DepEd: Sale of booklets for ‘Catch-Up Fridays’ banned

A teacher leads reading activities during the implementation of 'Catch-up Fridays' at Papaya Elementary School in Nasugbu, Batangas on January 12, 2024. Domcar C. Lagto, ABS-CBN News

The Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday said the sale of booklets or workbooks for its “Catch-Up Fridays” program is not allowed. 

The DepEd said it received complaints on school personnel who allegedly sell and require learners to buy booklets or workbooks for the program. 

“The Department reiterates that such acts are strictly prohibited. Catch-Up Fridays and other school activities must not involve out-of-pocket costs. Parents and learners are reminded not to accommodate and patronize such unauthorized transactions,” the agency said. 

Under the program, schools designate Fridays for students to catch up on their learning, particularly reading proficiency and critical thinking. 

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Findings from the report on the East Asia and the Pacific Region noted that “ learning poverty” in the Philippines was at 91 percent in 2022, which meant 9 out of 10 children aged 10 struggled to read simple texts.

The DepEd said it was investigating the supposed sale of Catch-Up Fridays booklets. Individuals found guilty of the scheme would face administrative sanctions, it added.