Election season is approaching — and upon glimpsing at the known roster of upcoming candidates, one is sure to report celebrities’ names taking up a significant portion of the list. This reality isn’t new in the culture of Philippine politics, and as the 2025 elections draw near, what now becomes of true necessity is responsibility, manifested in both ends of the spectrum, in the face of this political scene.

Seven years after the death of University of Santo Tomas (UST) law student Horacio “Atio” Castillo III due to hazing, the Manila Regional Trial Court finally sentenced ten members of the Aegis Juris fraternity. Yet, with Atio’s parents demanding accountability from UST, we are to question whether justice is enough or a systemic change must answer to outcomes of violence.

The tropical storms only seem to grow stronger and stronger as each new one passes. Despite the government’s promises of flood control, millions of Filipinos continue to lose their homes and loved ones to the climate crisis. And many are left wondering: what are our leaders actually doing to address this persistent problem and fear that plagues our citizens?

PROBE: This October 2024, Tropical Storm Kristine brought devastation to the Philippines. With each calamity that comes, millions of Filipinos are affected. Within those millions are our fellow ASHS students, whose experiences with tropical storms must be recognized. As climate change continues to escalate, even more storms will inevitably enter our country. Despite the government’s claimed flood control projects, it seems that these calamities continue to bring only destruction. What else can we do in response? What is Ateneo de Manila University doing for its affected community members?

Two months ago, Vice President Sara Duterte faced the Senate once again for her 2025 budget proposal. However, she has left everyone with more questions than answers surrounding her proposal and her past confidential expenses that unfolded recently. This silence speaks volumes and raises concerns about transparency in her administration, leaving many Filipinos wondering—where is their hard-earned money really going?

Alice Guo is a figure we are all more or less familiar with. Dominating the news with her every move and drawing eyes from all around towards her evasive stunts, the ex-Bamban mayor is undeniably at the forefront of the media. To the Senate, she’s Guo Hua Ping, POGO precursor and alleged Chinese spy — until a documentary obtained from media network Al Jazeera arrives with confirmation and reveals the unfortunately anticipated, unsurprising truth.