by Reah M. Bunsoy

I t was a tough time for Filipinos even after the Marcos dictatorship had fallen. Though things were not given emphasis by the media, the movie 'Orapronobis' gave the viewers a glimpse of how was it like after the People Power. No wonder why the movie ratings board at that time prohibited its showing, the film brought out the 'real' happenings in the past.

M any people thought that it was freedom after Martial Law. Media did not present to the public the harm and violations against the citizens. It was clear that people did not experience the freedom they were fighting for. Murder and injustice were still rampant. Fear still haunted the people.

G ood thing there were citizens who were ready to fight for the lives of their fellowmen. These citizens proved to be worthy as they fearlessly fought for freedom and justice. Philip Salvador's character in the movie sought for social transformation. He ignored whatever hardships he had experienced in the past. He did not stop fighting for life,even if it means risking his and his family's life.

I couldn't help but be saddened by the fact the people in the past went through a lot. I came to realize that we should be grateful atleast for the freedom we have. Thank God for we do not need live in fear. Sure, there are things to be afraid of in our society but compared to whatever the people in the past had gone through, they are nothing.

I am also touched by Dina Bonnevie's character, A simple wife who wanted a simple life. It was just but normal for a wife to worry about and be jealous of his husband. She showed how wives ought to be. Nevertheless, her being a wife did not rule her being a 'fighter' for justice. She saw to it that she served her people even if with fear. That struck me most. I need not be afraid to serve and fight for the many issues that I am experiencing now. Shame and discomfort should now be taken aside. I do not need to fear of what others might say as long as I am doing things for a good cause.

I have always been apathetic when it comes to issues of our society. The film opened my eyes to the call that I, as a Filipino citizen, need to take part in the social transformation. There is a need that I have to answer. There is a society that I need to help. Noble as it may seem, taking part in the social transformation does not need to be very big. Doing things in my our own little ways could somehow be a big help in our desire for a change.

T he role of Filipino citizens as social 'transformers' rather seems to be difficult, but if we really want change, then I guess there is no problem. The dream for a changed society is not impossible to achieve, if only there our citizens who will willingly offer their lives to the 'cause'.