
Teka Teka
1,215 episodes — Page 4 of 25

Squirrels in Luzon: Solving the problem of invasive species
Trigger warning: This episode discusses euthanasia that may cause distress to some listeners. Please tune in with caution.Cartoons and films portray squirrels as cute, furry, and playful creatures. In real life, certain species of squirrels are serious threats to the country’s biodiversity. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has been trying to fight the unregulated proliferation of invasive squirrels in the country for over a decade, but their efforts remain unsuccessful. Anna Cabrera of PAWS, Jana Sevilla of PETA Asia, and Prof. Emilia Lastica-Ternura of the UPLB College of Veterinary Medicine discuss the ways to deal with the invasive squirrel problem.Here’s a link to a related episode about animal cruelty in the Philippines: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Hf2CQtnSfHCziD1IrOEHV?si=ab0107c735944b24And another episode about the pet overpopulation problem in the country: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1e0rU51ekeGYzG3ub9gDh8?si=bc99852572b54e7bThis episode was produced by Consuelo Marquez and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to more of 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.

Road safety in the Philippines: A survivor's story and the fight for safer streets
This Road Safety Month, Teka Teka highlights the critical issue of road safety. Join Jacque Manabat, a journalist and road crash survivor now advocating for safer roads, as she shares her personal experience. Recent data from the 2025 Philippine Road Safety Summit reveals a concerning 25.6% annual increase in road crashes. 72% of those affected are males, with a significant number of injuries involving children and young adults. This reflects a global crisis, as the World Health Organization identifies road traffic injuries as the leading cause of death for individuals aged 5 to 29. UNICEF has also expressed urgent concerns about the rising number of young lives tragically impacted or lost on our roads, some as young as five. It's crucial to remember that these statistics represent real lives and futures at risk. The fundamental truth is that road crashes are preventable, not unavoidable accidents. Jacque speaks to a commuter advocate group, the Passenger Forum, on how to work towards a future where every road is safe, every life is valued, and no one has to suffer the consequences of a preventable road crash.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.

2025 Elections: Surprising Senate wins, dynasties, and shifting voter demographics
With most ballots already counted, we break down the surprising projected wins of opposition candidates Kiko Pangilinan and Bam Aquino, the continued dominance but perhaps worsening reputation of political dynasties, the rejection of celebrity candidates, and more in this conversation about the 2025 elections with Michael Yusingco, a Senior Research Fellow at the Ateneo Policy Center. This episode was produced by Bella Perez-Rubio and engineered by Anthony Tobias/Jyn Garcia. 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.

Why Filipinos think Marcos Sr. and Duterte were “good” for democracy
A new survey reveals that many Filipinos see authoritarian leaders like Rodrigo Duterte and Ferdinand Marcos Sr. as beneficial for democracy. Why? In this episode of Teka Teka, we dive into surprising public opinion data ahead of the 2025 midterms, with insights from Ateneo School of Government Dean Randy Tuaño and De La Salle University Professor Julio Teehankee.This episode was produced by Bella Perez-Rubio and engineered by Anthony Tobias/Jyn Garcia. 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.

Navigating the future of learning in the age of AI
In this episode, Roby Alampay talks to Beth Pangan of Microsoft Philippines and Emmy Bailon of De La Salle Zobel’s Spark Ed Center about the rapidly evolving role of AI in education. They discuss how AI is being used by teachers and students, the initial anxieties and excitement surrounding its adoption, the crucial need for guardrails and ethical guidelines, and the challenges of implementing AI responsibly across diverse educational settings in the Philippines.This episode was produced by Jyn Garcia and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.This is the third installment of a series on Artificial Intelligence in partnership with Microsoft Philippines. You may listen to the first and second episodes here and here.Listen to more of 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.

Dog breeding, pet overpopulation, and the aspin stigma: A crisis in Philippine animal welfare
Trigger warning: This episode discusses animal discrimination, euthanasia, abuse, and neglect that may cause distress to some listeners. Please tune in with caution.The Philippines has one of the highest pet ownership rates in Southeast Asia—but it also faces a growing crisis: millions of stray dogs, overcrowded shelters, and weak breeding regulations. In this episode, we explore the urgent need for stricter breeding laws and meaningful animal welfare reform.Animal rights advocates Janna Sevilla (PETA Asia) and Atty. Anna Cabrera (Philippine Animal Welfare Society) break down what’s fueling the pet overpopulation problem—and how unregulated breeding and the stigma against aspins (asong Pinoy) are making it worse.Here’s a link to a related episode about animal cruelty in the Philippines: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Hf2CQtnSfHCziD1IrOEHV?si=ab0107c735944b24This episode was produced by Jyn Garcia and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to more of 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.

Freelance home-based moms: Empowering mothers through work-from-home success
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, meet the inspiring Filipino moms who are thriving in the digital workspace. In this episode, Jacque Manabat sits down with Maria Korina “Mommy MK” Bertulfo, founder of the Filipina Homebased Moms (FHMoms) community. Discover how this support network empowers thousands of women to transition from traditional jobs to successful freelance careers while managing the joys and challenges of motherhood. From digital skills training to real stories of resilience, learn how these moms are redefining work-life balance—one online gig at a time.Perfect for freelancers, work-from-home parents, and anyone looking for inspiration in the modern job market.This episode was engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.Listen to more of 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.

AI at work: How Filipino business leaders are reimagining the workplace
How is AI changing the way Filipinos work? In this episode of Teka Teka, we dive into how artificial intelligence is reshaping business, productivity, and careers in the Philippines. Roby Alampay sits down with Peter Maquera, CEO of Microsoft Philippines, and Jojo Gendrano, COO of Kayana Solutions, to talk about what AI means for companies today—from saving hours on tasks to transforming entire workflows.Whether you’re leading a team or just trying to stay ahead, this conversation reveals how AI is more than a tool — it’s a catalyst for change. Learn what “agentic AI” is, how Filipino companies are adapting, and why the future of work is already here.This episode was produced by Jyn Garcia and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.This is the second installment of a series on Artificial Intelligence in partnership with Microsoft Philippines. You may listen to the first episode here.Listen to more of 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.

Political dynasties in the Philippines grow ‘obese’ ahead of 2025 elections
The two highest posts in the Philippine government are held by dynasties. But the Marcoses and Dutertes are only two of the dozens of families who loom so large in Philippine politics that analysts have taken to calling their dynasties not just fat, but obese. We speak to Kevin Pilapil of FYT, a community-oriented media outlet that has been tracking these families ahead of the 2025 elections.This episode was produced by Bella Perez-Rubio 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.You can also check out more of FYT’s work on Facebook and Instagram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SB19 and the rise of P-pop music
SB19 will be the first Filipino group to hold a two-night concert at the Philippine Arena, the largest indoor arena in the world, when they kick off their Simula at Wakas world tour on May 31. The P-pop kings have built a strong fan base called A’TIN, which is composed not just of Filipinos but also of their growing international fans from Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, the United States, and more countries. The fandom has transcended generational divides, with mothers, grandmothers, and fanboys joining young women in supporting the hitmakers behind “MAPA” and “GENTO.”In this episode of Thought Bubbles, three proud A’TIN share their personal stories of discovering SB19, discuss what they think are the secrets to their success, and reflect on the continuing rise of P-pop and what this means for the Philippines.This episode is 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 Teka Teka on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pope Francis and the 'Smugglers of Faith': A Filipino tribute from Rome
In this episode produced by Jacque Manabat, we delve into the impact of Pope Francis's passing on the Filipino migrant community in Rome, a community that felt a particularly deep connection with him. We're joined by Egay Bonzon, a respected leader within that community, to explore this shared grief and the powerful legacy the Pope leaves behind.Egay, along with many other Filipinos, reflects on Pope Francis's description of them as 'contrabandistas de la fe,' or 'smugglers of the faith,' a phrase that acknowledged their quiet yet significant role in spreading faith through their daily lives. The Pope's understanding of migration, stemming from his own background as the son of Italian immigrants in Argentina, resonated deeply with Filipinos living abroad. His compassion for the poor, his simple lifestyle, and his unwavering advocacy for social justice created a strong bond. We'll discuss how Pope Francis's leadership was perceived not just as a spiritual guide, but as that of a family member, and a powerful voice for the marginalized. Egay, himself an advocate for workers' rights within the community, shares how the Pope's legacy extends beyond religious affiliation, touching the lives of many, regardless of their faith.We'll also explore the outpouring of affection from Filipinos who are now making pilgrimages to Rome, referring to him affectionately as 'Lolo Kiko,' a testament to the personal connection they felt.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.

Not just for techies: How we’re all using AI now
AI isn't just for techies—it’s already part of your day. In this episode of Teka Teka, Roby Alampay chats with Josh Aquino of Microsoft Philippines and content creators Alvin Santos (@pepe_word_smith) and Trixie Esguerra (@thatgirltrixie) about how AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot are shaping our everyday routines. From planning presentations and checking grammar to bedtime storytelling and biohacking research, we explore the smart (and sometimes funny) ways Filipinos are already using AI—without even realizing it.Whether you're a skeptic, a casual user, or a full-on fan, this episode is your window into the practical, personal, and powerful ways AI is quietly changing our lives at home. Plus, we talk about AI ethics, digital responsibility, and what it really means to “ride the wave” of technology.Listen in to discover how to make AI work for you—without letting it take the wheel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Remembering Pope Francis: A Jesuit’s reflection on justice, hope, and the Church's future
In this special episode of Teka Teka, guest host Regine Cabato speaks with Jesuit priest, poet, and anthropologist Fr. Albert “Paring Bert” Alejo as he reflects on the passing of Pope Francis. From the Pope’s historic 2015 visit to the Philippines to his quiet yet progressive reforms, Paring Bert shares insights on how Pope Francis shaped global and Filipino conscience through compassion, political love, and faith-based activism. They also explore how the Church can move forward in the post-Francis era—tackling disinformation, injustice, and the need to communicate with both clarity and heart. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inside the literacy gap: Why fewer Filipinos are reading for fun
This World Book Day, we dive into the Philippines’ growing literacy crisis. According to recent studies, over 90% of Filipino children struggle with basic reading skills. We speak with Gillian Reyes, a registered librarian and project development officer at the National Book Development Board (NBDB), about the state of reading in the country and the efforts to promote a culture of reading at home, in schools, and in communities.Whether you're a parent, teacher, or book lover, this episode explores how we can all help raise a new generation of Filipino readers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Election 2025: Why candidates get away with spending billions in premature campaigning
Despite campaign spending limits, the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism found that candidates aired over P10 billion worth of TV and radio ads before the official campaign period for the 2025 midterms even began. In this episode, we break down who had the most ads—and the loophole shielding them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prayers Across Borders: A Story from Rome
When COVID-19 hit Italy in early 2020, many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) found themselves locked down, isolated, and afraid. With limited movement, lost jobs, and growing distance from their families back home, a small group decided to gather online for something simple: daily prayer. What began as a morning rosary on Google Meet quietly grew into a full community, one that offered spiritual strength, emotional support, and even material help to its members.In this episode, Jaemark Tordecilla travels to Rome and joins a local mass with members of the Family of Davar, a prayer group formed at the height of the pandemic. He meets Brother John and Brother Aphol, two OFWs whose stories reveal how faith, music, and digital connection helped them survive some of their darkest days. Despite long work hours, uncertain futures, and physical distance, they found in each other a kind of second family.This is a story about prayer beyond the church walls, worship across borders, and the power of community built not just on faith, but on shared struggle. From an old basilica in Trastevere to countless quiet kitchens and jobsites across Europe, the gospel lives on: in WiFi, in song, and in the spaces we make for each other. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Could House drug war testimony strengthen the ICC’s case against Duterte?
With former President Duterte’s trial at the International Criminal Court looming, a lawyer assisting the court explains how explosive testimony from House drug war hearings could strengthen the case against him. A veteran journalist also breaks down revelations from a former top drug war enforcer who called the PNP the “biggest crime group in the country.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Holy Week in Leyte: Inside the Tacloban church-turned-Marcos shrine
This Holy Week, embark on an unconventional pilgrimage to the Santo Niño Shrine and Heritage Site in Tacloban City, a former Marcos family rest house that bizarrely doubles as a church. Explore the opulent interiors filled with seized "loot" and propaganda, offering a deeply strange tour of both the property and Philippine history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Unpopular corruption, but popular corrupt politicians": Inside Filipino views on political dynasties
Recent surveys reveal the complex and seemingly paradoxical views of Filipinos on political dynasties and their dominance. Ahead of the 2025 midterm elections, we delve into public opinion, exploring why many Filipinos accept dynastic rule despite acknowledging potential corruption, with WR Numero Research President and political analyst Cleve Arguelles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

South Korea's martial law saga: How they thwarted Yoon Suk Yeol's power grab
A South Korean political reporter, Jikyung Kim, takes us inside the dramatic events of President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law in December 2024 and the swift resistance that led to his impeachment. Learn about the public outcry, political turmoil, and the state of democracy in South Korea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Philippine academic calendar, internationalization, and climate change
President Bongbong Marcos has approved the move to revert the school calendar of high schools and elementary schools back to the old June to March calendar. Colleges and universities, however, still remain in the August to May academic year – which was made to align with international universities and in light of ASEAN Integration in 2015. But with climate change and extreme heat waves during the summer months, the education sector might need to rethink the academic calendar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Women in literature: Clarissa Militante on writing, the Filipino experience, and telling stories
Filipina author Clarissa Militante shares how her experiences and political beliefs shape her fiction. Best known for her novel ‘Different Countries,’ Militante reflects on her journey as a writer, how storytelling captures the Filipino experience, and why writing begins with craft—not just message. She also offers advice for aspiring writers and names the authors who have inspired her.A thoughtful episode of those interested in Philippine literature. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The plight of Filipino-Palestinians begs the question: Should we be doing more to end the conflict?
A survey released last year found that most Filipinos want their country to stay “neutral” on Israel's ongoing bombardment of Gaza. But what does neutrality mean – and who does it benefit really? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Animal cruelty in the Philippines: Why justice is rarely served
Trigger warning: This episode discusses animal cruelty, including instances of abuse, neglect, and mistreatment. Some content may be distressing for listeners.Why do so few animal cruelty cases in the Philippines make it to court? Out of 673 incidents reported to the Philippine Animal Welfare Society in 2024, only 8 led to legal action. In this episode, PAWS chief attorney Anna Cabrera joins Teka Teka to discuss the consequences of not filing cases against perpetrators of animal abuse—and what can be done to ensure justice. Tune in as we explore long-term solutions to stop animal cruelty for good. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Women in Indie music: Fighting for a stage
Women and LGBT+ artists in the Philippines’ indie music scene are carving out spaces where they can thrive on their own terms. In this episode, we talk to Kim Bernardino, vocalist of Cheekythings and co-manager of Sining Shelter, about her journey in indie music, the challenges of being a woman in the industry, and the safe spaces that uplift marginalized artists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Budget Bot: Unlocking the Philippine national budget with AI
How is the Philippine national budget being spent? Veteran journalist and technologist Jaemark Tordecilla talks to Roby Alampay to introduce Budget Bot, an AI-powered tool that makes budget data accessible to everyone. In this episode, we explore how AI can uncover spending patterns, outliers, and potential red flags—just in time for the elections. Find out how you can use Budget Bot to track public funds and make informed decisions.🔗 Try Budget Bot: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-JbtdqTBNp-budget-bot📖 User Guide: https://github.com/tordecilla/budget-bot📖 Article: https://reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk/news/i-created-ai-chatbot-speak-my-countrys-budget-heres-how-i-did-it Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can AI replace voice actors? The VoiceMaster of the Philippines weighs in
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the voice-acting industry, from automated narration to synthetic voices in ads, films, and apps. While many fear AI could replace human voice actors, others see it as an opportunity.In this episode, we speak with Pocholo de Leon Gonzales, the "VoiceMaster of the Philippines," who has embraced AI throughout his three-decade-long career. We talk about the evolution of voice tech, the ethics of voice cloning, and how voice actors can adapt, upskill, and thrive alongside AI. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duterte’s ICC arrest explained: What happens next?
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity over his deadly drug war. What happens now? In this episode, we break down the ICC case against Duterte, what the charges mean, and what the coming trial could look like — from possible jail time to international legal and political consequences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the Philippines an aging population?
The once booming Philippine population isn't growing as quickly as it used to . Are we bound to follow countries like Japan and South Korea into a demographic crisis? In this episode, we break down what this means for our economy, workforce, and future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The sound of elections: Philippine campaign jingles
Discover the catchy, powerful, and sometimes controversial world of election campaign jingles. In this episode, we speak to music arranger and producer Nicholas Lazaro, who delves into the creative process behind crafting these tunes, the ethical dilemmas of working with political candidates, and the growing role of AI in music production. He also explores how jingles influence voters—especially those less politically informed. Tune in to uncover how music shapes the way Filipinos experience elections. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fake IDs, real burdens: Exploring the PWD discount system
What if the system designed to support our most vulnerable is being exploited? Who truly pays the price? In this episode, we explore the complexities of Republic Act No. 10754, which mandates a 20% discount and VAT exemption for persons with disabilities (PWDs). Journalist Justine Dizon shares his firsthand experience of defending his right to these benefits, while tax expert Mon Abrea unpacks the challenges businesses face in verifying PWD IDs. We also discuss the broader implications for both PWDs and establishments, shedding light on the urgent need for a clearer, more reliable system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jellie Aw, violence against women and legal protections for victims of abuse
ETrigger Warning: This episode discusses domestic violence, which may be distressing for some listeners. If you need support, resources and helplines are listed below.For years, violence against women has persisted in various forms: physical, sexual, psychological, and economic. Despite existing laws, many survivors struggle to seek justice. Recent high-profile cases, such as those of socialite Tessa Prieto and vlogger and DJ Jellie Aw, have reignited public discussions on the barriers victims face, the gaps in legal protections, and what must change to ensure their safety and empowerment.In this episode, Atty. Alex Castro, a lawyer, women’s rights advocate, and founder of Youth Against Sexual Harassment (YASH), explains how the law addresses violence against women and where it still falls short.Where to Seek Help:Barangay VAW Desk (Barangay Hall)Social Welfare & Development Office (LGUs)DSWD CBSS – Tel. 733-0014 to 18 local 116 / 488-2861PNP Women and Children Protection Center (Camp Crame) – Tel. 410-3213 / 532-6690Aleng Pulis Hotline – Tel. 0919-777-7377 | Emergency: 911Women & Children Protection Desk (Nearest Police Precinct)NBI Anti-VAWCD – Tel. (02) 8523-8231 to 38 / (02) 8525-6028PNP WCPC – Tel. (02) 8532-6690 / 7410-3213 / 7723-0401 local 5260, 5360, 5361Visayas: 0917-708-5157 / (032) 410-8483Mindanao: 0917-180-6037DOJ-PAO Legal Aid – Tel. (02) 8929-9436 local 106, 107, 159UP-PGH Women’s Desk – Tel. (02) 8353-0667 / 8542-1512 / 8554-8400 local 2536DOH Hospitals, Women and Children Protection UnitWomen’s Crisis Center (WCC) – Tel. (02) 8514-4104 | Mobile: 0920-967-7852 / 0917-825-0320For more information, visit pcw.gov.ph. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The making of Edgar Matobato, Ex-Davao Death Squad member & star witness in Duterte’s ICC Case
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of violence, extrajudicial killings, and detailed accounts of brutality that may be distressing to some listeners.Acting on a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court, Philippine authorities swiftly arrested former President Rodrigo Duterte on the morning of March 11, 2025. It was a long-awaited answer to calls for drug war accountability. Duterte denies committing any crime. But before these dizzying developments, one man had already stepped forward with a chilling confession.In this episode, we dive into the testimony of Edgar Matobato, a self-confessed member of the Davao Death Squad. Matobato's revelations provide a firsthand account of the extrajudicial killings that defined Duterte's anti-drug campaign. Investigative journalist Sheila Coronel and an advocate for whistleblowers, Father Alabert Alejo, join us to discuss the challenges of verifying Matobato's account, the clandestine networks that offered him protection, and the broader implications for justice and accountability in the Philippines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Making of Edgar Matobato
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of violence, extrajudicial killings, and detailed accounts of brutality that may be distressing to some listeners.The Making of Edgar Matobato is an investigative piece by award-winning journalist Sheila Coronel, published by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) on January 17, 2025. This gripping article uncovers the story of Edgar Matobato, a self-confessed assassin for the Davao Death Squad, who became the first insider to expose the extrajudicial killings allegedly ordered by former President Rodrigo Duterte.Now adapted into audio by Jaemark Tordecilla, with the help of AI, this episode brings Matobato’s journey to life—from his time as a hitman to his shocking testimony before the Senate and the dangerous life he led as a fugitive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is China so upset about the Typhon missile system in the Philippines?
Nearly nine years after the Philippines' legal victory over China in the West Philippine Sea, tensions remain high. Chinese ships are shadowing our coast guard, lasers are targeting our aircraft, and Filipino fishermen face constant harassment.But this time, the Philippines isn't just protesting—it's bringing in reinforcements. Enter the Typhon missile system, a powerful U.S. weapon that has China on edge. Why? Because it's mobile, long-range, and stationed in Northern Luzon—right next to Taiwan.In this episode, we break down what the Typhon system can do, why China sees it as a threat, and what this means for the Philippines, the U.S., and the regionListen now to understand why this missile deployment could change the game in the West Philippine Sea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feeling the Heat and Understanding the Heat Index
Summer is around the corner and class cancellations due to the extreme heat have begun. In this episode, we run back Bella Perez-Rubio's report from last year's heat wave to refresh our minds on the rising concern of dangerously high heat index levels in the Philippines, a pressing issue due to the increasing intensity of climate change. We discuss the differences between heat index and temperature, the classifications of hazardous heat, and the severe health risks posed by extreme heat.We also look into the solutions offered for mitigating these impacts in critical sectors like labor and education. From workplace safety measures to distance learning in schools, we explore some measures that can help protect people from the dangers of extreme heat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wer ART daw?
From Juan Luna to AI-generated masterpieces—where is Filipino art headed in 2025? In this episode of Thought Bubbles, we sit down with Joseph "JT" Gonzales, owner of gallery.sort, to talk about the shifting trends in Philippine art, how Gen Z and Gen Alpha are engaging with the scene, and whether AI art is a threat or an opportunity for artists today.Are young Filipinos investing in art?How are artists breaking free from the traditional gallery system?What protections exist for artists in the age of AI?If you’ve ever thought about starting your own art collection, this episode is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, Love, Not Again: Can Filipino migrants still find joy in Canada in 2025?
Canada is cutting back on its immigration quotas. What does this mean for Filipinos who hope to move to the country, just like Kathryn Bernado’s Joy and Alden Richards’ Ethan in Hello, Love, Again? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can Filipino cuisine reach global heights?
Pinoy food is rich, soulful, and packed with history—but why isn’t it as globally recognized as Thai, Japanese, or Korean cuisine? In this episode, we speak to Kuwa Bakery co-founder Cho Marcelino to discuss the challenges that Filipino cuisine faces and what needs to happen for it to finally have its big moment on the world stage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Marcos Jr. undermines EDSA Day, monuments to his dictator father emerge
For three years now, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has undermined the yearly commemoration of the 1986 People Power Revolution that toppled his father’s regime. In that same time, researchers say his government allocated at least P150 million to fund more than a dozen sites honoring his family. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The World of Sign Language and its Unique Grammar
Some Deaf individuals write in English differently, which may appear as “wrong” grammar to the hearing community. In this episode, we explore the unique structure of sign languages, how it shapes thought and communication, and why understanding this fosters greater inclusivity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The rise of DeepSeek, the Chinese AI chatbot making waves in tech
DeepSeek shows an obvious bias when it comes to issues related to China. In this episode, Roby Alampay and Jaemark Tordecilla talk about its implications for the Philippines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Remembering Barbie Hsu, the legacy of Shan Cai, and Meteor Garden fever
Fans all over the world are still mourning the death of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, who starred along with F4 in the popular 2003 series Meteor Garden. In this episode of Thought Bubbles, we look back on Barbie’s legacy as the feisty heroine Shan Cai with a certified Meteor Garden fan, Dr. KC Abalos Orendain of UP Diliman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Andi Eigenmann can teach us about using ChatGPT
Andi Eigenmann used ChatGPT for relationship advice and showed us a smart way to use AI. In this episode, journalist and technologist Jaemark Tordecilla tells us more on how we can use AI chatbots more effectively. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why impeach Vice President Sara Duterte ahead of elections and a congressional break?
Lawyer and political analyst Michael Yusingco weighs in on the curious timing of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment, what it suggests about the motives of the politicians behind it, and what it means for the upcoming trial in the Senate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inside the political turmoil in South Korea
South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol is facing impeachment after declaring martial law in December 2024. In this episode, political reporter Kim Jikyung of Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation breaks down the crisis still unfolding in the country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trump 2.0 is in full swing – What does that mean for the Philippines?
Trump's first two weeks in office have seen a return to the chaos and uproar that marked his first term. In this episode, political scientist Aries Arugay explains how this affects the Philippines and its ties with its oldest treaty ally. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do many Filipinos believe in astrology?
It’s that time of the year when horoscope predictions are at their peak. Astrology is hardly scientific, so why do many people continue to engage with it? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An anti-teen pregnancy measure is imperiled by religious groups and conservatives
Religious groups and conservatives are spreading false and misleading claims about a bill seeking to lower the alarming number of adolescent pregnancies in the Philippines.Male senators successfully pressure rights body into denouncing abortion.Why is online child sex abuse difficult to contain in the PhilippinesWho will benefit if divorce is legalized in the Philippines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can a Filipino film win an Oscar?
The Philippines has been regularly submitting entries for Best International Feature Film consideration at the Oscars. However, no Filipino film has secured an Academy Award nomination, let alone a trophy. What can we do to make this happen? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.