BAHALA NA

The ‘bahala na’ concept has so much to do with Filipino attitudes, ethics, and performances. It has a big influence in our way of life and thinking. In this regard, many commentaries, both positive and negative, have been written about it. At present, many Filipinos view the ‘bahala na’ concept negatively. Many of us are just aware of its academic and historical definition—i.e. ‘bahala na’ as somewhat similar to fatalism, resignation, avoidance of responsibilities, and reliance on fate. Thus, most of the times, we blame ‘bahala na’ for Filipino’s lack of initiative, creativity to move, and the drive to progress. Most of the times, we make it an alibi for our inefficiency—as one of the major causes of poverty.

However, is ‘bahala na’ the cause of our dilemma? Or does the real problem only reside on our misconception of the term ‘bahala na?’ Landa Jocano, author of the book ‘Management by Culture,’ firmly believes the ‘bahala na’ is not the one responsible for our inefficiency. It is the actors, according to him, that should be blamed. In this regard, he posits the traditional definition of ‘bahala na’—i.e. a moral-spiritual strength to dare, to take risks, to initiate a move, to take up challenge, to assume responsibility, and to be ready to accept the consequences of an act. Thus, viewed positively, ‘bahala na’ can serve as a ‘spark plug’ that can boost us to dare, to risk, and to have courage. And as it uplifts our willingness and readiness to accept and to respond to any situation, ‘bahala na’ also turns our disadvantages into opportunities. Therefore, if we can only appreciate this deeper meaning of ‘bahala na,’ it is only there that we can use it to sustain us in times of crises and adversities in life.

‘Bahala na’ is a personality trait share by the members of Filipino family—a part of Filipino’s basic personality structure. As with other cultural traits, we basically acquired the ‘bahala na’ trait from our family. Our way of living and thinking may also depend on the perception shared by our family members. Thus, it is advisable to look at it positively. It is a good source of courage that should not be exploited just to make alibis.