The year 2024 marked the second year of the new administration—the Marcos-Duterte government. With the last year being characterized by various political controversies and scandals, 2025 invites us to look back and reflect on what has happened (and what was promised) as we all begin a new journey.

Senior year is often painted like a dream. A stepping stone in our life, and the last one of our basic education — the end of high school. We lose sight of the fact that the regular challenges of school remain, if not doubled in difficulty or amount.

In the wake of teenage pregnancy’s persistence in the country, Senate Bill 1979 was filed in hopes of battling the issue through sex education. What became of its proposal, however, was an uproar of government scrutiny — seemingly upholding the notion that opening the eyes of the youth to a “sensitive” topic would prove to be more detrimental than neglecting the issues engendered by the present inactivity.

The current generation has this idealized view of the “perfect,” love, which can come from social media or even our friends and family. Most of us would like to have relationships void of conflicts and hurdles, however it is easier said than done. The reality is, even the most “perfect” relationships have their fair share of conflicts that can even contribute to making it healthier in the end — telling us that love isn’t always what it seems.

The Philippines and China share a rich history, with significant cultural and economic exchange. However, current territorial disputes, particularly those impacting Filipino fishermen, pose significant challenges. How can we navigate this complex relationship, fostering cultural appreciation while safeguarding Philippine sovereignty and national interests?

Most student governments, with the Ateneo Senior High School’s own Sanggunian included, strive to serve their respective student communities — by the students, for the students.
However, what actually constitutes being for the students? With Involvement Month and year-end elections and appointments, students step up to be leaders for the ASHS community. Still, many skewed perspectives about these leadership positions remain, and many wonder if the work put into these involvements is even worth it.

The Senate’s final findings expose the criminal activities and regulatory failures that have allowed POGOs to flourish in the Philippines. With POGOs now facing a complete ban, the challenges of shutting down these operations and their broader implications are becoming more apparent. The future of POGOs in the country remains uncertain as authorities grapple with the complex task of dismantling these illicit networks.

The rise of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) has significantly boosted the country’s economy, generating billions in revenue. However, the industry has brought with it a surge in crime, limited job opportunities for Filipinos, and concerns about foreign influence, particularly from China. Now that the Philippine government is aiming to be a POGO-free country by 2025, this ultimately raises a critical question: Is the economic reward worth the ever-escalating danger posed to public safety, national security, and the country’s long-term interests?