The Question of Mt. Rushmore for the Philippines

When the iconic Mount Rushmore in the United States was carved, the country had already celebrated its independence for over a century and a half. Each presidency came every four years, providing a wealth of historical figures for the monument. Despite this abundance, choosing the right faces for Mount Rushmore was a contentious issue. Fast-forward to the Philippines, a relatively young nation that has been independent for less than half the time but with one man, Ferdinand Marcos, holding the presidency for more than a quarter of the country's existence.

A Growing Need for Reflection

The Philippines, having achieved independence less than a century ago, is still grappling with the numerous leaders who have shaped its history. Unlike the United States, where the selection of faces for Mount Rushmore was a heated debate, the Philippines has already been forced to reckon with the controversial figure of Ferdinand Marcos. His monumental monument to himself, lasting only until it was torn down by those who were once oppressed by his rule, serves as a stark reminder of the need for a more equitable and transparent selection process.

Contemplating a Transient Solution

Given the nation's relatively young age and the frequent changes in leadership, it might be wise to consider a more transient solution for immortalizing leaders. Rather than chiseling permanent faces into mountains, one could think about choosing faces that would grace postage stamps. This approach offers a more flexible and inclusive method, allowing future generations to reassess and potentially honor leaders who are currently overlooked.

Notable Figures

When considering which Filipino leaders should appear on postage stamps, it is essential to include figures that have made significant contributions to the nation's history and development. Here are a few notable names:

Rizal

Felipe del Pilar Rizal was a prominent national hero and intellectual whose writings and actions played a pivotal role in the country's struggle for independence. His visionary ideas and relentless advocacy for reform earned him a place as one of the nation's Founding Fathers.

Quezon

Magsaysay

Elpidio Quirino Magsaysay was a military general who became a pivotal figure in post-war Philippines. Known for his humanitarian efforts and support for the rural poor, Magsaysay's presidency marked a significant period of peace and economic development.

Ninoy and Cory Aquino

Ferdinand “Ninoy” Marcos and his wife Corazon “Cory” Aquino are significant figures in Philippine history, but their story is complex and controversial. Their struggle against dictatorships and eventual rise to power in a nonviolent revolution set a historical precedent that continues to influence contemporary politics.

The Ongoing Debate

Given the ongoing debate surrounding Emilio Aguinaldo and Andres Bonifacio, it is prudent to delay including them in a shortlist for the moment. The debate reflects a deeper discussion about the values and principles that should guide the nation's commemorative practices. Until a consensus is reached, it is crucial to avoid perpetuating myths or erasing the legacies of other significant figures.

In conclusion, the idea of having a Mt. Rushmore-like monument in the Philippines is premature. Instead, a more transient solution like postage stamps can serve as a dynamic and reflective platform for honoring the leaders of this vibrant nation.