In a thought-provoking commentary published on November 25, 2025, in SunStar Carvajal, the author reflects on the evolving meaning of progressivism in the Philippine context and what it truly means to be a progressive Filipino today.
The Evolution of Progressivism in the Philippines
The author identifies as a progressive from early adulthood, defining progressivism as not merely accepting liberal ideas but actively working to implement them. A true progressive fundamentally opposes all forms of violence and authoritarianism, distinguishing themselves from liberals who might only passively accept new ideas.
However, the political landscape shifted dramatically during martial law. The term "progressive" was co-opted by Marxist and Maoist-inspired activists, transforming its meaning from openness to alternative worldviews to advocacy for a strictly Marxist perspective. Faith-based activists who opposed martial law but rejected Marxist authoritarianism and godlessness found themselves labeled as "clerico-fascists" by the extreme left.
The Intellectual Dishonesty of Dogma
While Marxist philosophy might have offered solutions during periods of clear class struggle, the author argues that contemporary society presents different challenges. Class distinctions have blurred, and new scientific fields like evolutionary psychology and quantum mechanics are challenging long-held truths about human existence.
The piece makes a compelling case against intellectual dogmatism of any kind. "One cannot hold Marxist philosophy, any philosophy for that matter, as dogma without being intellectually dishonest", the author states, warning that such rigidity stunts intellectual growth and distorts essential human and environmental relationships.
A genuine progressive maintains complete openness to new ideas, recognizing that human knowledge barely scratches the surface of cosmic reality. True Filipino progressives actively advocate for new ways of interpreting social reality and restructuring society accordingly, rejecting both violence as a method of change and authoritarianism as a system of government.
The Contemporary Challenge for Progressives
With the recent "corruption bomb" exploding in the nation's face, genuine progressives face urgent challenges. Beyond traditional protest marches, they must make concrete legal and extra-legal moves to hold corrupt legislators accountable.
For long-term transformation, the challenge is to install a truly democratic egalitarian social structure that operates under the rule of law and channels the greater good to the majority rather than a privileged few.
The author concludes with a sobering assessment of the political system: even if President BBM were to resign and snap elections were called, the current election system would simply produce another set of unethical leaders. Without systemic overhaul, genuine progress remains elusive for the Filipino people.
