Senator Robinhood Padilla has filed a bill seeking the inclusion of the Bangsamoro history, culture, and identity in school curriculum.
“In order to ensure an accurate and faithful instruction of the Bangsamoro history under the auspices of the Integrated History Act, this bill seeks to outline the approach to the formulation and creation of history courses or subjects pertaining to BARMM,” he said.
In filing Senate Bill 2939, Padilla said the inclusion will provide the “impetus for a greater interest” among the youth to have a deeper understanding of the Muslim-Christian dynamics in the country.
The proposed legislation mandates the Department of Education to include Bangsamoro studies in Philippine history courses.
Key topics will cover the roots of the conflict in Mindanao, Muslim-Christian relations, and the aspirations of the Bangsamoro for self-governance.
In addition to the measure, Padilla also filed Senate Bill 2938 to address challenges in early childhood care and development.
This bill proposes amendments to Republic Act 10410, known as the Early Years Act of 2013.
Padilla highlighted that socio-cultural activities are vital for young children’s social skills and sense of responsibility, and should complement existing programs on Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) and values education.
The senator expressed concern over young children’s excessive use of mobile devices for entertainment, usually associated with developmental delays and poor academic performance.
Meanwhile, a survey by the National Education Association indicated an increase in disruptive behavior among students during the 2022-2023 school year.
Padilla’s proposed bill aims to enhance values, character, and spiritual development among young children.
Under the proposed law, provincial governments are mandated to establish Provincial Early Childhood Care and Development Offices.
