With 91% of Filipino 10-year-olds struggling with basic reading comprehension, according to the World Bank, a group of young students is taking matters into their own hands to help address the country’s growing literacy crisis.
The Book Cradle Project, a youth-led non-profit founded in 2022, is working to bring books, reading programs and writing workshops to underserved communities across the Philippines.
The organization was started by four then-high school freshmen, namely Ava Padilla, Maria Beatriz Paterno, Soheon Rhee and Hailey Que Yap, who were inspired to help children develop a love for reading.
Since its creation, the group has organized read-aloud sessions, book drives, and creative writing workshops. Its first major event took place at Alabang Elementary School in 2023, where they distributed books and engaged students through storytelling. The organization has since donated over 4,000 books to the school’s library.
In 2023, The Book Cradle Project was accredited by the National Coordinating Body of Clubs for UNESCO in the Philippines, through the UNESCO National Commission – Department of Foreign Affairs (UNACOM-DFA).
Their latest initiative is the publication of “A Few Willing Hands,” a picture book aimed at readers aged 12 and above. It was launched last July 26.
The story follows a student named Manuel who, after encountering strange events and a river protest, finds the courage to speak out on environmental issues. The book blends themes of youth empowerment, sustainability, and community awareness.
“This book is a testament to our organization’s mission: ‘Literacy sparks
expression, and expression sparks change,” the founders said.
All proceeds from the book will go toward expanding the group’s literacy programs and funding solar-powered e-readers for students in its growing number of international chapters, including in New Zealand, China, Cuba and Korea.
The book was launched in partnership with National Bookstore and Shangri-La Plaza.
— with Rosette Adel