Village Connect
As millions of Filipino children prepare for another day of learning, a profound question shapes our nation’s destiny: What kind of education will truly prepare our youth to lead the Philippines toward God’s purposes?
The Biblical Foundation
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). This isn’t merely about academic achievement—it’s about raising a generation that will transform our nation from the inside out.
Godly education integrates spiritual formation with academic excellence, nurturing learners who recognize God’s sovereignty while developing as compassionate, responsible individuals who contribute meaningfully to their communities.
The Current Challenge
While 98% of Protestant and 96% of Catholic clergy recognize parents and churches as positive influences on children’s spiritual formation, 65% of Protestant and 50% of Catholic leaders view schools as negative influences.
Our young people possess only a fragmented understanding of the Gospel. How can they be salt and light when their spiritual foundation remains incomplete?
God’s Perfect Timing
Republic Act 11476—the GMRC and Values Education Act—has institutionalized Good Manners and Right Conduct as core subjects throughout our K-12 system. This represents an unprecedented opportunity to weave godly principles into Filipino education.
The Department of Education’s vision for learners to be Maka-Diyos (God-loving), Makatao (people-loving), Makakalikasan (nature-loving), and Makabansa (country-loving) perfectly reflects Christ’s commandments to love God and love our neighbors.
The Filipino Context
Godly education aligns beautifully with our cultura value of personalismo—understanding that relationships are rooted in shared humanity and dignity. Combined with virtue ethics, children learn righteousness not from external pressure alone, but from understanding who God created them to be.
From Vision to Transformation
During our recent Samal Island training, pastors and teachers discovered their shared calling to raise a godly generation. They understood that every lesson and relationship builds the foundation for national transformation.
When we raise children who are both academically excellent and spiritually grounded, these students become healthcare workers who serve with compassion, business leaders with integrity, government officials pursuing justice, and parents passing on godly values.
The Call to Action
Parents: Partner with schools that share your values. Pastors: Advocate for godly education in your community. Teachers: Let your Christ-like character transform lives. Church Leaders: Invest in educational transformation.
Rise Up!
From Luzon’s mountains to Mindanao’s shores, God is calling His people to reclaim education for His glory. This isn’t about religious isolation—it’s about demonstrating that biblical truth expressed through excellent practice becomes a powerful force for national flourishing.
Every child we influence carries the potential to transform communities and spread the Gospel. Our investment in godly education today is our gift to tomorrow’s Philippines—a nation reflecting its Creator’s heart.
The future begins in our classrooms. Let it be founded on the Rock of Ages.
Rise up, godly education advocates! All for God’s glory!
Rev. Elvin B. Saburin serves as Deputy National Head of Christian Educators’ Network (CEdNet) International, National Coordinator of Generous Students Philippines, and Principal of Our Lord Saviour Academy Inc.
He is also a Professor at Asia Harvesters College and Seminary, host of “Tagumpay sa Eskwelahan,” and author of GMRC/VE textbooks.
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