ILOILO City – Amid worrying literacy data, the Department of Education (DepEd) Region 6 welcomed over a million learners across Western Visayas on Monday, June 16, with renewed commitment to improve literacy and ensure the safety of students on campus.
The start of School Year 2025-2026 came just weeks after the Philippine Statistics Authority – Regional Statistical Services Office 6 (PSA RSSO 6) flagged Iloilo Province as having the lowest functional literacy rate in the region at 68.4 percent.
This figure, part of the 2024 Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS), cast a shadow over the first day of classes and signaled urgent action is needed.
“This is a wake-up call for stakeholders in education and local governance,” said PSA RSSO 6 Chief Statistical Specialist Marlene Alviar.
She emphasized that while basic reading and writing skills remain relatively high, the ability to comprehend and apply information — key indicators of functional literacy — is falling short in Iloilo and elsewhere.
In a public statement, DepEd-6 officer-in-charge Cristito Eco vowed that the department will refocus efforts on strengthening learners’ literacy and numeracy skills.
“We will provide the quality basic education that every Champion deserves,” the statement read. “Our learners must be equipped with skills they need in the future.”
Functional literacy, as defined by FLEMMS, goes beyond reading and writing — it includes numeracy and comprehension necessary for daily life, employment, and civic engagement.
The latest regional data shows the following literacy rates:
* Aklan – 73.9%
* Antique – 73.8%
* Guimaras – 73.0%
* Capiz – 70.9%
* Iloilo City – 70.7%
*Iloilo Province – 68.4%
DepEd Assures Safety, Urges Parental Support
To complement academic focus, DepEd-6 also prioritized student safety on the first day of school.
A regional memorandum was issued to all schools division offices outlining specific safety protocols under the MATATAG Education Agenda.
The guidelines include strict enforcement of child protection policies, availability of healthy food in schools, coordination with local police for peace and order, and immediate medical attention for sick students.
Anti-bullying and child protection measures were also emphasized.
“We in DepEd will ensure that we protect your children while they are in our schools,” said Eco. “Our teaching and non-teaching personnel are dedicated to providing a safe and conducive learning environment.”
DepEd-6 likewise called on parents to do their part in preparing their children — by ensuring they come to school with healthy snacks, clean water, and the necessary supplies.
“The first day of school is always a memorable moment for our learners. Let us work together to make sure they are physically, emotionally, and mentally ready,” the agency added./PN
