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Stories that inspire and empower

Published Jan 31, 2026 01:34 pm

As it marks its 126th anniversary, the Manila Bulletin shares with its audience stories that inspire and empower—narratives that affirm the enduring capacity of the Filipino spirit to hope, to act, and to rise.

True to its long-standing motto as the exponent of Philippine progress, the Manila Bulletin remains committed to propagating stories that move people to do good, initiate change, and contribute meaningfully to nation-building. At its core, journalism is a conscious commitment to truth—one that carries the responsibility to convey stories with integrity, accuracy, and purpose, so that they may inspire and empower readers.

In an age defined by a continuing digital revolution, the power of mass media to shape public consciousness has been magnified. While news now travels almost instantaneously, the same channels have been exploited by purveyors of disinformation who prey on an unsuspecting audience. This reality makes it even more imperative for newspapers of record such as the Manila Bulletin to reaffirm their commitment to verified, credible, and responsible journalism—ensuring that readers are informed, not misled.

In celebrating this milestone year, our writers have curated and refreshed stories from our archives alongside new narratives that reflect courage, resilience, and innovation. These are stories of individuals and communities who, in confronting adversity, choose to carve new pathways and usher in changes that uplift and edify. Together, they demonstrate the nobility and strength of the human spirit.

The past four decades have been particularly eventful. Emerging from the aftermath of the EDSA People Power Revolution, the Manila Bulletin recommitted itself to helping propel the nation forward amid the restoration of democratic space. The return of constitutional governance allowed institutions long stifled during the martial law years to be rebuilt. Yet history would show that this was not a finished revolution, but a continuing work—one that required sustained effort, vigilance, and collective resolve.

Socioeconomic challenges, including the persistent task of reducing poverty and enabling Filipinos to improve their quality of life, became rallying points for rekindling the bayanihan spirit. It was within this context that the Manila Bulletin resolved to transcend the realm of reportage and aspire to be an instrument of renewal and renaissance.

Today, we invite our audience to journey with us in this abiding enterprise of national renewal. Our shared aspiration is for the Philippines to advance to the next stage of economic development—achieving upper middle-income status and keeping pace with our more progressive East Asian neighbors, even amid complex global challenges.

On this 126th year, we reaffirm the Manila Bulletin’s commitment to serve as the exponent of Philippine progress—an unceasing mission pursued with vitality, integrity, and dedication.

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