ILOILO — A total of 3,300 colorful storybooks were officially turned over to the Iloilo City Government on August 4, 2026, in a heartwarming ceremony at the Plaza Libertad Outdoor Library. The donation, spearheaded by Jollibee, aims to fill the shelves of daycare centers and public libraries with tales that teach honesty, respect, and compassion.
A Gift of Stories and Values
The books, developed in partnership with Adarna House, feature five original titles written in both English and Filipino. Each story is designed to highlight a core Filipino virtue. “Ang Bola ng Katotohanan” centers on honesty, while “Ang Hari ng Palaruan” gently reminds young readers about respect for others.
“Ang Pinakamasayang Pista” celebrates the joy of generosity, and “Ang Naghihintay na Homework” underscores the importance of responsibility. Rounding out the collection, “Mga Kaibigan ng Kalikasan” nurtures a deep compassion for nature. The stories use relatable local scenarios and vibrant illustrations to capture the imagination of toddlers and preschoolers, making moral lessons feel like adventures rather than lectures.
A Personal Touch from City Hall
Mayor Raisa Treñas did not simply accept the donation and leave. She sat down with children from the Talatapan Child Development Center and led a lively storytelling session. Her voice brought the characters to life as the young audience listened with wide eyes.
The mayor emphasized that instilling values and encouraging reading habits at an early age are among the city’s top priorities. She believes that a child who learns to read with joy today will grow into a more engaged and responsible citizen tomorrow. The personal involvement of the city’s highest official sent a powerful message about the importance of early childhood education.
A Broad Reach Across the City
The donated books will be distributed to more than 200 Early Childhood Care and Development centers across Iloilo City. Public libraries, both indoor and mobile, will also receive copies, ensuring that even children in underserved barangays have access to quality reading materials. Each target center will receive a set of 15 books to enrich its reading corner.
Representatives from Go Tan Foods Corporation, the franchise operator of Jollibee in the area, were present during the turnover. Pierre Jefferson Go and Rutchell Emboltura expressed their commitment to supporting community programs that go beyond business. The partnership between the private sector and the local government demonstrates how shared goals can create lasting impact on the ground.
Rooted in the RISE to ACTION Vision
The activity aligns with the city’s broader development agenda, particularly its focus on human capital and social development. By investing in the youngest Ilonggos, the government aims to build a foundation for a smarter, more values-driven community. The presence of Councilor Miguel Treñas and School Administrator Matty Treñas further underscored the unified support for early literacy.
Child Development Workers and parents who attended the event expressed gratitude for the new resources. For many daycare centers, storybooks are a luxury that budget constraints often overlook. The donation fills a critical gap, giving teachers fresh tools to engage their pupils and reinforce positive behavior at an impressionable age.
