The Department of Education (DepEd), through the Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC), has issued the guidelines for the 2026 National Literacy Awards (NLA), reaffirming its commitment to recognize partners that help advance literacy in Filipino communities.
Under DepEd Memorandum No. 062, s. 2026, the NLA provides guidance to DepEd Central and Field Offices, concerned agencies, and partner organizations in recognizing outstanding programs that significantly contribute to advancing literacy in the country.
Held every two years pursuant to Republic Act No. 7165, as amended by Republic Act No. 10122, the NLA recognizes local government units (LGUs), non-government organizations (NGOs), and higher education institutions (HEIs) for their dedication and significant contributions to eradicating illiteracy through exemplary school-based or community-based literacy programs and interventions.
“Maraming literacy champions ang nagtatrabaho sa grassroots— sa barangay, komunidad, learning centers, at schools.”
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the awards highlight the important role of communities and partners in strengthening literacy beyond the classroom.
“Ang literacy ay hindi lang responsibilidad ng paaralan. Kailangan dito ang tulong ng LGUs, NGOs, HEIs, families, at buong komunidad. Sa National Literacy Awards, kinikilala natin ang mga programang tahimik pero tuloy-tuloy na tumutulong sa learners at komunidad na makabasa, makaunawa, makilahok, at umunlad,” Angara said.
DepEd said the NLA supports the national goal of universalizing literacy by raising public awareness and appreciation of literacy initiatives, sustaining and institutionalizing literacy efforts, and promoting the replication of innovative and culturally responsive literacy programs.
The 2026 NLA includes Gawad LIYAB, which honors LGUs, NGOs, and HEIs whose initiatives address literacy gaps, particularly among marginalized and underserved populations. For LGUs, the awards recognize cities and municipalities that demonstrate leadership and innovation in developing inclusive literacy policies and programs. For NGOs and HEIs, the awards recognize effective, sustainable, and community-based literacy programs with measurable results.
The guidelines also provide for a Hall of Fame Award for LGUs, NGOs, or HEIs that have secured First Place in the NLA three times in the same category, recognizing their sustained excellence and long-term contributions to literacy development.
“Maraming literacy champions ang nagtatrabaho sa grassroots— sa barangay, komunidad, learning centers, at schools. Ang mahalaga sa atin ay makita, masukat, at maipalaganap ang mga programang talagang nakatutulong sa pagbabasa, lifelong learning, at pagbibigay ng mas magandang oportunidad sa mga Pilipino,” Angara said.
The 2026 National Literacy Awards ceremony will be held on December 10, 2026.
DepEd enjoins all concerned agencies, organizations, and offices to actively participate in the 2026 NLA and help highlight literacy programs that may be sustained, institutionalized, and replicated in other communities.
Through the 2026 National Literacy Awards, DepEd and the LCC aim to strengthen public appreciation of literacy work and recognize partners whose programs help ensure that more Filipinos gain the literacy skills needed for learning, participation, and lifelong development.
