QuestionsQuestions (MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. 247)
Memorandum Order No. 247 is issued by the President under the authority vested by law. It directs the Secretary of Education, Culture and Sports (now DepEd/related agencies depending on reorganizations) and the Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education to fully implement Republic Act No. 1425.
RA 1425 requires all public and private schools, colleges, and universities to include in their curricula a course on the life, works, and writings of Jose Rizal, particularly his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo.
The text states that the novels are a constant and inspiring source of patriotism for youth, especially during their formative and decisive years in school; the curriculum should be suffused to rekindle patriotic fervor.
It authorizes the imposition of appropriate disciplinary action against the governing body and/or head of any public or private school, college or university found not complying with the law and the rules, regulations, orders, and instructions issued pursuant thereto.
Within thirty (30) days from issuance, they must jointly submit to the President a report on the steps they have taken to implement the Memorandum Order and RA 1425.
One (1) year after the first report, they must submit another report on the extent of compliance by both public and private schools at all levels with the provisions of RA 1425.
“Full implementation” refers to taking steps to immediately and fully implement both the letter, intent, and spirit of RA 1425, including adherence to the rules, regulations, and related issuances.
It explicitly applies to both public and private schools, colleges, and universities, including their governing bodies and heads.
The text cites preparation for the centennial of Rizal’s martyrdom (1996) and the centennial of the Declaration of Philippine Independence (two years thereafter) as timing that requires rekindling patriotic fervor among Filipinos, especially the youth.
The law and the order emphasize a course covering the full scope of Rizal’s life and writings, with special focus on the novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, implying broader educational and historical-patriotic engagement.
The Memorandum Order takes effect immediately after its issuance.
Fidel V. Ramos signed as President of the Philippines. Teofisto T. Guingona, Jr. signed “By the President” as Executive Secretary.
If found not complying with RA 1425 and related issuances, the governing body and/or the head may be subjected to appropriate disciplinary action.
It supports the policy justification that education shapes national destiny, reinforcing why Rizal’s works must be integrated into the school system.
It relies on directives to relevant education authorities (DepEd and CHED), reporting requirements to the President, and the potential for disciplinary action against non-compliant school leadership.