DAVAO City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte and Benguet Lone District Rep. Eric Yap have filed a measure mandating all cities and municipalities to establish and maintain an early learning program for pre-kindergarten children, including those with special needs.

House Bill 8069 or the proposed Early Learning Program Act seeks to ensure that children are ready to learn how to read and write when they enter the elementary level.

The measure will mandate the implementation of early learning programs for pre-kindergarten children, especially those from poor families.

Young children shall receive enhanced educational and comprehensive services and support through parent involvement and education.

Duterte and Yap believe that early childhood education is critical in the development and well-being of children.

“According to the United Nations Children’s Fund, early childhood education encompasses all forms of education, both formal and informal, of children from birth until eight years of age,” Duterte said.

Yap said that children from poor families are the least likely to attend early childhood education programs.