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 Patrick Pasta Isinalpak ng Choco Mucho Flying Titans at Petro Gazz Angels ang kanilang unang panalo sa PVL All-Filipino Conference Semifinals matapos mamayagpag kontra sa Creamline Cool Smashers at Chery Tiggo Crossovers sa magkasunod na tunggaliang ginanap sa PhilSports Arena, Abril 30. Photos Courtesy of Premiere Volleyball League/SPIN.ph Ginimbal ng Choco Mucho ang defending champions at Carlos-less Creamline matapos tangayin ang come-from-behind tagumpay, 3-2 (13-25, 19-25, 25-21, 25-20, 18-16), upang putulin ang kanilang 12-game lose streak mula sa huli. Malaking dagok sa opensa ng Creamline ang pagliban ni Tots Carlos sa kanilang semis opener, bunsod ng pagsabak nito sa 2024 Korean V-League Women’s Asian Quota Tryouts sa Jeju, South Korea. Bumalikwas mula sa pagkakalugmok at naunang two-set deficit ang Flying Titans matapos pangunahan nina Sisi Rondina at Royse Tubino ang ikatlong yugto ng bakbakan, 25-21. Bagama’t nagpatuloy ang momentum ng Choco Mucho sa ikaapat na set, na...

Raymond Carl Gato Despite the connotation of some people towards youth organizations as a “haven for clout chasers,” we can not reject the reality of its vital role in shaping young generations into becoming the nation’s future leaders. Not all children grew up in a welcoming home or school setting, perhaps youth groups may have provided them with the love and bond they have been longing for.  My first exposure to youth organizations was through campus journalism eight years ago. Joining a school publication without experience in the field has always been challenging as I have banded together with skilled young scribes. As an opinionated teen interested in politics, I was put in the editorial writing category. That move of mine several years ago was the first step towards knowing my purpose in life.  As cliche as it may sound to some, my dream of being a catalyst for social change started when I joined my first school publication. The bare minimum requirement for opinion write...

 Juan Carlo R. Mercado Vengeance served! Spaniard Francisco Sanchez Ruiz relied on his strategic making and precise aims to eke out a retaliating 8-5 triumph over the Filipino James Aranas in the opening round of the 2024 World Pool Masters in Hildesheim, Germany, on April 27. Photo Courtesy of Absolute Pool Ruiz showcased his impeccable strategies, especially when he knew he could not get a good look at the pot, leaving Aranas to take risky shots and fall into the Spaniard's hands. Aranas got off to a great start in the opening and the second rack but with revenge in Ruiz’s mind after falling into the hands of Aranas last year, the Spaniard didn't let it happen again and surpassed the Filipino cue artist with his five-rack stint, 5-2. Ruiz escaped from the struggles of potting the rack-clinching ball in the fifth rack as he took advantage of Aranas' risky foul shot and sank the solid blue. The Spaniard then pulled away in the sixth rack with a strategic approach over his f...

In the political landscape of Marikina, three-time Mayor Marcy Teodoro is a stalwart . From being a councilor to congressman and now a mayor, his star has only been on an upwards trend ever since he began a political career at the age of 21. Proclaiming himself as a proponent for “ common sense governance, ” many people look up to him as a progressive leader – one that serves the people using good governance and listening to the people as guiding principles. The mayor is also currently a co-convener of the Mayors for Good Governance Coalition alongside others like Joy Belmonte of Quezon City and Vico Sotto of Pasig. Yet, recent events have brought scrutiny for the jovial mayor. Last February 28, 2024, Mayor Marcy Teodoro officially filed with the COMELEC to transfer his official residence to Loyola Grand Villas (LGV), an enclave home to mansions of wealthy professionals and political elites, part of both Quezon City and Marikina. This transfer changes his residence from Brgy. San Roqu...

Amer Hussien Mangray & Danielle Ellyma Bayani April is the month wherein the humidity outside is unbelievably unbearable.  People are bearing through the scorching sun to get by through life every single day. However, April is not all that sticky and searing. It is also when flowers bloom as their fragrance and petals go with the wind, and as well as Explained PH’s birth month. Explained PH emerged as a hobby organization mostly composed of campus journalists from different parts of the country. However, as time flew by, society is becoming more and more lenient when absorbing information from different platforms and simple hearsay from neighbors and strangers. It serves as a glimmer of integrity in an era swarming with disinformation. Since its beginning, it has resolutely upheld the principles of accuracy, transparency, and accountability, becoming synonymous with credible reporting and insightful analysis. As we delve into the narrative of Explained PH, we uncover a legacy b...

In the midst of rapid modernization, the pulse of Kapampangan culture beats strong, yet its traditions face the challenge of passing the torch to younger generations. Devoted to serving the Kapampangan community, UP Aguman brings back Sining — the highly anticipated arts and talents competition in Pampanga — this May 5, 2024. Photo Courtesy of UP Aguman Guided by the theme, "DALAKDAK: King Kaladwá da ring Kayanakan, Magpabáya ing Kalalangang Kapampángan," this year's Sining aims to reignite the fervor of Kapampangan high school students for their cultural roots. A fiery and creative journey awaits on this single day. Individual categories, including Poetry Writing, Essay Writing, Impromptu Speech, and Visual Art Illustration in Kapampangan, will reveal the distinct voices of youth towards current trends in Pampanga. Meanwhile, group competitions such as Crissotan, Smartphone Photography, Short Film, Rockoustic Band, and Modern Street Dance, will showcase collaborative eff...

  Ryann Yap Kahit wala ang kani-kanilang superstars, kinubra ng New Orleans Pelicans (West), at Miami Heat (East) ang ika-walong puwestong sasabak sa 2024 Playoffs ng parehong kumperensiya, sa NBA Play-In Tournament, nitong nakaraang Abril 20. Photo Courtesy of AP Photo/Gerald Herbert Dehado man sa star power ang Pelicans dahil sa left hamstring strain ni Zion Williamson na natamo kontra Los Angeles Lakers, dinispatsa naman nila ang Sacramento Kings, 105-98, sa kanilang win–or–go home na duwelo sa Smoothie King Center. Umalagwa si Brandon Ingram sa opensa ng Pelicans bitbit ang kanyang 24 puntos, anim na rebounds at anim ding assists na sinuportahan naman ng double-double, 19 puntos at 12 rebounds ni Jonas Valanciunas, para masilat ang Kings. Nabanggit ni Ingram ang ilang taon nilang hindi pag-ariba sa playoffs at ang pagkakaroon muli ng pagkakataong umarangkada sa liga. “It’s been two years since we’ve been in the playoffs, and now we get another chance to go out there and continu...

 Shekinah Jedidiah M. Alima Beijing vowed commitment to solve maritime conflicts through “friendly consultation” on Monday but slammed Group of 7’s (G7) support for the Philippines on the South China Sea dispute a day after.  Photo Courtesy of  Philippine Bar Association/Global Times/AP Vice Chairman of the ruling Communist Party’s Military Commission Zhang Youxia expressed willingness to cooperate with other parties for peace talks but warned they are watching out for abuse at a naval forum opening with 29 countries. “China is consistently committed to resolving maritime disputes through friendly consultation directly with the countries party to them, but we will not permit arbitrary abuses nor accept distortions of international law,” Zhang said. However, Beijing dismissed G7’s rejection of China's “baseless and expansive” claims in the South China Sea saying it is a “blatant interference in China’s internal affairs.” “We strongly deplore and firmly reject the mani...

Shekinah Jedidiah Alima Recent non-commissioned  survey conducted by OCTA Research Group reveals the  Department of Education is the most outstanding government agency for the first quarter of this year amid various issues circulating the agency. Only last month, a public school teacher went under probe for publicly scolding her students via streaming it live on online streaming platform Tiktok, while the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) uncovered the country’s poor basic education performance after ranking 77th out of 81 countries. Despite the criticisms thrown at the Education Department, 84 percent of the respondents were satisfied with the department’s performance, and only two percent were dissatisfied, and 14 percent turned out undecided. Top agencies that joined DepEd include the Department of Health (DOH) with 80 percent and followed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) with 77 percent. The Commision on Higher Education (...

Justine Juyad After going through an unfamiliar 12 rounds of boxing, rising Filipino knockout artist, Miel Fajardo lost his OPBF Light Flyweight title to fellow knockout artist Thanongsak Simsri via unanimous decision in his first title defense at the EDION Arena Osaka in Japan, April 13. Photo Courtesy of Viva Promotions After going toe-to-toe with his Thai foe, the judges scored the bout, 110-117, 111-116, 112-115, all favoring the challenger despite getting knocked down in the 10th round by the Filipino boxer, resulting in Fajardo's second loss in his professional career. With the loss, Fajardo’s professional record now stands with 11 wins, 2 losses, 2 draws with 10 knockouts while Simsri’s record improved to 33 wins with 30 KOs and only one loss. Both fighters started the match aggressively, throwing power punches early on with an intention of getting a knockout win, however, both of them managed to dodge those killer shots. Despite struggling to land clearer shots against the ...

Welsh Osorio Disrupted by a first half burst by the Koreans, the visiting world no. 39 Filipinas' late push was not enough as they absorbed a 2-1 rout in the second of their back-to-back friendly matches on Monday evening at the Incheon Sports Complex, South Korea. Photo Courtesy of PFF-PWNFT Media The 20th-ranked Korea Republic showcased their ball control mastery, outclassing the Philippines, as they capitalized on 73.8% of their overall possession stats compared to the Filipinas who struggled to pace their own possession with 26.2%. On grip with field familiarity, the Taegeuk Ladies waxed hot right at the get go with Choo Hyo-Joo drilling their first goal in the opening minute, pressing the Filipinas to trail behind for the remainder of the match. The South Koreans, then, sustained their momentum as Choe Yu-ri bulldozed her way into the Filipinas defensive doors to uncork their second goal in the 33rd minute. However, the former 2023 Women's World Cup debutants looked to tur...

Kezo Andre Javier Since the latter part of 2023, there has been an active effort from various entities – both from the government and civil society – to push for key amendments to the 1987 Constitution. From discussions on a constitutional convention to the launch of a people’s initiative campaign, it is undeniable that there is a heightened interest in making the charter change work this time. And just this March, the House of Representatives passed a measure to amend the economic provisions of the Constitution. While the government brands this cha-cha as crucial to unlocking the maximum potential of the economy, it may not be the impactful ingredient it is presented to be. The Lower House approved on third and final reading the Resolution of Both Houses No. 7 , which will relax the constitutional restrictions on foreign ownership in certain sectors. Once ratified, RBH7 will add only five words – “unless otherwise provided by law” – to charter provisions that limit the ownership of p...

Kristian Timothy Bautista Gifted with a rich culture and history, the Philippines’ tapestry is embedded with the myriad of challenges it faces—some local, others international, and many others in between. However, recent revelations of former President Duterte's actions compromising our sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea cast a shadow over this commemoration. In light of these pressing issues, Valor Day holds deep meaning for Filipinos, commemorating the sacrifices of our brave soldiers throughout history. Despite various political challenges, Valor Day, which is officially known as Araw ng Kagitingan, commemorates armed troops who suffered in defending our nation during the Fall of Bataan. This holiday offers Filipinos a moment to reflect on our history and national identity, crucial for holding the government accountable. As an elaboration, the Philippines, like any other developing country, or in that regard, any other country, is no stranger to a bombardment of issues, both...

Prince Carlo Estrella “You can do anything you want… you’re Joker.” On Wednesday, April 3, Lady Gaga and Todd Philips (director of the film) dropped the first movie poster for their highly anticipated film, Joker: Folie a Deux. Along with this, a TikTok audio from the Joker Film account also showcased a tease of Gaga’s Harley Quinn vocals with a carousel of photos accompanying the hype further. Consequently, as these teaser materials were dropped, a mixture of praise and dismay manifested. Gaga’s Little Monsters were riveted. However, some Detective Comics (DC) fans were appalled. Why? Apart from the fact that this film is said to be a ‘musical’ (as revealed by industry insiders), it is also because Lady Gaga does not resemble Harley Quinn they used to see (which was formerly embodied by Margot Robbie). Most of the users that were dismayed constantly reference and pit Robie’s characterization of Quinn against Gaga’s so-far looks in embodying Harley Quinn. So, with those comments about ...

Sean Michael Caguiwa and Kate Yvonne Barretto A myriad of outlooks from Filipinos are cast upon Down’s Syndrome, from the inevitable stigmatization passed down over lower cognitive side effects to the other end of the spectrum that seeks to accept them as functioning members. But, focusing on the latter part of this rainbow spectrum is not just about wearing colorful socks to commemorate the people since chromosomes are shaped akin to one, but a stern testament that continuously honors their invaluable role in today’s changing society. March 21st marks World Down Syndrome Day as officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. This selected date is as unique as the people it is celebrating since March—the third month of the year—signifies the three copies of chromosome 21 that linger through the bodies of people with Down Syndrome. The intricacies encompassed in this issue are complex, yet World Down’s Syndrome Day (WDSD), then and until now, seems like a niche day for some to rem...

Rinoa Kate dela Cruz Navotas City’s Teatro Obrero returns to the local stage with a musical show that combines the stories of the past and today’s social issues, last March 27, 2024. Photo Courtesy of Summer Antiado Entitled “Nazareno,” the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of San Jose de Navotas catered approximately 2,000 audience who all watched the story of Jesus days before he was crucified. John Christian Rose, the Producer for this year’s Senakulo, explained that adding a representation of contemporary issues would help the people to connect to the lives of the apostles and hopes to deliver the untimely message of Jesus’ presence among Filipinos. “Nais namin ipahiwatig dito na anumang panahon ang nagdaan, mapanahon man ito ng mga apostol at kasalukuyang panahon, si Kristo ay kapiling pa rin natin,” he said. Paul Timothy Diño, the student who played the role of Jesus for two consecutive years, further expounded that this year’s theme, suggested by their director Ernhest Patrick Gatchali...

Moira Panganiban  Nakakahon ang lipunan sa paniniwalang may dalawang uri lamang ng kasarian ang nilkha sa mundo: ang babae at ang lalaki. At para sa mga indibidwal na labas sa kumbensiyonal ang kasarian, wala silang lugar sa lipunang ito kung hindi sa mga anino. Salot, nasisiraan ng bait, sinapian ng demonyo—ganito pinangatwiranan ng mga tao ang pandidiri at diskriminasyon sa mga nabibilang sa komunidad na ito.  Iba man sa nakasanayan ang kanilang kasarian, mga tao rin silang may pakiramdam. At dumating din ang araw na tuluyan na silang napuno mula sa pananahimik at piniling isantabi ang takot upang tumindig para sa kanilang tunay na pagkatao. Pero hindi naging madali ang kanilang pinagdaanan dahil maraming paa ang kinalyo, boses na napaos, at dugo’t pawis na dumanak sa kalsada bago sila humantong sa pagiging LGBT+ community na kilala natin ngayon.  Ayon sa National Geographic, sa lahat ng titik na bumubuo na LGBT+, ang L o lesbian ang unang salitang nabuo. Sa loob ng ila...

Ignacius Carell Cruz The Philippine men’s national football team suffered a gut-wrenching 5-nil defeat in the combined 2026 World Cup and 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers at the hands of World No. 59 Iraq, inside the Rizal Memorial Stadium, March 26, Tuesday. Photo Courtesy of GMA Integrated News It was the second loss in the span of five days for newly installed head coach Tom Saintfiet’s team against the Lions of Mesopotamia who narrowly escaped the Philippines in their home soil after an 84th minute goal by Mohanad Ali Kadhim last Friday. The Iraqis came out firing just 14 minutes into the match after Aymen Hussein converted a wonderful penalty to make it 1-nil. Afterwards, Amir Fouad doubled the lead at the half-hour mark, 2-0, after a powerful strike in the bottom right corner to further add to the woes of Saitfiet’s side. Iraq then caught the Philippine defense sleeping as the costly error by Amani Aguinaldo was capitalized by Hussein to get his brace and country’s third goal just in th...