Why do fake news, vote-buying, and corruption thrive? Why do “utang na loob” and blind loyalty often trump competence? The truth is, progress isn’t just about better infrastructure or jobs—it starts with better thinking.
If we want real change, we need to sharpen these critical thinking skills as a people. Here’s what we need to start practicing today:
1. Question Everything—Including Authority
In a culture where “basta sinabi ng nakakatanda” or “sabi ni mayor” often wins, we need to normalize asking “Why?” Blind obedience breeds corruption and abuse.
✔ Learn how power works in society through books like The Dictator’s Handbook.
2. Verify Before You Share
Fake news spreads because we value speed over truth. Before hitting “share,” ask: Who said this? What’s the source? A nation that can’t filter truth is easy to manipulate.
✔ Build a habit of fact-checking. Tools like digital literacy guides can help sharpen your online skepticism.
3. Separate Emotion from Evidence
“Eh kasi galit ako” isn’t an argument. Progress requires making decisions based on data and logic, not pure emotion. Passion is great—but it should be paired with facts.
✔ Practice rational decision-making using a critical thinking workbook.
4. Spot Logical Fallacies
“Kung mahal mo ang bayan, iboto mo siya.” Sounds patriotic—but it’s a logical trap. Understanding fallacies helps you avoid being swayed by emotional or irrelevant appeals.
✔ Explore resources like Think Like a Philosopher to sharpen reasoning.
5. Long-Term Thinking Over Instant Gratification
Vote-buying works because people trade six years of governance for a few hundred pesos today. Critical thinkers zoom out and ask: What does this mean five years from now?
✔ Use a goal-oriented journal to train yourself to think long-term in your own life.
6. Embrace Constructive Debate (Not Personal Attacks)
Many Filipinos avoid healthy debate because we fear conflict—or worse, we turn debates into shouting matches. Real progress requires listening, questioning, and staying open-minded.
✔ Improve discussion skills with books like Crucial Conversations.
7. Resist Herd Mentality
“Lahat sila doon, so doon na rin ako.” We follow trends, political dynasties, and social bandwagons without thinking. Critical thinking means evaluating why everyone’s doing it—and if it makes sense for you.
✔ Start by tracking your choices in a personal reflection journal.
Final Thought
A progressive nation isn’t built by laws alone—it’s built by people who think critically, question bravely, and choose wisely. We can’t fix corruption overnight, but we can start by fixing the way we think.
💬 Which of these 7 skills do you think Filipinos struggle with the most? Drop your thoughts in the comments!