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

𝗘-𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗦 𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧: "Amana reverse sweeps Attalia, clinches ABM MLBB trophy" by Michael Angelo C. Marquez

 

Layout by Mark Louie Pocot

Photos by Russel Alvarez

Published by Reiven Presbetero

Date Published: March 12, 2026

Time Published: 4:40 PM

History always repeats itself.

In front of an electrifying crowd and immense pressure, Amana Sibol pulled off a heart-pounding comeback win versus Attalia Babies, 3-2, in the Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) strand Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) tournament grand finals at Danilo V. Ayap Gymnasium, Lyceum of Alabang, on Friday, March 6.

Attalia won the first two games in dominant fashion, but Amana, with their never-say-die attitude, maintained their composure and managed to win three consecutive games to seize the title.

This is not the first time that both teams have faced each other in this tournament; Amana Sibol and Attalia Babies have already met in the Upper Bracket Finals, in which Amana prevailed over Attalia, 3-1, to advance to the Grand Finals.

In game five, Amana lost the early game due to Attalia's strong early game composition of with their Hylos and Zhuxin combo pick that put Amana Roamer Franzeid Kym "kyied" Cerezo Hilda pick in struggle to control the map. 

However, Amana Jungler and Team Captain Jalen Aerick "RING DING DING DING" Lozada counter-engaged with his virtuoso Lancelot gameplay at the 8-minute mark of the game and executed three players of Attalia that shifted the momentum in favor of Amana.

"Attalia Babies really showed their dominance with their Yi Shun Shin pick that they've been able to maximize their team composition with it. We were able to reflect on it in the first 2 games that Yi Shun Shin should be contested. It worked for us the Game 3 and Game 4," said Lozada in the post-game interview with the Spiracle.

"However, in game five, they've decided to also ban Yi Shun Shin and maximize Nolan's capability. Good thing we saw it coming and countered it with Eudora and Lancelot handing us the reverse sweep against Attalia Babies," he added.

Amana Midlaner Jennylyn "Aerys" Valdez bagged the Finals Most Valuable Player (FMVP) with her excellent contribution using Zhetian, Zhuxin, and the shocking Eudora pick in game five.

"I'm very thankful to my team because despite the pressure, we still trust ourselves that we are going to be able to pull off a reverse sweep," said Valdez. 

"Of course, I'm happy that we won even though the network is fluctuating and lagging, but we chose to stay focused, and I'm pressured because I am the only girl player, and I can't help but think that our enemy may target me," she added when asked by the Spiracle about her feelings after their triumph.

Attalia forcefully took games one and two with their Yi-Shun-Shin (YSS) pick that put Amana into a chokehold, getting first into championship point, 0-2.

Amana retaliated with their own YSS pick in game three that lasted only 13 minutes and a crushing 14-4 victory, 1-2.

Game four was chaotic. Amana dominated the early-mid game, but Attalia's solid chemistry and defense stopped Amana's stampede. Later on, Amana managed to end game four at the final push, tying the series, 2-2.

The championship lineup of Amana includes their Gold laner James Glenniel Malco and their Exp laner James Barrameda. 

Amana Sibol took home 500 pesos in cash, the FMVP trophy, and the title of the greatest team of MLBB players in the ABM strand. Whereas Attalia took the 1st runner- up trophy.

𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗨𝗠𝗡: “Bong Out of Control” by Reinaleth Gene L. Romero

 

                  

Cartoon by: Yanai De Leon

Published by: Kyla Shane Recullo

Date Published: March 12, 2026

Time Published: 4:18 PM

Society has long tolerated derogatory statements directed at women. It is about time people recognize the line between a genuine compliment and a misogynistic remark disguised as one.

Recently, Bong Suntay, a representative from Quezon City, faced criticism from fellow lawmakers after making lewd remarks about actress Anne Curtis during a congressional hearing on impeachment complaints against Sara Duterte.

While arguing that Duterte could not be accused of sedition simply for attending an event where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was criticized, Suntay claimed that individuals should not be penalized for unenforceable statements or mere thoughts. To illustrate his point, however, he recounted an encounter with Curtis and described imagining inappropriate scenarios, concluding that he could not be charged for what he had imagined.

What was intended to support a legal argument instead became an alarming and inappropriate comparison. A hearing that was meant to remain serious and formal was momentarily overshadowed by remarks that many considered offensive and unnecessary.

The backlash that followed was immediate and widespread. The criticism stemmed not only from the comment itself but also from the fact that it came from a public official entrusted with representing the people. As a congressman holding influence in Quezon City, Suntay carries the responsibility to uphold professionalism and respect in public discourse. Instead, the remark appeared to reinforce the very attitudes that many continue to challenge.

Public frustration intensified because the incident occurred during Women’s Month. For many observers, the statement was not merely offensive to Anne Curtis but also reflective of a broader pattern of remarks that belittle women. The situation was further underscored by the fact that Suntay himself is a husband and father to daughters, further underscored the disappointment felt by many.

Shortly after the incident, Suntay issued an apology for his remarks about Curtis but maintained that his analogy during the impeachment hearing carried no malice. For critics, however, the apology appeared insufficient and lacking sincerity.

Prominent journalist Karen Davila also addressed the issue, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and sensitivity in how women are discussed in public spaces. As she firmly pointed out, inappropriate thoughts should remain private rather than be voiced in official proceedings.

Curtis’s sister, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, likewise spoke out, calling for an end to a culture that treats women as consumable spectacle or objects of commentary rather than as individuals with power, intellect, and autonomy. Her statement resonated with many who believe that such remarks contribute to the normalization of attitudes that reduce women to mere subjects of fantasy or public scrutiny.

Women are not defined by someone else’s imagination. Women are not objects of sexual desire. They are individuals deserving of respect and dignity, just as anyone else. Incidents like this remind us that dismissing offensive remarks as harmless or accidental only perpetuates the problem.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros also pointed out that under the Safe Spaces Act, gender-based harassment, including sexual comments and suggestions, can be penalized. As a lawmaker, Suntay is expected not only to understand such legislation but also to uphold its principles. For this reason, many argue that the matter should not be treated lightly and that accountability is necessary.

As the country observes Women’s Month, this incident serves as a reminder that advancing women’s dignity and ensuring basic respect remain ongoing efforts. Progress requires vigilance, continued dialogue, and a willingness to challenge behavior that undermines equality.

Ultimately, the issue is not about how women look, what they wear, or how they present themselves. Rather, it concerns the attitudes that allow disrespectful, malicious remarks to be normalized.

Public officials are expected to demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and respect—particularly in formal institutions where public trust is at stake. When officials attempt to curry favor with those in power or advance their arguments through inappropriate rhetoric, they risk losing the objectivity and credibility expected of them.

Distinguishing between a sincere compliment and a degrading remark should not be difficult. Respect, after all, is not complicated. If we truly wish to create safer and more respectful environments for our daughters, nieces, and future leaders, accountability must begin with those elected to represent us.

References:

INQUIRER.net. (2026, March 3). Suntay hit for lewd remarks over Anne Curtis at impeachment hearing. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2189898/fwd-suntay-hit-for-lewd-remarks-over-anne-curtis-at-impeachment-hearing

Manila Bulletin. (2026, March 4). Karen Davila, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, and Gabbi Garcia call out Rep. Bong Suntay after his controversial remarks on Anne Curtis spark backlash. https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/04/karen-davila-jasmine-curtis-and-gabbi-garcia-call-out-rep-bong-suntay-after-his-controversial-remarks-on-anne-curtis-spark-backlash

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦-𝗙𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘: "Golden Counts of Memories: The Celebration of ABM Day 2026" by Kyla Joy Pontiga

Layout by Mark Louie Pocot

Photos by Bernal Ramirez, Russel Alvarez, and Dennise Mirasol

Published by Reiven Presbetero

Date Published: March 12, 2026

Time Published: 2:45 PM

The day once again bloomed with its yellow rays.

Last March 6, the halls of the Danilo V. Ayap (DVA) Gym glowed in yellow and white as the Accountancy and Business Management (ABM) students gathered to celebrate their long-awaited ABM Day. What was once an ordinary school space transformed into a vibrant arena of cheers, laughter, and shared excitement, where every corner carried the spirit of the strand.

From the moment the clock struck 8 AM until the evening slowly settled in, the echoes of applause and spirited chants filled the gym. The stage came alive with the return of the crowd-favorite Hip-hop Competition and Boodle Fight, while new highlights such as the MLBB Finals and Dress to Impress introduced fresh energy to the celebration. Tradition met innovation as students showcased not only their talents, but also their creativity, confidence, and camaraderie.

More than just a series of events, the day unfolded like a collection of moments—performances that electrified the crowd, friendly rivalries that stirred excitement, and victories that drew roaring cheers from every corner of the gym. It was a celebration of the ABM community, where passion and participation turned an ordinary day into something memorable.

Missed what happened during the event, or simply wish to relive the thrill once more? Read on as we retrace the highlights, emotions, and unforgettable moments that colored this year’s ABM Day.

HIP-HOP COMPETITION

Who would have thought that the students of Luca Pacioli could move to the rhythm just as well as they balance the books?

What once began as a simple performance task has grown into one of ABM Day’s most anticipated highlights. Over the years, the Hip-hop Competition transformed into a full stage of rhythm and rivalry, where beats replaced calculators and choreography took the place of spreadsheets. This year, even the Grade 11 students joined the growing hype, proving that the ABM spirit moves far beyond the classroom.

With K-pop as this year’s theme, each section stepped onto the stage carrying its own style and story. Some performances leaned into playful energy, drawing cheers and laughter from the crowd, while others delivered sharp, powerful movements that commanded the spotlight. From the opening performance of Section Assyria to the final stage of Section Moses, all 15 sections danced with determination, dressed in their boldest outfits and moving with confidence that electrified the gym.

When the music finally faded and the stage lights dimmed, the anticipation hung heavy in the air. Only three sections would claim victory. Section Amana secured third place, followed by Section Joel in second. Rising above the competition, Section Antioch captured the crowd’s admiration and the judges’ approval, claiming the championship title and proving themselves the coolest groove of this year’s ABM Day. 

But the party was far from over, as students took a brief pause to savor the joy of the moment—sharing bites of shanghai and drinks on the side while another battle unfolded, this time with strategies clashing on the little square map of the Mobile Legends tournament. 

MLBB TOURNAMENT

Nothing is truly impossible—for the map is square, and every game can return to where it began.

After a month of preparation, the long-awaited Mobile Legends tournament finally reached its climax. Out of 19 competing teams, only two advanced to the main event: Amana Sibol and Attalia Babies, both ready to prove their mastery of strategy, teamwork, and precision on the digital battlefield.

The championship unfolded in a best-of-five series, where tension filled the lobby as players carefully selected their heroes. With the audience seated and eyes fixed on the screen, Games 1 and 2 quickly concluded with roaring cheers for Attalia Babies as they confidently seized the early lead.

Yet the battle was far from finished. Amana Sibol returned to the arena with renewed focus, shifting from a relaxed approach in the first rounds to calculated strategies in the next three. Their perseverance paid off as they turned the tide of the match, claiming victory in a dramatic comeback.

With a final score of 3–2, Amana Sibol—composed of Jalen Lozada, James Barrameda, James Glenniel Malco, and Franzeid Kym Cerezo—emerged as champions. Completing the team’s triumph, Jennylyn Valdez, the sole female player in the lineup, earned the Most Valuable Player title for her outstanding performance. Meanwhile, Attalia Babies secured the first runner-up plaque and the admiration of the crowd for their fierce competition.

The strand’s first e-game event proved to be both highly anticipated and beautifully concluded. But the celebration was not yet finished—because next, the stage would transform once more, this time to reveal creativity and elegance in Dress to Impress (DTI), where beauty would rise from waste. 

DTI

Beauty balanced with sustainability—now that is a statement.

One of the newest additions to the program proved to be a highlight of the celebration. Dress to Impress took the stage with creativity and purpose, as stunning dresses crafted from recycled materials captivated the audience, all inspired by a Victoria’s Secret–themed runway.

Representing the Grade 11 sections, eight models transformed the gym into their own runway, confidently walking the stage in two segments. The first walk showcased the intricate designs of their recycled dresses, while the second unveiled their grand winged creations, bringing the theme to life with elegance and flair.

Yet beauty was not measured by appearance alone. Each contestant also demonstrated wit and awareness during the Question and Answer portion, sharing thoughtful insights about sustainability and the importance of recycling—proving that true elegance carries both style and substance.

As the final moments arrived, the secret was revealed and the winners were crowned. Geneziah May Nebab of Section Adonai claimed the title, dominating the stage as she also received Most Photogenic, Best Walk, and Best Costume. Rihanna Carandang of Section Joel followed as second place, earning the Best in Winged Beauty award, while Benedict Regodon of Section Amos secured third place, completing a runway that celebrated creativity, intelligence, and sustainability. 

As the lights flickered and the curtains slowly closed, the mark of ABM Day remained—not upon the skin, but within the memories of the students who filled the gym with energy, laughter, and pride. What unfolded throughout the day was more than a program of events; it became a shared experience that gathered the strand together in celebration.

From the electrifying beats of the traditional Hip-hop Competition to the strategic battles of the MLBB Tournament and the creative elegance of Dress to Impress, the celebration showed that the strand of future business leaders also knows how to step beyond numbers and embrace the thrill of the moment. Each performance, match, and walk on the stage added another story to the growing legacy of ABM Day.

As the echoes of applause linger in the halls, they stand not only as praise for the winners but also as a salute to the success of the event itself. And with this chapter now written, the next one waits to be created—so keep the spirit alive, support the celebrations, and be ready to make the next ABM Day even more unforgettable.

𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧: “Heeseung Bids Farewell to ENHYPEN, Sets Sights on Solo Path” by Renz Andrie Bolor

Layout by: Jhowie Anne Rongavilla

Published by: Reiven Presbetero

Date Published: March 12, 2026

Time Published: 1:20 PM

A new chapter begins for K-pop idol Lee Hee-seung as he officially parts ways with ENHYPEN to pursue a solo music career, according to an announcement from their agency Belift Lab on March 10, 2026.

The agency explained that the decision followed discussions between the artist, the group members, and management regarding his personal artistic goals and long-term plans in the music industry.

Despite the lineup change, ENHYPEN will continue promoting as a six-member group composed of Yang Jung-won, Jay (Park Jong-seong), Jake (Sim Jae-yun), Park Sung-hoon, Kim Sun-oo, and Ni-ki (Nishimura Riki).

The company reassured fans that the group remains committed to releasing new music and continuing their performances in the future.

Meanwhile, Heeseung will remain under Belift Lab and is currently preparing for his official debut as a solo artist.

Shortly after the announcement, he shared a heartfelt message to fans, known as ENGENE, thanking them for their support and for the memories he built during his time with the group.

He also expressed gratitude to his fellow members and described his years with ENHYPEN as a meaningful chapter that shaped him both as an artist and as a person.

The group first debuted in 2020 after forming through the survival program I-LAND and quickly gained global recognition in the K-pop industry.

While the news surprised many fans online, messages of support and encouragement have continued to pour in for both Heeseung and ENHYPEN as they move forward in their respective journeys.

REFERENCES:

[1] Belift Lab. (2026, March 10). Official statement regarding Heeseung’s departure from ENHYPEN [Post]. X (formerly Twitter). https://x.com/i/status/2031263790097117281

[2] GMA News Online. (2026, March 10). Heeseung leaves ENHYPEN, set to debut as a solo artist. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/showbiz/showbizabroad/979432/heeseung-to-leave-enhypen/story/

[3] Llemit, K. A. (2026, March 10). Heeseung leaves ENHYPEN to pursue solo career. The Philippine Star. https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/korean-wave/2026/03/10/2513334/heeseung-leaves-enhypen-pursue-solo-career