CIVIC leader Dr. Jose Antonio Goitia, chair emeritus of an association of civic groups, on Thursday lauded the Department of Education (DepEd) for its plan to integrate lessons on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) into the basic education curriculum.
Goitia described the initiative as “a wise and patriotic step toward building national awareness.”
“You can’t defend what you don’t understand,” Goitia said.
“When we teach our children about the West Philippine Sea, we’re not just teaching geography — we’re teaching love of country.”
The move comes amid renewed tensions in the WPS.
Chinese vessels were recently spotted navigating dangerously close to Pag-asa (Thitu) Island, using water cannons and shadowing Philippine patrol ships — a display of aggression that underscores the urgency of educating Filipinos about their maritime rights.
Earlier this year, several Filipino soldiers were injured during a resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal after Chinese coast guard personnel reportedly boarded Philippine boats and attacked them with bladed weapons.
The incident drew condemnation from allies such as the United States, European Union, and other international partners, who called China’s actions “unjustified and unlawful.”
For Goitia, the classroom is the quiet frontline of national defense.
He said misinformation has become as dangerous as any foreign threat.
“China spreads falsehoods to justify its claims. The Philippines must counter with facts,” he explained.
“When students learn about the 2016 arbitral ruling and our Exclusive Economic Zone, they’ll grow up knowing what truly belongs to the Filipino people.”
He expressed belief that the move is not only about history lessons but about shaping citizens who understand and care deeply for their nation.
“Sovereignty isn’t just a word,” he said. “It’s our fishermen’s livelihood, our natural resources, and the dignity of every Filipino.” Goitia, chair emeiritus of of four respected civic-oriented organizations: Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya (ABKD), People’s Alliance for Democracy and Reforms (PADER), Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), and Filipinos Do Not Yield (FDNY) Movement, said.
He also emphasized the need to equip teachers properly. “Our teachers are frontliners in this. They need tools, maps, and guidance, not just lectures but inspiration.” (Maria Son)