Citizenship and
Nation-Building:
Understanding Our
Roles as Filipino
Citizens
Objectives
• Define and contextualize nationalism,
citizenship, civic-mindedness, and nation-
building.
• Understand and appreciate the rights and
duties of a Filipino citizen.
• Reflect on and express the critical role
citizens play in shaping society through
active participation, engagement, and
service.
Guide Questions
• What does being Filipino mean to you? Is it about
birthplace, bloodline, language, or something
more profound?
• What historical or personal moments shaped your
sense of pride as a Filipino?
• Which duties or acts of citizenship do you
consider most essential today?
Nationalism
Nationalism refers to a deep devotion and loyalty
to one's nation. It involves love of country, pride
in one’s culture, language, history, and a desire
to promote national interests over foreign
influence.
In the Philippine context, nationalism developed
as a response to centuries of colonial rule. It
played a central role in uniting Filipinos in the
fight for independence against Spanish, American,
and Japanese colonizers.
Citizenship
Citizenship means legal membership in a nation-state.
But beyond legality, it is a status that involves
participation, identity, and belonging.
Citizens enjoy rights like voting, education, and
protection. But they also bear responsibilities: paying
taxes, obeying laws, and actively contributing to
community development.
In democracies, citizenship is the engine of
accountability and progress.
Nation - Building
Nation-building is the process by which
citizens, institutions, and governments
contribute to creating a cohesive, functional,
and sovereign nation. It involves:
• Promoting unity among diverse groups
• Strengthening democratic institutions
• Ensuring inclusive development and justice
• Encouraging active participation and civic
education
Historical Evolution of Nationalism in the
Philippines
• Pre-colonial era: Barangays with a limited sense of collective national
identity.
• Spanish rule: Birth of Filipino consciousness; emergence of nationalist
movements.
• Rizal, Bonifacio, Mabini: Advocated for reforms and independence.
• Post-independence to Martial Law: Continued struggle for real
democracy.
• EDSA Revolution (1986): Modern expression of nationalism through
peaceful protest.
Nation
vs.
State
Nation vs. State
A nation is a cultural and emotional community—people
with shared history, language, and identity.
A state is a political entity with governance, laws, and
sovereignty.
The Philippines is both: a diverse cultural nation and a
sovereign political state.
Nation-building focuses on uniting the nation; state-
building focuses on strengthening institutions.
Nation vs. State
A nation is a cultural and emotional community—people
with shared history, language, and identity.
A state is a political entity with governance, laws, and
sovereignty.
The Philippines is both: a diverse cultural nation and a
sovereign political state.
Nation-building focuses on uniting the nation; state-
building focuses on strengthening institutions.
How can students and youth demonstrate nationalism and
civic responsibility?
• Joining clean-up drives
• Participating in student government
• Engaging in voter education
• Defending human rights
Small actions contribute to larger
societal changes.
How can students and youth demonstrate nationalism and
civic responsibility?
• Joining clean-up drives
• Participating in student government
• Engaging in voter education
• Defending human rights
Small actions contribute to larger
societal changes.
Rizal’s Legacy and Literary Roots
• Rizal used Noli Me Tangere and El
Filibusterismo to expose colonial injustices and
inspire reform.
• His novels awakened national consciousness and
challenged oppression through relatable stories.
• Rizal believed in education, moral courage, and
civic duty as keys to national progress.
• His writings remain relevant today as calls for
justice, accountability, and change.
Quezon’s Code of Citizenship and Ethics (1937)
President Quezon outlined ethical behaviors for Filipinos,
including: love of country, honesty, work ethics, and
respect for elders and authorities.
These values were intended to foster unity and progress.
Are they still practiced today?
What challenges do we face in upholding them?
Philippine Constitution – Article IV: Citizenship
Who is a Filipino citizen?
• Natural-born: Individuals born to at least one
Filipino parent, regardless of place of birth.
• Naturalized: Foreign nationals who acquire Filipino
citizenship through a legal process under Philippine
law.
What does citizenship imply?
• Civil Rights: The right to life, liberty, property, and due
process under the law—these protect individuals from
abuse and ensure personal freedoms.
• Political Rights: The right to vote, run for office, and
participate in democratic processes like freedom of
speech and peaceful assembly.
• Social Duties: Responsibilities such as obeying the laws,
paying taxes, and defending the country when needed—
these ensure the well-being and security of the nation.
Active vs. Passive Citizenship
• Active Citizens: Engage in community issues,
volunteer, participate in public discussions.
• Passive Citizens: Enjoy rights but avoid
responsibilities or civic involvement.
Democracy thrives when citizens are active,
informed, and involved.
Benedict Anderson’s "Imagined
Communities"
• Nations are “imagined” because citizens
feel connected despite never meeting.
• Shared language, media, and rituals build
national identity.
• In the Philippines: TV, language, fiestas,
and shared experiences (like disasters)
foster unity.
Power of National Symbols
• Flag – Represents unity and independence
• Anthem – Echoes shared history and
struggle
• National Heroes – Inspire patriotism and
moral values
• Symbols gain power through respect and
meaningful use
How do we keep these symbols alive in
practice?
History as a Tool for Unity
• History shapes a nation’s collective identity by
preserving shared memories of struggle, victory,
and resilience.
• Events like the EDSA People Power Revolution,
Martial Law remembrance, and national holidays
serve as reminders of the values Filipinos uphold—
freedom, justice, and democracy.
History as a Tool for Unity
• Remembering both glorious moments and painful
chapters helps citizens reflect, learn, and grow
together.
• Despite regional, cultural, or political differences,
shared historical narratives foster national
solidarity and belonging.
• A united people draws strength from its past to
build a better future.
“A nation is not built by laws
alone, but by the hearts, hands,
and choices of its citizens—starting
with you.”
Guided Journal Reflection
Write in your journal:
• I am a Filipino citizen when I...
• One civic duty I have done is...
• A responsibility I want to work on is...
• How do I express nationalism in
everyday life?
THANK YOU
