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DepEd Doubles Down on Literacy Efforts as New Survey Reveals Progress and Challenges
Pasig City, April 4, 2025 — The Department of Education (DepEd) has renewed its commitment to boosting literacy nationwide, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision, following the release of the 2024 Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
President Marcos emphasized the importance of early education, stating, “Reading to children enhances their language skills, sharpens their minds, and fosters a love for learning. Research shows that quality early education prepares kids not just for school, but for life—supporting their overall growth.” He made these remarks during the recent signing of a joint circular on establishing more Child Development Centers.
In response, DepEd is expanding its Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) and National Reading Programs to help more students achieve full functional literacy.
The latest FLEMMS data shows promising results:
93.1% of Filipinos aged 10–64 have basic literacy (reading, writing, and basic math).
70.8% have functional literacy, meaning they can understand and apply complex information in daily life.
“These numbers validate our progress in education but also remind us there’s more work to do,” said Education Secretary Sonny Angara. “With a solid literacy foundation, we can now focus on equipping learners with critical thinking skills for real-world challenges.”
Regional highlights include:
Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) – highest functional literacy at 81.2%
Central Luzon – highest basic literacy at 92.8%
While the high basic literacy rate is encouraging, DepEd acknowledges the need to improve deeper comprehension and analytical skills. The survey also reveals gaps between regions, prompting the department to tailor programs to local needs.
Moving forward, DepEd will strengthen partnerships with local governments, private sectors, and communities to make literacy programs more inclusive and effective.
“We’re constantly refining our methods to keep literacy education engaging and accessible,” Angara added. “Our goal is to nurture not just readers, but thinkers and problem-solvers who can thrive in a fast-changing world.”
The PSA’s FLEMMS 2024 surveyed 177,656 households and over 572,910 individuals aged 5 and above, providing a comprehensive look at the country’s literacy landscape.
“Every step forward in literacy is a step toward national progress,” Angara said. “We invite everyone—parents, educators, and leaders—to join us in this mission.”