The LaSallian

Category: Vanguard

  • Treatise: The failures of the DENR undermine our environment

    Treatise: The failures of the DENR undermine our environment

    Amid the brunt of the climate crisis, mounting pollution, and suffering biodiversity,  the pressure is mounting on the country’s environmental vanguards to deliver and ensure the country’s ecosystems are taken care of. 

    The DENR faces scrutiny for plans that contradict its mandate—raising concerns on the future of Philippine ecology.

    At the forefront of this responsibility is the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), “the primary government agency responsible for the conservation, management, development, and proper use of the country’s environment and natural resources.” Or so its mandate expects them to do.

    But when the bureau expected to be at the frontline becomes a hindrance to their goal, what then becomes at stake for the environment? Whether through out-of-hand circumstances or conscious lapses in execution, recent events make one thing clear: many deficiencies are waiting to be settled that must be addressed before our environmental concerns can even be laid out. 

    Wrong people, inadequate people

    In President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent Cabinet shakeup, DENR Secretary Toni Loyzaga was replaced, reportedly due to her “underperformance” and criticisms of being a “jet-setter secretary.” Loyzaga’s replacement, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla, has also been criticized for promoting the continued use of fossil fuels, positions on nuclear energy, and the weakening of a previously established moratorium on the building of new coal plants. These have raised concerns over the brand of leadership he will bring to the department.

    Beyond signs of incompetence at the executive level, the DENR is also mired in issues concerning manpower. Early into her tenure as secretary, Loyzaga admitted that inadequate financial and human resources were needed to mitigate the impacts of climate change in the country. Assistant Secretary Rochelle Gamboa echoed the same sentiments, citing “limited manpower” in the agency’s oversight of mining operations.

    The archaic corruption across Philippine government agencies appears to extend into the DENR as well. During a budget hearing, Senator Raffy Tulfo divulged allegations of DENR personnel soliciting commissions in its Land Management Bureau’s Cadastral Survey Program, which is supposed to delineate landowner claims and political boundaries.

    While some of these issues can undoubtedly be resolved through legal reforms and greater budget allotments, the obvious dilemma remains to be no question. Responsibility and accountability are severely inadequate along the entire line of, as they put it, “limited number” of individuals that run the DENR, from its executives down to its personnel. This points to a deeper, more systemic rot.

    Seeding incompetence

    Structural dysfunction and corruption within the DENR undermine its operations. The DENR has frequently failed to implement its programs or enforce laws and regulations designed to protect the environment. Take the well-intentioned tree-replanting and mangrove reforestation programs, where they planted an incorrect species of mangrove in the wetlands of Bohol and Negros Occidental. This became the tip of the iceberg for mishandled DENR projects. 

    Even when DENR publicly acknowledges environmental risks—as it did with reclamation projects in Manila Bay—they have done little to stop their construction, let alone ensure there are more environmentally friendly benefits to them. Another display of inaction by the DENR over illegal mining and construction in Palawan has also led to a writ of Kalikasan—a legal remedy that protects the constitutional right to a healthy environment—being filed against them in 2023.

    Significant national media exposure was required before the construction of an illegal resort in Bohol’s Chocolate Hills was scrutinized. This begs the question: How much more such violations fall under the radar in supposedly protected areas? A media circus should not be needed to compel the DENR to act. 

    When DENR laws are routinely bypassed by private corporations and violations are often met with mere slaps on the wrist, the agency also falls short of its goals or intended purpose, revealing that something is amiss within the DENR’s institutions. 

    These problems within the DENR’s institutions seep into its operations, and since they lack the resources, capacity, or competence to function properly, one cannot expect it to effectively enforce its mandates and protect the environment.

    For the sake of the environment

    The DENR’s mission is to mobilize the citizenry in the protection, conservation, and management of the country’s environment and natural resources, both for present and future generations. Its vision is one of a nation enjoying and sustaining its natural resources, with a clean and healthy environment. Yet for decades, the dire state of the country’s environment has continued to degrade. Should the status quo remain, the DENR’s vision may remain out of reach so long as its execution continues to fall short.

    To begin with, the DENR must take accountability and responsibility for its deficiencies. From there, the DENR can identify weaknesses among its institutions and personnel, helping it work towards rectifying the agency and making the department more effective. 

    The national government also needs to recognize the importance of the DENR for protecting our environment and support them by granting them the necessary resources. These measures can give the DENR what it needs to empower its institutions and properly enforce environmental laws. 

    As part of its mission, the DENR must also amplify the voices of indigenous communities and environmental organizations. They must stand against uncontrolled development that disrupts not just the environment but also the people living in these areas. Furthermore, the DENR can also learn from non-governmental organizations to streamline its operations and deliver better results. 

    Despite the issues that surround the DENR, there have been efforts to improve the department. The establishment of the Environmental Protection and Enforcement Bureau under the DENR in 2020 is a step forward in helping the DENR enforce environmental laws. The adoption of new technologies, such as the deployment of artificial intelligence to help combat illegal wildlife trade, has also helped improve the DENR’s capabilities. 

    There is undoubtedly room for the DENR to improve. The question is whether the DENR has the resolve to take the necessary steps to do so. Reforming the DENR into a competent organization is necessary for the sake of our environment, our future, and the succeeding generations to come.

    This article was published in The LaSallian‘s Marcos Presidency Midterm Special. To read more, visit bit.ly/TLSMarcosMidtermSpecial.

  • Treatise: Collateral damage flows deep as the seas bleed

    Treatise: Collateral damage flows deep as the seas bleed

    Disputes in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) have long posed a challenge to the Philippines, with tensions spanning several decades. These can be traced back to the 40s, however, what escalated this dilemma were the 1995 Mischief Reef incident and the 2012 Scarborough Shoal standoff. While the geopolitical conflict over which country has a claim has been widely discussed, what is often overlooked is the detrimental effect military activity has had on the area’s local ecosystem. 

    A treasure in the hands of destruction

    The territorial push and pull over the West Philippine Sea endangers the marine life that depends on its waters.

    The West Philippine Sea forms part of the Coral Triangle, a world-recognized center for marine biodiversity that houses a high concentration of coral reefs, along with diverse species of marine invertebrates and mammals. Although its significance in the global stage is well-established, the WPS still faces the toils of global politics and the greed of human consumption. Vital marine zones have been repurposed for their potential oil reserves and rich fishing grounds.

    An area treasured for both its biodiversity and economic significance is the Kalayaan Island Group, known internationally as the Spratly Islands. Though it is the country’s smallest municipality, Kalayaan accounts for at least 27 percent of the Philippines’ commercial fisheries production. The archipelago is also a major waterway used for international trade. Given its combined geopolitical, economic, and military potential, it is expected that neighboring countries, like China, would attempt to assume ownership of this region. 

    Since 2013, China has dredged and reclaimed 3,200 acres of land in the Kalayaan Islands, as well as in the Paracel Islands off the coast of Vietnam and the Panatag Shoal near Zambales. These artificial military islands have destroyed benthic ecosystems—altering hydrological flow and increasing sedimentation, which blocks sunlight and suffocates marine life. Moreover, the wastes from both the islands and military ships that traverse these waters contribute to pollution, worsening the already dire condition of the area. 

    In addition to the artificial islands, China also conducts military activities, such as missile launches and underwater bomb detonations, that can eradicate countless marine life within a large radius. Moreover, the noise from these activities and sonar technologies interferes with the communication and navigation of sea life, especially sound-dependent marine mammals like dolphins and whales, leading to disorientation, confusion, and even death. Increased vessel traffic and naval presence from the military can pollute and destroy seabed habitats because of the vessels’ anchors and propellers. Furthermore, these military bases emit large amounts of carbon as they consume a lot of fossil fuel energy.

    The overall pollution and destruction of marine ecosystems here not only reduce biodiversity but also worsen climate change, compromising an area already vulnerable to the phenomenon.

    The guardians under attack 

    Behind every destroyed coral reef lies a person who has lost their livelihood and community. According to the Maritime Fairtrade, China’s militarization of the WPS affects 1.8 million coastal Filipinos, and as traditional fishing grounds become inaccessible and fish populations continue to decline, Filipino fisherfolk are left to face economic displacement. The Philippine Statistics Authority’s latest Fisheries Situationer reports that marine municipal fisheries production dropped by 13.1 percent in 2024, with those most dependent on WPS waters particularly affected.

    Local fishing communities, who have depended on these waters for generations, are being displaced not just by military activities, but more so by the environmental degradation that comes with them. The traditional ecological knowledge accumulated over centuries is slowly being lost as the ecosystems themselves perish.

    This environmental destruction also puts environmental defenders at risk, facing harassment, intimidation, and worse. Militarization of these contested waters hampers scientific research and environmental monitoring, resulting in a research blackout that enables destruction to continue unchecked.

    Healthy marine ecosystems function as natural buffers that absorb the kinetic energy of typhoon winds and storm surges, and oceans serve as natural shields, protecting millions of coastal Filipinos. The loss of marine biodiversity in the West Philippine Sea weakens the area’s resilience to climate change, making coastal communities more vulnerable to environmental disasters like rising sea levels and intense typhoons. 

    Securing peace through protection

    The marine ecosystems of the West Philippine Sea belong not just to the Philippines or any claiming nation, but to the global biosphere. Environmental protection should go beyond territorial disputes, since humanity depends on these healthy oceans for climate stability, food security, and the conservation of marine biodiversity. 

    In 2019, the UP Marine Science Institute called on the public to “be part of a movement for responsible stewardship not only for the WPS, but all the seas around the country,” emphasizing that conservation efforts require both scientific engagement and collective undertaking. 

    Most urgently, the global community must recognize that environmental destruction in the name of territorial control represents a form of warfare that threatens not just the concerned parties’ stability, but the planet’s environmental security. International bodies must develop systems to penalize the disregard for environmental protection in disputed waters, treating ecological destruction as grounds for intervention regardless of territorial claims. While scientific research provides the foundation to understand these threats, political will is needed to support their work, act on their findings, and mobilize communities to protect what remains of these invaluable marine environments.

    As tensions continue to flare in these contested waters, the silent victims beneath the waves deserve our attention and protection. The true cost of geopolitical conflict in the WPS is measured not just in collateral damage or military expense, but in the irreplaceable marine ecosystems being sacrificed in the name of territorial expansion. The time has come for us to recognize environmental protection as the foundation of regional security, because in the end, what good are these territorial disputes over a dead sea?

    This article was published in The LaSallian‘s Marcos Presidency Midterm Special. To read more, visit bit.ly/TLSMarcosMidtermSpecial.

  • Struggles and woes for the scholars of science

    Struggles and woes for the scholars of science

    The Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) undergraduate scholarships have long served as a beacon of hope for aspiring Filipino scientists, opening doors that might have otherwise stayed locked. Yet beneath this foundation of support lies a troubling reality: persistent scholarship fund delays, convoluted reimbursement processes, and bureaucratic hurdles that weigh heavily on the scholars’ lives. 

    The aforementioned troubles are not just minor inconveniences; many scholars are forced to make personal sacrifices just to stay afloat—sacrifices that, over time, erode both their well-being and academic performance. If left unresolved, these issues risk undermining the very purpose of the scholarships. For a country hoping to build its future in science and innovation, the next crucial step is to rethink how we support those already carrying that burden. 

    DOST-SEI scholarships offer hope to future scientists, but delays in benefits hinder scholars and their education.

    Strings attached 

    Despite its esteemed value, DOST scholarship programs distress scholars with recurring concerns, even from the start of the application process. Aspiring recipients are required to submit a slew of documents and complete a challenging examination just to be considered. Once accepted, scholarship retention brings its own set of challenges. Apart from the termly renewal processes, awardees are required to maintain their grades and overall GPA based on a criterion unique for each year level. While many can manage, these still pose an added layer of pressure. The academic grade requirements, in particular, are notably strict, often becoming the main point of stress for students striving to meet them.

    Beyond academics, scholars frequently face issues with receiving the benefits promised to them. To some students like Lae*, the monthly stipend of P8,000 often falls short of covering the total living expenses. This shortfall is especially concerning for underprivileged scholars who often rely on the allowance to support their education and daily needs. Adding more to the frustration is the irregular disbursement of these stipends. As Lae shares, “From experience, they usually send the monthly allowance in bulk per term. It never comes monthly.”

    Min*, another scholar, echoes this concern and highlights the financial strain these delays can cause: “During Term 2 of the academic year, I had to rely on my parents for all living expenses since the stipends were [only] released during the last week of the term.” She also adds that some of her friends were forced to make unnecessary personal sacrifices just to get by—something that could and should have been avoided had the stipends arrived on time. 

    Systemic issues

    Currently, there are two primary undergraduate scholarships under the DOST’s  Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), namely, the Republic Act 7687 (RA 7687) or “Science and Technology Act of 1994” scholarship and the DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program. RA 7687 is offered to students from families whose annual gross incomes are below the poverty threshold limit and who seek to enroll in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) undergraduate programs. On the other hand, the Merit program is offered to students who do not meet the financial requirements of RA 7687 and have high aptitude in STEM. 

    This 2025, the institute selected 10,907 students out of the 95,654 who applied to become recipients of the two scholarship programs. However, after going through a highly competitive selection process, scholars cannot completely reap what they have sown. DOST-SEI has been plagued with systemic issues that directly perturb the scholars’ rights and privileges. The country’s lack of investment in education causes the agency to fall prey to insufficient funding, inevitably delaying the release of the financial aid. In recent years, funding requests to the Department of Budget of Management (DBM) have been unfruitful.

    Another barrier disrupting both the institute and its scholars involves the logistics of processing and transferring funds. Once DOST-SEI receives appropriations from the DBM, the funds are then transferred to a university coordinator to facilitate the disbursement. However, for some universities, significant delays are frequently experienced as students often fail to submit the scholarship’s requirements on time.

    Given this persistent issue, DOST-SEI is considering sending the stipends directly to scholars’ bank accounts or incorporating DOST representatives in universities to facilitate the distribution of stipends. 

    Science knows no boundaries

    In line with DOST-SEI’s commitment to building the next generation of Filipino professionals in STEM, the institute is eyeing an increase in the number of scholarships by also expanding its priority courses to cover more fields. The scholarship now caters to over 84 undergraduate academic programs and has increased the monthly stipend by P1,000. 

    These developments demonstrate the institute’s dedication to nurturing Filipino scientific talent. However, offering scholarship programs is only the first step in advancing the nation’s STEM capabilities. Beyond budget constraints, the country continues to face systemic impediments that hinder our potential in science and technology. 

    Expanding access to quality STEM education and fostering innovation are just the beginning as the DOST-SEI and its scholars strive to become true catalysts for national progress.

    *Names in asterisks are pseudonyms.

    The LaSallian reached out to DOST-SEI Director Jayeel Cornelio during the development of this article, but he was unavailable at that time. The publication will instead integrate Cornelio’s comments in an upcoming article.

    This article was published in The LaSallian‘s Marcos Presidency Midterm Special. To read more, visit bit.ly/TLSMarcosMidtermSpecial.

  • Delving into the digital shadows: Safeguarding children against online sexual abuse and exploitation

    Delving into the digital shadows: Safeguarding children against online sexual abuse and exploitation

    With the growing availability of digital devices, more and more children are being born into a world where using the internet is second nature. In the Philippines alone, 85 percent of children have access to a mobile phone. While the internet has allowed children to form social connections with their peers—especially during the lockdown—it has also become a hotspot for violence and abuse. 

    World Vision Philippines Project Against Child Exploitation Director Daphne Culanag defines online sexual abuse or exploitation of children (OSAEC) as “the use of information and communication technology to abuse and/or exploit children sexually.” Cases of OSAEC include the online grooming of children and the production and distribution of child sexual abuse or exploitation materials (CSAEM).

    Although Republic Act 11930, or the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act penalizes child abuse offenders, OSAEC remains prevalent in the country. One in every 100 Filipino children experience some form of online abuse everyday, and potential victims could easily fall victim to abusers hiding behind unsuspecting avatars and icons. 

    Behind closed doors 

    OSAEC has become a fast-growing, borderless crime. With a camera, free internet access, and international money transfer centers accessible in local neighborhoods, facilitators could easily setup OSAEC arrangements at home. As many Filipinos can speak English, foreign perpetrators can also easily communicate with local facilitators online. 

    State counsel for the Department of Justice Office of Cybercrime (DOJ-OOC) Atty. Antoni Pauline Pascual classifies OSAEC into two categories: facilitated and self-generated. Adults, and sometimes even the parents of the victim, facilitate the abuse and connect with the perpetrator through online platforms. Meanwhile, unsupervised children who self-generate CSAEM directly talk to perpetrators about the materials. 

    Val Rindel Suban, a computer science student from Mapua University, explains how perpetrators and facilitators exchange information under the radar. Users can create alternative accounts to browse the deep web, such as Tor, and join chat groups for buying and selling CSAEM. Mainstream websites, such as Twitter and Reddit, are also sources of online child pornography. 

    Aside from using child-friendly aliases, perpetrators also cover their tracks by taking advantage of the security features provided by virtual private networks. Pascual adds that the IP addresses in the Philippines are dynamic, which can be a challenge for law enforcement to catch any suspicious activity online. However, cooperating with international money transfer centers has been effective in identifying perpetrators, as IDs are required to make transactions. 

    Continuous cycle

    Police Colonel Vina Guzman, the Chief of Staff of the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), emphasizes the need for collaboration between local and international law enforcement authorities in resolving OSAEC-related crimes. For instance, the United Kingdom National Crime Agency and the Australian Federal Police assess and report cybercrime incidents to PNP-ACG, especially if the identified victim is a Filipino. Thus, it becomes their priority to rescue the child and help these agencies prosecute the perpetrator. 

    In hopes of breaking the cycle of abuse, PNP also works with the Department of Social Welfare and Development to provide shelter and therapy to the rescued victims. Subsequently, the victims will be returned to their community upon evaluation of their condition by a psychologist. 

    However, Culanag adds that OSAEC has long-term effects that may prevent the victims from taking control of their life, including low self-esteem, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Guzman worries about the possibility that the victims will “return to whatever it is they [were] doing” if their trauma has not been thoroughly addressed.

    Poverty is another factor that leaves victims vulnerable to coercion. With increasing poverty rates from the COVID-19 pandemic, creating CSAEM has been an easy way to make ends meet. Rescued victims in need of money may become facilitators themselves and perpetuate the cycle of abuse. Another case would be the parents committing this offense, which adversely affects children as they might be “oblivious to what is happening to them,” Subaan explains.

    Uncovering the virtual world

    Aside from enacting laws criminalizing online sexual abuse, public sectors and civil society organizations must work hand in hand to prevent online sexual abuse with the Whole of the Government Approach initiative. A cyber hygiene webinar of the DOJ-OOC, for instance, discusses pertinent issues on cybercrime threats and trends related to online sexual abuse. In this way, law enforcement authorities are informed on how cybercrime operates in the virtual world and ways to deal with it. 

    Culanag also underscores the importance of making livelihood programs accessible to parents, especially to poor families, to avoid cases of exploiting their children. Similarly, educating parents, guardians, and children about internet safety will protect them from this cybercrime. Bolstering her statement, Subaan further states that this “will strengthen people’s views on online security and privacy.”

    Reaching out

    Cybercrime-related offenses, such as OSAEC, have made the digital space bleak and dangerous for children. With the exhaustive efforts of national and international agencies and organizations to address this borderless crime, it is imperative that families and communities also work together to prevent the recurrence of OSAEC and raise awareness of it to protect the welfare of children. 

    In any case that people experience or witness OSAEC, they are encouraged to contact authorities to report this incident. 

    Contact Details:

    Department of Justice Office of Cybercrime (DOJ-OCC)
    [email protected]

    National Bureau of Investigation Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD)
    [email protected]

    Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG)
    [email protected]
    [email protected]
    Hotline: (02) 87230401 local 7491
    09688674302
    09671360322
    09929893889
    https://www.facebook.com/anticybercrimegroup

    PNP-ACG Women and Children Cybercrime Protection Unit
    [email protected]
    0968-896-4759
    https://www.facebook.com/PNPACGWCCPU

    PNP Aleng Pulis
    [email protected]
    0920 907 1717

    Council for the Welfare of Children Makabata Helpline
    0919-354-1383
    0915-802-2375

  • With the surge in scams, is SIM registration the cure?

    With the surge in scams, is SIM registration the cure?

    In response to the persistent threat of text scams and mobile-based fraud in the Philippines, the government enacted Republic Act 11934 or the SIM Registration Act in October 2022. Hailed as a solution to growing digital crimes, the law requires subscribers to register their SIM cards using personal identification—a landmark move in shifting the country’s approach to telecommunications regulation.

    After a seven-month mandatory listing period, nearly 114 million SIM cards were registered, surpassing the 100 to 110 million target set by the Department of Information and Technology (DICT). Yet, behind this impressive figure lies a troubling reality: scammers and fraudulent entities continue to exploit loopholes in the system, exposing the complexities of addressing digital crime in an interconnected world. 

    Superficial protocols

    Mary Grace Mirandilla-Santos, an independent information communications technology policy researcher, criticizes the SIM Registration Act for its lack of robust data validation mechanisms. She adds that implementing a proper verification system would demand substantial budget and manpower, which the law does not provide. Instead, this responsibility is often outsourced to third-party companies, including foreign entities like China and Japan.

    Kim Cantillas, chairperson of the Computer Professionals’ Union, warns of the potential misuse or leakage of data submitted during registration. She highlights that in the initial phase of registration, telecommunication companies included tick boxes, allowing them to use data for purposes beyond SIM registration. Although these were later removed following public backlash, Cantillas still points out the lingering risks of data exploitation. “Now that there aren’t as many eyes monitoring SIM registration, who’s to say they [aren’t] using our data for other purposes?”

    Mirandilla-Santos further emphasizes that the law has failed to prevent entities involved in illegal activities from registering large numbers of SIM cards using fake identification documents. In contrast, the ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators has been effective in reducing text scams, as observed by the Department of Justice, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group, and the DICT.

    Escalating risks

    Apart from its questionable effectiveness in deterring scams and cybercrimes, the SIM Card Registration Act has inadvertently introduced significant risks to subscribers’ privacy and cybersecurity. 

    Cantillas cautions that SIM registration creates a false sense of security, masking deeper flaws in the system. She cites a report by the Global Anti-Scam Alliance, which estimates that the Philippines suffered losses of around P460 billion this year, showing the persistent prevalence of fraudulent activities. The centralized storage of personal information further heightens the risk of breaches, turning these repositories into prime targets for cyberattacks.

    Mirandilla-Santos elaborates on the dangers of compromised subscriber data, emphasizing that it can be weaponized for identity theft, fraud, or even crimes involving “spoofed” mobile numbers—those that disguise their true identity on the recipient’s caller ID for malicious intentions. Compounding the existing challenges, the government lacks the necessary resources to safeguard the massive amounts of data collected and manage the fallout of a potential cyberattack.

    Interconnected hidden dangers

    The Philippines is not the sole country to implement SIM card registration laws, global experiences reveal its potential pitfalls. In Pakistan, black markets for unregistered SIM cards have emerged, accompanied by a rise in identity fraud. Mexico eventually repealed its mandate in 2012, citing its ineffectiveness. Meanwhile, Indonesia experienced a massive data leak involving 1.3 billion records from SIM card registrations before abandoning the policy after three years of implementation, acknowledging its inability to curb crime.

    Scams continue to thrive even in more developed nations. In Singapore, cases of deepfake-driven identity fraud have surged by 207 percent in 2024, with scammers impersonating government officials or bank representatives to steal personal information. Similarly, Dubai faced a high-profile incident where deepfake technology was used to mimic the voice of an Indian billionaire to request a large money transfer. 

    Other countries have faced problems such as SIM trading, cloning, spoofing, and theft of phones for their SIM cards. The European Commission also found that SIM card registration has not proven beneficial for criminal investigations across its member states. These challenges serve as a cautionary tale, urging the Philippines to adopt a more comprehensive and effective cybersecurity strategy.

    Rethinking SIM registration

    While the SIM Registration Act seeks to tackle mobile-based scams and enhance public security, its shortcomings have sparked concerns about its effectiveness and necessity. Regulatory measures alone cannot dismantle the complex ecosystem of cybercrimes, which demands a more holistic and comprehensive approach. 

    Efforts from both the public and private sectors—such as BPI’s “Maging Listo, Wag Magpaloko” PSA campaigns, Smart’s #BeCyberSmart program, Maya’s #ScamPatrol, and government campaigns like Be Wais at Magduda—emphasize the importance of improving verification systems, promoting anti-scam education, and strengthening public-private partnerships. Only through these sustained, collective efforts can the country adapt to the evolving threats of cybercrime and build a safer digital ecosystem.

  • The realities of resurrecting the extinct

    The realities of resurrecting the extinct

    When Michael Crichton’s novel Jurassic Park was published in 1990, the idea of resurrecting extinct species through genetic engineering was a concept out of science fiction. Yet today, biotechnology companies make headlines with promises familiar to the fictional InGen Corporation’s ambitious claims of bringing back long-lost species. The parallels are overwhelmingly similar, possibly even more than what Crichton ever imagined.

    While bold claims of de-extinction continue to capture imagination, the companies mask significant scientific, ecological, and ethical issues that erode both the feasibility and merit of such projects.

    Endeavors aimed to revive extinct species shroud the gloomy reality of those currently endangered.

    The illusion of progress

    When Colossal Biosciences announced they had “brought back the dire wolves,” headlines proclaimed it as an absolute fact, often referencing Game of Thrones. However, science communicator Timothy Dimacali notes the original reportage was “very unequivocal,” stating that resurrection was a completed achievement when in reality, these efforts produce hybrids or approximations of the original species rather than true resurrections.

    Although the dire wolf went extinct relatively recently and left behind reasonably good fossil samples, scientists are still unable to determine their exact ecology. As Dimacali clarifies, “there are many unknowns about these creatures… how close it is to what the actual creature was, not just looked like, but also how it behaved.” 

    When considering older extinctions like the dinosaurs, the unknowns multiply exponentially. When the Jurassic Park movie premiered in 1993, dinosaurs were depicted as lizard-like, dull-colored, lumbering reptiles. However, further research has uncovered that they are a diverse array of animals with vibrant plumage and distinct morphologies. Being wrong about something as fundamental as physical appearance undermines our confidence in how their behaviour, ecology, or basic survival necessities can be replicated.

    A fragmented vision of resurrection 

    The thought of seeing a long-extinct animal today is an exciting concept, yet making it a reality is as possible as the day pigs will be able to fly. Replicating an entire organism would require its complete genome, the genetic instructions needed for the development and function of the organism. 

    In these de-extinction projects, American vertebrate paleontologist Julie Meachen shares that different companies are obtaining high-quality DNA sequences from fossil or subfossil material to recreate species that have gone extinct. She goes on to explain that what is actually being created are “ecomorphs,” or organisms with similar ecologies, to replicate ecological roles instead of the extinct species in the strictest sense. 

    Although fossils may contain recoverable genetic material, an entire genome is nearly impossible as DNA starts degrading the moment an organism dies. As a result, most projects utilize genomes of living species as templates, raising the question of whether the product will truly be the same as the extinct species. In reality, these recreations are only hybrids at best. 

    The failures of playing God 

    The pursuit of de-extinction raises profound ethical questions that extend far beyond the labs, one of which is whether de-extinction accomplishes genuine restoration. As American philosophy professor Jay Odenbaugh explains, “If you borrow someone’s laptop and return it to another friend rather than the owner, you have not fulfilled your obligation.” He argues that humanity has a moral obligation to restore species we have driven to extinction when possible, but producing something merely similar in appearance does not truly atone for our past mistakes.

    On the other hand, American philosophy professor Christopher Preston argues that we do not actually “owe” extinct species resurrection since they no longer exist; it could be seen, though, as expressions of humility and regret, making it more optional rather than obligatory. More concerning is the diversion of resources from the conservation of currently endangered species, with substantial investments in de-extinction projects casting doubt on these efforts’ true motives. 

    The consequences are also greatly unpredictable. Resurrected species face scarcity and risk of invasiveness, creating what Odenbaugh calls the danger of being “extinct twice.” Preston highlights the ethical issue of creating animals without the opportunity for social connection, claiming that, “The first woolly mammoth would be very lonely (and the Asian elephants that gestated them would be placed in very disorienting roles).” Meachen remarks that, “Introducing these species to a modern ecosystem is going to be difficult at best, disastrous at worst.” 

    What we still stand to lose 

    Globally, an estimated 48,600 species are threatened with extinction. However, not every species has been assessed, and only a mere fraction have been identified. The extinction of just one group could alter entire ecosystems because a role would lose its actor, pushing ecosystems into decline and causing a cascade of destruction and extinction, a majority of which are further exacerbated by human activity. 

    While scientists and conservationists work hard to reverse the decline of biodiversity around the world, many bat an eye at conservation efforts, what more now that claims of de-extinction add to the mix? Meachen shares that scientists are “trying to conserve the species we already have,” but she later shares that it is still the upper circles with the control, and although scientists know better about what is urgent, their voices are minimized, ignored, or even silenced.

    Conservation is difficult only because the necessary funding and support from those who could make big changes are close to a pipe dream. Those who plead for these changes rarely get heard. Ultimately, it is only when their voices are no longer ignored that we can see change.

    While the potential of genetic technology is compelling, Dimacali worries that “The danger of touting and leaning so heavily into de-extinction is that it gives us a sense of complacency.” If we prioritize ambitious pursuits of resurrecting the long dead, we would let those at the brink of extinction suffer the same fate. We might one day wield the power of bringing them back, yet have no living world to welcome them. If we continue our silence, we only amplify the painful calls of animals whose fates are cut short.  

    This article was published in The LaSallian‘s October 2025 issue. To read more, visit bit.ly/TLSOct2025.

  • Treatise: STEM will flourish in the Filipino language

    Treatise: STEM will flourish in the Filipino language

    The regular Filipino may know the term agham. Even fewer may have heard of sipnayan. But while these direct translations of science and mathematics are more familiar as subject titles, their concepts rarely find a home in the Philippine vernacular. 

    Although long-time English-centric education, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), positions the country on the global stage, how does science resonate among a linguistically diverse Filipino population that speaks nearly 200 distinct languages across the archipelago?

    Our languages are not “dumb”

    The late Bonifacio Sibayan, a distinguished Filipino linguist, describes an intellectualized language as one “that can be used for giving and obtaining a complete education in any field of knowledge from kindergarten to the university and beyond.” 

    Effectively communicating scientific concepts in Filipino is a step toward our national language’s intellectualization.

    An intellectual language must be writable, accessible, and capable of producing new knowledge in governance, education, and mass media. Despite thriving in literature and media, Filipino and other local languages are yet to be intellectualized. 

    As such, native tongues and vernacular languages are treated merely as auxiliary tools that support and nurture our national language, particularly in our education. This explains why mother tongue subjects are emphasized only in primary school before instruction shifts to Filipino and English in higher levels of education. 

    Filipino, therefore, remains a developing language that can be intellectualized through the creation of specialized registers for various professional domains. Achieving this demands greater support and infrastructure for the institutional use to produce localized resources and materials, alongside a gradual shift toward Filipino adaptation and translation.

    It’s more fun in Filipino

    Our country still operates on a “colonial” system that heavily relies on English as a mode of instruction (MOI). This benefits a small English-fluent elite while excluding fluent speakers of indigenous languages from learning. Likewise, misconceptions that English’s global dominance makes the Filipino language less “useful” and that translating scientific terms causes errors and inconsistency hinder its chances of intellectualization, when that is not the case.

    Adapting vocabulary is a natural aspect of language evolution, making the standardization of Filipino scientific vocabulary possible. Countries like Japan, Germany, and Finland follow this example, exhibiting the great science capacity of their native languages without losing global competitiveness.

    To illustrate, the Tagalog word laman can be used to refer to “contents,” and the Ilokano word lasag can be used to refer to “muscle.” Other techniques, such as using affixes, joining words or syllables, shifting accents, and honorific intent, can be used to coin new terms. For example, the Fallopian tube, the tubes connecting the ovaries to the uterus, was discovered by Gabriele Falloppio. In Filipino, it can potentially be called the Tagasang Fallopius—building on the word Tagas, “to leak or flow” and affixing “-ang” to indicate a passage.

    A balance between Filipino and major regional languages as the primary MOI can significantly improve literacy and learning outcomes. When topics are introduced in a student’s native tongue, they are more likely to actively participate in class and grasp complex topics. As a result, students treat unfamiliar concepts with more scientific wonder rather than a “nosebleed” experience. 

    For the world, but not for Filipinos?

    Becoming the predominant MOI for most of the 20th century, the 1974 Philippine Bilingual Education Policy revived the use of Filipino as a language of instruction. The policy mandates the use of the English language for Mathematics and Science subjects only, and Filipino for the rest.

    The Tagalog language served as the foundation for Manuel Quezon’s Executive Order No. 134, which proclaimed it as the basis for the country’s national language. Over time, Filipino distinguished itself from Tagalog as more native and foreign words became incorporated into the vernacular. Thus, Filipino was formally recognized as the national language in 1987. 

    Despite efforts to revive the Filipino language, education has remained an issue for the country’s non-Tagalog speakers. In the context of today’s population, non-Tagalog speakers account for three in every five Filipino households. Persistent issues with language-related learning gaps gave rise to mother tongue-based multilingual education (MTB-MLE) programs. These programs mandate the use of the mother tongue in a specific region as the primary language of instruction, which promises the promotion of oral fluency and literacy, builds upon social and cultural knowledge and experience, and encourages collaboration and innovation.

    The MTB-MLE program has significantly reduced linguistic gaps between a child’s mother tongue and their language of instruction, but it still has its own gaps, like insufficient teacher training and a lack of resources. Moreover, the Congress’ recent moves to consider junking the MTB-MLE program and reverting to the Filipino-English bilingual curriculum could further leave non-Tagalog speakers behind, something particularly worrying amid the country’s recent subpar performance in the Programme for International Student Assessment.

    Concrete evidence has also quantified educational gaps that arise when instruction is delivered predominantly using non-native languages. In Malaysia, when the language of instruction for science and mathematics was changed between students’ primary and secondary years, their test scores dropped significantly. At the tertiary level, scientists in Turkey found that students in a Turkish program scored higher grade point averages than those who took the same program in non-native English. 

    Make it ours

    The path to intellectualizing our languages, starting with STEM domains, is both achievable and urgent, but systemic barriers plague the road ahead. Teacher readiness is critical for a successful implementation of effective MTB-MLE science teaching. 

    By creating science materials rooted in our native tongues and shared experiences, we can offer culturally relevant examples that make learning more relatable and engaging. The DOST-PHIVOLCS’s DANAS Project, for example, publishes sourcebooks written in local languages that guide local geological hazards for better disaster preparedness. 

    Strengthening and expanding these programs—backed by economic and cultural incentives—can integrate Filipino and regional languages into academia, the workforce, and governance. This, in turn, challenges the outdated notion that English is the only path to professional success.

    Our local languages are more than just academic subjects to be passed. They are messengers of our rich and colorful identities as Filipinos. To project our voice globally in the field of science and technology, we must first achieve native fluency to truly embody the discipline and make it ours.

    This article was published in The LaSallian‘s October 2025 issue. To read more, visit bit.ly/TLSOct2025.

  • Fizz and pop: Exploring the effervescence of energy drinks

    Fizz and pop: Exploring the effervescence of energy drinks

    The pressure of numerous academic requirements and crucial examinations often sends students scrambling for a quick energy boost to pull off all-nighters. Walk into any convenience store or supermarket, and you will find a massive display of brightly colored cans and bottles, offering increased energy and focus. Such drinks are positioned as “essential tools” to get through the rough grind. The widespread reliance on energy drinks (EDs) has fueled its market into a multi-billion dollar industry built on the promise of enhanced performance and concentration. 

    However, underneath the facade of sleek marketing and vibrant branding lies a serious issue. Medical journals and public health reports reveal alarming health risks associated with these beverages, ranging from heart palpitations and anxiety, to more severe cardiovascular issues such as abnormal heart rate, blood pressure spikes, and even cardiac arrest. 

    Despite widespread awareness of their potential dangers, a significant portion of the student body continues to consume these drinks at alarming rates. The contrast between the undeniable allure and looming danger of overconsumption raises questions about their true nature. Why do many continue to seek temporary focus boosts despite the underlying risks?

    Students chase focus through every energy drink despite the risks that come with its consumption.

    A zap of energy

    EDs contain chemicals that cause complex effects on the human body. According to Dr. John Higgins, a sports cardiologist at UTHealth Houston McGovern Medical School, these beverages contain notably high caffeine concentrations. Often containing 160 to at least 300 milligrams per serving, caffeine is chiefly responsible for the stimulation of cardiovascular effects, including heart palpitations.

    A single serving can surpass the US Food and Drug Administration’s recommended upper daily caffeine limit of 400 milligrams for healthy adults. For adolescents and children, whose recommended caffeine limit is around 100 milligrams per day or less, these beverages frequently exceed safe thresholds, prompting concern for overconsumption. 

    Beyond caffeine, their high sugar content contributes to metabolic strain, which adds stress to the body’s function to regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, potentially leading to insulin resistance, increased risk of obesity, and metabolic syndrome. This also affects the balance of gut bacteria and promotes inflammation, thereby exacerbating metabolic dysfunction.

    Higgins mentions additives such as guarana, bitter orange or synephrine, and taurine, which further potentiate cardiovascular and neurological effects. EDs also contain ginseng and B vitamins, which interact with sugar and amplify stimulant effects. The sports cardiologist also points out that “proprietary [blends] lack transparency, making it difficult to assess cumulative toxicity.”

    Unpacking the substance

    Higgins postulates that EDs also impact physiology and mental well-being. He states that these beverages can induce anxiety, jitteriness, and insomnia. In addition, excessive consumption of caffeine-induced beverages can result in a disrupted sleep cycle, blurring the line between temporary alertness and lasting nervousness.

    In Higgins’ study, it was concluded that EDs not only cause acute spikes in heart rate and blood pressure, but also impair endothelial function—blood vessels’ ability to regulate circulation, inflammation, and vascular health—which is a key indicator of cardiovascular risk. This constellation of effects may set the stage for arrhythmias, hypertension, and long-term vascular dysfunction. Notably, there have been documented cases where arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, or sudden cardiac death occurred after ED consumption, particularly among those with underlying susceptibilities, additional physical exertion, or stimulating substances.

    Of particular concern is the adolescent brain, uniquely sensitive to caffeine’s neurochemical disruption. Evidence suggests caffeine alters dopamine pathways, affecting impulse control, mood, and sleep. Early exposure to caffeine may also raise the risk for later substance use disorders and persistent neuropsychiatric challenges. ED effects exist on a spectrum shaped by individual biology and context, especially in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, genetic predispositions, concurrent stimulant use, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and children.

    A lingering influence

    Moving forward, Higgins advocates for individual responsibility and policy-based intervention to mitigate the risks associated with ED consumption. He primarily recommends steering away from these products, especially for vulnerable groups.

    Complete avoidance and prohibition of ED consumption can alleviate potential developmental effects and the heightened risk of adverse cardiovascular events. For healthy adults, daily caffeine intake should strictly be a maximum of 400 milligrams, entirely avoiding the mixing of EDs with alcohol or their consumption before, during, and after exercise. Additionally, Higgins emphasizes that the sustainable path to performance and alertness should be independent of commercial stimulants. Healthy and foundational alternatives such as proper hydration, electrolyte drinks, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep should always be prioritized.

    On a systemic level, the sports cardiologist advocates for public health strategies and measures to regulate the consumption of caffeine-based beverages. This includes the mandatory prohibition of sales and aggressive marketing of EDs, especially to children and adolescents. He also recommends “[educating] patients, athletes, and students on the risks and contents of energy drinks.”

    The prohibition and clear, conspicuous labeling of premixed alcoholic EDs was also suggested by Higgins, who mentions that “[there should] be mandatory labeling [of] caffeine content and health warnings [on cans and bottles].” Finally, to ensure effective public response, he encourages continuous research to monitor adverse events and assist ongoing public education campaigns in schools, universities, and local communities. 

    This article was published in The LaSallian‘s October 2025 issue. To read more, visit bit.ly/TLSOct2025.

  • Sowing the seeds of tomorrow: National Scientist Dolores Ramirez

    Sowing the seeds of tomorrow: National Scientist Dolores Ramirez

    With their vibrant colors and enduring beauty, the mussaenda and gumamela flowers are living testaments to the spirit of the tropics. Known as “queens of Philippine gardens,” they are symbols of beauty and femininity, commonly cultivated in many varieties named to honor women. Notably, two cultivated varieties (cultivars) are named after National Scientist Dr. Dolores Ramirez, who has dedicated her life’s work to the agricultural sciences. 

    National Scientist Dolores Ramirez continues to blossom in her pursuit of lifelong learning and service.

    A sprout that grew lush flowers

    Born and raised in Calamba, Laguna, Ramirez studied agriculture at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), understanding she would become one of the few women in a male-dominated field. In this institution, she worked on plant breeding and completed a thesis on the nature of lodging in rice, which is when the plant’s stem permanently bends down.

    Through her diligence and dedication, she obtained worthwhile opportunities in the US. She briefly acknowledged the difficult reality of being a woman of color working in STEM abroad; however, she did not experience discrimination in her work. After working in cytogenetics and biochemical genetics abroad, she returned to UPLB, teaching students and doing research at the College of Agriculture. 

    The flower’s adventitious blooms

    One of Ramirez’s notable works is her pioneering research on the macapuno. While it is a popular ingredient of Filipino cuisine, such as in desserts like halo-halo, it is actually a genetic mutation of the coconut seed’s endosperm. She identified how a certain recessive gene affected its development, giving it its soft and jelly-like texture. 

    Her studies shed light on the genetic and developmental origins of the phenomenon, which led to the use of embryo cultures of macapuno-bearing trees. This allowed the mass propagation of the macapuno coconuts—something difficult to achieve with regular seed germination. 

    While there is no doubt that Ramirez’s research has greatly benefited Philippine agriculture, she recounts moments of uncertainty. She recalled co-developing a sterile hybrid of the mallard and muscovy ducks with promising meat quality, only to find that local demand was lacking. Taiwanese researchers eventually adopted their work to fill their own market needs, making it much more beneficial to a country that views duck meat as a commodity. While their work was still successful, she expressed that “It would have been great if my work was to the benefit of the Philippines and [my fellow countrymen].”

    A flower that continues to bloom

    Ramirez’s career is also marked by numerous accolades, including her recognition as a National Scientist in 1998. As an active member of the Agricultural Sciences Division of the National Academy of Science and Technology, she was even featured on the cover of Vogue Philippines’ August 2023 issue as one of “four extraordinary women of experience and expertise”. She shares that “these things just come to you as time passes by [as you work in your field].” 

    For her, lifelong learning is essential. “You never stop learning, ‘di ba?,” she quips, emphasizing that one simply does not stop gaining knowledge just because they have reached a certain point in their career. She expounds that even if she is well-respected in her field, what she knows as a scientist is but a fraction of the entire body of knowledge, and that there is much more to know out there. During her time as a professor, she shared that learning can even come from her own students’ questions. “[While I may not be able to fully answer them], I get to learn something new in the process.” 

    Her legacy is reflected not only in the cultivars that bear her name but more so in the flourishing landscape of Philippine agriculture and science. Like the queens of the garden, Dr. Dolores Ramirez has bloomed with remarkable grace and resilience, thriving in spaces where only a few women before her dared to grow. 

    Her contributions to plant genetics and agricultural sciences have not just adorned the landscape of Philippine achievement. They have fundamentally enriched it, bearing fruit in the form of improved livelihood, comprehensive knowledge, and a foundation that continues to inspire the new generation of scientists. In the gardens of Philippine science, she remains ever in bloom—proof that true beauty lies in a life dedicated to learning, service, and the pursuit of knowledge.

    This article was published in The LaSallian‘s October 2025 issue. To read more, visit bit.ly/TLSOct2025.

  • Treatise: The end will be full of shiny things

    Treatise: The end will be full of shiny things

    The sparkles illuminating from the trinkets we so adore blind us to a terrifying reality: overconsumption is destroying the world we live in. What seems like a harmless habit of collecting has evolved into an embodiment of senseless purchasing, much to the detriment of our communities, the environment, and even ourselves. 

    The glamorization of excessiveness, paired with the manufactured pressure and fabricated need to chase the latest trends, has transformed overconsumption into not only an acceptable practice but a celebrated one. Without decisive change, the Filipino society—and the world at large—will choke on the waste of what we once believed was indispensable. In the end, humanity may find itself buried beneath it all—and it will glitter.

    Internet microtrends leave behind more than digital noise—they fill local landfills with forgotten trinkets.

    The commodification of cute 

    Overconsumption’s growth stems largely from the popularization of “anik-anik” culture. Traditionally, these small, sentimental trinkets were collected as harmless mementos. But modern culture has stripped them of their meaning, assigning value only when mass appeal dictates. Countless buyers now justify the accumulation of these items without inherent value, simply because culture unknowingly prompts them to do so.

    Rapidly shifting trends, especially among the youth, have supercharged this phenomenon. With brands desiring to dictate each shift, product lines are quick to emerge and fade. Within a few short months, one can witness the rise and fall of entire collections, many of them being repackaged versions of the past. 

    As if under a spell, buyers move from one novelty to the next, filling up their homes with forgotten purchases that are destined, eventually, for the landfill. Yet in the prevailing mindset, such accumulation is not deemed as wasteful, but as a fulfillment of personal “wants.” In this climate, those who flaunt the newest and “cutest” versions are celebrated, creating a feedback loop of encouragement and further consumption.

    Companies, too, have long recognized and exploited this cycle. They release updated product lines at a whim, each positioned as “essential” and designed to make the last collection feel obsolete. This pattern extends well beyond trinkets: fast fashion brands thrive on constant aesthetic turnover, cycling through the so-called fashion seasons at breakneck speed to prompt fresh purchases. Technology companies also employ similar tactics, manufacturing perceived obsolescence to convince consumers that without the latest models, they are outdated or inferior. In every case, the message is the same: what you have is never enough.

    Keeping up with the Joneses

    Through the advent of capitalism, consumerism evolved into a way of life. This eventually resulted in social standing and happiness being linked with the material goods an individual can afford. Over time, people became pressured to consume more to maintain their reputation, shifting their spending from needs and practicality into impractical wants.

    A focus on status and style due to overconsumption strengthens the notion of planned obsolescence and artificial scarcity, while also encouraging poor financial habits among consumers, such as impulsive purchases and ineffective budgeting. These can pose a problem to buyers down the line, leaving them living paycheck to paycheck and with little to no savings. 

    With redefined spending priorities, some would resort to accumulating debt just to “keep up.” The anxiety and stress induced by the pressure to pay debts can result in depression, suicide, and may even turn individuals toward crime and illegitimate businesses. Despite the known risks, consumers willingly continue to fall into this unsustainable cycle to maintain their illusion of a luxurious lifestyle. 

    Overcoming overconsumption

    Capitalism has left its mark on society in countless forms, and overconsumption is one of its most pervasive. Its proliferation has twisted our values into a system where man’s desires feed the continuously expanding corporate machine, despite its growth being inherently limited by the Earth’s finite resources. Yet today, moving toward a more sustainable system feels almost impossible. After all, we have become accustomed to a consumption-centric lifestyle, and the prevailing narrative insists there is no better alternative. 

    To become a healthier and more sustainable society, we must confront and overcome overconsumption. However, when corporations and governments remain incentivized to endlessly produce in the name of economic growth, citizens are left to address overconsumption on their own. 

    Consumers must recognize that overconsumption destroys our society and environment; a shift in both culture and mindset must happen to encourage sustainable practices and discourage overconsumption. To beat overconsumption, it must become “cool” to live sustainably and consciously.

    We should encourage maximizing our products’ lifespans while reusing and recycling goods that have outlived their marketed usefulness. Rather than purchasing products from large multinational corporations, we must instead turn to local businesses and producers. By doing so, we not only live more sustainably and frugally but also support our communities.

    Ultimately, the best way to hold corporations accountable for overconsumption is none other than to consume less. By acknowledging the damage consumerism has caused to our lives and environment, we can collectively pressure corporations to adopt more sustainable practices and shift our consumer culture to embrace individuality and sustainability over mass-market trends. Thus, we must end the haul and start the halt. 

    This article was published in The LaSallian‘s October 2025 issue. To read more, visit bit.ly/TLSOct2025.