Like the obiquitous jeepneys, they originated from the U.S. military jeeps which the Filipinos converted into passenger jeeps which later evolved into universally admired coloful jeepneys; the camesa dentro which evolved into the barong tagalog, and the Hollywood cowboy movies which FPJ and others made the Filipino masa believe that somewhere and sometime in the Philippines these cowboys existed. These and more made the Philippines different, memorable and enjoyable.

      But somehow, globalization seems to be taking away the individuality of Filipinos and the Philippines. Pinoys seem to accept foreign influences totally without any modification nor improvement. New styles of clothes and hair; food offered, like hamburgers, sashimi. etc., music played and even TV soap operas are presented and consumed exactly in their roiginal form.

     Even some more prosperous cities seem to lose their individuality. Visit them and the center of business activity is likely SM (ShoeMart) which offers the same outlets for food like McDonalds, Jolibee, Chow King; storesz like National Bookstore, Globe and Smart shops, etc.; and the SM-owned outlets offering the same clothes, groceries, etc. I just came from Baguio and my business meeting was held in the Baguio SM branch and somehow I felt that I was still in Makati. Usually, comeercial areas which offer something different than those offered by stores in SM close down shortly after SM opens. Most local business owners close shop and open up in SM as a franchisee of an international and Manila-based franchise.

     Even college students, except for their uniforms, seem to flock to SM, Jolibee or McDonald, Starbucks or other coffee shops which are less expensive but offer the same American coffee choices. They also chatter similarly like topics on the recent MTV  specials, their favorite program "American Idol" and their favorite Internet hook-ups and computer games.

     Even if foreigners arriving in the Philippines for a change of sceenery, arrives in a hotel or a resort, only to receive similar service, same choices of international food and even same news and music from cable TV.

     For a country who has been proud to be unique despite foreign invasions, this lose of individuality should be a great concern.

     But what's the big deal? You may ask. "Isn't globalization the present's and the future's accepted trend?" you may add. I guess you're right except that I feel that you are losing a simple thing called "individuality" which is very important for a nation.

     First, you must remember foreigners travel to other countries to enjoy a unique experience which they will carry in their hearts for a lifetime. Without its individuality and uniqueness, the Philippines and Filipinos may no longer be that attractive and memorable place to go to.

     Second, we were created by God to be different from each other - to think, behave and even approach Him differently. In HIS own mysterious and provident way, HE placed the Philippines and its people in this unique part of the earth for a reason - let HIS will be done. Moreover, individuality is a precious heritage from your forefathers. Don't lose this priceless legacy in accepting globalization.