Critical Reading Journal: "Betrayal, Class Fantasies, and the Filipino Nation in Daly City"

     In the reading of "Betrayal, Class Fantasies, and the Filipino Nation in Daly City" by Benito M.

Vergara, a concept that is discussed is that 'heroism' in the Philippines is considered to be

when one stays in the Philippines, contributes to the country, and does not leave the country due

to personal interests. I thought this was a very different and interesting definition of what is

considered to be heroic. Personally, I have found the general reason for most immigrants moving

to another country is in search for better opportunities to obtain in order to give their families a

good life. I believe that it is heroic to be able to leave a place you are comfortable and familiar

with in order to help your family have a happy future.

     I think that the idea of class position deciding how much 'Filipinoness' one has does not

entirely decide someone's ethnic authenticity. I believe that the upholding of traditions and

traditional cuisine should also be considered when deciding one's ethnic authenticity.

Furthermore, I think that the requirements for 'Filipinoness' in the United States and the

Philippines should be considered separately. Cultures and upbringing are different within these

two countries. For example, the Filipino culture in America may be reconfigured to also include

some American traditions and holidays like Halloween and Fourth of July. Filipinos in the

United States and Filipinos in the Philippines should connect together in solidarity to combat the

problems all Filipinos face instead of criticizing each other.