The Davao City Library and Information Center has reinforced its commitment to creating secure learning environments for children, both in physical spaces and across digital platforms. In collaboration with the Department of Education in Davao, the library is implementing enhanced safety measures to protect young learners during their online educational activities.
Enhanced Digital Protection for Young Learners
Genevieve Tagudin, Children's Librarian at DCLIC, emphasized the library's proactive approach to safeguarding children's digital experiences. "Children frequently use online resources here at the city library," Tagudin explained during the Usapang Pambata: Special Office for Children's Concern on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
The library has implemented comprehensive website filtering systems that block inappropriate content, ensuring that students can access educational materials without exposure to harmful digital content. Tagudin stressed that maintaining data privacy and providing controlled information access remains their top priority.
Parental Guidance Crucial in Digital Age
Jonas Piore, Education Program Supervisor of DepEd-Davao, highlighted the indispensable role parents play in their children's digital journey. While acknowledging the tremendous benefits digital resources provide for learning activities like research and vocabulary building, Piore warned against unsupervised internet access.
"We urgently need parental involvement in guiding children's digital world usage," Piore stated. "Without proper guidance, children face significant dangers online, which could negatively impact future generations."
National Book Week Celebrations and Activities
As part of the National Book Week observances, DCLIC has organized an extensive lineup of educational activities designed to promote literacy and creativity:
- Storytelling Contest: Elimination rounds begin November 14, with finals scheduled for November 28, featuring elementary school participants
- Book Character Parade: Daycare centers will participate at NCCC Victoria Plaza on November 18
- Interactive Literacy Sessions: Running from November 24-26, including read-aloud exercises, silent reading, word search activities using interactive boards, trivia quizzes, and arts and crafts workshops
All activities are open to children who wish to participate, providing inclusive opportunities for educational engagement.
Developing Responsible Digital Citizens
Tagudin further explained that beyond content filtering, the library actively promotes digital literacy awareness among young users. "The online information landscape is vast, so we conduct orientations teaching children how to verify information accuracy," she added.
These digital literacy programs ensure that library visitors understand how to navigate online resources responsibly and critically evaluate digital content. Through these combined efforts, Davao City Library aims to equip learners with essential skills for success in both physical and digital learning environments, fostering a generation of informed and responsible digital citizens.
