The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Malolos City, Bulacan in collaboration with the Department of Education Schools Division Office (SDO) of Malolos City organized its first-ever Local Literacy Conference cum Research Caravan last April 22, 2024, as part of the 3rd phase of the City’s Project I-REINFORCE. Themed “Empowering Communities through Literacy: Pathways to Inclusive and Smart City”, the event aimed to disseminate information on the initiatives addressing literacy issues, publicly showcase research outputs on literacy, and recognize LGU and SDO researchers who participated in the conference. A total of 14 research outputs were featured in the conference spanning various literacy areas including history and culture, information and communication, livelihood and employability, disaster resilience, sexuality, agriculture, and more.

Mr. Enrico R. Mendoza, Head of the Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC) Secretariat, was invited to participate in the said conference where he delivered a speech commending the initiative of LGU Malolos, affirming that the LGU is on the right track towards ensuring a participative and research-based formulation and implementation of local literacy policies and programs. This is aligned with the Literacy Coordinating Council’s goal of eradicating illiteracy at the grassroots level. Mr. Mendoza, on behalf of the LCC also presented the Plaque of Recognition to LGU Malolos as one of the winners of the 2022 National Literacy Awards.

Honorable City Mayor Christian D. Natividad, Vice Mayor Migs Bautista, Schools Division Superintendent Leilani Samson-Cunanan, CESO V, Councilor Niño Carlo Bautista, and other key LGU and SDO officials were present during the conference.