Selective Scoop

 

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Pinalami.

In their official Facebook page, the House of Representatives of the Philippines posted on April 29, 2025: The collective effort of the members of the House of Representatives led by Speaker Martin Romualdez to continually uphold the welfare of the Filipino people and improve their quality of life has paid off as revealed by the recent Tangere survey.

According to the survey conducted on April 21-22, 2025, the bigger Chamber is the highest performing branch of the Philippine government, having received the highest satisfaction rating of 55.5 percent. The House’s co-equal body under the legislative branch, the Senate, on the other hand, received a 44.74 percent satisfaction rating.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Vice President (OVP) has the lowest satisfaction rating of 43.50 percent under the Executive branch.

The post drew a flurry of reactions from netizens, with many criticizing it as a seemingly self-serving attempt to deflect attention from the latest controversies surrounding the House—particularly those involving Speaker Martin Romualdez.

Duterte supporters have also claimed that this is part of a broader character assassination campaign against the Vice President, allegedly driven by certain groups. They cited the recent arrest of the former president and his transfer to the International Criminal Court—an action they believe was orchestrated by the current administration—as well as the looming impeachment case against the Vice President.

Cherry-picking, also known as the fallacy of incomplete evidence or suppressed evidence, refers to the practice of selectively presenting data or examples that support a particular argument while intentionally omitting those that contradict it. This rhetorical tactic creates a misleading narrative by focusing only on favorable information and ignoring the broader context.

Cherry-picking is often employed in political discourse and media, where it is used to shape narratives in favor of a particular agenda or individual. Several studies have explored the effects of cherry-picking on decision-making and public opinion. For instance, a study by Tversky and Kahneman (1974) highlighted how selective reasoning can lead to flawed judgments, particularly in complex political scenarios. In the context of the recent post by the House of Representatives, critics argue that it represents an example of cherry-picking.

According to various opinions circulating online, there is a growing call for the government to focus on pressing economic concerns, particularly rising inflation and the administration’s multi-trillion-peso debt. Critics also pointed to the recent release of funds by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), allegedly intended for ‘ayuda’ to the poor—an initiative that many have dismissed as mere political dole-outs.

The Philippine Star reported on April 29 of this year: The country’s budget deficit widened 76% to reach P479 billion in the first quarter as the expansion of state expenditures outpaced revenue collection. Government spending jumped 22% to P1.48 trillion with revenue only inched up 7% to P998.2 billion.

The disparity highlights the government's continued reliance on aggressive expenditure amid modest revenue growth, raising concerns about long-term fiscal sustainability.

Indeed, there is a pressing need for strong and accountable leadership at all levels of government—one that goes beyond mere sugar-coating or cherry-picking of data, and instead confronts issues with transparency and integrity.

The Goliaths Among the Davids

 

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An abog makapuling.

Cristina Chi of the Philippine Star reported: The school principal at the center of a controversial graduation ceremony in Antique has been removed from their position, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed on Friday, April 25 of this year.

"Due to the directive from the President, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara acted immediately, and the said teacher has been removed as principal from the school," Castro said in mixed English and Filipino at a press conference.

DepEd told Philstar.com in a message that the school principal has been reassigned to the school division office pending a probe.

It has been noted that the principal in question has received concerns from learners, teachers, and stakeholders at various assignments. These recurring issues may suggest areas for growth in her interpersonal approach and leadership style. Feedback of this nature can often serve as a valuable opportunity for reflection and personal development.

However, some individuals struggle to acknowledge their own mistakes. Instead, they may deflect responsibility onto others to preserve their self-image.

The recurring complaints from learners, teachers, and stakeholders regarding the principal in Antique suggest the presence of a behavioral pattern that could involve blame-shifting. This defensive mechanism, often linked to emotional dysregulation, may be indicative of deeper psychological dynamics, such as those seen in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

BPD is a complex mental health condition marked by pervasive instability in emotional regulation, impulse control, self-image, and interpersonal relationships (American Psychiatric Association, 2024). Individuals with BPD may struggle with intense emotional reactions and a profound fear of abandonment, which can lead to unstable relationships and difficulties in both personal and professional spheres.

In the context of the principal's behavior, this might manifest as a tendency to externalize responsibility for challenges, rather than engaging in self-reflection about her role in the issues. Such patterns, while understandable in certain emotional contexts, can impede growth and prevent constructive resolution of underlying concerns. Acknowledging these dynamics is essential in creating an environment where accountability is prioritized, and meaningful change can occur.

Deflection is another common issue, where individuals often fail to recognize that their actions are driven by a need to protect their egos, even when their mistakes are glaringly apparent. This defense mechanism can prevent them from taking responsibility, hindering personal growth and self-awareness.

Some individuals in leadership positions exhibit this behavior, which can gradually erode trust within the team, negatively impact productivity, and ultimately foster an atmosphere of contempt.

But what happens if another team member is dealing with a more severe clinical condition than the individual at fault?

That’s why it’s wise to pause and reflect—we never truly know the depths of the people around us. In trying to navigate our own struggles, we might overlook the presence of someone whose intentions or instability run deeper and darker than our own.

Even in a world ruled by Goliaths, the presence of Davids reminds us that strength is not always loud, and true power often lies in quiet conviction and unexpected courage.

Rigid but Shattered

 

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Basta lagi may kuyang, bisan hain mamawi.

Ian Laqui of the Philippine Star reported: On April 15, 2025 during end-of-school-year rites at Colonel Ruperto Abellon National School in Laua-an, Antique, videos circulating online show the principal instructing students to remove their togas, stating it was not the prescribed attire and directing them to wear only their school uniform and handwoven sash. The principal also told class advisers to note the names of students who did not comply.

The move has drawn mixed reactions from netizens and local stakeholders, with some supporting the promotion of local culture and uniformity, while others have criticized the last-minute enforcement and public embarrassment it may have caused to the students.

In a statement, the Department of Education (DepEd) said its policies do not prohibit the wearing of togas at graduation or moving-up ceremonies: “There is no prohibition under DepEd Memorandum No. 27, s. 2025 and under DepEd Order No. 009, s. 2023. The prescribed attire for graduation and moving-up ceremonies includes casual or formal wear or the school uniform. The toga or sablay may be worn as an optional supplementary garment," the department said.

What was particularly unsettling was the principal’s repeated invocation of “authority” in response to students who voiced their dismay after being publicly humiliated—an act that appeared less about discipline and more about asserting control. The incident has been seen by some as a clear example of power-tripping, where leadership crosses the line into authoritarianism, prioritizing personal dominance over empathy and student dignity.

There was a manifestation of rigid adherence to rules and procedures, preoccupation with order, control, and perfectionism, even at the expense of flexibility or empathy. The principal’s insistence on a specific dress code and penalizing non-compliance publicly may reflect an underlying need for strict order and uniformity, common in individuals with OCPD (Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder) traits.

Also, authoritarian personality traits are characterized by a strong emphasis on obedience to authority, and an intolerance of dissent or perceived deviance from established norms. Individuals with these traits often exhibit a black-and-white view of the world, valuing conformity and hierarchical structures over empathy and individual expression.

In leadership roles, this can manifest as overly controlling behavior, punitive responses to noncompliance, and a tendency to assert dominance to maintain order or respect. While not classified as a mental disorder, the authoritarian personality has been studied extensively in social psychology, particularly in contexts where power dynamics and social control are at play. Such traits, when left unchecked, can lead to environments of fear and repression, especially in institutions like schools, where authority figures wield considerable influence over vulnerable populations.

Research suggests that authoritarianism can stem from early childhood experiences, particularly authoritarian parenting styles that emphasize strict obedience and conformity while discouraging independent thought (Altemeyer, 1996). Additionally, societal and cultural factors, such as exposure to social instability or perceived threats, can heighten authoritarian tendencies, as individuals seek security through rigid structures and hierarchical control (Osborne, Costello, Duckitt, & Sibley, 2023).

These personalities can have a chilling effect in schools and organizations, fostering an atmosphere of oppression rather than inspiration.

 

Obsessed with the Self

 

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Nakalaong na sakto pa an lihok.

Some individuals are often perceived as merely selfish, believing their own rules should govern the world. However, their apparent inability to empathize with those they hurt emotionally may stem not from malice, but from an underlying mental disorder.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a deep need for admiration, and a lack of genuine empathy for others. People with NPD often come across as arrogant or entitled, and they may manipulate or dismiss others to protect their fragile self-image.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) affects approximately 0.8% to 6.2% of the global population. Studies have found a lifetime prevalence of 6.2%, with 7.7% in men and 4.8% in women (narcissisticman.com, 2024).

Beneath the fearsome façade lies a lonely, vulnerable child, quietly aching for connection. The display of authority is often just a fragile mask, carefully constructed to conceal deep-rooted insecurities.

The inflated sense of authority and entitlement typically seen in narcissistic individuals serves as a psychological shield, masking feelings of inadequacy, shame, and loneliness (Millon, 2011). According to Kohut’s self-psychology theory, the narcissistic personality develops as a result of disruptions in early self-object relationships, leaving the person emotionally stunted and longing for validation through external admiration (Kohut, 1977).

The apparent lack of empathy and need for control can be seen not simply as manipulation, but as a maladaptive coping strategy to protect a fragile sense of self.

Is this some form of insanity?

Clinically, the actual terms to be used are psychosis, delusions, or loss of reality testing instead of insanity since the latter is more of a legal term used to determine whether a person can be held responsible for their actions in court.

However, individuals with NPD can experience what is known as a "narcissistic collapse" - a breakdown of their usual defenses, often triggered by a major blow to their self-image (like public humiliation, failure, or rejection). During this time, they may experience intense depression, paranoia, rage, or even brief psychotic episodes, such as delusional thinking or dissociation (Ronningstam, 2005).

Emotional outbursts during a narcissistic collapse can be manifestations of brief psychotic episodes, reflecting a temporary break from reality driven by overwhelming stress and fragile self-esteem.

Is this harmful not just to the person but to others?

These outbursts can escalate into impulsive or retaliatory actions aimed at regaining control, which may lead to emotional abuse or coercive manipulation (Kernberg, 2016). While the collapse itself is rooted in profound psychological distress, the harm caused by such episodes can have lasting effects on the emotional well-being of partners, coworkers, and others who are exposed to the individual’s erratic behavior. This highlights the need for effective therapeutic intervention to address the underlying vulnerabilities and prevent interpersonal damage (Millon, 2011).

Given that denial is a pervasive defense mechanism among individuals with certain mental health conditions, the best we can do is protect ourselves from their harmful behaviors while striving to understand the complexities of their situation.

But when we are hurt too much, we understand how to defend ourselves right? We can even send them to the mental institution by simply doing the things they abhor!

The Enemy Within

 

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Basin siway na baja an pangisip.

In June 2018, Republic Act 11036, or the Mental Health Act was signed into law. Apart from aiming to eliminate the stigma attached to mental health issues, RA 11036 seeks to promote mental health care in workplaces, schools and at the community level.

When observing closely, one can easily detect the growing prevalence of mental health disorders among adults, whether in social spaces, the workplace, or even across social media platforms. This increasing visibility is a direct reflection of how these issues are becoming more apparent, as various platforms now provide outlets for discussion and awareness. With greater exposure and a shift toward more open dialogue, society is beginning to recognize and acknowledge the widespread impact of these illnesses.

Among adults, childhood deprivation, including experiences such as neglect, poverty, and maltreatment, is strongly linked to a higher risk of developing various mental health disorders. Studies show that adults who experienced significant early adversity are more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), and personality disorders.

Research indicates that these individuals have a notably higher prevalence of mental disorders compared to the general adult population. For instance, a pooled prevalence rate of 30% for any mental disorder has been observed among adults with a history of out-of-home care, compared to 18% in the general population (PMC, 2022).

Unaddressed mental illness can profoundly impact an individual’s social relationships. The negative effects can ripple outward, influencing not only the individual but also their colleagues, family members, and broader social networks. Unresolved mental health challenges can undermine effective communication, decision-making, and emotional intelligence, leading to diminished trust and morale.

Is it possible for people with mental health issues to be unaware of their condition?

Many of them may not recognize the signs or symptoms of mental illness, especially if they develop gradually or are not immediately disruptive. In some cases, individuals may normalize their experiences, such as feeling anxious or low, and attribute them to external factors like stress or fatigue, rather than seeing them as part of a mental health condition.

Stigma surrounding mental illness can prevent individuals from acknowledging their symptoms, leading them to ignore or dismiss the need for professional help (Williams, 2018). Lack of awareness or education about mental health issues, coupled with limited access to resources, can make it difficult for individuals to recognize the need for treatment, further delaying their ability to seek assistance (Johnson & Lee, 2021).

In today's fast-paced, high-pressure world, many individuals find their mental health adversely affected by the constant demands and stressors of modern life.

There are also individuals who struggle to differentiate between whether someone is genuinely experiencing mental illness or simply behaving in a way they perceive as right or appropriate. This uncertainty can create confusion and emotional distress, as they may question their own perceptions or actions. In some cases, they even place the blame on themselves, feeling responsible for the person’s behavior, even when the individual is clearly manifesting symptoms of a mental health condition.

Indeed, mental health advocacy must be widespread and continuous to foster a healthier, more resilient society. By integrating mental health awareness into everyday conversations, educational systems, and workplaces, we can reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help when needed. A pervasive mental health advocacy campaign ensures that people not only understand the importance of mental well-being but also feel empowered to prioritize it.

This cultural shift toward acceptance and support can lead to a more compassionate society, where mental health is treated with the same level of care and importance as physical health, ultimately creating a more balanced and thriving community.

When the Mind Becomes Critical

 

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Pusilon deretso?

Dominique Nicole Flores of the Philippine Star reported: One of the three victims in the Antipolo road rage altercation-turned-shooting died a day after the incident, city police chief Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Manongdo confirmed on Monday, March 31, 2025.

The road rage incident occurred around 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, of this year when 28-year-old suspect, known by the alias “Kenneth,” was seen in multiple videos circulating online pulling out a gun after a fistfight.

Netizens quickly directed their anger towards the riders involved, while others who were outraged by the shooting condemned the shooter for resorting to such extreme measures, especially given that he also wounded his own wife. However, some individuals shifted their perspective after seeing the earlier part of the video, which also went viral on social media, leading to a shift in public opinion.

This raises an important question: Why are some people so deeply invested in social media posts? Can their judgment be swayed by what they see without taking the time to fact-check? And if so, what are the potential consequences of adopting this kind of mindset?

Several studies have explored the impact of social media on judgment and decision-making. For instance, Fogg et al. (2003) highlighted how easily users are influenced by online content, often without verifying its accuracy. This phenomenon is further discussed by Pennycook and Rand (2018), who found that individuals are more likely to believe misinformation on social media if it aligns with their pre-existing beliefs, especially when fact-checking is not prioritized.

Are their judgments and opinions influenced by their ability to engage in critical thinking?

Critical thinking allows people to assess information more thoroughly, question assumptions, evaluate evidence, and consider alternative perspectives. When individuals lack strong critical thinking skills, they may be more susceptible to biases, emotional reactions, and misinformation, which can distort their judgment. On the other hand, those who actively apply critical thinking are more likely to make informed decisions and form well-reasoned opinions, as they are better equipped to filter out unreliable or misleading information.

Amid the challenges educators face in fostering critical thinking in the classroom, they are confronted with a significant threat: the social environment itself often lacks these skills. At home, where many parents treat their mobile phones as extensions of their lives, critical thinking may take a backseat. With constant exposure to quick, hasty judgments and misinformation online, parents may inadvertently model poor decision-making for their children. In such an environment, attempting to cultivate critical thinking skills in learners may feel like a futile effort, as the foundation for these skills is often absent at home.

Videos of road rage and other violent content will keep circulating, drawing in viewers who are constantly exposed to them. Over time, this endless stream of disturbing material can numb people, making them less sensitive to the impact of what they’re seeing. Instead of sparking thoughtful reflection, these videos can desensitize audiences, normalizing harmful behavior and dulling their ability to critically engage with the world around them.