When the covid-19 pandemic hit, just like many others, lawyer Anastacio “Jun” Muntuerto and his wife Nora faced an uncertain future. They were cut off from the world and confined to their property in Carcar, Cebu. There, they found themselves staring down a crisis that threatened to leave them...
For most of his life, Ruperto Esplago (left) worked as a carpenter, farmer, and fisherman to make a living for his wife, Shirley (seen in photo), and nine children (Photo courtesy of Kristine Esplago) “Hindi sapat ang salitang salamat,” Kristine, 34, tells the Manila Bulletin when asked what...
There’s no greater feeling of sorrow and agony than losing someone truly special to your heart. Doleo Susalta touched many lives with his warmth and hospitality when he served as a security guard at De La Salle University’s (DLSU) dormitory for athletes. It was this humble job to support his...
OGGIE KAPETANOVIC “If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you smoke, quit. If you don’t quit, change.” The unexpected statement comes from Oggie Kapetanovic, president of Heat-Not-Burn at Philip Morris International (PMI), who repeated what he called is the “mantra in the company” which...
ROBYN CAMILLE MIJARES In a rapidly changing world, young voices are often the driving force behind societal transformation. One such voice is Robyn Camille Mijares, a 23-year-old leader making waves in Filipino youth advocacy and community empowerment. As the founder and executive director of Youth...
In terms of proximity to power, both literally and figuratively, Bahay Pangulo is as close as one can get. Located just across Malacañang Palace, Bahay Pangulo provides an unparalleled view of the seat of Philippine government. Recently, the public has been given a peek into the presidential...
Early on a Sunday morning, my doorbell rang. Not expecting any packages that day, I was curious to see who it was. Upon opening the door, I found out it was a thin man, advanced in his years. He was asking if I had any solehiya furniture that needed repair. He was no stranger, though. It was Romilo...
MARVIN SICAT, an artifacts collector from Zamboanga City. The Philippines is filled with rich cultural heritage, and it’s no secret that some individuals are keen to collect—and even decorate their homes with—amazing artworks crafted by artisans from all over the country. In the charming city...