Teka Teka

Recorded live at MAKI+Fiesta 2.0, this episode of Thought Bubbles brings together content creators DJ Cupcakes and Mathilda Airlines, alongside journalist and producer Lolit Lachica, for a grounded conversation on influence, creative content, and truth-telling in today’s media landscape.From remixing viral rants into music, to using movement and humor as entry points for political and social issues, the discussion explores how creators navigate algorithms, advocacy, and responsibility. The episode also looks at the growing overlap between content creation and journalism—where personality, research, and context intersect in shaping public conversation.This live recording offers insight into how creators stay authentic while reaching wide audiences, why collaboration with journalists matters, and what truth-telling looks like in an age of virality.This episode was produced Bubbles Magpayo and engineered by Jem Bunao. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every year, the Filipino Christmas season unofficially begins the moment Jose Mari Chan’s voice returns to malls, radios, and memes. But the history of our holiday soundtrack goes much deeper than Christmas in Our Hearts.In this episode rerun, we trace the evolution of Filipino Christmas music—from the Spanish-era villancicos, to classic OPM hits like Ang Pasko ay Sumapit and Himig ng Pasko, all the way to the rise of Jose Mari Chan, whose songs have come to define the modern Filipino Christmas playlist.Music educators and culture experts walk us through the traditions, cultural influences, and generations of Filipino composers who shaped the way we celebrate the holidays through song.This episode was produced and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every Christmas, Filipinos turn to Papemelroti for simple, meaningful, and affordable gifts—from wooden signs and journals to handcrafted décor and inspirational keepsakes. But before it became a go-to shop for holiday gift-giving, it began as a small family-run store under an apartment in Quezon City—built by Benny and Socorro Alejandro, and later powered by their creatively raised children.In this episode rerun, we revisit the story of how Papemelroti grew into one of the most beloved Filipino craft brands, how it survived shifting times, and why it continues to inspire generations of makers and gift-givers.This episode was produced and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta's decision to end its third-party fact-checking program threatens to reshape the Philippine information landscape—and not for the better. In this episode, journalist Nica Hanopol sits down with disinformation researcher and political communications professor JM Lanuza to unpack what this means for Filipino audiences who already navigate a sea of misinformation online.With 34% of Filipinos consulting fact-checking sites—higher than the global average—the stakes couldn't be clearer. But as funding cuts sweep through counter-disinformation efforts and platforms shift toward opaque "community notes" systems, who stands to benefit? And more importantly, who loses?This episode is produced by Nica Rhiana Hanopol and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s Christmas 2025, and the season of shopping, gift-giving, and holiday travel is in full swing. But with high prices and rising expenses, many Filipinos are asking the same question: How do I make the most of my 13th month pay and Christmas bonus this year?In this special holiday rerun, we revisit a listener favorite on smart spending and financial planning. Learn practical tips on budgeting, paying off debt, setting financial goals, and making intentional choices with your money—so you can enjoy the holidays without the January regrets.If you're looking for guidance on how to use your bonus wisely, avoid impulsive holiday spending, or start investing for the future, this episode is for you.This episode was produced and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vasectomy is still uncommon in the Philippines, but that may be starting to change.Recently, writer Brix Tino won First Prize for Sanaysay at the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for his essay “Ari,” where he shares why he chose to get a vasectomy at just 22 years old. And earlier this year, TV host Drew Arellano was praised by the Commission on Population and Development for undergoing a vasectomy, showing that men can take an active role in family planning.In this rerun of our original episode, we go inside a no-scalpel vasectomy with someone who documented his experience in real time — from pre-procedure counseling to recovery — and we hear from advocates about how male involvement can save lives by protecting women’s health.This episode was produced and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does learning Tagalog mean to second- and third-generation Filipino Americans? PumaPodcast reporter Maria Reyes joins New York University students on an immersion trip to Little Manila, Queens, where they practice the language with shop owners and reconnect with their heritage. Their stories reveal how language loss, shame, and identity shape the Fil-Am experience and why learning Tagalog can be an act of healing and pride.This episode was engineered by Jem Bunao. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s 2025, and the DTI is once again insisting that a ₱500 Noche Buena is possible—sparking déjà vu from the same debate three years ago. So we’re bringing back that earlier episode to revisit the original uproar and explore what the ₱500 Noche Buena tells us about affordability, holiday spending, and the cost of living in the Philippines.This episode rerun was produced by Hannah Tasarra and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do so many Filipino children struggle to read and what does that say about the state of education and literacy in the Philippines today?In this National Book Week episode, we revisit our conversation with Gillian Reyes of the National Book Development Board (NBDB) to unpack the country’s growing reading crisis. From lack of access and rising book costs to home environments and reading culture, this episode explores the real reasons why fewer Filipinos are reading for pleasure — and how this impacts literacy, learning, and national development.We also dive into how initiatives like Book Nooks, the Philippine Book Festival, and local language translations are working to rebuild a culture of reading in communities across the country.This episode rerun was produced by Anthony Tobias and engineered by Jem Bunao. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Philippines has become one of the most active frontlines in the growing US–China information war, where digital influence operations, propaganda campaigns, and soft power tactics are shaping public opinion, politics, and national security.In this episode, we speak with Reuters correspondents Poppy McPherson and Karen Lema about their investigation into a Chinese-backed disinformation network operating in the Philippines — and how it mirrors similar tactics used by the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic.From troll accounts and fake engagement to “soft diplomacy” influencers and controversial awards for public officials, this conversation unpacks how global powers compete for narrative control in the country. It also explores why the Philippines has become such a strategic target in both information warfare and the broader US–China geopolitical rivalry, especially in the context of the South China Sea, Taiwan tensions, and regional security.This episode was engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.You may read the Reuters articles here and here.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sixteen years after the Maguindanao Massacre, one of the deadliest attacks on journalists in history, Teka Teka revisits one of the most haunting stories from Super Evil: A Beautiful Place to Die Season 2.This special feature brings back “The Cellphone,” the powerful minisode about Atty. Cynthia Oquendo-Ayon, one of the 58 victims murdered on November 23, 2009. Amid the terror on a remote hill in Maguindanao, Cynthia managed to hold on to her phone and send desperate messages as gunfire surrounded her. Those final texts, recovered against all odds, would later help convict members of the Ampatuan clan in a trial that lasted a decade.More than a retelling of violence, this episode is a tribute to courage, press freedom, and the relentless pursuit of truth. It reflects on how one woman’s final act, reaching out for help, became a key piece of evidence in one of the most important justice battles in Philippine history.As we commemorate another year since the massacre, we remember the journalists, lawyers, and civilians whose lives were stolen—and the stories that demand to be told, again and again.Listen to this Teka Teka special feature and revisit the origins of Super Evil’s landmark investigation into the Maguindanao Massacre.This episode was produced by Bubbles Magpayo and engineered by Jem Bunao. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Regine Cabato sits down with military historian Jose Custodio to unpack the rise of pro-China propaganda on Filipino social media and how these narratives intersect with the politics of the Marcos administration and the Duterte camp.Custodio explains where fearmongering about military coups comes from, why influencers echo Beijing’s lines on the West Philippine Sea, and how disinformation networks built during the Duterte years continue to shape public opinion today. He also discusses the political stakes leading up to 2028 — from Marcos’ pushback against pro-China narratives to how the Duterte camp’s messaging still resonates with voters despite widespread anti-China sentiment.This episode was engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Juan Ponce Enrile, one of the most powerful, influential, and controversial figures in modern Philippine history, has died at 101.In this rerun of our special series on JPE, we look back on the extraordinary life of a man whose story spanned dictatorship, revolution, and democracy — and who served across administrations from Ferdinand Marcos Sr. to Benigno Aquino III.This first episode traces Enrile’s beginnings: from his childhood in Cagayan and his reunion with his father, to his rise as a brilliant young lawyer and his entry into government under President Marcos Sr.Originally released in 2024 to mark his 100th birthday, this series draws from news archives, public records, and Juan Ponce Enrile: A Memoir. Interview segments courtesy of Probe Archives.This rerun was produced and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the passing of Juan Ponce Enrile at 101, we revisit the story of a man whose influence shaped—and survived—every major turn in modern Philippine politics.In this rerun of the second and final part of our special series on JPE, we trace how he moved from the center of power under Ferdinand Marcos Sr. to the front lines of the 1986 People Power Revolution, and how he remained a force in government long after.Originally released in 2024 to mark his 100th birthday, this series draws from news archives, public records, and Juan Ponce Enrile: A Memoir. Interview segments courtesy of Probe Archives.This rerun was produced by Anthony Tobias and engineered by Jem Bunao. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How does the media shape the way we think and talk about mental health? Hannah Tasarra sits down with Roy Dahildahil and Richardson Mojica of MentalHealthPH to talk about how news outlets, social media, and content creators can help change the narrative around mental health and suicide in the Philippines.They discuss what responsible reporting looks like, why certain words matter, and how empathy and ethical storytelling can save lives. Join us as we explore how to use media as a tool for awareness, understanding, and hope.Trigger Warning ⚠️This episode contains sensitive topics related to self-harm and suicide that might be triggering or difficult to listen to. Please only listen if you're comfortable. If you need to reach out to a professional for support, you can reach out to NCMH 24/7 Crisis Hotline at 0917-899-8727 or check mentalhealthph.org/directory for a list of mental health facilities. We're committed to a safe and supportive environment for all. Thank you for joining us.This episode was produced by Hannah Tasarra and engineered by Jem Bunao. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In an age of screens and solitude, Filipino adults are rediscovering the joy of gathering around a table: to play, tell stories, and roll some dice. In this episode of Thought Bubbles, we talk to gamer and storyteller Lanz Frago about the growing tabletop games community in the Philippines, why it’s not just for kids (or nerds), and how these games are building friendships, creativity, and even confidence among players.This episode was produced by Bubbles Magpayo, and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Teacher Grace Osio, Board Member of World Vision Philippines and a longtime advocate for inclusive education, joins host Hannah Tasarra to unpack what ADHD really is — a condition of regulation, attention, and processing, not misbehavior. Together, they discuss how hyperactivity and inattention can be misunderstood, how classroom structures can unintentionally exclude, and why changing mindsets among teachers and parents is key to building classrooms where every child can thrive.This episode was produced by Hannah Tasarra and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PhilStar.com reporter Cristina Chi joins Regine Cabato to unpack how foreign disinformation networks are exploiting real frustrations in the Philippines—turning them into viral calls for Mindanao secession and anti-Marcos narratives.Cristina reveals how Chinese-aligned social media accounts and bot networks helped spread false claims about Mindanao independence, and even tried to redirect blame toward Vietnam in the West Philippine Sea dispute. Together, they discuss how influence operations, AI-generated content, and coordinated online attacks are reshaping public opinion—and what it means for public trust and information integrity.This episode was engineered by Jem Bunao. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta scrapped its third-party fact-checking program. Google quietly removed its fact-checking features. What does this mean for misinformation, disinformation, and online safety?In this episode, journalist Nica Rhiana Hanopol speaks with Clara Jiménez Cruz, chair of the European Fact-Checking Standards Network and co-founder of Spain's Maldita.es, about the seismic changes happening in the fact-checking world. Clara reveals how Mark Zuckerberg's sudden announcement caught the global fact-checking community off guard, putting organizations worldwide at both reputational and physical risk.Teka Teka explores why tech companies are abandoning these safety measures—from political pressures to the AI race reshaping Silicon Valley priorities. Clara shares surprising data about Community Notes (spoiler: fact-checkers are still the most trusted source), discusses how her organization is adapting to survive, and explains why this shift affects everything from election integrity to everyday decisions like choosing toothpaste.These changes extend beyond politics – it's about scams, health misinformation, and the future of truth online. As Clara puts it, “The internet is being made more dangerous on purpose.”This episode is engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The jewelry heist at the Louvre shows that some people will risk everything for things that sparkle and inspire awe with their beauty. In this re-run of a Thought Bubbles episode from March 2025, Bubbles Magpayo sits down with art collector and gallery owner Atty. Joseph “JT” Gonzales to explore where Filipino art is headed. They talk about Gen Z collectors, affordable art, AI vs traditional art, and how to start building your first art collection. Whether you’re a fan of Juan Luna, into new media, or just curious about owning your first piece, this episode is your guide to supporting Filipino artists and preserving our culture.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TThousands of children in the Philippines live where everyone can see them — on sidewalks, under bridges, in jeepney terminals — yet the system barely knows they exist.In this episode, Bahay Tuluyan, a child-rights organization that has worked with street-involved children for nearly four decades, talks about what it really means to be visible but invisible: documented nowhere, excluded from school and health services, and often at risk of abuse and exploitation.Executive Director Catherine Scerri joins Hannah Grace to share stories from the streets, explain why informal care and lack of documentation make children disappear from government systems, and discuss how long-term solutions like affordable housing, family reintegration, and education access can break the cycle.Learn more about Bahay Tuluyan’s work and find ways to support at www.bahaytuluyan.orgListen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When fact-checkers dug into fake news flooding YouTube and TikTok, they found something deeper — ordinary Filipinos caught in a web of lies. In this episode, Regine Cabato speaks with Nikko Balbedina of PressONE.ph about the rise of “news cycle disinformation”—and how it turns victims into unwitting spreaders of falsehoods.Listen as they unpack how profit, algorithms, and emotion shape the information we believe.This episode was produced by Bubbles Magpayo and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who was Apolinario Mabini, really? Known as “The Sublime Paralytic” and “Brains of the Philippine Revolution” (Utak ng Himagsikan), Mabini shaped the course of the revolution through his sharp intellect, even as he lost the use of his legs to polio.In this episode, we revisit Mabini’s legacy through his posthumous work, La Revolucion Filipina. What did Mabini really think of the revolution, Emilio Aguinaldo, and the struggle for independence? And why does his voice still matter today?This episode is produced and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nearly twenty years after he first got acquainted with Philippine basketball, American writer and Pacific Rims author Rafe Bartholomew returns to reflect on how the game—and the culture around it—has evolved. In this episode of Teka Teka hosted by Jaemark Tordecilla, Rafe talks about the Ateneo–La Salle rivalry that first drew him into the country’s hoops scene, the debate over foreign student-athletes, and how the Philippines has long blurred the line between amateur and professional play. He also weighs in on the rise of influencer basketball and the global opportunities now open to Filipino players. More than a conversation about sports, it’s a deep dive into why basketball remains the Philippines’ enduring national love affair.This episode was engineered by Anthony Tobias.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.Hear more from Rafe in The Global Bounce podcast, which he hosted for PumaPodcast in 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do Filipinos still hesitate to seek help for mental health?Psychiatrist Dr. Nueva Joy Perucho talks to Hannah Grace about the realities of mental health care in the Philippines — the stigma, the silence, and the hope. From the rise of telepsychiatry to the importance of speaking in your mother tongue, this episode explores how compassion, culture, and connection can make healing possible.If you need help, you may contact the following: 𝟮𝟰/𝟳 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 (NCMH) 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲☎️ 1553 (Nationwide landline toll-free)☎️ 1800-1888-1553📱 SMART/ TNT: 0919-057-1553📱 GLOBE/ TM: 0917-899-USAP(8727)In Touch 24/7 Anonymous Crisis LineLandline: +63288937603 Globe: +639178001123Smart: +639190560709 / +639228938944This episode was produced by Hannah Grace and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nepal’s Gen Z protests are shaking the foundations of power. From corruption scandals to a historic “Discord vote” that helped select an interim prime minister, young Nepalis are challenging the political order and demanding accountability. Journalist Pranaya Rana of Kalam Weekly joins Roby Alampay to unpack the roots of the youth-led movement, what sparked it, and what comes next for Nepal.What lessons can Filipinos and the rest of the world learn from Nepal’s Gen Z revolution? Tune in for insights on corruption, activism, and the uncertain road ahead.This episode is engineered by Anthony Tobias.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s the difference between being rich and being truly wealthy?Gen Z host Angel Martinez sits down with Boomer Francis Kong — entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker — and Xennial Eric Dee, COO of FooDee Global Concepts, for a multigenerational conversation on money mindsets. From Gen Z’s retail therapy or “budol” spending habits and the pressure of keeping up online to their rising entrepreneurial spirit, they explore how discipline, values, and perspective shape financial security across generations.This episode was produced by Hannah Grace and engineered by Anthony Tobias. The Generations Podcast is executive produced by Sheila Paras of Philstar Life and Roby Alampay of PumaPodcast.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Fr. Flaviano “Flavie” Villanueva shares his powerful journey from drug addiction to priesthood, and his mission to give second chances to the homeless, the grieving, and victims of Duterte’s bloody war on drugs.In this conversation with Roby Alampay, Fr. Flavie reflects on faith, redemption, and what it means to stand with the forsaken. He opens up about the realities of homelessness in the Philippines, his regrets and lessons from once supporting Duterte, and why compassion, justice, and second chances matter.This episode is engineered by Anthony Tobias.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During the pandemic, content creation exploded from dance trends into a serious career path. But what happens when anyone with a camera and Wi-Fi can become a “news source”?In this episode of Generations, Angel Martinez and Jaemark Tordecilla sit down with award-winning multimedia journalist Jacque Manabat to talk about the blurred lines between journalism and content creation.Jacque talks about building trust with audiences beyond the “TV reporter voice,” the challenge of fighting disinformation in an algorithm-driven landscape, and why she sees herself as both journalist and content creator. This episode is engineered by Anthony Tobias. The Generations Podcast is executive produced by Sheila Paras of Philstar Life and Roby Alampay of PumaPodcast.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 21, 2025, thousands of Filipinos joined protests against alleged corruption in flood control projects. In this episode, Regine Cabato speaks with Kiko Aquino Dee, co-convener of SIKLAB (Simbahan at Komunidad Laban sa Katiwalian), about the Trillion Peso March, the growing public anger, and what’s next for the anti-corruption movement.This episode is engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Was Martial Law under Ferdinand Marcos really a “golden age” for the Philippine economy—or a myth built on debt and corruption?Mayen Vital and JC Punongbayan revisit the economic realities of the Marcos years in this Usapang Econ episode from 2019. Using historical data and analysis, they debunk three common myths: that Martial Law marked the “golden age” of the Philippine economy, that the infrastructure projects built during this period were wholly beneficial, and that Marcos was a benevolent dictator who acted in the people’s best interest.The conversation reveals how debt-driven growth, widespread corruption, and declining living standards defined this period, leading to a lost decade of development that Filipinos are still paying for today.As the 53rd anniversary of Martial Law is remembered, this episode asks us to confront history with facts, not myths—so we never forget, and never again.This episode is engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.ORIGINAL EPISODE: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1iJn9RjWjUxbaKpAkU9uJz?si=HIIyzUPyTIObTsVTz5qu4w Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rica Peralejo, actress and online personality, discusses the "patol" culture on social media in the latest episode of the Generations podcast with Angel Martinez and Jaemark Tordecilla.She shares her personal experiences with online backlash, including a memorable incident involving a hospital visit and a viral tweet, and her more recent controversy involving Heart Evangelista. Rica also offers insights into why she continues to engage in online discourse, acknowledging that it can be a source of income and a platform for sharing her thoughts, particularly through writing. She provides advice on how to navigate online discussions, emphasizing the importance of letting go of engagements with trolls and not expecting those unwilling to listen to acknowledge your perspective.This episode was engineered by Anthony Tobias. The Generations Podcast is executive produced by Sheila Paras of Philstar Life and Roby Alampay of PumaPodcast.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why does the Philippines continue to suffer from severe flooding despite spending over ₱545 billion on nearly 10,000 flood control projects?In this episode of Teka Teka, reporter Lilian Tiburcio speaks with Glenn Banaguas — world-renowned science diplomat, UN Sasakawa Awardee for Disaster Risk Reduction, and founder of the Environmental and Climate Change Research Institute.They unpack the real reasons behind recurring floods: climate change and shifting rainfall patterns; corruption and ghost projects in flood control spending; lack of integrated, science-based master planning; and nature-based solutions vs. outdated infrastructure fixes.The conversation also explores how Filipinos can demand accountability, adapt to climate hazards, and push for science-driven solutions.This episode is produced by Hannah Grace and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Atom Araullo joins Philstar Life columnist Angel Martinez and PumaPodcast Editor-at-Large Jaemark Tordecilla in the episode of Generations! They engage in a thoughtful conversation about "kurakot-shaming," the origins of Atom's journalistic approach, the problem with performative outrage, and how to sustain anger against corruption. They also discuss the effectiveness of online "cancel culture" versus real-world action in driving societal change.Atom also discusses his new book, "A View from the Ground", where he publishes stories that often go beyond what can be captured on camera, and how his experiences as a reporter have informed his views on social issues. They also explore the role of journalism in providing a voice to the marginalized who are at the other end of the effects of government corruption.This episode was engineered by Anthony Tobias. The Generations Podcast is executive produced by Sheila Paras of Philstar Life and Roby Alampay of PumaPodcast.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Indonesia is Southeast Asia’s largest democracy, but today, it’s a nation in turmoil. In this episode, Roby Alampay speaks with Hafizh Nabiyyin, Freedom of Expression Division Head at the Southeast Asia Freedom of Expression Network (SAFENet), and Juan Robin, multimedia journalist from Narasi TV.Together, they unpack Indonesia’s mass protests—how youth movements, social media campaigns, and frustration with corruption have fueled nationwide demonstrations. From student-led actions to online organizing, citizens are challenging impunity and demanding reform from the Prabowo Subianto government.This episode is engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fr. Flavie Villanueva, a Filipino priest and 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee, has dedicated his life to restoring dignity to society’s most vulnerable—especially the poor, victims of the war on drugs, and those once entangled in petty crime. In this episode, we look back on our Tokhang sa Tokhang feature on his work, exploring his mission of compassion, his groundbreaking community programs, and how his work challenges us to see humanity where others often see only stigma. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the popular use of "therapy-speak" a sign of progress or a potential pitfall? Trauma therapist and RockEd co-founder Gang Badoy joins Philstar Life columnist Angel Martinez and PumaPodcast editor-at-large Jaemark Tordecilla to discuss the perks and dangers of pathologizing everyday phenomena. They discuss terms like "narcissist," "trauma," "gaslighting," and "bipolar," differentiating their clinical definitions from their colloquial use. Gang emphasizes the importance of accurate language in mental health discussions and offers insights on identifying genuine disorders versus normal human experiences, and how to set healthy boundaries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do conspiracy theories thrive—and why do so many Filipinos believe them? In this episode, Regine Cabato sits down with journalist Sofia Tomacruz and sociologist Nicole Curato, co-authors of How Conspiracy Theories Harm Deliberative Democracy. They talk about everything from Marcos-era myths to modern-day TikTok videos, why these stories resonate even with people who see themselves as “critical thinkers,” and how they pose real risks to democracy. The conversation also highlights lessons for truth advocates, showing how understanding the participatory ways misinformation spreads can help them engage more effectively and encourage thoughtful public dialogue.This episode is produced by Hannah Grace and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Journalism's credibility is once again under scrutiny after Mayor Vico Sotto's post about alleged media corruption went viral. In this episode, PumaPodcast's Founder and Chairman Roby Alampay and Editor-at-Large Jaemark Tordecilla dive deep into the accusations, the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists, and the public's role in rebuilding trust in media.They discuss the allegations against media figures Julius Babao and Korina Sanchez and the everyday struggles of working journalists, before exploring why soul-searching in the media is crucial and explaining why the problem is a challenge for everyone in society, including audiences.This episode was produced by Jyn Garcia and engineered by Anthony Tobias.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Regine Cabato and Gian Libot discuss their recent report for the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, "Five Ways the Duterte Influence Machine is Deceiving Filipinos." They break down how a "cyborg operation" of human and AI-powered elements feeds pro-Duterte propaganda to the public, especially concerning the Vice President's impeachment case. They explore five tactics: dismissal and distortion of facts (including legal and financial jargon), distraction and deflection, emotional manipulation, and the spread of conspiracy theories. The conversation also delves into the use of long-form "think tank" essays on social media, astroturfing in comment sections, and the selective discrediting of experts, highlighting the challenges of fact-checking in this information landscape.Read their report here: https://pcij.org/2025/08/07/five-ways-the-duterte-influence-machine-is-deceiving-filipinos/This episode is engineered by Anthony Tobias.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s just a harmless quirk, and what’s a true deal-breaker? TV and film director Mae Cruz Alviar and visual artist Raco Ruiz sit down with Angel Martinez and Jaemark Tordecilla for a multigenerational conversation on dating “icks.” With insights spanning Gen Z to Gen X, they explore how social media, culture, and experience shape the way we judge potential partners—and whether being too focused on flaws keeps us from building real intimacy.This episode was produced by Hannah Grace and engineered by Anthony Tobias. The Generations Podcast is executive produced by Sheila Paras of Philstar Life and Roby Alampay of PumaPodcast.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Director JL Burgos, fresh off his FAMAS Best Picture and Best Director wins for Alipato at Muog, discusses the documentary's personal journey and its fight for justice for his abducted brother, Jonas Burgos. The director opens up about the unexpected FAMAS wins, the MTRCB's initial X-rating and subsequent reclassification to R-16, and the ongoing challenges of screening the film, including surveillance. He highlights his mother, Edita Burgos, as the film's protagonist and her evolution from a Carmelite devotee with a vow of silence to a prominent human rights advocate. JL also explains the unique and severe nature of enforced disappearances compared to extrajudicial killings, emphasizing the lack of closure for families and the pervasive fear it instills. He connects the historical pattern of disappearances to the current political climate, noting the continued impunity for perpetrators. Despite the challenges, the team behind the documentary remains unwavering in its commitment to continuing the film's screenings, pursuing justice, and advocating for the ratification of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.For more information about ‘Alipato at Muog’ and to inquire about special screenings, visithttps://alipatoatmuog.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/AlipatoatMuog/This episode was engineered by Anthony Tobias.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Patricia Matias, a graduate of MIT Sloan and Harvard Kennedy School, joins PumaPodcast editor-at-large Jaemark Tordecilla to discuss "endo" or end-of-contract labor practices in the Philippines, where workers are dismissed before gaining full benefits and job security. Matias highlights that despite presidential promises, endo persists due to business interests and a lack of worker solidarity.She proposes a three-pronged approach to address endo. First, a "narrative shift" to convince businesses that providing "good jobs" with security and benefits can improve operational excellence and profitability, drawing on research from MIT's Good Jobs Institute. Second, government support, including tax incentives for compliant companies and onboarding toolkits for businesses transitioning away from endo. Third, sector-specific pilot programs to develop successful "playbooks" for ending endo, which can then be scaled nationally. She argues that ending endo is vital for the country's health, building social safety nets and ensuring all citizens have deserved security and benefits.This episode is engineered by Anthony Tobias.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Generations from Philstar Life and PumaPodcast, award-winning filmmaker Antoinette Jadaone sits down with Philstar Life columnist Angel Martinez and PumaPodcast editor-at-large Jaemark Tordecilla to talk about her latest film, “Sunshine”, which won the Crystal Bear for Best Film at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival. The film confronts the stigma surrounding sex education and women’s reproductive rights in a conservative society.Though sex education and awareness are more accessible today, they remain taboo across generations, with plenty of misinformation still finding its way into young people’s hands. This conversation underscores the importance of open dialogue and honest education in shaping healthier, more empowered futures.If you’re interested in organizing a screening of Sunshine for your school, institution or company, get in touch with Project 8 Projects at https://www.instagram.com/project8projects/ or Direk Tonet at https://www.instagram.com/tonetjadaone/This episode was produced by Hannah Grace and engineered by Anthony Tobias. The Generations Podcast is executive produced by Sheila Paras of Philstar Life and Roby Alampay of PumaPodcast.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Director Baby Ruth Villarama joins Regine Cabato to delve into her documentary, "Food Delivery: Fresh from the West Philippine Sea." They discuss the film's challenging journey, from its international premiere and award recognition at Doc Edge in New Zealand and a series of full house screenings in Manila despite significant censorship attempt, to the ongoing struggles faced by Filipino fishermen and military personnel in the disputed waters of the West Philippine Sea.The conversation expands to cover the far-reaching implications of China's soft power and expanding influence, as well as the crucial role of documentaries in reflecting pressing societal issues, fostering public awareness, and serving as a mirror for a nation to confront its realities and shape its future.This episode was engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re rewinding to the very first Thought Bubbles episode to talk about the phenomenon that is Taylor Swift—now with an update for her brand-new era.From her country beginnings and pop reinventions, to The Tortured Poets Department, the record-breaking Eras Tour, and her fight to reclaim her masters, Taylor has shown time and again she’s a master of reinvention.And now, she’s announced her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl—revealed in a playful moment on the New Heights podcast with Travis and Jason Kelce. With bold, theatrical aesthetics, the album marks a return to a pop-driven sound under producers Max Martin and Shellback. Vinyl pre-orders promise a release before October 13, 2025, but the tracklist remains a mystery.Whether you’ve been with her since Tim McGraw or joined during the Eras Tour hype, this re-run dives into Taylor’s past, present, and the showgirl future she’s stepping into.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fyt's Atom Araullo and Voltaire Tupaz join PumaPodcast editor-at-large Jaemark Tordecilla to discuss the evolving media landscape and the unique approach of their media startup, driven by changing media consumption habits and a desire to create space for impactful, independent journalism.They discuss the LyfSaver app, a crowdsourcing platform for climate action and disaster response and highlight a successful collaboration where community-sourced, verified information from the app directly led to life-saving agency response.The conversation also explores Fyt's innovative storytelling on TikTok and Instagram, including their "Game of Thrones" style investigation into political dynasties, and ponders on the future of journalism, citizen media, and civic engagement in our online spaces.This episode was engineered by Anthony Tobias.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the pilot episode of Generations from Philstar Life and PumaPodcast, PhilStar Life columnist Angel Martinez, a Gen Zer, and Pumapodcast editor-at-large Jaemark Tordecilla, an Xennial, unpack the seeming Gen Z shift away from career ambition and toward "lazy girl jobs," "quiet quitting," and "coffee badging."Is it a crisis of ambition or self-preservation? This conversation explores how different generations approach work, the cultural touchstones that shaped their views, and whether finding a fulfilling career is still a worthy goal in today's world.This episode was produced by Jyn Garcia and engineered by Anthony Tobias. The Generations Podcast is executive produced by Sheila Paras of Philstar Life and Roby Alampay of PumaPodcast.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow us on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Teka Teka reporter Bella Perez-Rubio reflects on her journey from traditional newsrooms to audio journalism, sharing why she left legacy media at the height of the 2022 elections and found a new voice through podcasting. In this candid conversation, Bella talks about covering the Duterte and Marcos administrations, the ethical compromises journalists face, and how platforms like PumaPodcast helped her reclaim purpose in a shifting media landscape.Now headed to New York University for a master’s in journalism, Bella opens up about burnout, growth, and why staying true to your values matters more than ever in today's chaotic media environment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it mean to leave at the right time — and for the right reasons? In this episode, journalist Bella Perez-Rubio reflects on her journey from traditional newsrooms to PumaPodcast, and now, to New York University. Along the way, she shares stories that shaped her — from immigrant families to displaced voices — and the quiet, radical act of finding her own. We explore carding, a writing technique that becomes a metaphor for reshaping your career, your voice, and your sense of care.This episode is produced by Jyn Garcia and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to our episodes on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.For more updates, follow Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.