By Alon Calinao Dy: I feel disgusted every time I hear someone bullying a Waray person for not being good in Tagalog language. Bullying is common everywhere, particularly if the student comes from a Visayas or Mindanao region and studies in colleges/universities in Metro Manila.
I'm tired of hearing this sort of abusive tactics to a student who in fact performs well in academics. Say this: You can bully me at once, but I am better than you not only in academics but by heart.
If you’re tired of feeling bad about yourself because you hear their annoying laugh, don't fight back. Engaging in a battle does not mean you are fearless and strong individual in the league, but controlling your temper makes you the fiercest and strongest person over your oppressors.
If they inquire about you and discover that you are a Bisaya or Waray, be bold by saying Waray Ako! Eh ano ngayon? I want you to be proud of yourself, especially to your ancestry. Don't feel ashamed even though you are the poorest of the poor in your class.
In fact, you must be proud because Waray people are still standing despite we have lost thousands of our loved ones from Super Typhoon Yolanda's devastating power last November 8, 2013.
Waray ka ba? Yes, of course! Be proud. Whether you are Ilocano, Tagalog, Bikolano, Pangasinense, Kapampangan, Bisaya, Chinese or Filpino-American, we need to respect one another.
Respect is all what we need despite the fact we come from different groups and blood lines. We are Filipinos who hold a high regard for others, whether our Filipino neighbors are Muslims or Christians.
Bullying or coercion will not suppress our true nature since our ancestors have proven this time and again. We always have bold spirits to rise again and not be intimidated by somebody else.
