Vice President and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Duterte announced on Tuesday, Nov. 21 that they will implement a policy designating Fridays as "Catch-up Fridays," a dedicated time for students to catch up on lessons and enhance their reading and critical thinking skills.

During her speech at the "Araw ng Pagbasa" activity, Vice President Duterte emphasized the importance of providing students with ample time to focus on their reading proficiency and critical thinking abilities.

"We need to allot one day from Monday to Friday where all the children and teachers will be catching up, which means there is nothing else to do but teach children to read," Duterte said in a mix of Filipino and English.

This initiative was made when she expressed concern over not seeing improvements in international assessments, the secretary emphasized the need for innovation in educational approaches.

"We don't see any change in our learners' scores, that is why we can't just repeat what we are doing. We need to innovate," Duterte said.

She highlighted that dedicating a day to these crucial learning areas could result in progress among students.

"Let's just try. Let's see if we can see any change. Let's chase what the children need to learn," she added.

The implementation of "Catch-Up Fridays" will commence on Jan. 12, 2024.

Under this, she explained all learners from Kindergarten to Grade 12 are expected to spend the day reading books, articles, and other reading materials based on their interests.

"These activities will not only strengthen their reading skills but encourage them to delve deeper into the content they are reading, fostering critical thinking and analysis," Duterte said.

She also highlighted the importance of encouraging students to engage in various writing activities, such as book reviews, essays, and book analysis.

"All the age-appropriate activities in reading, let's make them do it."

Duterte also pointed out the dedication and quality of education private schools provide, urging public schools to follow their example.

She emphasized the importance of passionate educators and parents in teaching learners, with the goal of producing a new generation of strong, literate, and patriotic young individuals.

During the event, Duterte launched her children's book, "Isang Kaibigan."

READ:

https://mb.com.ph/2023/11/20/foster-love-for-reading-dep-ed-sets-nov-21-as-araw-ng-pagbasa

She then concluded her speech with a call for unity and collective efforts to instill a love for reading among learners.

"Together, we will recover. So, let us unite in our efforts to nurture a love for her among the children in our lives. Let us inspire them to open the books of their imagination, embark on adventures, to the pages of books, and believe in the power of their dreams," she said.