TWENTY YEARS AFTER
Only a few days ago, the government declared a national state of emergency.
For the last 20 years, we have been hearing the same ‘cry’ from the people – asking for a change that will bring forth an opportunity to uplift their lives. This is a legitimate call for government to address but at the same token, we as a nation should take action on.
Culturally, we are a people who, when something goes wrong, are quick to point a finger at an individual or group and say, “It is their responsibility.” Without denying that government may have its shortcomings, each one of us may have failed in some way or another too. We all have a stake in this country and at a time like this, we each have to understand and realize that government is not the only conduit to change, progress and national development. Every citizen of this country is. We may choose to migrate and start raising families abroad but that will not change the fact that our blood flows out of this land. This is our country and that in itself defines who we are - the Filipino.
Entrepreneurs are described to be dreamers, enterprising, and risk-takers. So, why not dream of a better Philippines and take a chance on your own country? Now, more than ever, we need to focus on our sense of community. While we think of the bottom-line and the return on investment, we can also commit to working towards improving the lives of our countrymen. Try not to get side-tracked and disillusioned by the bureaucracy. For as long as you remain steadfast and believe in the good that you are to do, your efforts will prevail.
Now what does this all have to starting your own business?
Government officials, prominent businessmen and established entrepreneurs are actively promoting entrepreneurship. It is believed that if the young are encouraged enough to pursue their own dreams and ideas, this will spark an entrepreneurial revolution. As a result, more jobs will be created and made available for the millions unemployed. It appears that this government has recognized the fact that they cannot do it on their own so a 50-million-peso allocation is being made available for the use of small and medium businesses. Admittedly, raising capital and funds is the most common problem of budding entrepreneurs and this should now serve as the incentive to prevent the campaign from wavering.
As individuals, we must take the initiative to continue pursuing what is not only the best for ourselves, but also that which is for the betterment of all. We have to put a stop to the consistent backsliding that has been happening since 1986. To date, we have taken more steps back than forward which is what we should consciously strive for at all times.
Given the times, it is inevitable that entrepreneurs take the center stage because they are the smallest and most basic business unit that can make a difference. If you continue to keep your hopes high about the possibilities of our country, then nothing can stop progress from happening.
We have been given so many opportunities to achieve greatness; it must be part of our nation’s destiny. Let us all aim towards that goal.
Mabuhay ang Filipino!!! |
