Introduction

When you ask someone about the meaning of bayanihan, the first thing that comes to mind would be-- community members, helping move the house of neighbor literally-- by carrying it from one place to another.

But, bayanihan is also “Bayan” which means a nation or country.  It could even mean a town, a municipality or even just a small community.

Detail of mural Bayanihan by Carlos 'Botong' Francisco

Bayanihan, hence, is a concept to make something impossible--POSSIBLE by simply uniting as one. So, when a neighbor relocates to another place, the entire members of the “bayan” are called upon to help and make it possible.  This spirit became part of the Filipino tradition.

People- Power Revolution is a good example of bayanihan.  From February 22-25, 1986, millions of Filipinos civilians as well as several political, military and religious figures, trooped to the streets of EDSA (EPifanio de los Santos Avenue in Quezon City) to fight for freedom and end the 20-year tyranny of the Dictator Ferdinand Marcos.


Photos from EDSA Revolution 1986

The E.D.S.A Revolution was known to be the first of its kind in the history of the Philippines, perhaps even the world. No blood was shed during the 4-day uprising. People gradually became one. Hand in hand, the Filipino people made a stand and this act was testament to the true Bayanihan spirit that was alive in every Filipino.

Now I said "WAS". Because i am inclined to ask now-is BAYANIHAN still alive today?