People First

 

                                               (image: youtube.com)

Di dapat magliaw liaw.

Scientific management calls for proactive action in the face of challenges. A manager must anticipate possibilities, explore options, and implement measures that mitigate risks while keeping the greater good of the people in focus. This is not merely a concept, but a disciplined mindset grounded in sound judgment and practical wisdom. Accountability ultimately rests with the leader, whose responsibility is to guide the group or institution toward meaningful and improved outcomes.

The oil crisis, intensified by conflict in the Middle East, underscores the urgent need for swift and decisive responses to protect those most affected. Jeepney, tricycle, and bus drivers voice daily struggles to survive, while social media shares stories of riders who pawn basic belongings just to reach home. These are stark reminders of the human cost when plans are delayed and concern remains superficial.

Recent research shows that effective crisis leadership requires leaders who not only respond quickly but also foster organizational resilience by motivating others and aligning them toward shared goals (Chiwisa, 2024). Transformational leadership, in particular, has been shown to build resilience by encouraging innovation, shared vision, and psychological capital among followers during crises (Njaramba & Olukuru, 2025). In turn, these leadership behaviors strengthen an organization’s ability to withstand and adapt to disruption (Sun et al., 2021).

The president and other political leaders must act in unison, focusing on the common good. They must set aside personal and political interests and address pressing issues with clarity and purpose. In doing so, they return to the reason they sought public office—not for power or position, but to serve the people with integrity, responsibility, and genuine commitment.

Ultimately, leadership reveals its true measure in the courage to place the welfare of the people above all else.

Mandatum

 

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Kun unoy jaon sa isip, amo sab sa lihok…

In the well-known book The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman, the April 1 entry reflects on “The Color of Thoughts.” Drawing from Marcus Aurelius, who observed that the mind takes the shape of what it frequently contemplates, as the human spirit is colored by such impressions, the authors emphasize a quiet yet profound truth: when one dwells persistently on negativity, the world itself begins to appear through that same darkened lens.

A psychologist can discern the emerging patterns of a distracted mind shaped by prolonged exposure to online content. From this constant immersion, the subtle onset of what is often termed “brain rot” may be inferred, revealing how social media addiction gradually erodes focus, depth, and clarity of thought. The effects on attention and cognition parallel the way repeated negative thought can distort one’s perception of reality, highlighting the mind’s vulnerability to habitual input.

Similarly, the spirit gradually becomes jaded when it is deprived of constant nourishment. Even when one believes in the strength of one’s spirituality, a lack of sustained input can quietly diminish its vitality, leaving the soul dry and restless. Intentional acts of devotion, such as participating in Eucharistic celebrations and engaging in church services, become essential for restoring depth, renewing faith, and sustaining spiritual health.

Then, the teaching of Maundy Thursday, where “maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning “commandment,” referring to Christ’s call to love and serve one another, would fail to take root if such lessons are not consistently lived in daily life. This reinforces the connection between reflection, practice, and transformation: knowledge or belief alone is insufficient without deliberate action.

Aurelius (2002) further reflects that the mind is shaped by the thoughts it repeatedly entertains, highlighting the inner discipline required to sustain clarity and virtue. He implies that unchecked impressions gradually influence one’s character and outlook on life. This perspective affirms the need for conscious reflection and deliberate cultivation of thoughts to preserve both mental and spiritual integrity.

Let the “washing of the feet” remain ever present in our midst and in our thoughts, so that love, respect, and humanity may flourish not only in the mind, but more meaningfully in the lived realities of our daily lives. By actively embodying these principles, reflection and practice converge, transforming insight into action and thought into tangible goodness.

Unlimited Pansit

 

Bihon, canton o bam-i?

There is a joke, now a meme, circulating across social media about teachers and noodles. At first glance, it may seem like much ado about nothing, an overreaction to a passing remark. Yet the statement gains weight when one considers that it came from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself. In a gathering of educators, he remarked that teachers are the ones who can cook pansit, noodles, in massive quantities to accommodate guests, even suggesting that this is a uniquely Filipino practice.

What might have been intended as a light or appreciative comment instead sparked a deeper conversation. Beneath the humor lies a familiar reality, teachers are often expected to take on roles far beyond instruction, extending into hospitality and logistical support. The meme, then, is not merely about noodles, it reflects how casually these expectations are articulated and how deeply they are ingrained in the educational culture.

This week marks the culmination of the school year rites, and teachers find themselves immersed in a whirlwind of preparations, organizing ceremonies, decorating halls, checking forms, and printing programs and certificates, among many other tasks. While these responsibilities are undeniably demanding, they are embraced with quiet commitment, as teachers understand that their roles extend beyond instruction. In these moments, they become exemplars of discipline, resilience, and teamwork, ensuring that each milestone is celebrated with dignity and meaning.

Amid the pressure, however, there are realities that weigh heavily. Some school leaders remain distant, delegating tasks without sharing in the labor, leaving teachers to shoulder more than their fair share. Yet, despite the strain and the occasional imbalance in leadership, teachers persist. They carry on not out of obligation alone, but out of a deep sense of purpose for their learners, sustaining the spirit of the occasion even when the burden grows heavy.

Framing teachers as cooks of noodles risks normalizing a diminished view of their role, where non-teaching tasks are seen as inherent rather than incidental. Because language shapes perception, such portrayals can subtly undermine the recognition of teachers as professionals central to nation-building. Leaders, therefore, must communicate in ways that elevate and affirm teachers’ true value, as educators and mentors whose work extends far beyond the margins of such casual imagery.

Leadership is exercised not only through decisions, but also through language, as the words leaders choose significantly shape how individuals perceive their roles and worth. Empowering language fosters motivation, professional dignity, and a shared sense of purpose, while diminishing expressions can unintentionally devalue contributions and weaken engagement. This underscores the responsibility of leaders to communicate with intention, using words that affirm, inspire, and elevate those they lead (Cecchi-Dimeglio, 2023).

In the end, reducing teachers to cooks of noodles may seem humorous, but the words leaders choose carry weight, they can either diminish their role or recognize them as the true architects of the nation’s future.

Silent Anxiety

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Normal pa?

With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the surge in global oil prices, Filipinos are beginning to feel the strain as the cost of basic commodities rises and the peso slips to historic lows. Amid these mounting pressures, however, the president, in a recent press release, maintained that the situation remains under control.

Some view this as a deliberate effort to prevent hoarding and curb panic buying. Others, however, raise concern, criticizing the statement for appearing to mislead the public. They argue that honest and transparent forecasts should be communicated only after thorough and strategic planning has been undertaken with the palace’s think tanks.

In Nudge, Thaler and Sunstein (2008) explain how government messaging can significantly shape public behavior, particularly during periods of uncertainty. Carefully framed communication can help prevent panic responses such as hoarding, but it also carries the responsibility of maintaining transparency and trust. When official statements appear overly reassuring without clear grounding in observable realities, they risk eroding public confidence. Effective governance, therefore, lies in striking a balance between guiding behavior and providing honest, evidence-based information.

A quiet but growing unease settles among ordinary people as the conflict in the Middle East persists and oil prices continue their steady climb. Beneath daily routines, apprehension lingers, with thoughts of uncertainty and vulnerability surfacing in moments of stillness. In response, many turn to resilience, holding on to hope as a way to cope with forces beyond their control. Yet hope alone cannot suffice; it must be reinforced by reassurance grounded in concrete planning and decisive action, serving as a shield against the weight of fear.

Both local and national leaders must adopt proactive strategies that place the public at ease, ensuring that concrete actions are matched with clear and credible assurances. Press briefings should not merely inform but convey truth and transparency, dispelling fear rather than deepening uncertainty. In doing so, the government builds not only confidence but also a psychological safety net that steadies the public’s mindset amid unfolding challenges.

“Everything is normal” may soothe the surface, but beneath it, people seek something deeper, a truth they can hold on to, and a leadership they can trust when normal no longer feels certain. 

Snuff Film

 

Tag-ihaw man kuno.

There is a photo of an old house currently circulating on social media, allegedly labeled as a “murder” or “slaughter house.” In the comment threads, users claim that a gruesome video was filmed inside, supposedly depicting the killing of a human being. Discussions often dwell on graphic details meant to provoke curiosity and shock. Eventually, the posts end with the familiar and unsettling tagline: “PM if interested.”

The discussions tend to heighten curiosity rather than deter it. Some commenters claim they could not even endure watching the video, yet such warnings often make others more eager to see it. Paradoxically, the very remarks meant to repel viewers end up drawing them in, until curiosity compels many to expose themselves to whatever gruesome scenes the video may contain.

A snuff film refers to a purported video in which a real killing is recorded and distributed for shock, entertainment, or profit. Unlike staged scenes in movies, where actors portray victims, a snuff film allegedly depicts an actual homicide captured on camera.

Exposure to materials such as snuff films is considered psychologically harmful because they depict extreme, real-life violence in ways that can desensitize viewers, distort empathy, and normalize cruelty. Research shows that repeated exposure to graphic violence can reduce emotional responsiveness to others’ suffering and increase aggressive thoughts and attitudes.

Witnessing real or hyper-realistic brutality can also trigger anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and moral distress. As Bushman and Anderson (2009) note, exposure to violent media can affect emotional and cognitive processes by dulling empathy and making aggressive responses seem more acceptable, particularly when violence is repeatedly consumed as spectacle.

Social media platforms are increasingly becoming dangerous spaces rather than safe, genuinely social environments. In the wake of this viral post, even minors have begun discussing the alleged gore they claim to have seen. Meanwhile, private messages and group chats continue to buzz with descriptions of the disturbing content, allowing the gruesome narrative to spread far beyond the original post.

What begins as a viral post ultimately reveals a darker truth: that in the age of endless scrolling, even horror can become a form of entertainment.

Inner Heat

 

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Namaso an ija kalawasan!

Quezon City Rep. Jesus Manuel 'Bong' Suntay is facing a complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman accusing him of committing a “public crime” over his lewd remarks about actress and television host Anne Curtis during the impeachment proceedings at the House of Representatives, as reported by Dempsey Reyes of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

The complainants described the representative as misogynistic and alleged that his statement violated several laws, including Safe Spaces Act and its implementing rules and regulations.

During a House Committee on Justice hearing on March 3, 2026, Representative Suntay said:

“Alam niyo minsan, nasa Shangri-La ako, nakita ko si Anne Curtis, ang ganda-ganda pala niya. You know, may desire sa loob ko na, nag-init talaga, na-imagine ko na lang kung ano’ng pwedeng mangyari. Pero siyempre hanggang imagination na lang ’yon.”

The remark drew backlash from women’s groups, while several netizens expressed concern that a lawmaker appeared to trivialize conduct that could be construed as inappropriate or even unlawful. Others pointed out that such lewd remarks, delivered during a formal proceeding, set a troubling example for the youth and undermine the decorum expected of public officials.

Adding further irony to the situation is the fact that March is observed as National Women’s Month, a period when government offices are expected to highlight and promote the vital role of women in nation-building. In this context, the controversy appears even more discordant with the ideals of respect, dignity, and empowerment that the celebration seeks to uphold.

Lawmakers must therefore exercise great caution in their choice of words, as they remain constantly in the public eye. In an era where statements and actions are instantly recorded, broadcast, and circulated across social media platforms, public officials are expected to communicate and act with a heightened sense of responsibility, discretion, and respect.

This dynamic has long been recognized in political communication research. According to Pippa Norris (2000), the news media and expanding communication platforms significantly shape how citizens interpret political behavior and public discourse.

In the end, the issue extends beyond a single remark; it speaks to the standards society expects from those entrusted with public office. Words uttered in positions of power carry weight, shaping public discourse and influencing societal norms. At a time when the nation marks National Women’s Month, the responsibility of leaders to embody respect, prudence, and integrity becomes even more pronounced. Public office, after all, is not merely a platform for speech but a constant reminder that leadership is measured not only by authority, but by the discipline to speak with dignity and the wisdom to exercise restraint.

They Swim?

 

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Bas way ampak!

In an age when information is consumed through the rapid scrolling of cellphone screens, the eyes and mind encounter words and phrases at a pace that leaves little room for reflection. As a result, expressions meant to convey clear meaning may appear confusing, if not unintentionally amusing, when absorbed too quickly.

When prominent personalities, such as the president, speak, even casual remarks can quickly become national headlines, largely because of the news value attached to their prominence. For this reason, advisers and speechwriters must exercise great care in crafting public statements. It is equally important that leaders rehearse their remarks during press briefings to minimize misstatements and prevent unintended interpretations.

The importance of careful speech preparation is vividly illustrated in the film The King's Speech. The movie portrays how King George VI, with the guidance of speech therapist Lionel Logue, worked diligently to overcome his speech impediment in order to deliver a crucial wartime address to the British nation. Their efforts demonstrate how every word spoken by a national leader carries considerable weight and scrutiny. Much like contemporary leaders whose statements can instantly attract public attention, the king had to practice and refine his speech so that his message would inspire confidence rather than uncertainty among his listeners.

A recent example illustrates this dynamic. On March 3, 2026, a snippet image of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. from a press briefing about the escalating conflict in the Middle East involving the United States and Iran circulated widely on social media. The president intended to caution Filipinos in the region and emphasize the dangers of travel amid the hostilities. However, the caption accompanying the image read “Walang Lumilipad na Eroplano,” which some online loosely interpreted as “Airplanes don’t fly.” In context, the statement referred to suspended flights and the risks of air travel because airports were being attacked and no-fly zones had been imposed in the conflict area.

This example demonstrates how statements drawn from longer explanations can easily be misunderstood when presented in isolation. Although the message aimed to highlight the dangers of air travel in an active combat zone, the shortened phrasing, once turned into a social media caption, risked sounding confusing or unintentionally humorous to readers who lacked the full context of the briefing.

Communication research supports this observation. According to Ecker, Lewandowsky, Chang, and Pillai (2014), readers often rely heavily on headlines or brief excerpts when interpreting information, sometimes forming impressions before engaging with the full content of a message. In this case, the phrase “Walang Lumilipad na Eroplano,” circulated independently on social media, illustrates how a decontextualized statement can invite misinterpretation despite its serious intent of warning Filipinos about the dangers of air travel during conflict. This highlights the importance of clarity, context, and careful wording in public communication, particularly in today’s fast-paced digital environment.

In today’s fast-paced digital environment, even a single statement by a public leader can be widely scrutinized and interpreted in ways that were not intended. This underscores the value of clear, contextual communication, especially when messages must reach a large and diverse audience quickly.

Etymology

 

                                            (photo: News360 Media Network Inc.)

Tokhang!

In communication, it is important to examine the etymology of a word, particularly when it is borrowed from or derived from another language. Understanding a word’s origin helps clarify its meaning, context, and appropriate use within the communication process.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro recently stated that the term “tokhang” has come to be widely understood by many Filipinos as synonymous with “to kill.” However, her explanation did not fully clarify that the word originates from the Visayan expression “toktok hangyo,” which directly translates to “knock and request.” The term was used during the Duterte administration to describe police operations in which officers would visit suspected drug pushers or users, knock on their doors, and request that they cease involvement in the illegal drug trade and the use of prohibited substances. Over time, the term evolved in public discourse, acquiring connotations associated with stern warnings and intensified anti-drug enforcement measures.

Online reactions emerged criticizing what many described as the “misuse and misrepresentation” of the term. Several netizens emphasized that the Undersecretary should exercise precision in language, given her role in representing the President in communications with both the Filipino public and international media.

It should also be noted that there were reported instances in which individuals subjected to tokhang operations died, although responsibility was not conclusively established as originating from police personnel or from individuals associated with their alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade.

This discourse underscores the importance of language and etymology, particularly in interactions with the press. While much attention has been given to the proliferation of fake news and irresponsible social media posts, it is equally important for communicators to use clear and precise language. Ambiguous or inadequately explained terminology may create confusion among audiences who rely on accurate information.

Research indicates that word choice significantly influences how information is interpreted, understood, and acted upon. Phrasing can shape perception and decision-making regardless of the communication platform, and unclear language may lead to misunderstanding or unintended interpretations. This highlights the responsibility of communicators, especially public officials and media representatives, to employ contextually appropriate and precise language (Dvir et al., 2023).

Ultimately, public discourse demonstrates the importance of careful and accurate language use. Words carry historical, cultural, and contextual meanings that shape audience understanding. In communicating with the public and the media, clarity and precision in word choice are essential to minimize misunderstanding and promote informed, responsible dialogue.

Shukran

 

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Miduaw.

“Shukran,” the standard Arabic word for “thank you,” has become a familiar expression often used by Vice President Sara Duterte across her communication platforms, gradually emerging as one of her recognizable trademarks. Beyond this, she frequently incorporates various local dialects and languages when greeting audiences during her engagements, a gesture that conveys inclusivity and cultural sensitivity toward the country’s diverse communities.

Recently, she visited communities affected by Typhoon Basyang, personally reaching out to residents, speaking in their local dialect, and wearing simple, non-threatening attire that ordinary people could easily relate to. Her gestures reflected humility and solidarity, drawing people closer as she projected a genuine sense of connection with the community.

This discussion is not centered on the Vice President herself, but rather on the broader significance of representation. Some leaders are able to engage meaningfully with the masses because they possess an intuitive understanding of how to relate to the majority. If such connection is strategically cultivated, it becomes difficult to replicate for those who merely attempt to simulate solidarity with the poor and marginalized, as authenticity cannot be easily manufactured.

Authentic engagement fosters trust because individuals perceive shared identity and lived understanding, rather than performative association. Leaders who demonstrate cultural awareness and genuine proximity to people’s experiences are more likely to gain public confidence and sustained support (Pitkin, 1967).

Politicians must therefore prepare themselves by developing both strategic awareness and a deep understanding of public engagement. This underscores the importance of political science as an academic discipline, designed to equip individuals with the theoretical knowledge and practical insights necessary for navigating governance, public service, and the complex dynamics of people and their politics.

Whether the Vice President consciously studied and applied these approaches or whether they stem from her innate disposition, many people appear to resonate with her presence. There are detractors who view such gestures as superficial or politically motivated; yet the visible, unfiltered responses of ordinary citizens, particularly those who warmly embraced the country’s second-highest official, reveal a palpable connection.

As a practitioner of Stoicism, this writer approaches politics with detachment, focusing less on individual personalities and more on the broader implications for the common good. From this perspective, the role is simply to observe. The narratives are clear: some leaders demonstrate a genuine understanding of representation, whether motivated by personal gain or by a sincere commitment to the welfare of the people.

Ultimately, true leadership is measured not by titles or rhetoric, but by the authenticity of connection and the tangible impact of representation on the lives of the people, as reflected in both symbolic gestures and everyday interactions.

Renewed Rigor

 

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Inday unhon dakan!

EDCOM 2 has released its findings on the state of education in the Philippines, revealing alarmingly low learner proficiency. While approximately 30% of Grade 3 learners demonstrate adequate literacy and numeracy skills, proficiency declines sharply in higher grades, dropping to around 1.36% in Grade 10 and just 0.4% in Grade 12, or roughly four out of every 1,000 learners. The report identifies weak foundational skills and the practice of mass promotion, in which learners advance despite low mastery, as key contributors to this trend.

This situation raises questions about where implementation gaps occur. Discussions often focus on teachers and classroom practices, but systemic challenges extend beyond individual educators. School heads and other educational leaders also play a central role in ensuring that policies translate into effective learning experiences.

Research in the Philippines indicates that when school leaders engage in instructional leadership, including supervising instruction, mentoring teachers, and fostering professional growth, teachers report higher efficacy and improved classroom implementation, which in turn correlates with better student outcomes (Rodulfa, 2023).

Supervisory reports suggest that some school heads are increasingly preoccupied with administrative and financial management tasks, limiting their capacity to focus on curriculum delivery and instructional support.

Similarly, teachers facing insufficient guidance may adopt coping strategies that prioritize manageable tasks over pedagogical rigor. Over time, such practices can reduce instructional quality and weaken the learning environment. Learners may perceive this institutional laxity, sometimes turning to AI-generated outputs for assignments and assessments.

Addressing these challenges requires coordinated accountability across all levels of the education system. Teachers, school leaders, and other educational administrators must work collaboratively to implement policies consistently, maintain instructional rigor, and support continuous professional development. Without such efforts, low proficiency levels are likely to persist, further affecting student learning and outcomes.

Ultimately, improving learning outcomes is a shared responsibility. Sustained, focused, and evidence-based action from teachers, school heads, and educational leaders is essential for fostering an environment where teaching and learning thrive. When leadership and instructional practices are aligned, the system can move beyond coping strategies and mediocrity toward meaningful, measurable improvements in learner achievement.

Learning will only thrive where accountability, focus, and collaboration replace habit and neglect.

Humanizing AI

 

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Pati pagbati, AI na!

There was music playing that suddenly caught my attention: a cover of Sharon Cuneta’s “Bituing Walang Ningning.” It was sung so beautifully, so smoothly, like butter melting on warm skin. Curious, I searched for the source and discovered an entire trove of covered OPM songs. Each one was impeccable. The pitch, the phrasing, the musicality, almost disturbingly perfect.

Then it struck me: why the perfection?

That was the moment of realization. These songs were not performed by human voices but generated through Artificial Intelligence. And just like that, my senses were thrown into disarray. If music, once the most intimate expression of human emotion, can now be replicated with such precision, what does that mean for performance, for artistry, for authenticity?

Music is being quietly invaded by AI, and the unsettling question lingers: what’s next?

This unease is mirrored in education. There is a growing trend among universities and higher education institutions to administer examinations and assessments in oral form. This shift aims to assure professors that the ideas, insights, and reasoning being presented genuinely originate from the learners themselves rather than from AI-generated engines. By foregrounding spontaneous articulation, critical thinking, and real-time reasoning, oral assessments attempt to reclaim authenticity in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.

Of course, we appreciate AI. It relieves us of tedious tasks, and the very intention behind its invention, to make work easier and more efficient, is a gift in itself. However, when people begin to allow AI to think on their behalf, when learners merely type prompts to generate answers without engaging in understanding, reflection, and intellectual struggle, the narrative changes entirely. At that point, convenience risks replacing learning, and assistance quietly turns into dependency.

This concern is not merely personal but scholarly. While artificial intelligence offers significant support in streamlining academic tasks, researchers caution that its uncritical use may undermine deep learning and cognitive engagement. When learners rely excessively on AI-generated outputs, they risk bypassing essential processes such as critical thinking, synthesis, and conceptual understanding. Rather than serving as a scaffold for learning, AI may become a substitute for intellectual effort if not guided by pedagogical frameworks that foreground human agency, reflection, and ethical use (Kasneci et al., 2023).

Music, education, and even laboratory results are now being uploaded into AI engines for analysis and interpretation. While these technologies offer speed and efficiency, they also pose a quiet threat when dependence begins to replace discernment and judgment. This reality calls for a critical discourse that moves toward humanizing AI, where technology remains a tool guided by human ethics, intention, and responsibility. In the end, it must still be people who decide, question, and think, not the other way around.

The moment we stop thinking because machines can, we begin forgetting what it means to be human.

The Revenge Lens

 

Mag-isip nan halayom kay bas mosiway…

A vlogger has recently made waves on social media by comparing supervisors in the United States and the Philippines. While he clarified that not all supervisors engage in what he calls the “Visitation of Gods” in schools, many netizens resonated strongly with his observations. His critique, striking as it is, highlights a persistent conversation about leadership behavior and professional accountability.

Though such comparisons may seem inequitable given the many factors involved, some of the practices he noted still exist. At the same time, many supervisors are gradually shifting toward more work-focused visits and exercising greater discretion in their conduct, reflecting a broader cultural awareness. In today’s information age, public scrutiny and ethical consciousness are shaping expectations for professional behavior across institutions.

This discussion gains further depth when viewed through the lens of James Kimmel Jr.’s The Science of Revenge. Kimmel notes that roughly 20 percent of people who perceive themselves as deprived of something they believe they deserve go on to plan acts of revenge. Such behavior is not simply emotional or situational—it is driven by ingrained psychological and neurological mechanisms that reinforce retaliatory impulses. This framework explains why some individuals invest significant time and resources in actions like defaming others or undermining positions of authority: their behaviors are motivated by a desire for psychological relief or restored balance.

Leaders who harm those around them may, in theory, be predisposed to such behavior, shaped by unresolved experiences of injustice or deprivation in early life. In leadership contexts, power can become a tool for reenacting or compensating for these past wounds. Kimmel’s research further demonstrates that revenge operates like an addiction, engaging the brain’s reward system in ways similar to substance dependence. Crucially, however, this pattern is not irreversible. Through cognitive strategies, forgiveness practices, and supportive environments, individuals can mitigate revenge-driven impulses and cultivate healthier behaviors.

Viewed in this light, the vlogger’s critiques may stem from personal experiences of perceived injustice, subtly reflecting his own impulses for retribution. Yet, as Kimmel emphasizes, such impulses are treatable and can be transformed. Recognizing and managing them offers the opportunity to replace cycles of retaliation with constructive insight, empathy, and growth—both for individuals and the communities they serve.

Ultimately, The Science of Revenge reminds us that revenge is not an inevitable human trait but a modifiable process. When acknowledged and addressed, even the strongest impulses toward retaliation can become pathways for understanding, healing, and ethical leadership.

Erosion

 

Amoy tagalong na mawaya sa passing.

It was around four in the morning in the ship’s tourist accommodation when an elderly woman placed a call. Her voice rang loudly through the cabin as she spoke to the person on the other end of the line, seemingly unaware of the passengers still asleep around her. Moments later, her husband joined in, and together they issued repeated instructions to the unseen listener. One by one, nearby passengers were startled awake, the quiet of the early morning broken by their insistent voices.

In another instance, distinct yet thematically related, there is a woman in her prime who appears to carry an adolescent spirit within her. She invests heavily in gadgets for vlogging and often presents herself with the exuberance of a BTS-screaming fan. While such expression is not bound to age, it becomes concerning when performed at the expense of her responsibilities.

These moments raise an important question: how has technology shaped our manners, as well as the way we decide and perceive the world? Are such actions manifestations of unmet needs: long-held hungers that now surface through excessive gadget use, slowly clouding our values and sense of propriety?

Scholars have noted that the pervasive use of digital technology has reshaped social behavior, often blurring boundaries of appropriateness and attentiveness in shared spaces. Turkle (2011) argues that constant connectivity can diminish face-to-face sensitivity, as individuals become more absorbed in mediated interactions than in their immediate social environment. This immersion may serve as a compensatory response to unmet emotional or psychological needs, where technology becomes a conduit for validation and self-expression. Consequently, manners and value judgments risk being obscured, not by technology itself, but by how it is used to fill personal and social voids.

Once again, the discourse on self-assessment and self-awareness resurfaces. Individuals must critically examine whether the technology they use has begun to encroach upon the values and manners they are expected to embody in shared social spaces, including those within social media.

This reflective process is crucial because unchecked technology use can gradually recalibrate social norms, normalizing behaviors once considered intrusive or discourteous. Research indicates that habitual engagement with digital devices in public and interpersonal settings reduces situational awareness and empathy, as attention is continuously divided between the physical and virtual worlds (Misra et al., 2016). Without deliberate self-regulation, individuals risk allowing convenience, validation, or visibility afforded by technology to override the ethical and social standards that sustain respectful communal interaction.

This discourse may be aptly concluded with a telling incident: during the Liturgy of the Eucharist at Mass, a phone suddenly rang. The woman who received the call not only answered it but proceeded to engage in a video call, turning her phone’s camera toward the priest at the very moment he was venerating the Body of Christ, an act that starkly underscored how digital immediacy can eclipse reverence and communal awareness.

When technology begins to speak louder than conscience, reverence, and self-restraint, it is no longer merely a tool—it becomes a quiet erosion of who we are in shared human spaces.

Self Care

 

                                             (image: youtube.com)

Mag uno dakan man baja?

A routine classroom observation turned tragic on January 7 when a 58-year-old public high school teacher in Muntinlupa City collapsed before her students and later died in hospital, leaving the education community in shock and disbelief.

In the aftermath, some teachers and netizens expressed on social media that rated classroom observations should be abolished, arguing that they increase stress and anxiety. Many suggested that classroom observations should instead emphasize mentoring and coaching rather than numerical evaluation.

In response, the Department of Education clarified in its latest advisory that classroom observation should be conducted in a supportive and respectful manner. It emphasized that observations are no longer the sole basis for evaluating teacher performance and that policies are under review to ensure the process is collaborative and focused on instructional improvement rather than inducing stress.

Within the DepEd RPMS cycle, classroom observation is a vital part of performance monitoring. It allows school leaders to closely examine instructional practices, ensure alignment with curriculum standards, and safeguard the quality of teaching and learning in classrooms.

If both the teacher and the observer clearly understand its purpose: to uphold instructional quality and support effective teaching and learning, why should classroom observation be a source of anxiety?

Educational research shows that anxiety around classroom observation often stems from misperceptions of its purpose rather than the process itself. Studies indicate that when observations are framed as collaborative, transparent, and aligned with professional growth, teachers are more likely to perceive them as constructive and less threatening (Danielson, 2013; Goe, Bell, & Little, 2008).

Considering the recent incident, it might seem that the classroom observation process is being blamed for the teacher’s untimely death. However, other factors, such as the teacher’s existing health condition at the time of the observation, must also be considered. Research highlights that pre-existing conditions, such as cardiovascular issues, chronic fatigue, or stress-related illnesses, can increase physical vulnerability during routine tasks, including classroom observations (Kyriacou, 2001; Montgomery & Rupp, 2005). Attributing such tragedies solely to professional processes overlooks the complex interplay between personal health and work-related demands.

If routine professional tasks are constantly linked to such tragedies, there is a risk that teachers, and workers in other fields, might begin to fear essential aspects of their work. For instance, lesson planning, a fundamental responsibility of every teacher, could be unfairly seen as hazardous. If this perspective prevails, any routine duty inherent to a job might be perceived as potentially fatal, undermining both professional practice and rational assessment of workplace risks.

Ultimately, while the tragic passing of Teacher Agnes Buenaflor is a sobering reminder of life’s fragility, it should not overshadow the essential role of classroom observations in maintaining and enhancing educational quality. These observations are not mere formalities—they are crucial tools for nurturing effective teaching, fostering professional growth, and ensuring that every learner experiences meaningful and well-guided instruction.

Rather than casting routine educational practices as threats, the focus must remain on supporting teachers’ well-being, promoting collaborative learning, and upholding the standards that transform classrooms into spaces of excellence. In honoring her memory, the education community can reaffirm its commitment to both teacher welfare and the enduring pursuit of quality teaching and learning.

Blessed to Work Again

 

                                              (image: youtube.com)

Magtrabaho na sab ta!.

The first day of work for the new year is just around the corner, and social media is already filled with posts dreading its arrival. Many wish the vacation could stretch a little longer. Even some teachers share sentiments that make returning to work sound like something to mourn. Yet these expressions, harmless as they appear, can send mixed signals to younger people who look up to adults. After all, work is not merely a routine we endure; it is the source of our stability, livelihood, and often, our sense of purpose.

When a job feels stripped of meaning, it easily becomes a routine: just another set of tasks to get through. But when we see our work as purposeful, something connected to a larger picture, the ordinary shifts. Even the familiar becomes engaging, and the day-to-day carries a quiet sense of excitement.

What has become of us? Perhaps this is one result of living in a world shaped by instant gratification. With quick entertainment available at every pause, we’ve grown used to easing boredom with a simple scroll, chasing that brief dopamine lift from TikTok and other platforms. Research suggests that constant exposure to instant rewards, from online games to fast-paced digital content, may contribute to anxiety, restlessness, and difficulty sustaining focus among young people. Technology brings convenience, but it also reshapes the way we cope and find satisfaction.

Studies have found that problematic patterns of social media use are linked to higher levels of anxiety, depression, stress, and other psychosocial concerns (Keles, McCrae, & Grealish, 2020; Lin et al., 2016; Pantic, 2014). Similar effects surface in the use of short-form videos and online games, which have been associated with increased anxiety and depressive symptoms (Liu et al., 2025). These findings suggest that the instant-reward design of digital platforms plays a role in shaping mood and emotional well-being.

Could this growing weariness toward work stem, in part, from a lifestyle defined by constantly checking what others are doing online, where the “good life” seems to mean vacations, gaming, or the latest TikTok trend? It sometimes feels as if many of us are being quietly drawn into a culture where social media dictates what is normal or desirable, blurring the line between genuine rest and the pressure to imitate what we see on our screens.

We are sentient beings, capable of understanding our values and the purpose behind our education: so we can work, grow, and sustain ourselves. Wishing work away is like a plant trying to avoid the rain even as the soil beneath it dries. Work, much like the rain, is what keeps us grounded, nourished, and moving forward.

We are fortunate to have work that sustains us. Let us meet the days ahead not with dread, but with gratitude and renewed excitement.