The Quezon City Government, in partnership with the Department of Education–Schools Division Office (SDO-QC), reported strong results from the Zero Illiteracy sa QC Tutoring Program.
In just 25 days, 1,837 QC learners who struggled with reading made significant progress, with hundreds reaching full grade-level proficiency and more than 1,300 students advancing to at least the transitioning level (at or near grade level).
Among those who achieved full grade-level reading, nearly 100 began as non-readers and about 240 started in the second lowest band.
In the pilot Mathematics tutoring program involving over 260 learners, most learners advanced to near-proficient levels in basic math and problem solving, while more than 100 students mastered the basics of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
“When we say recovery is possible, these learners are living proof,” said Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte. “Some of them began as non-readers. A month later, they are now able to read with confidence at the level expected of their age. They remind us that no child should ever be written off.”
Launched in 2023, the Zero Illiteracy sa QC Tutoring Program of the Quezon City Government serves Grades 3-6 students through small-group sessions in 50 public elementary schools using focused teaching approaches and close monitoring. The program also supported communities by providing around 300 tutoring jobs and serving over 56,000 meals during the program.
“We focused on the most left-behind learners,” said Schools Division Superintendent Carleen Sedilla. “Seeing them move up so quickly shows what targeted teaching and consistent support can do.”
Building on these results, the local government rolled out a new batch with 1,300 students and additional model reading schools as part of the city’s broader learning recovery agenda.
The Zero Illiteracy sa QC Tutoring Program is sustained by the Learning Recovery Trust Fund, with support from partners and donors.
To donate or partner with the City Government for the initiative, interested individuals and organizations may contact the Education Affairs Unit at education@quezoncity.gov.ph or (02) 8988-4242 local 7330.
###
