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BY RHODA GARZON CAMPILLAN
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If Rizal and Bonifacio were alive today
PEOPLE ask who’s the real hero – Andres Bonifacio or Jose Rizal?
It depends on your concept of a hero. Is a hero someone staging a revolution for the sake of freedom? Or it someone who uses his brain and writing prowess to inspire Filipinos to fight for what they believe is right?
Our history books speak volumes on the lives of Bonifacio and Rizal and their respective contributions in the quest for Philippine independence.
But there is no point comparing Bonifacio and Rizal. Both are heroes in their own right. They loved our country and sacrificed their lives for it.
If Bonifacio were alive today, for sure the never ending cycle of corruption in the country will make him frown. His hands will be trembling over corrupt activities. No one appears brave enough to denounce shady deals and punish the corrupt.
The problem with our leaders today is that if they suspect someone is guilty of corruption, they will put this person through trial by publicity. This person is judged even before he reaches the court. They single out one person caught red handed. Why don’t they investigate everyone suspected of corruption and punish them altogether?
If Bonifacio were alive today, he will regret offering his precious life for his countrymen’s freedom. Filipinos of this present generation take for granted the efforts of our heroes. How many students actually know who Bonifacio is and his contributions to our country? Bonifacio must be shaking his head out of desperation.
If Rizal were alive today, he will surely lecture some journalists not reporting the truth. He will surely write long letters to media practitioners who have forgotten their role to giving information that is accurate and true.
Rizal, as a writer, used his talent to inspire a revolution. Today, some journalists use their power to confuse readers and report inaccurately. They write not to inspire but to spread negativity and chaos. Rizal would be very disappointed.
How many students know Rizal, his Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo? Yes these are being taught in school but how many truly understand Rizal’s message?
If Bonifacio and Rizal were alive today, they will be quite disappointed. Yes we are free but not truly free. We are still prisoners of corruption and crimes. Can we do something about it? Of course we can.
Today’s citizens must be brave enough to tell higher authorities if we sense corruption. We must muster all the courage to speak our minds if we think things are not done properly. Social media is one avenue but we must articulate our thoughts responsibly and truthfully.
We must start inculcating morals and values in our homes. We must teach our children principles they can bring with them when they become adults. As parents we must be role models to our children. We must be the first to stomp our feet if our children are dishonest.
So make Rizal and Bonifacio happy. Let them feel they did the right in fighting for our independence. Let them believe that someday our country will rise again./PN
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