During public hearing Cebuanos oppose K+12 program

CEBU, Philippines - Cebuanos yesterday expressed their vehement opposition to the proposed Enhanced K to 12 (K+12) Basic Education Program during a public hearing conducted by the House committee on education.

At least two Cebuano lawmakers have articulated the sentiments of the Cebuanos by openly questioning the proposed measure. Cebu Second District Rep. Pablo Garcia and Cebu City North District Rep. Rachel “Cutie” Del Mar believe that adding more years in the basic education curriculum is not the answer to the deteriorating quality of education in the Philippines.

“If the government is ready…have you asked…are the parents ready?” Garcia asked.

He explained that the additional two years will just add to the burdens of the parents who are already having a hard time sending their children to school.

Garcia said there is no need of additional two years since Filipinos are already excelling globally with the current educational system.

Del Mar supported Garcia saying that the additional two years would basically mean another expense for the students since most of the students in the province comes from the less privileged family.

“I would definitely vote ‘NO’,” Del Mar answered when asked what will be her stand when voting comes.

Rofilo Toledo, an engineer representing the business sector of Danao City, said that instead of adding two more years in the educational cycle, it would be better to just improve the present educational system.

“It is not the length but the quality,” Jake Rodriguez, a licensed teacher, said. He pointed out that the students need more facilities and equipment to improve their learning.

Daphne Daffodil Quiachon, an incoming senior at Naga National High School, said the problem is with the teachers and not with the subjects. She added some teachers in their school are boring thus making the class dull.

“Paano po matututo ang mga estudyante kung hindi po marunong magturo ang guro,” Quiachon expressed. She continued such problem should be solved first before taking new actions.

Aurora Rep. Juan Edgardo Angara admitted that in three public hearings that they have had so far, Cebu has the strongest opposition. The House committee one education has already conducted public hearings in Iloilo and Davao.

Angara admitted he is in favor of the proposed measure but said additional budget should be allocated for the program.

K+12 means Kindergarten and the 12 years of elementary and secondary education. The model that is currently proposed by the Department of Education is the K-6-4-2 Model. This model involves Kindergarten, six years of elementary education, four years of junior high school (Grade 7-10), and two years of senior high school (Grade 11 to 12).

Two years of senior high intend to provide time for students to consolidate acquired academic skills and competencies. –(FREEMAN)