From vlogger to author: Mika Salamanca’s ‘Lipad’ is a project close to her heart

Content creator Mika Salamanca is taking on a brand new role as a children's author with her debut book, 'Lipad'. Fans can find 'Lipad' at the Manila International Book Fair 2025, running from September 10 to 14. This heartwarming story aims to inspire young readers to embrace their courage, self-love, and unique individuality.

Set within the enchanting confines of a grandmother's garden, 'Lipad' introduces a cast of delightful flower characters and its protagonist, Mahika – a tiny fairy distinguished by her uniquely small wings. Through Mahika’s adventure, Mika gently encourages readers to celebrate their differences, step beyond their comfort zones, and discover the inner strength to truly soar on their own terms. This narrative holds a deep personal resonance for Mika, who shared that Mahika is a vivid reflection of her own fears, life experiences, and the invaluable lessons she’s learned along the way.

Expressing her profound connection to the project, Mika took to Instagram, writing, "Since my 2nd day after I went out of BNK, I’ve been working on this dream with my team. Hindi naging madali, pero every step was filled with love, hope, and faith. And now, hawak-hawak ko na siya." (It wasn’t easy, but every step was filled with love, hope, and faith. And now, I hold it in my hands.) She also highlighted that while 'Lipad' is crafted for children, its powerful messages of growth and resilience are equally poignant and guiding for adults. Adding another layer of meaning, Mika revealed the color symbolism woven into her book: yellow for her sister, her beloved "sunflower"; red, representing her sister's cherished place in her heart; and blue, a tribute to her brother, often recalled in moments of joyful tears.

Before venturing into authorship, Mika Salamanca first captured public attention as a prominent YouTuber and lifestyle vlogger. Launching her channel in 2014, she amassed over 4 million subscribers through engaging song covers, vlogs, and beauty content. Her journey, however, wasn't without its challenges, including a notable incident in 2020 where she faced an arrest in Hawaii for quarantine violations – an event she openly acknowledged as a significant turning point in her public life. Despite past controversies, Mika successfully transitioned into acting by 2023, securing supporting roles on GMA Network.

Her acting credits include appearances as Sarah in *Maging Sino Ka Man* (2023), Megan in *Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis* (2024), Emerald Anonuevo in *Abot-Kamay na Pangarap*, and Anaca in the fantasy series *Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre*, a role she landed while participating in a major reality show. She also delighted audiences with her comedic flair as a guest on the long-running gag show *Bubble Gang*. Her biggest leap into national recognition came in 2025, when she joined *Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition* – a truly full-circle moment for Mika, who had dreamed of being a housemate since childhood, even after a previous failed audition in 2018.

Her persistence paid off, as she not only became a fan-favorite housemate but also emerged as one half of the *Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition* Big Winner duo, alongside Brent Manalo, collectively known as BreKa. Further demonstrating her compassionate spirit, Mika generously donated her entire P1 million cash prize to the Duyan Ni Maria Children’s Home in Mabalacat, Pampanga, a decision she had made even before the winners were announced. This philanthropic act, coupled with her new role as an author, marks a remarkable new chapter for Mika Salamanca, transforming her from a digital star and actress into a celebrated published author who continues to give back.