Iloilo Province Shows Lowest Literacy Rate in Western Visayas
ILOILO CITY – The province of Iloilo reported the lowest literacy rate in Western Visayas for individuals aged 10 years and older, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The 2024 Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) revealed that Iloilo’s literacy rate stands at 68.4 percent. This figure highlights a concerning gap in literacy compared to neighboring provinces.
Iloilo, which comprises 42 towns and a component city, trails behind other provinces in the region. For instance, Iloilo City, the regional capital, has a literacy rate of 70.7 percent. Capiz follows closely at 70.9 percent, while Guimaras and Antique report 73 percent and 73.8 percent, respectively. Leading the region is Aklan, with the highest literacy rate of 73.9 percent.
Survey Aims to Support Policy Development
The PSA-6 emphasized that the survey’s purpose is to provide a solid data foundation to guide policy-makers in crafting programs that improve literacy and education across the population. As such, the results serve as a crucial benchmark for addressing educational challenges in the region.
Overall Regional Literacy Rates
Western Visayas boasts an overall basic literacy rate of 89.6 percent for those aged five years and older. This rate is slightly below the national average of 90 percent. Essentially, nine out of every ten people in the region can read and write, though the disparity among provinces like Iloilo suggests a need for focused interventions.
Local leaders and education advocates have noted the importance of addressing literacy gaps to ensure equal opportunities for all residents. Improving literacy is seen as vital for personal development and the region’s economic growth.
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