CHOOSING TO BECOME PRODUCTIVE FILIPINOS

October 22, 2022 Community Billboard

Last October 6, the President gave us an update on what his administration has accomplished on his first 100 days in office. We heard about billions of potential investments coming in, immediate assistance to
Filipinos affected by the earthquake in July and the recent typhoon Karding, and the establishment of the
Department of Migrant Workers, to name a few. Many were appreciative of these accomplishments and
expressed confidence on the way the current administration is handling the affairs of the country.

But some have also made statements of disappointment over issues on inflation, food shortage, oil price hike, sugar importation, and many other issues that even included personal criticisms on the President and his family. We live in a democratic country; hence, we exercise freedom of expression. We can say what we have in mind including dissent on the government or the administration.

But like any other exercise of freedom, freedom of expression comes with great responsibility and consideration. The same is true with being part of a country. We cannot expect anyone to provide fantastic and permanent solution to all our problems in the country in just a span of 100 days. Not even superheroes can take us out of poverty in such a short period of time. As a Filipino citizen therefore, may we develop the attitude of always reflecting on what we can actually contribute for the country’s development and help the government in pursuing inclusive growth.

We can rant all we want but let us also do our share as citizens. As former US President John F Kennedy said, “ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” Let us choose to be
productive citizens, choose to be part of the success of our nation.

Cristina Catbagan