What makes a hero? Putting the interests of others above one’s own. Some die in the process, and are immortalized for their sacrifice: national hero Jose Rizal, peasant revolutionary Andres Bonifacio, Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. Other heroes are less known and even unnamed, like the thousands who fought and died in defense of the nation during World War II.
From fighting invading armies, standing up to tyranny and corruption and defending basic freedoms, the nation has its heroes. There is also another type of heroism. This is shown by those who face challenges big and small every day, dedicating themselves to making life a little better for others.
Teacher Efren Peñaflorida rose from abject poverty and decided to empower those like him to overcome the accident of impoverished birth, in the best way he could: by bringing them basic education on a pushcart. Peñaflorida has been recognized as a hero by CNN and his organization now has a school building with about 60 students in Cavite.
There are other Filipinos like Peñaflorida whose lives are defined by service to others. These heroes can be found not just in careers that call for putting one’s life on the line, such as the military and police, but in all walks of life. Those who brave threats and ostracism by colleagues to blow the whistle on the theft of public funds are heroes. So are those who lead by example in delivering honest and efficient public service. There is heroism in exercising civic responsibility in day-to-day affairs.
Today the nation observes a special day for honoring its heroes. The best tribute that can be paid to them is by emulating their dedication to interests other than their own.