One of the aspects of nation-building not considered in the Philippines is the impact of religion in society. This is a mistake that is often made when engaging in such a discourse because it goes without saying that the Philippines is a predominantly Christian country whose culture has been shaped by Catholicism for a vast majority of the populace. Thus, supplanting the religious status quo in the country has never been a serious consideration, let alone attempted. However, I offer a perspective that echoes what past Buddhist masters have advocated for in the past two millennia: "... spread the [Buddha's] teachings throughout your country to increase the happiness of the people." [1] The Buddhadharma can help bring about happiness, peace, and prosperity throughout the nation in accordance with our sacred texts and should be seriously considered by Buddhists who will engage in nation-building.
The Philippines has been plundered, mismanaged, and problem-stricken for the past century that it has been a polity in its own right. Filipinos have longed for change and reform, and yet we remain in a state wherein we cannot truly and fully say that the Philippines is a good place to live in. Billions are stolen, both urban and rural areas are flooded, injustice and impunity remain rampant, people are forced to "diskarte" their way out of hardships and poverty, corruption can be seen from the lowest to the highest offices of government, and societal change and reform are almost impossible to bring about. Truly, a shift in the thinking of our people is in order. Whatever we have now, in our minds and in our hearts, is neither sufficient nor effective.