El Nido, Palawan — On May 20, Ayala Foundation concluded the pilot run of the CENTEX Early Grades program in El Nido, strengthening early learning outcomes for young children through a community-based approach.
The program, implemented in close collaboration with the Local Government of El Nido, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, Ayala Multi-Purpose Cooperative, and barangay officials, supported 20 child development centers across 13 barangays. It directly engaged 21 child development workers, 848 learners, and 82 parents, creating a holistic network of support for children in their early years.
Over the course of School Year 2024–2025, the foundation provided child development workers year-long training in early literacy and numeracy strategies. The program introduced age-appropriate teaching strategies, classroom routines, and learning-through-play methods. These sessions were followed by enrichment activities which allowed educators to reflect on their practice and deepen their understanding of how to support children’s holistic development. A select group of teachers were supported with additional mentoring, enabling more tailored guidance as they began to apply new techniques in their classrooms.
Equipping classrooms with the right materials was just as essential. In November, the foundation worked with the City Social Welfare and Development Office to distribute customized learning resource kits to each participating center. Each kit contained activity bags and a play-and-learn guide designed to help teachers maximize the materials and foster engaging, collaborative play among children.
Recognizing the crucial role of parents and caregivers, the program also conducted parent enrichment session that brought together 50 mothers, fathers, and guardians for practical discussions on how to support learning at home. These sessions reinforced the idea that early education is most effective when the classroom and the home are aligned in nurturing a child’s curiosity and confidence.
The CENTEX Early Grades program bridges the crucial transition from Pre-K to Kindergarten, equipping children with the readiness and competencies needed to meet grade-level standards. It highlights Ayala Foundation’s commitment to creating holistic and sustainable learning opportunities in partnership with local stakeholders.
Building on the gains of the pilot run, Ayala Foundation looks forward to expanding the program further in School Year 2025–2026, reaching more communities and ensuring that more Filipino children are given a strong start in their educational journey.
