Crimes Amongst the Young

 

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Magkamatay na dajon…

Inquirer.net reported on March 28, 2025: A grade 8 male student fatally stabbed his classmate with a kitchen knife after an argument at a high school in Parañaque City.

In a DWLA radio interview, Parañaque City assistant police chief Lt. Col. Eric Angustia said the incident arose from a disagreement between the 15-year-old suspect and the 14-year-old victim. It started when the suspect borrowed make-up from the victim without her permission. That’s why they argued.

In a statement also on Thursday, the Moonwalk National High School said it was cooperating with authorities in its investigation, adding that the incident was an “isolated” case.

These news stories often leave readers and the public in a state of disbelief, as it's almost impossible to comprehend the depth of hatred that young people can harbor so intense that it leads them to take another person's life.

If this behavior stems from bullying, what might be the underlying environment of these young individuals at home? Are they subjected to domestic violence to such an extent that its impact spills over into their school lives, influencing their actions in the classroom?

Studies suggest that children who witness or experience household violence may internalize harmful behaviors, which can escalate into bullying or even violent acts toward others (Evans, Davies, & DiLillo, 2008). This exposure not only disrupts their emotional development but also affects their ability to regulate anger and form healthy relationships, leading to destructive patterns that extend beyond the home (Jaffe, Wolfe, & Wilson, 1990).

Violence is prevalent across virtually all social media platforms, and its pervasive nature can have a cascading effect on individuals exposed to this content. Many so-called "content creators" have even started to view violence as a tool for engagement, often prioritizing sensationalized or harmful content to attract attention. As a result, these disturbing portrayals not only thrive but continue to fuel a cycle of negativity and aggression online, influencing the behavior and mindset of viewers.

The mind should remain free from the corruption of violence. Parents have a crucial role in nurturing love, care, and empathy, and they must serve as the primary protectors of their children, safeguarding them from harmful media content that promotes violence. As the first line of defense, parents must actively monitor and guide their children's exposure, fostering a healthy environment that shields them from the damaging effects of violent portrayals in the media.

By-Products of What?

 

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Sa una mga bomba films man adto…

Janvic Mateo of the Philippine Star reported on March 22, 2025: Vloggers Krizette Laureta Chu, who claimed being an editor of a big newspaper, Mary Jane Quiambao Reyes and Mark Lopez were subjected to thorough scrutiny by lawmakers investigating the spread of fake news and misinformation through social media.

The house probe was initiated in response to the widespread dissemination of fake news across social media platforms, allegedly propagated by vloggers who are said to have political affiliations with a prominent figure. These individuals are accused of spreading misinformation with the primary intent of sowing discord, confusion, and distortion of facts, which could ultimately contribute to the corruption of public perception and the manipulation of public opinion.

Some have expressed concerns that these investigations could result in the suppression of free speech and the infringement of individuals' right to express their opinions.

During the Martial Law years in the Philippines, “bomba” movies emerged as a form of both release and rebellion, offering a means of expression amidst the suppression of basic freedoms. Scholars argue that these films, characterized by their bold sexual content and subversive themes, served as a cultural outlet for the Filipino people, allowing them to silently resist the political oppression of the time (Bautista, 2001; Quindoza-Santiago, 1998).

Despite being heavily censored, bomba films provided a space for individuals to confront and process the socio-political climate, often using suggestive narratives to critique the authoritarian regime (Sison, 2003).

In this way, bomba cinema became a powerful tool of resistance, reflecting the frustrations of a society under strict control and offering a subtle yet potent form of protest against the stifling of free expression.

Lino Brocka, along with other filmmakers, was imprisoned during Martial Law in the Philippines primarily due to his outspoken political views and his films' social critiques. He was a vocal critic of the government's human rights abuses, censorship, and the suppression of freedom of expression.

In an era where the internet connects us all, can we view the rise of fake news, memes and unfounded weblogs as a symptom of underlying societal unease? From a Social Science perspective, these phenomena may stem from a variety of factors, including widespread distrust in traditional media, political polarization, and the increasing fragmentation of information sources.

The spread of misinformation is driven by echo chambers, where people only see content that matches what they already believe, making divisions and confusion worse.

An affluent individual once subtly remarked to this writer, *“I keep quiet about social issues to avoid getting caught up in the mess.” This statement raised a red flag, as it starkly contradicted the deeply held belief that we live in a democracy where expressing our opinions is not only a fundamental right but a responsibility.

Of course, spreading lies and false information is undeniably wrong, but attempting to silence or coerce others into withholding their ideas and opinions is a byproduct of an oppressive and controlling mindset. Such actions undermine the very principles of free expression and foster an environment of fear and conformity.

It is the responsibility of the House of Representatives to initiate actions in aid of legislation, but the House must exercise great caution in navigating the fine line between serving the greater good and pursuing personal interests. Their actions should always prioritize the welfare of the public, ensuring that decisions are made with integrity and accountability, rather than being driven by ulterior motives.

Vloggers and bloggers must recognize the responsibility that comes with expressing their ideas. It’s not enough to simply share what they feel; they must also consider what is ethically and factually right. Before voicing their opinions to the vast audience of the internet, they should be mindful of the laws of the land and the application of universal values, ensuring their content is not only truthful but respectful of the broader societal impact.

In fact, the word fake news is an oxymoron. The combination of these two words creates a contradiction, as true news should be based on factual accuracy, while "fake" inherently undermines that truth.

InTact

 

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Jaon lagi usahay masobrahan an mga sulti…

Cebu Daily News reported on March 13, 2025: The online frenzy over former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC) intensified when political scientist and media personality Richard Heydarian compared Mindanao to Sub-Saharan Africa.

This sparked an outpouring of criticism from netizens in the Mindanao area, who wasted no time in lambasting the media personality. The backlash quickly escalated, with memes and other humorous content flooding online platforms, mocking the seemingly degrading "analysis" put forth by the figure in question.

Heydarian later shared another video clarifying that his previous remarks had been misunderstood. He explained that he made the comparisons in order to help the international community grasp the context, as terms like *barangays* and *sitios* might not be familiar to a global audience. He emphasized that his intent was to provide a clearer perspective for those outside the Philippines to understand the complexities of the situation.

But what is really the Sub-Saharan Region?

Sub-Saharan Africa refers to the region of Africa located south of the Sahara Desert, encompassing a diverse range of countries, cultures, and ecosystems. It is characterized by a complex interplay of geographic, economic, and social factors. The region includes various climates, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts, and has some of the world's most biodiverse areas.

Economically, Sub-Saharan Africa faces numerous challenges, including high poverty rates, limited access to education, and political instability (Moyo, 2009).

Upon reviewing the description, it seems that the analyst’s comparison could have some merit. However, one might wonder: what triggered such a strong reaction from the people of Mindanao?

This writer's reflection focuses on the untimeliness of Heydarian's comments, made when the people of Mindanao were still reeling from the shock and pain of recent events involving their revered leader. His remarks appeared to deepen the wound, adding insult to injury at a time when sensitivity and empathy were most needed.

The personality became TACTLESS. Tact involves understanding the appropriate choice of words and timing, ensuring that communication is sensitive, considerate, and respectful of the situation or the audience. It’s about being diplomatic and using discretion when expressing thoughts or opinions, particularly in delicate or challenging situations.

While it’s true that we have the right to express our opinions and ideas in a democracy, exercising this freedom requires a thoughtful balance between honesty and sensitivity. Applying tact means communicating our views in a way that respects others' perspectives and emotions, ensuring that our words are both truthful and considerate, especially in delicate situations.

Does he deserve the online backlash? This is a reality that all vloggers and bloggers must acknowledge. While the freedom to share content on the internet is a right, it also comes with the understanding that others are equally free to express their opinions—whether positive or negative. When you post for a global audience, you must expect that people will react openly, sharing their thoughts and critiques just as freely as you share your own.

This is why journalism should be studied thoroughly, or at the very least, understood before one takes on the role of an online personality. Concepts like libel, plagiarism, proper writing techniques, syntax, tact, coherence, and the principles of crafting newsworthy stories must be fully grasped in order to apply them effectively.

Otherwise, gobbledygook takes place.

Blurred Lines and Societal Implications

 

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Vlogger na ta tanan.

The appeal of META's monetization options for videos and posts has led many to consider vlogging as a serious pursuit. This shift includes educators who have now adopted the role of "influencers," spending considerable time shooting, editing, and posting their videos on platforms like Facebook.

Filipinos have a strong tradition of sharing stories with friends and family, a cultural phenomenon that extends beyond borders. We view ourselves as deeply interconnected, which is why we enjoy sharing the details of our daily lives, not only with fellow Filipinos but also with foreigners.

Several studies have examined the cultural significance of sharing stories and maintaining interconnectedness among Filipinos. Nolasco (2012) explores how Filipinos use social media to express and share their identities, highlighting the importance of online self-representation. Bautista (2004) discusses the Filipino value of social connectedness and its impact on communication practices, emphasizing the sharing of personal stories.

Teachers and other educators are also engaging in this practice, with some noting that it serves as a way to alleviate stress.

But what happens when vlogging blurs the line between educating the young and becoming overly consumed by the process, causing individuals to lose sight of their primary key responsibility?

This led the Schools Division of Zamboanga del Sur to issue DM 124, s. 2025 on March 5 of this year, titled "Adherence to Professional Conduct in Classrooms – Prohibition of Video Recording and Vlogging During Class/Office Hours." The memorandum emphasizes the importance of ensuring that learners are not included in any vlogs, recordings, or social media content related to personal activities. It also underscores the need to prioritize the structured and uninterrupted delivery of lessons.

Sison (2020) emphasizes the potential risks of involving students in online content, noting the need for safeguards to protect privacy and ensure focus on educational objectives. Additionally, the work of Cruz and Tan (2017) suggests that teachers' use of social media for personal purposes during class hours can distract from their professional duties, which may impact their effectiveness in the classroom.

Looking at the wider scope: Can vlogging be considered a "blue ocean" for us, offering new opportunities in a time when inflation looms daily, threatening the stability of our future? Who can blame people for turning to this appealing and accessible opportunity when even basic needs, like health insurance, are not a government priority?

Sociologists believe that people's actions are often driven by specific stimuli. The growing mass interest in vlogging may be a response to the challenges of the times, with the activity serving as both an escape and a potential opportunity to access better resources or improve one’s circumstances.

According to Pineda and Santos (2019), individuals often turn to digital content creation as a means of coping with economic uncertainty, viewing it as a way to generate income and gain social recognition. Similarly, research by Dela Cruz (2020) suggests that vlogging has become a form of escapism for many, offering a creative outlet amid personal or societal difficulties.

Legislators must carefully consider these studies and emerging phenomena to craft more effective laws that can improve the lives of Filipinos and mitigate the effects of inflation. Attention must also be given to the well-being of the disadvantaged, including teachers, to ensure that the educational system is strengthened and can better serve the needs of the nation.

Yet, some legislators remain skeptical of research. One even said: Baliw na baliw kayo sa research. Aanhin niyo ba yung research?