Law Summary
Directive and Authority
- Issued by President Manuel L. Quezon under constitutional powers
- Secretary of Public Instruction tasked to enforce teaching of specified civic and ethical principles
- Principles drafted by eminent citizens
Core Civic and Ethical Principles to be Taught
- Faith in Divine Providence guiding individuals and nations
- Patriotism: love for country as home, source of happiness, and priority to defend it
- Willingness to sacrifice for the nation
- Respect and obedience towards the Constitution as the sovereign expression of the people
- Government's role for safety and welfare
- Obedience to laws and ensuring public officials fulfill duties
- Duty to pay taxes promptly and willingly
- Citizenship encompassing both rights and obligations
- Protect the integrity of elections and abide by majority decisions
- Filial duty: love, respect, and service to parents
- Valuing personal honor above wealth, preferring poverty with honor
- Truthfulness and honesty in thought and action
- Justice, charity, courtesy, and dignified interpersonal relations
- Leading a clean and frugal lifestyle, avoiding frivolity and pretense
- Simplicity in dress and modesty in behavior
- Upholding noble traditions and venerating national heroes
Work Ethic and Social Responsibility
- Industriousness and pride in manual labor
- Contribution to national economic security through productive work
- Self-reliance and perseverance in pursuing legitimate ambitions
- Commitment to quality and timely completion of work
- Community welfare and promotion of social justice
- Recognition of social duties beyond self and family
Economic Nationalism and Resource Conservation
- Habit of patronizing Philippine-made goods and supporting local trade
- Use and development of natural resources with conservation for future generations
- Citizenship must not be commodified or traded
Formalization
- Issued at Manila on August 19, 1939
- Signed by President Manuel L. Quezon and Secretary to the President Jorge B. Vargas