Returning to Philippine shores after over a decade, the international floating book fair Doulos Hope is set to arrive at three Philippine ports between March and April 2024.
Operated by the non-profit organization, the Doulos Hope vessel is currently stationed at Subic Bay’s Rivera North Wharf Port from February 13 to March 3.
It will then move on to the San Fernando International Seaport in San Fernando, La Union, from March 7 to 24, followed by Manila from March 28 to April 23, and finally, at the Batangas International Port in Batangas City from April 16 to 28.
The Batangas International Port commonly referred to as Batangas Pier (Tagalog: Pantalan ng Batangas), is a vital seaport located in Barangay Santa Clara, Batangas City.
Its primary function is to facilitate maritime activities for the Calabarzon region of the Philippines, covering an expansive area of approximately 150 hectares.
Established as a national port in 1956, Batangas International Port serves as a crucial alternative to the congested Port of Manila.
Throughout the 1990s, it held significant prominence, ranking as the second-largest port in the Philippines in terms of revenue, trailing only behind the Port of Manila.
During its Subic leg, the floating book fair is open from Tuesdays to Sundays, from 2 pm to 9 pm, with the last entry at 8 pm. The entrance fee is P50 per person, with complimentary admission for children under 12 and seniors over 60.
"Doulos Hope Philippines prioritizes online bookings. While walk-ins are accepted, especially on weekends, entry is not guaranteed for all," the organization stated on Facebook. Registration is currently open only for the Subic Bay leg, with registration for the upcoming ports to follow soon.
Doulos Hope Philippines recommends small group visits and notes that the vessel is not accessible to persons with disabilities (PWDs).
One of two vessels owned by GBA Ships, a non-profit organization based in Germany, Doulos Hope is joined by the recently commissioned fifth vessel in May 2023 in Singapore. Meanwhile, the other vessel, Logos Hope, is presently stationed in Gqeberha, South Africa.
Dubbed the "largest floating library in the world," Doulos Hope travels to various global ports for several weeks, welcoming thousands of visitors daily. The book fair offers diverse titles and genres of quality literature at affordable prices.
The "ship of hope" last visited the Philippines in February 2012, carrying over 5,000 titles at discounted rates. The crew at that time comprised individuals from about 56 different nationalities.
GBA Ships e.V., also known as Good Books for All, is dedicated to promoting literacy and education globally. Since its inception in 1970, the organization's vessels have made over 1,600 port visits across more than 160 countries and territories. Through book donations and cultural exchange facilitated by its diverse international crew, GBA Ships fosters international goodwill and understanding. Additionally, the organization actively engages in local community projects, emphasizing social awareness and cross-cultural cooperation.
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