Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered the relief of Venus Divinia Nietes, the principal of Col. Ruperto Abellon National School (CRANS), because of her inappropriate behavior during the end-of-school year ceremony held April 15.

“Dahil na rin po sa naging direktiba po ng Pangulo, agaran pong kumilos ang ating secretary, DepEd (Department of Education) Secretary Sonny Angara, at ang sinasabi pong guro ay tinanggal na po bilang principal sa nasabing eskuwelahan (Because of the President’s directive, our secretary, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, immediately took action and the teacher in question has been removed as principal of the said school),” Castro told Palace reporters.

However, she clarified that Nietes was not stripped of her teaching license since she was only removed as CRANS principal.

Nietes’ fate now lies in the DepEd’s hands, Castro said, when asked about the possible charges that the relieved principal may face.

“Iyan po ay kukunin muna natin kung ano ba ang dapat na gawin pa ni Secretary Angara. Pero for the meantime, ito po ay mabilisan na aksiyon na ginawa po ni Secretary Angara (We will first take that into account and see what Secretary Angara should do next. But for the meantime, this was the quick action taken by Secretary Angara),” Castro said.

She said Nietes’ behavior would still be monitored.

A video of the school principal went viral as she asked students to take off their togas during the ceremony.

Nietes reportedly issued the directive following the students’ supposed failure to adhere to the DepEd Order 9 to keep the ceremony meaningful but straightforward, as well as the “no collection” policy, where learners were not supposed to shell out money during their graduation, including for their togas.

Angara earlier requested an exemption from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) from the ban on the transfer of public officials and employees during the election period, in connection with Nietes’ relief.
The Comelec approved the request on April 24.PNA

The post Antique principal relieved from post after viral toga incident first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

First proposed by psychologist Leon Festinger in 1957, cognitive dissonance is the unpleasantness people feel when their actions or ideas contradict one another. Imagine a voter who supports a politician buried in corruption scandals yet values honesty and integrity. The mind naturally searches for the tension created by this conflict. Sadly, many people ignore or rationalize the contradictions instead of changing their views to fit reality, strengthening their faulty support. Although this phenomenon is not exclusive to us Filipinos, the sociopolitical environment of the nation offers a rich ground for it to flourish.

This conflict is sometimes exacerbated by a confluence of elements, including cultural values, historical narratives, and the all too common Pinoy quality of “utang na loob,” or debt of gratitude. Regardless of the later performance or ethics of politicians who have done them a favor, many voters develop strong loyalty to them. Stories of leaders who have ascended to power not by virtue but by deliberately cultivating personal alliances, usually at the expense of the greater good, abound in the political scene here.

Furthermore, it is impossible to ignore the general impact of traditional and digital media and propaganda. In a society where sensationalism and false information abound, the truth sometimes yields to stories appealing to emotions rather than reason. Politicians skilled in public opinion manipulation use this to create images of themselves as saviors, even if their behavior points otherwise. Consequently, a population that, despite overwhelming data to the contrary, sticks to the conviction that their elected leader is the best one available.

One could contend that the voters are not totally responsible for this unquestioning allegiance. Ultimately, the material they are exposed to is carefully chosen to forward a particular agenda. Still, the responsibility does not fall just on the propagators of lies. Personal responsibility eventually has to take the front stage. Voters must examine the facts given to them closely, challenge the stories they are being fed, and go past the surface pledges of those in charge.

Still, it is harder said than done to break out from the cycle of cognitive dissonance. Psychologically, it is difficult to admit one has been misled or wrong. It calls for a degree of humility and introspection many people lack either ability or will. This is especially true in a society where pride and saving face are profoundly rooted values. Admitting vulnerability—a prospect that many find terrifying and embarrassing—helps one to realize that their confidence has been misplaced.

How, then, should we fight this phenomenon? Informally as much as formally, education is critical. A well-informed voter is less likely to let the manipulations of dishonest leaders control them. This goes beyond just knowledge access to encourage essential critical thinking abilities that let people separate fact from fiction. Schools, media outlets, and even local leaders must foster a culture of inquiry and skepticism whereby challenging authority is not viewed as rebellious but as a necessary component of a sound democracy.

Moreover, systematic transformation is much needed. The political framework itself has to be rebuilt to give merit and responsibility top priority over personality and patronage. This covers stricter laws and enforcement against corruption as well as systems guaranteeing government openness. The voters have to expect more from their leaders in terms of concrete, observable results as well as in terms of rhetoric.

One cannot really overestimate the importance of personal integrity. Inspired by conscience-based, data-driven decision-making, people must ensure their activities complement their basic values, even if they are complex or demanding. This alignment promotes inner peace and fulfillment beyond the ephemeral gratification of joining a political “win.” In the long term, this dedication to personal and group integrity will guide the country toward actual development.

Still, grassroots-level change is where it starts. Open political discussions among families and communities should promote many points of view and question the status quo. Such conversations should be based on respect and empathy, stressing the search for the truth above the defense of fixed points. These exchanges help sow critical thinking seeds, progressively undermining the basis of cognitive dissonance.

Remembering Jose Rizal’s words—that “the youth is the hope of our future”—is essential as the country advances. This is not only a call to the young but also a reminder to everyone that their decisions now will determine the direction of the country. The difficulty, then, is ensuring these decisions are guided by integrity and wisdom instead of the transient appeal of charismatic but unworthy leaders.

Finally, the complicated interaction of psychological, cultural, and institutional elements explains the difficulty in comprehending those blindly believing in politicians devoid of track records and integrity. One strong force that people might ignore even the most apparent conflicts is cognitive dissonance. However, one can escape this cycle using education, institutional reform, and a fresh dedication to personal ethics. The road forward calls not only for a change in leadership but also a change in attitude that gives truth, responsibility, justice, and the common good top priority over personal allegiance, misplaced pride, and convenience. Our country cannot hope to reach the real democracy we hope for until then.

Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.

The post The blind following first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

Poe, author of Republic Act No. 11037 or the “Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act,” said the law laid the foundation for sustainable feeding programs. 

“We’re not starting from zero. The programs and the budget for child nutrition are in place, but we need champions for this advocacy to ensure its continuity,” the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance said.

“We hope we elect officials who believe that the economic future of our country hinges on our children,” she added.

RA 11037 institutionalized the Department of Education’s School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) and the DSWD’s Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP).

From SY 2018-2019 to 2023-2024, SBFP served over 16 million learners with meals and 12 million with milk. For SY 2024-2025, more than 2.2 million children are receiving meals and fresh milk.

In the 2025 national budget, Poe secured P11.7 billion for SBFP—P65.7 million more than the previous year—and introduced provisions to reduce administrative costs, ensuring more funds go directly to feeding children.

The SFP served nearly 9.6 million children from 2020 to 2024. In SY 2023-2024 alone, it helped cut the number of underweight children by 75%.

“Where our children’s nutrition is concerned, a diet policy does not work. For our children to reach their full potential and be productive, we need to provide them with the very basic need, which is food,” she concluded.IMT

The post Poe: Keep up the fight vs child malnutrition, stunting first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

The newest branch of the world-famous steakhouse, owned and founded by Wolfgang Zwiener, will open this year and will rise along Megaworld Boulevard inside the 72-hectare township.

This will be the restaurant’s second branch in Western Visayas, following Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Bar and Grill in Boracay Newcoast, which opened last year. With this new location, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse now has four branches within Megaworld townships, including its maiden restaurant at Newport Mall in Newport World Resorts, Pasay City; the Boracay Newcoast branch; and an upcoming location in Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City.

The restaurant will offer Wolfgang’s widely-acclaimed USDA 28 days dry-aged steaks in varying cuts as well as its signature grill menu, seafood selections, appetizers and desserts. It will have an alfresco area and a bar, where diners can enjoy its signature cocktails, wines and other concoctions.

The soon-to-open Wolfgang’s Steakhouse in Iloilo is designated as the fine dining chain’s Patrimony Store—a tribute to its founder, Wolfgang Zweiner, who, alongside his son Peter, established the restaurant and transformed it into the global culinary brand it is today.

“We are thrilled to welcome Wolfgang’s Steakhouse to Iloilo Business Park as we add yet another exciting dimension to the township’s vibrant dining scene. As we continue to elevate the culinary landscape in Iloilo, we look forward to introducing more exceptional restaurants and cafés from across the country and around the world, offering a diverse range of dining experiences. Wolfgang’s Steakhouse has been a valued partner of Megaworld, and we are excited to expand this journey by bringing its signature menu to even more locations across the Philippines,” shares Graham Coates, head of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls.

Rated as one of New York’s best steakhouses, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is known for its world-class dining establishments and is globally recognized for its USDA Prime dry-aged Black Angus steaks and classic American dishes. With over 30 locations worldwide, the restaurant has established a strong presence in major cities across the United States, Asia, and the Middle East.In the Philippines, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse has expanded to multiple locations, including Metro Manila and Boracay, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for steak lovers in the country.

The post Megaworld welcomes Wolfgang’s Steakhouse to Iloilo Business Park first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

IT so happened that the person who recently passed away in the Vatican was the Pope; it so happened that the three famous persons who died one after another in Manila (Pilita, Nora, Hajji) were celebrity entertainers in the Philippines.

Many of us once again questioned man’s mortality because of these successive deaths in the news that came before and after the recent Holy Week.

Due to a combination of biological processes and the natural cycle of life, all living things, including humans, must eventually die. We can’t stay on Earth forever.

In fact, the phrase “death comes like a thief in the night” is a metaphorical way of saying that death is unexpected and can happen at any time.

It’s a reminder to make the most of each day and not to procrastinate.

Whether we like it or not, we are next. We just don’t know when and where, except our Creator—if we believe in God. Let’s always remember that man, the physical being, doesn’t have immortality.

-o0o-

The loss of a loved one has always been life’s most stressful event and can cause a major emotional crisis. After the death of someone we love, we experience bereavement, which literally means “to be deprived by death.”

When a death takes place, we may experience a wide range of emotions, even when the death is expected.

Many people report feeling an initial stage of numbness after first learning of a death, but there is no real order to the grieving process. Some emotions you may experience include: denial, disbelief, confusion, shock, sadness, yearning, anger, humiliation, despair, guilt.

These feelings are normal and common reactions to loss, acording to Mental Health America.

“You may not be prepared for the intensity and duration of your emotions or how swiftly your moods may change. You may even begin to doubt the stability of your mental health,” MHA explains. But be assured that these feelings are healthy and appropriate and will help us come to terms with our loss.

It takes time to fully absorb the impact of a major loss. We never stop missing our loved ones, but the pain eases after time and allows us to go on with our lives.

-o0o-

All of us healthcare workers in the United States have been required to undergo fingerprinting or we won’t get to start any employment and even lose our jobs.

I did mine on March 29, 2025 as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), phlebotomist, EKG technician, and Home Health Aide (HHA) practitioner in the New York State.

In fact, it was reported immediately after the pandemic that health care workers across the United States who were hired during the pandemic must be terminated if they aren’t fingerprinted for state-mandated background checks before July 20, 2021, the Connecticut Department of Public Health has warned in urgent memos sent to nursing homes, home health agencies, chronic disease hospitals and other health care entities.

An estimated 7,500 people were hired between March 23, 2020 and May 19, 2021 when then Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont issued an executive order suspending the required fingerprint checks to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

More than 3,000 of the 7,500 workers have been fingerprinted based on the July 2021 report, said Christopher Boyle, a spokesperson for the department. The department was not able to say how many of the estimated remaining 4,500 were still employed in long-term care and how many employees still need to be fingerprinted.

“When these workers were hired, they passed a background check and other verification processes but were specifically told not to submit their fingerprints due to the pandemic,” wrote union President Rob Baril in a letter sent to the acting commissioner and the chief of the Healthcare Quality and Safety Branch at the health department.

He warned that terminating the employees would negatively impact the care in nursing homes, which have been facing staffing shortages, and called the requirement “disrespectful” to the sacrifices workers have made in the past year.

-o0o-

BEWARE THE DEADLIEST NATURAL TOXIN. Botulinal toxin, produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, is the most potent poison for humans. It has an estimated lethal dose in the bloodstream of 10-9 milligrams per kilogram. Death occurs when the respiratory muscles are paralyzed.

TO ALL LOVERS OF CIGARETTE. Cigarette smoke contains about 4,000 chemicals. Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, methane, and nicotine are some of the major components, with lesser amounts of acetone, acetylene, formaldehyde, propane, hydrogine cyanide, toluene, and many others.

SAFE DRIVERS. Women drive and cross the street more safely than men. Men account for 70 percent of pedestrian fatalities since 1980. Between the ages 18 and 45, males outnumber females as fatal crash victims by almost three to one according to the Nat’l Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Feel like you aged overnight? A recent study suggests we may not age gradually. Instead, it happens in two significant “bursts”: once in our mid-40s, then again in our early 60s. These key moments could explain the sudden appearance of wrinkles, sagging skin, gray hair, muscle and joint pain, and increased vulnerability to viral infections, according to National Geographic Health.

Alex P. Vidal, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor-in-chief of two leading daily newspapers in Iloilo, Philippines.—Ed

The post We are next—whether we like it or not first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

Each honorary degree he supposedly earned in just under a decade carries a weighty significance. A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) symbolizes transformative thought that reshapes our understanding of life. A Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) honors innovations that shift paradigms and make science accessible and useful. The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) celebrates visionaries who shape industries. A Doctor of Literature (Litt.D.) is reserved for those whose words build worlds. The Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.) recognizes artists whose music transcends notes and touches hearts. A Doctor of Humanities (D.Hum.) pays tribute to lives lived in service and compassion. And the Doctor of Liberal Arts (D.L.A.) is a nod to thinkers who draw meaningful connections across disciplines. To claim all seven before age 30 is either monumental—or mythical.

And yet, when asked which schools awarded these accolades, he could name none. No ceremonies. No citations. No confirmation. Just a sweeping mention of “data privacy” and a claim that he is protecting the institutions from public criticism. But that argument folds faster than a paper diploma. Universities grant honorary degrees precisely because they are proud of the recipient’s contribution. These are not secret handshakes in dark alleys. They are public affirmations of excellence.

Honorary degrees are typically given for singular, sustained achievement. Take Dr. Fe del Mundo, the Philippines’ first woman National Scientist, whom Ateneo awarded an honorary Doctor of Science and Public Service for decades of pioneering pediatric care. Tech mogul Bill Gates was also honored by Harvard despite dropping out because he changed the world. Boxing GOAT Muhammad Ali, too, received a Doctor of Humane Letters from Texas Southern University for the social courage he embodied. One honor, for one sphere. Yet here we are, watching someone collect them like Pokémon badges.

I recall my time as an officer of the University of Iloilo–Phinma Alumni Association, where I sat on the committee that deliberated the conferment of honorary doctorates to two Ilonggo business icons: Alejandro Que and Felipe Uygongco. It was not a casual decision. The late Dr. Que, CEO of Que Group and founder of Iloilo Supermart and The Atrium, had built the most recognizable homegrown supermarket chain in Western Visayas. Dr. Uygongco, patriarch of La Filipina Uy Gongco Corporation, helped shape the nation’s agribusiness landscape. These men were not just entrepreneurs—they were community pillars. Their legacies were real, measurable, and documented. We had paperwork, testimonials, and due diligence. The conferment passed through a system of scrutiny—by alumni, faculty, and the university board. Because that is how it should be.

Now, if our modern-day renaissance man from Guimaras can truly back his claims, then by all means, let us celebrate him. He should be paraded in Congress, booked for global summits, and cited in history books. Seven honorary doctorates in seven unrelated fields before 30? That is not just extraordinary, not even interstellar–it is intergalactic. But if the claims are false or inflated, we are dealing with something far more serious than embellishment. We are dealing with the erosion of academic trust.

Why does this matter? First, it undermines academic integrity. It makes a mockery of those who spent decades contributing to a field to earn that recognition. Second, it crosses into fraud. If used to secure engagements, influence, or money, it becomes deception. Third, it destroys credibility—not only of the individual but also of the organizers, hosts, and schools involved. Fourth, it disrespects the blood, sweat, and tears of people who actually moved the world forward. Lastly, it sets a dangerous precedent. When we reward image over impact, we teach the next generation that looking the part is more important than being the part.

This speaker claims to be a “World Ambassador.” To what, we still do not know. He says he is a “vlogger.” Nothing is wrong with that, but when did one vlog lead to seven doctorates? Maria Ressa, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has only three honorary doctorates, all anchored in journalism and human rights. Leni Robredo, former vice president and public servant with decades of documented grassroots work, holds five—each rooted in public administration and governance. Neil deGrasse Tyson, one of the most prolific science communicators in the world, has 23 honorary doctorates—all tied to his singular contribution in making astrophysics relatable. None of them, however, claimed to be a musical artist, a liberal arts theorist, a literary genius, and a business mogul—simultaneously.

So no, this is not envy. This is responsibility. We owe it to our students, our schools, and our nation to protect the meaning of excellence. In a world where perception often outweighs truth, our classrooms must be the last stronghold of substance over spectacle.

RMN Iloilo did the right thing. They fairly asked him to show proof. He refused, citing privacy. But why hide if the awarding institutions are authentic and proud of him? Where are the photos, the citations, the congratulatory messages? Why can’t it be googled? It is not about public shaming. It is about public trust.

Until he produces the receipts, we reserve the right to ask questions—not to attack but to seek the truth. No one—no matter how charming, viral, or articulate—gets a pass on credibility when standing on a graduation stage, influencing young minds. He deserves a chance to prove us wrong, but he also has to meet the same standard we expect from anyone who wears the title “Doctor.”

Here is my promise: If the evidence comes through, I will personally write a tribute in his name. I will celebrate him as the pride of Guimaras, Iloilo, the Philippines, and humanity. I will call him our generation’s beacon of brilliance and versatility. But until that happens, let us not trade veritas for virality. Because in the end, real honor stands the test of daylight. And real honors? They never need to hide.

Doc H fondly describes himself as a ‘student of and for life’ who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.

The post HONORARY OR IMAGINARY? first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

This technology transforms water hyacinths, an invasive aquatic weed, into biodegradable alternatives to single-use plastic products.

HyaPak’s products include eco-friendly packaging such as seedling bags, wrappers, straws, tumblers, and party plates that naturally decompose within three to 12 months.

Their innovations not only address the global challenge of plastic waste but also mitigate the environmental and economic issues caused by water hyacinths.

Notably, these biodegradable plastics are also used as containers for planting seedlings in reforestation efforts, ensuring they do not pollute the environment.

The Philippines faces a significant problem with water hyacinths, particularly in Laguna Lake and other waterways, where their overgrowth negatively impacts aquatic ecosystems and the livelihood of fishermen. While past initiatives have utilized water hyacinths for furniture and furnishings, the rapid proliferation of this plant consistently exceeds demand.

Developing more diverse products from water hyacinths could be a game-changing solution for clearing and cleaning our waterways. In this regard, I respectfully propose the following recommendations:

1. Engagement with Mr. Nguthiru

Instruct the Philippine Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, to establish contact with Mr. Nguthiru to discuss the feasibility of introducing his technology to the Philippines.

2. Involvement of DENR

Task the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to create a comprehensive plan to adopt and utilize this technology in waterway restoration efforts. 3. Collaboration Opportunities.

Explore potential partnerships with HyaPak to bring this innovative technology to our country, ensuring its benefits for the environment, economy, and local communities.

HyaPak’s success in Kenya demonstrates the potential for creating sustainable solutions to environmental challenges while generating positive social impacts, including job creation and community involvement in conservation efforts.

By leveraging this technology, the Philippines can reduce plastic waste, manage the spread of water hyacinths, and foster a circular economy that promotes sustainability.

I trust in the current administration’s dedication to addressing pressing environmental issues and advancing innovative solutions.

I am confident that this initiative could significantly benefit our nation and its people.

The post Exploring technology to create biodegradable plastic from water hyacinths first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

At the Senate Special Committee hearing on maritime zones and espionage, Tolentino presented a service contract between the Chinese Embassy and Infinitus Marketing Solutions Inc. The deal included hiring “keyboard warriors” to support a Chinese issue management project.

The senator said this supports reports from the security sector regarding the hacking and spying by activities conducted by Chinese nationals.

He previously described the discovery of underwater drones as “just the tip of the iceberg” and said the recent revelations exposes the scale of China’s interference.

Tolentino also showed a check worth P930,000 issued by the Chinese Embassy to Infinitus Marketing, confirming payment for the operation.

“Ito mismo ang nagpapatunay na China mismo ang nagbabayad,” according to him.

He warned that the troll farms weren’t just promoting Chinese policies—they were also spreading disinformation and undermining the Philippine government and its people.

“Hindi po ito simpleng kontrata, ito pong kontrata at kabayaran na ito ay pagyurak sa mga Pilipino – pagyapak sa dignidad ng Pilipinas,” said Tolentino.IMT

The post Tolentino links Chinese embassy to troll farms in PH first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

In Proclamation No. 871, Marcos Jr. paid tribute to the Pope as “a global symbol of humility, compassion, and peace,” noting his lifelong commitment to the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable, as well as his advocacy for justice and interfaith dialogue.

The President also recalled Pope Francis’s 2015 Apostolic Visit to the Philippines, where he offered comfort to survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda and praised the resilience of the Filipino people.

“The passing of Pope Francis is a moment of profound sorrow for the Catholic Church and for the Filipino people, who recognize him as a global leader of compassion and a tireless advocate for peace, justice, and human dignity,” his proclamation read.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, led the Catholic Church for 12 years. He was the first Jesuit, Latin American, and non-European pope in over 1,200 years, and served more than 1.3 billion Catholics, including millions of Filipinos.

Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos will attend the Pope’s funeral in Vatican City on April 26 at 10:00 AM (08:00 GMT) in St. Peter’s Square, where the Pope made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, April 20.IMT

The post BBM declares national mourning for Pope Francis first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

According to DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., the Visayas will serve as a testbed for implementation and logistics, with the goal of eventually expanding the program nationwide.

“We launched it here (Visayas) because mas marami ngang nangangailangan sa mga regions na ‘yun,” said Laurel. “But, of course, ang eventual intention nitong programang ito — once we sort out all the issues logistically and para makita talaga how to operate it and launch it and manage it — nationwide ito eventually.”

In the initial phase, households may receive up to 40 kilos of rice per month. The program will run until December, with possible extensions to February 2026 or 2028.

Laurel added that the initiative will also help decongest National Food Authority (NFA) warehouses, which are nearing capacity due to rising rice stocks—from 300,000 to 358,000 metric tons during the harvest season.

“Our President has given the directive to the Department of Agriculture to formulate this to be sustainable and tuloy-tuloy hanggang 2028,” the DA chief said.IMT

The post DA launches pilot rollout of P20 rice program in Visayas first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.