BAWAL ANG BASTOS SA PASIG! Says Angelu De Leon

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a time dedicated to honoring the resilience and contributions of women and solo parents, it is both shocking and infuriating to witness a blatant display of disrespect from an individual aspiring to represent Pasig City in Congress. Atty. Christian "Ian" Sia, a congressional candidate and former city councilor, recently made reprehensible remarks during a public event, offering himself to female solo parents for intimate relations and suggesting that interested parties sign up at a designated table. Such statements are not only demeaning but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes against women and solo parents.​

As the Chairperson of the Committee on Social Services and Solo Parent Affairs in Pasig's Sanggunian Panlungsod, and as a woman who has experienced the challenges of being a solo parent, I share the collective outrage and disappointment of our community. This incident underscores the urgent need to uphold respect and dignity for all individuals, regardless of gender or marital status.​

Pasig City's Commitment to Solo Parents

Pasig City has consistently demonstrated its dedication to supporting solo parents through various initiatives. In July 2024, the local government distributed cash subsidies to 2,489 eligible solo parents, providing ₱1,000 monthly allowances to assist with their financial needs. This program is part of the Pasig City Comprehensive Solo Parent Ordinance, aiming to uplift solo parents within the community.​

Furthermore, from April 15 to 21, 2024, Pasig City celebrated Solo Parents Week with the theme "Solo Parent na Rehistrado, sa Gobyerno Tiyak na Protektado!" The week featured activities such as motorcades, bloodletting programs, and caravans, all designed to foster a supportive environment for solo parents.​

Legal Repercussions for Misconduct

The legal profession demands a high standard of morality and integrity. The Supreme Court has previously disbarred lawyers for conduct unbecoming, such as refusing to provide child support. Such disciplinary actions emphasize that the legal system does not tolerate behavior that undermines the dignity of individuals, especially women and children.​

Upholding Respect and Dignity

The recent derogatory remarks serve as a stark reminder of the work still needed to combat sexism and promote respect within our society. Pasig City stands firm in its commitment: BAWAL ANG BASTOS SA PASIG! We will continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of all individuals, ensuring that our community remains a place of respect and inclusivity.​

Let this incident galvanize us to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing issues of disrespect and inequality. Together, we can foster a culture that values and uplifts every member of our society.​

Breaking the Cycle of Learning Poverty: Government Expands Early Childhood Education at the Grassroots

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a decisive step toward reshaping the future of young Filipino children, the Marcos administration has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to combat learning poverty at its roots. With the ceremonial signing of a Joint Circular between the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the government has set in motion a nationwide expansion of Child Development Centers (CDCs) in underserved communities—offering hope to millions of children in need of quality early education.

A Nation’s Commitment to Early Learning

On April 3, 2025, inside the historic halls of Malacañang Palace, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to investing in early childhood education. The signing of the Joint Circular by Education Secretary Sonny Angara and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman marks a pivotal moment in the government’s fight against learning poverty—a problem that has long hindered the country’s development.

“Early childhood education is a game-changer. It shapes lifelong learning outcomes and impacts the trajectory of a child’s future,” said Secretary Angara, emphasizing the urgency of the initiative.

The new policy ensures that local government units (LGUs) will receive clear guidelines and financial support to build and operate CDCs, providing young children—particularly those in low-income areas—with access to crucial early learning opportunities. The move directly responds to the findings of the Education Commission II (EDCOM II) Year 2 Report, which exposed the stark disparities in early learning access across the nation.

Turning Vision into Reality: Funding the Future

A critical component of this initiative is financial backing. Under the 2025 General Appropriations Act, funds will be allocated for the construction, rehabilitation, and upgrading of multipurpose buildings (MPBs) that will function as CDCs. Prioritization will be given to low-income LGUs identified in the EDCOM II study to ensure that resources are directed where they are needed most.

The process for LGUs is streamlined under the new guidelines. Funding requests must be submitted via the DBM Apps Portal, with DepEd evaluating and endorsing qualified projects. Once approved, funds will be released to LGUs under the condition that they provide at least 150 square meters of land and commit to covering operational expenses, including teacher salaries and utilities.

“The investment we make in early childhood education today determines the kind of nation we build tomorrow. This is not just about education; it is a nation-building strategy,” Secretary Angara asserted.

A Collective Responsibility: Transforming the Future, One Child at a Time

Beyond government action, this initiative underscores a broader, collective responsibility. The transformation of the country’s Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) system requires strong collaboration between national agencies, local leaders, educators, families, and the private sector. Every stakeholder has a role to play in ensuring that children are given a strong educational foundation—one that will empower them for the rest of their lives.

The signing of the Joint Circular is more than just a policy shift—it is a bold step toward a Bagong Pilipinas that nurtures its children from the very start, leaving no child behind. As new CDCs rise across the country, so too does the promise of a brighter, more equitable future for generations to come.

With early childhood education now a national priority, the Philippines takes one step closer to breaking the cycle of learning poverty and unlocking the full potential of every Filipino child.

Waldorf Astoria Osaka: A New Era of Luxury Arrives in Japan

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

A new beacon of opulence and refined hospitality has graced Japan’s vibrant Kansai region with the grand opening of Waldorf Astoria Osaka. As the first Waldorf Astoria property in Japan, this distinguished addition redefines the essence of luxury, merging timeless elegance with contemporary sophistication in the heart of one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.

Nestled within the upper floors of the One Dojima Project, an architectural marvel soaring above the Osaka skyline, Waldorf Astoria Osaka seamlessly blends the brand’s legendary hospitality with the city’s rich cultural heritage. This highly anticipated debut sets an unprecedented standard for indulgence, offering travelers a sanctuary of unparalleled comfort and meticulous service.

A Landmark of Architectural Excellence

Designed to captivate from the moment of arrival, Waldorf Astoria Osaka’s sleek and modern aesthetic pays homage to Japan’s deep-rooted appreciation for craftsmanship. The interiors are adorned with curated artworks and intricate details that reflect the seamless interplay between tradition and innovation. Every space within the hotel embodies an atmosphere of refined serenity, inviting guests into a realm of tranquil sophistication.

A Signature of Unrivaled Hospitality

True to its global legacy, Waldorf Astoria Osaka introduces the brand’s hallmark True Waldorf Service, ensuring each guest receives personalized attention that anticipates their every need. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, the hotel’s dedicated Personal Concierges curate bespoke experiences tailored to individual preferences, transforming every stay into an unforgettable journey.

Gastronomic Excellence Redefined

The culinary offerings at Waldorf Astoria Osaka elevate fine dining to an art form. The hotel boasts an exquisite selection of world-class dining venues, each helmed by internationally acclaimed chefs. Guests can indulge in innovative flavors that celebrate both local Japanese ingredients and global culinary mastery. From contemporary interpretations of classic Kaiseki cuisine to the brand’s signature Peacock Alley, which brings the elegance of New York’s original Waldorf Astoria to Osaka, each dining experience is a symphony of flavors and impeccable presentation.

A Sanctuary of Wellness and Relaxation

For those seeking respite from the energetic pulse of Osaka, the hotel’s state-of-the-art spa and wellness facilities offer an oasis of rejuvenation. A meticulously designed spa, featuring treatments inspired by ancient Japanese healing traditions, provides a holistic approach to relaxation and revitalization. The indoor pool, cutting-edge fitness center, and tranquil lounge spaces complete the immersive wellness journey, ensuring a balanced experience of both indulgence and restoration.

Setting a New Benchmark for Luxury in Japan

With its grand opening, Waldorf Astoria Osaka solidifies its place as a transformative force in Japan’s luxury hospitality scene. By intertwining the brand’s storied history with Osaka’s forward-thinking spirit, the hotel invites guests to embark on a journey where past and present harmoniously converge. Whether for business, leisure, or a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, Waldorf Astoria Osaka is poised to become the premier destination for discerning travelers seeking an unrivaled experience in Japan.

As the city’s newest icon of elegance and excellence, Waldorf Astoria Osaka is more than a hotel—it is a statement of timeless luxury, ready to redefine the landscape of Japanese hospitality.