DepEd: Korean, other foreign languages won’t replace Filipino subject

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education clarified that the study of the Korean language would not replace the Filipino subject in the basic education curriculum.

DepEd issued this statement Sunday amid “misguided assertions” about the offering of Korean language classes in selected public schools.

The agency stressed that the study of Korean language, just like other foreign languages, is only an elective subject.

Aside from Korean language classes, DepEd also offers Spanish, French, German, Chinese and Japanese elective classes.

DepEd noted that the Special Program in Foreign Language is one of the programs being offered to equip learners with necessary skills to engage in a linguistically and culturally diverse world.

“As early as school year 2009-2010, the department has already recognized the need to develop the foreign language skills of learners amid the increasing impact of globalization,” it said.

The department, moreover, maintained that the Filipino subject remains as one of the core subjects in basic education.

“The teaching of Panitikan in the Filipino subject serves as a springboard for discussion of grammar lessons and a way of strengthening the Filipino identity and culture. Additionally, Filipino continues to be the medium of instruction for Araling Panlipunan and Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao,” it said.