Holy Week exodus: A call for patience and preparedness on the road

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Apr 12, 2025 00:08 AM

  

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Every year, Holy Week in the Philippines ushers in not only a period of solemn reflection and religious observance but also one of the most significant mass movements of people from urban centers to the provinces. Millions of Filipinos embark on journeys to reunite with family, visit ancestral homes, or take vacations, leading to congested roads, packed transport terminals, and bustling ports. While this tradition fosters familial bonds and spiritual renewal, it also presents considerable challenges, particularly concerning road safety and traveler well-being. 

The surge in vehicular traffic during Holy Week amplifies the potential for road-related incidents. Extended hours behind the wheel, coupled with the frustration of gridlocks, can test drivers’ patience, sometimes culminating in road rage—a perilous situation that endangers all road users.

The mix of vehicle types on the highways further complicates the scenario. Motorcycle riders, often maneuvering through tight spaces between larger vehicles, face heightened vulnerability. Additionally, the presence of slow-moving vehicles, such as heavily laden trucks or buses making frequent stops, can disrupt traffic flow and provoke risky overtaking maneuvers.

Government agencies have taken note of these challenges and have made considerable preparations to manage the Holy Week rush. The Department of Transportation (DOTr), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) all coordinate to ensure smoother traffic flow and increased visibility of law enforcement.

The PNP has significantly increased its presence, deploying some 40,000 officers nationwide to secure major thoroughfares, transport hubs, places of worship, and tourist destinations. 

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued special permits to over 1,000 public utility vehicles (PUVs) to accommodate the expected rise in demand for travel to provincial areas.

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is preparing personnel and facilities to service the expected big number of passengers which could reach 157,000 a day, according to New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) report. Port authorities have prepared facilities and procedures in their operations to handle the influx.

Help desks, ambulance stations, and quick response teams, among them the Lakbay Alalay stations, are stationed along major thoroughfares, while random vehicle inspections and drug tests will be conducted by the Land Transportation personnel to ensure safety. Expressway operators will deploy additional personnel and offer real-time traffic updates to guide motorists.

Still, despite these efforts, the success of Holy Week travel ultimately lies in the behavior and mindset of travelers themselves. Patience and preparedness are key. Motorists should ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on a long drive. Overloading vehicles, whether private or public, should be avoided. Drivers must be well-rested and avoid alcohol or any substances that may impair judgment.

Travelers should also plan ahead. Leaving at off-peak hours, using navigation apps to avoid congested routes, and bringing food, water, and essentials can significantly reduce stress. Most importantly, everyone on the road must remember that safety is more important than speed. It is far better to arrive late than to not arrive at all.

On the road, motorists should avoid aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating or abrupt lane changes, which can escalate into accidents or confrontations. 

Holy Week is a time for spiritual reflection and familial connections. By exercising patience, preparedness, and mutual respect on the roads, we can ensure that our journeys are safe and that the essence of this sacred period is preserved.

Style Weekend: Ignite your passion for running with Hannah Pangilinan

Hit the ground running with her club, Just One

BY JOHN LEGASPI

Apr 10, 2025 07:44 AM

  

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Hannah Pangilinan is known for many things—her style, her family, and her social media influence. But what she’s truly passionate about is running. She discovered how running could bring her closer to her family and help her shed the weight she gained during the pandemic.

Hannah Pangilinan

Eventually, it became part of her routine—but with a whole new meaning. Running became a way for her to build a deeper relationship with herself and others.

“Once the family bonding was achieved and the weight slowly left, I was left with the habit of running, and the why completely changed,” Hannah says. “I realized it was something that inspired all the other habits in my life to become better. It gave me better headspace, the chance to bond with like-minded people, and sightsee through fun runs.”

Hannah in one of Just One Fun Run

This realization encouraged her to start her own running club. Dubbed Just One, the club aims to break down misconceptions and the sense of exclusivity that often surrounds running groups. A person can be part of the community simply by showing up. For Hannah, Just One rewards presence—no matter your pace or your reason why.

In a conversation with Style Weekend, Hannah shares more about her running journey, what makes Just One a club for everyone, and how running can be one of the best ways to connect with people. 

First of all, what sparked your interest in running? Is it something you share with your family?
Running has always been a means to an end. It was the sport I had to do to join my family in triathlons when I was nine, and the fastest way I imagined I could shed the pandemic weight when I was 20.

Once the family bonding was achieved and the weight slowly left, I was left with the habit of running—and the why completely changed. I realized it was something that inspired all the other habits in my life to become better. It gave me better headspace, the chance to bond with like-minded people, and the opportunity to sightsee through fun runs. 

Can you tell us the story behind Just One? How long has it been operating, and who are the people behind it?
Just One represents my belief in the big things in life starting with small beginnings. Sometimes, we only see people’s successes, which makes starting feel so far from who we want to become. But it all begins with just one dream, one goal, one idea, or one step that brings us closer to life’s many finish lines.

The verse Zechariah 4:10 is etched on the back of every medal from last year’s run: “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.”

This is the core belief behind everything this movement was—and has become. It’s what inspired me to run my first marathon. It started with one workout, one decision to sign up, and one friend who encouraged me to run with her. I wanted to spread this message to help people overcome the fear of starting their fitness journeys and break down the intimidation that running clubs and fun runs often bring.

We started last year as a small running club of 15 people, and we've since grown into a community of 21,000 online. It seems others have embraced the message just as much as I have.

What sets Just One Fun Run apart from other running communities in the metro?
Just One is a community for both seasoned and beginner runners. It highlights how running can break down the stigma and exclusivity often tied to fitness. With our running club, you're part of the community simply by being there—not because you earned it or qualified. We reward those who show up, no matter their pace or reason why.

Unlike other running clubs that meet weekly in a single location, Just One hosts pop-up runs once a month in different parts of the Philippines. This helps connect runners who share the same values and energy around running.

We’re also guided by elite running coach Ani de Leon, who ensures that participants in our Open Runs and Fun Runs receive proper guidance to run well and safely.

Finally, our Fun Run is now organized by the world-renowned The Bull Runner Dream Marathon—the first and only marathon dedicated to first- and second-time marathoners. With 14 years of experience, their mentorship has helped elevate both our community and the standards of Filipino running events.

In your opinion, what are the most common misconceptions that beginners have about running communities?
Running communities are often seen as intimidating because they’re big groups of strangers. But I’ve found that everyone who shows up does so with the intention to connect. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to meet new people and stay accountable to your workout!

People think that you need to be athletic or a professional runner to join running communities, but with Just One, we have many pace groups to join. Lakwatsa, which is run walk; Sakto Lang, for the chill paces; Hataw, for the go-getters; and Banat, for the elites. Again, no matter what pace you run, you’ll find your place in the running club.

Aside from its health benefits, what do you love most about running?
I love running because it’s the perfect metaphor for life. It’s taught me to put one foot in front of the other, to prepare, to persevere—and that community helps you go stronger and farther. There are countless life lessons I’ve picked up along the way.

Haruki Murakami says in his book, “I run, therefore I am.” That statement perfectly sums up how I feel. When I run, I’m reminded that I’m alive, that God gave me this capacity—and that I must use it for good, both for myself and others.

Beyond running, what else can participants look forward to at a Just One Fun Run event? Are there other activities they can join?
The Just One Fun Run is happening on July 6, 2025, starting at 3 a.m. at Vermosa Sports Hub.

In the meantime, we invite runners to join our Open Runs, which are public runs held once a month in different locations. We announce the time and place of each pop-up on our Instagram (@runjustone) around two to three days before the event—so be sure to follow us for updates!

We also encourage everyone to engage with our socials for fun and informative running content.

What can we expect next from Just One Fun Run?
You can expect a revamped version of last year’s experience—with more community engagement, the most fun and generous sponsors, and of course, me, Coach Ani, and the rest of the running club continuing to show up and support you in your running journey.

Why does the German language have umlauts?

 

Frank Dauenhauer

Literature Lover

In simple terms, it is because the letters with the umlauts (“ä, ö, ü”) have a different pronunciation (i.e., with an “e” sound superimposed on the basic sound) than the same letter without the umlauts. The umlauts you see, which consist of two dots, originally were the tiny German script letter “e,” which was written as in the following illustration:

When a letter, such as “a,” “o,” or “u” was to be pronounced differently, an “e”:

was written over the letter. This letter “e” gradually, over time, was reduced to two vertical strokes,

and eventually to two dots. And that is the way the umlaut developed in German writing and printing.

Miss Universe Philippines 2025 names Boracay swimsuit challenge finalists

 

Miss Universe Philippines 2025 announced the Top 8 finalists of the swimsuit showcase in Boracay

Earl D.C. Bracamonte - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — The 65 remaining delegates at this year's Miss Universe Philippines competition were welcomed by fans and supporters in the paradisiacal island of Boracay over the weekend.

During the swimwear showcase, the candidates wore identical Pina Beauty capes over their monokinis and/or bikinis. They gamely danced to the beat and worked the short runway with their pasarela skills.

Eight delegates were named Aqua Boracay Angels, while 13 others were named Arrete Angels of Tagaytay.

Miss Universe Philippines 2025 announced the Top 8 finalists of the swimsuit showcase last Saturday night. The standouts were:

Yllana Marie Aduana (Siniloan, Laguna)

Ma. Ahtisa Manalo (Quezon Province)

Teresita Ssen "Wynwin" Marquez (Muntinlupa)

Gwendoline Meliz Soriano (Baguio)

Amanda Russo (Pasay)

Katrina Llegado (Taguig)

Valerie Claire West (Ifugao), and 

Gabrielle Mai Carballo (Cebu City)

The Miss Universe Philippines 2025 coronation night will unfold on May 2, 6 p.m., in SM Mall of Asia Arena. The "Puksaan" is nearing its culmination. Stay tuned!

Lent, on the road and off

How Filipinos travel — and eat — during the sacred season of Holy Week

BY SOL VANZI

Apr 10, 2025 07:06 PM

  

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ON THE ROAD Filipinos often travel extensively during Holy Week (Photo from Unsplash)

Holy Week is observed by many Filipinos in many ways. Some become more religious; others use the season to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Restaurants offer no-meat menus. Movies with biblical themes are shown on TV.

For those traveling by land or by sea, one major item is the food they need to eat on the road, which could leave quite a dent in the budget, especially if traveling with a group. Wise and frugal travelers meet this challenge by packing food to consume on the road. The more adventurous depend on local specialties they find along the way. 

The heat of summer could be deadly, not just because of heat stroke, but also in the way heat increases the danger of food poisoning.

Munchies and snacks 
Cookies, crackers and breads are perfect, healthy hunger-appeasers inside a moving vehicle. They require no spoons and forks. Individually packed, they leave hands and seats with no mess and satisfy hunger pangs between long stretches of highways.

Boiled roots and fruit 
Everyone loves boiled saba bananas. I buy almost ripe bananas the day before a trip and boil them, skin on, the night before, keeping them in the refrigerator until we’re ready to go. They keep for at least three days.

Another boiled snack our kids looked forward to was boiled kamote (sweet potato), which is always in season. The yellow and purple ones are sweeter and less mealy than the white variety. Like the bananas, they are boiled the night before and refrigerated before the trip. Boiled and unpeeled, they keep for at least two days.

Rare these days even in public markets is cassava, known locally as kamoteng kahoy. It has to be peeled and rinsed thoroughly before boiling. Serve plain, with fresh grated coconut, or in syrup.

Suman and puto  
Traveling north from Manila, one first encounters Putong Pulo, a specialty of what was Barrio Polo, now more popularly known as Valenzuela. This steamed cake made from ground rice comes in two variants: Putong Puti and Kuchinta.

We always plan on buying bags of puto to sustain us during long trips. Farther north, in Pangasinan province, we stock up on Putong Calasiao. The rice cakes are sold by many ambulant vendors at bus stations.

Historic empanada 
Swerving off the North Expressway, we took our kids to Malolos, a picturesque town in Bulacan where, in 1898, leaders of the Philippine revolution against Spain met, wrote the first Philippine Constitution in Barasoain Church, and proclaimed independence. Here, what was to be the country’s national anthem was first played.

Almost as famous as the Malolos Constitution is the Malolos Empanada, with the culinary nickname Empanada de Kaliskis. The small deep-fried pie is unique not because of its filling, but due to its flaky, crunchy crust—the result of several layers of different dough. The filling is traditionally chicken-based and lacks the grease one normally encounters in fried empanadas.

Longanisa country 
In the old days, one could write a cookbook on sausages by simply taking a bus from Manila to Ilocos Norte and eating at every stop the bus made. The new highways and expressways now get motorists faster between points, eliminating the need for meal stops.

For foodies, travel by car is a must in order to make the most of each trip. Hit the capital towns and cities, eat at public markets, ask tricycle and jeepney drivers. 

In Baguio City, the meat stalls sell longanisa from many provinces. The multilevel public market in Laoag has meat vendors selling cooked Ilocano specialties based on innards.

Pasalubong
It is very important to honor the Filipino tradition of pasalubong — a gift the returning traveler brings back for friends and relatives. The gift need not be expensive but must come from the town or city one visited: moron from Tacloban, coffee from Batangas, durian candy from Davao, dried danggit from Cebu, tsokolate from Bohol, bagnet from Laoag.

Survival tips 
Stay away from iced drinks; you never know how safe the water used for freezing was. Some retailers use the icebox for raw food and soft drinks, posing the danger of cross-contamination. Coconut milk and cream cause food to spoil fast in summer. Eateries with no comfort rooms are not safe. Do not drink the water.Drink straight from the bottle or can. Always keep a bottle of water handy.

Angels to give '200 percent' in finals vs Cool Smashers

BY KRISTEL SATUMBAGA-VILLAR

  

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AT A GLANCE

• For Petro Gazz coach Koji Tsuzurabara, there’s no time to slow down now that the All-Filipino Conference crown is within reach once again. After all, they have been in this familiar territory three times.

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For Petro Gazz coach Koji Tsuzurabara, there’s no time to slow down now that the All-Filipino Conference crown is within reach once again. After all, they have been in this familiar territory three times.

Petro Gazz seeks its first All-Filipino Conference title against Creamline. (PVL Images)

But in those three All-Filipino finals appearances, the Angels fell short to clinch that trophy -- incidentally, against the same powerhouse rival in the Creamline Cool Smashers.

Tsuzurabara and the Angels wanted a different storyline this time. 

“If we gave our 100 percent to be where we are now, we must give 200 percent in the finals,” said Tsuzurabara moments after he and his stalwarts swept their semifinal assignments -- the last, against Akari in straight sets -- for a place in the best-of-three championship series.

They knew the tough task that lay ahead in facing Creamline, having been in a similar situation in 2019, 2022 and 2023, only to lose in the end. But Petro Gazz is determined not to waste this new opportunity this time.

“Ang haba nitong conference na to at pinagtrabahuhan namin nang maayos para makarating dito. Nasa finals na kami, bibitawan pa ba namin ito?” said Myla Pablo, whose vintage plays were instrumental in the crucial phase of their campaign.

Fil-Am Brooke Van Sickle, who is in her first finals stint, echoed the sentiment and looked at the silver lining of the long, arduous five-month conference. 

“It has been a long conference, but I think it allowed us to get to know more about each other and build that team chemistry. We have been pushing each other the whole time, non-stop. To be where we are right now is amazing,” Van Sickle said.

For Petro Gazz, it would take more than flaunting their team chemistry and determination to win. It would be like facing Goliath, with Creamline parading not only its depth and experience, but all its six All-Filipino Conference trophies. The Cool Smashers, in particular, boast of talents like Alyssa Valdez, Bernadeth Pons and Tots Carlos, to name a few.

“Everybody wants it. Everybody’s working hard for the championship. It’s just who would be working harder and performing better at crunch time,” Van Sickle said.

Game 1 is set on Tuesday, April 8, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum with the Angels seeking to draw the first blood. Game 2 is set Thursday, April 10, at the same venue, and Game 3, if necessary, is on Saturday, April 12.

Bullying: A silent crisis needing urgent action

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Apr 10, 2025 00:17 AM

  

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Bullying remains a deeply rooted and growing problem in our schools. From name-calling and exclusion to physical violence and cyberbullying, many students—especially those perceived as different—suffer in silence.

Despite laws and policies in place, bullying continues to thrive, often overlooked or normalized by peers, teachers, and even parents. The persistence of this problem demands not only stronger enforcement of laws but also systemic mental health support and a cultural shift that prioritizes a safe learning environment. 

According to a 2019 report by the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), Filipino students reported one of the highest incidences of bullying among countries surveyed. Around 65 percent of students said they were bullied at least a few times a month, with 40 percent being bullied once a week or more.  The PISA 2022 reports that one out three Filipino students are being bullied in schools.

Recent incidents have reignited concern about this problem. Early this month, two alarming cases were in the news: a viral video from Bagong Silangan High School in Quezon City showed a female student being attacked and ganged up on by her classmates while more than 10 others watched passively. Even more tragic was the incident at Moonwalk National High School in Parañaque, where a quarrel allegedly stemming from bullying ended in the fatal stabbing of a student. These events highlight just how grave the situation has become.

In response, the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC), led by National Chairperson Benjo Basas, called for the urgent strengthening of mental health programs in schools. “We need urgent and systemic support for our learners,” Basas said, emphasizing that enforcement alone is not enough—there must be genuine care and support for students’ emotional and psychological well-being.

Currently, the Philippines has several laws addressing bullying, including Republic Act No. 10627 or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, which mandates all schools to implement anti-bullying policies and procedures. Additionally, laws like the Child Protection Policy, the Anti-Child Abuse Law, and the Cybercrime Prevention Act are in place to protect students.

Under the law, schools are required to establish disciplinary measures, hold educational programs for students and staff, and maintain records of bullying cases. It also requires the Department of Education (DepEd) to monitor compliance and assist schools in implementing anti-bullying policies.

While RA 10627 has raised awareness and compelled schools to put systems in place, enforcement and consistency remain major challenges. Some schools lack the resources or training to implement anti-bullying policies effectively. In many cases, bullying incidents are under reported or resolved informally to avoid stigma or disruption. Victims may be too afraid to speak up, and school administrators may hesitate to act decisively, especially if influential families are involved. 

To address the psychological toll of bullying, the TDC urged the DepEd and related agencies to expedite the enforcement of Republic Act No. 12080, or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act. This newly enacted law mandates stronger, more accessible guidance and counseling services in public schools—services that are lacking in underserved areas.

More than laws and policies, what the country needs is a cultural shift within the school system—one that encourages empathy, kindness, and accountability. Parents, teachers, and students must all take part in creating a culture where bullying is not just punished but prevented through education and positive reinforcement.

A forgotten part of Filipino culture

BY YVETTE TAN

Apr 11, 2025 06:05 AM

  

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AVANT GARDENER

Last week, I wrote about Raffy Tesoro of  Bio-Genetics Agriventures, Inc. and Jason Drilon’s popup at James & Daughters in Pasig which featured traditional Tagalog food that Tesoro grew up with, most, if not all of it sourced locally. The popup was a hit, with both days selling out. This week, we continue our conversation with Tesoro, focusing on the importance of keeping traditional ingredients and cooking methods alive and the possible future of Philippine agriculture.

Food isn’t something we consume to keep functioning. It can be a cultural marker. 

A specific area can shape what food is grown and how it is prepared and consumed. 

“Our very identity as a people is entwined in our food, music, fabric, and other cultural expressions. Food is an especially important cultural vehicle as it is a necessary experience for all on a daily basis. We are literally what we eat. If we aren’t consuming more of our own culture, then we will alienate ourselves from it. I enjoy most cuisines as anyone else would, but I also know our own,” Tesoro said. 

“Most young Filipinos now don’t know many of the fruits we had back then, like makopa, rattan, or duhat. Many are hesitant to try hito, pinikpikan, or dinakdakan because it looks alien to them…. This is a horrific bleed that needs to stop before we completely lose ourselves as a people.  

“As shallow as it seems, these are symptoms of a deeper cultural rot and explains why we have no pride as a people and as a nation. Granted, our cultural identity is complex and regional, but from personal experience, I have learned to accept all the facets of what makes us Filipino, and I will say that the first and foremost teacher is the food.”

He offers tips for folks who want to explore unfamiliar local ingredients. 

“First, check out the local markets and not just the supermarkets. There is a wealth of ingredients that can only be found in palengkes and talipapas. 

“Second, try making more local/regional/heritage dishes. The experience of creating it is satisfying, educational, and fulfilling. It will also encourage suppliers to provide local ingredients because there is a demand for them. 

“Third, use local/traditional implements as much as possible. Not only is this helpful in maintaining the identity of the dish, but it also helps entire communities. 

“Buy local packaging and other implements. Using bayongs woven from straw is not only ecologically sound, but it brings work to communities, and markets will stock it regularly. The farmer is not the only breadwinner, and by buying the pottery, weaving, woodwork, and more, you are helping everyone else in their community while encouraging local self-sufficiency and growth.  

“Many of my farmers’ wives and daughters are weavers; their brothers or uncles are potters, blacksmiths, and woodworkers. Their neighbors are drivers, stevedores, and conductors. Consuming local food promotes local products, which strengthens our economy. It raises the quality of life of fellow Filipinos across all walks of life. It engenders pride in our country and our culture. The simple act of buying our own culture creates profound results,” Tesoro said.

Fostering a consumer base that regularly consumes local ingredients can also help our food security. “There are some efforts that are trying to address our food security issues, but without market participation, it is an uphill battle,” Tesoro said.

“Again, buying local goods instead of imported ones is a key play. Promoting and using our cultural recipes is also extremely important. Our consumption has shifted dramatically to imported goods more than local production. Local production has also shifted to cater to these changed tastes. We consume Western-style food much more now, so there is an escalating demand for bell peppers, potatoes, and other introduced crops. By creating demand for endemic crops, we are ensuring our food security while maintaining our culture. 

“Being too dependent on global staples also puts us at risk of experiencing the same crop failures that a global pandemic or climate change would generate on our food supplies…. [For example], bird flu and swine flu have decimated flocks of chicken and herds of pigs all over the globe in the past five years. This is reflected in the price of eggs, pork, and poultry. If we retained our diversity such as consuming more local seafood or utilizing other protein sources such as snails and shellfish, then we would have other options for our protein requirements while also reducing the pressure on traditional protein supplies.”

People are always looking for the next new thing. What if instead of looking internationally, we found it on our very own shores? As Tesoro said, “Expanding our palates, exploring our cuisine and culture may ultimately help create the very diversity we need to survive and thrive.”