Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the importance of reading for the development of students’ skills.
“Para sa mga batang may anak, isama ang pagbasa ng mga libro sa kanila o kasama nila,” Angara emphasized on a Facebook post.
“Studies have shown that this improves the performance of students.”
Photo courtesy: DepEd Philippines (FB)
National Reading Month in the Philippines is celebrated every November. It was established by the Department of Education (DepEd) to promote the love for reading and to instill literacy among Filipino students.
Activities during the month often include reading challenges, storytelling sessions, book fairs, and other initiatives aimed at fostering a reading culture across schools and communities.
Reading books is important for several reasons, as it significantly contributes to personal, intellectual, and emotional growth. Books are a source of information and wisdom. They expose readers to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives, broadening their understanding of the world. It actually enhances one’s knowledge.
Reading can also enhance critical thinking, comprehension, and problem-solving skills. It sharpens memory and improves focus and concentration. It fosters a habit of continuous learning and curiosity, keeping the mind active and engaged.
Regular reading helps improve vocabulary and language skills, making communication more effective and expressive.
Photo courtesy: Freepik
Books, especially fiction, stimulate the imagination by allowing readers to visualize scenarios, characters, and settings, fostering creativity. By immersing in stories about diverse characters and experiences, readers develop a deeper understanding of others’ feelings and perspectives, enhancing empathy. Reading can be a therapeutic escape from the stresses of daily life, providing relaxation and mental clarity.
Strong reading skills are foundational for success in education and career, as they help in understanding complex texts and performing analytical tasks.
In essence, reading is not just an activity but a gateway to self-improvement, knowledge, and a deeper connection to the world around us.
