As the "Day of Candles" returns, marking another year in the writer's life, it prompts a moment of reflection on the enduring state of Philippine politics. The political landscape remains tumultuous, with ongoing discussions about corruption in high places persisting under the administration of President Marcos Jr. While the columnist acknowledges that this Marcos has exceeded expectations in some ways, the broader sentiment is one of stagnation rather than progress.
A Shift in Perspective Over Time
During the era of Marcos Sr., the writer felt compelled to join the underground movement, driven by a fiery passion for change. However, with the passage of time, personal priorities have shifted. Now a family man, that initial fervor has diminished, replaced by a more pragmatic outlook. The columnist believes that meaningful change in governance must stem from a collective will, something that has yet to coalesce in the Philippines. This lack of unified political direction leaves the country in a state of limbo, where hopes for improvement remain unfulfilled.
Global Political Turmoil and Its Implications
Beyond domestic issues, world politics is also in disarray. The United States, under the leadership of an older Donald Trump, has recently ordered an attack on Venezuela, a sovereign nation. Interestingly, there appears to be little protest within Venezuela, signaling a shift in global dynamics and public response to international conflicts. Despite these chaotic developments, the writer holds onto hope that eventual change will lead to positive outcomes, both locally and internationally.
Turning Attention to Sports and Filipino Achievements
In an effort to distance from the complexities of politics, the columnist has turned to sports, observing significant transformations in this arena. The Filipino diaspora has played a crucial role in elevating the country's profile on the global stage. Initially, this was evident in basketball, where individuals of Filipino descent gained recognition, prompting the Philippine Basketball Association to capitalize on this trend. This phenomenon has since expanded to various sports disciplines, showcasing the diverse talents of Filipinos worldwide.
The Rise of Homegrown Talents in Sports
Following the success of diaspora athletes, homegrown talents have also emerged to capture international attention. Manny Pacquiao, for instance, revolutionized boxing in the Philippines, bringing it to the forefront of global sports. His retirement left a void, but a new star has risen to fill it. Alexandra Eala, a determined and skilled athlete, is now making tennis popular in the Philippines. At just 20 years old, she has inspired Filipinos to rally behind a Filipina in a sport that was once considered niche.
The recent launch of a tournament in Manila, designed to showcase tennis to a broader audience, marks a significant milestone. This event highlights the growing interest in the sport, fueled by Eala's achievements. Tennis, though an old sport, has gained newfound appreciation in the country. The writer recalls a personal connection through an elementary school batchmate, Nilo Llenes, who took up tennis for fitness after retirement, underscoring the sport's accessibility yet elite nature due to the resources required.
Government Support Needed to Sustain the Tennis Boom
With Alex Eala's rise to prominence, there is a pressing need for government intervention to promote tennis further. The recently held Philippine Women's Open revealed that local tennis players are in dire need of support. While Eala secured a gold medal in women's tennis at the Southeast Asian Games, her fellow competitors have been largely overlooked. This disparity underscores the importance of structured programs and funding to nurture talent across the board.
The government must step up to address this gap, ensuring that the current "tennis boom" is not short-lived. By investing in infrastructure, training, and competitions, the Philippines can build a sustainable sports culture that benefits all athletes. Tennis courts are already widespread, particularly in subdivisions, but making the sport more inclusive requires concerted efforts from both public and private sectors.
In conclusion, as the writer navigates the complexities of aging and political reflection, the story of Alexandra Eala offers a beacon of hope. Her success in tennis symbolizes the potential for positive change through sports, urging a collective will to support and celebrate Filipino achievements on the global stage.
