While the giants fight

For every nation, unity is that invisible glue that holds its society together.

- PIA ROCES MORATO

It’s not forced, nor is it uniform; it is simply that collective decision made by diverse groups, regardless of political, religious, ethnic or socioeconomic backgrounds and all for a cause — a shared future that stands strong and resilient.

National unity is composed of three pillars — a shared identity, civic trust and collective responsibility. In short, we know we belong to one nation; despite differences, we aim for the common good and we are responsible for one another by looking out for each other, as citizens of this nation. For any nation to survive, therefore, unity is an essential component for its survival.

Unity is also key to a nation’s economic success and it is also the most valuable asset in times of crisis.

To date, the state of division in the Philippines is deeply felt and the political rift between the two parties (Marcos and Duterte) has polarized the public tremendously. Filipinos are not uniting behind a single national vision.

In 2016, the Philippines was surprised by one man with one slogan - Change is coming. I remember the discontent in those days leading to Election Day and with one interview after another (by me over AM radio) on how influential people significantly rated the administration at that time as a failed one. Yet, I was not impressed by whatever change was coming. Perhaps because I was not used to the idea of a non statesman.

But Duterte came. The Philippines was not just different; it was radical. At least, compared to what I was used to. Fast forward to today, the Filipinos are once again finding themselves in a difficult situation where public order and public trust are at stake.