Republic of the Philippines

Schools Division Office - Pasay City

The Schools Division Office of Pasay City successfully launched the Reading Nooks: Reading to RISE Program on June 4, 2026, at Padre Zamora Elementary School. The activity was spearheaded by Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Joel T. Torrecampo, CESO VI, together with Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Quinn Norman O. Arreza, and was witnessed by Education Program Supervisors, Public Schools District Supervisors, School Heads, and School ARAL Focal Persons across the division.

The launch marked a significant step in advancing the Department of Education’s commitment to strengthening foundational literacy among learners. The Reading Nooks initiative supports the realization of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara’s 5-Point Reform Agenda, particularly in enhancing foundational learning skills and promoting quality education for all learners. It likewise reinforces the implementation of the ARAL Program by providing accessible, school-based interventions that help improve early-grade reading proficiency.

Reading Nooks are dedicated classroom-based spaces designed to provide learners with regular access to age-appropriate reading materials, including leveled books and storybooks. These learning spaces encourage learners to engage in meaningful reading experiences, develop comprehension skills, and cultivate a lifelong love for reading. The initiative also complements the use of school libraries and learning resource centers, contributing to the development of a strong culture of reading within schools.

In his message, Dr. Torrecampo emphasized the vital role of literacy in a learner’s academic journey. He highlighted that reading serves as a bridge to understanding other learning areas and is a fundamental skill that empowers learners to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. He further encouraged schools to maximize the use of Reading Nooks as a strategy to improve reading proficiency and foster independent learning among students.

The successful launch of the Reading to RISE Program demonstrates the Schools Division Office of Pasay City’s unwavering commitment to improving foundational literacy and ensuring that every learner has access to opportunities that support reading development. Through the collective efforts of division and school leaders, the program is expected to significantly contribute to the enhancement of learners’ literacy skills and overall academic achievement.