Working Hand-in-Hand: Addressing The Philippine Learning Crisis Together

Over the years, Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) and its partners have walked together with communities to meet the changing needs in the education sector. These efforts now align with the key priority areas (KPAs) identified by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II).

Foundational Learning

Functional literacy, or the ability to understand and apply what one reads, is essential to learning. When this is not developed early, students find it more difficult to succeed across subjects.

Recognizing the importance of strong literacy skills in a child’s learning journey, MBFI partnered with Binhi English Literacy Foundation, Inc. to implement an after-school remediation program that helps kindergarten and Grade 1 learners strengthen their reading and comprehension skills.

The program delivered strong learning gains, with kindergarten learners improving by an average of 63.6% and Grade 1 learners by 53.3%, both exceeding the 30% to 50% target. Learners developed key foundational skills such as letter recognition, phonics, spelling, and early writing.

Another important building block of learning is numeracy. To help learners overcome fear and build confidence in working with numbers, MBFI launched the Metrobank Foundation SOLUTION (Support for Optimal Learning & Understanding To Improve Overall Numeracy) last year. It promotes learner-centered approaches that address gaps in numeracy, strengthen understanding, and reduce math anxiety.

In its pilot implementation at San Miguel Heights Elementary School in Valenzuela, the program recorded strong results—achieving a 26% average increase in numeracy scores, with 95.4% of students showing improvement. It also helped reduce math anxiety among 64.2% of learners, alongside increased confidence and participation in class.

Learning Resources and Equipment

In many public schools, especially in remote areas, there is a shortage of basic learning materials and equipment. To help address this, the Foundation and its partners have provided learning kits, printed and digital modules, and equipment such as photocopiers, radios, and computers.

In 2021, MBFI, in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd), donated printers to 45 public schools in the School Divisions of Laguna, Iloilo, and Davao del Norte, as well as to selected schools in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA).

To date, more than ₱8.4 million worth of learning equipment and supplies have been provided, enabling more effective teaching and expanding students’ access to learning materials.

Learning Spaces

Beyond learning materials, school facilities also play a key role in student learning. The Foundation supports the construction of classrooms, libraries, and reading spaces to improve learning conditions, including a ₱11.5 million pledge to DepEd this year for classrooms in last-mile schools.

Safe and healthy school environments are also essential for consistent learning. In partnership with Radio Mindanao Network (RMN) Foundation, Manila Water Foundation, and World Vision Development Foundation, Inc. (WVDF), MBFI provided ₱1.8 million to build handwashing facilities in schools and communities nationwide, especially in underserved areas. These help promote better hygiene, reduce illness, and support regular school attendance.

Teacher Empowerment

The National Teachers’ Month (NTM) movement, led by the Foundation since its launch as the “Teachers’ Month Campaign” in 2008, continues to recognize the vital role of educators in nation-building. Through partner-led initiatives, it provides opportunities for recognition, engagement, and professional support. These efforts help sustain teacher morale and reinforce the importance of the teaching profession in improving learning outcomes.

Supporting Priority Areas in Education

While strengthening early literacy is a key focus, the Foundation’s efforts span the broader education system.

It supports early childhood development through grants and feeding programs that help prepare children for school readiness, including nutrition interventions for pregnant and lactating mothers and children aged 0–5—grounded on the critical first 1,000 days of life for brain development and lifelong learning. Together with partners, these initiatives have benefited thousands of mothers and young learners.

At the tertiary level, scholarship programs such as the Metrobank Scholarship Program continue to support college students through financial assistance and mentorship. For over 30 years, thousands of scholars have been supported, with 150 new scholarships to be awarded across 15 partner universities this school year.

As the country confronts a deepening learning crisis, MBFI continues to work hand in hand with partners to deliver evidence-based solutions that empower learners, support teachers, and strengthen communities.