While I am a devout Catholic, I disagree with some within Catholicism who insist on attributing the title “Co-Redemptrix” or “Mediatrix of All Graces” to Mary, the divinely empowered mother of Jesus. The present Pope, Leo XIV, as well as the late Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI have already said that the faithful should refrain from using these Marian titles when referring to Mary.

Firstly, Pope Benedict categorically said that such attributions have no basis in scripture and in fact depart from it. Secondly, all three latest Popes emphasize that the use of such titles is confusing to the faithful because it tends to put Mary on equal footing with Jesus Christ which would not only be absurd but untrue. And thirdly, such developments come about due to the tendency of some faithful to bring down the realities of heaven according to their personal convictions even if such contradict carefully developed church doctrines throughout the ages due to the criticality of ensuring that deposits of faith must first be validated by divine revelation and not merely the promotion of earthly vested interests. In fact, the Catholic Church, which is the historian of Christianity since Jesus Christ already has the foundational, core, and developing doctrines of the faith carefully documented. This guardianship is made evident by the existence of the Holy Bible whose New Testament was written between 40 AD and 95 AD; while its Old Testament was compiled sometime between 1000 BC and 450 BC. It is also made apparent in the fact that the written Gospels and Epistles owe their substance to the earlier oral traditions of Christianity which transmitted the initial, spoken teachings and actions of Jesus as well as the “good news” (kerygma) relayed by the Apostles and early followers. Finally, the guardianship has its third pillar in the Magisterium – the teaching authority of the Catholic Church exercised by the Popes and bishops which was established by Christ when he commissioned the Apostles to teach. The 431 AD Council of Ephesus clarified the role of Mary as the Theotokos (“God-bearer” or “Mother of God” in Greek), thereby affirming the Church’s belief in the Incarnation – that Christ is one person with both human and divine natures, rather than two separate persons – debunking Nestorianism. Relative to this, Pope Benedict XVI presents the first evidence supporting my argument. Then Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger opposed the “Co-redemptrix or Mediatrix of all graces” title in a 1996 internal discussion within the then-Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith arguing that “the precise meaning of these titles is not clear, and the doctrine contained in them is not mature”. He added that, “it is not clear how the doctrine expressed in these titles is present in Scripture and the apostolic tradition”. Later in 2002, he repeated his position publicly: “The formula ‘Co-redemptrix’ departs to too great an extent from the language of Scripture and of the (Church) Fathers and therefore gives rise to misunderstandings … Everything comes from Him (Christ), as the Letter to the Ephesians and the Letter to the Colossians, in particular, tell us; Mary, too, is everything that she is through Him. The word ‘Co-redemptrix’ would obscure this origin.” While Cardinal Ratzinger expressed this point, he also noted that he wasn’t denying “the good intentions behind the proposal, nor the valuable aspects reflected in it, but nonetheless maintained that they were ‘being expressed in the wrong way’.”                   

Secondly, all three latest Popes emphasize that the use of such titles is confusing to the faithful because it tends to put Mary on equal footing with Jesus Christ which would not only be absurd but untrue. For his part, the late Pope Francis also expressed his clear opposition to the use of the title “Co-redemptrix” on at least three occasions during his papacy. The current Pope, Leo XIV, has instructed Catholics to stop referring to Mary as the co-redeemer of the world, reaffirming the belief that Jesus Christ alone redeemed humanity through his crucifixion and death. As a result of the confusion and controversy among the faithful created by the Marian attributions, the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith on 4 November 2025, published Mater populi fidelis (“The Mother of the Faithful People”), a Doctrinal Note “On Some Marian Titles Regarding Mary’s Cooperation in the Work of Salvation.” The Note is the fruit of a long and complex collegial effort to get to the bottom of the controversy and arrive at a firm consensus that will guide the faithful lest they be divided by unnecessary misinterpretations of doctrinal faith, or worse, fall into grave error. The findings of the review clearly clarify the issue. “Essentially, the Note reaffirms Catholic doctrine, which has always emphasized that everything in Mary is directed towards the centrality of Christ and His salvific work. For this reason, even if some Marian titles admit of an orthodox interpretation through correct exegesis, Mater populi fidelis says it is preferable to avoid them.”  The Note’s conclusion is even clearer: “It is always inappropriate to use the title ‘Co-redemptrix’ to define Mary’s cooperation. This title risks obscuring Christ’s unique salvific mediation and can therefore create confusion and an imbalance in the harmony of the truths of the Christian faith. …When an expression requires many, repeated explanations to prevent it from straying from a correct meaning, it does not serve the faith of the People of God and becomes unhelpful.”   

Finally, such developments come about due to the tendency of some faithful to bring down the realities of heaven according to their personal convictions even if such contradict carefully developed church doctrines throughout the ages due to the criticality of ensuring that deposits of faith must first be validated by divine revelation and not merely the promotion of earthly vested interests. While Marian devotion is apparently strong within the Catholic faith, Catholics must be careful not to fall into the error of worshipping Mary rather than Jesus Christ. Because that is what ‘Co-redemptrix’ signifies. Christ is God. Mary, His mother, is not. She is human, like us. How can a human being be called mankind’s redeemer along with God? Our admiration and devotion to Mother Mary are laudable and sweet. But do they have to overshadow even our faith in Jesus? If they do, then that would be the work of the devil who is the master of lies, deception, and treachery. Aren’t the titles already attributed to our holy mother still not enough? That we need to invent titles that elevate her to be at level with her Incarnate Son of God? While some of us may think this is alright, it is not. We the people of God must think of the world and not just our myopic groups, associations, and concerns. God is the God of the Universe and not just our Marian groups. We must think big and fully understand this doctrine of communal union which is what the Church is, as the mystical body and bride of Christ. That is why the Church also cannot be effeminate, as Christ is the groom and head of this bride.  As I listened to the priest exhort on the Seven Last Words on Good Friday, I was surprised when all he discussed for the Third Word (“Woman, behold your son … Behold your mother”) was to justify that Mary is God’s “co-mediatrix”. The priest discussed it so much, that he was no longer able to touch on all seven words by the moment his time was up before the 3:00 PM solemn afternoon liturgy and procession. This reflection is partly a reaction to my experienced surprise. It is also a reminder to that priest and us all that his exhortation was in error as the three Popes and the Note have already clarified the matter, rendering the priest’s mutterings as confusing the faithful still despite these official clarifications. Lastly, there is the issue of false teaching and parenthood. Responsible parenthood was another point used by the priest in discussing the Third Word. The point I’m driving at is simple. While true teaching is responsible parenthood, how does a “father” contradicting his Pope and the Note not be false teaching and therefore irresponsible parenthood?        

Bringing its core value of responsibility to the fore, Aboitiz Foods subsidiary Pilmico Foods Corporation partnered with Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Iligan to roll out the Baking Behind Bars program.

An initiative of MSU-IIT’s WE CARE Office, the program aims to provide sustainable livelihood skills to PDLs, enabling them to reintegrate as productive members of society. A total of 37 participants—24 men and 13 women—underwent intensive, hands-on training in bread and pastry production from March 12 to 14, 2026, at the BJMP Iligan baking facility.

Nurturing potential beyond prison walls

For many PDLs, the barriers to reintegration extend far beyond incarceration, with stigma often limiting opportunities for a fresh start. Programs like Baking Behind Bars aim to dismantle these barriers by equipping participants with skills that can translate into livelihood.

Pilmico views the initiative as part of its broader commitment to community empowerment. Through expert-led workshops and the provision of high-quality flour, the program transforms correctional facilities into spaces for rehabilitation and personal growth.

Rodulfo Orong, Quality Assurance Supervisor for Flour Operations at Pilmico, emphasized the deeper purpose behind the training.

“The Baking Behind Bars program reflects Aboitiz Foods’ commitment to creating shared value, especially for marginalized communities. By equipping PDLs with skills, we help open pathways to sustainable livelihoods and renewed hope,” he said.

A pathway to reintegration

Participants were introduced to the fundamentals of bread-making, including flour characteristics, ingredient functionality, and basic costing—key competencies for those who may pursue small-scale bakery ventures.

Using equipment provided by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), trainees produced items such as cheesy malunggay pandesal, cheesy onion pandesal, and oatmeal cookies—recipes they can eventually share with their families or develop into income-generating products.

To sustain the initiative, MSU-IIT and BJMP Iligan are exploring the launch of a “Bread on Wheels” project, which will enable families of PDLs to sell baked goods through mobile outlets, turning newly acquired skills into viable sources of income.

City Jail Warden JCINSP Carmelo A. Corsame underscored the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful social impact.

“When our PDLs knead dough, they are also shaping their future. This initiative is about dignity, second chances, and reconnecting with family and community,” Corsame said.

Creating shared value at the margins

Beyond technical training, Baking Behind Bars underscores a broader message: that access to knowledge and opportunity can spark real change—even in the most constrained environments.

“I used to think my hands were only for mistakes. Now, I see they can create something my children might one day enjoy,” shared one participant.

Through initiatives like this, Aboitiz Foods, through Pilmico, continues to demonstrate that creating shared value means empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and building pathways toward a more inclusive future.

“The challenges and opportunities from the twin digital and green transitions are felt much more in the Philippines,” said Khalid Hassan, Director of the ILO Country Office for the Philippines.

“Our focus is to ensure that training programs are accessible, especially for youth from low- to medium-skill backgrounds, who stand to benefit the most from these new job opportunities.”

Together with its partners, ILO is ramping up initiatives to ensure Filipino youth are not left behind, but instead positioned to benefit from new, higher-quality job opportunities.

At a DigiGreen construction skills partnership forum held on March 25, 2026 in Quezon City, government agencies, industry leaders, and training institutions aligned efforts to prepare young workers for a more technology-driven and environmentally sustainable construction landscape.

The urgency is clear. Construction, one of the country’s largest sources of employment, is rapidly evolving, with demand rising for workers who can navigate both digital tools and green building practices. Without targeted training, many risk being excluded from emerging roles.

Central to the initiative are two critical skill areas: Building Information Modeling (BIM) and green construction.

BIM—a digital system that enables more efficient design, planning, and management of buildings—is fast becoming a global industry standard. It is already required in large-scale projects in countries such as Korea, Singapore, and Dubai, signaling a shift toward higher productivity, cost efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.

“BIM and green construction skills are among the most important starting points for leveraging the digital and green transitions to improve youth employment in this sector,” said Hochul Shin, Chief Technical Adviser of the ILO/Korea Partnership Programme.

For young workers, acquiring these competencies can open doors to more specialized roles, better wages, and more stable career paths — moving beyond traditionally informal and precarious construction work.

To help bridge the gap between training and employment, the forum also marked the formal handover of learning modules to key Philippine institutions, including the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Construction Manpower Development Foundation (CMDF), and the Philippine Constructors Association (PCA).

The initiative forms part of the ILO/Korea Partnership Programme’s Advancing Digital and Green Skills for Youth in ASEAN project, aimed at future-proofing the region’s workforce amid rapid economic and environmental shifts.

The project, funded under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP), was approved in 2023 as part of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) to the Philippines.

Leading the turnover ceremony was Second Secretary and GGP Officer Mukaigawa Yurie, joined by Dionisio Neil Balite, local government officials, and school representatives.

Established in 2022, Anoyon High School was created to address the lack of accessible secondary education in the community, where students previously had to travel long distances and incur daily transport costs. In its first year, the school operated with just 21 students in a rented classroom within an elementary school.

With support from the municipal government of Valencia, Bohol, funding was secured to build a dedicated facility. Japan’s grant of approximately $94,607 (around P5 million) financed the construction of a one-storey building with four classrooms, a teacher’s room, and a library.

The facility also includes separate comfort rooms for males, females, and persons with disabilities, in compliance with standards set by the Department of Education. The new building is expected to benefit around 150 students, particularly those in Grades 11 and 12.

In her remarks, Mukaigawa underscored the importance of investing in education, noting that improved learning environments help shape not only students’ academic journeys but also their future opportunities.

Since its launch in 1989, the GGP program has funded 569 grassroots projects across the Philippines, aimed at reducing poverty and supporting community development. As the country’s leading ODA partner, Japan continues to play a key role in strengthening bilateral ties and advancing inclusive growth through initiatives such as this.

The initiative coincided with the observance of Rabies Awareness Month and featured key messages from prominent animal welfare advocates, including Congressman Brian Poe, Senator Francis Pangilinan, and De La Salle University Professor Laureen Velasco, founder of the DLSU Pusa advocacy group.
Advancing animal welfare and public safety

In his keynote address, Rep. Poe underscored that safeguarding animal welfare is a collective responsibility and reiterated his commitment to advancing legislative reforms, including the proposed revision of the Animal Welfare Act.
Meanwhile, in a video message, Sen. Pangilinan reaffirmed his support for stronger policies that ensure humane treatment and increased penalties for animal cruelty, stressing the importance of sustained collaboration among stakeholders.

Professor Velasco shared the inspiring journey of DLSU Pusa, highlighting its grassroots efforts to rescue stray cats and foster a more compassionate and socially responsible community.

Partnerships driving meaningful impact

The advocacy event also reinforced Meralco’s CATropa initiative, spearheaded by Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga, which integrates animal welfare into the company’s broader mission of promoting public safety and social responsibility.

Zaldarriaga emphasized that multi-sector partnerships are crucial in advancing humane and sustainable solutions to stray animal management while strengthening public awareness on vaccination and responsible pet care.
“Through initiatives like this, we take meaningful steps toward preventing rabies while addressing the challenge of stray animal homelessness in a humane and sustainable way,” he said.

Community-centered initiatives

Beyond seminars and policy discussions, the event featured a range of activities designed to promote advocacy at the grassroots level, including:

TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) and vaccination drives for Meralco community cats
Pet adoption campaigns
A pet fashion show
Storytelling sessions for employees’ children
The program was made possible with the support of various partners, including local veterinary offices in Pasig and Mandaluyong, animal care organizations, and private sector sponsors.
Through sustained collaboration and advocacy, Meralco continues to champion initiatives that foster compassion, strengthen rabies prevention efforts, and promote responsible pet ownership—contributing to a healthier and more harmonious society for both humans and animals.

Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Marc Innes-Brown, encouraged emerging Filipino leaders from government, the private sector, and civil society to apply for the program.

“As Australia and the Philippines celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations this year, we remain committed to supporting the next generation of Filipino leaders through this program,” Ambassador Innes-Brown said.

The Australia Awards Scholarships provide recipients access to world-class education in Australia and cover major expenses, including round-trip travel, tuition fees, living allowances, health insurance, and academic support.

A key feature of the scholarship is the ReEntry Action Plan, which ensures that scholars apply the knowledge and expertise they gain in Australia to development initiatives in the Philippines upon their return.

Priority areas for Filipino applicants include agriculture, natural resources, climate change, cybersecurity, education, governance, health, justice, maritime security, mining, energy, peace and security, trade and economics, gender-inclusive development, and capacity-building initiatives.

Since 2004, more than 1,500 Australia Awards alumni have returned to the Philippines, with many now serving in leadership roles across government, the private sector, civil society, and academe.

Applications are open online until April 30, 2026, through the Australia Awards Philippines website.

In many parts of the country, women in political families function as stabilizers during times of transition. Term limits? No problem—a wife or daughter takes the reins until the incumbent is eligible to return. Public backlash? A matriarch’s charm and community work soften the blow. In this way, women serve as both buffers and bridges, preserving power while keeping it seemingly palatable to the public.

This is not just about loyalty or support. It’s a calculated, strategic role. These women organize campaigns, negotiate alliances with other powerful clans, and mobilize local networks to achieve their goals. They often take the lead in community initiatives, portraying the family as benevolent and engaged — even when these acts are carefully curated PR moves. Their involvement goes far beyond symbolism. They are kingmakers, campaign managers, and, at times, the ones actually pulling the strings.

The rise of female political figures from dynastic families has even been interpreted by some as a form of progress for women in leadership. After all, more women in office should be good for democracy, right? But here lies the dilemma. When a woman’s path to power is only open through bloodlines or marriage, it doesn’t expand democratic participation; it reinforces exclusivity. It’s not a crack in the glass ceiling — it’s a revolving door in an elite club.

In the Philippines, where over 70% of Congress is composed of members from political dynasties, this dynamic raises important questions. Are these women breaking barriers — or are they being strategically deployed to sustain political monopolies under the guise of gender representation? In many cases, it’s both. And that’s where the nuance lies.

The challenge for voters and reform advocates is not to dismiss these women outright, but to critically assess the structures that allow only a select few to wield influence — whether male or female. True gender representation means creating political space for women from all walks of life, not just those with dynastic capital.

So while these women may operate without formal recognition, their impact is undeniable. They are not mere figureheads; they are tacticians, caretakers of legacy, and, often, the family’s most trusted political strategist. In the high-stakes world of Philippine politics, where survival often means adaptation, women in dynasties have proven themselves to be the ultimate political survivors.

But survival is not the same as transformation. If the goal is a more inclusive and representative democracy, then the conversation must go beyond the surnames on the ballot. Because sometimes, the most powerful person in the room isn’t the one in office — it’s the one who helped put them there.

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SHORT BURSTS. For comments or reactions, email firingline@ymail.com or tweet @Side_View via X app (formerly Twitter). Read current and past issues of this column at https://www.thephilbiznews.com

President Lee’s visit — his first since assuming office June last year — comes as the two countries mark the 77th anniversary of diplomatic relations, a partnership that was elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2024 and further strengthened by a recent free trade agreement (FTA).

During a bilateral meeting and joint press conference, President Marcos highlighted the progress made in expanding cooperation between Manila and Seoul.

“We agreed that we have made significant strides in advancing and deepening our bilateral cooperation toward the attainment of our mutually beneficial goals,” President Marcos said following talks with President Lee and his delegation.

The discussions covered a wide range of issues, including defense and security cooperation, maritime collaboration, economic development initiatives, and people-to-people exchanges, reflecting the broad scope of the two nations’ growing relationship.

President Marcos noted that both governments are working to expand trade and investment while maximizing the benefits of the Philippines-ROK FTA.

He also acknowledged South Korea’s role in strengthening Philippine capabilities in several strategic sectors.

The Philippine leader cited Korea’s contributions to the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the strengthening of the Philippine Coast Guard, as well as investments that have helped revive the shipbuilding industry and strengthen the country’s semiconductor value chain.

President Marcos also thanked the ROK for supporting major development initiatives, including infrastructure projects such as the Panguil Bay Bridge in Northern Mindanao, as well as programs in health, agricultural mechanization, energy, and artificial intelligence.

He likewise recognized Seoul’s support for the rights and welfare of more than 70,000 Filipinos living and working in Korea.

Beyond bilateral cooperation, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues, including developments in the South China Sea and the Korean Peninsula.

Both sides reaffirmed the importance of upholding a rules-based international order, particularly in maritime domains, amid growing geopolitical tensions.

Ten new agreements signed

The visit also produced 10 memoranda of understanding (MOUs) covering key sectors, ranging from defense and agriculture to digital cooperation and cultural exchange.

“And as we have just witnessed, we have concluded a number of agreements in the fields of defense materials procurement, veterans affairs, agriculture, trade, investment and economic cooperation, intellectual property, digital cooperation, digitalization and innovation, Korean language training in schools, cultural cooperation, and police cooperation, which will sustain the momentum of the Philippines-ROK Strategic Partnership for the future,” President Marcos said.

The agreements include cooperation on digital technology, innovation programs, defense procurement, veterans affairs, agricultural collaboration, trade and investment promotion, intellectual property protection, Korean language education in Philippine schools, cultural exchange, and police coordination.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by both leaders during their meeting in Malacañang.

State banquet celebrates longstanding friendship

The diplomatic engagements culminated in a state banquet hosted by President Marcos under the chandeliers of the Ceremonial Hall at Malacañan Palace in honor of President Lee and First Lady Kim Hea-kyung.

“It is my distinct honor to welcome His Excellency Lee Jae-myung, President of the Republic of Korea, to Malacañan Palace this evening. The productive relations which we elevated to a strategic partnership in 2024 span many areas of mutual interest,” President Marcos said in his toast.

The Philippine leader emphasized the long-standing friendship between Filipinos and Koreans, built through decades of cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, security, and cultural exchange.

“During our comprehensive meetings, President Lee and I covered a wide range of areas in our bilateral partnership, including defense and security, maritime cooperation, economic development and cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges. We have made significant strides in advancing and deepening our bilateral cooperation towards the attainment of our mutually beneficial goals,” the President added.

President Lee, accompanied by First Lady Kim Hea-kyung, earlier began his visit by laying a wreath at the monument of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal at Rizal Park.

He expressed appreciation for the warm welcome extended by the Filipino people and reaffirmed Korea’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the Philippines in areas such as innovation, infrastructure development, maritime and defense engagement, and people-to-people ties.

The visit will conclude Wednesday with the two leaders joining government and business leaders at the Philippines-Korea Business Forum in Pasay City, where officials hope to translate the strengthened diplomatic ties into expanded economic collaboration.

The documentary highlights the resilience of Ukrainian schoolchildren amid war and serves as a powerful learning tool for Filipino children and global audiences alike, offering real-life lessons in resilience, the value of education, courage in adversity, and the enduring strength of hope amid conflict.

Completed after three and a half years, the film offers Filipino youth profound lessons in courage, perseverance, the enduring power of hope, the value of education, and a deepen love of country.

The 38-minute film chronicles the resilience of Ukrainian schoolchildren continuing their education amid missiles, air raids, and the constant threat of war. Filmed over several years across Ukraine, Poland, and the Czech Republic, it captures both the courage of its young subjects and the profound human toll of prolonged conflict.

Produced by THEPHILBIZNEWS, the documentary received a PG-13 rating from the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) for its inspirational and educational value. It premiered inlate  January to critical acclaim at a screening attended by diplomats, journalists, and civil society leaders.

Ukraine’s Ambassador to the Philippines Yuliia Fediv called it “a vital counterbalance to misinformation and war fatigue,” while international diplomats praised its ability to “give human faces to numbers and statistics.”

Being shortlisted at Sinag Maynila, a festival known for spotlighting thoughtful and impactful Filipino cinema, affirms the documentary’s artistic and cultural significance.

“This film was made not for profit, not for ratings, but out of a shared responsibility to bear witness — and to tell the truth with humanity. In a world shaped by conflict and disinformation, independent storytelling remains one of the most powerful bridges between nations and people,” said Monsi Alfonso Serrano, founder and publisher of THEPHILBIZNEWS, and the director of the film.

Even as shifting geopolitics and high-level diplomacy continue to dominate headlines, children — not strategy or statecraft — took center stage in Twin Lakes Hotel Tagaytay at the exclusive screening of “Hope for the Dawn to Come” Wednesday.

Marking the fourth year of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine almost to the day, diplomats and guests reacted not with policy analysis, but with emotion, to the first Philippine-produced documentary on Ukraine by THEPHILBIZNEWS.

They described the documentary as a timely and meaningful contribution to international dialogue on the ongoing war in Ukraine. They noted the film powerfully redirects attention to what world leaders should prioritize: the young lives shaped and scarred by conflict.

Ambassador Nicholas Brühl of Switzerland said he was deeply moved, calling the film “really, really touching” and highly relevant.

He expressed gratitude to the filmmakers and stressed that such films deserve wider international screening, including in the Philippines and Europe.

Highlighting the focus on children, he noted that war leaves lasting impact on young lives and praised the resilience, determination, and impressive communication skills of the students featured.

He described the documentary as “a wonderful lesson” and commended the production team for their courage in presenting the realities on the ground.

A historical document of resilience

Ambassador Davide Giglio of Italy underscored continued international solidarity with Ukraine, noting that the conflict has persisted for four years and continues to bring profound humanitarian consequences.

He described the film as an important historical document that reflects resilience, particularly among the younger generation.

Emphasizing the importance of unity and diplomacy, he said sustained dialogue and international cooperation remain essential in pursuing a peaceful resolution.

He also highlighted the value of raising awareness about the realities of war to encourage constructive engagement.

Safeguarding the future generation

For Oleksander Lysak, first secretary of the Embassy of Ukraine in the Philippines, the documentary captured what statistics and geopolitical debates often overlook: the lived realities of children who represent Ukraine’s future.

He stressed that the documentary powerfully captures the current realities in Ukraine, particularly the experiences of children. He expressed concern over the long-term impact of the war on young people and thanked the international community for its continued support.

He called for ongoing solidarity and awareness, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding education, identity, and the future generation amid continuing challenges.

Educator Dr. Denise Brühl commended the documentary’s focus on children’s rights, particularly their right to education and to shape their own future. She said the film clearly demonstrates how young Ukrainians continue to pursue learning, career aspirations, and personal growth despite difficult circumstances.

Describing the documentary as inspiring and meaningful, she encouraged broader international screenings to deepen public understanding and appreciation of the resilience shown by students and communities.

Representing the private sector, Rowena Relucio, General Manager of Twin Lakes Hotel, described the film as eye-opening and said it enhanced awareness of the ongoing crisis.

Expressing hope for peace and recovery, she emphasized the importance of continued international cooperation, responsible storytelling, and collective efforts to support humanitarian understanding.

For his part, Monsi Alfonso Serrano, founder of THEPHILBIZNEWS and film producer and director, said that this legacy project was painstakingly completed for more than three years to challenge the Filipino youth and learn from the courage, perseverance, and resilience of the Ukrainian school children who remain focused in pursuing their dreams while studying in the midst of the war.