CHR says developing critical thinking of students on personal, goverment issues is important

On Sunday, the Commission on Human Rights said that obedience to the government is not the only measure of one’s love for the country. It raised concerns over an alleged learning module from the Department of Education (DepEd) that discouraged students from joining protests.

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The module in question was first posted to Facebook by David Waya, a member of Rise for Education-Cagayan Valley, a regional organization advocating for safe and quality education for all. 

The subject of the picture analysis activity is a photograph depicting an environmental rally. One of the questions asked is: “If given the chance, will you join this rally? Why or why not?”

The correct answer, also written in the module, said: “No, because the government is really doing their best for all the Filipino people and their constituents.”

CHR spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia said that it is important for children to develop critical thinking on issues that affect not only their personal lives but also the government.

Love for one’s country is not limited to mere obedience, but can also be manifested through collectively tackling issues of our communities and the country under the guidance of rights entitled to us and protected by the Constitution,

said De Guia.

She said that this includes the people’s right to freedom of speech, of expression, the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and petition the government for redress of grievances.  

“We stress that our current freedoms that we enjoy today are fruits of past struggles,” she said. “Instead of discouraging dissent, it would be better to demand better services and accountability from the government and its officials as part of their duty to respect, protect, and fulfill the rights of all.”

It also encouraged Filipinos to continue to report to DepEd errors found in the learning materials for the benefit of the students. This will also serve as a call for an improvement for the country’s current educational system.