With ABS-CBN picking up the rights to develop the beloved fantasy series into a multimedia franchise, “Moymoy Lulumboy 6” instantly became one of the most anticipated releases on the biggest and longest running book fair in the Philippines. The sixth installment debuted during the first day of the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) on September 13, 2019 at the SMX Convention Center at the SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Following Moymoy Lulumboy’s journey as a fascinating character who continues to grapple with the complexities of adolescent life, Lampara Publishing’s latest novel succeeds in debunking the preconceived notions about aswang by going beyond its role in popular culture. In addition to Moymoy’s adolescent issues, the book marks the boy-aswang’s return to the enchanting world of Gabun where he saves his brother Alangkaw and childhood friend Hasmin from evil forces.

“Moymoy Lulumboy: Ang Ugat at ang Propesiya” is Segundo Matias Jr.’s sixth offering from the Moymoy Lulumboy series. When asked about the novel’s transition towards a more Young Adult direction, the award-winning author pointed out his fascination on writing characters that navigate a flawed life.

‘Monito’ book cover

‘Angelica, Ang Multo ng Balete Drive’ book cover

These vulnerable, colorful and inspiring creatures populate Matias’s string of young adult titles such as “Angelica, Ang Multo Ng Balete Drive” and “Moñito, Ang Mabait na Demonyo.” Both novels were launched on the same day as “Moymoy Lulumboy: Ang Ugat at ang Propesiya,” leading his growing roster of fantasy titles.

The heroine in “Angelica, Ang Multo Ng Balete Drive” broke ghost rules to save a friend’s life. It was illustrated by Jaime Bauza.

“Moñito, Ang Mabait na Demonyo” is about a kindhearted demon born without a horn and a tail. It was illustrated by Jomike Tejido.

Completing the publisher-turned-novelist’s showcase during the MIBF week is “Mga Batang Poz,” a 2018 young adult novel whose digital series adaptation is considered to be one of the most viewed streaming titles on popular online platform iWantv. Threading an important step forward in understanding the lives of People living with HIV-AIDS, the book garnered generally positive acclaim from various critics and publications, praising the material for bringing attention to a subject that has long been derided by religious conservatives.

“Gusto kong gumawa ng isang YA novel na gaya ng ‘Mga Batang Poz,’ (I wanted to write a YA novel like ‘Mga Batang Poz’),” Matias said. “Iyong buhay ng isang teenager o young adult, nag–e-explore, madalas magkamali at pagkatapos ay natututo sa buhay (The life of a teenager or a young adult, exploring, often commits mistakes and afterwards learns life lessons).”

“Moymoy Lulumboy: Ang Ugat at ang Propesiya,” “Angelica, Ang Multo Ng Balete Drive, Moñito” and “Mga Batang Poz” are available on Precious Pages retail outlets, National Book Store, Pandayan book shop and leading books stores nationwide. For inquiries you may contact, inquiry@lamparabooks.com.ph.