Marcos says Philippines not a ‘damaged culture’

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos rejected the notion that the Philippines has a “damaged culture,” a phrase used to describe the country notably in an article published by The Atlantic in 1987.

The article was written by James Fallows, whose view of the Philippines was that of “a nation not only without nationalism but also without much national pride.”

Marcos issued the rebuttal during his speech at Malacañang yesterday honoring Metrobank Foundation’s 10 Outstanding Filipinos of 2023.

“We are not a damaged culture. I hate that. We are a great people and you are the example of that greatness. Filipinos are really great,” he said.

The Chief Executive lamented that Filipinos sometimes forget their positive traits but admire people in other countries.

“Look at the Filipinos who go to other countries, especially during the pandemic. We are really celebrated worldwide because of the quality of their work,” he said in Filipino.

“We can hurdle whatever challenge we will face here in the Philippines,” he added.

The President yesterday awarded the medallion of excellence to the awardees of Metrobank’s annual career-service award which consisted of four teachers, three soldiers and three police officers.

“Your accomplishments bring us also closer to Bagong Pilipinas (new Philippines) that we are determined to build—a nation that has a globally competitive education system, a safe and empowered citizenry, and a society that offers equal opportunities for all,” he added.

Awardees of the 2023 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino include Rex Sario, a master teacher from Bukidnon, June Elias Patalinghug, a modern teacher influencer from Davao City; Edgar Durana, an educator for people with special needs from Rizal; Jovelyn