Question & AnswerQ&A (NBDB)
They are known and cited as the Rules and Regulations Implementing R.A. No. 8047, otherwise known as the Book Publishing Industry Development Act or the Book Act.
The State declares the book publishing industry as having a significant role in national development because books are instrumental in intellectual, technical, and cultural development, which are the social foundation of the country’s economic and social growth.
A book is a printed non-periodical publication of at least 48 pages exclusive of cover pages published in the country, including children’s books (even if less than 48 pages), children’s educational comics, boomics (book-comics), scientific, cultural, medical, architectural and professional magazines, and book catalogs.
It consists of 11 members appointed by the President: five government representatives from various departments and agencies, and six nominees from private sectors including book publishers, printers, writers, students, and related book industry activities, preferably representing the three main islands of the Philippines.
Members must be Filipino citizens, at least 30 years old, and must possess established competence and integrity.
Violators may be fined up to ₱100,000 or imprisoned for up to 5 years, or both. Juridical entities face fines up to ₱500,000. Officers responsible can be fined up to ₱700,000. Additionally, benefits granted under the Book Act may be forfeited.
The NBDB can import books and raw materials used in book publishing exempt from taxes and customs duties and must monitor the use, volume, and distribution of these imported materials.
The NBDB coordinates with DECS in forming guidelines for textbooks, participates in testing and approval, monitors progress in privatization of textbook provision, assists in securing budget for instructional materials, and ensures equitable distribution and delivery of textbooks by private publishers.
The Executive Officer (also called Executive Director) manages daily operations and is assisted by the Deputy Executive Officer (Deputy Executive Director). Both are appointed by the President of the Philippines.
It includes mechanisms for book development; production of instructional materials for various reader categories; addressing industry problems; balancing supply and demand; ensuring just compensation for authors; ethical trade guidelines; and human resource development programs for book personnel.