17/04/2020
I Stand With The Philippines
Contributed by: Edgar Ian O. Homedia, BSCE-2A
For the past several days, I have witnessed Filipinos being torn apart. Friends and families holding each others’ throats, standing firm with their political beliefs and principles. Relationships are being shattered in the war between Pro-Duterte and "Dilawans". But are we really getting somewhere from doing such things? Is criticizing the actions of the government necessary to the extent of demeaning our leaders? Conversely, is it a must to speak up for the President and denounce anyone who criticizes him?
Being a citizen of a democratic government, we are very much entitled to express our opinions and beliefs, especially with regards to the affairs of the state. We are constitutionally bound to be vigilant of the government we have elected, ensuring that our leaders are well within the law in fulfilling their duties and responsibilities. In the same way, we are allowed to express our support for them as they carry out programs for the development of our country. Suppressing these actions is an affront disregard to the laws that keep our lands peaceful. With that being said, however, just as any other rights, the aforementioned are to be exercised with a sense of responsibility. Freedom of expression is to be used as a tool to build the nation, not a weapon wielded against our brethren. When the freedom promised to us by our forefathers is used to attack and degrade our "kababayan", we effectively nullify the sacrifices made by our heroes for us.
Activism has it's place. Filipinos should be proactive in state affairs. When the government steps outside the bounds of law, the citizens should act to course-correct track through means deemed legal and appropriate as mandated by the Constitution. To blabber about it in social media and to seditiously suggest actions that are outrageously inappropriate for the situation, are not only useless, but are also stumbling blocks to the progress of the nation.
Being supportive of the government and the president is also necessary for it's improvement. It boosts the morale of public servants to do better in their service for the people. But, loyalty to the point of dehumanizing those who are critical is stupid and useless. It makes another human being devoid of value by considering their opinions insignificant. It tolerates wrongdoings and promotes recklessness in service.
and are both mindsets that can bring the country down and hinder its progress. As responsible citizens, let us be mindful of our thoughts, words, and actions towards our government. No leader is perfect, no government is blameless. But it does not equate to foolishness and selfish ambitions. Leaders, more often than not, can and will make decisions beneficial to their constituents.
In our dream for a better Philippines, let us be level headed: be a supporter, but not complacent; be a critic, but not pessimistic; seek to understand, not to be understood. In the exercise of our freedom to express, make sure that we are doing it to be a part of the solution, not the problem. In 2022, a new president will lead this country, and he/she will have shortcomings too. So don't just stand with the president, cause they are just stewards. Instead, love our country, for it is our heritage and identity. , do you?