Cagayan de Oro City — In a bid to enhance reading education in elementary schools within its host communities, FDC Misamis Power Corporation (FDC Misamis), in partnership with the Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. (KCFI) and the Department of Education Region 10 (DepEd-Northern Mindanao), launched the Learning Effectively through Enhanced and Evidence-Based Pedagogies (LEEP) in Reading Training.
“FDC Misamis believes that progress happens when communities are empowered through education. Since our teachers are the backbone of our education system, we support their role in nurturing future generations by equipping them with the latest teaching techniques,” said Atty. Lysander N. Castillo, AVP for Corporate Communications, Sustainability, and External Affairs of FDC Misamis, in his opening remarks during the kick-off ceremony.
The event, which took place at De Luxe Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City, from January 24 to 26, 2025, brought together 70 teachers and 10 principals from Villanueva and Tagoloan.
The Program provided educators innovative teaching strategies and resources, including Knowledge Channel’s educational media technology. By focusing on the integration of enhanced and evidence-based teaching methods, the Program empowered teachers to create dynamic and engaging learning environments that catered to the complex needs of 21st-century learners.
Dr. Mary Ann Allera, DepEd-NorMin Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, expressed gratitude to FDC Misamis and KCFI for their continued pursuit to enhance the educational experience of students in the region.
She emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating opportunities for learners.
Key highlights of the program included modules on utilizing technology in daily lessons, early reading development, phonological awareness, vocabulary, reading fluency, and comprehension.
Participants also engaged in workshops and teaching demonstrations designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills in teaching students.
Throughout the training, educators developed and delivered lesson examples, incorporating Knowledge Channel’s curriculum-based video lessons Wikaharian and Ready, Set, Read! to enable a more interactive and impactful teaching experience.
By the conclusion of the training, participants were better equipped to deliver quality reading instruction, paving the way for improved academic performance and lifelong learning for their students.
“We know there is a significant gap in the capabilities of our students. We are very hopeful that we will be leaping forward empowered by the new skills and knowledge we've gained.,” said Dr. Gladys Banac, DepEd Reading Coordinator Division of MisOr.
FDC Misamis and KCFI also turned over the Knowledge Channel Portable Media Library. It is an offline and on-demand access platform containing more than 1,500 DepEd curriculum-based video lessons, e-games, and e-session guides. This valuable resource provided participating schools access to a wealth of educational content to aid and enhance student learning.
“As we officially turn over these portable media libraries, we look forward to its lasting impact—not just on the schools receiving them, but on the countless lives enriched by the knowledge these tools will help unlock,” highlighted Castillo.
Beneficiaries from the District of Villanueva include Balacanas Elementary School, San Martin Elementary School, Kimaya Elementary School, Nangka Elementary School, and Looc Elementary School. While in the District of Tagoloan, the beneficiaries consist of Sta. Cruz Elementary School, Baluarte Elementary School, Mohon Elementary School, Rosario Elementary School, and Gracia Elementary School.
“Knowledge Channel has always believed in the transformative power of education. We are committed to bringing quality educational resources to schools, teachers, and learners across the Philippines. This program is a testament to the shared vision and collective effort of FDC Misamis, DepEd Misamis Oriental, Knowledge Channel Foundation, and our dear educators,” said Edric Calma, Vice President of KCFI.
FDC Misamis owns and operates a 405MW baseload power plant in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental. Operating since 2016, the Filinvest Group's flagship power project significantly contributed to stabilizing Mindanao’s energy supply. Filinvest is also developing solar, hydro, and biomass power projects to boost the country’s energy security and sustainability efforts. PR