Barok and Takya Blog | Bisaya Podcast
The origin of Philippine modernity results from several processes that occurred within the country and outside it. In this way, it is also an outcome of the process of globalization.
Historical accounts have shown that after the Spanish introduced new ideas and innovations to our shores, Filipinos could absorb them into their culture and make these fit into their way of life. It is also worth noting that American occupation and the second world war have shaped our country's present national culture even as they established a colonial system different from Spanish colonialism until its end in 1946.
The Americans' influence proved significant, especially in terms of infrastructure development, particularly transportation and communication networks, which were needed to administer the archipelago during their era of control effectively. In addition, some modernization efforts were carried out starting in 1922 when the National Government was created after an agreement between American Governor-General Leonard Wood and revolutionary leader Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo. This is manifested in the setting up of various facilities such as schools where students could learn new skills, including art education; hospitals with healthcare services accessible to more Filipinos; and public buildings such as courts of justice, which helped maintain law and order.
The American occupation institutionalized the introduction of new ideas and innovations through the educational system after it took over in 1901. Thus, for example, the Americans started a program for teaching the English language in schools, which eventually became the medium used to teach subjects like mathematics and foster nationalism among students.
In addition, modern media technologies were introduced, resulting in changes in Philippine culture, including those affecting popular taste. Media content is now influenced not by oral traditions passed on from generation to generation but by what is being shown on television screens or projected onto movie theatres' screens because these are available anywhere at any time. It is true that even before the Spaniards came, Filipinos already had a culture of their own. Still, contemporary Philippine culture is different from what it was in the past, just as Philippine society has changed.
Culture is dynamic, which accounts for why we are still doing practices that were once common decades ago. For instance, Filipinos have been attending wakes to pay respect to the deceased and socialize with others while consuming food prepared by relatives of the departed person. This practice remains relevant until today because many people still go to wakes mainly because they do not want to offend grieving families who may feel alone after losing a loved one. Another example is dancing, such as sexy dances, which some people have continued performing despite criticisms received from other people. This was very much influenced by the introduction of new forms of popular culture from foreign sources in the first place.
Interestingly, these examples perpetuate until this time because, in a way, the people have been conditioned to continue doing them.
Despite all the new things introduced to our society over time, many Filipinos still keep ancient practices alive for no other reason than to preserve these as part of their culture.
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