trivia | page 15 news | page 4 editorial | page 7 cartooning | page 14 Global issues shaping economies and communities Different views on globalization and its effects feature | page 10 Filipino identity, workers, and globalization Globalization. inequality, and consumerism Quick facts about our interconnected world A CRISIS BENEATH THE SURFACE CRISISCRISIS SOUTH CHINA SEASOUTH CHINA SEASOUTH CHINA SEA TRADE LIFELINETRADE LIFELINETRADE LIFELINE A new Italian book highlights the Philippines’ position on the South China Sea dispute and its potential impact on the global economy. The region carries more than 30% of the global maritime trade, valued at an estimated $3.37 trillion. It also accounts for 12% of the world’s fish catch and supports rich marien biodiversity. The book discusses how the dispute can affect global supply chains, energy markets and marine resources. Its contributors emphasize the importance of maritime peace and rules-based order. Communities along the lower Mekong River face severe erosion and agricultural land loss linked to intensive sand extraction. Sand is the world’s second most consumed natural resource after water and is widely used in construction. In the Mekong Basin, exctraction reportedly exceeds natural replenishment by more than two to one. This weakens riverbanks and damages homes, roads, and farms. The crisis also threatens local livelihoods and forces some displaced families to move forward.

Achilles a.k.a. Billy Balajo Trivia EditorAtlas a.k.a. Ayaka Shibuya Editor-in-Chief/Layout Editor/Editor CartoonistMidas a.k.a. Jomer Lloyd Baria Managing Editor/News EditorNova a.k.a. Richmond Beronia Editorial EditorAtlas a.k.a. Nicholai Collado Feature EditorAtlas a.k.a. Adrian Dumangeng Editorial EditorVolume 1, Issue 1 2 editorial board| Editorial BoardEditorial BoardEditorial Board

Volume 1, Issue 1Woven Solitudes a.k.a. Rafaela BaligodFeature EditorGie a.k.a. Kyle Malabanan Editorial EditorThallasa a.k.a. Keisha Calacala News EditorAnon Sy-Lens a.k.a. Jolly BandaoArt/Cartoon EditorMephoria a.k.a. Jhanina Cerezo Art/Cartoon EditorGaia a.k.a. Kyla Francisco News EditorNexus a.k.a. Aalliyah Julian Layout Editor/Feature Editor | 3editorial boardEcho a.k.a. Joana DulnuanTrivia Editor/Research/Copy Editor/Layout Editor

In the Photo: Secretary General Matteo Angioli, Deputy Director Valentina Muiesan, Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata, Dr. Stefano Pelaggi, Prof. Donatella Strangio, and Philippine Ambassador to Rome Neal Imperial during the book launch of The Economic Impact of the South China Sea Disputes, at the Official Seat of the Senate at Palazzo Madama in Rome on April 20, 2026. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Embassy in Rome via Facebook Page)NIn the photos: Philippine Ambassador to Italy Nathaniel G. Imperial at the podium delivering his speech during the book launch at Palazzo Madama, Italy. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Embassy in Rome via Facebook Page) and Dr. Stefano Pelaggi from Sapienza University of Rome presenting the book titled “The Economic Impact of the South China Sea Disputes (Volume 11 of Migrazioni / Migrations, Edizioni Nuova Cultura, 2025) on 10 March 2026 at Pilar Herrera Hall, UP Diliman. (Photo courtesy of University of the Philippines Diliman Department of Political Science), respectively. The April 20, 2026 book launch convened representatives of the Italian Parliament, the diplomatic community, scholars, the Italian defense industry and the Italian Navy, and leaders of the Filipino community in Italy. Italian book highlights PH position on economic impact of SCS dispute Italian book highlights PH position on economic impact of SCS dispute Italian book highlights PH position on economic impact of SCS dispute Philippines — A new Italian book launched at the Palazzo Madama in Rome last April highlights the Philippines’ position on the South China Sea dispute and the economic disruption it could cause to the broader international community. The launched book, titled “The Economic Impact of the South China Sea Disputes,” is a collection of essays offering insights into the economic UEVA VIZCAYA, In the article, Manalo foregrounded that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award served as the threads of maritime peace and order, and that transparency and “More than 30 percent of all global maritime trade – an estimated 3.37 trillion US dollars – as well as 50,000 merchant ships and about 50 percent “The South China Sea region accounts for 12 percent of the world’s fish catch and sits at the center of the Coral Triangle, which is home to over 6,500 marine species, 60 per cent of the world’s known fishes, and over 300 species of corals. It is estimated that more than half of the world’s fishing vessels ply and conduct fishing activities in these waters,” he added. One of the chapters of the book features an article authored by the Philippines’ former Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the United Nations, Enrique A. Manalo, titled “Towards a Rules-Based Order in the South China Sea,” wherein he presents the economic and legal interests of the SCS disputes. Manalo also mentioned that a global investments analyst told CNBC that “[the] South China Sea is the most valuable shipping lane in the world in terms of the value of trade that transits through it”. 4|news “The importance of the South China Sea to the Indo‐Pacific region and the world cannot be overstated,” he continued. During the book launch at the official seat of the Italian Senate, the volume co-editor Prof. Donatella Strangio of Sapienza University of Rome stressed that the economic dimension of the South China Sea disputes is not secondary but central to understanding the scale and seriousness of ongoing tensions, with direct implications for global supply chains, energy markets, and marine resources. Meanwhile, journalist Giulia Pompili of Il Foglio shared an analytical perspective, asserting that the Philippines today represents a critical frontline in resisting China's effort to establish a new maritime order in the Indo-Pacific. Afterwards, Philippine Ambassador to Italy Nathaniel "Neal" G. Imperial acknowledged Giulia Pompili’s statement on the Indo-Pacific’s relevance to Europe’s economic stability and the international order. “The numbers speak for themselves. Any disruption to freedom of navigation in the South China Sea would not just be a regional inconvenience, it would [be] a global economic concern,’’ he added, citing Manalo. Before the launch event, Stefano Pelaggi of Sapienza University of Rome already presented the book last March 10 at Pillar Herrera Hall in the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, Philippines. The University of the Philippines Department of dimension of the continuing dispute in the South China Sea (SCS) and providing a European perspective on the Indo-Pacific dispute. Volume 1, Issue 1 public awareness counter false narratives and create a more viable foundation for diplomacy to work. of the world’s oil tankers pass through this maritime space annually,” he wrote. Political Science hosted the event. A Dean and several Professors from the UP Department of Political Science attended the presentation. by MIDAS a

CRIMINAL NETWORKS AND COASTAL EROSION: THE OVERLOOKED SOUTHEAST ASIAN SAND TRADE CRIMINAL NETWORKS AND COASTAL EROSION: THE OVERLOOKED SOUTHEAST ASIAN SAND TRADE CRIMINAL NETWORKS AND COASTAL EROSION: THE OVERLOOKED SOUTHEAST ASIAN SAND TRADE by THALLASA a.k.a. Keisha Calacala 5| news Volume 1, Issue 1 While global economic summits routinely address traditional commodity shortages like crude oil and semiconductor minerals, the unregulated removal of river sand has quietly evolved into a severe environmental and human crisis. Sand is the second most consumed natural resource globally after water, forming the foundational core of modern concrete, glass, land reclamation, and asphalt. PPP hnom Penh, Cambodia— across the lower Mekong River basin, coastal and riverine communities are confronting severe bank erosion, loss of prime agricultural land, and structural damage to public infrastructure—a crisis driven primarily by aggressive sand extraction feeding Southeast Asia’s real estate and infrastructure expansion. However, desert sand shaped by wind erosion is too smooth and rounded to bind effectively for structural concrete. Consequently, international supply chains rely heavily on the angular, coarse sediment found in rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. In Southeast Asia, this demand has created a profound ecological deficit. Recent environmental assessments reveal that sand extraction rates along the Mekong Basin outpace natural sediment replenishment by more than two to one (WWF, 2023). Fleet operations of heavy mechanical dredgers operate daily along vulnerable stretches of the river, scooping thousands of tons of wet sediment from the riverbed. This rapid removal leaves deep underwater depressions, altering natural water currents and forcing riverbanks to collapse inward. Entire roads, orchards, and residential homes are routinely swallowed by the expanding river channels. Beyond physical erosion, the depletion of river sediment removes a crucial natural barrier against the sea. Low sediment flows allow ocean saltwater to migrate further inland into freshwater tributaries. In high-yield agricultural regions like the Mekong Delta, Vietnam, elevated soil and water salinity is destroying rice paddies, degrading fruit orchards, and corrupting communal drinking water supplies relied upon by millions of rural residents. "Our agricultural land is disappearing into the water, and local fish stocks have plummeted over the past few years," stated by a local resident whose village lies along an active dredging zone. "The instability of the riverbanks is no longer just an environmental issue—it is an immediate threat to our safety and survival." The secondary effects ripple directly into regional labor and migration trends. Stripped of arable land and traditional fishing grounds, displaced rural families and are increasingly forced into internal migration, swelling informal labor markets in nearby urban centers like Phnom Penh, Cambodia and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Despite growing calls from international entities such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for strict trade quotas, sustainable extraction limits, and the adoption of recycled concrete, local regulatory oversight remains highly fragmented. Without coordinated international policy and strict enforcement against illegal dredging syndicates, Southeast Asia’s river systems faces a long-term ecological collapse.

GENERATION ON HOLD: YOUTH FACE A GLOBAL JOBS CRISIS GENERATION ON HOLD: YOUTH FACE A GLOBAL JOBS CRISIS GENERATION ON HOLD: YOUTH FACE A GLOBAL JOBS CRISIS by GAIA a.k.a. Kyla Fei Francisco eneva - across developed and developing nations alike, millions of young people entering the workforce are facing an increasingly hostile economic landscape. Sluggish growth, shifting trade patterns, and the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) have converged to create a global youth employment crisis. G 6 | news Volume 1, Issue 1 For decades, entry-level roles in manufacturing, clerical support, and sales offered young workers a foothold into the labor market. Today, automation and global supply-chain restructuring are eroding these stepping stones. In developing nations, the crisis takes a different form. Nearly 90% of young workers in low- and lower-middle-income countries survive in the informal economy jobs with low pay, instability, and no social protections. The consequences extend far beyond employment. Delayed family formation, declining home ownership, reduced consumer spending, and rising social unrest are becoming common outcomes. The International Labour Organization (ILO) reports that youth unemployment reached 12.4% in 2025, leaving 67 million young people without work and pushing more than 257 million into the NEET category—Not in Employment, Education, or Training. In Northern Africa and the Arab States, youth unemployment exceeds 22% and 26%, locking one-third of young citizens out of formal participation.Arab States North America Northern Africa Europe Arab States North America Northern Africa Europe 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% Youth Unemployment Rates (%) 36% 13% 30% 21% Youth-led protests over economic precarity have erupted in Kenya, Peru, Nepal, Indonesia, South Africa, and Morocco. Entry-level tasks once performed by young workers data entry, routine analysis, customer support are increasingly handled by machines. As companies prioritize efficiency, young applicants are denied the chance to gain the professional experience needed for long-term growth. The rapid adoption of AI is intensifying the crisis. The ILO estimates that 6.1% of youth jobs are highly exposed to automation. The rapid adoption of AI is intensifying the crisis. The ILO estimates that 6.1% of youth jobs are highly exposed to automation. The rapid adoption of AI is intensifying the crisis. The ILO estimates that 6.1% of youth jobs are highly exposed to automation. In high-income economies, even university graduates are discovering that degrees no longer guarantee career security. Youth unemployment in North America rose from 8.3% in 2023 to 9.8% in 2025, while Europe remains stuck at 15%, with most subregions reporting shrinking opportunities. In China, soaring university enrollments have outpaced job creation, leaving many graduates underemployed. ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo warned that when young populations are systematically excluded from quality employment, nations forfeit valuable talent, productivity, and social cohesion.

Why Governments Must Fix Globalization, Not Block Itby NOVA a.k.a. Richmond Beronia Globalization is not inherently bad, but it creates clear structural winners and losers. When foreign goods enter a market at lower prices, consumers benefit. However, local factories that cannot match these prices are often forced to shut down. When a nation opens its borders to unfiltered trade, lower-income workers in manufacturing and import-competing industries often experience falling real wages and sudden job losses. The gains of global integration tend to concentrate among multinational corporations and highly skilled professionals, while traditional factory workers and rural laborers carry the heavy burden of sudden economic dislocation. When global economic shocks hit, governments typically react in one of two extreme ways. Some choose to erect high tariff walls and pull back into isolation, while others adopt a strict "hands-off" approach, letting free market forces run without intervention. Both strategies fail to address the core issue. Instead of choosing between blanket protectionism and complete inaction, governments should actively guide globalization by shielding vulnerable workers at home while building long-term domestic strength. w alk into any local market today, and you will see the visible footprint of globalization. The smartphones in our pockets contain parts from half a dozen countries, and the clothes we wear were likely stitched thousands of miles away. Over the last few decades, international trade has brought lower prices, a wider variety of products, and deep global connections. Yet, behind these low prices lies a painful reality: open markets frequently leave local workers, small businesses, and entire communities behind. Cartooning by EMPHORIA a.k.a. Jhanina Cerezo 7|editorial Volume 1, Issue 1 When governments do nothing to cushion this blow, entire regional economies collapse. When governments do nothing to cushion this blow, entire regional economies collapse. When governments do nothing to cushion this blow, entire regional economies collapse. Displaced workers struggle to find equivalent employment, leading to widening income inequality, local economic decline, and growing social frustration. Faced with public backlash, many politicians argue for pulling back from global trade entirely. They push for heavy import taxes (tariffs) and strict regulations to keep foreign competition out. While this protectionist posture promises to save domestic jobs, it consistently creates larger economic problems. First, tariffs function directly as an extra tax on domestic citizens. When foreign products are heavily taxed, basic items like food, electronics, and clothing become significantly more expensive for low- and middle- income families. Second, when one nation builds trade barriers, affected countries respond by placing retaliatory tariffs on its exports. This severely harms local agricultural producers and manufacturers who rely on selling to international buyers. Finally, blanket trade barriers protect uncompetitive domestic industries, reducing the motivation for local businesses to innovate or modernize. Attempting to eliminate global trade to protect employment is like banning modern power grids because candle makers are losing business—it attempts to solve a short-term transition problem by harming broad, long- term progress. Governments do not have to make an "all-or-nothing" choice between strict protectionism and passive economic exposure. A sustainable economic strategy combines open international trade with aggressive domestic investment. To start, governments must invest heavily in vocational retraining and skill upgrading. Instead of spending public funds attempting to preserve obsolete roles, authorities should fund targeted technical education. Helping displaced workers learn modern skills prepares them for growing sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and specialized services. Attempting to eliminate global trade to protect employment is like banning modern power grids because candle makers are losing business—it attempts to solve a short-term transition problem by harming broad, long- term progress. At the same time, governments need to strengthen national safety nets. Workers in transition need functional support systems, including portable health benefits, temporary income assistance, and targeted job- search services to prevent temporary displacement from becoming chronic poverty. Domestic industries also need support to stay competitive on a fair playing field. Governments can help local firms compete globally by modernizing transport infrastructure, reducing unnecessary administrative red tape, and granting small businesses easier access to credit. Crucially, open trade must operate on fair ground. Governments must actively enforce fair rules and anti- dumping standards, penalizing foreign entities that flood local markets with heavily subsidized goods or violate bas

by GIE a.k.a. Kyle Malabanan One World, Unequal OpportunitiesOne World, Unequal OpportunitiesOne World, Unequal Opportunities 8 | editorial Volume 1, Issue 1 he world has come so far thanks to the benefits of Globalization. Countries have become more interconnected and interdependent towards each other, and as of now, it is still increasingly doing so. This manifests through four major forms specifically through an embodied way which is connected to the physical movement of actual people, a disembodied way which revolves around digital communication, an objectified approach where the whole process of goods and services are involved, and lastly, on an institutional scale where organizations handle globalization on a global scale. It all seems perfect because it sounds like every single part of the world is involved, right? So the important question is: “Does Globalization benefit everyone equally?” “Does Globalization benefit everyone equally?” “Does Globalization benefit everyone equally?” My answer to that is a simple, no. Globalization has split its benefits to different aspects of the world economically, politically, environmentally, etc. But in reality, it isn’t distributed equally. One branch of inequality is technology, because as the world keeps on innovating new devices, new machines, these inventions will eventually take on a crucial role in automation which will make workers lose their jobs. Another branch, involves economy, because as classified in the modules, a peripheral area or a 3rd world country has the weakest trade and bargaining power because of their low value production, low skilled labor, and exploitation of workers. And finally, Westernization. In which the western culture heavily dominates in some countries, leaving almost no room for a developing country to innovate on their own because of western influence. Yusuf (2021) reports that McKinsey Global Institute projected that by 2030, automation will result in a 30% loss of jobs worldwide, potentially affecting approximately 375 million workers. This highlights that technological innovation doesn’t always lead to positive results, because a large number of workers will lose their jobs, and a demand for higher skilled labor will increase, which will then give high skilled workers a gap or advantage compared to non skilled workers. In addition to that, Yusuf (2021) mentioned that after a crisis before 2018- 2019 regarding digital technologies that affected workers, there was little to no changes in income and even states that low skilled workers were paid lower wages. This tells us that skilled workers would be the most safe, and the low-skilled workers will be competing against one another while also being paid less. Afzal (2019) claims that the economy of developing countries continued to be marginalized through the unequal practices of WTO in trade policies involving trade settlements and unequal income. Which tells us that the demands of developed countries involving higher legal cost, leaves the undeveloped countries less preferred or overlooked. This means, peripheral areas have much limited decisions to make in trade, giving them weaker bargaining power compared to core areas. In addition to this, Afzal (2019) states that the power advantage of more developed countries and the economic state of a developing country makes it difficult for them to obtain trade and agreements on equal footing. Basically, a developed country most likely will list rather an outrageous demand while the less fortunate will have to agree not by choice but because those are the conditions given. Finally, Xaphakdy (2000) states that Westernization weakened the development of non western cultures because Western powers often referred to their culture as the “universal values”. This tells us that Western culture forcibly imposes itself upon other cultures, overlooking their respected values and tradition. This will result in that culture slowly dying since their traditions are being overlapped by a dominant western influence. In addition to this, Xaphakdy (2000) highlights that the West often used the “carrot and stick” To solve these issues is a dream, and it all starts with us as young individuals. To ask for change right now is nothing but a fantasy. So in order to be able to make a change, we must understand that it will take some time and we must be ready to become the new leaders acting as an influence or a role model to other people. Of course, it is not an easy path, but through hard work, genuine teamwork, and actual unity among countries, inequality may lessen. approach to put them at an advantage against another country. The carrot and stick approach is a system where a reward or a punishment is given to force submission. This emphasizes that Western countries would use their power to force other cultures to follow in their interests. Cartooning by ANON SY-LENS a.k.a. Jolly Bandao T

Does globalization affect local culture? by IAN a.k.a. Adrian Dumangeng T 9|editorial Volume 1, Issue 1 he world has become more connected because of globalization. Through the internet, social media, international trade, migration, tourism, and modern technology, people from different countries can communicate and exchange ideas more easily than ever before. Globalization has made it possible for people to discover different foods, languages, music, traditions, and lifestyles. Cartooning by ATLAS a.k.a. Ayaka Shibuya However, while this connection can encourage cultural understanding, it can also create challenges for local cultures. In my view, globalization can enrich local culture, but it can also weaken it when foreign influences become dominant and local traditions are not properly protected. One of the most noticeable effects of globalization is the increasing popularity of foreign cultural products. People can now watch movies and television programs, listen to music, purchase products, and follow trends from other countries almost instantly. Social media has made this process even faster. UNESCO (2022) explains that the rapid digitalization of culture has created new opportunities for people to access cultural content, but it has also created challenges because major digital platforms can make diverse local content less visible. This means that although technology allows local artists to reach international audiences, they may also have difficulty competing with highly popular content produced by large international industries. This situation can be observed in the way young people consume entertainment. International music, films, fashion, and online trends can become more influential than traditional cultural practices. There is nothing wrong with enjoying foreign culture because cultural exchange can broaden people's understanding of the world. The problem begins when people gradually lose interest in their own traditions. If younger generations stop learning traditional songs, dances, stories, crafts, languages, and customs, some of these practices may eventually disappear. Language is particularly important because it is closely connected to cultural identity. Language is particularly important because it is closely connected to cultural identity. Language is particularly important because it is closely connected to cultural identity. UNESCO's Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions recognizes linguistic diversity as a fundamental part of cultural diversity and emphasizes the role of education in protecting cultural expressions. When a community's language is no longer commonly used, cultural knowledge expressed through that language can also become more difficult to preserve. Therefore, globalization should not mean that communities must replace their local languages with internationally dominant ones. However, globalization should not be viewed only as a threat. It can also provide local cultures with opportunities to become more visible. The internet allows local musicians, artists, writers, filmmakers, and craftspeople to introduce their work to audiences outside their communities. UNESCO (2022) notes that digital technologies can help with the documentation, safeguarding, and promotion of cultural heritage. This shows that technology itself is not the enemy of culture. The important question is how communities use technology to preserve and promote their cultural identity. UNESCO’s Convention provides an important principle for dealing with this issue. It recognizes that globalization and communication technologies can create greater interaction between cultures, but they can also pose challenges to cultural diversity, particularly because of inequalities between richer and poorer countries. The Convention therefore encourages countries to create conditions where different cultures can interact while continuing to protect and promote diverse cultural expressions. This suggests that the goal should not be to reject globalization but to make cultural exchange more balanced. In addition, governments and educational institutions have an important role in protecting local culture. Schools can teach students about local history, literature, traditional arts, and indigenous knowledge. Governments can support local artists and cultural organizations through funding, cultural programs, museums, festivals, and policies that encourage local content. UNESCO's Convention specifically recognizes the right of countries to adopt policies that protect and promote the diversity of cultural expressions within their territories. So to summarize, Does globalization affect local culture? Yes it does, globalization does affect local culture, but its effects are not entirely negative or positive. Yes it does, globalization does affect local culture, but its effects are not entirely negative or positive. Yes it does, globalization does affect local culture, but its effe

feature KAPWA: HOW WOULD A SINGLE FILIPINO WORD CAN EXPRESSES THE SOLIDARITY OF FILIPINOS? KAPWA: HOW WOULD A SINGLE FILIPINO WORD CAN EXPRESSES THE SOLIDARITY OF FILIPINOS? KAPWA: HOW WOULD A SINGLE FILIPINO WORD CAN EXPRESSES THE SOLIDARITY OF FILIPINOS?by WOVEN SOLITUDES a.k.a Rafaela Baligodschool, students rushing out of their classrooms, with heavy bags strapped at their back and minds at the exhaust from lessons. The streets are also busy with their own noise, seeing vendors calling out their goods, vehicles piling up with the usual traffic the rush hour gives, passengers waiting for jeepneys that would take them home. At the jeep stop, the thickens as passengers gather with the thoughts of going home — to rest. Passengers pushed forward, trying to fit themselves in the cramped space of the jeepney, pressed shoulder to shoulder with strangers. The driver calls out, “Bayad po”, and coins pass from hand to hand until they reach him. In this daily struggle, globalization is everywhere from the smartphones in students’ hands to the advertisements plastered on the jeep’s sides. Yet in that crowded jeepney, amidst exhaustion and struggle, lies a truth that even in these busy streets can show, that Filipinos are bound by it roots. They are bound by “kapwa” — the value of the shared humanity, the shared identity among Filipinos.It was once again a busy day after, Globalization has reshaped Filipino life in profound ways. Technology connects families across oceans, social media brings global trends into local communities, and international brands influence consumption. is more than a word, it does not have any direct translation, but it is bound deep within the roots of each Filipino, that it is unconsiously practiced by every Filipinos without them even realizing that it is what they are practicing. “KAPWA” Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) embody globalization most directly, their labor abroad sustaining families and fueling the economy through remittances. Fast food chains, streaming platforms, and foreign entertainment have become part of everyday life. Yet despite these global currents, Filipino traditions remain deeply embedded, anchored by kapwa. They say that “kapwa” came from the word, “ka-puwang”, with the prefix “ka-“, having an imbeded beautiful philosophy to it. The prefix “ka-” in Filipino carries a deep philosophical meaning rooted in the idea of togetherness, shared experience, and relational identity of Filipinos. It is not just a grammatical marker — it reflects how Filipinos view the self in relation to others. In this way, “kapwa” from “Ka- puwang”, in which is fellow being in which expresses the idea that the self is never isolated, but always connected to others. In this way, “kapwa” from “Ka-puwang”, in which is fellow being in which expresses the idea that the self is never isolated, but always connected to others. In a globalized society where individualism often dominates, kapwa reminds Filipinos that identity is relational, rooted in solidarity. This philosophy reflects the Filipino worldview: identity is not defined by “I” alone, but by “we.” 10 | Various Filipino traditions such as bayanihan, where now it is not only seen in the carrying of houses it used to imply, but also the simple act of helping out others, such as giving out relief goods after typhoons, helping out in rescuing stranded passengers, giving out free rides amidst of the oil price hike, posting the stories of strangers in hopes of them getting help from online people, giving up a seat in the jeepney just for an elderly to sit comfortably. The practice of “pagmamano”, where children honor elders by placing their hand on the forehead, remains a symbol of respect passed down through generations. Even the simple courtesy of saying “po” and “opo” in everyday conversations reflects the humility that defines Filipino culture. These practices, rooted in kapwa, persist despite the rapid pace of modernization. Kapwa is also visible in the struggles of every Filipino workers. Farmers labor under the sun, call center agents endure sleepless nights, and overseas Filipino workers sacrifice time with their families to provide for loved ones. Yet even in these individual struggles, “pakikipagkapwa” — the act of relating to others with compassion and solidarity, it is not just a word but rather something that shines through even in the most simple act. OFWs share their earnings not only with their families but also with communities back home. Co-workers extend help to colleagues facing hardships, embodying bayanihan in the workplace. Strangers offer food, shelter, or comfort during crises, proving that shared humanity thrives even in the most difficult circumstances. Using social media as a platform to inform, spread awareness, and even help others in need. Fund raising campaigns for medical bills, disaster relief drives, community initiatives, and even protests against mining, against the wrong doings of politician, calling them o

Miles Apart, Connected by Dreams: Filipino Workers in a Globalized World Miles Apart, Connected by Dreams: Filipino Workers in a Globalized World Miles Apart, Connected by Dreams: Filipino Workers in a Globalized World stre Filip in McD Fies Filip plat and t an airport departure area, a goodbye can carry an entire family’s hopes. ATotal Remittances 0 50 100 150 200 250 300262.20 BillionOFW’s in 2024 0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.52.19 Million feature 11| by NEXUS a.k.a. Aalliyah Julian “For millions of Filipino families, working abroad means turning distance and sacrifice into opportunities for those back home.” A Filipino worker takes leave of his home carrying a suitcase, along with some important documents, and maybe a photograph of his loved ones hidden in a wallet. Although the destination could be thousands of kilometres away, the reason for leaving is usually something rooted in everyday life—such as the need to provide for his child's education, to achieve financial stability, to have a better home, or simply to have a brighter future. This is one of the human sides of globalization. Filipino workers go over borders to find opportunities and chances while carrying the dreams of those who are waiting back home. Filipino workers can be found in every part of the world, working in healthcare, domestic services, construction, hospitality, information technology, and other fields. Their presence in job markets shows how globalization has opened doors for Filipino workers to find work outside the Philippines. This movement highlights how people from the Philippines can now access jobs in countries thanks to changes brought by global connections. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), an estimated 2.19 million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) worked abroad in the year 2024. This was a 1.5 percent increase from the estimated number in 2023. The PSA also reported that the total remittances received during the reference period reached ₱262.20 billion. This total includes cash sent, cash brought home, and remittances in kind. These numbers represent more than money. Behind every remittance has a story. It may help pay a child’s tuition, put food on the table, buy medicine for a family member, or provide savings for the future. For many Filipino families, the income earned abroad becomes an important source of financial support. But globalization does not make working abroad easy. But globalization does not make working abroad easy. But globalization does not make working abroad easy. OFW ‘s may spend birthdays, holidays, and important family occasions away from their loved ones. They may have to adjust to unfamiliar languages, cultures, laws, and working environments. The emotional cost of being separated from family cannot always be measured in pesos. , however, has changed the experience of being away from home. A worker can now make a video call during a break, send photos instantly, or join a family celebration online. A screen cannot replace a hug, but it can make thousands of kilometers feel a little shorter. TECHNOLOGY has also created opportunities for Filipinos who do not physically leave the country. Through business- process outsourcing, freelancing, online work, and other digital services, Filipino workers can serve international clients while staying close to their families. In this way, the global workplace can reach the Philippines without requiring every worker to leave home. GLOBALIZATION Still, opportunities must come with protection. Still, opportunities must come with protection. Still, opportunities must come with protection. Filipino workers need skills that meet international standards, while employers and governments have a responsibility to promote fair working conditions and protect workers’ rights. Working in a globalized world should not only mean having access to international opportunities but also having the support and protection needed to succeed. For Filipino workers, globalization is not simply an economic concept discussed in classrooms. It is a reality experienced through airplane tickets, long-distance calls, remittances, sacrifices, and dreams. THEY MAY WORK FAR FROM HOME, BUT MUCH OF WHAT THEY EARN IS BROUGHT HOME THROUGH THE LIVES THEY HELP BUILD. THEY MAY WORK FAR FROM HOME, BUT MUCH OF WHAT THEY EARN IS BROUGHT HOME THROUGH THE LIVES THEY HELP BUILD. THEY MAY WORK FAR FROM HOME, BUT MUCH OF WHAT THEY EARN IS BROUGHT HOME THROUGH THE LIVES THEY HELP BUILD.Volume 1, Issue 1

feature12 | by NICO a.k.a. Nicholai Collado magine waking up in the Philippines and spending your morning watching a Korean drama, attending an online class with lessons from another country, chatting with a friend overseas, and scrolling through trends from the United States— all before lunch. III stre Filip in McD Fies Filip plat and Growing Up in a World Without BordersGrowing Up in a World Without BordersGrowing Up in a World Without Borders For many Filipino young people, this is simply normal life. The world has become smaller because of globalization. Countries that once seemed far away are now connected through the internet, technology, business, education, entertainment, and social media. For Filipino youth, this connection has opened doors to countless opportunities—but it has also brought new challenges. A World at Their Fingertips One of the biggest ways globalizations affects young Filipinos is through the internet. According to DataReportal (2025), the Philippines had 97.5 million internet users in January 2025, with internet penetration reaching 83.8 percent. There were also 90.8 million social media user identities in the country. For today's youth, the internet is more than a place for entertainment. It has become a classroom, workplace, marketplace, and platform for self-expression. A student can watch a tutorial from a teacher halfway around the world. A young artist can post their work online and reach people in other countries. A small business owner can promote products through social media. Even Filipino content creators can build international audiences without leaving the country. The possibilities seem endless. But with so much information available, young people also have to learn how to separate what is useful and true from what is misleading. 90.8 Million Social Media User 97.5 Million Internet User The global workplace is constantly changing, especially as technology develops. Young people need more than just a diploma. They also need digital skills, communication skills, creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to work with people from different backgrounds. ASEAN's youth development efforts emphasize the importance of preparing young people for employment and future opportunities (ASEAN, 2024). For Filipino youth, being globally competitive does not mean becoming someone else. It means developing the skills needed to participate confidently in a world where competition can come from almost anywhere. Learning Beyond the Classroom Globalization has changed the way Filipino students learn. Education is no longer limited to what can be found inside a classroom or a textbook. Online courses, educational videos, virtual conferences, and international learning communities allow students to discover ideas from people around the world. This exposure can help young Filipinos become more open-minded and prepared for a changing world. ASEAN has identified education and skills, employment opportunities, youth participation, and ASEAN awareness and identity as important areas of youth development (ASEAN, 2026). However, not every student has the same access to these opportunities. Some have fast internet, personal computers, and other digital resources, while others struggle with unreliable connections or limited access to technology. This shows that while globalization can open doors, not everyone gets to enter through those doors equally. For Filipino youth, globalization has also changed the meaning of a "job." Today, a young Filipino can work for an international company, become a freelancer, sell products online, or create digital content for people from different countries—all while staying in the Philippines. But these opportunities come with expectations.But these opportunities come with expectations.But these opportunities come with expectations. When the World Comes to the Philippines Globalization is not only about jobs and education. It can also be seen in the things young Filipinos watch, listen to, wear, eat, and enjoy. K-pop songs play through Filipino speakers. Japanese anime has become part of many young people's daily entertainment. American movies and music continue to influence popular culture. International food chains and fashion trends can be found almost everywhere. There is nothing wrong with enjoying these things. In fact, learning about other cultures can help young people understand the world better.Volume 1, Issue 1

by NICO a.k.a. Nicholai Collado stre Filip in McD Fies Filip plat and Growing Up in a World Without BordersGrowing Up in a World Without BordersGrowing Up in a World Without Borders But there is an important question worth asking: In a world full of outside influences, how do Filipino young people hold on to who they are? Being exposed to other cultures does not mean Filipino culture has to disappear. Young Filipinos can enjoy international music while listening to OPM. They can learn foreign languages while continuing to speak Filipino and local languages. They can follow global trends while still celebrating Filipino traditions. Globalization can even give Filipino culture a bigger stage. A young creator making videos about Filipino food, traditions, language, or everyday life can introduce the Philippines to viewers who may have never visited the country. From Followers to Creators Perhaps one of the most exciting things about globalization is that Filipino youth are no longer just watching what the world creates. They are creating, too. Social media has given young Filipinos a platform to share their talents, opinions, businesses, art, music, and stories. A simple video or post can reach thousands—or even millions—of people. This means young Filipinos have a choice. They can simply follow whatever is trending, or they can use the same platforms to create something meaningful. They can promote Filipino products. They can talk about issues affecting their communities. They can share Filipino stories. They can use technology to educate, inspire, and connect with others. According to ASEAN (2026), young people aged 15–34 make up around 34 percent of the region's population. This makes youth an important part of Southeast Asia's future. The voices of young people matter—not just because they are the next generation, but because they are already shaping the world today. 34% The Other Side of Globalization Of course, globalization is not perfect. Being connected to the world can sometimes feel overwhelming. Young people are constantly exposed to trends, opinions, lifestyles, and expectations from different parts of the world. Social media can create pressure to look, act, or live a certain way. Misinformation can spread quickly. Competition for jobs and opportunities can become tougher. There is also the concern that local traditions and values may be forgotten as foreign influences become more common. These challenges make one thing clear: being connected is not enough. Young people also need to be responsible and critical about what they see and share online. They need to ask questions, check information, respect differences, and think about how their choices affect other people. Global Minds, Filipino Hearts Globalization has changed what it means to be a young Filipino. Today's youth can learn from the world, communicate across borders, and reach opportunities that previous generations could only dream about. But with these opportunities comes the responsibility to use them wisely. Being global does not mean forgetting where you came from. A Filipino student can dream of working abroad while still helping their community. A content creator can gain an international audience while proudly sharing Filipino culture. A young entrepreneur can compete globally while supporting local products and workers. The world may be getting smaller, but Filipino identity does not have to become smaller with it. Filipino youth can look beyond the borders without losing sight of home. In the end, GLOBALIZATION is not simply about becoming part of the world. It is about finding a place in that world— and bringing something Filipino with you.feature|13Volume 1, Issue 1

editorial cartooning|14Volume 1, Issue 1Editorial Cartoon by ATLAS a.k.a. Ayaka ShibuyaWhen wants become endless, consumption becomes a cycleglobal economy that trades without borders yet prospers without fairness.THETHETHE DIVIDE OFDIVIDE OFDIVIDE OF NATIONSNATIONSNATIONS THE DIVIDE OF NATIONSEditorial Cartoon by EMPHORIA a.k.a. JHANINA CEREZO

GLOBAL CODE CHALLENGE 13. Multiple Choice Which company is a major global streaming service whose shows and movies are available in many countries? A. Nintendo B. Nickelodeon C. Netflix D. Nokia 2. Multiple Choice Which city is widely known as one of the world's major financial and business centers? A. Lima B. Lagos C. London D. Lisbon 4. Multiple Choice What do we call the movement of products, materials, and services from one country to another as part of international business? A. Banking B. Business trade C. Broadcasting D. Border control 3. What Am I? (Clue: General term) I help create and enforce rules for international trade between countries. I deal with trade in goods, services, and intellectual property. What am I? 5. Who Am I? I am a technology company known worldwide for products such as the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. My products are sold and used across many countries. Who am I? 6. Multiple Choice Which city is one of the world's major international centers for diplomacy, business, and culture? A. Lahore B. Lima C. London D. Lusaka 7. Number Challenge According to the ITU, approximately how many people around the world were using the Internet in 2025? A. Internet users are approximately 1 billion B. Internet users are approximately 3 billion C. Internet users are approximately 4 billion D. Internet users are approximately 6 billion 8. Multiple Choice (Warning: This one is tricky!) Which country is known for having experienced one of the world's most severe episodes of hyperinflation in the late 2000s? A. Zambia B. Zimbabwe C. Zaire D. Zanzibar 9. Guess the Company I began as an online bookstore but grew into a global company involved in e-commerce, cloud computing. streaming, and other services. Who am I? 10. True or False Technology has helped globalization by making communication, transportation, information sharing. and international business faster and easier. 11. Multiple Choice What term refers to people moving from one country to another to live, work, study, or seek safety? A. Industrialization B. International migration C. Isolation D. Integration 12. Guess the Event Athletes from countries all over the world gather to compete in one of the most internationally recognized sporting events. What event is this? 13 QUESTIONS 13 LETTERS 1 SECRET WORD• • C a n y o u u n l o c k t h e w o r l d ' s s e c r e t w o r d ? 01 — WORLD CONNECTIONS 02 — GLOBAL CITIES 03 — GLOBAL EVENTS HOW TO PLAY 1. Answer each question correctly. 2. Take the FIRST LETTER of your answer. 3. Collect all 13 letters and arrange them in order. W h a t g l o b a l w o r d w i l l y o u u n l o c k ? DID YOU KNOW? Globalization connects countries through trade, technology, culture, and communication. 1. Multiple Choice What term describes the increasing connection and interaction of countries through trade, technology, culture, and communication? A. Isolation B. Globalization C. Nationalism D. Localization FINAL QUESTION Can you unlock the las t letter? GLOBAL WORD UNLOCK 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 PUT YOUR 13 LETTERS TOGETHER Did you crack the code ? GLOBALIZATIONtrivia|15Volume 1, Issue 1

Volume 1, Issue 1references|1634 Signs You Grew Up Filipino | Philippine popular culture, Filipino values, Philippine cultures and traditions. (n.d.). Pinterest. https://pin.it/3e11AC1z1 Afzal, M. (2019). Power and Trade Agreements between Developed and Developing Countries: Introduction. https://preprints.apsanet.org/engage/api- gateway/apsa/assets/orp/resource/item/5cfe9d98b1eed50012fbcb44/original/power-and-trade-agreements-between-developed-and-developing- countries.pdf Cabato, L. (2023, September 25). Naia ascends in ranking for world’s most internationally connected airports. INQUIRER.net. Article source. CartoonStock. (n.d.). Inequality seesaw. CartoonStock. https://www.cartoonstock.com/cartoon?searchID=CS164947 CEPR. (n.d.). How do governments react to globalisation? VoxEU. https://cepr.org/voxeu/columns/how-do-governments-react-globalisation Credendo.com. (n.d.). Credendo.com. https://share.google/2FpKhNIffWCYZPj88 Equip Editorial. (2025, November 4). The gap between rich and poor widens. 11Onze. https://www.11onze.cat/en/magazine/gap-between-rich- poor-widens/ International Labour Organization (ILO). (2026). Youth unemployment rises as young people face a harder road to decent work. https://www.ilo.org/resource/news/youth-unemployment-rises-young-people-face-harder-road-decent-work?hl=en-GB Manalo, E. (2025). Towards a Rules-Based Order in the South China Sea. In The Economic Impact of the South China Sea Disputes (pp. 15–18). Edizioni Nuova Cultura. https://doi.org/10.4458/8490 Maze, F. Y. T. (n.d.). My little love letters to life ♡ | From yours truly, Maze. Substack. https://littlereminders.substack.com/? utm_source=navbar&utm_medium=web Pazzibugan, D. Z. (2024, April 8). DMW: More demand for OFWs ‘all over Europe’. Philippine Daily Inquirer. https://globalnation.inquirer.net/230861/dmw- demand-for-ofws-all-over-europe Philippine Embassy in Italy. (2026, April 23). On the eve of Arbitral Award’s 10th anniversary, PH highlights global economic impact of South China Sea disputes at book launch at the Italian Senate in Rome. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19VPJsBVZj/ Philippine Statistics Authority. (2025, December 16). Results of the 2024 Overseas Filipino Workers: Number of Overseas Filipino Workers grew. https://psa.gov.ph/statistics/survey/labor-and-employment/survey-overseas-filipinos Pinnacle Homes. (2024, April 29). OFW investment tips: Turn remittances into your dream home. https://pinnaclehomes.ph/news-and-blog/ofw- investment-tips/ Press release. (2025, November 17). ITU. https://www.itu.int/en/mediacentre/Pages/PR-2025-11-17-Facts-and-Figures.aspx Research Guides: Globalization: A Resource Guide: History of Globalization. (n.d.). Library of Congress. https://guides.loc.gov/globalization/history Rocamora, J. A. (2026). Italian book features PH view on economic impact of SCS dispute. Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1273626 Rooks, T. (2026). Why the youth jobs crisis is becoming global. Inquirer. https://globalnation.inquirer.net/332112/why-the-youth-jobs-crisis-is-becoming- global The Global City. (n.d.). City of London. https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/supporting-businesses/financial-professional-services/the-global-city United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction. (2023). Sand mining profile: Environmental degradation and disaster risk. PreventionWeb. https://www.undrr.org/understanding-disaster-risk/terminology/hips/en0405 UNESCO. (2022). New opportunities and challenges for inclusive cultural and creative industries in the digital environment. https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000380495 UNESCO. (2022). Re/Shaping Policies for Creativity: Addressing culture as a global public good. https://www.unesco.org/reports/reshaping- creativity/2022/en United Nations Environment Programme. (2022). Sand and sustainability: 10 strategic recommendations to avert a crisis. UNEP/GRID-Geneva. https://www.unep.org/resources/report/sand-and-sustainability-10-strategic-recommendations-avert-crisis United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction. (2023). Sand mining profile: Environmental degradation and disaster risk. PreventionWeb. https://www.undrr.org/understanding-disaster-risk/terminology/hips/en0405 United Nations. (n.d.). International migration | United Nations. https://www.un.org/en/global-issues/migration University of the Philippines Department of Political Science. (2026, March). Book presentation of The Economic Impact of the South China Sea Disputes – UP Department of Political Science. https://polisci.upd.edu.ph/book-presentation-of-the-economic-impact-of-the-south-china-sea-disputes/ World Trade Organization – Global trade. (2001, September 14). https://www.wto.org/ World Wildlife Fund. (2023). The Viet Nam Mekong Delta sand budget. WWF Sand Budget Initiative. https://www.sandbudget.net/the-viet-nam-mekong- delta-sand-budget Www.linkedin.com. (n.d.). LinkedIn. https://share.google/AAm3ikhapOT2Mtv6P Www.magnific.com. (n.d.). Magnific. https:/