Filipiniana News - June 2016 RHYME & REASON Nationalism without Borders For the Filipino diaspora, celebrating Philippine independence day on June 12th of every year has become a familiar event held not only in Philippine diplomatic offices, but even in some city halls and other public places in various parts of the world. With approximately ten million overseas Filipino workers scattered around the globe, ceremonies such as these allow Filipinos to rekindle nationalistic sentiments, while living or toiling many miles away from home. After lengthy absences from one’s motherland, it is not unlikely that even the most hardened of hearts would feel a sense of nostalgia at the sight of one’s national flag or upon hearing a rendition of the national anthem. Therefore, these activities serve an important purpose, especially for homesick Filipino migrants in far-flung destinations. A former diplomat...