On December 9, UP LAKAN Diliman—a non-stock, non-profit, and non-political socio-civic organization composed of students from the University of the Philippines Diliman hailing from the province of Bulacan—will launch PAMBATANG BUKLATAN 2024 with the theme, “Pagbasa ang Tulay sa Paglusong sa Pangarap at Hamon ng Bukas.”
PAMBATANG BUKLATAN is an annual library-building and rehabilitation initiative designed to support public elementary schools in Bulacan by providing improved access to reading and reference materials and creating spaces conducive to learning and studying. In 2023, the project earned the prestigious Ignacio B. Jimenez Award for Excellence in Social Innovation by UP Student Organizations.
Since its inception, PAMBATANG BUKLATAN has supported several elementary schools across Bulacan—San Miguel, San Rafael, Obando, Paombong, San Ildefonso, Baliuag, San Jose del Monte, Sta. Maria, Bustos, Bulakan, Malolos, Guiguinto, and Norzagaray. This year, the organization is excited to extend the project’s impact to Hagonoy and Calumpit. The two (2) beneficiary schools this year will be San Agustin Elementary School in Hagonoy and Pascual O. Cruz Memorial Elementary School in Calumpit.
Schools in Hagonoy and Calumpit are frequently spotlighted in the news during heavy floods, as students and teachers persist in facing these challenges within their classrooms. The situation remains a challenge as public elementary schools in these areas continue to suffer from inadequate infrastructure, with some classrooms remaining flooded even after past calamities. UP LAKAN Diliman aims to not only provide academic assistance but also raise awareness about the circumstances these communities endure.
Individuals and organizations interested in supporting the project and contributing to the advocacy for literacy and education in Bulacan may donate cash or books to UP LAKAN Diliman until November 29, 2024. Donations will help provide essential resources, such as school supplies and books, to beneficiary schools. For more information on how to donate, visit their official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/uplakandiliman/.
This project brings the organization closer to realizing its mission of serving communities and contributing to the collective goal of achieving quality education for all.
