Abdiel Franz Bernales

The Department of Education (DepEd) has pledged to enhance its efforts to improve both foundational and high-level literacy across the country on April 24, 2025, following the release of the 2024 Functional Literacy, Education, and Media Survey (FLEMMS).

Photo Courtesy of DepEd.

The survey, conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), revealed that 93.1% of Filipinos aged 10 to 64 possess strong basic literacy skills, including the ability to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic.

Further, it reported a functional literacy rate of 70.8%, demonstrating that seven out of ten Filipinos possess high-level comprehension skills to process and apply information effectively in daily life.

The survey also highlighted regional achievements, with the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) leading in functional literacy at 81.2%, and Central Luzon topping the basic literacy chart at 92.8%.

“These figures affirm our ongoing efforts to strengthen foundational education and highlight areas for further improvement, as we build on a strong literacy base to expand programs that empower every Filipino to think critically and engage meaningfully in society,” DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara said. 

To ensure these goals are met, DepEd is refining its Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) and National Reading Programs to uplift more learners toward full functional literacy, in accordance with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. 

The department is also implementing targeted teaching strategies to address regional disparities and meet diverse learner needs.

“Reading to children improves their language, develops their cognitive skills, and allows them to appreciate learning. According to various studies, early high-quality education supports children’s physical and emotional development, which they need for school readiness,” Marcos said during the Ceremonial Signing of the Joint Circular on the Establishment of Child Development Centers by the Local Government Units.

Moving forward, Angara called on various stakeholders, including government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and private sector partners, to join efforts in enhancing literacy across the nation. “

“Functional literacy is essential for national development, and we are committed to continual improvement,” he concluded.

This initiative reinforces the department’s commitment to improving both basic and high-level literacy, positioning the country for greater development in the years ahead.