The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines upholds four fundamental core values: Maka-Diyos, Makatao, Makakalikasan, and Makabansa. These values serve as the bedrock of the Philippine education system, guiding the development of Filipino learners into well-rounded, responsible, and productive citizens.
Understanding DepEd's Core Values
These four values are deeply integrated into the curriculum and school environment, fostering holistic development among students. They represent the ideals and principles that DepEd aims to instill in every Filipino learner, encouraging them to live by these tenets both within and outside the school premises.
Here’s a detailed look at each core value:
Maka-Diyos (God-Fearing/Spirituality)
This value emphasizes spiritual well-being, faith, and a strong sense of purpose. It encourages individuals to act with integrity, honesty, and a strong moral compass guided by their beliefs. Maka-Diyos promotes respect for diverse religious perspectives and fosters a sense of accountability, ensuring ethical conduct in all aspects of life.
Makatao (Humane/People-Oriented)
Focusing on human dignity, respect, compassion, and the promotion of human rights, Makatao encourages individuals to treat others with kindness, fairness, and empathy. It recognizes the inherent worth of every person, regardless of background, fostering a harmonious community where mutual understanding and solidarity prevail.
Makakalikasan (Environmentally Conscious)
This value instills a deep sense of responsibility towards the environment and natural resources. It encourages active participation in environmental protection, conservation, and sustainable practices. Makakalikasan promotes appreciation for nature and the understanding that human well-being is intrinsically linked to the health of the planet.
Makabansa (Patriotic/Nationalistic)
Makabansa cultivates love for country, patriotism, and a strong sense of national identity. It encourages active and responsible citizenship, respect for national symbols, laws, and culture, and a commitment to the welfare and progress of the Philippines. This value promotes unity and collective action for the common good.
Summary of DepEd Core Values
| Core Value | Key Principle | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Maka-Diyos | Upholding spiritual beliefs and acting with integrity. | Moral uprightness, faith, and ethical conduct. |
| Makatao | Valuing human dignity and practicing empathy. | Respect, compassion, and human rights. |
| Makakalikasan | Fostering environmental responsibility and conservation. | Appreciation for nature, sustainable living, and ecological balance. |
| Makabansa | Cultivating patriotism and responsible citizenship. | National identity, love for country, and collective progress. |
Practical Application in Education
These core values serve as crucial guiding principles for the Philippine education system, shaping the curriculum, teaching methodologies, and the overall school environment. They are integrated into various aspects of student life to nurture well-rounded individuals.
- Curriculum Integration: Values education is explicitly woven into various subjects, promoting discussions and activities that align with these principles.
- School Programs: Initiatives like tree-planting activities (Makakalikasan), community outreach programs (Makatao), and regular flag ceremonies (Makabansa) reinforce these values through practical experience.
- Character Development: Teachers and school staff model and encourage behaviors that reflect these values, fostering a positive and ethical learning atmosphere within the school community.
- Civic Engagement: Students are encouraged to participate in activities that promote responsible citizenship and contribute meaningfully to their local communities and the nation at large.
The commitment to these core values ensures that Filipino learners are not only academically proficient but also morally upright, socially responsible, and environmentally conscious individuals, ready to contribute positively to society. More information on DepEd's guiding principles can be found on the official Department of Education website.
