Basic Life Skills Course Act

TWEENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE ) REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session JU! -9 P5:11 SENATE S. No. _ Introduced by SENATOR CAMILLE VILLAR AN ACT ESTABLISHING A BASIC LIFE SKILLS COURSE IN THE HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM EXPLANATORY NOTE The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a critical phase during which individuals must develop the skills necessary for independent and responsible living. In the Philippines, the current educational framework predominantly emphasizes academic subjects, often overlooking the teaching of essential life skills. This oversight leaves many students ill-equipped to navigate real-world responsibilities and challenges. Basic life skills such as financial literacy, nutrition, communication, and time management, are all crucial for personal development, self-sufficiency, and long-term well-being. These foundational skills empower young individuals to make informed decisions, manage their resources, maintain healthy relationships, and contribute meaningfully to their own families and communities. By helping equip students with these tools, we help lay the groundwork for a more competent, confident, and civically engaged citizenry. The proposed measure entitled "Basic Life Skills Course Act" seeks to introduce a comprehensive skills curriculum in all high schools nationwide. The curriculum will cover a wide array of essential topics including, but not limited to, financial literacy, cooking and nutrition, basic home maintenance, interpersonal communication, emotional intelligence, time management, job search strategies, legal literacy, pedestrian and driver safety, and understanding taxation. These named subject areas are thoughtfully selected to help students confidently manage both personal and professional aspects of adult life.

Moreover, the measure aims to enhance the workforce readiness of our youth. As students enter the job market, employers increasingly seek individuals who not only possess technical qualifications but also demonstrate critical soft skills and the ability to adapt in complex social and practical environments. By embedding life skills into the high school curriculum, this measure ensures that graduates are better prepared to meet the demand of modern employment and to thrive in an evolving economic landscape. The "Basic Life Skills Course Act" is a timely and necessary measure that responds to a long-standing gap in our education system. By preparing students for the realities of adulthood and fostering a culture of practical competence, the measure promotes self-reliance, career readiness, and civic responsibility. It represents a meaningful step toward a more holistic and future ready education for the Filipino youth. In view of the foregoing, the urgent passage of this bill is earnestly sought. CAMILLE VILLAR

TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session ) JUL -9 75:11 SENATE .....= S. No.. Introduced by SENATOR CAMILLE VILLAR AN ACT ESTABLISHING A BASIC LIFE SKILLS COURSE IN THE HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled: ARTICLE I GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as "Basic Life Skills Course

4 Act".

Sec. 2. General Objectives. This Act seeks to:

a. Establish a comprehensive Basic Life Skills curriculum for high school students, covering essential areas such as financial literacy, cooking and nutrition, basic home maintenance, interpersonal communication, time management, emotional intelligence, job search strategies, legal literacy, driver and pedestrian safety, and understanding taxation. b. Guide educators and stakeholders in delivering a well-rounded, inclusive, and practical life skills education that prepares students for independent living and future challenges. c. Promote collaboration with private and public sectors to provide resources, workshops, and real-world experiences that enhance the basic life skills curriculum.

d. Foster alignment with national goals for education, workforce readiness, and civic responsibility, ensuring that students are equipped for personal and professional success. e. Support ongoing research and innovation in life skills education, incorporating new methods and technologies to meet the evolving needs of students and society.

Sec. 3. Definition of Terms. As used in this Act, the following terms shall mean:

a. Basic life skills - refer to essential abilities and knowledge necessary for managing everyday life in modern society. These skills are not tied to any specific profession but are fundamental for all adults in the workforce. b. Basic life skills course - a course or educational program designed to equip students with essential skills needed for successful daily living and personal development. The course covers a range of practical and universally applicable topics, such as financial literacy, cooking and nutrition, basic home maintenance, interpersonal communication, time management, emotional intelligence, job search strategies, legal literacy, driver and pedestrian safety, and understanding taxation.

Sec. 4. Content of the Basic Life Skills Course. A course on basic life skills shall

be included in the curriculum of all public and private high schools. This course shall be provided by the Department of Education (DepEd) together with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to equip students with essential life skills and prepare them for a smooth transition into adult society. Among others, the following topics shall be discussed: (1) Financial Literacy - Understanding and managing personal finances, including budgeting, saving, investing, credit, and debt management. (2) Driver and Pedestrian Safety - Education on safe driving practices, understanding road signs and laws, and ensuring personal safety as a pedestrian.

(3) Cooking and Nutrition - The basics of preparing healthy meals, understanding nutritional information, making food choices that support overall health, and maintaining kitchen safety and hygiene. (4) Basic Home Maintenance - Skills for performing routine household tasks such as plumbing repairs, electrical fixes, cleaning, and general upkeep to ensure a safe and functional living environment. (5) Interpersonal Communication - Developing effective verbal and non- verbal communication skills, active listening, conflict resolution, and building positive relationships in both personal and professional settings. (6) Time Management - Techniques and activities for prioritizing tasks, managing schedules, setting goals, and using time efficiently to balance work, school, and personal life. (7) Job Search Strategies - Guidance on finding employment, including writing resumes and cover letters, preparing for interviews, networking, and understanding the job market. (8) Legal Literacy - Basic knowledge of the law, human rights and legal responsibilities, understanding contracts, navigating legal documents, and knowing when to seek legal advice. (9) Understanding Taxation - An overview of how taxes work, including income tax, sales tax, and property tax, as well as how to file tax returns and understand tax obligations.

Sec. 5. Research and Development. Research and Development shall be

pursued, and priority shall be given to the development of effective, appropriate, and efficient instructional materials for the Basic Life Skills course. This will ensure that the curriculum is continuously improved and adapted to meet the evolving needs of students, equipping them with the essential skills required for adult life.

Sec. 7. Appropriations. Such sums as may be necessary for the implementation

of this Act shall be taken from any available appropriations of the DepEd and TESDA under the current General Appropriations Act. Thereafter, the succeeding

1 appropriations for its continued implementation shall be included in the annual General 2 Appropriations Act.

Sec. 6. Implementing Rules and Regulations. DepEd, TESDA, as well as expert

5 course providers and other stakeholders shall formulate the implementing rules and regulations within ninety (90) days from the effectivity of this Act.

Sec. 7. Separability Clause. - If any provision of this Act is declared invalid or

unconstitutional, the other provisions not affected by such declaration shall remain in full force and effect.

Sec. 8. Repealing Clause. - All laws, executive orders, administrative orders and

rules and regulations inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.

Sec. 9. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its

complete publication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general 18 circulation. Approved,