Mandaluyong