Inclusion of constitutional education in HS pushed

MANILA, Philippines — In this time where the rights of the people are constantly being violated, Senator Francis Pangilinan is calling for the integration of constitutional education in the country’s senior high school curriculum, to better educate the youth about their rights and how to protect them.

Pangilinan has filed Senate Bill 1610, which seeks to raise the level of awareness, understanding and appreciation of the liberal and democratic provisions of the 1987 Constitution among the Filipino youth.

“In these present times, when there is disregard of the rule of law and infringement of people’s rights, it is important for the youth to have a better understanding of the very law that protects our basic human rights,” Pangilinan said.

Under the bill, the new subject will be introduced to the Grade 12 senior high school curricula of all public and private schools.

The course will be developed by the Department of Education with the help of concerned government agencies and constitutional experts.

The subject would cover government institutions and processes; rights and duties of citizens, democratic values, social justice, and human rights; and active citizenship and people’s participation in governance.