Cory Aquino: A Legacy of Decency, Respect, and Service

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Today, as we remember the late former President Corazon "Cory" Aquino on what would have been her 91st birthday, a simple story about her visit to a Filipino family’s home serves as a poignant reminder of the leadership and values that she embodied. It’s a story that may seem small or trivial at first glance, but it speaks volumes about the essence of Cory Aquino’s character, leadership, and the kind of legacy she left behind for the Filipino people.

Cory Aquino wasn’t the first, nor the last, president to visit a family’s home, but she was the only one who slept in three different bedrooms in that home – before, during, and after her presidency. The story shared by this Filipino family highlights not just the high regard in which the former president held her constituents but also the discipline, respect, and decency that she instilled even in the most personal moments.

A Night to Remember: The Arrival of Cory Aquino

Four months after taking the oath of office, Cory Aquino visited the home of a Filipino family for a night that would be forever etched in their memories. Approximately 60 members of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) had to transform the family’s downstairs lanai into their quarters, ensuring her safety and well-being. But it wasn’t just the grand presence of the PSG that made this night remarkable – it was the humbling and exemplary behavior of the former president herself.

The night before her arrival, the PSG had already stationed themselves around the house. The family’s story is filled with the kind of attention to detail that was required to prepare for such an important visit. When the head of the household returned from the governor's office that evening, nearing midnight, he had to prove to the PSG that he belonged to the house they were guarding.

But what truly stood out wasn’t the heightened security measures or the preparations made for the president’s visit—it was the quiet discipline and respect exhibited by Cory Aquino and her team. Despite the heavy security presence, the family recalled how their father personally ensured that the PSG had everything they needed. He shared how the PSG refused to accept any form of hospitality, such as a cup of coffee or food, citing strict instructions not to disturb the household they were guarding. And when the PSG eventually left, they had left everything in perfect order—without disturbing a single thread of the furniture upholstery. The house was exactly as they found it, perhaps even neater.

Even more remarkable was the way Cory Aquino herself left the bedroom where she stayed. The bed was made, the room left spotless—an act of discipline and respect that resonated deeply with the family, particularly the matriarch, who used it as a life lesson for her children. She would often remind them, "If the President can make her own bed, shouldn't you make yours too?"

A Legacy of Respect and Service

In a world where power often comes with a sense of entitlement, Cory Aquino’s actions serve as a reminder of the rare decency that defined her leadership. The way she conducted herself, both in public and in private, demonstrated an innate respect for others, regardless of their status or position. It was this humility that made her beloved not only by those close to her but also by ordinary Filipinos who saw in her a symbol of integrity and service to the country.

The former president’s leadership was marked by selflessness, discipline, and an unyielding sense of duty. She was not only the first female president of the Philippines but also a trailblazer who fought for democracy and the restoration of the country’s freedom. Her leadership was rooted in love for her people and respect for the democratic process. This is the kind of leadership that is increasingly rare today, where those in positions of power often seem disconnected from the very people they are meant to serve.

Her Enduring Influence

Reflecting on the lessons Cory Aquino taught us, we can’t help but long for leaders who are guided by a sense of service rather than self-interest. In her own words:

"I would rather die a meaningful death than to live a meaningless life."

These words encapsulate the essence of her life—a life lived with purpose, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the people she served. As we honor her legacy today, we are reminded that the true measure of a leader is not in the power they wield, but in the respect they show others and the positive change they bring to their communities.

Though Cory Aquino may no longer be with us, her example continues to inspire us all. Her story teaches us that leadership is not about grandeur or titles, but about humility, decency, and respect. These qualities are timeless, and as we face the challenges of the present and future, we can only hope that the next generation of leaders will live up to the standard she set.

As we look back with pride on her presidency and the profound impact she had on the Philippines, we can only wish for more leaders who lead with the same selflessness and integrity. Cory Aquino will forever be remembered not just as a former president, but as a beacon of hope for a better, more respectful future for our country.

Happy 91st birthday, Cory Aquino. Thank you for making us proud to be Filipino.

"The Stories of Teacher Jun": Simplifying the West Philippine Sea Debate for the Next Generation

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

"May exam ba after reading this..fill in the blanks?"

On January 24, 2025, Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara, alongside the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), unveiled The Stories of Teacher Jun at the National Library of the Philippines. This comic book, designed to simplify the complex geopolitical issues surrounding the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), aims to educate the youth and the broader public about the nation's sovereignty and the significance of protecting the region.

In his speech, Sec. Angara emphasized the importance of providing the youth with a clear understanding of how they can protect national sovereignty. "We must show a path for learners on how to protect our national sovereignty in their own way,” Angara remarked, highlighting the urgency of instilling a sense of duty toward the country's territorial rights. The comic book serves as an educational tool, breaking down the legal and geopolitical intricacies into digestible, engaging narratives that appeal to younger audiences.

The primary goal of this initiative is to make the concept of the West Philippine Sea and its ongoing territorial disputes more accessible. By illustrating these concepts through storytelling, The Stories of Teacher Jun seeks to foster a greater awareness and sense of national pride among Filipino students, urging them to become informed, responsible citizens.

A Mixed Response to the Educational Initiative

While the comic book has garnered praise for its innovative approach to education, it has also sparked significant debate. Critics have voiced concerns that such initiatives might serve as a form of "mind conditioning" for children. Some argue that instead of fostering a balanced, nuanced understanding of the geopolitical situation, The Stories of Teacher Jun could unintentionally promote an adversarial stance toward China. "Is the objective to condition our learners to hate China and send them to war with the giant?" one critic questioned.

The criticism points to the broader context of the Philippines' territorial disputes in the South China Sea, and the controversial adoption of the term West Philippine Sea by former President Aquino's administration in 2012. While the Philippines recognizes this designation, critics argue that it lacks international recognition, and some contend that the name holds little weight in global discussions, calling it a "pautot" or propaganda. This sentiment is echoed by those who feel that focusing on territorial conflicts might distract from other pressing issues, such as educating students on their civic responsibilities or how to responsibly manage national resources, including the national budget.

The Debate on National Sovereignty vs. Civic Responsibility

Another layer of the conversation revolves around the question of what should truly be taught to the next generation of Filipinos. Some critics suggest that the focus on geopolitical issues could overshadow more immediate concerns, such as teaching children their rights and duties as citizens under the Philippine Constitution. "Why not focus on teaching students how to become responsible citizens and introduce them to our Constitution first?" one commentator remarked, stressing the importance of understanding local governance, civil duties, and the principles of democracy.

Meanwhile, supporters of the initiative argue that the discussion on national sovereignty is just as crucial in shaping a well-rounded, socially aware generation. They contend that learning about the West Philippine Sea provides a foundation for understanding the country's position in global geopolitics, fostering a sense of pride in the nation's independence and territorial integrity. It's also seen as an opportunity to educate future leaders about diplomacy, legal frameworks, and international relations — critical subjects in an interconnected world.

A Larger Conversation About Education and National Identity

The unveiling of The Stories of Teacher Jun comes at a time when the Philippines is navigating complex challenges in both domestic governance and foreign relations. The education system, as always, plays a pivotal role in shaping how the youth perceive their identity, responsibilities, and the nation's place in the world. Whether or not one agrees with the messaging of this comic book, it is undeniable that the conversation about national sovereignty, historical narratives, and the role of education in fostering informed citizens is vital.

As the debate over The Stories of Teacher Jun continues, it prompts a larger reflection on how the Philippines can best prepare its young people to face the challenges of the future — not just through simplified geopolitical narratives, but also by equipping them with a well-rounded education that addresses their duties as citizens and their roles in building a prosperous, peaceful nation.

In the coming months, The Stories of Teacher Jun will likely continue to be a focal point of discussion, as educators, parents, and policymakers evaluate its impact on the nation's educational landscape and its potential to influence the worldview of future generations.

Boy Abunda's Interview with Bongbong Marcos: A Missed Opportunity for Real Solutions

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

During the previous presidential election campaigns, one of the most widely discussed interviews was between renowned broadcaster Boy Abunda and Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr., the son of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos. At that time, the Filipino electorate was looking for clarity, strong leadership, and detailed plans to address the country’s most pressing challenges. However, the interview left much to be desired, with Marcos offering little beyond motherhood statements and vague promises that failed to resonate with the real issues Filipinos face.

Boy Abunda, known for his direct approach and probing questions, tried to push Marcos for more specific policies and concrete plans. However, Marcos's responses remained disappointingly generic, void of substantial insight or a clear vision for the country's future. His answers often sounded like standard political rhetoric, full of buzzwords but lacking any actionable strategies that could address the nation's urgent concerns.

A Rehash of Politico Buzzwords

From the outset, Marcos’s responses were predictably broad and familiar, echoing standard political soundbites. Concepts like "unity" and "progress" were tossed around without addressing specific national issues that required immediate attention. Marcos failed to provide concrete plans on how he would address problems such as the ongoing impact of the pandemic, poverty, and inflation—issues that directly affect millions of Filipinos.

Instead of offering tangible solutions, his answers relied on vague generalities and promises of "growth" and "progress," often repeating phrases that have become staples in political campaigns. There was no indication that Marcos had a clear understanding of the complexities of these problems or the ability to tackle them head-on with innovative policies.

A Lack of Ground-Level Experience

Marcos’s responses also highlighted a noticeable disconnect from the realities faced by ordinary Filipinos. Leaders who have spent time engaging with local communities—listening to their concerns and understanding their struggles—are able to develop practical solutions that can truly make a difference. However, Marcos seemed removed from the experiences of everyday citizens, and his failure to propose real, on-the-ground solutions left many wondering if he was even aware of the extent of the challenges the country was grappling with.

In fairness to Boy Abunda, he tried to guide the conversation toward more specific policies and concrete plans. However, every time the questions became too pointed, Marcos deflected, offering no substantial answers or details on how he intended to improve the lives of Filipinos. His campaign lacked any clear vision, leaving voters questioning what exactly he stood for beyond a general promise of progress.

Revisiting 2016: "I Cannot Give What I Don’t Have"

The interview also reminded many of a controversial statement Marcos made during the 2016 vice-presidential debate. When asked about the ill-gotten wealth of his family, he famously said, "I cannot give what I don’t have." The remark, which many found evasive and dismissive, encapsulated the larger issue with Marcos's political persona—his reluctance to address his family’s controversial history and the continued cloud of corruption that hung over his campaign.

Fast forward to the 2022 presidential campaign, and Marcos’s interview continued to show that his approach to the country’s issues was just as evasive. Rather than confronting his past head-on and offering a path toward reconciliation or accountability, he continued to deflect and offer vague assurances, much to the frustration of many Filipinos seeking real change.

The WPS Debate: Another Missed Opportunity

As the interview shifted to the topic of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and the ongoing maritime dispute with China, Marcos once again failed to provide any substantial policy or strategy. Rather than offering a firm stance or clear plan of action to defend Philippine sovereignty, his response was underwhelming and devoid of the urgency the situation demanded. In a time when the country faces increasing pressure from China in the South China Sea, his failure to address the issue with seriousness and clarity was deeply concerning.

A good friend, who is a diplomat, succinctly summarized the situation by calling Marcos "engot (idiot)" for his failure to grasp the full gravity of the situation. In an era when foreign policy and national security are at the forefront of global discussions, Marcos's failure to address these issues with the necessary depth and seriousness was a glaring weakness.

Ping Lacson's Contrast: A Leader with a Plan

In stark contrast to Bongbong Marcos, Senator Ping Lacson’s interviews during the same period offered a more detailed and thoughtful approach to governance. Lacson, with decades of experience in public service and national security, provided concrete policies and a clear vision for the country’s future. His understanding of the Philippines' national security, economic stability, and foreign relations was much more thorough, and he demonstrated the ability to think critically about solutions for the country’s most pressing problems.

Lacson’s interviews highlighted the stark differences in leadership styles, as he was able to articulate a clear plan for the nation’s future, backed by a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the issues at hand. In comparison, Marcos’s failure to offer similar substance only underscored his lack of preparedness for the presidency.

"Babangon Muli Tungo sa Bagong Lipunan?" Not Under Marcos’s Watch

Throughout the interview, Marcos repeatedly invoked the phrase "babangon muli tungo sa bagong lipunan" (rising again toward a new society), a slogan that played into the nostalgia of his father’s regime. However, as the conversation unfolded, it became clear that the promise of a "new society" under Marcos was nothing more than empty rhetoric. His failure to offer specific, actionable plans to address the country’s challenges left many doubting whether his leadership could bring about any real change.

Marcos’s campaign was built on promises of revival and progress, but his inability to offer a fresh perspective or innovative solutions suggested that the country would only be stuck in the same cycles of underachievement and stagnation.

Conclusion: Time for New Leadership

As the 2022 presidential election campaign drew to a close, it became evident that the Philippines needed more than just a return to the past. What the country required was a new generation of leaders who could offer concrete solutions to the myriad problems facing the nation. Bongbong Marcos, in his interview with Boy Abunda, failed to prove that he was the leader capable of delivering that change. His rhetoric and lack of specific policies demonstrated that his leadership would not bring the fresh perspective needed to address the complex issues of modern-day Philippines.

In the end, the interview reinforced the belief that the country needs new leadership—leaders who are not only visionary but also capable of acting decisively and pragmatically. Marcos's presidency, which eventually won him the top office, may have promised a brighter future, but based on his performance during the campaign, many still question whether his leadership will truly bring the changes the country so desperately needs.