Almost unnoticed because topics like these do not go viral in social media, two news stories days ago reported developments that highlight the country’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable citizens — children. First was the Supreme Court decision upholding the conviction of a...
The signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers is a historic moment not only for the maritime industry but also for the countless Filipino families whose lives depend on their seafaring loved ones. With the landmark legislation now in effect,...
In recent years, the Philippine government has made strides in improving the employability of senior high school graduates by promoting the technical-vocational (tech-voc) track, increasing access to Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) certifications, and...
Social security contributions by both employers and employees were raised to 15 percent effective Jan. 1, 2025. This completes the implementation of a three percent increase in contributions, two percent of which is shouldered by employers, and one percent by employees. These increases are...
Today, Filipinos mark the culmination of the Christmas season with the celebration of the Feast of the Three Kings, also known as the Epiphany. It is a day of symbolism, tradition, and spiritual meaning. It invites us not only to honor the journey of the Magi but also to reflect on the...
Healthcare remains a critical need for millions and the promise of accessible and affordable medical services under the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act seems to be a beacon of hope. Yet, for many Filipinos, this promise often seems out of reach — not because of lack of programs, but due to...
The day after we welcomed the new year, an all-too-familiar sight confronted us: mounds of garbage in public spaces. Year after year, New Year’s Eve celebrations leave public spaces littered with various forms of plastic packaging for food and beverages, firecracker debris, paper wrappers,...
As 2025 beckons, the Philippines stands at a critical juncture. The nation’s political, economic, and social landscape is brimming with challenges, yet the opportunity for transformative change has never been more palpable. With the upcoming May 2025 midterm elections and the continuing...
As the curtains fall on 2024, we take stock of the year’s defining moments—political, economic, and socio-cultural—that have significantly affected the lives of every Filipino. This year was marked by significant gains and persistent challenges, all of which demand strategic action as we move...
In 1999, University of the Philippines professor Cesar Adib Majul penned a critique of historian Renato Constantino’s essay, Our Task: To Make Rizal Obsolete. Constantino argued that Jose Rizal, while historically significant, should be displaced as a model for contemporary nation-building...
The coming of a new year always inspires people to reflect on their lives and set goals to improve themselves. This annual ritual, known as making New Year’s resolutions, has become a tradition around the world. These goals reflect a universal desire to turn over a new leaf, yet...
Today, Dec. 27, the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness is observed around the world. And still fresh in our minds was the horror we experienced when the Covid-19 pandemic struck — upending lives, economies, and healthcare systems. For the Philippines, the health crisis...
