By Herman M. Lagon Imagine a world without teachers: One absent of the buzz of learning in the classroom, one excluding students from being shaped into future professionals, and one devoid of support for those looking for guidance during their formative years. We owe our teachers much more than a single day of celebration because …
Impulses
The woke paradox
By Herman M. Lagon In today’s rapidly changing world, “wokeness” often dominates discussions around social justice. While the movement aims to promote social justice and human rights, it can sometimes deepen divides and alienate people. Critics like David Brooks argue that the issue often lies in how wokeness is applied rather than the causes it …
Trifocal tragedy in education
By Herman M. Lagon The state of education in the country is again in the spotlight due to the latest results of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), which expose that 62 percent of high school teachers teach disciplines outside their field of expertise. This figure suggests a fundamental weakness in the educational …
Sustaining the blue economy
By Herman M. Lagon A hidden economy lives in the sparkling blue expanse of our oceans and seas — one that promises sustainable development but only if carefully, respectfully and foresightedly fostered. Not only a buzzword, the blue economy — which consists of sustainable use of ocean resources for economic development, livelihoods and the health …
Let’s go nuclear!
By Herman M. Lagon Long contested for its advantages and disadvantages, nuclear energy has made a comeback as a potential remedy for the energy crisis facing the Philippines. It’s becoming more and more clear that the country needs a strong, dependable energy solution as brownouts and growing electricity bills plague the country. Now for nuclear …
Fostering growth mindset in the classroom
By Herman M. Lagon A silent revolution is underway in the busy field of education, where the curriculum always demands, and the clock is continuously running. This change is about something far more fundamental than flashy technology or popular teaching approaches — our attitudes. Psychologist Carol Dweck first proposed the idea that students’ and teachers’ …
‘Echoes in the Midst of Indecision’
By Herman M. Lagon The power of the film lies not just in the story it tells but in the voices it echoes. “Ang Mga Alingawngaw sa Panahon ng Pagpapasya” (Echoes in the Midst of Indecision) is one such film — a window into the depths of human choice, bravery and the quiet wars fought …
The dark chapter that we can’t afford to ignore
By Herman M. Lagon The demand to revisit this sinister period in our history becomes more pressing as we commemorate martial law’s 52nd anniversary. “Never again, never forget” echoes loudly, reminding us not only of the terrible persecution of the past but also of the terrifying reality that history may repeat itself should we be negligent. …
Caring grandma for cash?
By Herman M. Lagon Given the chance to inherit a fortune, what would you do? “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” is a Thai drama that has gained popularity throughout Southeast Asia and is currently the highest-rated film on Netflix in the Philippines. The question remains throughout the film. The masterpiece, co-written by Thodsapon …
‘After Life’: A comedic take on grief
By Herman M. Lagon Beyond just a Netflix series, Ricky Gervais’ “After Life” (2019) is an honest, poignant and profoundly philosophical reflection on what it means to live, grieve and find one’s place in the world after losing a loved one. Thanks to a gentle prod from my ISUFST colleague, Professor Edmer Bernardo, I was reminded, …