On November 5, Kapitan Tomas Monteverde Sr. Central Elementary School SpEd Center enhanced the significance of reading for its students as 2024 Mutya ng Davao, Hanna Maj Piccio, was invited as a mystery reader. She shared how books became her refuge during the school’s Reading Month launch, as well as the inauguration of the kindergarten playground and reading hub.
“I experienced being bullied when I was in elementary for being fat and the books since then have been my hiding place and my gateway to other places,” Piccio said, according to DepEd Davao City Facebook page.
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Photo courtesy: DepEd Davao City (FB)
The beauty queen’s experience
After reading “The Hungry Little Lion” as a mystery reader, Piccio reflected on her experience and then appeared on stage before an audience of students from grades one to six, all dressed as their favorite book characters. She shared how books transported her to different worlds, allowing her to expand her knowledge and boost her confidence as she moved from one book to the next.
“Whether you are fat or thin, you will get bullied so, do not let those name-callings affect you and how you see yourself. Let the books be your refuge and teach you to be confident of who you are,” the 2024 Mutya ng Davao said.
Dignitaries attend
The event was also attended by Education Program Supervisor and Kindergarten Division Focal Person Dr. Janete B. Esteban, Davao Central District Supervisor Dr. Jean Fe A. Colango, and T. Palma Gil School Head Dr. Juniousar Caballes, along with the School Parents-Teachers Association (SPTA) Officers, led by President Joel Eric Inigo. Following the launch, the group moved on to the Kindergarten Playground and Reading Hub for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, joined by kindergarten student representatives and grade heads.
“I am grateful for the hands who worked hard for this playground that will allow our kindergarten learners to explore, discover, and develop their love for learning. This is an investment in their overall well-being and development that will provide them with the necessary tools to thrive both inside and outside the classroom,” Esteban expressed.
Photo courtesy: DepEd Davao City (FB)
Isang Kaibigan
Piccio delighted the learners once more by reading another story, “Isang Kaibigan,” written by Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, who also committed to donating additional books for the students of Kapitan Tomas.
