Switching On the Sun

Before today’s social media generation and among social media influencers, there was what we call then as “BI (Bad Influence)”. As it was and as anything worth opposing, there was likewise the opposite or the “good influence” but wasn’t even referred to as “GI”. Apparently, “BI” had more impact other than having had a louder ring to it corresponding with a more intriguing “sounding off” of its influential conquest that’s more likely to create a buzz and be heard for all its telltale details’ “juiciness”. “GI” seemed to have a softer (bo)ring to it... It’s the same thing with what’s going on along today’s way of influencing through social media. Rumor is what it was called then, fake news is what it’s “believed” (pun intended) to be “referred to” now. Yes, “referred to” as it’s likewise something that’s preferred from which they refer-to for anything believed to be a valid reference. The sad truth is that blabbermouths spread it for all their attention-seeking intent. Not much of...

If it’s any manifestation of amusement, the new Department of Tourism’s slogan is indeed living up to its meaning as it is eliciting so much excitement. If the initial intent is to draw awareness, then such advertising campaign is a clever inducement. However, would it similarly attract its target market – the tourists? And would it generate economic growth? Fact is that it is the key rationale. In view of that though, may we not be accused of false advertising; more so, such “branding” be attributed as merely for the sake of commerce. How could it not appear as if it’s just business when even among its own people, ridicule is apparent. It is as if there’s no serious truth to it considering the “unflattering reality” behind every mockery comes from among those who could attest to its “funny” exactness. Yet then again, the fun-loving disposition of Filipinos in whatever circumstance is one engaging fact. Even under depressing situation, we get to good-naturedly joke and optimi...