by: Norilyn A. Dacumos

To foster a culture of reading and enhance essential skills among learners as part of the National Reading Program, the Department of Education (DepEd) DepEd Memorandum 001 s. 2024 states that the “Catch Up Fridays” program will dedicate half of every Friday to reading and the other half to values, peace, and health education.

DepEd said that its reading program will “give learners opportunities for reading intervention and reading enhancement through developmentally appropriate reading materials.”

The scheme was launched on January 12 to coincide with the nationwide observance of Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) Day and its main goal is to help students become more proficient writers, critical thinkers, and readers.

OCNHS Indigenous Peoples Program (IPP) started to do the “DEAR- Drop Everything and Read” activity in Pamulaklakin SBFZ on January 26, 2024, and provide learners with the opportunity to engage in independent silent reading of their preferred material,” said IPP Focal Person Norilyn A. Dacumos.

 Citing the importance of conducting the said activity, Allysa Mae Frenilla, one of the indigenous learners at Olongapo City National High School said, “Karamihan sa mga Katutubo ay hindi masyadong marunong magbasa.” (most of the Aeta youth today do not know how to read), and aside from improving our reading skills, I think it also helps strengthen our relevant skills.”

The official guidelines for the said program are provided in DepEd Memorandum No. 001, s. 2024, which states that the whole month of January will be dedicated to the activity.

DepEd hopes that “Catch-up Fridays” will help students develop a lifelong love for learning and reading in addition to their academic progress.