Idealistic - that's me in one word. I'm all out for adventures, new assignments, tasks and responsibilities. I believe in the power of the youth and how it can change the country, or even the world. For me, the Philippines does have hope and it can rise again like it used to be.
Some criticize me for my personality, citing that I must live in the present in the moment of reality that there is nothing we can do to our sad state, as if there is no more tomorrow for the dear motherland. But I see them as people who have a close mindset and a heart as cold as stone for their homeland.
I pity these people who do not know on the true reality of life and the meaning of hope. It's quite disappointing that others do not know the value of the next generation. Like there is already an end to the Philippines' story which hasn't even really started yet.
General Antonio Luna was like that, brave and full of ambitions. He had plans for the armed forces that were way too big to comprehend, even impossible to do. Yet, he was determined unlike many others who wanted to submit to foreign reign thinking it would do them best. He believed in self identity and a culture that he needed to protect. Others taught he was crazy.
I think the history books left this part out. Who knew General Luna? I never knew who he really was. I was only aware that he was one of those heroes that we learned in the elementary school. I was more fascinated at the way the artist depicted his image because of the striking colors used for every background where he was in. Right, he was also that guy who had a mustache that made his signature look.
But then after watching a movie that revolved on his story, I felt a great loss for the Philippine nation. We had the chance at getting the sovereignty we deserved but he was looked in such a lowly manner. His plans to defeat the American forces were never realized because to some it was ridiculous. And yes, he was a dictator in a sense but he wanted discipline that he wanted to instill. There was already an indolence that we seemed to siphon from the Spaniards then. The spirit that he had in fighting and leading was incomparable after Rizal's time.
Yet, the truth hurts. A great hero such as he was set to be killed by his fellowmen. Nobody knew the true story, if he was set-up or ambushed, but he was slain by own Filipino hand.
Why is there too much insecurities and abuse of power? Why is there no unity, all regionalism? Why are politicians masters of apology? And to tell the truth, we see the same thing over and over again. Indeed, history repeats itself. We never learn from our mistakes. But, we, who understand the whole scenario better than others do, can make a stand for the next generation.
The film is just a film yet it could be powerful and compelling such as this, writing a "hugot" piece for you. But then, come to think of it, it gave me a sense of identity and a deeper burden to do excellently for the country, more importantly, the next generation. I hope it does to you too.