Roughly two months into his reign, it is still unclear how President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. aims to achieve the national unity he strongly advocated for during his campaign. If anything, one may say that many of his actions and decisions thus far—or lack thereof—have caused more neglect and division than oneness.

Kahit itinatag noong taong 1987, ang kasalukuyang Konstitusyon ng bansang Pilipinas ay wala pa ring salin sa wikang Filipino. Bagama’t ang Filipino at Ingles ay parehong mga opisyal na wika ng bansa, mukhang ang Ingles lamang ang ginagamit para sa mahahalagang pambansang dokumento.

“While a people preserves its language; it preserves the marks of liberty,” once said the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal. Yet, in the case of Baybayin, the proper way to apply this statement seems to be quite debated upon.

In an exclusive email to Hi-Lites, Director Mr. Jo-ed Tirol of the Ateneo de Manila University Office of Admission and Aid said that the university is indeed planning to bring back the Ateneo College Entrance Test for applicants of the school year 2023-2024. With other schools likely following suit, college entrance exams will be brought back for the first time after two years, should nationwide health conditions permit such plans push through.

Last Thursday, June 30, Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was officially inaugurated as the 17th President of the Philippines. While his reign has just begun, it is only natural that people have set expectations as to what they hope for during his administration, and if his actions and contributions prior to assuming the presidency make him trustworthy enough to lead the entire country.