DepEd Introduces ‘Catch-up Friday’ to Boost Reading and Writing Skills

Quezon City, Philippines – The Department of Education (DepEd) has announced a new policy, termed “catch-up Friday,” dedicated to enhancing basic education learners’ reading and writing skills. The initiative will designate every Friday for focused educational activities in these areas.

According to Philippines News Agency, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Z. Duterte revealed the plan during the culmination of the National Reading Month at Esteban Abada Elementary School in Quezon City. The initiative aims to intensify efforts in teaching reading, critical thinking, analysis, and writing skills. The policy, set to start on January 12, 2024, is part of a broader strategy to improve the country’s educational outcomes, particularly in light of the expected results from the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). The DepEd acknowledges the challenges ahead and is committed to enhancing the quality of education over the next six years under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s term. The “PAGBASA: Pag-asa sa MATATAG na Kinabukasan” program, led by the DepEd’s Bureau of Learning Delivery of the Curriculum and Teaching Strand, aligns with the MATATAG Agenda’s literacy programs. The MATATAG Curriculum is designed to decongest the current K to 12 Curriculum, focusing more on foundational skills such as literacy, numeracy, and socio-emotional skills of learners. During the event, Duterte also launched her children’s book titled “Isang Kaibigan (A Friend)” and shared it with the students.