(Image source: Filipino Tradition 101 : Bayanihan [a spirit of cooperation and camaraderie ] — Steemit)
a profound word for Filipinos refers to a spirit of communal unity and cooperation. The gesture meaningfully displays Filipino attributes by following their old tradition of helping their neighbours relocate, getting enough volunteers to carry the entire house, and transferring to another location. A sense of optimism and gratitude envelopes everyone as the moving family expresses their appreciation with a small communal banquet.
The spirit of Bayanihan inspires millions of people not only in the Philippines but also all around the world. Filipinos carry this trait as they migrate to another country. This sense of community shows how people can help each other and work together towards a common goal without bringing others down.
The title ‘Bayanihan‘ comes from the word ‘Bayani,’ which means hero, and it exemplifies the true meaning of being a hero by starting with oneself and extending help to others in the community or neighbourhood. This practice involves encouraging one another and helping to ease each other’s problems in life. The bamboo sticks used to carry the house represent the foundation of life and how a person can be strong enough to handle their problems or burdens. Conversely, the issues or burdens represent the ‘bahay kubo’ or house. In the context of having a sense of community, everyone can be a hero as each person carries a portion of the weight of the house and, in effect, becomes a hero as they contribute to lightening the load for others.
The National Filipino Heritage Canada (NFHC) incorporated Bayanihan in its logo to depict the imagery of heritage and the Filipinos’ inherent quality of outstanding character and values—compassion and kindness. With the logo’s bold strokes and the daring juxtaposition of Bayanihan and Canada’s contemporary, progressive economy, this logo showcases Filipinos’ adaptation, ambitions, economic contributions, and vibrant migration.
I hope this artwork inspires our kababayans of the Filipino Heritage as we celebrate every month of June, from coast to coast—symbolic of forward-looking, artisanal, and soulful.
Author: M. de Jesus/ 2024.12.28