OFF THE BEATEN PATH In politics, few things are as indispensable yet as understated as the health of a candidate. We often talk about a candidate’s charisma, policy acumen, and public appeal, but rarely do we remark upon their physical and mental fitness, much less how those attributes affect the...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH People often ask me why I travel so much. On any given day, I’m usually on the road to somewhere else. For the most part, I travel because it is important for the work I do. But the primary reason I have for going from place to place in the Philippines is that I am...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH Earlier this month, the US elections happened. Though it was an election where only Americans cast their vote, the shockwaves were felt all over the world. Leading up to the elections, a majority of the pollsters had predicted a tight race, with Republican Presidential...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH The same typhoons that can increase agricultural water supply and cause soil erosion improving its fertility, in severe and frequent measures, damage farm structure facilities. While we are yet to see the full impact of tropical storm Leon in our area of responsibility,...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH Early in this brief eight-day window for the filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COCs), Filipinos cannot remain oblivious to the motions, from premature to profound, leading to the 2025 electoral exercise. Our Commission on Elections (Comelec) and advocates from the private...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH In the Philippines, many roads are less traveled because of impassability. During rainy seasons, we find markers not just for distance but also for depth – how many meters deep the roads are submerged. In worse cases, these concrete structures that signify development simply...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH In the face of escalating health crises, the Philippines must revisit a proven solution: the Doctor to the Barrios (DTTB) program. Established in 1993, DTTB has served as a lifeline for Filipinos living in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). While the nation...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH Twenty-two narratives of Filipino excellence and grit unfolded on the grandest sporting stage as our athletes competed in nine events at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Salutations are in order. Their exceptional skills and unwavering spirit have earned the nation’s profound...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH Cycling has captured the public imagination as a sustainable and enjoyable mode of transportation. As a cycling advocate, I have had the privilege to contribute to discussions on its potential, particularly in the realm of cyclo-tourism. While the appeal of exploring...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH Elections are, for all its complexity, a straightforward competition mechanism. Theoretically, the process acts as both a reward and punishment device that can control politicians’ conduct. The 1987 Philippine constitution and the Omnibus Election Code nowhere identify wealth...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH Following the recent wave of national pride, a fitting postscript would be to examine the realities of our informal workers and the gig economy. The state, akin to a parental figure by virtue of parens patriae, is endowed with the responsibility to nurture the well-being of all...
OFF THE BEATEN PATH The Philippines. Over 7,000 islands full of wonder and beauty, just waiting to be discovered and re-discovered. I’ve been fortunate to have been able to visit almost all the provinces in the Philippines – enjoying the breathtaking scenery, sumptuous delicacies...
