LEGAZPI CITY -- The Provincial Government of Albay through the Provincial Coordinator on Education last week distributed a total of 4,355 books on mathematics for grades 1 to 6 worth P1 million.

         This is part of the “Every Child a Reader” project of the provincial government which aims to improve the quality of education of public elementary pupils, specially in the basic subjects of English and Math.

         Quality education is one of the priority programs of Governor Joey Salceda, but which is not limited to augmentation of book supply.

        The program also includes repair and rehabilitation of school buildings and providing scholarships, incentives and recognition to outstanding teachers in both the elementary and secondary levels.

        The books will benefit all elementary pupils in four school divisions in Albay, namely: Legazpi City, Tabaco City, Ligao City and the rest of the municipalities of Albay.

        Salceda said this program is in response to the Medium Development Goal of the United Nations (UN) to achieve universal education for all.

        On the other hand, the provincial government under the Quality Education for Albayanos (EQUAL), headed by Dr. Ligaya Palcon, is currently implementing the Educational Assistance Program to all college students enrolled in eight community colleges and three Bicol University local campuses.

        This year, the provincial government has appropriated a total of P37 million to cover the tuition fees of 12,012 students enrolled province-wide.