Section 1. It is hereby declared to be the policy of the State to give the highest priority to the adoption of measures for the universalization of literacy.

Toward this end, it shall encourage and rationalize the formulation of policies and the implementation of programs on nonformal, informal, and indigenous learning systems, as well as self-learning, independent, and out-of-school study programs particularly those that respond to community needs.

The State shall institutionalize an inter-agency coordinating and advisory body to synchronize and strengthen policies and efforts toward the universalization of literacy.