DepEd allots P19.5B for textbook production to boost literacy

The Department of Education (DepEd) is ramping up efforts to improve literacy among Filipino students and has allocated P19.5 billion for textbook production this year in a bid to achieve a 1:1 textbook-to-learner ratio.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara announced the initiative on Thursday as he opened the Philippine Book Festival 2026, a national showcase of Filipino-authored books organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB).

“While we are moving forward toward digital transformation, we remain invested in what continues to matter – encouraging our learners to strengthen their literacy through books,” Angara said.

Faster textbook delivery

Angara said the DepEd has accelerated the distribution of textbooks to public schools through early procurement activities that led to a 289% increase in approved textbook titles in the past year.

The funding allocation for textbook production for 2026 aims to address shortages and ensure that each learner has access to learning materials.

Promoting Filipino books

The four-day festival, held at the Megatrade Hall of SM Megamall in Pasig City, will run until March 15 and will highlight Filipino-authored books and creative works.

“Books serve as vital bridges connecting our learners to new knowledge and to their identity,” Angara said.

The festival features several interactive spaces, including Gubat ng Karunungan, which hosts workshops and masterclasses, and Lugar Lagdaan, where readers can meet authors.

Support for publishing industry

The NBDB, an attached agency of the DepEd, received P206.571 million in funding this year to support Filipino authors, publishers, and literacy programs.

Created under Republic Act No. 8047 or the Book Publishing Industry Development Act, the NBDB serves as the country’s central authority for the publishing industry.

The Philippine Book Festival was launched in 2023 to help address long-standing challenges in the distribution and accessibility of quality and affordable Filipino books. — JMA, GMA Integrated News