Who is a Filipino - A Reflective Essay

In commemoration of Rizal Day, I present:?

Who is a Filipino - A Reflective Essay

During my primary school years, I learned about the Battle of Manila from the pages of a book.?I was educated about the importance of Corregidor Island as a strategic site during WWII, which has stayed with me to this day; yet, witnessing the documentary had a different impact.?It was a poignant and emotional experience in addition to being eye-opening.?

From a personal standpoint, I believe that we as Filipinos have been deprived of our rights in numerous cases.?When Ferdinand Magellan explored the country in 1521.?I'm sure there were people on the island when it was discovered, but they were forgotten when a stranger decided to name a country after his King, King Philip II of Spain. ?Even though that King was not the indigenous' King, they had no choice but to submit.?

The Japanese invasion left an indelible mark on our nation's history.?Even though we were retaliated for with the help of the Americans, the cries of the comfort ladies who endured at the hands of Japanese soldiers will live on forever.?

After all of these events and history, one is left to ponder. ?What does it mean to be a Filipino? ?Is a Filipino a Negrito who used to be a member of the Barangay, which was commanded by a Datu? Is a Filipino a person who has been brainwashed by Spaniards into accepting a new set of beliefs that are opposed to his own? ?Is it possible that a Filipino was raped by Japanese invaders? ?Is a Filipino a servile creature in the eyes of his American liberators??

The response is painful, but it is the truth.?That's how we're all. ?Despite these adversities, the Filipino has grown into a strong and well-liked global citizen.?A Filipino can smile, make jokes, and sing even amid adversity.?A former boss once told me, "Filipinos were born with a microphone in their hands."?Now, during the pandemic, a Filipino nurse stands beside the hospital bed of the majority of the sick, caring for a stranger with all his or her heart.?With his golden heart, the Filipino has forgiven his oppressors and will continue his journey to prove to the world that he or she is deserving of recognition as a truly Global Citizen.