SENATOR Robinhood Padilla is pushing to strengthen values formation, discipline, and character development among Filipino children as they grow up in an increasingly digital world shaped by gadgets, social media, and modern technology.

Padilla filed Senate Bill No. 19, which seeks to strengthen the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) System by amending Republic Act No. 10410, or the Early Years Act of 2013.

The proposed measure seeks to explicitly integrate values formation, character development, discipline, and good moral conduct into early childhood education.

According to Padilla, developing children’s character is just as important as equipping them with academic knowledge and technological skills.

“It is not enough for our children to simply learn how to read, write, and use technology. At an early age, we must instill respect, discipline, responsibility, and compassion. Intelligence without good values and proper character is not enough to build responsible citizens,” he said.

The bill also aims to cultivate “moral resilience” among young learners to help them navigate the challenges of the digital age with integrity, responsibility, and respect for others.

In addition, it promotes community-based activities that encourage children to develop a sense of responsibility toward their communities and the environment.

In his explanatory note, Padilla cited studies linking excessive screen time among children to developmental delays, attention problems, and poor academic performance. With more social interactions taking place online, he stressed that character education is essential in fostering responsible digital citizenship.

The proposed measure likewise reinforces the role of parents and caregivers as the primary nurturers, disciplinarians, and educators of children. It also requires that discipline under the ECCD curriculum adhere to the principles of positive discipline that uphold the dignity and rights of every child.

To further strengthen program implementation, the bill encourages provincial governments to establish Provincial Early Childhood Care and Development Offices.

It also seeks to increase the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s annual contribution from its gross income to P1 billion for another five years to improve facilities for young learners.

The proposed funding will be used to build National Child Development Centers and convert existing day care centers into Child Development Centers in local government units nationwide.

Padilla said raising a generation of responsible, compassionate, and principled Filipinos begins in early childhood and requires the collective support of families, schools, communities, and the government.

“If we want to raise a generation that loves the country, respects others, and stands up for what is right, we must begin while they are still young. Discipline starts at home, and it should be reinforced by schools, communities, and the government,” he said.