READING AND WRITING SKILLS DEBATE FACTS

AND EVIDENCES

Subjects that are not related to your course: should it be abolished?

PRO

The removal of minor or GE (general education) subjects from college is a n old issue that Department of Trade
and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual has revived days ago. Pascual was quoted to have said that “...
[t]here should be no more general education courses in college. General education courses will be taken care
of in the K-12 curriculum. College should focus on the major subjects.”

This is also the sentiment of the majority. Students and parents questioned why GenEd courses, such as ethics
and history, are offered. In fact, they are not directly related to the student’s college program. Significantly, this
only adds to the tuition. Moreover, GenEd courses have been deemed a burden to the student’s workload. Some
argue GenEd courses are exhausting than major courses.

CON

It is important to note that a well-rounded education should include a variety of subjects, even if they are not
directly related to a student's chosen career path. This can help students develop a broader range of skills and
knowledge that will serve them well in their personal and professional lives.

Therefore, it is not advisable to abolish subjects that are not directly related to a course. important to note that
a well-rounded education should include a variety of subjects, even if they are not directly related to a student's
chosen career path. This can help students develop a broader range of skills and knowledge that will serve them
well in their personal and professional lives. Therefore, it is not advisable to abolish subjects that are not
directly related to a course.

Wearing of school uniform should not be mandatory.

PRO

According Nord Anglia International Manila uniforms make for one less distraction during school. By wearing
what they like, children can become more focused on their school status rather than their studies. Fashion
trends and owning the latest styles become the priority, and it could lead to a downturn in that child’s progress
at school. School uniforms prepare children for formal scenarios that we all encounter in our lives. Depending
on the situation, we’re expected to dress and look a certain way. Job interviews are a good example. Dressing
professionally in working environments is expected in adulthood, and this is something your child will
understand thanks to a school uniform.

In Long Beach, CA, after two years of a district-wide K-8 mandatory uniform policy, reports of assault and
battery in the district’s schools decreased by 34%, assault with a deadly weapon dropped by 50%, fighting
incidents went down by 51%, sex offenses were cut by 74%, robbery dropped by 65%, possession of weapons (or
weapon “look-alikes”) decreased by 52%, possession of drugs went down by 69%, and vandalism was lowered by
18%.
One year after Sparks Middle School in Nevada instituted a uniform policy, school police data showed a 63%
drop in police log reports, and decreases were also noted in gang activity, student fights, graffiti, property
damage, and battery. A peer-reviewed study 0 that schools with uniform policies had 12% fewer firearm-related
incidents and 15% fewer drug-related incidents than schools without uniforms.

CON

Written by Shirley Farrell in an article about why school uniforms should be mandatory, he said that: “students
always find ways to tease or bully others, regardless of what clothes are worn. Uniforms make students very
identifiable, creating division between schools and making it very easy to be bullied or cause a fight with a rival
institution.”

The First Amendment of the US Constitution guarantees that all individuals have the right to express themselves
freely. The US Supreme Court stated in Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District (7-2, 1969)
that “it can hardly be argued that either students or teachers shed their constitutional rights to freedom of
speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.” 

In Sweden, a government agency called the School Inspectorate determined that uniforms were a human rights
violation because “dress and appearance should be considered an individual expression, decided by the
students themselves.” Clothing choices are “a crucial form of self-expression,” according to the American Civil
Liberties Union of Nevada, which also stated that “allowing students to choose their clothing is an empowering
message from the schools that a student is a maturing person who is entitled to the most basic self-
determination.” 

Uniforms take away the ability to use clothing as means of expressing support for social causes. Students at
Friendly High School in Prince George’s County, MD, were not allowed to wear pink shirts to support Breast
Cancer Awareness Month and 75 students received suspensions for breaking the school’s uniform restrictions. 

Cellphones should be banned in schools.

PRO

The National Center for Education Statistics found that about 65 percent of public schools banned mobile
phones in 2015. By the 2019-2020 school year, restrictions were in place at 76 percent of schools. And the states
of California and Tennessee recently passed laws permitting schools to ban phones.

Now, educators see a need to keep students from being distracted. During the pandemic, many students
experienced learning loss.

Liz Keren-Kolb is a professor of education technologies at the University of Michigan. She said school officials
may feel like they could restrict mobile devices due to parents’ concern about high amounts of screen time
during the pandemic. But she said there is a wide range of parental opinions on the subject. “You still have the
parents that want to have that direct line of communication,” she said. “But I do think that there’s more of
an empathy and an understanding toward their child being able to put away their devices so they can
really focus on the learning in the classroom.”

CON

According to the PRIZM institute there is no denying that cell phones have become a very important part of
people’s everyday lives. People at various workplaces across the world use cell phones to perform a variety of
tasks like storing data, editing files and seeking information.

The most important feature or the best thing about cell phones is they allow us to keep in touch with loved ones.
Apps such as Skype, Facebook, Instagram, Whatsapp and more have it very easy for people to keep in touch with
family and friends no matter where they are on the globe. Almost every household across the world has a cell
phone and the majority of college students have one too. The use of cell phones in education has been widely
debated for many years now with so many reports in favor and against the idea of banning them in schools are
being published. This article will look at the reasons why cell phones should not be banned in schools and
colleges.

Cell phones allow students to get external help if they need it. The life of a student in college involves attending
class, spending some of their free time with friends and doing their assignments. Assignments are compulsory
and must be completed at all costs if a student wants to progress in their studies.

Sometimes students are given assignments that they are not comfortable with or have no idea how to tackle
them and might need some outside help to complete them. Cell phones play a massive role when a particular
student is struggling with a topic given to them in school.

Private schools are better than public schools.

PRO

Private schools are not government funded, but follow the same curriculum as public schools. Many private
schools in the Philippines started as missionary or Christian schools. Classes are smaller than in public schools,
and the facilities and resources are usually much better. Private have a high standards for discipline and
respect to one another. Seventy two percent of parents agreed to send their kids to private school, because it
has greatly improved students’ performance and brighter experience and achievements in there harder lessons.
Students will also have more individual attention. Students are motivated by the teachers to help in their
studies. Parents would also have more opportunities to get involved with their kid’s education and that is very
good thing. Private have flexible teaching methods for the students to do better.

Smaller class sizes may be less overwhelming and mean more individualized attention. The teacher can find a
learning method best geared to your child. Many private schools provide a more challenging curriculum and
students who are high achievers may thrive in this atmosphere. The values of the school will represent its core
beliefs. You may find more traditions and expectations at a private school. Some private schools are religion-
based, offering classes in religion as part of the curriculum

CON

There is no cost to attend a public school. Public schools often have more options for classes, after-school
activities, and varied curriculums than many smaller, private schools. Your child may be exposed to a greater
diversity of cultures and ethnicities than in some private schools that may be religion-based. Public schools
tend to offer more accommodations and services such as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC),
speech therapy, physical, occupational, and behavior therapy to students who need it. Some public schools
have better facilities, such as sports fields, swimming pools, art and music programs, and even theatres.

Public schools have requirements in place to provide education options that meet the needs of all students as
outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) of 2004. They may be better
equipped to handle children with special needs, offer a 504 plan or be able to develop an Individualized
Education Program (IEP). Staffing for schools with special needs students is based on IEP service hours. A study
by The National Center for Education Statistics showed public school teachers tend to have more experience
and qualifications to serve special need students than those at private schools. Public school teachers must be
certified. Some public schools offer specialized programs that speak to a child’s interests.

Private schools do not have to uphold the same regulations for teaching children with special needs. Your
chosen school may not be able to provide your child with the services he or she requires.

The cost can be prohibitive and put a financial strain on the family. The student body will often be less diverse,
especially when looking at a religion-based school. There will likely be fewer students with special needs in a
private school. You will have to apply and be selected by the school to attend – admission is not guaranteed.
Religion-based schools often reduce secular class hours to fit in religious subjects.

The school is not required by law to work with a child who is out sick. Discuss this in advance with the school
before enrolling. Many students may come from wealthier backgrounds, sometimes making children from less
affluent families feel “not as good” as their peers. Curriculum options may be limited, especially in high schools
where public schools have varied offerings.

OKO

Sugar importation
PRO

Raymond Montinola, Confederation of Sugar Producers Associations, Inc. (CONFED) spokesperson, said one
of the reasons why some want to have liberalization is that "they want to lower the price of sugar in the
market so it would be beneficial to Filipino consumers.

In the latest sugar semi-annual report by its Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), the USDA said its forecasted
raw sugar importation of 75,000 MT would augment the low buffer stocks as a result of low sugar output and
carryover in the market year (MY) or crop year, which ended in August.

The comfortable monthly buffer stock is set by the SRA at 160,000 MT.

It is critical, though, to replenish the buffer stocks to a comfortable level of 160,000 MT. While the new
administration sets importation as the last priority, there has to be some importation of raw sugar to augment
buffer stocks and support refineries in supplementing the low raw supply during the early part of the milling
season,” the USDA said.

CON

"If you will look at the consumption of sugar, sweeteners, 65 percent or 68 percent goes to industrial users,
while institutional consumers (pastry shops), around 22 percent goes to them. And households consume
only about 13 percent. So if you look at the bigger picture, who benefits the most towards liberalization?
Household consumption is just around seven to eight kilograms a year per household. So who is
complaining the most? It is the industrial users because they have the bigger chunk of consumption of
sugar," Montinola explained.

"There is a misdirection of concerns (on) who benefits the most," he noted.

Yulo, however, said that sugar import liberalization "is not the solution".

"Let’s go after the greedy traders and retailers who are capitalizing on the situation at the expense of the
sugar farmers and producers," he said.
Yulo said it is not the farm-gate or mill-site prices of sugar that have remained high, but the retail prices.

In fact, he said, farmers in Negros sell their produce at a much lower price than what the retailers sell at more
than PHP60 per kg. in public markets and stores.

Therefore, the high retail price of refined sugar is not attributable to sugar farmers and millers, he
added.

Onion importation
PRO

MANILA, Jan 10 (Reuters) - Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has cleared the importation of up to
21,060 tonnes of onions, an agriculture official said on Tuesday, as the government seeks to address tight supply
and stabilise soaring domestic prices.

Prices of onions, widely used in many local dishes, have more than quadrupled in about four months,
contributing to double-digit food inflation seen in December.

The importation of yellow and red onions will help fill the supply gap until the peak of the local harvest
beginning in February, said Rex Estoperez, a spokesperson at the Department of Agriculture.

Retail prices of the more widely-consumed red onions skyrocketed to as high as 700 pesos ($12.70) per kilogram
in recent days in Manila markets, among the highest in the world, according to some economists.

Food prices helped push the consumer price index last month up 8.1% from a year earlier, the fastest rise in 14
years, bringing full-year average inflation to 5.8%, outside the central bank’s 2%-4% target range.

Reuters.PH (2023). The importation of onions Is crucial in battling the inflation experienced by the current local
market

PhilNewsAgency(2023). Onion importation will help stablize the inflation rate of prices in the market

CON

Metrobank PH (2023). The Philippines is forced to import onions in order to battle the supply crisis this results in
the rise of its price in the Market

Plantwise PH(2023). Onion Farmers are forced to combat supply shortages due to lack of harvest, this inturn
weakens the farmer's moral as people resort to buying imported goods

The imported onions will help to drive down the price but critics say that they should have been brought in
many months ago. By bringing imports in now, onion farmers are likely to lose out again.

As the latest harvest starts to come in, farmers won’t be able to take as much advantage of the market. The price
may drop to a point that hurts farmers but benefits traders.

Poverty cause: the people itself or the government?

PEOPLE
Individuals and communities can also contribute to poverty through factors such as lack of education and skills,
limited job opportunities, and poor financial management. In some cases, cultural norms and practices can also
contribute to poverty, such as gender discrimination or a lack of investment in children's education.

Poverty rarely has a single cause. A range of factors including rising living costs, low pay, lack of work, and
inadequate social security benefits together mean some people do not have enough resources. 75 percent of
children living in poverty have at least one parent in work. The long-term deterioration of the terms of
employment for workers in the lowest-paid 20 per cent of the UK labor market has been a major cause of
enduring poverty in the UK. Low-wages, the high cost of childcare and part-time work all conspire to reduce
incomes. Many low-paid jobs offer no opportunities to progress to better work and better wages. Others are
insecure, with unpredictable hours and incomes.

Between 1975 and 2014, the real hourly wages of middle-income full-time employees doubled. The best paid
saw their real wages rise by up to 189 per cent, while wages below the middle typically rose by only about 80
per cent. The wage difference is even wider for part-time workers.

WORKLESSNESS

Since 2006, there has been a 60 percent rise in the number of people moving repeatedly between work and
unemployment.

66 per cent of children in families with no working adults are in poverty.

People who are not working overwhelmingly want to work, but face barriers to employment. Principally these
are ill-health and childcare, but also caring responsibilities for family members.

GOVERNMENT

"The real problem isn’t the poor, and it isn’t society. It’s the government.”

Governments can contribute to poverty through policies that perpetuate or exacerbate inequality, such as
unequal taxation, lack of access to education and healthcare, and inadequate social safety nets. In addition,
corruption, political instability, and conflict can all contribute to poverty by creating economic instability and
preventing development.

Government officials may use their authority for private gain in designing and implementing public policies. This
phenomenon—defined broadly as corruption (Tanzi, 1997a)—may result in enriching these officials as well as
private individuals who obtain a larger share of public benefits or bear a lower share of public costs. In this way,
corruption distorts the government’s role in resource allocation. It has been argued (Tanzi, 1995) that the
benefits from corruption are likely to accrue to the better-connected individuals in society, who belong mostly
to high-income groups. Thus, corruption would affect not only broad macroeconomic variables, such as
investment and growth, but also income distribution. It has been further contended that corruption increases
poverty by creating incentives for higher investment in capital-intensive projects and lower investment in labor-
intensive projects (United Nations Development Programme, 1997). Such a bias in investment strategy deprives
the poor of income-generating opportunities.

Advancing food security: should we really import products?

PRO
Basically, a country with imported goods means that there is an outflow of money from that country. Companies
that do business locally make payments to overseas companies who are also known as the exporters. Having a
high number of importation in the country can indicate a great domestic demand and a positive economic
growth. More so if the products and services being imported are assets used for productivity such as machines,
equipment, and technical assistance which can indicate robust economic activities. This will create a need for
more Filipino workforce that will help to alleviate poverty in the country.

According to Brittany Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is a popular economic term being taught in Philippine
schools. It refers to the broad measurement of a country’s overall economic activity. To calculate the GDP,
importation value is one of the important components in doing so.

Simply put, the equation means that when the exportation value exceed the imports, this indicates that the
country has a positive net exports or a trade surplus. This will largely contribute to the overall economic growth
of the country because high exports means that the output level from the exporting country is high. These
exported goods mainly come from local factories and industrial facilities in the country, which is highly
correlated to job creation. This will decrease the unemployment rate, a major social services concern in many
developing countries in Southeast Asia such as the Philippines. Some economists and analysts are arguing that
imports can help in enhancing the people’s quality of life by giving the consumers more choices and possibly
cheaper goods they can buy. When natural disasters hit the country and there is an issue with locally-produced
goods, imports are the way to go. Lastly, having these options available can also help in battling the crippling
effects of inflation in the country.

On the other hand, when the exports are falling, then the value is negative which refers to a negative net exports
or a trade deficit. While this may not immediately mean that the economy is bad, it is still important to keep the
balance to have a healthy economy.

CON

Many professional in the economic field are still debating to this day about the positive and effects of imports.
Some are saying that a reliance on imported goods will create a gap in the demand of locally-produced goods.
This will cause local workers to suffer and might cause more unemployment especially in the private sector. This
might also hamper rural development as there will be less need for factories and industrial facilities to be built.

Disadvantages of importing based on Business Coach Inc.

Foreign exchange risk. There is the danger that there will be a sudden large change in the currency
exchange rate. This may result in your suffering a loss if the peso falls in value. There are, however, several
ways of hedging your foreign exchange risks to lessen the impact of currency fluctuations.

Piracy risk. Even if rare, this possibility must be considered.

Political risk. There are many scenarios where this may be a hindrance. For example, our government may
suddenly impose a stiff tariff on the goods you are importing. This will drive up your costs unexpectedly.
The worst case is if there is hostility between our country and the foreign state. This may prevent you from
doing business with them.

Legal risk. This problem runs both ways. What may be legal or acceptable in your country may be a criminal
or civil offence in the foreign country. It is advisable to have someone knowledgeable in that country to
guide you.

Cultural risk. All sorts of misunderstanding can result from differences in beliefs and practices. This may
be reduced, although not eliminated, by taking a crash course on the country’s culture and practices.

Do consumers buy a certain product because of its endorser or its credibility?

ENDORSER

An endorser, such as a celebrity or an expert in a field, can attract attention and generate interest in a product.
Consumers may be more likely to consider a product if they see it being endorsed by someone they trust or
admire. However, if the product doesn't have credibility, the endorsement may not be enough to convince the
consumer to make a purchase.

Further, celebrity endorsement is a communication tool that makes products and brands more attractive and
appealing to potential customers; accordingly, many consumers are willing to purchase and pay a premium
price for the products their favorite celebrities endorse.

Celebrity endorsements generate brand awareness and play a vital role in ensuring the success of a campaign. It
also helps to promote products and build credibility and help attract consumers. Celebrity endorsement direct
influence the consumers buying behaviors and positive attitudes towards the product.

CREDIBILITY

Credibility, on the other hand, can be established through factors such as quality, reliability, safety, and
reputation. Consumers may choose to purchase a product based on its credibility, even if it lacks a high-profile
endorser. In some cases, a lack of credibility can even negate the positive impact of an endorser.

Is it still necessary to have Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan in the Philippine

Government?
PRO

The Sangguniang Kabataan is a venue for young people to reach out and engage their fellow youth in effecting
positive change in society.

By enacting into law the Sangguniang Kabataan, in effect empowers the youth of the land. Every local
government unit created or recognized under the local government code is a body politic and corporate,
endowed with powers to be exercised in conformity with laws.

Youth leadership opportunities allow youth to grow in a positive environment that promotes personal growth.
Increasing opportunities given to youth,\ allows them to become more active in the community and in
extracurricular activities and while creating lifelong skills. Leadership is also part of experiential learning.

According to municipality of Jagna Promulgate resolutions necessary to carry out the objectives of the youth in
the barangay, in accordance with applicable provisions of the Code; Initiate programs designed to enhance the
social, political, economic, cultural, and intellectual, moral, spiritual and physical development of the mem bets;
Hold fund raising activities, the proceeds of which shall be tax exempt and shall accrue to the Sangguniang
Kabataan general fund; Create such bodies or committees necessary to effectively carry out its programs and
activities; Submit annual end-of-term reports to the Sangguniang Barangay on their projects and activities;
Consult and coordinate with all youth organizations in the barangay for policy formulation and program
implementation; Coordinate with the Presidential Council fur Youths (PCYA) and other National Government
Agencies (NGA) concerned fur the implementation of youth development projects and programs at the national
level; and Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as the Sangguniang
Barangay may determine or delegate or as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

CON

Allegations of corruption by inefficient, ineffective, and non-performing Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials
have caused mounting calls for its abolition from various sectors and officials, including no less than President
Benigno Aquino, Jr. himself, and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse Robredo.

Ironically, the very author of Republic Act No. 7160 or the Local Government Code (LGC) which created the SK in
1991, is also pushing for SK’s demise. Former Senator Aquilino Pimentel, on his last term, filed a bill proposing its
abolition. Former Cavite Rep. Gilbert Remulla filed a similar bill in 2004.

But the SK National Federation (NF) and the SK Reform Coalition are not taking this sitting down, making a last-
ditch effort to salvage what’s left of the youth organization.

SKNF president Jane Censoria Cajes, for instance, has been doing the rounds of TV shows, defending SK. SK
Reform Coalition convenor Marlon Cornelio also sought a dialogue with Sec. Robredo.

Fortunately for the SK community, the dialogue resulted to a change in Robredo’s stand, from that of abolition
to reform.

During the meeting last Tuesday, Robredo and the SK Reform Coalition have agreed on the necessary reforms
that should be undertaken.

As of presstime, the barangay and SK elections in October will push through, but Cornelio says DILG hopes to
have its proposal on reducing the number of SK officials from eight (one chairman and seven kagawad), to only
one youth representative, approved in time for the elections.

Filipinos who want to run in any government positions should have proper
educational background especially when it comes to Law.
PRO

The Philippine (1987) Constitution spells out the minimum qualification to become the President

of the country. It turns out that provisions are fairly inclusive – apart from citizenship, age and
residency, among others, a candidate, male or female alike, need not have an academic background let
alone an actual completed academic degree.

First, consider a candidate’s accomplishing experience above the minimum qualifications –

meaning a solid record of dedicated service that would mimic what the President of the Philippines would
do. 

CON

There is no strict requirement in the Philippine Constitution or election laws that mandates a specific
educational background for running for public office.
Qualifying to become President of the Philippines does not require a voluminous CV. There is no

prohibition from being a candidate that most Filipinos can aspire who meet minimum requirements. 

Does the latest DepEd Secretary deserve to be in the position?

PRO

According to Rod Kapunan, Sara Duterte Carpio exactly fits the position entrusted her. It is not that she knows
the nitty-gritty of the department, but that she has the political will not to succumb to the persuasive pressure
of people committed to mold the thinking of our younger generation, and mitigate the slanderous attacks on the
institutions that provide them with their inalienable right to education. Second, for Sara to take the most
arduous task of cleansing the Department of Education and Culture of subversive who wrongly takes their right
to academic freedom to discredit and destroy the institution that opens to them the door for a brighter future.

There is that great task in the assignment that awaits her. There is deep trust in her capability to carry on her
assignment without incurring the ire of the people. From what I heard, although Sara is a devout Catholic, which
some say was influenced by her mother, she is far from being a bigot and hypocritical but a strict observer of
secularism, a path in our philosophical that should have been observed since the ascendancy of the discredited
self-righteous government.

Her role is to principally cleanse our educational system from the fitters of an alien ideology, from people who
espouse hatred, advocate violence, divisiveness, nihilism, and even terrorism, on the belief that they can do no
wrong in the name of religion. State university has become the hotbed to promote terrorism, anarchism, and
misplaced communism all in the name of academic freedom. Presumptive vice president Sara Duterte
possesses the audacity to enforce what is judicious, and many are wrong to assume that the contest to win the
hearts and minds of our people is in the countryside. The contest begins right inside the classrooms lorded over
by communist cadres and obscurantist clerics in cahoots with agents of that bankrupt and dying empire.

CON

Sara does not have the necessary expertise or qualifications and experience to lead the Department of
Education (DepEd).

MANILA, Philippines – The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) and the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) have
denounced the plan of presumptive president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to appoint his running mate Sara Duterte as
the next secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), saying that the presumptive vice president’s “vision
does not address the current crisis besetting the sector.”

TDC said that the next DepEd chief should be an expert on education and who has previous experience as part
of the sector.

Duterte’s push for mandatory military training for the youth, however, was met with criticisms. Groups said that
the “issue of discipline cannot be answered by submitting our youth to a militarist training that is known to
abuse and murder its own cadets through hazing and is known for human rights abuses which we have
experienced.”

The group also said that the next DepEd administration should strengthen a curriculum that promotes national
development, sense of patriotism and promotes peace and human rights, a curriculum that will produce
Filipinos who are proud of their history and culture.
 Do government officials need to be paid higher salary than jobs like teaching or
office jobs?
PRO

Government officials often hold significant responsibilities that require a high level of expertise and leadership.
They may be responsible for managing large budgets, making important decisions that affect many people, and
implementing policies that impact society as a whole. Therefore, some argue that it is necessary to offer
competitive salaries to attract and retain qualified individuals who can effectively serve the public interest.

The national average salary for a Government Employee is Php 26,000 in Philippines. Filter by location to see
Government Employee salaries in your area. Salary estimates are based on 9 salaries submitted anonymously to
Glassdoor by Government Employee employees.

CON

There are arguments for prioritizing the pay of jobs that provide essential services to society, such as teaching,
healthcare, and other public service roles. These jobs require significant training, expertise, and dedication, and
play a vital role in the development and well-being of the community. Additionally, some may argue that it is
unfair for government officials to be paid significantly higher salaries than those who provide essential services.

As government employees, DEPED teachers get all the benefits that come with being a public servant in the
Philippines. In addition, DEPED teachers also get additional financial incentives and benefits that are unique to
their nature of work.

Do electronic voting machines make the electoral process more efficient?

PRO

Electronic voting most directly affects two large parties: the voters, and the government. Theoretically, in order
for electronic voting to be instituted, there must be a significant advantage (greater than the costs) to one or
both of these groups. Ideally, voters gain a better voting experience at the polls, are more confident that their
vote will be correctly counted, and are able to vote more easily and efficiently. The government is potentially
able to increase voter turnout, reduce costs, increase voter confidence, renew interest in the political system
(and voting), and ensure the most democratic process possible.

One of the significant benefits of this new system is the possibility for increased efficiency. With Electronic
Voting Machines voters can submit their votes, and be reasonably confiedent that their vote will count (namely
avoiding the “hanging chad” problem that handicapped the 2000 presidential elections in the United States).
New Electronic Voting Machines can also stop voters from common election faults, such as picking too many or
no candidates, also thereby increasing the general effectiveness of voting.

Electronic voting also has the ability to reduce fraud, by eliminating the opportunity for ballot tampering.

CON

In the past, Philippine elections have frequently been marred by allegations of widespread cheating and other
electoral malpractice. The most famous (or perhaps infamous) method of cheating is called dagdag/bawas (add-
subtract), when votes are subtracted from the opposition candidate and added to a favored candidate, and vice
versa.

Concerns over election credibility have been exacerbated by the typically long period between voting and the
official announcement of results. Delays were caused in part by an antiquated polling procedure that required
voters to remember candidate names and write them on a ballot paper, leaving polling officials to decipher the
handwriting of all voters, including some less than fully literate, all the while dealing with complaints from
watchful party officials who were “certain” that the illegible scrawl was a vote for their candidate.

Increasing public frustration prompted the Philippine government to propose in the mid-1990s that the polling
process be automated to decrease cheating and simplify polling and vote-counting. Some supported this
because they believed automation would serve as an effective check on cheating, while others saw
modernization as a means to finally do away with the infamous write-in ballot process.

Lowering the voting age to 16.

PRO

16-year-olds are just as knowledgeable about civics and have the same ability to make good voting choices as
older voters.

A study in the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science found that, “On measures of
civic knowledge, political skills, political efficacy, and tolerance, 16-year-olds, on average, are obtaining scores
similar to those of adults… Adolescents in this age range are developmentally ready to vote.” 

Scientists believe that “cold cognition” skills, those used to make the kind of informed, well-thought out choices
needed in voting, are solidly established in 16-year-olds. 

Austria lowered the voting age to 16 in 2007. According to Markus Wagner, PhD, Social Sciences Professor at the
University of Vienna, and coauthors, studies of subsequent elections show “the quality of these [younger]
citizens’ choices is similar to that of older voters, so they do cast votes in ways that enable their interests to be
represented equally well.”

CON

Kids under the age of 18 aren't mature enough to participate in elections.

Experts say that 16- and 17-year-olds demonstrate lower interest in politics, have less political knowledge, and
lack the experience needed to participate in elections. 

Social scientists Tak Wing Chan, PhD, and Matthew Clayton, DPhil, say that 16- and 17-year-olds wouldn’t be
competent voters because “research in neuroscience suggests that the brain, specifically the prefrontal cortex,
is still undergoing major reconstruction and development during the teenage years,” and added that the
prefrontal cortex is what “enables us to weigh dilemmas, balance trade-offs and, in short, make reasonable
decisions in politics.” 

People under 18 are subject to different labor, contract, and criminal responsibility laws, and aren’t allowed to
join the military without parental consent or serve on a jury.  Most are still living at home and would be
influenced by the voting choices of their parents.
 Was Marcos Administration really a Golden Age?
PRO

Today some people think and believe that President Marcos's regime was good for the economy. They even say
it was the “golden age”. In a 2016 New York Times article a number of people said that during that time “the
Philippines was the leader of Asia,” “life was easier under Marcos,” and “the economy was bo

Economists noted that poverty incidence grew from 41% in the 1960s at the time Marcos took the presidency to
59% when he was removed from power. The period is sometimes described as a golden age for the country's
economy by historical distortionists.

In 1962, Marcos would claim to be the most decorated war hero of the Philippines by garnering almost every
medal and decoration that the Filipino and American governments could give to a soldier. Included in his claim
of 27 war medals and decorations are that of the Distinguished Service Cross and the Medal of Honor.

CON

The martial law era under Marcos was marked by plunder, repression, torture, and atrocity. As many as 3,257
were murdered, 35,000 tortured, and 70,000 illegally detained according to estimates by historian Alfred
McCoy.

Joel Ruiz Butuyan,His critics claim, however, that it was our country’s golden age of corruption, abuses, and
economic hardship.

Marcos supporters point to the supposed transformation of Filipinos into a disciplined people when Marcos Sr.
imposed martial law. They cite the drop in crimes, peace in the streets, and the disappearance of boisterous
activists.

Marcos critics point out, however, that the kind of peace that prevailed then was the peace of the dead and the
brutally silenced. While private criminal groups were reduced in the early days of martial law, Marcos Sr.
transformed the combined police and military forces into one big criminal organization. Crimes did not
disappear, in other words. Criminal gangs were divested of the means to commit crimes, but monopoly over the
commission of crimes was handed over to police and military forces who went on to commit massive incidents
of illegal arrests and detention, horrible cases of torture, and horrific killings.

The human rights abuses that the Marcos dictatorship committed are documented by United States and
Philippine court decisions. Our Congress even passed a law creating the Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board,
and it set aside P10 billion to compensate 70,000 victims of those dark years. The Nobel Peace Prize-winning
organization Amnesty International reckons that 70,000 people were jailed, 34,000 were tortured, and 3,240
people were killed under the Marcos regime.

Can showbiz artists really join politics?

PRO

In many countries, there are no restrictions on showbiz artists running for office, as long as they meet the age
and citizenship requirements, and are not disqualified due to criminal convictions or other reasons.

Examples include Ronald Reagan, who was a Hollywood actor before becoming the governor of California and
later the President of the United States (40th President of the US), and Manny Pacquiao, who is a world-
renowned boxer and is currently a senator in the Philippines.

Showbiz artists are often skilled communicators and are adept at speaking to a broad audience. This can be an
asset in politics, where effective communication is essential for building public support and engaging with
different stakeholders.

CON

Celebrities should not involve themselves in politics simply because entertainers should entertain and leave
politics to the professionals. That is assuming that celebrities are uneducated about the politics that they
represent and do not know what they are talking about.

Many critics argue that showbiz artists lack the necessary political experience and knowledge to hold public
office. Politics requires a different set of skills and knowledge than show business, and being popular or well-
known does not necessarily translate to being an effective leader or policymaker.

Celebrity influence in politics, also referred to as "celebrity politics," or "political star power," is the act of a
prominent person using their fame as a platform to influence others on political issues or ideology.

Choosing the ‘face of the campaign’ is dependent on which crowd the candidate is aimed at wooing,” says
Garcia.

Fraternity
PRO

Joining a fraternity or sorority is a great way to meet new people and build lasting connections. Many
fraternities and sororities offer academic support and leadership opportunities. Greek life requires a significant
time commitment throughout the year.

Fraternities offer a support network for college students. A common motive for membership is social
opportunities. Brotherhood and social interaction are core elements of fraternities. Social belonging helps
students feel more comfortable in the college community. Fraternities also commonly offer academic support.
Many have minimum GPA standards and offer study tables and academic tutoring. Peer accountability can help
a new student adjust to the rigorous demands of college.

Social involvement, personal and professional development, networking and academic support are all common
benefits students gain from fraternities. The costs of membership and the requirements to pledge and stay
involved are common deterrents. Fraternity brothers often have social expectations and other time
requirements for members.

A new survey finds college graduates who were members of a fraternity or sorority are generally happier than
their peers who didn't pledge. Greeks have higher engagement in their jobs and a better sense of well-being.
They are less stressed about money, have more supportive social lives and are physically healthier.

CON

The Anti-Hazing Act of 1995, officially designated as Republic Act No. 8049, is a Philippine law that regulates the
acts of hazing and other initiation rites in fraternities and sororities in the country. It prohibits and penalizes
physical harm and violence in such practices.
You should expect to have exactly no free time during the pledging process. Nearly all hours outside of class are
spent in meetings, completing tasks, or simply being present in the chapter house. These time commitments can
have a huge impact on a student's study and sleep schedule.

Many new fraternity and sorority members, or “pledges,” submit to physical, emotional and psychological
manipulation of this sort, regularly, in the name of joining Greek organizations

Hazing is technically forbidden, but the reality is that it still happens and is fairly widespread. At least one hazing
death has occurred on a North American campus every year since 1959. As noted above, this is the leading
cause of costly insurance. Again, this is why it’s so important to research the history and culture of any group
that you plan to join.

Alcohol and illegal drugs are a common hazard for Greek organizations. The vast majority of hazing-related
deaths have resulted from forced binge drinking. But the risks of excessive alcohol consumption are not limited
to new members, nor do they stop once pledging is over. Fraternities and sororities are social organizations and
all social circles have cultures and sub-cultures.

Law favors men than women.

PRO

Women often relate to criminal justice systems as victims of crime, recent trends indicate that a growing
number are featuring as suspects, accused and prisoners. The percentage of women in prison is growing globally
and at a faster rate than the male prison population. While the global prison population grew by approximately
21 per cent from 2000 to 2016, that of imprisoned women and girls grew by 53 per cent during the same period
(Walmsley, 2017). Such a dramatic increase, in less than two decades, in the number of women and girls in prison
worldwide, raises questions about criminal codes, the functioning of criminal justice systems, and socio-
economic factors affecting crime rates.

Available evidence indicates that, while few women commit violent crimes, a significant number of those
convicted of murder or manslaughter killed a male partner or male family member and have experienced a
history of domestic violence. A UNODC Global Study on Homicide found that while only one out of every five
homicides (at a global level) is perpetrated by an intimate partner or family member, women and girls comprise
the vast majority of those deaths (UNODC, 2018). Victim/perpetrator disaggregations reveal a large disparity in
the shares attributable to male and female victims of homicides committed by intimate partners or family
members: 36 per cent male versus 64 per cent female victims (UNODC, 2018). Women are significantly
overrepresented as victims of homicide perpetrated exclusively by an intimate partner: 82 per cent female
victims versus 18 per cent male victims (UNODC, 2018). A 2016 study by Penal Reform International and
Linklaters (2016) found that, with few exceptions, criminal justice systems are failing these women by ignoring
their trauma and realities/dynamics of domestic violence.

The criminal justice system has historically been designed by men for men, which has often meant that laws and
policies fail to consider the pathways to female incarceration and their mitigation (United Nations, 2018; see in
particular Module 4) as mentioned in the previous section; and that women encounter particular challenges in
all stages of criminal justice system, due to the male-dominated and male-oriented design and delivery of
criminal justice services. The table below provides an overview of challenges encountered by women in conflict
with the law.
Gender bias in the legal system: Research has shown that judges and juries are more likely to be lenient towards
men who commit crimes, while women who commit the same crimes are often punished more severely. This bias
can be seen in the differences in sentencing and in the rates of conviction and acquittal for men and women.

CON

Maternity leave and parental leave: Many countries have laws that provide women with maternity leave after
childbirth, as well as parental leave that can be shared with their partner. This can help support women in
balancing their work and family responsibilities.

Domestic violence and sexual harassment laws: Laws that criminalize domestic violence and sexual harassment
provide women with legal protections against gender-based violence.

Child custody and support: In some cases, women may be more likely to be awarded custody of their children in
divorce cases. Additionally, child support laws may require fathers to financially support their children after a
divorce or separation.

The only law in current US legislation that favors one gender over the other is the draft law for war. Men are
required by law to enter into a draft (in the event of a war) while women aren’t required. So, TECHNIQUALLY
speaking we are living in a MATRIARCHICAL society where the (technical) majority of laws explicitly favor
women.

Parents, whose child is at the age of 13 below, must be punished for their child's
mistake.
PRO

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate committee on justice and human rights has recommended raising the
penalty for parents whose child 12 years old but below 18 commits serious crimes. 

The recommendation is part of the 13-page committee report that also seeks to lower the minimum age of
criminal liability from 15 years old to 12.

Under the measure, parents of children who commit serious crimes can spend from six months to six years in
prison.

This amends Article 60 of Presidential Decree 603, or the “Child and Youth Welfare Code” imposing parental
liability of imprisonment for parents of erring children.

The increased penalties for parental liability is in accordance with the recent pronouncements of President
Duterte urging Congress to legislate provisions in the law that imposes punishment for parents of children in
conflict with the law.

Some argue that parents should be held accountable for their children's actions, especially if the child is below
the age of criminal responsibility, which varies by jurisdiction. The rationale behind this argument is that parents
have a responsibility to ensure that their children behave appropriately and do not cause harm to others or
damage property.

Parents can be held legally responsible for their minor children's actions in both civil and criminal court.
Whether the minor child's actions were intentional or accidental will impact the case.
 CON

13-year-olds have fairly good problem-solving skills, they also have difficulty thinking about the future. They
may also struggle to think about the consequences of their behavior before they act. This has to do with
different parts of their brains develop at slightly different rates.

"Although 13-year-olds are starting to have a more concrete thinking style, their brains are still developing,"
says Florencia Segura, MD, FAAP, a pediatrician with Einstein Pediatrics in the Washington D.C. metro area. "They
also tend to be very self-conscious at this age and have a tendency to believe they are the center of attention.
If they have a pimple, then everyone is looking at it."

Thirteen-year-olds are also developing the ability to think abstractly. Instead of only thinking in terms of
tangible objects, they begin to understand concepts such as faith and trust. They may also think they are unique
or believe that no one understands them. As they mature, they will develop a better understanding of the world
and how other people perceive them.

It also is common for 13-year-olds to think they are immune to anything bad happening to them, Dr. Segura says.
Consequently, they may be more likely to challenge family rules or school rules. "They know what is right and
wrong, but may still push the limits," she says. "They are beginning to break out of that childhood mold."

Jeepney phaseout.
PRO

According to the Land Transportation Franchising & Regulatory Board (LTFRB), individual operators of the old
jeepneys can no longer operate after June 30 this year, unless they join a corporation or a cooperative.
Essentially, this means modernizing jeepneys and regulating jeepney franchises would soon become
compulsory.

However strongly we may feel for jeepney drivers, operators, and their livelihood, the national government sees
something larger-than-life from the modernization program that they believe will greatly benefit the country.
Philippine legislators, including the President, and jeepney phaseout supporters see the modernization program
to:

Decrease the detrimental environmental effects of old jeepneys. It cannot be denied that our old and outdated
jeepneys have largely contributed to air pollution on our highways. Old jeepney models emit large amounts of
carbon, which adversely impacts climate and overall temperature. With newer models, carbon emissions will
decrease.

Increase employment opportunities for new drivers and workers. Since the jeepney modernization would
necessitate skilled vehicle manufacturing workers for the creation of newer jeepney models, as well as new
drivers, this means giving our countrymen new employment opportunities.

Beautify our roads with attractive and brand-new jeepneys. There are traditional jeepneys that, while they have
proved to be impressively durable, have lost appeal because of their age and broken external parts. These kinds
of jeepneys need to be replaced not only for modernization's sake, but also for the safety of commuters in case
these old jeepneys break down while on the road.

CON
Not needless to say, this modernization program has its cons that make it hard for Filipinos to simply agree
without reservations. Despite its good intentions, there are a number of factors to consider, especially for the
jeepney drivers and operators. These cons are:

It's too expensive. The cost of the modernized jeepney would go up to ₱2.8 million, which is way too expensive
even with the promised subsidy of ₱160,000. This amount is only less than 6 percent of the modern model's
total cost. With jeepney drivers' daily earnings only averaging at a few hundred pesos, the modern jeepney's
cost is beyond their financial capabilities.

Minimal environmental advantage. While there is a legitimate reduction of carbon emissions and greenhouse
gases should the old jeepneys be phased out from our roads, the impact would only be minimal at best.
According to a Rappler report, jeepneys only constitute 2 percent of the total registered vehicles in the
Philippines. Old jeepneys are not the main culprits in the carbon emissions on our highways.

Lack of jeepneys will burden commuters. If the old jeepneys are completely phased out of our roads, it would
possibly result in the lack of jeepneys to accommodate thousands of commuters every day. This is because
many jeepney drivers and operators might think about going out of business and look for other means to make a
living. By extension, this might result in greater traffic congestion, which will only exacerbate the riding public's
daily commuting problems.

Should mining in the Philippines be continued or not?

CONTINUED

The modern world simply can't function without mining; Mineral products are essential components for cell
phones, cars, energy towers, solar panels, wind turbines, fertilizers, machinery and all kinds of construction.
Mining, likewise, contributes to the country's foreign-exchange earnings through exports. Furthermore, the
industry provides additional revenues for the government through taxes and fees paid on mining and other
related activities.

Mining is the economic foundation for a number of developing countries.  According to ICMM (International
Council on Mining and Metals), at least 70 countries are extremely dependent on the mining industry and most
low income countries need it to simply survive.  This same study shows that in many low-middle income
countries, mining accounts for as much as 60–90% of total foreign direct investment

The population, urbanization and income growth will demand more buildings, cars, and consumer products,
thereby increasing the needs for mined products as the building blocks of this growth.

NOT

According to Duterte "I cannot stop mining because I'm not allowed to abrogate any law here. But I want to
stop it because it has created a monster in this country"

President Rodrigo Duterte has lifted a ban on issuing licenses for new mining operations in the Philippines,
marking an about-face from a previous anti-mining stance that saw him ban open-pit mining in 2017 and close or
suspend 26 mining operations for environmental violations.

The mining sector was the deadliest in the world for environmental and land defenders in 2019, according to
Global Witness; the Philippines has the most mining-related killings that year, and activists warn the new order
could further endanger defenders as well as open key biodiversity areas to mining.
Current mining plans will undermine the Government's own strategy for sustainable development by
destroying or severely damaging critical eco-systems, including watersheds, rivers, marine eco-systems and
important agricultural production areas.

Is the growth rate of OFWs an advantage or a shame to the Philippines?

ADVANTAGE

Filipinos who work abroad, often known as OFWs, contribute significantly to the country's economic growth.
Their families can buy necessities like food, bills, school fees, and the occasional treat, thanks to the money they
send home in the form of remittances. As it is commonly known, domestic consumption is an important part of
the gross domestic product (GDP), the most commonly used indicator of national economic growth. However, as
we move forward, we have seen and analyzed the heavy dependence on remittances in the Philippines. They
chose to sacrifice their career here in the Philippines to find and build a job out of the country, even if it means
being far from their family.

According to a Filipino economist, cash remittances transmitted by Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) showed
an increase of 3.2 percent annually to roughly USD 2.594 billion. Moreover, the influx is expected to increase
further as more economies reopen. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported that cash remittances
increased by 2.4 percent year on year to USD7.77 billion in the first quarter of this year. The revival of more
economic systems is also a benefit for remittances, while other drawbacks include Russia’s attack on Ukraine, a
rise in the US and global bond yields relative to the expected hikes in Federal Reserve rates, and recent Chinese
lockdowns, which may have an impact on global growth. Remittances sent by Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs)
are helping to bridge the gap between the rich and the disadvantaged by supporting a thriving middle class.
With higher standards of living and more expendable income, consumers spend more on goods and services,
propelling the economy forward. This is how OFWs help the economy. Money deposited from everywhere in the
globe by Filipinos accounts for at least 10% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It is the second major
source of foreign capital after value-added exports such as electronic parts, and a significant source of personal
spending, which accounts for 75 percent of GDP. Last year, Filipinos working abroad sent home a record of USD
31.4 billion in cash remittances, bolstering the Philippines’ macroeconomic stability during from pandemic. The
shift to digital remittance channels also simplified money transfer and recording.

SHAME

A rise in dysfunctional families

Leonard Villa, Batac City: Our country suffers from brain drain, children of OFWs go astray, and unfaithful
spouses lead to broken families. These are sad realities for the Philippines.

Medel Verzosa, Ilocos Sur: The OFW phenomenon has constructed a house, not a home, in which material things
abound but the feeling of tenderness is lacking.

Sahlee Reyes, Las Piñas City: It has practically depleted our country of better hands and intellectual minds to
work on our health, infrastructure, legal problems, etc. and has contributed to a rise in dysfunctional families.

Keeping the economy afloat

Ed Alawi, Davao City: For the OFW family, it’s either good or bad. For the country, OFW remittances keep the
economy afloat. For corrupt officials, the more money, the better.
Joe Nacilla, Las Piñas City: Government leaders proclaim that OFWs are our new heroes. It is because of their
substantial remittances that the government was able to address our financial woes.

Noel Banias, Metro Manila: Brain drain and broken marriages aside, the OFW phenomenon has brought further
loss of faith in the government and its inability to generate jobs from within. On the brighter side, the
phenomenon keeps our economy afloat through continuing dollar remittances. The question is, how long will it
last before the bubble finally bursts?

We are being vilified abroad

Leonard Villa, Batac City: The Philippines has been labeled a nation of servants because of the millions of OFWs.
It hurts, but it’s one of the highest prices we have to pay.

Ed Ledesma, Iloilo City: Our pride as a people, our dignity as a nation and, not the least of all, the family life of
those toiling overseas.

Lydia Reyes, Bataan: Well, we have to bear racial discrimination and be tagged as slaves.

Death penalty
PRO

It deters criminals from committing serious crimes. Common sense tells us that the most frightening thing for a
human being is to lose their life; therefore, the death penalty is the best deterrent when it comes to
discouraging people from carrying out the worst crimes.

It is quick, painless, and humane. Methods of execution have gradually become more humane over the years, so
the argument that the death penalty is cruel and unusual is not valid.

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Global Study on Homicide, approximately
464,000 people were murdered in 2017. With the number of people who have lost their loved ones, we know that
no matter what is done, justice will not be given, but given a death penalty to those who commit murder can
bring a sense of peace and closure to the families.

Leo Echegaray was the last person to be served the death penalty in the Philippines in 1999 when he was
executed via lethal injection. He was convicted for the rape of 10-year-old Rodessa Echegaray.

It appeases the victims or victims' families. The death penalty can provide families of victims with some closure,
which may help them to deal with their suffering.

Without the death penalty, some criminals would continue to commit crimes. It deters prisoners who are already
serving life sentences in jail from committing more serious offenses.

It is a cost-effective solution. The idea put forward by abolitionists that it costs more to execute someone than
imprison them for life is simply not true, and there is plenty of evidence to show this.

Retribution is not the same as revenge. Retribution is a necessary part of the punishment process—without it,
the friends and family of the victims, as well as the public in general, would not feel that justice had been
served.

CON
There is no credible proof that the death penalty works as a deterrent. In the U.S. states where the death penalty
has been abolished, there has been no significant change in the rates for serious criminal offenses, such as
murder.

It is a cruel and unusual punishment, where basic standards of human dignity are compromised or undermined.

It continues the cycle of violence. Retribution is just another word for revenge—it is essentially just a form of the
flawed thinking that two wrongs can make a right. The pro-death-penalty argument is that killing people is
wrong, and therefore, you should kill people for killing, which makes no sense.

It affects the poorer segments of society and racial minorities disproportionately, in part because they cannot
afford the costs of good legal support and representation. In the United States, although only 13% of the
population is African-American, 50% of death row prisoners are African-American.

It is an old-fashioned and ignorant solution. America’s image would be improved in places like Europe if the
death penalty were abolished. The places where executions happen regularly include repressive regimes like
Iran, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia.

The justice system is bound to make mistakes. People who are wrongly imprisoned can be released from prison
and given compensation, but a wrongful execution can never be righted.

The death penalty is not cost-effective. When all the practical and legal costs are taken into account, it is clear
that execution is more expensive than imprisoning for life.

A life spent in prison is a worse punishment than an execution. A prisoner on a life sentence has many years to
endure their punishment, as well as experience remorse and reflect on his or her crimes.

There are strong religious arguments against the death penalty. Life is sacred and God-given. Divine judgment
comes in the afterlife.

Marijuana legalization
PRO

Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects one to two per 1000 individuals, and its prevalence increases with age, affecting
1% of the population above 60 years of age. It is estimated that the number of individuals with PD is expected to
increase to nine million by 2030 in fifteen of the most populous countries worldwide. About 3% to 5% of the
world’s population is known to use marijuana, making it the most popular illicit substance.

In the United States, about 20 million people are marijuana users, estimated to 12.3% of its total population,
with about 1.2 million individuals using medical marijuana. As many as 23 states, as well as District of Columbia
(DC), have legalized medical marijuana, and four states have legalized its recreational use . The use of marijuana
has increased four times in individuals aged 55 to 59 years and doubled among the elderly population aged 60
to 64 years, between 2002 and 2012 . Marijuana is widely used recreationally by older people to self-medicate
symptoms of neurological and psychiatric disorders such as PD, multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis, and schizophrenia. About 44% of the population with PD and MS is currently using marijuana .

CON
Unlike any other prescription drug used for medical purposes, marijuana is not subject to central regulatory
oversight. It is grown in dispensaries, which, depending on the state, have regulatory standards ranging from
strict to almost non-existent. The crude marijuana plant and its products may be contaminated with fungus or
mold. This is especially problematic for immunocompromised patients, including those with HIV/AIDS or cancer.
Furthermore, crude marijuana contains over 60 active cannabinoids, few of which are well studied.

Marijuana growers often breed their plants to alter the concentrations of different chemicals compounds. For
instance, the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the principal psychoactive ingredient, is more than
20-fold more than in marijuana products used several decades ago. Without rigorous clinical trials, we have no
way of knowing which combinations of cannabinoids may be therapeutic and which may be deleterious. As
marijuana dispensaries experiment by breeding out different cannabinoids in order to increase the potency of
THC, there may be unanticipated negative and lasting effects for individuals who smoke these strains.

Marijuana is the only ‘medication’ that is smoked, and, while still incompletely understood, there are legitimate
concerns about long-term effects of marijuana smoke on the lungs. Compared with cigarette smoke, marijuana
smoke can result in three times the amount of inhaled tar and four times the amount of inhaled carbon-
monoxide. Further, smoking marijuana has been shown to be a risk factor for lung cancer in many but not all
studies

Social media punishment and cancel culture.

PRO

Cancel culture happens when a group of people ostracize someone for doing or saying offensive things. 

It usually follows a pattern:

A well-known person gets called out on social media for their harmful acts or words.

People debate whether this person should have a place in the community anymore.

The "cancelled" person might face consequences for their actions.

Cancel culture is an extreme example perverting the benefits of social pressure. It is commonly used nowadays
as a way to dismiss or target anyone who holds even a slightly different opinion. This is unacceptable, but
despite the egregiousness of cancel culture, social reprobation is still a necessary component of free speech.
We can freely say what we want but those expressions come with consequences that we must also face. You
cannot have your cake and eat it, too.

People should have the ability to say what they want, provided they are not directly advocating for acts of
violence. Social pressure is useful in deterring speech that is harmful to a civil society. For example, groups of
white supremacists congregate and broadcast information on the superiority of white people. While they have
the right to voice their obviously wrong and evil ideas, we can socially censure such people who engage in this
type of speech and behavior because we recognize that racism is unjust.

Social pressure is not even unique to our society today. Every society throughout history had its way of showing
social disapproval, but its manifestation looks different in each one. Social pressure, after all, is just a society’s
way of expelling or admonishing those who challenge its integrity. The reasons for this condemnation could be
political, social, or religious. Thus, “cancelling” someone is censuring or punishing him for unjustly challenging
civil society.
 CON

Some people feel that cancel culture is too focused on punishment and doesn't address the deeper issues that
lead to harmful behavior. 

Cancel culture focuses on individual accountability and fails to acknowledge the systemic issues that are often
at the root of hateful behavior. 

In other words, cancel culture shames the person into realizing their individual beliefs aren't always acceptable,
but it fails to educate the person on why these beliefs are problematic and hurtful, which allows the hateful
ideology behind cancellable offenses to exist unchecked.

Shirani M. Pathak, a retired psychotherapist and DEI consultant, argues that cancel culture creates an us-
versus-them dynamic that "amplifies the problem rather than addressing it."

Even if cancellation does seem to work temporarily, the effects can backfire entirely, says Matt Glowiak, a psychologist
and licensed clinical professional counselor whose specialties include how technology and culture affect mental
health. 

"In many cases, the object of cancellation disappears for a while only to return with a vengeance," he says. That is
to say, the canceled person might double down on the claim that got them canceled, and might even be empowered with
more public support as a result.

In situations like these, the cancellation attempts only lead to more attention on the negative act. "Instead of allowing
something to go unnoticed, many become caught up in the controversy and now become involved themselves,"
he says. "Now, the object of canceling has become more powerful."

Abortion should be legalized.

PRO

Abortion is a safe medical procedure that protects lives. It bans endangers healthcare for those not seeking
abortions. And bans deny bodily autonomy, creating wide-ranging repercussions.

Lack of equal access to safe and dignified health services for women experiencing undesired pregnancy is
discriminatory because it only violates the rights of women. It goes against Articles 1 and 12 of the Convention
on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

The State’s failure to guarantee the equal exercise of reproductive rights violates women’s rights to life, health,
physical, mental and moral integrity, autonomy, intimacy, dignity and the right to freedom from cruel, inhuman
and degrading treatment. According to the UN Special Rapporteur on the right to health, Anand Grover, “the
enactment or enforcement of laws that penalize abortion may constitute a violation of the State’s obligation to
respect, protect and fulfill the right to health”.

As the World Health Organization (WHO) has pointed out, in countries whose laws broadly allow abortion, there
are fewer complications associated with unsafe abortions than in places where legal abortion is more restricted.

Nearly half of abortions worldwide are unsafe, performed by persons lacking the necessary information or skills
or carried out in an environment not in conformity with minimal medical standards, or both (WHO). Statistics
indicate a correlation between the number of unsafe abortions and restrictive laws: deaths associated with
abortion are much more frequent in countries with highly restrictive laws (34 deaths per 100,000 childbirths)
than in countries with less restrictive laws (1 death or less per 100,000 childbirths). Therefore, the
criminalization of abortion does not result in fewer abortions, but rather in more unsafe abortions.

CON

Abortion means to kill a new life and to endanger a woman's body. It seems that people who have an abortion
easily think the fetus is just a "thing." If they don't want to have a baby, there are ways to avoid having a baby
before pregnancy. Therefore, to rely on just abortion means they don't have any responsibility.

Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines (1987), Article II, Section 12. The State recognizes the sanctity of
family life and shall protect and strengthen the family as a basic autonomous social institution. It shall equally
protect the life of the mother and the life of the unborn from conception. The natural and primary right and
duty of parents in the rearing of the youth for civic efficiency and the development of moral character shall
receive the support of the Government.

The Revised Penal Code of the Philippines, Act. No. 3815 of December 8, 1930, Articles 256 – 259

Section Two. – Infanticide and abortion.

Art. 256. Intentional abortion. – Any person who shall intentionally cause an abortion shall suffer:

1. The penalty of reclusion temporal, if he shall use any violence upon the person of the pregnant woman.

2. The penalty of prision mayor if, without using violence, he shall act without the consent of the woman.

3. The penalty of prision correccional in its medium and maximum periods, if the woman shall have consented.

Art. 257. Unintentional abortion. – The penalty of prision correccional in its minimum and medium period shall
be imposed upon any person who shall cause an abortion by violence, but unintentionally.

Art. 258. Abortion practiced by the woman herself of by her parents. – The penalty of prision correccional in its
medium and maximum periods shall be imposed upon a woman who shall practice abortion upon herself or
shall consent that any other person should do so.

Any woman who shall commit this offense to conceal her dishonor, shall suffer the penalty of prision
correccional in its minimum and medium periods.

If this crime be committed by the parents of the pregnant woman or either of them, and they act with the
consent of said woman for the purpose of concealing her dishonor, the offenders shall suffer the penalty of
prision correccional in its medium and maximum periods.

Art. 259. Abortion practiced by a physician or midwife and dispensing of abortives.- The penalties provided in
Article 256 shall be imposed in its maximum period, respectively, upon any physician or midwife who, taking
advantage of their scientific knowledge or skill, shall cause an abortion or assist in causing the same.

Any pharmacist who, without the proper prescription from a physician, shall dispense any abortive shall suffer
arresto mayor and a fine not exceeding 1,000 pesos.

Cigarette smoking and vaping should be banned entirely.

PRO
In 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advised people to avoid e-cigarettes while
federal and state officials investigated an ongoing nationwide outbreak of severe lung injuries associated with
the use of e-cigarette, or vaping, products. The condition came to be called “e-cigarette, or vaping, product use
associated lung injury,” or EVALI.  

Patients affected by the disease have symptoms ranging from cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath to
fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and fever. Since the initial outbreak, federal and state officials have
reported thousands of cases and dozens of deaths related to EVALI.

Researchers have also identified vitamin E acetate, a chemical added to some THC-containing vaping products,
as the main—but possibly not the only—cause of the illness. The 2019 outbreak of EVALI cases emerged against a
backdrop of an ongoing vaping epidemic among youth. According to the CDC, 15% of EVALI patients were less
than 18 years old.   

“E-cigarette use is never safe for youth, young adults, or pregnant women,” said CDC’s Dana Meaney-Delman,
MD, who led the agency’s response to the 2019 outbreak. The CDC further warned against using any vaping
products that contain THC; buying devices from “informal sources, including friends and family”; and modifying
or adding substances to e-cigarettes. For adults using the devices to quit smoking, the advice is to “weigh all
risks and benefits and consider using FDA-approved nicotine replacement therapies.”

In the meantime, a study found that people who use only e-cigarettes increase their risk of developing lung
disease by about 30% compared with nonusers. At the same time, the risk of being diagnosed with lung disease—
which includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)—was
highest among adults who smoke cigarettes and vape, according to the researchers, who tracked study
participants over three years.

SMOKE-FREE refers to ban on smoking which provides effective protection from environmental tobacco smoke
or second-hand smoke. (Source: DOH AO 2009-10)

Smoking should be ban be because of the second-hand smoke can cause a bad result to a human health.

• Non-smoking adults who are exposed to second-hand smoke at home or at work have a 25% to 30% increased
risk of developing lung cancer.

• Babies of non-smoking women who are exposed to second-hand smoke during pregnancy are at risk of
experiencing a reduction in birth weight

• Maternal milk production is less in smokers compared with non-smokers, and the production decreases as the
number of cigarettes smoked per day increases.

• IIn infants and children, second-hand smoke exposure causes sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), acute
respiratory infections, middle ear disease, more severe asthma, respiratory symptoms, and slowed lung
growth.

RA 8749 - CLEAN AIR ACT (1999) and its IRR

• RA 8749, Section 24. Pollution From Smoking.- Smoking inside a public building or an enclosed public place
including public vehicles and other means of transport or in any enclosed area outside of one's private
residence, private place of work or any duly designated smoking area is hereby prohibited under this Act. This
provision shall be implemented by the LGU's.
• IRR, RULE XXIX, Section 1. Ban on Smoking.- The Local Government Units (LGU's) shall within six (6) months
from the effectivity of these Implementing Rules and Regulations, implement or enforce a ban on smoking inside
a public building or in any enclosed area outside of one's private residence, private place of work or any duly
designated smoking area which shall be enclosed.

• Penalty: IRR RULE LVI Section 5. Smoking in Public Places. - Any person who smokes inside a public building or
an enclosed public place, including public utility vehicles or other means of public transport or in any enclosed
area outside of his private residence, private place of work or any duly designated smoking area shall be
punished with six (6) months and one (1) day to one (1) year imprisonment or a fine of ten thousand pesos (P
10,000.00)

CON

Lots of people want to know if e-cigarettes are safe and it’s too soon to say for sure. But studies so far
show that e-cigarettes are far less harmful than smoking. Most of the toxic chemicals in cigarettes are not
present in e-cigarettes.  

Some potentially dangerous chemicals have been found in e-cigarettes. But levels are usually low and
generally far lower than in tobacco cigarettes. Exposure may be the same as people who use nicotine
replacement therapy (NRT) such as patches or gum.

There is no good evidence that vaping causes cancer.

But e-cigarettes are not risk-free. They have only become popular recently, so we don’t know what effects
they might have in the long term. They should only be used to help you stop smoking, or to stop you going
back to tobacco. If you have never smoked, you shouldn’t use e-cigarettes.

You may have heard about vaping causing an outbreak of lung illness in 2019 in the United States. An
investigation found the cases were linked to contaminated illegal products. It was not linked to vaping
regularly or in the long term. There was no similar outbreak in the UK, and the chemicals of concern are
banned in e-cigarettes here. There is no good evidence that e-cigarettes bought from legal places cause
lung disease.

Vaping is far less harmful than smoking. So, your health could benefit from switching. But you need to stop
using tobacco completely to get the benefits.

E-cigarettes can help people stop smoking and are a popular stop smoking tool.They can give people who
smoke the nicotine hit they need to help beat their cravings. Vaping can also feel similar to smoking, like
holding a cigarette and breathing in. For the best chance of stopping smoking for good, get advice from
your local stop smoking service, GP or pharmacist.

Switching from cigarettes to e-cigarettes could save you a lot of money. Some people spend more than
others, but in general, vaping costs less than half as much as smoking.

One child policy

PRO

The most significant advantage of the one-child policy is that the policy had successfully controlled the
population growth. According to the report, “Since the one-child policy is beginning, it has prevented over 400
million births and helped to ease the overpopulation problem” 

There were voluntary abortions that occurred in China frequently because of the one child policy due to the
desire for a boy instead of a girl. In this culture, the lineage and estate go through the male child, so many felt
like their family line would terminate if they didn’t have a boy. That meant there was a significant increase in the
number of voluntary abortions that occurred during this time, but it was not a mandatory policy of the
government.

If you were granted a certificate which verified that you only had one child living with you, then there were
several societal benefits awarded to your household. Some families received extra allowances of land for
farming because of their compliance, which sometimes even included a free home. There were awards of free
water for irrigation and consumption. Higher pensions, better government jobs, and priority services at the local
hospital were sometimes included.

Improved standard of living: With fewer children to support, families were able to provide better education and
opportunities for their single child, which led to an overall improvement in the standard of living for many
families.

Because the one child policy in China prevented up to 400 million births, there are now more employment
opportunities available for everyone in the country. Each person has less competition to fight through when
trying to land a great job. If an only child applies for a position that someone from a multi-child household
wants, then they’ll get the top priority for filling the spot.

CON

The negatives include accelerating population ageing, the skewed sex ratio, and the decline in the working-age
population, which would threaten economic growth. Moreover, in 1980 the government had pledged that the
one-child policy would last for just one generation, so change was overdue.

The lack of help from older siblings may put too much pressure on the parents and cause conflict.

Critics of the policy suggest that kids growing up as an only child would be lonely, more anxious, bitter, and deal
with a lot of repressed anger. Missing the unknown idea of having a brother or sister is also problematic. 

As part of the one child policy in China, women were required to have a contraceptive intrauterine device
installed surgically after having their first child. This product offers a 99% success rate at preventing a
pregnancy, so it was effective at controlling the population levels of the country. If a woman were to have a
second child, then the government forced her to have a tubal ligation procedure.

Over 320 million Chinese women were fitted with intrauterine devices under this policy between 1980-2014.
Another 108 women were forced to undergo sterilization with a tubal ligation. The men were much luckier, often
being told to pay a fine for their activities instead.

When parents had an unauthorized second birth or wanted a son, but had a daughter, then giving up the child
for adoption became a financial strategy for them under the one child policy. Adoptions of daughters accounted
for more than 50% of the “missing girls” that were not on census documents in the country. 

Humans came from apes.

PRO
Human evolution is the lengthy process of change by which people originated from apelike ancestors. Scientific
evidence shows that the physical and behavioral traits shared by all people originated from apelike ancestors
and evolved over a period of approximately six million years.

One of the earliest defining human traits, bipedalism -- the ability to walk on two legs -- evolved over 4 million
years ago. Other important human characteristics -- such as a large and complex brain, the ability to make and
use tools, and the capacity for language -- developed more recently. Many advanced traits -- including complex
symbolic expression, art, and elaborate cultural diversity -- emerged mainly during the past 100,000 years.

Humans are primates. Physical and genetic similarities show that the modern human species, Homo sapiens, has
a very close relationship to another group of primate species, the apes. Humans and the great apes (large apes)
of Africa -- chimpanzees (including bonobos, or so-called “pygmy chimpanzees”) and gorillas -- share a common
ancestor that lived between 8 and 6 million years ago. Humans first evolved in Africa, and much of human
evolution occurred on that continent. The fossils of early humans who lived between 6 and 2 million years ago
come entirely from Africa.

Most scientists currently recognize some 15 to 20 different species of early humans. Scientists do not all agree,
however, about how these species are related or which ones simply died out. Many early human species --
certainly the majority of them – left no living descendants. Scientists also debate over how to identify and
classify particular species of early humans, and about what factors influenced the evolution and extinction of
each species.

Early humans first migrated out of Africa into Asia probably between 2 million and 1.8 million years ago. They
entered Europe somewhat later, between 1.5 million and 1 million years. Species of modern humans populated
many parts of the world much later. For instance, people first came to Australia probably within the past 60,000
years and to the Americas within the past 30,000 years or so. The beginnings of agriculture and the rise of the
first civilizations occurred within the past 12,000 years.

CON

Humans did not come from modern apes, but both humans and modern apes share a common ancestor that
lived millions of years ago. This common ancestor was neither human nor modern ape, but an early primate that
evolved into different lineages, leading to the diverse range of primates we see today, including humans, apes,
monkeys, and lemurs.

Evidence from fossils, proteins and genetic studies indicates that humans and chimpanzees had a common
ancestor millions of years ago. Most scientists believe that the 'human' family tree (known as the sub-group
hominin) split from the chimpanzees and other apes about five to seven million years ago.

Humans and the great apes (large apes) of Africa -- chimpanzees (including bonobos, or so-called “pygmy
chimpanzees”) and gorillas -- share a common ancestor that lived between 8 and 6 million years ago. Humans
first evolved in Africa, and much of human evolution occurred on that continent. The fossils of early humans
who lived between 6 and 2 million years ago come entirely from Africa.

Darwin never claimed, as some of his Victorian contemporaries insisted he had, that “man was descended from
the apes,” and modern scientists would view such a statement as a useless simplification—just as they would
dismiss any popular notions that a certain extinct species is the “missing link” between humans and the apes.
There is theoretically, however, a common ancestor that existed millions of years ago. This ancestral species
does not constitute a “missing link” along a lineage but rather a node for divergence into separate lineages. This
ancient primate has not been identified and may never be known
 Sex education should be mandatory in schools
PRO

A recent study showed comprehensive, school-based sex education that promoted refusal skills was an
independent protective factor in preventing sexual assault and the authors further hypothesize that “pre-
college comprehensive sexuality education, including skills-based training in refusing unwanted sex, may be an
effective strategy for preventing sexual assault in college.” That same study identifies risk factors for
experiencing sexual assault, including Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), and experiencing unwanted sexual
contact before college. Taken together, it’s easy to understand why 89% of likely voters believe is it important to
have sex education in middle school, and 98% believe it is important to have sex education in high school.

Sexuality education is essential to prevent and combat sexual abuse against children, sexual violence and sexual
exploitation. The Council of Europe Convention on Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual
Abuse (“the Lanzarote Convention”) requires from states that they “ensure that children, during primary and
secondary education, receive information on the risks of sexual exploitation and sexual abuse, as well as on the
means to protect themselves, adapted to their evolving capacity.” The Lanzarote Committee, in charge of
monitoring the implementation of the Convention, stressed for example that the school environment was
particularly appropriate to inform about the widespread problem of sexual abuse against children within the
family framework or in their “circle of trust”.

The importance of sexuality education to prevent children from falling prey to  sexual offenders online was
highlighted during the period of confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As stressed by the Lanzarote
Committee, during this period, children became increasingly vulnerable to online grooming, sexual extorsion,
cyber-bullying or other sexual exploitation facilitated by information and communication technologies. The
Committee urged states to step up information on risks and on children’s rights online, as well as counselling
and support services. In this context, I note with interest that in some countries, such as Estonia, sexuality
education continued to be provided as part of online schooling.

Likewise, sexuality education is crucial to prevent gender-based violence and discrimination against women. It
should therefore contribute to conveying, from the early stages of education, strong messages in favor of
equality between women and men, promoting non-stereotyped gender roles, educating about mutual respect,
consent to sexual relations, non-violent conflict resolution in interpersonal relationships and respect for
personal integrity, as requested by the Istanbul Convention.

CON

Sex is a very intimate topic that should be discussed with children by someone close and personal to them. It
could be detrimental and uncomfortable for a child to hear this information from someone they are not close to.
Sex education should not be mandatory in schools and parent's should be able to 'opt-out because sex
education sends a message that having sex at a young age is acceptable and important information on how to be
safe is lost.

There has been a 62 percent increase in the number of cases of sexually transmitted diseases among young
people aged 19 and under, according to Bamber. Teenage pregnancies in England rose year-on-year by more
than 800, despite the £15 million spent by the Government on strategies to reduce them. Showing that this
strategy is ineffective and is just wasting resources
Sexual activity has consequences. Though the teen birth rate has declined to its lowest levels since data
collection began, the United States still has the highest teen birth rate in the industrialized world. Three in 10
girls in will be pregnant at least once before their 20th birthday (National Conference of State Legislature;
2013).

Teenage mothers are less likely to finish high school and are more likely than their peers to live in poverty,
depend on public assistance, and be in poor health. Their children are more likely to suffer health and cognitive
disadvantages, come in contact with the child welfare and correctional systems, live in poverty, drop out of high
school and become teen parents themselves (National Conference of State Legislature; 2013).

Explicit sex education leaflets and free condoms provided to under-age children by the Government schemes
have encouraged them to have sex (Daily Mail Reporter; 2011).

The Vermont Education code has "sexuality education," which is seen as a part of it’s comprehensive health
program. The program is required to be taught in elementary and secondary schools . Norman Wells, of the
Family Education Trust, said: 'One of the dangers of introducing sex education at an early age is that it risks
breaking down children's natural sense of reserve' (Clark, 2013).

The prevalence of sex in the media only increases their desire to do it and we should be teaching them otherwise
in the classroom. Schools are seen as a safe haven, a place where no harm happens, there shouldn't be
traumatic experiences at secondary school. 'In a culture that is obsessed with sex, schools should be one place
where children are allowed to get on with life without facing pressure to deal with things they aren't ready
for.'(Guttmacher; 2012)

Premarital sex should be normalized.

PRO

According to Lawrence Finer, research director at the Guttmacher Institute, claims that 95 percent of Americans
have had premarital sex, and that this rate extends even to women born in the 1940s.

The report, entitled Trends in Premarital Sex in the United States, 1954-2003, has received media attention that
rivals the publication in 1948 of Alfred Kinsey's Sexual Behavior in the Human Male. There is, in fact, a common
link to both reports. Kinsey's work was funded by a grant from the Rockefeller Foundation. And the Guttmacher
Institute is a special affiliate of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, which has been funded lavishly
by members of the Rockefeller family and the Rockefeller Foundation since its founding (under its original name,
the Birth Control League of America) in 1916.

From Planned Parenthood's point of view, a study helping to create the public perception, especially among
impressionable young people, that almost everyone has engaged in premarital sex, and that there's really
nothing wrong with doing it, is actually good for business.

The new Guttmacher report frankly admits that its purpose is to discredit sexual abstinence programs (e.g., "Due
in part to government support, private advocacy efforts to promote abstinence until marriage are also gaining
prominence and political clout.") and substitute its own agenda in their place ("The results of the analysis
indicate that premarital sex is highly normative behavior.").

CON
God wants us to save sex for marriage not because it’s “bad” or “dirty”— but because it’s unique, exclusive, and
wonderful. Sex isn’t just casual fun. And it’s not just a feel-good way of expressing mutual love. It’s about two
people becoming one flesh.

Jesus says, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and
said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become
one flesh’?” (Matthew 19:4-5, ESV; quoting from Genesis 1:27 and Genesis 2:24). This fits with the apostle Paul’s
warning in 1 Corinthians 6:16: “Do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with
her? For, as it is written, ‘The two will become one flesh’” (ESV). The same concept underlies the commandment
against adultery (Exodus 20:14). In the biblical view, adultery includes any sexual activity outside of marriage.
This is why the Bible says, “Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for
God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous” (Hebrews 13:4, ESV).

Sex is a holy mystery. It’s a powerful bonding agent that shapes and affects the relationship between a man and
a woman as nothing else can. That’s why the Bible often compares idolatry to the sin of fornication (sex between
two people who aren’t married to each other) or adultery (sex between two people when one or both are
married to someone else). And it’s why the Bible uses sexual purity and faithfulness between spouses as an
image of our relationship with God (see Song of Solomon, Hosea, and the 16th chapter of Ezekiel). So, what
about Isaac and Rebekah, or Joseph and Mary?

Humans are intensely ambivalent about sex, regarding it by turns as vulgar, gross, and unseemly, or as
sublime and beautiful. We place rape among the worst of crimes, while romantic love is one of life’s
crowning glories, the theme of half the novels and songs the human race has written. The deceit and
damage involved in so much premarital sex—cool dude bangs insecure girl and turns her into a single
mom on welfare for life—fully justifies the repugnance that is one side of this ambivalence.

Aliens do exist.
PRO

Gareth Stevens Publishing LLLP, 2013. Readers learn about visitors from another planet—aliens. They will learn
what happened in the New Mexico desert in 1947 and decide for themselves if they believe it was a weather
balloon crash, like the government wants you to think to avoid hysteria

Andrew Coddington, Cavendish Square Publishing, LLC, 2016. human history has seen many stories of
mysterious flashing lights, flying objects, and even alien abductions, some experts and scientist believe that the
Aliens helped build our civilization due to carvings of ancient times which shows peculiar looking beings and
flying objects

James F Kasting ,Planetary and interstellar processes relevant to the origins of life, 291-307, 1997. Habitable
planets are likely to exist around stars not too different from the Sun if current theories about terrestrial climate
evolution are correct. Some of these planets may have evolved life, and some of the inhabited planets may have
evolved O2-rich atmospheres

A new study of exoplanet data suggests there are at least 300 million potentially habitable planets orbiting
stars like the sun, and likely way more. Nearly 4,300 exoplanets have been discovered by astronomers, and it's
quite obvious now our galaxy is filled with them.

CON
According to National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) Going back decades (and in many ways
generations), we’ve been introduced to a menagerie of extraterrestrials good and bad. Their presence
suffuses our entertainment and culture, and we humans seem to have an almost innate belief-or is it a
hope-that we are not alone in the universe. But that extraterrestrial presence on regular display is, of
course, a fiction. No life beyond Earth has ever been found; there is no evidence that alien life has ever
visited our planet. It’s all a story.

Observations from the ground and from space have confirmed thousands of planets beyond our solar system.
Our galaxy likely holds trillions. But so far, we have no evidence of life beyond Earth.

Animal testing
PRO

Animal testing contributes to life-saving cures and treatments.

The California Biomedical Research Association states that nearly every medical breakthrough in the last 100
years has resulted directly from research using animals. Animal research has contributed to major advances in
treating conditions such as breast cancer, brain injury, childhood leukemia, cystic fibrosis, multiple sclerosis,
tuberculosis, and more, and was instrumental in the development of pacemakers, cardiac valve substitutes, and
anesthetics.

Scientists racing to develop a vaccine for coronavirus during the 2020 global pandemic need to test on
genetically modified mice to ensure that the vaccine doesn’t make the virus worse. Nikolai Petrovsky, professor
in the College of Medicine and Public Health at Flinders University in Australia, said testing a coronavirus
vaccine on animals is “absolutely essential” and skipping that step would be “fraught with difficulty and
danger.” 

Researchers have to test extensively to prevent “vaccine enhancement,” a situation in which a vaccine actually
makes the disease worse in some people. Peter Hotez, Dean for the National School of Tropical Medicine at
Baylor College, said, “The way you reduce that risk is first you show it does not occur in laboratory animals.”

CON

Animal testing is cruel and inhumane.

According to Humane Society International, animals used in experiments are commonly subjected to force
feeding, food and water deprivation, the infliction of burns and other wounds to study the healing process, the
infliction of pain to study its effects and remedies, and “killing by carbon dioxide asphyxiation, neck-breaking,
decapitation, or other means.”  The US Department of Agriculture reported in Jan. 2020 that research facilities
used over 300,000 animals in activities involving pain in just one year. 

Scientists are able to test vaccines on humans volunteers.

Unlike animals used for research, humans are able to give consent to be used in testing and are a viable option
when the need arises. The COVID-19 (coronavirus) global pandemic demonstrated that researchers can skip
animal testing and go straight to observing how vaccines work in humans. One company working on a COVID-19
vaccine, Moderna Therapeutics, worked on developing a vaccine using new technology: instead of being based
on a weakened form of the virus, it was developed using a synthetic copy of the COVID-19 genetic code. Because
the company didn’t take the traditional path of isolating live samples of a virus, it was able to fast-track the
development process.  Tal Zaks, chief medical officer at Moderna, said, “I don’t think proving this in an animal
model is on the critical path to getting this to a clinical trial.” 

Alternative testing methods now exist that can replace the need for animals.

Other research methods such as in vitro testing (tests done on human cells or tissue in a petri dish) offer
opportunities to reduce or replace animal testing.  Technological advancements in 3D printing allow the
possibility for tissue bioprinting: a French company is working to bioprint a liver that can test the toxicity of a
drug. Artificial human skin, such as the commercially available products EpiDerm and ThinCert, can be made
from sheets of human skin cells grown in test tubes or plastic wells and may produce more useful results than
testing chemicals on animal skin. 

The Environmental Protection Agency is so confident in alternatives that the agency intends to reduce
chemical testing on mammals 30% by 2025 and end it altogether by 2035.  Humane Society International
found that animal tests were more expensive than in vitro (testing performed outside of living organisms) in
every scenario studied. 

Increase in using artificial intelligence or robots.

PRO

Modern technologies, including robots and AI, contribute to the development of digital health and significantly
improve medical care. Robotic machines have become irreplaceable surgeons' assistants. They enable minimal
invasiveness and improved accuracy during operations, which reduces recovery time for patients. Industrial
robots have helped to boost productivity, safety, and time savings. Robots are able to produce incredibly
accurate, consistent, and high quality work without needing breaks or holidays off. Industrial robots also help to
remove workers from the hazardous environments and back breaking labor. One of the biggest advantages of
Artificial Intelligence is that it can significantly reduce errors and increase accuracy and precision. The decisions
taken by AI in every step is decided by information previously gathered and a certain set of algorithms. When
programmed properly, these errors can be reduced to null.

- Improve medical care

- Surgeons assistants

- Accuracy during opperations

- Time saving

- Accurate, consistent, and high quality

- help to remove workers from the hazardous environments

- 24/7 availability

CON

I beg to disagree, because people nowadays are only depending on the help of AI or artificial intelligence and
robots where people are no longer able to activate their thinking ability to solve or find a way for things that are
no longer needed by the help of robots. In terms of AI, we all know that students are doing some activities at
home and all they do is searching for an answer on internet, and by the help of AI, students are no longer doing
the assignments on their own because they will just research their assignments and AI will take care of
answering them, as a result the student will not learn anything from doing the activities because they are relying
on AI. While in robots, there are things that don't really need the help of robots because we humans can do it.
Let's take some factories for an example, there are some parts in the factory where the machine is used even
though it is not really needed. As a result, other people no longer earn money because people are no longer
needed in the factory because all the things there are used by machines or robots. The responsibilities of people
are being done by AI or Robots

- Depending on AI or Robots

- people are losing their jobs

- critical thinking is no longer enabled

- people become lazy

- the students are not learning anything

Political Dynasty
PRO

Experience and expertise: Members of political dynasties may have greater experience and expertise in politics
and governance due to their family's long history in public service. This could potentially translate into better
leadership and decision-making skills.

Continuity and stability: Political dynasties can provide continuity and stability in governance, as family
members who succeed each other in office may share similar political values and policies. This may result in a
more predictable and stable political environment.

Access to resources: Political dynasties may have greater access to financial resources and networks, which
could potentially translate into better access to funding for public projects and initiatives.

Greater accountability: Members of political dynasties may feel greater accountability to their constituents due
to their family's long history in public service. This could potentially lead to a greater sense of responsibility and
commitment to serving the public interest.

CON

Concentration of power and wealth: Political dynasties in the Philippines tend to concentrate power and wealth
in the hands of a few families, leading to a lack of diversity and competition in politics. This can result in a lack of
representation for marginalized groups and a concentration of resources and opportunities among the elite.

Nepotism and favoritism: Political dynasties in the Philippines often prioritize their own interests and those of
their family members over the public interest. This can result in nepotism and favoritism in the allocation of
government resources and contracts, leading to a lack of transparency and accountability.

Corruption: Political dynasties in the Philippines have been linked to high levels of corruption, as members of
political families use their power and influence to engage in graft and corrupt practices. This can lead to a lack of
trust in government institutions and undermine the rule of law.
Lack of democracy: Political dynasties in the Philippines can undermine the democratic process by limiting
competition and perpetuating a culture of impunity. This can result in a lack of accountability and transparency
in government, as well as a lack of trust in democratic institutions.

Hindrance to development: Political dynasties in the Philippines can hinder economic development and social
progress, as they tend to prioritize their own interests over the needs of the broader society. This can result in a
lack of investment in public services and infrastructure, leading to a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment.

FACTS AND STATISTICS (PRO)

According to a study by the Asian Institute of Management Policy Center, political dynasties in the Philippines
tend to concentrate wealth and power in the hands of a few families, limit competition, and undermine
democratic institutions.

The same study found that political dynasties in the Philippines also tend to prioritize their own interests over
the public interest, engage in vote-buying and other forms of electoral fraud, and perpetuate a culture of
impunity.

The Philippine Development Forum (PDF) found that political dynasties in the Philippines hinder economic
development and social progress by prioritizing their own interests over the needs of the broader society. This
can lead to a lack of investment in public services and infrastructure, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and
underdevelopment.

A 2019 report by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) found that political dynasties control
at least 73 out of 81 provinces in the Philippines, or 90% of the country's provinces. This concentration of power
can lead to a lack of representation for marginalized groups and a concentration of resources and opportunities
among the elite.

The PCIJ report also found that political dynasties in the Philippines engage in vote-buying and other forms of
electoral fraud to maintain their hold on power. This undermines the integrity of the democratic process and can
lead to a lack of trust in democratic institutions.

According to a 2018 survey by Social Weather Stations (SWS), 78% of Filipinos are against political dynasties,
while only 10% are in favor of them. This reflects a widespread recognition of the negative impact that political
dynasties can have on Philippine society and politics.

According to the Philippine Constitution, "The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public
service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law." However, despite this provision, the
Philippines has yet to pass an anti-dynasty law, which has allowed political dynasties to persist and concentrate
power and wealth.

Political dynasties in the Philippines tend to prioritize their own interests and those of their family members
over the public interest. This can result in nepotism and favoritism in the allocation of government resources
and contracts, leading to a lack of transparency and accountability.

OPINIONS FROM EXPERTS

Dr. Aries Arugay, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines, argues that political dynasties
in the Philippines perpetuate a culture of political patronage and clientelism, undermining democratic
processes and public accountability.
Atty. Marlon Manuel, a human rights lawyer and political reform advocate, argues that political dynasties in the
Philippines lead to a lack of competition and diversity in politics, resulting in a concentration of power and
resources among a few families.

Prof. Ronald Mendoza, the dean of the Ateneo School of Government, argues that political dynasties in the
Philippines perpetuate inequality and undermine social mobility, as they limit opportunities for ordinary citizens
to participate in politics and public service.

Dr. Dindo Manhit, the president of the Stratbase ADR Institute, argues that political dynasties in the Philippines
hinder economic development and social progress, as they tend to prioritize their own interests over the needs
of the broader society.

Atty. Mel Sta. Maria, a constitutional law professor and former dean of the FEU Institute of Law, argues that
political dynasties in the Philippines violate the principle of equal protection under the law, as they allow certain
families to monopolize political power and resources.

Dr. Ronald Mendoza, dean of the Ateneo School of Government, argues that political dynasties in the Philippines
perpetuate inequality and undermine democracy. He has called for the passage of an anti-dynasty law to level
the playing field for all candidates and promote greater diversity and competition in Philippine politics.

Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, SJ, president of Ateneo de Manila University, has called for the strengthening of
democratic institutions and the promotion of civic engagement to counter the influence of political dynasties in
the Philippines. He argues that a more engaged citizenry can help hold elected officials accountable and
promote greater transparency and accountability in government.

Sen. Leila de Lima, a former human rights lawyer and lawmaker, has been a vocal critic of political dynasties in
the Philippines. She has argued that political dynasties concentrate power and resources in the hands of a few
families, leading to a lack of representation for marginalized groups and a concentration of wealth and
opportunity among the elite.

Atty. Christian Monsod, one of the framers of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, has called for the
implementation of the constitutional provision prohibiting political dynasties in the Philippines. He argues that
political dynasties undermine democratic institutions and perpetuate a culture of impunity that allows
corruption and abuse of power to thrive.

Dr. Clarita Carlos, a political scientist and professor at the University of the Philippines, has argued that political
dynasties in the Philippines perpetuate a culture of patronage and dependence that undermines democracy
and economic development. She has called for greater public awareness and civic education to promote greater
participation in democratic processes and counter the influence of political dynasties.

Transwomen can join Miss Universe

PRO

Allowing transwomen to compete in Miss Universe promotes inclusivity and diversity, which are important
values in today's society. Transgender individuals face significant discrimination and marginalization in many
areas of life, including in the realm of beauty pageants. By allowing transwomen to participate in Miss Universe,
the pageant can help promote acceptance and understanding of gender diversity.
Many advocates for trans rights argue that transwomen should be allowed to compete in Miss Universe as a
matter of human rights. Denying someone the opportunity to participate in a public event based on their gender
identity is discriminatory and violates their fundamental human rights.

Transwomen are just as capable of displaying the talent and beauty required to compete in Miss Universe as
cisgender women. Excluding them from the pageant based solely on their gender identity is unfair and unjust.

Some other beauty pageants, such as Miss Spain, have already allowed transwomen to compete in their
competitions, setting a precedent for Miss Universe to follow.

Allowing transwomen to participate in Miss Universe can help to promote positive representation of
transgender individuals in the media and in society more broadly. This can help to combat negative stereotypes
and promote greater understanding and acceptance of gender diversity.

CON

Miss Universe 2013 @gabrielaisler's opinion on transgenders joining Miss Universe:

"There is more to being a woman. We were born female, we experience menstruation cycle for decades, we
struggle to be recognized in a mad men era too, we nurture life. That is what Miss Universe is about. You don't
buy womanhood." "Transgenders should have their own pageant, I think, and maybe they can realize [that] in
this pageant, Miss Universe, or the other pageants [were] made for women."

RICE IMPORTATION
PRO

The Philippines is one of the largest consumers of rice in the world, and domestic production is not always
enough to meet the demand for this staple food. Importing rice helps to ensure that there is a sufficient supply
to meet the needs of the population.

When there is a shortage of rice in the domestic market, the price of rice can increase, making it unaffordable for
many Filipinos. Importing rice helps to stabilize the price of rice and keep it within a reasonable range.

Rice imports can introduce new varieties of rice to the Philippine market, providing consumers with more
choices and potentially improving the quality of rice available.

Importing rice can generate economic benefits for the Philippines, such as providing employment opportunities
in the import and distribution industries, and generating revenue from tariffs and taxes on rice imports.

Rice imports can be used to mitigate the impact of natural disasters or other disruptions to domestic rice
production. For example, if there is a typhoon that damages rice crops, importing rice can help to ensure that
there is enough food to feed the affected population.

CON

Loss of income for local farmers: Importing rice can lead to a decrease in demand for locally produced rice,
which can result in a loss of income for Filipino farmers who rely on rice production for their livelihood.
Vulnerability to global price fluctuations: The price of rice on the global market can be volatile, and importing
rice can expose the Philippines to fluctuations in the international market, making the price of rice in the
country unpredictable.

Dependence on other countries: Importing rice can make the Philippines dependent on other countries for their
food supply, which can be a problem if there are disruptions in the global market or political tensions between
the Philippines and the countries from which it imports rice.

Quality control: Imported rice may not meet the same quality standards as locally produced rice, which can
impact the taste and nutritional value of the rice consumed by Filipinos.

Environmental impact: Importing rice can have environmental implications, including the carbon footprint
associated with transportation, and the impact of large-scale rice farming in other countries on the
environment.

Experts told The Straits Times that the Philippines failed to sustain its rice self-sufficiency in succeeding years
due to its failure to modernize the industry, the government’s faulty import policies, extreme weather events
and a lack of support for farmers, who remain among the country’s poorest

The upshot is that rice farmers’ income is low. There are two rice harvest seasons a year in the Philippines, and
farmers earn between 16,000 pesos (S$390) and 20,000 pesos per season, selling the excess rice after keeping
what they need for their own consumption.

Mr. Anong Manalo, a 73-year-old rice farmer from Pangasinan province in northern Philippines, said this is barely
enough to feed a family of five, so some farmers also raise chickens, hogs or cattle to supplement their income.
Others take on odd jobs like construction work in between harvest seasons.

In 2019, to increase the competitiveness of local farmers, then President Rodrigo Duterte signed a law that
replaced quantitative restrictions on rice imports with tariffs. It also required the government to set up an
annual rice competitiveness enhancement fund, which finances efforts to modernise the agriculture sector and
assist farmers.

But critics said the law has so far failed to lower the price of rice and has only made things worse for farmers.

“We’re getting demoralised because the government can’t seem to find a solution to farmers’ woes apart from
importation. They will promise to give us seeds and fertilisers, but not all farmers get the assistance. So where
do they go? That’s the big question,” Mr Manalo said.

BUILDING LATEST AND HIGH END INFRASTRUCTURE IN EXCHANGE WITH THE

FARMLANDS
PRO

Building infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and highways can improve transportation access, making it easier
for farmers to transport their goods to markets and for consumers to access food from rural areas.

The construction of infrastructure can stimulate economic growth and development in rural areas, creating job
opportunities and potentially increasing incomes for local residents.
Infrastructure can improve connectivity and access to social services such as healthcare and education, which
can benefit rural communities.

Infrastructure such as irrigation systems, flood control measures, and emergency access routes can improve the
resilience of rural communities to natural disasters.

Infrastructure such as tourist accommodations and transportation routes can enhance the tourism potential of
rural areas, generating revenue for local residents.

However, it is important to note that these advantages should not come at the expense of food security and the
livelihoods of farmers. If farmland must be used for infrastructure development, it is important to ensure that
adequate compensation and alternative livelihood opportunities are provided for affected farmers, and that
food security is not compromised in the long term.

CON

Building infrastructure on farmland means that valuable agricultural land is taken out of production, which can
have negative impacts on food security and rural livelihoods.

Construction of infrastructure such as roads, highways, and buildings can result in the loss of natural habitats
and biodiversity, as well as contribute to deforestation and soil erosion.

Infrastructure development can lead to the displacement of farmers and rural communities, particularly if they
are not adequately compensated or provided with alternative livelihood opportunities.

Infrastructure development can result in soil and water contamination from construction materials, chemicals,
and waste, which can have negative impacts on agricultural productivity and human health.

 Infrastructure built on farmland can increase the vulnerability of rural communities to the impacts of climate
change, such as droughts and floods.

It is important to carefully weigh the costs and potential negative impacts, particularly with regard to food
security, rural livelihoods, and environmental sustainability. It is important to prioritize the protection of
farmland and natural resources, and to ensure that the needs and concerns of affected farmers and
communities are taken into account in decision-making processes.

CAN A GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL RE-RUN FOR THE SAME POSITION?

PRO

Incumbent officials who have already served in a particular position have the advantage of experience. They have had the
opportunity to learn from their successes and mistakes, build relationships with colleagues and constituents, and develop
a deeper understanding of the issues and challenges facing their office.

Officials who have already served in a position have often developed name recognition and a positive reputation among
constituents. This can help them in their re-election campaign, as voters may be more likely to support a candidate they
are already familiar with.

If an official has been successful in implementing policies or programs during their previous term, re-electing them can
ensure continuity in those efforts. This can be especially important in cases where a government has identified long-term
goals or priorities that require sustained effort over multiple terms.
Re-electing an incumbent can also save time and resources, as they will not need to undergo as much training or
orientation as a new official. This can help ensure that government functions continue to operate smoothly without
disruption.

Incumbents who have served in a position for a long time often have deep institutional knowledge of their office and the
government in general. This knowledge can be valuable in making informed decisions and navigating complex political
and bureaucratic systems.

CON

Incumbent officials may become complacent or take their re-election for granted, leading them to become less responsive
to the needs and concerns of their constituents.

Officials who have served in a position for a long time may become entrenched in their ways of thinking and less open to
new ideas or perspectives. This can make it more difficult for them to adapt to changing circumstances or to address new
challenges.

If an official has been in office for a long time, some voters may become tired of seeing the same name on the ballot and
may be less likely to turn out to vote.

If an incumbent official faces opposition from within their own political party, it can make it more difficult for them to secure
their party's nomination and win re-election.

Incumbents may face negative public perception if they have been involved in controversial issues or if they are perceived
as being out of touch with the needs of their constituents.

Lack of diversity: Re-electing an incumbent can make it more difficult to promote diversity in government, as it can
create a barrier to entry for new candidates.

Whether the disadvantages outweigh the advantages of re-electing an incumbent will depend on the specific
circumstances and the particular official in question. It is important for voters to carefully consider all factors when deciding
whether to support a candidate for re-election.

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