It begins, as many things in this country do, with a promising proposal on PowerPoint. Transfer the roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) operations from Dumangas to Fort San Pedro in Iloilo City, the Philippine Ports Authority suggests, as if logistics is only a matter of maps and mileage. On paper, the plan gleams. Consolidate
April 12, 2025
The unfolding political drama in Iloilo City has taken on an amusing yet concerning resemblance to a familiar cartoon—Tom & Jerry. Initially positioned as a political ceasefire by convenience, the campaign has quickly evolved into a not-so-subtle spectacle between Mayor Jerry Treñas and former Mayor Jed Mabilog. Ironically, neither of these
April 11, 2025
Latin honors, which used to be a mark of achievement for only a few, now seem to be all around at graduation. Cum laude, magna cum laude, and even summa cum laude have become common sights onstage. This phenomenon is not isolated. Latin honors seem almost commonplace across public and private
April 10, 2025
In our culture, humor often breaks the tension, creates bonds, and smooths conflicts. Yet there is a boundary between witty banter and blatant disrespect—especially when people, rather than ideas, become the punchline in a campaign sortie. Pasig City congressional candidate Ian Sia’s viral joke about single mothers is a clear example
April 9, 2025
If films were dishes, Candè would be a heartwarming bowl of La Paz Batchoy—comforting, rich, and unmistakably Ilonggo. Invited by my good friend and former colleague Judith Angela Grey, I found myself at Festive Mall in Mandurriao, eagerly waiting for the 10:30 a.m. showing. Cinema halls 1 through 3 were sold
April 8, 2025
In our noisy, fast-paced world, we all follow unwritten rules, consciously or unconsciously. Non-taught social norms help us interact smoothly and respectfully. They maintain order and peace in our daily lives, especially in public spaces. A simple example: no talking during a movie. It may seem obvious, but how often have
April 7, 2025
If parenting came with a manual, I would have fumbled through it, folded its pages, and spilled coffee on its instructions. If fatherhood had a grading system, I would have submitted incomplete assignments, filed multiple late submissions, and barely passed some subjects. But if there is one thing I have learned
April 5, 2025
Over time, smart-shaming has infiltrated our educational system, transforming classrooms that ought to foster intellectual curiosity into places that stifle it. Making fun of students’ intelligence or sarcastically calling them “too smart” has become a common form of bullying in classrooms, hallways, and even faculty lounges. It’s not merely a fad
April 4, 2025
Philippine elections are a spectacle of catchy jingles, celebrity endorsements, and grand campaign rallies. But beyond the confetti and slogans lies a complex voter behavior that shapes the country’s future. If democracy is to work, voters must think critically, weigh their choices beyond popularity, and see elections as a long-term investment
April 2, 2025
Imagine a day when no one’s talking about Rodrigo Duterte. No Sara Duterte headlines. No drama, no soundbites. No big personalities hogging the political limelight. The cameras turn off; the noise dies down. What is left in the silence should have been front and center—how this country is quietly bleeding from
March 31, 2025
Few sights are as fascinating and baffling as watching people defend their political idols with the zeal of a devout follower. Whether on social media, at rallies, or even during tense family gatherings, these loyalists or ‘tards’ present a curious case of almost religious fervor. To them, their leader is not
March 29, 2025
Yano’s “Trapo” is not just a song, it is a scathing indictment of Philippine politics, and as the 2025 midterm elections draw near, its message stings even more. The title alone is a double punch—”trapo” as in traditional politicians and “trapo” as in a dirty, worn-out rag. The song remains disturbingly
March 28, 2025