As the world becomes more and more digitally borderless, helping children retain and learn in their native languages safeguards the Philippines' rich linguistic heritage and makes education more accessible, meaningful, and culturally rooted for future generations.

PLDT and Smart, in partnership with ADZU, launch the literacy mobile applications Apprende and Hinduan.

Toward this, PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc., in partnership with Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) and with the support of the Department of Education-Division of Zamboanga City, have officially launched the literacy mobile applications called Apprende for Chavacano and Hinduan for Tausug.

"The launch of Apprende and Hinduan is close to our hearts because it allows children to learn in their own mother tongue, making education more meaningful. At the same time, it helps preserve our local languages so that the next generation can continue to value and celebrate their heritage. These apps are among the many learning tools we've developed with our partners to make education more inclusive and impactful for the communities we serve," said Stephanie Orlino, Stakeholder Management Head, PLDT and Smart.

The Apprende and Hinduan apps serve as interactive learning tools that help educators and young learners easily explore Chavacano and Tausug languages.

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 not only gain knowledge but also discover the richness of our heritage, enjoy the beauty of our words, and connect with one another 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.