In his Rappler column, Joselito D. De Los Reyes shares a personal narrative on 2025 events, from elections to corruption, while warning against forgetting lessons from 2016 to 2022.
On December 29, 2025, Joselito D. De Los Reyes, PhD, a professor at the University of Santo Tomas, published an opinion column in Rappler titled '[Tabas ng Dila] Highlight ng pagtanda'. In the piece, he reflects on 2025 as a year filled with colorful details in personal, professional, and political life.
One key highlight was the election results, where a variety of senators won, including showbiz and media personalities as well as children of wealthy politicians. However, some outdated action stars and game show hosts were ousted. Political dynasties continue to infiltrate government agencies from barangays to the Senate, fostering corruption and disasters like floods.
He specifically highlighted widespread corruption in Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) flood-control projects, involving politicians, officials, and contractors. The column describes it as a syndicate with protection from high levels, leading to the loss of millions in taxes and the construction of lavish homes by individuals like Discaya and Zaldy Co. As a result, several people died or went missing.
On a personal note, he shared achievements such as job promotions, his children's good grades, his wife's recognition as an outstanding teacher, and winning a grand prize of an advanced smartphone in a raffle. Additionally, he mentioned the election of the new Pope, Robert Francis Prevost, an American Augustinian.
Overall, De Los Reyes urges readers to remember and learn from the past to avoid repeating mistakes, such as the potential victory of 'SWOH' in the 2028 election without change. 'Tumanda nawa tayong may pinagkatandaan,' he concludes, or 'May we grow old with memories worth remembering.'
