The Philippines’ Department of Education (PLDT) and Smart Communications, Inc. have launched literacy mobile applications, “Apprende” for Chavacano and “Hinduan” for Tausug, in partnership with Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) and the Department of Education – Division of Zamboanga City. The apps aim to preserve the Philippines’ rich linguistic heritage and make education more accessible, meaningful, and culturally rooted for future generations. Launching these apps is seen as a way to make education more inclusive and impactful for the communities they serve, ensuring that the next generation can continue to value and celebrate their heritage.
Designed to promote literacy and numeracy in mother tongues, the mobile applications also aim to preserve local heritage while making learning more accessible for younger generations.
ADZU Grade School Principal Ellen Segurigan expressed heartfelt gratitude to PLDT and Smart for bringing these innovative learning tools to the community. “Today, we celebrate more than the launch of two mobile applications; we celebrate the preservation, appreciation, and joyful learning of our local languages. With these apps, students will gain knowledge and discover the richness of our heritage, enjoy the beauty of our words, and connect in meaningful ways,” said Segurigan.
The “Apprende” and “Hinduan” literacy applications complete a set of 13 mobile applications developed by PLDT and Smart with various partners as part of their long-standing commitment to advancing education and promoting digital inclusion.
This initiative also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, as it fosters inclusive, equitable, and quality learning opportunities for all. Moreover, it contributes to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by helping to preserve cultural heritage and strengthen community identity through language.
