Filipinos have become increasingly pessimistic about our country's future, as shown by the most recent survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS).
The SWS' social weather report showed that 89 percent of adult Filipinos are entering the New Year with hope, rather than fear.
High enough? Actually, according to the SWS, it was the lowest since the same percentage was recorded when the year 2009 started.
Meanwhile, the number of Filipinos who will face the New Year with fear has gone up from 10 percent in 2024 to 11 percent in 2025.
But what's concerning is that Filipinos are now being gripped by a miasma of inaction, the same old attitude of "bahala na" and letting things take care of themselves.
The harsh truth is this: if we Filipinos do nothing, nothing will change. No amount of lucky charm or excessive noise during the New Year's celebration can turn the tide for our country.
“Bahala na” is actually the attitude the ruling forces who continue to suck the lifeblood of our country want to prevail among the masses. An uncaring populace is a gift for corrupt politicians.
This is the year when we must turn our pessimism, our rage, into concrete action.
In fact, here is where community-based action is needed.
Local leaders should make their voice heard and take a stand against corruption, indifference and incompetence in public governance.
We cannot change our country overnight, but we can (and must) do our part to effect that change, one community at a time.
Sa taong 2026, ang taongbayan ang titindig at dapat tumindig.
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