Lesson 1

Citizenship Training

INTRODUCTION

This lesson introduces NSTP in accordance with its newly revised Implementing Rules and
Regulations (IRR). The NSTP components are the Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (ROTC),
Literacy Training Services (LTS), and Civic Welfare Training Services (CWTS). NSTP aims to
inculcate civic consciousness and defense preparedness in Filipino youth. It helps develop in
them the ethics of service and patriotism while they undergo training in any of the program’s
three components which are specifically designed to enhance the student’s participation in
nation-building. The NSTP Law or Republic Act. 9163, also known as An Act Establishing the
NSTP for Tertiary-Level Students, Amending for the purpose Republic Act No. 7077 and
Presidential Decree No. 1706 and for other purposes, was signed by former president Gloria
Macapagal-Arroyo on January 23, 2002. It is a consolidation of House Bill No. 3593 and senate
bill No. 1824 passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate on December 19, 2001.

OBJECTIVES

At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:

1. Show understanding of the National Service Training Program (NSTP)

2. Recognize the Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) as the component of NSTP that
aims to help alleviate social problems through the different community services; and
3. Express commitment to be actively involved in various community services.
4. Explain the history and significance of the NSTP in the purview of national security and
development;
5. Support implementation of NSTP-related activities and endeavours; and
6. Appreciate the Value of NSTP as a citizenship training program.

1|Page
 Try this!

LEARNING EXERCISE

Name: Ferdausi P. Pawaki Course: NSTP-CWTS Time: 8:00AM-11:00AM

Trainer: Date: 10/05/2024 Rating:

The Evolution of the National Service Training Program

Illustrate a diagram that will explain the legal bases and chronology of events in the passage of
the R.A. 9163 (NSTP Act of 2001)

2|Page
Think ahead!

1. What is the National Service Training Program Law?

The National Service Training Program (NSTP) Law in the Philippines, enacted as
Republic Act No. 9163 in 2001, requires tertiary students to engage in civic
training for at least two semesters. The program encourages community
engagement and is implemented by educational institutions to contribute to nation-
building.

2. What are the Program Components of the NSTP?

The National Service Training Program (NSTP) consists of three components:
Literacy Training Service (LTS), which focuses on teaching literacy and numeracy;
Civil Welfare Training Service (CWTS), which involves community service
projects; and Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC), aimed at preparing
students for national defense. Each component promotes civic responsibility and
encourages active participation in community development.

3. Who shall take the NSTP?

All college students enrolled in undergraduate programs in the Philippines are
required to take the National Service Training Program (NSTP). This includes
students in both public and private higher education institutions, ensuring that they
engage in civic training and contribute to community development.

4. How will the NSTP be taken up?

The National Service Training Program (NSTP) is taken up through a structured
curriculum offered by higher education institutions. Students are required to complete a
minimum of two semesters of one of the program's components (LTS, CWTS, or
ROTC), involving both theoretical and practical training. Institutions provide lectures,
workshops, and community projects, allowing students to engage actively in their
chosen service area and fulfill the program's objectives.

5. What will become of NSTP Graduates?

Graduates of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) are expected to
possess enhanced civic consciousness, social responsibility, and skills applicable to
community service. They may utilize their training in various fields, contributing
positively to society, whether through volunteerism, civic engagement, or careers in
public service and development. Additionally, NSTP graduates can be better
prepared for roles in national defense if they completed the Reserve Officers'
Training Corps (ROTC) component.

6. What student incentives can be provided by the NSTP?

The National Service Training Program (NSTP) offers various incentives for
students, including scholarships and financial assistance to help with educational
costs. Successful completion can earn academic credits and certificates, enhancing
students' resumes and demonstrating their commitment to community service.
Additionally, participation fosters skills development and networking opportunities,
making students more competitive in the job market.

3|Page
7. What lead agencies will monitor the implementation of the NSTP?
The implementation of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) is primarily
monitored by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines.
Additionally, the Department of National Defense (DND) oversees the Reserve
Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) component. Educational institutions are also
responsible for ensuring compliance with NSTP regulations and guidelines as set
by these lead agencies.

8. How can a student continue to qualify for enlistment in the AFP Reserve Force?
To qualify for enlistment in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Reserve
Force after completing the National Service Training Program (NSTP), students
must successfully finish the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) component.
They must also meet the eligibility criteria, including age and health requirements,
and pass the AFP's selection process. Finally, students need to submit the necessary
application and documents to the appropriate AFP unit for enlistment.

4|Page
 Read and Reflect

NSTP Components

NSTP consists of the following:

1. ROTC, institutionalized under sections 38 and 39 of the Republic Act No. 7077, is
designed to provide military training to motivate, equip, organize, and mobilize the
youth for national defense preparedness. It shall instill in them patriotism, moral
virtues, respect for the rights of the civilians, and adherence to the Constitution.
2. LTS is designed to train students to teach literacy and numeracy skills to school
children, out-of-school youth, and other segments of society in need of such services.
3. CWTS is designed to involve students actively in activities that contribute to the
general welfare and the betterment of life for the members of the community or the
enhancement of its facilities, especially those devoted to improving health, education,
environment, entrepreneurship, safety, recreation, and morals of the citizenry.

Coverage of The NSTP Law

The NSTP Law covers the following:

1. All students, both male and female, enrolled in any baccalaureate degree or two-year
technical-vocational or non-degree courses in public and private schools must
complete one NSTP component of their choice for two semesters as a graduation
requirement.
2. All higher and technical-vocational institutions, public and private, must offer at least
one NSTP component.
3. State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) must offer ROTC and at least one other NSTP
component, namely LTS or CWTS.
4. The Philippine Military Academy (PMA), Philippine Merchant Marine Academy
(PMMA), Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA), and other SUCs of similar
nature, in view of the special character of these institutions, are not covered by the
NSTP Law.
5. Private Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) and Technical-Vocational Educational
Institutions with at least 350 student cadets may offer ROTC and consequently
establish and maintain a Department of Military Science and Tactics, which is still
subject to the existing rules and regulations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

NSTP-CWTS Vision

 To train students to become innovators of social change with a culture of excellence

and leaders with integrity, competence, and commitment to render service to the
community.
 To develop in the youth, the values of patriotism and national pride, discipline and
Hard work, integrity and accountability for nation-building, and volunteerism as
valuable and effective members of the National Service Corps of CWTS.

5|Page
NSTP-CWTS Mission

NSTP-CWTS aims to promote and integrate values education, transformational leadership,

and sustainable social mobilization for youth development, community-building, national
renewal, and global solidarity by:

1. Providing relevant activities that will contribute to the physical, intellectual, spiritual,
and social development of students.
2. Inculcating in students the values of leadership, patriotism, and social responsibility
3. Training students to become project planners, designers, and managers of innovative
and sustainable community service-oriented projects
4. Conducting capability enhancements for civic welfare services geared toward
preparing the youth to become results-oriented social entrepreneurs, volunteers, and
socio- economic mobilizing force that serves communities as value-driven innovators
for progress
5. Working closely with a network of organizations within and outside the higher
education institution
6. Creating opportunities where students can render direct service to the

community NSTP-CWTS Core Values

1. Love of God
2. Human Dignity
3. Discipline, truth, goodness, and social responsibility
4. Awareness, innovation, and creativity
5. Respect, synergy, and professionalism
6. Excellence and Indigenous learning
7. Protection and conservation of the environment
8. Quality service delivery

The Evolution of the National Service Training Program

The imposition of the national program for service and training of the youth in the
Philippines began with the creation of Commonwealth Act No.1, otherwise known as the
National Defense Act of 1935. It is a legislative act providing the basis for the national
defense of the country, punishing certain violations thereof, appropriating funds therefore,
and for other purposes under the government of President Manuel L. Quezon. The law
requires college students, particularly males, to finish two years, equivalent to four
semesters, of military training as a modality to institutionalize the reservist system in the
Philippines’ national defense.

In 1980, the National Defense Act was amended to give existence to Presidential Decree
No. 1706, otherwise known as the National Service Law. It mandated compulsory national
service to all Filipino citizens. It was composed of three main program components,
namely: Civic Welfare Service (CWS), Law Enforcement Service (LES), and Military
Service (MS).

6|Page
 College students were given the option to choose one from among these components in
compliance with this requirement for tertiary education.

The implementation of the National Service Law, except for the provision of the
Military Service was suspended by Presidential Memorandum Order No. 1 under the
incumbency of former President Corazon Aquino, paving the way for the conceptualization
of the basic Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC), embodied under R.A. 7077,
effective school year 1986-1987.

The ROTC program aimed to realize the constitutional mandate of developing a strong
civilian base to supplement the professional military in the nation's defense system. It was
designed to initiate the ROTC trainees in the rudiments of soldiership, instilling in them
discipline and correct deportment. The objective of the said program was to train all able-
bodied tertiary students for military skills in case of war.

As a way to offer an alternative in neutralizing people's aversion to this military

program during the school year 2001-2002, ROTC was only made optional under the
National Service Program (NSP), conceiving the so-called Expanded ROTC (E-ROTC).
The E-ROTC was characterized by deviation from the rigid tactical training offering
alternatives like rendering civil auxiliary sources in the form of helping maintain law and
order, assisting socio- economic development projects and delivery of basic health services
or aiding in addressing local insurgency.

In view of the options, it gave the students the choice, among the following
components: Military Service (MS), Civic Welfare Service (CWS) and Law Enforcement
Service (LES)

RESEARCH AND REVIEW on the following topics below:

1. Philippine Constitution (Preamble, Bill of Rights)
2. United Nations Principles on Human Rights
3. Flag Heraldic Code of the Philippines (RA 8491, s. 1998)
4. Voter Citizenship Education

7|Page
 See if you can do this!

A. Directions: Write your answers on the lines provided.

1. How can NSTP-CWTS students serve the community?

NSTP-CWTS students can serve the community by participating in health campaigns,

environmental clean-ups, and educational outreach programs. They can also assist in disaster
preparedness, relief efforts, and infrastructure improvement projects. Additionally, they support
entrepreneurship by helping with livelihood programs and promoting local businesses.

2. What can you contribute to help achieve the mission vision of NSTP-CWTS in your school?
I can contribute by actively participating in community service projects that promote health,
education, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, I will encourage my peers to engage in
volunteerism and leadership activities that align with the NSTP-CWTS vision of social change. By
applying innovative ideas and collaborating with local organizations, I can help foster meaningful
community development.

B. Write the word TRUE on the blank if the statement is correct and FALSE if the
statement is wrong.

TRUE 1. The NSTP Law is a consolidation of House Bill No. 3593 and Senate Bill
No.1824.
FALSE 2. President Joseph E. Estrada signed Republic Act No. 9163 into law.
FALSE 3. Section 35 of Republic Act No. 9163 mandates the ROTC.
FALSE 4. West Point is the premier military training school in the Philippines.
TRUE 5. NSTP aims for civic consciousness and defense preparedness.
TRUE 6. The youth must be active agents of development, responsible leaders, and
morally upright individuals.
TRUE 7. The primary task of each of the four government agencies is to supervise the
implementation of their respective programs.
TRUE 8. Service and patriotism are the core values of NSTP.
FALSE 9. NSTP is offered to male students only.
FALSE 10. Private schools are exempt from NSTP.
TRUE 11. All higher and technical-vocational educational institutions must offer one of the
NSTP components.
TRUE 12. NSTP-CWTS creates opportunities where students can render direct
service to the community.
TRUE 13. The PNPA, the premier school for police officers, is exempt from NSTP.
TRUE 14. The integrative approach of NSTP-CWTS is a strategy for community
development.
FALSE 15. NSTP is not a requisite for graduation.

8|Page
 LESSON 2

SELF AND FILIPINO SOCIETY

INTRODUCTION

This Lesson discusses the nature of the human person. It answers these questions: What
is a human person? How can a human person attain his/her highest potential and contribute to
the common good? What are the roots of the Filipino Character? Why are Filipinos acting
differently? Nationalism and Patriotism as well as Good Citizenship Values of the Filipinos
Even during ancient times, these questions have been relentlessly asked and evaluated.
Psychologists, philosophers, theologians, and scientists have written in-depth analyses of
human nature using a wide range of theories and observations.

OBJECTIVES

At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:

1. Describe the nature of the Human Person;

2. Identify the importance of a person’s ability and capacity;
3. Describe a person’s unique qualities that make him/her a productive social being;
4. Define and expound on the nature and philosophical values of being a Filipino;
5. Cite popular Filipino values of good citizenship;
6. Relate the concepts discussed to real-life situations;
7. Understand the principles underpinning good citizenship, rights, and
responsibilities of citizens, service, and volunteerism for national development;
8. Appreciate the significance of good citizenship towards the attainment of
national development

9|Page
.

Try this!

A. Creatively draw below a symbol of the EDSA People Power experience, or a

symbol of the success of EDSA.

Reflect further on the symbol drawn by answering the following questions:

1. What does your illustration tell you?

The illustration of a fist holding a yellow ribbon communicates several powerful messages.
Firstly, the raised fist signifies collective strength and solidarity among the Filipino people,
suggesting that unity can drive significant change. Secondly, the fist represents defiance
against oppression, conveying a determination to fight against injustice and authoritarianism.
10 | P a g e
The yellow ribbon symbolizes hope and freedom, and together with the fist, it embodies the
aspiration for a democratic society where individuals can express themselves freely.
Ultimately, this illustration serves as a reminder of the legacy of the EDSA Revolution,
emphasizing the ongoing need to protect the values of justice and democracy through civic
engagement.

2. What qualities emerged when we united as a people during the EDSA People
Power Experience?

During the EDSA People Power Experience, qualities such as solidarity and courage
emerged as Filipinos from diverse backgrounds united for a common cause. Their
commitment to nonviolence demonstrated a powerful belief in achieving change through
peaceful means, fueled by a shared sense of hope for a brighter future. Additionally, the
resilience shown by the people allowed them to endure hardships and maintain their
demands for democracy and justice throughout the movement.

3. What are the effects of faith and prayer in our lives?

Faith and prayer profoundly influence one’s life by fostering a deep connection with Allah,
which provides peace and guidance in everyday challenges. Regular prayer, or Salah,
serves as a reminder of one's purpose and encourages discipline, helping individuals
cultivate mindfulness and gratitude throughout their daily routines. Furthermore, faith
strengthens community bonds, as people gather for prayers and communal activities,
promoting a sense of belonging and responsibility towards supporting one another.

B. Think of a slogan that will truly depict the nature of citizenship values under the
Makatao cluster. Each slogan shall comprise of not more than 12 substantive words.

1. LOVE
"With love, we grow, together we glow, and kindness we show."

2. FREEDOM
"Freedom to choose, respect we won’t lose, in unity we cruise."

3. PEACE
"Peace in our hearts, where harmony starts, and conflict departs."

4. TRUTH
"Truth sets us free, for all to see, in honesty we’ll be."

5. JUSTICE
"Justice we seek, for the strong and the weak, equality we speak."

11 | P a g e
 C. Identify at least five (5) national symbols and explain briefly the native values that
best describe the filipinos. Write it in the space provided for.

NATIONAL SYMBOLS NATIVE FILIPINO VALUES

Value: Patriotism and Unity
1. Philippine Flag The Philippine flag symbolizes the Filipinos’ love
for the country, courage and desire for freedom.
The colors and elements represent the nation’s
history and aspirations for unity and peace.
Value: Purity and Simplicity
2. Sampaguita (National Flower) The sampaguita flower reflects the Filipinos’
simplicity, humility and their innate purity of
heart. It symbolizes the people’s quiet strength and
resillience in the face of adversity.
Value: Strength and Bravery
3. Philippine Eagle (National Bird) The Philippine Eagle embodies the strength,
courage, and determination of Filipinos. As a rare
and majestic bird, it also symbolizes the nation’s
pride and its drive to protect its natural heritage.
Value: Hard Work and Perseverance
4. Kalabaw/Carabao (National Animal) The carabao represents the hardworking spirit of
Filipinos, especially those in agricultural
communities. It symbolizes perseverance,
patience, and dedication to achieving goals despite
challenges.
Value: Resilience and Stability
5. Narra Tree (National Tree) The narra tree stands as a symbol of resilience and
strength, reflecting the Filipino people's ability to
remain steadfast and grounded in the face of
hardships. It also represents a strong connection to
nature and heritage.

D. Identify one environmental issue or concern in your community and determine how
NSTP and student-trainees could address solutions to each.

1. Environmental Issue/Concern No. 1

Plastic waste is a significant environmental concern in many communities, leading to

pollution, harm to wildlife, and health risks for residents. Many individuals improperly
dispose of plastic materials, causing clutter in public spaces and water bodies.

Proposed Solutions:
To address the issue of plastic waste management, NSTP students can initiate
community awareness campaigns to educate residents about the impacts of plastic
pollution and proper disposal methods. They can organize clean-up drives in local
public spaces to actively remove plastic waste and engage the community.
Collaborating with local authorities, students can implement recycling programs and
advocate for policies that reduce plastic usage, such as bans on single-use plastics.
Additionally, workshops can be held to teach residents how to create sustainable
alternatives to plastic, promoting a shift towards eco-friendly practices.

12 | P a g e
 Think ahead!

1. According to the philosophical view, what is a human person? Cite specific examples.
A human person is often viewed as a rational being capable of self-awareness, moral reasoning,
and the ability to make choices. Philosophers like Immanuel Kant emphasize autonomy and the
capacity for moral judgment, suggesting that humans are ends in themselves and should be treated
as such. For example, a person deciding to volunteer for a community service project demonstrates
rational choice and moral commitment to the welfare of others, reflecting their status as a human
person.

2. Why was human nature patterned after the image of god?

Human nature is said to be patterned after the image of God to signify the inherent dignity and
worth of each individual. This concept, rooted in Judeo-Christian belief, posits that humans possess
qualities such as rationality, creativity, and the capacity for love, mirroring divine attributes. For
instance, the ability to choose between right and wrong, engage in relationships, and pursue justice
reflects this divine image, suggesting that humans are called to uphold moral values and serve a
higher purpose.

3. Define the following; Pagkamaka-Diyos, Pagkamaka-Tao, Pagkamaka-Bayan,

Pagkamaka-Kalikasan.
Pagkamaka-Diyos: This refers to the value of being God-centered or the divine aspect of human
nature, emphasizing spirituality, faith, and a connection to God.
Pagkamaka-Tao: This value underscores the importance of humanity and compassion towards
others, promoting respect, empathy, and love for fellow human beings.
Pagkamaka-Bayan: This concept embodies the love for one's country and active participation in
nation-building, highlighting civic responsibility and a sense of belonging to the community.
Pagkamaka-Kalikasan: This value emphasizes respect for and protection of the environment,
recognizing the interconnectedness of all living things and advocating for sustainable practices.

4. Discuss the philosophy of human values in the Filipino context.

In the Filipino context, human values are deeply rooted in cultural heritage, emphasizing
community, family, and respect for others. Values such as "Bayanihan" highlight the importance of
helping one another, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. Additionally, Filipino
values like "kapwa" reflect a collective consciousness that prioritizes relationships over
individualism, underscoring the interconnectedness of people and the need for social harmony.

5. Discuss nationalism and patriotism in the Filipino context.

Nationalism in the Filipino context involves a deep sense of pride in the country’s history, culture,
and identity, often expressed through the celebration of national heroes, cultural festivals, and
advocacy for Filipino rights. It emphasizes the importance of sovereignty, independence, and unity
among Filipinos, particularly in the face of historical colonization. Patriotism, on the other hand, is
the active love for one’s country, manifested in civic engagement, volunteerism, and participation
in social and political issues. Together, nationalism and patriotism encourage Filipinos to work
towards the betterment of society, promote social justice, and uphold the values that define the
nation.

13 | P a g e
A. Below is a self-assessment test of good Do I condone corruption by emulating
citizenship values. Determine to what extent you persons who have enriched themselves
possess these Filipino values. Check (/) before through corruption?
the item should your answer is “yes” to the
question. 5. Equality

1. Concern for the environment Do I give preferential treatment to the

rich and powerful?
Do I conserve water? Do I treat everyone with respect regardless
Do I keep my surroundings clean? of status or position?
Do I segregate my garbage? Do I take advantage of anyone because
Am I a litterbug? they are poor, ignorant, or powerless?
Do I throw garbage in canals and
waterways that causes floods? 6. Unity
Do I plant trees?
Do I work with and cooperate with others?
2. Promotion of the common good Do I foment intrigue, dissension, distrust?
Do I help others?
Do I consider the welfare of others in what Am I a team player in the family, at school
I do - that I will harm no one or disturb and in the community?
the peace nor deface my surroundings?
Do I help the less fortunate? 7. Justice
Do I go out of my way and engage in
activities that will benefit others, e.g., Do I give everyone their due even if
give food and clothing to disaster difficult?
victims, etc.? Am I fair in all my dealings, especially to
Do I engage in activities that harm others, the poor and powerless?
e.g., helping out criminal syndicates in my Do I try to take advantage of others?
neighborhood pushing drugs and Do I try to get more than what I
deserve
promoting illegal gambling? or what is rightfully mine?

3. Patriotism
8. Truth
Do I consider what is good for my country
in my actions, e.g., when I commit acts of Am I a truthful individual?
vandalism like writing graffiti on walls, Did I hurt somebody during the time that
breaking street lights, etc.? I'm not truthful?
Do I patronize our native products? Did I do something to correct my fault?
Do I say or do anything that will give a Do I value the essence of truth in my life,
the bad image of my country? family,work and country?
Do I commit myself to the truth in my own
4. Respect for law and government dealings and defend righteousness as a
virtue?
Do I follow traffic rules relative to bus 9. Peace
stops, pedestrian lanes, traffic lights,
etc.?
Do I join street demonstrations that seek Do I resolve conflict in a peaceful way?
to bring down the government? Do I maintain a harmonious relationship
Do I report lawbreakers like those with others... at home...at work...in the
engaged in illegal gambling, drug community?

14 | P a g e
pushing, etc., especially within the school Do I help iron out misunderstandings
premises? among friends and family members?

15 | P a g e
10. Freedom 13. Work

Do I respect the freedom of others? Do I go to school on time?

Do I impose my will on others? Do I do my homework and participate in
Do I use my freedom for good? school activities?
Do I exercise my freedom responsibly so Do I do my best in everything I do?
that I dò no harm to anyone? Do I volunteer to help others,
especially
Do I use coercion or intimidation to make the old, the sick and small children?
others do what I want them to do or be Do I follow rules and regulations-at home,
what I want them to be? in school and in the community?
Do I maintain cleanliness and orderliness
11. Love at home and in my school?
Am I trustworthy in handling money and
Do I make sacrifices for the good of those property that belong to others?
I love?
Am I kind and compassionate to others? 15. Respect for life
Do I help the poor?
Do I forgive offenses against me or do I Do I take care of my health?
exact revenge? Do I engage in unhealthy activities
like drinking, taking drugs,etc.?
12. Concern for the family and future generations Am I considerate of the health of others?
Do I engage in violent fights and hurt
Do I help in household chores? others physically?
Do I have a loving relationship with all the
members of my family? 16. Faith in Almighty
Am I kind and considerate with the
members of my family? Do I follow God's will and
Do I show a good example to all the commandments?
younger members of my family? Do I turn to God in difficult times?
Am I considerate of the needs and welfare Do I pray?
of the next generation?

16 | P a g e