Panelists from the Philippine Statistics Authority, Department of Information and Communications Technology, and Department of Education respond to questions from participants during the open forum of the Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey presentation on December 12 at Villa Paraiso Resort and Apartelle in Mambajao, Camiguin. (Photo courtesy of PSA Camiguin)
TheMonitorMindanaoToday.com | Camiguin records 90.7% basic literacy rate in 2024 FLEMMS
By: Recthie T. Paculba
CAMIGUIN (PIA) — The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)–Camiguin reported that the province posted a 90.7% basic literacy rate and a 72.9% functional literacy rate in 2024, based on results from the Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) presented during a forum in Mambajao on Dec. 12.
“While these figures are slightly below the Northern Mindanao average, the province’s performance is relatively higher compared to other provinces in the region,” said Alvin Pequiro, supervising statistical specialist.
He added that the survey also showed increasing engagement among Camiguinons with digital media, including online news platforms, social media, and streaming services, which play a role in learning and access to information.
Representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) explained how FLEMMS data are used to strengthen literacy programs, enhance education initiatives, and expand access to information at the local level.
“For the education sector to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, we must bridge the gap between student skills and industry needs. This calls for a major curriculum modification that combines basic literacy, digital literacy, and the adoption of emerging technologies,” said DICT-Camiguin Provincial Officer James Sagocsoc.
During the open forum, participants discussed how low literacy levels can limit employment opportunities and emphasized the importance of integrating digital skills in schools. Challenges such as varying teaching approaches and the need to motivate teachers were also raised, with stakeholders recommending support for educators and the development of programs that benefit teachers and learners and improve literacy across Camiguin.
“Philippine Statistics Authority-Camiguin is committed to providing accurate and reliable statistical data to support development initiatives at both the local and national levels,” PSA-Camiguin Statistical Specialist Marz Ramer Cabisada said, underscoring the importance of presenting FLEMMS results to guide evidence-based planning and decision-making.
The forum gathered representatives from provincial and municipal government offices, line agencies, the academe, and other stakeholders to discuss the implications of the survey findings on education and information access in the province.(RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)
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