SENATOR Robinhood Padilla on Saturday urged the Department of Education, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines to formulate an enhanced Rizal program to be integrated into the basic education curriculum.

This is to make sure Filipinos learn the values promoted by national hero Dr. Jose Rizal at an early age.

Padilla is set to file this coming week a resolution seeking such an enhanced program, to develop moral character, personal discipline, civic conscience, and the duties of citizenship.

“Rizal’s example from over a century ago demonstrates the relevance of his teachings to today’s youth: even in the face of adversity, young Filipinos can pursue their goals and become passionate about learning, as long as they remain focused and put in a lot of effort to attain their dreams,” he said.

“It is without a doubt that the life, works and writings of Rizal have gained recognition as vital sources of a sense of patriotism and nationalism to our people, especially to our youth,” he added.

According to Padilla, Rizal is a significant figure in the nation’s history, and his life’s legacy through his literary works continues to serve as an inspiration to generations of Filipinos.

Rizal’s poem ‘To the Filipino Youth’ highlighted the role and capability of the youth in shaping the future of our Motherland, and urged them to use their capabilities, talents, and skills to serve those in need.

Currently, Padilla noted Rizal’s values extolling untarnished love of country is included in subjects in Grades I to VI.

His works ‘Noli Me Tangere’ and ‘El Filibusterismo’ are required reading in third and fourth years of high school.

“There is a need for the Department of Education, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts to formulate an enhanced program about Rizal’s life, novels, poems, anecdotes, and all other literary works, including those written abroad, to be incorporated as part of the basic education curriculum,” he said.