By Herman M. Lagon
As vibrant flags flutter and we recall the heroic deeds of the past, let’s take a moment to reflect on the heartbeats of our nation—its people—during the commemoration of Philippine Independence Day, celebrated on July 4 from 1946 until it was changed to June 12 in 1964. This day is a reminder of every Filipino’s continuous commitment to growth and unity. Inspired by Ateneo de Davao University President Fr. Karel San Juan’s reflections, SJ, posted last month on Facebook, I invite everyone on a contemplative journey.
In our archipelago of over 7,640 islands, unity might seem like a tapestry woven with too many diverse threads. Yet, our varied cultures and perspectives strengthen the fabric of our nation. May we strive for harmony that respects and celebrates our differences, nurturing an inclusive democracy.
Every Filipino, from the sun-baked farmer to the city-dwelling entrepreneur, is a bearer of dignity. May we commit to safeguarding human rights, ensuring that every individual is valued and heard, creating a society where justice is the foundation and peace, its keeper.
Our lush landscapes and rich seas require stewardship, not exploitation. As we face the global climate crisis, let us pledge to sustainable practices that honor and preserve our natural heritage for future generations.
Leadership is a mantle of service, not power. We pray that wisdom will guide our decisions in the forthcoming elections and beyond as we elect leaders who view governance as a responsibility to serve with humility and vision, consistently prioritizing the common good over personal gain.
The foundation of a nation’s future is education. May we make every effort to guarantee that every Filipino child receives a quality, pertinent, and accessible education that empowers our youth to construct a prosperous and equitable nation by informing, transforming, and empowering them.
Independence imbues us with both freedoms and responsibilities. May we exercise our freedoms with a profound sense of responsibility and accountability, acknowledging that our actions positively impact our collective future and contribute to national progress.
In times of uncertainty, our faith in each other and collective strength often wavers. May we renew our trust in our fellow Filipinos and the resilience that has defined our history, moving forward with hope and determination.
The genuine test of our freedom is how much we extend it to others. May we each find the fortitude to serve through small acts of kindness or grand expressions of generosity, thereby constructing a nation where no one is left behind.
Commemorating our independence, let us contemplate our social duties and obligations not just as Filipinos but as driven yet grounded Christians. May our celebrations serve as a testament to our dedication to our nation’s advancement, our communities’ welfare, and our own personal integrity.
As we stand under the banner of our proud nation, let us pray for a future where each Filipino can achieve their potential, live in security, and walk in peace. May our reflections lead to actions, and our actions lead to a brighter future for all.
In the spirit of Fr. San Juan’s thoughtful Facebook post, this prayer invites us to reflect, act, and transform our love for our country into tangible, enduring change. Let us pledge to be today’s and tomorrow’s heroes, fostering a country thriving in genuine unity, social justice, and equitable progress as we reflect on the battles fought and won by our forefathers for our precious freedom.
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Doc H fondly describes himself as a ‘student of and for life’ who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world that is grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views herewith do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.
