Palm Sunday: A reflection on peace and purpose

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Apr 13, 2025 00:03 AM

  

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Today is Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week, the day the faithful reflects on the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. 

Palm Sunday is the final Sunday of Lent which leads to Easter. According to the Gospels, Jesus entered Jerusalem riding a humble donkey, while crowds greeted him with palm branches, shouting “Hosanna!” This seemingly jubilant procession was a quiet declaration of a different kind of kingship — one marked by humility, compassion, and sacrificial love. 

Beneath the surface of the joyful procession lies a powerful invitation — not just for Christians, but for all — to pause and reflect not just on spiritual matters but also on the key challenges that affect the broader sections of our society and nation.

Let us reflect on the persistent issue of income inequality in our country, with a significant portion of the population struggling to meet basic needs. Let us rekindle our compassion toward those in need, fostering a society where everyone can thrive, and no one is left behind.

For Christians, the significance of Palm Sunday is multilayered. First, it is a moment of celebration — a recognition of Jesus as the Messiah. But it also carries a heavy foreshadowing. The same crowd that welcomed him with palms and praises would, by the end of the week, call for his crucifixion. This shift reflects the fickleness of public opinion and the danger of misplaced expectations. Jesus did not come to meet political agendas or lead a rebellion; he came to serve, to suffer, and ultimately, to redeem. 

Palm Sunday invites believers to reflect on the nature of true leadership and the cost of discipleship. It challenges Christians to ask: Are we welcoming Christ into our lives for who He truly is, or for who we want Him to be? It also encourages a re-examination of how we receive those who bring uncomfortable truths.

For non-Christians, the imagery of Palm Sunday can still offer meaningful reflection. The palm branch has historically symbolized peace and victory, even in ancient non-Christian cultures. The story of a man riding into a city not to conquer it but to heal it, not to demand allegiance but to offer grace, is a powerful counter-narrative in any context. It’s a call to reconsider what kind of leaders we follow, and what kind of legacy we wish to leave behind.
Beyond its theological implications, Palm Sunday offers a broader, more universal message — one that can speak to people of all backgrounds. At its heart, it is a day that celebrates peace over power, humility over pride, and service over dominance.

In a world that often glorifies strength, conquest, and spectacle, Palm Sunday reminds us that real change, lasting influence, and moral authority often come from those who walk humbly and act with love.

As we face a world fractured by conflict, inequality, and a crisis of trust in institutions, Palm Sunday reminds us that peace is what we should all work for now.  That begins with peace in our hearts and in our homes. 

The path to healing often begins with humility and a willingness to serve. Whether one views Jesus as the Son of God or as a historical figure of unparalleled moral courage, His entry into Jerusalem challenges us all to consider how we respond to the gentle voice of peace amidst the clamor for power.

May this Palm Sunday be a moment not only of reflection, but of rededication — to the values that heal, unite, and uplift us all.

Mariah Carey on her career, Hall of Fame, new music

BY ASSOCIATED PRESS

Apr 12, 2025 10:28 AM

  

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NEW YORK (AP) — It may be hard to conceive of now, but there was once a lull in Mariah Carey's superstar career. 

In 2001, her film “Glitter” was a commercial flop; the album that followed, 2002’s introspective “Charmbracelet,” was met with a muted response. She was at a crossroads.

And then everything changed. Carey released "The Emancipation of Mimi" in 2005. It joined her athletic R&B-pop with synth-y hip-hop and fun, flirty, enduring hits — she was now only belting when she wanted to, thank you very much. She sounded free, as the title suggested, and the world embraced her for it once again. 

On Saturday, the album turns 20. To celebrate, Carey is gearing up to release deluxe, expanded editions of the album on May 30, featuring bonus tracks, new remixes and much more — including the official release of “When I Feel It,” a song fans have been waiting for since 2005. It was originally planned for “The Emancipation of Mimi” but was ultimately shelved because of clearance issues with its sample of The Dynamic Superiors’ “Here Comes That Feeling.”

 “These are new gems, as far as I’m concerned,” Carey says. “It’s exciting to me.”

Carey discussed “The Emancipation of Mimi,” her recent nomination to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Rihanna and plans for new music with The Associated Press. 

The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. 

AP: Has your relationship to “The Emancipation of Mimi” changed over the years?

CAREY: It’s still one of my favorite albums that I’ve done. And, you know, back then when it first came out, everybody was calling it a comeback album. ... I didn’t really agree, because you never think you’ve gone anywhere. You know what I mean?

I just always really loved the songs and the performances. People seem to really be into it. And new fans came from that album.

AP: I hear a lot of creative freedom on that album. Do you think it revitalized your career?

CAREY: I do think it’s got a fun feeling to it and it definitely feels free. I guess it sort of revitalized my career. I spent a while making that album ... working with some great people, some great collaborators. ... It was an experience that I’ll never forget, creating that album. 

AP: In June, you’ll celebrate another anniversary. Your self-titled debut turns 35. When you think back on that time, did you envision this career?

CAREY: I don’t know. I really was just so involved and entrenched in making the music and this new career that I was embarking on. And it was amazing. I mean, it’s what I had wanted to do for my whole life. And then I was doing it.

AP: You’re also a 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominee.

CAREY: That’s a huge honor. I don’t know if I’m going to win it, so I don’t want to get too excited about it. So, I just want to say that, again, it’s a huge honor and I guess I didn’t expect it. I wasn’t really thinking about it. And here we are.

AP: It seems like the Rock Hall has become more fluid in their definitions of genre over the years. Missy Elliott was inducted in 2023, for example.

CAREY: I don’t really know if genre matters. I feel like people are more open to all different genres, much more than they were, you know? But I feel like a rock star sometimes.

AP: You know, after Dolly Parton was inducted, she released a rock album. If and when you are inducted, will you finally release your ‘90s grunge album? Fans have been waiting.

CAREY: I mean, I really want to, but I want to do videos, and I have just so many ideas for that.

I don’t think I’ll be able to pull it together by the summer (before the Rock Hall ceremony) but maybe, maybe I’ll release a few songs from it.

AP: During your Christmas Time tour last holiday season, your children Monroe and Moroccan joined you onstage. They played guitar and drums; they were really rocking. Would you ever consider a family rock ’n’ roll album?

CAREY: I would love to. They just have a lot of their own things that they’re doing, and I don’t want to force them to do anything.

AP: And at your final date in Brooklyn, Rihanna was in the front row of the audience. Would you ever work with her?

CAREY: I would love to. Did you see what happened? She wanted me to sign her breasts. I was trying to do it neatly, and it didn’t come out right. So, I tried.

AP: Your last album of original music, “Caution,” came out in 2018. It’s been a minute! Are you working on a new album?

CAREY: I’m not supposed to talk about it. ... But I’m working on something. We won’t say what it is, but something new.

ASSERTIONS TO BEAR

We love to complain! Many times we don't have reasons at all to do so - but, we love to complain. Especially nowadays. Our world is full of mess - isn't it? Of course, somehow it is indeed if you look around.

We bring many more assertions to bear: first, in the past we have been thriftier and economical, more religious and devout, more patriotic, industrious, more hard-working, keen and obedient. And, second, above everything and all: in the past we had more idealists. Third, nowadays we have (mostly?) material things in mind - what a disgrace. 

Materialists or idealists? Materialism or Idealism? Whom or what do you love? Love most?

I just quoted Vox Populi... .

A "materialist" has indeed become a swear word. I don't mean with "material" the accumulated data out of which a writer creates a work of literary, historical, or scientific value. A materialist is being easily described as someone with an attitude, who ignores spiritual values, compared with an idealist, who has the tendency to seek the highest spiritual perfection.

Idealism means the doctrine that appearance is purely the perception, the idea of subjects, and that the world is to be regarded as consisting of mind. The coquetry of higher philosophy makes it difficult to bear the ups and downs in our daily life.

Sure, we all know that "our last earthly dress has no pockets  any more". Striving for earthly and terrestrial possession, property and estate might be the hit-man of idealism. That's how we have been taught. "Wine, women and song", having the unpleasant feeling of fullness, egoism and bragging as well as showing-off - are these the materialist's real attitudes?

Is the idealist, many times not being able to stand on earth with both feet, the only one who occupies himself with religion and virtuousness - so to speak, with celestial and heavenly things? Is that really so? Can we make such a distinction? Sure, it's easy to do so: it's manageable and comfortable. But well, why is the enjoyment of having a tasty meal BAD, and listening to a recital composed by Johann Sebastian Bach BETTER? Why should art be better than roasted pork and a bottle of wine? Value judgements and moral concepts... .

Owning a house and lot and a car  - or even more then one - are earthly properties, as well as bank saving accounts, profitable insurances, and invest advantageously in stocks. Is a terrible underpaid nurse or a book author an idealist, because he or she doesn't work for the filthy lure but for higher values? 

Has Jesus been an idealist, because He accepted renunciation and died without terrestrial possession? Has Jesus been a materialist, because He fed thousands of people on the breadline? Are we idealists, if we bequeath nothing to our families and might die without a single centavo, because earthly things are bad?

Worth to think about it ... .

Anger

 

ANGER

by Klaus Döring

Anger. A day rarely goes by without us feeling angry. It is not necessary to cite examples. Sometimes, it's just a minor reason like we hate the fly at the wall. Sometimes anger has important reasons. 

Anger seems to become the main part of our daily life. That's why it is really important to talk (again?) about this phenomenon. As I said, anger is one of the most basic emotions. Everyone can really get angry. If someone told you, he won't get angry, better don't believe him.

Anger is a terrible feeling of being against something or someone. It can be my neighbor, because he is still (!) burning poisonous plastic and rubber garbage. Many of us get angry observing some politicians during those days worldwide.

Anger is a hostile emotion that sets people against one and another, or even against themselves. By its nature, anger involves opposition, hostility, hatred and dislike. Anger, however, is simpler to define that to identify. Emotions of antagonism can take a wider variety of faces. Expressions of anger range from the overt, in-your-face brand of open hostility to the cold indifference of a silent individual.

Anger at the workplace is becoming very common nowadays.

One of my good friends works as a stewardess. Imagine yourself 35,000 feet up, pushing a trolley down a narrow aisle surrounded by restless passengers. A toddler is blocking your path, his parents not immediately visible. A passenger is irritated that he can no longer pay cash for an in-flight meal, another is demanding to be allowed past to use the toilet. And your job is to meet all of their needs with the same show of friendly willingness. For a cabin crew member, this is when emotional labor kicks in at work.

A term first coined by sociologist Arlie Hochschild, it’s the work we do to regulate our emotions to create “a publicly visible facial and bodily display within the workplace”.

At times, anger can be felt like an inner fire. It hits you in the gut. You see red and feel hot and maybe sweaty. Your stomach gives you problems, our blood pressure rises, and breathing rate increases. Not only neighbors or politicians are the reason for anger. The silent withdrawal and lack of understanding and innumerable shortcomings of a partner or in the family are often an indication that one is angrily punishing the other for not doing things his or her way.

 Back to the workplace: unhelpful attitudes such as ‘I’m not good enough’ may lead to thinking patterns in the workplace such as ‘No-one else is working as hard as I seem to be’ or ‘I must do a perfect job’, and can initiate and maintain high levels of workplace anxiety.

When research into emotional labor first began, it focused on the service industry with the underlying presumption that the more client or customer interaction you had, the more emotional labor was needed.

However, more recently psychologists have expanded their focus to other professions and found burnout can relate more closely to how employees manage their emotions during interactions, rather than the volume of interactions themselves. Perhaps just today you turned to a colleague to convey interest in what they said, or had to work hard not to rise to criticism. It may have been that biting your lip rather than expressing feeling hurt was particularly demanding of your inner resource.

But in some cases maintaining the façade can become too much, and the toll is cumulative. 

As I stated earlier: Minor things could become the start of anger. Over the years, handling the stress caused by suppressing one's emotions became much harder. Small things seemed huge, we easily dreaded going to work and  anxiety escalated. 

Across the globe, employees in many professions are expected to embrace a work culture that requires the outward display of particular emotions – these can include ambition, aggression and a hunger for success.

The way we handle emotional labor can be categorized in two ways – surface acting and deep acting.

“How we cope with high levels of emotional labour likely has its origins in childhood experience, which shapes the attitudes we develop about ourselves, others and the world,” says clinical and occupational psychologist Lucy Leonard.  

“Unhelpful attitudes such as ‘I’m not good enough’ may lead to thinking patterns in the workplace such as ‘No-one else is working as hard as I seem to be’ or ‘I must do a perfect job”, and can initiate and maintain high levels of workplace anxiety,” says Leonard.  

When things get tough, you might be very lucky  talking to colleagues to unload. “It’s the saying it out loud that allows me to test and validate my own reaction. I can then go back to the person concerned,” one of my former officemates in Germany explained many years ago.

Those who report regularly having to display emotions at work that conflict with their own feelings are more likely to experience emotional exhaustion

Remaining true to your feelings appears to be key – numerous studies show those who report regularly having to display emotions at work that conflict with their own feelings are more likely to experience emotional exhaustion.

Of course, everybody needs to be professional at work and handling difficult clients and colleagues is often just part of the job. But what’s clear is that putting yourself in their shoes and trying to understand their position is ultimately of greater benefit to your own well-being than voicing sentiments that, deep down, you don’t believe.

Where it is possible, workers should be truly empathetic, be aware of the impact the interaction is having on them and try to communicate in an authentic way. Easy to say, yes, I know. But let's give it a try!

Palace declares special holidays in several localities

BY ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS

Apr 12, 2025 08:41 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Based on the signed proclamations, the local holidays were declared to allow residents to meaningfully engage in the cultural and historical events significant to their communities.

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Malacañang has declared multiple special nonworking days in May 2025 in various parts of the country through a series of proclamations signed to honor local festivals, anniversaries, and historic figures.

File photo

Based on the signed proclamations, the local holidays were declared to allow residents to meaningfully engage in the cultural and historical events significant to their communities.

Through Proclamation No. 849, Friday, May 2, was declared a special nonworking day in Bauan, Batangas, for the Sublian Festival, a traditional celebration known for its devotion to the Holy Cross and the performance of the Subli folk dance. 

Under Proclamation No. 850, a special nonworking day was declared on Monday, May 5, in Santiago, Isabela, to celebrate its 31st cityhood anniversary.

Kapangan, Benguet, will also observe a holiday on May 5 under Proclamation No. 851 in remembrance of the birth anniversary of Governor Bado Dangwa. Dangwa, born in 1905, was a prominent World War II officer and served as Benguet governor from 1953 to 1963.

Proclamation No. 852 sets Thursday, May 8, a special nonworking day in President Roxas, Cotabato, to celebrate the municipality's 58th founding anniversary.

Meanwhile, Proclamation No. 853 declares Friday, May 9, a special nonworking holiday in San Jose, Negros Oriental, marking the town's charter day celebration. 

Lastly, under Proclamation No. 854, Tuesday, May 20, was declared a special nonworking day in Uyugan, Batanes, to commemorate its foundation day.

Special nonworking days are typically declared to enable citizens to commemorate important local events, celebrate cultural traditions, or remember significant historical figures.

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.