THE recent political tensions between the Administration and the Vice President have left many Filipinos, especially the youth in State Universities, law schools, and other higher education institutions, at a crossroads. As young adults navigating an increasingly polarized society, we face a dilemma: Should we voice our support for one political faction, or should we focus on building our own futures quietly? Are we called to take a stand, or do we bide our time, observing from the sidelines?
Our nation is undeniably divided. The controversies surrounding the previous administration’s drug war, the current issues of rice imports, rising commodity prices, and low wages weigh heavily on our collective consciousness. These challenges beg the question: Are we on the right path as a nation? And if not, how should we, as the youth, respond?
There are calls from some quarters to take to the streets and raise our voices, even whispers of radical action like a coup d’état or armed resistance. Yet, these options feel extreme, even reckless. Are we, as young Filipinos, willing to risk everything in a fight we may not fully understand? Will sitting idly by, content with our personal pursuits, reduce us to being patted on the head like obedient dogs?
In moments like this, we are reminded of the fiery courage of our forefathers—Andrés Bonifacio, who ignited a revolution, and Emilio Aguinaldo, who steered the nation through its birth pains. But invoking their spirits is not enough. The pressing question remains: Are we blind to the injustices around us, or have we simply grown too disillusioned to care?
Today’s political landscape is murky. Even within families, there is division over who speaks the truth—the Administration or the Vice President. This dissonance leaves us stressed, confused, and increasingly cynical. But as much as these times test our resolve, they also demand discernment and maturity.
The youth have always been at the forefront of change, but being a hero today is not as simple as it once was. Reckless political activism can be dangerous. Blindly choosing sides is risky. Instead, our generation must take the longer, more thoughtful route. We must prepare ourselves for tomorrow by focusing on education, critical thinking, and developing a deep understanding of the nation’s complex issues.
Our parents often remind us of simple values: study well, respect elders, obey our guardians, and be responsible citizens. While these lessons may seem mundane amidst today’s crises, they form the foundation of a resilient and informed citizenry. They are the tools we need to build a better future—not just for ourselves, but for the Philippines.
As a sector of educated individuals, we must aspire to be more than just spectators or agitators. We must act with prudence, guided by reason rather than emotion. Let us cultivate ourselves as the leaders of tomorrow, equipped to handle the nation’s challenges when our time comes.
Above all, we must turn to God for guidance. In times of uncertainty, faith can anchor us, reminding us that hope and perseverance are crucial virtues. The road ahead may be long and fraught with difficulty, but it is ours to navigate.
The youth of today are not merely passive recipients of the future—we are its architects. Let us build wisely, for ourselves and for the generations to come.
- George Evan Borinaga Cuadrillero
