The Howie Severino Podcast

"Parang nasa washing machine ako," ganiyan inilarawan ni Joanna Sustento-Bacsa ang naging karanasan niya noong nanalasa ang Supertyphoon Yolanda sa Tacloban, Leyte noong November 2013. Lima sa kaniyang pamilya ang nasawi. Paano siya nakaligtas? Ang kalamidad ang naging daan para siya’y maging isang climate activist.

Date recorded: November 4, 2023

Listen to the full episodes here:

PART 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/73xwThBTybl7BYeTRvflro?si=891b0a32a5864ebc

PART 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ZnFd0CeBFtPAaodYLSkvw?si=e9acd680b4374d30

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robert Alejandro was a visual artist with a singular style and a source of inspiration to many, especially through his battle with cancer, which began in 2016.

Even before his health struggles were bouts of depression. When he spoke to Howie in 2021 in the midst of the pandemic, he seemed to be projecting both improving health and a bright outlook. 

His message to those facing similar self-doubt: You don’t have to be anything, you don’t have to accomplish anything, you have every right to be here in this world.

Robert touched many with his generosity and a child-like wonder with which he interacted with the world.

Listen to the whole episode (Recorded October 2021): 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7faZEjus6rDiDas2xMUbL0?si=hJ4ohChFTr6UXf04iYmstQ

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Filipinos are battered and traumatized by flooding. In a conversation with hydrologist Dr. Guillermo Tabios recorded last August 2024, he sees the problem getting worse unless we adopt radical solutions, like changing the direction of rivers.

Listen to the whole episode (Recorded August 5, 2024):

https://open.spotify.com/episode/14bEWKYyI3evZdrY4QRHCQ?si=CvhW37J6QCKrBAl-O4JV-w

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maraming lihim na nakabaon sa “Walled City ng Intramuros.”  Para sa popular na tour guide na si Benjamin Canapi, nais niyang bigyang liwanag ang ilan sa madidilim na bahagi ng kasaysayan nito.

Tulad nalang ng pagkamatay ng isang pari sa loob ng San Agustin Church.

Ano ang totoo sa mga kuwento? Naniniwala ka ba sa multo?

Pakinggan ang buong episode (Date recorded: October 26, 2022): https://open.spotify.com/episode/0uxTaQN034xq6nbo7fPhfl?si=cabb23b0027f4451

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Kevin Eric Raymundo a.k.a. Tarantadong Kalbo talks about the journey to iconic political cartooning.

Listen to the full episode here (Date recorded: March 20, 2023): https://open.spotify.com/episode/2916J7cY1rOZboUKUH4fT5?si=ZbIF96RzS3etmhyCajCYTg

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Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, a retired UP professor and the first female Chief Negotiator in the world to sign a final peace accord with a rebel group, talks about how she overcame the biases of male warriors and earned their trust. She was given a Ramon Magsaysay award for her efforts.

Listen to the full episode here (Date recorded: March 21, 2024): https://open.spotify.com/episode/2dscfKRI6zkQLgJCmB1wkQ?si=6l2C43UTTuyEl9q0KEycYA

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Norman King, the first Aeta graduate of the University of the Philippines, has set out to prove indigenous people can excel if given the same opportunities. He’s already portrayed a key character in a show starring Dingdong Dantes. 

October marks Indigenous Peoples' Month in the Philippines.

Listen to the full episode here (Date recorded: October 6, 2022): https://open.spotify.com/episode/3QZ78O7p9TJnTkaSHG0k1M?si=rL9-mNvlTwuehZ5f6nU6fw

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Pangarap ni Jo Berry ang maging abogado, pero kinailangan niya itong isantabi nang pumasok siya sa showbiz. Ang pagganap niya bilang Atty. Lilet Matias ay tila patikim daw sa career na nais niyang makamit. 

Ngayong Dwarfism Awareness Month, balikan natin ang convo kasama si Jo kung saan ikinuwento niya ang mga hamon sa kanya bilang “little person” at kung paano niya binago ang pagtingin ng mga tao sa tulong ng mga ginampanan niyang roles.

Puwedeng mapakinggan ang full episodes dito (Date recorded: January 23, 2022): 

Part 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6iAqnaoE8TZYBalrT1VG3a

Part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3g0kOLC4TpB0JXuB45zQVD

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we celebrate Teachers' Month this October, TOYM Awardee Sabrina Ongkiko shares the joy of teaching kids despite the challenges of being a public school teacher.

Listen to the full episode here (Date recorded: April 28, 2022): https://open.spotify.com/episode/6mESdr7UDFBepmxAoPd2wx?si=dGSBEXStRgSLpLO8So_A8g

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Psychiatrist Joan Mae Perez-Rifareal talks about how to discern and manage stress, anxiety and depression. According to her, burnout is a real condition. What are the signs and when do we need to take action?

This is our offering for World Mental Health Day, and was excerpted from a longer conversation.

Listen to the full episode here (Date recorded: May 5, 2023): https://open.spotify.com/episode/5ZcT6aRJ6fsEATZFaL1rEh

DOH / National Center for Mental Health Hotlines: Landline: 1-5-5-3

Mobile: 0966-351-4518 or 0917-899-8727

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Journalist and UP professor Karol Ilagan cites deep fakes as a major concern in the context of elections all over the world.

Listen to the full episode here (Date recorded: May 7, 2024):

https://open.spotify.com/episode/30z3IZMqZAVgjU6fFrvJex?si=DCfoHLDYSu2Am6KuZC5Y2w

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a candid and wide-ranging conversation, Erwan Heussaff and Howie talk about Christmas overeating and how to enjoy the season without being too stressed over gaining too much weight.

Catch the full episode here (Month recorded: December 2023):

Link: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/50s05WnQG3UN8XaxWg5s3V?si=-69CaUKdT2qKCBWJPfj4XA

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In September 1972, former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. placed the entire country under Martial Law. Journalist and filmmaker Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala has produced numerous films including two on martial law in the Philippines — “Batas Militar”and the more recent “11,103” about martial law survivors.

Catch the full episode here (Date recorded: August 2023):

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7kpZiMQQReMhRfSzziwLPH?si=hfh30mOgTiCTQr5ihyH1GA

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Acclaimed director Ramona Diaz shot hundreds of hours of footage of the 2022 political campaigns, which she entitled, “And so it begins.”

She tells Howie Severino that her newest film is about the festive feels of political campaigns in the Philippines, made more intense by the surge of volunteerism in the Robredo camp.

She tells Howie Severino about her approach to making documentaries and why she doesn’t do sit-down interviews.

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A deepfake of the President and the hacking of government websites have spotlighted the country’s dire need for cybersecurity experts, according to Usec. Jeffrey Dy.

Catch the full episode here (date recorded: May 2024):https://open.spotify.com/episode/0lG2DcR4CSUNCg7lnR6rfV?si=BlI3JRzoSpm345QpDZsrfg

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

According to political commentator Ronald Llamas, Presidents and Vice Presidents coming from opposing political positions is not new. Ronald Llamas shares his hot takes on the ongoing Marcos-Duterte feud and shares his insights on what has become of the Kakampink movement.

Producer: Aubrey Delos Reyes

Researcher: Lilian Tiburcio

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Political commentator Ronald Llamas traces the split between President Marcos and VP Duterte to the earliest days of the administration.

Producer: Aubrey Delos Reyes

Researcher: Lilian Tiburcio

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the -ber months again and we know what that means. The Philippines is known for having the longest Christmas season in the world. So expect to hear certain songs on repeat. Balladeer Jose Mari Chan talks about how his iconic “Christmas in our Hearts” was originally composed for a school reunion and became an unexpected classic.

Catch the full episode here (date recorded: August 11, 2022):

Link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5zwp2dFiuI4KfSFDxjuPIQ?si=nFRWFwM9RtyMYKF23_7mrQ

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Threatened ang wika natin,” ganito inilarawan ng manunulat, makata at Alagad ng Sining para sa Panitikan, Virgilio Amario, ang kasalukuyang estado ng Wikang Filipino. Ayon sa kanya, mababa pa rin ang pagtingin sa ating wika dahil sa kolonyal na mentalidad.

Noong 1980, nakita niya ang pangangailangan ng pagsulat ng mga librong pambata kaya’t itinatag niya ang Adarna House na naglalayong makahikayat ng bagong henerasyon ng mambabasa. Ikinuwento niya ang mahabang proseso bago siya nakasulat ng kuwentong pambata at aminadong hindi ito madali. Pinaliwanag din ni G. Almario kung bakit ang aklat na isinulat ni Bise Presidente Sara Duterte ay ang katibayan na mahirap sumulat ng librong pambata.

Dinetalye rin ni G. Almario ang dahilan kung bakit sa wikang Tagalog hango ang wikang Filipino at nilinaw na hindi ito “niluto ni Quezon.”

Producer: Eumer Yanga

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In case you missed it, 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival Best Director Pepe Diokno explains the influence of the three martyred priests: Mariano Gomes, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora on the Philippine Revolution.

Listen to the full episode here (Date recorded: January 9, 2024): 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0bc32tZdSnZLMaQiIsltrI?si=18e913837c2c4319

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

JP Soriano, GMAIN veteran reporter, had a ringside seat while covering the Paris Olympics and witnessed not just Yulo’s golden moments but the heartbreak of the Philippines’ other athletes.

Soriano describes the excitement as Carlos Yulo beat strong rivals, especially the defending champion from Israel who had more fans in the stands.

Our reporter also saw how the Philippines’ first gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz privately offered the gymnast comfort as he tried to block off the distractions during the competition.

JP was also at the exhilarating gold-medal basketball game between Team USA and Team France.

Producer: Aubrey Delos Reyes

Researcher: MJ Cerillo

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every August, the Philippines commemorates 'Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa.' In a 2021 conversation, fellow veteran documentarist Kara David  shares how she vlogs to teach Filipino language.

Catch the full episode here (Date recorded: July 23, 2021):

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6HNbiv1CWBCGgVY2FPYm54?si=d4d377a0579a4880&nd=1

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many can relate to the Yulo family drama. Dr. Anna Tuazon explains some of the cultural values at play such as “balato,” “utang na loob,” parental fealty, and the pressures of being the family breadwinner.

She shares what she has advised her own patients — the importance of listening to each other, respecting the choices of your children (“let them dream”), and knowing the boundaries of “utang na loob” (shouldn’t be transactional or demanded).

Doc Anna reminds us that Carlos Yulo reached the pinnacle of his sport despite the distractions and disadvantages. To do that required “mental gymnastics” and an inner strength.

Producer: Ivy Andrada Bautista

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A useless new wheelchair ramp along EDSA appeared more like a slide at an amusement park, triggering a wave of online ridicule. But it produced at least one benefit: it started a conversation about making cities more accessible. Ken Abante, a leading advocate of inclusive mobility, tells us how.

Listen to the full episode here (Date recorded: June 30, 2023):

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7b68W0vGG1MOquHZahz07l?si=b13df8f909ec48e1

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prominent flood control engineer Dr. Guillermo Tabios shares a harsh reality — some densely populated areas of Manila may no longer be livable.

In a wide-ranging conversation with Howie Severino triggered by recent devastating flooding, the UP professor emeritus of civil engineering explains that the low-lying metropolis could be facing unstoppable flooding.

Climate change, clogged waterways, and the lack of major infrastructure spell regular disasters for millions of residents. Unless large floodways are built to carry water to the sea, Tabios says certain residential areas need to be abandoned to avoid the certainty of worsening floods and regular evacuations and fatalities. Current flood control projects are a patchwork that hasn’t solved the problem. He calls for a new cabinet-level Department of Water Resources that will coordinate government efforts and focus on comprehensive solutions.

Tabios cites Iloilo City as an urban center that has built effective flood control systems by diverting water away from the city center.

In Metro Manila, such an approach may require tunneling from Laguna Lake to the Pacific Ocean. According to Tabios, the reclamation projects in Manila Bay only exacerbate the situation by blocking the flow of water to the sea.

Producer: Aubrey Delos Reyes

Researcher: Lilian Tiburcio

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

August 9 is National Book Lovers Day. For acclaimed UK-based Filipina author Candy Gourlay, reading her first book was a magical experience. In a conversation recorded in June 2023, Gourlay says this experience inspired her to write books for children. Her most popular books are about kids who grew up in the Philippines.

Catch the full episode here (Date recorded: June 21, 2023):

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7j9RQL42yuuT0oNqvJ0P5j?si=4e7af4eaf80148cf

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As millions of Mega Manila residents recover from the worst flooding in over a decade, we revisit a conversation from 2023 with disaster scientist Mahar Lagmay. He cites the Quezon City drainage master plan as a long-term solution that other urban areas can emulate.

Listen to the full episode here (Date recorded: May 31, 2023) 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0YJmomP7JtP0ZtP8bsZiqo?si=f129763f96ca4a42

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hidilyn Diaz, the Philippines' first Olympic gold medalist in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, explains how her sport is as much mental as it is physical.

FULL EPISODE (Published: August 5, 2023)

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Axh74ghWvW38Q5DSZO5M6?si=ialfNJFmT9a_jnHVM-FxeQ

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Social entrepreneur Mark Gersava became a TOYM awardee on the strength of his out-of-the-box ideas, including bamboo straws and toothbrushes.

A vocal advocate of bamboo, he credits eating bamboo shoots as a child with developing his brain and enabling him to rise from poverty.

Producer: Aubrey Delos Reyes

Researcher: Lilian Tiburcio

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Links:

https://bambuhay.ph/

https://www.facebook.com/bambuhayph

https://www.instagram.com/bambuhayph/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Born and raised in the US, Bryan explains why he became a Filipino citizen.

A Philippine resident for 17 years, he has started multiple ventures with bamboo being a main component, including the popular bambike tours of Intramuros.

He tells Howie Severino about the impact of restricting car use in Intramuros in favor of pedestrians and bikers, and why bamboo can help save the planet.

Speaking from his seaside base in Batangas, the social entrepreneur shows Howie his latest bamboo creation, sitting on the ocean and ready for action.

Producer: Eumer Yanga

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Filipino-American Bryan Benitez McClelland came to the Philippines after college thinking he would stay for six months. 17 years later, he’s settled in the country running bicycle tours, advocating bamboo and trying to protect Batangas’s coastal environment. He’s even become a Filipino citizen who votes in every election.

He tells Howie Severino what made him stay and how his bamboo bike company survived the pandemic.

He’s taken up an extreme water sport called “wing foiling,” which has taken him far from shore and made him appreciate the sea environment in new ways.

Producer: Eumer Yanga

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joanna Sustento Bacsa lost five members of her family due to super typhoon Yolanda. She’s now at the forefront of fighting for climate justice.

Catch the full episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ZnFd0CeBFtPAaodYLSkvw?si=IWZKfJlhTReWPPFbsb2OgQ&nd=1&dlsi=8b750ac33f8e4d43

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Surprisingly, the pandemic did not worsen student performance, according to data cited by Dr. Karol Mark Yee, executive director of the Education Commission II, a government body that recommends legislation. “But we’re still at the bottom” among many countries, Yee is quick to add.

After years of research on learning poverty, Yee says the government’s priorities should be nutrition and education in early childhood. He also recommends unburdening teachers of an array of non-teaching responsibilities so they can focus on teaching.

He cites recent improvements by the Department of Education, overlooked amid all the political distractions under former DEPED Secretary, Vice President Sara Duterte.

Yee also talks about his own failures as a student before his personal journey to his PhD from the University of Cambridge in the UK, one of the world’s leading universities.

Producer: Aubrey Delos Reyes

Researcher: MJ Cerillo

Editor: Jay-r Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the height of typhoon season, we revisit advice from Dr. Mahar Lagmay of the UP Resilience Institute, who explains how ordinary people can help build stronger defenses against disasters.

Catch the full episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0YJmomP7JtP0ZtP8bsZiqo?si=GzXO6kUpTQC_WJ3iKkl-6A&nd=1&dlsi=b8b241cc71154e47

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the wake of an unruly Wattah-Wattah Festival in San Juan City, its mayor Francis Zamora vows changes for better crowd control, including limiting the annual basaan to an area around City Hall and improved law enforcement. 

The 6’5” former La Salle player also talks about the surprising transfer of Ateneo star Mason Amos to his alma mater.

Producer: Ivy Andrada-Bautista

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jay-r Magtoto

LINK: https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/911574/jv-ejercito-wattah-wattah-failure-of-leadership/story/ 

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“Kumain ng kalabasa pampalinaw ng mata.” Squash or kalabasa is a popular vegetable. Chef JR Royol shares the fun and value of eating squash blossoms or bulaklak ng kalabasa. He also talks about the fascinating sex life, or way of reproducing, of this hardy plant.

Catch the full episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5i9JGl5yhEZ4KkQpyy9TTV?si=_FLdhLR-Qz-wJowQyFgBKw&nd=1&dlsi=d0a782e56c844377

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the boonies of Sultan Kudarat province in Mindanao, where conflict would force his community to evacuate, Mark Gersava found a way to finish college. He eventually ended up in an office in Makati where he is thriving as a “social entrepreneur.” He explains to Howie Severino how an innovative, conscience-driven businessman can compete against hard-core capitalists. His main product? Plantable bamboo toothbrushes.Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: Lilian TiburcioEditor: Jayr MagtotoLinks: https://bambuhay.ph/https://www.facebook.com/bambuhayphhttps://www.instagram.com/bambuhayph/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was the rare victory of a small nation over a major power. Using legal and historical arguments, the Philippines convinced an international tribunal that Chinese claims in the West Philippine Sea were unlawful. In time for the 8th anniversary of the historic ruling, we revisit journalist and author Marites Vitug’s take on the epic David-and-Goliath face-off.

Catch the full episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5hnPERo0VvwfYOkcFpkh7N?si=PrnJTtTRQ9ujHtGoS9Kyrw&nd=1&dlsi=55190f4a46784f1c

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we celebrate "Pride Month" this June, the national convenor of Pantay, a youth-led gender equality advocacy group and Pride Ph, Vince Liban, talks to Howie Severino about the state of LGBT rights in the Philippines. He explains why, in a society with wide acceptance of LGBTs, the SOGIE equality bill has languished in Congress for 24 years. The recent pronouncement of Pope Francis that priests can now bless same-sex couples was a win, says Liban, and can help open minds to the possibility of legalizing same-sex marriage.#TheHowieSeverinoPodcast

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Darrell Blatchley is a Bisaya-speaking American missionary’s son with an unusual passion: he collects the bones of animals that humans have killed through pollution and displays them for education. The founder of the D’Bone Collector’s Museum in Davao, Blatchley talks to Howie about bearing the stench of dead animals, cleaning the bones of whales and crocodiles, and how our plastic waste is causing the deaths of countless creatures.Producer: Eumer YangaResearcher: Jenica VillanuevaEditor: Jayr MagtotoLinks:https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/balitambayan/talakayan/905155/darrell-blatchley-ang-bone-collector-sa-davao-na-pinagdalhan-ng-bungo-ni-mali/story/https://youtube.com/@uncleddbonecollector?si=-EcMjfC_8ZBEE3vX

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“Objects are beautiful. Objects are worth obsessing about.”It was a shock to the arts community when theater luminary Floy Quintos passed away last April 27, 2024. He was less well known for his expertise on pre-colonial art. He spent part of his conversation with Howie Severino talking about his extensive collection of rice gods called bulol and traditional Philippine fabrics.

Catch the full episode here:

Part 1:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4H2geah3eJYmqazyvY8hyI?si=4e336d0cbbdb457b

Part 2:https://open.spotify.com/episode/3zCGAXi6yPduwKQVtCWVsL?si=0302398624e94a95

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The national convenor of Pantay, a youth-led gender equality advocacy group and Pride PH, Vince Liban, talks to Howie Severino about the state of LGBT rights in the Philippines. He explains why, in a society with wide acceptance of LGBTs, the SOGIE equality bill has languished in Congress for 24 years. The recent pronouncement of Pope Francis that priests can now bless same-sex couples was a win, says Liban, and can help open minds to the possibility of legalizing same-sex marriage.Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: MJ CerilloEditor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recently discovered Spanish military memoirs reveal that after Filipino revolutionary troops defeated the Spanish colonial army in 1898, the Filipinos treated their prisoners of war with honor.

According to the newly translated and published memoirs of Spanish military doctor Dr. Santos Rubiano, they were detained in the homes of wealthy Filipinos in Batangas, fed well and freed a little more than a year later. 

The revealing memoirs were recently found and translated by a young historian, Renz Katigbak, a Filipino immigrant to the US who learned Spanish so he could research obscure texts in the archives of Spain. 

Howie Severino talks to Renz about what the Spanish account adds to our knowledge of the period and how he stumbled on the Rubiano memoirs, which have never been mentioned in history books.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Toym Imao shares how his multicultural upbringing influenced his art.

Catch the full episode here:

Part 1:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/03b5s6bZOU9hM0n9PefTS3?si=aNldmKpATxqHPHXQxyd9Qw

Part 2:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7i4XVaXt8U72jrKkTTIUXv?si=ua7WfqXTRL2Q06Gr7ZQt6Q

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last May, a flotilla of over 100 Filipino civilian boats traveled to Philippine waters claimed by China. Organized by the Atin Ito collation, it was a dangerous expedition that sailed past China’s military ships. After delivering supplies to fishermen, placing “Atin Ito” markers, and returning to the Luzon mainland unscathed, the coalition declared the mission a victory.

Emman Hizon, co-convenor of the Atin Ito coalition, describes to Howie Severino the risks and tensions on the high seas, and their meticulous preparation to avoid harassment by China’s maritime forces.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recently discovered Spanish military memoirs reveal that after Filipino revolutionary troops defeated the Spanish colonial army in 1898, the Filipinos treated their prisoners of war with honor.

According to the newly translated and published memoirs of Spanish military doctor Dr. Santos Rubiano, they were detained in the homes of wealthy Filipinos in Batangas, fed well and freed a little more than a year later.

The revealing memoirs were recently found and translated by a young historian, Renz Katigbak, a Filipino immigrant to the US who learned Spanish so he could research obscure texts in the archives of Spain.

Howie Severino talks to Renz about what the Spanish account adds to our knowledge of the period and how he stumbled on the Rubiano memoirs, which have never been mentioned in history books.

Producer: Ivy Andrada Bautista

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jay-r Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 12 marks the anniversary of the nation’s independence. Manolo Quezon, grandson of former president Manuel L. Quezon, breaks down the reasons why this date is contentious.

Catch the full episode here:

Part 1:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5te9kCRiYe0aHpsJJhN1pG?si=FWVBK-oWQJujsIOHUM1hVQ

Part 2: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2H0jEZrQB4djgrr4109Rlk?si=SrA3opBSSyKJl6G1pG46Sw

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

27-year-old artist Renren Galeno’s parents used to ask her that question. Not anymore, not after her illustrations were part of “Searching for Maura,” a ground-breaking investigative report in the Washington Post that was a finalist for the prestigious Pulitzer Prizes. 

Discovered because of her comics on climate anxiety, the Davao native gave a unique Filipino perspective to a major American journalism project that unearthed a long-buried scandal involving the US government’s Smithsonian Museum. 

The project also blew open a hidden part of Philippine history that saw Filipinos displayed in a human zoo at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. 

Galeno tells Howie Severino how she convinced her parents that art was a viable career choice and what it was like to collaborate with investigative journalists.  

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No one sees an end soon to the standoff in the West Philippine Sea. But organizers of the recent civilian missions to Philippine waters claimed by China want to see more of the same by people from various walks of life, helping unite Filipinos around a common assertion of sovereignty. Emman Hizon, co-convenor of the Atin Ito coalition, tells Howie Severino that maybe Filipinos can even finally jet ski there.

Hizon says that the WPS issue has shifted public opinion on China, fueling the rise of a new Filipino nationalism. Where nationalists in a previous era were allied with China, younger generations are seeing China as an adversary and the US as less of a threat.Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: Lilian TiburcioEditor: Jayr Magtoto

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Last May, a flotilla of over 100 Filipino civilian boats traveled to Philippine waters claimed by China. Organized by the Atin Ito coalition, it was a dangerous expedition that sailed past China’s military ships. After delivering supplies to fishermen, placing “Atin Ito” markers, and returning to the Luzon mainland unscathed, the coalition declared the mission a victory.

Emman Hizon, co-convenor of the Atin Ito coalition, describes to Howie Severino the risks and tensions on the high seas, and their meticulous preparation to avoid harassment by China’s maritime forces.

Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: Lilian TiburcioEditor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Howie Severino talks to Ceej Tantengco-Malolos, a leading advocate for female athletes and host of the ground-breaking podcast, “Go Hard Girls.” 

Ceej describes the impact of Olympic gold medalist Hidlyn Diaz and US basketball star Caitlin Clark, while bemoaning the lack of professional opportunities for women to play in the Philippines. 

Braving the online backlash, she has famously called out the objectification of women athletes, misogyny in sports, and violence against women. 

She also talks about working in the lion’s den of the PBA, a league she is influencing in her job as a social media producer. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The iconic landmark on the Pasig River famously burned in 2023.

Ivan Henares, Secretary General of UNESCO's National Comission of the Philippines, explains its historical and cultural value.

Catch the full episode here:https://open.spotify.com/episode/3xeeZfoPWN3kPfOVl2LLc7?si=4ZW-INY8TraMHGmBrMuT5w%0A

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

27-year-old artist Renren Galeno’s parents used to ask her that question. Not anymore, not after her illustrations were part of “Searching for Maura,” a ground-breaking investigative report in the Washington Post that was a finalist for the prestigious Pulitzer Prizes.

Discovered because of her comics on climate anxiety, the Davao native gave a unique Filipino perspective to a major American journalism project that unearthed a long-buried scandal involving the US government’s Smithsonian Museum.

The project also blew open a hidden part of Philippine history that saw Filipinos displayed in a human zoo at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair.

Galeno tells Howie Severino how she convinced her parents that art was a viable career choice and what it was like to collaborate with investigative journalists.

Producer: John Eumer YangaResearcher: Jenica VillanuevaEditor: Jayr Magtoto

Links:The 2024 Pulitzer Prize Finalist in Illustrated Reporting and Commentaryhttps://www.pulitzer.org/finalists/claire-healy-nicole-dungca-and-ren-galeno-contributor-washington-post [VIDEO] Searching for Maura - The Washington Posthttps://youtu.be/O3aBxOv5txc?si=SNOHPoo8FXCNwNuL[ILLUSTRATED REPORT] Searching for Maura - The Washington Posthttps://www.washingtonpost.com/history/interactive/2023/maura-philippines-smithsonian-brain-collection/ I pray you're born with gills https://www.10yearstosavetheworld.com/comics/ren-galeno?itemId=08s7zppb5cfnn1wugc7i2gfml69s7uOther works of Ren Galenoyhttps://rengaleno.ph.online/

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When the war in Israel and Gaza broke out, Palestinian-Filipino beauty queen Zahra Saldua set aside her commercial gigs to speak out about what’s at stake.

Catch the full episode here: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/58PLwAfc00f9NPGkL6hkEG?si=a37b23f6fb514ffc

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s still the early days of AI in the Philippines, but journalist and UP professor Karol Ilagan describes how AI tools can already impact journalism, from the basic task of transcribing interviews to combing dense COA reports in search of patterns and red flags. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Howie Severino talks to Ceej Tantengco-Malolos, a leading advocate for female athletes and host of the ground-breaking podcast, “Go Hard Girls.”

Ceej describes the impact of Olympic gold medalist Hidlyn Diaz and US basketball star Caitlin Clark, while bemoaning the lack of professional opportunities for women to play in the Philippines.

Braving the online backlash, she has famously called out the objectification of women athletes, misogyny in sports, and violence against women.

She also talks about working in the lion’s den of the PBA, a league she is influencing in her job as a social media producer.

Producer: Ivy Andrada Bautista

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jay-r Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte is still making history, but Philippine historian Vicente Rafael at the University of Washington already weighs in, and explains why he titled his book on Duterte “The Sovereign Trickster.”

Listen to the full episode here: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2SPJGEXOPsqK9ePlmRT8ZW?si=d9a2d80ec1984ab5  

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 17 is International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. In case you missed it, director Ivan Payawal talks about combining BL tropes and the lived experiences of LGBT members in making the hit YouTube boys’ love series “Gameboys.”

Catch the full episode here: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/72iwF4W3f6cVJE9zDHpg70?si=4WdV8cI6QOi6OH89yyE6BQ

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[AI Series Part 2] It’s still the early days of AI in the Philippines, but journalist and UP professor Karol Ilagan describes how AI tools can already impact journalism, from the basic task of transcribing interviews to combing dense COA reports in search of patterns and red flags.

Producer: Aubrey Delos Reyes

Researcher: MJ Cerillo

Editor: Jayr Magtoto LINKShttps://pulitzercenter.org/people/karol-ilaganhttps://chat.openai.com/g/g-6UlXp281z-coa-beat-assistant

https://pcij.org/2024/05/03/ai-is-here-a-powerful-tool-for-journalists-if-used-properly/

https://pulitzercenter.org/journalism/initiatives/ai-accountability-network

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[AI Series Part 1] We first saw deepfakes as humorous memes, then as celebrity likenesses selling tacky products. But the deepfake of the president last month calling on the armed forces to take action against a foreign country demonstrated AI-driven deepfakes’ potential for real danger.

Deepfakes have been defined as video or audio manipulated with the help of AI to create hoaxes. But they’re now also considered an advanced form of disinformation with often malicious intent.

Our podcast guest Jeffrey Dy is the government’s undersecretary for Information and Communications Technology. He describes the rapid response of the government to the deepfake president’s order to the military. He also talks about hacking attacks on government that were traced to China, although not necessarily its government.

He says that the country will need 300,000 cybersecurity professionals to handle the wave of deepfakes and other cyber threats on the horizon.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[AI Series Part 1] We first saw deepfakes as humorous memes, then as celebrity likenesses selling tacky products. But the deepfake of the president last month calling on the armed forces to take action against a foreign country demonstrated AI-driven deepfakes’ potential for real danger.Deepfakes have been defined as video or audio manipulated with the help of AI to create hoaxes. But they’re now also considered an advanced form of disinformation with often malicious intent. Our podcast guest Jeffrey Dy is the government’s undersecretary for Information and Communications Technology. He describes the response of the government to the deepfake president’s order to the military (the deepfake was taken down by YouTube after a few hours and monitored automatically for any reappearance).He says that the country will need 300,000 cybersecurity professionals to handle the wave of deepfakes and other cyber threats on the horizon. Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: Lilian TiburcioEditor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In case you missed it, Hya Bendaña – Ateneo alum and daughter of jeepney driver – shares her lived experience with this iconic mode of transport.

Listen to the full episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2LjwLebikKSV9IdXOWsOyQ?si=c82c2eccf1ac4dbe

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who says podcasts have to be only audio?

Introducing part 2 of this landmark “audiozine” episode on Sherwin Felix, the millennial food content creator behind the digital archive Lokalpedia, which has a unique heritage take on Philippine cuisine.

This podcast has always had a video counterpart posted on certain platforms, but video only of the online interviews. One of Howie’s I-Witness documentaries was repurposed for a podcast episode.

To produce this audiozine our podcast team actually had to leave our homes.

Shooting on location for the first time, we went to the Taal lakeshore in Batangas to produce video of Sherwin in a natural setting with a table of little known Philippine heirloom food ingredients. It was a refreshing respite from our usual zoom encounters with thought leaders.

Don’t get used to it. This format is a special occasion to mark this podcast’s third anniversary. We will continue to innovate and occasionally produce audiozines.

Our team enjoyed producing this one as it was a chance to see each other face to face as well as hold, smell and taste the delectable objects our guest was talking about with so much passion.

Producer: Eumer YangaResearcher: Jenica VillanuevaEditor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Naga-based poet and filmmaker Kristian Sendon Cordero talks about his quirky “Savage Mind” bookshop and why he has no plans of living anywhere else but Bicol.

Catch the full episode here: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ZRHnzHhjsf5kcwMQiQ4gz?si=RM5fNURwT7Ob-grtpOnndg

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Ever tasted “aruyuy” aka siling duwag? How about bangkiling, tabungaw, and pahutan? You may not know what you’re missing.

In a leveled-up version of this podcast, Howie Severino invites foodie influencer Sherwin Felix to his home in Batangas to talk about delicious Philippine fruits and vegetables hidden in plain sight.

The millennial behind Lokalpedia, the popular food heritage digital archive, Sherwin assembled for our cameras a wide variety of heirloom foods foraged from nature that have long been part of Filipino cuisine. But these have been neglected or forgotten because of the advent of fast food and foreign flavors.

Lokalpedia has a growing audience that’s interested in rediscovering Philippine food biodiversity.

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It's our 3rd anniversary, podmates!

In line with our celebration, we have something in store for you!

Introducing the audiozine – a first in Philippine podcasts wherein magazine meets audio! Here, we will talk about a variety of topics ranging from rare native berries to the common items in the Bahay Kubo song.

Catch this episode on April 26, 2024, Friday on all streaming and social media platforms of GMA Integrated News.

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"Baybayin, calligraphy for the world"

The millennial artist Taipan Lucero calls his art CalligraFilipino, applying an Asian art form to the Filipino pre-colonial script Baybayin. 

He has taken his art overseas where he’s demonstrated it at US universities, Google headquarters, and even at a Golden State Warriors basketball game. 

It’s his way of honoring Filipino heritage while calling for more teaching of Filipino scripts. #TheHowieSeverinoPodcast

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Trauma Journalist Patricia Evangelista shares the stories behind her celebrated book. Catch the full episode here:https://open.spotify.com/episode/3bT1bMmvUnRLEEG2ijh4QC?si=8G_75w90St2pGug6qEULXg

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The millennial artist Taipan Lucero calls his art CalligraFilipino, applying an Asian art form to the Filipino pre-colonial script Baybayin.

He has taken his art overseas where he’s demonstrated it at US universities, Google headquarters, and even at a Golden State Warriors basketball game.

It’s his way of honoring Filipino heritage while calling for more teaching of Filipino scripts.

Link: https://www.taipanlucero.com/

---

Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: MJ CerilloEditor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Eric Tayag speaks with Howie Severino on the eve of his retirement after 35 years of government service. 

He talks about how he started using his zumba moves in health campaigns and the challenge of preventing children’s deaths amid a global vaccine shortage. 

Is the pandemic over? When should we still wear masks? Why is there a pertussis outbreak? Why did many believe the anti-vaxxers? Dr. Tayag provides clear answers without having to dance.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

April rings in Filipino food month. Kapampangan Chef Claude Tayag describes Filipino Cuisine” as a symphony of sweet, sour, and salty in a single bite.

Catch the full episode here: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/40jHRX3Ln6adjNU58z2Kdb?si=3tagRka0SOuijFgGnL

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The end of the pandemic unleashed a flood of tourists around the Philippines that is wreaking havoc on fragile ecosystems. Environmental planner Chen Mencias has been advising local governments to aim for "high value, low volume," and involve local communities in tourism enterprises. She gives hot takes on the Chocolate Hills controversy and the Boracay model of development. And she lists the ways that Filipinos can be responsible tourists, and mentions two localities where local governments are managing their tourism sustainably.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Eric Tayag speaks with Howie Severino on the eve of his retirement after 35 years of government service.

He talks about how he started using his zumba moves in health campaigns and the challenge of preventing children’s deaths amid a global vaccine shortage.

Is the pandemic over? When should we still wear masks? Why is there a pertussis outbreak? Why did many believe the anti-vaxxers? Dr. Tayag provides clear answers without having to dance.

CREDITSProducer: Ivy Andrada-Bautista

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TOYM Awardee and Young Inventor Angel Palma tells the story behind her affordable air-con that uses no harmful refrigerants and less electricity than conventional air-conditioners.

Catch the full episode here: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6qhsg7mIZRTL98e0zmLaAK?si=_rzmdXruSRW762Ihmel79g

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The end of the pandemic unleashed a flood of tourists around the Philippines that is wreaking havoc on fragile ecosystems. Environmental planner Chen Mencias has been advising local governments to aim for "high value, low volume," and involve local communities in tourism enterprises. She gives hot takes on the Chocolate Hills controversy and the Boracay model of development. And she lists the ways that Filipinos can be responsible tourists, and mentions two localities where local governments are managing their tourism sustainably.

Links:

https://youtu.be/k5h6DmJUy-I?si=Ju0thUPfD_Db-K4n

https://youtu.be/Y2Xt6snaUk4?si=zL1W3zzk2P85b1lJ

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/85JY3SGrnW6rPZxc/?mibextid=TRmnTU&startTimeMs=3000

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqRJV3pJniU

Producer: Aubrey Delos Reyes

Researcher: Lilian Tiburcio

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The British royal family has been the talk of the town. On March 22, 2024, Catherine Duchess of Cambridge, announced that she had been diagnosed with cancer following her abdominal surgery in January. In case you missed it, BBC Royal Correspondent Jonny Dymond shares his thoughts on covering the British Royal Family.

Listen to the full episode here:
Upload: March 7, 2024

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4J8IFbRKTNWAN7DlSCgHzT?si=i0FBg4GDSMidHDAC_xl_Jw

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The pandemic locked down many and made them homebodies. But in 2022, married couple Celine and Dennis Murillo left home and spent more than a year on the road, traveling around the Philippines in a camper van they called Eli. They shared their awe at the wonders of the country on YouTube before Celine began a Tiktok series on the native trees and plants they saw on their journeys.

In this first part of her conversation with Howie Severino, Celine talks about the practicalities of life on the road – where did they shower and go to the toilet, did they ever feel unsafe, how did they earn a living?

Solving those issues enabled her to produce unique educational content about Philippine biodiversity, including showing live specimens of colorful species depicted in monochrome on the country’s money (“Saribuhay sa Salapi”).

Celine explains that focusing on the nation’s native species is part of her mission to “decolonize” the public’s view of nature.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Retired UP professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer won the Ramon Magsaysay Award for shepherding a peace deal between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, recognizing her as “the first female Chief Negotiator in the world to sign a final peace accord with a rebel group.”

Ferrer explains how she remained focused despite the Mamasapano massacre in 2015 which nearly derailed the peace process. She shares insights on how to get opposing forces to talk seriously about peace, referring also to ongoing conflicts in the Philippines and the Middle East.

She recalls the lessons of growing up with a famous lawyer-father, Antonio Coronel, who had clients and friends on the opposite side of the political fence as his activist-children.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On her popular nature vlog, Celine Murillo constantly identifies plants and animals by their scientific names aside from their common or local names. She stresses that having this knowledge is part of knowing your environment and can even save your life. Part of that essential awareness is why native tree species should be planted and not foreign species, such as the mahogany trees that are seen growing in many places, part of an ill-advised government reforestation program. Does she ever get tempted to call out those who do wrong to the environment? Celine shares her take on that and on her growing influence on TikTok and elsewhere.Producer: Eumer Yanga

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The pandemic locked down many and made them homebodies. But in 2022, married couple Celine and Dennis Murillo left home and spent more than a year on the road, traveling around the Philippines in a camper van they called Eli. They shared their awe at the wonders of the country on YouTube before Celine began a Tiktok series on the native trees and plants they saw on their journeys.

In this first part of her conversation with Howie Severino, Celine talks about the practicalities of life on the road – where did they shower and go to the toilet, did they ever feel unsafe, how did they earn a living?

Solving those issues enabled her to produce unique educational content about Philippine biodiversity, including showing live specimens of colorful species depicted in monochrome on the country’s money (“Saribuhay sa Salapi”).

Celine explains that focusing on the nation’s native species is part of her mission to “decolonize” the public’s view of nature.

Producer: Eumer Yanga

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This March, The Howie Severino Podcast celebrates National Women’s Month with extraordinary Filipinas like Hillary Dianne Andales.  In case you missed it, Hillary tells us how her love for science began at a young age.

Catch the full episode here:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0yOw8793TDdgQpATtD6Nl4?si=38QNbX5HTFWk3zOZ_oPT

2w

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Then-President Noynoy Aquino took a risk when appointing a woman as peace negotiator with the male-dominated MILF.  But the decision bore fruit with the historic “comprehensive agreement” with the MILF in 2014. 

Miriam Coronel-Ferrer talks about the cultural biases women face around the world, including the Philippines despite its high global rankings in gender equality indexes.  She explains how many Filipino women in Muslim Mindanao and elsewhere ended up in public office. 

“The more women are able to show the world that women can do it, (biases) become less and less of a problem,” she asserts. But she adds that their struggle needs the voices of feminist men. “Men need to hear from other men.”

Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: MJ CerilloEditor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Retired UP professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer won the Ramon Magsaysay Award for shepherding a peace deal between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, recognizing her as “the first female Chief Negotiator in the world to sign a final peace accord with a rebel group.” 

Ferrer explains how she remained focused despite the Mamasapano massacre in 2015 which nearly derailed the peace process. She shares insights on how to get opposing forces to talk seriously about peace, referring also to ongoing conflicts in the Philippines and the Middle East. 

She recalls the lessons of growing up with a famous lawyer-father, Antonio Coronel, who had clients and friends on the opposite side of the political fence as his activist-children.

Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: MJ CerilloEditor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This March, The Howie Severino Podcast celebrates National Women’s Month with extraordinary Filipinas like Marian Pastor Roces.  In case you missed it, the art critic and curator tells us why the national narrative must be informed by new science to make more effective policies. 

Catch the full episode here:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1tsV91UQDtfqzBpxXe06EC?si=zKr_GyXiQVOm3ebE52DjCA

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio has been the strongest and most consistent voice against China’s incursions into Philippine territory. He explains to Howie Severino the Chinese strategy of using intimidation to win control of the sea and what’s holding China back from even more aggressive behavior. 

But Carpio believes the Philippines still has space to maneuver in the maritime powder keg and proposes an approach to gain the upper hand, including building a lighthouse and other civilian facilities in disputed territory. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The former Supreme Court justice is calling for building up the nation’s self-defense force and forging closer military ties with regional neighbors.

Carpio warns that another Trump presidency in the US could introduce changes in global alliances unfavorable to the Philippines.

“If you don’t fortify your defenses, you will be erased from the map. That has happened to many countries. And it could happen to us.”

With sea level rise, Carpio argues, the Philippines’ “exclusive economic zone” will only get larger. “So all we have to do is hang on to our claim. Never, never give up our claim because everything will be underwater in that area by the end of the century.”

CREDITS:

Producer: Ivy Andrada-Bautista

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio has been the strongest and most consistent voice against China’s incursions into Philippine territory. He explains to Howie Severino the Chinese strategy of using intimidation to win control of the sea and what’s holding China back from even more aggressive behavior.

But Carpio believes the Philippines still has space to maneuver in the maritime powder keg and proposes an approach to gain the upper hand, including building a lighthouse and other civilian facilities in disputed territory.

CREDITS:

Producer: Ivy Andrada-Bautista

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Among the BBC’s leading journalists, Jonny Dymond recently came to the Philippines for one of the British broadcaster’s flagship programs, World Questions, and spoke to Howie Severino about what makes the Philippines interesting to outsiders. He also talks about his coverage of the British royal family (“a surprisingly hard job”) and Russian President Putin (“His mission is about Russia, not communism”).

Dymond explains how the BBC has been able to stand up to the British government despite being funded by taxpayers.

In the face of various threats to journalists around the world, he urges media colleagues to keep believing in their mission. “If you don’t have people who are prepared to call out the government, who are prepared to report on the government’s successes and failures, then it’s impossible to say that you really have a functioning democracy,” Dymond asserts.

“It’s easy to be cynical, but coming to the Philippines where I know journalists have been under so much pressure, it kind of straightens my back. It makes me believe again in what we do.”

BBC’s World Questions in Manila moderated by Jonny Dymond airs in the Philippines on BBC Radio on March 9 at 8 P.M.

The panelists on the show:

Atty. Antonio Carpio – Former associate justice of the Supreme Court

Dr. Roberto Galang, Dean of the Ateneo de Manila University Gokongwei School of Management

Ms. Rafaela David – President of the Akbayan Citizens' Action Party

Professor Richard Heydarian – Columnist and senior lecturer at the University of the Philippines

BBC WORLD QUESTIONS episode link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct59td

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This March, The Howie Severino Podcast celebrates National Women’s Month with extraordinary Filipinas like Javea Estavillo.  In case you missed it, Javea tells us how the fight against climate change can be both frustrating and enraging, and what her version of an ideal Philippines would look like. 

Catch the full episode here:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1tsV91UQDtfqzBpxXe06EC?si=zKr_GyXiQVOm3ebE52DjCA

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Among the BBC’s leading journalists, Jonny Dymond recently came to the Philippines for one of the British broadcaster’s flagship programs, World Questions, and spoke to Howie Severino about what makes the Philippines interesting to outsiders. He also talks about his coverage of the British royal family (“a surprisingly hard job”) and Russian President Putin (“His mission is about Russia, not communism”).

Dymond explains how the BBC has been able to stand up to the British government despite being funded by taxpayers.

In the face of various threats to journalists around the world, he urges media colleagues to keep believing in their mission. “If you don’t have people who are prepared to call out the government, who are prepared to report on the government’s successes and failures, then it’s impossible to say that you really have a functioning democracy,” Dymond asserts.

“It’s easy to be cynical, but coming to the Philippines where I know journalists have been under so much pressure, it kind of straightens my back. It makes me believe again in what we do.”

BBC’s World Questions in Manila moderated by Jonny Dymond airs in the Philippines on BBC Radio on March 9 at 8 P.M.

The panelists on the show:

Atty. Antonio Carpio – Former associate justice of the Supreme CourtDr. Roberto Galang, Dean of the Ateneo de Manila University Gokongwei School of ManagementMs. Rafaela David – President of the Akbayan Citizens' Action PartyProfessor Richard Heydarian – Columnist and senior lecturer at the University of the Philippines

LINK:https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0380g6d

BBC WORLD QUESTIONS episode link:https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct59td

CREDITS:Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: Lilian TiburcioEditor: Jayr Magtoto

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The eminent writer is also an avid antique typewriter collector. Butch Dalisay talks to Howie Severino about a bygone pre-internet era when these analog machines were the tools of trade of writers and journalists. Despite the advantages of his laptop, Dr. Dalisay says there’s still a romance and even practicality about typewriters. “Wala kang distraction, you can’t surf,” he says. “It’s much more intimate... You’re disconnected from the world.” 

After collecting for years, he’s still searching for one antique model typewriter that was developed specifically for Tagalog writers. He knows it exists because of a trove of 1950s love letters from prison by a Tagalog poet. That typewriter has become, in Butch’s words, his “holy grail.” 

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Three months after being released on bail, former senator and prisoner of conscience Leila de Lima describes in graphic and terrifying detail the day in prison when she was held captive by an Abu Sayyaf inmate known for beheading hostages. 

She reveals that after the hostage taker was shot dead and she was rescued, she received a concerned call from President Marcos, an early sign that his alliance with the Dutertes could be cracking. 

That was her scariest moment, she says, but not among her darkest, which were the times she wasn't allowed a furlough from jail to attend the wakes of close friends, including PNoy. 

Not originally a cat lover, she adopted stray cats in prison to keep her company. She took several home after her release and one of them insisted on joining her for this interview. 

Otherwise, she was in solitude for nearly seven years while imprisoned in Camp Crame and one of the rare VIP inmates without a mobile phone. "I wanted to follow the rules," she tells Howie Severino. She also was not allowed access to the Internet, so she kept up with the outside world through print newspapers and printouts of online articles delivered by her senate staff. 

She says she never lost faith in the judicial system, which she's confident will vindicate her and declare her innocent of all charges. 

Yet for the alleged crimes of former President Rodrigo Duterte, she says the only recourse is the International Criminal Court because there is a "clear demonstration of the unwillingness and inability" of the Philippine justice system to investigate. 

"That's one of the reasons why nagwawala na si Duterte. Out na ang antagonism niya kay President Marcos because I think he suspects the BBM administration is really cooperating with the ICC."

Meanwhile, as she vows to assist the ICC gather evidence, de Lima is back to teaching law and spending time with her aged mother, who was never told by her protective family what her famous daughter went through. 

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The eminent writer is also an avid antique typewriter collector. Butch Dalisay talks to Howie Severino about a bygone pre-internet era when these analog machines were the tools of trade of writers and journalists. Despite the advantages of his laptop, Dr. Dalisay says there’s still a romance and even practicality about typewriters. “Wala kang distraction, you can’t surf,” he says. “It’s much more intimate... You’re disconnected from the world.”

After collecting for years, he’s still searching for one antique model typewriter that was developed specifically for Tagalog writers. He knows it exists because of a trove of 1950s love letters from prison by a Tagalog poet. That typewriter has become, in Butch’s words, his “holy grail.”

Links:https://cms.philstarlife.com/geeky/313514-rizal-s-typewriter#google_vignettehttps://www.gmanetwork.com/news/opinion/content/177163/tribute-to-a-typewriter/story/Producer: John Eumer YangaResearcher: Jenica VillanuevaEditor: Jayr Magtoto

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February 28, 2024 will mark the first year since the Mindoro oil spill happened. In case you missed it, diver and underwater filmmaker Robert Suntay explains how harmful this event was on Philippine biodiversity.

Listen to the full episode here: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7DkmKMZlVF02qKogB1XHIG?si=2b52dce3536847fd   

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three months after being released on bail, former senator and prisoner of conscience Leila de Lima describes in graphic and terrifying detail the day in prison when she was held captive by an Abu Sayyaf inmate known for beheading hostages.

She reveals that after the hostage taker was shot dead and she was rescued, she received a concerned call from President Marcos, an early sign that his alliance with the Dutertes could be cracking.

That was her scariest moment, she says, but not among her darkest, which were the times she wasn't allowed a furlough from jail to attend the wakes of close friends, including PNoy.

For the alleged crimes of former President Rodrigo Duterte, she says the only recourse is the International Criminal Court because there is a "clear demonstration of the unwillingness and inability" of the Philippine justice system to investigate.

"That's one of the reasons why nagwawala na si Duterte. Out na ang antagonism niya kay President Marcos because I think he suspects the BBM administration is really cooperating with the ICC."

Meanwhile, as she vows to assist the ICC gather evidence, de Lima is back to teaching law and spending time with her aged mother, who was never told by her protective family what her famous daughter went through.

The Howie Severino Podcast reached out to former President Rodrigo Duterte’s camp. As of posting, there is no comment yet from his office.

Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: MJ CerilloEditor: Jayr Magtoto

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Not originally a cat lover, Leila de Lima adopted stray cats in prison to keep her company. She took several home after her release and one of them insisted on joining her for this interview.

Otherwise, she was in solitude for nearly seven years while imprisoned in Camp Crame and one of the rare VIP inmates without a mobile phone. "I wanted to follow the rules," she tells Howie Severino. She also was not allowed access to the Internet, so she kept up with the outside world through print newspapers and printouts of online articles delivered by her senate staff.

She says she never lost faith in the judicial system, which she's confident will vindicate her and declare her innocent of all charges.

Producer: Aubrey Delos ReyesResearcher: MJ CerilloEditor: Jayr Magtoto

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The military has banned TikTok among its personnel, according to the new AFP spokesperson, Col. Francel Padilla, an expert on cybersecurity. While being vague about how the AFP intends to enforce its directive, Col. Padilla explains how Filipinos' immersion in social media has made the country vulnerable to "social engineering" tactics by adversaries. She cautions her audiences to be wary of platforms that request access to their cameras, microphones, and contacts, especially Tiktok which is allegedly owned by China.

She explains what it means to be a "certified ethical hacker," one of her credentials as the nation's first woman spokesperson of the armed forces.

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Producer: Ivy Andrada Bautista

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

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Col. Francel Padilla is accustomed to being a pioneer. She was among the first women to graduate from the Philippine Military Academy. Now as the armed forces' first woman spokesperson, she has seen many barriers fall as women soldiers are now serving even in combat roles.

Col. Padilla has become the most visible face of the Philippine military at a crucial time, when the country is pivoting from the insurgency to the external threat of China. As an expert on cybersecurity, she brings an uncommon skill set to her new role.

She talks to Howie Severino about the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated institution. She opens up about having to start a sensitive mission guarding a visiting head of state just after losing her husband, a fellow PMA graduate, in a helicopter crash. "Grieving is a lifelong journey," she says in a candid moment, sharing how she raised two young sons in the wake of their loss.

Soon after assuming her position as spokesperson, Col. Padilla had to field questions about former President Duterte's effort to rile up the military against the current administration. "We are professional, united, and non-partisan," she assures. "We do not want to break the trust of the people."

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Producer: Ivy Andrada Bautista

Researcher: Jenica Villanueva

Editor: Jayr Magtoto

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In case you missed it, Psychologist Dr. Anna Tuazon says self-love is non-negotiable–citing the significance of finding happiness in oneself before sharing it with someone else.

Catch the full episode here: 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0DXduVHN9aWQ5WoyS9d2t3?si=b68bd63a77a047cd 

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