Kanlaon emits ash plume; Alert Level 2 stays in effect | ||
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Kanlaon Volcano emitted an ash plume from its summit crater on Friday morning, June 12, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported. Read more |
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Saturday, June 13, 2026
Kanlaon emits ash plume; Alert Level 2 stays in effect
Mindanao quake death toll hits 55; 13 areas under state of calamity
Mindanao quake death toll hits 55; 13 areas under state of calamity | ||
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The death toll from the June 8 magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Maasim, Sarangani has risen to 55, as 13 localities in Southern Mindanao were placed under a state of calamity amid widespread damage and displacement. Read more |
Do Germans still address people as Herr and Frau, or is that a past habit?
Walk up to any German apartment building, and you'll notice the buzzers rarely list first names—a subtle architectural reminder that Herr and Frau are far from a thing of the past.
Germans still use Herr (Mr.) and Frau (Ms.), combined with the formal pronoun Sie, as the default in many areas of public and professional life. It remains the absolute standard in traditional corporate environments, government offices, medical practices, and customer service. When dealing with a bureaucratic agency or meeting a client for the first time, addressing them as Herr Müller or Frau Schmidt is expected. Skipping straight to first names in these contexts is often viewed as presumptuous or unprofessional.
However, the rigid linguistic hierarchy of the 20th century has softened. The informal du and the use of first names have swept through younger generations and modern industries. In tech startups, creative agencies, and international corporations based in Germany, employees often use first names across the entire company. Socially, young adults generally default to du with their peers upon first meeting. The line between formal and informal is now situational rather than absolute, and colleagues in traditional companies usually wait for the older or more senior person to offer the use of first names.
While Herr and Frau are thriving, one title is firmly in the past: Fräulein (Miss). Historically used for unmarried women, it was banished from West German government correspondence in 1972. Today, addressing an adult woman as Fräulein is viewed as patronizing and archaic; every woman is addressed as Frau, regardless of marital status.
The tension between old formality and new casualness has even birthed hybrid forms of address like the Hamburger Sie. This involves using a person’s first name combined with the formal Sie pronoun, rather than the informal du. It is a modern compromise that reflects a society relaxing its rules while still relying on the respectful distance that traditional German address provides.
A typical German apartment doorbell panel displaying only the residents' last names. - Photo by Jedesto (Wikimedia Commons) is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Friday, June 12, 2026
OUR CHILDRENS' MOTHER EARTH
By Klaus Döring
Earth is our beautiful home and the third planet from the Sun. It is the only known planet with living creatures, breathable air, and liquid water
Yes, it's again the topic we should really think about. Also here in the Philippines. Ok, here's a new string of examples, my dear readers. But, don't expect good news.
The life we live today will set the foundation for how the next generation will live their lives. Our actions have an effect on this planet that we call home, and we need to be mindful of the consequences of living without consideration for the future. It is the need of the hour to cultivate a means of living that will enable future generations to live viably. To that end, awareness, in the form of environmental studies, can play a key role in ensuring that current and future generations can create a sustainable future.
Environmental studies can be considered as a catalyst for change. It provides us with the knowledge to think critically and the power to understand the impact of our actions. But, are we doing enough to ensure that this information and knowledge is being imparted efficiently enough to empower the next generation?
Greenland, the great island is being called the Land of Ice being on fire. Why? A recent report says the Arctic may be ice-free by 2040. The Antarctic is also melting, albeit far slower, and in a less regular pattern.
The Arctic is melting much faster than expected, and could even be ice-free in summer by the late 2030's, a report from the Arctic Council's Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Program suggests. Previous studies had forecast an ice-free North Pole in summer by mid-century. Wow.
While the outlook is bleak for the Arctic, there is a silver lining for the Antarctic: As I said before, the ice is melting at a slower rate than previously thought. Although glacier flow has increased since the 1990's, scientists from University of Leeds have found the melting rate to be only around a third of what was previously projected. A section of a glacier in Greenland is seen from NASA's Operation IceBridge research aircraft along the Upper Baffin Bay coast.
Operation IceBridge studies the processes that link the polar regions with the Earth's climate system. Rapidly changing polar ice means researchers need to use highly sophisticated airborne technology to measure annual changes in thickness and movement - onboard a retrofitted 1966 Lockheed P-3 aircraft.
But the Antarctic is still melting. And a rapidly advancing crack in its fourth-largest ice shelf could soon see one of the largest icebergs ever recorded in human history break off into the sea.Scientists agree that global warming causes both the ice in the North and the South Pole to melt. Air temperatures are climbing, and so are water temperatures. This makes the ice melt faster. The period of winter where the water is actually cold enough to freeze is getting shorter, which means ice floes are getting smaller.
Greenland, home to the world's largest permanent ice sheet outside Antarctica, is being swept by wildfires. Yes, the land of ice is on fire. A really breathtaking situation. Scientists say global warming and increased plant cover are likely factors. Since late July, wildfires have raged across an ever-larger area of the landmass.
Honestly folks, it really scares me although experts say it is too early to draw firm conclusions linking the fire to climate change because no long-term data is available to put the blaze in context. However, unusually hot and dry conditions this year could have been a factor.
Although the origin of the blaze is unclear - with lightning and a stray cigarette as possible suspects - what is clear is how it has been spreading across remote areas of grassland and low shrub. Greenland is indeed getting greener and greener. It conjures images of white, frozen expanses. But global warming means it's getting greener all the time. "There's a shorter snow-cover season, and that allows the plant life to expand," he explained.
In trying to prepare our kids for a sustainable future, we need to start taking action today. We need to be considerate of what we purchase, how we consume and the waste we generate in the process. We can change why and how we educate our children to embrace a sustainable-growth mindset.
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Email: doringklaus@gmail.com
Countries extend sympathies to Mindanao quake victims
By Ma. Teresa Montemayor
MANILA – The international community has rallied behind the Philippines, pouring in messages of sympathy and offers of assistance following a devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck southern Mindanao on Monday.
Key allies and global partners, including Japan, France, China, Canada, Australia, Germany, the Czech Republic, and the European Union expressed solidarity with the Filipino people as recovery efforts begin.
Japanese Minister Sanae Takaichi extended her deepest condolences, affirming Tokyo's readiness to dispatch aid.
"I am deeply saddened by reports that the major earthquake that struck off Mindanao in the southern Philippines today has caused damage, including the collapse of buildings," Takaichi said in a statement.
"I extend my heartfelt condolences to all those who lost their lives and to their bereaved families, and my sincere sympathies to all those affected."
She added "Japan stands ready to provide all possible assistance that the Philippines may need, based on local needs" and reiterated that "Japan always stands with the people of the Philippines."
United Arab Emirates (UAE) President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of condolences to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. over the victims of the powerful earthquake, extending his sympathies to the bereaved families and wishing a speedy recovery to all those injured.
In a separate statement, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) also expressed its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, and to the government and people of the Philippines.
The French Embassy in Manila also conveyed its grief over the casualties and destruction recorded in the aftermath of the tremor.
"France is deeply saddened by the loss of lives and the damage caused by the earthquake that struck Mindanao this morning," the embassy statement read.
"France extends its heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and expresses its full solidarity with the Filipino people and the authorities responding to this disaster."
The Chinese Embassy in Manila sent messages of solidarity to the affected families.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and damage caused by the earthquake in Mindanao," the embassy said.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Philippine people, mourn those who lost their lives, and express our sincere sympathies to the bereaved families and all those affected by the disaster."
Meanwhile, Canadian officials posted a unified message of support, noting specific hard-hit areas in the southern region.
The Embassy of Canada in the Philippines said it extends its deepest sympathy to the residents of Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and nearby provinces in southern Mindanao affected by the tremor.
Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman echoed this sentiment.
"We stand in solidarity and are ready to assist," he said.
German Ambassador Andreas Pfaffernoschke also assured the Philippines of his country's continued support throughout the disaster response phase.
"I am deeply saddened by the earthquake that struck the regions of Mindanao. We extend our heartfelt thoughts & sympathies to the victims, their loved ones, and all communities affected," he said.
"As recovery efforts continue, Germany stands in solidarity with the Philippines during this difficult time."
The European Union (EU) ambassador to the Philippines also expressed solidarity with the local responders on the ground.
"My thoughts are with all those affected and the responders assisting impacted communities. The European Union stands in solidarity with the people of Mindanao and the Philippines," EU envoy Massimo Santoro said.
In a separate statement, the Czech Embassy in Manila extended its comforting thoughts to the displaced and grieving citizens.
"Our thoughts are with the injured, displaced, and grieving, and we stand in solidarity as recovery begins," it said.
Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown joined the diplomatic community in wishing for a quick recovery for the affected communities in Mindanao.
"Our thoughts go out to those affected by today's earthquakes off Mindanao. Our deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones," Innes-Brown said. "Wishing the injured and communities affected a speedy recovery."
NZ expresses readiness to help
New Zealand is ready to extend assistance to the Philippines in its response to the aftermath of the magnitude 7.8 earthquake.
“As a country that suffers its fair share of earthquakes, our thoughts are with the people of the Philippines,” New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said in a statement dated June 8. “New Zealand stands ready to assist, should that be helpful.”
Also on Monday, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed President Marcos to convey his sympathies to the families affected by the powerful quake.
“Saddened by the loss of lives and destruction caused by today’s earthquake in Mindanao, Philippines. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured,” he said. “India stands in solidarity with the people and the Government of the Philippines.”
The embassy of the United States has also sent its thoughts and expressed solidarity with Mindanao
The magnitude 7.8 earthquake rocked Sarangani province at 7:37 a.m. on June 8, just as classes in public schools officially opened.
In several videos that had gone online, commercial establishments and school buildings were seen collapsing from the powerful jolt, with intensities ranging from I to VIII across Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, Soccsksargen, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and Caraga.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said Tuesday it has 36 dead, 167 injured, and four missing persons following the earthquake. (PNA)
Freedom through young eyes
‘For me, commemorating Independence Day is something that today’s youth should focus on. Many of us have forgotten what Independence Day is truly about, and I think it is time for us to step up and participate in activities that remind us of the strength and resilience our ancestors showed during the Spanish colonial era. I believe that schools and communities play an important role in this effort. They can organize interactive historical exhibits, youth forums, cultural performances, and volunteer programs that help young people reconnect with our roots. However, our responsibility does not end with remembering the past. As young Filipinos, we must also play an active role in shaping a better future for our beloved country, the Philippines.’
‘I find value in highlighting the stories of everyday Filipinos who help keep our country moving forward, such as jeepney drivers, teachers, healthcare workers, farmers, and small business owners. I believe it is equally valuable to connect those lessons to the challenges and responsibilities that young Filipinos face today. If we create spaces where young people can participate, reflect, and share their perspectives, Independence Day can become much more meaningful and relevant to our generation.’
‘As a student-content creator, I think Independence Day becomes more meaningful when young people can see how it connects to their everyday lives. We often hear about freedom in history class, but today, many Filipinos are dealing with challenges like rising prices, financial struggles, and concerns about the direction of our country. These realities make us ask what independence truly means in the present day. I believe Independence Day celebrations can be more engaging when they encourage young people to participate, share their perspectives, take part in their communities, and to stand up for what is right. When we understand that loving our country is not just about celebrating its history but also helping improve its future, Independence Day becomes more personal and meaningful.’
‘Independence Day celebrations consider the historical and current events that shape people’s experiences and our country’s present and future concerns. Historical commemorations are simply not enough. Interactive exhibits, cultural displays, civic engagement (volunteering, social media advocacy, etc.), and other exhibits and performances integrate and challenge youth to ponder and participate in the celebration of the meaning of freedom and the exercise of their citizenship. Educating youth about the past struggles and sacrifices for civic freedoms and encouraging their active voice and service in the community honors independence and transcends the historical remembrance of Independence Day. Celebrating Independence Day in relevant and meaningful ways has the potential to encourage lifelong loyalty to the ideals of the nation and active engagement in its governance and civic affairs’
‘In a Gen Z perspective, I think Independence Day becomes more meaningful when it’s celebrated in ways that young people naturally engage with. For example, creating content that tells lesser-known stories of Filipino heroes, supporting local Filipino brands, visiting museums with friends, joining community outreach programs, or even having conversations about current issues affecting our country. These activities help connect history to our everyday lives. Independence Day shouldn’t just be about looking back at the past, but also reflecting on how we can contribute to the future of the Philippines in our own small ways.’
'Independence Day is more than a reflection on the past but it is a call to action. In today’s tense political and international climate, staying informed is critical to everything we do. For us, our reports, articles, and other mediums of media we produce no longer just represents our own views, but amplifies the voices of the marginalized who remain silenced.
This day serves as a powerful reminder of the freedom Filipinos deserve and a testament that it must never be compromised. The youth remains the hope that safeguards this reminder. And as student journalists, we recognize that our voice belongs to a country that once fought for its freedom; it is now up to our generation to write the next chapter worth defending.'
'As someone who creates content centered on solo dates and solo travel, I’ve learned that independence is also found in everyday choices, choosing your own path, exploring new places alone, and growing at your own pace. As a young woman, I am grateful for the freedom to pursue my passions, build a career I love, and experience life in a way that feels true to who I am. This Independence Day, I celebrate not only our nation’s freedom, but also the opportunity to continuously grow, dream bigger, and use our freedom to create a meaningful life.'
'I think Independence Day celebrations can become more meaningful for young people when they go beyond ceremonies and history lessons and show how independence connects to our daily lives. Many young people are more engaged when they can actively participate through community projects, digital campaigns, storytelling, and discussions about current social issues. Instead of simply remembering the past, we can reflect on how the sacrifices of our heroes continue to shape the opportunities we have today, such as pursuing education, building careers, expressing ourselves online, and even starting our own businesses.'
Freedom's enduring test
By Manila Bulletin Newsroom
The commemoration of our 128th Independence Day today, June 12, is an opportune time to reflect on the meaning of nationhood in an increasingly complex and uncertain world. More than remembering a historical milestone, preserving the independence our forebears fought for is a continuing obligation that demands vigilance, unity, and an unwavering commitment to national interest.
The declaration of Philippine independence in 1898 embodied the aspirations of a people determined to chart their own course, free from foreign domination and external control. More than a century later, that aspiration remains as relevant as ever. While the forms of challenge confronting national sovereignty have evolved, the imperative to preserve and safeguard independence endures.
Recent developments in the West Philippine Sea, including the reported discovery of a floating structure in Bajo de Masinloc, serve as a timely reminder that sovereignty is a national responsibility. The continued tensions in Philippine waters underscore the importance of defending the country’s maritime rights through adherence to international law, prudent diplomacy, and the steadfast assertion of legitimate national interests. Such developments reinforce the reality that independence must be actively preserved, not merely commemorated.
Yet the defense of sovereignty extends beyond territorial concerns. A nation’s strength is equally measured by the condition of its institutions and the capacity of its leaders to place the public welfare above political considerations. At a time when external challenges require a coherent and united national response, the political discord and intramurals that have increasingly characterized public discourse, particularly within the Senate and other sectors of government, raise legitimate concerns regarding the country’s ability to focus on matters of greater national consequence.
Democratic societies naturally accommodate differing views and vigorous debate. Indeed, the exchange of ideas is indispensable to accountable governance. However, when political rivalries, personal ambitions, and partisan interests dominate the national conversation, they risk diverting attention from pressing concerns that directly affect the lives of Filipinos. Issues such as economic stability, food security, educational recovery, disaster preparedness, and institutional reform demand sustained attention and collective action.
The significance of Independence Day lies not only in remembering the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom but also in recognizing the responsibilities that freedom imposes upon succeeding generations. The heroes of the Philippine Revolution differed in background, region, and circumstance, yet they were united by a common purpose. Their example offers an enduring lesson for contemporary society: national progress requires unity of purpose despite differences in perspective.
This lesson assumes even greater importance in the present era. The Philippines cannot effectively advance its interests abroad while remaining deeply divided at home. National resilience is strengthened when institutions function with integrity, when public officials uphold their duties with fidelity, and when citizens actively participate in safeguarding democratic values. Sovereignty is reinforced not only through the protection of territorial boundaries but also through the cultivation of national cohesion and public trust.
Independence likewise calls for a renewed commitment to civic responsibility. It is reflected in ethical leadership, informed citizenship, respect for the rule of law, and the pursuit of truth. Patriotism finds its highest expression not in ceremonial observances alone but in the daily efforts to strengthen the institutions upon which democratic society depends.
As the nation observes another anniversary of its freedom, every Filipino must keep in mind that the country’s independence must be continually defended against external encroachments, strengthened through responsible governance, and sustained by an engaged and united citizenry.
The enduring relevance of June 12 lies in the preservation of freedom that requires the collective resolve of a people committed to protecting their sovereignty, upholding their democratic institutions, and securing a future worthy of the sacrifices that made independence possible.
Security threat at Senate being linked to 18 ex-bodyguards of Zaldy Co 'very alarming' — Malacañang
The possibility that the alleged security threat at the Senate may be linked to the 18 former bodyguards of ex-lawmaker Zaldy Co is "very alarming," Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said in a briefing on Thursday, June 11. Read more | |
Meanwhile, acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said the Senate will not yield to intimidation after a cyberattack defaced the institution's website. Gatchalian described the incident as part of a series of escalating threats against the Senate, prompting work-from-home arrangements on June 10 and 11. Read more | |
What did you learn too late in life?
- Don't fall in love if you are not yet established.
- Women will not marry men who have a difficult life.
- Don't be friends with your ex.
- Friends are temporary.
- Friends will become contacts and acquaintances over time.
- Nobody cares about the problems you face.
- Don't tell personal problems to strangers.
- Parents are the only ones who will care and love you.
- If you fail repeatedly, your parents may stop supporting you.
- Don't buy a car with borrowed money.
- Don't buy a house compulsively.
- Help the people you love.
- Work in a place that helps you grow.
- Don't expect comfort if you want development.
- Invest in yourself. Strive to be better every day.
- Quit your job if there is no development in you.
- Don't talk too much, listen too much.
- Appreciate good people and good things in your life.
- Save as much as you can.
- Almost everything in life requires money. You're disabled without it.
- Go for a walk if you have the chance.
- Don't miss the opportunity you've been dreaming of.
- Take care of your health. Exercise. Life is unpredictable.
- Family is number one, others are number two.
- Compromise if it benefits your family.
- Chase your dreams. Never look back.
- Never forget the worst times in your life.
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