Impulses

By Herman M. Lagon Student clubs thrive beyond lecture halls and libraries in university corridors. These organizations foster transformative leadership, not just extracurriculars. Students learn, network and become global leaders here. According to leadership guru Chris Lowney, in these settings, bravery, courage and a commitment to positive change define heroic leadership. Heroic university club leadership …

  impulsesBy Herman M. Lagon Amidst changing global dynamics and internal obstacles, the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) is at a turning point, ready to reassume its position as a furnace for leadership and national service. Looking back on my time as a reserved officer, I can see how important it is to shape disciplined, …

  By Herman M. Lagon The National Achievement Test (NAT) and the Basic Education Exit Assessment (BEEA) have been central to the debate on the country’s education quality. These are designed to gauge our students’ academic proficiency and preparedness in Grades 3, 6, 10, and 12. However, challenges and concerns have been raised over the …

  By Herman M. Lagon As vibrant flags flutter and we recall the heroic deeds of the past, let’s take a moment to reflect on the heartbeats of our nation — its people — during the commemoration of Philippine Independence Day, celebrated on July 4 from 1946 until it was changed to June 12 in 1964. …

  By Herman M. Lagon “Mga Munting Tinig (Small Voices),” a 2002 film that delves deep into our state of education, begins with a scene that resonates with many. As an idealistic music teacher, Alessandra de Rossi (Melinda) asks an older teacher why she chose to become a teacher. The experienced teacher’s response reveals a …

  By Herman M. Lagon In the heart of every thriving school lies a strong and positive culture, often described as the school’s invisible yet pervasive heartbeat. This culture, which significantly impacts every aspect of school life, from the staff’s morale to student achievement, is mainly shaped by the leadership within the institution. The importance …

  By Herman M. Lagon In the modern workplace, it is not uncommon to encounter individuals whose behavior challenges the harmony and productivity of the team. These are the toxic coworkers, individuals whose actions and attitudes can create a ripple of negativity, affecting everyone in their vicinity. Understanding and managing these personalities is not just …

  By Herman M. Lagon Metonymy, often overshadowed by its flamboyant cousin metaphor, is a figure of speech where a concept is not called by its own name, but rather by something closely associated with it. Imagine referring to the corporate world simply as “the suits” or to artistic masterpieces residing in “the Louvre.” This …

  By Herman M. Lagon A few songs challenge our socio-political narrative the way “Sayaw sa Bubog” by The Jerks does. Released amidst the early 90s, a turbulent time for the country as it wrestled with the vestiges of dictatorship and the illusions of a new democratic dawn, this song encapsulates a profound skepticism towards …

  By Herman M. Lagon Each moment, event and encounter carries a whisper of grace in our lives. This notion, deeply rooted in spiritual wisdom, especially in the teachings of St. Therese of Lisieux and the essence of Ignatian spirituality, tells us that grace intertwines with our daily experiences, shaping a life rich with meaning …