In the quiet community of El Pardo, Boljoon, Cebu, a poignant sentiment echoes among the people, masking a deeper struggle with a simple, resigned phrase: "Okey ra." Published on December 17, 2025, a powerful narrative by Arianne Joyce B. Romaguera captures the stark reality of residents who feel unseen and unheard despite their clear vision, unheard despite their ability to listen, and powerless despite the authority figures around them.
The Silent Cry Behind 'Okey Ra'
The people of El Pardo describe a situation where their plight seems ignored. They possess eyes, yet feel as if they are not seen. They have ears, but perceive them as covered. There are those in power, the report suggests, who show a profound lack of concern. The rights of the people are trampled without remorse, and past promises have been shattered like glass. Yet, the prevailing public response remains a weary acceptance.
A Cycle of Resignation and Poverty
The article highlights the common justifications that perpetuate this cycle of hardship. Residents repeat the phrases "Okey ra, ilaha pa man karon" (It's okay, it's still theirs for now), "Okey ra, dili pa atong panahon" (It's okay, it's not yet our time), and "Okey ra, kabos man god ta" (It's okay, we are poor anyway). This verbal resignation underscores a deep-seated adaptation to systemic neglect and economic struggle. The central, haunting question posed is: How long must this continue?
The narrative pushes beyond surface-level acceptance to ask the critical questions: Hangtod kanus-a ang atong pag-antos? Hangtod kanus-a kita magpabiling kabos? Hangtod kanus-a kita muingon nga 'Okey ra'? (Until when must we suffer? Until when will we remain poor? Until when will we say 'It's okay'?). These questions form the core of a silent protest against enduring poverty and social indifference in this part of Cebu.
The Impact of Perpetual 'Okay'
The consistent use of "Okey ra" is not a sign of contentment but a shield for frustration and a testament to remarkable Filipino resilience. It points to a broader social issue in the Philippines where marginalized communities normalize hardship due to a perceived lack of alternatives or response from authorities. The situation in Boljoon serves as a microcosm of a wider challenge, where the spirit of endurance sometimes overshadows the urgent need for tangible change and accountability.
The story from El Pardo is a call to look beyond the uttered "okay" and recognize the unmet needs and unaddressed grievances of communities. It challenges readers and stakeholders to consider what it takes to move a community from resigned acceptance to empowered change, ensuring that the basic rights and welfare of every Filipino are genuinely prioritized.
