Maharlika or any other name
Even before President Rodrigo Duterte’s pronouncement that then President Ferdinand Marcos was correct in saying that the country should be named Maharlika instead of its current name which pays tribute to Spain’s King Philip 2nd — and which is currently spawning debates among citizens and netizens — Lucero had already been espousing “Maharlika Life.” In fact, it’s the name of the Facebook Page he created, which receives comments and posts from people who share the same sentiments.
Educated at the Jesuit-run Ateneo de Manila University from elementary to high school, this son of a lawyer and a UP teacher thinks that Maharlika is a better name for the country than the one adapted for the archipelago all in the glory of colonialism.
“There are many meanings of Maharlika coming out now, that it’s not really noble but means free people. Another one is the
Nevertheless, a name of native origin is better than a name that came from the King of Spain at the time of colonialization. Perhaps one that springs from Baybayin,” he shared.
Venting his displeasure over the name given by colonial Spain and readily adapted by the locals of this rich region in the Far East, Lucero posted something for his followers on social media to know his most inner thoughts.
“I hate that history books say we were discovered by Spain in the 1500s when the Manunggul Jar of Palawan dates way back to 890 BC. We were a thriving civilization before any invaders came.
“I hate the name Philippines as it comes from Spain’s king Philip. I hate being identi-
Spain’s king Philip. Each time I use #CalligraFilipino, I cringe. But I have no choice because that is what we have been known as. Rebranding an entire country and ethnicity is almost impossible. But who knows? In the meantime, let us put that aside and celebrate our heritage,” he said.
For Lucero, Baybayin is more than just a Filipino writing system.
“I see it is an art form that is a beacon of pride, inspiration, and identity. It is my dream to see traditional Filipino culture
display all its splendor, as it could ignite renewed enthusiasm for traditional Filipino culture and arts,” he expressed.