Period of Activism and Period of New Society

Summary

The transcript discusses the rise of youth activism in the Philippines from 1970 to 1972, highlighting the influence of societal ills and calls for reform. It outlines key movements and significant figures in literature who contributed to the activist narrative. The latter part covers the period of the New Society from 1972 to 1980, detailing government censorship, the revival of cultural productions, and shifts in Filipino literature and media. Notable events include the Palanca Awards and the Filipino Film Festival, emphasizing themes of nationalism, morality, and societal progress during a turbulent historical context.

Takeaways

• 📅 Activism among Filipino youth surged between 1970 and 1972 due to domestic and global issues.
• ⚖️ There were differing opinions on the state of democracy, with some believing reforms could be made without drastic changes, while others advocated for socialism or communism.
• 📚 Many young activists sought to express their desire for governmental change through literature and writings, emphasizing nationalism.
• 🚨 Numerous young activists faced imprisonment during this time, reflecting the repressive political environment.
• 📖 Key writers of the period, like Riolendutinio and Efrain Abueg, produced works that highlighted societal issues and sought reform.
• 🎭 The 'New Society' period from 1972 to 1980 emphasized progress and development in literature, focusing on themes like family planning, nutrition, and environmental issues.
• 📜 The Palanca Awards continued to promote literature during the New Society, recognizing writers across various categories.
• 🎶 Music and performing arts thrived, with folk and rock genres reflecting the emotional spirit of the time, including works by artists like Freddie Aguilar.
• 📺 Radio and television gained popularity, with radio dramas and new songs capturing the public's attention despite a shift towards television for higher pay.
• 🎬 The yearly Filipino Film Festival showcased local films, promoting cultural narratives while pushing back against sensationalist content.

Q & A

What triggered the period of youth activism in the Philippines from 1970 to 1972?

Youth activism during this period was driven by both domestic and international issues, prompting Filipino youth to seek reforms due to the societal ills they perceived.

What were some differing beliefs among the youth regarding the government?

Some young activists believed the democratic government was stable but needed reform, while others advocated for socialism or communism as alternatives to democracy.

How did literature play a role in youth activism during this time?

Literature served as a powerful tool for expression, with many young activists writing passionately about nationalism and societal issues, thereby emphasizing their calls for change.

Who were some notable writers from the youth activism period, and what themes did they explore?

Notable writers included Riolendutinio, Alma, and Clemente Bautista, who explored themes of poverty, nationalism, and the ills of society in their works.

What was the impact of martial law on literature and media during the New Society period (1972-1980)?

Martial law led to government control over media and literature, with censorship imposed on publications, focusing on promoting national development while limiting dissenting voices.

What themes characterized the literature produced during the New Society era?

The literature of the New Society often dealt with themes of national development, such as family planning, environmental awareness, and respect for culture and customs.

How did the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards contribute to Filipino literature?

The Carlos Palanca Awards recognized outstanding contributions to Filipino literature, encouraging writers by offering cash prizes in various categories like short stories and poetry.

What role did traditional arts and plays play during the New Society period?

The government revived traditional plays and cultural expressions, promoting Filipino heritage and arts through performances and festivals, thus fostering a sense of national identity.

How did the Filipino film industry change during the New Society period?

The Filipino film industry saw the emergence of new films that avoided explicit content while still being popular, along with the establishment of a yearly film festival that showcased local talent.

What was the significance of the shift in media focus during the New Society period?

The shift in media focus prioritized positive stories on economic progress and cultural achievements, moving away from sensationalist reporting, thereby shaping public perception during martial law.