This post begins an occasional series of commentaries by Armand B. Frasco, PinoyCentric founder and editorial director.

Blogging as a Bayanihan Effort

For all intents and purposes, Filipinos seem to be among the world’s most prolific bloggers, if not in terms of numbers, their sheer dedication to the craft. The recent Philippine Blog Awards (and the resulting mercifully short-lived controversies) is a testament to the passion we have for yet another form of online expression. Once again, as in the case of text messaging, Filipinos have taken an application and made it our own.

What has this (well, sort of) New-ish, New Thing brought us?

Blogging has opened yet another platform to air our views, make personal and business connections, and perhaps earn a few extra bucks. Of course it has also allowed many to virtually hang their dirty laundry, whine about their current quarrels, alert their cliques to one’s anorexic tendencies, among other issues and preferences. That is their privilege. And it is our privilege whether to peruse them or not.

Don’t all these just add to an already deafening national cacophony? Undoubtedly, yes, it does. But wouldn’t you rather have noise than the ominous silence of repression?

That we can’t agree on a blogger’s prayer or to even pray at all is a healthy sign albeit unsettling. No, sir, the Pinoy blogger can’t be dictated on, just like their feisty counterparts around the world. Indeed another Pandora’s box has been opened. But rather than be alarmed, I have faith.

I believe that though we Filipinos can’t agree on many things, like an internal GPS our bayanihan tradition will set us off in a general direction where to take this ongoing conversation to—lift it up and forward.

Mabuhay tayo!

A.B.F.

N.B. This post is in appreciation of Rico Mossesgeld and Company at the Bayanihan Blog Network for their very kind introduction earlier this week. Likewise to all the new friends we have made; bloggers and non-bloggers alike. As the new kid on the block, we are honored, grateful and excited.

Photo: “Alsa” by Eli Jeproks @ FLICKR
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