Duterte’s Chosen Ones: PDP-Laban Unleashes Senate Bets in Fiery Proclamation Rally!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

On February 13, 2025, the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) held its proclamation rally at Club Filipino in San Juan City, marking the official launch of their senatorial campaign for the upcoming elections. The event was graced by former President Rodrigo Duterte, the party's chairman, who endorsed the slate of eight senatorial candidates. 

The PDP-Laban senatorial lineup includes:

Reelectionist Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa

Reelectionist Senator Christopher "Bong" Go

Singer and newcomer Jimmy Bondoc

Sagip Party-list Representative Rodante Marcoleta

Actor Philip Salvador

Lawyers Jesus Hinlo Jr. and Raul Lambino

Pastor Apollo Quiboloy

In his address, former President Duterte emphasized the party's commitment to its "Tapang at Malasakit" (courage and compassion) brand of governance, urging supporters to rally behind the candidates who, he believes, will continue the initiatives started during his administration. 

Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, known for his role as the former Philippine National Police chief during Duterte's administration, shared his unique campaign strategy, likening it to "Oplan Tokhang." He plans to conduct house-to-house visits, personally engaging with voters to solicit their support. Dela Rosa stated, "Sanay naman tayo sa tokhang, 'di ba? Binabahay-bahay natin 'yung bahay, kinakatok natin. So pwede ring gawin 'yun." (We're used to Tokhang, right? We go to houses, knock on their doors. We can also do that.) 

Meanwhile, Senator Bong Go commenced his campaign activities in Davao City, engaging with small business owners and emphasizing the importance of supporting local enterprises. He later attended the League of Municipalities of the Philippines general assembly in Manila, where he discussed bringing government services closer to the people, especially the marginalized sectors. 

The choice of Club Filipino as the venue for the proclamation rally is historically significant. It is the same venue where former President Corazon Aquino took her oath of office in 1986, marking a pivotal moment in Philippine history. This selection underscores PDP-Laban's intent to draw parallels between past transformative events and their current campaign. 

During the rally, candidate Jesus Hinlo Jr. addressed the recent impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte. He assured supporters that if PDP-Laban secures sufficient seats in the Senate, the two-thirds vote required to convict the Vice President would be unattainable, thereby preventing her impeachment. Hinlo declared, "If we enter the Senate together, they will not have the two-thirds vote; no impeachment will happen." 

The proclamation rally was well-attended, with supporters expressing enthusiasm for the party's platform and candidates. The event was also streamed live, allowing a broader audience to witness the proceedings. 

As the campaign season progresses, PDP-Laban aims to leverage its established political network and the popularity of its key figures to secure victory in the upcoming elections. The party's focus remains on continuity of governance, emphasizing programs centered on public safety, poverty alleviation, and national development.

You’re Replaceable at Work—But Not to the People Who Truly Love You! Here’s Why Self-Care is Non-Negotiable

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to become consumed by work, routines, and obligations. While these aspects of life are important, it's crucial to remember that in professional settings, individuals are often replaceable. However, to those who truly love and care for you—family, friends, and close relationships—you are irreplaceable. Prioritizing self-care not only enhances your well-being but also strengthens the bonds with those who matter most.

The Importance of Work-Life Balance

Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for maintaining both mental and physical health. When individuals manage their time effectively between work and personal life, they experience reduced stress levels and increased overall satisfaction. According to Mental Health America, a good work-life balance leads to happier and more productive individuals who take fewer sick days and are more likely to stay in their jobs. 

Conversely, neglecting this balance can lead to burnout, adversely affecting personal relationships. A study highlighted in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that low work-life balance contributes to worsening health due to increased stress and poor time management. 

Self-Care: A Pillar of Healthy Relationships

Engaging in self-care is not a selfish act; it's a necessity for maintaining healthy relationships. By taking care of yourself, you replenish your emotional reserves, ensuring you can be there for your loved ones when they need you most. 

 Self-care enhances self-esteem and confidence, leading to more balanced and fulfilling relationships. 

Incorporating self-care into your routine can be as simple as setting aside time for activities you enjoy, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in physical exercise. For instance, using meditation apps like Headspace has been shown to improve mental health and foster healthy habits. 

Practical Steps to Prioritize Self-Care

Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to additional work or social obligations that may overwhelm you. Protecting your personal time is crucial for mental health.

Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Exercise is a proven method to reduce stress and improve mood. Starting with small, manageable activities can lead to significant benefits.

Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate meditation or deep-breathing exercises into your daily routine to center your thoughts and reduce anxiety.

Seek Professional Support: If feelings of stress or burnout persist, consider consulting a mental health professional for guidance.

Remember, while work and daily routines are integral parts of life, they should not come at the expense of your health and relationships. By prioritizing self-care, you not only enhance your own well-being but also enrich the lives of those who consider you irreplaceable.

Forgotten Asian Masters of Paris: The Untold Story of Art, Identity, and Revolution!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In the vibrant tapestry of early 20th-century Paris, a group of pioneering Asian artists emerged, blending their rich cultural heritages with the avant-garde movements of the time. The upcoming exhibition at National Gallery Singapore, "City of Others: Asian Artists in Paris, 1920s–1940s," delves into this fascinating intersection, shedding light on the contributions and experiences of these artists during the interwar period.

A Confluence of Cultures

Paris, between the 1920s and 1940s, was a melting pot of artistic innovation. The city attracted creatives worldwide, including Asian artists such as Foujita Tsuguharu, Georgette Chen, Lê Phô, Liu Kang, Xu Beihong, and Sanyu. These artists navigated the complexities of being perceived as "others" in a foreign land while engaging deeply with the city's dynamic art scene. Their unique perspectives enriched the global art narrative, fostering a cross-cultural exchange that challenged and expanded traditional artistic boundaries.

Exhibition Highlights

"City of Others" is the first major comparative exhibition focusing on Asian artists in Paris during this transformative era. Visitors will explore how these artists grappled with their cultural identities, contributing to global art movements alongside contemporaries like Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí. The exhibition features a diverse array of artworks, from paintings and sculptures to decorative arts, highlighting the multifaceted contributions of these artists to modernism.

Symposium: Asian Artists in Paris—New Narratives

In conjunction with the exhibition, National Gallery Singapore and Musée Cernuschi will host a joint symposium titled "Asian Artists in Paris: New Narratives" on 20 February 2025. This event will present research from both institutions, exploring curatorial insights and new findings related to the featured artists. The symposium will be held in Paris and livestreamed for a global audience. Interested individuals can register for the livestream by contacting the organizers.

Reflecting on Identity and Belonging

The stories presented in "City of Others" prompt reflection on themes of identity, belonging, cultural exchange, creativity, and resilience. These narratives continue to resonate with contemporary conversations, offering insights into the ongoing dialogues about diversity and inclusion in the art world.

Plan Your Visit

"City of Others: Asian Artists in Paris, 1920s–1940s" will be on display from 2 April to 17 August 2025 at National Gallery Singapore. Admission charges apply for this special exhibition. For more information, including ticketing details and related programs, please visit the National Gallery Singapore's official website.

This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to delve into a lesser-explored chapter of art history, celebrating the resilience and creativity of Asian artists who left an indelible mark on the Parisian art scene and beyond.