OFWs: Japanese 'bayanihan' in viral photo a lesson for Filipinos

MANILA, Philippines - When a photo of dozens of Japanese passengers pushing a train together to rescue a woman stuck at the platform went viral on Wednesday, overseas Filipinos hailed the initiative and likened it to "bayanihan."

The photo by Norihiro Shigeta published in Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun captured the moving scene as the altruistic commuters forced the 32-ton train carriage to tilt from the platform to free an unnamed woman in her thirties during rush hour last Monday.

"A public announcement that a passenger was trapped prompted about 40 people to join train officials to push the carriage, whose suspension system allows it to lean to either side," a report recounted.

Seeing the viral photo on Facebook page Japan from the Inside, Maryland-based war veteran Manuel Fontanilla said that Filipinos, even with the tradition of "bayanihan" or communal work, still have much to learn from the Japanese.

"Filipinos and other nationalities should emulate the Japanese especially during the tsunami. During the Vietnam War, I went to Yokuska US Naval Base by train, do you know that a very old lady offered me her seat since I was in a US Army uniform? Of course, I thanked her and refused her offer!" Fontanilla said.

Millet Dayrit-Gonzales, a London resident, also admired the volunteers for their "show of compassion and unity."

"I admire you , our Japanese brothers. You're great!" she said.

Amalio Gonzales also believes that the act of kindness serves as a lesson for Filipinos who might find themselves in the same situation.

"Sana ganyan din tayo sa Philippines. May malasakit sa kapwa," Gonzales posted.

Erick Billedo took the opportunity to urge fellow Filipinos to join the ongoing worldwide protests to reclaim the disputed isles in West Philippines Sea from the Chinese.

"Diyan mo makikita ang bansang asensado dahil sa pagkakaisa sa oras ng pangangailangan, 'di tulad ng mga Pinoy saan man sa mundo. Kahit inagaw na ng China ang mga isla natin, wala lang (ito) para sa ibang . kababayan. Sana ganyan!" Billedo said.

Not only Filipinos wished they can equal the Japanese' virtues. Indian scientist Vishnu Kalapati complained, "Why (can the) Japanese? Why can't us? (sic)"

Italian Tommaso Fernandino Palloni adds: "We must learn from the Japanese! They're the best example to follow!"

But not everyone seemed to be impressed by the photo.

"Well really, what else would they do?" Australian national Kat Isobel commented

Malaysian Sapi'ee Hanapi, too, believes that people are "programmed to be altruistic."

"(But) they often choose to be selfish," Hanapi said.