Our heritage, our identity

Let's look at a societal phenomenon that has been creeping into our consciousness for a long time, but we seem to have missed its generational consequences. When we began to perceive ourselves through Western eyes, our virtues became vices, and our strengths became flaws, just as everything we had previously regarded sacred became worthless. Whatever is native in sound or origin would be hidden. Centuries of being deemed backward and inferior by white conquerors instilled in us a communal sense of self-hatred, a mental illness that affects everyone, but particularly the elites.

Could this be one of the psychological reasons why so many Filipinos consider themselves to be small? Filipinos, particularly graduates of excellent colleges, are only too delighted to find work, especially overseas, rather than becoming innovators, entrepreneurs, creative thinkers, producers, and manufacturers.

Only the things we love may bring us together, and the things we despise can split us. Many Filipinos, particularly the governing elites who were most exposed to Western authority, have absorbed generations of conquerors' hatred for Filipinos. In fact, according to SWS study, this class has the lowest regard for themselves as Filipinos, having been conditioned to idolize Western methods the most. Their scorn for Filipinos is actually an expression of self-disgust.

The devastation of Philippine cities illustrates our country's disrespect for our heritage and authorities' callous disregard for current preservation legislation. People cannot be expected to care for their surroundings if they do not understand or love them, or if they are unaware of their value and significance.

And why do we need to look at our heritage from a different perspective? Why is it important for our heritage to be preserved? Keeping our legacy alive through the decades preserves the collection of cultural markers that distinguish Filipinos as a distinct people. They demonstrate to future generations our shared Filipino identity, instilling in us the sense of national pride that is so important in keeping us grounded amid the current globalization process. As a result, it is critical to preserve the overall heritage image, which includes a wide range of cultural markers produced by Filipino culture throughout the ages in literature, music, painting, sculpture, and decorative arts, as well as the food that is uniquely ours.

It encourages people to return to their cultural roots and appreciate the rich heritage passed down through the generations. This can be achieved by highlighting the importance of preserving and promoting local heritage within a community and its impact in shaping Philippine cultural identity, encouraging the Filipino nation in promoting and caring for the local heritage within their community, helping stakeholders identify distinct cultural resources of their community and generate interest in programs relative to heritage conservation including cultural mapping and heritage forums.

Every Filipino community has something unique to offer. Every Filipino community has a history of struggle, and as a result, everyone shares the desire of a peaceful and prosperous Philippines.

Remember that there are more things that unite us than divide us. Our strength comes from our diversity. Within each of us are the seeds of a better future for all. Let us ponder our shared Filipino identity and sense of belonging. Even in these current times, we must always be proud of our nation's history.