PROFITS OVER PUBLIC GOOD: THE BUSINESS OF POLITICS IN THEPHILIPPINES

The Filipino political landscape is characterized by a complex interaction of dynamics of
power, social issues, and economic interests, which together create an environment in which the
public service often brings a seat for effort. The nation, with its distinct historical context of
colonialism and ongoing struggles with various forms of governance, presents a unique case for
the examination of political priorities.

Read more

The Inner Self-Lawyer in: The Unsolicited Ideas of the Masses

Filipinos are deeply interpretative by nature. With the rise of social media, opinions and judgments are formed in an instant—sometimes without considering the full context of an issue. This phenomenon creates an atmosphere where everyone feels like a lawyer, a judge, and even an executioner, interpreting events and controversies based on their own perspective. But what happens when these interpretations are based on partial truths or manipulated narratives?

Read more

The Resilient Filipino: Battered but Never Defeated

Filipinos have endured centuries of hardship, from Spanish colonization to the oppressive rule of other foreign powers. Despite these challenges, they never lost their identity or will to fight. The Philippine Revolution of 1896 stands as a testament to this resilience, as Filipinos, despite being outgunned and outnumbered, rose against colonial rule.

Read more

Wearing the Pastoral Robe: The Yoke of Christ and the Burden of Absolution

The pastoral robe is more than a garment; it is a symbol of a divine calling, a visible sign of an invisible grace. To wear it is to step into the footsteps of Christ, to take on His yoke, and to embrace the suffering that comes with it. The robe does not merely clothe the body—it binds the soul to a life of sacrifice, intercession, and absolution.

Read more

Why Do Liars Persist? The Enduring Success of Deception in Politics and Religion

Lies are as old as human civilization, yet they seem to thrive more than ever in politics, religion, and society. Why do liars persist and even succeed? Why do some people deceive so effortlessly, without hesitation or remorse? The answer lies in a mix of psychology, social structures, and human nature itself.

Read more

Respect Is Not an Alternative—It’s the Foundation of Healthy Social Development

One fundamental value remains the key to social harmony: respect. It is not an alternative, nor is it a choice that can be conveniently ignored. Respect is an essential pillar of human interaction, the glue that holds relationships together, and the foundation for personal and societal growth.

Read more

The Divisive Role of Politics in Philippine Christian Churches

The Christian churches in the Philippines have long played a significant role in shaping society, advocating for social justice, and guiding moral values. However, in recent years, political divisions have increasingly fractured religious communities, creating an environment where ideological differences often overshadow faith and unity. This division, sometimes bordering on fanaticism, has led to an atmosphere of condemnation, where differing political views result in hostility rather than understanding.

Read more

The Toothless Justice System of the Philippines: How Politics Has Rendered It Useless

The justice system in the Philippines has lost its ability to function independently. It no longer bites, nor does it even chew—it simply swallows whatever those in power feed it. The judiciary, meant to be a pillar of democracy, has been reduced to a puppet, manipulated by the whims of politicians rather than upholding the law.

Read more

The Danger of Democratic Spaces Like Social Media in the Philippine Context

In the Philippines, social media has become an essential part of daily life. From political discussions to social movements, it serves as a digital public square where Filipinos freely express their opinions. However, while social media fosters democracy, it has also become a battleground of misinformation, division, and hostility, weakening the unity of the nation.

Read more

Even God Supported Tyrants to Wake Up His People

Throughout history, tyranny has often been seen as a tool of divine judgment. The Bible provides multiple instances where God allowed oppressive rulers to reign as a means of awakening His people from complacency and disobedience.

Read more

Shamelessness: A Socio-Cultural Attitude of the Faithless

Shamelessness, understood as a disregard for moral restraint and societal norms, has become a defining trait of modern secular culture. As faith-based ethics decline, behaviors that were once considered disgraceful are now not only tolerated but often celebrated.

Read more

The Mendicancy Mentality: Analyzing Filipino Politicians and Monetary Corruption in Government Treasury

To choose those who have the heart to really serve for the betterment of the Filipino is a great challenge. Who among them (political candidates) has this genuine intention to…

Read more

The Missiological Implications of Itinerancy in the United Methodist Church

There is a missiological impact of itinerancy. UMC tradition believed that clergy are sent through the power of the Bishop.

Read more

The New Paradigm: A Better Pastor Grows a Small Church

For decades, pastoral success has often been measured by appointment to larger congregations. Many viewed a pastor’s ability to transition from a small church to a bigger one as a…

Read more