Cultural Commentary

Crisanto P. Balisnomo Jr.

GAS-1201
 What is Commentary
• A commentary is a comment on a newly published article. A
commentary may be invited by the chief editor or
spontaneously submitted. Commentaries in International
Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being are
peer reviewed.
 What is Commentary
• The goal of publishing commentaries is to advance the research
field by providing a forum for varying perspectives on a certain
topic under consideration in the journal. The author of a
commentary probably has in-depth knowledge of the topic and
is eager to present a new and/or unique viewpoint on existing
problems, fundamental concepts, or prevalent notions, or wants
to discuss the implications of a newly implemented innovation.
 What is Cultural Commentary?

• A broad category for artworks that comment on various

aspects of contemporary culture, often quite critically,
as in works that focus on the misdeeds of political
figures, the imperial actions of governments, or global
economic inequalities.
• Have you ever been to the theatre, looked around, and
thought about how predominantly white the audience
is? Does the same impression come to mind when
visiting museums? If it does and the answer is a
resounding yes, then you’re not alone. There is a major
problem in Britain’s cultural industry and it’s time we
all took a hard look at why.
 In summary, a commentary may be:
A critical challenge to one or more aspects of the focal article, arguing for a
position other than that taken in the focal article.
An elaboration or extension of the position taken in the focal article,
basically sympathetic to the position taken in the focal article but pushing
the argument further.
• An application of a theoretical or methodological perspective that sheds
light on the issues addressed in the focal article.
 In summary, a commentary may be:
A reflection on the writer’s experiences in applying the issues
addressed in the focal article, in particular health and well-being
settings.
• A comment on the applicability of the issues raised in the focal
article to other settings, or to other cultures.
 Example of Cultural Commentary
• COMMENTARY: On Filipino Identity
By MICHAEL HENRY LL. YUSINGCO
Filipinos always reflect on national identity in November because on the
30th of this month we commemorate the birthday of the quintessential
nationalist, Andres Bonifacio.
For Filipinos residing outside of the Philippines, this annual introspection
is especially relevant because many of us constantly struggle with our
sense of identity and feelings of unresolved patriotism.
• Specifically, I would like to see more effort from both the government and
the community in reinforcing our secular tradition in governance. I would
also like our country’s human rights regime strengthened even furthson.
We thus conceive of our civic character with due consideration of the past
as well as the future. We adhere to traditional values but we also aim to
thrive in the modern world. Bamboo was absolutely spot on in their song,
Noypi, about what is at the core of the Filipino’s heart— “Ang dami mong
problema. Nakuha mo pang ngumiti. Noypi ka nga, astig!”
• I am Filipino because I believe in the bayanihan spirit, that indigenous
belief system that puts a premium on family and community. I am a
Filipino because I live by the principle espoused by both Christianity and
Islam, that I shall love God above all else and my neighbor as myself. I
am a Filipino because I want to work hard and support my family. I am a
Filipino because I find fulfillment in helping people in need. I am Filipino
because I see humor in all aspects of life, including death.