THE DEPARTMENT of Social Welfare and Development is preparing for the expansion of the “Tara, Basa!” (Let’s Read) Tutoring Program (TBTP) and coordinating with local government units (LGUs) and other partner agencies to engage more beneficiaries in 2026.

The tutoring program, launched in August 2023, will be expanded to urban communities, such as Mandaluyong City where 440 beneficiaries will be part of the program this year.

Preparations for the city’s participation were discussed during an exploratory meeting at Mandaluyong City Hall on Jan. 13.

Officials tackled key details, including program guidelines, provisions of the memorandum of agreement for the 2026 rollout, and the designation of community coordinators who will help ensure smooth and effective program execution.

Alongside developments in the National Capital Region, the DSWD-Northern Mindanao is also busy preparing for the expanded implementation with coordination meetings and orientation sessions for college students joining the program.

Also considered for program expansion are areas in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

These activities aim to strengthen partnerships with LGUs, state and local universities and colleges, and other stakeholders, ensuring a shared understanding of program guidelines, roles and expectations.

“Ang pagpapalawak po ng Tara, Basa! ay bahagi ng ating patuloy na pagsisikap na maabot ang mas maraming kabataan at pamilya na nangangailangan ng tulong (The expansion of Tara, Basa! is a part of our continuous effort to reach out for more youth and families who need help),” DSWD spokesperson, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, said in a news release Tuesday.

Dumlao said the DSWD is focused on ensuring that the program’s expansion remains inclusive and sustainable; its implementation orderly, organized and meaningful; and that all forms of assistance will educate children and empower the youth who are the program’s partners. (PNA)