A powerful intergenerational dialogue unfolded in Mindanao recently, bringing together veteran peace advocate Irene Santiago and millennial Congressman Kiko Barzaga of Dasmariñas, Cavite. The urgent conversation addressed systemic corruption and its severe consequences, including the potential secession of Mindanao from the Philippines.
The Meeting That Bridged Generations
Congressman Barzaga made a deliberate journey from the political center of Manila to Mindanao, breaking from traditional politics to consult directly with regional leaders and youth. His mission represented a new approach to representation—one that requires leaving the capital's comfort zone to hear marginalized voices.
The discussion featured Irene Santiago, a respected figure with decades of peace-building experience who served as Chief of the Peace Negotiating Panel and was notable in the 1998 national elections. Her presence provided crucial historical context to the ongoing struggle for good governance.
Corruption and the Secession Threat
The dialogue took a serious turn as participants confronted the persistent corruption at the national level. The problem has become so severe that it has sparked discussions about Mindanao's potential secession if the national government fails to address its moral and structural failures.
This warning reflects generations of frustration among Mindanaoans who feel marginalized by Manila's governance. Santiago reminded attendees that the fight against corruption isn't new—it's an enduring struggle that patriots like her and former running mate Raul Roco have long championed.
Millennial Response and the Path Forward
Congressman Barzaga embodied the millennial approach to these challenges: a results-driven determination to fundamentally transform the system. This generation, raised in a hyper-connected world, possesses unprecedented tools to demand accountability and push for structural reform rather than incremental changes.
The conversation transcended the secession discussion to address the future of the Philippine national project itself. It represented both a challenge from the South to the central government and a plea for fairness and an end to the corruption cycle that drains national resources and dignity.
For millennials across the Philippines, this moment highlights their unique position as bridges between historical wisdom and technological capability. They have access to both the experience of elders like Santiago and the digital tools needed to mobilize meaningful change.
Barzaga's willingness to confront the secession threat and consult directly with marginalized communities demonstrates the leadership required today. The message is clear: the enemy isn't fellow Filipinos but the corruption that undermines national development.
The legacy of Irene Santiago shows that commitment endures, while Barzaga's actions prove idealism can be practical. The path forward lies not in division but in fixing the system's core—eliminating the corruption that threatens decades of nation-building.
