Philippine Literacy Project brings books to Miagao school

Building libraries for the future.

In the mountainous terrain of Miagao, where cellular signal and a functional library are both scarce, the Philippine Literacy Project: Building Libraries for the Future delivered books to help bridge the literacy gap and foster a love of reading and learning in the community.

The activity was held Jan. 9, 2026, at Olango Integrated School in Barangay Olango, Miagao, Iloilo.

The collaborative project was led by the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) and the UPV University Library’s extension service, with support from the UPV Ugnayan ng Pahinungod/Oblation Corps and the 61st Infantry Battalion in Miagao.

Organizers said the effort was made possible through donations from Zyrel T. Rojo, Jhoanna Gorriceta-Rojo, Winston Gorriceta and Mercedita Gorriceta, founders of the MS Community Library & Learning Center in Passi City.

UPV Chancellor Clement C. Camposano led the team with Gorriceta-Rojo, a donor and UP alumnus based in California; Analiza S. Galang-Linaugo, university librarian; Prof. Jerry Ian L. Leonida, director of the UPV Ugnayan ng Pahinungod/Oblation Corps; and representatives of the UPV Silak-Silab fraternity and sorority, staff, volunteers and other partners.

They navigated rugged terrain with assistance from soldiers of the 61st Infantry Battalion, who used military trucks to transport books, learning materials and packed snacks.

A program at the school was attended by pupils, teachers, parents and barangay officials, highlighting community support for education.

Camposano, in his opening remarks, emphasized the value of service, particularly serving remote communities through educational outreach initiatives.

Organizers said inspirational messages of gratitude and encouragement motivated students to dream big and pursue their goals.

Myrna M. Naculpa, head teacher III at Olango Integrated School, urged students to cultivate a reading habit and aim high.

Rosa M. Heredia, public schools district supervisor of the Miagao West District, expressed appreciation for the support extended to students’ learning.

SB member Marlou Rubino Niones of the Miagao local government unit shared stories of humble beginnings, emphasizing the transformative power of education.

Gorriceta-Rojo, in her message, told students: “Never let distance limit your dreams. Read because education is your vehicle.”

Students performed dances and music in colorful costumes to show their gratitude.

The turnover of donations was marked by the signing of acknowledgment documents by Camposano, Naculpa and Galang-Linaugo.

Boxes of books covering various subjects, along with stuffed toys, were turned over to Heredia, Naculpa and the faculty.

Organizers said students eagerly flipped through the books and began reading.

In her closing remarks, Galang-Linaugo thanked partners who contributed to the event’s success.

She underscored the importance of literacy and reminded students and parents to use the resources to help build a brighter future.

Packed sandwiches, juice and candies were distributed to students, parents and teachers.

Organizers said staff and volunteers from the UPV Ugnayan ng Pahinungod/Oblation Corps capped the event with activities, including games in an open field and storytelling sessions held simultaneously in selected rooms.

Organizers said Olango Integrated School was the first beneficiary of the Philippine Literacy Project: Building Libraries for the Future.

The university library, the Gorriceta-Rojo families and partners said they aim to reach more schools in Miagao, Iloilo, to promote literacy and education one book at a time and one school at a time. (M.N. Taganap)