Freedom

One of the best things that ever happened to our history is the declaration of independence in the Philippines. We even do organize formal celebrations every year, not just because after years of colonization, we finally get the right to be free but also to bring honor and love for our national heroes and to those who spent their lives seeking to end the abuses and injustices.

In today's generation, it seems like we are somehow misusing this freedom that we have without knowing and noticing it. It becomes so usual and normal that we actually forget that there are still limitations anchored to it. Freedom may define from different aspects and may varies from one to another. But the question is, do we really know what freedom is? Are we totally free? How can you say that you are free when in fact there are limitations and restrictions? Simply because, freedom is not absolute. Freedom also includes responsibility, decision-making, and choice but free will.

The consent view: When people's choices are limited by their own free action, the limitations cannot count as a restriction of their liberty. ―restrictions are not unjust IF they were freely undertaken. However:

Constant: what we mean when we say that people are free is that they have rights against imprisonment and arrest― along with the rights to free expression, free movement, and freedom of association and along with a right to influence and make demands on public institutions. (Tuckness & Wolf, 2017)

Freedom has restrictions and limitations because we are human. It is in our very nature to be vulnerable and imperfect. However, we must not use these as an excuse to do things that are inhumane. We must also respect and consider the right of other people. After all, we are all human, we should at least try to understand and help each other.

In the light of self-declared sovereignty, let's take a glance from the past and take a look from the present. Use this freedom to influence and inspire other people. Use this freedom to do what is socially and morally right. Let's celebrate this freedom each day just like the first time.