Farewell to a Literary Sanctuary: The José Family Parts Ways with Solidaridad Bookshop After 59 Years

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

MANILA, Philippines — In a poignant turn that echoes the final chapter of a storied novel, the family of the late National Artist for Literature F. Sionil José is bidding farewell to Solidaridad Bookshop, the iconic literary haven that stood as both a cultural landmark and a living legacy in the heart of Ermita, Manila.

After nearly six decades of nurturing minds, igniting national discourse, and housing the dreams of Filipino writers and thinkers, the José family is selling the storied bookstore, as confirmed by Antonio “Tonet” José, son of the celebrated writer, in a recent statement to the Varsitarian, the official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas.

For generations, Solidaridad was more than just a shop of books — it was a fortress of freedom, a hub for intellectual ferment, and the epicenter of Philippine literary resistance. Founded by F. Sionil José in 1965, it became a crucible for conversations that mattered, a sacred ground where nationalism met storytelling, and where the country’s literary soul found its voice amid shelves lined with the wisdom of the world.

But now, in 2025, the final bookmark is being placed.

A Shrine to the Written Word

Located on Padre Faura Street, Solidaridad stood resilient through political upheavals, cultural shifts, and the changing tides of the publishing industry. It was here that F. Sionil José, himself a towering figure in Philippine literature, curated a space for writers, readers, journalists, artists, and revolutionaries. His works — fiercely honest and unrelentingly Filipino — often interrogated class struggle, historical amnesia, and the contradictions of power, mirroring the very ethos that Solidaridad embodied.

The decision to part with the bookstore does not come lightly. “This is a very emotional moment for our family,” Tonet José said. “Solidaridad has always been part of our father’s legacy, and letting it go is like letting go of a part of him.”

The End of an Era — Or the Start of a New Chapter?

While the sale of Solidaridad marks the end of its physical presence under the care of the José family, its legacy endures. The shop’s walls, once filled with the scent of old pages and passionate debates, will remain etched in the collective memory of Philippine literature and culture.

Writers like Nick Joaquin, Ninotchka Rosca, Bienvenido Lumbera, and Edith Tiempo once walked through its doors. Young scholars and aspiring poets discovered their heroes on its shelves. Foreign dignitaries and international authors, too, made Solidaridad a stop when seeking to understand the Filipino spirit.

A Challenge to the Nation

The closure — or transition — of Solidaridad is more than a personal family affair. It is a call to action. What does it mean when one of the country’s most important literary institutions changes hands? What is the value we place on spaces that preserve our cultural conscience?

As malls rise and digital platforms surge, Solidaridad’s quiet, steadfast presence reminded us of the beauty of slowness, of depth, of dialogue. Its sale must compel us to ask: where do we go now for truth-telling, for critical thought, for a safe space where words wield power?

The Legacy Lives On

Though the physical bookstore may pass into new stewardship, the influence of F. Sionil José and Solidaridad cannot be contained within four walls. It breathes in every young writer unafraid to speak, in every Filipino reader who dares to question, in every community that still believes in the revolutionary power of stories.

In the end, perhaps Solidaridad was never just a shop. It was an idea — and ideas, as José himself would write, are immortal.

As the books are boxed and the keys handed over, the Wazzup Pilipinas founder joins the literary and cultural community in honoring a sanctuary that gave voice to the voiceless. Let us ensure that the spirit of Solidaridad continues to echo through the words we write, the truths we tell, and the nation we dare to build.

Solidaridad may be closing a chapter — but the story of Filipino literature is far from over.

Where Paper Speaks: The Transformative Story Behind Paperception — A Sustainable Paper Show

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In a world often driven by the digital and disposable, Paperception emerges as a bold, beautiful contradiction — a celebration of paper not just as a medium, but as a meaningful message. What began as a simple idea has blossomed into a profoundly purposeful movement: to reimagine paper as a vessel of creativity, sustainability, and shared humanity.

At PAPERCEPTION: A Sustainable Paper Show, the stage was not just set for a program — it was set for a movement, ignited by the powerful voices of trailblazers who are reshaping industries and redefining impact.

This isn’t just an exhibition. It’s an invitation to look again. To reframe. To perceive differently.

At the heart of Paperception is a powerful truth — that paper, often taken for granted, holds limitless potential. More than texture and fiber, it can spark dialogue, express identity, archive memory, and even champion environmental change. In this space, every sheet tells a story. Every fold, brushstroke, or cut becomes a call to awareness, a whisper of conscience, a gesture of transformation.

And now, with you in the picture, this vision becomes even more vibrant.

Maria Victoria Tan, Chairperson of Global Compact Network Philippines and Executive Director at Ayala Corporation, opened the event with a keynote address that stirred both minds and hearts. 

Then came Enrique Caeg, Founder and President of the International Council for Small Business Philippines, whose welcome remarks lit the room with energy and sincerity. 

Closing the opening salvo with strength and grace, Albert See, President of the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, gave his message of support — forging a vital link between environmental responsibility and public health. 

Cristy Oreta, President of the Philippine Marketing Association, delivers a powerful message that reverberates across industries and continents.

At PAPERCEPTION, where the future of sustainable paper unfolds, her words carry the weight of transformation.

In the Creativepreneurship portion of the event, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian expressed his  supports to  the International Council for Small Business 

Hand and hand. Director Lilian Salonga of DTI Creatives Division spoke on the programs & projects of the government that are geared towards the creative industries

Together, these distinguished leaders didn’t just speak at PAPERCEPTION — they gave it soul. Their voices blended into a symphony of purpose, proving that when thought leaders converge with clarity and courage, paper becomes more than pulp — it becomes a platform for change.

Dynamic companies, such as, Gardenia, PIAPI,PROPAK. , Klaypel,  Canon, Ubix. Epson, Kimstore, and Prestige Sustainable, supported the ICSB Paperception Forum

Creativity Meets Responsibility

Paperception doesn't simply showcase art — it calls upon the artist and the audience to co-create a more sustainable future. It’s a living gallery where curiosity is your compass, and responsibility your guiding light. Whether you’re a passionate creator, an inspired observer, or a wide-eyed first-time guest, your presence shapes the energy of this space.

To fully embrace this journey, participants are encouraged to walk through the exhibition with a spirit of openness and reflection. Allow the textures and techniques to surprise you. Let the messages behind the artworks spark deeper thought. Ask questions. Share insights. Start conversations that matter.

Because in Paperception, engagement is everything. Silence may speak, but your voice can spark change.

A Mindful Manifesto: How to Be a Sustainable Guest

As we fold art and advocacy into one experience, we ask every guest to honor the principles of sustainability that Paperception holds dear:

Arrive with Curiosity – Be ready to explore new ideas, challenge perceptions, and appreciate craftsmanship in its purest form.

Respect the Space and People – Every piece was created with intention. Treat them — and those around you — with that same care.

Engage Fully – Creativity thrives on connection. Don’t hesitate to express your thoughts, ask the difficult questions, or contribute your own story.

Live the Message – Whether it's minimizing waste, reusing materials, or supporting eco-conscious artists and brands, let this event shape your daily choices.

A Quick Guide to Sustainability is also available onsite — your roadmap to being a guest who not only observes but participates with purpose.

Turning the Page Together

In the narrative of change, every page matters. Every fold can be a revolution. Every shared insight, a spark. And in Paperception, the story we’re telling is not just about paper — it’s about people. About how a material so simple can open conversations so complex. How creativity, when aligned with conscience, can move the world.

So thank you — for stepping into this space, for accepting the invitation to see differently, and for helping us unfold a future where art doesn’t just speak — it listens, heals, and leads.

Let’s turn this page together. Because in Paperception, every voice has purpose. And every piece of paper is waiting to be transformed into something unforgettable.

An Exclusive First Taste at Michael Dubois Restaurant — Before the Curtains Officially Rise

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A privileged preview of Quezon City's most anticipated French fine dining destination

The evening air on Samar Street carried an unusual electricity as I approached #49 Samar Avenue street, South Triangle, Diliman, Quezon City. Even before stepping inside the elegantly appointed facade of Michael Dubois Restaurant, the anticipation was palpable. A curious couple in a passing car slowed down, rolling down their window to ask if the restaurant was already accepting diners. That spontaneous moment of inquiry spoke volumes—the buzz around this soon-to-open French culinary sanctuary is building to a crescendo, and the city's food enthusiasts are already taking notice.

This was no ordinary dinner service. Selected guests had been invited to an exclusive private tasting, a rare glimpse behind the velvet curtain before the restaurant's official debut on July 2nd. What unfolded over the course of the evening was nothing short of a gastronomic revelation that promises to redefine French fine dining in Metro Manila.

This isn't just another restaurant opening; it's the birth of a culinary empire that will forever transform Quezon City's dining landscape.

Behind weathered stone walls and beneath the glow of avant-garde lighting, a temple of taste has been meticulously crafted. Every textured surface tells a story, every carefully positioned glass whispers of the extraordinary experiences to come. The dramatic interplay of raw brick, sculptural elements, and golden accents creates an atmosphere where luxury feels both intimate and grandiose—a stage worthy of the culinary theater about to unfold.

The elegant table settings gleam like promises of perfection. The private dining spaces beckon to those who understand that true luxury lies in exclusivity and excellence. This is more than dining—this is culinary destiny calling.

However, please bear in mind that these are not accurate description of the actual ingredients as I am merely guessing which ingredients could have been used in the preparation of these dishes as they are not part of the regular menu being Chef's special menu of a five course dinner served only for that night. These photos are also just shots taken using my personal mobile phone thus the photos does not fully justifies the actual look of the dishes. They were all way better looking when you're right-smack at the location and served in front of you. 

The Artistry Unveiled: A Symphony in Five Movements

First Movement: Wagyu Beef Skewers - Poetry in Charcoal and Fire

The evening opened with what can only be described as edible architecture. Three perfectly seared wagyu beef skewers arrived on a dramatic black slate, each morsel glistening with a lacquered finish that spoke of expert technique and premium ingredients. The beef, tender beyond description, was accompanied by vibrant orange carrot batons and garnished with fresh herbs and delicate yellow flower petals.

The presentation was museum-worthy—each skewer positioned with mathematical precision, creating a visual harmony that elevated the dish from mere sustenance to art. The accompanying sauce, a glossy reduction that pooled elegantly beside the meat, provided the perfect acidic counterpoint to the rich, buttery wagyu. This was not just an appetizer; it was a statement of intent.

Second Movement: Scallops - Ocean Meets Garden

The second course transported us from land to sea with a stunning scallop preparation that demonstrated the kitchen's mastery of temperature and texture. A single, perfectly seared scallop crowned a bed of vibrant orange puree—likely butternut squash or sweet potato—its caramelized surface creating a beautiful contrast against the vegetable's natural sweetness.

Purple beetroot ribbons cascaded over the scallop like silk scarves, while tiny orange and yellow edible flowers provided both color and a subtle peppery note. Dots of herb oil punctuated the white porcelain canvas, creating a composition that was as much about visual storytelling as it was about flavor harmony. The scallop itself was cooked to that ethereal point where the exterior yields a satisfying bite while the interior remains translucent and sweet.

Third Movement: Crudo - Raw Elegance 

Perhaps the most technically impressive dish of the evening was a delicate crudo presentation that showcased the kitchen's confidence with raw preparations. Thin ribbons of what appeared to be white fish, or was it really shrimp as what the server said, like floating in a crystal-clear broth, garnished with vibrant orange nasturtium petals and finely chopped herbs.

The transparency was remarkable—a testament to the kitchen's skill in creating intensely flavored yet visually clean preparations. Each spoonful delivered waves of oceanic flavor, while the dish provided a silky texture that dissolved on the tongue. The edible flowers weren't merely decorative; they contributed subtle peppery and floral notes that elevated the entire composition.

Fourth Movement: Seafood Medley - The Ocean's Greatest Hits

The penultimate savory course was a celebration of the sea's bounty, featuring what appeared to be expertly prepared cod or similar white fish, accompanied by fresh mussels and shellfish. The fish was presented in thick, flaky portions that spoke of perfect timing and temperature control, while the shellfish glistened with their natural juices.

A pale, creamy sauce pooled around the seafood, likely a beurre blanc or similar butter-based preparation that enhanced rather than masked the natural flavors of the proteins. Cherry tomatoes provided acidic punctuation, while fresh herbs added color and aromatic complexity. The dish represented the kind of classical French technique that transforms simple ingredients into something transcendent.

Fifth Movement: Chocolate Finale - Drama in Dark and Light

The evening concluded with a dessert that was pure theater. A rectangular piece of dark chocolate, textured to resemble tree bark, stood dramatically upright on a bed of what appeared to be chocolate soil or crumb. Delicate chocolate tuile work, shaped like butterflies or leaves, provided architectural interest and textural contrast.

Drops of berry coulis dotted the white plate like rubies, while gold leaf accents caught the light, adding an element of luxury to the composition. This wasn't just dessert; it was edible sculpture that played with textures, temperatures, and visual expectations. The chocolate itself was intensely flavored yet balanced, providing a fitting crescendo to an evening of culinary excellence.

The Verdict: A Star is Born

What struck me most profoundly about this preview experience was the restaurant's clear understanding of what modern French fine dining should be. This isn't cuisine trapped in amber, reverently reproducing dishes from another era. Instead, Michael Dubois Restaurant appears poised to offer French technique filtered through contemporary sensibilities—classical foundations supporting innovative presentations and unexpected flavor combinations.

The attention to detail was extraordinary, from the precise plating that turned each dish into a work of art, to the careful selection of serving pieces that enhanced rather than competed with the food. Every element, from the delicate edible flowers to the dramatic slate presentations, felt intentional and considered.

The technical execution across all five courses was flawless. Proteins were cooked to perfect doneness, sauces were silky and well-balanced, and the progression of flavors throughout the meal showed sophisticated menu planning. This is the work of a kitchen that understands not just individual techniques, but how to orchestrate them into a cohesive dining experience.

The Anticipation Builds

Please also take note that it is not everyday we experience fine dining where the chef even personally drops by to see how you like the food. That personal touch adds intimacy that is well appreciated. The chef even told me that I should have brought someone with me whom I could have shared that special moment. Unfortunately, my wife was out of town with her friends that day, but I am sure to bring her with me if ever I have the opportunity to visit the restaurant again.

Chef Michael Dubois, with fire in his eyes and decades of French technique flowing through his hands, stands ready to unleash a menu that will make food lovers weep with joy. This is where classic French sophistication collides with bold innovation, where every plate becomes a masterpiece, and where every meal transforms into an unforgettable journey.

As July 2nd grand opening approaches, the question isn't whether Michael Dubois Restaurant will succeed—the quality evident in this preview tasting suggests that success is inevitable. The real question is whether Quezon City's dining scene is ready for this level of culinary sophistication.

Based on this exclusive preview, Michael Dubois Restaurant appears poised to establish itself as a destination worthy of special occasions and serious food lovers. The combination of technical excellence, artistic presentation, and clear culinary vision suggests that this new addition to the Metro Manila dining scene will quickly find its place among the city's elite establishments.

For those fortunate enough to secure reservations when the doors officially open, prepare for an evening that will linger in memory long after the last bite of that remarkable chocolate dessert has been savored. This is French fine dining that honors tradition while embracing the future—exactly what the Manila food scene has been waiting for.

The anticipation is building, and if this preview is any indication, the wait will have been worth every moment.