Sto. Niño Academy of Bamban, Inc.

Rizal Ave., San Nicolas, Bamban, Tarlac

Final Requirement in
Understanding Culture, Society, and Politics
(UCSP 11)

Submitted by:
Sagun, Muel M
STEM 11 – Seat Of Wisdom

Submitted to:
Mr. Lhans Curlie M. Gatdula
UCSP Instructor

FEBRUARY 2026
INTRODUCTION:

​ Culture, society, and politics are three key foundations that shape how people live, think, and interact
with one another. Culture reflects on people’s beliefs, traditions, and values. Society represents the organized
relationships that allow people to live together. Politics, on the other hand, governs how power and authority are
exercised to maintain order and promote development. Every place, every city, every country has its own
culture, society, and politics. But not its not always in good condition, there are always issues and problems
occurring in their specific communities. Some issues can start locally, others can start internationally due to
influence. Added to traditional and modern globalization, issues tend to be more active, and if one of the three
foundations has issues, others would be affected because the three components are interconnected.
Understanding and comprehending helps us become more aware to theses issues and therefore learning and
being more responsible when facing them.

​ Many issues start in many ways, one of which is from influences. Examples of these influences are
modernization, technological advancement, and many more, but this article shifts and focuses on one key
influence - globalization at both local and international levels. It is common knowledge that countries tend to
share their own ideas and perspectives; this is also common in the Philippines. The Philippines, like many other
nations, faces cultural, social, and political challenges that affect the daily lives of its own citizens, and with so
many different cultural, social, and political views, this creates public outbursts of debates, confusion, and
problems, just from a single or multiple issues. At the same time, international issues also influence these
issues, giving others more reasons to fight for their own opinion selfishly, and not consider others’ opinions.

​ This article will discuss six significant issues: cultural issues in the Philippines and internationally,
social issues in the Philippines and internationally, and political issues in the Philippines and internationally.
Every issue will be explained in detail and factually, including the causes, effects, and impacts on others. The
issues provided were chosen because they are relevant, timely, and influential in shaping both present and future
generations. By deeply analyzing these issues, we will gain a deeper understanding of the issues occurring both
locally and internationally.
CULTURE ISSUE: PHILIPPINES

​
​

Photo Credits to: ABS-CBN News / ABS-CBN News Digital

“PARA! Kultura: Examining the Cultural Impact of Jeepney Modernization”

DESCRIPTION:

​ The word “para” i is a term for “stop.” This word is mainly used when asking a jeepney driver to stop in
a chosen location. But what if the jeepney transportation culture also stopped, given from the title “PARA!
Kultura,” meaning “stop culture.”

​ The jeepney has a long historical background in the Philippines. It has given so many symbolical
representation on Filipino culture and personality, like creativity from maximalism - designing the jeepney with
colorful design and symbols, almost leaving little to no space, resilience and bravery from war - World War II,
when the Philippines was attacked, and many more.

The government’s jeepney modernization program raises questions and doubts about whether the
progress may lead to a loss of an important cultural identity. Creating a conflict and debates between whether
accepting the program or discontinuing it.

​ When the Filipinos creatively transformed the U.S. military jeeps into their own public transportation
after Ww2. Jeepneys started to be known for their colorful decorations, religious images, and other personalized
artworks. Backed up by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), they even stated that
jeepneys are considered as a reflection of Filipino ingenuity and artistic expression (NCCA, 2015).

​ This goes to show that jeepneys are not only for public transportation, but also considered as art and an
important factor to the Philippine culture. While even with the wonderful history and symbolism of these
vehicles, there are still problems that they cangive.

​ Jeepneys cause one certain problem - air pollution. It is speculated that other jeepneys are being
manufactured poorly, causing them to emit too much carbon dioxide (CO2). Added to the fact that it's a public
transportation, it is a possibility that there are many of these specific jeepneys that emit the same amount of
CO2 or perhaps even more, therefore creating issues in environmental concerns, public safety, and health.
Which then needed a solution.

​ In 2017, the Philippine government implemented the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program to
replace the old jeepneys with a new modern version that is environmentally friendly and follows safety and
CO2 emission standards. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) states that the program aims to reduce air
pollution, improve commuter safety, and modernize the country’s transportation system (DOTr, 2017). ​

​ However, the implementation affected both economic and cultural views. Many jeepney drivers and
operators struggle to afford the new units, which cost significantly more than traditional jeepneys. According to
reports from Rappler (2023), transport groups argue that modernization threatens the livelihood of thousands of
drivers and small operators.

​ From a cultural perspective, removing traditional jeepneys may erase the symbol of Filipino identity; on
the other hand, economic perspectives argue that the health of the country and its people comes first.

​ Balancing progress and tradition is essential. Instead of fully eliminating traditional jeepneys, some
propose modern jeepneys to implement the traditional design and symbolism, therefore keeping both
environmental and cultural needs and wants.
CULTURE ISSUE: INTERNATIONAL

​
​

Photo Credits to: ABS-CBN News / ABS-CBN News Digital

“Cultural IMPORTance: The Cultural Preference for Foreign Over Local Products”

DESCRIPTION:

​ Imported products are considered important, but whats also more important are the local products that a
country’s own citizens made. This is because it reflects their own culture, but with the change of cultural
preference, foreign products are now overshadowing the local products.

​ Preferences can change over time, which is why Filipinos prefer international brands and foreign
products over their own locally made goods, and how this reflects cultural preferences influenced by
globalization, colonial history, and popular trends.

​ The amount of imported goods and foreign products is now more commonly found in Filipino
households and stores, rather than local products. The way people choose between the two types of products
reflects on the Filipinos’ mindset of preferring other countries rather than their own. This raises questions about
national pride, cultural identity, and the long-term impact on Filipino industries.

​ The Philippines has a multiple colonial history, under Spain, the United States (U.S.), and many more.
Because of these historical influences, many Filipinos developed the perception that foreign products are
superior in quality, style, and prestige, which is referred to as “colonial mentality.”

According to Kantar Worldpanel’s Brand Footprint, a study shows that out of the 50 brands purchased
by Filipino consumers, only 28 percent are local brands, while a whopping 72 percent are global brands.

​ Modern trends and social media strengthen the preferences of Filipinos. Market research firm Kadence
International observed that international brands often hold a certain allure among Filipino consumers, adding
that the globalization of consumer culture also reinforces the appeal of international brands, with Filipinos
exposed to global trends through the internet and media.

​ Culturally, this preference reduces appreciation for Filipino craftsmanship and creativity. The
Philippines can produce high-quality products such as locally made clothing, handicrafts, food products, and
more. But these are overlooked; therefore, it affects national pride and cultural identity.

​ It is still important to recognize other products from other nations. Globalization allows consumers to
have more choices, not replacing own made products. It should be a healthy competition and obtaining
inspirations to improve local products rather than making it entirely about imported products.

​ This issue demonstrates how globalization and trends influence cultural values. Consumer behavior
reflects deeper societal beliefs about identity and national pride. Choosing local products is not only an
economic decision but also a cultural statement that affirms confidence in Filipino talent and innovation.
SOCIAL ISSUE: PHILIPPINES

​
​

Photo Credits to: Geela Garcia - [Link]

“An Eye For An Eye, A Life For A Cent”

​ Everything has a trade, just like the quote “An eye for an eye,” but when applied to reality, people trade
their lives for a living, and not all are privileged to have a big one. Many people in the Philippines experience
this, and many even lose their lives just for a small payment, perhaps even just for a cent.

​ In the Philippines, millions of families, even with the economic growth in recent years, still have a large
portion of the population that is experiencing economic struggles, struggling to meet basic needs like food,
housing, education, and healthcare.

​ With these problems, people tend to even sacrifice such important things as their own dignity and
perhaps their own lives. Poverty had taken a huge toll on the Philippines, and there are still many more factors
that can affect or worsen it.

​ According to the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) in 2026, millions of families still
remain affected by poverty, showing that even with gains in economics, there are still always a poor family in
bad living conditions. Factors such as unstable employment, inflation, and unequal access to opportunities
leaves so many people on the edge of poverty, with limited ability to gain money.

​ A survey also had a result that shows that Filipinos are still currently experiencing poverty. And in the
late 2024, the Social Weather Stations (SWS) reported that about 63 % of Filipino families still consider
themselves poor. They even stated that it is the highest level of self-rated poverty rate in more than two decades.

The people whom answered were insecure about their food, showcasing that many households struggle
not just with their income but with access to adequate nutrition. Resulting to low morality and mental health,
which therefore worsens their hopes to make their lives better.

​ Even with the government’s report on the progress of reducing poverty incidence based on its official
statistics, with many datas from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showing that the poverty rates are
dropping to around 15.5 % in 2023, lower than in previous years. And with the goal of bringing the poverty rate
under 13 % by 2025 with policies aimed at supporting jobs, stabilizing inflation, and improving social services.

​ Despite all of these improvements and goals, experts are still wary that the gains are fragile. Meaning
that even with such a high hope, it can still go back to square one or perhaps even worse.

A World Bank review stated that while poverty had declined over time, there are still nearly 28 % of
Filipinos remain just above the poverty line and are currently highly vulnerable to food prices, climate shocks,
and other economic problems.
​ Poverty in the Philippines is a multifaceted social challenge. While there are signs of progress, many
households are still experiencing economic insecurity, inequality, and limited access to life opportunities.
Facing poverty effectively would require sustained policy focus on inclusive growth, improved access to basic
services, and stronger social safety nets to protect the most vulnerable.
​
SOCIAL ISSUE: INTERNATIONAL

Photo Credits to: Spencer Platt - Amnesty International

“Different Shells, Same Yolk - Different Color, Same Race”

DESCRIPTION:
​
​ Egg shells can vary in different colors, yet the insides are always the same: the yolk and the egg whites.
And the same goes for us humans; we are all the same species, but why do our different colors have to separate
us so much?

​ Racism is one of the most common social issues in this generation; it can shape the view of people
toward one another, and it can lead to prejudice or biases. Creating a barrier of social connection to one another.
But where does it all start - or perhaps when?

​ Historically, modern forms of racism are tied to the history of colonialism. According to the United
Nations Human Rights Office (UNHRO), the colonial actions that occurred in history not only created a barrier
to social connection between races, but also hierarchies, where occasionally the brighter-skinned people are the
citizens or royalty, whilst the darker ones are slaves or at the bottom of that hierarchy just because of their
looks.

​ This colonial history shaped contemporary societies and continues to influence modern racism. But it
does not stop in the visual effects and ranking of colors in racism, but it also creates many problematic effects,
such as in the face of politics and accessibility to their homes.

​ Colonialism established social and economic structures that favored certain groups, while marginalizing
others, creating unequal access to resources, opportunities, and daily life. This is common to communities like
the African descent, Indigenous peoples, and Asian descent, who were pushed away from what used to be theirs
before colonialism.

In addition to historical roots, racism today takes on numerous contemporary forms. According to
Amnesty International, racial justice work involves more than responding to individual incidents of
discrimination, but also structural oppression embedded in laws that were supposedly provided to “everyone.”

This systemic racism translates into unequal treatment in the legal system, employment, healthcare, and
education - disproportionately affecting racialized communities across the world. Creating an unjust, unequal,
and unfair treatment of others.

As stated by Amnesty, systemic racism is not merely a prejudiced behavior by individuals but also
includes policies and practices that take advantage to uplift one group while stepping on the others across an
entire society. These practices choose who should have access to good quality education, medical treatment,
voices heard in public life, and more social aspects.

Not only in social aspects that racism can affect but also the voices that should be heard by others.
Making an unfair statement and a call for action.
 A Pew Research Center study surveyed 36 countries and found that a significant share of people view
racial or ethnic discrimination as a very big problem in their country, though perceptions vary widely depending
on regional context and social conditions. Yet some of the voices of people are still ignored.

In sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Latin America, for example, concerns about racial and ethnic
discrimination are particularly high, with many respondents reporting that these issues are deeply integrated into
social and economic life. In contrast, other regions report lower public awareness, even though discrimination
persists.

Addressing racism requires more than awareness of people, but also a transformative action. Without
such systemic change, especially in politics, racism will continue to limit the opportunities of others and deny
fundamental human rights that everyone should have. We all may have different shells, but we all still have the
same insides - a human heart.
POLITICAL ISSUE: PHILIPPINES

​
​

Photo Credits to: Lisa Marie David/Reuters

“Wrong Leader-SHIPS: The Flood Control Corruption in the Philippines”

DESCRIPTION:

​ Floods are common in the Philippines, especially during the typhoon season. But in large floods, there
are ships that can rescue you, but what if these ships were also the reason why the flood started? Protection
from floods is important, but leaders are held responsible for these projects; what if they didn't do their
responsibilities - this is called wrong leader-ship.

​ Flood control projects are important to protect Filipino citizens from the dangerous effects and casualties
of floods. But a current issue is occurring in the Philippines, where some Filipino politicians and government
officials are under intense public scrutiny and corruption.

​ In the 2025 State of the Nation Address of Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. divulged large-scale corruption
in the building of public works. He has launched months-long investigations into flood control projects and the
deep collusion between lawmakers, public works officials, private sector contractors, and even budget officials.
​
​ Investigations then revealed that lawmakers, public workers, and private sector contractors have
colluded in a complex network of kickbacks in flood control projects. This then resulting to a heavy
consequence for the country’s citizens affected by the flood.

​ According to experts, in just a span of one week, the Philippines was hit by two devastating typhoons.
Firstly, Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) left huge destruction across the Visayas Islands and Palawan, with at least
232 people dead. Five days later, the even stronger Typhoon Uwan (Fung-wong) made landfall in Luzon Island,
therefore adding more to the number of casualties.

Critics have argued that the failure to implement resilient infrastructure is not only a governance failure,
but a form of climate injustice, where the vulnerable bear the brunt of political corruption. Public trust in
institutions started to disappear significantly amidst the scandal.

Surveys show that majority of Filipinos believe that officials colluded to siphon off flood control funds
and that key agencies, such as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), are poorly equipped or
unwilling to address the corruption crisis effectively, making the citizens skeptical about their current political
governance.

After much public pressure, political leaders responded and stated to have taken action, from Senate
inquiries to the creation of special task forces and independent commissions are tasked with investigating the
allegations. This occurrence aims to uncover the truth and pursue legal justice.
 But many Filipinos remain unconvinced that the officials are truly held accountable without any
scandals or corruption. This then results in massive protests and calls for radical political change, with other
politicians and famous people involved to guide and help the protests.

The flood control corruption is a huge political and moral crisis, highlighting the country’s weak
accountability and political patronage that can ruin the country and its people. Addressing these issues will
require not only justice and prosecution, but also a new reformed leader-ship to avoid the flood once more.
POLITICAL ISSUE: INTERNATIONAL

Photo Credits to: Mark Sciefelbein

“Trade and Geopolitical Tensions: Effects of Wrong Management of Global Markets”

DESCRIPTION:
​ One political issue that is common today is the Global Market, where many politicians are currently
handling the market in many wrong ways.

​ Global economy heavily relies on the global trade as an important source of economic growth and
stability. Expanding the world trade will be impacted by the growing number of geopolitical tensions on the
world.

​ This nature of trading involves not only in buying and selling of own products, but also many complex
interactions related to political partnerships, relationships, and securities, that may affect it entirely.

Geopolitical disputes between countries can cause destabilizing effects throughout the world economy.
Political tensions between two large countries can affect prices and disrupt supply chains, ultimately causing
limited economic growth opportunities for distant regions such as the Philippines.

According to the World Bank (2024), while global trade expansion continues, it will remain at risk of
adverse effects from governmental policies, military tensions, territorial disputes, and political instability.

Trade sanctions and tariffs can cause instability in the global economy. Such actions are often
implemented as a means of exerting political power, and they are frequently followed by unexpected market
shocks and unpredictability in terms of business operations across borders.
​
Geopolitical tensions lead to price volatility in essential items. Export Finance Australia (2024) noted
that major items that will be vulnerable to shortages and price inflation due to political tensions are oil, food,
and agricultural products, as a result of sanctions and restrictions on exports and multiple consequences.

Consequences of this supply chain disruption include increased transportation costs, delays, and
difficulties in sourcing material inputs. Many companies are moving their production to parts of the world with
more stable environments to increase their security against these risks; however, in doing so, they may incur
higher costs.

The trade tensions between countries also promote protectionism. Countries are often raising tariffs or
restricting imports to protect their local industries from international competition. Although this may provide
some benefits for certain industries in the short term, it will undermine cooperation between nations and slow
global economic growth in the long run.​
​
​ An example of this political issue is the plans of Pres. Donald Trump and how he manages the United
States’ Economy. Even with such a rich country, horrible choices from higher-ups would result in a bad
economy for the country.

Ultimately, international trade and geopolitical forces have a close relationship with one another. There
should be a balance between national security and international cooperation/dialogue in order for any political
conflict to be resolved without creating problems for markets, supply chains, or global prosperity.
CONCLUSION / REFLECTION:

​ After examining the cultural, social, and political aspects in both the local and
international parts of the articles. Some evidences are still seen and proves that the three
foundations are interconnected and influential to one another.

​ Cultural issues, such as the modernization of jeepneys and preferences for foreign
products, highlight the balance between preserving the tradition of a nation or country and its
own progression to the world or itself. It also challenges local identities that were essential for
the build up for communities to find ways to celebrate cultural identity and heritage, with the
blend of adapting and applying modern demands.

​ On the social foundation, firstly, the Philippines is currently experiencing poverty even
with clear proof and statistics of its improvements, yet there are still so many people and their
families having difficulty in economic growth, leaving millions vulnerable to basic needs. And
one of the most common international social issues today, racism also shows social inequality in
development to certain groups, being biased to the other and prejudiced to the rest.

​ And the last foundation, political issues are a really important aspect and will affect the
rest of the foundations. There are not many leaders who have integrity and accountability to
their job, which then affects the culture of a nation and its society. This is seen in the
Philippines, where bad governance endangers the lives of the community, and internationally,
like the economy and trade markets, it has also affected the products and daily lives of people.

​ Culture, Social, and Politics - both local and international - these three foundations truly
are intertwined with one another and greatly affect and circulate our world. Being knowledgable
to these issues not only makes us aware, but also guides us to see the solutions.
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