Lesson 1 become teachers of literacy and numeracy

The Philippine Constitution and Citizen's Duty skills. It targets school children, out-of-school
youth, and other segments of society that need
The Philippine Constitution states that the defense
these services.
of the state is a prime duty of the government and
the people. To fulfill this duty, all citizens may be
National Service Training Program (NSTP)
required by law to render personal military or civil
Act of 2001
service. Additionally, it is the responsibility of every
citizen to contribute to the country's development The National Service Training Program
and to help achieve and maintain a just and orderly (NSTP) Act of 2001, also known as Republic
society. Act No. 9163, was signed into law by President
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on January 23, 2002.
National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act
This law amended Republic Act No. 7077 and
of 2001
Presidential Decree No. 1706, which mandated
The National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act compulsory military training for tertiary-level
of 2001, also known as Republic Act No. 9163, male students under the Reserve Officers
mandates all citizens, both male and female, to Training Corps (ROTC).
fulfill this civic duty. Enacted in January 2002, the
Regional and local orientation conferences
NSTP Law was created to amend the Expanded
were conducted to establish the guidelines for
ROTC, as stated in Republic Act No. 7077 and implementing the NSTP.
Presidential Decree No. 1706.
Implementing Agencies
The NSTP aims to enhance civic consciousness
and defense preparedness among the youth by The NSTP is implemented by three leading
instilling ethics of service and patriotism through agencies:
training. The program is specifically designed to
1. Commission on Higher Education
develop the youth’s active contribution to the
(CHED)
general welfare of society.
2. Department of National Defense (DND)
NSTP Program Components
3. Technical Education and Skills
The NSTP consists of three components, which
Development Authority (TESDA)
students can choose from, as defined in Rule II,
Section 3: Guiding Principles
1. Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC): The NSTP law is guided by Article 2, Section 4
This program provides military training to of the Philippine Constitution, which
tertiary-level students to motivate, train, emphasizes the government's duty to serve and
organize, and mobilize them for national protect its citizens, and the citizens'
defense preparedness. It is institutionalized responsibility to defend the state, including
under Sections 38 and 39 of Republic Act through personal military or civil service.
No. 7077.
The program aims to motivate, train, and
2. Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS): organize the Filipino youth to actively participate
This component involves activities that in military, literacy, and civic welfare programs,
contribute to the general welfare and contributing to nation-building.
improve the quality of life for community
members. It focuses on enhancing facilities Components of the NSTP
and services related to health, education, The NSTP has three program components that
environment, entrepreneurship, safety, students can choose from:
recreation, moral values, and other social
welfare concerns. 1. Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC):
Provides military training to tertiary-level
Literacy Training Service (LTS): students to prepare them for national
This component is designed to train students to defense. This component motivates, trains,
 organizes, and mobilizes students for (50%) of the school’s charges per academic
national defense preparedness. unit.
2. Literacy Training Service (LTS): • Incentives for NSTP Students:
Trains students to teach literacy and Health and accident group insurance shall
numeracy skills to school children, out-of- be provided for students enrolled in any
school youth, and other segments of society NSTP component. Schools already offering
in need of their services. such insurance are deemed to have
complied with this requirement.
3. Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS):
Engages students in activities that Special Provisions for ROTC Students
contribute to the general welfare and
• Male Students Who Have Not Completed
enhance the quality of life for community
ROTC:
members. It focuses on health, education,
Male students enrolled before the NSTP Act
environment, entrepreneurship, safety,
of 2001 who have not completed ROTC
recreation, morals, and other social welfare
services. training are covered by the NSTP law and
may take any of the NSTP program
Requirements for NSTP Participation components.
• Who is Required to Take NSTP? • Male Students with One Semester of
All incoming freshmen students, male and ROTC:
female, starting from SY 2002-2003, Male students who have completed one
enrolled in any baccalaureate or at least semester of Basic ROTC must take one
two-year technical-vocational or associate more semester in any NSTP component to
courses, are required to complete one qualify for graduation. They may choose to
NSTP component of their choice as a continue with the Basic ROTC or switch to
graduation requirement. another NSTP component.
• Duration and Equivalent Course Units: Historical Development of the National
Each NSTP component is undertaken over Service Training Program (NSTP) in the
two semesters and is credited for three (3) Philippines
units per semester, with a total of fifty-four
1. Commonwealth Act No. 1 – National
(54) to ninety (90) training hours per
Defense Act (1935)
semester.
Additional Guidelines The National Defense Act, enacted during the
government of President Manuel L. Quezon,
• Summer Program Option: laid the foundation for national defense in the
A one-summer program may be designed Philippines. The act mandated military training
and adopted in lieu of the two-semester for male college students to institutionalize the
program, subject to the school's and the reservist system within the Philippine National
Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) Defense. Under this law, male students were
capability to handle it. required to complete two years (equivalent to
four years) of military training.
• Cross-Enrollment:
Students whose schools do not offer their 2. Presidential Decree No. 1706 – National
chosen NSTP component or do not have Service Law (1980)
the required number of students to maintain
The National Service Law mandated
the program are allowed to cross-enroll in
other schools. compulsory national service for all Filipino
citizens. It amended certain sections of
• Fees for NSTP Components: Commonwealth Act No. 1 and introduced three
No additional fees shall be collected for any main components for national service:
NSTP component, aside from basic tuition
fees, which should not exceed fifty percent
• Civic Welfare Service (CWS): Focused on Under the NSTP, two non-military program
community service and welfare activities. components were introduced:
• Law Enforcement Service (LES): Involved • Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS):
participation in law enforcement and public Aimed at developing values, skills, and
safety activities. community service interests among the
youth, and encouraging their active
• Military Service (MS): Provided military
participation in peace and development
training to prepare citizens for national
initiatives to ensure community harmony
defense.
and growth.
College students were required to choose one
• Literacy Training Service (LTS): Focused
of these components to fulfill the requirements
on training students to teach literacy and
for tertiary education.
numeracy skills to school children, out-of-
3. Suspension of the National Service Law school youth, and other segments of society
and Introduction of ROTC (1986) in need of these services.

The implementation of the National Service Summary

Law, except for its Military Science provision,
• Commonwealth Act No. 1 (1935):
was suspended by Presidential Memorandum
Mandated military training for male college
Order No. 1 under President Corazon Aquino in
students.
1986. This led to the creation of the basic
Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) • Presidential Decree No. 1706 (1980):
under Republic Act No. 7077 – The Citizen Established compulsory national service
Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist with three components: CWS, LES, and
Law (enacted in 1991). MS.
The ROTC program aimed to build a strong • Republic Act No. 7077 (1991): Formalized
civilian base to supplement the professional ROTC as a key program to support national
military within the national defense system. defense.
However, the ROTC Crisis of 2001 brought
• Republic Act No. 9163 (2001): Reformed
significant changes to the program.
ROTC and NSP, introducing CWTS and LTS
During the 2001-2002 school year, ROTC to meet evolving national and community
became an optional component under the needs.
National Service Program (NSP). Students
were allowed to choose between three options:
• Military Science (MS)
• Civic Welfare Service (CWS)
• Law Enforcement Service (LES)
4. Republic Act No. 9163 – National Service
Training Program (NSTP) Act of 2001
The implementation of the NSP was found to be
confusing and unmanageable by many higher
education institutions. In response, the NSTP
Act of 2001 was enacted, signed into law by
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in
December 2001. This law was intended as a
reform of the ROTC and NSP, adapting the
program to the changing needs of the time.
 The Constitutional Commission that drafted
the new constitution was composed of forty-
eight members appointed by Aquino from varied
backgrounds, including former members of the
House of Representatives, former justices of
the Supreme Court, a Roman Catholic bishop,
and political activists against the Marcos
regime. The Commission finished the final draft
on October 12, 1986, and presented it to
President Aquino on October 15. The
constitution was ratified by a nationwide
Lesson 2 - The Philippine Constitution plebiscite on February 8, 1987.
Constitution refers to “that body of rules and The Three Branches of the Philippine
maxims in accordance with which the powers of Government
sovereignty are habitually exercised." The
The 1987 Constitution provided for three
Constitution of the Philippines may be
branches of government: Executive,
defined as the written instrument that
Legislative, and Judicial. These branches are
establishes, limits, and defines the fundamental
designed to be co-equal, with a system of
powers of the government. It also distributes
checks and balances to ensure no branch
these powers among the several departments
oversteps its authority.
or branches to ensure their safe and useful
exercise for the benefit of the people. The 1. Executive Branch (Tagapagpaganap):
Constitution of the Philippines, or Saligang
Batas ng Pilipinas, is the supreme law of the o Headed by the President and
Republic of the Philippines. Its final draft was supported by the Vice President and
completed by the Constitutional Commission on the Cabinet members appointed by
October 12, 1986, and was ratified by a the President.
nationwide plebiscite on February 2, 1987. o The President has limited power,
Creation of the 1987 Constitution and any declaration of martial law
must expire within 60 days unless
During her tenure as President, installed via the extended or rejected by Congress.
People Power Revolution, President Corazon The Supreme Court can also review
Aquino was granted three options: whether a declaration of martial law
is justified.
1. Restore the 1935 Constitution,
2. Legislative Branch (Tagapagbatas):
2. Retain and reform the 1973 Constitution, or
3. Pass a new constitution. o Consists of two chambers: the
Senate and the House of
President Aquino decided to draft a new Representatives.
constitution and, on March 25, 1986, issued
o The Senate has twenty-four
Proclamation No. 3, which abolished many
members, while the House of
provisions of the 1973 Constitution enacted
Representatives includes district
during the Marcos regime. This included the
representatives. It also includes
elimination of the unicameral legislature (the
representatives from under-
Batasang Pambansa), the office of the Prime
represented sectors of society
Minister, and provisions that gave the
through the party-list system.
President legislative powers. The resulting
constitution was often called the "Freedom o The legislative branch is responsible
Constitution" to ensure democracy and the for creating laws, passing budgets,
freedom of the people. and serving as a check on the
executive and judiciary.
3. Judicial Branch (Panghukuman): conjectures."
o Composed of the Supreme Court
and the lower courts.
o The Supreme Court has the
authority to review cases dealing
with the constitutionality of laws,
treaties, or government decrees. It is
also tasked with supervising and
administering the functions of the
lower courts.

The Preamble of the 1987 Constitution of the

The Role of the Youth in Nation-Building Republic of the Philippines:

In line with the constitutional provisions “We, the sovereign Filipino people,
regarding the Youth in Nation-Building Act imploring the aid of Almighty God, in order
(R.A. 8044), Section 2 states that the State to build a just and humane society and
recognizes the vital role of youth in nation- establish a Government that shall embody
building. The government is tasked to promote our ideals and aspirations, promote the
and protect their physical, intellectual, and common good, conserve and develop our
social well-being. It is also required to inculcate patrimony, and secure to ourselves and our
in them the values of patriotism and nationalism posterity the blessings of independence and
and encourage their active involvement in democracy under the rule of law and a
public and civic affairs. regime of truth, justice, freedom, love,
equality, and peace, do ordain and
promulgate this Constitution.”
The Preamble The Preamble expresses the fundamental
The word 'preamble' comes from the Latin objectives and ideals of the Filipino people,
word 'praeambulus,' meaning "walking before." which include building a just and humane
In the context of formal documents such as a society, establishing a government that
nation's constitution, the preamble serves as an promotes the common good, and securing the
introduction that outlines the fundamental blessings of independence and democracy for
purposes and guiding principles of the current and future generations. It underscores
document. The 1987 Constitution of the the people's commitment to the principles of
Republic of the Philippines opens with its own truth, justice, freedom, love, equality, and
preamble, which serves as a declaration of the peace.
authority and intent of the Filipino people in
creating the Constitution.
Dean Vicente Sinco describes the importance
of the Preamble, stating:
"The preamble performs a vital function in a
constitution. Its value is not merely formal but
real and substantive. It is to the constitution
what the enacting clause is to a statute. The
authenticity of the authorship of the constitution
is made patent in the preamble. Without this or
something equivalent to it, the source of
authority that gives valid force to the
constitutional mandates may lie concealed,
perhaps left to the dangers of uncertain
 created to His image that he may live a happy
life.
2. Constitutional Rights – conferred and
protected by the Constitution.
3. Statutory Rights – provided by law,
promulgated by the law-making body and
consequently may be abolished by the same
body.
CLASSIFICATION OF CONSTITUTIONAL
RIGHTS
1. Political Rights – the power to participate
directly or indirectly in the establishment or
The Philippine Constitution administration of the government.
4.2. Bill of Rights and Duties and 2. Civil Rights – a law which secures private
Responsibilities of Filipino Citizen individuals for the purpose of securing
The Bill of Rights (Article III) is an enjoyment of their means of happiness.
indispensable part of the Constitution. In fact, it 3. Social and Economic Rights – intended to
is one of the most important parts of the insure the well – being and economic security of
fundamental law since it aims at balancing the an individual.
power of the government and the various
freedoms of the individual. As will be seen 4. Rights of the Accused – intended for the
below, the Bill of Rights provide for two things: protection of a person accused of any crime.
first, restrictions directed against the state, and,
second, explicit identification and limitation of
rights of the individuals. On the one hand, the
government exercises its tremendous powers,
but its powers are limited by the Constitution.
On the other hand, the individuals are
guaranteed of their rights, but subject also to
limitations in recognition of the powers of the
government. What balances the two (power and
freedom) are the limitations provided by the
Constitution, which limitations are by nature
compromises or solutions to situations resulting
from the overlapping or conflict of the two
realms.
It is a declaration and enumeration of a
person’s rights and privileges which the
Constitution is designed to protect against Play Video
violation by the government, or by individuals or
groups of individuals. It is a charter of liberties
for the individual and a limitation upon the Article III enumerates specific protections
power of the State. against the abuse of state power, most of which
CLASSES OF RIGHTS are similar to the provisions of the U.S.
Constitution. Some essential provisions are:
1. Natural Rights – those possessed by every
• a right to due process and equal protection
citizen without being granted by the State for
they are given to man by God as human being of law
• a right against searches and 1. To be loyal to the Republic. This means
seizures without a warrant issued by a that we have faith and confidence in the
judge Republic and love and devotion to the
country. We have to be proud being a
• a right to privacy
Filipino, respect our customs, traditions,
• The right to freedom of speech and language and institutions. Our country is
expression, freedom of the press, freedom considered our home, the home of our
of assembly, and the right to petition forefathers who fought for our country
against the invaders, the home of our
• The free exercise of religion children, the seat of our affections, and the
• a right of abode and the right to travel source of our happiness and well-being.

• a right to information on matters of public 2. To defend the State. Considering the fact
concern that our country is our home, it is our prime
duty to love and defend the state of all costs
• a right to form associations regardless of our creed, religious beliefs,
and wisdom. Loving ones country can be
• a right of free access to courts
shown not by words but by deeds. It should
• the right to remain silent and to have be a continuous flame of love considering
competent legal counsel the fact that we receive benefits and
protection from the State of which we are a
• a right to bail and against excessive bail part. In return, it our primary duty and
conditions honor to defend it against any peril whether
• a right to habeas corpus from within or from without. (Art. II. Sec. 3).

• the right to a speedy trial 3. To contribute to the development and

welfare of the State . We are a part of the
• the right against self-incrimination state and we directly receive the benefits
from the government in the form of
• the right to political beliefs and aspirations
infrastructure, peace and order, etc. In
• a prohibition against cruel, degrading, or return, how can we contribute to the
inhuman punishment development and welfare of the State? We
can do this in the form of paying our taxes
• protection providing for no imprisonment for willingly and promptly, by helping maintain
debt peace and order, conversing of the natural
• the right against double jeopardy resources and the promotion of social
justice b suggesting or supporting measures
• prohibition of ex post facto laws and bills of beneficial to the people as a whole, by
attainder . patronizing local products and trades and by
engaging in productive work.
4. To uphold the Constitution and obey the
What are the duties and obligations of laws. It is our prime obligation to uphold the
Citizens? Constitution and obey the laws. If the
people would disregard them, our country
We have to realize that for every right we are would collapse and we will not have peace
enjoying as enumerated in the Bill of Rights of and order.
the Philippine Constitution, it is coupled with
corresponding obligations. 5. To cooperate with duly constituted
authorities. In every organization, there is
Hereunder are the important duties and always a leader to manage the affairs of all
obligations of every citizen in a democratic the constituents. If the members will not
society: cooperate, we can never expect to become
successful in all the undertakings that our
 government would like to do for the good of Lesson 3 - United Nations Principles
its citizens. on Human Rights
6. To exercise rights responsibility and with
due regard for the rights of others. No
man is an island and we have to live with United Nations Principles on Human
others. In the exercise of our rights, we Rights
have to see to it that we also respect the
rights of other people. If we do this, we can Human rights refers to norms that aim to protect
expect harmonious relationship between people from political, legal, and social abuses
members of the society (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy). While the
United Nations defined human rights as universal
7. To engage in gainful work. It is stated in and inalienable.
the Bible that if we want to eat, we have to
work. It is our obligation as a citizen of our
country to become productive by engaging
in gainful work so that we can provide the
basic needs of our family and ourselves as Excerpt from Universal Declaration of
well. As cite by de Leon (1989), “The Human Rights
essence of a life is work. Every citizen
should bear in mind that only by hard and • In response to the tragic and horrendous
sustained work can men and nations live violations of human rights during the World
War II, it was adopted with the Genocide
and survive. National greatness never
Convention and the Convention on the
springs from the cult of ease or self- Elimination of All Forms of Racial
complacency, but from the crucible of grim Discrimination.
struggle and patient industry.” • Drafted by representatives from all regions of
the world with different legal and cultural
8. To register and vote. It is our prime duty as backgrounds
a citizen of the Philippines to register and • General Assembly Resolution 217 A was
vote. Suffrage is both a privilege and a duty, proclaimed by the United Nations General
Assembly in Paris on 10 December 1948 as a
which every qualified citizen must
common standard of achievements for all
problem. It is not sufficient to just register peoples and all nations
and vote; it must be coupled with intellectual
judgment during election. We have to The United Nations Human Rights Council
consider the different political issues by (UNHRC)
different candidates, so that at least we can
choose the right person to manage The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
government affairs. is a body of the United Nations whose mission is to
promote and protect human rights around the world.
The UNHRC has 47 representatives elected on a
regional basis for staggered three-year terms. The
UNHRC is based in Geneva , Switzerland.

The UNHRC examines claims of human rights

abuses in United Nations Member States and
discusses significant thematic aspects of human
rights such as freedom of association and assembly,
freedom of speech, freedom of belief and faith,
women's rights, LGBT rights and the rights of racial
and ethnic minorities in which the Philippines is a
member of this council.

In relation to the basic human rights of Filipinos, The

Bill of Rights (Article III, 1987 Constitution) should
serve as a daily reminder of our profound skepticism
that our Framers of the Constitution had of the
government. They knew that some government was As individuals, while we are entitled to our human
required, but they rightly saw the government as the rights – but, we should also respect and stand up
enemy of the people, and they tried to restrict the for the human rights of others.
government and provide us with security. Thus, the
purpose is to protect those rights against
infringement from public officials and private
citizens
• All people have the right to participate
Principles of Human Rights in and access information relating to
1. Universal and Inalienable the decision-making processes that
affect their lives and well-being.
• Rights-based approaches require a
Universality - We are all equally entitled to our
high degree of participation
human rights. Universality of the human rights is
by communities, civil society,
first emphasized in the UDHR and was repeated in
minorities, women, young people,
many international human rights conventions,
indigenous peoples and other identified
declarations, and resolutions.
groups.
• States and other duty-bearers are
Inalienable - Human rights is inviolable. Human answerable for the observance of
rights should not be taken away, except in specific human rights.
situations and according to due process. • States have to comply with the legal
norms and standards enshrined in
2. Indivisible and interdependent international human rights instruments.
- means that one set of rights cannot be enjoyed • If the State fail to do so, aggrieved
fully without the other. rights-holders are entitled to institute
proceedings for appropriate redress
3. Equal and non-discriminatory before a competent court or other
adjudicator in accordance with the rules
Equal - Article 1 of the UDHR states: "All human and procedures provided by law.
beings are born free and equal in dignity and • Individuals, the media, civil society and
rights." the international community play
important roles in holding governments
Non-discriminatory - Freedom from accountable for their obligation to
discrimination, set out in Article 2. It also provides uphold human rights.
the central theme of 2 core instruments: the
International Convention on the Elimination of All
Forms of Racial Discrimination, and the Convention
on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
against Women.

3. Both rights and obligations

States have obligations and duties under
international law to respect, protect and fulfill
human rights.
- The obligation to respect means that States must
refrain from interfering with or curtailing the
enjoyment of human rights.
- The obligation to protect requires States to protect
individuals and groups against human rights
abuses.
- The obligation to fulfill means that States must
take positive action to facilitate the enjoyment of
basic human rights.
 and red, with a white equilateral triangle based at
Lesson 4 - The Flag and Heraldic Code of the the hoist side. In the center of the triangle is a
Philippines (Republic Act No. 8491, s. 1998) golden yellow sun with eight primary rays, each
containing three smaller rays. At each corner of the
The History of the Philippine Flag
triangle is a five-pointed golden yellow star.
Evolution of the Philippine Flag
• Flag Dimensions: The flag's length is twice
The Making of the First Philippine Flag its width, resulting in an aspect ratio of 1:2.
The lengths of all sides of the white triangle
The idea of creating a new flag emerged during the are equal to the width of the flag. Each star
preparation for the second phase of the Philippine is oriented so that one of its tips points
Revolution. The flag was personally conceived by towards the vertex at which it is located.
General Emilio Aguinaldo, President of the
Revolutionary Government. It was sewn in Hong Display and Use of the Flag
Kong at 535 Morrison Hill Road by Mrs. Marcela
According to Section 6 of RA 8491, the flag must be
Marino Agoncillo, wife of the first Filipino diplomat
permanently hoisted, day and night throughout the
Felipe Agoncillo, with the help of her daughter
year, and properly illuminated at night in front of the
Lorenza and Mrs. Delfina Herbosa Natividad, the following locations:
niece of Dr. Jose Rizal and wife of General
Salvador Natividad. • Malacañang Palace
The flag was completed in five days and handed • Congress of the Philippines Building
over to General Aguinaldo before he boarded the
• Senate of the Philippines Building
American dispatch boat, McCulloch, on May 17,
1898, to return to the Philippines. The • House of Representatives of the
revolutionaries originally planned to commence Philippines Building (Batasang
hostilities against the Spanish forces on May 30, Pambansa Complex)
1898. However, a bloody encounter occurred
between the Filipino forces and Spanish marines • Supreme Court Building
on May 28, 1898, at Barrio Alapan, Imus, Cavite. It • Rizal Monument in Luneta, Manila
was here that the Philippine flag was first flown in
battle, signifying victory against Spain. • Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite

On June 12, 1898, the flag was officially unfurled • Barasoain Shrine in Malolos, Bulacan
for the first time at the historic window of the
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Libingan
Aguinaldo Mansion in Kawit, Cavite, during the
ng mga Bayani
declaration of Philippine Independence. During the
American regime, displaying the Philippine flag was • Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la
prohibited and violators faced severe punishment. Revolución
The prohibition was lifted eleven years later, and
October 30, 1919, was declared as "Philippine Flag • All International Ports of Entry
Day" by an Executive Order, although there were • All other places designated by the
still minor discrepancies in its design. Institute
On March 25, 1936, President Manuel L. Quezon Flag Protocol
issued Executive Order No. 23, prescribing the
technical description and specification of the The flag should be displayed in all government
Philippine flag. Additional directives later assigned buildings, official residences, public plazas, and
the National Historical Institute as the authority in schools every day throughout the year. National
Philippine vexillology and heraldry. Flag Day (May 28) and Independence Day (June
12) are designated as flag days, during which all
Structure of the Flag government offices, agencies, businesses,
The National Flag of the Philippines is a educational institutions, and private homes are
horizontal bi-color flag with equal bands of blue encouraged to display the flag. The flag days have
been extended to run from May 28 to June 30 The Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag
yearly. ("Panunumpa sa Watawat") should be recited
while standing with the right hand raised shoulder-
Displaying the Flag in Different Situations
high, with the palm open. The pledge is traditionally
1. Times of Peace and War: The flag must be recited in Filipino, but there is no specific statement
displayed differently in times of peace (with in the law regarding the language in which it must
the blue field on top) and war (with the red be recited.
field on top).
The National Anthem
2. Half-Mast: The flag shall be flown at half-
The National Anthem of the Philippines is
mast as a sign of mourning. For example,
“Lupang Hinirang.” It was composed by Julian
upon the death of the President or a former
Felipe and first played publicly on June 12, 1898,
President, the flag must be flown at half-
during the declaration of Philippine Independence.
mast for ten days. It should also be flown at
The anthem should always be sung in the national
half-mast upon the death of the Vice
language, whether inside or outside the country,
President, Chief Justice, President of the
and should be sung with fervor and respect
Senate, or Speaker of the House of whenever played.
Representatives, as well as other persons
determined by the National Historical The National Anthem is only permitted to be played
Institute for a period of fewer than seven on specific occasions, such as international
days. competitions where the Philippines has
representation, local competitions, the signing
When flown at half-mast, the flag should first be
off/on of radio and TV stations, and other occasions
hoisted to the peak for a moment, then lowered to
authorized by the National Historical Institute.
the half-mast position. Before lowering the flag at
Failure to observe these rules may result in
the end of the day, it should be raised to the peak administrative discipline.
again.
The National Motto
Prohibited Acts
The National Motto is: "Maka-Diyos, Maka-Tao,
According to RA 8491, the flag cannot be used for Makakalikasan at Makabansa."
the following purposes:
The National Coat-of-Arms
• Defacing or ridiculing the flag, dipping the
flag as a salute, or adding additional marks The National Coat-of-Arms has specific uses for
on it. official purposes, as outlined in Commonwealth Act
No. 602. Only the personal flag of the President of
• Using the flag as a drapery, festoon,
the Philippines may use the National Coat-of-Arms
tablecloth, covering, or part of a costume or
in full colors. Other uses of the Coat-of-Arms are
uniform.
limited to official functions and vehicles as defined
• Using the flag as a trademark or for by regulations.
commercial or agricultural labels or designs.
The Great Seal
• Incorporating the flag into merchandise or
The Great Seal of the Government shall be circular
advertisements.
in form, containing the elements of the Coat-of-
• Displaying the flag as a pennant on motor Arms and additional symbols. It remains in the
vehicles. custody of the President of the Philippines and is
used on official documents and papers of the
The flag should not be displayed horizontally face- Commonwealth as required by law or custom. The
up, under any painting, picture, or platform. It may use and display of the Great Seal follow the same
also not be displayed in discotheques, cockpits, guidelines as those for the Coat-of-Arms.
night and day clubs, casinos, gambling joints, and
other places of vice or frivolity.
Pledge of Allegiance
Good Citizenship Value Values are standards for judging what attitudes and
behaviors are correct and desirable. They have a
Good citizenship values are the reflected in the
social function: commonly held values unite
Preamble 1987 Philippine Constitution. The
families, tribes, societies, and nations. Values are
citizenship education topic of the NSTP affords the
essential to a democratic way of life, which puts a
implementing institutions for opportunity to develop high premium on freedom and rule of law.
consciousness not only in national terms, but also
in terms of global civic rights and responsibilities. Value Philosophy
The program components of NSTP are structured Filipino values are often inculcated within families,
in a way that the student-trainee's notion of the such as:
relationship between the state and the people has
• Closeness and Solidarity (Pagpapahalaga
changed and the service opportunities have been a
sa Pamilya): Strong family bonds and unity.
core means for learning how citizenship is applied.
• Politeness (Use of "po" or "ho"): Respectful
The NSTP Law is a legislation that sees the youth
language used to address elders.
as partners of the state in promoting civic
consciousness, and aims to develop their physical, • Hospitality ("Tuloy po kayo"): Warm and
moral, spiritual and social well-being through civic welcoming behavior toward guests.
service. It inculcates patriotism and nationalism in
the youth, and advance their involvement in civic • Gratitude (Utang na Loob): A deep sense of
and public affairs. indebtedness or gratitude toward someone
who has helped.
Filipino values are characterized by openness to
This lesson focuses on the rights and possibilities and are both subjective and objective.
responsibilities of citizens. More specifically, it For instance, the value of peace is a social value
offers the following themes: that everyone is responsible for realizing.
1. Basic Filipino Values According to Max Scheler, human values are
ranked from the lowest to the highest:
2. Nationalism and Patriotism
1. Sense Values: Sensual pleasure, as seen
Basic Filipino Values in enjoyment and leisure.
This lesson focuses on translating good citizenship 2. Utilitarian Values: Profit and efficiency,
values, as reflected in the Preamble of the 1987 important to businessmen and technocrats.
Constitution, into 16 basic Filipino values. These
values are grouped into four clusters that give 3. Life Values: The pursuit of life, health, and
meaning to the national motto, emphasizing core heroism, valued by doctors and heroes.
values that form the foundation of how Filipinos Values in the Philippines: Strengths of Filipino
perform work and conduct themselves. Character
Core Filipino Values 1. Close Family Ties: For Filipinos, family
Filipino core values are foundational beliefs that comes first. They live with and depend on
influence how Filipinos interact and behave. The their families, and their dreams and
values serve as the basis for evaluating what aspirations are often centered around family
attitudes and behaviors are deemed correct and well-being. This strong sense of family
desirable. Values play a crucial role in uniting solidarity keeps Filipinos positive, and they
families, tribes, societies, and nations, and are work hard to provide a better life for their
essential to a democratic way of life that families.
emphasizes freedom and the rule of law. 2. Utang Na Loob (Debt of Gratitude):
Understanding the Filipino Value System Filipinos value recognizing one's
indebtedness. This means that someone
who has been helped through trials feels a
 deep sense of gratitude and repays that maintaining a high regard and respect for the
person in any way possible, whenever country's laws, principles, and policies.
needed.
Patriotism
3. Hiya (Sense of Shame or Sensitivity):
"Patriotism" is love and devotion to one's country.
"Hiya" is a value that involves living up to
Derived from the Greek word patris, meaning
accepted standards of behavior and making
"fatherland," patriotism is not always synonymous
efforts not to embarrass others. It
with nationalism. While patriotism focuses on love
emphasizes social decency and politeness,
and loyalty to one's country, nationalism can often
helping Filipinos maintain respect within
include an element of superiority.
their community.
Patriotism can also be strengthened by religious
4. Pakikisama (Social Acceptance or
adherence, especially when the religion's holy
Camaraderie): "Pakikisama" does not have
places are located within the motherland. It often
an exact English translation but involves
involves a preference for a specific civic or political
getting along with others to maintain
community.
harmonious relationships. This value
encourages Filipinos to be good Distinguishing Nationalism from Patriotism
companions and contributes to social
cohesion. There is often confusion between nationalism and
patriotism due to the lack of clarity in distinguishing
5. Respect for Others: Filipinos regard others them. Lord Acton explains that "nationality" is a
with dignity and respect, demonstrating natural connection with a race, while patriotism is
fairness, concern for fellowmen, and the awareness of moral duties to the political
consideration for nature and animals. community. Ellie Kedourie (1985) views nationalism
as a philosophical and political doctrine where
Good Citizenship Values: Nationalism and
Patriotism nations are the fundamental units of humanity,
allowing individuals to find freedom and fulfillment.
This lesson focuses on the difference between In contrast, patriotism is considered an emotional
nationalism and patriotism, which have deep sentiment of affection for one's country.
historical roots in the Philippines. Although these
Ways to Express Filipino Nationalism
terms are often used interchangeably, they have
distinct meanings that shape how Filipinos view Nationalism reflects a devotion and love for one's
their relationship with their country. country, seen through culture, traditions, religion,
Nationalism beliefs, and unity. The Philippines has a rich history
of nationalism, demonstrated by heroes who fought
"Nationalism" refers to two concepts: to preserve the Filipino identity and attain freedom
and independence.
1. National Identity: It is an attitude shared by
the members of a nation, including common Luz Leanie M. Reyes, in her online article from "Our
origins, ethnicity, and cultural ties. It Happy School," listed ten ways to express Filipino
emphasizes an attachment to one's nation, nationalism:
aspiring for its continuity, prosperity, and
respect for its laws, principles, and policies. 1. Respect the Philippine Flag and Value
Filipino Identity: Respect the Philippine
2. Self-Determination: It involves actions flag and its purpose, as it symbolizes the
taken by members of a nation to achieve or freedom Filipinos enjoy today. Encourage
maintain self-determination, such as striving others to honor the flag, the national
for statehood with full authority over anthem, and other national symbols.
domestic and international affairs.
2. Be a Productive Citizen: Be industrious
Nationalism is characterized by an attachment of and contribute not only to personal growth
superiority to one's country and is aimed at but also to national development.
 3. Be Aware of Issues in the Country: Stay
informed about significant issues affecting Voter Citizenship and the Right of Suffrage
the nation and extend help to those in need,
The Right of Suffrage
especially during disasters.
Suffrage is the right to vote, a fundamental human
4. Stand Proud of Every Filipino
right enshrined in several international and national
Achievement: Celebrate the achievements
documents, including the Universal Declaration of
of Filipinos in various fields, as they bring
honor to the country and promote unity. Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant
on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and the 1987
5. Patronize and Support Local Products: Philippine Constitution. These documents
Support locally made goods and services to guarantee the universality of the right to vote,
boost the economy and showcase Filipino equality in access to public service, and the
creativity, resourcefulness, and industry. secrecy of votes.
6. Preserve Filipino Culture: Celebrate and The right to vote is foundational to democratic
protect the Philippines' rich cultural heritage, governance and people's sovereignty. If citizens are
ensuring its transmission to future not allowed to vote freely, the entire electoral
generations. process becomes meaningless.
7. Respect Everyone and Value Filipino International Framework for Voting Rights
Traditions: Continue to practice respect for
1. Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of
elders, hospitality, and other traditions, such
Human Rights (1948):
as using "po" and "opo."
o Section 1: Everyone has the right to
8. Speak the Filipino Language: Use and
participate in their country's
promote the national language as a way to
maintain cultural identity and foster unity. government, directly or through
freely chosen representatives.
9. Remember and Commemorate Heroes'
o Section 2: Everyone has the right to
Sacrifices: Honor the sacrifices of those
equal access to public service.
who fought for the country's freedom,
independence, and democracy. o Section 3: The government's
authority is based on the people's
10. Love Family, Neighbors, and
will, expressed in periodic and
Compatriots: Promote love, unity, and
genuine elections by universal and
mutual assistance among Filipinos to show
equal suffrage, with secret ballots or
pride in being part of the nation.
equivalent free voting procedures.
These expressions of nationalism reinforce a
2. Article 25 of the International Covenant
shared sense of identity, pride, and responsibility,
on Civil and Political Rights (1976):
contributing to the collective strength and unity of
the Filipino people. o Section (a): Every citizen has the
right to take part in public affairs,
directly or through freely chosen
representatives.
o Section (b): Every citizen has the
right to vote and be elected in
genuine periodic elections by
universal and equal suffrage, held by
secret ballot.
o Section (c): Every citizen has equal
access to public service in their
country.
National Framework for Voting Rights in the The Election Automation Law outlines the
Philippines features of the automated voting system, which
include:
1. 1987 Philippine Constitution (Article V,
Sections 1-2): 1. Official Ballot: Oval-shaped ballots with
pre-printed candidate names, watermarks,
o Section 1: Suffrage may be
UV features, and barcodes for security.
exercised by all citizens of the
Ballots are scanned by machines that
Philippines not disqualified by law.
create digital images.
o Section 2: Congress shall provide a
2. Stand-Alone Machine: Machines are
system to secure the secrecy and
disconnected from transmission cables until
sanctity of the ballot, including
after initial results are printed to prevent
absentee voting for qualified
remote tampering.
Filipinos abroad, and voting
procedures for the disabled and 3. Audit Trail: Machines generate logs
illiterate. documenting activities, and a manual audit
is conducted in randomly selected precincts.
2. Qualifications of a Voter:
4. Minimum Human Intervention: The
o Must be a citizen of the Philippines,
system minimizes human involvement in the
at least 18 years old.
process, from ballot feeding to electronic
o Must have resided in the Philippines transmission.
for at least one year and in the city
5. Security Measures:
or municipality where they intend to
vote for at least six months o Use of passwords, PINs, and digital
preceding the election. signatures.
o Overseas Absentee Voting Law o Encryption and rapid transmission of
(RA 9189): Allows Filipino citizens data.
overseas to vote for national
o Multiple data sources (paper ballot,
positions, including President, Vice-
digital images).
President, Senators, and Party-List
Representatives. o Backup systems (batteries,
additional machines).
3. Disqualifications of a Voter:
Phases of the Election Process
o Persons sentenced by final
judgment to imprisonment of at least 1. Pre-Election Phase: Registration
one year (regain right to vote five
years after sentence completion). o Voter registration is governed by the
Continuing Voters’ Registration
o Persons convicted of crimes Act of 1996 (RA 8189) and
involving disloyalty to the COMELEC rules.
government, such as rebellion or
sedition (right to vote is regained five o Applicants must personally register
years after sentence completion). at the local COMELEC office,
providing identification and
o Persons declared insane or undergoing verification processes,
incompetent by a competent including biometric data capture.
authority.
o Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV)
The Automated Voting System in the Law allows overseas registration at
Philippines Philippine embassies, consulates, or
foreign service establishments.
2. Testing and Sealing of Machines
 o Public testing of voting machines is
conducted three days before the
election to ensure accuracy and
transparency.
o Machines are sealed and secured
until Election Day.
3. Election Day Procedures
o Voters cast their votes at designated
polling places, supervised by the
Board of Election Inspectors (BEI).
o Voting runs from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00
p.m., and procedures include
showing an empty ballot box,
initializing machines, and printing a
"Zero Report" to ensure no pre-
existing votes.
Conclusion
The right to suffrage is a vital element of
democracy, enabling citizens to participate in their
government's decision-making process.
Understanding the legal frameworks and
procedures for voting in the Philippines ensures
that all citizens exercise this right effectively and
fairly.