Values education plays a crucial role in shaping responsible and morally upright citizens. In the Philippines, the Values Education Program (VEP) was formally developed in 1988 under the leadership of Dr. Lourdes R. Quisumbing, who served as Secretary of the Department of Education, Culture, and Sports (DECS) from 1986 to 1989.
Her pioneering efforts ensured that values education became a primary thrust of the Philippine educational system, influencing generations of Filipino learners.
The Development of the Values Education Program (VEP)
The Values Education Program (VEP) was introduced in 1988 to integrate values formation into the curriculum, with a focus on four core Filipino values:
-
Maka-Diyos (God-fearing)
-
Makatao (Humane)
-
Makakalikasan (Nature-loving)
-
Makabansa (Patriotic)
This initiative sought to provide students with a strong moral and ethical foundation, ensuring that education was not just about academics but also about character development.
DECS Order No. 6, s. 1988: Institutionalizing Values Education
To formalize the implementation of values education in schools, Secretary Quisumbing issued DECS Order No. 6, s. 1988, titled "Institutionalization of Values Education in the Philippine Educational System." This landmark policy:
✅ Made Values Education a separate subject in the curriculum, ensuring dedicated time for values formation.
✅ Established a structured framework to guide teachers in instilling core Filipino values among students.
✅ Mandated teacher training programs to equip educators with the necessary skills to effectively teach values education.
✅ Promoted a holistic approach by integrating values formation into all subjects and daily school activities.
The Lasting Legacy of Secretary Quisumbing
Secretary Lourdes R. Quisumbing was a firm believer in education as a tool for nation-building. Her vision was to develop Filipinos who are self-actualized, socially responsible, and committed to creating a just and humane society.
Today, her efforts continue to shape the Philippine education system. The Values Education Program remains a cornerstone of Filipino education, evolving into subjects like Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (EsP) in the K to 12 curriculum.
Conclusion
The institutionalization of Values Education under Secretary Lourdes R. Quisumbing was a game-changer for Philippine education. Thanks to her leadership and DECS Order No. 6, s. 1988, Filipino students continue to benefit from a curriculum that prioritizes both academic excellence and moral integrity.
What are your thoughts on Values Education? Do you think it has made a lasting impact on Filipino students? Share your thoughts in the comments! 👇💬