Filipino resiliency is often needlessly being romanticized, but we never learn. Instead of fighting the problems head on and seeking accountability from those responsible for any misfortune to a point of toxic positivity.
Heat in April, flood during rainy months, and many other disasters may come. But how do we react? We commend those who devise solutions, talk about them for a time, then we move on. When another disaster comes, we repeat the process, not exerting any extra effort to avoid the untoward incident from happening again.
When some citizens complain in social media, trolls are quick to respond with “puro ka reklamo, ano ba ang ambag mo?” When some people seek accountability from government officials, especially local executives, they are being tagged as opposition and suffer consequences in the community.
Who will stand up and accept responsibility to find solutions and better living conditions to those they serve?
Quezon Province had been and still is prone to various mishaps and calamities. Yet, have we really acknowledged the real problems on specific sites and discussed proper solutions?
Resiliency is not all bad, but it is never a solution to life-threatening problems. Looking back at history is one sure way to find out which places should be prioritized before the disaster comes. Listening to experts and authorities in the various fields would surely help. Change should be done, and should be right now, not just a plan merely on paper. But in action from those we have elected and those who had been appointed. When people see change, public support will not be far behind.