PODKAS

In this new episode, we tackle the life and legacy of Chito Gascon, whose activism began as a student during the EDSA Revolution and culminated in his tenure as the chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR). Join us as we unpack and retell Gascon's journey, an unwavering commitment to justice and democracy that serves as an inspiration for the youth today.

We tackle the nexus between politics, media, and elite families in this new episode as we spotlight the powerful Lopez family. We explore their rise to power, the closures of ABS-CBN, their struggles during Martial Law, and their subsequent resurrection in the post-EDSA political environment.

We reflect on the EDSA People Power and the role of cinema in shaping public sentiment in this episode, where we highlight the legendary Filipino filmmaker, Lino Brocka. How do media, film, and music have historically acted as catalysts for reform and resistance during Martial Law? Through Brocka's classic films, such as Maynila, Sa Mga Kuko ng Liwanag and Insiang , we uncover the intertwined...

In this new episode of Shakers and Shapers, we tackle the complex figure of Jose Maria Sison, founding chairman of the Communist Party of the Philippines. We look back at his journey, from his aristocratic roots and eventual radicalization at the University of the Philippines, the formation of Kabataang Makabayan, the ideological underpinnings of national democracy, and the pivotal role Sison and...

How intertwined were religion and politics during the tumultuous Martial Law period? We approach the role of the Catholic Church during the Marcos years and the EDSA Revolution through the life and complex legacy of Jaime Cardinal Sin, a key religious leader whose words and actions shaped the Church's involvement in political affairs and left an indelible mark on the nation's struggle for...

We revisit the complex legacies of Juan Ponce Enrile, Fidel Ramos, and Gregorio Honasan, pivotal figures in the EDSA Revolution, in this episode. Exploring their roles in martial law implementation, their eventual defection from Marcos, and their subsequent political careers, we uncover the intertwined narratives of power, betrayal, and redemption that shaped Philippine history and politics.

In this episode, we take a look into the lives of opposition senators Jovito Salonga and Jose Diokno. Both followed unique paths, from humble beginnings and wartime heroics to their instrumental roles in challenging the Marcos dictatorship and shaping Philippine democracy. Through their stories, we explore the complexity of resistance, the necessity of integrity, and their lasting legacies in Phil...

We proceed with our season by transitioning to the EDSA People Power Revolution, examining it through the lives and actions of its key shapers and shakers. In this episode, we dive into the story of Cory Aquino, the central figure around whom the nation coalesced to dismantle the Marcos dictatorship and inaugurate a renewed era of democracy. Furthermore, we scrutinize the Aquinos and their family&...

Today, February 25, marks the 38th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, a cornerstone in the Philippines' march towards democracy. In this special episode, "Bakit Inaalala ang EDSA?" we partnered with the Human Rights Violations Victims' Memorial Commission (HRVVMC) and interviewed Congress Rep. Edcel Lagman to tackle the efforts to preserve the significance of EDSA a...

In our final episode, we look at Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s early life during the time of Martial Law. Being the son of President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., Bongbong was surrounded by a lot of power and some big controversies that have left a lasting mark on the country's politics. We'll try to figure out how much Bongbong was involved in what his family did during Martial...

Our focus in this episode is the life of Lean Alejandro, a symbol of Philippine student activism during the Marcos era. As Secretary-General of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, Lean championed democracy against dictatorship, but his life was tragically cut short at 27. His influence and legacy as a beacon for justice and freedom endures to this day.

Maliit pa nga ba si Imee Marcos noong panahon ng Batas Militar? Let's look at the life and controversies of the eldest of the Marcos brood. From her education in prestigious institutions abroad to her early foray into politics, Imee's path was seemingly paved by her family's political legacy. However, like Marcos name, her own journey hasn't been without its dark patches and contro...

In another episode of #ShapersAndShakers, we discuss the life of Gen. Fabian Ver, a trusted confidant and chief enforcer of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos. Ver, from humble beginnings, rose through the military ranks to become one of the most powerful figures in the country. We unravel the complex relationship between Marcos and Ver, and the pivotal role the general played in consolidating power an...

In this episode, we explore the Martial Law period in the Philippines, focusing on the brave Lorena Barros. As an activist and co-founder of MAKIBAKA, a women's revolutionary group, Barros fought against tyranny. The undying spirit of resistance that Lorena embodied and the profound impact she left on the struggle for justice and equality remains an inspiration to this day.

In Episode 7 of our #ShapersAndShakers series, we talk about the cronyism during the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos through the experience of Lucio Tan, a business tycoon and one of the richest men in the Philippines, who got his biggest business opportunities as a Marcos crony. What is the link between cronyism and the country's economic crisis during and post-martial law? Find out in this ep...

Episode 6 of Shapers and Shakers features the work of Pete Lacaba, a Filipino journalist, poet, and cultural luminary who left an indelible mark on journalism, arts, and culture during the turbulent Martial Law period in the Philippines.

In this episode, we explore the influential role of Cesar Virata during Martial Law in the Philippines. As Prime Minister under Ferdinand Marcos, Virata, a respected economist, steered the nation's economic policies. In this episode, we dissect Virata's challenges, his impact on the economy and infrastructure, and the ethical dilemmas he faced as a technocrat in a time of authoritarian rul...

Our fourth episode spotlights the life and activism of Edgar Jopson or Edjop, a charismatic and passionate advocate for democracy, social justice, and human rights. His story is not only about defiance against dictatorship but also, and more importantly, a testament to the unyielding spirit of those who fought for freedom.

In our third episode, we delve into the life and controversial legacy of Imelda Marcos, the former First Lady of the Philippines, and her intimate connection to one of the darkest chapters in the nation's history – Martial Law.

No conversation on the Philippines' Martial Law Era will be complete without a mention of its main man, Ferdinand E. Marcos. In this episode, we take a look back at his life and his rationale for declaring martial law.

We start our season on select martial law personalities with the person that sparked the end of the era: Ninoy Aquino. How did his life and death impact the country's authoritarian period? Find out in this episode.

Season 6 is here! Starting August 19, we will look at the Martial Law period through the lives of twelve individuals, and ask: were they shapers or shakers ?

Today, February 25, we commemorate the 37th anniversary of the EDSA Revolution. We partnered with the Human Rights Violations Victims' Memorial Commission for this special episode on the many ways we can look at EDSA: as an event, a memory, a commemoration, and as a space. Join us in this discussion!

We look back at two years of conversations on Philippine history, politics, and society! We'll be on a (well-deserved) break, so for now, listen to our earlier episodes and chill as we prepare for new seasons in 2023!

It's our final #RizalOnAir episode! And there's no better time to end this season as we celebrate Rizal Day. We talked about Rizal's last poem, untitled but more popularly known as Mi Ultimo Adios. There's a lot to talk about this poem, as it is one of the most controversial pieces written by Rizal. Find out in this episode. It was great doing this season, and as we end it, we'd like to thank ever...