THE MANILA City government is allocating approximately ₱80 million for a new education initiative that seeks to improve the reading proficiency of struggling students through school-based tutorials.

The Kaagapay ng Mag-aaral Program was recently approved by Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso during a Local School Board meeting.

The program aims to provide additional learning time, personalized guidance, and tutorial support to students who have difficulty developing reading skills appropriate to their age and grade level.

Domagoso expressed concern over students reaching high school without having acquired basic reading skills, stressing the need for early intervention to prevent learning difficulties from worsening.

“Sadly, at this moment, imagine reaching high school and still not knowing how to read,” the mayor said.

He said the city government is taking proactive steps to address the problem through the newly approved program, which is expected to benefit both learners and teachers by strengthening reading instruction and providing additional learning support.

The Schools Division Office-Manila, headed by Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Sheryll Gayola, welcomed the continued support of the local government in strengthening the education sector and providing quality education to young Manileños.

Domagoso also assured residents that the city government would sustain its investments in essential public services, including healthcare, employment, housing, and education, through 2027 to improve the quality of life of Manila residents.