RC Tagum North Turns Over Phase 2 of Reading Hub at Mankilam Elementary School In Celebration of Basic Education and Literacy Month

In celebration of Rotary International’s Basic Education and Literacy Month, the Rotary Club of Tagum North, in partnership with its sister club, the Rotary Club of Godeok, District 3620, Republic of Korea, proudly turned over Phase 2 of the Reading Hub Project to Mankilam Elementary School.

The turnover ceremony was held with the presence of distinguished guests, including:

Dr. Maria Fe D. Sibuan, SDS Representative/OIC and Math Education Program Supervisor

Francisca R. Padlan, SGOD Chief Representative and Education Program Supervisor

Dr. Nila L. Digal, Public Schools District Supervisor (PSDS), and Dr. Josefina B. Palaca, SGOD Supervisor.

The Reading Hub was formally received by Mrs. Miraluz O. Panaligan, School Head of Mankilam Elementary School, with attendance from Rotarians of the Rotary Club of Tagum North and the school’s dedicated teaching staff.

Advancing Literacy Through Innovation

The Reading Hub Phase 1 was initially funded through a Rotary District Grant via The Rotary Foundation, with additional support from Past President Rommel B. Gomito. With the success of Phase 1, Phase 2 focuses on integrating digital learning tools to further enhance literacy and learning.

New features of the Reading Hub include:

• A 55-inch Google TV for streaming educational videos and online reading materials

• A dedicated computer set complete with headphones and speakers for individualized learning

• A curated collection of storybooks with QR codes linking to audio narrations for mobile listening

• Upgraded tables and chairs to provide a comfortable reading space

• Two new stand fans, complementing existing wall-mounted fans for improved ventilation

• Security frills to ensure the safety of equipment after school hours

A Joyful Moment: Storytelling Session with the PSDS

As part of its literacy campaign, the Rotary Club of Tagum North held a Storytelling Activity on September 3, 2025, engaging 29 Grade 1 learners in an inspiring session led by the PSDS, Dr. Nila Digal. The storytelling experience sparked imagination and excitement among the young readers, furthering the mission to instill a love for books at an early age.

Looking Ahead: A Vision Beyond Infrastructure

“This is more than just a reading facility it is a beacon of hope,” said GML Editor Arnold M. Nicolas ,the Project Chair. “Our vision is that within the next three years, no learner at Mankilam Elementary School will remain a non-reader.”

Through this project, the Rotary Club of Tagum North, alongside its partners and supporters, continues to work tirelessly to nurture a community where every child has access to quality educational resources paving the way for lifelong learning and personal growth.