A Mandaue City councilor is voicing opposition to the decision to end the use of mother tongue as a medium of instruction for students in Kindergarten to Grade 3.
Councilor Malcolm Sanchez, who chairs the education committee, argues that teaching in the local language enhances children’s understanding, fosters cultural identity, and leads to better learning outcomes. He expressed concern that the new policy, which requires the use of Filipino and English as the main languages of instruction, may hinder young learners and weaken their cultural ties.
“Children learn more effectively when they are taught in a language they understand. The mother tongue helps bridge the gap between home and school learning, making it easier for them to grasp basic concepts,” Sanchez stated in Cebuano.
On Saturday, October 12, 2024, Republic Act 12027, known as the Act of Discontinuing the Use of the Mother Tongue as a Medium of Instruction from Kindergarten to Grade 3, became law without President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s signature. This law amends Sections 4 and 5 of Republic Act 10533, which is the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013.
Sanchez noted that introducing other languages too early might alienate young learners, particularly those from marginalized communities who have limited exposure to English or Filipino. “While English is an important medium of communication, we must also recognize our identity,” he emphasized.
“I support the continued use of the mother tongue because it helps prevent miscommunication and allows children to understand lessons more quickly,” he added. He proposed a gradual introduction of English, suggesting it should be the primary language of instruction only in Grades 4 to 6, which would give students time to develop essential skills.
The new law, RA 12027, shifts the medium of instruction back to Filipino and English, aligning with the 1987 Constitution. These languages are now designated as the main media of instruction.
This policy change arises from concerns regarding the shortage of learning materials and trained teachers within the previous Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) framework, implemented during the 2012-2013 school year.
The implementation of the new policy will be evaluated, and the findings will be sent to the Office of the President and the House of Representatives. This review will help inform future adjustments, including whether the optional use of the MTB-MLE approach will continue.
Meanwhile, Salustiano Jimenez, Director of the Department of Education in Central Visayas (DepEd 7), stated that although the subject is no longer part of formal instruction, teachers are still permitted to use local languages when needed.
You Might Be Interested In