SENATOR Pia Cayetano has filed a bill seeking to strengthen the values of patriotism, nationalism, and bayanihan among Filipino youth by integrating specialized programs into the basic education curriculum of both public and private schools.

Senate Bill No. 777, or the proposed Youth Patriotism and Bayanihan Act, mandates the establishment of a Fundamental Program for all students from Grades 1 to 12 and a Specialized Program for Senior High School learners.

Cayetano said the measure fulfills the constitutional mandate to recognize the vital role of youth in nation-building and to instill patriotism and civic responsibility.

“The goal is to instill discipline, moral integrity, and love of country in every Filipino learner, while equipping them with the knowledge and skills to serve their communities and nation with honor,” she said.

The Fundamental Program includes components such as Physical Fitness, Arts and Cultural Heritage, Community Outreach, Basic Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM), and Basic Security.

Meanwhile, Senior High School students may take a Specialized Program focusing on Internal Security and Peace and Order, Advanced DRRM, Security Studies, and Career Development. This track provides deeper, skill-based training for civic service or careers in fields like public safety, defense, engineering, science, and IT.

Completion of either the Fundamental or Specialized Program is required for graduation to tertiary education. The Department of Education will oversee program design and implementation in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, National DRRM Council, and National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

Cayetano noted that preparing the youth to face global challenges—including climate change, resource scarcity, and potential conflicts over food, water, and land—requires both values and practical skills.

“With this law, we aim to raise a generation that is not only academically competent but also deeply committed to their nation’s well-being and future,” she said.