KABAYANIHAN

 Climate Change and Resiliency of Filipinos

Climate change feels very real in the Philippines. We see it in the sudden heavy rains that turn streets into rivers, in the stronger typhoons that leave whole communities struggling, and even in the slow but steady rise of heat that makes daily life harder. Some changes hit us in an instant like flash floods or storms while others creep in over time, like the loss of land and or the rising sea swallowing parts of our shores.

The causes are a mix of global and local problems. Around the world, industries keep releasing greenhouse gases, warming the planet faster. Here at home, we add to it through deforestation, plastic pollution, and practices that harm the environment. Sadly, it’s often the poor farmers, fisherman, and families living in danger zones who suffer the most. What I really admire, though, is how Filipinos remain strong no matter what. After every disaster, you’ll always see people helping each other, sharing food, or even smiling despite losing so much. That kind of spirit is inspiring. But I also think resiliency shouldn’t only mean surviving. It should also mean learning and acting before the next disaster strikes. Small things like reducing plastic use, planting trees, or saving energy can actually make a difference if we do them together.

But what stands out is how Filipinos respond. Time after time, we see people helping each other after disasters, offering food, shelter, or even just a hand to rebuild a neighbor’s home. This is kabayanihan ordinary acts of heroism that show how deeply we care for one another. Even in the hardest times, we rise together, proving that our strength isn’t just in surviving, but in finding hope and courage as a community.

In the face of climate change, the resiliency and kabayanihan of Filipinos remind us that no matter how big the challenge, we will always find ways to endure and move forward together.