In as much as I am deeply concerned with the educational system of the country, I am even more concerned now with the intention of education reforms.

The classic philosophy that we teach not for school but for life has been de-contextualized. This time, the intent to "study for life" is not anymore for the pursuit of knowledge but more so, it has become the "study for life" to survive. Thus, we study for the labor market that provides Filipinos with work that will eventually provide them with their basic needs.

These thoughts came after we were oriented with the K-to-12 curriculum to ground all the rest of the sessions on UbD (Understanding by Design) and LM (Learning Module) making. The orientation of the K-to-12 curriculum to Filipino teachers has become a necessity because this will be implemented already this coming school year (2012-2013) starting with the first year high school, technically called now, Grade 7, with much apprehension from the grassroots of the education system.

We were told that the Philippines is the only country in Asia who has not yet adapted such curriculum and because of this, Filipinos are less qualified to find jobs abroad.

Yes, it is good that we strive to be at par with other nations and at the same time solve our socio-economic problems but I cannot help see "unforeseen consequences". Like, what would happen to Filipinos, if in the future, all are into skilled or semi-skilled labor rather than into professions?

I am not saying K-to-12 curriculum is bad for us. Its intent, as we were oriented, is anything but noble: to make Filipinos functionally literate and globally competitive.

But can we just rethink where we should be in the competition or how should we reap the winning side sustainably? It is up to us to redirect what this education reform is for us, Filipinos; not for what others need from us. By the mere fact that they need us is enough to draw the competition towards us, to our favor.

We teachers are not factory workers in an assembly line producing out of our students/learners "commodities" for other nations to consume. This is the hope I have as we culminate our seminar today. It is a matter of perspective. Most of what we will do in our classrooms should be grounded with such perspective.

Filipino teachers are the best! Mabuhay!*