Is revolution the answer?
It’s hard not to get a sinking feeling about our country at a time when our political leaders are once again seen to be robbing Filipinos not only of their hard-earned tax money, but also of their very dignity, and with it, their children’s prospects for a better future.
The impunity with which lawmakers passed the most dysfunctional and self-serving national budget this country has seen in modern history is but the latest in a series of evil and blatant abuse of power that the Duterte presidency unleashed: state-sanctioned mass murders, organized crime built around illegal drugs, and online gaming that has emerged to have been coddled and protected by the very leaders hypocritically claiming to be fighting it, patently unjust incarceration and character assassination of political detractors on fictitious charge, massive corrupt procurements amid people’s suffering during the pandemic, proliferation and upscaling of legalized theft of people’s money via whimsical and arbitrary confidential funds, and more to unfold as election season draws near.
There is a creeping collective despair at the seeming helplessness and hopelessness of the vicious cycle the country finds itself trapped in, precariously threatening to turn into a tailspin. We have too many rotten political leaders wielding undue power because Filipinos keep electing more like them into office. But the wide mass of voters do so because the very actions of these politicians are what keep them in a state of poverty not only in economic resources, but in the basic human needs of health and education, and in turn, political maturity. And it doesn’t take much to see that these same politicians ultimately want to keep them that way to perpetuate the money politics that sustains them in power, with politics now regarded as a generational family business.
In the face of deteriorating corruption, destructive politics, and failing institutions, we again hear calls for total upheaval through revolution or military action. But history has repeatedly shown that this does not achieve the needed fundamental change. We need not look far: where has our own Edsa revolution brought us, nearly four decades later? The solution, rather, lies in each one of us who loves this country and dreams of a better society and economy for our children and grandchildren to thrive in. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, we must be the change we want to see. Our country need not be hopeless, but we must claim the Philippines we dream of through individual responsibility and collective action. What concretely can we do? Let me suggest a few.
First, pursue active civic engagement. Filipinos can become more involved in the democratic process not just during elections but through constant participation in local governance. This includes attending community meetings and consultations, advocating for transparency, and holding elected officials accountable. Building a culture of active citizenship can drive systemic change.
Second, work to strengthen local communities. Building strong and self-reliant communities through grassroots organizations or cooperatives can lessen dependency on corrupt systems and dynasty politics. Community initiatives, whether focused on health and nutrition, education, local infrastructure, or livelihoods can empower citizens and improve their quality of life regardless of ineffective political structures.
Third, engage in meaningful volunteerism. Many civil society organizations and volunteer networks offer opportunities to contribute to social change directly. Whether to promote better education and critical thinking, youth entrepreneurship, environmental protection, or poverty alleviation, these efforts help equip the younger generation to demand better governance and make informed decisions. Education is a powerful tool for breaking cycles of corruption and fosters solidarity and collective action.
Fourth, support honest leaders and initiatives. Ordinary Filipinos can back leaders and movements that prioritize integrity, transparency, and genuine service to the people. This means voting thoughtfully, supporting advocacy groups, and amplifying the work of civil society organizations that fight for justice and accountability.
Fifth, foster a culture of integrity. Change begins with individuals. By prioritizing honesty, accountability, and responsibility in our daily lives, we can help shift societal norms away from corruption. Small, consistent acts of integrity, whether in the workplace or community, build a foundation for broader cultural transformation.
The challenges before us are formidable, to be sure. But ultimately, our hope for the future lies in the heads, hearts, and hands of ordinary people who can work together to create true change from the ground up. This new year, let us resolve to be part of it.
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cielito.habito@gmail.com
