Church of Jesus Christ Collaborates with DepEd for Reading Hubs in Northern Mindanao

In a move that will benefit thousands of schoolchildren in the region, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is collaborating with the Department of Education (DepEd) to establish modern reading hubs in public schools across Northern Mindanao.

In a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with DepEd Region X officials, Latter-day Saint Charities, the Church’s humanitarian arm, will provide five fully-equipped, air-conditioned container facilities in select schools, furnished with study tables, chairs, bookshelves, and appropriate instructional materials to enhance and support the reading development of learners requiring additional assistance.

The collaboration was formalized in a signing ceremony attended by DepEd representatives led by Regional Director Dr. Ruth L. Fuentes, President Joel Marcaida of the Cagayan de Oro Philippines Stake, and Latter-day Saint Charities Country Director Anthony John M. Balledos.

Responding to inquiries by Director Fuentes about funding for the project, Brother Balledos explained that Church members abstain or fast from two consecutive meals and give the equivalent cost as a voluntary fast offering. These fast offerings in turn are used to help people and communities in need worldwide.

When asked whether Church members are obligated to contribute to this fund, Elder Balledos responded warmly, explaining that they give “if they are able, and with a willing heart.”

The DepEd representatives expressed their sincere appreciation for the compassion and generosity demonstrated by the Church.

Elder Balledos also reaffirmed the Church’s willingness to explore other ways of supporting DepEd projects, and expressed openness to collaborating on future initiatives related to humanitarian assistance and community service.