If you heard a collective sigh of contentment (and maybe a few wallets crying) coming from Makati, it was likely the aftermath of the Manila Pen Show (MPS) 2026. Held at the Fairmont Makati, this was my second time attending the show since moving back to Manila. I can honestly say the energy this year reached a whole new level. Themed “Hello Retro,” this event was a huge celebration of all things analog. If I remember correctly, MPS 2026 was the largest event in the show’s history.
One of the most exciting aspects of MPS 2026 was seeing a lot of first-time exhibitors. It was great to see brands from Japan making their Manila debut, like Eboya and Drillog (with those Kodachi fude nibs that have been haunting me in my sleep).
The crowd favorites were easy to spot by the queues. The stamping table was always buzzing with people and their journals, while the nibmeister stations remained the technical heart of the show.
While many flocked to the pen show for, ahem, pens, I went in with a specific mission: finding the perfect paper.
Everything Calligraphy & Vinta Inks: This is always my first stop. I restocked my favorite Clairefontaine pads, I was so happy! There is simply no substitute for that smooth French paper when it comes to calligraphy practice.
ON Inks PH: I finally secured the MPS-exclusive release, Mint Condition. It is a fresh, crisp green that’s great in either broad nib or extra fin nib.
Glass Studio Aun: I spent quite a bit of time admiring their glass pens, as I have during last year’s show as well.
Tachikawa: I hadn’t planned on buying a new holder, but then I tested this dip pen. The Premium Tamo felt perfect for Copperplate strokes. It was an instant ‘shut up and take my money’ moment.
A major milestone for me this year was attending my first-ever calligraphy workshop in Manila. I took a French Roundhand (Ronde) class with Eun Bautista. It was such an enriching experience to be a student in a classroom setting here, and I’ll be sharing a dedicated post with photos and details soon! Between browsing and workshops, a matcha latte from the station was a lifesaver. I didn’t want to leave to have lunch, so it was enough fuel to tide me over for another hour of browsing.
The Manila Pen Show 2026 was, in a word, overwhelming, but in the best way possible. It’s more than just a shopping trip. It’s about the community, the conversations with exhibitors, and a shared passion for the handwritten word. Did you make it to MPS 2026? I’d love to hear about your favorite finds!
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