Growing up in the time when social media quickly took over the world, I was exposed to the great achievements Filipinos achieved in the last decade. Patriotism, for Filipinos, was an everyday thing. It wasn’t hard to love the country when all I could see was achievements and recognition abroad.
But growing up also means asking questions and realizing a lot of things. And one thing struck onto me when I was exposed to the real hardships of Filipinos everyday. It’s that most of the time, Filipinos overlook the problem we face.
Because being patriotic sometimes isn’t enough.
Manny Pacquiao, Catriona Gray, Marcelito Pomoy – these are people that made us exceptionally proud to be Filipinos. But does patriotism only come when someone makes us proud – or does it also require attendance in the most challenging and radical times?
The answer: Patriotism will never be enough in a country plagued with problems – understanding of the root cause is.
Because in order to love your country, it requires you to show up in the times it needs you the most. And in order to do that, a wide understanding of the root cause of the problems your country is facing is not merely an essential, it is a requirement.
Because understanding does not only expose you to the truth, it signals you to stand up. In a time when national problems pile up like paperworks everyday, understanding and standing up gives you the chance to ignite the change – even if it’s in the smallest setting it can be. It gives you the platform you have in a democratic country where free speech exists.
Because patriotism is not just found in the times of celebration – it is also found in the times of resiliency and hardship. That in itself is the true meaning of patriotism for me – to show up in the times when your country needs you the most, to devout your sacrifices and skills to fight for the liberty of your race.
The country does not need overly proud Filipinos who only show up when it achieves something, it needs citizens that truly understand what’s happening and the reality of the problems we are facing. Because the reality hits hard when one is blinded – and no matter how painful the reality is, we must always choose to stand up for the masses and choose the side of the masses – even if it’s difficult, even if it’s complicated.
Because to love the country is to be one with the masses.
Written by King Razon, Insight PH
King Razon, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
