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The confirmation by the Supreme Court of the downgrading of Filipino and Philippine literature (panitikan) as merely elective or optional subjects in college is unconstitutional and anti-youth.

Section 6 of Article XIV of the Constitution categorically mandates that the “national language of the Philippines is Filipino.” 

Contrary to the ruling of the Supreme Court, the aforesaid provision does not need an implementing statute for its enforcement.

It is an aberration that the teaching of Filipino, which is the national language, is only elective while teaching of a foreign language like English is compulsory. 

What the Constitution provides for voluntary and optional teaching is Spanish and Arabic, not Filipino. 

It is also incorrect to contend that the required teaching of Filipino and Philippine literature in the tertiary level is a duplication of what is being taught in elementary and high school because instruction of Filipino and Philippine literature in college is more advanced, intense, and incisive. 

Demoting Filipino and Philippine literature in college as elective subjects is also anti-youth because it deprives young people from truly imbibing Philippine history and culture, and practicing nationalism and patriotism. 

Enshrining Filipino as the national language is complemented by the following constitutional provisions:

  1. Section 17 on State Policies which provides that the “State shall give priority to education, science and technology, arts, culture, and sports to foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate social progress and promote total human liberation and development”; and
  1. Section 3 (2) of Article XIV provides that all educational institutions “shall inculcate patriotism and nationalism, foster love of humanity, respect for human rights, and appreciation of the role of national heroes in the historical development of the country x x x”.

There is no alternative to fostering and inculcating nationalism and patriotism other than teaching Filipino and Philippine literature.

Language involves muscle memory. You lose it if you don’t use it.

 

EDCEL C. LAGMAN