Photocredit: National Youth Commission
Glorious skirmishes for independence, exciting epics to pass down to our sons and daughters, and pages from history that we should take to the heart and learn from. These are the stories of our country's colorful struggle for independence and democracy - all of which were made possible by our heroes, both revered and unsung alike. They are the subjects who we should honor during our National Heroes Day. Unfortunately, it's just another weekend for most.
But more important than a passing celebration is the realization of our roles as baton carriers. Our heroes did not simply struggle and die for our freedom, they also passed down to us the responsibility of uplifting our country.
“Mapalad ang bayang linitawan ng mga bayani,
sapagka’t ang bayang iya’y walang kamatayan."
(Fortunate is the country where heroes emerge
because that country will live on)
- Andres Bonifacio
Without new heroes to replace the icons of yesterday, our country is doomed to disappear from the annals of history. The katipuneros and propagandistas of yesterday are the incorruptable policemen, noble politicians, hardworking employees, authoritative parents, and responsible students of today. This responsibility was not handed to a single successor, since we are all beneficiaries of their sacrifices.
Admittedly, the Philippines is nowhere near the ideal land that everyone dreams to live in. Alarming poverty, dirty politics, senseless conflict - it all exists today. But without enough people who will work hand-in-hand in solving these, that dream of an ideal Philippines to live in will forever be a distant dream to chase. Rather than being reactive with complaints and opposition, it's high time that we all became proactive by playing a part in the solution. It's a daunting task that we all face as Filipinos; but it's one that will forever hound us until we muster the courage to heed its call, God forbid that it be too late. We have to remember that once upon a time, even our revered heroes were average, everyday people who just happen to come face to face with reality, but decided to do something about it.
I'm proud to consider the CSSP Student Council as passionate, responsible baton carriers.
But all is not bleak, for I found inspiration and hope in many members of the youth today. They are those who are not afraid to look at the harsh realities of life, and actually do something about it. For many, the role of baton carriers is not something easily grasped, but is done so anyway because so few take up the role. For every Iskolar ng Bayan, the moment we realize, internalize, and decide to do justice to our roles is the moment of becoming an Iskolar para sa Bayan.
In celebrating our Nation's struggle and remembering what our heroes stood for, perhaps the most important question remains: the baton has long since been passed, are you ready to accept it?
