The Filipino Youth Today

We are now existing in a modern world— a world where morals are slowly decaying. I agree that
this generation is somehow proud of being “Pinoy”, however their nationalism had been gone. Gone
are the days when Filipinos admire the locals. Gone are the good old days when youth cherishes their
homeland. This! Historical period is truly affecting the individuals.

People either adapt or attack the ways they outgrown. Perhaps from generation to generation,
learning has not been such a big deal which made them look back on the past.

Years ago, when I always watch my neighborhood, I could see kids playing Filipino games such
as tumbang preso, luksong tinik, patintero, Chinese garter and so much more with smiles plastered on
their faces. Even though how envious I was of the thing called ‘fun’ that they had, at least they had lived
the Filipinos’ way.
Nowadays, what do kids do? From cellphones to laptops, Xbox to iPods and Androids to IOS;
the system of technology is slowly eating their senses! If too much love can kill, then too much
technology can wreak havoc! And just like any form of influence, it made them sit all, worshipping the
virtual world, where Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and other social media apps are a must.

It is not always about everyday trends. It is about how our spirit is burning to resist the impact of
modernization. We are not just Filipinos by blood – we are Filipinos carrying the value of our forefathers’
land, Pearl of the Orient Seas, to always make a difference to prove other nations that their judgements
are wrong. So instead of disputing, we should rather widen their narrow minds that we are not only
good in abrasive ways but we do have intelligence, abilities, and skills which are better than
yesteryears. This modernized and competitive world has failed to instill confidence – a confidence that
might be a key to success and a preparation of how Filipinos face the hurdles of life.
According to Adrian Pantonial, a life coach, our now is the product of our past choices and the
process of our future. Individuals have a significant role. Some even wondered why the youth must be
prioritized. But out of curiosity, we can attest that if we are to be put first, one knows that in the midst
of a better country, inculcating character counts and must not only be taught but also be applied.

Therefore, as a youth of this land, we should aim high and strive for the improvement because
no matter what happens, the future lies in our hands. With all our heart, mind and soul, we must be
able to serve our country and be a good role model to the upcoming generations because life’s essence
is not always about complying; it is about how our spirit is burning with all our wills and efforts.

Challenges are not just simply challenges; it is about how we handle those challenges. We must
not fail the hard work of our heroes and resolve the broken roads to raise again the pride of our nation.
Now is the time to stop the competition and replace it with equality – always accept the differences of
individuals.

Live and imprint in your minds that he who does not look back from where he came will never
reach his destination. The greatest glory is in rising every time we fall, and adapting to the changes so
that learning would still be a process without end.

Face to face, heart to heart, and soul to soul. We, the Filipino youth of today, are the backbone
of this land I call, Philippines.