128 years: Still a work in progress

Today, June 12, Filipinos at home in the Philippines and all over the world will be commemorating the 128th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence, a milestone that invites not only celebration but also reflection. The story of the Philippines is, in many ways, the story of a nation still becoming itself: still striving, still correcting, still reaching toward the ideals proclaimed more than a century ago. Independence was declared 128 years ago in 1898, but the deeper work of nation-building, in creating a free, just, progressive, and democratic society for all Filipinos is far from over.

At 128 years, we Filipinos must remind ourselves that freedom is not a single event but a continuing effort. Political independence, once won, does not automatically produce social justice, economic equality, or strong institutions. These must be built patiently, over generations, through difficult reforms, civic courage, and the daily commitment of citizens and leaders alike. The Philippine experience shows that democracy is not merely about holding elections, but about making government accountable, protecting rights, reducing inequality, and ensuring that ordinary people can live with dignity and hope.

The path toward these ideals has never been smooth. Since independence, our country has experienced periods of political instability, economic hardship, social unrest, authoritarian rule, corruption scandals, and deep national divisions. Public frustration over inequality, weak governance, and recurring controversies has often overshadowed the nation’s achievements. Yet despite these setbacks, the Philippines has continued moving forward, adapting and rebuilding after each challenge.

Like many other countries that are still strengthening their democratic foundations, the Philippines has had to endure a long and uneven journey. Democracies do not mature overnight. Some of the world’s most stable and thriving democratic nations took decades, even centuries, to develop the institutions, traditions, and political culture that sustain them today. Even nations now viewed as models of democracy continue to confront polarization, inequality, and political dysfunction. In that sense, the Philippines is not uniquely behind; it is part of a wider human story in which nations grow slowly, often painfully, toward the ideals they claim.

History shows that nation-building is rarely linear. Countries rise through perseverance, not perfection. The Philippines, too, has had to learn through struggle. The restoration of democracy after dictatorship, the peaceful transfer of power across administrations, the resilience of civil society, and the active engagement of Filipinos in public discourse all demonstrate that democratic values remain alive. The country’s press, despite pressure and controversy, continues to play a critical role in holding power accountable. Citizens continue to organize, speak out, vote, volunteer, and advocate for reforms. These are signs of a society that, despite its flaws, refuses to give up on democracy.

And there is much progress worth recognizing. Over the decades, the Philippines has expanded access to education, strengthened infrastructure, modernized parts of its economy, and become more connected to the global community. Millions have been lifted into better opportunities through economic growth, overseas employment, entrepreneurship, and innovation. While inequality and poverty remain pressing concerns, the country today is stronger, more connected, and more globally engaged than it was generations ago.

Our country and people have also shown remarkable resilience in the face of crises. Natural disasters, financial downturns, political turmoil, and public controversies have repeatedly challenged the nation, yet we continue to endure with determination and optimism. This resilience is one of our greatest strengths. It reflects a people who continue to believe in the possibility of a better future, even when confronted by hardship.

To look at the Philippines today is to see both frustration and promise. The imperfections are real: corruption, inequality, political dynasties, disinformation, and social divisions remain serious obstacles to national progress. But the country’s progress is likewise very much real and shouldn’t be ignored. The Philippines has come a long way from the day of its declaration of independence. It has survived setbacks that might have broken weaker nations. It has kept alive the aspiration for democracy, even when that aspiration has been imperfectly realized.

So as we commemorate 128 years of independence, let us do so with clear eyes and hopeful hearts. Our nation is still a work in progress, but it is a work worth continuing. The road ahead may be long, but the journey itself is proof of enduring strength. The Philippines has not yet finished becoming the country it dreams to be and that, too, is reason for confidence.

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Moira G. Gallaga served three Philippine presidents as presidential protocol officer and was posted at the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles and the Philippine Embassy in Washington.