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Addressing the Reading Crisis: Formation of NARA
In response to the pressing issue of declining reading scores and the alarming reading crisis, the National Book Development Board (NBDB) has taken a significant step forward. The establishment of the National Alliance of Reading Advocates (NARA) aims to consolidate efforts in promoting reading literacy in the Philippines. This initiative brings together various advocacy groups and individuals from across the nation, uniting them with a common goal of fostering a robust reading culture.
Soft Launch and Vision of NARA
Marking a milestone in the battle against the reading crisis, NARA had its soft launch on April 26, 2024, during the Philippine Book Festival at the World Trade Center Manila. At this event, reading advocacy groups and individuals affirmed their dedication to the alliance, laying the groundwork for collaborative action.
Platform for Change: NARA’s Role
NARA serves as a platform dedicated to nurturing and enhancing the national reading culture. Through its online community platform, NARA Connect, and regular milestone meetings and conferences, the alliance will facilitate the coordination of various readership campaigns. Beyond this, NARA will support cross-media adaptation of Philippine literary works, facilitate the creation of fan-based markets, and work towards popularizing home-grown literary characters.
Shared Vision for Change
Daniel Mariano, Chief of NBDB’s Readership Development Division, emphasized the urgent need for collective action. He stressed the importance of mobilizing all reading advocates and like-minded individuals to reverse the decline in readership, envisioning a supportive community of advocates united in their mission.
Mariano highlighted the widespread love for stories among Filipinos, calling upon allies to harness this passion to cultivate a stronger national reading culture.
Acknowledging the Crisis
During the soft launch, NBDB Executive Director Charisse addressed the gravity of the reading crisis. She emphasized the systemic nature of the problem and the necessity for a cohesive strategy to address it. Charisse’s presentation of the State of the Reading Nation underscored the urgency of the situation and the imperative for unified action.
Wide-scale Orientation and Collective Action
The soft launch also served as NARA’s inaugural wide-scale orientation, drawing representatives from a diverse array of organizations. From UN SDSN Youth Philippines to local literacy foundations and publishing houses, stakeholders across sectors came together to pledge their support to the alliance. This inclusive gathering reflects the widespread recognition of the need for collective action to combat the reading crisis.
In conclusion, the formation of NARA represents a significant step forward in the fight against the reading crisis in the Philippines. By fostering collaboration and coordination among diverse stakeholders, the alliance holds the promise of revitalizing the nation’s reading culture and ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
