The "I Love To Read Project"

Montecristo is one of the famous and finest premium cigars in the world. It is said that if you smoke Cuban cigars, it is impossible that you haven't smoked a Montecristo. I haven't smoke one but what pique my interest in these cigars is the story behind the brandname.

Back when YouTube and AM radio were not yet invented. Cigar factory owners would hire lectors (readers) to entertain the torcedores (cigar rollers) while at work. These lectors would sat beside with torcedores and read aloud poems, interesting stories, and news or articles from newspapers. Thru this way it would keep the torcedores from getting bored and lighten them up from their tedious task.

Among the stories heard, the torcedores loved Alexander Dumas novel - The Count of Monte Cristo the most. Perhaps they were enchanted with the protagonist Edmund Dantes' love and revenge tale, bringing out their passion for work and hope for their day-to-day lives. And yes, thus the brandname Montecristo surface.

Last week, I stumbled upon an article from a local newspaper about these dynamic young Cebuano professionals - The Basadours. A group of ambassadors for reading and storytelling. Their advocacy; literacy development. Their aim; to promote the love of reading through alternative and non-formal strategies like storytelling, role playing, puppet shows, read along and read aloud.

Unlike the lectors that were paid, The Basadours are commited volunteers and seeks to collaborate with government, private organizations and other community partners and stakeholders in pursuit of literacy development. Eventhough both lectors and The Basadours may differ on that point but both share a common experience, I suppose.  That is devoting time and talent so that others may realize their full potentials - "Montecristo" and also to address the fundamental challenges of literacy development in the city.

Through The Basadours volunteerism and the cooperation of Cebu City Public Library is a movement dubbed " I LOVE TO READ PROJECT" and will be launch this Saturday, February 25, 2012. A project (I believe) the city needs. It will be graced by Cebu City officials to be led by Mayor Michael L. Rama.

I haven't meet the group yet but I plan to join them in their advocay. For those who wanted to join as well you may contact Mrs. Rosario Chua at 412-4460 or you email her at rose_reyena@yahoo.com.ph.

Once again, this Saturday, I LOVE TO READ PROJECT at Cebu City Public Library. See you there!

Cheers!