In a nation of around 110 million people, it is incumbent upon every Filipino to foster a deep affection and devotion towards our country.

Often regarded as a noble and virtuous sentiment, patriotism encompasses a sense of pride, loyalty and dedication for the well-being and development of the nation.

In our midst, however, some individuals and groups possess a disingenuous affection for the country.

They can be anywhere — in government, schools, medical institutions, markets, malls, private offices, factories, public transport, even on the public buses and jeepneys we take daily.

They are indistinguishable from us, regardless of skin color, tone, or language differences. They blend in seamlessly because we all share one race. What sets them apart is their cunning disposition to advance personal or self-serving interests.

In the context of wily political propaganda, some political leaders and groups often manipulate the emotions and sentiments of the masses to further their personal or political agendas. They exploit people's patriotic sentiments by distorting truths, disseminating false information, and fostering a divisive mindset of "us versus them."

Rooted in personal gain rather than a sincere commitment to the nation's welfare, this fake patriotism fragments communities and breeds intolerance.

While love for one's country should be a unifying force, it often degenerates into a divisive ideology that fosters animosity and promotes hatred and discrimination.

We directly or indirectly cross paths with entities that use nationalism to marginalize certain communities based on religion, ethnicity, and other factors. For instance, members of tribal communities face exclusion from social and economic opportunities, limited access to education and healthcare, and even violence due to the prejudices and biases held by the majority.

In the guise of pro-environment advocacies, fake love for the country is manifested in the exploitation of  national resources for personal gain, e.g., those in positions of power who prioritize their accumulation of wealth over the country's well-being.

Leaders engage in corrupt practices, embezzling funds meant for the public welfare; and manipulating policies to benefit themselves and their cronies are a dime a dozen. Consequently, this fakery perpetuates social inequalities, widespread discontent, and loss of faith in the leadership.

Superficial patriotism is evident in disregarding critical social issues that require urgent attention and resolutions. Genuine patriotism — which entails addressing societal challenges such as poverty, the food crisis, inequality, illiteracy, unemployment, inaccessibility to healthcare, and environmental unsustainability — is better said than done.

When leaders turn a blind eye to these issues and prioritize personal interests, what options do the citizens have for support and solutions?

(To be continued)