THE National Alliance of Reading Advocates (NARA), a coalition of over 100 organizations, held its inaugural conference at the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila on Saturday.
Convened by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), the event tackled the ongoing literacy crisis in the country and the promotion of reading culture among Filipinos.
In a plenary session titled “State of the Reading Nation,” the participants analyzed the causes of literacy crisis that include poverty, limited access to reading materials, and inconsistencies in educational quality.
It presented successful literacy initiatives and provided insights into how government institutions, schools and communities can collaborate to improve reading outcomes.
The NARA Agenda 2025-2030, a comprehensive roadmap aimed at bridging the reading gap, was ratified during the event.
The agenda encompasses strategic goals, including infrastructure development, capacity building and fostering networks among reading advocates. It presented innovative literacy programs that integrate technology, local content and community engagement.
Successful regional literacy programs were presented as practical models for replication nationwide.
Daniel Mariano, head of the NBDB’s Readership Development Division, said literacy initiatives should be sustained through a united front.
NARA Connect, available via Facebook and Viber, was unveiled to connect reading advocates, share best practices, and facilitate collaborations across the country.
The online platform aims to amplify grassroots literacy campaigns and ensure their long-term sustainability.
Catherine Orda, member of the NBDB communications team, said the conference marked the beginning of a unified movement to make reading a national habit.
“As the nation grapples with a complex literacy crisis, NARA offers a beacon of hope. By rallying advocates, educators and policymakers, the alliance aims to transform the Philippines into a country where every Filipino has the opportunity to read, learn and thrive,” she added.
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