Invasion

The Cebuanos just bade goodbye to the biggest book sale ever. I went there three times, and left with my wallet empty after binge buying books. Most of the titles I chose were literature classics, those that were too expensive to buy at regular prices. But the bulk of my time inside that sale was spent in the area where Chinese and other books written by people of Eastern cultures were.

Lately, my interest was caught by countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and others. The oriental culture that has been so distinct makes me want to know more. What makes them different from us? The fact that they were able to preserve their own identity. Up to today, the remnants of their past largely becomes part of their everyday lives. Today, the ordinary Filipino has forgotten what it was like before the colonizers came. The story of our beginnings have been totally wiped out. You would be shocked to know that we also had our own civilization, even our own alphabet. But an elementary student wouldn’t know all these. We are too glorified by the Spanish influence and what it has left in our country. Our stories are facades of the reality that we were enslaved. If not for the exposé of Jose Rizal, we wouldn’t know the truth.

It seems to me like an invasion how the eastern countries are slowly opening up their arms to the whole world. If forward thinkers are right, their economies will take over the world. The Western influence now becomes secondary as Asians continue to rise up globally. Even kids in Cebu who are enrolled in Chinese schools could comment being “invaded” by Chinese influence, said my friend who is also a teacher. The great empires in the other side of globe that used to make waves are now reaching a halt in their prime. Today there is something new in the world perspective.

As for China and the Philippines, the relationship may not always be sweet as it is. There is still the issue of the argued property in the seas. Yet for tourism, we continue to exchange travelers all year round. It has become common to see a group of Chinese tourists in and out of the city and other destinations. Their market has been unexpected but ultimately welcome at this time when Boracay has lost its charm. While it continues to regain its popularity, Cebu has been offering its best to this nationality. I could say we have done a great job.

There are many ways to fit in this global transition. I chose books as a way to learn and understand, maybe I could pluck a lesson or two about the way they put their country on a pedestal. For some its learning, the language, and conversing with others, I find it fascinating how they manage to remember who they are. I wish we did too.