SENATOR Robinhood Padilla has filed a measure to strengthen and update the country’s childhood care and development system, addressing current challenges to Filipino children’s development.

In Senate Bill 2938, Padilla proposes amendments to Republic Act 10410, the Early Years Act of 2013, to further enhance the early childhood care and development system.

“Socio-cultural and civic engagement activities help young children learn about their communities, develop social skills, and build a sense of responsibility. To complement the GMRC and values education, and early childhood care and development programs, this measure seeks to promote the involvement of young children in socio-civic activities as a method of enforcing positive discipline while shaping their moral and personal development in line with the State’s national citizenhood goals,” he said.

Padilla expressed concern that children as young as eight years old use mobile devices for entertainment, including videos and games. By 2019, 10% of kindergarten children were already experiencing eye problems. Worse, excessive screen time among young children has been linked to developmental delays, attention issues, and poor academic performance. Some children have also become lazier, more disrespectful, and socially withdrawn.

A survey by the National Education Association showed an increase in disruptive and even violent behavior among students during the 2022-2023 school year.

Republic Act 10410 currently emphasizes the importance of Good Manners and Right Conduct and Values Education programs during early childhood. Under Padilla’s bill, the National ECCD System would further enhance values, character, and spiritual development in young children, fostering moral resilience to help them navigate the challenges of modern technology.

The bill also reinforces the role of parents and caregivers as disciplinarians and educators for children aged 0 to 4 and encourages provincial governments to establish Provincial Early Childhood Care and Development Offices.