Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte officially launched a children’s book, “Isang Kaibigan (A Friend),” which she wrote, based on her personal experience about being a “true friend.”

Vice President Sara Duterte reads her "Isang Kaibigan" book to Grade 3 and 4 students of Esteban Abada Elementary School in Quezon City. (Inday Sara Duterte/Facebook)

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Nov. 22, the official shared about the book launching and signing at the Esteban Abada Elementary School in Quezon City.

The book was launched on Tuesday, Nov. 21, in time for the culminating activities of the 2023 National Reading Month.

“Masaya ako na naisakatuparan ko na ang isa sa mga gusto kung gawin sa buhay, ang magsulat ng libro. Naging inspirasyon ko ang lahat ng kabataang Pilipino (I am happy that I got to fulfill one of my dreams which is to write a book. The Filipino youth became my inspiration),” she said.

According to Duterte, “Isang Kaibigan” was based on her personal experience as it tells the story about how to be a true friend.

It is a story about a kind and compassionate parrot who helped an owl rebuild her nest following a devastating typhoon.

Along with the book launch event, the Vice President also did a read-along session with 10 Grade 3 and 4 students. She also signed the books she gave them.

Duterte, however, clarified that the books are not for sale. They are donations that she hopes can serve as an inspiration for students who also want to write their own books.

The official also underscored the role of parents and teachers in ensuring that learners can read.

“Patuloy natin hikayatin ang ating mga kabataan na magbasa at mag-aral ng mabuti para sila ay makapagtapos (Let us continue urging our youth to read and study well so they will finish their studies),” she wrote.

Duterte first read “Isang Kaibigan” to the students of Kapitan Tomas Monteverde Sr. Central Elementary School in Davao City earlier this month. The first copy of the book was donated to the school.