Carmela “Melay” Abao's biography, Difficult: The Life and Times of Etta Rosales, challenges readers to explore not just the facts of Etta Rosales's life but the profound context behind her experiences and choices. The book serves as a reminder that personal and political events gain depth through the circumstances and struggles that define them, urging us to reconsider figures and historical events we thought we understood.
Abao's account highlights Etta's tenacity—a quality that stands out sharply in today's fast-paced world. Her unwavering commitment to forging a more just society for the marginalized demonstrates a steadfast belief that social justice is not merely theoretical; it’s a lived experience. Throughout her life, Etta's vision remained intact amidst the tumult of shifting political landscapes, embracing challenges both personal and political.
The Journey of Etta Rosales
The biography unfolds across six chapters that chronicle Etta's evolution—from her childhood in relative comfort to her pivotal role in the underground movement, her transition into parliamentary politics, and her tenure as Chair of the Human Rights Commission. There's also an intimate look into her family life and her encounters with illness, including battles against cancer, stroke, COVID-19, and the eventual challenges posed by the Duterte presidency.
Born into a military family, Etta's educational journey began at the University of the Philippines (UP) and continued across continents, culminating in a degree in Foreign Service. Exposure to activism came during her master’s studies at UP in the late 1960s, and her political engagement intensified following the declaration of Martial Law in 1972. Captured twice, she faced brutal treatment yet emerged with her spirit unbroken, continuing her commitment to advocacy through various movements.
Political Evolution and Decisions
What is particularly noteworthy about Etta's journey is her ability to adapt her methods while retaining her core values. When her affiliations within the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) began to fracture, Etta chose not to align rigidly with any faction. Instead, she sought to find a blend of revolutionary zeal and pragmatic governance through electoral politics. This decision isn’t merely a shift; it’s a strategic evaluation of how to maximize impact within the political system she once opposed.
This transition raises essential questions about the nature of political engagement: can meaningful change occur from within state institutions, or must it always exist outside them? Etta bravely ventured into mainstream politics, challenging herself and others to rethink the boundaries of engagement in pursuit of social transformation.
The Lessons from Etta Rosales
The compelling essence of Etta’s narrative lies in her unwavering dedication, which persisted despite altering circumstances, affiliations, and strategies. She continuously aligned her actions with the realities she faced, reflecting a broader lesson that political engagement transcends mere loyalty to organizations. It’s about navigating the complexities of social change through innovative approaches.
In a reflective exchange with Abao, Etta contrasted the enduring personality cults of political figures and identified the roots of societal complacency and disillusionment following the EDSA revolt. Her insights speak to the collective challenges facing movements today, interweaving a narrative that isn’t just historical but also anticipatory of future challenges. She expressed a sense of cautious optimism grounded in long-term engagement—a belief that her lifelong labor of political activism might eventually yield hopeful results.
Building Towards a Future
Etta may have moved beyond what she described as “cockeyed optimism,” yet her legacy speaks volumes about persistent hope in the face of adversity. She reflects a resilience forged over decades—54 years of planting seeds of social justice in various political arenas, from underground movements to Congress. Etta's story reinforces the idea that she herself embodies one of those seeds, inspiring countless others in their struggles. Her journey suggests a quieter, yet tenacious form of optimism—one that is attentive to the complexities of societal transformation.
Difficult offers not just a biography; it’s a tribute to a life dedicated to continuous growth, adaptation, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Etta Rosales represents the embodiment of hope that can transcend the weeds of despair, leading communities forward. In every challenge and change, her unwavering vision remains a guiding light for future generations of activists.
