Siargao schools adopt DOST-NRCP learning materials to boost literacy, environmental education

Scientific research on Siargao’s biodiversity has made its way into local classrooms, with the Department of Education-Schools Division of Siargao (DepEd-SDS) approving the Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines’ (DOST-NRCP) developed learning materials to strengthen literacy and promote environmental education for young learners.

The approved materials include the Siargao Flora and Fauna mobile game, the Siargao Biodiversity Workbook, and a series of animated science videos, all aimed at integrating the island’s biodiversity into daily classroom lessons.

“We firmly believe that these supplementary materials will enrich the learning experience of our learners, as they directly support the competencies we aim to build,” said Karen L. Galanida, Schools Division Superintendent of DepEd Siargao.

Young learners from Siargao Island thank DOST-NRCP and the Municipality of Del Carmen for the science workbook.

In January 2025, DepEd-SDS officially adopted NRCP’s Mangrove Workbook, Siargao Flora and Fauna Puzzle mobile game, and a collection of 21 science videos under the PagAsa sa Pag(b)Asa Reading Program. Designed to sharpen reading skills while immersing students in the biodiversity of their own backyard, these materials are now in use across 19 elementary schools in Del Carmen and are also available at the Municipal Library. Meanwhile, the animated science videos are playing on television monitors in both elementary and high schools, bringing science to life inside the classroom.

This milestone comes just months after the international recognition of the Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve (DCMR), part of the Siargao Island Protected Landscape and Seascape (SIPLAS), as a Ramsar Site in November 2024, an acknowledgment of its global ecological importance. Since then, NRCP’s knowledge products have gained attention beyond the island, with the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity now in discussions with Mayor Alfredo Coro II for a possible rollout across ASEAN countries.

The Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve (DCMR). Photo by: Jamar G. Garcia, DOST-NRCP.

NRCP Executive Director Dr. Bernardo N. Sepeda echoed the importance of strong collaboration between local government, educators, and researchers to ensure that science truly serves the people, starting in the regions.

From workbook to mobile games to science videos-on-screen, Siargao’s classrooms are now growing a culture of learning deeply rooted in local knowledge. What began as research has become a living legacy, proof that when science takes root, both minds and communities can thrive. (Jenny Leigh A. Daquioag, S&T Media Service)