Bahala na si Bathala: Isang Pagsusuri ng mga Nabuong Diskurso at Pagpapakahulugan sa Konseptong “Bahala na”

Bobby Lopez

doi:10.63931/ijchr.v7i1.82

Authors

Bobby Lopez Bulacan State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63931/ijchr.v7i1.82

Keywords:

bahala na, personality, identity, values fatalism, Filipino

Abstract

This paper explores the various interpretations and discourses surrounding the concept of bahala na as understood by foreigners, Filipino scholars with Western-oriented perspectives, nationalist scholars, from the late 20th century to the early 21st century drawing from the fields of social sciences and philosophy and from the youth of this generation. Virgilio Enriquez’s Theory of Filipino Personality served as the theoretical framework for this study, offering an alternative explanation of bahala na grounded in Filipino consciousness, experiences, and orientation. A descriptive research design was employed, and data were gathered through a review of relevant literature—including scholarly publications, philosophical essays, and books—as well as the conduct of a focus group discussion (FGD). For data analysis, the researcher applied deductive thematic analysis to the FGD results. The findings revealed that while fatalism remains the dominant interpretation of the concept of bahala na, even among today’s youth, its use remains contextual and cannot be confined to a singular definition. Although the current generation has developed its own understanding of bahala na, the study recommends further examination of whether this concept is still recognized as part of their value system, whether it can still be classified under Enriquez’s confrontative surface values, and whether it operates as a universal value across the Philippine archipelago.

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