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16(1)2026 (IN PRESS)

Becoming a bayani: Exploring Filipino college students’ social constructs of modern-day heroism


Author - Affiliation:
Eric Delos Santos Ebro - President Ramon Magsaysay State University San Marcelino, Zambales
Corresponding author: Eric Delos Santos Ebro - ebroeric7@gmail.com
Submitted: 10-10-2024
Accepted: 31-12-2024
Published: 15-01-2025

Abstract
The objective of this qualitative study was to investigate perspectives on modern-day heroism using narrative inquiry as a research design. The study focused on sophomore college students enrolled in GEC courses, who were selected using purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Data was collected through open-ended surveys and Focus Group Discussions (FGD). The study’s thematic analysis identified the qualities of a modern-day hero as being inclined towards goodness, sacrificial, helpful, compassionate, and influential in empowering others. Notable models of modern-day heroes encompass parents, friends, teachers, overseas Filipino workers, and the frontline. The study’s insights could potentially inform the development of educational materials for civics, values education, and ethics.

Keywords
education; ethical values; modern-day hero; narrative inquiry; Philippines; social constructionism

Full Text:
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References

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.46223/HCMCOUJS.soci.en.16.1.3791.2026
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© The Author(s) 2026. This is an open access publication under CC BY NC licence.