The Educational Decree of 1863: A Landmark in Philippine Education
Education in the Philippines has a rich and complex history, shaped by various colonial powers and local influences. One pivotal moment in this journey was the Educational Decree of 1863, which laid the groundwork for the modern educational system. Let’s delve into the significance of this decree and its impact on the spread of public schools and language acquisition.
Background
Pre-Spanish Times
Before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers, education in the Philippines was informal and decentralized. Children received vocational training from their parents and tribal tutors, focusing more on practical skills than academics.
Spanish Colonization and Changes
The Spanish missionaries replaced tribal tutors, and education became religion-oriented. Initially, education was accessible only to the elite. However, in 1863, significant changes occurred with the enactment of the Educational Decree.
The Educational Decree of 1863
Key Provisions
Primary Schools: The decree mandated the establishment of at least one primary school for boys and girls in each town. These schools were the responsibility of the municipal government.
Normal School: A normal school for male teachers was established under the supervision of the Jesuits. This institution aimed to train competent educators.
Compulsory Spanish: The teaching of Spanish became compulsory in primary instruction. This move aimed to promote literacy and facilitate communication.
Impact and Challenges
The decree significantly expanded access to education, but challenges remained. Primary instruction was free, but the quality varied. Moreover, the curriculum was limited, and resources were scarce.
Legacy and Evolution
The Educational Decree of 1863 set the stage for subsequent reforms. It paved the way for a secularized and free public school system during American rule. The Thomasites, American teachers, played a crucial role in shaping education in the early 20th century.
Conclusion
The Educational Decree of 1863 was a milestone in Philippine education. It democratized access to learning, laying the foundation for the inclusive and diverse educational system we have today. As we reflect on our past, let us appreciate the vision and efforts of those who championed education during a pivotal era in our history.
References:
- Department of Education. (n.d.). History. Retrieved from here
- Hardacker, E. P. (2012-2013). The Impact of Spain’s 1863 Educational Decree on the Spread of Philippine Public Schools and Language Acquisition. European Education, 44(4), 8-30. Read more
- Wikipedia. (n.d.). Education in the Philippines during Spanish rule. Retrieved from here
| Year | Official Name of Department | Official Titular Head | Legal Bases |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1863 | Superior Commission of Primary Instruction | Chairman | Educational Decree of 1863 |
| 1901-1916 | Department of Public Instruction | General Superintendent | Act. No. 74 of the Philippine Commission, Jan. 21, 1901 |
| 1916-1942 | Department of Public Instruction | Secretary | Organic Act Law of 1916 (Jones Law) |
| 1942-1944 | Department of Education, Health and Public Welfare | Commissioner | Renamed by the Japanese Executive Commission, June 11, 1942 |
| 1944 | Department of Education, Health and Public Welfare | Minister | Renamed by Japanese Sponsored Philippine Republic |
| 1944 | Department of Public Instruction | Secretary | Renamed by Japanese Sponsored Philippine Republic |
| 1945-1946 | Department of Public Instruction and Information | Secretary | Renamed by the Commonwealth Government |
| 1946-1947 | Department of Instruction | Secretary | Renamed by the Commonwealth Government |
| 1947-1975 | Department of Education | Secretary | E.O. No. 94 October 1947 (Reorganization Act of 1947) |
| 1975-1978 | Department of Education and Culture | Secretary | Proc. No. 1081, September 24, 1972 |
| 1978-1984 | Ministry of Education and Culture | Minister | P.D. No. 1397, June 2, 1978 |
| 1984-1986 | Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports | Minister | Education Act of 1982 |
| 1987-1994 | Department of Education, Culture and Sports | Secretary | E.O. No. 117. January 30, 1987 |
| 1994-2001 | Department of Education, Culture and Sports | Secretary | RA 7722 and RA 7796, 1994 Trifocalization of Education Management |
| 2001 – present | Department of Education | Secretary | RA 9155, August 2001 (Governance of Basic Education Act) |