Developing a reading nation

A study by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) says that while 94% of all Filipino adults can read, most people would say they have not read a single book in the past six months. The study adds that while Filipinos generally recognize the value of reading, almost half say they can let a whole year pass without reading.

Books are read more for gaining knowledge and information, and thus perhaps reading books is seen as something done only when the need arises. Television shows, movies, radio programs and malls seem to be the more "fun" choice.

This to me is such a pity: for book reading to be considered a chore more than a worthwhile recreation. It may seem that the rising cost of living makes the purchase of books seem a luxury, but the wisdom gained from reading and the knowledge preserved for more generations of readers is priceless.

In 1995, I authored the Book Publishing Industry Development Act which formulates, adopts, and implements a National Book Policy and a National Book Development Plan that will serve as basis for nurturing the growth and viability of the book industry.

The book publishing industry has a significant role in national development, considering that books are instrumental in the citizenry's intellectual, technical and cultural development - the basic social foundation for the economic and social growth of the country.

Books are still the most effective and economical tools for achieving educational growth, for imparting information, and for preserving the nation's cultural heritage. Good books stimulate critical thinking, a skill that contemporary Filipinos need most today. Hence we not only need to make more books but, more importantly, better ones. We must ensure an adequate supply of affordable, quality-produced books for our country's intellectual health.