SENATOR Robin Padilla has filed a measure seeking to make the study of the Philippines’ sovereignty claim over North Borneo, now known as Sabah, a mandatory part of the basic education curriculum in all public and private schools.

Under Senate Bill No. 1659, or the proposed Sabah Mandatory Education Act, students would be taught the historical, legal, and diplomatic basis of the country’s claim over Sabah through lessons that are factual, balanced, and age-appropriate.

Padilla said the Sabah issue should remain part of the national consciousness, stressing that it is closely linked to the country’s history, sovereign rights, and national identity.

The bill proposes integrating the topic into subjects such as Philippine History, Araling Panlipunan, Social Studies, Civics and Culture, and other related courses to be identified by the Department of Education (DepEd).

Among the topics to be covered are the history of the Sultanate of Sulu and its relationship with Sabah, relevant treaties and historical documents, the legal and constitutional basis of the Philippine claim, developments in international law and diplomacy, and the importance of resolving territorial disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law.

Padilla said the measure is not intended to encourage conflict but to promote historical awareness, civic education, and patriotism.

The bill directs the Department of Education, in coordination with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and other concerned agencies, to develop standardized teaching guides, learning modules, and instructional materials on the Sabah issue.

It also requires DepEd to conduct teacher training and capacity-building programs to ensure educators are equipped to teach the subject accurately, responsibly, and objectively.

Padilla said public unfamiliarity with the Sabah issue, historical distortion, and selective narratives have weakened many Filipinos’ understanding of the country’s claim.

He added that the proposed measure aims to strengthen patriotism, nationalism, and informed citizenship among Filipino learners while promoting diplomacy, peace, and respect for international law.