By Jan Vicente B. Pekas
Behind a single flag that represents a nation, lays a melting pot of several cultures. Ancient and modern, hybrid and the untouched. Standing in the middle of it all, if one sees it to understand these fascinating and diverse cultures, then wisdom would surely follow.
Some of the notorious ones gain such prestige due to their war-like natures. While others lay content to farm and live in peace. But no matter how strong or how proud a culture can be, through martial conquest or sleek diplomacy, a culture can be annexed.
Ours are no stranger to warfare and farming. In the highlands of the Cordillera including the Mountain Province, during the age of head hunting and nature dominated the landscape, as sons and daughters of this region, we hear the tales of barbarity from the elders. To feel proud of one’s culture is as natural as the tan on our skin.
A nation is united by one flag, but a closer look will inevitably show the cracks that divide a country. Whether they take the form of politics or cultures, unity has many that block its path.
There are proud and ancient cultures that had survived devastating plagues, and the rule of conquerors that etched their names in the books of history. Perhaps it is not surprising now, the rising calls for independence of small regions within a nation. Or the ever-eluding autonomous status being given to special regions.
Among the great cultures, a rich history will always back the astonishing amount of prestige garnered. And as flags represent nations, then so do they represent smaller groups of people.
Such flags have caused controversies in recent history. We as a nation know the consequences of the defilement of fellow men. For in our veins no longer flow the blood of slaves, but the blood of free men and women gained through bloodshed and sacrifice.
Perhaps our differences with fellow men will always remain, considering the situations of other people, having our own opinions is a privilege. This nation had gone through several false masters that tried to claim this land as their own.
Now, only our flag stands alone. A land of freedom and democracy, where we not only form our own opinions, but able to share them.
It may be a long time before we reach that stage. Ultimately, differing opinions and ideals may cause cracks within a nation, but respect towards fellow men will make sure we never break apart. True unity may still be far off, but respect will surely lead us towards the right way.**
