President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has urged young Filipinos to be discerning about what they read online, stressing that critical thinking, nationalism, and standing for truth are vital in protecting the country’s sovereignty.

During the “Usap Tayo, Bayan Muna” forum at Centro Escolar University (CEU) Manila, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro engaged junior and senior high school students- “Escolarians” – in discussions on national issues, genuine love of country, and an appreciation of their role in national 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 Manila Community.

“Tayo at kayong mga kabataan: Maging mapanuri sa mga nababasa online, buhayin ang nasyonalismo sa ating mga puso, tumindig para sa bayan at tumindig para sa katotohanan,” the Palace Press Officer said.

CEU Manila was the second venue of the “Usap Tayo, Bayan Muna” forum, following the successful launch at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).

At the CEU Manila’s Librada Avelino Auditorium, the high school students participated in the forum with energy and enthusiasm.

When asked if they were willing to sacrifice for the country in their own way, their resounding “yes” came with bright smiles and determined voices.

Their lively engagement in the open forum and post-discussion quiz spoke volumes about their attentiveness, curiosity, and genuine passion for the topics tackled.

Castro said the “Usap Tayo, Bayan Muna” forum was an important initiative that aims to directly bring discussions on national issues to schools to instill in the youth a genuine love of country and an appreciation of their role in the nation’s development.

Castro said the forum continues to strengthen youth participation in national discourse, from the responsible use of information to active involvement in programs that will help improve the nation’s future.

“Kaya 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,” Castro urged.

“Kailangan tayo maging Pilipino sa lahat ng pagkakataon. Meron kayong katungkulan bilang kabataan. Utang natin sa mga heroes, bayani kung ano ang tinatamasa natin ngayon,” Castro stressed. ”Huwag natin isuko yung ating freedom,” she added. | PND