MANILA, Philippines — Senator Sonny Angara has called for the signing into law of a bill that mandates the integration of Filipino-Muslim and indigenous peoples’ history, culture and identity in the study of Philippine history in both basic and higher education in the country.
The proposed Integrated History Act, which was recently passed by both houses of Congress, is now awaiting President Aquino’s signature.
“There is a need to integrate the history, culture and identity studies of Filipino-Muslims and indigenous people in the grand narrative of Philippine history if we want to create an inclusive history that accounts for all Filipinos,” said Angara, principal author of the bill.
The measure mandates concerned agencies of the government to consult recognized experts on Filipino-Muslim and indigenous peoples’ history, culture and identity in the formulation of the curriculum for an inclusive and integrative study of Philippine history, including the writing, printing and publication of textbooks and other reading materials.
Angara stressed that one way of effectively instilling further understanding of Filipino-Muslim and indigenous peoples’ history, culture and identity in the minds of the youth is by including such subjects in the education system.
“As the country elected its first president from Mindanao, it is high time that we aim for a more inclusive study of our history to foster a culture of peace in the country,” he added.
Source: http://www.senate.gov.ph/