THE new year is a time for personal introspection, a chance to reassess and recalibrate our plans, and an opportunity to look ahead. I have always been an optimist at heart, which sometimes borders on being ambitious and idealistic. But I believe that’s okay, as this is how dreams should be—to give hope. Please allow me to share with you, dear reader, my hopes for the year ahead.
At the top of my wish list for 2025 is for nations across the globe to come together and find long-lasting resolutions to the wars in Gaza and Ukraine. The time for fence-sitting must end, as the impact of these armed conflicts will be felt for decades, even after the guns fall silent.
Hundreds of thousands of lives have been lost, millions displaced, and countless families torn apart. The conditions in these war zones remind us of the devastating impact—and cost—of conflict.
For peace to finally take root in Gaza, we must address the underlying causes of the conflict, ensure civilian safety and dignity, and foster conditions for peaceful coexistence. Israel could perhaps soften its hardline stance against Hamas to create the possibility of a long-term ceasefire and, eventually, pave the way for future peace talks.
In Ukraine, any diplomatic resolution must uphold citizens' dignity, respect national sovereignty, and preserve regional stability. The world is starting to grow weary of these wars, often marked by outrage, helplessness, or apathy. Such reactions must give way to concerted and decisive action. Platitudes are no longer enough at this point. Now is the time to take more concrete steps toward peace.
Next on my wish list is for the United States to reclaim its role as a global leader. Recent years have seen a vacuum in global governance. While no single nation should manage or dictate the world’s affairs, the U.S. has historically been a stabilizing force, particularly during international crises and in upholding the rule of law.
With President Donald Trump assuming office on January 20, my hope is for the U.S. to adopt a more responsive foreign policy, strengthen multilateral institutions, and act decisively when threats to peace, security, and democracy emerge. A reinvigorated U.S. leadership could restore balance and direction to global governance.
I also hope for a renewed global commitment to combating terrorism. Whether carried out by extremist groups or lone actors, these acts of violence largely stem from ideologies, which are deeply rooted in hatred and despair.
Governments, communities, and international organizations must work together to address the root causes of terrorism, including poverty, marginalization, and radicalization. Investments in education, social inclusion, and dialogue are essential, alongside the establishment of more robust security measures to contain and neutralize these threats.
In the area of technology, my hope is that advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) will uplift the lives of people worldwide, especially in developing nations, rather than exacerbate inequalities. AI has already brought innovations in education, healthcare, agriculture, and disaster response, addressing the needs of underserved communities.
To fully realize AI’s potential, the global community must bridge the digital divide, uphold ethical AI practices, and make these technologies accessible to all. Technology should be the great equalizer, not a divider. We must ensure that no one is left behind.
Here in the Philippines, I hope for an orderly, credible, and peaceful election this year. Elections are the cornerstone of democracy. Their integrity must be preserved at all costs.
May this political exercise provide Filipinos the opportunity to make informed choices and hold candidates accountable. A clean and credible election will not only strengthen democracy but also restore public faith in government and its institutions.
Finally, I wish for our public officials to set aside personal agendas and focus on genuine, responsive leadership. The many challenges facing the Philippines—poverty, education gaps, access to healthcare, and climate resilience, among others—require leaders who act decisively, selflessly, and with compassion.
It is my hope that 2025 will see greater efforts to improve the quality of life for all Filipinos, foster peace and security, and ensure stability. Public servants must remember that their primary mandate is to serve the people, not their own interests.
This wish list may seem lofty. But for a dreamer, everything is possible. Once again, Happy New Year, dear readers!
