UP UP Bugkos is set to implement “Tabang Bicol 2026: Aram Ko Ini! (AKI),” a two-day reading and literacy campaign for elementary students on May 29–30, 2026, at Kinahulogan Elementary School in Barangay Kinahulogan, Lagonoy, Camarines Sur.
This year, the organization shifts its flagship event, Tabang Bicol, toward education, particularly in addressing the rising concern over students struggling with reading and comprehension skills.
Through AKI, volunteers will facilitate interactive reading sessions, comprehension-focused activities, and the distribution of learning materials designed to enhance literacy.
By implementing activities that target comprehension and engagement, the project not only aims to improve students’ reading comprehension but also aims to foster genuine interest in learning among the participants.
“As fellow Bicolanos and students, we wanted to shed light on this issue and contribute to addressing it by partnering with an elementary school and developing a program that equips students with foundational reading skills essential for overall learning,” said UP Bugkos President Raynne Marie Rodriguez.
Kinahulogan Elementary School was selected as the partner community after being recommended during the search for areas in need of support.
Located in a rural barangay with limited external programs and opportunities, the school provides a space where the project can truly make a difference.
Its current participation in the Department of Education’s Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) program also aligns with the goals of AKI, allowing the organization to provide targeted and relevant support.
Beyond the planned activities, AKI reflects UP Bugkos’ continued commitment to community-centered development under its Tabang Bicol program.
The organization emphasizes the role of education in shaping opportunities for young learners and in strengthening communities as a whole by focusing on early literacy.
“We hope AKI serves as a starting point for students to become more confident in reading and more open to engaging in activities that require it. By providing both resources and interactive learning experiences, we want them to see reading as something they can enjoy and not just something required in school,” Rodriguez shared.
UP Bugkos also calls on individuals, organizations, and potential partners to support the initiative through in-kind or monetary donations. With collective effort, the organization hopes to expand access to learning opportunities for children in underserved communities.
Through AKI, UP Bugkos continues to invest in the development of young Bicolanos and empower them with the skills to learn, grow, and proudly say, “Aram ko ini” (I know this).
UP Bugkos is the premier varsitarian organization of Bicolano students based at the University of the Philippines Los Baños.