The RISE team, accompanied by Flemish promoter Professor Dr. Ir. Wim Van Petegem, visited partner schools to evaluate school-based reading initiatives and assess the condition of their facilities. The team conducted ocular inspections at three schools: Luinab Elementary School, Bagong Silang Elementary School, and Villa Verde Elementary School. During these visits, they engaged directly with teachers and students in their classrooms, gaining valuable insights into the challenges faced by each school. It became clear that several schools needed assistance in producing reading materials and enhancing their reading programs. The team and Professor Wim observed firsthand the state of the reading facilities, identifying issues such as inadequate ventilation, underutilization of resources, and overall poor conditions. These visits not only provided critical insights for the team but also reassured the recipient schools, reinforcing their confidence in receiving support. The findings highlighted various challenges that hinder effective reading program implementation, which can be used to tailor the RISE project’s upcoming activities to better meet the needs of these schools.