EDCOM 2: Iloilo boosts Grade 3 reading to 90% in one year

The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) commended the Iloilo provincial government after Grade 3 reading proficiency jumped from 30% to 90% in just one year through a pilot education reform program.

The initiative, led by Gov. Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr. with the Synergeia Foundation and the Department of Education, was implemented in 11 municipalities using a community-based approach involving teachers, parents, and local officials.

“Sa problemang ito we need to engage the whole community… we engaged the local government units together with DepEd and the community,” Defensor said.

The program trained teachers to develop reading modules while parents and volunteers conducted tutoring sessions for students in school and at home.

EDCOM 2 co-chair Senator Bam Aquino said the Iloilo model could help address the country’s learning crisis.

“Mahalaga siguro to look at this proof of concept and see how we can roll it out kasi nasa crisis level na tayo,” said Aquino.IMT