Sara Duterte: Empower our students through literacy

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President and concurrent Education Secretary Sara Duterte on Friday said she wants the youth to find empowerment through literacy.

Speaking at the opening of the Philippine Book Festival in Davao, Duterte emphasized the significance of books in enticing children to strive for literacy, which the Department of Education’s (DepEd) new Matatag Curriculum aims to promote.

“Our direction is not only for our learners to possess the power of writing and reading, but, most importantly, for them to value this power as it could help them navigate life successfully,” the Vice President said.

“Our campaign necessitates rekindling our learners’ interest in the written word through reading books and other materials that could ignite their curiosity, give space for their creativity, and nurture their intellect,” Duterte added.

The Vice President also took the time to show appreciation for the National Book Development Board and authors for their contributions to the country’s publishing industry.

“The importance of your work is something that we cannot overemphasize—and the same can also be said about the significance of the books authored by people who have dedicated their lives to the profession and advocacy of sharing their expert or academic knowledge with others, giving inspiration to others, or entertaining others through their stories—fiction or nonfiction,” the DepEd Secretary said.

Duterte expressed hope for the new generation of learners that they may grow into competent individuals who will guide the country into a brighter future.

— Juan Miguel M. Talens, INQUIRER.net trainee

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