DepEd, DOST team up to strengthen Science Education

Wazzup Pilipinas!?




In a unified push for science and innovation, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) affirmed their commitment to collaborate during the appointment ceremony of the new campus directors of the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) on Thursday.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara and Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. underscored the importance of working together to advance science education and cultivate the next generation of scientists and innovators.

“We are fully committed to working together. One thing we discovered nandoon sa kanta ninyo yung ang siyensiya ang sandigan ng maunlad na bayan. That’s the bottomline here,” Secretary Angara said, referring to the DOST Hymn.

Sec. Angara also underscored DOST’s mandates, as he helped the agency secure additional budget for its facilities and operations.

“Dati supporter niyo po ako sa Senado at ngayon consider me one of your fans. Maraming salamat and congratulations. Looking forward to the inspired leadership of our three campus directors under our great Secretary Rene,” he said.

Secretary Solidum, meanwhile, said that the team-up with DepEd is a significant step in strengthening the country’s science, technology, and innovation foundation.

“We are very happy with the appointment of former Senator, now DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, because we believe that the success of science, technology, and innovation really lies in our educational system starting from our youth,” Secretary Solidum said.

“We have been discussing on how we can work together with them and help them as well in making sure that our reach would go beyond the Philippine Science High School system,” he added.

The ceremony celebrated the appointment of three campus directors: Dr. Rod Allan A. De Lara (PSHS - Main Campus), Dr. Myrna B. Libutaque (PSHS - Western Visayas Campus), and Dr. Mary Grace A. Navarro (PSHS - Ilocos Region Campus). Both secretaries acknowledged their pivotal role in shaping young minds to contribute to the nation’s scientific progress.

The event, held at the PSHSS Main Campus in Quezon City, was graced by key officials from DepEd, DOST, and PSHSS.

The Manila Mayoral Race 2025: A Fierce Competition Between Honey Lacuna, Isko Moreno, and Sam Versoza

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

As the 2025 Mayoral elections approach, the city of Manila is bracing itself for a competitive race that will have a lasting impact on the nation’s capital. Three names have emerged as the primary contenders for the coveted position of mayor: the incumbent Mayor Honey Lacuna, former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, and businessman Sam Versoza. Each candidate brings with them a unique blend of experience, education, and leadership qualities, making this election one of the most hotly contested in recent memory. Let’s delve into the backgrounds, career experiences, educational attainments, and prominent qualities of each contender and see how they stack up against one another.

1. Honey Lacuna: The Incumbent Mayor with Medical Expertise and a Focus on Public Health

Background & Educational Attainment: Honey Lacuna has been serving as the first female mayor of Manila since 2022. Prior to her appointment, she was a renowned medical professional, working as a doctor specializing in internal medicine. Lacuna holds a degree in Medicine, which plays a significant role in her leadership style, especially in tackling public health issues.

Career Experience: Lacuna's career trajectory is grounded in public service. Before becoming mayor, she was a vice mayor for several terms, which provided her a thorough understanding of the city’s local governance and infrastructure. As the current mayor, she has been lauded for her decisive leadership during the pandemic, implementing effective health protocols and overseeing the city’s vaccination campaign. Her medical background has allowed her to take a proactive stance on health and welfare, garnering support from residents who value her approach to maintaining public safety and health standards.

Prominent Qualities:

Empathy and Focus on Health: Lacuna’s background in medicine has made her a compassionate leader who prioritizes public health, education, and welfare.

Experienced in Governance: With her years as vice mayor, she is no stranger to the inner workings of Manila’s local government.

Gender Equality Advocate: As the city’s first female mayor, Lacuna is a champion for women’s rights and empowerment.

2. Isko Moreno: A Former Mayor with Proven Administrative Leadership

Background & Educational Attainment: Isko Moreno, the former mayor of Manila (2019-2022), was once a prominent actor before transitioning into public service. Known for his humble beginnings, he grew up in the slums of Tondo and worked his way up, eventually earning a degree in Public Administration from the University of the Philippines.

Career Experience: Isko’s rise to power was meteoric. Before becoming mayor, he was the vice mayor of Manila and served as a city councilor. His tenure as mayor was marked by major reforms, including the modernization of Manila’s public markets, the beautification of city streets, and the efficient handling of the pandemic. His previous experience in local governance combined with his youth and energy helped him make rapid changes within Manila’s bureaucracy, which earned him praise from both residents and critics alike.

Prominent Qualities:

Proven Leadership: Moreno is a leader who has already proven his ability to drive administrative reforms and modernize the city.

Strong Communication Skills: His ability to connect with the masses, stemming from his acting career, gives him a unique advantage in mass outreach.

Urban Development Visionary: Known for his vision of a cleaner, more modern Manila, he has laid the groundwork for a more cosmopolitan city.

3. Sam Versoza: The Young Businessman with a Vision for Transformation

Background & Educational Attainment: Sam Versoza is the least known of the three candidates in terms of political experience but stands out with his background in business and entrepreneurship. Versoza holds a degree in Business Administration and has extensive experience running various enterprises. His outsider perspective offers a fresh approach to the city’s governance.

Career Experience: Though not directly involved in politics, Versoza has been active in various charitable initiatives and urban development projects. He is known for his advocacy of a more inclusive and sustainable economic framework. Versoza’s business acumen positions him as someone capable of transforming Manila into a business-friendly metropolis, driving both economic growth and social welfare.

Prominent Qualities:

Business Expertise: Versoza brings a pragmatic, results-driven mindset to the table, focused on economic recovery and growth.

Young and Innovative: With his youth and background in business, he is eager to implement new, innovative approaches to governance.

Passionate Advocate for Social Change: While he may not have formal political experience, his focus on urban renewal, sustainability, and economic development has gained him a following among younger voters and business leaders.

The Road Ahead: What to Expect

With three strong and distinct personalities vying for the mayoralty, the upcoming race will not only determine the future direction of Manila but also set a precedent for how the city adapts to changing times. Honey Lacuna’s focus on health and safety, Isko Moreno’s experience in urban reform, and Sam Versoza’s fresh business-oriented vision will undoubtedly make for an engaging electoral battle. Voters will need to weigh the candidates' backgrounds, experience, and leadership styles carefully to choose the one who can best lead Manila into a new era.

Who will ultimately prevail in this political showdown? Time will tell, but one thing is for certain—the future of Manila is in the hands of its people, and the competition for the mayoralty has never been more thrilling.

The Many Faces of Gossip: Unpacking the 'Marites' Phenomenon and Its Variants

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In the Philippines, the term "Marites" has become synonymous with individuals who thrive on gossip. Derived from the phrase "Mare, ito ang latest" ("Girl, here's the latest"), Marites embodies the archetypal gossipmonger. However, the Filipino lexicon has expanded to include a variety of personas, each representing a unique facet of the gossip culture.

1. Marites: The Gossip Maven

As the cornerstone of gossip circles, Marites is always in the know, eager to share the latest news with anyone willing to listen. 

2. Marisol: The Instigator

Known as "Mareng Tagasulsol" ("provoker"), Marisol doesn't just relay information; she adds fuel to the fire, intensifying the intrigue.

3. Marissa: The Breaking News Specialist

Symbolizing "Mare, isa pa!" ("Girl, there's more!"), Marissa is quick to share fresh details, ensuring the gossip stream never runs dry.

4. Maris: The Inquisitive Observer

Representing "Mare, ano ang tsismis?" ("Girl, what's the gossip?"), Maris prefers to listen, subtly extracting information without overt involvement. 

5. Marina: The Curious Follower

Once a beloved mermaid character, Marina now signifies someone eager for updates, always asking, "Mare, ano na?" ("Girl, what's new?"). 

6. Mariposa: The Amplifier

Embodied by "Mare, post mo na!" ("Girl, post it already!"), Mariposa ensures that juicy tidbits reach a wider audience, often through social media. 

7. Marietta: The Follow-Up Specialist

Meaning "Mare, ito pa" ("Girl, here's more"), Marietta always has additional information to keep the conversation going. 

8. Maricar: The New Arrival Reporter

Signifying "Mare, kararating lang" ("Girl, just arrived"), Maricar is quick to share news about recent events or arrivals. 

9. Maricon: The Confirmed Source

Representing "Mare, confirmed," Maricon shares information that has been verified, adding credibility to the gossip. 

10. Marife: The Financial Informant

Embodied by "Mare, pengeng pera" ("Girl, can I have some money?"), Marife often discusses financial matters or seeks monetary assistance. 

11. Maricris: The Crisis Commentator

Signifying "Mare, crisis ngayon" ("Girl, it's a crisis now"), Maricris focuses on discussing current crises or problematic situations.

12. Marison: The Story Follower

Meaning "Mare, sundan ko chika mo" ("Girl, I'll follow your gossip"), Marison is keen on following and updating ongoing stories. 

13. Marinela: The Group Gossiper

Representing "Mare, ano sabi nila?" ("Girl, what did they say?"), Marinela shares what others are saying, spreading group gossip. 

14. Marichu: The Exaggerator

Embodied by "Mareng echosera" ("Girl, the exaggerator"), Marichu adds embellishments to stories, making them more dramatic. 

15. Marimar: The Abundant Gossiper

Signifying "Mare, marami pa" ("Girl, there's more"), Marimar always has plenty of stories to tell, ensuring the gossip never ends. 

16. Maripaz: The Gossip Distributor

Meaning "Mare, pasa mo chika" ("Girl, pass the gossip"), Maripaz ensures that information is shared across different circles.

17. Marita: The Affirmative Friend

Representing "Mare, tama ka" ("Girl, you're right"), Marita agrees with and reinforces the gossip shared by others. 

18. Marian: The Anticipator

Embodied by "Mare, ayan na..." ("Girl, here it comes..."), Marian builds anticipation, hinting at forthcoming gossip. 

19. Mosang: The Traditional Gossip

Short for "tsismosa," Mosang is the classic gossip, often found in neighborhoods, spreading news through word of mouth.

20. Maritess: The Online Gossip

A variation of Marites, Maritess is commonly used in online communities to refer to those who engage in digital gossip. 

21. Male Counterparts: Tolits and Parekoy

While "Marites" and its variants are predominantly female, male counterparts like "Tolits" and "Parekoy" have emerged, representing men who engage in gossip. 

Cultural Reflection

These personas highlight the rich tapestry of Filipino social interactions, emphasizing the communal nature of information sharing.