Lessons from Saigon

As I pack my bags to return home to Cebu, I reflect on my week in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, Vietnam. My colleagues and I attended an international conference on media and communication, but this trip was about more than just our professional agenda; it was an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich culture of this vibrant city.

Vietnam is a nation that has forged a strong identity through its tumultuous history. Despite the challenges they’ve faced, the Vietnamese have embraced their heritage with pride. I was struck by the ingenuity of the locals during our visit to a coconut-filled island, where they’ve developed simple yet effective tools for quickly opening coconuts and processing the fruit into a variety of products. Their ability to market these coconuts as delicacies speaks to their resourcefulness and passion.

As I observed this, I couldn’t help but ponder why the Philippines seems to lag behind other Southeast Asian countries. The Vietnamese hold Filipinos in high regard, recalling how they learned rice cultivation from us. Today, we are among their top importers of this staple, even as we grapple with our own political and economic challenges.

From this experience, two key lessons emerged: the importance of national pride and the value of tourism. The Vietnamese are instilled with a deep sense of patriotism that transcends mere idolization of historical figures like Ho Chi Minh. They embody a profound understanding of their identity, shaped by their collective experiences and resilience. This pride is evident in the way they celebrate their culture, both at home and abroad.

Moreover, Vietnam has mastered the art of sharing its culture with the world through tourism. The government and local stakeholders actively seek to create compelling reasons for foreigners to visit. They prioritize preserving their cultural heritage, recognizing that it can serve as a significant selling point. Instead of focusing solely on skyscrapers and urban development, they strive to protect their environment and natural resources, balancing modern growth with cultural preservation.

Throughout my time in Ho Chi Minh, I was inspired by the Vietnamese approach to tourism and identity. Their emphasis on community and culture provides a blueprint for sustainable development. By valuing what they have, they invite the world to appreciate their unique heritage, turning it into an asset rather than a liability.

As I prepare to leave this quaint city, I cherish the lessons I’ve learned. This journey prompts me to ask, "When will we truly understand who we are?" My time in Ho Chi Minh has ignited a desire to reflect on our own identity and the potential for growth in the Philippines. By embracing our unique culture and heritage, we too can carve out a more prosperous future. As we strive to develop our nation, let us remember the importance of national pride and the value of sharing our culture with the world. By doing so, we can create a vibrant future that honors our past while welcoming new opportunities.