For Banate children struggling to read, the path to better learning may begin not only inside the classroom but also with a municipality willing to take responsibility for their education.
This was the message highlighted during the Banate Municipal Education Summit today as local officials, educators and community stakeholders strengthened their commitment to address literacy gaps through the provincial government's BES BASA: POC Localized program.
Representing Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., Provincial Administrator Raul Banias lauded the Municipality of Banate for embracing the challenge of improving literacy and for recognizing the critical role of an empowered local government in helping children become readers.
“Yes, it’s TGIF, but this invitation from Mayor Junjun Gonzales to attend Banate's Municipal Education Summit was simply too important to pass up,” Banias said, emphasizing the importance of local governments taking an active role in education reform.
He said the province has already seen proof that an engaged and committed LGU can make a significant difference in addressing learning gaps.
For Banate learners, the initiative is expected to translate into more targeted support for children who are struggling with reading, stronger coordination among schools and local government, and greater community participation in helping young learners catch up.
Banias expressed appreciation to Mayor Junjun Gonzales, the municipal government, community stakeholders and DepEd partners for embracing BES BASA and taking concrete steps to address the municipality’s literacy concerns.
“We face a real literacy problem, but an empowered LGU is where real, lasting solutions begin,” Banias said.
He added that the Province of Iloilo, through Governor Defensor and the Provincial Educational Management Office (PEMO), will continue to support Banate as it implements its education initiatives.
The summit also underscored a broader shift in the province’s approach to education: making literacy a shared responsibility among the provincial and municipal governments, schools, families and communities.
Banias said the Province appreciates Banate’s commitment and expressed confidence that the municipality can demonstrate its own “proof of concept” in helping children overcome learning difficulties.
“We assure you of our full, unwavering support as you show everyone that you, too, can be the Proof of Concept,” he said.
The gathering was part of Banate’s continuing efforts to strengthen local education interventions and ensure that children who are at risk of being left behind receive the support they need.
📷Raul Banias
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