iLab ARAL and CMPC publish 11 finlit storybooks with BSP Support
December 8, 2025
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To promote literacy and financial empowerment, iLab ARAL Inc., in partnership with CamSur Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CMPC), launched 11 storybooks under the Kuwentong May Kuwenta (KMK) Project on November 29, 2025, at the Bicol Cooperative Resource Center in Pili, Camarines Sur.
Aligned with the organization’s advocacy programs, Project KUWARTA and KuritGurit, the KMK Project combines engaging storytelling with practical financial lessons aimed at nurturing critical thinking, financial awareness, and lifelong learning among children and youth. The project is led by Aila Joy Esperida, Head of the Center for Learning Publications, in collaboration with the iLab ARAL team and volunteer youth and adult writers, illustrators, and editors. The storybooks were edited by the iLab ARAL Team, composed of Ms. Eilyn Lamadrid-Nidea, Ms. Pearly Esperida, and Mr. James Earn A. Esperida. They were evaluated by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas South Luzon Regional Office Bank Officer Keith Eduard Hidalgo and CMPC CEO Annielen L. Panerio to ensure both alignment with the KMK Project’s objectives and effectiveness in teaching financial education concepts to young readers.
The KMK Storybook Collection showcases the following stories, brought to life by talented writers and illustrators, and promotes the four fundamental financial literacy skills: earning, saving, spending, and sharing. All 11 storybooks in the KMK Collection have been assigned ISBNs for both print and digital editions, making them officially recognized publications.
"Baryang Lakwatsero" by James Earn Esperida follows the adventure of a one-peso coin traveling through communities, witnessing daily life while showing young readers how money moves, is spent, and ultimately finds purpose through saving.
"Coop Squad" by Aila Joy Esperida, illustrated by Carmen Refalda, follows a circle of friends in a small community school whose simple idea grows into a cooperative, teaching that trust, shared effort, and saving create benefits for everyone.
"Magic Wallet ni Wally" by Pearly Esperida, illustrated by Dolan Jay Salturio, follows a curious boy in the marketplace as he learns how invisible money inside an e-wallet can make spending easy while still requiring responsibility.
"Ang Sapatos ni Shoby" by Jeffrey Delfin, illustrated by Joshua Roman, tells the story of a basketball-loving boy who faces a tough obstacle before a big tournament and discovers how determination, earning, and saving can help him achieve what truly matters.
"Si Bulan at Sandaang Bituin" by Jonah Mae Eboña, illustrated by John Earl Esperida, features twin siblings given magical stars whose choices reveal powerful lessons about patience, generosity, and the long-term impact of how resources are used.
"Mga Binhi ni Tipi at Piti" by Ken Clement Cobiila, illustrated by Dolan Jay Salturio, follows two sibling chickens who learn that achieving their dreams requires not only hard work but also the wisdom to save, spend, share, and grow what they receive.
"Ninang's Abaca Slippers" by Enrique Gabriel Ecal, illustrated by Carmen Refalda, begins with a humble gift that sparks a child’s curiosity and blossoms into an entrepreneurial journey shaped by skill, courage, and gratitude.
"Victoria" by Angela Arias, illustrated by James Earn Esperida, unfolds in a fishing town where uncertainty tests a family’s strength and reveals why preparation and protection are essential for the future.
"Liwanag sa Kawayan" by Maria Flor Esperida, illustrated by Arnold Alicto, centers on a young girl determined to help her family’s bamboo shop survive, discovering that innovation and entrepreneurial thinking can rekindle hope.
"Three Jars from Tita Joy" by Christine Marie Magpile, illustrated by Jojie Segundo, follows siblings who receive unusual gifts from their aunt and soon learn how saving, spending, and sharing shape both character and consequences.
"Kard-Kaboooom-Kachinnnnng!" by James Earn Esperida brings three spirited payment cards into a lively showdown, reminding readers that convenience in spending must always be matched with awareness and control.
The launching program was graced by several stakeholders, including representatives from CMPC, BSP, and partner schools. Mr. Ronald Valerio, Vice Chairperson of CMPC, delivered the welcome message, while Mr. Keith Eduard Hidalgo of BSP South Luzon gave a special message.
Writers and illustrators were recognized with Certificates of Publication, received complimentary copies of the books, and were given special tokens for their contributions. During the ceremony, the KMK Project also recognized the Best Story awardee: Si Bulan at Sandaang Bituin by Jonah Mae Eboña, and the Best Illustrator awardee: Carmen Refalda, who illustrated Coop Squad and Ninang’s Abaca Slippers.
The storybooks were presented through sample story readings. Talented Jia Shilci of Himaao Elementary School in Pili brought Coop Squad to life, while Teacher Marissa delivered an inspiring reading of Baryang Lakwatsero, proudly recognized as one of the best storytellers of SDO Camarines Sur for nurturing a love for reading through her passion and talent. Additionally, Keenan Ivory Duliesco, CEO of Pamitisan, performed a story reading of Ang Sapatos ni Shoby. Other books were presented by officers of Naga College Foundation, Inc., the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants, and the Junior Financial Executives. In addition, children who participated joined art workshops where they colored selected illustrations from the KMK storybooks.
Each partner school received a complete set of the KMK Storybooks, which will be integrated into their implementation of the Department of Education’s ARAL Program.
Through these storybooks, learners will enjoy fun and relatable stories enriched with practical money lessons, helping them develop financial awareness, critical thinking skills, and lifelong learning habits.
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