This year, we commemorate the 52nd anniversary of the First Quarter Storm (FQS)—a period of turmoil and resistance marked by a chain of student-led rallies held from January to March 1970.

In a series of videos posted on the Youtube channel of talk show host Boy Abunda from January 24 to January 28, five presidential candidates—Senator Ping Lacson, former Senator Bongbong Marcos, Vice President Leni Robredo, Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno, and Senator Manny Pacquiao were interrogated on their plans and views on current national issues. 

In the Philippines, politics has become a war of colors. Election campaigns are led by vibrant hues — with pink-hued motorcades around the city, blue waves visiting corners, and small towns painted in red. The color of each candidate decides the history that precedes them and the future that they promise. It is their way of imprinting their collective identity and sending a message. Every action of theirs, down to their chosen color, is a chess piece in political warfare.

As cases continue to skyrocket, Filipinos remain uncertain of what the future holds.  The question remains—is it even possible to revert to a pre-pandemic society, especially in consideration of the health crisis’ effects on our economy, education systems, and emotional and physical well-being?

On January 22, 1987, thousands of farmers flocked to Mendiola Street in Manila in the hopes of opening a dialogue with President Cory Aquino on land reform and free land distribution. Instead, they were met by state troops wielding bullets and tear gas. 13 farmers were killed, 39 sustained gunshot wounds, and 20 suffered minor injuries.

Quality education has always been something Filipinos have been deprived of for the longest time in history. This is all the more heightened by the online learning setup, where students have to constantly grapple with academic stress.