By Joshua Corcuera
Buksan ang puso at isipan, paliparin ang kamalayan — these are lyrics from Alapaap, an iconic song by the Eraserheads. The words of the song from the popular band is reminiscent of what Philippine society must embark to gain progress. Even in the 21st century, peculiar conservative ideas dominate the landscape of the nation. Although nothing is wrong with being conservative itself, some traditional notions may have done more harm than good. With this in mind, it is essential to explore conservative thoughts that prevail in this generation and how it affects society. At the same time, progressive ideas are worthy of discussion as well, particularly its social impact.
Conservatism in modern times: From bayanihan to gender roles
Unlike most of the Western World, the Philippines is mostly conservative — although liberal and progressive thoughts are being embraced in urban areas like Manila already. From the root word conserve, the term conservative denotes holding to traditional attitudes and cautious about change or innovation.
Traditional ideas which are long embraced and have been part of our culture can be encountered within our society. There are some that appear to be beneficial such as the so-called bayanihan where communities help one another in trying times even when they are not relatives or they do not know each other. But there are some which need to be scrutinized as well because of its restrictive nature, like gender roles. For instance, women are ideally portrayed to be submissive and should play a larger role in the household. This example is clearly an obstacle towards inclusive growth and creates a sense of inequality. Moreover, concepts on seniority in the country is conservative as children are told not to answer back against elders. This can be detrimental as well, especially when elders are imposing clearly wrong beliefs and the youth has no choice but to accept it.
There is nowhere to go but forward
Society aims to move forward and to achieve a future which is better and brighter than the past and the present. Although that’s where we need to go, we can only make it there by welcoming ideas and opinions which are also forward-thinking. People have always clamored for change, while politicians said that they will be the face of change once elected. But the years have shown that the same conservative ideas have dominated society — one explanation as to why things have remained the same.
In Pasig, Mayor Vico Sotto’s forward-thinking has helped spark change in his constituency. As an example, his evidence-based decisions have effectively curbed corruption in the city making it possible for his constituents to receive more aid during the coronavirus pandemic. Moreover, the most progressive nations in the world according to the Social Progress Index in 2019 — Norway, Denmark, and Switzerland — also boast higher standards of living and better quality of life. One reason for this is that their leaders’ forward-thinking contributed to equitable delivery of basic human needs and opportunities to people from all walks of life — especially to the oppressed and the marginalized. Based on these cases, people can best achieve progress when leaders accept progressive thoughts, and people embrace such a notion.
To reach the skies, we must be more tolerant
There are still ideas within Philippine society that are restrictive like conversations between elders and the youth, gender roles, and taboos. Society must get rid of toxic conservative ideas that continue to oppress a certain group of people. While notions that yearn for inclusivity and supporting the oppressed must be heard and appreciated. More importantly, we must be open-minded and more tolerant to achieve inclusive growth in our country. It is only through open hearts and minds we can provide equal opportunity to all — men or women, gay or straight, young or old, rich or poor. And by doing so, society as a whole would move forward as well and growth would be felt by all.
