Students will soon find learning more enjoyable as Knowledge Channel partners with the National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) to introduce new educational content for Filipino homes.
In celebration of its 25th anniversary, Knowledge Channel will debut the “Makabata Block” today, Aug. 5, featuring three new shows designed to foster Filipino values, social awareness, and cultural pride.
The “Makabata Block” includes DokyuBata TV, showcasing the work of young documentarists, which also premieres today. The eight-part series Buhay na Buhay, hosted by Senator Loren Legarda, will explore the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage and is set to air starting Aug. 26.
Meanwhile, NCCT Originals offers a variety of programs. Mga Awit ni Piña reimagines the classic Alamat ng Pinya through a child’s perspective, airing on Aug. 10. Wellness’kada focuses on community and mindfulness during the pandemic, starting on Aug. 18.
Merriam’s Online World tackles media literacy on Aug. 31, and Mang Lalakbay showcases the country’s wonders on Sept. 7. Lastly, “Ready, Set, Read” is designed for grade school students, teaching the basic steps of reading and to foster the love for books and reading.
In a side interview during its launching, Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc.’s president and executive director Reina Lopez shared the importance of these shows to the Filipino children.
“And it’s very important because the Filipino children need to have this kind of quality educational shows that are also entertaining and engaging for them,” said Lopez.
On the other hand, NCCT’s Child Development Sector chairperson Luis Gatmaitan emphasized how these shows highlight Philippine culture.
“Well, the programs we’ve chosen are great. We have documentaries and shows with animation. Local animation is rare, so I think this is a diverse selection. We have different types of shows that I believe will truly highlight our culture,” added Gatmaitan.
The “Makabata Block” also aimed to address the short attention span of children. Gatmaitan also emphasized how they became more hands-on in creating the script and producing every show, keeping in mind that the shows are designed for children.
In terms of encouraging Filipino children to watch these series of shows, Lopez pointed out how they try to create programs that can resonate with Filipino children.
“We try to engage the children with some well-known personalities. But aside from that, [these are] programs that resonate with them, their heart, their minds, and that they know that the shows that we provide are because we care for them. They feel the care in that,” Lopez told the Manila Standard Entertainment.
Catch the “Makabata Block” seven times a week at 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on the Knowledge Channel, available on cable, satellite, digital terrestrial TV, and iWantTFC.
