By Panny Perez Yson
In the Philippines today, we are confronted with numerous impeachment issues surrounding both the President and the Vice President. What we must do is verify the facts. Due process is essential in any democracy, and it is crucial that we, as citizens, choose our leaders wisely.
A Horse That Isn’t Funny
The Chinese zodiac predicts that the Year of the Horse will be a happy and amusing year for the people. I, however, know a horse that is neither funny nor capable of making anyone laugh—the Unicorn-y!
Lessons from a Lazy Grandson
Yesterday morning, I woke my grandchild Dustin and told him it was time to get ready for school. He retorted, “I learned in school that growth hormone production is at its peak during sleep. How could you deprive me of it?” Later that evening, when I told him it was time to sleep, he argued, “Life is short! What kind of parent would deprive their child of experiences in this rising world?” Haizsst! I really am unfortunate to have such a lazy grandson.
Political Dynasty in Minglanilla
In Minglanilla, Cebu, the first councilor has assumed the post of acting mayor after Mayor Rajiv Enad and eight councilors were given a one-year preventive suspension by the Office of the Ombudsman. First Councilor Lheslen Abella Enad, the mayor’s wife, said, “By operation of law, I have assumed the role of Acting Mayor. This is not easy. As a wife, this hurts. But as a public servant, my duty is clear.” Yet what is happening in the town is a clear reflection of political dynasties in action.
Pacquiao Responds to Online Insults
Boxing icon and former senator Manny Pacquiao issued a stern warning to internet personality Francis Leo Marcos, also known as Norman Mangusin, after remarks widely condemned as offensive toward Pacquiao’s mother, Dionisia. During a livestream, Mangusin allegedly compared Dionisia’s appearance to a “baluga,” a comment that quickly went viral and drew public backlash. In a video response, Pacquiao explained that he initially restrained himself but could not ignore the attack on his family. Good for Marcos if he were boxed in the face by Pacman!
Padilla on Senate Leadership
Senator Robin Padilla has raised the possibility of a shift in Senate leadership if the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte reaches the upper chamber. At present, Padilla sees no reason to replace Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III. Clearly, his statement reflects the stance of a committed DDS (Duterte Diehard Supporter).
Tourism Secretary Defends Work
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco firmly denied allegations of self-promotion made by Senator Erwin Tulfo, explaining that her presence in numerous photographs cited during a Senate hearing reflects legitimate work engagements. Frasco emphasized that her nationwide visits over the past three years were part of her official duties, overseeing tourism recovery, infrastructure development, workforce training, and destination promotion. She has visited all regions of the Philippines and 56 of the country’s 82 provinces.
Impeachment Grounds Revisited
Several lawmakers have agreed that the same grounds cited in Vice President Sara Duterte’s first impeachment case can be included in a new complaint, as no formal trial addressed those issues. Batangas Representative Gerville Luistro, Mamamayang Liberal party-list Representative Leila de Lima, and members of the Makabayan bloc stated that the new complaints could simply reference the same issues from the first set of impeachment raps. Luistro, who chairs the House Committee on Justice, clarified that the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the unconstitutionality of Duterte’s impeachment was based on procedural grounds—not the substance of the complaint itself.
Watching the Philippines Today
This is the Philippines today—a nation of complex politics, colorful personalities, and lively debates. As citizens, our duty remains to watch closely, think critically, and ensure that the course of our democracy is guided by facts, fairness, and the wisdom to choose the right leaders.
