The Department of Education has activated the Bayang Bumabasa Initiative, dedicating P131 million in needs-based program support funds to help 131 priority schools accelerate literacy gains.

The initiative provides up to P1 million to each identified school to implement locally responsive and contextualized reading programs.

The 131 schools, including 25 located in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, were identified through the school year 2024–2025 Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment as priority areas for additional support.

By utilizing this data, DepEd moved beyond random allocation to pinpoint exactly where foundational support is crucial, ensuring the aid reaches the farthest corners of the archipelago.

Recipient schools represent the diverse and challenging landscapes of the Philippines. In the north, the fund reaches the upland agricultural communities served by Capissayan Norte Elementary School in Gattaran, Cagayan. In the Visayas, it climbs the interior highlands to support schools like Hiduroma Elementary School in San Jose de Buan, Samar. Further south, it extends to the coastal fringes of Sultan Kudarat to aid Maguid Elementary School in the municipality of Palimbang.

Instead of a top-down approach, schools will utilize the funds based on their own Literacy Improvement Plans. This autonomy allows them to tailor strategies—including integrating the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program—to fit the unique context of their community.

To ensure the grant translates into direct classroom impact, schools are empowered to use the funds for specific interventions for Grade 1 to 3 learners outlined in their School Improvement Plan and Annual Implementation Plan for school year 2025–2026.

For instance, schools may use the grant to develop localized resources: print and bind storybooks featuring local folklore and mother-tongue materials to better engage young readers; revitalize learning spaces: transform a dilapidated classroom into a vibrant reading nook complete with carpets, beanbags, and child-friendly shelving (capped at P50,000); or procure remedial tools: purchase semi-expendable instructional tools like magnetic letters, flashcards, and reading materials (below P15,000) for after-school literacy programs.

The initiative also activates a “whole-of-nation” support system involving local government units, teacher education institutions, and civil society.

To access the funds, schools need to coordinate with their local literacy council or local school board. Partners like Synergia Foundation will assist schools in coordinating with local literacy councils and local school boards, fostering a partnership where mayors are encouraged to provide counterpart support via the special education fund.

Teacher education institutions—including top universities such as the University of the Philippines, De La Salle University, and Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology—will serve as academic partners. They will deploy pre-service teachers to provide on-the-ground assistance in literacy instruction to strengthen classroom workforce support.