Magbantay
lamang kay bas mahitukyod!
Resistance exists everywhere, especially when individuals are placed in
uncomfortable situations brought about by natural phenomena, imposed by
leaders, or enforced by institutions.
At its core, resistance is a human response to power and control.
Foucault (1978) argues that where there is power, there is also resistance,
suggesting that opposition is a natural counterbalance within any social
system. Similarly, Scott (1985) explains that even ordinary individuals find
ways to resist authority, whether through open protest or subtle acts of
defiance. Institutions, such as schools or governments, often establish rules
that may not always align with the values or comfort of the people, which in
turn can spark resistance (Giroux, 2011).
Leaders of institutions or even small organizations must recognize this
phenomenon, not to simply yield to the whims and demands of their members, but
to genuinely consider the well-being of the people they serve. Neglecting this
responsibility may drive individuals to express their discontent in various
forms of resistance, ultimately placing leaders at risk of being displaced.
Recent national events reveal visible forms of resistance, such as
rallies, protests, and walkouts from schools and government offices. These
actions stem from widespread frustration over blatant corruption, systemic
oppression, and the deep social inequalities perpetuated by politicians,
political dynasties, and even contractors and engineers who allegedly misuse
public funds for personal comfort.
Such collective actions reflect how citizens challenge systems of power
that appear to favor the elite while disregarding the needs of ordinary people.
Tarrow (2011) notes that collective action often arises when inequalities
become too visible to ignore, while Scott (1990) emphasizes that resistance can
be both overt, like protests, and covert, through everyday acts of defiance. In
the Philippine context, Abinales and Amoroso (2017) highlight how corruption
and patronage politics have long fueled public dissent, showing that resistance
is deeply rooted in the struggle for fairness and accountability.
The lesson for any individual, especially those in management and
leadership roles, is to embrace a leadership style rooted in genuine care
rather than being driven by selfish intentions born of unchecked desires or
psychological deficits. Leaders must cultivate self-awareness and ensure that
equality and fairness are consistently upheld within their organizations,
creating environments where people feel valued and respected.
Otherwise, resistance will become increasingly difficult to address and
may manifest in ways that undermine organizational stability and harmony.
Ultimately, resistance is not merely an obstacle but a signal, a
reminder for leaders to ground their actions in care, fairness, and
self-awareness. When leadership fails to honor the dignity and well-being of
people, resistance becomes inevitable; but when it succeeds, it transforms
potential conflict into collective strength.
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