WHY IT'S HARD TO LOVE THE PHILIPPINES
Last year, during the presidential campaign, we were bombarded with promises of change. Candidates from different political parties vowed to bring about a transformation in our society, to address the issues that have plagued our nation for decades. However, amidst all the promises and rhetoric, one crucial aspect seemed to be overlooked – the development of our culture.
Our culture, or lack thereof, is the main cause of devastation among Filipinos as a people. It shapes our values, beliefs, and behaviors, and ultimately defines our Filipino identity. Yet, it is often neglected and overshadowed by other pressing issues such as poverty, corruption, and inequality. It is high time that we give top priority to the development of our culture, as it holds the key to our nation's progress and prosperity.
By exposing our people to the arts and instilling the right values, we can begin to shape a culture that is rooted in integrity, honesty, and compassion. The arts have the power to inspire, to challenge, and to provoke thought. They can serve as a mirror that reflects the true essence of our society, exposing both its beauty and its flaws. Through literature, music, visual arts, and performing arts, we can explore our history, celebrate our diversity, and foster a sense of national pride.
Moreover, values formation should be an integral part of our education system. It is not enough to teach our children academic subjects; we must also teach them the importance of character, ethics, and moral responsibility. We need to instill in them the values of honesty, hard work, and respect for others. Only then can we hope to create a generation of leaders who are guided by principles and who prioritize the welfare of the people over personal gain.
Unfortunately, the effects of our present culture are evident in our society, especially among our leaders. We have witnessed the rise of what can only be described as the "Art of Corruption." It has become so deeply ingrained in our system that it seems almost natural for those in power to engage in corrupt practices. This culture of corruption has eroded the trust of the people in our government and hindered our nation's progress.
Similarly, we have also witnessed the prevalence of the "Art of Stealing" and the "Art of Deception." These practices have become so commonplace that they are almost accepted as the norm. We have become desensitized to the dishonesty and deceit that permeate our society. This is not the Filipino identity that we should be proud of; it is a reflection of the erosion of our values and the decay of our culture.
What was taught to us in values formation was the moderation of greed and the "Palusot" mentality. We were taught to be content with what we have and to be resourceful in finding solutions to our problems. However, somewhere along the way, these teachings were forgotten or ignored. Greed has taken hold of our society, and the "Palusot" mentality has become a convenient excuse for wrongdoing.
