“Building a Better Nation:
Lessons from Bataan for Today’s Challenges”
In light of the recent news about the Philippine exports to the US facing a 17-percent tariff starting April 9, it becomes clear that the country is at a critical juncture. While the tariff rate on the Philippines seems relatively modest compared to its Southeast Asian competitors—Vietnam at 46 percent, Thailand at 36 percent, Indonesia at 32 percent, Malaysia at 24 percent, and Cambodia at 49 percent—it still signals a significant challenge that requires a thoughtful response.
This situation serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need to “build a better nation.” The historical context of Bataan and Corregidor illustrates how the Filipino people have always chosen to fight—not for the approval of external powers, but to assert their independence and strength. The battles fought on these grounds were not just about surviving oppression but about defending the dignity and sovereignty of the nation. Although many endured untold suffering in the aftermath, the spirit of resilience never wavered.
But is resilience enough in today’s global economic landscape? The answer is no. Resilience alone cannot guarantee the long-term survival of a nation in the face of shifting economic realities. To truly build a better nation, the Philippines must prepare for the challenges ahead—whether from tariffs or other unforeseen crises. While the 17-percent tariff might seem “low” in comparison to the steeper rates imposed on its neighbors, it is precisely in these seemingly small challenges that the seeds for a greater national response can be planted.
The lessons of Bataan remind the Filipino people that the battle for a nation’s future requires more than just endurance; it requires a readiness to face hardship head-on with determination and strategic foresight. It is time for the country to roll up its sleeves and show the world that it is capable of standing on its own two feet. This is not Bataan, but the lessons of Bataan are not confined to bloodshed—they are about fortitude, iron will, and the unshakable desire to defend and build a nation for future generations.