From March 17 to 19, 2025, the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) conducted its first-ever Training of Trainers for Literacy Facilitators under the Brigada Pagbasa Initiative in partnership with World Vision Philippines at Benguet State University. This was participated Engr. Nenette M. Laurio, DEBESMSCAT Planning Director and PNVSCA Focal Person, and Ms. Nikki Faith A. Bantillo, DEBESMSCAT International Relations Officer along with other state university participants from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Their participation highlighted the importance of leadership and collaboration in addressing literacy challenges across the country.
This initiative aimed to improve literacy rates among Filipino children by mobilizing education stakeholders, community volunteers, and higher education institutions (HEIs). The training focused on equipping literacy facilitators with skills to address reading challenges and develop functional literacy among learners. This participation will lead to DEBESMSCAT’s establishment of volunteer programs, encouraging students and faculty to actively participate in community-building initiatives such as Brigada Pagbasa.
The training also reinforced DEBESMSCAT’s commitment to addressing broader social issues through education and volunteerism. It provided a platform for the institution to expand its partnerships and align its efforts with national development goals.
This collaboration between PNVSCA and DEBESMSCAT exemplifies how volunteerism can be harnessed as a powerful tool for change. Through initiatives like Brigada Pagbasa, institutions are not only addressing immediate literacy needs but also laying the groundwork for long-term community empowerment and nation-building. By integrating volunteer programs into its institutional framework, DEBESMSCAT invites everyone to contribute to building a better community- one that thrives on shared responsibility and mutual support.
Ladies and gentlemen,
