News

Ajuy Joins SAS

Ajuy, Iloilo Mayor Jett Rojas

Ajuy, Iloilo is the newest reading municipality funded by Children’s Hour, The Asia Foundation and Dr. Manny Lim. The Teacher Training was held last January 15-16, 2005 at the Marbuena Island resort in Ajuy, Iloilo. SAS trainers headed by Dali Soriano, with Neni Sta. Romana-Cruz, Pat Jardiniano and Grace Cubacub shared their knowledge and expertise once again. Mayor Jett Rojas, DepEd Supervisor Florencia Borja, welcomed the 24 teachers, 12 principals, and interested observers to the 2-day training. The participants were delighted to see Mayor Jett Rojas fully supporting the program by attending the training personally.

The launch of the reading program was also a success. The motorcade was certainly one of the longest in the Municipality’s history. Students lined up on the sides of the road to wave flags at the motorcade. The program was held in Alejo Posadas Memorial Elementary School. Parents, teachers and students came to share their enthusiasm. The inspiring speeches of Mayor Jett Rojas and DepEd Supervisor Florencia Borja made the event very meaningful for Ajuy, Iloilo. As we near the end of the 31-day reading marathon, it is clear that the students have come to appreciate reading. The read-aloud sessions and extension activities and the teachers’ work have paid off. Most of the students have finished reading the 60-storybook collection. As a result, the Ibong Adarna murals are thickly covered with colorful paper feathers. The Read-a-Thon will end on March 9, 2005.

The 12 public elementary schools are scheduled to have their culminating activity on March 11, 14 and 15, 2005.

The turnover of reading carts ceremony is set on the 17th of March at Alejo Posadas Memorial Elementary School. Although the turnover technically closes the reading program, SAS hopes that Mayor Jett Rojas and DepEd Supervisor Florencia Borja will encourage Ajuy schools to continue the reading program in the coming years.