For generations of Filipino readers, Solidaridad Bookshop has been more than just a place to buy books. Tucked along Padre Faura Street in Ermita, Manila, the beloved independent bookstore has served as a cultural landmark and gathering space for lovers of literature since 1964. As it prepares to celebrate its 61st anniversary this year, the historic shop is giving bookworms another reason to visit: titles are now available at discounted prices.

Solidaridad Bookshop’s month-long June sale

As if in celebration of the 128th Philippine Independence Day, Solidaridad Bookshop is holding a Clearance Sale until June 30, 2026. Readers can drop by the store in Ermita to browse its shelves and score foreign titles at discounts of up to 70% off.

“Maraming, maraming salamat for your continued support and for helping keep the love of books and reading alive. Seeing so many readers discover new titles and revisit old favorites made this day truly special,” the bookstore shared in an official statement on the second day of the sale.

Unfortunately for those outside Metro Manila, Solidaridad Bookshop does not currently have an online catalog for the clearance sale, much to the disappointment of many Filipino book lovers hoping to shop from afar.

What happened to Solidaridad Bookshop?

National Artist for Literature F. Sionil Jose founded Solidaridad Bookshop in 1964. Over the decades, it became known not only for carrying his own works, but also books by some of the country’s most celebrated writers, including Nick Joaquin, Lualhati Bautista, and Jose Rizal. Its collection has since expanded to include foreign publications and contemporary titles, making it a destination for readers of different tastes and generations.

Following the passing of F. Sionil Jose and his wife, Teresita Jovellanos Jose, in 2022, the bookstore continued operating under the management of their family.

In 2025, however, the literary community was alarmed when Solidaridad announced that the bookstore was up for sale. Writers, academics, students, and longtime patrons feared that one of Manila’s most treasured literary institutions might soon close its doors for good.

Who owns Solidaridad Bookshop now?

Later that year, Solidaridad Bookshop confirmed that it had found a new owner: businessman Leandro Legarda Leviste, son of Senator Loren Legarda and a longtime family friend of F. Sionil Jose.

“Leviste is making this investment to ensure Solidaridad’s continued operations and help preserve the legacy of F. Sionil Jose with the continued advice of the Jose family,” the bookstore said in a statement.

For many readers, the news offered reassurance that the historic bookshop would continue its story. And with its ongoing clearance sale, there’s perhaps no better time to revisit the iconic bookstore, discover a new favorite read, and support one of the Philippines’ most enduring literary institutions.

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