Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House BILL No. 480.

Introduced by Representative Roman T. Romulo

EXPLANATORY NOTE

According to Article I Section 13 of the 1987 Constitution, it is the policy of the
State to recognize the vital role of the youth in nation-building and shall promote and
protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being. It shall
inculcate in the youth patriotism and nationalism and encourage their involvement in
public and civic affairs.

Patriotism and nationalism are further accentuated during the times when our
people are not only fighting for survival but also for freedom. During World War II, our
nation became involved when the quest for world domination of superpowers occupied
our lands.

Nevertheless, this great war united the Filipino people and cemented the country as a
nation of patriots ready to defend the motherland against a superpower at all costs

World War II in the Philippines is an experience in our national past which “was
felt by every Filipino of every age in every inhabited region of the archipelago” (Alfonso
J. Aluit) It showed the magnificent valor and exceptional strength of character of
Filipino soldiers, guerrillas, and civilians alike.

Inculcating the youth with an intensified sense of patriotism, nationalism, and
respect for the rule of law entails a comprehensive and holistic pedagogical approach
to educating them on World War in the Philippines that will include relevant chapters
in world history and, most importantly, in Philippine military history.

This bill seeks to mandate the instruction of World War II in the Philippines in
Higher Education Institutions which shall result in preserving the stories about the
relentless struggle and great heroism of our World War Il veterans, and about the
crucial role played by the Filipino guerillas who turned and advanced the tide or

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winning against the Japanese which led for the Filipinos to the very freedom and
liberties which we are all enjoying right now.

In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.

ee

ROMAN T. ROMULO
Lone District, Pasig City


ROR

Caran

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Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 280

Introduced by Representative Roman T. Romulo

AN ACT
INTEGRATING A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY OF PHILIPPINE HISTORY DURING
WORLD WAR II INTO THE HIGHER EDUCATION CURRICULUM

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines
in Congress assembled:

SECTION 1. It is the policy of the State to promote and protect the physical,
moral, intellectual and social well-being of the youth and inculcate the values of
patriotism and nationalism to foster love of humanity, respect for human rights, and
encourage involvement in the political and civic affairs of the country.

To this end, the State shall put in place a mechanism that shall highlight the
role of national heroes in the historical development of the country and thus educate
the youth on the values of patriotism and nationalism and preserving for posterity the
stories on the great struggle and heroism of Filipino soldiers who fought the Japanese
occupational forces during the war.

SEC. 2. A comprehensive study of Philippine History during World War II shall
be integrated into and shall cover not less than fifty percent (50%) of the mandatory
Philippine History subject being offered under the general education curriculum in
higher education courses of all higher education institutions (HEIs) in the country.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) shall, pursuant to its mandate
under Republic Act No. 7722, otherwise known as the "Higher Education Act of 1994",
develop in close collaboration with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office-Department
of National Defense (PVAO-DND), a program to execute and implement the provisions
of this Act.


In support of the study of the history of World War il, all HEls are encouraged
to keep in their libraries adequate books, resources, and reference materials on World
War | as it transpired in the Philippines.

SEC. 3. Within one hundred eighty (180) days from the effectivity of this Act,
the CHED shall, in coordination with the PVAO-DND, formulate and issue the rules
and regulations necessary to implement the provisions of this Act. Other governmental
entities may be tapped jointly by the principals as resource or advisory groups in this
undertaking.

Resource persons such as prominent historians, history professors, members
of historical associations, college or university presidents or administrators, faculty
members and students may also be invited jointly by CHED and PVAO-DND to
participate.

SEC. 4. If any part or provision of this Act shall be declared unconstitutional or
invalid, the other provisions not affected, shall remain in full force and effect.

SEC. 5. All laws, decrees, executive orders, memorandum orders,
memorandum circulars, administrative orders, ordinances or parts thereof which are
inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or modified
accordingly.

SEC. 6. Notwithstanding the non-issuance of its IRR, this Act shall take effect
fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general
circulation.

Approved,