Filipinoness

Traits of a common Filipino (People of the Philippines)

Much is being said about the natural physical charm of my country. Many tourists come and go and consistently flatter us with words about it. I am almost convinced! On second thought, is it just the physical appeal or are there more to it than meet the eye? The essence, I believe, has no actual secrets, but merely honorable people genuinely typifying it. In the entire places of the Philippines I've gone to over the years, only one thing I see common in most Filipinos: people with innate exemplary traits. Since I represent the same country, it makes me all the more proud to be a Filipino.

Philippines is indeed fascinating, and in it are people that complement it. Way back countless thousands of years ago, Philippines had no unifying political state encompassing the whole 7,107 islands as one sovereign country. These islands were so divided among competing native rulers as datus, rajahs, or sultans. History showed that Philippines experienced diverse cultural crossroads, where Malays, Arabs, Chinese, Spaniards, Americans, Japanese and its other neighboring countries, have interacted to forge a unique cultural and racial blend to my country. From diverse cultures lead off to 175 official and auxiliary dialects combined. Although each provinces have distinct sub-languages (dialects), Filipinos have embodied a unified exceptional traits.

Patriotic

Patriotism is not a fad nor an uncontrolled outburst of emotion, but an aftermath of powerful historic event that marked a peaceful and steady dedication of a lifetime. A certain leader of a country may become great for his notable contributions, but a country is made great because of the loyalty and togetherness of its people.  

"Filipino Pride', as patrioteers commonly put it, but for some who have opposing views of the term find it more condescending. A trait that is quite different from the norm but is always very likely among Filipino achievers. Although it's never been imposed as an obligation, but Filipinos all over the world choose to own that responsibility of returning the gratitude and honor to their homeland.

One best example would be when Filipinos around the world have achieved quite considerable amount of notable accomplishments, they always have the habit of giving the credit to their country. Moreover, with the aid of today's technology on the net, Filipinos everywhere tend to reconnect and reunite online in support to their present fellow Filipino go-getters. 

I believe this kind of passion was brought about by our yearn for freedom and longing to have that unique identity. Come to think of it though, this kind of passion that we Filipinos embody is already unique in itself. 

History was never my favorite subject; it was my initial notion of just being interested in physical attractiveness and momentary euphoria. The significance of my awareness and convictions were all untapped and in my subconscious. Or maybe yet, I was too afraid to actually know and relive the underlying truth of History, and how it may affect me personally. Until I became a wife, a mom, and a woman of substance, everything seemed to  unravel and gradually take shape. God has reasons to everything that happens in the world, be it great or small. Overtime, I have finally learned to understand them now. Reasons, therefore, is how God comforts and delivers us, effecting life as being more delightful, and most importantly, returning the favor by making a difference in the life of others.

USA, China, Europe and Arab nations have all one thing in common, huge, in many sense of the word. For one, all have invaded my country and have been influential to shaping the character of every Filipinos today. Secondly, these nations are huge in their land areas. The size of their country commensurate their population, enough to outnumber and topple down the abilities of the ones smaller than theirs, like mine. Thirdly, these countries have huge resources that were put to good use to boost their own economy. My homeland has also its equally rich natural resources, but I have yet to see all Filipinos revel on them. These were possibly the reasons why many Filipinos chose to suffer in silence for many thousands of years. Even until now, Filipinos remain to pick up the pieces over and over.

Nonetheless, our wartime heroes and Filipinos from all walks of life have constantly mimicked the clear-cut value of self-worth, never entertained inferiority and self-doubt. They have constantly risen in the midst of adversities. They fought the best way they knew then, even until now. Even when it meant giving up their lives, still, they did not choose bloodshed as their option  for their independence . They fought not with their fists, but with their reasons. 

Dr. Jose Rizal, 19th century hero, and Benigno Aquino, Jr., modern day hero, are epitomes of no nonsense and valiant characters. "Philippines is worth dying for", that was what they both said. And so, as both hung on to their faith, did not die in vain reasoning with our dictators to make a change for our country. They both bravely gave their lives inspiring fellow Filipinos, so that those who live shall remember, be challenged, pass down to the many next generations the good lessons, and they themselves can be an inspiration to others. These selfless acts paved the way for many Filipino pathfinders all over the world today, to gain enough justifications to keep going, enjoy life and never cease on empowering others. My heroes' death made a lot of sense to me now, value time and know that we have so much to live for. Indeed it is true, Philippines is worth living for.

When I attended a four-day seminar for SMEs in late 2011, not only have I learned about technical management of a business, but the four(4) successful Chinese-Filipino businessmen/speakers have given me more of spiritual gratification and fervor for my country. Although these speakers are apparently Chinese but eventually got permanent residency, and succeeded in their respective businesses in the Philippines, they were all fired up and their esteems personify that of a pure Filipino. 

I was hesitant to ask each of these speakers why they still chose to stay in the Philippines, when China is now emerging, leading in Asia and booming in its economy. I am sure every Filipino audiences were curious to know, but no one dared to ask why. Even then, as if these speakers read my mind, but they consistently said that they love Philippines and their utmost desire is to share the knowledge to fellow Filipinos. All these four speakers admitted as if it is their very own, but they said they did it because this is the country that adopted them. If these Chinese men openly admitted they love my country, then undoubtedly, all the more I should, as choosing my homeland as their very own is priceless.

There is one more uplifting revelation that is also worth noting. While most Filipinos speak in English fluently, foreign countries as China, South Korea, Russia and Japan, took the liberty and much interest in our own dominant native language which is Filipino. In fact, they went to the extent of even establishing a Filipino Language training school in their own country. How cool is that?! Odd as it may seem, but when asked why, they were quite elated and certain to say that they adore Philippines and are willing to go the extra mile to learn my culture. Although most of the students attending the training have not visited my country just yet, but it was how their mentors/teachers described Philippines and its diverse culture, that motivated them to learn and see for themselves.

Another case in point, unknown to many, China invested substantial amount of money for Chinese schools and education in the Philippines. They sponsor and train many Filipinos to be brought back to China in the future, to serve as mentors to Chinese children. More interesting to note, my homeland, being frugal and financially challenged, has not invested even a single peso for these said these said countries I mentioned previously, just to establish a Filipino subject in their respective cities. The actions of these foreign countries were purely voluntary that was solely impressed by Filipinos' demeanor to their own homeland: the act that is contagious, and effortless, yet genuine.  

If other countries feel these sense of loyalty and zeal for my country, then, all the more, I should make myself apparent to my many foreign friends, fellow-countrymen and my family.

Patient and Enduring

Many misconstrue Filipino patience as complacency. Patience is in fact a virtue, and all Filipino achievers I know, past and present, with their own life story to tell, commonly made clear patience as the key and their virtue. All defined patience as someone who is unwavering, but rests in God's perfect will and timing, and sees all challenges as his/her groundwork. Patience is further developed and strengthened, even in the face of mishaps. I can see why most Filipinos have these unique qualities because of this belief that is fortified by their past experiences. 

I thought Philippines was totally liberated in the late 19th Century, or so I thought. As I put it, being free from all vicious dictators for over two centuries to date, should have already shown concrete remarkable success of my country by now. Yet I saw little progress in my country's economy and remains to pick up the pieces. I felt that my country will go nowhere. These thoughts of mine lingered for a while, I was beginning to feel a little frustrated. Until one fateful night, before the summer break of 2012, I was helping our son in his Sibika at Kultura subject, and the topic was about the profiles and accomplishments of all Philippine Presidents during their tenures. As I was reading my son's textbook, one specific pressing information dawned on me, the Philippine Independence. It came as a surprise to me that Philippines was  liberated from the Americans only in 1946. If others felt that that year was too long ago, in my opinion, it was not that ancient. I was very much dumbfounded, I had to prove that what I read from my son's textbook was accurate. So I researched further and compared facts on articles regarding "Philippine Independence". All articles supported my query, and as a result of course, I was disheartened by my ignorance.

United States of America, again, is one precise example of a country that had endured many centuries of struggles before it attained a powerful position it is in now. It suffered atrocious wars against the Europeans for many centuries, and even almost a decade more of battles when USA declared its independence from the British in 1776. After its independence, civil wars and conflicts followed due to ethnic criticisms in the North and slavery in the South. Overall, beginning from its discovery in 1492, more than five(5) centuries have gone by, of exterior and interior bloodshed, and gradual economic and social reformations had to take place before USA became a powerful sovereign nation. 

According to the 2011 world statistics, the age-mortality of every person in the world is around 62 years old. Of more than five centuries of restructuring USA therefore meant passing approximately eight grueling generations in order to achieve its glory. Abraham Lincoln was already the 16th president when the whole of USA got united. But it took them 148 years more and 28 more presidents to recognize equality with black americans, and allow black american president like Barack Obama to sit in office. America is a melting pot due to so many emigrants, yet is "United" as a country.

My homeland has been colonized for many centuries. Even when the Americans seemingly have granted Philippines its independence in 1946, it still came with numerous strings attached. Thus, my country remained succumbed to the jurisdictions of the US dictatorship. Moreover, after our independence, Philippines still was faced with enormous challenges from unscrupulous local dictators and various natural calamities. Although I can now gradually see favorable changes in my country's economic condition because of the backbone of my present leader, complacency and greed may lead to my country's downfall again. We therefore need to be more aspiring, vigilant, optimistic, and forthright as our present leader. Together, with one goal in mind, seeing my county soar is not that far-fetched. Despite all these, which what makes me so determined as well, one fine quality generally all Filipinos have, as I intend to increase awareness to our son and for him to emulate it, is that virtue of not losing hope. 

My country may scarcely be reaping its fruits today, but I am still hopeful in prayer. Moreover, when one squander on senseless bickering and blaming, time wears out for nothing. Time is of the essence here. Filipinos need to finally put their minds and acts together through productive brainstorming, earnest collaborative responses, and contribute to conscientious and consistent efforts. In time, I know it will bear much fruit. We were once the greatest nation in Asia, I believe we can still be. No amount of bigotry can ever put down the esteem and dictate the destiny of the Filipino people, wherever they may be in the whole world. 

I was tagged by many as a patient woman. The truth is, my patience was neither acquired overnight, nor  passed on or inherited. Clueless to some, I almost gave up at some point, but I'd rather choose to be unperturbed by my limitations and challenges, than be bullied by an immature unhappy and resentful person. Even when opportunities were hard to come by, that was the best time for me to create one for myself, as I have done so when I was still four years old. Nothing deterred me from being focused in reaching my destination ahead. All the more, it helped me brush-off all winding roads along the way. I can not pass on or bestow these abilities to our son, but I can definitely inspire him to be one. 

Bottom line, anyone who opts shortcuts to success can be prone to a clear cataclysmic downfall. But a steady way up through the steps will likely become of a patient and enduring person, whose competence to success cannot be deterred lightly. 

Some may find my comparison to USA being unfair since it is huge in all. I guess not, but knowing that can be calming too, don't you agree? It only means that my country doesn't have to agonize that far because my homeland is smaller in size. Which leads me to see my country in place of other small Asian nations as mine and with stable and strong economy as Singapore, Japan, Taiwan and South Korea. All these literally small Asian nations were able to stabilize their economic standpoint in only a span of 30 years, more or less. Therefore, my best consolation would be is nearness to possibility, making my country great again is no longer that far-fetched.

I envisage now that my country can become great again. But making a powerful  nation takes time, and of course, resilience brought about by patience, dedication and concerted effort of its faithful people.

Happy, Welcoming and Endearing

How can anyone be so happy when he/she is surrounded with blighted hope? The answer, I believe, is faith. This I have to thank my European, American, Asian and Arabian ancestors, who introduced God Whom my hope now clings to. Without faith I am nothing.

I have seen and witnessed these innate qualities in many Filipinos myself. Most of these qualities are evident among those living in the provinces. I have always noticed that their simplicity has kept them all well-grounded. These are also why I married my husband. I love going back to the Bicol region. People there, despite the outlook of their humble abodes, are always smiling, friendly, humble and welcoming.

People from the Ilocos Region also put that to a test. My sisters and I had the chance to see that for ourselves in our brother-in-law's hometown, when we, together with other parties, 9 in all, went to visit their hometown in Ilocos Norte in late 1990s. It was quite rainy then, we all enjoyed the trip nonetheless, thinking that the rain will die down soon enough. However, rain intensified later that week, we were unaware that a strong storm was actually coming in our direction. The tornado resulted to paralyzing all main thoroughfares in the region that thwarted our trip back home, got us stranded in a desolated place somewhere in Ilocos Sur in the middle of the week. 

All 9 of us were packed in an SUV, waited for hours to figure out what to do next. But as the storm grew stronger, fear and frustrations slowly crept on us. A good Samaritan, a native from the nearby town, saw us, approached and offered timely his home for us to stay until the storm calmed down. We immediately accepted the offer without hesitation.

The house of the Good Samaritan appeared rustic and musty, but he and his family exuded a very welcoming aura. They treated and served us like valuable guests in a 5-star hotel. In fact, they've consistently served us breakfast, lunch and dinner all throughout the duration of our stay. They constantly declined each time we paid them back for all the favors they gave. As a form of our appreciation, we instead filled their kitchen with groceries before we left their home. 

These kinds of quality are apparent in every provinces. The locals are consistently friendly, especially with tourists or out-of-towners and back-packers. Many visitants corroborated my personal experiences in my domestic travels.

Hardworking, Adaptable, Creative and Talented

A patient man is tantamount to being a hard worker. Creative and talented Filipinos, through hard work, have put my country in a better place. These are where Filipinos excel the most, being the best in what they do. Some are learned workers by mere observations only. Filipinos are versatile, willing to learn and able to do things at hand. These qualities are so much like my husband too. My better half, who is a licensed Mechanical Engineer and Computer crackerjack, is also a handyman of sort. He can do plumbing, carpentry, and be an electrician all at the same time. Have I mentioned too that he can invent or re-invent a machinery or any gadget?

These are also warranted by many of our Filipino go-getters that are recognized around the world. We have these Executive Chef of the White House, actors and artists of "Miss Saigon", most talented kid in the world as discovered by Oprah Winfrey and David Foster, lead singer of the Journey band, world champion in boxing, world champion choirs, world renowned fashion models and fashion designers, beauty queens, eloquent speakers, cartoonists, professionals, skilled workers and many more. 

Other More Innate Qualities

The first four main qualities are just some of the finest qualities Filipinos are generally blessed with. Unknown to many, Filipinos have other fine qualities they embody. They are risk takers as well. They see failure as not being it, but they only mean not having succeeded yet. 

Filipino families are also very closely knit. The success of one relative is the success of the rest of the family members. My country, being closely knit, may have contributed to the steady low suicidal rates due to its strong moral and spiritual support systems. Morbid as it may seem, I searched the fact for my own contentment, my country ranked only 90 in the recent 2011 list of top 100 suicidal rates worldwide, only having 1993 as its record high