< Back ADAPTING TO EMPLOYMENT IN THE AI ERA: WILL JOBS BE REPLACED BY AI? BY KAYELAH GOMEZ IN RECENT YEARS, THE WORLD OF WORK HAS UNDERGONE PROFOUND TRANSFORMATIONS, DRIVEN BY THE RISE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) TECHNOLOGIES. AS WE STAND ON THE BRINK OF THE AI ERA, WORKERS FIND THEMSELVES AT A CROSSROADS, NAVIGATING A TECHNOLOGICAL FRONTIER THAT PROMISES BOTH CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES. INDEED, THE INTEGRATION OF AI INTO THE WORKPLACE SPARKS AWE-INSPIRING ADVANCEMENTS AND DEEP-SEATED CONCERNS. As AI technologies advance, concerns about job displacement also become more and more prevalent. Automation, machine learning, and robotic processes are reshaping industries, rendering some traditional roles obsolete. The question thus arises: Will AI eventually replace human workers? ADAPTING TO THE CHANGING NATURE OF WORK The traditional 9-to-5 office model is evolving, thanks to the flexibility afforded by AI. Remote work, gig economies, and collaborative digital platforms are integral components of the modern work landscape. Employees are challenged to adapt to a more dynamic and decentralized work environment, requiring honing digital literacy, fostering adaptability, and cultivating effective communication skills in virtual spaces. STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL NAVIGATION Continuous learning emerges as an imperative for successin this new era of work. Employees now have to activelyseek opportunities to upskill and reskill, keeping up with technological advancements. Companies, in turn, have toinvest in training programs to empower their workforce. The interconnected nature of AI systems emphasizes the importance of collaboration, requiring a collaborative mindset and leveraging AI tools to enhance teamwork, leading to increased productivity and innovation. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS As AI becomes more integrated into workplaces, ethical considerations take center stage. Employees and organizations are expected to prioritize responsible AI use, ensuring that technology aligns with ethical standards and societal values. Should fast, highly structured output be given more weight than output that comes from thinking out of the box? On the other hand, workers, such as writers, artists, and the like, are expected to abide by set rules on the use of AI. Intellectual property rights, for one, still have to be respected. LOOKING AHEAD Even with the above, it is crucial to recognize that AI also creates new avenues for employment. Jobs centered around AI development, maintenance, and ethical oversight are on the rise, offering opportunities for upskilling and career pivots. While the AI era brings about significant changes, it presents an opportunity for a more efficient way of getting things done. Rather than take either of the two extremes—relying heavily on AI at the expense of qualified, experienced workers or totally shutting the door on AI—we can pave the way for a future where AI enhances, rather than replaces, the human workforce. As we stand at the forefront of this technological revolution, we could seize the opportunity to shape a future of work that is both technologically advanced and reflective of human ability.

e3d6a14e-3666-4de5-98d6-c8c06b096662 <Back BRGY CAPT. BENHUR CRUZ Barangay Capt. Benhur Cruz is on a quest to bring Poblacion, Makati to new heights, preserve its roots, and unite its people BY HELEN HERNANE PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL SORIANO In just the span of a few years, Brgy. Poblacion has rapidly grown into a thriving business and cultural hub that caters to tourists and locals alike. With its streets full of restaurants and bars, the once sleepy barangay has transformed into the place to be, especially for foodies and alcohol enthusiasts. And in the center of it all is none other than Brgy. Capt. Benhur L. Cruz. NEW IMAGE Since assuming office in 2010, Cruz has actively sought for a ch ange in Brgy. Poblacion’s image. For him, pre-existing establishments, such as El Chupacabra and Heckle and Jeckle Sports Bar, are huge factors on how Poblacion achieved the “facelift” it needs. But he knew that in order to flip its image completely , he would have to open its doors to everyone. In the barangay’s mission and vision, you could clearly see that one of their objectives is “conducive environment for business to flourish.” As the center of Makati, its prime location has not gone unnoticed by entrepreneurs and so it didn’t take long until its streets were crawling with people in search of great food and drinks. Dozens of establishments have opened up in Poblacion since Cruz became barangay captain. Of course, hand-in-hand with its development, a problem arises for the community and his office to resolve—noise pollution. “Poblacion is like a province within a city. We’re used to the silence,” Cruz says. He notes how drunken customers would often make noise until the wee hours of the morning. “So the once quiet Poblacion is now disturbed,” he adds. Click here to read full article for free

8b7fd90e-04a5-4ad4-9560-dbcd3d8d00ca < Back THEN AND NOW Then and Now. Is gossiping against the law? How about fake news? What are the limits of defamation law? BY ATTY. GILDA MIKEE D. FLORENDO AND ATTY. PIA ISABEL O. CO Due to the advent of social media, the sharing of ideas and opinions, as well as communication with other people, wherever they may be in the world, are now possible with a single click of a button. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok are just a few examples of social media platforms where information may easily be created, accessed, and shared by users from around the globe. In fact, as of January 2021, reports showed that the Philippines ranked first in social media usage for the sixth year in a row, with Filipinos spending an average of 4 hours and 15 minutes online each day. At a glance, it seems that social media has brought a positive development to how we interact with one another. However, like any other tool, social media may also be used to cause harm to other people. In a matter of seconds, a person’s reputation may be affected by a single social media post, or false information may be circulated to multitudes of other people. The question now is, are these potentially harmful social media posts considered libelous and criminal, and therefore, punishable by law, or are they considered as the rightful exercise of free speech? To address this, it is first necessary to examine Philippine laws on libel, and its application in our society. Libel, slander, and defamation: Are there differences? The old Spanish Penal Code of the Philippines used the term “defamacion,” which was later translated to “libel” under the laws that succeeded it, namely: Act No. 277, or the Libel Law, and the current law on the matter, Act No. 3815, or the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines (RPC). Defamation, therefore, essentially means libel. Article 353 of the RPC defines libel as “a public and malicious imputation of a crime, or of a vice or defect, real or imaginary, or any act, omission, condition, status, or circumstance tending to cause the dishonor, discredit, or contempt of a natural or juridical person, or to blacken the memory of one who is dead.” Libel may be committed: (i) in writing (Article 355); (ii) orally, i.e., slander or oral defamation (Article 358); or (iii) through other acts, i.e., slander by deed (Article 359). From the definition, slander, whether orally or by deed, is a means of committing libel. Article 355 of the RPC Libel under Article 355 of the RPC is “committed by means of writing, printing, lithography, engraving, radio, phonograph, painting, theatrical exhibition, cinematographic exhibition, or any similar means.” If a complaint merely states “libel” as the offense charged, then the defamatory content is understood to have been made in writing. An example of this type of libel is an article published in a newspaper of general circulation to discredit, dishonor, or impute a crime or turpitude to a person. Advancements in technology have rendered some of the provisions of the RPC, such as those on libel, archaic and limited in scope. Congress thus enacted Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (Cybercrime Law), which expanded the coverage of libel to include cyberspace, i.e., cyber libel, among others. Cyber libel under this new law is defined as “(t)he unlawful or prohibited acts of libel as defined in Article 355 of the Revised Penal Code, as amended, committed through a computer system or any other similar means which may be devised in the future.” While the Cybercrime Law is relatively new, there are already well-known cyber libel cases, such as those filed against Maria A. Ressa, the chief executive officer of Rappler, Inc. (Rappler). These cyber libel cases were filed due to alleged defamatory online news articles which were exclusively published in Rappler’s website. Article 358 of the RPC Libel that is committed by oral or spoken means is slander or oral defamation under Article 358 of the RPC. Slander or oral defamation is defined “as the speaking of base and defamatory words which tend to prejudice another in his reputation, office, trade, business or means of livelihood.” Some examples of this type of libel involve shouting in public to accuse a barangay treasurer of stealing money and check of another person, and a verbal altercation between two neighbors where the accused shouted obscenities directed at the complainant, as witnessed by other neighbors. Article 359 of the RPC Libel committed through other acts may fall under Article 359 of the RPC, which penalizes “any act not included and punished in this title (Crimes Against Honor), which shall cast dishonor, discredit or contempt upon another person.” This type of libel is also known as slander by deed. Some examples of this type of libel are: (i) a verbal confrontation that escalates to a physical confrontation where the accused chokes the complainant in front of their co-employees; (ii) verbal insults hurled at the complainant coupled by giving the complainant the “middle finger” or “dirty finger”; and (iii) two (2) spurious entries in the barangay blotter for alleged illegal possession of firearms that is used as the basis to obtain a search and seizure warrant and file a criminal case that is eventually dismissed. Is gossiping a form of libel and thus punishable by law? Yes, gossiping may be considered libel and punishable by law if the following elements under Article 353 of the RPC are present: 1. There must be an imputation of a crime, or of a vice or defect (whether real or imaginary), or any act, omission, status or circumstance. 2. The imputation must be made publicly. Notably, “(i)f the defamatory matter is not seen or heard by anyone except the defamer and the defamed, damages to character reputation cannot result since a man’s reputation is the estimate in which others hold him, and not what he himself thinks.” 3. It is malicious. 4. It is directed at a natural or juridical person, or someone dead. 5. It must tend to cause dishonor, discredit, or contempt of the offended party. Hence, publicly indulging in pure speculation or gossip, in reckless disregard of the truth, which may harm the reputation of another or an organization, may be punished by law. What is protected by free speech, and how is something determined as satirical? Case law provides that: “The scope of freedom of expression is so broad that it extends protection to nearly all forms of communication. It protects speech, print and assembly regarding secular as well as political causes, and is not confined to any particular field of human interest…. The constitutional protection is not limited to the exposition of ideas. The protection afforded free speech extends to speech or publications that are entertaining as well as instructive or informative.… all forms of media, whether print or broadcast, are entitled to the broad protection of the clause on freedom of speech and of expression.” Despite the foregoing broadness, free speech does not protect “the lewd and obscene, the profane, the libelous, and the insulting or ‘fighting’ words—those which, by their very utterance, inflict injury or tend to incite an immediate breach of the peace. It has been well observed that such utterances are not an essential part of any exposition of ideas, and are of such slight social value as a step to truth that any benefit that may be derived from them is clearly outweighed by the social interest in order and morality. ‘Resort to epithets or personal abuse is not, in any proper sense, communication of information or opinion safeguarded by the Constitution, and its punishment as a criminal act would raise no question under that instrument.’” SATIRICAL MATERIALS Satire refers to a literary form that employs devices such as sarcasm, irony, and ridicule to pinpoint prevailing vices in society and is targeted to any group or individual, either from the private or government sphere. For speech to be considered as satirical, the elements of exaggeration, analogy, and other rhetorical devices must be existent. Political satire enjoys the constitutional protection on free speech. Like free speech, the protection over political satire is not absolute. Satire is a qualified or conditional privileged communication which means that although the speech may contain defamatory imputation, it would not be actionable unless made with malice or bad faith. The bounds of acceptable (political) satire are drawn by case law, as follows: • The intent of the writer to treat the published content as humorous does not matter if the language used has passed the bounds of playful jest and intensive criticism into the region of scurrilous calumniation and intemperate personalities. • While it is the right and duty of a citizen to make a complaint of any misconduct on the part of public officials which comes to his notice, such complaints should be addressed solely to some official having jurisdiction to inquire into the charges, or power to redress the grievance, or has some duty to perform or interest in connection therewith. • The defamatory remarks and comments published must pertain to the discharge of official duties and not to the private character of the public officer. • “Cyber-squatting” is punishable under the Cybercrime Law. It is the acquisition of a domain name over the Internet of a name that is identical or in any way similar with the name of a person other than the registrant. While the registrant may invoke that it is merely for satire or any other literary device, as far as the Cybercrime Law is concerned, such act is made in bad faith to mislead, destroy the reputation, or deprive others from registering the same name. How can defamation or libel be weaponized against journalists and ordinary citizens, and what is the chilling effect? The Supreme Court held that “[t]he norm does not require that a journalist guarantee the truth of what he says or publishes. But the norm does prohibit the reckless disregard of private reputation by publishing or circulating defamatory statements without any bona fide effort to ascertain their truth. This norm represents the generally accepted point of balance or adjustment between the two interests involved.” The Philippine Journalist’s Code of Ethics also requires journalists to “scrupulously report and interpret the news, taking care not to suppress essential facts nor to distort the truth by improper omission or emphasis,” and makes it his duty “to air the other side and to correct substantive errors promptly.” The foregoing are essentially the limitations, duties, or obligations of journalists, violations of which may result in a suit for libel. Defamation or libel may be weaponized against journalists, and even ordinary citizens, by alleging that a writing, more so a social media post or online news article, goes beyond the protection afforded by our laws and the Constitution. The journalist or ordinary citizen may then be subjected to a criminal trial for libel or cyber libel. While the case may be dismissed by a trial court, the journalist or ordinary citizen would have already been subjected to the rigors of a criminal trial. The possibility of prosecution may then deter journalists and ordinary citizens from publishing materials, voicing their ideas, reporting news, etc., despite these publications not being prohibited by law. Simply, defamation or libel may be wrongfully used (or abused) to incite fear among journalists and ordinary citizens, and prevent them from publishing lawful materials, in print, social media, or the like. All penal laws have an inherent chilling effect, which is the fear of possible prosecution that hangs on the heads of citizens who are minded to step beyond the boundaries of what is proper. The chilling effect is not necessarily evil, and may be necessary to allow the state to address and penalize socially harmful conduct. The chilling effect of a law, however, may be violative if the means to achieve a valid governmental purpose unnecessarily sweeps the subject broadly (i.e., overbreadth), thereby invading the area of protected freedoms. Fake news fall under libel laws, or are there only certain instances in which it may be punished? “Fake news” is false news stories, often of a sensational nature, created to be widely shared or distributed for the purpose of generating revenue, or promoting or discrediting a public figure, political movement, company, etc. It is a recent concept that emerged due to the prevalence of social media and different internet platforms for communication. Because of the concept’s infancy, there is presently limited case law on the matter. Nevertheless, the current provisions of law on libel, and cyber libel, may be applied to determine if “fake news” may or should be punished. If an online news article, or a social media post containing news material: (i) imputes a crime, vice, or defect, or any act, omission, status or circumstance against a certain person or entity; (ii) is accessible or may be viewed by the public, and not by certain persons only; (iii) is malicious; and (iv) tends to cause dishonor, discredit, or contempt of the offended party, then it may be considered libelous and punishable by law. In the libel suit filed by Senator Franklin Drilon against Manuel “Boy” P. Mejorada, the Supreme Court found that “[i]t was not necessary to establish that the publication was motivated by any malice since the articles were not privileged communication or fair comments; thus, malice is presumed. The accusatory character of the subject articles, as well as petitioner’s failure to present any proof that the statements were based on established and documented facts, negates petitioner’s claim that the articles were made in good faith.” The takeaway from this pronouncement is that if a “fake news” article is proven to have been made maliciously, then the proponent of such “fake news” may be convicted for libel. Conversely, if an accused can show that there was no malice when the “fake news” was published, he or she may be acquitted from a libel suit. Since the law is dependent on a person’s reputation and how much it was damaged, is there a difference when you defame a public figure versus an ordinary citizen? Yes, there is a difference when the target of a publication involves a public figure (government official, celebrity, etc.) versus an ordinary citizen. In the Philippines, honest criticisms on the official conduct of public officials and public figures are insulated from libel judgments. There is more leeway given to persons uttering statements against public officials vis-à-vis other private citizens. The reason for this distinction is “where the criticism is of public officials and their conduct of public business, the interest in private reputation is overborne by the larger public interest, secured by the Constitution, in the dissemination of truth.” The exception is when the public official or figure proves that the statement was made with actual malice, i.e., with knowledge that it was false or with reckless disregard of whether it was false or not. In that case, the publication is libelous. Afterword Our society is ever evolving, and with it, our technology is advancing. Our laws, therefore, need to be modernized to keep up with these changing times. The Cybercrime Law was passed to help bridge the gap between our laws and technology, such as the need to regulate actions done through social media platforms, online news websites, and the like. Given this development, harmful social media posts may be the subject of a legal action for cyber libel. It may be argued, however, that even without the Cybercrime Law, common sense and decency dictate that the respect and care we show to other people in person should extend to social media, for cyberspace is simply an extension of our physical world. Cyberspace, especially social media, is and should not be a blanket of anonymity or tool to attack the honor or reputation of other persons. Atty. Pia Isabel Co is a Senior Associate in Corporate Practice Group of GSE Law Firm. She sits as a member of the Board of Directors and acts as Corporate Secretary and officer of various corporations. Atty. Mikee Florendo is a Junior Associate in GSE Law Firm’s Corporate Practice Group. In law school, Mikee was an intern with the Philippine Law Journal and a member of the Philippine Law Register. BACK

< Back Elevating Filipino Ingenuity BY RAGIE MAE TAÑO-ARELLANO Switzerland, a country renowned for its steadfast commitment to excellence and pioneering innovations, recently honored emerging Filipino inventors at the Swiss Innovation Prize Competition 2023 through its embassy in the Philippines. The awarding ceremony was held at the Makati Diamond Residences last November 24. Students, researchers, business owners, and start-ups from the Philippines with creative ideas or projects that could further societal advancement and economic development joined the competition. Out of the more than 150 submissions received from across the country, the Embassy Screening Committee chose the finalists for the digitalization, prosperity, and innovation categories. The Swiss Innovation Prize Competition 2023 is a platform for the exchange of ideas, introducing young Filipino innovators to cutting-edge solutions from Swiss companies. The competition, according to Switzerland’s Ambassador to the Philippines Nicolas Brühl, is a testament to Switzerland’s belief in the power of fresh ideas for economic growth and societal advancement, which reminded him of the enduring spirit of innovation that Switzerland is renowned for. “The objective of promoting a culture of innovation here is not just the exchange of knowledge, but winning innovations and aspirations from both our nations," he stressed. The participants were challenged to think holistically, ensuring that their innovations stand as testaments to creativity, feasibility, and a commitment to lasting positive change. Their works were evaluated based not only on the ability to solve problems but also to contribute to the overall development of society and the economy. The innovations were also judged to see if they could really be useful and put into action in a reasonable amount of time and money. The participants were encouraged to think of sustainable solutions that would have long-lasting positive effects on the ecosystem as a whole. The winners thanked the Swiss Embassy for the opportunity to take part in the competition because it served as a platform for them to share their ideas and showcase that Filipinos are not only adept at innovations, but are sincerely dedicated to propelling change on a global scale. As young innovators, they feel empowered to contribute to stories that highlight the Philippines as a hub of creative brilliance and a force to be reckoned with in the global innovation landscape. The judges of the competition were representatives from different Swiss companies. They believe that the concepts presented by the young innovators have the potential to redefine industries and contribute significantly to societal progress. Through the Swiss Innovation Prize Competition, Switzerland and the Philippines will continue to amplify and elevate the spirit of Filipino innovation that will spur creativity and originality in addressing societal challenges and propel the nation toward economic growth.

< Back CANCELLED By Lakambini Bautista Learn more about “cancel culture” and its effects. In today’s digital age, and especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when people spent a lot of time online, a phenomenon emerged. It’s called cancel culture (or callout culture)—the popular practice of withdrawing support for individuals or companies after they have done or said something deemed objectionable or offensive. Cancel culture involves calling out people, groups, companies, or brands; boycotting individuals’ or groups’ service or product endorsements; or trying to take away people’s or entities’ public platforms and power. It’s more rampant online especially on social media, but it also happens in person. Companies, brands, or people who are ostracized are referred to as “cancelled”—meaning nulled, ended, voided—like a service subscription. CANCEL CULTURE, PART OF FILIPINO CULTURE? Cancelling people, groups, or other entities is a prevalent practice in the Philippines, as confirmed by a study conducted by independent Southeast Asian research company Milieu Insight. In a research done last July 2022 among 1,000 Filipino respondents aged 16 to 40, it was learned that one in five Filipinos has participated in a cancel movement. The top reasons for cancelling were that they “did not agree with the actions or opinions of the person or group” (66 percent), or that “the person or group is/was involved in a controversy” (54 percent). A similar study was also conducted in other Southeast Asian countries—Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. The usual issue that led to the respondents’ withdrawal of support tended to be racism (54 percent), sexual assault (50 percent), and physical violence (48 percent). In the Philippines, cultural issues such as cultural appropriation (50 percent vs 40 percent overall) are among the reasons people, brands, or groups get cancelled. This is true in the case of comedian host and Binibining Pilipinas 2022 runner-up Herlene Nicole “Hipon Girl” Budol, who drew flak for the statement-making afro hair she wore in a photoshoot. The Man of the World pageant this year was also called out for using the bahag, the male Igorot loincloth, in its swimwear competition. According to Britannica.com , “Cultural appropriation takes place when members of a majority group adopt cultural elements of a minority group in an exploitative, disrespectful, or stereotypical way.” The other notable reason is political stance (48 percent)—as in the case of actress, TV host and Shopee endorser Toni Gonzaga, who was ostracized for being an ardent supporter of President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos, Jr. (BBM), who happens to be her and her husband’s wedding godfather. Similarly, actress Angel Locsin was also bashed for her anti-BBM posts on social media and for supporting former Vice President Leni Robredo when the latter ran for the presidency. Many Filipinos believe that cancelling is a useful tool to demand responsibility from public figures, as can be gleaned from the Milieu Insight study. Those surveyed describe cancel culture to be cruel (45 percent) and aggressive (35 percent), yet those who have been part of a cancel movement tend to view it as normal (30 percent), helpful (22 percent), and progressive (16 percent). Majority even agree that cancel movements are a fair punishment (76 percent) for wrongdoers to be held responsible, and 78 percent see them as effective in doing so. CANCELLED FOR A REASON A key element in cancel culture is public humiliation or public shaming, something that our ancestors have done in various chapters of human history. Back in the day, public shaming was done as a form of punishment to an offender or prisoner. It was considered a positive social practice and a great equalizer. From in-person practice, public shaming has transcended over the last couple of decades to the online world. Highly susceptible to the era of cancel culture are celebrities and powerful individuals. Remember how the #MeToo movement led to the conviction of former film producer Harvey Weinstein as a sex offender? Toni Gonzaga’s introduction of then-senatorial candidate Rodante Marcoleta in a proclamation rally earlier this year—seen by many as an endorsement of the latter’s candidacy—provoked online outrage against the actress and host. It could be recalled that Marcoleta played a key role in the 17th Congress’ non-renewal of erstwhile broadcast giant ABS-CBN’s franchise. The incident eventually led to Gonzaga’s decision to resign from her two-decade tenure in ABS-CBN’s “Pinoy Big Brother.” Karla Estrada was likewise criticized when she decided to run as a representative under Tingog partylist, a staunch advocate of development particularly in the Eastern Visayas region. Just like Marcoleta, Tingog rejected the renewal of the franchise of ABSCBN—Estrada and her son Daniel Padilla’s home network. Not long after Estrada’s congressional bid was formalized, the hashtag #WithdrawKarlaEstrada trended on Twitter, largely through the efforts of KathNiel (Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla) fans. A subgroup of the tandem’s fans went so far as threatening to withdraw support for the loveteam if they openly campaigned for Tingog. Meanwhile, Estrada took a break from her hosting duties in ABS-CBN’s early morning program “Magandang Buhay” when she filed her certificate of candidacy and never returned to the show. RESISTING CANCELLATION From recent experience, not all cancellation efforts have succeeded, or taken off at all. Particularly, some efforts to cancel certain individuals and establishments were met with even bigger counter-cancel moves. In the Estrada case, for example, another subgroup of KathNiel supporters pointed out that Estrada’s candidacy was beyond the popular tandem’s control, and thus the tandem did not deserve to be cancelled. As this subgroup professed their continued support for KathNiel (with some saying that they would still stand behind KathNiel even if they openly supported Estrada), the hashtags #YakapParaSaKathNiel and #YakapKathNiel trended on Twitter. Their stand was as clear as it was logical: their stand on Estrada’s candidacy was independent of their long-standing support for Padilla and Bernardo, and they could still refuse to support Estrada even as they remained loyal KathNiel fans. Another major case of resisting or countering cancellation is that of Quezon City-based restaurant Urban Chick. One of its owners reportedly refused an order of fried chicken meals for 600 persons upon realizing that the order was for attendees to a gathering of BBM supporters. As news about this Php 60,000 decision broke, the restaurant received bad reviews and became a target of online attacks, apparently from BBM supporters. In response, Leni-Kiko supporters called on all their allies or Kakampinks to actively counter the cancellation efforts by patronizing Urban Chick. The resto instantly earned a spot in the list of business establishments deemed worthy of Kakampink support and patronage. CANCEL CULTURE AND RIGHT TO FREE EXPRESSION Nowadays, you can get cancelled for the slightest action that you do online. Say, if you posted or tweeted a personal opinion opposed to the position of a tight-knit group, or against a particular personality or government official, you run the risk of being cancelled. Can anyone still speak out anymore without fear of being subjected to online attacks and trolling? Is cancel culture making Filipinos scared to talk about what they truly believe in because they do not want to get into trouble? The Philippines’ ranking in the World Press Freedom Index dropped nine places this year compared to last year—from 138th to 147th, among 180 countries. This is the fifth time that the country dipped in the ranking by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). In 2018, the country was at 133rd, 134th in 2019, then 136th in 2020, and 138rd in 2021. For a country claiming to be on the road to progress, this is clearly a backward move. Cancel culture encroaches on our freedom of speech, whether it’s intentional or not. Today, many Filipinos would rather keep their progressive, woke comments and statements to themselves for fear of getting cancelled or be at the receiving end of strong online backlash. The Milieu Insight study showed that the majority of Filipinos act cautiously both online (92 percent) and offline (91 percent) because they are worried about being cancelled in lieu of their political beliefs and the 2022 presidential elections. IMPACT OF A TOXIC CULTURE Cancel culture doesn’t only affect the canceled individual, group, brand or company, but even the canceller and the onlookers or bystanders. Studies have shown that it can take a toll on people’s mental health. Being cancelled could lead to anxiety, depression, trauma, and suicidal thoughts and behavior. It could also lead to loss of livelihood as in the case of the merchants affected by the Shopee Philippines brouhaha brought about by its choice of Toni Gonzaga—a zealous supporter of BBM—as brand ambassador. A good number of Shopee patrons openly criticized such move, and called on others to cancel the online shopping platform, just as they had cancelled Gonzaga previously. Sellers have been vocal about the effects of the backlash on their businesses, especially in the last 10-10 sale. While they could choose to switch to Lazada or Facebook Marketplace, said option is not without complications. Meanwhile, Gonzaga remains “unbothered” by the controversy and even thanked the internet for all the attention. One thing that cancelled personalities could consider a silver lining is the Filipinos’ willingness to give them a second chance, as revealed by the Milieu Insight study. This, coupled with the Filipinos’ short memory—a negative trait especially in the context of learning from history. Estrada’s fate is a case in point. Though unable to secure a Congressional seat, she still has a role to play in Congress, having been appointed as consultant on social services and promotions un` der the office of Speaker Martin Romualdez and of Tingog. Far from the noise her candidacy caused on social media, her recent appointment has not generated much social media attention. Incidentally, Romualdez was majority leader during the last Congress, and had voted against the ABS-CBN franchise renewal. Whether Shopee will be given another chance, regardless of its decision to continue to engage the services of Gonzaga in their promotions and campaigns or not, remains to be seen. For now, we see that Jose Mari Chan is back as Shopee’s Christmas ambassador. Buy magazine here

Innovation NCAA SEASON 99 - SAN BEDA RED LIONS: NCAA MEN’S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONS THE SAN BEDA RED LIONS ROARED TO VICTORY IN THE NCAA SEASON 99 MEN'S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP, DRIBBLING OBSTACLES AND DUNKING THEIR WAY PAST MAPUA'S CARDINALS. MAN WITH MANNY TALENTS Pacquiao holds the Guinness World Record for “Most Boxing World Titles in Different Weight Divisions.” He is the only octuple world champion who has won the following titles: International Boxing Federation (IBF) Super Bantamweight; International Boxing Organization (IBO) Light Welterweight; The Ring Featherweight and Light Welterweight; and World Boxing Council (WBC) Flyweight, Lightweight, Super Featherweight, and Super Welterweight. FIBA BASKETBALL WORLD CUP 2023 Gilas goes back to the proverbial drawing board as tournament winners bask in triumph. Alyssa Valdez Youth volleyball Camp: Helping Young Aspiring Athletes Star volleyball player Alyssa Valdez launches a training camp to inspire young SPIKERS. AMAZING FILIPINAS: THE NEW TOAST OF THE PHILIPPINE SPORTS WORLD Amazing.” This word aptly describes the 20-month period from January 2022 to August 2023, as the Philippine Women’s National Football Team (PWNFT) completed its transformation from a struggling team to new sports heroines.

< Back THINKING BIG Congressman DV Savellano on his vision for a strong and economically robust Northern Philippines, and maintaining a HEALTHY district. BY ALFREDO G. GABOT Congressman Deogracias Victor Barbers Savellano of the First District of Ilocos Sur is no stranger to politics and public service. His dream of a better town and province started to take root in 1981 when he was elected vice mayor of his hometown of Cabugao at the young age of 22. He served as vice mayor until 1987 and was dubbed the “rising star” of Ilocos Sur politics. And this he proved as he slowly rose to become provincial board member, vice governor, governor, and now a member of the House of Representatives. The Ilocos Sur solon shares that it was his late father, Atty. Victorino Ancheta Savellano, who inspired him to enter politics and serve the people. The elder Sevillano served as mayor of Cabugao, Ilocos Sur from 1959 to 1968. “I grew up seeing people with smiles on their faces as they leave our house with satisfied hearts because they got the service they wanted,” he recalls. When he won as vice mayor, Savellano’s father had not yet warmed his seat as a commissioner of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). The latter was appointed to the post in 1980, only a few months before the 1981 elections. Three years later, he was promoted by President Ferdinand Marcos to head the COMELEC. The young Savellano, however, made it clear that his father never influenced his election to various posts, winning them on his own merits and qualifications. Even today at 59, and married to actress and businesswoman Dina Bonnevie, Congressman Savellano is seeking reelection banking on his own achievements and projects as a lawmaker and nothing else. But he does not fail to acknowledge his political mentor, former Ilocos Sur congressman and governor Luis “Chavit” Singson. LEADERSHIP AND LEGISLATION As a legislator, Congressman Savellano has authored, co-authored, sponsored, and cosponsored many bills and resolutions. One of his favorites is House Bill 4995, which envisions a strong and economically robust Northern Philippines. The bill seeks to create the Northern Luzon Growth Quadrangle Development Authority whose primary objective is to enhance and synchronize socioeconomic development of three regions—Ilocos Region, the Cordilleras, and Cagayan Valley. Alongside this is the bill seeking conversion of the historic Salomague Bay in Cabugao, which has a port and is near an airport, as a special economic zone. Savellano says the three regions need a coordinating agency such as the proposed authority if they are to be developed together under a common framework of integrated and sustainable development and effectively mobilize people in improving local industries. “By increasing trade, tourism and investments, encouraging private enterprise, generating jobs, developing infrastructure, and advancing efforts toward peace and expansion, the region will bloom faster,” he explains. Savellano points out that the House Special Committee on North Luzon Growth Quadrangle has been discussing the economic integration of the three regions—CAR, Region I, and Region II. “If developed together under the framework of integrated and sustainable development, North Luzon could avail of economies of scale and a viable network that will enhance synergistic and complementary development,” he adds. “Without a government body yet to oversee such integrated development, I ensure that the Committee on North Luzon Growth Quadrangle serves as a venue where all the NL legislators practice/enforce oversight function in our respective districts in terms of program and project implementation by all line agencies,” he says. “My committee holds weekly meetings/ hearings whenever possible to address concerns involving the various line agencies. To ensure prompt remedies and resolutions, department secretaries or at least the undersecretaries are usually invited to the said meetings.” In fact, the House Special Committee on North Luzon Growth Quadrangle chaired by Rep. Maximo Dalog (Lone District, Mountain Province) and Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization chaired by Rep. Mark Go (Lone District, Baguio City) have jointly approved the proposal to create the Northern Luzon Growth Quadrangle Development Authority but the bill, due to time constraints, has not yet hurdled the plenary as a whole. The delay in the approval of the bill has not discouraged Savellano. In fact, he looks at it as a chance to improve the measure which he will pursue again in the next Congress. This is one of his battlecries for his reelection campaign. PROGRESS THROUGH CULTURAL PRESERVATION While he speaks about development of a bigger region with lots of potentials, Savellano has made the needs of his home province of Ilocos Sur and its people his top priority. While awaiting for his dream of a North Luzon Growth Quadrangle to be realized, the congressman has pursued with the national government, through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the construction of roads and other infrastructure in Ilocos Sur. “The DPWH has already started the construction of the coastal road that will connect the Salomague Port to Vigan Airport,” he informs LEAGUE. “This will facilitate an easier travel for the tourists and entice investors to bring in businesses to the province. The Cabugao, Ilocos Sur-Nueva Era, Ilocos Norte road project, connecting the province of Abra, will also bring in economic activities that will benefit the municipalities along the project.” To further boost tourism, Savellano also helped negotiate for more cruise ships to include Ilocos Sur in their itineraries. The province is famous for its many tourist and cultural heritage sites such as Vigan City, Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo, as well as beaches and surfing sites comparable to those of Siargao, Baler, and La Union. Several cruise ships have docked at the Salomague Port in Cabugao town, which was once a famous international mariners, seafarers, and trading post for rice, tobacco, and other products. The port also served as the jumpingoff point for ships, which carried over 100 Filipino pioneers in the sugar plantations in Hawaii. Savellano admits that they are faced with the challenge of balancing modernization with the preservation of the province’s rich heritage and culture. To address this, he created the “Kannawidan Ylocos Festival” in 2008, in time for the celebration of Ilocos Sur’s independence as a province. “Kannawidan” aims to preserve and promote culture, traditions, practices, and beliefs that have become part of the lives of the Ilocanos. It also showcases the preservation of traditional arts, crafts, and cuisine as well as the preservation of native animals and plants that are on the brink of extinction. “In so doing, I am confident that these practices shall be carried on for the ensuing generations to appreciate and put into practice,” Savellano declares. OTHER PRIORITY CONCERNS According to Savellano, his utmost priority in the district has always been the efficient delivery of basic services to his constituents, as provided for by the constitution. “While the piece of legislation has longer gestation period to fully implement, my other functions as legislator come into fore to address some gaps in the delivery of services for the people in the 1st District of Ilocos Sur,” he says. Savellano has also been at the forefront in helping the farmers, particularly tobacco, garlic, and onion growers and fisherfolk of Ilocos Sur. “Fully aware of the challenges besetting our garlic and onion industry, I have been in constant communication with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and its attached agencies since the start of my term as congressman. In mid 2017, I came up with a proposal for DA to consider the project titled ‘Adoption of Enhanced Garlic Production System Through Cooperative-based Farm Clustering in the Province of Ilocos Sur’,” he recalls. “Moreover, I have been advocating the collective effort of DA attached agencies such as the Bureau of Agricultural Research, DA High Value Crops and Rural Credit with Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) to revive the local garlic industry. The Nueva Segovia Consortium of Cooperatives (NSCC), an umbrella organization of 156 primary cooperatives based in Ilocos Sur as the implementing partner, shall be a recipient of experts’ advice in terms of appropriate Package of Technology (POT) on garlic production.” Tobacco is almost synonymous to Ilocos Sur and so Savellano has been helping in channeling government assistance to the tobacco farmers. And he is glad to report that based on data from the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) for calendar year (CY) 2018, there were about 43 million kilos of tobacco produced in the province, which is one million kilos higher than for CY 2017. “Exports increased but deliveries to local cigarette manufacturers decreased by about 30% from 2012 figures,” he points out. “Of the total number of tobacco farmers (32,000), NTA is providing partial production assistance to about 4,000 while 28,000 are being directly financed by tobacco companies. In spite of the billions of pesos in excise tax share derived from RA 7171 for Virginia tobacco, including those for burley and native tobacco, little is extended in terms of production assistance. Most are focused on infrastructure projects. The challenge for me is to refocus our efforts in helping the tobacco industry increase its production as it fights for survival,” he admits. In the agricultural sector, he admits that although much has been done, there’s still more to do to achieve food sufficiency. “Free Irrigation has already been passed, and along with it, I was able to carry out projects like the construction of irrigation canals, distribution of irrigation pumps and other agricultural equipment, fish landing and fishports along the coastal towns, and [provision of] fishing paraphernalia, etc.,” he notes. On health services, Savellano recalls that upon his assumption to office as congressman, he outlined his development agenda for a HEALTHY District. “This embraces priority concerns on Health and social services; Education and environment; Agriculture and aqua programs; Livelihood opportunities; Tourism and trade; Heritage, culture and arts; and Youth and sports development. Initially, in order to put the agenda to work, I had to establish my strong relations with the different government agencies, and the private sector, for the much-needed funding support for the programs and projects and other material needs that will benefit the people,” he claims. He also joined hands with the Ilocos Sur Medical Society, the Department of Health, the Philippine Red Cross, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur, and other service providers who readily gave their support for the implementation of the KISS Project or “Kabsat Idanonmi Serbisyo Salun-at.” This project aims to improve and enhance the delivery of healthcare services to the people especially in rural communities. “My office is open for whoever is in need of assistance, whether it be educational, hospitalization, burial, and other forms of social service assistance that we can provide to ease the predicament of the people. I established a link with the Department of Health to channel funds under the Medical Assistance Program (MAP) to the different government hospitals so that we can readily help those who are hospitalized. Likewise, with the aid of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, we can also accommodate the needy people in terms of financial requirements,” he adds. Having started as a youth leader, the youth is Congressman Savellano’s main concern. He sought funds for the construction of school buildings benefitting the towns and barangays. He also supported the approval of free college education now being enjoyed by students in state colleges and universities nationwide. “We also have around 800 CHED scholars and thousands of TESDA scholars because I always believe that education will help everyone to succeed in life,” he avers. “I want to continue these big projects that I have started until the end of my allowable term,” Congress Savellano says, explaining why he is running for reelection. “In spite of the billions of pesos in excise tax share derived from RA 7171 for Virginia tobacco, including those for burley and native tobacco, little is extended in terms of production assistance... The challenge for me is to refocus our efforts in helping the tobacco industry increase its production as it fights for survival.” He acknowledges that the projects would not be realized without the support of the people. “I would not be what I am now if not for my constituents who gave their trust and support to me. I owe them my position and I am most grateful and proud because of that kind of love that I need to reciprocate. I give them my number personally (not through my staff) and keep my line open 24/7 so they could reach me whenever necessary,” he says. For someone who has made good as a public servant for more than two decades now, Congressman Savellano looks forward to at least three more years in the House of Representatives to pursue his big dreams for Ilocos Sur, Northern Philippines and the country. Click here to read full article for free

< Back Barangay Bignay Holds Parol and Christmas Tree Making Contest Barangay Bignay, Valenzuela City under the leadership of Chairman Garcing Victoriano awarded the winners of their Parol and Christmas tree making contest last December 3, 2023 at West Covered Court Disiplina Village. Participants from different areas and schools within the barangay showcased their creativity by coming up with sturdy and colorful parols and Christmas trees using recycled materials. The winners were determined by Barangay Secretary Federico De Jesus, Barangay Canumay East former Sangguniang Kabataan Chairperson Myra Catibog, and Barangay Punturin Kagawad Philip Faustino. Awarded as the overall champion, Cluster 6 received a certificate and Php 15,000. Pulong Maligaya was hailed as first runner-up, followed by Cluster 1 as the second runner-up, and Disiplina Village Bignay National High School as third runner-up. Bignay National High School and Amabelle Homes Phase 2 rounded out the list of winners, all of whom also received cash prizes. The contest was held not just to celebrate the yuletide season but also as a part of the barangay’s environmental awareness campaign. The contest entries are displayed at Barangay Bignay’s 3S Hall. Photos Courtesy of Barangay Bignay Facebook Page: https://www . facebook.com/BarangayBignayValenzuela/posts/

10e484dd-36e1-402a-9824-63648d383086 < Back SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: Building a Better Future for Filipino Children World Vision Development Foundation National Director Rommel V. Fuerte talks about the importance of education and LGU linkages for community progress. BY MAAN D’ASIS PAMARAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO PERALTA, JR. For Filipino parents, the dream is to give their child a better life through education. However, there are limited resources available, especially for those living in far-flung provinces. To bring development closer to communities, there are non-government organizations such as World Vision that tackle issues at the grassroots level, through sponsorships from donors, in partnership with the local government units. World Vision programs, which reach 1.5 million vulnerable Filipino children every year, help ensure that Filipino families and their communities are given a better future through education, health and nutrition, child protection, livelihood, and emergency response. Breaking the Cycle World Vision Development Foundation National Director Rommel V. Fuerte is far too aware of the situation on the ground, as he himself experienced the same obstacles that many students are still facing today because of poverty. “I grew up in Alamada, Cotabato. It’s a really small town. My father was a casual employee of the local government and his employment was on and off. My mother was a public school teacher and most of her income was really just spent on paying off their loans.” There were five children in the family and he was the eldest, Fuerte says. With money tight, he had to make do with a lot of things, such as recycling his notebooks. He muses, “I would get used notebooks, cut out empty pages and staple them together to make my spelling booklet. I remember thinking that even though my notebook was recycled, at least my spelling was correct.” There were times when he had to miss classes, because he had to look after his younger siblings, and he went to school in slippers that had to last for the whole school year. “Those are life experiences that taught me to really strive hard to graduate. That was why, with my brothers and sisters, we promised to move out of that cycle of poverty. [During my college classes,] I learned that poverty is not fate or a circumstance, but a condition that can and must be changed. This principle resonated with my condition during that time. I realized that we can either get out from that cycle or go around it for the rest of your life.” Fuerte had originally wanted to take up nursing, seeing it as an opportunity for a better life because there are more chances to work overseas. “However, since we did not have the resources for me to get to the university in time, the slots for their nursing course were already full and I was waitlisted. I ended up taking a Bachelor of Science in Social Work course, which is also rooted in service,” he shares. World Vision As a licensed social worker, Fuerte considers his work as a vocation and not just a profession. “Aside from helping myself overcome poverty through my income, I’m also helping others to graduate from that situation. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone. If you can lift yourself from your condition, you can also do the same for others.” His first exposure to the work that World Vision does was as a documenter during his college days. “They had a program in Davao, and I worked with them during my college days, documenting their trainings and events for extra income,” he smiles, reminiscing the past. He did apply with World Vision after graduation but he never heard back from them, he says. “My first job was as a training officer with a cooperative that hired me even before I graduated.” It was months after he sent his application that World Vision reached out to ask him if he wanted to be a volunteer. “There was an allowance involved, so I took it. I believed that the organization is aligned with my Christian values.” He moved to Capiz for the volunteer work, and when an opening came up for a permanent position in Surigao, he applied and was among the chosen three out of more than 30 applicants. “I literally rose from the ranks to be national director, the first to do so as they used to hire somebody from outside the organization to fill the position. I experienced the field work that our program officers do, including leading the Caraga Region (Region XIII) group for three years. On December 1999, I became the training officer of the Canadian government-funded Kusog Baga project which covered the whole country.” Through the years, Fuerte worked in several capacities for the organization both in the Philippines and in its regional office. “I joined the Human Resource department to handle training, then I was assigned to be strategy management director, in what was a pioneering team. I left World Vision Philippines in 2009 to become strategy specialist for World Vision for the Asia Pacific Region while based in Bangkok, Thailand.” He left the organization to return to the Philippines, where he co-founded Mindanaobased Glial Community Consulting that offers workshops, training, and technical support on strategy and communications work for community and grassroots organizations and took up teaching at the Southern Christian College. He assumed the role of World Vision Philippines Operations Director upon his return and when the National Director retired in 2017, he took on the role, bringing with him his expertise that was built from the ground up, along with the desire to help more children stay in school and stay healthy so they can have a better future through their programs. In 2018, Fuerte was recognized as the country’s most outstanding social worker in the humanitarian sector awarded by the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. He wants to capitalize on such recognition to change the public’s perception of their field. “The mindset toward social workers in the Philippines is associated with distributing relief goods such as sardines and noodles. Our work goes beyond that; there are social workers in hospital settings, we handle cases of abuse, and we also do community organizing. There is a science and art to social work.” In 2020, President Rodrigo Duterte appointed him as board member of the Council for the Welfare of Children. In 2021, he was invited to be part of the board of the Multi Sectoral Governance Coalition of the DSWD. Fuerte is also currently the chairman of the board of Community Economic Ventures, Inc. (a micro finance NGO), vice chairman of the board of Philippine Children’s Ministry Network, convener of the Philippine Coalition of Advocates for Nutrition Security, and a member of the steering committee of Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Consortium. Inclusive Growth The focus of World Vision is poverty alleviation, through collaboration with donors and stakeholders in the community including the local government. The role of the LGU is crucial to a program’s success, he adds. “We talk to the governors if there are advocacy issues, or policies or programs that we can do on a provincial level. We talk to mayors of municipalities and cities, and establish a relationship at that level. Then we talk to the barangay officials and the community when we do our ‘visioning.’” Their strategy is participatory, and they ask the communities to envision their future together, what they want to see among their children, and their communities in general. So from that, when they have created their vision, that’s the starting point of developing programs. We stay with the community for 10 to 15 years, and support them in achieving their vision. That is where the education, health and nutrition, and livelihood programs come in.” They are made aware that at a certain point, World Vision will leave them. “In Surigao del Sur, they started Lihok Surigao sa Kalambuan Association (LISURKA) to continue the development initiatives and we are helping them with technical support.” Fuerte is happy to report that from 2016 to 2019, World Vision Philippines reached more than 3.1 million children through their child-focused programs, emergency response, and advocacy initiatives. Under Fuerte’s leadership, World Vision Philippines continues to engage with the national and local government, the business community through corporate social responsibility and social entrepreneurship, the academe, churches, civil society, the media, groups and individuals who are committed to improving the well-being of children and building the nation, one child, one community at a time. BACK

00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000003 BACK READY FOR MORE The three-time majority leader, Senator Migz Zubiri reveals his humble beginnings, from being a nervous neophyte to being the picture of confidence in the Senate. BY GODFREY T. DANCEL PHOTOGRAPHY BY RENJIE TOLENTINO An abstract painting greets visitors upon entering Senator Juan Miguel “Zubiri” Zubiri’s office unit at the Senate building. A collection of photos of him visiting different parts of the country, as well as some other paintings, line the wall across the tables of his office staff. Inside his actual office are yet more paintings. Behind his desk are crystals, fossils, and photographs of his family and him with his constituents over the years. The eclectic collection of art pieces, photographs, and natural wonders may seem discordant at first, but actually come together to produce a calming vibe amidst the obvious ardor of his staff attending to different concerns. The scene is a testament to how the Senate majority leader’s attention to detail and zeal for work has rubbed off on his staff. Initiation into Public Service “I had no dreams of becoming a politician or a public servant. I wanted to be a vet,” Zubiri reveals. After finishing his secondary education at Colegio San Agustin in Makati, he entered the University of the Philippines (UP) Los Baños to pursue his “first love,” which is to become a veterinarian. This was not surprising, as even if he had been born in and was studying in Metro Manila, he had spent all his summers and school breaks in Bukidnon. “That is how I grew up—exposed to farming, to the beautiful environment there, the communities that we had to work with [later on],” the senator says. Senator Zubiri’s father, then-Congressman Jose Maria Rubin Zubiri, Jr. of the third district of Bukidnon, talked him out of his original plan. The young Zubiri eventually decided to take an Agribusiness course, after completion of which he settled in Bukidnon to manage their farm. With this, it was inevitable for Zubiri to be exposed to public service. .... BUY MAGAZINE NOW TO READ FULL ARTICLE BACK