Lawmaker Criticizes DepEd Memorandum on Marcos Dictatorship in Grade 6 Curriculum
A recent memorandum issued by the Philippines’ Department of Education (DepEd) has sparked controversy and debate. The memorandum aims to remove the surname “Marcos” from the term “Marcos Dictatorship” in Grade 6 Social Studies textbooks. This decision has been met with severe criticism, particularly from House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro. She argues that this is a blatant revision of history and an insult to the countless victims of human rights abuses during the Martial Law period.
The Controversial Memorandum
On September 6, DepEd’s Bureau of Curriculum Development (BCD) issued a memorandum that replaces the term “Diktadurang Marcos” (Marcos Dictatorship) with simply “Diktadura” in Grade 6 textbooks. Critics argue that this change is a sadistic attempt to erase the crimes and atrocities committed under Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s regime.
Violation of Republic Act 10368
Rep. France Castro emphasized that this decision violates Republic Act 10368, also known as the Marcos Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013. According to Section 27 of this law, the Human Rights Violations Victims’ Memorial Commission is mandated to coordinate with DepEd and the Commission on Higher Education to ensure that the teaching of atrocities under Martial Law is part of the basic curriculum in secondary and tertiary education.
Teachers and Educators Speak Out
Teachers’ groups like the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) and CONTEND have also condemned this revision. They argue that this change undermines the truth about a dark period in Philippine history and is a disservice to students’ education and their pursuit of historical truth.
The Impact on Future Generations
The younger generation has the right to fully understand the historical context and impact of Martial Law in the Philippines. Removing the name “Marcos” from the term “Marcos Dictatorship” deprives them of this right and distorts the truth.
Conclusion
The DepEd’s decision to change the term “Marcos Dictatorship” to “Diktadura” in Grade 6 textbooks is a clear violation of law and a revision of history. It is crucial for educators, lawmakers, and the general public to stand against such changes that attempt to erase or whitewash the worst abuses of the past.
