MANILA, (PIA) — Senator Win Gatchalian is advocating for the expanded and aggressive implementation of the Alternative Learning System (ALS) to address the persistent issue of illiteracy among the out-of-school population in the Philippines.
During a recent hearing on the results of the 2024 Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS), Gatchalian highlighted that approximately 18.96 million Filipinos remain functionally illiterate. “Even though the ALS is available, the government still faces challenges in encouraging participation in the program,” he stated.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Gatchalian emphasized the need to consider age groups beyond the current coverage of the Department of Education (DepEd) to effectively improve functional literacy. “Now, this is a challenge. And I truly believe that the only way to address this is to mobilize the local government units,” he added.
The ALS was institutionalized under the Alternative Learning System Act, aiming to provide increased educational opportunities for out-of-school children and adult learners. The program focuses on developing basic and functional literacy skills, offering an equivalent pathway to complete basic education.
Gatchalian’s push for enhanced ALS implementation is seen as a crucial step toward reducing the illiteracy rate in the country and ensuring that all Filipinos have access to essential learning opportunities. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
