SONA 2022: A progress report

by Idan Francis L. Ruiz

cultural sector, which he described as the backbone of the country’s economy. He vowed to increase funding for agricultural research and development and provide more support to farmers and fishermen.

Infrastructure development was another key issue in the President’s SONA. He cited several ongoing infrastructure projects and announced new ones, including the construction of a new international airport in Bulacan and a high-speed rail system that will connect Manila to Clark.

The President also spoke about the need to protect the environment and combat climate change. He

[Wisdom Words] called for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the promotion of renewable energy sources.

President Marcos ended his SONA by calling for unity and cooperation in achieving the country’s goals. He expressed his commitment to serve the people and work towards a better future for all Filipinos.

The President’s SONA was generally well-received and appreciated by lawmakers and the public.

Many praised the administration’s efforts to address the challenges facing the country, while others expressed concerns about certain issues that were not adequately addressed in the speech.

[on point]

Caught in the Homework Trap: How the Philippines’ Education System is Failing its Students

by Mikhaella Nicole M. Cabradilla

Thedebate on homework has been raging on in the Philippines, with parents, students, and educators all weighing in. While some argue that homework helps students develop important skills such as time management and self-discipline, others believe it is a burden that can lead to stress and burnout. There needs to be a balanced approach to homework, one that takes into consideration the individual needs and circumstances of students.

Homework is an essential part of the education process. It allows students to practice and apply what they have learned in class, reinforces important concepts, and prepares them for exams. According to a study conducted by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, students who regularly do homework tend to perform better academically than those who do not.

a quiet study space or a computer with internet access.

Moreover, some experts such as schools and educatots, argue that the traditional model of homework may not be effective for all students. Different learning styles and individual circumstances require a more personalized approach to homework, with a focus on quality rather than quantity.

The homework dilemma in the Philippines is a complex issue that requires a nuanced approach. While homework can be beneficial for academic success and personal development, it can also be a source of stress and inequality. Therefore, it is important for educators to strike a balance between homework and other aspects of a student’s life, and to consider individual needs and circumstances.

Law: A Heavy Load on the Poor’s Shoulders

The passage of the Republic Act No. 10963 or the “Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law” in 2017 has been a contentious issue since its implementation. While the government hailed it as a significant reform that would bring in more revenue and help the poor, many Filipinos are feeling the opposite, especially the impoverished sectors. The TRAIN Law has been a burden to the poor, and it’s time for the government to address the issue.

The TRAIN Law has several provisions that have impacted the poor disproportionately. One of the most significant impacts of the law is the increase in excise taxes on fuel, which has led to a surge in prices of goods and services. The increase in prices has affected the poor the most, as they spend a significant portion of their income on transportation and basic commodities.

The law also raised the excise tax on sugar-sweetened bev erages, which also affects the poor

The Philippines has been em broiled in a bloody drug war since 2016, with thousands of deaths at tributed to the government’s aggres sive anti-drug campaign. The issue has sparked intense debate both na tionally and internationally, with some lauding the government’s efforts while others criticize the tactics used. As a journalist, it is difficult to remain neutral on such a polarizing topic. However, after careful consideration of the facts, it is clear that the drug war in the Philippines has done more harm than good.

The government’s drug war has been characterized by extrajudicial killings, vigilante violence, and a disregard for due process. According to human rights organizations, as many as 27,000 people have been killed in the campaign since its inception in 2016. While the government claims that these deaths are the result of legitimate police operations, there is evidence to suggest that many of these killings were carried out by vigilantes or death squads operating with the tacit approval of the government.

The drug war has been largely ineffective in curbing drug use and trafficking. Despite the high death toll, drug use in the Philippines has remained relatively unchanged

Train

by Sanjaya Mari E. Matutes

as they rely on cheap, sugary drinks to quench their thirst. The increase in the cost of these beverages has made it difficult for them to maintain a balanced diet, leading to health issues.

Moreover, the filipinos have not benefited from the TRAIN Law’s income tax exemption as they are already exempted from paying income tax.

Therefore, the supposed benefits of the law did not trickle down to the poor.

The government has argued that the revenue generated from the TRAIN Law would be used to fund infrastructure and social programs to benefit the poor. However, these programs have yet to make a significant impact on their lives. Also, the revenue generated from the law could be offset by the loss of income from the informal sector, which employs a significant number of people who are below the poverty line.

Moreover, the government’s push for the TRAIN Law was based on the promise that it would offset the revenue loss from the tax exemption of the rich. However, it seems that the poor are the ones bearing the brunt of the law’s impact, and the rich continue to enjoy their tax exemption.

The TRAIN Law has been a burden to the poor. Its implementation has led to an increase in the cost of living, affecting the poor disproportionately. While the law has generated revenue for the government, it has failed to deliver on its promise to help the poor.

The government should consider reviewing the TRAIN Law and its impact on the poor. They should consider implementing measures to mitigate its effects on the poor, such as targeted subsidies and social pro grams. They should also look into ad dressing the tax exemption of the rich to ensure that everyone contributes to the country’s development.

They should prioritize the welfare of the poor and ensure that their policies do not further burden the marginalized sectors of society. It’s time to look beyond the revenue generated by the law and focus on creating policies that would uplift the lives of the Filipino people and the entire country as a whole.

[Paradigm shift]

Philippines’ War on Drugs: A Controversial Campaign of Violence and Victimization

by Jan Carl S. Branzuela

since the start of the campaign. In fact, there is evidence to suggest that drug lords and traffickers have simply shifted their operations to other parts of the country in response to the government’s crackdown.

Supporters such as filipino citizens that are overwhelmingly satisfied on the war on drugs, argue that the high death toll is a necessary sacrifice in the fight against drugs. They claim that drug use and trafficking are serious problems in the Philippines that require drastic measures to address. Furthermore, they point to the decline in crime rates since the start of the campaign as evidence of its effectiveness.

While it is true that crime rates have decreased in some areas, it is difficult to attribute this solely to the drug war. Additionally, the cost of the campaign in terms of human life and civil liberties is simply too high to justify its continuation.

The drug war in the Philippines has been a disastrous failure. Its high death toll, disregard for due process, and lack of effectiveness in curbing drug use and trafficking are all cause for concern. The government must reconsider its approach to the drug problem in the country and adopt a more humane and effective strategy.

Rather than relying on violence and extrajudicial killings, the government should invest in drug treatment programs, education campaigns, and community outreach initiatives. By addressing the root causes of drug use and trafficking, the government can achieve longterm, sustainable progress in the fight against drugs. It is time for the Philippines to abandon the failed policies of the past and embrace a more enlightened approach to this complex issue.

Homework teaches students important life skills such as time management and self-discipline, both of which are crucial in today’s fastpaced world. By managing their time effectively, students can balance their academic workload with extracurricular activities, family obligations, and socializing with friends.

However, there are also valid concerns about the negative impact of homework. Too much homework can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout, especially for students who have to juggle multiple responsibilities outside of school. Additionally, some students may not have access to the resources or support they need to complete their homework, such as

One potential solution is to adopt a more personalized approach to homework, with a focus on quality rather than quantity. This could involve assigning homework that is tailored to each student’s learning style and interests, and providing support and resources to ensure they are able to complete it successfully. Additionally, educators could consider alternative forms of assessment that do not rely solely on homework, such as projects, presentations, and class participation.

[straight forward]

SOGIE: Another Anecdote of Delusion

TheSOGIE Bill, also known as Bill No. 4892, has been a contentious issue in the Philippines for years. It seeks to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression (SOGIE). The bill has been hotly debated, with both supporters and opponents fiercely defending their positions. As a journalist, it is essential to delve into the facts and arguments of both sides to provide an informed analysis of the bill.

Proponents of the SOGIE Bill, such as the 11th Congress of the Philippines in 2000 by then-Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, argue that it is a necessary step towards ensuring equal rights for all citizens regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community is prevalent in many areas, including the workplace, education, and healthcare. The bill aims to address this issue by providing legal protection against discrimination, harassment, and violence.

Furthermore, the bill promotes respect for human rights and dignity, as enshrined in the Philippine Constitution. It also aligns with international standards, such as the Yogyakarta Principles, which call for the recognition and protection of the rights of LGBTQ+ persons.

Opponents of the SOGIE Bill argue that it is a threat to traditional Filipino values and religious beliefs. They claim that the bill promotes immorality and goes against the teachings of the Catholic Church,

by Froilan Carbero

This scenario requires a thoughtful and inclusive approach. By balancing the benefits and drawbacks of homework and considering individual circumstances, educators can create a more equitable and effective learning environment for all students. which has a significant influence in the country. Some also fear that the bill could lead to the normalization of same-sex marriage, which is illegal in the Philippines.

However, these arguments are based on unfounded fears and misconceptions. The SOGIE Bill does not promote any particular lifestyle or belief system. It simply seeks to ensure that all citizens are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Moreover, it does not legalize same-sex marriage, as this is a separate issue that requires a separate legislative process.

The SOGIE Bill is a crucial step towards ensuring equal rights for all citizens in the Philippines. Discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community is a prevalent issue that needs to be addressed. The bill aligns with international standards and promotes respect for human rights and dignity. Opponents of the bill are often driven by unfounded fears and misconceptions.

It is essential to advocate for a society that respects and value the inclusivity and diversity of its citizens. The passage of the SOGIE Bill would be a significant step towards achieving this goal. It is imperative that legislators carefully consider the facts and arguments presented and pass the bill into law.

In doing so, the Philippines can lead the way in promoting equality and respect for all its citizens, regardless of their SOGIE.