LEYTE 4th District Rep. Richard Gomez is pushing for a measure that seeks to institutionalize a comprehensive national education program to equip Filipino youth with knowledge of their legal rights, civic responsibilities, and the rule of law.

House Bill No. 11442, filed by Gomez, proposes the establishment of the National Child Rights and Rule-of-Law Education Program across various educational levels and youth development initiatives nationwide.

The proposed measure covers early childhood care and development, basic education, alternative learning systems (ALS), higher education, and government-supported youth training programs.

Under the proposal, age-appropriate learning modules will be developed to promote understanding of human dignity, children’s rights, civic accountability, anti-corruption, integrity, and peaceful dispute resolution.

The measure also seeks to strengthen existing initiatives, including Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) and Values Education, without diminishing their current implementation.

Covered educational institutions will likewise be required to maintain updated local referral directories connecting students and young people to appropriate child protection, social welfare, mental health, and legal assistance services.

The bill also encourages the active participation of parents, families, educators, community leaders, civil society organizations, and youth groups through positive caregiving initiatives and community-based orientation activities.

In his explanatory note, Gomez cited the constitutional mandate of the State to protect and promote the physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being of the youth.

He emphasized the importance of grounding education in respect for human rights and international conventions to help young Filipinos understand their rights and responsibilities.

Through the proposed legislation, Gomez aims to equip children and young people with the knowledge and practical skills to recognize harmful situations, seek timely and appropriate legal assistance, and respect the rights and dignity of others.