Organic supporters of social change

By Herman M. Lagon

FORMER Vice President Leni Robredo’s recent visit to Iloilo has showcased the unwavering dedication and the remarkable spirit of her organic Ilonggo supporters. These are steadfast advocates who share with her ideals like truth, social justice, democracy, good governance, and integrity, rallying for a fair and compassionate society. Exploring their motivations unveils a potent force for positive change, capable of reshaping our collective future.

Amid today’s divisions, recognizing shared values is vital. The Kakampinks, as these Ilonggo supporters dubbed themselves during the 2022 elections, understand more now the crucial need to find common ground. This genuine kind of unity lays the groundwork for a society built on fairness, empathy, and inclusiveness.

While disagreements are natural, weaponizing shared values against differing opinions stalls progress. The Leni supporters learned this hard from experience, realizing that dialogue and empathy drive advancement. By trying to cross divisive lines, they now hope to create an environment where all voices count, fostering collective action and growth.

Toxic polarization blocks progress. Stemming from clashing ideologies, it erodes trust and unity among communities. Overcoming this challenge requires tackling disinformation head-on. These like-minded Ilonggos now hope to collectively promote critical thinking, fact-checking, and open-mindedness, dissolving polarization’s walls and nurturing harmony.

At the core of the drive for a just society now stand taller and wiser organic advocates of social change. Leni Robredo’s resilience and commitment, even when unwell during her visit, personify this spirit too. Her multiple post-election visits to Iloilo underscore this strong bond between her and the Ilonggos, sharing the same relentless drive for positive change.

Organically volunteering for “the cause” springs from the common belief in a brighter future for and with others. Engaging through foundations, groups, and advocacies, these organic Ilonggo “angat bayanihan” friends of Leni now spark meaningful conversations and drive real small but palpable change. Their dedication stems from wanting to uplift communities and make a lasting societal impact, their version of moving forward onwards “para sa bayan, bayanihan, at kabayanihan.”

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Doc H fondly describes himself as a ‘student of and for life’ who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world that is grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views herewith do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.