Bagumbayan (Bagong Bayan): The Heroes’ Aspiration

The Filipino’s love of country has a very long history. Long before the internet or Facebook, we have had Filipinos making the extreme sacrifice of life so that we may live a little better. From Lapu-lapu to Bonifacio, from Del Pilar to Luna, we have seen different ways of struggle and advocacy for a better Philippines. They all aspired for a nation where people can live happily and without fear.

The death of Jose Rizal has inspired a whole nation to resist the abuses and exploitation by the Spanish invaders. He died by musketry in Bagumbayan fields now known as Luneta.

Our modern-day hero, Ninoy Aquino, has inspired our nation to reject the dictatorial rule of a home-grown tyrant. His life was ended on the tarmac shortly after arriving back in the country from exile.

Now, Jesse Robredo’s death has inspired us to reject all the bad habits of the collective people traditionally entrusted with governance. His life abruptly ended when his plane crashed on his way home from an official function.

All these heroes hoped for a better Philippines, for us and our children. They aspired to have a nation devoid of poverty, where the people’s will is supreme, and where we can all be happy living together. They all hoped for a “bagong bayan”.

Jose Rizal died hoping that we can have a “bagong bayan” that is ruled by Filipinos. Ninoy Aquino died hoping that we would have a “bagong bayan” with a better leader who valued and respected democratic principles.

Jesse Robredo also died trying to create a “bagong bayan” where people had sufficient livelihood sources (no poverty). His policy of transparency in government insured better governance because there would be no chance for graft. His insistence on people’s participation in governance allowed for the consensus from everyone, not just from family members. He relentlessly fought “jueteng” (in Naga) not only because it was illegal but also to rid the city of everyone who benefitted from it.

We cannot allow this patriotism go to waste. We have to make our heroes’ desired “bagong bayan” a reality. We all have to work together, “walk the talk,” as they say, and make sure that all the gains achieved by those who came before us will not be lost due to complacency and stupidity.

We are a people with a great tradition of patriotism. Let’s help convert that to: We are a great people with a tradition of patriotism!

Isulong ang Bagumbayan!! Halina sa Bagong Bayan!!