Just recently, a news organization published an “exclusive” of a photograph well over three decades old, of an alleged war criminal long thought to be dead. The face was distinct, the eyes were bright, and his countenance—now expressive and emotional on tape—seemed to have just been taken. Except it wasn’t there. AI erased the scratches, brought the face to life, and infused it with human emotion on a dead visage. Just like that, history was manipulated, and the public was misled. The tools are powerful, yes—but we’ve built a monster that’s devouring truth.

I can’t help but feel that we’ve wandered into a dangerous jungle, where even the light that filters through the trees can no longer be trusted. It’s not that we don’t know what’s real anymore—it’s that reality itself is now an illusion game, ready to be edited and revised. A lost photograph has carried a tale in silence, a whispered clue of the past. Now the same photograph can smile, wink, cry, or offer dialogue in perfect meter, all thanks to an algorithm. What was sacred once—the authenticity of a grasped moment—is now the raw material that digital puppeteers play with.

Deception used to require getting dressed up and going into a room to deceive. Now lies can be constructed out of pixels and vomited onto the world in two seconds. One manipulated video is all it takes to ruin a career, justify a war, or get a country worked into a lather. The avalanche of trust is no longer incremental; it’s a snowball effect. The occasional prank has now become an everyday show, complete with filters, captions, and manufactured charisma. The line between fiction and reality has grown so blurry that even the brightest of eyes are beginning to blink.

I know people who brush this off as mere innocence, cyber sorcery that brings back old memories, or entertains with artificially created nostalgia. Nostalgia falls short when crafted by cold calculation. When a machine causes your deceased grandmother to blink and smile in a film you never directed, is it really her, or is it a comforting lie—one you consent to believe because it makes you feel good? We’re no longer being manipulated; we’re manipulating ourselves. The lying is not only ubiquitous—it’s irresistible.

Worst of all, these technologies are not just limited to the artistic or emotional plane. They’re now instruments of politics, used to plant doubt, confusion, and division. Deepfake videos of politicians spouting lies go viral before their denials do. Edited words in courtrooms, impersonated voices in phone scams, cloned faces in pornography—all courtesy of AI—are crimes disguised as smooth tricks. And while we talk about the ethics aspect, the damage just keeps piling up. We are in slow motion, but tech is moving fast. And lies, when they go viral in the wild, do not wait for laws to catch up.

Even journalists, whose job is to pursue the truth, are left grasping for breath in this melee. The question is no longer what is occurring but whether it occurred at all. Sourcing has become a matter of forensic-grade detail. Anything that escapes must be questioned like a suspect. And in the exhausting quest for evidence, many just abandon the effort and convince themselves to believe what they desire—facts be damned. AI hasn’t merely added noise; it’s made fact a luxury.

And yet, the irony is rich: the same wit that builds illusions can also see them. AI can detect contradictions, feel fake patterns, and watermark reality in micro-fashion. But this armor is still but a whisper to the din of deception. We require more than machines; we require a culture that cherishes reality rather than spectacle. Else, we’ll be living in a world where vision is no longer truth, and truth is whatever is convenient to believe now. A world where truth, as we understood it, becomes the final casualty of our so-called sophistication.
All that we can do, at least for now, is to cultivate a suspicious habit without being paranoid. To learn ourselves, and more importantly, the younger generation, about the dangers of false truths. To call tech creators to account, the media, and ourselves. Truth may be on the ropes, but it’s not quite dead yet. It’s alive in critical questioning, in ethical reporting, and in the human desire to know, not what appears to be real, but what is real. We have to make that choice each day to preserve that.

THAT gospel episode where Christ appointed 72 other disciples and sent them to places where Christ intended to visit (cfr. Lk 10,1-12.17-20) reminds us that if we too consider ourselves as disciples of Christ, we should also realize that this commissioning is also addressed to us.

We need to give utmost attention to this task because first of all, as disciples of Christ, we cannot help but also get involved in the continuing work of human redemption of Christ. He is practically begging us to do so, especially when he said: “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few.”

That’s because if we are truly Christians, we should be involved in Christ’s mission here on earth. Christ’s mission and concerns should also be ours. We have to realize that Christ treats us the way he treats himself precisely because we are patterned after him.

That’s also why we have been endowed with intelligence and will which, together always with God’s grace, would enable us to know and love others the way Christ loves all of us. And in this regard, we know that Christ’s love goes all the way to offering his life for us. That’s how we should love one another. That’s how we as disciples of his should be willing to love everybody, including our enemies.

In that gospel episode, Christ told his disciples of what they should only bring along, as well as the difficulties and dangers they should expect along the way. “I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals,” he said, somehow making them to understand that he would take care of whatever conditions they might find themselves in pursuing this task.

Yes, there would be suffering, but in the end, Christ would know how to turn everything negative into something constructive and redemptive. He was implying that he would be sharing his powers with them. As it turned out, the disciples where amazed at what they accomplished. “Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name,” they said.
We have to realize more sharply that we need to be burning with zeal in carrying out our apostolic duty. That’s because the apostolic panorama and challenge is getting increasingly tremendous and complicated. Yes, we should always ask for God’s grace to fulfill this duty, but we need to acquire the appropriate attitudes and skills as well.

Nowadays, with all the absorbing developments around, it is very easy for us to think that we are doing many things when, in fact, we are falling into the deceptive dynamics of self-indulgence.

We have to be most wary of this danger that is clearly becoming widespread. Self-indulgence is a constant threat, especially these days when good and evil are so mixed up that we would mostly likely be left confused and easily taken by sweet poisons that today’s new things readily offer.

We need to be very discriminating in dealing with these new developments, knowing how to discern what is good and useful for the apostolate from what can simply be a distraction which can appear to us also as something useful. The ways of evil usually assume the appearance of some good.

Thus, we should try to come out with a concrete apostolic plan everyday, so that however things go during the day, we can have clear apostolic goal to pursue, and thus fulfill the task Christ is entrusting us.

I vividly remembered then Senatorial Candidate Richard Gordon in a 2013 forum, he was talking fast and sure. He said, for education in the country to take-off to better heights, teachers must be paid well.

Scavenging the internet, I came across this 2013 article from pep.ph, where Senator Gordon was heavily quoted saying The poor are gonna remain poor because natuturuan sila ng mga teachers na overworked, underpaid, and have other issues.”

Pahayag pa ni Gordon, “I predict the next suicide will be a teacher.”

Ang tinuran ng dating senador ay may kinalaman sa pagsu-suicide noong Marso 15, ng UP Manila Behavioral Sciences freshman na si Kristel Tejada.

Committed ba tayo na mag-invest in education?”

“You do not pay the teachers well, forget it! Matatalo tayo,” aniya sa kanyang speech.
Fast forward, 2025 the biggest headline this July 2, 2025 is that the Makabayan Bloc had refiled the Bill to increase the Entry -level salary of teachers to 50k. It came sneaky of sorts but its also well-calculated -move that can raise emotions. If given due course it will be a major legislation similar to the Free College Law or UNIFAST Law.

Personally, it will be an easy choice, the salary marks the commitment of the government for quality education and therefore, a commitment to a better workforce, better quality of life and ergo better country.

But the fiscal repercussions are palpably painful. It will mean more borrowing a tighter leg room for the economy and indeed, it will mean that other segments of the yearly allocations are to suffer given the sheer size of the slice of the national budget pie.

It may be a big deal of a bill; it may be a big gamble but it may be the silver bullet to the ails of education and the maladies of learning gaps. This may be the answer we were waiting in the long while.

I would wish that this measure be given due course, if only to give chance to the teachers and the learners as well.

Life, career, and business are rarely smooth sailing. Instead, they’re often turbulent seas, fraught with volatility, uncertainty, and stress (VUS). While many instinctively recoil from these challenges, a powerful perspective shift reveals them not as obstacles, but as potent catalysts for growth. Embracing VUS, rather than fearing it, unlocks a pathway to personal resilience, career advancement, and business innovation.

Personal Growth: Forging Resilience in the Crucible

Volatility in personal life – unexpected job loss, relationship changes, health crises – can feel devastating. Yet, these upheavals force us to confront our limitations and discover hidden strengths. Uncertainty, the lack of clear direction or outcome, compels us to adapt, to develop problem-solving skills, and to trust our intuition Stress, while challenging, reveals hidden strengths. The pressure of difficult situations forces us to adapt, pushing our resilience and resourcefulness to the limit, ultimately leading to personal growth.

Consider the example of an individual facing job loss. The initial shock and uncertainty are undeniably stressful. This crisis, though difficult, offers a valuable opportunity for introspection and personal growth through self-assessment and reassessment of priorities. It forces a reassessment of values, skills, and career aspirations. The individual might discover a hidden passion, pursue further education, or start a business, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and aligned career path. Job searching’s inherent stress—uncertainty, market volatility—forges resilience. These challenges demand adaptability, resourcefulness, and a persistent spirit, ultimately strengthening one’s resolve and capabilities.

Technique: Narrative storytelling. Use personal anecdotes to illustrate how overcoming challenges fostered growth.

Example: “Losing my job felt like the end of the world. But navigating the uncertainty, the constant rejection, and the financial stress ultimately made me stronger. I discovered a passion for freelance writing, a skill I’d never explored before. The volatility of the freelance market taught me adaptability and resilience. The stress pushed me to work harder and smarter, leading to a more successful and fulfilling career than I ever imagined.”
Application Tip: Focus on the lessons learned and the positive outcomes, not just the pain of the experience.

Career Advancement: Thriving in the Face of Change

The modern workplace is characterized by constant change. Technological advancements, economic shifts, and evolving market demands create a volatile and uncertain environment. This is where embracing VUS becomes crucial for career advancement. Those who can navigate this complexity, who are comfortable with ambiguity and adept at adapting to change, are the ones who thrive.

Stress, often associated with deadlines, high-stakes projects, and competitive environments, can be a powerful motivator. It pushes individuals to perform at their best, to innovate, and to develop new skills. The uncertainty of career progression, the volatility of the job market, and the stress of performance reviews can be viewed as opportunities for growth, pushing individuals to become more proactive, resourceful, and resilient in their careers.

Technique: Problem-solving and solution-oriented approach. Demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated challenges in your career.

Example: “ Our company’s restructuring didn’t faze me. Instead, I saw it as an opportunity to learn new skills and take on new responsibilities. The uncertainty of my future role was stressful, but I proactively sought out training, networked with colleagues, and volunteered for challenging projects. This approach not only helped me secure a new position but also enhanced my skillset and broadened my perspective.”

Application Tip: Highlight your proactive approach to change and your ability to adapt to new situations.

Business Growth: Innovation in the Eye of the Storm

In the business world, VUS is the norm. Market fluctuations, competitive pressures, and technological disruptions create a dynamic and unpredictable landscape. Companies that embrace this volatility, that are agile and adaptable, are the ones that succeed. Uncertainty forces businesses to innovate, to find new solutions, and to develop new strategies. Stress, the pressure to meet targets, to stay ahead of the competition, and to manage resources effectively, drives efficiency and innovation.

Envision a startup struggling to keep pace with a swiftly changing market. The volatility of customer demand, the uncertainty of funding, and the stress of managing a small team can seem overwhelming. However, this very environment fosters creativity and resourcefulness. The pressure to survive and thrive pushes the startup to innovate, to adapt its products and services, and to build a resilient business model.

Technique: Case study analysis. Analyze successful companies that have navigated VUS effectively.

Example: “Netflix’s transition from DVD rentals to streaming was a bold move in a volatile market. The uncertainty of the new business model was immense, but their willingness to embrace change and adapt to evolving consumer preferences ultimately led to their phenomenal success. The stress of competition pushed them to innovate, resulting in a global streaming giant.”

Application Tip: Learn from the successes and failures of others to develop your own strategies for navigating VUS.

In conclusion, embracing volatility, uncertainty, and stress is not about seeking out hardship. Embrace challenges as stepping stones to personal and professional growth. By developing resilience, adaptability, and a proactive approach, individuals, careers, and businesses can not only survive the storms but thrive in them, emerging stronger and more successful than ever before.
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If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the column, feel free to send an email to jca.bblueprint@gmail.com. Looking forward to connecting with you!

People wonder why we are lacking in rice supply despite sound statistical figures showing an increase in rice production. One factor being considered for this national malady is the depletion of arable lands that are now being converted to other uses. There are vast hectares of rice fields being converted to commercial, industrial and residential uses, not to mention sports and recreation. We certainly are not wanting in sports and recreation suited to our needs. There are lots of sports we can indulge in that are not beyond our means to enjoy. Unfortunately, the elite and powerful in our society are lured to expensive sports that is played by the rich and famous people in other countries.

A different view looks at the growing population as cause for the inadequacy of rice. But every man given the capability to be productive even just to answer for his daily needs. No matter the population as long as it is made productive to produce its basic needs, hunger would not be a problem. It is when the greater number remains unproductive and dependent on a small sector of working and productive.

But how can we expect the population to become a productive workforce when it is confined in fixated social inequities that kills the motivation and vigor to produce goods, particularly through farming. We have seen the cruel inequities that our farmers are made as unwilling victims of. The man who toils to produce food is never given the opportunity to rise above the muddy soil. They fall victims to unjust wages that could not even meet the basic needs of the family. These sector of the population who labor for the food that the entire population consume are luckless in getting government support, that is why they fall victims to usurious loans from capitalists who rake in the greater earnings.

The situation is truly discouraging and government is continually missing to address the problem. Its recent realization about the lack of farmlands for food production ought to have been discovered long ago. While it takes what it may deem as appropriate steps to increase farm areas, partly by halting the counterproductive conversion of agricultural lands to other uses.

But while we may increase land areas for farmlands in due time, we may run out of farmhands that will work to produce food that the population needs. We had long been engaged in labor exportation and our young working population being lured into high-paying foreign jobs in the fields of technology, construction, nursing and medicine.

The exodus of our skilled and industrious workforce will surely cause a lack of people who will till the soil. The low and unjust wages and the exploited situation that our farmers suffer from is a great push that drives our people away from the bondage of the soil. Even with adequate farmlands, we may not have enough farmhands to produce the food that we need in order to live.
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