SENATOR Ramon ‘Bong’ Revilla Jr. batted for the establishment of an online library where students can access books needed for their studies.

Through Senate Bill 2211 or the Philippine Online Library Act of 2021, Revilla pushed for the digitization of all books necessary for public education.

The measure aims to establish the Philippine Online Library which will house the digitized copy of all textbooks and reference books necessary for the public education of elementary and secondary students.

It envisions an entire library of essential reading materials that is accessible to students.

“The creation of this online facility is also a step in the direction taken by the youth who spend much of their time online and on their mobile phones. While they are at it, we follow their lead and bring the educational materials to where they are,” Revilla said.

The senator stressed that the Covid19 pandemic has accelerated the shift of many sectors to the digital realm. The traditional classroom learning was replaced by online meetings and video conferences.

“Given the need to minimize face-to-face transactions and limit public gathering, businesses and government offices have implemented online services and digital payments,” Revilla said.

“Before, our teachers were using green blackboards on which they write the day’s lessons. But today, they use green backgrounds for their online classes. While they used to wield chalk and pens, they now have internet connection and electronic devices as potent weapons of instruction,” he said.