By Dennis Gorecho The country’s party-list system continues to be hijacked by the rich and powerful. Around half of party-list groups are being used as a backdoor to further entrench their political and economic interests. Election watchdog Kontra Daya reported that 55.13 percent of the 156 party-list groups vying for 63 seats in the House …
OPINION
Bonfire pledges
By Herman M. Lagon The fire flickered against the Barotac Nuevo sky as students and mentors gathered last week, their faces lit by the flames and quiet reflection. This was more than an ISUFST KampSama Day 2 campfire; it was a moment to face fears, embrace strengths and commit to something greater. Before stepping forward, …
Continuity in our economic policy
By Sonny Angara Elections, given that they mark transitions in our society, do often trigger periods of soul-searching and reflection. They can also be very emotional affairs, not least because the prospect of new political leaders taking the helm can elicit either anticipation or anxiety. So in the weeks following the recent elections, many asked …
Nourishing our hope
By Fr. Roy Cimagala If we are guided by our Christian faith, we know that our life here on earth is not our definitive life. We are meant to pursue our ultimate definitive life with God in heaven. Thus, our life here on earth can only be marked by the indispensable virtue of hope which …
Politicians warned against illegal use of jingle melodies
By Ade S. Fajardo Politicians have started airing campaign jingles whose melodies are familiar and easy to follow. The familiar tunes are copied from the popular work of artists who worked on them using their intellect and emotions, and obviously without politicians in mind. There would be no problem if the campaign jingle is composed …
Beyond the crown
By Herman M. Lagon The Tamasak Arena buzzed with life that morning, packed with students, coaches, sports coordinators, teachers, and government officials. They gathered not just for the RSCUAA 2024 event but to cheer for Alexie Mae Brooks, the Ilongga track and field phenom-turned-beauty queen who graced the stage to inspire athletes and sports officials. …
‘Sana all,’ always
By Herman M. Lagon “Sana all” is a little wish wrapped in three syllables. It is a fleeting moment of hope, admiration or even a tinge of envy — but always grounded in shared humanity. Whether said in jest or sincerity, this mix of Tagalog and English captures the Pinoy spirit of aspiration. It is …
When we are tempted
By Fr. Roy Cimagala Temptations will always be around. And we just have to be prepared to deal with them properly. The secret is to learn how to be like Christ precisely at the moment when he himself was tempted three times by the devil. (cfr. Matthew 4:1-11) It’s important that in dealing with this fact …
The impact of delisting from the FATF gray list
By Ignacio R. Bunye The recent decision by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to remove the Philippines from its global “gray list” marks a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. This victory is not just a symbolic win; it has real, tangible benefits for millions of …
Research done right
By Herman M. Lagon Research ethics are typically seen as strict rules that researchers must follow to avoid academic scrutiny. However, they are much more than that. Credible, meaningful and socially responsible research starts with ethics. Scientific inquiry — uncovering truth and advancing humanity — is undermined without it. At the most recent Iloilo State …