Philippines in the 21st Century Blueprint of Nationalism

Philippine Nationalism is said to be unique. It initially promotes and develops a

consciousness of belonging to one person. With unending love for the country, people are willing
to fight for what was theirs and end the cruelty they’ve experienced from the Spaniards. One of
the key figures why nationalism stands firm in the Philippines is because of Dr. Jose Rizal, the
national hero of the Philippines who sacrifice his life for the country. Listed above is the
blueprint of the Philippines as a nation.
First is Accessible quality education, Jose Rizal loves education. He believes that it is
only when Filipino are educated and enlightened that they can obtain the independence and
peace that they deserved. Education is a powerful tool that a person can have to build a powerful
and resilient community. Also, it is an essential human virtue, that serves as the basis of a good
life, and a sign of freedom. Education opens a lot of opportunities. Education makes the
country’s national economic stability grow by giving its citizens free access to education and
knowledge, giving them a chance to be successful. Education for nation-building is the first and
foremost important for Filipino.
Second is Religion, Catholicism is the most prominent religion in the Philippines. Almost
79% of Filipinos were Catholic. During the Spanish era, Politics and Religion were inseparable,
due to the fact that almost all rulers are priests (Friars) and Catholics. Because of religion
promotion as part of the nationalism blueprint, Filipinos are said to be more moral and have the
capacity to stay good. It is in religion where they have faith and align their actions for the better
of everyone. It is proven in history that religion plays an important role in maintaining peace in
the Philippines. One example is the bravery of Catholic Churches during martial law under the
dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
Third is Treasuring history and culture. These are important in building the nation as they
serve as the identity and destiny of the country. Cultural and history of the Filipinos are what
connects them to the past, present, and future. It allows them to have a good sense of patriotism
and to look back on what they have accomplished and what they should be proud of having in
that culture and history. The Philippines deemed culture as the pride of the country that others
may find unusual. It has many varieties of cultural traditions and beliefs, due to the fact that they
were colonized by many countries making their way of life altered and having connections to
other countries that resulted in more stable economic growth.
Fourth, the voice of the youth, Jose Rizal believed that the future of the Philippines is in
the hands of the youth. Filipino youth are said to be very active and aware of what’s happening
around them. Youth are the ones who are responsible for making the world develop and progress.
They are the foundation of society as they are the future generation who will rule and become the
next leader of the country. Empowering the youth by encouraging them to speak for themselves
is the secret ingredient of the Philippines. They allow their youth to have a say in what’s
happening in the country. Because of them the country’s justice and equality stand. The voice
that they’re fighting for is not just for them but also for others who cannot stand for themselves.
Lastly is democracy. The Philippines is a democratic country where power and voice are
on the people. The Philippines is very popular in terms of politics because government values its
citizen by giving them the freedom to choose and rights making it a stable and progressive
nation. Democracy is the foundation of a sustainable country. Obviously, people are the most
important resource of a country. They provide security and growth in different aspects for their
people. It is believed that Democracy promotes nationalism in the country.
The listed above are essential in nation-building. The Philippines is a very treasured
country, many heroes sacrifice their life for this country, it is only right and just to treasure and
loved it without a doubt.
 Resources
Philippine Statistic Authority. (23, February 2023). https://psa.gov.ph/content/religious-
affiliation-philippines-2020-census-population-and-housing