Cooperation Driven by Love for the Nation

by: Ame-Phil O. Saquiban

​The value of cooperation is embedded in our culture. The bayanihan spirit is one classic example that portrays solidarity, unity, and cooperation. This could be one of the reasons why we have a lot of voluntary organizations in the Philippines since it is natural for us to help one another. As others say, “it flows within our veins”. Time and again, bayanihan is demonstrated in various meaningful ways. From literally carrying “bahay-kubo” in the past to setting up community pantries at the height of the pandemic, we continue to embody the value of cooperation as Filipinos.
 
In government administration, there are programs and principles that uphold the value of cooperation such as the “whole-of-nation” or “whole-of-society” approach which is a principle, means, or strategy in order to address a problem or to implement a program or project by enjoining all stakeholders from both public and private sectors which may be affected in the implementation of the program or project or which may have a stake in the success or failure of a certain endeavor or have an interest in the solution of a certain national problem. This should continue for the attainment of the collective long-term aspirations articulated in the AmBisyon Natin 2040.
 
With cooperation that is driven by genuine love of country, every form of pursuit to make these Filipino aspirations a reality will surely succeed. It will propel us to do our part for the good of the nation and in ensuring that the public interest is upheld at all times.
 
However, actions that are subtly driven by self-interest, greed, and enriching a privileged few can also succeed when there is cooperation. This is probably the case why social ills such as corruption continue to prevail. People engaged in this kind of act do truly understand the importance of cooperation at all levels and on every side to ensure that everything is well covered and no one gets caught or exposed.
 
But it will just be a matter of time where all these acts shall come to an end, as more people will learn to cooperate from the place of deep love for the nation that doing nothing will no longer be an option. Saint Paul asserted that love is the most excellent way and that it does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. With this foundation, we can be assured that the transformation of the nation will always be at the heart of our transactions, engagements and involvements in the community, in our offices and the society as a whole.
 
Will the Philippines rise again? Henry Ford and Edward Everett Hale stated that “coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success”. Indeed, it is in togetherness that we can make the impossible possible. The call is for us to cooperate now, not for wickedness to flourish but for righteousness to exalt the Philippines.