Summary
Highlights
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, head of the Basic Education Committee, called on the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to reconsider and eliminate redundant subjects in college programs, specifically highlighting Physical Education (PE). He believes it's time to re-evaluate current laws and mandates concerning subject offerings.
Gatchalian emphasized that subjects like PE, which are already taught for ten years in basic education, should not be repeated in college. He argued that college should focus on specialization and concentration, suggesting that PE should be pushed down to basic education.
CHED defended teaching PE in college, stating it helps develop students' abilities and aspirations to become professional athletes. However, Gatchalian countered that not all students pursue this path, reinforcing his view that PE should be handled by basic education.
Aside from PE, other college subjects are also being scrutinized for redundancy, as some topics are already covered in senior high school or even elementary levels. Dr. Edison Fermin, CHED Technical Panel for General Education Chairperson, presented additional subjects like Contemporary World, Art Appreciation, Rizal, and Ethics, noting that different fields often require specialized ethics training, and art appreciation should be taught at the elementary level.
Gatchalian explained the necessity for subjects to evolve with changing times and for the curriculum to adapt effectively. There's also a proposal by Gatchalian to align college subjects with industry demands to ensure graduates are more competitive in the job market after graduation.