Government agencies, educators, and community groups gathered in Lingayen, Pangasinan for Dagyaw 2025, a town hall meeting focused on raising literacy levels in Region 1.

With the theme “Sama-samang Hakbang Tungo sa Mataas na Antas ng Literasiyang Rehiyon Uno,” the event was led by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 1 in partnership with other government agencies and non-government organizations.

The gathering brought together representatives from national government agencies, civil society, local stakeholders, and teachers to discuss programs that will boost reading, writing, and comprehension skills.

DepEd Region 1 Director Dr. Tolentino Aquino announced the launch of a new program that seeks community-wide cooperation to improve literacy.

“Sa DepEd Region 1 ay maglulunsad kami ng isang programa kung saan hihingian namin ng tulong ang buong pamayanan upang mapataas ang antas ng kalidad ng literasiyon among our learners,” Aquino said.

DILG urged all sectors to work closely for better quality education in the region. The initiative also includes programs for out-of-school youth with advanced work skills but without a college degree.

CHED Region 1 Director Dr. Christine Nabor-Ferrer said they also have an Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP).

“Kami naman po ay may Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program or ETEEAP… however mayroong mga qualifications… we also accredit their prior learnings,” she said.

In a press conference during the event, DepEd addressed concerns about bullying and violence in schools, stressing that measures are in place to protect students.

“In place pa rin po ang ating Child Protection Policy ng 2012, nandoon po lahat ng mekanismo para maiwasan ang bullying inside the classroom,” Education Program Supervisor Dr. Johnson Sunga said.

Organizers said Dagyaw is part of efforts to encourage more active citizen participation in solving key social issues, with literacy seen as a crucial foundation for community development.