Majority of Filipinos Want Duterte Held Accountable for Drug War Killings – Shocking Survey Reveals!

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In a historic turn of events, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 11, 2025, at Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport upon his return from Hong Kong. This arrest was executed under a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC), charging Duterte with crimes against humanity linked to the thousands of extrajudicial killings during his notorious "war on drugs." 

The operation was tumultuous; Duterte resisted arrest, refused fingerprinting, and threatened legal action against the officers involved. The standoff extended over 12 hours before he was escorted under heavy guard to The Hague, Netherlands, where the ICC is headquartered. 

Duterte's anti-drug campaign, initiated in 2016, has been marred by allegations of widespread human rights abuses, with estimates suggesting up to 30,000 civilian deaths. Human rights advocates and families of victims have long sought accountability, expressing optimism that this arrest signifies a pivotal step toward justice. 

Public sentiment in the Philippines reflects a growing demand for accountability. A Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey conducted from February 15 to 19, 2025, revealed that 51% of Filipinos believe Duterte should be held responsible for the extrajudicial killings associated with his drug war, while 25% disagreed, and 14% were undecided. 

This survey also highlighted regional variations: 62% of respondents in the Visayas and 47% in Mindanao, Duterte's political stronghold, support holding him accountable. 

Furthermore, a December 2023 SWS survey indicated that 56% of Filipinos favored allowing the ICC to investigate drug war-related killings, reflecting an increase from 48% in March 2023. 

The arrest has elicited mixed reactions domestically. Supporters, including political allies and his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, have criticized the ICC's actions, questioning its jurisdiction, especially since the Philippines withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019. However, the ICC maintains it retains authority to prosecute alleged crimes committed prior to the withdrawal. 

This development is also seen as a significant moment for the ICC, which has faced challenges over the years. Duterte's arrest could bolster the court's credibility in addressing international crimes, particularly those involving state leaders accused of severe human rights violations. 

The journey to this point has been arduous, with numerous Filipinos, including human rights activists, legal professionals, and victims' families, tirelessly advocating for justice. Figures such as Catholic priest Flaviano Villanueva, forensic pathologist Raquel Fortun, and Senator Leila de Lima have played pivotal roles in bringing international attention to the alleged atrocities. 

As Duterte awaits trial at The Hague, the nation stands at a crossroads, grappling with its commitment to human rights and the rule of law. The proceedings will undoubtedly have profound implications for the Philippines' political landscape and its pursuit of justice for the victims of the drug war.

The Hidden Language of Emojis: What Parents Need to Know About Their Children’s Online Communication

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In today’s digital age, children and teenagers have developed their own unique way of communicating—often in ways that seem cryptic to parents. From text messages to social media posts, emojis have become a universal language. While they may seem innocent, many emojis carry hidden meanings that can range from harmless fun to potentially inappropriate or even dangerous messages.

As parents, staying informed about these subtle messages is crucial. By understanding how emojis are used, we can help protect our children from online risks and ensure they navigate the digital world safely.

The Hidden Meanings Behind Heart Emojis

One of the most frequently used emojis is the heart, which generally represents love, affection, or support. However, the color of the heart can significantly change its meaning:

❤️ Red Heart – Traditional love, deep affection, or romantic feelings.

💜 Purple Heart – Can signify admiration, but in some cases, it represents sexual desire or military veterans.

🖤 Black Heart – Often linked to dark humor, sadness, or morbidity.

💙 Blue Heart – Represents trust, loyalty, or sadness, but can also be associated with adult content.

💚 Green Heart – Symbolizes jealousy or a growing love but is sometimes linked to environmental themes.

💛 Yellow Heart – A sign of friendship and happiness, though it can also imply betrayal.

🤍 White Heart – Represents purity or condolence but is sometimes used in secretive or cryptic messages.

Why Parents Should Be Cautious

A heart emoji in a child’s post or direct messages may seem harmless, but certain colors can carry hidden messages. For example, if your child receives a purple heart (💜) or blue heart (💙) from a stranger, it’s worth investigating the context.

Emojis are often used in coded conversations, making it difficult for parents to recognize potential risks. Predators or manipulative individuals can use specific emojis to communicate in ways that seem innocent at first glance.

More Than Just Symbols: Other Emojis with Hidden Meanings

Beyond heart emojis, several other symbols are frequently used in coded online conversations. Here are some examples that parents should be aware of:

🍑 Peach – Often represents buttocks.

🍆 Eggplant – Frequently used to symbolize male genitalia.

💦 Water Droplets – Can imply suggestive or inappropriate content.

🔥 Fire – Used to indicate something is "hot" or attractive.

👀 Eyes – Signifies interest or attraction, sometimes in a suggestive manner.

🤐 Zipper-Mouth Face – Implies keeping a secret or hiding something.

😈 Devil Face – Can indicate mischievous or flirtatious behavior.

Sometimes, even seemingly innocent emojis can be misunderstood. One mother shared a story about misinterpreting the 😭 Loudly Crying Face in a message from her child’s cousin. She initially thought her child was bullying his cousin, only to later learn that the emoji was being used to express extreme joy rather than sadness. This highlights how emoji meanings can shift based on generational differences and online culture.

How to Keep Your Children Safe Online

Understanding the evolving meanings of emojis is just one step in ensuring children’s online safety. Here are a few key strategies parents can adopt:

1. Open Communication

Encourage your children to talk about their online interactions. Discuss the importance of using emojis appropriately and explain how messages can be misinterpreted.

2. Monitor Online Activity

Be aware of your child’s social media usage and who they are communicating with. While it’s important to respect their privacy, keeping an open line of communication is crucial.

3. Educate About Online Dangers

Teach children how seemingly innocent messages can be interpreted differently. Explain the risks of online predators and why they should be cautious when interacting with strangers.

4. Set Privacy Settings

Ensure that your child’s accounts are set to private and that they are only engaging with people they know. This helps limit unwanted interactions from strangers.

5. Use Parental Controls

Leverage monitoring tools to track conversations and detect potential red flags in messaging apps. Google Family Link is a great tool for parents of children 13 years old and below.

Decoding Emojis: Then vs. Now

Emojis evolve with online culture, and their meanings can change over time. Here are a few examples of how emojis are interpreted differently today:

💀 Skull – Traditionally meant death, but now often means “I’m dead (from laughter)” or extreme amusement.

😭 Loudly Crying Face – Originally used for sadness, but now often expresses overwhelming joy or being emotionally touched.

🥺 Pleading Face – Can still indicate pleading, but is also used to express cuteness, shyness, or playfulness.

😈 Smiling Face with Horns – Suggests mischievousness or flirtation.

🍑 Peach – Universally understood as representing buttocks.

🍆 Eggplant – Universally understood as representing male genitalia.

🍒 Cherries – Sometimes used to symbolize breasts or virginity.

🐙 Octopus – Used as slang for cuddles or a virtual hug.

🍃 Leaf – Can represent marijuana.

Final Thoughts: The Role of Parents in the Digital Age

While emojis are a fun and expressive way to communicate, their meanings can easily be misunderstood. As parents, staying informed about these evolving symbols is crucial in protecting our children from hidden online dangers.

By fostering open conversations, setting online boundaries, and staying engaged in our children’s digital lives, we can create a safer online experience. This ensures that emojis remain a tool for positive communication rather than a gateway to potential risks.

Remember: Knowledge is power. By staying informed, parents can help their children navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

Step Forward for Inclusion: Happy Walk 2025 Unites Communities Nationwide

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On March 30, 2025, thousands of families, advocates, and supporters will come together for Happy Walk 2025, a nationwide celebration of awareness, inclusion, and empowerment for individuals with Down Syndrome. This event serves as a powerful reminder that every step taken is a step toward a more inclusive society—one where differences are embraced and abilities are celebrated.

Hosted by SM Cares, in partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), this year’s Happy Walk will be held at SMX Convention Center – Manila, with simultaneous events at SM City Cebu, SM City Bacolod, and SM CDO Downtown Premier. With celebrations happening across the country, the movement continues to grow, uniting people in the spirit of acceptance and advocacy.

More Than Just a Walk: A Movement for Inclusion

For over two decades, Happy Walk has been more than a one-day event—it has evolved into a nationwide movement that amplifies the voices, talents, and aspirations of individuals with Down Syndrome. It is a day filled with joy, love, and camaraderie, where communities come together not just to recognize differences but to celebrate the shared dreams and aspirations that connect us all.

“Happy Walk is not just about taking steps; it’s about making a difference. Every year, this event brings people together to reaffirm that individuals with Down Syndrome deserve the same opportunities, recognition, and support as everyone else. It is a celebration of abilities, not limitations,” shared Nill Patrick Arroyo, DSAPI Board Member & Head of Happy Walk 2025.

From heartfelt performances and inspiring testimonials to activities that foster inclusion, Happy Walk 2025 continues to inspire thousands, proving that together, we can create a more accepting world.

A Nationwide Call for Participation

With the theme “321 & Beyond”, Happy Walk 2025 aims to break barriers and expand the conversation on inclusivity. The event is expected to gather thousands of participants, including:

✅ Individuals with Down Syndrome and their families

✅ Volunteers and educators

✅ Corporate partners and organizations

✅ Inclusivity and disability rights advocates

This year’s Happy Walk will feature engaging performances, real-life success stories, and community-building initiatives that underscore the importance of creating a society where everyone belongs.

“SM Cares has been a proud partner of Happy Walk for years because we believe in the importance of creating a society where everyone feels valued and included. This event is a reminder that inclusivity is not just an initiative—it is a responsibility we all share,” said Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs.

Through its long-standing partnership with DSAPI, SM Cares continues to advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities, ensuring that every SM Supermall remains a welcoming and inclusive space for all.

Join the Movement: Be Part of Happy Walk 2025!

Whether you walk, volunteer, or simply show your support, your participation makes a difference. To register for Happy Walk 2025, visit:

🔗 Register Here

For event updates and ways to get involved, follow SM Cares’ social media pages.

About SM Cares

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, leading initiatives in inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and community development. Through programs like Happy Walk, SM Cares continues to advocate for the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.

About DSAPI

The Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) is a non-profit organization committed to supporting individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. Through education, awareness campaigns, and community-building efforts, DSAPI strives to create a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Every step counts. Every voice matters. Together, let’s walk for inclusion!