by Victor Gregor Limon
Reclaiming one’s Philippine citizenship opens a realm of opportunities for democratic participation and engagement.
As dual citizens, Filipino Americans are not only granted the right to vote but also other privileges and duties, such as the ability to own properties and contribute through taxes.
These rights and responsibilities, though profound, are undertaken with a willing heart, reflecting our commitment to our nation’s economic, social, political, and cultural development.
Who is Eligible for Philippine Dual Citizenship?
Filipino citizens, including those holding dual citizenship, are entitled to participate in the upcoming Philippine elections in May 2025.
The deadline for voter registration is on September 30, 2024. This eligibility empowers Filipinos globally to have a voice in their homeland’s governance and future.
Dual citizens can register and vote, influencing decisions that shape the country’s direction.
Recent statistics reveal that while a significant number of overseas Filipinos are eligible to vote, actual participation rates have been relatively low.
For instance, in the 2022 Philippine elections, out of 1.8 million registered overseas voters, only about 27% cast their ballots.
This highlights the need for increased awareness and encouragement for overseas Filipinos to exercise their voting rights.
Engaging in the electoral process is a vital aspect of contributing to the nation’s democratic framework.
Most importantly, however, Philippine citizenship transcends legal identity or a bundle of rights and responsibilities.
Rooted in a shared desire to nurture our country’s economy, politics, and society, citizenship is both a vessel and the sum of all the decisions we make and the actions we collectively take as a people.
It is through active participation in elections, investment in our national economy, and the steadfast upholding of democracy and good governance that we truly embody our citizenship.
The Stakes of Citizenship: Why Does it Matter?
At the heart of our identity as Filipino citizens lies the legacy and sacrifice of our revolutionary heroes. These forebears gifted us the option of being citizens of an independent nation.
Today, our country’s territorial integrity, exemplified by issues like the West Philippine Sea and the implications of constitutional amendments (Cha-Cha), remains a critical concern.
Recent incidents of Chinese aggression against the Filipino navy and fishermen in the West Philippine Sea highlight the ongoing threats to our sovereignty.
These actions, which include harassment and territorial encroachments, underscore the importance of a united Filipino front in defending our maritime rights.
Our response to such provocations is a testament to our commitment to protecting our national territory.
The presence of US bases, the exploitation of labor and resources by foreign corporations, and our collective aspiration for a dignified and prosperous life for all Filipinos are pivotal elements in our national discourse.
Current efforts to amend the constitution to allow foreign ownership of Philippine resources have sparked significant debate.
Proponents argue that it will attract foreign investment and boost the economy, while critics warn it could lead to the exploitation of our natural wealth and undermine national sovereignty.
These issues illustrate the high stakes involved in being an engaged and informed citizen.
Citizenship is more than a status; it is a commitment to uphold our nation’s dignity and a promise to strive for a better future.
This involves safeguarding our basic universal rights and fulfilling our shared dreams for a just and prosperous nation.
More Than Just Legal Identity: Active Citizenship
Embracing Philippine citizenship means more than just a legal affirmation. It encompasses a range of activities that can be pursued simultaneously with or even without citizenship status.
These include educational and informational campaigns, cultural fairs and exchanges, business partnerships, advocacy work, and charitable endeavors.
Community organizing and educational programs also play a vital role.
Filipinos abroad, particularly in Hawaii, are already engaging in these actions, reflecting their deep care for their country and people.
Organizations such as the UP Alumni Association of Hawaii, Hawaii Philippines Business & Economic Council, Hawaii Filipinos for Truth, Justice & Democracy, and Anakbayan Hawaii are prime examples.
These organizations provide safe spaces for asking questions, sharing thoughts, and discovering ways to contribute positively today and in the future.
These groups are pivotal in fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among Filipino expatriates.
They offer platforms for discussion and collaboration, enabling Filipinos to support one another and contribute to the welfare of their homeland, even from afar.
Their activities range from cultural events and business forums to advocacy campaigns and community service projects.
Reclaiming Philippine citizenship is an act of reclaiming our heritage, our rights, and our responsibilities. It is a reaffirmation of our commitment to contribute to the nation’s growth and to stand united in facing its challenges.
Whether through voting, participating in community activities, or advocating for our rights, each action reflects our collective investment in our country’s development.
Even as we consider the upcoming Philippine elections, it is also essential to recognize the significance of the upcoming US elections in November 2024 for Filipino Americans.
These elections will impact policies on immigration, healthcare, education, and foreign relations, all of which directly affect Filipinos here and back home.
Participation in both the Philippine and US elections is a powerful demonstration of dual citizens’ engagement and influence in shaping policies that affect their lives on both sides of the Pacific.
As we look toward the upcoming elections and beyond, let us remember the sacrifices of our past generations and the gift of nationhood and democracy they have gifted us.
Let us continue to engage, participate, and contribute, knowing that our efforts today shape the future of our people and our place in the world.
By embracing our roles as dual citizens, we honor our past and pave the way for a brighter future.
Our participation is crucial in safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty, ensuring the prosperity of our people, and upholding the values that define us as Filipinos.
Let us remain vigilant, informed, and proactive, standing together in our shared commitment to a better Philippines.
HFTJD is conducting a voter education program and outreach until the voter registration deadline on September 30.
To learn more or to volunteer, please email hawaiifilipinos@gmail.com.
VICTOR GREGOR LIMON is the Secretary General of Hawaii Filipinos for Truth, Justice, and Democracy (HFTJD).
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