DSWD 7, LGUs, and Higher Education Institutions Forge Partnership for 2026 Tutoring Initiative in Cebu
On March 17, 2026, a significant collaboration was formalized in Cebu City as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 7 – Central Visayas, alongside local government units (LGUs) and higher education institutions (HEIs), signed a tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). This agreement marks the continued implementation of the Tara, Basal! Tutoring Program (TBTP), a flagship initiative aimed at enhancing literacy and youth development across the region.
Key Signatories and Attendees
The signing ceremony was led by DSWD 7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero, who was joined by mayors and representatives from various LGUs, as well as leaders from universities and colleges. Officials from the Department of Education (DepEd), including superintendents from Schools Division Offices, were also present to witness the event.
Among the signatories were the mayors of Argao, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, Medellin, Talisay City, and Toledo City. Naga City was represented by Ms. Ruth Rowena Bandola-Alensonorin on behalf of Mayor Valdemar Chiong. Additionally, Mr. Aldwin Edwin Empaces attended as a representative of the Cebu Provincial Government, underscoring broad support for the program.
Program Targets and Implementation Details
For 2026, the TBTP has set ambitious targets, aiming to benefit 12,970 individuals. This includes 1,870 college students who will serve as tutors and youth development workers (YDWs), 5,550 parents or guardians, and 5,550 students facing reading difficulties. The program will be implemented across 12 LGUs in Cebu, with sessions conducted in 262 public elementary schools.
College students from various HEIs will take on the role of tutors, providing direct instruction to children. Meanwhile, YDWs will lead "Nanay-Tatay Sessions" to assist parents in supporting their children's education. This dual approach is designed to strengthen both academic skills and family involvement in learning.
Program Structure and Historical Context
The TBTP is a national government flagship program focused on improving literacy and creating opportunities for youth through subsidies and capability-building activities. It will run for 20 days, from May 4 to June 4, 2026, with sessions held every Monday through Thursday.
In the previous year, the program benefited 13,308 individuals. According to the Bureau of Education Assessment, 72.39% of learners achieved "meets expectation" in Filipino, while 70.08% did so in English, highlighting the program's positive impact on educational outcomes.
Future Expectations and Collaborative Efforts
DSWD officials expressed optimism that through this strong partnership, the program will continue to advance reading conditions for children in Cebu. The collaboration between government agencies, local leaders, and academic institutions is expected to foster sustainable improvements in literacy and youth development across the region.
