(The Fight Isn’t Only on the Streets)
On September 21, tens of thousands of Filipinos flooded the streets of Metro Manila to protest against government corruption. Similar demonstrations took place all over the country. Social media was filled with photos, videos, and stories of courage and outrage. You could almost feel the people’s anger—an anger born from years of frustration and the suffering so many Filipinos carry because of systemic corruption.
At that very moment, I was far from home, in another country, celebrating the wedding of my daughter. It was one of the happiest days of my life as a parent. But a big part of me also wished I was standing shoulder-to-shoulder with my fellow Filipinos in those streets.
Maybe you’ve felt that tug, too. You see people standing up for something you deeply care about, and yet you can’t be there. Sometimes life doesn’t allow it—work commitments, health issues, or simply circumstances beyond our control. Some of us can’t even speak up openly on social media because of workplace restrictions.
If you’ve ever felt that way, know this: your voice still matters, even if it’s not shouted through a megaphone in a crowd. You can support a cause in many meaningful ways without physically joining the frontlines.
Learn and Share What You Know
Awareness is always the first step. Read credible news, watch a good documentary, or talk to people who understand the issue better. Then share what you’ve learned with your family or friends even casually over dinner. Change often starts at the smallest table.
Walk Your Talk
If the issue is corruption, then live with honesty in your own circle. Say no to shortcuts, refuse to play along with palakasan, and don’t look the other way when something isn’t right. These may feel small, but when multiplied, they chip away at the bigger problem.
Offer Your Skills
Can’t march? That’s okay. Maybe you’re good at writing, designing, organizing, or simply lending a hand. Volunteer those skills to organizations or groups doing the work. Sometimes a few hours of your talent can create more impact than a whole day in a protest.
Be the Example
You may not notice it, but people are watching how you live. Teachers shape their students, parents influence children, and colleagues inspire one another. By consistently showing up with integrity, you remind others that standing for what’s right isn’t just about big events. It’s about daily choices.
Keep Your Spirit Strong
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of hope and resilience. Movements are fueled by people who stay grounded and inspired despite the heaviness of the fight. Practice gratitude, prayer, or meditation, whatever keeps your spirit strong. A weary heart cannot sustain a vision for change.
I’ve spent decades in HR, coaching, and teaching, and I’ve learned this: every act of courage matters. While not all of us may wave banners in the streets, we can still live out our values with consistency and heart.
So if you ever feel that ache, that guilt of “not being there”, remember this: you can still make a difference right where you are. Your circle of influence may be smaller than a city square, but it’s no less powerful when used with intention.
