The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, through its Regional Program Management Office, conducted the Regional Culminating Activities of the Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program in the municipalities of Dapa and General Luna, Surigao del Norte.

The culmination was held on July 16 at the Dapa Gymnasium and on July 17 at the General Luna Gymnasium. A total of 106 Tutors and 54 Youth Development Workers (YDWs) were recognized for completing 20 days of literacy sessions and Nanay-Tatay Teacher Sessions. The activity also gathered School Heads from 37 elementary schools and Punong Barangays from 47 participating barangays.

Beneficiaries shared testimonials on the program’s impact, particularly on the improvement of children’s reading skills and the strengthening of family relationships through the parent-focused sessions.

Key officials who delivered messages during the events included Manuel O. Caberte, Schools Division Superintendent of Siargao Island; Marjorie A. Dalagan, Municipal Local Government Operations Officer V; Nancybelle M. Trazares, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer of Dapa; General Luna Municipal Mayor Johnson Y. Sajulga; General Luna Sangguniang Bayan Member John Christopher C. Silvosa; and Rowena A. Plando, Ph.D., of Surigao del Norte State University.

DSWD Caraga Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga-Libang, in a virtual message, commended the Tutors and YDWs for their dedication and commitment to nurturing young learners.

The Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program is a literacy initiative that engages college students as Tutors and YDWs to help improve the reading skills of children while providing educational and financial support to the youth involved in the program.

Together, we read. Together, we rise.