In recent weeks, Palestinians in the West Bank have experienced a massive increase in violent attacks by armed Israeli settlers, who are driving them off their land and destroying houses and crops in an effort to displace them and seize their lands. There is clear Israeli government support for these “invasions.” United States Ambassador to…
At no other time has the Philippines faced such a moral crisis and challenge to its integrity as a nation. Government officials, civil society and child protectors are challenged to take a stronger moral and social stand against the ever-spreading proliferation of crimes against children, especially over the internet. It is here, Unicef says, where…
The peace and security of all people depend on the establishment and implementation of a strong rule of law in all nations. Otherwise, chaos and atrocities of all kinds — including war crimes — will prevail, like what is happening in a number of countries. There are currently over 20 permanent and active international tribunals…
The habit of millions of Filipinos to play violent video games online could have long-term consequences for their mental condition, especially that of young people. Some experts say it is very likely that such games can cause emotional and psychological problems, while others disagree, claiming there are no negative effects. But research from the American…
The world is again facing a huge spike in oil prices and shortages of fertilizer and other oil-based commodities that are worsening world hunger and driving thousands more poor people to starvation in Africa as Iran continues to attack shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and block oil tankers. 20% of the world’s total oil…
Everywhere you go in the Philippines, especially in schools and town halls, there is likely to be a statue of Dr José Rizal, the country’s national hero. He strongly opposed Spain’s oppressive colonial rule in his time. He believed that the true nature of a good government is a moral, transparent and merit-based one that…
There are times when the challenges of daily life sadden and discourage us, even when we are doing our very best to serve and help the needy. Many believers find encouragement in the inspiring words of Jesus of Nazareth. He said to not lose heart, but to have a stronger conviction that trying your best…
February 2026 marked 52 years since the establishment of the Preda Foundation, a charitable organisation aimed at helping children in conflict with the law, street children, children at risk, and child abuse victims/survivors. We should never underestimate the desire and determination of children to fight for their rights and demand justice. Today in the Philippines,…
It is the truth, spoken quietly but with conviction and clarity by children who are victims of sexual abuse, that wins justice for them in courts of law and by which they gain freedom from the domination of their abusers. Their abusers are frequently their biological father, stepfather, live-in partner of their mother, grandfather, brother,…
Andrea was an 8-year-old girl in a town in Zambales when her parents separated, after which her mother moved in with Christopher, who became her stepfather. In January 2024, when she was 11, Christopher sexually abused her. She was afraid to tell anyone, lest he would hurt her and her mother. During a counselling session…