DepEd issues 2026 National Literacy Awards guidelines

The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued official guidelines for the 2026 National Literacy Awards, a biennial recognition honoring local government units, non-governmental organizations, and higher education institutions that drive community-level literacy programs.

Under Department Memorandum No. 062, the national awards will evaluate school-based and community-focused literacy initiatives, culminating in a formal awarding ceremony scheduled for 10 December.

“Literacy is not just the responsibility of schools,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said in a statement. “It requires the active assistance of local government units, NGOs, higher education institutions, families, and the entire community.”

The 2026 awards feature the Gawad LIYAB, a special category honoring innovative initiatives that directly address literacy gaps among marginalized and underserved communities.