A Call for Unity and Action

April 15, 2024

This file photo shows the rehabilitation of the polluted Manila Bay, which kicked off last January 27,
2024.
The STAR / Walter Bollozos, File

The cherished Bayanihan spirit of the Philippines has been obscured

lately by an atmosphere of hostility and conflict. Once praised as a
representation of community unity and togetherness, this spirit is
currently facing uncommon challenges that threaten its basic integrity.
As a country founded on the principles of compassion and solidarity, we
must confront these problems head-on and work to rekindle the
authentic Bayanihan spirit that has distinguished us for many years.

Recent natural and man-made disasters have underscored the hand in

glove relationship between the Bayanihan spirit and Filipino society. As
super typhoons and earthquakes ravage our lands while we continue to
battle the ill effects of the COVID 19 pandemic, the importance of
brotherhood and collective action is what has kept us. However, the
spirit of Bayanihan has become less obvious and is now overshadowed
by instances of divisiveness and individual selfishness. The Bayanihan
has been a very significant aspect of the Filipino culture.

Traditionally, we see the Bayanihan as our neighbors helping

each other to grow or help in plowing our fields. We even
extend our help in times of need. But as our culture continues to
adapt to the changes brought by modernization, urbanization and
shift of values brought by globalization, the Bayanihan has
drastically been reduced in form or sometimes by spirit. In urban
areas where people tend to be more private and less community-
oriented, the Bayanihan spirit lives, but only on a smaller scale.

Volunteers distribute food supplies at the Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa’s “Kindness Station”
outside the Immaculate Conception Cathedral April 20, 2024.
COURTESY OF RACHEL GANANCIAL/PALAWAN NEWS

Some people say the Bayanihan spirit is old-fashioned and

doesn't fit in today's lives, “every person for themselves
society.” They think relying on others makes you weak and
dependent. But they're missing the point. The Bayanihan spirit is
still important because it helps us bounce back from tough
times, brings people together, and makes us feel like we belong.

In this case, all hope is not lost. In the face of challenges, the
Filipino spirit has always shown remarkable resilience and
determination. It is time for us to reclaim the true essence of
Bayanihan and work together to build a brighter future for our
nation. This requires a collective commitment to empathy,
understanding, and cooperation, transcending our differences
and embracing our shared humanity.

To achieve this, we must also think about how to get there. We

must begin by building a culture of mutual respect and
inclusivity, where every voice, no matter how small, is heard
and valued. As from what I’ve learned, ethical leaders must also
be held accountable for their decisions and be motivated to act
in the public interest, rather than in their own interest. Only then
can we come together to overcome the problems that threaten to
divide us and build a country that we can all be proud of a more
just, fair, and caring society. Advocating for the Bayanihan spirit
is a way of reiterating our identity as Filipinos. The Bayanihan
spirit is an integral part of our culture and our heritage.
Honoring it will save our cultural identity and promote further
pride in being a Filipino national. Having the Bayanihan spirit is
another thing, representing Filipinos gives the Philippines
another advantage. It establishes a healthy image among other
cultures and nations, showing our compassion, warmth, and one-
country compassion to all people. However, the way to live and
consciously be the spirit of Bayanihan is a responsibility as
much as an alternative. It recognizes the true spirit of the
Filipino and enlivens our community and nation. Let us treasure
that model and operate together in order to achieve a better
future and to reach the problems of the contemporary world.

In today's world, where change is the only constant and the self
is the ruler of society, the Bayanihan spirit is an eternal cradle of
light and hope. A unique glow among the shadows of doubt
when most people say it has long faded away. Little do they
know how it still binds and nurtures communities into a field of
unity, a symbol of hope and an emblem of a much stronger and
healthier connection among people. The resurgence of the
Bayanihan spirit enables us to connect and unite and especially
to rebuild a stronger and a much livelier community. It's crucial
for Filipino citizens to embrace the Bayanihan spirit within
themselves because it unites us all. This spirit embodies our
values of unity and collective action, helping us stand stronger
in the face of challenges. Additionally, it promotes empathy and
compassion towards others, fostering a sense of togetherness
and contributing to a more caring and fair society.

Overall, the Bayanihan spirit is what keeps us united as Filipino

people, making it essential in all citizens. It symbolizes our
cooperation and solidarity, binding us together especially during
tough times. Following this mindset promotes neighborly
affection and advances an environment that is more caring, fair,
and ethical.
Being true Filipinos means upholding this spirit, as it is deeply
ingrained in our culture and identity. It also brings honor and
faith to our country, showcasing our collective, caring nature to
the world. Living according to the Bayanihan spirit is both a
right and a responsibility. It reinforces the core of our
communities, uplifts our nation's quality of life, and builds a
vision of hope as we navigate the challenges of the modern
world. Let's continue to preserve this invaluable tradition and
work hand in hand to create a brighter future for all.