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Celebrating Excellence, Recognizing Achievements: The 2023 Gawad Gintong LIYAB

Celebrating Excellence, Recognizing Achievements: The 2023 Gawad Gintong LIYAB

In a remarkable celebration of dedication and achievement, the Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC) Secretariat held the 2023 Gawad Gintong LIYAB on November 22, 2023, at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) Region IV-A in Malvar, Batangas. The event aimed to recognize the exceptional performance of the LCC Secretariat’s personnel and the unwavering support of Council member representatives in the successful implementation of LCC programs, projects, and activities throughout the year 2023.

The Gawad Gintong Liyab served as a platform to acknowledge the tireless efforts and contributions of the individuals who played a significant role in advancing literacy initiatives and programs of the LCC. The event not only highlighted the accomplishments of the Secretariat but also showcased the collective commitment of the Council member representatives to the overarching goals of the Council.

The theme for this year’s recognition rites is “Pagkilala sa Pagiging MATATAG sa Kabila ng mga Hamon.” This theme underscores the importance of acknowledging individuals who exhibit strength and perseverance in overcoming challenges, emphasizing the value of resilience as a commendable quality that empowers them to navigate and triumph over difficulties.

 

One of the key highlights of the event was the recognition of outstanding personnel within the Secretariat for their exemplary dedication to performing their tasks in the face of challenges of the year 2023. Awards were presented to those who demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment in their respective roles. Moreover, the Gawad Gintong LIYAB also provided an opportunity to commend the Council member representatives for their invaluable support in facilitating the successful execution of LCC programs, projects, and activities for the current year. Their collaborative efforts played a crucial role in ensuring that the Council’s vision for literacy and education was effectively translated into impactful initiatives. The Certificates of Appreciation were signed by Dr. Gina O. Gonong, Department of Education’s Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching and Secretary’s Permanent Representative to the LCC.

The event concluded with a renewed sense of enthusiasm and commitment among the awardees, Council members, and Secretariat personnel. The Gawad Gintong LIYAB not only celebrated past achievements but also served as an inspiration for future endeavors, inspiring all involved to continue working towards a more literate and educated society.

Gawad Gintong LIYAB is an initiative of the LCC Secretariat that is aligned with the provisions of DepEd Order No. 9, s. 2002 titled “Establishing the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) in the Department of Education.” LIYAB stands for the 5 Program Pillars of the LCC namely, Likha, Ilaw, Yaman, Aruga, and Buklod

representing Policy Research and Development; Advocacy, Social Mobilization, and Partnerships; Knowledge Management; Learning and Organizational Development; and LCC Localization, respectively.

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Pag-aaral Ukol sa Adult Literacy ng Bansa Binigyang Linaw sa 155th LCC Meeting

Pag-aaral Ukol sa Adult Literacy ng Bansa Binigyang Linaw sa 155th LCC Meeting

Naging pangunahing paksa sa ika-155 na pagpupulong ng konseho ang mga bagong kaalaman ukol sa Research Study on the Development of Benchmarks for Adult Literacy Competencies na ibinahagi ni Dr. Heidi B. Macahilig ng Philippine Normal University (PNU) na syang project leader ng nasabing proyekto. Ang pag-aaral na ito ang naghikayat sa kanilang grupo upang tuklasin ang mga hamon na kinakaharap ng adult literacy, masukat ang kanilang kakayahan, at makabuo ng mga rekomendasyong pang-polisiya.

Dr. Heidi B. Macahilig ng Philippine Normal University

Ang naturang pulong na ginanap noong Nobyembre 17, 2023 sa pamamagitan ng Zoom video conference ay pinangunahan ni Undersecretary Gina O. Gonong ng Curriculum and Teaching ng Kagawaran ng Edukasyon. Kabilang din sa mga aktibong nakibahagi sa pulong ay sina Dr. Bert J. Tuga ng Philippine Normal University (PNU), Director-General Jose A. Torres, Jr. ng Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Ms. Flora C. Arellano ng E-Net Philippines, Assistant Director Edgardo S. Aranjuez II ng National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Assistant Secretary Sunshine Charry Fajarda ng DepEd, Officer-in-Charge Assistant Secretary Marilette R. Almayda ng Bureau of Alternative Education (BAE), at iba pang kinatawan ng LCC members at mga panauhin.

Undersecretary of Curriculum and Teaching,

Gina O. Gonong sa pulong ng 155th LCC Meeting

Kabilang sa mahahalagang tinalakay ay ang mga sumusunod: 1) LCC’s Accomplishments for FY 2023; 2) LCC’s Programs, Activities, and Projects for FY 2024; at 3) Voting Results for the New NGO Representative to the LCC, at iba pang napapanahong paksa.

Ang resulta ng boto para sa bagong NGO Representative ng konseho ay inihayag ni OIC ASec. Almayda na umani ng limang boto mula sa mga miyembro ng LCC para kay Dr. Milwida M. Guevara ng Synergeia Foundation.

Kuha ni Usec. Gina O. Gonong kasama ang mga miyembro at kinatawan ng LCC,

LCC Secretariat at iba pang panauhin

LCC Strengthens Data Management for Improved Literacy Development

 

GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines – On September 5 to 8, 2023 the LCC conducted the Workshop on the Maintenance and Enhancement of the LCC Database System (Phase 1) at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) Region XII in General Santos City. The event brought together key stakeholders to bolster data management strategies aimed at advancing literacy development efforts nationwide. Participated by the representatives from the different Council member agencies, the LCC Secretariat, and resource persons, this activity aimed to review and enhance the structure, design, and content of the National Literacy Information System that is used to collect, store, and analyze critical data related to literacy.

During the opening program, LCC Secretariat head, Mr. Enrico R. Mendoza, highlighted the significance of data-driven decision-making in advancing literacy development in the Philippines. He stressed the importance of accurate and up-to-date information in formulating policies and strategies that address the evolving needs of learners and literacy program managers.

The workshop’s success signifies the LCC’s continued efforts to modernize its data infrastructure and align its strategies with current best practices in data management. By enhancing the National Literacy Information System, the LCC, its stakeholders, and partners are better equipped to monitor and evaluate literacy programs, allocate resources effectively, and drive positive change in the education landscape of the Philippines.

Phase 2 of the workshop is scheduled for conduct on September 25 to 28, 2023 in Cebu City.

 

The National Literacy Information System and its Role in Literacy Development

Availability of relevant data and information plays a very important role in various aspects of literacy development in the Philippines, and the Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC) has a significant role in overseeing and facilitating efforts on this, through the development and maintenance of the National Literacy Information System (NLIS).

Business and educational programs like the Literacy Coordinating Council’s work open up a wide range of opportunities. Likewise, online casinos offer a variety of games that open up a world of entertainment and gambling opportunities. Players can choose between most volatile slots, roulette or poker, each with its own unique gravity, similar to the variety of information systems and programs that help develop literacy in the Philippines.

Below are the elements that detail the significance of the NLIS in literacy development in the Philippines:

Data Collection and Analysis. Databases are essential for collecting and storing data related to literacy rates, educational resources, and the population’s educational needs. The NLIS helps LCC’s stakeholders in organizing and analyzing this data, enabling policymakers and educators to make informed decisions. This data can include literacy rates, demographic information, school infrastructure, and the availability of teaching materials.

Resource Allocation. A complete and updated data collection system on literacy can help the government allocate resources effectively at the national and local levels. By having accurate data on literacy levels and educational needs, national government agencies and local government executives can allocate funds, teachers, and educational materials to areas where they are most needed. This ensures that resources are distributed equitably and efficiently, ultimately benefiting literacy development.

Monitoring and Evaluation. Databases and management information systems allow for the continuous monitoring and evaluation of literacy programs and initiatives. This helps identify what’s working and what needs improvement. Regular assessments can lead to adjustments in educational policies and strategies, leading to better literacy outcomes.

Targeted Interventions. With data-driven insights, the government and NGOs can design and implement targeted interventions to address specific literacy challenges. For example, if data shows that a particular region has a low literacy rate, targeted programs can be introduced to address the root causes, whether it’s lack of access to schools or specific language barriers.

Accountability and Transparency. Databases and management information systems contribute to accountability and transparency in literacy development efforts. Stakeholders can track the progress of programs and hold responsible parties accountable for their results, which can help ensure that resources are used effectively and corruption is minimized.

Policy Formulation. Accurate and up-to-date data is essential for formulating effective literacy policies. The government can use this information to set targets, create strategies, and enact legislation that promotes literacy development.

The Literacy Coordinating Council plays a vital role in the context of literacy development. It coordinates various government agencies, nongovernment organizations, and other stakeholders involved in literacy initiatives. It ensures that efforts are synchronized and complementary, avoiding duplication and fragmentation. It also participates in the formulation of policies related to literacy and basic education and it also provides recommendations and insights based on data and best practices to help shape effective policies. Moreover, the Council serves as an advocate for literacy development at both the national and local levels. It raises awareness about the importance of literacy and mobilizes support from government and civil society. The LCC may have a role in advising on the allocation of resources for literacy programs and initiatives. It ensures that funds are directed to where they are most needed and can have the greatest impact. It is responsible for monitoring and evaluating literacy programs and initiatives to assess their effectiveness and provide recommendations for improvement.

The NLIS is a critical tool for informed decision-making in literacy development, and the Literacy Coordinating Council plays a pivotal role in coordinating, advocating for, and overseeing efforts to improve literacy in the Philippines. Together, these elements contribute to more effective and efficient literacy development programs and policies.

To access the NLIS, please visit the LCC website.

Enhancing Organizational Excellence: LCC Conducts Staff Development Workshop

In today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape, training has played a crucial role in achieving organizational success. Acknowledging this important aspect of learning and development, the Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC) has organized a Staff Development Workshop for its secretariat and member representatives. This event took place from August 14 to 17, 2023 at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) Region XII in General Santos City and proved to be a transformative experience for all participants.

By investing in the skills, knowledge, and abilities of its workforce, the Council paves the way for improved performance, increased job satisfaction, and enhanced organizational excellence. Through this activity, the participants were able to gain the following:

1. Skill Enhancement. The workshop provided an avenue for participants to acquire new skills and enhance existing ones. These newfound skills will not only empower them to perform their current roles more effectively but also equip them to take on more challenging responsibilities in the future.

2. Knowledge Enrichment. In an era characterized by rapid information exchange, staying updated is paramount. Through the workshop’s informative sessions and discussions, participants were able to gain access to the latest trends, best practices, and insights, enabling them to make more informed decisions and contribute meaningfully to their organization’s success.

3. Networking Opportunities. The event brought together individuals from different Council member agencies, with different diverse backgrounds and roles within their respective organizations. This activity facilitated the exchange of ideas, experiences, and perspectives, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

4. Boosting Confidence and Morale. As participants acquire new skills and knowledge, their self-confidence naturally grows. This confidence would translate into improved job satisfaction and a positive work environment. High morale between and among the LCC Secretariat and the Council member representatives would surely lead to increased productivity and a greater sense of loyalty.

5. Career Advancement. The workshop’s focus on skill development and knowledge enrichment will undoubtedly open up new avenues for career growth. Participants will be better equipped to pursue higher roles within the organization, fostering a culture of internal promotion and progression.

6. Enhanced Problem-Solving. Through interactive sessions and group dynamics, participants were able to sharpen their problem-solving abilities. This will empower them to tackle challenges more effectively, contributing to a more agile and adaptive organizational culture.

7. Long-Term Organizational Benefits. While the immediate gains of the staff development are evident, the long-term advantages cannot be underestimated. The participants are now more than ever ready to take on future challenges in their roles and responsibilities, with more enthusiasm as they embark on contributing to the realization of LCC’s goals and objectives.

The workshop also featured the conduct of Training Needs Assessment aimed at identifying areas and needs for learning and development of the LCC Secretariat and Council member representatives. Future training and staff development programs shall be based on the results of this assessment.

The LCC appreciates the participation of the representatives from the House of Representatives, Philippine Information Agency, National Economic and Development Authority, and E-Net Philippines, alongside with the members of the LCC Secretariat and resource persons.

Pagpapaigting ng Adbokasiya sa Literacy, Idiniin sa ika-154 na Meeting ng LCC

Sa ika-154 na pagpupulong ng Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC), idiniin ng Philippine Information Agency (PIA) ang kahalagahan ng pagpapaigting ng adbokasiya ng literacy sa bansa. Inilatag ni Director General Jose A. Torres, Jr. ang mga hakbangin ng PIA upang tiyakin na maisasagawa ang mga natukoy na plano ng LCC sa pagpapalaganap ng kamalayan ng mga mamamayan tungkol sa kahalagahan ng pagpapaunlad ng literacy. Binanggit ni DG Torres sa kaniyang presentasyon ang mga naisakatuparan ng kanilang ahensya kabilang na ang papel na ginampanan nito sa pagbuo ng LCC Communication Plan, social media cards, video at radio commercials, kasama na ang media guesting ng LCC Secretariat sa mga Regional Kapihan ng PIA at sa iba pang partner media networks. Kasama rin sa kaniyang ibinahagi ang mga inisyatibong isasakatuparan pa ng PIA sa hinaharap. “Katuwang ang PIA sa pagsusulong ng adbokasiya ng LCC na Literacy for All,” pahayag ni DG Torres.

Ang mga nagsidalo sa 154th LCC Meeting
Ibinabahagi ni DG Torres ang mga inisyatibo ng PIA sa pagpapaigting ng adbokasiya sa literacy

Ang ika-154 na pagpupulong ng konseho ay pinangunahan ni Vice President at Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Z. Duterte, Chairperson din ng LCC. Ito ay ginanap noong Agosto 3, 2023 sa pamamagitan ng Zoom video conference. Kabilang sa mga dumalo sa nasabing pulong ay ang mga miyembro at kinatawan ng LCC na sina Congressman Roman T. Romulo ng House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Culture, Dr. Bert J. Tuga ng Philippine Normal University (PNU), Prof. Flora C. Arellano ng E-Net Philippines, Director-General Jose A. Torres, Jr. ng Philippine Information Agency (PIA), at Director Girlie Grace J. Casimiro-Igtiben ng National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). Kasama ring nakilahok sa miting na ito sina Assistant Secretary (ASec) Sunshine Charry A. Fajarda at ASec G.H. S. Ambat ng DepEd, Assistant National Statistician Adrian A. Cerezo ng Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), at iba pang panauhin na katuwang ng LCC.

Si Vice President at DepEd Secretary Sara Z. Duterte habang pinangangasiwaan ang 154th LCC Meeting

         Kabilang din sa mga natalakay sa naturang meeting ang pagrerepaso ng Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) ng PSA, pagbuo ng Literacy Journal katulong ang PNU, nominasyon para sa magiging bagong NGO member ng LCC, at iba pang mahahalagang paksa.

LCC Ignites Progress in Literacy through Research and Development

In a steadfast effort to illuminate the path to improved literacy rates in the Philippines, the Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC) has unveiled its comprehensive program, “LIYAB,” comprising five vital pillars aimed at fulfilling its mandate to universalize literacy in the country. The LIYAB program embodies the nation’s commitment to empower Filipinos through functional literacy and lifelong learning, and the first pillar, aptly named “LIKHA,” sets its focus on Policy Research and Development.

Under the LIKHA pillar, the LCC is resolutely dedicated to enhancing research and development efforts in the field of literacy. This involves harnessing the power of comprehensive data, in-depth studies, and expert analyses to inform and influence literacy policy and program development across the national and local levels of governance.

Currently, the LCC is undertaking the Research Study on the Development of Benchmarks for Adult Literacy Competencies. This study aims to review and consolidate international standards on literacy, culminating in the creation of a benchmark for adult literacy competencies. Such a benchmark is poised to become the cornerstone for policy recommendations, ushering in a new era of literacy advancement in the country.

At its core, the research study seeks to achieve four pivotal goals:

1) Redefining the Country’s Literacy Goals: By drawing upon global best practices and innovative approaches, the study endeavors to redefine the nation’s literacy goals. The envisioned goals will take into account not only the conventional aspects of reading and writing but also the ever-evolving demands of a knowledge-driven society.

2) Revising the Measure of Literacy in the Country: With the benchmark for adult literacy competencies as a guide, the LCC aims to reevaluate the existing metrics used to assess literacy rates in the Philippines. This revision will pave the way for a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of literacy levels, helping to identify areas that require urgent attention and intervention.

3) Designing Interventions to Achieve Literacy Goals: Armed with data-backed insights, the LCC will craft targeted interventions to propel the country towards achieving its literacy goals. These interventions will be tailored to address specific challenges and will extend to diverse areas such as curriculum review for Basic Education and Teacher Education, as well as national and local literacy programs

4) Strengthening Curriculum and Literacy Programs: The study’s outcomes will serve as a driving force behind the transformation of educational curricula and literacy programs. Armed with the benchmark for adult literacy competencies, the LCC will collaborate with educational institutions and stakeholders to implement comprehensive enhancements, including the sphere of writing my paper, where students receive academic writing assistance, ensuring that learners are equipped with the skills required for success in the modern world.

The research study kicks off through a series of Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) in select Department of Education (DepEd) Regions across the Philippines. The inaugural session took place on July 13, 2023, in DepEd Region X, facilitated by the research team from the Philippine Normal University (PNU) and other partner higher education institutions, together with the LCC Secretariat, Regional Alternative Learning System (ALS) focal person, and personnel from the Schools Division Office of Cagayan de Oro City. Subsequent FGDs are scheduled to cover additional regions in the following weeks, extending until September 2023.

As the LCC continues its relentless pursuit of literacy excellence, the LIKHA pillar is set to become a beacon of knowledge, guiding the nation towards a future characterized by enhanced literacy rates and a more educated and empowered citizenry. As the research study on the development of benchmarks for adult literacy competencies unfolds, the nation eagerly awaits the transformative changes that lie ahead, heralding a new era of literacy-driven development.

Photos taken during the conduct of the FGD in Cagayan de Oro City
The LCC Research Team headed by Dr. Maria Azela L. Tamayo with Dr. Roy Angelo E. Gazo, SDS of DepEd Cagayan de Oro City Division; Dr. Ray Butch D. Mahinay, Education Program Supervisor for ALS – DepEd Region X; and other officials

LCC Holds Midyear Performance Review to Advance Literacy Efforts

In the pursuit of organizational success, careful planning and regular assessment play a pivotal role in driving progress and achieving goals. Recognizing this fundamental principle, the Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC) recently organized a Midyear Performance Review, which took place from June 13-16, 2023, at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines in General Santos City. The event aimed to evaluate the Council’s performance during the first half of the year, realign the implementation plan for 2023, and foster discussions on accomplishments and future directions. Representatives from various member agencies actively participated in the workshop, with activities facilitated by the LCC Secretariat and esteemed resource persons.

During the Midyear Performance Review, the LCC focused on evaluating its progress and fine-tuning strategies to ensure the eradication of illiteracy at the grassroots level. The Council aimed to leverage the collective efforts and expertise of its member agencies to develop effective programs and initiatives that address the literacy challenges faced by communities across the nation.

Throughout the workshop, the Council conducted comprehensive assessments of its performance, highlighting achievements, identifying areas for improvement, and addressing potential obstacles. By recalibrating the implementation plan for 2023, the LCC strives to optimize its resources and further enhance its impact on literacy promotion.

The workshop provided an invaluable platform for in-depth discussions among Council representatives, enabling them to share experiences, exchange knowledge, and explore innovative approaches to address illiteracy effectively. With the guidance of the LCC Secretariat and resource persons, participants engaged in constructive dialogue to forge a collective path forward.

The Literacy Coordinating Council remains committed to its mission of eradicating illiteracy. To learn more about the Council’s ongoing initiatives, accomplishments, and future plans, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the LCC website at [https://lcc.deped.gov.ph]. Additionally, the Council invites literacy advocates, supporters, and partners to engage with them on their Facebook page [@LiteracyCoordinatingCouncil]. For further inquiries, the LCC Secretariat can be reached via email at lcc@deped.gov.ph, where they are ready to provide information and support related to literacy promotion efforts.

By fostering collaboration, strategic planning, and continuous assessment, the LCC aims to create a future where every Filipino has access to quality education and the ability to thrive through the power of literacy. Together, let us join hands in building a more literate and empowered nation.

Building a Stronger Alliance: Literacy Coordinating Council and Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. Fortifies Long-standing Partnership

From left to right: Mr. Michael Joseph A. Torne, Program Administration Section Head of the Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. (CLFI), Mr. Enrico R. Mendoza, Head of the LCC Secretariat, Ms. Marikka P. Mampusti, Lead Officer of the Advocacy, Social Mobilization, and Partnerships of the LCC, and Mr. Jonathan D. Batangan, Executive Director of the CLFI

         Driven by its mission to extend a helping hand in strengthening the advocacy of literacy, the Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Incorporation which has been one of the reliable and longest-standing partners of the Literacy Coordinating Council—being the official benefactor of cash prizes for the Special Award of Excellence in Literacy category of the National Literacy Awards, met with the LCC Secretariat last March 22, 2023 (Wednesday) to fortify its partnership and discuss existing and future areas of collaboration.

         “We believe in multi-stakeholder collaboration to further promote inclusive education and literacy in the country, and we focus our resources on these advocacies among others,” shared Mr. Jonathan D. Batangan, Executive Director of the CLFI, during the meeting. The said meeting was attended by Mr. Michael Joseph A. Torne, Mr. Enrico R. Mendoza, and Ms. Marikka P. Mampusti.

         The LCC, being a coordinating body, puts forth on establishing meaningful and sustainable partnerships not only with government agencies but also with private organizations that relentlessly work on empowering and uplifting the lives of Filipinos through literacy. Being its main advocacy program, the National Literacy Awards underscores the importance of literacy in nation-building. It serves as an avenue for local government units and nongovernment organizations to have their best practices in literacy documented in the hopes that these will be institutionalized and replicated.

         The CLFI commits to sustaining its advocacy on education and literacy and leads the private sector to intensify the support to LCC and continue to help the Department of Education in recognizing the award-winning initiatives of all LGUs, NGOs, and Civil Society Organizations. The LCC is thrilled to further strengthen the partnership between the two parties which will manifest in the 2024 National Literacy Awards.

         More information on the existing programs of the CLFI are found at https://www.cebuanalhuillier.com/advocacies/ and other resources on literacy, specifically on financial literacy entitled Digital Iponaryo Module are found on the Partners Portal of the LCC website through the link https://lcc.deped.gov.ph/lr-partners-portal/.

LCC Gains a New Partner in 1986 Summerhouse Publishing

Photo of attendees of the exploratory meeting with 1986 Summerhouse Publishing (from left to right), Ms. Zenny Lastimosa (Project Development Officer II) and Ms. Jannet F. Labre (Project Development Officer II) from the External Partnerships Service, Mr. Michael Jeffrey E. Lamas (Program Manager and Quality Assurance Officer), Mr. Christopher B. Luces (Chief Operating Officer), and Ms. Rellyn M. Nojadera-Luces (Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer) from the 1986 Summerhouse Publishing, Mr. Enrico R. Mendoza (Project Development Officer V) of the Literacy Coordinating Council Secretariat, Ms. Laiza D. Lagarto (Program Manager and Global Training Administrator) of the 1986 Summerhouse Publishing, Ms. Michelle F. Tolentino (Senior Education Program Specialist) of the Bureau of Learning Delivery, Ms. Liza Legaspino (Senior Education Program Specialist) of the Bureau of Curriculum Development, Mr. Noel Kristian F. Espiritu (Public-Private Partnership Manager) and Mr. Ryan M. Nojadera (Creative Director and Program Manager) from the 1986 Summerhouse Publishing.

          Borne out of their intention to contribute to improving the literacy situation in the country by designing a reading program called “Bawat Isa Makakabasa,” the 1986 Summerhouse Publishing, an organization with a deep sense of commitment not only to Content Development but far greater the meaning and development solutions which would carry value towards transformation and nation building, extended an opportunity to the Department of Education to implement the said reading program.

          “The “Bawat Isa Makakabasa” is a reading program that supports the call to increase the literacy rate of Filipino learners and emphasizes the significant role of education in nation-building through the establishment of public libraries and reading centers in all local government units,” Ms. Rellyn M. Nojadero-Luces, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the 1986 Summerhouse Publishing shared during the meeting.

          The program is responsive to the Every Child a Reader Program (ECARP), a national program that addresses the thrust of the Department of Education (DepEd) to make every child a reader at his/her grade level. It is designed to equip elementary pupils with strategic reading and writing skills to make them independent young readers and writers; and “Hamon: Bawat Bata Bumabasa (3Bs Initiative),” as well as the Department’s flagship agenda—MATATAG: “Bansang Makabata, Batang Makabansa.”The program is designed for learners across ages and grade levels—including Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd).

          The exploratory meeting with 1986 Summerhouse Publishing was attended to by various offices from the DepEd – Central Office, namely the Literacy Coordinating Council Secretariat, External Partnerships Service, Bureau of Learning Delivery, and Bureau of Curriculum Development to ensure that the requirements needed to facilitate the implementation of the program in full swing will be set. This objective was achieved by the 1986 Summerhouse Publishing by sharing the history, background, and goals of the publishing house, having a full demonstration of the “Bawat Isa Makakabasa” reading program, explaining the Quality Management procedures of the organization, showing a preview of the Learning Management System (LMS) platform intended for the implementation of the program, and explaining their Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program.

          The meeting ended meaningfully by identifying the ways forward to formally establish a partnership between DepEd and 1986 Summerhouse Publishing. Additionally, to ensure alignment of the program with the curriculum standards and obtain quality assurance of the resources to be used in implementing the program, technical assistance coming from the Bureau of Curriculum Development, Bureau of Learning Delivery, and Bureau of Learning Resources will be provided.

          Lastly, the Literacy Coordinating Council, through its Secretariat, commits to advocating for the program on the ground by introducing it to the local government units that have local literacy councils and are active partners of the Council in universalizing literacy in the country. The LCC, together with the DepEd, looks forward to building a partnership with organizations like 1986 Summerhouse Publishing that are eager to improve the literacy skills of Filipino learners. This goes without saying that it is the Council’s privilege to share the vision and journey to work toward the goal of universalizing literacy in the country.