As the new year begins, I asked nine respondents from different walks of life to share their personal hopes, expectations, and anticipations for 2026. Their reflections span governance, journalism, culture, technology, family, and personal growth—offering a cross-section of aspirations that mirror both private and public concerns.
Elvie Borje-Lim, a retired DTI–CITEM manager, devoted 43 years to government service after graduating as a journalism major from the University of the Philippines Diliman in 1974. She retired in 2017 at age 65 and is now a full-time homemaker and the wife of Pastor Jimmy Lim.
“A complete stop to political feuds, especially impeachment moves, so government leaders—elected and appointed—can focus on good governance marked by excellence for the betterment of Filipino lives; and that amassing wealth through corruption becomes a lifestyle to abhor, because living within one’s means is a source of joy in itself.”
Luz Tupas Suplico-Jeong, former division manager of CITEM and full professor at De La Salle University, expressed both personal and national hopes.
“I hope that 2026 will usher in a new year of good health and prosperity for all of us. Personally, I look forward to more opportunities for growth, networking, and achieving personal and career goals. I also hope for more honest and transparent governance in the Philippines.”
Chino Hansel Philyang, a multi-awarded journalist and editor-in-chief of spluk.ph, underscored journalism’s public responsibility.
“In 2026, I look forward to journalism that moves beyond surface narratives and meaningfully interrogates the realities shaping Asian communities. I hope to see sustained coverage on education reform, migration and policy impacts, emerging Asian-led enterprises, cultural preservation, and ethical leadership. At its best, news should not only inform but also challenge, contextualize, and strengthen the public conscience.”
Jeremaiah Opiniano, full professor and chair of the Department of Journalism at the University of Santo Tomas, pointed to accountability in public service.
“That there will be more clarity on the people, including elected officials—not just district engineers and other civil servants—who will be indicted in connection with the flood control scandal.”
Cecile Guidote-Alvarez, former executive director of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, highlighted culture’s role in global cooperation.
“The Philippines will host the UNESCO International Theatre Institute’s Global Dance Day celebration in the last weekend of April 2026, which also falls within Earth Day Month. This will provide a global cultural panorama aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, with a specialized ASEAN regional perspective promoting peace, health care, climate justice, and poverty reduction through partnerships.
“The result will be fully documented and presented as a technically resilient manifestation at the ASEAN Pavilion, as the Philippines hosts the ASEAN chairmanship in 2026. Through UNESCO patronage, countries are encouraged to provide cultural inputs—from ancestral roots to contemporary expressions—popularizing climate science and collective action, while embedding values of compassion, truth, and freedom to help stop violence against humanity and Mother Earth.
“This will serve as a virtual SDGs cultural Olympics online during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) to be held in Antalya, Türkiye, on November 9–10, 2026.
“We look forward to mobilizing a creative rainbow army of artists, communicators, teachers, scientists, sports heroes, and peace advocates to protect people and the planet, and to promote peace and prosperity through collaboration. Partnership is key to ensuring a safe, clean, healthy, peaceful, and sustainable future for the children of the world.”
Sofi Fermazi, singer and actress, shared a personal vision grounded in creative fulfillment.
“Everything I’ve been dreaming about may just come true, and that alone fuels my purpose. I’m looking forward to releasing music, enjoying the work I love, and being with the people who have supported me throughout my journey. I believe this will be an eventful year, and I can’t wait for what’s ahead.”
Eduardo Burgos Jr., former Malaya columnist and former information attaché at the Philippine Embassy in Canberra, Australia, emphasized technology and diaspora engagement.
“Having navigated diplomacy, journalism, and migrant affairs, I see 2026 as a pivotal year of technological empowerment for the Global Filipino. With the Philippines assuming the ASEAN chairship, there is a timely opportunity to lead the region in meaningful digital transformation.
“Through Gap Drone, I am optimistic about how unmanned aerial technology can modernize Philippine agriculture and strengthen disaster resilience. The year 2026 need not merely represent recovery—it can mark the Philippines’ coming of age as a confident, tech-driven leader in the Asia-Pacific, placing its people at home and abroad at the center of progress.”
Lauren Orlina, an American journalist based in New Zealand, voiced a hope shared by many.
“I really hope that our world will be in a better place in 2026, with less divisiveness in politics, especially in the United States.”
Emily Samson, entrepreneur and member of VIP, Solid Gold, and Kool Katz Dancers, focused on family and balance.
“I am looking forward to a healthy, peaceful, and stable 2026, especially for my children and my family. My priority is to spend more quality time with them, support my children’s education, and ensure that our family continues to grow with love, unity, and security—while pursuing personal growth and meaningful work. I also look forward to new opportunities and projects that bring purpose and progress.”* * *
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
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