President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on young Filipinos to be discerning with online content, stressing that critical thinking, nationalism, and standing for truth are vital in protecting the nation’s sovereignty.
The message was relayed by Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro during the “Usap Tayo, Bayan Muna” forum at Centro Escolar University (CEU) Manila, where junior and senior high school students engaged in discussions on national issues and their role in development.
“Sabi nga ng Pangulo, hindi niya isusuko kahit isang pulgadang bahagi ng Pilipinas. Pero kailangan niya ang tulong natin — kailangan niya ang taumbayan,” Castro told the CEU community.
She also urged students to be critical of what they read online, keep nationalism alive in their hearts, and stand for truth and country.
CEU was the second stop of the forum series, after its launch at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.
Castro said the initiative seeks to bring national issues directly to schools to instill patriotism and highlight youth participation in nation-building — from responsible use of information to involvement in programs shaping the country’s future.
“Kailangan nating buhayin yung nasyonalismo sa mga puso niyo, lalong lalo na sa inyong mga kabataan. Dalhin niyo ito hanggang sa pagtanda niyo, iisa lang ang bansa natin, hindi dapat mawala,” she stressed.IMT
