National Concerns

MODULE 3: NATIONAL CONCERNS
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CHAPTER 3: NATIONAL CONCERNS

Hi, Thomasians!! In the previous module you have learned what are expected of you as
Christians and your role in the society as Thomasians. In this module, you will be given
a task to examine the current state of our country by being oriented to societal issues
and problems and try to think for possible solutions. You will learn more about the
different societal problems that hinders our country from progressing as contained in
the Millennium Development Goals (MDG). Also, in this module you will discover about
the Millennium Development Goals and its implications to our national problems.

At the end of this module, you are expected to:
1. To find out about Millennium Development Goals and their implication to society
and how they become hindrance to our much desired development
2. To understand the nature of the different issues and problems of the society
3. To identify possible solutions to vis-a-vis the pressing problems to the country
4. Recognize the role of youth in National Security.

Social issues and problems are ubiquitous in social living. Today as our lives become
more complex, so are these social issues and problems. Knowing what they are and
how they affect our society becomes a necessity in order for us to confront. Sad to say,
we are numbed by the system and became indifferent to these issues. We became part
of the problem instead of the solution. We can work to together in combating these
societal problems that have been burdening our nation for years.

The Millennium Development Goals
The Millennium Development Goals (MDG) was launched. It is a pledge set forth by the
United Nation as the result of the agreement among 189 countries, including the
Philippines to eradicate extreme poverty and other multiple deprivations.
Goal 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
This aims to eradicate poverty and hunger by reducing by half the proportion of people living on
less than a dollar a day, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all, including
women and young people and halve the proportion of people who suffer from hunger.
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Goal 2: Achieve universal primary education
This target to ensure that by 2015, everywhere, boys and girls alike will be able to complete a full
course of primary schooling.
Goal 3: Promote gender equality and empower women
This intends to eliminate gender disparity in primary and secondary education preferably by 2005,
and at all levels by 2015

Goal 4: Reduce child mortality
This aims to reduce by two thirds the mortality rate among children under five.

Goal 5: Improve maternal health
This seeks to reduce by three quarters the maternal mortality ratio and achieve universal access to
reproductive health.

Goal 6: Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases
This aims to halt and begin to reverse the spread of HIV/AIDS, incidence of malaria and other major
diseases. It also target to provide universal access to treatment for HIV/AIDS for all those who need
it.

Goal 7: Ensure environmental sustainability
This plans to integrate the principles of sustainable development into country policies and
programmes; reverse loss of environmental resources, reduce biodiversity loss, reduce by half the
proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation, and
achieve significant improvement in lives of at least 100 million slum dwellers, by 2020
Goal 8: A global partnership for development
It aims to develop further an open, rule-based, predictable, non-discriminatory trading and
financial system. This also addresses the special needs of the least developed countries and
landlocked developing countries and small island developing States. In addition, this will deal
comprehensively with the debt problems of developing countries. Under this goal, this aims provide access to
affordable essential drugs in developing countries through cooperation with pharmaceutical companies. Lastly, in
cooperation with the private sector, make available the benefits of new technologies, especially information and
communications.

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LESSON 1: EDUCATION IN THE PHILIPPINES
At the end of the lesson, I hope you will be able to:
1. Discuss the different issues in the Philippine education
2. Develop an understanding on the government initiative sin improving the
education system in our country
3. Develop awareness on the state of the educational system, focusing on
significant issues and concerns

I. The importance of Education in us
Education plays very important role for every individual it provides the skills that
prepare us physically, mentally and socially for the world of work. In addition it is a
critical weapon against poverty. Education is generally seen as the foundation of society
which brings economic wealth, social prosperity and stability in life. This may also be
the best investment for the people because well educated persons have more
opportunities to get a job or be hired immediately.

II. Issues in Philippine Education
Let us now explore and discuss issues and problems that need to be addressed
in our education system.
A new President was elected and also a new secretary of the Department of
Education is appointed he is Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro. He will have to bear a heavy
load, as the United Nations goal of primary schooling for all by 2015 falls under the
Aquinos administration.
Let us, investigate on the state of education right now and find out those the
issues that the new secretary must address.

Source: quesober.com (Google)
Do you know him?

He is the major proponent of
the K+12 Basic Education Program in the
Philippines

Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro
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The 2011 budget for basic education is P207.27 billion. It grew by 18.46% this
year by (P32billion) from the 2010 basic education budget of P175 billion. The allotment
for basic education is 12.06% of the P1.645 trillion of the national government budgets.
According to World Bank, if a country wants to attain quality education for all, the
average share of education budget in developing countries should not be lower than 20%
of the total budget. On the other hand, UNESCO stated that the international standard for
allocating budget for basic education is 6% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In the
case of the Philippines around 2% of the GDP goes to education from 2001 to 2007.
A. Government budget for education
Do you think our governments top priority is education?
The 1987 Philippine Constitution has mandated the government to
allocate the highest proportion of its budget for education. However, the
Philippines still has one of the lowest budget allocations among the ASEAN
countries. Even though, the budget for Department of Education is the top
priority of our government, it seems that there are still some problems that need
to be addressed.
Based on the Department of Education (DepEd) there was an acute shortage of
almost everything they revealed that for the school year 2011-2012.

DepEd needs 101,612 teachers; 135,
847 comfort rooms; 66,800 classrooms
and 2,573 chairs.

In addition, the 2010 inventory of DepEd, elementary public schools have
456,067 classrooms, 509,637 teachers, 15,960,353 seats, and 316,112 toilets.
Does it mean that the budget allocated is not enough, reason for having
shortage in teachers, comfort rooms, class rooms and chairs?
Do you think that the government has the budget to address those
needs?
Let us now discuss how the government allocates budget for education.

Source: reuters.com
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B. Affordability of Education
There is a big disparity in educational achievements across social groups.
For example, the socioeconomically disadvantaged students have higher dropout
rates, especially in the elementary level. And most of the freshmen students at
the tertiary level come from relatively well-off families.
Based on the Article XIV, Section 1 of the Philippine constitution
articulated that The state shall protect and promote the right of all citizens to
quality education at all levels and shall take appropriate steps to make such
education accessible to all.

According to Senator Escudero, estimated that of the 100 children who entered Grade
1, only 86 moved on to Grade 2, 76 to Grade 4,
67 to Grade 6, and only 65 finally completed
the six years of elementary education.

Are you enlightened now about the present situation of our education?
Have we forgotten the passage of Dr. Jose Rizal in La Juventud Filipina?

Sa Kabataang Pilipino
Itaas ang iyong noong aliwalas
ngayon, Kabataan ng aking pangarap!
ang aking talino na tanging liwanag
ay pagitawin mo, Pag-asa ng Bukas!

C. Quality of Education
Both DepEd and the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) revealed
that the quality of education in the country continues to deteriorate, citing the
declining achievement rates among elementary and high school students. (Based
on the National Achievement Test (MPS) of 2010)

Image source: reefbuilders.com
Source: maagangpaalam.wordpress.com
.com
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only an average of 68.01% and 45.56% of the test questions were
correctly answered by elementary and high school students, respectively.

The NAT is taken by Grade 3, Grade 6 and Second Year high school
students in both public and private schools. (It is used to determine the students
knowledge based on their level.)The National Statistics Office (NSO) stated that
the unemployment rate in January 2011 was estimated at 7.4%, while the
employment rate was recorded at 92.6%, and that there were more unemployed
males than females.

D. Education Mismatch
There was a large proportion of mismatch between training and actual
jobs. This is the major problem at the tertiary level and it is also the cause of the
existence of a large group of educated unemployed. For instance, there are a lot
of nurses registered by annually in the Philippines but the actual number of the
available nursing job opportunities in the country is very low.
I am sure many questions have crossed your mind why these things
happen. In the midst of all this issues and problems, there is still something that
you need to know and be proud of being Filipino.
Do you know that our country has good standing in-terms of literacy rate?
The good news is that based from census of population and housing
Among the household population 10 years and over 9 out of 10 cannot read and
write or basically illiterate and while, 92.28% were literate or able to read and
write a simple message. Females with 92.47% are much higher as compared
with males by 92.10%.
That is a good sign, it only shows that majority of our population are able to read
and write.
For further discussion, what is literacy and why is it important?
Traditionally, literacy means the ability to read and write and is also
essentially needed in todays society. Added to this is the ability to communicate
with other and the ability to comprehend and solve problems. High school
graduates have a level of literacy and a skill set from which they can learn and
improve their abilities to function and enhance their lives. From this level of
literacy, adults can improve their skills in other types of literacy such as
academic, non-academic, cultural and technical literacy.

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III. Government Initiative: Transforming for Better Education
Improving the education system in our country is part of the agenda of President
Noynoy Aquinos administration. As mentioned in his first State of the Nation Address
(SONA), he included the 12-year education cycle as part of his reform programs,
saying,

Let us see, what the programs of Aquino Government are:
What are under the 10 point basic education agenda of the Aquino
administration.
12-year basic education
Expand the basic education cycle, from a 10-year cycle to a globally-
comparable 12 years, for public school children.

Universal pre-schooling for all
All public school children will have preschool as their introduction to
formal schooling by 2016, and will make this available to all children
regardless of income.

Madaris education as a sub-system within the education system
Full basic education for all Muslim Filipino children. This is to give proper
respect to their culture while providing a sound curriculum in English,
Filipino, Science, and Math. Madaris education, with subject in Arabic
Language and Islamic Values Education That can be integrated in public
schools.

Magkakapondo na po para maipatupad ang
mga plano natin sa edukasyon. Mapapalawak
natin ang basic education cycle mula sa
napakaikling sampung taon tungo sa global
standard na labindalawang taon.

1
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5
6
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8
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Technical vocational education as an alternative stream in
senior high school
Vocational programs will be included in the 12-year basic education
program
Every child a reader by Grade 1
Every Child a Reader Program (ECARP) aims to train each child so that
he/she is able to read with comprehension as early as Grade 1.

Science and Math proficiency
Rebuild the science and math infrastructure in schools so that we can
produce more scientists, engineers, technicians, technologists and
teachers in our universities so that this country can be more globally
competitive in industry and manufacturing

Assistance to private schools as essential partners in basic
education
Increase government assistance to private education. A strong private
school system will strengthen public schools by providing parents an
alternative and not adding to the overcrowding.

Medium of instruction rationalized
DepEd will be using mother-tongue or bi-lingual as medium of
instruction for Pre-school to Grade 2. Learn English well and connect to
the world. Learn Filipino well and connect to our country. Retain
peoples dialect and connect with heritage.

Quality textbook
DepEd will not tolerate poor textbook quality in public schools.
Textbooks will be judged by three criteria: quality, better quality, and
more quality.

Covenant with the local governments to build more schools
Build more schools in areas where there are no public or private
schools in partnership with local governments.

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Have you heard the new program of the Department of Education that being
proposed for this S.Y. 2011-2012, as part of the agenda of President Aquino?
This is the K+12!

After considering various proposals and studies, the model that is
currently being proposed by DepEd is the K-6-4-2 Model. The program seeks
to add two years to the current 10-year basic education curriculum, and make
graduates more competitive. This model involves Kindergarten, six years of
elementary education, four years of junior high school (Grades 7 to 10) and two
years of senior high school (Grades 11 to 12). The two years of senior high
school intend to provide time for students to consolidate acquired academic skills
and competencies.

Now, I hope you already gained deeper understanding on the government
initiative in improving the education system of our country and insights on the
issues that need to be addressed.

This only show that basic literacy is essential for everyone this becomes
the basis of education as one of the critical components of human development:
it becomes the foundation upon which all learning throughout life is based. It
also, provides the means for greater participation in all spheres of society. Low
levels of literacy can limit individuals ability to take part in decision-making and
thus making it complicated for a person to exercise their fundamental citizenship
rights. Moreover, because the outcomes of one generation affect the
opportunities of the next, care must be taken to ensure that children have
sufficient and equitable access to education- enhancing experiences, regardless
of their socio-economic background, in order to prevent sowing the seeds of
social exclusion at an early age.
In the context of UST-NSTP we believe your role is important as a youth
to contribute in nation building and aims to encourage you to become civic
leaders and volunteers. If you are enrolled in Civic Welfare Training Service
(CWTS) component your activities are geared towards the general welfare and
betterment of life for all the members of the community. These are improving
health, education, environment, recreation, facilities and the morale of the
citizenry. Along with it is the Literacy Training Service (LTS) which is designed for
you to teach literacy and numeracy skills to children, out of school youth and
other sectors of the society that are in need of your service.

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LESSON 2: HEALTH
It seems that our country will not run out of problems and this reduces the spirit of
millions of Filipinos. As you read further through this module, you will encounter
different societal problems that are probably not new to you. In this lesson, we will
tackle the problems and issues regarding health. The World Health Organization (WHO)
defined health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well being and not
merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
At the end of this lesson, I hope you will be able to:
1. Discuss the different issues in health condition in the Philippines
2. Develop consciousness in different diseases in our country

A. Maternal Mortality
Did you know that every year, half a million around the world die from complications
of pregnancy and childhood?
According to WHO, severe bleeding infections, unsafe abortions,
hypertensions and obstructed labor are the main causes of these deaths. In
addition, more than 90% of reported deaths occur in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.
Ironically most of these can be prevented at small cost.
In order for us to understand more about it, let us first define Maternal
Mortality. It is the death of woman during pregnancy or within 42 days of giving
birth due to complications arising from aggravated by pregnancy. With an estimated
230 maternal deaths occurring every 100,000 live births in the
Philippines, we are indeed behind our neighboring countries like Thailand (110
Maternal Mortality) Malaysia (62 Maternal Mortality) and in Singapore (14 Maternal
Mortality). Furthermore, why do you think these incidents happen if they can be
prevented? Isnt it alarming the figures regarding Maternal Mortality in Philippines is
so high than in our neighboring countries in South East Asia?
Aside from this includes the 42.4% of Filipino infants who suffer from
maternal health and nutrition, inadequate care during pregnancy and delivery, lack
of essential care for the newborn infants, birth injury asphyxia** and problem
relating births. Furthermore, Philippines is being left behind when it comes to the
United Nations Millennium Development Goal number 5 Improve of Maternal
Health in which our country is rated as low in probability of attaining the target.
Out of three (3) million pregnancies that occur every year, half were unplanned and
one-third of these end in abortions, according to a 2006 report of the Allan
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Asphyxia**: a condition in which an extreme decrease in the amount of oxygen in the
body accompanied by an increase of carbon dioxide to loss of consciousness or even
death.
Guttmacher Institute conducted in the Philippines. Induced abortion was the fourth
leading cause of maternal deaths.
A lot of proposed solutions are made and come up by the Philippine
Government in order to alleviate reproductive health issues such as: a) New Born
Screening test in which it is a simple procedure to find out if your baby has a
congenital metabolic disorder that may lead to mental retardation and even death if
left untreated. b) Safe Motherhood and Womens Health Project in which this
program is to educate and empower women with regards to proper maternal care.
c) Promotion of Breastfeeding program / Mother and Baby Friendly Hospital
Initiative (MBFHI) in which it promotes the breast feeding of mother to its children
as the natural and healthier way of nourishment. But nothing is much as
controversial as the Reproductive Health and Population Development Act of 2008.
So what is Reproductive Health? What is the bill all about? Why does lots of
people are against it? How are you affected by this bill? Read further to know the
answers to these questions.

B. Reproductive Health Bill
Before we discuss the Reproductive Health and Population Act of 2008,
let us first get acquainted with the concept of Reproductive Health.
It is referred as the state of physical, mental and social well being and not
merely the absence of infirmity, in all matters relating to the reproductive
system and to its absence of disease or infirmity. This implies that people
are able to have satisfying and safe sex life, that they have the capability
to reproduce and the freedom to decide if, when and how often to do so,
provided that these are NOT against the law.

Now that we know what Reproductive Health is, let us find out more about the
proposed bill.
You may be aware on the growing debate regarding the proposed Reproductive
and Population Development Act of 2001. This bill was authored by Representative
Edcel Lagman. This bill aims to grant public funding to family planning methods
using artificial contraceptives and sex education for students. It also gives access to
reproductive health information to avoid unwanted and untimely pregnancies and to
limit the countrys population.
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http://2010presidentiables.wordpress.com/reproductive-health-bill-5043/text-of-rh-bill-no-5043/
http://www.varsitarian.net/editorial_opinion/editorial/20110315/new_rh_bill_deadly_anti_constitution
http://www.varsitarian.net/editorial_opinion/editorial/dishonest_mediocre_anti_poor
http://www.varsitarian.net/breaking_news/20110324/junk_rh_bill_%E2%80%93_ust
On other hand, the Catholic Church strongly opposed the bill that artificial
contraceptives as anti-life and immoral. According to the teachings of the Church,
married couples should practice only natural family planning methods, which require
sexual absence when the woman is ovulating. In addition, the Church stressed that
instead of allocating funds to family planning methods, the Government should
provide funding to medical services to improve the reproductive health of Filipinos.
According to Catalina Macaruog, Commission Representing Woman, the bill is to
intensify sex education in the school curriculum. The program will start in the grade
five levels up to fourth year high school. Before the Reproductive Health bill was
filed, a study was done by the University of the Philippines Population Institute in
2002. The study revealed that around 3.5 percent of the entire elementary students
are already sexually active and that the premarital sex among adolescent increased
to 27 percent in 2002 when they compromised 15.1 million or 20 percent of the
population from 20 percent in 1994.
Consequently, sex education is to be promulgated in the school curriculum to
ensure that children will be oriented properly through the guidance of the teacher.
As a Filipino youth, what do you think of this pressing issue? Do you believe that
this bill will solve these problems? If you were given the opportunity, how would you
resolve the current health related problems?
For further readings please refer to the link below:

C. HIV/AIDS
The ingredients for an (AIDS) epidemic are all present [in the country]. Oras na lang
ang hinihintay bago ito maging problema
-Ferchito Avelino, Philippine National AIDS Council Secratariat
Secretary Avelino warns the public concerning the growing number of HIV/AIDS
infected Filipinos. In a recent study of Department of Health, there were 1,305
confirmed new HIV infections during the first 10 months of 2010, the highest
accumulation of cases within a single year in the Philippines since 1984.
To combat HIV/AIDS is a vital target of the United Nations Millennium
Development Goals (MDG).
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In order for us to have a better understanding of HIV/AIDS, let us first define the
term. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a medical condition caused
by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The latter gradually attacks the
immune system which is vital in preventing infections in general. In other words,
HIV attacks the soldiers of the human body that prevent other infections from taking
place. Consequently, the immune system will be too weak to fight off further
invading organisms.
The AIDS virus can be transmitted in many ways, specifically through blood and
body fluids. First is through sexual contact. People who do not practice unprotected
sexual contact, who have multiple sexual partners, who participate in sexual
intercourse that involves the vagina, penis, rectum (anus) or mouth and those who
engage in sexual activities with an HIV infected partner and/or other sexually
transmitted diseases (STD) are at greater risks. Second and the most common, is
through exposure to HIV infected blood and blood products. However, there is
doubt that blood transfusion causes transmission since blood products are screened
and thoroughly tested before they are released. Third, direct contact of open
wounds or mucous membrane with contaminated blood, body fluids, semen and
vaginal discharge has also been found to increase the risk of contracting the
disease. Fourth, some evidence suggest the possibility of acquiring the infection
through being accidental pricked by contaminated needles or other sharp objects.
Lastly, it could also be transmitted during pregnancy, during birth or breastfeeding.
On a positive note, HIV is not transmitted by handshakes or other casual non-sexual
contact, coughing or sneezing or by blood-sucking insects such as mosquitoes, not
even through sharing the same swimming pool.
The virus may not cause recognizable symptoms for a long period after the initial
exposure. It takes an HIV infection to be diagnosed as AIDS from about less than a
year to 15 years or longer, depending how strong the immune system is.
Disturbingly, other people think that there is cure for AIDS. As of 2009, NO
VACCINE was available to neither cure nor prevent HIV infections. Actually, it is not
the virus directly causes the death of the patient, but, the spread of infection and
complications in an otherwise compromised immune system.
All forms of HIV/AIDS therapy are focused on improving the quality of life by
attempting to slow down or halt the replication of the virus. Therapies also aim to
treat or prevent presentation of other infections and common AIDS related
comorbidities. As has long been said, prevention is always better than a cure
To further continue on the exploring the foci of MDG 6, the proceeding sections
shall explore on Malaria and other Diseases.

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Figure on the left side shows the Malaria Risk area
in the Philippines. http://www.traveldoctor.info/
vaccinations/philippines.113.html

D. Malaria
A staggering 58 out of 80 provinces in the Philippines are
Malaria endemic.
-The National Academy of Science and Technology and
National Institutes of Health

Malaria remains to be one of the major causes of
death in many regions in the Philippines. Statistics
reveal that in 2009, 60.4% cases came from Luzon,
39.5% from Mindanao and interestingly, only 0.1% from
the Visayas (DOH).
Malaria is a disease caused by the Plasmodium
virus. It is transmitted through the bite of the female
Anopheles mosquito that usually happens between dusk
and dawn. This is because of the nocturnal feeding habits of the latter. There are four
types of Plasmodium virus, (ovale, vivax, falciparum, malariae) of the four, Plasmodium
falciparum is the most lethal.
Once a person acquired the virus, it multiplies in the liver, and then invades and
destroys the red blood cells (RBC). Usual signs and symptoms are recurrent chills,
fever, profuse sweating, anemia, body malaise and increase in the size of the liver and
spleen. Early detection of the disease could be done through observation of the sign
and symptoms and through blood smear which is the most accurate way of diagnosing
the infection. Early management should also be started and completed by taking anti-
malarial drugs to prevent the spread of the infection and drug resistance, or worse,
death.
One should therefore take protective and preventive measures to eliminate the
source of infection reduce mosquito contact and the density of the mosquito population
(DOH). The following are some sustainable measures that are affordable, applicable
and appropriate under local conditions.
Stream Clearing the anopheles mosquito prefers a low lighted breeding
place. Cutting the overhanging vegetation along stream banks exposes
this breeding site to sunlight making it unfavorable for the mosquito.
House Spraying the use of insecticide in the households
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Stream Seeding this involves breeding of fish that consumes larvae of
the mosquito to prevent the propagation of the vector population
Using of treated mosquito nets or curtains (kulambo) involves the use
of a mosquito net / curtains soaked in an insecticide solution. This is
used as a protective measure during sleeping time at night
Wear clothes that covers the whole body this prevents contact of the
mosquito especially in the evening
Avoiding night activities Anopheles mosquitoes prefers biting from 9 pm
to 3 am
Planting Neem trees or other insect repelling plants
The use of domestic animals this measure diverts mosquito bites from
man to these animals
Drug intake before going to endemic areas before going to a malaria
endemic area, Chloroquine must be given once a week, 1-2 weeks before
arriving at the area. For pregnant woman, it should be given for the
whole duration of the pregnancy
In May 2010, the National Academy of Science and Technology and the
National Institutes of Health discussed ways on how to combat the dreaded
Malaria in the Philippines. Representatives of Malaria endemic areas were
present in the said event including those from Apayao, Sarangani, Sulu and
Palawan. It has been found that fund allotment and the willingness of local
government units to provide counterpart funding contribute to eliminate the
vector (carrier mosquito) with the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor
residual sprayings (IRS), and behavioral modifications of the people to correctly
use these means.
Reducing Malaria cases in the country requires the joint effort of the
government and the people. We are all called for to mobilize in fighting off its
proliferation.
Malaria is not the only mosquito borne infection widespread in the
country. The next section will discuss about Dengue Hemorrhagic fever.

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E. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (H-Fever)
Dengue is the fastest emerging arboviral infection" in the world. Out of the 2.5 billion
people at risk globally, about 1.8 billion or more than 70 percent live in the Asia-Pacific
region.
-World Health Organization, GMA News
Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection that has become a major national health
concern. The culprit is the Dengue virus which has four strains (Dengue 1, 2, 3,
4) and the Chikungunya virus transmitted through the bite of an infected female
Aedes aegypti mosquito, otherwise known as the household fly. Aedes mosquito
prefers to breed in man-made containers like jars, metal drums and concrete
cisterns used for domestic water storage, as well as plastic food containers, used
automobile tires and other items that collect rainwater or stagnant water.
Little did we know that in reality, infected humans are the main carriers and
multipliers of the virus. It circulates in the blood of infected humans for 2-7 days,
at approximately the same time of the occurrence of fever; Aedes mosquitoes
may acquire the virus when they feed on an individual during this period. Once
the mosquito is infected, they are capable of transmitting the infection for the
rest of their lives.
All persons are considered susceptible to the disease, regardless of gender.
When it comes to age groups, pre-school and school age children are
predominantly affected (5-9 years old). Occurrence of the disease is sporadic
throughout the year. The infection is present wherever there is a vector
mosquito. Epidemic usually occurs during the rainy season, which peaks during
September and October.
Sign and symptoms
First 4 days (invasive stage) high fever, headache, abdominal pain, eye
infection and nose bleeding
4
th
- 7
th
days (toxic or hemorrhagic stage)- low temperature, severe abdominal
pain, blood in stools and vomitus, unstable blood pressure. Death may occur
7
th
10
th
day (recovery or convalescent stage) general redness, appetite
regained, blood pressure stable
There is no specific treatment for the infection. Management of the disease is
based on the symptoms present. Never give aspirin because it will exacerbate
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the symptoms. Rapid replacement of loss fluids is the most important treatment
(ex. blood transfusions)
The best way to prevent the disease is to eliminate the vector with the following
measure. Firstly, changing water and scrubbing sides of lower vases once a
week to prevent collection of stagnant water which is a suitable breeding site for
the mosquito. Secondly, destroy breeding places by cleaning the surroundings.
Third, proper disposal of items that could be a possible breeding site (tires, jars,
cans etc.). Fourth, is to keep all water containers covered and lastly is to use
insecticides.
F. Drug Abuse
"Mahalin ang Kalikasan, Ingatan ang Kalusugan, Droga'y Iwasan!
- International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT)
2011
Drug abuse affects almost every country in the world and the its
proportions in the Philippines have reached maximum proportions. It does not
only affect the health of the people but has contributed most as a source of
criminal activities, including drug trafficking and outsourcing. In addition, it has
been found that 65% of crime suspects and 36% of inmates (Based on Bureau
of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)) are drug addicts. It is as alarming to
note how greatly it has influenced the safety of the community. Moreover, there
are existing statistics on increasing percentage of drug addicts being unemployed
or underemployed showing how it has well penetrated poverty. Efforts have
been made by the government and yet, the demands for better strategies are
called for. This year, President Benigno Aquino III has pledged strong support to
ASEAN Work Plan on Combating Illicit Drug Production, Trafficking, and Use for
2009 to 2015.
Before we dwell deeper into the topic, lets begin with the definition of terms.
Drug abuse excessive use of a substance that differs from societal
norms
Drug dependence a state in which a drug user must take a usual or
increasing dose of a drug in order to prevent the onset of withdrawal
symptoms. The drug user must take the drug to feel normal
Drug tolerance - The need for increasing amounts of a substance to
achieve the same effects.
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Drug withdrawal physical signs and symptoms that occur when the
addictive substance is reduced or withheld
There are various reasons for drug abuse which includes: achieving the
calming or exciting effects, escape from reality, search for awareness &
mysticism, masking pain, blunting anxiety, fighting depression, escaping mental
or physical deficits, lightening other burdens and improving performance. The
data below shows the usual profile of drug abusers in the Philippines.

Profile of Drug Users Referred for Rehabilitation
Average Age: 29 years old
Majority Age Group: 23-29 years old
Drugs of Choice: Shabu and marijuana
Ratio of Male Users to Female: 3:1
Civil Status: 53 % are single
Employment Status: 74 % are unemployed,
21 % are underemployed

Educational Attainment: 53 % have high school education
29 % have college education

Profile of Arrested Drug Users
Average Age: 31 years old
Majority Age Group: 22-29 years old
Drug of Choice: Shabu and marijuana
Ratio of Male Users to Female 9:1
Employment Status: 21 % are unemployed,
58% are underemployed

Educational Attainment: 52% have high school education
29% have college education

***based on the data collated by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)
Page 20 of 45
Commonly abused drugs in the Philippines
Marijuana
Marijuana is one of the most commonly abused drug in the Philippines. It
originates from a plant called cannabis (Cannabis sativa). The leaves, tops,
stems, flowers and roots are dried and prepared for smoking or taken orally as
brownies (hash). The main active chemical in marijuana is the delta-9-
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is a mind altering chemical.
When marijuana is smoked, it enters the lung and directly goes into the
bloodstream where it is distributed into the brain and other organs of the body.
Once it reaches the brain it triggers a series of chemical reaction which leads to
the high that is felt by the user. Most of the reaction takes place in the part of
the brain which influences pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, sensory
and time perception, and coordinated movement. The result effects are a
dreamy state of consciousness in which ideas seem disconnected, unanticipated
and free-flowing, difficulty with thinking and problem solving. Time, color and
spatial perceptions are distorted which impairs coordination hazardous in
certain conditions (driving, operating heavy equipments, etc.) Over-all, a sense
of well-being and relaxation is felt. Although, panic reactions happens,
particularly in delicate users.
Other adverse effects are as follows:
Problems in learning and memory
Increased heart rate
Dry mouth (bad breath)
Conjuctival irritation (red eyes)
Respiratory problems (cancer, bronchitis, etc.)
Abortion, premature babies, low birth weight
Slow moving, inattentive and unaware of the surroundings
Decreased immune system
Alters sperm structure and production
Fertility
Psychosis
Methamphetamine hydrochloride/SHABU
Methamphetamine HCL, is a stimulant closely related to amphetamine,
also known as poor mans cocaine. Other names are Shabu, Ubas, Siopao, Sha
and Ice. Shabu is a white, odorless crystal or crystalline powder with a bitter
numbing taste.
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Abusers usually take this drug in different routes like: ingestion inhalation
(chasing the dragon), sniffing (snorting), heated and smoked or by injection
(intravenously). When taken intravenously, they have almost an immediate
effect compared when taken orally, which takes an hour before the effects are
felt.
When the drug reaches the brain, it increases the neurotransmitter (brain
chemical) dopamine which is involved in reward, motivation, the experience of
pleasure, and motor function. This, in turn, produces a state of euphoria, or
rush, increased attention and decreased fatigue, increased activity and
wakefulness, decreased appetite, rapid/ irregular heartbeat (which could lead to
a heart attack), elevation of temperature and increased respiration.
Other adverse effects are as follows
Produces anxiety, tension, irritability, irrational behavior, talkativeness and
loss of self control
Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping)
Addiction
Changes in the brain structure.
Memory loss
Weight loss and dental problems
Decreased libido
Chronic users may lead to frequent nose bleeding due to severe irritation
to the nose
Psychosis is one of the major consequences of chronic shabu abuse and
dependency. Long-term use and even a single exposure especially if
administered through injection can lead to symptoms of schizophrenia
characterized by the presence of paranoid delusions, auditory and visual
hallucinations. The paranoia may lead to violent and aggressive behavior.
Abusers who prefers the intravenous routes increases the risk of acquiring
infection, blood poisoning and HIV, which can lead to death.
Inhalants
Inhalant are volatile chemical substance that contain psycho active (mind
altering) vapors to produce a state of intoxication. Most inhalants were never
thought to be as drugs because they were never invented to produce intoxicating
effects. Most of these substances are common household products such as nail
polish remover, glue, gasoline, household cleaners, and nitrous oxide. These
household products are easily obtained by children and adolescent who is
considered to be most likely to abuse them.
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Immediate Effects
Confusion
Distorted perception of time and distance
Aggressive behavior/violence
Hallucinations and delusions
Illusions
Headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Drowsiness and weightless, light headedness, loss of control
Delayed Effects
Loss of memory
Inability to think
Muscle cramps and weakness
Tremors
Numbness in limbs
Abdominal pains
Damage to the central nervous system, kidney, liver and possible bone
marrow
Ecstasy
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) or commonly known as
"Ecstasy", "X-TC", "Adam", "Eden Tablet", yuppie drug, hug drug, club drug. It
is synthetic drug which has stimulant and psychoactive properties. It is popular
in young adults in the nightclub scene or at weekend-long dance parties known
as raves. The usual cost of this drug is about 2,000 pesos per tablet
Ecstasy is usually taken orally as a capsule or tablet. When it reaches the brain,
it enhances the effect of serotonin which is responsible for regulating mood,
aggression, sexual activity, sleep, and sensitivity to pain. Other effects are as
follows:
Fatigue and perhaps depression after the drug is stopped,
Restlessness, anxiety and pronounced visual and auditory hallucinations at
large doses,
Nausea and Vomiting,
A rise in blood pressure and heart rate, death from heart failure or stroke.
Prolonged regular use can lead to the same long-term effects as with
synthetic stimulants, including a potential for neurotoxicity and brain
damage as well as liver damage
Page 23 of 45
Opiates/Narcotics
Opiates, sometimes called narcotics, are a group of drugs that are
primarily used to relieve severe pain, but have a high potential for abuse.
Opiates that are commonly abused are Opium, Morphine, Codeine, and
synthesized or manufactured opiates.
Opioids are usually administered intravenously (injected) but it could also
be taken in other routes like orally, or the pills may be crushed and the powder
snorted. The former have an increased risk of overdose (if uncontrolled) which
could lead to death due to the rapid release of the drug into the bloodstream
exposing the user in high doses.
Opioid drugs can affect regions of the brain that mediate what one
perceives as pleasure, resulting in the initial euphoria or sense of well-being.
Long-term use opioids can lead to addictioncharacterized by drug seeking
attitude and abuse despite its known harmful consequences.
In addition, these drugs produce drowsiness, constipation, and, depending
upon the amount taken, depress breathing. A single large dose could halt the
breathing process that leads to death. Although, it is safe and effective when
used under physicians supervision. Definitely these drugs should not be used
with alcohol and other drugs which slows breathing to prevent life threatening
effects
Cocaine
Cocaine is a drug from the leaves of the Cocao plant, a shrub that
originated in South America. This drug affects the central nervous system as a
stimulant.
Cocaine can be sniffed or mix with water and then injected (which
increased the risk of contracting HIV). Crack is the street name given to the form
of cocaine that has been processed to make a rock crystal, which, when heated,
produces vapors that are smoked. It effects on the brain is somehow same with
shabu which include increased energy, reduced fatigue, and mental alertness.
The more that it is easily absorbed in the bloodstream the more intense the
feeling of high.
The Comprehensive Drug Act of 2002
RA 9165, otherwise known as the The Comprehensive Drug Act of
2002, (repealed RA 6425) was signed into law by President Gloria
Macapagal Arroyo on June 7, 2002. This new law was done to further
strengthen the existing laws governing drug reinforcement. Thus, the
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Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) was created with its mission
to be the lead agency in the enforcement of the anti-drug law; to serve as
the principal implementing arm of the DDB; to exercise operational
supervision over drug enforcement units of other law enforcement
agencies; and to coordinate the participation of other sectors in the
national anti-drug campaign.
Dr. Jose Rizal once said ang kabataan ng bayan. With the rate of drug
addiction influencing Filipino children from a very young age of 10 years old, it is
a challenge that we become more resolute in our war against illegal drugs. It is
not only a national predicament but personal responsibilities for each of us
Filipinos.

Thoughts to ponder on:

What are some of the Governments initiatives in preventing the problems regarding
health concerns? Is it effective?
Am I really aware that these problems are occurring in my country? What can I do to
lessen these problems?

Lesson 3: Environmental Degradation
In the previous lesson you have learned about some national health issues. Some of the
health issues we are dealing with today are caused by several factors. One of the
factors is environment. In this lesson, you will correlate these health problems with
environment, how it affects our way of life.

At the end of this lesson, you are expected to:

1. Understand the impact of the environment degradation to our lives
2. Recognize the different government policies on environmental protection
3. Promote environment protection and preservation

Deemed as the Pearl of the Orient for her rich natural
resources, the Philippines is home to several natural
wonders such as the Subterranean River National Park in
Palawan, the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, and the Mayon
Volcano in Bicol. The Philippines is endowed with vast
biodiversity that can enthrall any person. Sadly, not many
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Filipinos are able to appreciate the beauty of this country. Overtime as the Philippines
becomes progressive; people began to abuse our environment. Thus, many problems
began sprouting as the consequences to our crimes against Mother Nature.
One of the perennial environmental problems not only in the Philippines, but also all
over the world is environmental degradation. Now, accesses to safe food, clean water
and fresh air have become a luxury.
What is environmental degradation? Environmental degradation is the deterioration in
environmental quality from ambient concentrations of pollutants and other activities and
processes such as improper land use and natural disasters.

A. Pollution
Wala ka bang napapansin
Sa iyong mga kapaligiran
Kay dumi na ng hangin
Pati na ang mga ilog natin
Ang mga duming ating ikinalat sa hangin
Sa langit, 'wag na nating paabutin
Upang kung tayo'y pumanaw man
Sariwang hangin, sa langit natin matitikman
Excerpt from the song Masdan Mo ang Kapaligiran by Asin

Pollution has taken its toll in our lives. Our negligence has
resulted to several dreadful outcomes. We hear incidents of
red tide poisoning in the news as well as people slowly
dying because of the diseases brought about by unclean
environment. These are just some of the issues we have
to deal with everyday and unless we do something about
it, it will be all too late.

http://mjvgbg.files.wordpress.com/ 2010/1
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A1. Water Pollution

Water pollution is any chemical, physical or biological change in the quality of
water that has a harmful effect on any living thing that drinks or uses or lives
(in) it.
STATUS:
10 out of the 19 river basins in our country are polluted. Domestic and
industrial wastewaters are the leading water pollutants in our country. As a
result, several environmental and health problems began surfacing.

Access to clean and adequate water remains an acute seasonal problem in
urban and coastal areas in the Philippines. The National Capital Region (Metro
Manila), Central Luzon, Southern Tagalog, and Central Visayas are the four
urban critical regions in terms of water quality and quantity. The
Governments monitoring data indicates:

Just over a third or 36 percent of the countrys river systems are
classified as sources of public water supply;
Up to 58 percent of groundwater sampled is contaminated with
coliform and needs treatment;
Approximately 31 percent of illnesses monitored for a five-year period
were caused by water- borne sources; and
Many areas are experiencing a shortage of water supply during the dry
season.

Nearly 2.2 million metric tons of organic pollution are produced annually
by domestic (48 percent), agricultural (37 percent), and industrial (15
percent) sectors. In the four water-critical regions, water pollution is
dominated by domestic and industrial sources. Untreated wastewater
affects health by spreading disease-causing bacteria and viruses, makes
water unfit for drinking and recreational use, threatens biodiversity, and
deteriorates overall quality of life.

There is possible water scarcity in our country by 2025 and around 1.4 billion
people will not have access to safe water.

Page 27 of 45
EFFECTS:

Human health is greatly affected by polluted water. Life threatening bacteria
and viruses contaminate the water we drink causing diseases such as gastro-
enteritis, diarrhea, typhoid, cholera, dysentery, and hepatitis. In addition,
seven million die yearly due to water-borne diseases, 2.2 million of which are
under five years of age.

Pollution also affects our aquatic ecosystem. When polluted water reaches
other bodies of water, bacteria from the polluted water reproduces quickly
and consumes oxygen supply from the receiving water leading to the death
of fish and other living organism.

Large amounts of solids from inadequately treated domestic and other
wastewater containing organic material accumulate on the banks of the
receiving waters, settle at the bottom to form sludge deposits, or float on the
surface to form scum. Sludge deposits and scum are not only unsightly but
may also cause oxygen depletion and are sources of foul odors and gases

A massive fishkill struck Laguna Lake on
Friday affecting thousands of 'tilapia' and
'bangus' after around 5,000 hectares of fish
pens were destroyed by typhoon "Basyang."
Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA)
chairman Ed Manda and residents said the
fishkill happens every rainy season when the
lake's oxygen level goes down due to
pollution. The pollution is caused by
wastewater and garbage thrown into the
creeks and rivers that flow into Laguna Lake.

GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES:

Department of Science and Technologys Integrated Program on Cleaner
Production Technologies that provides technical and/or technology
assistance to the industry sector in the selection and implementation of
cleaner production technologies

RA 9275: Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 - The law that provides
comprehensive water pollution control policy. Specifically, this legislative
intends to apply water quality management in all water bodies in order to
implement abatement and control of pollution from land based sources.

Page 28 of 45
Industrial Environmental Management Project are designed to reduce
pollution at its source by improving industrial housekeeping, or changing
industrial production processes, and reducing and reclaiming industrial
waste. Isnt it ironic that we foresee water scarcity in the near future when
70% of planet is composed by water?

A2. Land Pollution

Have you ever wondered where our garbage
goes after being collected? Did you know
that the great mass of pollutants is
comprised by domestic wastes? It is hard to
imagine that our food leftovers and used
household items poison the land from which
we get our food from.
Land pollution is where our land may be as far as being contaminated. All of the
bad toxic chemicals and waste, that is left or dumped on our land, causes it to
become polluted. All types of waste can be found on land. Some is left behind
after human activities and some is washed ashore from boats and sewage
outlets. Land pollution is caused by improper waste disposal and weak recycling
practices and these wastes
Landfills are disposal sites where wastes are dumped and buried. But landfills are
not the solution to the growing problem of waste disposal. Every year, millions of
acres of land are lost because of landfills. In addition, landfills emit hazardous
gases to the atmosphere contributing to air pollution.
STATUS:
Solid waste remains a major contributor to land, air and water pollution,
with Metro Manila generating 6,169 tons of garbage every day and which
is expected to double by 2010.
Source: http://www.senate.gov.ph/publications
EFFECTS:
Soil pollution disrupts the essential cycles of decomposition and energy
recycling. Acidic soils can leach vital nutrients, such as calcium and
magnesium from the topsoil, making them unavailable for plants. It can
also kill soil bacteria. These bacteria are necessary to fix nitrogen from the
atmosphere and make it available to plants and micro-organisms.
Page 29 of 45
Foul smell due to industrial chemicals and gases might result in
headaches, fatigue, nausea, etc. in many people.
(http://www.buzzle.com/articles/soil-pollution-causes-and-effects.html)
Generally crops cannot grow and flourish in a polluted soil. Yet if some
crops manage to grow, then those would be poisonous enough to cause
serious health problems in people consuming them.

Republic Act No. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act
provides the legal framework for the countrys systematic, comprehensive
and ecological solid waste management program that shall ensure
protection of public health and the environment. It underscores, among
other things, the need to create the necessary institutional mechanisms
and incentives, as well as imposes penalties for acts in violation of any of
its provisions.
A3. Air Pollution

Air pollution is defined as any alteration of the physical, chemical and biological
properties of the atmospheric air, or any discharge thereto of any liquid, gaseous
or solid substances that will or is likely to create or to render the air resources of
the country harmful, detrimental, or injurious to public health, safety or welfare
or which will adversely affect their utilization for domestic, commercial, industrial,
agricultural, recreational, or other legitimate purposes (Republic Act No.8749:
Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999)

STATUS:

DENR tests confirmed that air quality in the metro has worsened to an
alarming level.
DENR Secretary Ramon Paje said that motor vehicles were the main
source of pollution in the metropolis, accounting for as much as 80
percent of the pollution. The rest comes from industrial sources.

EFFECTS:

A study conducted by the University of the Philippines College of
Medicine showed that more than 50 percent of the medicines sold in
the country are for respiratory ailments.
Page 30 of 45
According to the Philippine Environment Monitor, nearly 4,968
premature deaths each year in Manila due to respiratory and
cardiovascular diseases from exposure to poor air quality

The Philippine e-jeepney project is one of a growing number of
initiatives in developing countries to reduce air pollution by improving
the quality of public transportation.
Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 is an act providing for a
comprehensive air pollution control policy and for other purposes
Lung cancer, respiratory infections
and mortality among children are
some of the results associated with air
pollution. Human activities are one of
the major causes of air pollution.

Different advocacies are launched to
prevent our environment from
deteriorating quickly, but as long as
the government will not be vigilant in
implementing environmental laws and
the people will not take conscious efforts to take care of our environment. You
can do something today to prevent this. Start small. Learn to recycle and
promote recycling. You can conserve electricity or go on a carpool with your
friends. So that something will be left for the future generations.
B. Deforestation

Look at table 1. This represents the forest area of our country in given period of
time. The green part represents our forest areas and how rapidly it has deteriorated
over the years. It is saddening that in a couple of years; only 6% of the Philippine
land area will be covered by our forests. No wonder we are experiencing mudslides,
abnormal weather patterns and extinction wild life. According to a study made by
Asian Development Bank, the average annual rate of deforestation in the Philippines
is 1.4 percent from 1990 to 2000, the highest among Asian countries making
deforestation in the Philippines the worst in Asia.
http://www.topgear.com.ph/news/makati-ci 1
Page 31 of 45
Why does this practice thrive in our society? One of the reasons is corruption. It is
reported that corruption is behind the massive deforestation in our country.
Isnt that our Government should be the one
leading the people towards environmental
preservation instead of favoring few greedy
and powerful men in exchange for money or
other favors?
As future leaders, we must take step towards
in improving and protecting our environment.
As a part of the NSTP Program, you are
provided with opportunity to help out in
battling against forest degradation through the
tree planting Activity. Can you think of other
ways on how we can preserve our
environment?
National Greening Program: Visioning a Green Renaissance in the Philippines
On February 24, 2011, President Benigno Aquino III signed the Executive Order No. 26
or the National Greening Program (NGP). Its goal is to plant 1.5 billion trees covering
about 1.5 million hectares for a period of six (6) years, from 2011 to 2016. In addition,
NGP aims to reforest 100,000 hectares requiring 100 million seedlings needed for 2011;
200,000 hectares with 200 million seedlings for 2012; and 300,000 hectares with 300
million seedlings annually for 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016. Half of the total number of
seedlings to be planted would be forest tree species for timber production and
Page 32 of 45
protection purposes, with the other half
consisting of tree species used in agro-forestry
sites conducive for growing cash crops and
fruits.
Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje
envisioned this program as the widest and most
sustained reforestation venture ever embarked
on a national scale combining the resources and
manpower of almost all national line agencies
(http://www.denr.gov.ph)

C. Illegal Trade of Natural Resources
The international wildlife trade supplies
both the domestic and international
markets. Wildlife is traded, both legally
and illegally, for a number of reasons, the
main ones being for food, consumption,
traditional medicines, pets, trophies and
decorative purposes, and zoos and
collections. (Source:
http://www.haribon.org.ph)
Here in the Philippines, smuggled exotic animals
make way through the Ro-Ro from our
neighboring Asian countries such as Malaysia
and Indonesia to Mindanao. These shipments either end up in public markets like in
Cartimar in Pasay City or Arranque in Manila or are shipped again to Thailand.
Recent incident is the rampant smuggling of black
corals and other endangered species to foreign
market. It is sad to that people responsible for these
illegal transactions get away with it.
One solution is to not patronize these merchandises
or any by-product of these animals. You are not
only saving these animals, but also maintaining the
balance of our eco-system.

Page 33 of 45
Lesson 4: National Security

Now that you are aware of different burning issues in our country and we learned how
to be responsive on those problems. As a citizen we should develop and gain
knowledge on how to serve and protect our territory to show our love and care for our
nation.
At the end of the lesson, the students will be able to:
1. Identify possible threats to National Security
2. Define what is National Security.
Have you seen the movie, Taken? It is about a seventeen year-old girl, Kim, who
travelled with her friend, Amanda to Paris. Unfortunately, a gang of human traffickers
kidnaps the girls. On a positive note, Kim was able to call her father and gave him some
information about her kidnappers. Through this, her father, a retired agent in Central
Intelligence Agency-California, was able to rescue them both back to safety.
A lot of stories similar to this kind and all other crimes have been showcased in
various movies, but it doesnt end there. These crimes, even the bigger and more
organized ones, happen every day. This is really sad. Now, how safe are we in the
country?
The National Security Council (NSC) defines Philippine national security as a state of
condition where our most cherished values and beliefs, our democratic way of life, our
institutions of governance and our unity, welfare and well-being as a nation and people
are permanently protected and continuously enhanced.
NICA defines it as the state of condition wherein the peoples way of life and
institutions, their territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as their welfare and well-
being are protected and/or advanced.
As a matter of policy, the State shall undertake the necessary steps to ensure that the
Filipino National Communitys welfare, well being, ways of life, institutions; territorial
integrity and sovereignty are enhanced and protected.
The DND asserts:
The countrys national security, as a responsibility of the Philippine
government, is no longer preserved and enhanced within its borders, but
well beyond them through its first line of defensediplomacy. The
Philippine government stands ready to work with its friends and neighbors
with the nations interest as its underlying beacon. Thus, Philippine foreign
policy must be timely, responsive and driven by a desire to bring about
Page 34 of 45
change that makes foreign policy work directly for the benefit of
generations of Filipinos.

Elements of National Security
In attaining and maintain national security, the following elements should be kept in
good state at all times:
I. Socio-Political Stability
We can achieve this if there is peace and harmony among the divergent groups
of people in the country, and mutual cooperation and support exists between the
Government and the people as a whole. The rule of law is supreme and
respected by all sectors of society, as well as by visiting or resident foreigners.
II. Environmental/ Ecological Balance
When we take of the environment, it is able to support sustainable development
strategies for the benefit of the nation and the people who depend on it for
existence.
III. Territorial Integrity
We have to maintain the territory of the country to be intact and under the
effective control of the Government.
IV. External Peace and Harmony
The country and the people should enjoy cordial relations with their neighbors,
and they are free from any control, interference or threat of aggression from any
of them.
V. Cultural Cohesiveness
The people share the values and beliefs handed down by their forebears, core
values strongly associated with the national community and identity despite
religious, ethnic and linguistic differences.
VI. Economic Solidarity
The economy should be strong, capable of supporting national endeavors, and
derives its strength from the solidarity of the people who have an organic stake
in it through participation and ownership.

Page 35 of 45
VII. Moral-Spiritual Consensus
There should be moral and spiritual consensus on the wisdom and righteousness
of the national vision and they are inspired by patriotism and national pride to
participate vigorously in the pursuit of the countrys goals and objectives.
(Source: NSC Permanent Secretariat)
Here are some factors and issues that concern our National Security:
1. Terrorism

A systematic use of terror especially as a means of coercion. At present, the
International community has been unable to formulate a universally agreed,
legally binding, and criminal law definition of terrorism. Common definitions of
terrorism refer only to those violent acts which are intended to create fear
(terror), are perpetrated for an ideological goal, and deliberately target or
disregard the safety of non-combatants (civilians). (Labuguen, et.al.)
a. Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)
b. Act of Random Violence (Bombing)

2. Rebellion or Insurrection
A refusal of obedience or order. It may, therefore, be seen as encompassing a
range of behaviors from civil disobedience and mass nonviolent resistance, to
violent and organized attempts to destroy an established authority such as the
government. (Labuguen, et.al.)

3. Crime
An action or omission which constitutes an offence and is punishable by law.
(http://oxforddictionaries.com/definition/crime)

a. Murder
b. Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention
c. Hijacking/ Highway Robbery
d. Crimes involving Destruction
e. Human and Drug Trafficking
f. Smuggling
g. Cybercrimes Child Pornography
h. Piracy at Sea
i. Human Trafficking (Kidnapping, Prostitution and Slavery, Organ
Harvesting)
j. Terrorist Recruitment/ Deception

Page 36 of 45
4. Natural Crises/Disasters

a. Typhoons , Flood, Landslide
b. Earthquake, Volcanic eruption, Tsunami
c. La Nina/El Nino
d. Environmental Degradation
e. Pollution - air, land, water (Oil spills, Fish kills)
f. Sea Mishaps (accidents at sea)
g. Pandemics (AH
1
N
1
Virus, Bird Flu, SARS)
h. Other health concerns
i. Climate Change
j. Global
Warming

5. Disunity or irreconcilable multiple historical and cultural traditions
- this include activities that would undermine the morale of the populace or
those conflicts caused by cultural differences and the like.

6. Activities that would undermine the morale of the populace such as:
a. Indulgence to vices
b. Drug addiction
c. Prostitution, etc.

7. Others
a. Work Stoppage
b. Closure of business/factories
c. Brain Drain
d. Fake dollar or peso syndicates
e. Graft and Corruption
f. Extortionists
g. Diplomatic and Defense Irritants (overlapping land or maritime boundaries
and competing claims)
h. Undocumented workers and settlers
i. Illegal recruitment

Page 37 of 45
Other Strategic Issue:
Recruitment and Deception of the Youth
Communist New People's Army (NPA) rebels in the Philippines have employed at
least 340 "child warriors" since 1999, most of them aged 15 to 18. Of the
number, 209 surrendered to the government, 119 were captured, while 12 were
killed in combat. The NPA rebels have been named as constant violators of child
rights by the United Nations.
NPA child warriors are often tasked to assassinate families of rebel returnees.
These children were made to believe that violence is the only solution and the
means of achieving ones end"
Other identified terrorist threats:
a. Ideology-Based NPA, MILF, and Misuari Group
b. Terrorists ASG, JI and other foreign terrorists
c. Auxiliary Threats Pentagon Gang, Al Khobar Group, Private
Armed Groups, others
Ideology -based groups are those that fight for a certain shared belief like
Marxism and extremist religions. Terrorist groups commit themselves to inducing
fear to people. Auxiliary threats are composed of groups with various intentions
leading to conflict or disunity.
This is a disturbing issue. Corruption in the minds of our young brothers and
sisters due to whatever reason should not be tolerated. As Jose Rizal once said,
the youth is the hope of our future. Will we allow our future to be like this?

ROLE OF THE YOUTH IN NATIONAL SECURITY
I. Vigilance

With the so many threats present in our society, it is therefore important to
understand these threats and know what actions we can take to protect
ourselves. The following are some reminders/suggestions which can help us in
identifying threats and how to best handle them:

Page 38 of 45
a. As good citizens, we should report and denounce armed activities, even
in the pursuit of legitimate issues.
b. We should keep in mind that any act of terror is a crime against
Filipinos.
c. When joining any organization, keep in mind that you should know and
understand the ideals of the certain group you have chosen to
participate in. With regards to the case of UST, check if it is a part of the
recognized student groups/organizations by inquiring at the Office for
Student Affairs (OSA).
d. In case of chemical threats, most chemical agents are toxic when
inhaled and may cause injury when in contact with the eye or exposed
to the skin. To know more about biological or chemical threats, follow
these link <http://www.state.gov/m/ds/rls/rpt/20214.htm> or
<http://www.fema.gov/hazard/terrorism/chem/index.shtm>.
e. If you see a suspicious object or an unexploded bomb, keep away from
it, warn others, call the police or other security personnel, and evacuate
the area.
f. When a bomb threat is received, do not panic. Stay calm. Take note of
callers:
vocal characteristics (e.g. pitch, male or female, adult or child, local
accent or foreign, manner of speaking rapid, deliberate,
emotional, angry);
background sounds (traffic, announcements, shouting);
take note of the person or authority to whom the message should
be conveyed
Do not antagonize or taunt the caller in any way
Be polite and remain calm
Do not spread rumors
Alert someone to call the police, and
Notify the building management.
Let us always think of our safety, security or opportunities for our countrymen,
especially those who are in the vulnerable sectors of the society (poor,
uneducated, unemployed, farmers, fisher folks, women and children, exploited
OFWs, and others); the government (offices, administrators, officers and
personnel); vital infrastructure and/or installations (water, power, transport,
telecommunications, etc.); and, environment, especially those that support the
basic needs and socio-economic life.
Page 39 of 45
There are still so many other forms of attack, crimes, and terrorism that can
happen, but the key to surpass all of these is to always be vigilant. Before
deciding on doing something, make sure that you will be safe. Do not be
deceived. Do not be terrorized. Think twice or thrice before you act.

I. Peace Education
We must revive the peace process on the basis of a comprehensive
understanding of the root causes of the conflict, under clear policies that pave
and clear the way ahead, and driven by a genuine desire to attain a just and
lasting peace. We shall endeavor to restore confidence in the peace process that
is transparent and participatory, and renew our faith in our shared vision of a
peaceful, secure and prosperous future under one sovereign flag.
Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III
April 22, 2010
Peace Education: Concept
Peace education is more effective and meaningful when it is imparted
taking into account the social and cultural context and the needs of a
country. It should be enriched by its cultural and spiritual values and with
the universal human values. It should also be globally relevant. Peace
education, hence, can be defined in many ways. There is no universally
accepted definition as such. Here are a few pertinent definitions from the
peace literature.
Peace education is an attempt to respond to problems of conflict
and violence on scales ranging from the global and national to the
local and personal. It is about exploring ways of creating more just
and sustainable futures R.D. Laing (1978)
Peace education is holistic. It embraces the physical, emotional,
intellectual, and social growth of children within a framework
deeply rooted in traditional human values. It is based on a
philosophy that teaches love, compassion, trust, fairness, co-
operation and reverence for the human family and all life on our
beautiful planet Fran Schmidt and Alice Friedman (1988)
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Peace education is skill building. It empowers children to find
creative and non-destructive ways to settle conflict and to live in
harmony with themselves, others, and their world...... Peace
building is the task of every human being and the challenge of the
human family Fran Schmidt and Alice Friedman (1988)
Source: Peace Education: Framework for Teacher Education. UNESCO. 2005.
Scope of Peace Education
Peace education can be considered at different levels:
1)Individual or self-development level,
2)School or community level,
3)National level, and
4) Global level.
There are many important self-development needs in children that are not
sufficiently addressed to in the process of schooling. One of the important felt
needs is building an effective, integrated personality in the child with
positive self-esteem. To live peacefully, an individual has to have many skills,
like those related to affirmation, positive thinking, empathetic listening and
communication, assertive behavior, decision-making and critical thinking, etc.
School should help children to develop such skills so that they are empowered as
individuals in the society.
At the school level, the predominant need is to have a peaceful climate, i.e. a
peace culture. In such a culture, children will naturally absorb the spirit of peace.
There is a popular saying that peace has to be caught rather than be taught.
Initiating a peaceful culture in school should start from within the staff, by
developing attitudes and behavior of appreciation, co-operation, belongingness,
trust and spirit of learning. By way of developing a friendly and mutually
respectful teacher-pupil relationship, a peace culture will bloom naturally in the
school. To ensure it, the school has to introduce a living system of peace values,
norms and practices into the daily life of the school.
At the national level, a school has to focus on the citizenship education needs
of the nation or the country. This aspect of citizenship education is an integral
part of peace education. Education is entrusted to produce good and productive
citizens to the nation. In this regard, learning and understanding the current
socio-political and economic problems and issues is also important. Students as
Page 41 of 45
future citizens need to develop healthy and realistic perspectives to view
problems in the society.
Coming to the global level needs, it is important to recall the fact that the
ultimate purpose of education is to produce a world citizen. No country can
live in isolation any more. Children have to develop a sensible worldview. The
need here is to broaden the world vision. With this objective in mind, the school
can select current issues; generate discussions and debates on world issues to
raise the global awareness in the students. Some such issues are:
Commonality and
diversity of human
cultures
Population
Destruction of the
ecosystem/pollution
Gender issue
Racism
World poverty
Problem of
war/terrorism
Trading relationship
World cultures
Animal rights/animals
threatened by extinction

The Peaceful Person
The UNESCO Handbook on Peace Education offers a model consisting of 10
themes that can accommodate the most meaningful peace values and concepts
that can provide it the framework of the curriculum for peace education. Let us
review the model. The 10 themes are given in Ishikawas fishbone structure
(Figure 1).
a. Think Positive: develops positive self-concept and also attitude of
accepting others with respect, and appreciating them.
Figure 1. Ishikawas fishbone structure
Page 42 of 45
b. Be Compassionate and Do No Harm: develops qualities like love,
kindness, sympathy and so on.
c. Discover Inner Peace: develops ability to control anger and build
soothingness within.
d. Learning to Live Together: builds ability of sharing, mutual help, trust
building and accepting group responsibility, including leading and
following.
e. Respect Human Dignity: develops respects for human rights, duties
and justice; do unto others what you expect others do unto you.
f. Be Your True Self: develops strength of character to be honest in
expression of one's feelings and thoughts without letting down others.
g. Developing Critical Thinking: develops the essential skill for problem
solving involving analysis and synthesis, looking at the issue from
alternative standpoints.
h. Resolve Conflict Non-violently: develops skills of conflict analysis,
negotiation, active listening, mediation, creative problem solving and
seeking alternative solution.
i. Build Peace in Community: develops understanding of social realities
and peoples problem and skills and attitudes to work with them.
j. Caring for the Planet: develops understanding of the immediate
environment, the national and global environment, and need for
protection of the mother (planet) earth.
Source: Peace Education: Framework for Teacher Education. UNESCO. 2005.
Service towards Peace
Service to others ultimately means working toward a peaceful world in which
everybody can experience prosperity and happiness, engaging with the entire
human family and working for the good of all people.
Service in the broader context means being creative and working together
to solve problems.
Serving together in common cause can help to break down barriers that exist
between people in conflict. Thus, it can be a powerful instrument for peace,
understanding, and social transformation. Service to others also means helping
each person toward improving their situation, depending on their needs.
The most powerful result for peace can be achieved when we reach out and
engage in loving service to others; especially to those that we may have
Page 43 of 45
experienced conflict within the past. Serving others brings all our emotions into
the present and gives us the vision to see a former enemy in a new light. The act
of kind service is the most powerful tool of reconciliation and peace. Service to
our community empowers us; we become aware of our power to make a
difference regardless of our age, position, or background and we can become a
source of hope, comfort, and peace to others.
When we give service to others, we are making a statement of action. Our
actions speak the truth that all humanity deserves equal value and respect
because we come from one source and we live in one home, a family, together,
under God.

Source/References for further readings
Lesson I: Education
http://www.mb.com.ph/node/320027/deped-
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/309607/unemployment-rate-hits-74-jan
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20090703-
213603/High-dropout-rate-in-schools-alarming
http://www.census.gov.ph/data/pressrelease/2003/pr0323tx.html
http://lcc.deped.gov.ph/lcc/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=71:
literacy-information-in-thephilippines&catid=45:secretariat&Itemid=76
http://www.adb.org/documents/briefs/ADB-Briefs-2010-2-Net-Enrolment-Rate-
PHI.pdf
http://barriosiete.com/noynoy-aquinos-10-point-basic-education-agenda/
http://www.gov.ph/2010/11/02/briefer-on-the-enhanced-k12-basic-education-
program/
http://www.thenewstoday.info/2010/01/05/issues.in.philippine.education.in.retro
spect.html
http://uk.reuters.com
http://philippineconstitution1987.wordpress.com/2009/01/11/philippine-
constitution-article-xiv/
http://www.scribd.com/doc/38674847/2011-DepEd-Budget-Briefer
maagangpaalam.wordpress.com
Compassion in Action: A guide to the UST Community Development Program.
UST-OCD, 2011.

Lesson II: Health
Page 44 of 45
http://www.who.int/inf-new/mate.htm
http://www.thepoc.net/thepoc-features/health-and-wellness/health-and-fitness-
features/5009-maternal-perinatal-health-philippines.html
www.unfpa.org/public/News/pid/2452
http://www.thepoc.net/thepoc-features/health-and-wellness/health-and-fitness-
features/5009-maternal-perinatal-health-philippines.html
http://www.who.int/inf-new/mate.htm
http://www.cbcpworld.com/misamis/cbcp2008.htm
http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=news05_june30_2006
http://www.doh.gov.ph/kp/statistics/maternal_deaths
http://www.doh.gov.ph/kp/statistics/feataldeaths
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20110102-
312124/Philippines-HIVAIDS-problem-worries-UN
http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/HIV+AIDS
http://medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4255
http://www.upm.edu.ph
http://www.tucp.org.ph/news/index.php/2011/03/drug-trafficking-corruption-
prime-sources-of-criminal-activities-in-phl-report/
http://www.tucp.org.ph/news/index.php/2011/05/president-aquino-attends-first-
day-of-asean-summit-highlights-phl-initiatives/
http://www.gmanews.tv/100days/story/223701/nation/philippines-ranks-4th-in-
asean-wide-dengue-incidence
http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs117/en/
http://www.pdea.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=63&It
emid=68
http://www.doh.gov.ph/program.html
Keltner, N., Schwecke, L.H. and Bostrom, C. (2002). Psychiatric Nursing (3
rd
ed).
Missouri: Mosby Inc.
Cuevas, F., Reyala, J., Earnshaw, R., Bonito, S., Sitioco, J. & Serafrica, L. (2007).
Public Health Nursing in the Philippines (10
th
edition). Phillippines: National
League of Philippine Government Nurses, Inc.

Lesson III: Environment
http://www.worldbank.org.ph/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/COUNTRIES/EASTASIAPACIFI
CEXT/PHILIPPINESEXTN/0,,contentMDK:20266328~menuPK:333013~pagePK:14
97618~piPK:217854~theSitePK:332982,00.html
http://www.lenntech.com/water-pollution faq.htm#ixzz1RnYx3BeJ
http://www.emb.gov.ph/eeid/watermatters.htm
http://cptech.dost.gov.ph/ipct.php
http://www.doe.gov.ph/TE/Envi.htm
http://www.greenpeace.org/raw/content/seasia/en/press/reports/the-state-of-
water-in-the-phil.pdf
Page 45 of 45
http://www.greenpeace.org
http://www.livestrong.com/article/123441-information-soil-
pollution/#ixzz1RoBahZxC
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/soil-pollution-causes-and-effects.html
http://www2.denr.gov.ph/article/view/4317
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/soil-pollution-causes-and-effects.html
http://www.emb.gov.ph/eeid/ESWM.htm
http://www.enn.com/sci-tech/article/38703
http://www.gmanews.tv/story/223239/nation/couple-suspected-of-smuggling-
corals-flee-phl

Lesson IV: National Security

http://declassifiedrommelbanlaoi.blogspot.com/2011/01/definition-and-evolution-
of-philippine.html
http://declassifiedrommelbanlaoi.blogspot.com/2011/01/defining-terrorism-in-
southeast-asia.html
http://oxforddictionaries.com/definition/crime
http://www.state.gov/m/ds/rls/rpt/20214.htm
http://www.fema.gov/hazard/terrorism/chem/index.shtm
http://www.creducation.orgcatalogindex.phpP=FullRecord&ID=506
http://www.unicef.org/education/focus_peace_education.html
http://www.unicef.org/education/files/PeaceEducation.pdf
http://teacherswithoutborders.org/page/what-peace-education
http://www.un.org/cyberschoolbus/peace/frame2.htm
Peace Education: Framework for Teacher Education. UNESCO. 2005.
National Service Training Program, Phase 2: Students Guide
by: Florida Labuguen, ed. D., et. al.
National Security Policy, 2010

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