By Herman M. Lagon Valentine’s Day typically evokes romantic visions of lavish gifts, elaborate dinners and extravagant gestures to win over that “special someone.” However, what if this day also reminded you to treat yourself with the same respect and care? Why not take a moment to value yourself rather than concentrate solely on others? …
Impulses
4 years behind in literacy
By Herman M. Lagon Our students are in an educational crisis with no clear solution. Despite years of education reforms, pandemic school closures and increased government spending, the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) report shows the harsh reality: Filipino students are four to five years behind in literacy. The pandemic isolated students and …
The resign reflex
By Herman M. Lagon Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial looms large, but in the chess game of Philippine politics, resignation may be her best move to avoid checkmate. While she insists she’s staying put, history and realpolitik suggest otherwise. Politicians have a knack for saying one thing and doing another, and Sara Duterte is no exception. …
Where have all the brilliant Senators gone?
By Herman M. Lagon The Philippine Senate used to be the nation’s intellectual heart, full of brilliant statespersons and brave lawmakers who shaped the laws with knowledge and integrity. Lorenzo Tañada, Jose Diokno, Jovito Salonga, Joker Arroyo, Raul Roco, and Miriam Defensor-Santiago were not just senators but also national leaders, freedom warriors and democracy defenders. …
The college dropout dilemma
By Herman M. Lagon Even though the state wants to provide free tuition for all state university and college (SUC) students, four out of 10 students drop out. The government’s landmark Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act authored by Senator Bam Aquino changed the game for many, opening doors previously reserved for the wealthy. …
Beyond the ‘Balota’
By Herman M. Lagon Sitting with a tub of popcorn in front of my iPad, ready to watch another movie, I had no idea “Balota” would shake me so much. The satirical yet intense drama directed by Kip Oebanda felt like a mirror reflecting the grim realities of our election system and the ongoing abuse, …
Budget betrayal
By Herman M. Lagon We view the national budget as more than a technical document. It shows the government’s priorities and dedication to the people. As we approach the 2025 budget approval, it feels more like a betrayal than progress. Although inflation is high and many are struggling to make ends meet, this budget cuts …
Big ideas, bold lives
By Herman M. Lagon Life is full of curveballs, and balancing ambition and grounding is difficult. We can navigate this path better by adopting a few big ideas. The first big idea is to accept struggle. Challenges are inevitable, but seeing them as growth opportunities can change everything, turning challenges into learning opportunities. This mindset …
Not just a video
By Herman M. Lagon The security guard-garland girl fight has sparked public outrage. A viral video shows a mall guard forcibly removing a young flower vendor and destroying her sampaguita garlands. Many defended the girl and criticized the guard. We must pause before concluding. In the heat of the moment, emotions cloud context. Viral videos …
Unfiltered truth matters
By Herman M. Lagon There’s a peculiar art in wielding words with intention — especially words that cut deep, provoke thought or expose hypocrisy. Lately, however, the steady rise of politically correct (PC) language in satire, academia and comedy seems to make even the sharpest critique feel as if it is wrapped in bubble wrap. …