Implementation of Law to Phase Out Mother Tongue as Primary Language in K-3 Commences

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Law allowing the discontinuation of mother tongue as the primary language of instruction in K-3 becomes effective. Republic Act No. 12027 reverting medium of instruction to Filipino and English

Manila, Philippines - In a significant development for the educational landscape of the Philippines, Republic Act No. 12027 has come into effect, reverting the medium of instruction back to Filipino and English, in accordance with the provisions of the 1987 Constitution. This legislative change, signed into law following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s inaction on October 10, marks a pivotal shift in the educational policies of the country.
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Mother tongue, defined as one's regional or native language acquired at home, has long been a focal point in discussions surrounding effective language instruction. Under the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, teaching materials and assessments were required to be in the learners' regional or native language up to grade 3, with a transition to Filipino and English from grades 4 to 6. The Department of Education (DepEd) has emphasized the importance of a strong foundation in native languages before introducing additional languages to students.


While the mother tongue can still be utilized in monolingual classes or groups of learners sharing the same native language within the same grade level, certain conditions must be met. These include the availability of an official orthography developed and published by the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF), documented vocabulary, literature on language and culture, and adequately trained teachers proficient in the mother tongue. The DepEd is mandated to review the optional implementation of the mother tongue in classes every three years post the law's enactment.

During the deliberations leading to the enactment of this law, concerns were raised about the readiness of schools to execute mother tongue-based education effectively. Lawmakers, including ACT Teachers Representative France Castro, argued against the bill, suggesting that holding students accountable for the shortcomings of the DepEd may hinder the progress made in implementing mother tongue in learning materials.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, the chairperson of the committee on basic education and a key proponent of the measure, underscored the necessity of aligning language instruction with the diverse linguistic backgrounds of students. He emphasized the freedom that teachers will now have to tailor their language instruction to suit the specific needs and circumstances of their learners, acknowledging that a multilingual classroom may not always benefit from a uniform mother tongue approach.

As the educational landscape evolves with the implementation of Republic Act No. 12027, the emphasis on language diversity and tailored instruction stands as a cornerstone in fostering a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all students across the Philippines. - Majaits.com

DepEd Doubles Leave Credits for Public School Teachers: Enhancing Benefits and Recognition


Manila, Philippines - In a move aimed at recognizing and supporting the hard work and dedication of public school teachers, the Department of Education (DepEd) has implemented a significant policy change. DepEd has doubled the vacation service credits or leave credits for public school teachers to 30 days from the previous 15 days. This adjustment provides teachers with increased flexibility to offset absences, recover salary deductions, and enjoy well-deserved breaks.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara signed DepEd Order No. 013 series of 2024 on September 18, with the policy coming into effect 15 days after its publication. This change applies to all public school teachers, including mobile teachers, regardless of their appointment status. The new guidelines ensure that teachers with at least one year of service or those hired within four months after classes commence will be granted 30 leave credits per calendar year. On the other hand, late appointments, or those hired four months after the start of classes, will receive 45 vacation service credits.

Moreover, the updated policy allows teachers to offset extra hours worked beyond regular schedules with additional leave credits, acknowledging their dedication and commitment to their roles. This move reflects DepEd's commitment to addressing the evolving demands on teachers and ensuring they are fairly compensated for their efforts, especially during extended periods like summer vacations.

The statement released by DepEd on Friday, September 27, emphasized the importance of recognizing teachers' contributions and safeguarding their net take-home pay. The new guidelines aim to acknowledge teachers' participation in various DepEd-led activities at national, regional, and division levels, as well as with partners and stakeholders, ensuring that their efforts are duly compensated and valued.

In addition to the base leave credits, teachers will receive 1.25 hours of leave credit for every hour spent beyond regular work hours on school days and an additional 1.25 hours for extra teaching tasks that cannot be compensated with overload pay. Notably, teachers will earn 1.5 leave credits for each hour of service rendered during holidays, weekends, and special periods like Christmas and summer breaks.

To ensure transparency and accountability, teachers are required to document all additional hours worked and seek authorization from the Schools Division Superintendent. This authorization process includes submitting necessary documentation such as a signed CS Form 48, School Form 8, certification on teaching overload, and a certification of insufficiency of funds for teaching overload, ensuring that teachers are appropriately recognized and compensated for their dedication and hard work.

The enhancement of leave credits for public school teachers not only acknowledges their efforts but also serves as a vital step towards ensuring their well-being and professional satisfaction. By providing teachers with extended benefits and recognition for their contributions, DepEd reaffirms its commitment to supporting and valuing the educators who play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation. Majaits.com

House Approves Bill Suspending Mother Tongue-Based Learning in Kindergarten to Grade 3

Manila, Philippines - In a significant development within the realm of education, the House of Representatives has given the green light to a bill that aims to halt the implementation of mother tongue-based instruction for kindergarten to Grade 3 students. House Bill No. 6717, approved on Monday, February 6, seeks to address the challenges posed by the lack of learning materials available in the mother tongue language in schools across the country.

A substantial majority of 240 lawmakers voted in favor of the bill, while two abstained, and three members of the left-wing Makabayan bloc opposed the measure. Mother tongue, defined as the native language or the primary mode of communication learned at home, plays a crucial role in early education. The bill effectively suspends a provision of the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, which mandates the use of the mother tongue as a medium of instruction in schools.

The legislation specifies that Filipino Sign Language will continue to be the medium of instruction for students with relevant disabilities, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility in education. It also highlights the importance of assessing the effectiveness of using the mother tongue in schools, allowing for its continuation where deemed beneficial.

Furthermore, the bill places the onus on the Department of Education (DepEd) to collaborate with the Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino in developing appropriate teaching materials to support the proposed changes in the medium of instruction. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the transition away from mother tongue-based learning is executed effectively and with necessary resources in place.

The proposed legislation includes provisions for automatic repeal under certain conditions. The bill will be revoked once DepEd notifies Congress of its preparedness to reinstate the mother tongue curriculum, and Congress approves DepEd's assessment report, signaling a readiness to return to the previous mode of instruction.

Opposition to the bill was voiced by ACT Teachers Representative France Castro, who expressed concerns about potentially penalizing children for perceived shortcomings within DepEd. Castro emphasized the significant efforts invested by researchers, educational institutions, and other stakeholders in developing learning materials tailored to mother tongue-based instruction. She called for a comprehensive review of the situation, urging a focus on identifying underlying issues, consulting educators and stakeholders, and devising viable short-term and medium-term solutions.

House Bill No. 6717 was jointly introduced in the House by Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe, basic education committee chairman Roman Romulo, higher education panel chairman Mark Go, as well as representatives Gus Tambunting (Parañaque 2nd District) and Ria Vergara (Nueva Ecija 3rd District), signifying a collective effort to address the challenges surrounding mother tongue-based learning in early education.

As of the latest update, there is no counterpart bill introduced in the Senate, underscoring the ongoing debate and deliberation surrounding the potential changes in the educational landscape. The approval of this bill marks a significant step towards reevaluating language instruction practices and ensuring that the educational needs of students are effectively met across diverse learning environments. - Majaits.com

Manila City Council Reinstates Committee on Youth and Sports Development: A Victory for Youth Advocacy

Manila, Philippines - In a significant turn of events within the Manila City Council, the Committee on Youth and Sports Development has been revived following its dissolution, marking a crucial win for youth empowerment and advocacy in the city. The decision to reinstate the committee comes after a period of contention and legal actions initiated by Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation President Yanyan Ibay, who challenged the council's initial move to abolish the committee.

Last July 23, Manila City Council's majority floor leader, Ernesto Isip Jr., orchestrated the declaration of vacant committee seats citing "recent political events in the City of Manila." This action, which saw council members, including Ibay, stripped of their committee roles, sparked controversy and raised concerns about political motivations behind the move.

However, on Thursday, October 10, Isip reversed his decision and successfully proposed the revival of the Committee on Youth and Sports Development, a pivotal moment that reinstated Ibay and her fellow council members to their previous roles. During the council's regular session, Ibay emphasized the importance of youth representation and encouraged young individuals to voice their opinions and uphold their beliefs in the face of challenges.

As the legally entitled chairman of the youth committee under relevant statutes, Ibay underscored the significance of youth participation in decision-making processes and legislative affairs. The reinstatement of the committee not only signifies a victory for youth advocacy but also serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of youth leaders in Manila.

Despite the positive outcome, the dissolution and subsequent reinstatement of the committee were met with mixed reactions among council members. Manila 4th District Councilor Don Juan “DJ” Bagatsing condemned the initial dissolution as a "political stunt" and an act of "revenge," highlighting the contentious nature of the decision-making process within the council.

Manila 2nd Councilor Darwin “Awi” Sia demanded accountability and transparency in the council's actions, calling for an apology from Isip and denouncing the perceived political motivations behind the committee's dissolution. Isip, however, defended his actions, emphasizing the legality of his decisions and the council's autonomy in crafting policies.

The reinstatement of the Committee on Youth and Sports Development presents an opportunity for Ibay to showcase her leadership skills and dedication to youth welfare. Isip's support for Ibay's reinstatement aligns with his commitment to youth empowerment and underscores the importance of youth representation in local governance.

Amidst the political tensions surrounding the committee's dissolution and revival, the Department of the Interior and Local Government issued a memorandum reinforcing the role of the SK Federation president in leading youth-related committees and special bodies within local councils.

As the Manila City Council navigates through this period of transition and reconciliation, the revival of the Committee on Youth and Sports Development stands as a symbol of resilience, unity, and the unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and advocacy in the city. - Majaits.com

SK Chairman Challenges Manila City Council in Controversial Ouster: A Legal Battle for Youth Advocacy


Manila, Philippines - A contentious legal battle has unfolded in Manila as Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation President Juliana “Yanyan” Ibay challenges the Manila City Council's decision to remove her as the chairman of the Committee on Youth Welfare and Development. Ibay has filed a detailed complaint against Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo and other councilors, contesting the council's actions during what she describes as a "secret session."

In her complaint submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman on Friday, September 20, Ibay emphasizes her legal entitlement to the youth committee chairmanship under Section 22 of the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act of 2015 and Section 50 of the Local Government Code. She condemns the council's decision as setting a dangerous precedent for SK officials across Manila and the entire Philippines, highlighting the importance of due process and transparency in governance.

The complaint outlines multiple allegations, including culpable violation of the Constitution, violation of the Local Government Code and the Sangguniang Kabataan Act of 2015, oppression, grave abuse of authority, misconduct in office, and unethical behavior in public service. It underscores the seriousness of the council's actions and the potential implications for youth representation and advocacy in the city.

The sequence of events leading to Ibay's removal sheds light on a complex and contentious process within the Manila City Council. Last July 23, majority floor leader Ernesto Isip Jr. initiated a motion to declare committee seats vacant, citing recent political events in the city. This decision, approved by the council, resulted in the removal of council members, including Ibay, from their committee roles without due process.

Ibay challenges the legality of the "secret session," highlighting concerns about procedural irregularities and lack of notification to council members. Despite objections raised during subsequent sessions, including inquiries by Ibay and other councilors, the council proceeded with its decisions, further fueling the controversy surrounding the committee's dissolution.

In response to these developments, the Department of the Interior and Local Government issued a memorandum reaffirming the role of the SK Federation president in leading youth-related committees and special bodies within local councils, underscoring the importance of youth representation in governance.

As the legal battle unfolds, the involvement of key figures like Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo and other councilors adds layers of complexity to the situation. While the specifics of the case continue to evolve, the repercussions of this controversy extend beyond individual roles, impacting the broader landscape of youth advocacy and representation in Manila.

The unfolding legal battle between Ibay and the Manila City Council reflects a larger narrative of power struggles, accountability, and transparency in local governance. As stakeholders navigate this complex terrain, the outcome of this dispute will undoubtedly shape the future of youth advocacy and governance in Manila. Majaits.com
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