Stories written in Cebuano, Ilocano, Bikolano, Hiligaynon, and Maranao accessible via the NABU mobile app
In an effort to promote reading and improve comprehension among Filipino students, Globe has partnered with NABU, a nonprofit organization based in New York, to make books available in languages that are familiar to young readers.
NABU: Multilingual Kids Books, a free-to-download tech-publishing app, has released its first collection of regional language books tailored for Filipino learners from diverse backgrounds.
Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer, emphasized the importance of providing age-appropriate and culturally relevant reading materials in one’s own language. This collaboration with NABU marks a significant step toward enhancing literacy accessibility through digital platforms.
This partnership aligns with Globe’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of quality education and fostering partnerships for sustainable development.
Both organizations recognize the significance of building children’s confidence through reading in their native language, which in turn enhances comprehension and overall literacy levels. This foundation equips children with essential learning skills, empowering them to reach their full potential.
Literacy is crucial in eradicating poverty, yet there is a scarcity of local language books at the early grade levels. Consequently, children often leave school without the ability to read, making them vulnerable to social and economic exploitation.
Tanyella Allison, CEO of NABU, expressed gratitude for the Filipino community’s participation in their global mission to cultivate a reading culture. NABU Philippines’ Country Manager, Mauro Daez, added that the release of regional bilingual books aims to rekindle the joy, curiosity, and creativity associated with reading across different regions in the country. These books will also introduce parents and teachers to new stories that can inspire them to read alongside their children.
Since its launch in the Philippines last October, NABU has added 50 regional language titles to its app, including stories in Cebuano, Ilocano, Bikolano, Hiligaynon, and Maranao. These books, illustrated by local Filipino artists, complement the 100+ original stories developed by NABU, which are made available to children nationwide in collaboration with Globe and the E. Zobel Foundation.
Android and iOS users can download the NABU app for free at www.nabu.org/download, offering titles such as “Magturugang Habang Buhay” (Brothers for Life) in Bicolano, “So Alongan Ago So Olan” (The Sun and the Moon) in Maranao, “Layo ang Gakaabtan sa Gugma” (Love Travels Further) in Cebuano, “Mas Maayo kun Updanay ang Tanan” (Better Together) in Hiligaynon, and “Kabaelak Nga Aramiden” (Dare to Try) in Ilokano.
Globe has been a steadfast advocate of literacy and digital skills, with initiatives such as the Globe eLibrary mobile app and website (globeelibrary.ph), offering a wealth of classic English titles, age-appropriate storybooks, eLearning videos, and other valuable resources that can be accessed online or downloaded for offline use.
To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/. For further details about NABU, go to www.nabu.org or www.nabu.org/tl/philippines.
