Senator Calls for Early Concrete Action to Improve Literacy
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Loren Legarda has once again stressed the urgent need for early concrete action to raise literacy levels and foster cultural pride among the youth. She emphasized that preparing young Filipinos for global competitiveness starts by ensuring they can read, comprehend, and embrace their identity.
“Sa mga nakalipas na taon, kinaharap natin ang krisis sa mababang estado ng kakayahan ng ating kabataang bumasa at umintindi,” Legarda expressed during the launch of Wikaharian 2, a joint initiative by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. (KCFI).
According to recent findings, the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) and a 2024 World Bank study revealed that 91% of Filipino children aged ten struggle to read and understand a simple story appropriate for their age. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for early concrete action to improve literacy nationwide.
Innovative Educational Series Promotes Filipino Language and Culture
To tackle this challenge, the NCCA, supported by Legarda, collaborated with KCFI to produce Wikaharian 2. This animated series makes learning the Filipino language, culture, and values engaging and accessible for young learners. Designed specifically for Grade 2 students, Wikaharian 2 builds upon the success of the original 50-episode Grade 2 Filipino series launched in 2022.
Back in 2020, KCFI and NCCA partnered to create 80 short video lessons, each lasting 8 to 10 minutes, with accompanying session guides. These lessons used local stories and cultural contexts as a foundation for teaching reading skills to Grade 1 students.
Studies conducted by KCFI in 2020 demonstrated that these episodes significantly enhanced learning not only for average students but also for at-risk readers who face greater academic challenges.
Legarda Emphasizes Hope Amidst Literacy Crisis
“Hindi natin maikakaila ang krisis sa kakayahan ng kabataang bumasa at umunawa. Ngunit hindi rin natin isusuko ang kinabukasan ng ating kabataan. Kaya tayo naririto ngayon,” Legarda declared, assuring that sufficient funding has been secured for Wikaharian’s production.
She further highlighted that every word, every folk tale, and every piece of culture and history embedded in the lessons are not just part of learning. They serve as the foundation of the youth’s identity as Filipinos who are knowledgeable, dignified, compassionate, proud, and courageous to face a world full of challenges and change.
For more news and updates on education reform and literacy initiatives, visit Filipinokami.com.