Love for reading knows no place, no time and no boundaries.

 

This was the theme of this year’s 6th #MyInquirer Read-Along Festival, which kicked off yesterday at the Inquirer main office in Makati.

 

Copresented with Metrobank Foundation and sponsored by Dunkin Donuts, this year’s Festival carries the theme, “Love for reading anytime, anywhere, always.” It corresponds with the Inquirer’s latest campaign, “#MyInquirer Anytime Anywhere Always,” which has seen the brand’s transformation in terms of layout and content across all news platforms.

 

Inquirer president and chief executive officer Alexandra Prieto-Romualdez, who is also a Read-Along ambassador, led the day’s roster of readers. The other storytellers were: Read-Along Ambassador and television broadcaster Cathy Untalan-Vital; Miss Philippines-Earth 2016 Loren Artajos; actress Lotlot de Leon; and professional storytellers Rich Rodriguez and Posh Develos of Ang Pinoy Storytellers and Dyali Justo of Adarna House.

 

Romualdez opened the ceremonies by unveiling the Festival 2016 backdrop, with Inquirer corporate affairs assistant vice president Connie Kalagayan and Inquirer Central Desk chief Juliet Javellana.

 

A surprise dance number from Inquirer mascot Guyito and some members of the audience also made the event extra festive for the over a hundred students and teachers in attendance.

 

Romualdez came complete with props and costume, including a pillow stuffed under her shirt for her big belly simulation as she read “Si Filemon Mamon” by Christine S. Bellen, a story about a chubby boy who changes his ways so he can reach his dreams.

 

“What we really want to say is that the joy of reading is something that should be continuously nurtured and that in the learning process, even in our very high-tech world, reading should still be a part of our lives,” said Romualdez, a regular Festival reader.

 

Vital and Artajos read in tandem “Si Tanya ang Uwak na Gusto Pumuti” by German Gervacio, which tells the story of a crow who realizes what it truly takes to achieve her goals.

 

“In your everyday life, you don’t need to have a skin as white as porcelain like those of actresses,” said Artajos. “What matters is that you have the proper attitude toward other people accompanied by a sweet and kind heart.”

 

“I think the Read-Along should continue growing… We continue to evolve but there are some basics we should keep and that include the love for books,” said Vital.

 

In the afternoon, De Leon read “Ang Mahiyaing Manok” by Rebecca Añonuevo, which tells the story of Onyok, the shy rooster who eventually learned how to crow.—With reports from Marielle Medina, Rafael Antonio and Kate Pedroso, Inquirer Research, and Louie Greg Rivera.