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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Visayas devider Educator pushes early reading to boost kids' literacy

Educator pushes early reading to boost kids' literacy

Published Jul 8, 2026 04:10 pm
THE Reading Station in Iloilo City. (Tara Yap)
THE Reading Station in Iloilo City. (Tara Yap)
ILOILO CITY – While technology is readily available with gadgets, an educator is pushing for early reading to children to boost literacy rate.
“It should be as young as three-years-old,” said Gyralyn "Teacher Ging" Ariola, founder of The Reading Station.
In its 25th year, TRS recently opened a center in Iloilo to expand its advocacy for early reading comprehension for young children.
Ariola said that it is imperative for the younger generation to be able to still embrace reading in the age of tablets, mobile phones, and online platforms that are being utilized, especially with the opening of the new academic year.
This also came as the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) found that nearly half of learners nationwide still failed to meet grade-level expectations for school year 2025-2026.
There are some positive gains though, including the proof of concept program of the Iloilo provincial government, which improved literacy rates for Grade 3 students to 90 percent from a mere 30 percent.
Ariola said the government’s literacy program is laudable, but the literacy program should be implemented way earlier to be able to really make a difference on the capacity of young learners.
TRS General Manager Sofie Tinio added that TRS’ approach on one-on-one sessions greatly improves not only reading skills, but also writing skills.

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Literacy Children Iloilo City The Reading Station
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