First Children's Book On Tausug Culture And Cuisine Launch

When children see themselves reflected in the stories they read, it's like finding a friend who really gets them. It helps them feel connected, boosting their sense of who they are. This makes accurate and diverse representation in literature all the more important, helping every child feel valued and seen.

Enter Si Migoy, Ang Batang Tausug, the first-ever children's book to dive into the rich culture and cuisine of the Tausug people. Vibrantly illustrated and full of heart, this book brings Mindanaoan heritage to life in a way that's engaging and relatable for kids. If you're looking for a new read that educates as much as it entertains, this one's definitely worth checking out.

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Si Migoy, Ang Batang Tausug

Published by PaperKat Books, Si Migoy, Ang Batang Tausug follows Migoy, a young boy who introduces readers to the food and traditions of the Tausug people. Through his everyday experiences, the book shares a look at Mindanaoan culture and local dishes.

Written by GMA reporter Nelson Canlas and Dr. Isabel Cabel Moreno-Go, co-founder of Zamboanga's Hermosa Book Club, the book is in Tagalog, English, and Tausug, making it easy for kids from different backgrounds to enjoy. The translations were done with the help of language experts to keep things accurate and true to the culture. The book is made even livelier by the illustrations of award-winning artist Danielle Florendo.

Migoy is inspired by Chef Miguel Cabel Moreno, a big supporter of Tausug cuisine. He owns Palm Grill in Quezon City, where he serves dishes like Piyanggang Manok and Tiyula Itum—recipes that also appear in the book, giving readers a taste of what Tausug food is all about.

This book is a family project, with Nelson fulfilling his dream of becoming a children's book author and Dr. Moreno-Go drawing inspiration from her childhood memories with her brother, who has always had a love for cooking.

"For months before that, I had been working on a story—a children's book that touched on childhood friendships, faith, family, and, of course, the rich and soulful cuisine of the Tausug people," wrote Nelson in a Facebook post.

He shared, "At first, I only planned to print four copies. One as a Christmas gift for Chef Miggy. One for his mother in Zamboanga. One for my own mother in Chicago. And one for my personal file. That was it. A simple, quiet tribute. But fate had other plans."

"What started as a labor of love slowly grew into something greater than I had ever imagined."

In another heartfelt statement, Nelson shared that the book is "born out of my years of searching for a deeper purpose and a way to give back, inspired by the values that GMA has instilled in me throughout my career."

The grand launch took place on January 31, 2025, at Gateway Mall 2's Quantum Skyview activity area, with grade school students, teachers, and parents in attendance. This marks just the beginning of the journey, as the book kicks off a four-part series that will dive deeper into Tausug culture and stories.

Si Migoy, Ang Batang Tausug will represent the Philippines at the Bologna Book Fair in March and is set to showcase Mindanaoan culture in both local and international events.

The book will soon be available on Lazada and at select Fully Booked branches, where you can pre-order it for P425!

Click here for a list of illustrated children's books to add to your kid's reading list!