Category: Opinion

The government’s proposal to have more control over social media to fight against misinformation is not only about having false information removed. It is about deciding who has power over truth. The bill seeks to counter the harmful disinformation online to spread, however it also grants the government control over digital speech, raising concerns in regards of censorship, accountability and the freedom of expression in the Philippines.

In a society where
investment thrives above quality, artistic direction is spurned, especially in a society where
attention, shortened and curated by media, is weaponized by those who value capital over
experience.

“MAHAL ang magmahal,” is a common notion passed around on social media these days. It reminds the viewers of the value of love, what it asks of a person, what is expected of them, and what it takes to be committed. Truly, loving is expensive. It is mentally, physically, emotionally, and financially taxing. And this same idea is echoed in loving the Philippines – ang ating perlas ng silanganan – it requires and asks a lot from everyone who tries.

FOR years, students are taught that education is the key to a better future. They are encouraged to study hard, earn good grades and obtain a college degree because it would be the foundation of a successful career. Many spend four or more years sacrificing time, sleep and personal opportunities in pursuit of that goal. The robe, cap and tassel are often considered as the reward for those sacrifices and the beginning of a professional career.

THE rising cases of school violence in the Philippines have forced the country to confront a reality it has long believed was confined to foreign headlines. Parents were distraught, and communities were shaken as they believed that such violence was unimaginable from the students of the Philippine education.

IN these times of crisis and multiple disputes of what is true or false, only one stands tall: Journalism. While opinions or statements from different figures spread like wildfire, journalism is present and resolved with its purpose—to seek and report the truth to the people. Despite people’s remarks that some news outlets have their own political agenda, journalism remains unbiased and fair, no matter how the current politics ridicules Filipinos.

THERE are moments in school where some people start acting like being “ahead” makes them better. It can come from higher batches or even from those holding higher positions.

Subtle neglect and ignorance can be just as damaging as intentional cruelty. Many will brush it off, but ignorance is an enabler, and omission makes issues thrive. When it comes to animal welfare, many are indifferent or even deliberately disregard these damaging acts, a mindset of apathy that quietly sustains cruelty. To truly protect and conserve animals, we must recognise and confront harmful patterns in society as well as ourselves, even if it means accepting that we may be contributing to these harmful acts by not contributing at all. Perhaps it’s time to ask whether we are truly part of the problem.

YEARNING, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is a tender yet urgent longing. It is that deep, sometimes overwhelming pull toward something that often feels slightly out of reach. It lingers in emotions, sometimes soft and almost beautiful, other times painful, especially when it comes from what is missing, lost, or never fully realized.

IT is considered typical Filipino behavior to cope with serious incidents through humor; perhaps why we are perceived as resilient in different aspects. There have been long discussions on whether this behavior should be applauded. Playing jokes on serious incidents? So immature—concerning, rather. As Filipinos, we should ask ourselves: where should we draw the line?