THE dangers posed by mercury have been known for years now, but medical devices that use the substance remain in service in many healthcare systems around the world — among them that of the Philippines. Indeed, the lowly thermometer with mercury is...

IF journalists were given a license to write in verses and rhymes, it seems they are likely to type out their angst and oh, there were many. Such was the harvest in the first poetry-writing contest for information technology reporters sponsored by the...

THE state of press freedom and free expression declined across Southeast Asia in 2007, according to a yearend report of the Bangkok-based regional media watchdog, Southeast Asian Press Alliance (SEAPA). A coalition of press freedom advocacy groups from...

THE combined Yuletide and New Year holidays turn Edsa into a nightmare for commuters, as even those who live outside the metropolis drive to the city to do their shopping. But even on normal, uneventful days, motorists think twice before venturing into...

IF the president's popularity were a business, Malacañang would have filed for bankruptcy years ago. Since 1986, no president has languished on the red side of the popularity graph longer than Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has, according to data from the...

THERE are many good examples of Filipino leaders -- at the local level. The Ateneo School of Government's book "Frontline Leadership: Stories of 5 Local Chief Executives," tells some of their tales. Incumbent Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo, former San...

WE couldn't help but wonder whether it was candor or false modesty that led Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo more than a week ago to remark that she is a "very bad politician." (Artwork by Jun Aquino) “I’d rather deal with the economy than with...