𝗕𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗚 𝗜𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗦: “Eala, nasubok sa bagsik ni Nosková sa Indian Wells” ni Shenel Sheina A. Castillo

Disenyo ni: Mariela Gonzales

Inilathala ni: Rianna Isabel M. Tan

Petsang Inilathala: Marso 18, 2026

Oras na Inilathala: 5:51 PM


Ipinakita ng Filipino tennis prodigy na si Alex Eala ang kanyang determinasyon at tapang sa kabila ng pagkatalo laban kay Linda Nosková ng Czech Republic sa straight sets, 2–6, 0–6, sa BNP Paribas Open sa Indian Wells Tennis Garden, California, USA, noong Marso 11, 2026.

‎Sa unang yugto ng laban, agad na naglatag ng agresibong opensiba si Nosková sa pamamagitan ng malalalim na baseline shots at malalakas na serbisyo, kung saan nabreak niya ang serbisyo ni Eala sa maagang bahagi pa lamang at kinontrol ang takbo ng laro sa kabila ng ilang matitinding rally at cross-court winners ng Filipina upang maselyuhan ang set, 2–6.

‎Sa ikalawang set, sinubukan ni Eala na bumawi sa pamamagitan ng mas agresibong returns at paglikha ng break-point opportunities, ngunit nanatiling kalmado at dominante si Nosková gamit ang sunod-sunod na aces, mabilis na footwork, at matatalim na groundstrokes na tuluyang nagbigay sa kanya ng momentum hanggang makumpleto ang sweep, 0–6.

‎"I do leave with happiness,” ani Eala, na nagpahayag ng kanyang halo-halong emosyon matapos ang laban ngunit nananatiling proud sa kanyang pag-abot sa ikaapat na round ng torneo.

‎Sa kabila ng pagkatalo, ipinamalas ni Eala ang kanyang tibay, taktikal na galing, at fighting spirit laban sa mas mataas ang ranggo na kalaban, patunay na sa edad na 20 ay isa na siyang rising force na dapat bantayan sa international tennis scene..

MGA ‎SANGGUNIAN:

‎[1] Naredo, C. B. (2026, Marso 11). Tennis: Alex Eala bows out of Indian Wells with loss to Linda Nosková. https://www.abs-cbn.com/sports/othersports/2026/3/11/tennis-alex-eala-bows-out-of-indian-wells-with-loss-to-linda-noskov-1231

‎[2] Villar, K.S. (2026, Marso 12). Manila Bulletin - 'I'm here to stay': Alex Eala turns page to Miami Open after Indian Wells run. https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/12/im-here-to-stay-alex-eala-turns-page-to-miami-open-after-indian-wells-run

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦: “Oil prices threaten PH economy” by Khitch Chino D. Buan

Published by: Keshia Gwyneth Esposa

Date Published: March 18, 2009

Time Published: 3:49 PM

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli Remolona warned on March 11, 2026, that the central bank may increase interest rates if global oil prices continue to rise and push inflation beyond the target range, amid Middle East conflict and concerns over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which affect nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil supply.

He explained that while the current 10 percent increase in oil prices in peso terms is still manageable, a much larger increase could significantly affect commodity prices and inflation.

Although oil prices recently dropped to around $87.80 per barrel after discussions of releasing emergency reserves, investors remain cautious due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.

In the Philippines, transport groups said rising fuel costs are already reducing jeepney drivers’ daily income by around ₱400 to ₱500.

Despite the government’s planned ₱5,000 fuel subsidy for public utility vehicle drivers, transport groups argue that the assistance is insufficient and are calling for a provisional ₱2 fare increase.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) also said it may allow a provisional fare increase for public transport if diesel prices reach ₱60 per liter due to the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Government officials warned that sustaining fuel subsidies may be difficult if global oil prices remain high for a long period.

REFERENCES:

[1] Fenol, J. (March 11, 2026). Rate hike possible if oil price hikes continue – BSP chief. ABS-CBN News. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2026/3/11/rate-hike-possible-if-oil-price-hikes-continue-bsp-chief-1619

[2] Agence France-Presse. (March 11, 2026). Oil prices dive as IEA eyes emergency release with Hormuz Strait in focus. Inquirer.net. http://business.inquirer.net/578611/oil-prices-dive-as-iea-eyes-emergency-release-with-hormuz-strait-in-focus

[3] Gulla, V. (March 11, 2026). Transport groups say fuel subsidy 'not enough' amid huge oil price hikes. ABS-CBN News. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2026/3/11/transport-groups-say-fuel-subsidy-not-enough-amid-huge-oil-price-hikes-1557

[4] Taguines, A. (March 3, 2026). Provisional fare hike possible if diesel hits P60/liter amid Middle East war—LTFRB. ABS-CBN News. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2026/3/3/ltfrb-provisional-fare-hike-possible-if-diesel-prices-hit-p60-liter-1131

𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗦 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦: “Biado downs Garcia, claims US Open 1-Pocket Crown” by Shenel Sheina A. Castillo

Published by: Reiven Presbetero

Date Published: March 18, 2026

Time Published: 3:26 PM

 

Cue artist Carlo Biado captured the 2026 US Open One-Pocket Championship after outplaying fellow Filipino Roland Garcia, 5–1, in an all-Filipino final held March 13–14, 2026 at Griff's Bar & Billiards in Las Vegas, Nevada.

‎Biado opened the match with authority in Rack 1, showcasing elite cue-ball control and locking Garcia in tough defensive positions before capitalizing on a clean scoring opportunity to draw first blood, 1–0.

‎Garcia answered back in Rack 2 with a composed and methodical approach, winning a safety exchange and converting a crucial shot to even the match at 1–1.

‎‎In Rack 3, Biado shifted momentum back in his favor, punishing a slight opening from Garcia with a smooth multi-ball run and precise positioning to regain the lead, 2–1.

‎The turning point came in Rack 4, a marathon safety battle that tested both players’ patience and precision, where Biado eventually gained control of the table and cleared key balls to stretch his lead to 3–1.

‎With momentum fully on his side, Biado dominated Rack 5 through calculated bank shots and airtight defense, keeping Garcia from mounting any comeback and moving to the hill at 4–1.

‎Sensing victory, Biado stayed composed in Rack 6, executing a clinical finish by cleaning up the remaining balls to secure a commanding 5–1 win and complete an undefeated run in the tournament.

‎Following his triumph, Biado expressed pride in bringing another international title to the Philippines, saying, “It means everything to me. I’m so proud to bring this trophy home to the Philippines.”

‎The marathon final capped a grueling multi-day campaign in the prestigious Predator-sponsored US Open event, where Biado displayed nerves of steel, tactical brilliance, and championship composure against one of his toughest rivals on the table.

‎

‎REFERENCES:

‎

‎[1] AZBilliards. (2026). Biado goes undefeated to claim final Predator US Open title, downing Garcia in One Pocket final. https://www.azbilliards.com/biado-goes-undefeated-to.../

‎[2] 77 Billiards. (2026, March 14). Carlo Biado wins 2026 US Open 1-Pocket Championship. https://77billiards.com/.../carlo-biado-wins-2026-us.../

‎[3] Cua, A.J. (2026, March 15). Biado beats Garcia in all-Filipino US Open final. https://www.manilatimes.net/.../biado-beats.../2300130

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦: “Duterte defense rejects direct link to drug war killings at ICC” by James Xyrelle M. Galang

               

Layout by: Shawn Andrei Ojeda

Published by: Kyla Shane Recullo

Date Published: March 17, 2026

Time Published:  2:04

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte faced judges at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands, on Friday, February 27, as his lawyers argued during the confirmation of charges hearing that prosecutors had failed to present direct evidence linking him to specific killings in the Philippine drug war.

Defense counsel Nicholas Kaufman told the court that there is “no smoking gun in this case” and said the prosecution failed to establish a “causal link” between Duterte’s speeches and the 49 incidents involving 78 alleged victims cited in the charges.

Kaufman emphasized that “not one witness relevant to any of the 49 incidents will testify that he received a direct order from the former president to go out and kill someone,” arguing that the evidence does not meet the legal threshold required for the case to proceed to trial.

Former presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo said the prosecution’s case had been “shattered to pieces” during the third day of the hearing and claimed that the documentary and testimonial evidence presented failed to prove Duterte’s criminal responsibility.

Panelo also questioned the ICC’s jurisdiction over the case, asserting that the court assumed authority despite the Philippines’ withdrawal from the Rome Statute and maintaining that police circulars cited by prosecutors instructed officers to act “in accordance with law.”

Prosecutors, however, maintain that Duterte’s public statements and anti-drug campaign policies contributed to a pattern of widespread killings and are urging judges to confirm charges of crimes against humanity so the case can move forward to trial.

The confirmation hearing will determine whether there are substantial grounds to believe Duterte committed the crimes charged, after which ICC judges have up to 60 days to decide whether the case will proceed to a full trial.

REFERENCES: 

[1] Baroña, F. J. C. (2026, February 27). No link between threats and drug war killings, Duterte lawyer says. The Manila Times. https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/02/27/news/no-link-between-threats-and-drug-war-killings-duterte-lawyer-says/2286138/amp

[2] Domingo, K. (2026, February 27). ICC case vs Duterte ‘shattered into pieces’ after Kaufman presentation—Panelo. ABS-CBN News. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/2/27/icc-case-vs-duterte-shattered-into-pieces-panelo-says-on-third-day-of-confirmation-hearing-1058

[3] Mateo, J., & Cariaso, B. (2026, February 27). No smoking gun versus Duterte for crimes against humanity – Kaufman. OneNews PH. https://www.onenews.ph/articles/no-smoking-gun-versus-duterte-for-crimes-against-humanity-kaufman

𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗥𝗬: "Dear RJ, I never knew my heart could..." by Irish M. Sanchez

 

Layout by: Janaeka Villanueva

Published by: Shaina Pajarillo 

Date Published: March 16, 2026

Time Published: 11:11 AM

Category: Prose

Theme: A woman writing to her lover she waited for during his military service, filled with longing and gentle sorrow.

August 17, 1945

Everlong House

0205 Longing Hallow St., Mistveil Glen, Everwood City

My Dearest RJ,

I never knew my heart could ache like this… that mornings without you by my side feel so quiet. I wake up and reach for you out of habit. My hand brushes over nothing but cold sheets, and the silence that follows is deafening. It's in silence where I feel the weight of your absence the most.

Each day I feel so empty. I set the table, only for one. I brew my coffee and stare at the empty chair across from me, remembering how you used to look at me with that gentle, teasing smile of yours. Even carrying my belongings feels heavier now that your hands are not there to help me.

I miss you every day, RJ—yesterday, today, and tomorrow—and I fear I always will, until the moment your footsteps return to this door. Every corner of this home whispers something of you: the chair where you used to rest, the garden you tended, and the coat you left hanging by the doorway. Sometimes I hold it against my chest just to feel close to you again, even for a moment.

Nights are the hardest. I sit by the window and listen to the wind slipping through the trees outside, imagining it carrying my thoughts to wherever you may be. I picture the outline of your figure walking towards me, the boots on the path, and the creak of the opening door, but life stands still, and I stay there, waiting.

My love, no hour passes without the whisper of your name in my heart. This longing is my incessant companion, soft yet relentless, reminding me of all the moments we shared and the moments I wish to live again once you return.

Until then, I will wait—quietly and faithfully and endlessly. My heart is yours, as it has always been, as it will be through all the days to come. RJ, my love, no matter how far away, no matter how many days go by, I am here. I will wait, as I have always waited, as I will always have to.

Yours always,

Iris

 

𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗨𝗠𝗡: “When Weakness Becomes an Excuse for Ignorance” by Kristine Cassandra P. Babaran

Cartoon by: Alexa Robil

Published by: Jielian Lobete 

Date Published: March 12, 2026

Time Published: 5:53 PM

During a Senate hearing about children’s safety on social media, Senator Robin Padilla stated that today’s youth are “weak.” According to him, his generation in the 80s and 90s didn’t talk about depression and learned life lessons from the streets.

Labeling an entire generation as fragile and comparing it to past generations is very ignorant and invalidating; it ignores the struggles young people face with their mental health, and disrupts what is actually necessary to do in addressing the problem. 

The hearing focused on proposals to regulate how minors use social media. Padilla pointed out that young people now talk openly about feeling depressed, while back in the days, he never had such words to describe those kinds of struggles. He also raised concerns about how too much screen time keeps kids from playing outside and building friendships.

In response, Berni Moestafa—Meta’s Public Policy head for Indonesia and Philippines—stated banning minors from platforms isn’t really necessary right now. Instead, she emphasized finding balance between letting kids engage online and keeping them safe. 

Calling today’s youth ‘weak’ gets everything wrong when it comes to mental health. Being able to recognize and talk about emotional distress isn’t a sign of weakness. It means we’re finally taking mental health seriously. The term ‘weakness’ was used to cover incomprehension of mental health. Think about what it was like for the past generations; people carried heavy burdens but had no way to explain why they hurt, no way to ask for help. 

Senator Robin Padilla not experiencing sadness or depression in his childhood doesn’t justify his inappropriate choice of words. Mental battles aren’t the same for everyone—some are strong with hiding their pain, and some are not. 

But being able to hide it does not mean strength—it’s a coping mechanism people made to hide the burdens they carry. Today’s youth are breaking isolation and are finally able to step out of their comfort zone and express what they’re going through, which is something we should be proud of, not ashamed of. 

Senator Padilla argued that children are not safe on social media and it robs them of their childhood. However, prohibitions are not merely the answer. Denying access without guidance is like telling a child to never touch a car rather than teaching him how to drive safely. His concern for the youth’s safety and future is undoubtedly genuine and well-intentioned, however, it’s time to move past judging and start building the support and empowerment they need to prove just how strong they are. 

No one must be labeled as “weak” or “fragile” for having to carry heavy burdens and struggles in life. Mental health should never be judged nor made fun of. Depression is not a joke—it should never be invalidated. 

It is undeniable that social media possess risks that can be harmful to young people: it can cause cyber bullying, contribute to mental problems, lead to addiction, spread misinformation, and even enable serious harms like grooming and exploitation. However, this might only happen when there’s a lack of literacy, and banning youth from social media platforms and calling them ‘weak’ is neither necessary nor the best solution at all. 

Social media is a valuable tool that young people can utilize for learning, connection, and self-expression. The best approach possible to address its dangers is through providing comprehensive education in media and information literacy, as well as spreading mental health awareness to help them develop skills in utilizing online spaces safely and wisely—because after all, it is them who will build the foundation for the next generations. 

REFERENCES: 

[1] Ager, M. (2026, February 11). Robin Padilla to kids today: Sorry, you are weak. Philippine Daily Inquirer. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2180833/robin-padilla-to-kids-today-sorry-you-are-weak 

[2] Ombay, G. (2026, February 11). Robinhood Padilla on today’s children: ‘You’re weak’. GMA News Online. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/976199/robinhood-padilla-on-today-s-children-you-re-weak/story/

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦: “Trump says Khamenei dead after U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iran” by James Xyrelle M. Galang

 

Layout by: Shawn Andrei Ojeda

Published by: Francen Anne R. Perez

Date Published: March 12, 2026

Time Published: 5:05 PM 

On February 28, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, had been killed after the United States and Israel carried out coordinated airstrikes across Tehran and other Iranian cities targeting military and government sites.

Trump made the statement on social media, describing the strikes as “justice” for the people of Iran, Americans, and people from many countries throughout the world.

He also stated that the bombing would continue and described it as “the single greatest chance for the Iranian people to take back their country,” adding that many Iranian forces “no longer want to fight,” signaling cracks in Iran’s military.

Satellite images released before and after the attacks showed extensive damage to Khamenei’s compound in Tehran, while Israel said it had killed seven senior officials besides the supreme leader as part of the coordinated operation.

In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks across the Middle East, hitting areas such as Doha, Dubai, Kuwait, and Bahrain, which host U.S. military bases or are allied with the United States, heightening fears of further escalation.

World leaders and the United Nations called for restraint and urged both sides to engage in diplomatic talks to prevent the conflict from spreading further, warning of serious implications for regional and global security.

REFERENCES: 

[1] BBC News. (2026, February 28). Trump says Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is dead after US-Israeli strikes. https://www.bbc.com/news/live/cn5ge95q6y7t

[2] CNN. (2026, February 28). Trump says Iran’s supreme leader killed in strikes. https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/israel-iran-attack-02-28-26-hnk-intl

[3] Fox News. (2026, February 28). Supreme Leader of Iran Khamenei dead following Israel’s strike on Iran. https://www.foxnews.com/live-news/israel-us-launch-attack-on-iran-amid-escalating-protests.amp

[4] TBS News. (2026, February 28). Trump and Israel claim Khamenei dead; Iran says supreme leader is 'firmly commanding the field'. https://www.tbsnews.net/world/israel-claims-irans-khamenei-killed-us-israel-attcks-continue-1373676