As a concerned Filipino student and advocate for the future of our country, I believe that young people should be given the knowledge and skills needed to understand and participate in our society. However, many students have limited opportunities to learn about how our government works, what their rights and responsibilities are, and how they can meaningfully participate in their communities. This gap can affect their preparation to become informed voters, responsible citizens, and future leaders.

Civic education is especially important as young Filipinos become more involved in their communities and prepare to take on greater responsibilities as citizens. In 2026, the Philippine Statistics Authority cleared the 6th National Youth Assessment Study, which examines areas including youth participation in governance and active citizenship. The study aims to provide information that can help guide policies and programs for Filipino youth.

Schools play an important role in preparing students not only academically, but also as members of society. The Department of Education has recognized the importance of civic participation through its strengthened Senior High School curriculum, which includes Citizenship and Civic Engagement as an elective. However, civic education should also be made practical and accessible to students through activities that allow them to understand how government and communities actually function.

I propose that the Department of Education and schools strengthen civic education by making it more practical, interactive, and relevant to the experiences of Filipino youth. Such improvements could include:

1. Experiential Learning Opportunities: Activities such as mock elections, student forums, youth governance workshops, and community projects can give students practical experience with civic participation.
2. Updated and Accessible Learning Materials: Schools should provide materials that explain the Philippine government, Constitution, citizens’ rights and responsibilities, democratic processes, and current social issues in ways that students can understand.
3. Media and Digital Literacy: Students should learn how to distinguish facts from opinions, evaluate sources, recognize misinformation, and responsibly engage with information online.
4. Youth Participation Programs: Schools and local communities should create more opportunities for young people to express their concerns, discuss community issues, and participate in projects that affect them.
5. Teacher Support and Training: Educators should be provided with appropriate resources and training to facilitate meaningful, factual, and non-partisan discussions about citizenship and government.

Strengthening civic education does not mean telling young people what political beliefs to have or which candidates to support. Instead, it means giving them the knowledge and critical-thinking skills to make their own informed decisions. A young person who understands their rights, responsibilities, government institutions, and community can participate more meaningfully in society.

I therefore call on the Department of Education, schools, and other concerned institutions to prioritize and strengthen civic education for Filipino youth. Let us give students more opportunities to learn, participate, and lead—not only inside the classroom, but also within their communities.

Join us in calling for stronger civic education in Philippine schools. By empowering young people with knowledge and opportunities for participation, we can help build a generation prepared to understand their government, fulfill their civic responsibilities, and contribute meaningfully to the future of our country. Please sign this petition and support stronger civic education for Filipino youth.