By Herman M. Lagon In a society where social media often sets the standard for emotional expression, the growing phenomenon of toxic positivity is pervasive and concerning, especially for youth. In a culture where uncomfortable emotions are habitually minimized or disregarded, our children’s mental health is gravely endangered. Poisonous optimism stems from the belief that …
Impulses
Firing the hiring epidemic
By Herman M. Lagon (Second of two parts) But what are the possible solutions to this “lagay” (bribe or grease money) and “palakasan” (favoritism, including nepotism, its subset) social epidemic? Strict anti-corruption laws, transparent hiring practices, merit-based recruitment processes, whistleblower protections, and regular audits of hiring activities, among others, can stand as the bulwark against …
The hiring epidemic
By Herman M. Lagon (First of two parts) A pervasive epidemic has long infiltrated our government institutions, with “lagay” (bribe or grease money) and “palakasan” (favoritism, including nepotism, its subset) serving as the virulent pathogens. These unwelcome elements have transformed into a widespread contagion, deeply entrenched in public sector hiring practices, far outstaying their welcome. Sadly …
The worst NBA All-Star showoff
By Herman M. Lagon Last Monday morning (Philippine time), the NBA All-Star Game took center stage in Salt Lake City, and fans were primed for a showcase of the league’s top players. What really happened, though, was a shameful game without any fierce rivalry, a far cry from the illustrious past of basketball greats like …
The sacred Monday oath
By Herman M. Lagon Every early Monday morning, as the Philippine flag is raised and the national anthem is sung, government workers and public officials gather to recite a solemn oath with their right hands raised. This “Panunumpa ng Kawani ng Gobyerno,” a commitment to serve with honesty and excellence, says: “Ako’y kawani ng …
‘Orion and the Dark,’ a must-see Netflix film
By Herman M. Lagon Both young and old have been drawn to the endearing animated film “Orion and the Dark,” which debuted on Netflix this early February 2024. It is based on a children’s novel by Emma Yarlett and narrates the tale of a youngster named Orion who, with the assistance of an odd …
Love unboxed
By Herman M. Lagon Ah, Valentine’s Day, that annual celebration of love that descends upon the world like a sweet tsunami, shredding hearts, visiting florists, and opening chocolate boxes in its wake. From hazy tales of crucified saints and secret Christian marriages, this day has evolved into an unrivaled celebration of everything heart-shaped. However, …
Striking a balance in women’s sports
By Herman M. Lagon The involvement of transgender women in women’s sports has ignited a multifaceted and nuanced debate, reaching far beyond the boundaries of athletic events. This discussion profoundly explores and challenges our basic understanding of fairness, equality and inclusivity, transcending traditional perspectives of sportsmanship and competition. This debate demands a nuanced understanding and …
Tough-loving Mama Diana at 80!
By Herman M. Lagon Dear Mama Diana, As your 80th birthday dawns this February 11, I am filled with overwhelming gratitude and admiration for your incredible journey. You, Mama, have been our real-life Wonder Woman, a beacon of strength, love, and wisdom that has guided us through every step of our lives. After Papa …
The existential dilemma of the Philippine media
By Herman M. Lagon CNN Philippines’ recent closing serves as a sobering reminder of reality. The termination of this reputable news organization raises important concerns about the status of the media in the nation, the attack on legitimate media outlets like Rappler, and the exposure of certain illegitimate ones, in addition to the financial …