Goodbye to the National Book Store building in Cubao that defined our childhood

The announcement has revived memories of the massive eight-story National Book Store building along General Roxas Avenue, which became a favorite destination for generations of Filipinos, particularly those who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s.

For many Batang ‘90s, a trip to Cubao meant accompanying their parents to buy notebooks, pencils, textbooks, and other school supplies before classes began. The building’s multiple floors also offered toys, stationery, reference books, and educational materials that were difficult to find in smaller bookstores.

National Book Store was founded in 1942 by Jose and Socorro ‘Nanay Coring’ Ramos. Its Cubao Superbranch opened in 1982, eventually becoming one of the country’s largest bookstore destinations.

Located near Araneta Coliseum, the building was part of Cubao’s transformation into a major commercial district. Its extensive inventory attracted students, teachers, office workers, and families from across Metro Manila.

During the 1980s, its toy sections were particularly popular, offering imported action figures from franchises such as ‘ThunderCats’ and ‘Masters of the Universe.’

The bookstore was also part of Cubao’s Christmas shopping tradition. Families visiting the famous moving holiday displays at Manila C.O.D. Department Store often included National Book Store in their shopping trips.

Over the decades, the branch adapted to changing consumer habits. Retail operations were reduced, while portions of the building were used for warehousing and an outlet store offering discounted merchandise.

The relocation reflects National Book Store’s broader shift toward modern retail formats as the company responds to shopping malls, e-commerce, and changing reading habits.

According to the company’s website, National Book Store now operates 262 branches nationwide, alongside online stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

The Gateway Mall 2 Superbranch is expected to offer a more contemporary shopping experience, replacing the traditional large-format retail environment associated with the old Cubao building.

However, the announcement has raised questions about the original structure.

‘But what’s going to happen to the building?’ asked Threads user @saberkite.

No confirmed redevelopment plan for the old building has been presented in the discussion.

For generations of Filipinos, the Cubao Superbranch was not simply a bookstore. It was a major part of student life, family shopping, and the commercial history of Cubao.

Its relocation in 2027 will mark another change to a district whose landmarks have shaped the childhood memories of millions of Metro Manila residents.

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