LESSON 5: Human Acts and Values Education
1. Human Acts and Values
Human acts are voluntary actions performed by individuals, reflecting their moral values. These
acts differ from involuntary acts (acts of man) and are driven by consciousness and intention. To
promote ethical behavior, human acts should align with the core values of integrity, discipline,
and hard work.
Integrity: Upholding moral principles and ensuring that one's actions are honest,
transparent, and accountable.
Discipline: Consistently controlling one's behavior and emotions to adhere to a moral
code, contributing to personal and social responsibility.
Hard Work: The effort and diligence put into achieving goals, which fosters resilience
and perseverance.
2. Duties and Rights of the Filipino People
Proper control of human acts relies on the understanding and performance of one's duties and
the recognition of one's rights as a Filipino citizen. Duties ensure the stability and growth of the
nation, while rights protect individual freedoms and privileges.
1. Duties of the People
a. To Vote Honestly: Ensuring fair and transparent elections by casting votes based on
informed judgment and moral conscience.
b. To Obey the Laws: Adhering to the laws and policies enacted by the government,
contributing to social order.
c. To Respect Public Authority: Recognizing and respecting the role of public officials and
institutions in governance and society.
d. To Be Loyal to the Republic: Supporting and promoting the unity and integrity of the
Philippines as a nation.
e. To Defend the Motherland: Upholding the security and sovereignty of the country,
especially in times of crisis or external threats.
f. To Pay Taxes to the Government: Contributing to the nation's resources by paying taxes,
which supports public services and infrastructure.
g. To Take Active Interest in Local, National, and International Affairs: Participating in civic
discourse, staying informed about socio-political developments, and contributing to the common
good.
2. Rights of the People
a. Natural Rights: Inherent rights that individuals possess by virtue of being human (e.g., the
right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness).
b. Civil Rights: Rights that ensure personal freedoms and protection from discrimination (e.g.,
freedom of speech, right to privacy).
c. Political Rights: Rights that allow citizens to participate in the political process (e.g., right to
vote, right to run for office).
d. Constitutional Rights: Rights guaranteed by the Philippine Constitution (e.g., freedom of
religion, right to due process).
e. Statutory Rights: Rights granted by specific laws (e.g., labor rights, consumer protection
laws).
3. Filipino Citizen-Voter Education
The right to vote is one of the most fundamental expressions of a democratic society.
Understanding and exercising this right responsibly ensures the development of good
governance.
3.1 What is the Right of Suffrage?
Suffrage refers to the right of citizens to vote in public elections. It allows Filipinos to participate
in the selection of government officials and the shaping of national policies.
3.2 Who are Qualified to Vote in the Philippine Election?
A Filipino citizen is qualified to vote if they:
Are at least 18 years old on or before the day of the election.
Have resided in the Philippines for at least one year and in the place where they intend to vote
for at least six months before the election.
3.3 Who are Qualified to Vote under the Overseas Absentee Voting Law?
Under the Overseas Absentee Voting Law, Filipinos residing abroad are allowed to vote
provided they meet the following qualifications:
At least 18 years old by the time of the election.
A registered overseas voter.
Has not lost their Filipino citizenship.
3.4 Who are Disqualified by Law to Vote in Philippine Elections?
The following are disqualified from voting:
Individuals who have been declared insane or incompetent by competent authority.
Individuals convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year of imprisonment, unless their
voting rights have been restored.
Those who have lost their Filipino citizenship.
3.5 Action Points for Citizen-Voters in Exercising the Right of Suffrage
a. Before Elections:
Register to vote and verify eligibility.
Stay informed about the candidates and political issues.
Attend forums or discussions to understand the platforms of candidates.
b. During Elections:
Cast your vote responsibly, ensuring that it is based on informed decisions.
Follow the procedures at polling places and report any irregularities.
c. After Elections:
Monitor the performance of elected officials.
Participate in post-election activities, such as recounts or election result validations if
necessary.
d. Election Process:
Familiarize yourself with the overall electoral process, including voting procedures,
security measures, and ballot counting systems.
e. Citizen-Voter Participation in Political Affairs:
Engage in local and national discussions that promote accountability among elected
officials.
Advocate for reforms in the political system to ensure fair and honest governance.
ACTIVITY
1. Human Acts and Values
Explain the importance of integrity, discipline, and hard work in shaping an individual's
moral values. Provide an example of how each value applies in everyday life.
2. Duties of a Filipino Citizen
Among the duties of a Filipino citizen (e.g., to vote honestly, to pay taxes, etc.), choose
two. Explain why these duties are crucial to the development of a strong nation and give
a real-world example of how they are applied.
3. Rights of a Filipino Citizen
Compare natural rights and constitutional rights. How do these rights ensure personal
freedom and protection? Provide an example of each type of right in action.
4. Right of Suffrage
Define the right of suffrage. Why is it important for Filipinos to participate in elections?
How does this right contribute to good governance?
5. Citizen-Voter Action Points
Identify one action point a voter should take before, during, and after elections. Explain
how these actions contribute to the integrity of the electoral process.
