History is a potent tool that can possibly clarify our queries and doubts about the present. Hence, it is nice to study or review our history. This month, there are various events that allow us to look back on our past as a nation.
The celebration of Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa makes us appreciate Filipino as the national language. Some do not give importance to Filipino as a language. They give more emphasis and value to English and regard it as the most elegant and valuable language in oral and written communication.
It is a hope that the continuous festivity of Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa may enlighten one’s mind and heart to embrace our national language. Let us consider the initiative and endeavors of the late president Manuel L. Quezon. He was determined to bring Filipinos closer despite geographical and language barriers. He believed the Filipino language will unite every Filipino despite having diverse dialects. As a result, everyone has fertile ideas, opinions, and aspirations to share or contribute for our country’s progress and development.
The success and declaration of our national language was an upshot of collaborated efforts of our past leaders under the administration of president Quezon. It is our responsibility to continue and improve what they started. Using Filipino is also a sign of being patriotic.
We also celebrate Ninoy Aquino Day on Aug. 21. History emphasizes that he died fighting for our country’s freedom from dictatorship. In fact, he was shot and assassinated at the Manila International Airport. The said airport was named as Ninoy Aquino International Airport in honor to his legacy of courage of conviction. He has no fear to stand up for what he believed that is right for no matter what it takes.
In school, Brigada Eskwela is launched on the first week of August. This activity purposely aims to strengthen volunteerism of employees, students, parents and stakeholders for the welfare of the school.
The activities during Brigada Eskwela contribute much in school’s beautification and preparedness for the opening of the classes for the school year 2021-2022. Thus, this program of Department of Education must be enhanced because it is a basic training ground for heroic deeds.
National Heroes Day is also celebrated on Aug. 30, an important event to commemorate the heroism of our forefathers.
Our national heroes like Dr. Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Gregorio Del Pilar, Marcelo H. Del Pilar, Emilio Jacinto, Apolinario Mabini, Diego Silang, Gabriela Silang and Melchora Aquino are worthy of emulation and appreciation. Their sacrifices, struggles, and determination paved way to our independence.
Their tough journeys just to see their fellow men enjoying their freedom must inspire the youth to follow the footsteps of our national heroes. They should not let other nations to dominate our country that was once a victim of slavery and colonization.
Not all heroes wear capes. There are ordinary people whom we can recognize as heroes too. They are called modern heroes. We don’t easily notice their heroism because of their simplicity but their hearts are pure. They have the passion to help their families and fellows particularly the unfortunate ones without expecting something in return.
For instance, health workers and others who serve as frontliners during this pandemic. They don’t mind risking their lives just to ensure the safety and good health of all citizens.
Overseas Filipino workers are also modern heroes. They patiently work abroad and fight homesickness and fatigue. All they want is to give their families good life and better future.
We should not also forget the unsung heroes in our locality. We have ancestors who sacrificed their lives and fought the oppressors. Our local historian must research and shout out their names and their stories for us to be acquainted. Their heroism must be known by the next generations to serve as their mirror. They also need to protect and take good care their own territory.
Let us all be vigilant, supportive and reflect on the importance of those said special occasions or events. They will surely bring us positivity that will help us succeed our present situation and face courageously the future. (JENELYN J. AGAYO)
April 27, 2024
