Macbeth is a classic play that tells the story of a Scottish lord who becomes consumed by his own ambition and ultimately succumbs to his own downfall. Despite being written over 400 years ago by William Shakespeare, the themes and messages of the play remain relevant and timeless. However, when comparing Macbeth to the current events in the Philippines, there are stark differences that highlight the unique challenges faced by modern societies.

One of the most obvious differences between Macbeth and the Philippines is the political landscape. In the play, Macbeth's rise to power is marked by a series of violent and bloody acts, including the assassination of the King of Scotland. While political violence and turmoil have been a part of the Philippine history, the contemporary political climate in the Philippines is much more complex and nuanced. Widespread corruption, drug wars, and extrajudicial killings have dominated the headlines in recent years, leading to widespread national and international concern. Unlike the play, the political upheaval in the Philippines is ongoing and multifaceted, with a broader array of political actors and forces at play.

Another significant difference between Macbeth and the Philippines is the role of women in society. In the play, the female characters are largely relegated to the sidelines, playing a supporting role to the male lead. However, in the Philippines, women have been playing an increasingly prominent role in politics, media, and civil society. From President Corazon Aquino, the first female president in the Philippines and in Asia, to news personalities like Maria Ressa who have been at the forefront of the fight against disinformation, women have been actively shaping the country's political future.

Finally, the current situation in the Philippines reflects the impact of modern technology and social media on contemporary societies. As the play highlights the power of supernatural, prophecy, and expectations, the modern world is shaped by the internet, smartphones, and social media platforms. These technologies have transformed the ways in which people consume information, communicate, and engage with politics. In the Philippines, social media has played a particularly notable role in political campaigns and has been used to both facilitate democratic participation and undermine it through the spread of fake news and the threat of disinformation campaigns.

In conclusion, while Macbeth remains a timeless literary classic, the play's themes have evolved and developed alongside modern society. The differences between Macbeth and the current events in the Philippines illustrate the unique challenges and complexities facing contemporary societies, and highlight the need for vigilant, active, and informed citizenry. As we move forward, it's crucial to recognize the power of undercurrents of nationalism, social media, and changing norms of leadership that have the potential to shape future democratic pathways.