As a continuation of my tribute to this publication on its 126 year, I reflected on the past nine years that I have had the honor of being a contributor. The Manila Bulletin is a news source for every Filipino. From global current events, to local politics, entertainment, and simply opinions of others, there is something that will pick the interest of anyone and everyone. It is, however, giving in more than just a provider of headlines. For me, at least, it has taught me so much – as a reader and as a writer – and in many ways, has helped shape me as a person.

Contributing weekly for this newspaper has taught me not only the importance of integrity in what I choose to share, and talk about, but also the responsibility that comes alongside it, standing by what you write and say. Especially on pieces that are heavily opinionated, I have come to learn that people will always have something to say, and that is actually the purpose of this space – to stir up discussions, give reason to ponder, and sometimes, agree to disagree, all with mutual respect.

Every week, I am reminded that it is not always about what you say, but how you say it. Deliverance is everything, and there is a certain way of stringing words together when it is to be printed in black and white that needs more careful crafting than if I were to say it out loud. Almost a decade later, I have mustered up the courage to note that I am not in this to please everyone, but rather, to share a piece of my mind when and where it matters, and to listen to the perspectives of others as well. Essentially, Manila Bulletin has broadened not only my horizons, but my points of view.

In the same light, comes the notion that there is a stark difference between opinion and fact, and it is my responsibility to emphasize which is merely opinion, and what is factual information so that the boundary between the two does not get blurred when the message reaches the reader. Through the years, I have not only seen, but also felt the growing influence of social media in our everyday lives, and because of that, the style of presenting opinion in a column has shifted as well. When saying how you feel is only a click away, the manner in which opinions and editorials are presented has naturally evolved. Ultimately, we must respect opinion, but have the knowledge to discern between the former and fact.

Lastly, I am grateful for the sense of community that this publication has given me. A community so diverse, but also so prestigious I have the honor of being a part of. When I think about what else there is I can do for the Philippines in my own small way outside of my social advocacies, I always look back to this space, and hope that somehow, I am able to enrich minds, open views and share insights.

Writing for this space did not only give me a place to hone a hobby and a passion, but the opportunity to be a part of the lives of many Filipinos, and essentially, of history that is being written every day, every week, every month, and every year. A privilege of a lifetime.