There are talks about the possible removal or reduction of the Filipino subject in Senior High School (SHS). The group, “Alyansa ng mga Tagapagtanggol ng Wikang Filipino” (Tanggol Wika), shared that they heard news about the Department of Education (DepEd) making changes to the SHS curriculum. These changes could affect the Filipino subject in SHS, which might only leave one mandatory Filipino class.
Why the Filipino Subject in SHS is Important
The Filipino subject in SHS is essential because it helps students develop important language, communication, and research skills. According to the government’s college readiness standards, students need these skills to succeed in college. Removing or reducing the Filipino subject in SHS would limit students’ learning of these critical skills.
Impact of Reducing the Filipino Subject in SHS
Reducing or removing the Filipino subject in SHS could weaken the connection of students to their national identity. Research shows that having a strong national language helps a country’s development. Other countries in Asia, such as Malaysia and Japan, make their own language mandatory in their high school education. The Filipino subject in SHS should be treated the same.
Effect on Teachers if Filipino is Removed from SHS
If the Filipino subject in SHS is removed or reduced, many Filipino teachers may lose their jobs or have fewer teaching hours. In the past, when Filipino was removed from college subjects, about 10,000 teachers were affected. The same thing could happen again if Filipino is taken out of the SHS curriculum.
Conclusion
The group, Tanggol Wika, asks DepEd to stop their plan of reducing or removing the Filipino subject in SHS. The subject is important for both students’ education and for preserving the national language and culture of the Philippines.
