This week, the human population reached eight billion right in the middle of a climate crisis. Our planet’s practically dying as it tries to keep up with the number of people consuming its resources and adding to CO2 emissions every single day. Still, the idea of a woman deciding to be childfree is a life choice that’s still up for debate, even at the poshest events.

I’d love to say that maybe it’s the pandemic that made polite conversation alien but even before the world turned upside down, a woman’s womb and what she does with it has always been pretty up for discussion and judgment. At least on this side of the world among others. So let me say this once and for all: It’s rude.

Most people call women like me “selfish,” but I would argue that the childfree do care—a lot. We care about the planet, the quality of life for the next generations, and whether we’re fit to parent. It’s been reported that having one less child saves 58.6 tons of CO2 emissions yearly. Comparing it to going vegan or never taking a commercial flight, the emissions offset can’t even come close.

This is why I say condescension during such topics should stop. Oftentimes, our choice is reduced to being something so frivolous and rooted in self-preservation, leading us to be vilified. How dare I make such a choice? Me saying I don’t think it’s right for me given the lifestyle we have and the current state of the world is often met with reasons I should change my mind. It’s unacceptable. On the flipside, nobody asks prospective parents why they choose to have kids. Should it be brought up, someone saying they want a mini version of them is more than enough. That’s valid.

Parenthood does come with a long list of sacrifices. I would argue, however, that how we’re essentially freeing up resources for the kids of people who truly want to be parents can also be seen as selfless. I’m not saying we should all stop having children. I’m no child hater and I do enjoy the company of my friends’ kids. What I’m saying is that either choice should be treated with respect.

In the same week, the Philippines reported that we are now below the population replacement rate. There are now 1.9 children for every Filipino woman. Some think this is a cause for alarm. I do feel that in the grand scheme of things, the planet comes first before having a sizable workforce, a bigger economy, and “replacements” for those who will pass on. Yes, governments need taxpayers and pension systems need new people to support the elderly.

It’s been reported that having one less child saves 58.6 tons of CO2 emissions yearly.

But what’s the use of all that when the next generation can’t even have a good life? No quality to it. When the planet continues to heat up and resources become scarcer? And aren’t these reasons for our own good rather than that of the unborn? So doesn’t that make these reasons—gasp!—selfish?

Just something to think about before women like me are—once again—subjected to heavy scrutiny at all the Christmas parties and family reunions this season.

ROK honors Filipino alumni

The Korean Embassy in Manila hosted a gathering for their Filipino alumni this week. I love these sorts of events because I’m a big believer in education as a soft power. At the embassy’s garden, alumni gathered to network, reminisce about their time in Korea, and enjoy Korean cuisine.

Consul General Lee Kyoo Ho says the alumni are effective, two-way ambassadors of culture, and are of great help in improving bilateral relations. He adds that while Filipino students do learn a lot about Korea while living there, Koreans are also given an opportunity to expand their knowledge about the Philippines and its culture through interactions with Filipinos.

“Definitely, in the long run, it will increase the mutual understanding between our two countries,” he said. “These programs are very important vehicles to expand our relationship. Not only diplomatic relations but with academia, even in fields like science and medicine.”

Korea sends Filipino students as scholars through the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency) Scholarships, and the Korea Defense School for military personnel. Lt. John dela Cruz of the Philippine Marine Corps shared how his time at the Korea Defense School showed him similarities between Koreans and Filipinos, especially in family values. One thing he says that Filipinos can learn from Koreans is how they “develop and value their own culture.” While they’ve been open to absorbing cultures from other countries, it’s not to the detriment or depreciation of their own.

Since the ’90s, eight Filipino and three Korean soldiers go on exchange programs yearly. Lee is also proud to share how the alumni are able to contribute well to the Philippines when they come back after their scholarships. The Philippine KOICA Fellows Association (PhilKoFa), whose members are mostly in government, is active in community and capacity-building programs.

Raffles x Furla for Italian afternoon tea

Yet another reason to visit The Raffles Makati’s Writer’s Bar during the holiday season is their new afternoon tea set in collaboration with Italian luxury brand Furla.

Taking inspiration from the brand, Raffles’ chef Béla Rieck whipped up an Italian set that featured pesto scones that come with mascarpone instead of the usual clotted cream. Gorgonzola wrapped in prosciutto and a tartlet with sundried tomatoes and mozzarella are just two of the runaway winners from the savories department. As for the sweets, the Torta Barozzi is a chocolate lover’s dream along with the cute, chocolate bag bearing the brand’s logo. The set is available until Jan. 15, 2023.