A LIBERAL FILIPINO

adapted from Edge Genciagan

The distinction between activism and mediocrity among Filipinos seemed to be barely apparent. Students and pressure groups among others consistently pursue in their progressive stance over various issues that concerns them, while the mediocres tend to act similarly but in the long run, they simply vanish outrightly and comes back when petty issues calls for them.
This description best serves my view in distinguishing a Filipino. Radical it maybe, but this angle reflects a reality in the four corners of Philippine society. Unlike our national experience during martial law, peoples approach in nationhood has evolved dramatically in aid of democracy, hence, in this era of globalization and popular culture, public opinion is a critical factor in determining stability in the country.
To this regard, the intent and freewill of every Filipino is a valuable aspect to reconsider and or be imparted to everyone knowing that our decisions at present will tell of our future as a nation. Our bureaucratic agenda on the other hand gives us only the direction and the hint when to start, because more than that, its the Filipinos that are in control (unless if you're infected by apathy), and so from a cultural perspective, I propose these qualitative assumptions expected of a Filipino to qualify him as a true liberal individual.
A liberal Filipino is virtuous. He accounts for many values essential for his existence. He believes that true change emanates from one's self, and that constructive self criticism is an effective way of evaluating his personality. He is inclined in improving his life and is committed to collaborate in community development efforts, while maintaining humility. He subscribes in the sense of responsibility, where his actions speaks of himself and would reflect that of the society.
A liberal Filipino is conservative. Many ascribed this quality in a literal manner, but more than that, conservatism transcends convention; it is subjective. A liberal Filipino respect the popular culture but he observes maximum tolerance to the advantage of our own. It is undeniable that our modern society has largely been invaded by foreign culture , lest, if we continue to be deviant, we might lost our identity as well.
A liberal Filipino is nationalist. He may be thinking globally, but he acts locally. He views himself as an organ in a system, that every single action he makes may be futile, but it is crucial to do them. In simple ways, he expresses his love of nation. He actively participate in political activities, he's in support of the legitimate status quo and abides by the law of the land.
A liberal Filipino is pragmatic. First hand, he sets a clear and feasible goals. He find ways to attain them, applying the basics of resourcefulness and creativity. When problem arises, he confronts them vis-a-vis, not minding the hardships that it takes. He is result-oriented and thinks of the greater good for the greater number of people.
Finally, a liberal Filipino is a leader. He does not limit himself to his own capability. He tries to reach out and share what he have, may it be materially or in ideal form. In arguments, he takes courage to say no when everyone else says yes. More so, he is in control of himself and subscribes to democratic processes.
The above mentioned qualities may be too utopic or simply another suntok sa buwan(futile), but it is important that in one way or another we invest on them and apply it to our own. On the other hand, I can proudly claim that the Filipinos has already proven a lot out of these values. In the meantime, now is the high time to conquer our fears and doubts. We must learn to fight for what is right and stand by it broadly until we expire. After all, it is our basic legal and ecclesiastical right to be free, so why not make the most out of it.

*reposted from in_my_solitude blog