The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
The United Print and Multimedia Group (UPMG) Philippines is stepping up to address a critical national challenge where seven out of ten Filipino students lack basic reading skills. To combat this learning crisis, UPMG held the second year of its Back to Basic Reading Campaign at Rosauro Almario Elementary School. Carrying the theme “Flip and Scroll: A Reading Quest for Every Kid on Pages and Screens,” the initiative brought together educators, publishers, and learners to rediscover the joy and importance of literacy across both print and digital mediums. UPMG President Vivienne Motomal emphasized that improving children’s comprehension is vital so they can process information critically and become responsible members of society.
The engaging event featured an inspiring keynote by Malaysian Ambassador H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, who reminded students that reading is the fundamental first step toward growth, progress, and future leadership. Grades 3 and 4 students actively participated in an interactive storytelling session led by Therese Alebusa of Nameless Books, alongside a generous book distribution providing over 100 attendees with inspiring children’s literature. Supported by partners like Yakult and Lounge Cafe Bookstore, the day combined education with community care, offering free meals and fostering a vibrant atmosphere of learning and excitement.
Looking ahead, UPMG Philippines is expanding its advocacy well beyond the classroom as it approaches its 25th anniversary on November 11. The group is spearheading a corporate social responsibility (CSR) project inviting public donations of reading materials for vulnerable beneficiaries, including the Aetas of Zambales and St. Francis Learning School. Through these ongoing efforts, UPMG continues to champion its core mission—inspiring children to read more, think more, and share more to transform today’s young readers into tomorrow’s confident leaders.