Sa Isip, Sa Salita, Sa Gawa: Symbols of Nationalism among Filipino Youth

Abstract

This study investigated how nationalism is associated by the Filipino youth through various symbols. It explored (1) how nationalism is viewed by the Filipino youth, (2) the factors that influence the development of nationalism and (3) how nationalism is manifested through symbols by the Filipino youth. Respondents were 30 individuals for each of the student youth, working youth and out-of-school-youth populations. The respondents were chosen from 15-24 years old individuals within Manila who answered the survey questionnaire. Focus Group Discussions (FGD) for each population were conducted. The data obtained from the questionnaires were analyzed through the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) while the FGD findings were collated. The results of the study proved that even though the youth admitted that there is presently a lack of interest towards nationalism, they still believe that nationalism is still a significant topic among youth. The educational and mass media institutions proved to be the greatest influences in the development and promotion of nationalism. Symbols such as the Philippine flag, the Philippine national anthem, the Filipino language and contemporary songs that promote nationalism were among those that generally represent nationalism among youth.