By Farah G. Decano   THE Philippines’ long-standing struggle with flooding raises a critical question: are our flood control projects truly effective, or are they merely haphazard, politically-motivated undertakings? Many current projects seem to be chosen from a standard menu of schemes, implemented without a comprehensive, science-backed plan. This reactive…

By Farah G. Decano   ​PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. recently took a firm public stance against allegedly anomalous flood control projects – a move interpreted as a calculated maneuver.  This action has raised questions about whether it is a strategic attempt to divert public attention from the failed impeachment…

By Farah G. Decano   ​THE collision between a People’s Liberation Army Navy ship and a Chinese Coast Guard vessel—while they were busy chasing a “puny” Philippine skipper—was a global spectacle. Unfortunately for China, the impact was more than a fender-bender at sea; it was a full-blown face-plant heard ’round…

By Farah G. Decano ​ THE popularity of shows like Encantadia Chronicles and the classic  Maria Clara at Ibarra on GMA TV is good for our culture. It is not just entertainment but education for younger Filipinos on the rich, traditional form of our language. The old Filipino, with its archaic…

By Farah G. Decano ​ THE man I knew as Tito Ermin was a paradox. Despite the tough, hard-hitting image he projected, he possessed a surprising and rare sensitivity in his interactions with others, myself included. While many mature men, the  “feeling men” and the “pamintas” — found my stubborn…

By Farah G. Decano   IN times of calamities, Dagupan City councilors must shed their comfort zones, truly empathize with their constituents’ struggles, and offer tangible support. “Mikikikasey tan mililitna kami ed sikayo!” — “We empathize and are with you!” Wasn’t this their rallying cry during the campaign period? Yes,…

By Farah G. Decano   DAGUPAN City Councilors receive a basic monthly salary of around P107,000 and a monthly allowance of P14,500 (as of 2023). This is on top of 13th and 14th-month pay bonuses and other emoluments. Given this substantial compensation from public funds, citizens are absolutely right in…

By Farah G. Decano   ATTY. Lorna Kapunan, awardee of Ten Outstanding Women of the Nation, is defending Atong Ang, a suspected mastermind in the disappearance of several sabungeros, allegedly buried at Taal Lake. This raises questions about why an abogada de campanilla would take on a case that could overshadow…

By Farah G. Decano   THE Dagupan City Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) has begun its term with remarkable promise. New members quickly immersed themselves in committee hearings, an early sign of diligence. Given each councilor’s monthly income of at least P107,208.00 plus allowances, Dagupeños rightfully expect substantial results for every vote…

By Farah G. Decano    THE Philippine judiciary is safeguarded by two dedicated bodies established by the Supreme Court through Administrative Order 185-A-2018: the Judicial Integrity Board (JIB) and the Corruption Prevention and Investigation Office (CPIO). The JIB oversees misconduct and integrity issues concerning judges and court personnel, regardless of…