Category: Shadows Under the Sun
The Role of Indigenous Groups in Philippine History and the Diwata Controversy
The Philippines is home to a rich tapestry of indigenous cultures that predate colonial rule. Indigenous groups such as the Igorot, Lumad, Aeta, and Mangyan, among many others, have played a vital role in shaping the country’s identity, history, and traditions. Despite their significant contributions, these communities have often been marginalized, misunderstood, or misrepresented—an issue
Politics and Festivals: Should Public Officials Be Banned from Cultural Celebrations?
Festivals are a vibrant reflection of a community’s heritage, traditions, and shared identity. In the Philippines, events like the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City are more than just grand parades and colorful performances—they serve as an avenue for cultural preservation and economic growth. However, the recent controversy surrounding the supposed banning of public officials, including
Baguio City Warns Tourists Against Accommodation Scams Amid Panagbenga Festival
As the Panagbenga Festival 2025 draws thousands of tourists to Baguio City, local authorities have issued a strong warning against fraudulent accommodation bookings. With the surge in visitors, reports of scam rentals have increased, prompting officials to take action to protect both tourists and legitimate business owners. Rising Cases of Fake Bookings According to the
Cybersecurity Breach: Philippine Government Agency Targeted in Massive Data Leak
In a shocking development, a major Philippine government agency has fallen victim to a large-scale cybersecurity breach, exposing sensitive data of thousands of individuals. This incident highlights the growing vulnerability of public institutions to cyberattacks and raises concerns over national security and data privacy. What Happened? According to initial reports, hackers infiltrated the database of
Tensions in the South China Sea: What the Latest Incident Means for the Philippines
The South China Sea remains a flashpoint for geopolitical tensions, and the latest maritime incident has once again placed the Philippines at the center of the conflict. Reports indicate that a Philippine vessel was confronted by Chinese coast guard ships in disputed waters, sparking renewed concerns over sovereignty and security in the region. The Incident:
VP Sara Duterte and the NBI Investigation: Political Accountability or Power Struggle?
The Philippine political landscape has once again been shaken as Vice President Sara Duterte finds herself under investigation by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). This development has sparked debates on whether the probe is a legitimate pursuit of accountability or a politically motivated move aimed at weakening a key political figure. Background of the
The Jam Ignacio Case: A Reflection on Domestic Abuse in the Philippines
The recent controversy involving Jam Ignacio and allegations of domestic abuse has once again put the spotlight on the alarming issue of domestic violence in the Philippines. As social media erupts with discussions and debates over the case, it is crucial to look beyond the headlines and understand the broader implications of domestic abuse in
China’s Presence in Philippine Waters: Economic Opportunity or Security Threat?
A Chinese research vessel recently spotted in Philippine waters has sparked concerns over sovereignty, security, and the Philippines’ ongoing maritime disputes with China. While some argue that such activities are part of diplomatic and economic engagement, others see them as a threat to national security. So, is China’s presence in Philippine waters an opportunity or
The Power Struggle in Philippine Politics: How Political Divisions Shape Elections
The Philippine political landscape has long been dominated by family dynasties, shifting alliances, and deep-seated rivalries. As the country gears up for the 2025 elections, tensions between powerful political factions, particularly between the Marcos and Duterte camps, have once again taken center stage. But beyond individual personalities, how do these divisions influence Philippine democracy? A
The Real Cost of Fake News in the Philippines
Misinformation is one of the biggest threats to truth and democracy, and the Philippines has not been spared from its devastating effects. From political manipulation to public health risks, fake news has shaped public perception and influenced national decisions in alarming ways. The Hidden Dangers of Misinformation One major example of the real-world consequences of