Unveiling the Literacy Landscape: Northern Mindanao’s Triumphs and Challenges

COURTESY: Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)  Northern Mindanao

An Overview of Basic Literacy in Northern Mindanao

In 2024, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) revealed that Northern Mindanao achieved a commendable basic literacy rate of 90.8 percent, positioning the region sixth overall in the nation. This statistic highlights the concerted efforts made by local governments and educational institutions to promote literacy as a fundamental right. However, it is crucial to delve deeper into the variations among provinces and highly urbanized cities (HUCs) to understand the underlying factors contributing to these disparities.

The City of Cagayan de Oro emerged as a beacon of literacy, boasting the highest rate in the region at 96.1 percent, which surpasses the regional average by 5.3 percentage points. This extraordinary achievement reflects the city’s robust educational programs and community engagement initiatives aimed at enhancing literacy among its population. Following closely are the City of Iligan and Misamis Occidental, with literacy rates of 93.4 percent and 91.6 percent, respectively. These statistics indicate that urban areas tend to perform better, likely due to more accessible educational resources and infrastructure.

Disparities in Literacy Rates Across Provinces

Conversely, some provinces in Northern Mindanao face significant challenges in achieving higher literacy rates. Camiguin, Bukidnon, and Lanao del Norte reported rates below the regional average, with figures at 90.7 percent, 90.5 percent, and a concerning 83.3 percent, respectively. These disparities suggest that while urban centers thrive, rural areas may lack the necessary support and resources for educational advancement. Addressing these gaps is crucial for fostering a more equitable educational landscape across the region.

Transitioning towards a more inclusive approach, stakeholders must collaborate to develop tailored educational programs that cater to the unique needs of each province. By investing in teacher training, infrastructure, and community outreach, Northern Mindanao can elevate its literacy rates further, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. For more information on this enlightening survey, please refer to the [Special Release](insert link of Special Release) by the PSA. 

While Northern Mindanao has made significant strides in basic literacy, continuous efforts are essential to bridge the existing gaps and cultivate a literate society that empowers its citizens.