Aquino, Ella Tricia M.

II-BME

Philippines’ Readiness in ASEAN Integration: Culture-Based

Culture is the structure that provides the organization and stability to group life. Philippines has
a great unique culture. From the different ethnic groups found in different places, we can see the beauty
of our cultural community. Philippines is really rich in ancient way of living but the question is, “Is the
Philippines really ready in ASEAN integration emphasizing its culture?” For me, if this is in terms of the
content of our culture, yes we are ready. But in terms of how strong or enhanced our culture is, I think
we’re not. I’m not saying that we’re not capable of doing so, all I want to say is, we need time to make it
fully ready without if’s and but’s.

As Sir Orlando Abon said, many ethnic groups in the Philippines do not have strong
documentation and appreciation about their culture. Compare to the US, the Philippines do not have
the complete collection of their ancient treasures such files proving the ancient beliefs and practices,
valued ancient things and other more. Filipinos do not care about studying and preserving their culture
while other countries came here to do research. These serve as hindrance and the reason why I say that
the Philippines is not yet ready.

We need a well-defined structure that will encourage everyone to participate in strengthening

our culture. A unified community featuring Filipinos with common identity. And a culture-centered
society without chaos. And by the time that the Filipinos find the real essence of their unified culture, I
can say that we’re ready to the ASEAN integration.