MANILA, Philippines – Through Memorandum No. 244, the month of November was declared as the National Reading Month. The annual event signed by Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro in 2011 is celebrated to promote the Filipinos' love for reading and in support of the 10-point education agenda of the Aquino Administration and the promotion of Every Child a Reader Program (ECARP).
In line with this, “Araw ng Pagbasa” (National Reading Day) through Republic Act 10556, which aims to promote reading and literacy, motivate awareness and uphold our Filipino heritage and culture including educational activities focusing on the life of former Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., was designated every 27th of November.
Meanwhile, the following activities will be held this month (as shared on the Facebook page of Araw ng Pagbasa):
- November 3 to 7 – “Adopt a Book” campaign, sessions with local storytellers
- November 10 to 14 – “My Own Story,” Reading Academy for Teachers, “Readers are Winners”
- November 17 to 21 – Reading Camp
- November 24 to 28 – “I Caught You Reading,” “Books of Hope”
- November 27 – Araw ng Pagbasa – a day of learning, stories, and hope (Nationwide storytelling sessions by 9a.m.)
Memorandum No. 244 encourages schools to work with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the private sector to cultivate further the participation within the community and to maximize the success of these actions.