The Fine Line Between Support and Obsession, A Look at Filipino Fanaticism

Many people in the world are fanatics, those who are overly devoted to their beliefs. These are the people who let their emotions take over, especially when it comes to supporting their idols.

Fanaticism exists in various areas, including sports, politics, religion, and pop culture.

I'm not sure if I'm right or wrong in my observation, but it seems like the Philippines has taken all these areas of fanaticism to the extreme.

In sports, we are fanatical about our athletes. Many Filipinos argue and even fight with each other over basketball teams, boxing idols, and more.

In religion, many are fanatics about religious statues, like the one in Quiapo, to the point that they don’t mind getting crushed in a crowd just to touch it.

In pop culture, many Filipinos are fanatics of K-pop and American culture, with some even imitating the fashion and style of their idols.

In politics, there are countless fanatics who will defend their candidates to the point of fighting with their own family and friends, even if it puts them in danger.

I just saw in Inquirer News that some Filipinos were imprisoned in Qatar for participating in an unauthorized political demonstration in support of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is currently under the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

This probably isn't fake news, right? If you want to read the article, I've included the link as well (click here).

First of all, I am neither pro-Duterte nor pro-Marcos, just so you know, I dislike both politicians equally.

This post is about how many Filipinos become so fanatical that they don’t realize they are putting themselves in danger due to their intense emotions.

Many Filipinos fight so hard for what they believe is right, even if it means making enemies, harming others or breaking the law.

I also saw this on YouTube, where Duterte supporters—possibly in the Netherlands—secured a permit for 500 people, supposedly for a picnic. However, their real intention was to hold a political rally.

That’s misleading, right? If you don’t see anything wrong with that, then maybe it’s worth reflecting on why.

There is nothing wrong with supporting people you admire, but when your support reaches the point where you put yourself at risk, that’s fanaticism, and that is no longer good for you.

I also understand that you want to support Duterte, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But if he truly did nothing wrong, don’t worry—the truth will set him free.

What’s wrong is trying to prevent the truth from being known by those seeking justice and accusing him.

If you are the type of Filipino who tends to be a fanatic about things, think twice. What you’re doing might seem helpful or noble, but in reality, you could be causing harm to others and putting yourself in danger.

Before I end this post, I’ll leave you with a Bible verse:

Proverbs 19:2 – "Desire without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way."

Acting impulsively out of passion, without understanding, can lead to trouble.

Photo Credits: Bing Image Creator