NSTP CITIZENSHIP TRAINING MODULES FOR FIRST YEAR STUDENTS

NSTP

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Topic 1
HISTORICAL AND LEGAL BASES OF THE NSTP

EVOLUTION OF THE NATIONAL SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAM (NSTP)
The imposition of the national program for service and training of the youth in the Philippines
started with the creation of Commonwealth Act No. 1, otherwise known as the National Defense Act
of 1935. It is a legislative act imparting foundation for the national defense of the country, punishing
certain violations thereof, appropriating funds consequently and for other functions under the
government of President Manuel L. Quezon. The law requires tertiary students, specifically males, to
finish two years, equal to four semesters, of military training as a modality to institutionalize the
reservist system in the Philippines national defense.
In 1980, the National Defense Act was amended to provide existence to Presidential Decree No.
1706, otherwise known as the National Service Law. It mandated compulsory national service to all
Filipino citizens. It was composed of three fundamental program components, namely: Civic Welfare
Service (CWS), Law Enforcement Service (LES), and Military Service (MS). College Students were
given an alternative to select from among these components in compliance with this requirement for
tertiary education.
The implementation of the National Service Law, except the provision of the Military Service was
suspended through Presidential Memorandum Order No. 1 under the incumbency of former President
Corazon Aquino, paving the way for the conceptualization of the basic Reserve Officers' Training
Corps (ROTC), embodied under R.A. 7077, effective school year 1986-1987.
The ROTC program aimed to comprehend the constitutional mandate of developing a strong
civilian base to supplement the professional military in the nation's defense system. It was designed to
initiate the ROTC trainees in the rudiments of soldiership, instilling in them discipline and correct
deportment. The objective of the said program was to train all able-bodied tertiary students for
military capabilities in case of war.
As a way to provide an alternative in neutralizing people's aversion to this military program for
the duration of the school year 2001-2002, ROTC was only made optional under the National Service
Program (NSP), conceiving the so-called Expanded ROTC (E-ROTC). The E-ROTC was
characterized through deviation from the rigid tactical training providing alternatives like rendering
civil auxiliary sources in the form of helping maintain law and order, assisting socio-economic
development projects and delivery of fundamental health services or aiding in addressing local
insurgency.
In view of the options, gave the students the choice, amongst the following components: Military
Service (MS), Civic Welfare Service (CWS) and Law Enforcement Service (LES).
Many, if not all of the higher education institutions, observed the enforcement of NSP confusing
and unmanageable though. Hence, in December 2001, the NSTP Act, envisioned to address public
clamor for reforms in the ROTC and NSP Programs, was signed into law through then President
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as an aggressive modality toward making the former national service
training that is military in nature, applicable to the changing needs of the time.

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The primary objective of the NSTP is to stress the significant role played by youth, male and
female alike, in the task of developing our nation by means of national service training. As such, it
aims to enhance the youth to become civic military leaders and volunteers through a modified, re-
structured and reinforced training package who could be called upon by way of the nation in cases
their services are needed and in the event of disasters or emergencies.
Compared with ROTC, the NSTP Act ensured that three components – Civic Welfare Training
Service (CWTS), Literacy Training Service (LTS) and Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) – are
given the same and equal implementation in educational institutions. Moreover, it defined the
different NSTP components, the duration of the training, coverage and others.
The non-military program components of NSTP -- the CWTS and LTS – are dedicated to the
realization of the following objectives:
• strengthen the values and traits of the youth;
• improve their skills and knowledge on various endeavors;
• develop their interest in community service; and
• make them responsible for peace and development to make sure harmony and growth in the
Filipino communities.

NATIONAL SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAM (NSTP)
Definition
It refers to the program aimed at enhancing civic consciousness and defense preparedness in the
youth by developing the ethics of service and patriotism while undergoing training in any of its three
(3) program components. Its various components are specially designed to enhance the youth's active
contribution to the general welfare.
Legal Bases
1. Commonwealth Act No. 1
- Otherwise known as the "National Defense Act of 1935", was enacted by the National
Assembly of the Philippines on 21 December 1935. It provided for obligatory military
service for all male citizens of ages between 18 and 30.
2. Presidential Decree No. 1706
- Otherwise known as the "National Service Law of 1980", was signed by President
Ferdinand E. Marcos into law on 8 August 1980. It made national service obligatory for
all Filipino citizens and specified three categories of National Service: Civic Welfare
Service, Law Enforcement Service and Military Service.
3. 1987 Constitution of the Republic of The Philippines
- Is the constitution or supreme law of the Republic of the Philippines, its final draft was
completed by the Constitutional Commission on October 12, 1986 and was ratified by a
nationwide plebiscite on February 2, 1987.
4. Republic Act 7077
- Otherwise known as the "Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act of
1991", was enacted by the 8th Congress of the Philippines on 27 June 1991. The
Reservist Act provided for organization, training and utilization of reservists, referred to

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in the Act as "Citizen Soldiers". The primary pool of manpower for the reservist
organization are graduates of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps basic and advance
courses.
5. Republic Act No. 9163
- Otherwise known as the “National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act of 2001”
signed into law by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on January 23, 2002.
Guiding Principle
Recognizing the youth's vital role in nation-building, the State shall promote, civic consciousness
among the youth and shall develop their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social well-being.
It shall inculcate in the youth patriotism, nationalism, and advance their involvement in public and
civic affairs.
Program Components
1. Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC)
- A program institutionalized under Sections 38 and 39 of Republic Act No. 7077 designed
to provide military training to tertiary level students in order to motivate, train, organize
and mobilize them for national defense preparedness.
2. Literacy Training Service (LTS)
- A program designed to train students to become teachers of literacy and numeracy skills
to school children, out of school youth, and other segments of society in need of their
service.
3. Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS)
- Refers to programs or activities contributory to the general welfare and the betterment of
life for the members of the community or the enhancement of its facilities, especially
those devoted to improving health, education, environment, entrepreneurship, safety,
recreation and morals of the citizenry.
Main Features
 All incoming freshmen students, male and female enrolled in any baccalaureate and it at least
two-year technical-vocational or associate courses, are required to complete one NSTP
component of their choice as a graduation requirement.
 All higher and technical vocational educational institutions shall be offering at least one (1) of
the NSTP components.
 Each of the NSTP components shall be undertaken for an academic period of two semesters
and credited for three units per semester with 54 the 90 hours training hours per semester.
 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) will offer the ROTC component and at least one (1)
other NSTP component.
 The Philippine Military Academy (PMA), Philippine Merchant Marine Academy
(PMMA), Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA)and other similar nature are
exempted from the NSTP.
 Private higher and technical vocational education institutions with at least 350 student cadets
may offer ROTC component.
 ROTC component will be maintained and handled by the Department of Military Science and
Tactics (DMST), subject to the existing rules and regulations of the Armed Forces of the
Philippines (AFP).
Lead Agencies/Implementers

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 Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
 Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
 Department of National Defense (DND)
 Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC)
 Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations of the Philippines (COCOPEA)
Duration and Equivalent Course Unit
 Each of the NSTP components shall be undertaken for an academic period of two (2)
semesters.
 Each components shall be credited for three (3.0) units per semester.
 Fifty four (54) to ninety (90) hours training hours per semester shall be allotted.
 One (1) summer program in lieu of the two (2) semester program may be designed,
formulated and adapted subject to the capability of the school and concerned agencies.
Creation of National Service Training Corps
The National Service Training Corps (NSRC) will be composed of graduates of NON-ROTC
components. Members of this Corps may be tapped by the State for literacy and civic welfare
activities. Graduates of ROTC component shall form only part of the AFP Citizen Armed Force,
subject to DND requirements.
Person Responsible to Supervise NSTP Students
School authorities shall exercise academic and administrative supervision over the design,
formulation, adoption and implementation of the different NSTP components in their respective
schools.

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Topic 2
NSTP and the Philippine Constitution

The 1987 Constitution under Article II Sec. 4 (Declaration of Principles and State Policies)
clearly mandates that “the prime duty of the Government is to serve and protect the people. The
Government may call upon the people to defend the State and, in the fulfillment thereof, all
citizens may be required, under conditions provided by law, to render personal military or civil
service”. In order to perform such role, the government may call the attention of the people by
requiring them to render personal military or civil services.
This chapter will discuss relevant provisions that will clarify the framework of NSTP as a venue
for inculcating the ideals of true and meaningful public service.

CONSTITUTION defined
This refers to the body of rules and principles in accordance with which the powers of sovereignty
are regularly exercised (1986 Philippine Constitution).
It is also a written instrument by which the fundamental powers of the government are
established, limited, and defined and by which these powers are distributed among the several
departments or branches for their safe and useful exercise for the benefit of the people.
It is the rules and principles which provide direction as to the manner of expressing one’s
authority.
The Purpose or Function of the Constitution
1. The constitution serves as the supreme or fundamental law since it speaks in behalf of the
entire people, represents the will of the people to which it derives its claim to obedience.
2. The constitution establishes the basic framework and underlying principles of government. It
prescribes the permanent framework of the system of government and assigns to the different
departments or branches, their respective powers and duties, establishes certain basic
principles on which the government is founded. The constitution serves as the pillars in
governance.
3. The constitution empowers the state because it is the document that formalizes the jurisdiction
of the state over our territory and establishes the government that will effectively exercise that
jurisdiction.
4. The constitution gears the government towards social and economic development through the
elimination of socio-economic inequities in order to achieve progress, national unity, and
social justice.

THE BILL OF RIGHTS OF FILIPINOS
Article III of the Philippine Constitution is the Bill of Rights. It establishes the relationship of the
individual to the State and defines the rights of the individual by limiting the lawful powers of the
State. It is one of the most important political achievements of the Filipinos (Smith, 1945)

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Importance of Bill Of Rights
A bill of rights is a constitutional enumeration of rights and privileges guaranteed by the State to
all persons within its territory. It is the statement of individual liberties which citizens, residents and
sojourners in the country enjoy abuses in against the exercise of government power. In short, it is the
people’s shield against government abuse.
The peaceful; attainment of peace will depend on our nation’s libertarian use of freedom –
freedom of thought, speech and association. The rights proclaimed in the Bill of Rights are the “ten
commandments” of our constitutional faith. They are the means of self-government and sovereignty.
They are the means to truth. They are the means of and ends of security and survival.
Below is the Bill of Rights provided for in Article III, 1987 Philippine Constitution:
Section 1. No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law,
nor shall any person any person be denied the equal
protection of law.
Section 2. The right of the people to be secure in their
persons, houses, papers and effects against
unreasonable searches and seizures of whatever
nature and for any purpose shall be inviolable and no search warrant or warrant of arrest shall
issue except upon probable cause to be determined personally by the judge after examination
under oath or affirmation of the complainant and the witnesses he may produce, and
particularly describing the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized.
Section 3. (1) The privacy of communication in the correspondence shall be inviolable except
apart lawful order of the court, or when public safety or order requires otherwise, as
prescribed by law. (2) Any evidence obtained in violation of these are the preceding section
shall be inadmissible for any purpose in any proceeding.
Section 4. No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the
press, or the right of the people to peaceably assemble and petition the government for redress
of grievances.
Section 5. No law shall be made respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the
free exercise thereof. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship,
without discrimination or preference shall forever be allowed. No religious test shall be
required for the exercise of civil or political rights.
Section 6. The liberty of abode and of changing the same within the limits prescribed by law
shall not be impaired except upon lawful order of the court. Neither shall the right to travel be
impaired except in the interest of national security, public safety, or public health, as may be
provided by law.
Section 7. The right of the people to information on
matters of public concern shall be recognized. Access
to official records, and to documents and papers
pertaining to official acts, transactions, or decisions, as
well as to government research data used as basis for
Liberty is the measure of
freedom which may be enjoyed in
a civilized community consistently
with enjoyment of like freedom by
others.
The right of liberty guaranteed by
the Constitution includes the right to
exist and the right to be free from
personal restraint or servitude.

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policy development, shall be afforded the citizen, subject to such limitations as may be
provided by law.
Section 8. The right of the people, including those employed in the public and private sectors,
to form unions, associations, or societies for purposes not contrary to law shall not be
abridged.
Section 9. Private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation.
Section 10. No law impairing the obligation of contracts shall be passed.
Section 11. Free access to the courts and quasi-judicial bodies and adequate legal assistance
shall not be denied to any person by reason of poverty.
Section 12. (1) Any person under investigation for the commission of an offense shall have
the right to be informed of his right to remain silent and to have competent and independent
counsel preferably of his own choice. If the person cannot afford the services of counsel, he
must be provided with one. This rights cannot be waived except in writing and in the presence
of counsel. (2) No torture, force, violence, threats, intimidation, or any other means which
vitiate the free will shall be used against him. Secret detention, places, solitary,
incommunicado, or other similar forms of detention are prohibited. (3) Any confession or
admission obtained in violation of this or Section 17 hereof shall be inadmissible in evidence
against him. The law shall provide for penal and civil sanctions for violations of this section
as well as compensation to the rehabilitation of victims of torture or similar practices, and
their families.
Section 13. All persons, except those charged with offences punishable by reclusion perpetua
with evidence of guilty strong, shall before conviction, be bailable by sufficient sureties, or be
released on recognizance as may be provided by law. The right to bail shall not be impaired
even when the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus is suspended. Excessive bail shall not be
required.
Section 14. (1) No person shall be held to answer for a criminal offense without due process
of law.
(2) In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall be presumed innocent until the contrary is
proved, and shall enjoy the right to be heard by himself and counsel, to be informed of the
nature and cause of the accusation against him, the have a speedy, impartial, and public trial
to meet the witnesses face-to-face and to have compulsory process to secure the attendance of
witnesses and the production of evidence in his behalf. However, after arraignment, trial may
proceed notwithstanding the absence of the accused:
Provided that he has been dully notified and his
failure to appear is in justifiable.
Section 15. The privilege of the writ of habeas corpus
shall not be suspended except in cases of invasion or
rebellion, when the public safety requires it.
Section 16. All persons shall have the right to a
speedy disposition of their cases before other judicial,
quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies.
Section 17. No person shall be compelled to be a witness against himself.
Human rights have a primacy over
property rights. If human rights are
extinguished by the passage of time,
then the bill of rights is a useless
attempt to limit the power of the
government and ceases to be shield
against the abuses of the
government.

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Section 18. (1) No person shall be detained solely by reason of his political beliefs and
aspirations. (2) No involuntary servitude in any form shall exist except as a punishment for a
crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted.
Section 19. (1) Excessive fines shall not be imposed, nor cruel, degrading or inhuman
punishment inflicted. Neither shall death penalty be imposed, unless, for compelling reasons
involving heinous crimes, the Congress hereafter provides for it. Any death penalty already
imposed shall be reduced to reclusion perpetua.
(2) The employment of physical, psychological, or degrading punishment against any prisoner
or detaining or the use of substandard or inadequate penal facilities under some Human
Condition shall be dealt with by the law.
Section 20. No person shall be imprisoned for debt or non-payment of a poll tax.
Section 21. No person shall be twice put in jeopardy of punishment for the same offense. If an
act is punishable by a law and an ordinance, conviction or acquittal under either shall
constitute a bar to another prosecution for the same act.
Section 22. No ex post facto law or bill of attainder (an act of a legislature declaring a person
or group of persons guilty of some crime and punishing them, often without a trial) shall be
enacted.

CITIZENS of the PHILIPPINES Defined
Section I of the Philippines Constitution provides that the following are the citizens of the
Philippines:
1. Those who are citizens of the Philippines at the time of the adoption of this Constitution;
2. Those whose fathers and mothers are citizens of the Philippines
3. Those born before January 13, 1973, of Filipino mothers, who elect Philippine Citizenship
upon reaching the age of majority; and
4. Those who are naturalized in accordance with law.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF FILIPINO CITIZENS
We have to realize that for every right we are enjoying as enumerated in the Bill of Rights of the
Philippine Constitution, it is occupied with corresponding obligation. There will be no chaos in our
society if solely each person will perform his or her responsibilities and responsibilities.
1. To be loyal to the Republic. This means that we have faith and confidence in the Republic
and love and devotion to the country. We have to be proud of being a Filipino, respect our
customs, traditions, language and institutions.
Our country is considered our home, the home of our forefathers who fought for our country
against the invaders, the home of our children and the grand children, the seat of our
affections, and the sources of our happiness and well-being.

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2. To defend the State. Considering the fact that our country is our home, it is our prime duty to
love and defend the state at all costs regardless of our creed, religious beliefs, and wisdom.
Loving ones country can be shown not by words but by deeds. It should be a continuous
flame of love considering the fact that we receive benefits and protection from the State pf
which we are a part. In return, it is our primary duty and honor to defend it against any peril
whether from within or from without (Art. II, Sec. 3).
3. To contribute to the development and welfare of the State. We are a part of the State and
we directly receive the benefits from the government in form of infrastructure, peace and
order, etc. in return, how can we contribute to the development and welfare of the State? We
can do this in the form of paying our taxes willingly and promptly, by helping maintain peace
and order, conserving of the natural resources and the promotion of social justice by
suggesting or supporting measures beneficial to the people as a whole, by patronizing local
products and trades and by engaging in productive work.
4. To uphold the Constitution and obey the laws. It is our prime obligation to uphold the
Constitution and obey the laws. If the people would disregard them, our country would
collapse, we will not have peace and order.
5. To cooperate with duly constituted authorities. In every organization, there is always a
leader to manage the affairs of all the constituents. If the members will not cooperate, we can
never expect to become successful in all the undertakings that our government would like to
do for the good of its citizens.
6. To exercise rights responsibly and with due regard for the rights of others. No man is an
island and we have to live with others. In the exercise of our rights, we have to see to it that
we also respect the rights of other people. If we do this, we can expect harmonious
relationship between members of the society.
7. To engage in gainful work. It is stated in the Bible that if we want to eat, we have to work.it
is our obligation as a citizen of our country to become productive in engaging in a gainful
work so that we can provide the basic needs of our family and ourselves as well. As cited by
de Leon (1989), “The essence of life is work. Every citizen should bear in mind that only hard
and sustained work can men and nations live and survive. National greatness never springs
cult of ease or self-complacency, but from the crucible of grim struggle and patient industry”.
8. To register and vote. It is our prime duty as a citizen of the Philippines to register and vote.
Suffrage is both a privilege and a duty, which every qualified citizen must perform.
It is not sufficient to just vote; it must be coupled with intellectual judgment during election.
We have to consider the different political issues by different candidates, so that at least we
can chose the right person to manage government affairs.

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Topic 3
UNITED NATIONS PRINCIPLES ON HUMAN RIGHTS

HUMAN RIGHTS
Human rights are rights inherent to all human beings, whatever our nationality, place of residence,
sex, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, language, or any other status. We are all equally
entitled to our human rights without discrimination. These rights are all interrelated, interdependent
and indivisible.
Universal human rights are often expressed and guaranteed by law, in the forms of treaties,
customary international law, general principles and other sources of international law. International
human rights law lays down obligations of Governments to act in certain ways or to refrain from
certain acts, in order to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals or
groups.
Universal and inalienable
The principle of universality of human rights is the cornerstone of international human rights law.
This principle, as first emphasized in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights in 1948, has been
reiterated in numerous international human rights conventions, declarations, and resolutions. The
1993 Vienna World Conference on Human Rights, for example, noted that it is the duty of States to
promote and protect all human rights and fundamental freedoms, regardless of their political,
economic and cultural systems.
All States have ratified at least one, and 80% of States have ratified four or more, of the core
human rights treaties, reflecting consent of States which creates legal obligations for them and giving
concrete expression to universality. Some fundamental human rights norms enjoy universal protection
by customary international law across all boundaries and civilizations.
Human rights are inalienable. They should not be taken away, except in specific situations and
according to due process. For example, the right to liberty may be restricted if a person is found guilty
of a crime by a court of law.
Interdependent and indivisible
All human rights are indivisible, whether they are civil and political rights, such as the right to
life, equality before the law and freedom of expression; economic, social and cultural rights, such as
the rights to work, social security and education, or collective rights, such as the rights to development
and self-determination, are indivisible, interrelated and interdependent. The improvement of one right
facilitates advancement of the others. Likewise, the deprivation of one right adversely affects the
others.
Equal and non-discriminatory
Non-discrimination is a cross-cutting principle in international human rights law. The principle is
present in all the major human rights treaties and provides the central theme of some of international
human rights conventions such as the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of

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Racial Discrimination and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against
Women.
The principle applies to everyone in relation to all human rights and freedoms and it prohibits
discrimination on the basis of a list of non-exhaustive categories such as sex, race, colour and so on.
The principle of non-discrimination is complemented by the principle of equality, as stated in Article
1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity
and rights.”
Both Rights and Obligations
Human rights entail both rights and obligations. States assume obligations and duties under
international law to respect, to protect and to fulfil human rights. The obligation to respect means that
States must refrain from interfering with or curtailing the enjoyment of human rights. The obligation
to protect requires States to protect individuals and groups against human rights abuses. The
obligation to fulfil means that States must take positive action to facilitate the enjoyment of basic
human rights. At the individual level, while we are entitled our human rights, we should also respect
the human rights of others.

UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a milestone document in the history of
human rights. Drafted by representatives with different legal and cultural backgrounds from all
regions of the world, the Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in
Paris on 10 December 1948 (General Assembly resolution 217 A) as a common standard of
achievements for all peoples and all nations. It sets out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to
be universally protected and it has been translated into over 500 languages.
Preamble
Whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members
of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world,
Whereas disregard and contempt for human rights have resulted in barbarous acts which have
outraged the conscience of mankind, and the advent of a world in which human beings shall enjoy
freedom of speech and belief and freedom from fear and want has been proclaimed as the highest
aspiration of the common people,
Whereas it is essential, if man is not to be compelled to have recourse, as a last resort, to rebellion
against tyranny and oppression, that human rights should be protected by the rule of law,
Whereas it is essential to promote the development of friendly relations between nations,
Whereas the peoples of the United Nations have in the Charter reaffirmed their faith in
fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person and in the equal rights of
men and women and have determined to promote social progress and better standards of life in
larger freedom,
Whereas Member States have pledged themselves to achieve, in co-operation with the United
Nations, the promotion of universal respect for and observance of human rights and fundamental
freedoms,

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Whereas a common understanding of these rights and freedoms is of the greatest importance for
the full realization of this pledge,
Now, Therefore THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY proclaims THIS UNIVERSAL DECLARATION
OF HUMAN RIGHTS as a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations, to
the end that every individual and every organ of society, keeping this Declaration constantly in
mind, shall strive by teaching and education to promote respect for these rights and freedoms and
by progressive measures, national and international, to secure their universal and effective
recognition and observance, both among the peoples of Member States themselves and among the
peoples of territories under their jurisdiction.
Article 1.
All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and
conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.
Article 2.
Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction
of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or
social origin, property, birth or other status. Furthermore, no distinction shall be made on the basis
of the political, jurisdictional or international status of the country or territory to which a person
belongs, whether it be independent, trust, non-self-governing or under any other limitation of
sovereignty.
Article 3.
Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.
Article 4.
No one shall be held in slavery or servitude; slavery and the slave trade shall be prohibited in all
their forms.
Article 5.
No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
Article 6.
Everyone has the right to recognition everywhere as a person before the law.
Article 7.
All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the
law. All are entitled to equal protection against any discrimination in violation of this Declaration
and against any incitement to such discrimination.
Article 8.
Everyone has the right to an effective remedy by the competent national tribunals for acts
violating the fundamental rights granted him by the constitution or by law.
Article 9.
No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.

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Article 10.
Everyone is entitled in full equality to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial
tribunal, in the determination of his rights and obligations and of any criminal charge against him.
Article 11.
1. Everyone charged with a penal offence has the right to be presumed innocent until proved
guilty according to law in a public trial at which he has had all the guarantees necessary for
his defence.
2. No one shall be held guilty of any penal offence on account of any act or omission which did
not constitute a penal offence, under national or international law, at the time when it was
committed. Nor shall a heavier penalty be imposed than the one that was applicable at the
time the penal offence was committed.
Article 12.
No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy, family, home or
correspondence, nor to attacks upon his honour and reputation. Everyone has the right to the
protection of the law against such interference or attacks.
Article 13.
1. Everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each
state.
2. Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country.
Article 14.
1. Everyone has the right to seek and to enjoy in other countries asylum from persecution.
2. This right may not be invoked in the case of prosecutions genuinely arising from non-political
crimes or from acts contrary to the purposes and principles of the United Nations.
Article 15.
1. Everyone has the right to a nationality.
2. No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his nationality nor denied the right to change his
nationality.
Article 16.
1. Men and women of full age, without any limitation due to race, nationality or religion, have
the right to marry and to found a family. They are entitled to equal rights as to marriage, during
marriage and at its dissolution.
2. Marriage shall be entered into only with the free and full consent of the intending spouses.
3. The family is the natural and fundamental group unit of society and is entitled to protection by
society and the State.
Article 17.
1. Everyone has the right to own property alone as well as in association with others.

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2. No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his property.


Article 18.
Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom
to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in
public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.

Article 19.
Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold
opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any
media and regardless of frontiers.
Article 20.
1. Everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association.
2. No one may be compelled to belong to an association.
Article 21.
1. Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country, directly or through freely
chosen representatives.
2. Everyone has the right of equal access to public service in his country.
3. The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be
expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage
and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures.
Article 22.
Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security and is entitled to realization,
through national effort and international co-operation and in accordance with the organization and
resources of each State, of the economic, social and cultural rights indispensable for his dignity
and the free development of his personality.
Article 23.
1. Everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favourable
conditions of work and to protection against unemployment.
2. Everyone, without any discrimination, has the right to equal pay for equal work.
3. Everyone who works has the right to just and favourable remuneration ensuring for himself
and his family an existence worthy of human dignity, and supplemented, if necessary, by
other means of social protection.
4. Everyone has the right to form and to join trade unions for the protection of his interests.
Article 24.
Everyone has the right to rest and leisure, including reasonable limitation of working hours and
periodic holidays with pay.

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Article 25.
1. Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of
himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary
social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability,
widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control.
2. Motherhood and childhood are entitled to special care and assistance. All children, whether
born in or out of wedlock, shall enjoy the same social protection.
Article 26.
1. Everyone has the right to education. Education shall be free, at least in the elementary and
fundamental stages. Elementary education shall be compulsory. Technical and professional
education shall be made generally available and higher education shall be equally accessible
to all on the basis of merit.
2. Education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the
strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It shall promote
understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial or religious groups, and
shall further the activities of the United Nations for the maintenance of peace.
3. Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that shall be given to their children.
Article 27.
1. Everyone has the right freely to participate in the cultural life of the community, to enjoy the
arts and to share in scientific advancement and its benefits.
2. Everyone has the right to the protection of the moral and material interests resulting from any
scientific, literary or artistic production of which he is the author.
Article 28.
Everyone is entitled to a social and international order in which the rights and freedoms set forth
in this Declaration can be fully realized.
Article 29.
1. Everyone has duties to the community in which alone the free and full development of his
personality is possible.
2. In the exercise of his rights and freedoms, everyone shall be subject only to such limitations
as are determined by law solely for the purpose of securing due recognition and respect for
the rights and freedoms of others and of meeting the just requirements of morality, public
order and the general welfare in a democratic society.
3. These rights and freedoms may in no case be exercised contrary to the purposes and
principles of the United Nations.
Article 30.
Nothing in this Declaration may be interpreted as implying for any State, group or person any
right to engage in any activity or to perform any act aimed at the destruction of any of the rights
and freedoms set forth herein.

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Topic 4
FLAG HERALDIC CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES
(RA 8491, S. 1998)

Nationalism and Patriotism
The history of nationalism and patriotism in our country is as old as the history of humankind.
The term “nationalism” is generally used to describe two things, first is the attitude that the members of a
nation have which includes the concept of national identity such as common origin, ethnicity and cultural
ties. The other one is the actions that are members of the nation take when seeking to achieve (or
sustain) self-determination. These involve having full statehood with complete authority over
domestic and international affairs. On the other hand, “patriotism” is love of and/or devotion to one's
country. However, patriotism has had different meanings over time and its meaning is highly
dependent upon context, geography and philosophy. Although patriotism is used in certain
vernaculars as a synonym for nationalism, nationalism is not necessarily considered an inherent part
of patriotism. Likewise, patriotism is strengthened by adherence to in native religion, particularly
because such a community usually has its holy place inside its motherland. This also implies evaluate
preference for a specific civic or political community.
Nationalism is characterized by an attachment of superiority to one's country, an aspiration for its
continuity, prosperity, and maintaining a high regard and respect for the laws, principles and policies
of that country.

SALIENT PROVISIONS OF FLAG AND HERALDIC CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES
(AS EMBODIED IN REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8491 OF 2002)
The Philippine Flag
A flag is a sacred and respected feature of the
nation which it symbolizes. Each nation’s flag has a
specific way in which it should be displayed and
folded.
Our national flag is it the symbol of our
country. It shows our unity as a people. It stands for
high ideals and noble heritage. Therefore, when you
show respect for the flag, you also show respect for
our country and people. One way to show respect is
to handle the flag properly.
The Philippine national flag is said to be the
primary symbol of the nation camaraderie, solidarity and unity. It is therefore the symbol of
nationalism and patriotism in our country. And so, let us learn more about its history and origin.
http://www.flagpictures.org/downloads/print/philippines
1.jpg
BLUE
RED

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The national flag of the Philippines is a horizontal bicolor with
equal bands of blue and red, and with a white equilateral triangle base
at the hoist side, at the center of the triangle is a golden yellow sun
with it primary rays (Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Pampanga, Tarlac,
Laguna, Batangas and Nueva Ecija) each containing three individual
rays; and that each corner of the triangle is a five-pointed golden
yellow star. The sun with eight rays in the Philippine flag represents
the first eight provinces that revolted and fought for independence
from the Spanish rule – Manila, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija,
Tarlac, Laguna, Batangas and Cavite.
The flag was first conceptualized by Emilio Aguinaldo. The first
flag was sewn in Hong Kong by Marceloa Agoncillo, her daughter
Lorenza and Doña Delfina Herbosa de Natividad, niece of José Rizal,
the Philippines’ national hero. The flag is displayed with the blue field
on top in times of peace, and with the red field on top in times of war.
The Philippine flag is unique in the sense that it can indicate a state of
war when the red field is displayed on top or on the observer’s left
when the flag is displayed vertically, with the white equilateral triangle
at the top end.
Flag Construction
The flag’s length is twice its width, which
translates into an aspect ratio of 1:2. The length of
all sides of the white triangle is equal to the width
of the flag. Each star is oriented in such manner
that one of its tips points towards the vertes at
which its located.
Flag Protocol
The flag should be displayed in all government
buildings, official residences, public plaza, and
schools everyday throughout the year. The days of
the 28
th
of May (National Flag Day) and 12
th
of June (Independence Day) are designated as flag days,
during which all offices, agencies and instrumentalities of government, business establishments,
institutions of learning and private homes enjoined to display the flag. But in recent years, the flag
days are now from May 28 to June 30 yearly. In Section 9 of R.A. No. 8491, the Philippine flag must
be permanently hoisted and illuminated at night at the following locations:
1. Malacañang Palce, the Presidential Residence
2. The Congress of the Philippines buildings:
a. Senate of the Philippines building
b. House of Representatives of the Philippines building (Batasang Pambansa Complex)
3. Supreme Court of the Philippines building
4. The Rizal Monument in Luneta, Manila
http://www.flagpictures.org/downloads/print/philippines
1.jpg
Section 10 of RA 8491
states that when the flag
is displayed on a wall
during peacetime, the
blue field is to the
observers’ left.
http://www.flagpictures.org/dow
nloads/print/philippines1.jpg
BLUE
RED

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5. Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite
6. Barasoain Church in Malolos Bulacan
7. Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers in La Union, Cemetery of Heroes (Libingan ng mga Bayani)
in Makati, Shrine of Valors & North Cemetery in Manila
8. Mauseleo de los Veteranos de la Revolucion
9. All international ports of entry
10. All other places as may be designated by the National Historical Commission of Philippines
(NHCP)
Half-mast
The flag may be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning. Upon the official announcement of the
death of the President or a former President, the flag should be flown at half-mast for 10 days. The
flag should be flown at half-mast for seven days following the death of the Vice President, the Chief
of Justice, the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House of Representatives
The flag may also be required to fly at half-mast upon the death of other persons to de determined
by the NHCP, for a period less than seven days. The flag shall be flown at half-mast on all the
buildings and places where the decedent was holding office, on the day of death until the day of
interment of an incumbent member of the Supreme Court, the Cabinet, the Senate or the House of
Representatives, and such other persons as may be determined by the NHCP.
When flown at half-mast, the flag should be first hoist to the peak for a moment then lowered to
the half-mast position. It should be raised to the peak again before it is lowered for the day.
Folding the Flag
1. Hold the flag at each four corners and pull it taut. The folder holds the corners at the end with the
blue and red fields.




2. Fold the flag in half, lengthwise, with the red field
covering the blue field. Pull it taut again making sure the open side’s edges are flush with one
another.

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3. Fold it in half again, the close side over the open side, again maintaining the flattening tension
and parallel, flush edges on the open side. The blue field should now be displayed face up.


4. Take the closed side’s field corner and fold it over the open side such that what was the bottom
edge is now
parallel and
flush with
the open side
forming a right triangle (a triangle with a 90°).


5. At the right angle, fold the flag again such that a new right
triangle is formed, still keeping the open edges parallel.


6. Fold the right-angled corner
of the new triangle over such that it
forms a new right triangle with what
had been the bottom edge now flush
with the side of the flag below it.







7. Continue this sequence of folds creating right
triangles until the flag is completely folded into a right
triangle bundle. The white field and yellow sun should now predominate the visible areas of the
flag.

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Prohibited Acts
In Section 34 of R.A. Act 8491, the flag cannot be used in the following rationales:
1. Defacing or ridiculing the flag by dipping the flag as a salute or adding additional marks on
the flag;
2. As a drapery, festoon, tablecloth, a covering, or as part of a costume or a uniform;
3. As trademark or for commercial or agricultural labels or designs;
4. As part of merchandise or in any advertisement or infomercial; and
5. As a pennant in hood, side, back and top of motor vehicles.
Moreover, the flag may not be displayed “horizontally face-up, or under any paintings, picture or
platform”. It may also not be displayed in “discotheques,
cockpits, night and day clubs, casinos, gambling
joints and places vice or where frivolity prevails.
Pledge
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag or
“Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas”
(distinct from Patriotic Oath of Allegiance or “Panatang
Makabayan”) should be recited while standing with
the right hand with palm open raised shoulder high.
Individuals whose faith or religious beliefs prohibit them
from making such pledge are permitted to excuse
themselves, but are required by law to show full respect
when the pledge is being rendered by standing at
attention.










The law makes no statement regarding the language in which the pledge must be recited, but the
pledge is written (and therefore recited) in the Filipino language.
Panunumpa ng Katapatan
sa Watawat ng Pilipinas
Ako ay Pilipino
Buong katapatang nanunumpa
Sa watawat ng Pilipinas
At sa bansang kanyang sinasagisag
Na may dangal, katarungan at
kalayaan
Na pinakikilos ng sambayanang
Maka-Diyos
Maka-tao
Makakalikasan at
Makabansa.

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The National Anthem
The National Anthem is entitled Lupang Hinirang. It shall always be sung in the national
language within or outside the country.
The rendition of the National Anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in accordance with the
musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe.
When the National Anthem is played at a public gathering, whether by a band or by singing or
both, or reproduced by any means, the attending public shall sing the anthem. The singing must be
done with fervor.
As a sign of respect, all persons shall stand at attention and face the Philippine flag, if there is one
displayed, and if there is none, they shall face the band or the conductor. At the first note, all persons
shall execute a salute by placing the right palm over their left chest. Those in military, scouting,
citizens military training and security guard uniform shall give the salute prescribed by the
regulations.









The anthem shall not be played or sung for me recreation, amusement or entertainment purposes,
except that the following of occasions:
1. International competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative:
Lupang Hinirang
Bayang magiliw,
Perlas ng silanganan.
Alab ng puso,
Sa dibdib mo'y buhay.
Lupang hinirang,
Duyan ka ng magiting
Sa manlulupig,
Di ka pasisiil.
Sa dagat at bundok,
Sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw,

May dilag ang tula
At awit sa paglayang minamahal.
Ang kislap ng watawat mo'y
Tagumpay na nagniningning.
Ang bituin at araw niya
Kailan pa may di magdidilim.
Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati't pagsinta,
Buhay ay langit sa piling mo.
Aming ligaya na pag may mang-aapi,
Ang mamatay ng dahil sa iyo.

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2. Local competitions;
3. During the “signing off” and “signing on” of radio
broadcasting and television stations;
4. Before the initial and last screening of films and before the
opening of theater performances; and
5. Other occasions as may be allowed by the NHCP
All officials and employees of the national and local government,
and any agency or instrumentality thereof, including government-
owned or controlled corporations, privately-owned entities or offices
displaying the national flag and government institutions of learning are hereby directed to comply
strictly with the rules prescribed for the rendition of the anthem. Failure to observe the rules shall be
ground for administrative discipline.
The National Motto
The National Motto shall be “MakaDiyos, Makatao, Makakalikasa at Makabansa.” (Setion 39,
R.A. No. 8491)
The National Coat-of-Arms
The National Coat-of-Arms shall have: Paleways of two pieces, azure and gules; a chief argent
studded with three mullets equidistant from each other; and, in point of honor, ovoid argent over all
the sun rayonnant with eight minor and lesser rays. Beneath shall be the scroll with the words
“REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS”, inscribed thereon (Section 41, R. A. No. 8491)



The Great Seal
The Great Seal shall be circular in form, with the arms as
described in the preceding section , but without the scroll and the
inscription thereon. Surrounding the whole shall be a double
marginal circle within which appear the words “Republika ng
Pilipinas”. For the purpose of pla cing the Great Seal, The color of
the arms shall not be deemed essential but tincture representation
must be used.
The Great Seal shall also bear the National Motto. It shall
be affixed to or placed upon all commissions signed by the
President and upon such other official documents and papers
of the Republic of the Philippines as may be provided by law,
or as may be required by custom and usage. The president
shall have custody of the Great Seal. (Section 42-43, R.A. No. 8491)
The 12 Little Things We can Do for our Country as Small Acts of Patriotism
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coat_
of_arms_of_the_Philippines#/media/
File:Coat_of_arms_of_the_Philippines
.svg
BLUE RED
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wik
ipedia/commons/b/bf/Home_1_0
2_50.jpg

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First: Follow traffic rules. Follow the law.
1. Traffic rules are the most basic of our country’s laws. If we learn to follow them, it could
be the lowest form of national discipline we can develop as a people. A culture of discipline
is crucial to our destiny as a nation.
2. Whenever we follow traffic rules, we shoe our love for our neighbour, our love for the
Filipino.
Second: Always ask for an official receipt.
1. Official receipt is important to an individual in order to check if the transactions made in a
department store, grocery, and other establishments for completeness of record. They can
be used for claim of deduction or refund, to decrease the tax payments, minimize audit,
and hard evidence if there is a need to clarify on the item purchased
2. Whenever we help our government in helping other people, we show our love for our
neighbour.
Third: Don’t buy smuggled goods. Buy local. Buy Filipino.
1. Our money should support our economy, not the economy of other countries. Buying
Filipino means supporting the Filipino.
2. Whenever we support one another as Filipinos, we show our love for our neighbors.
Fourth: Speak positively about us and our country.
1. Every Filipino is an ambassador of our country. Each one of us, whenever we maybe, is a
salesman of our country.
2. Whenever we speak positively of our people, we show our love for our neighbors.
Fifth: respect the traffic officers, policemen, and other public servants.
1. Respect honors and dignifies a man. It compels him to do his job right.
2. There is love of neighbour whenever we respect those in authority.
Sixth: Throw our garbage properly. Segregate. Recycle. Conserve.
1. The Philippines is the country given to us people. It is the birthplace of our race. It is the
home of the Filipinos. We should keep it beautiful.
2. When we keep our environment and country clean, we show our love for our people.
Seventh: Support your Church.
1. When we help our Church, we help our Creator in his works on earth.
2. Whenever we help our church, we shoe love for our neighbour.
Eighth: During elections, do your solemn duty.
1. When we fight for our votes, we fight for our right to make our own destiny, as a people
and as a nation.
2. There is love of neighbour when we elect good leaders for our country and people.
Ninth: Pay your employees well.

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1. A company must bring prosperity not only to its owners but also to its employees. Blessings
must be shared. It builds families. It builds our nation.
2. There is love of neighbour when we value and pay our employees appropriately.
Tenth: Pay your taxes.
1. Taxes are the lifeblood of our government. It is what builds our public schools, hospitals
and roads. It is what pays our teachers, and other public servants.
2. There is love for neighbour whenever we pay our taxes properly so our government can help
more people
Eleventh: Adopt a scholar or a poor child.
1. Investing on our youth is investing on our country’s future. Every family who can afford,
should adopt one poor child as a scholar.
2. There is love of neighbour whenever we help a child get an education.
Twelfth: Be a good parent. Teach your kids to love our country.
1. If we start planting seeds of patriotism in the hearts and minds of our youth today, they
would become giant patriots of our country someday.
2. There is love of neighbour whenever we teach and raise our children as patriots, by loving
our country through loving our people.
Love of neighbour, God’s Second Highest Commandment is contained in each of these 12
Little Things.
Adaptation from:
12 Little Things Filipinos Can Do To Help Our Country
by Alexander Lacson

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Topic 5
GOOD CITIZENSHIP VALUES

The Basic Values of the Filipinos
NSTP as a citizenship training scheme focuses on translating the good citizenship values as
reflected in the Preamble of the Constitution into concrete action in building a better Philippines.
Hence emphasis in this input is placed on the 16 basic values based on the 1987 Philippine
Constitution.










Meaning of Preamble
The term preamble is derived from the Latin word “preambulare” which means “to walk
before”. It is the prologue of the Constitution. Clustered below are the good citizenship values that are
reflected in the Preamble of the 1987 Philippine Constitution:







Preamble
We, the sovereign Filipino people,
imploring the aid of Almighty God,
in order to build a just and humane society
and establish a government
that shall embody our ideals and aspirations,
promote the common good, conserve and develop our patrimony,
and security to ourselves our posterity the blessings of independence
and democracy under the rule of law and regime of truth,
justice, freedom, love, equality, and peace,
do ordain and promulgate this Constitution.

The Maka-Diyos
Cluster
6.Faith in the
Almighty God
7.Respect for life
8.Order
9.Work
10.Concern for the
family and future
generations
The Makatao Cluster
1.Love
2.Freedom
3.Peace
4.Truth
5.Justice
The Makatao Cluster
11.Unity
12.Equality
13.Respect for the law
and government
14.Patriotism
15.Promotion of
common goods
The Makakalikasan Cluster
16.Concern for the
environment

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THE GOOD CITIZENSHIP VALUES CLUSTER
The Maka-Diyos Cluster
 Faith in the Almighty God
The Bible says, “But without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must
believe that He is, and that He rewards those who diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6).
 Respect for Life
We ordained for the Children of Israel that if any ones slew a person – unless it be for murder or
for spreading mischief in the land – it would be as if he slew the whole people: and if anyone saved a
life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole people. Then although there came to them Our
Messengers with clear signs, yet, even after that, many of them continued to commit excesses in the
land (Quran 5:32).
 Order
Assuredly, we have sent down the Book to you in right form for the good of man. Who guided
himself by it does so to his own advantage, and who turns away from it does so at his own loss. You
certainly are not their keeper. (Quran 39:41).
 Work
Confucius says, “Give fish to a man, he will have food to eat for a day; teach him how to fish and
he shall have food throughout his lifetime.” And if man will not work, he shall not eat” (2
Thessalonians 3:10).
 Concern for the Family and Future Generations)
“The family is an essential factor in the general, social and even political life. Constant living
together of husband and wife, and of parents and children, contributes to the development of a strong
sense of duty, of an aptitude of heroic sacrifices, and of the love by future generations of the
traditional and moral conquests of those who preceded them. The family is an indispensable element
of social cohesion and equilibrium” (as cited in http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jose-panganiban-
artist-guild/).
I shall live a life that is based on the right values and serve as an inspiration to others who may be
struggling to strengthen their own faith in God.
1. I have the gift of faith in God;
2. The gift of faith in God in me needs to be nurtured;
3. My life is strengthened by my faith in God; and
4. A strong faith in God, coupled with other important values, will improve my life and those of
others.

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The Makatao Cluster
 Love
“When man has love, he is no longer at the mercy of forces greater
than himself, so he, himself becomes the powerful force” (Leo.
Buscaglia). Moreover, “Love is the will to extend oneself for the purpose
of not nurturing one's own or another's spiritual growth” (M. Scott Peck)
 Freedom
According to Pope John Paul II, “freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the
right to do what we ought.”
 Peace
It is always great to remember, what the Bible says, “Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be
called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).
An unknown author wrote about the value of peace, as such:
Juanito was an idealistic person. He wanted everybody to be happy and lead meaningful lives. So
one day, he strode to church and prayed hard for people world peace. He continued praying for the
same intention for a year yet, nothing seemed to change.
One day, he decided to narrow down his scope and pray for peace in
his own country instead. He prayed for the same intention for another
year, yet violence and disturbance still seem to be in an upsurge.
Anxious for his prayer to be finally heard. He decided to pray for peace within his family instead.
He kept his intention for another year with no significant result.
Finally on the verge of prostration. I decided to pray for peace. He prayed for his intention for
the next year. Each time he did so, he felt more at peace with himself and his personal issues and his
family, his neighbourhood until it reached a point in time that Juanito was considered a man of peace,
a friend of everybody especially of the neediest among his countrymen.
The Preamble of the UNESCO Constitution also reminds us that,
“since wars begin in the minds of men, it is the minds of men that the
defenses of peace must be constructed”.
 Truth
It is worthwhile to be familiar and understand some of the following famous quotations and
anecdotes which make us better and wiser persons:
1. Quotations
“A man who seeks truth and loves it must be reckoned precious to any human society.”
(Frederick the Great)
“An honest man can feel no pleasure in the exercise of power over his fellow citizens.”
(Thomas Jefferson)
“No legacy is rich as honesty.” (William Shakespeare)
Moral Lesson: Love is a
powerful force in nurturing
man.
Moral Lesson: Let there be
peace on earth…and let it
begin with me.
Moral Lesson: Let the
peace of the nation begin
in the minds of its
citizens.

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2. Anecdotes (compiled by J. Maurus)
When Mahatma Gandhi appeared for London Matriculation Examination, the paper on
general knowledge contained the following question: “What is more golden than gold?”
 Justice
According to Martin Luther King Jr., “Injustice anywhere is threat to justice everywhere.”
To Jimmy Carter (1978), “The law is not the private property of lawyers, nor is justice the
exclusive province of judges and juries. In the final analysis, true justice is not a matter of courts and
law books, a commitment in each of us to liberty and mutual respect”.
In Matthew 7:12, it says, “Treat others the way you want to have them treat you”.
And by the Institute for Development Education for Research
Communication, “Justice is giving every man his due”.

Moral Lesson: Giving
justice to anyone is a fair
treatment to everyone.

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The Makabayan Cluster
 Unity
The value of unity can be realized by practicing the virtues stated in the following quotations:
“Behold how good and pleasant it id for the brethren to dwell together in unity.” (Psalms 133:1)
“If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided
against itself, the house will not be able to stand.” (Mark 3:24-25)
“Make my joy complete by being of the same kind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit,
intent on one purpose.” (Philippians 2:2)
“As a body in one, though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one
body, so also Christ.” (1 Corinthians 12-12)
“Remember, upon the conduct of each depends the fate of all.” (Alexander the Great)
 Equality
To appreciate the value of equality, consider this anecdote:




Skulls
Andrew Maria Almonte, MMHC
Source: http://coursehero.com
One day, a group skulls in the cemetery had a conversation.
“Hey”, said a skull to another, “who were you when you were alive?”
“Yes, I was once a slave,” replied another skull. “He was a tyrant, a ruthless
and merciless king!”
“I am your king remember?”
“Shut up!” shouted the slave-skull. “You are no longer my king nor am I slave
Anymore! We are the same now – rotten skulls!”

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The Makakalikasan Cluster
 Concern for the environment



















Some examples of how participants may cultivate and encourage the value of Concern for the
Environment for student-trainees:
1. Develop a more conscious habit of keeping your surroundings clean as well as using
environmental resources such as water and electricity wisely and prudently.
2. Have a deeper understanding of the dire state of the environment and in your own capacity
contribute to the work of preserving it.
3. Understand the process of recycling and apply this process in school and in your homes.
4. Protect rivers and waterways along the community by teaching people alternative waste
disposal systems and by encouraging them to use the rivers for livelihood and other meaningful
purposes.
Local communities depend on their citizens to help make it a great place to live and work.

The Giving Tree
Once there was a tree… and she loved a little boy. And every day the boy would gather her
leaves, and make them into a ground and play king of the forest. The boy would also love to
play hide and seek, climb her branches and eat her mangoes. At the end of the day when he
was tired, the boy would sleep in her shade. And the boy loved the tree…very much…and the
tree was happy very happy.
But the time went on… and the boy grew older. And the tree was often alone. Then one
day, the boy went to the tree who said “Come, boy, come and climb up my trunk, swing from
my branches, eat my mangoes, play in the shade and be happy.”
But the boy stayed for a long time… Then one day, the boy came back and the tree was
happy that she could barely speak “Come boy,” she whispered, “come and play.” “I am too old
to play,” said the boy. “I want a boat that will take me far away from here. Can you give me a
boat?” “Cut down my trunk and make a boat,” said the tree “Then you can sail away… and be
happy.” And so the boy cut down the trunk and made a boat and sailed away. And the tree was
happy… but not really.
And after a time, the boy came back again. “I am sorry boy,” said the tree. “But I have
nothing left to give you… my mangos are gone.” “My teeth are too weak for mangoes,” said the
boy. “My branches are gone,” said the tree. “You cannot swing on them.” “I am too old to
swing on branches,” and the boy. “My trunk is gone,” said the tree. “You cannot climb.” “I am
too tired to climb,” said the boy. “I'm sorry,” sighed the tree. “I wish that I could give you
something… but I have nothing left. I am just an old stump. I am sorry.” “I don't need very much
now,” said the boy. “Just a quiet place to sit and rest. I am very tired.” “Well” said the tree,
straightening herself up as much as she could, well, an old stump is good for sitting and resting
come boy, sit down and rest.” And the boy did and the tree was happy.
Personal Resolution
I am steward of creation. I understand that my very existence and that of generations after
me are threatened by the destruction of the environment. I pledge to a more discerning
individual by using all environmental resources properly and prudently. I shall develop conscious
effort to preserve and protect the environment from further degradation. I shall treat the
environment as though it were my own masterpiece, giving it great care and priding myself of
its wonders and beauty. I shall ever be thankful of the grace of God and the dedication of
people in their work to ensure that my family and I have clean air to breathe, clean water to
drink, clean oceans to launch adventures and above all, a life that’s healthy and future worthy
to be shared with the nest generations.

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Topic 6
VOTER CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION

Suffrage is the human right to vote, for the Philippines, is indicated in three documents: the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR); the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights; and the Philippine Constitution. They all call for universality of the right; equality in access to
public service; and secrecy of votes.
The right is exercised during elections, and as a citizen-voter, you are entitled to free and
informed choice on whom to vote. Every political choice and decision you make will determine the
kind of government that will serve the country.
SUFFRAGE Defined
It refers to the right and obligation to vote of qualified citizens in the election of certain national
and local officers of the government and in the decision of public questions submitted to the people.
Scope of Suffrage
1. Election
It is the means by which people choose their officials for definite and fixed periods and to
whom they entrust, for the time as their representatives, the exercise of powers of
government.
2. Plebiscite
It is the name given to a vote of the people expressing their choice for or against a
proposed law or enactment submitted to them.
3. Referendum
It is the submission of a law or part thereof passed by the national or local legislative
body to voting citizens of a country for their ratification or rejection.
4. Initiative
It is a process whereby the people directly propose or enact laws. Congress is mandated
by the Constitution to provide as early as possible for a system of initiative and referendum.
5. Recall
It is a method by which a public officer may be removed from the office during his tenure
or before the expiration of his term by a vote of the people after registration of a petition
signed by a required percentage of the qualified voters.
Suffrage as a mechanism for political participation
The Constitution guarantees that we are a sovereign people, where all government authority
comes from. Sovereignty or the power to govern is exercised directly through public officials elected
by people. The will of the people, then is the best expressed in clean, orderly and honest elections.
Qualifications of a Voter
1. Citizens of the Philippines (male or female)
2. 18 years old and above on the day of elections
3. A resident of the Philippines for one year and in the city or municipality where he proposes to vote
for at least six months before the election

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4. Those not disqualified by law (as specified in Section 11 of R.A. 8189 of 1996)
Under the Overseas Absentee Voting Law
1. Filipino citizens abroad
2. 18 years old and above on the day of elections
3. Immigrants with affidavit of intent to resume residence in the Philippines
4. Permanent residents with affidavits of intent to resume residence in the Philippines
The matrix below showed the roadmap on election setting in the Philippines

Reasons of Disqualification of a Voter
The following are disqualified (P.D. 1187 or R.A. 8189 of 1996) from voting:
1. Person sentenced to be imprisoned for not less than one year

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2. Person found to have committed rebellion, sedition, violation of anti-subversion and firearms
laws, or any crime against national security or involving disloyalty to the government
3. Insane or incompetent person
Powers and Functions of the National and Local Officials
Level Executive Legislative
National Level President 12 Senators
(Vice President)
1 District Representative of
Congressman/woman
1 Party List Group
Provincial Level Governor Vice Governor – Sangguniang
Panlalawigan Members
Barangay Level Punong Barangay PB
Members of the Sangguniang Barangay
(Barangay Kagawad and Sangguniang
Kabataan Chair)
Powers and Functions Control all executive departments
and all implementing agencies of the
government
Stature making, constitution making
and amending of constitution
Appointment of high officials in the
government (head of executive
departments/cabinet member,
ambassadors, public ministers,
consuls, officers of armed forces)
Appropriations/financial functions
Oversight functions
Seeing to the execution and
implementation of laws and policies
Informational or the power to
condemn inquiries in aid of legislation

Interaction of Legislative and Executive in the Law-making Process
In the legislative process, the President can either approve or veto a law passed by Congress. It
would require two-thirds (


⁄) vote by the legislative body to finally pass the vetoed version into law.
At the local level, chief executives can also veto an ordinance on the ground that is prejudicial to
the public. In turn, the Sanggunian or the local legislative body can override the veto, also by two-
thirds (


⁄) vote of the Sanggunian.
How Filipinos Voters Vote
A 2003 update study on voting behavior looks at how Filipino voters choose their candidates;
1. Characteristics of the candidate that can be of benefit to the voter of characteristics such as
madaling lapitan, malinis na pagkatao, matulungin sa nangangailangan, nagtataguyod ng
programang pangkaunlaran
2. Political machinery which includes the political party, being in the opposition, and good
campaign strategies

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3. Popularity or being a celebrity or endorsed by a celebrity
4. Endorsement of network and organizations such as the family, the church and the group
leaders.

Election Practices and Irregularities that Citizens must Watch Out For
Bribery, intimidation, and various forms of cheating, particularly:
1. Registering in several names and/or precincts;
2. Vote-buying/vote-selling/paid not to vote;
3. Flying voters
4. Voting in the name of other persons/dead persons or relatives;
5. Threat to supporters, voters and members of election inspectors;
6. Landzaderal ballot-switching and ballot box-snatching;
7. Marking ballots and other election documents to make it invalid;
8. Dagdag-bawas during counting and canvassing
Holding of Elections
A. Every 2
nd
Monday of May for national and local elections
1. President and Vice-President: every six (6) years
2. Senators, Congressmen, Provincial, City and Municipal Officials: every three (3) years
B. Every last Monday of October, every three (3) years for
barangay and SK officials
C. Every three (3) years from March 1993 – ARMM
Elections
Election Process
1. Registration Day
2. Revision Day
3. List of Voters
4. Casting of Votes
5. Counting of Votes
6. Preparation of Electoral Returns and Other Reports
7. Distribution of Election Returns
8. a. Board of Canvassers (for President and Vice-President)
b. Board of Canvassers (for Senators)
c. Board of Canvassers
9. proclamation of Winning Candidates
Efforts to Modernize Election Process in the Philippines
Republic Act of 8436 or the Election Modernization Act of 1997 calls for the use of automated
election system in the country as early as May 1998 elections. This system will make use of
appropriate technology for voting and electronic devices to count and canvass votes.
Automated election had its debut in the Philippines in 2010.

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Implementation of RA 8436 through COMELEC Resolution 02-0170
(Phase of Modernization
Phase 1: Voter registration and Validation System
Phase 2: Automated Counting and Canvassing Machine
Phase 3: Electronic Transmission of Election Results
Aside from voting in elections, how can I, as a citizen-voter, participate in political affairs?
1. Initiative and Referendum. Through the system of initiative and referendum, the people can
directly propose, enact, and reject laws at the local levels.
Also through initiative, citizens may directly propose amendments to the Constitutions by
a petition of at least 12% of the total number of registered voters, where 3% of registered
voters in each legislative district is represented.
2. Plebiscite. Through plebiscites, the people approve or reject the call of a constitutional
convention to propose changes in the Constitution and. At the local level, express their will on
certain local issues.
3. Sectoral Representation. The party-list system of representation givers sectors the chance to
be represented in Congress together with our Congressmen/women. Under this system, voters
support a sectoral party or organization or coalition and its issues and programs.
4. Local Special Bodies. Ordinary citizens are called to sit in local special bodies such as the
local health boards, school boards, peace and order councils and development councils for
consultation.
5. Barangay Assembly. A barangay assembly (assembly of all residents, 15 years old and above,
of the barangays) meets to discuss the activities and finances the Sangguniang Barangay and
matters affecting the barangay.
The assembly has the power to hear and judge the report of Sangguniang Barangays (SB)
performance. It can also recommend matters for legislation by SB and decide on the adoption
of initiative to propose, enact or reject ordinances.
6. Absentee Voting System. Republic Act 9189 or the Absentee Voting Law provides for a
system, which allows qualified Filipinos abroad to vote in national elections in the
Philippines.
Good Government, Good Leaders and Good Citizen-voters
1. A good government is one that engages citizen participation and is responsive to the
needs of the people.
2. Good leaders are those who uphold accountability to the people and promote transparent
and people-oriented programs.
3. Good citizen-voters are those who value their right of suffrage as to keep themselves
informed, involved and vigilant.
Some Action Points for Citizen-voters in Exercising the Right of Suffrage
Prepare to exercise the right of suffrage and the right to an informed and free choice.
1. Register during the period allotted for voter registration.
2. Be informed of the issues, platform and personalities of the political candidates.
3. Set specific guidelines in choosing government leaders in terms of the candidate’s social
affiliations and interests, competence, foremost, the interest and welfare of the citizens in

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their program of government. This process can be used to remind and hold the elected leaders
accountable to the promises made during the campaign.
During Elections
1. Vote according to your informed conscience.
2. Protect the integrity of your own vote from any undue influence.
3. Volunteer in organizations that work for clean and peaceful elections.
4. Watch out for instances of cheating in the elections and inform authorities and the rest of the
electorate of such activities.
After Elections
1. Be vigilant in counting and canvassing of votes.
2. Attend consultations and public hearings, and participate in local special bodies.
3. Legislative advocacy – a process where citizens talk with the law makers and other
implementers in the government to ensure that the concerns and welfare of the general public
are included in the discussion and making of laws.
4. The citizen voter can also engage in political and electoral process in other ways such as:
a. Making views known to the elected representatives;
b. Supporting/campaigning for a political party, candidate or party-list group;
c. Supporting initiatives of civil society organization to ensure honest and peaceful
elections; and
d. Running of office.