Aguhon of the Organization of Area Studies Majors (2025)

06/05/2025

The 11th Area Studies National Conference brought together leading voices in history, cultural studies, and political critique to discuss the urgent and layered realities of the Filipino experience. In pursuit of deeper engagement with critical issues facing the Filipino people today, we are proud to present a series of quote cards drawn from the insightful lectures delivered during the 11th ASNC Day 2! 🖇📕

Prof. Kristoffer Esquejo traced how the Galleon Trade masked the erosion of women’s power in precolonial Philippines, showing how Spanish colonization and religion dismantled the authority of the babaylan and embedded patriarchal norms. Prof. Jely Galang challenged narrow views of Tsinoy identity, emphasizing the need to see Chinese-Filipinos as deeply rooted yet globally connected, with evolving roles shaped by history, migration, and media. In the roundtable discussion, journalists Ms. Iris Gonzales, Ms. Jean Mangaluz, and Mr. Francis Kristoffer Pasion explored how digital platforms have transformed news consumption, highlighting the urgent need for media literacy and support for credible journalism in the face of misinformation and fragmented narratives.

✨ Swipe through and revisit these voices! ⬇ Let their words challenge, inform, and inspire.

**SM21st

Content by: Nicole Salatamos
Edit by: Angel Eowyn Santos

04/05/2025

The 11th Area Studies National Conference brought together leading voices in history, cultural studies, and political critique to discuss the urgent and layered realities of the Filipino experience. In pursuit of deeper engagement with critical issues facing the Filipino people today, we are proud to present a series of quote cards drawn from the insightful lectures delivered during the 11th ASNC Day 1! 🖇📕

Dr. Francis A. Gealogo traced the historical roots and consequences of Filipino labor migration, exposing the systemic failures and state-led policies that turned labor into an export commodity. Prof. Danton Remoto reflected on the evolution and power of gay language in the Philippines, situating it as a form of self-expression, protest, and national discourse. Mr. Guillermo “Ige” Ramos offered a compelling take on food not just as sustenance, but as a symbol of cultural survival, inequality, and resilience.

✨ Swipe through and revisit these voices! ⬇ Let their words challenge, inform, and inspire.

**SM21st

Content by: Princess Murielle Catacutan
Edit by: Angel Eowyn Santos

01/05/2025

[𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐎𝐑𝐆𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐙𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐀 𝐒𝐓𝐔𝐃𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐌𝐀𝐉𝐎𝐑𝐒' 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐀𝐘]

Every first of May, the nation pauses to recognize the workers– mga manggagawang Pilipino– who power every industry, build every road, teach every child, serve every community, and nurture the very lifeblood of our economy. Labor Day is not simply a celebration; it is a reminder of the unceasing effort and daily sacrifice of the Filipino labor force. From the cracks in our public transport systems to the desks of corporate offices, from muddy rice fields to faraway lands where OFWs endure separation and hardship, Filipino workers continue to struggle often in silence, often unseen, and all too often unprotected.

Despite being the backbone of our society, many workers still endure unjust wages, unsafe working conditions, contractualization, and suppression of labor rights. Many are denied the very dignity that their labor seeks to uphold. The cries of unions for living wages, benefits, and security of tenure are met not with solutions but with red tape, violence, and neglect. Even in 2025, the dream of a dignified life for every worker remains an elusive goal– because in a system designed to exploit, even the most honest labor is undervalued.

As calls for reform grow louder, several lawmakers have echoed the urgent need for structural change. Senate leaders have emphasized that economic growth must translate into tangible benefits for workers’ households. Proposals such as a PHP100 daily wage hike, stronger labor protections, and inclusive job creation policies reflect the need to shift from mere “minimum wage” discussions to demands for a living wage. Legislative efforts like the “Trabaho Para sa Bayan Plan 2025–2034” and reforms under the Revised Magna Carta for Public School Teachers signal the possibility of a better future– if matched by political will and public support.

More critically, on the eve of Labor Day, major labor organizations under the National Wage Coalition once again urged President Marcos to break his silence and directly engage with the labor sector– a dialogue he has yet to grant since assuming office. The coalition demands a legislated PHP200 daily wage hike, arguing that poverty wages have persisted for decades while Regional Wage Boards continue to offer only crumbs. Even with flowery pronouncements from government officials, the concrete call remains unmet: talk to the workers, Mr. President. The recent drop in public trust only reflects what the working class has long known– that hunger, inequality, and systemic injustice are worsening, and the status quo is failing them.

Labor Day is not a day for shallow recognition, for politicians to deliver performative speeches while workers continue to starve. It is a day to listen to the demands of the labor sector and to march alongside them as they call for change. It is a day to confront the uncomfortable truths of systemic inequality and class exploitation. This day must stand not as a symbol of appreciation, but as a call to action.

Nakikiisa ang Organization of Area Studies Majors sa paggunita ng Araw ng Paggawa. Kaisa kami sa bawat manggagawang Pilipino– sa mga g**o, mangingisda, tsuper, nars, kasambahay, magsasaka, empleyado sa pabrika, at mga manggagawa sa ibang bansa– na araw-araw ay nilalabanan ang kahirapan, diskriminasyon, at pang-aalipusta sa ilalim ng sistemang hindi pantay. Hindi nila kasalanan ang pagiging mahirap; kasalanan ito ng sistemang nagsasaisantabi sa karapatan ng manggagawa habang patuloy na pinapayaman ang mga taong nasa itaas na ng tatsulok. Sa araw na ito, hindi lang tayo sumasaludo sa mga manggagawa– tayo’y nakikibaka para sa kanila, nakikimartsa sa mga lansangan upang igiit ang kanilang mga panawagan.

Sa ngalan ng hustisya at pagkakapantay-pantay, magkaisa tayong lahat para sa manggagawang Pilipino.

28/04/2025

ICYMI: The second day of the 11th Area Studies National Conference, held on April 11, 2025, at the UP Manila Little Theater, was a truly memorable and impactful gathering! 🥳

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our distinguished speakers. Prof. Kristoffer Esquejo offered a compelling talk on “Patriyarkiya sa Likod ng Progreso: Ang Dalawang Mukha ng Kalakalang Galyon sa Lipunang Pilipino.” Prof. Jelly Galang shared valuable insights in “Tsinoy History, Heritage, and Identity: A Historian’s View.” Mr. Fahadz M. Lulu presented his meaningful paper on “The Role of Women in the 1998 Election: A Case Study of the Conflict Between Bisaya and Kolibugan Tribes.” We are also grateful to Ms. Iris Gonzales, Ms. Jean Mangaluz, and Mr. Francis Kristoffer Pasion for their engaging participation in the round table discussion.

With the theme Pamana: Fostering Legacies in Filipino History and Heritage Through Intersectional Identities in the Digital Age, we aimed to leave a lasting legacy by imparting meaningful lessons to our participants. We hope the discussions inspired a deeper understanding of our shared history and identity! 💐

CHECK OUT how the event unfolded through this post! ⬇

Photos by: Angel Eowyn Santos
Edit by: Jade Loraine Murcia

**SM21st

27/04/2025

ICYMI: The first day of the 11th Area Studies National Conference, held on April 10, 2025, at the UP Manila Little Theater, was a resounding success! 🥳

We extend our sincere gratitude to our distinguished speakers: Dr. Francis A. Gealogo, whose presentation on "Area Studies and the Study of Historical Demography of Migration in the Philippines" offered valuable insights into migration patterns; Mr. Danton Remoto, who explored the role of "Gay Language as a Way of Fictioning the Nation"; and Mr. Guillermo 'Ige' Ramos, who discussed the complexities of "Hapag-Kainan: Negotiating Culture and Identity Politics through Food in Social Media."

With the theme Pamana: Fostering Legacies in Filipino History and Heritage Through Intersectional Identities in the Digital Age, we aimed to leave a lasting legacy by imparting meaningful lessons to our participants. We hope the discussions inspired a deeper understanding of our shared history and identity! 💐

CHECK OUT how the event unfolded through this post! ⬇️

Photos by: Cassandra Dela Torre and Angel Eowyn Santos
Edit by: Jade Loraine Murcia

**SM21st

16/04/2025

In the latest installment of the Area Studies Lecture Series held last April 8, 2025, at the UP Manila Theater, Dr. Marcus Coll delivered a timely and thought-provoking lecture titled “Disarmament and Nuclear-Free Efforts in Southeast Asia: The Case of the Philippines.” Dr. Coll explored the Philippines’ unique position as both an Asian and Pacific nation actively committed to a nuclear-free region. Yet, Dr. Coll noted that the country’s stance is now being tested by renewed great-power tensions and shifting U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration. Simultaneously, domestic debates surrounding the revival of the dormant Bataan Nuclear Power Plant add complexity to the nation's nuclear trajectory.

Reactor Dr. Emmanuel Jeric Albela responded by emphasizing the grave threat nuclear weapons pose to humanity, stating, “From the discussion of Dr. Coll, nuclear weapons are threats to humanity. Their destructive power is somehow unparalleled and their existence threatens global stability.” He mentioned the historical vulnerability of Southeast Asia to nuclear threats and the critical importance of maintaining a strong, principled stance against proliferation. The session served as a reminder of the fragile balance between peace and power in the region, and the Philippines’ enduring responsibility to lead regional efforts toward a safer, nuclear-free future.

01/04/2025

𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁… 𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁… 𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿! 🧾

Come and join us this coming April 10-11, 2025 🗓️ at the UP Manila Theater to witness greatness 🏆 and experience learning 🧠 like never before 😱.

Registration link here:
🔗: https://bit.ly/11thASNCRegistration
🔗: https://bit.ly/11thASNCRegistration
🔗: https://bit.ly/11thASNCRegistration

Can’t wait to see you there! Don’t… Don’t… Don’t miss out on the fun! 🤪

**SM21st

31/03/2025

[𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐎𝐑𝐆𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐙𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐀 𝐒𝐓𝐔𝐃𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐌𝐀𝐉𝐎𝐑𝐒' 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐖𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍'𝐒 𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐇]

March is the month when we celebrate the remarkable achievements of women and acknowledge their hardships. From breaking barriers in politics, science, and business to leading grassroots movements and advocating for human rights, women have continually reshaped societies. Throughout the course of herstory, women have been on a constant ride up and down a hill. There are times when we consider them as the pinnacle of human beings, but more often than not, women have been treated unfairly by society.

Women around the world continue to face violence and exploitation, with many subjected to domestic abuse, harassment, and trafficking. Beyond physical violence, women also contend with economic inequality and underrepresentation in decision-making spaces, despite being the other half of the population of the entire world. In many countries, wage gaps persist, and women remain marginalized in political leadership roles, with their voices and concerns often overlooked and disregarded. It is also crucial to recognize that women’s experiences are diverse and shaped by intersecting factors such as race, ethnicity, class, ability, and sexual orientation. Women of color, Indigenous women, and those from marginalized communities face double the discrimination, making their fight for justice even more challenging. LGBTQIA+ women are often subjected to violence and exclusion, frequently considered as ‘unfit’ for society, while women with disabilities encounter systemic barriers to healthcare, education, and employment, often being judged not only by their capacities but also by being a woman. An inclusive celebration of Women’s Month requires lifting these voices and ensuring their struggles are acknowledged.

Amidst these challenges, there have been significant strides toward gender equality and women’s empowerment. Women’s representation in leadership and politics has gradually increased in many parts of the world. Movements such as have shed light on sexual harassment and assault, fostering greater awareness and accountability. Additionally, advancements in reproductive rights, education, and legal protections have strengthened women’s access to essential resources and opportunities. Nations are now more accepting of women in male-dominated careers, and the gatekeeping culture to such jobs is ever so slightly fading. However, while these achievements are commendable and much appreciated, the road to true gender equality remains long, and sometimes it feels like it will never come. Women’s Month is a reminder that the fight must continue.

Nakikiisa ang Organization of Area Studies Majors sa paggunita ng Buwan ng Kababaihan, na nagmamarka ng patuloy na pagpupunyagi ng mga mapagpalayang lupon ng kababaihan sa iba’t ibang panig ng mundo laban sa samu’t saring mga kaso ng diskriminasyon, pagmamaliit, at pang-aabuso. Sa buwang ito, kabalikat kami ng kababaihan upang tuluyang kabakahin ang dominanteng sistema ng patriyarka sa lipunan. Nagiging hadlang ang mapaniil na sistemang ito sa kababaihan upang makatanggap ng pantay at patas na mga benepisyo at oportunidad na madali lamang nakukuha ng kalalakihan. Kaya naman, nararapat lamang na ating pakinggan ang bawat salaysay ng iba’t ibang babae sa hinaba-haba ng panahon nang walang panghuhusga; dahil walang mas nakakaalam ng paghihirap, pagdurusa, at pagtitiyaga na kanilang dinadanas, kundi sila mismo. Atin na ring baguhin ang landas na nakasanayan, bagkus, bumuo tayo ng makabagong lipunan na lahat ng lansangan ay magiging ligtas sa kababaihan at lahat ng industriya o oportunidad ay magiging bukas sa kanila. Ating ipagdiwang ang pagkilala sa kababaihan, mula sa mga ilaw ng tahanan, miyembro ng mga kilusang lumaban at patuloy na lumalaban para sa ating mga karapatan, hanggang sa mga babaeng lider na kasama sa pagpapasya sa loob ng komunidad at pagbuo ng mga nasyon.

This month of March does not just require all of us to wear colored shirts and say that we advocate for the change of society’s construct regarding women. Rather, it requires us to MARCH and fight to lead the fight for their rights and freedom from discrimination and unfair treatment. The color of purple exudes the power and will of all of us to fight in a society where no one is underappreciated, not by gender, skin color, or ability. Let us not wear purple ribbons just as a formality but to symbolize how we are allies of the women in their fight for fairness and equality, and to enlighten others to fight alongside women and persuade them that the society we are living in is not just a man’s world but each and everyone’s world.

30/03/2025

𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐫𝐮𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝? 𝐆𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬! 𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐫𝐮𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝? 𝐆𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬! 𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐫𝐮𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝? 𝐆𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬! 🎶

Let’s take a moment to honor the incredible women who serve as the backbone and foundation of our organizations. From Or**SM to women everywhere, MALIGAYANG BUWAN NG KABABAIHAN 💜

A little bit of fun 🤪 mixed with fierce determination and undeniable power 🦸🏻‍♀️—that’s the magic of women!

You are strong 💪, you are capable 🎉, and success is yours for the taking.

Here’s to celebrating YOU not just this month, but every single day! 🫶🏻

30/03/2025

A momentous event titled “Oriang @ 150: Ang Kabuluhan ng Buhay at mga Aral ni Gregoria de Jesus sa Kasalukuyang Panahon” was held at the UP Manila Theater on the afternoon of March 25. The gathering commemorated the 150th birth anniversary of Gregoria de Jesus, a pivotal figure in Philippine history. This sought to honor the life led by the Lakambini of the Katipunan, reflecting on the sacrifices she made which continues to inspire and resonate in the present day.

Professor Mary Dorothy Jose was invited as the speaker for the event, where she delivered a comprehensive and insightful examination of Gregoria de Jesus and her role in the fight for Philippine independence. She shed light on how Oriang (as Gregoria de Jesus was lovingly known) exemplified remarkable bravery and steadfast commitment to the revolution against Spanish colonial rule. “Ginawa niya lahat ng mga sakripisyo niya, dahil wala siyang nais noong panahong iyon kundi makita na maiwagayway ang bandila ng kasarinlan ng Pilipinas,” Professor Jose emphasized, showing Oriang's unwavering dedication. More than just a revolutionary, Oriang was a mother, wife, and leader who made immense personal sacrifices, often putting herself in grave danger for the sake of the revolution and the future of the Philippines.

After Professor Jose’s lecture, Professor Atoy Navarro stepped in as the reactor. He mentioned not only her courage but also her wisdom and leadership, urging the audience to reflect on her enduring impact. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of Oriang’s counsel, quoting, “(…) ang tagubilin ni Oriang na bahagi sa isang diskurso tungkol sa mga anak ng bayan.” Professor Navarro encouraged the audience to view Oriang’s words and actions as part of a broader dialogue about the Filipino people. Her legacy should serve as a guiding beacon for modern Filipinos to recognize their duty to their country and cultural heritage.

The event was further enriched by the presence of Mrs. Maria Paz N. Santos-Viola, a direct descendant of Gregoria de Jesus. Her participation added a deeply personal connection to the celebration of Oriang’s legacy, as she shared valuable insights from her family’s history. This brought on a sense of continuity, ensuring that Oriang's spirit is preserved and honored in modern-day society. "Oriang @ 150" not only celebrated the life of a revolutionary icon but also invited attendees to reflect on the relevance of Gregoria de Jesus' sacrifices and ideals in the ongoing pursuit of justice, freedom, and nationhood in the Philippines. It showed that the struggles and values of the past continue to shape the present and guide the future of the Filipino people.

Photos by: Cassandra Dela Torre and Jeremiah Li

29/03/2025

On the morning of March 25, Dr. JC Gaillard led the Area Studies Lecture Series with the topic, "Mga Pananaliksik Ukol sa Disaster sa Timog-Silangang Asya: Katayuan ng Larangan at Tunguhin sa Hinaharap". Dr. Gaillard highlighted the difficulty of defining "disaster" within the context of Southeast Asia. In his lecture, he noted that there is no direct translation for the term "disaster" in many Southeast Asian languages, which reflects the broader challenge in understanding the phenomenon. According to Dr. Gaillard, the concept of disaster is often not inherently present in local epistemologies; it is an import from Western discourses. “Walang ganitong konsepto, walang ganitong dalumat ng ‘disaster’ sa atin dito. Galing sa banyaga ‘yan.” He argued that the notion of disaster, as we understand it today, is deeply influenced by Western thought and frameworks. This lack of a local definition and understanding suggests that the way we approach disaster research in Southeast Asia is shaped by external influences rather than indigenous perspectives.

As a response to Dr. Gaillard’s lecture, Dr. Mary Dorothy Jose offered insights on the concept of "vulnerability" in disaster studies. Dr. Jose argued that the use of the vulnerability concept by Western scholars often serves as a justification for their continued intervention in the internal affairs of countries, especially former colonies. She noted that vulnerability is frequently used as a way to frame certain nations or communities as being "weak" or "fragile," thus opening the door for external actors— be they governments, non-governmental organizations, or international agencies— to offer aid or impose solutions. This framing of vulnerability is problematic because it further entrench existing power imbalances and prevent these nations from developing their own disaster response frameworks that are more attuned to local needs and conditions.

The current state of the field, dominated by Western theories and methodologies, risks overlooking local knowledge systems and reinforcing colonial power dynamics. To move forward, there must be greater recognition of the region's own conceptualizations of disaster, as well as the development of research frameworks that are more inclusive of indigenous perspectives. By doing so, the Philippines, and Southeast Asia as a whole, can develop disaster management strategies that are more culturally relevant, contextually appropriate, and ultimately more effective in reducing risk and building resilience.

Photos by: Kurt Villena

10/03/2025

On March 3, 2025, in collaboration with the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), the Manila Studies Program (MSP) of the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) organized the event “Paggunita at Pagsulong: Kumperensya sa Ika-80 Anibersaryo sa Pagpapalaya ng Maynila”. The event began with an introduction by Dr. Wensley M. Reyes, the Convenor of MSP, who welcomed the attendees and introduced the keynote speaker, Dr. Francis M. Navarro, the President of the Philippine Historical Association.

The morning session featured several distinguished speakers. Dr. Mary Dorothy dL. Jose of UPM presented “Rising from the Rubble: The Continued Advocacy of the National Federation of Women's Clubs in Post-War Manila.” Dr. Jose Victor Z. Torres of De La Salle University (DLSU) followed with his presentation, “The Santo Tomas Internment Camp During the Liberation of Manila (1945).” Dr. Arnel E. Joven, from the University of Asia and the Pacific, spoke on “Health and Liberation in Manila (1945),” and Dr. Patricia Irene N. Dacudao from Ateneo de Manila University presented “A Jesuit Superior’s Recollections during the Liberation of Manila.” These perspectives show the human suffering civilians endured during the war, reiterating the devastating toll it took on the people. The presenters showcased the resilience and determination of individuals and communities, from rebuilding efforts to surviving harsh conditions.

In the afternoon, the conference continued with Prof. Bernard Leo M. Karganilla from UPM, who delivered a presentation on “Manila during World War II.” Raymond C. Ciriaco of KABANSA+PNAS followed with his talk, “Tondo: Invasion, Occupation & Liberation stories of our Families.” Dr. Marcelino M. Macapinlac Jr. from DLSU presented “The De La Salle College During the Battle and Liberation of Manila,” and Prof. Jerome A. Ong from UPM spoke on “Philippine General Hospital During the Wartime Years: Stories of Tragedy and Heroism.” The session deepened our understanding of both the broader historical context of the war and the lived experiences of those who endured it. By focusing on institutions such as schools and hospitals, it showed how communities responded to destruction with acts of heroism, solidarity, and resilience.

To conclude the event, GSIS Manager Ryan V. Palad delivered a lecture titled “GSIS Arroceros: Finding Home, A Decade After Liberation,” followed by closing remarks from Dr. Wensley Reyes. The conference proved to be a meaningful occasion for reflecting on the historical events surrounding the liberation of Manila, reminding us that history is not only defined by major battles but also by the countless untold stories of personal courage.

Photos by Alyssa Lei Aquino and Ritchelle Daine Tomulto

Aguhon of the Organization of Area Studies Majors

06/05/2025

04/05/2025

01/05/2025

28/04/2025

27/04/2025

16/04/2025

01/04/2025

31/03/2025

30/03/2025

30/03/2025

29/03/2025

10/03/2025

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