1.

A pivotal time in Philippine history was the 19th century when Filipino
nationalism first emerged under Spanish colonization. During this time, the collective
desire of the Filipino people to assert their identity, confront oppression, and achieve self-
rule shaped Filipino nationalism's meaning, principles, and its characteristics. The fight
for independence and freedom served as the foundation for Filipino nationalism during
this time period. The Filipino people wanted to stand up for their right to self-
determination and reject colonialism and foreign oppression. By pushing for social
justice, the equal distribution of resources, and the respect for human rights, the objective
was to create national unity and independence.
During this time, the basic principles of Filipino nationalism included fighting
colonialism, foreign oppression, building up unity and solidarity in the nation;
recognizing and celebrating Filipino culture and history; and fighting for social justice
and equal resource distribution. These ideas were brought about by the notion that a
strong and united country was important for attaining economic and social growth, as
well as political independence. One of the main characteristics of Filipino nationalism
during this time was an emphasis on education and enlightenment. Educated Filipinos
such as Jose Rizal, had believed that education was crucial to achieving independence
and national progress. They saw a need to develop the intellectual and moral aspects of
the people to allow them to understand and realize their situation as well as assert their
rights. Another characteristic of Filipino nationalism was the recognition and celebration
of Filipino culture and traditions. To oppose colonial cultural dominance, the promotion
of the Filipino language was seen as a way to build up a national identity as well as unity.
Filipino nationalism during this period was also marked by the recognition of the role of
ordinary Filipinos in the formation of a national consciousness. An example being the
Katipunan which included regular Filipinos such as farmers, workers, and other
marginalized people who fought and struggled for independence. This motivated more of
the everyday Filipino to rise up a fight against any forms of oppression.
In conclusion, the very characteristics of Filipino nationalism during the Spanish
colonial era in the Philippines in the 19th century demonstrate the common goal of the
Filipino people to establish their own national identity and sovereignty, fight oppression,
and achieve independence.

2.
For one to become a modern day Filipino nationalist, one must have an appreciation and
understanding of the experiences and struggles of the National heroes of the 19 th century who
fought for our independence as a nation. Both the works and actions of these heroes can serve as
a guide on how to become a true Filipino nationalist wherein we not only love our country but
are willing to fight for it in order to see it develop and progress further.
One way to become a Filipino nationalist is to study and reflect on the works of national
heroes such as Jose Rizal, and Andres Bonifacio among others. Their works paint a picture on
what it truly means to be a Filipino nationalist. From understanding the realizing the plight and
suffering to those around you to doing something about it such as fighting the oppressors. The
works done by these Filipino nationalist help you to understand what it truly it means to become
a nationalist wherein your love and care for the nation drives you to do things you wouldn’t
normally do. In other words it helps you appreciate, understand, and maybe even embody
nationalistic characteristics such as self-sacrifice for the nation. An example being how these
heroes shed blood and gave up their lives just to see a Philippines that is free from oppression, a
just society, a developed, progressive, and inclusive society as well. Committing ourselves to the
welfare of the nation is one way to become a modern-day nationalist. Some concrete examples of
what you can do today to be a nationalist would be to fight for the interests of our nation, for
example if we see any entities trying to take advantage of our country such as in the form of
corrupt politicians or even corrupt political dynasties, it is of utmost importance then as Filipino
nationalists to fight these corrupt entities. Not necessarily through violent means, but through
means of helping raise awareness on issues related to these corrupt entities; basically, help
educate and open the eyes of fellow Filipinos on the unfortunate reality around them. Doing so
would help further the interests of the nation as it would allow more and more of us Filipinos to
think for ourselves and see the injustices happening around us and hopefully allow us to rise up
and change the way things are done in our country. This is just as how Rizal and the many other
heroes opened the eyes of the Filipinos on the injustices being committed against them; forcing
them to join the fight and rise up against any oppressors or tyrants.
In conclusion, becoming a Filipino nationalist requires a deep understanding and appreciation
of the lives, works, and examples of the heroes of the Philippine Revolution. It also requires
embracing the values and principles that they stood for and actively participating in the pursuit of
national unity, sovereignty, and progress.