Global temperatures in 2024 exceeded 1.5 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial era for the first time, bringing the world closer to breaching the pledge governments made under the 2015 Paris climate agreement, according to scientists. The World Meteorological Organization confirmed the 1.5 degrees Celsius breach, after reviewing data from US, UK, Japan, and EU scientists. …
OPINION
Energy crisis calls for everyday heroes
By Ignacio R. Bunye The energy crisis is no longer an abstract policy debate — it is the rising cost in our bills, the strain on our transport, and the uncertainty in our future. For Juan and Maria, conserving energy is not just about saving pesos; it is about safeguarding the nation’s resilience. We often …
‘One Battle After Another’: Satire with teeth
By Herman M. Lagon This piece is not for those who have not seen “One Battle After Another.” Spoilers ahead. Released in late 2025, it quickly found its way into debates, chats and classrooms. By the 98th Academy Awards, it had won six of 13 nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. I did not …
Trump says Iran war could end soon, as US blockades Iranian ports
US President Donald Trump said the war with Iran could end soon, telling the world to watch out for an “amazing two days,” while US forces imposing a blockade turned back vessels leaving Iranian ports. With the prospect of US and Iranian officials returning to Pakistan for more talks, Vice President JD Vance, who led …
Tooth decay, the why and what
By Dr. Joseph D. Lim Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide. It affects people of all ages. Tooth decay occurs when the hard outer layer of the teeth, known as enamel, is gradually destroyed by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. Although …
Rash judgments, detraction, calumny
By Fr. Roy Cimagala They often go together and we are very much prone to them. Thus, we have to be properly guarded, training ourselves to practice restraint and to be quick to rectify once we fall into them. We are reminded of this phenomenon in that gospel episode where the usual critics of Christ …
Trump, the pope and us
By Herman M. Lagon Donald Trump recently went after Pope Leo XIV, calling him “weak” and implying he should keep out of world issues. It came out in that familiar tone — straight, cutting, almost like it was obvious. The pope did not respond like that. He stayed where he has always been — talking …
Purple ‘walis tambo’ or women empowerment
By Dennis Gorecho I bought a purple-colored broom, or walis tambo, at the Baguio City Public Market in solidarity with women vendors during the celebration of International Working Women’s Day last March 8. The Baguio Public Market has long been a cultural symbol of the city since its establishment in 1913. Located at the lower …
Stuck in the middle
By Herman M. Lagon There is a small moment many Filipino teachers know too well. Payday comes, the salary credit notification arrives and, for a second, there is relief. Then comes the payslip. You look at the numbers, but your eyes settle on the spaces in between — what was already taken, line by line, …
El Niño may return this year and make planet even hotter
The warming El Niño weather phenomenon could form later this year, potentially pushing global temperatures to record heights. There is a 50- to 60-percent chance of El Niño developing during the July-September period and beyond, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The World Meteorological Organization will issue an update on El …