30/11/2024
๐๐. ๐๐. | To a Short Life Dedicated to Long Freedom
Ever since we started to learn about the national heroes on our Araling Panlipunan subject, Andres Bonifacio, the father of revolution and the founder of the K*K, โKataastaasan Kagalanggalang na Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayanโ was always being mentioned as he fought for the independence of the Philippines through bloody war. His short-lived life is often overshadowed by Dr. Jose Rizal. Filipino children have been taught about the bravery of heroes who shape our history and pave the way for the freedom we are enjoying today. But as we reflection his bravery, the question still remains: are we really free?
Andres Bonifacio, The Supremo of Katipunan, led a revolution not to oppose Spanishcolonizers but rather to establish independence, justice, and equality. To fight against colonial rule and dismantle the system of exploitation. Yet, over a century later, the Philippines finds itself shackledโthis time, not by foreign powers ruling but by internal corruption, rampant inflation, systematic inequality, and the failures of its own leader to address what the people really need.
Bonifacioโs death is among the most shameful events in Philippine history. At just 33, Bonifacio was sentenced to death for treason by a military
โKangarooโ courtโnot by colonizers but under a revolutionary government headed by Emiliio Aguinaldo, a fellow Filipino. His death shows us how change demands consequenceโsometimes, it costs life.
He fought for a freedom that was not merely political but economic and social. Today, that dream feels distant. Despite independence, many Filipinos remain trapped in poverty, worsened by skyrocketing inflation and widening inequality. In October 2024, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported an inflation rate of 6.6%, driving up the cost of essential goods and deepening the struggles of ordinary citizens. The current economic system, driven by unchecked capitalism, has widened the gap between rich and poor. While billionaires in the Philippines saw their wealth grow even during the pandemic, millions of Filipinos fell deeper into poverty.
Worse, many politicians seem more invested in their personal agendas than in public service. Recent controversies, such as Vice President Sara Duterteโs criticisms of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. amidst disasters, highlight how divisive and performative Philippine politics has become. Leadership failures during calamities, underscored by the trending hashtag , further reveal the widening gap between leaders and the people.
In many ways, history repeats itself. But now, the oppression comes not from foreign powers but from our own people. People must recognize that silence enables corruption and apathy perpetuates inequality.
He may not be remembered for having peaceful reforms, but his legacy is unique among our heroes. May this Bonifacio Day be a reminder to not let his sacrifices be in vain, and may his legacy guide us towards a better, freer Philippines. It is not enough to criticize; we must actively work for change. Whether through voting wisely, demanding accountability, or advocating for
systemic reforms, we honor Bonifacio not just by remembering him but by continuing his fight.
Celebrating Bonifacio Day means more than recalling his act of courage; it also means reflecting through his life. In our society today, speaking out is an act of courage where journalists are being silenced for being biased in the truth, activists are being red-tagged and labeled terrorists, and the truth becomes a casualty. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, the Philippines consistently ranks among the most dangerous countries for journalists. Our modern struggles require a radical changeโa revolution of ideas, leadership, and systems.
Article by Lorraine Acaylar
Layout by Francine Pantaleon
