(CNN Philippines) — As we commemorate the Philippines’ declaration of independence from Spain on Friday (June 12), CNN Philippines did a little test to know whether children, and teens alike, still know the national anthem — or the “Lupang Hinirang” — and the different versions of the patriotic oath — the “Panatang Makabayan” — by heart.
It was easy to get the younger children to participate in the activity. A quick explanation of what we wanted them to do and they were on their feet and ready to go.
Singing the anthem, which they correctly called “Lupang Hinirang,” was easy for the grade two students we gathered. They sang at the top of their voices, seemingly wanting to be star of the class.
Getting the class to recite the “Panatang Makabayan” was easy as well. There was no coaching needed, and they spoke the pledge clearly and – surprisingly – with conviction.
As a group, the class didn’t falter in the two tests.
However, when asked to recite the “Panatang Makabayan” individually, although enthusiastic at first, none of them finished reciting the oath.
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We also had the chance to talk to some high school students and children on the streets.
They performed the same way that the grade two children did: They could not recite the oath, but they were able to name and sing the anthem correctly — except for one high school student.
She was singing “Lupang Hinirang,” a bit shy, but confident about her knowledge of the lyrics. Listening closely, she got a few words wrong.
