IN A MAJOR step toward strengthening the country’s reading culture, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has become the first city mayor to accept the Second Congressional Commission on Education’s (EDCOM 2) #BayangBumabasa Mayors for Literacy Challenge — a national campaign calling on local government leaders to champion foundational literacy for all Filipino children.

Launched by EDCOM 2, the initiative urges mayors to take an active role in promoting reading among the youth, grounded in the belief that ensuring every child reads is key to building a brighter, more empowered nation.

“Quezon City, under the leadership of Mayor Joy Belmonte, has set a powerful precedent for the entire nation,” said Dr. Karol Mark Yee, Executive Director of EDCOM 2.

Belmonte highlighted several of Quezon City’s flagship education and literacy programs that reflect a “whole-of-city” approach to learning, with strong collaboration from civic groups, the business sector, and community volunteers. These include:

Zero Illiteracy Tutoring Program

Extensive Distribution of Learning Materials

Vision Care for Students

Support for Out-of-School Youth and Persons with Disabilities

Expanded Scholarship Programs

“Education is not just the responsibility of the school; all of us are part of shaping the future of the youth,” the mayor said.

“We will continue our initiatives for literacy and foundational learning. We will continue to act to ensure every child reads,” she added.

As part of her participation in the challenge, Mayor Belmonte also nominated Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto to take on the #BayangBumabasaChallenge — a move aimed at expanding the campaign’s reach and inspiring other local leaders to join the cause.