SAS15
Media and Global Integration
Media (TV, movies, music, documentaries, social media) plays a crucial role in connecting
people worldwide.
It helps in learning about different cultures and breaking geographical barriers.
Media fosters empathy, promotes understanding, and challenges stereotypes.
Example: Documentaries—By showing different cultures, they help bridge gaps and increase
global awareness.
Globalization and Cultural Production
● Globalization allows cultural ideas to spread across borders, encouraging innovation and
artistic exchange.
● Positive Impact: Encourages diversity and cross-cultural collaborations.
Challenges:
● Cultural homogeneity (loss of unique local traditions).
● Marginalization of local cultures due to global influences.
● Market forces prioritize profit over cultural significance.
Example: Cultural festivals showcase both traditional and global influences in art, dance, and
music.
Cause and effect in global media culture
Cause
● Rise of social media and streaming platforms
● Access to diverse media content
● Global media exposure
● Influence of global consumeris
● Media shaping perspectives
Effect
● Increased global connectivity
●Broader understanding of different cultures and traditions
●Reduction of stereotypes and promotion of empathy
●Risk of cultural homogenization and loss of local traditions
●Encourages dialogue, fosters understanding, but may also marginalize smaller cultural
expressions
Summary & Key Insights
1. What can we do to promote a positive global media culture?
● Consume and share inclusive, diverse, and responsible media.
● Challenge stereotypes and engage in respectful discussions.
2. How does media influence our perception of cultures?
● It shapes our views—positively by increasing understanding or negatively through
stereotypes.
3. Why is media literacy important?
● It helps us critically analyze and evaluate media messages to avoid misinformation.
4. How can we actively engage with Global Media Culture?
● Explore various media sources, seek different perspectives, and discuss media's
societal impact.
5. How does cultural production reflect global and local dynamics?
● It blends global influences with local traditions, creating a balance between preserving
identity and embracing innovation.
SAS16: Sustainable Development: Urbanization and Sustainable Cities
Urbanization Challenges
● Congestion – Overcrowding in cities leads to traffic jams and slower movement.
● Informal Settlements – Poorly developed housing (slums) that lack proper services.
● Global Migration Trends – More people are moving to cities worldwide, increasing
urban population pressures.
● Urban Sprawl – Unplanned city expansion into surrounding rural areas, leading to
inefficient land use and environmental degradation.
Example:
A growing town attracts job seekers, causing housing shortages, traffic congestion, and the rise
of informal settlements.
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Sustainable Urban Planning
Definition – Designing cities to balance social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
2. Key Features:
● Green spaces (parks, gardens)
● Mixed land use (residential, commercial, industrial areas planned efficiently)
● Walkable and compact neighborhoods
● Renewable energy and eco-friendly infrastructure
Example:
A city with green spaces improves air quality, reduces urban heat, and fosters community
interaction.
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Sustainable Transportation Systems
● Goals – Reduce pollution, ease congestion, and promote efficient movement.
Strategies:
● Public transportation (buses, trains, trams)
● Bicycle lanes and pedestrian-friendly pathways
● Carpooling and electric vehicles
Example:
A city with designated bike lanes and reliable public transport reduces car dependency and
improves air quality.
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Benefits of Sustainable Cities
● Environmental Protection – Less pollution, conservation of resources, and improved
biodiversity.
● Improved Health & Well-being – Cleaner air, access to recreational spaces, and
reduced noise pollution.
● Economic Growth – Attracts investments, creates jobs, and lowers costs linked to
congestion.
Example:
An eco-friendly city with efficient public transport saves people money on fuel and boosts
business efficiency.
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Affordable Housing & Basic Services
● Affordable Housing – Ensures people, especially low-income families, have access to
proper shelter.
● Basic Services:
Clean water and sanitation
Electricity and healthcare
Accessible education
Example:
A neighborhood with limited water supply faces hygiene issues and school attendance
problems.
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Key Takeaways
● Urbanization leads to congestion and informal settlements if unmanaged.
● Sustainable urban planning and transport reduce negative environmental impacts.
● Affordable housing and services create equitable urban communities.
● Government and community efforts are needed to make cities livable and sustainable.
SAS 17: Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution in the Philippines
I. Overview
The Philippines has experienced various conflicts, including economic disparities, cultural
clashes, political instability, and land disputes.
Peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts aim to create stability and prosperity through
dialogue, education, legal reforms, and economic development.
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II. Key Strategies for Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution
1. Dialogue and Mediation-Encourages open discussions to address grievances and build
trust.
● Inclusive discussions: Engaging all stakeholders (victims, perpetrators, community
leaders) to ensure diverse perspectives.
● Third-party mediation: Using neutral mediators to guide negotiations.
● Conflict resolution training: Equipping leaders and officials with negotiation skills.
2. Community Engagement-Strengthens grassroots efforts for social cohesion.
● Interfaith dialogue: Encouraging conversations between different religious groups.
● Cultural exchange programs: Promoting understanding through cultural celebrations.
● Youth involvement: Empowering young people through peacebuilding activities.
3. Education and Awareness-Focuses on long-term conflict prevention and social harmony.
● Curriculum integration: Teaching conflict resolution in schools.
● Public campaigns: Highlighting the impact of conflict and benefits of peace.
● Workshops and seminars: Educating communities on their rights and advocacy.
4. Psychosocial Support -Helps individuals heal from conflict-related trauma.
● Trauma counseling: Providing professional mental health support.
● Community-based mental health programs: Promoting resilience.
● Support groups: Creating safe spaces for survivors.
5. Legal and Institutional
Reforms-Strengthens governance to prevent conflicts.
● Transitional justice: Addressing past human rights abuses and ensuring accountability.
● Anti-corruption measures: Increasing transparency and public trust.
● Land reform policies: Promoting fair land distribution to prevent disputes.
6. Economic Development-Addresses root causes of conflict, such as poverty and inequality.
● Job creation programs: Providing employment in conflict-affected areas.
● Inclusive growth: Ensuring economic opportunities for all sectors of society.
● Resource management: Implementing fair and sustainable natural resource policies.
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III. Summary
● Conflicts in the Philippines are fueled by globalization, economic disparities, cultural
tensions, land disputes, and political instability.
● Effective peacebuilding involves mediation, education, community engagement,
psychosocial support, legal reforms, and sustainable economic development.
● Strengthening local capacities, investing in inclusive policies, and promoting
reconciliation can contribute to lasting peace.
SAS 18: Contemporary World Issues I: Climate Change & Environmental Challenges
Understanding Climate Change and Natural Disaster Vulnerabilities in the Philippines
Key Vulnerabilities:
1. Typhoons and Storm Surges – More intense typhoons due to climate change lead to heavy
rainfall, flooding, and storm surges.
2. Flooding and Landslides – Increased rainfall and deforestation destabilize soil, worsening
landslides and floods.
3.. Sea-Level Rise – Global warming causes ice caps to melt, raising sea levels and
endangering coastal communities.
4. Droughts and Water Scarcity – Irregular rainfall patterns disrupt water supply and
agriculture.
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Global Environmental Trends Affecting the Philippines
1. Rising Global Temperatures – Intensifies heat waves, alters precipitation, and worsens
droughts.
2. Melting Polar Ice and Glaciers – Contributes to sea-level rise, submerging low-lying areas.
3. Increased Frequency of Extreme Weather Events – More typhoons, floods, and droughts
due to climate change.
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Strategies to Mitigate Vulnerabilities
1. Improving Early Warning Systems – Enhancing weather forecasts to prepare for disasters.
2. Building Climate-Resilient Infrastructure – Strengthening infrastructure to withstand
extreme weather.
3. Community-Based Disaster Risk Management – Educating and empowering communities
to handle disasters.
4. Adopting Sustainable Resource Management – Promoting responsible agriculture,
forestry, and water use.
5. Engaging in International Cooperation – Collaborating with global organizations for climate
action.
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Sustainable Resource Management for Fisheries and Forestry
● Sustainable Fisheries Management
● Setting catch limits to prevent overfishing.
● Reducing bycatch to protect marine biodiversity.
● Establishing marine protected areas for conservation.
● Engaging local communities in responsible fishing practices.
● Sustainable Forestry Management
● Selective logging to minimize environmental impact.
● Reforestation and afforestation to restore forests.
● Agroforestry to combine tree cultivation with agriculture.
● Sustainable timber harvesting to balance economic needs with conservation.
Addressing Global Supply Chains
● Implementing quota systems to regulate resource extraction.
● Promoting sustainable aquaculture and reduced-impact logging.
● Encouraging transparency and consumer responsibility in supply chains.
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Conclusion
● The Philippines faces significant environmental challenges due to climate change and
natural disasters. Addressing these requires:
● Strengthening disaster preparedness.
● Promoting sustainable resource management.
● Engaging in international efforts to mitigate climate change.
By taking these steps, the country can enhance resilience and protect ecosystems for future
generations.
SAS 19: Contemporary World Issues II: Global Security
Geopolitical Dynamics and Their Impact
● Personal Safety: Wars, terrorism, and international tensions threaten individuals and
communities. Example: The Ukraine conflict displacing millions.
● Economic Stability: Trade wars, sanctions, and geopolitical disputes disrupt
economies. Example: US-China trade war affecting global prices.
● Social Well-Being: Geopolitical events influence migration, cultural exchange, and
cooperation on global issues. Example: The COVID-19 pandemic exposing geopolitical
rivalries.
Root Causes of Global Conflicts
● Historical Grievances: Colonial legacies, arbitrary borders, and political oppression
create long-term tensions.
● Ethnic & Religious Tensions: Discrimination and historical conflicts lead to societal
divisions.
● Resource Competition: Disputes over water, land, and energy often escalate into
conflicts. Example: Water scarcity fueling tensions in the Middle East and Africa.
● Power Imbalances: Economic disparities and unequal access to resources can lead to
instability.
Strategies for Peace and Reconciliation
● Dialogue & Diplomacy: Encouraging open communication between conflicting parties.
● Economic Development: Reducing poverty and competition over limited resources.
● Education & Awareness: Promoting critical thinking, tolerance, and understanding of
global issues.
● Community Engagement: Involving local communities in peacebuilding efforts for
sustainable solutions.
Agents of Change in Global Security
● International Organizations: The UN and NGOs mediate conflicts and provide
humanitarian aid.
● Individuals: Staying informed, supporting peace initiatives, and advocating for dialogue
in communities.
SAS 21: Global Citizenship
Global Citizenship
Global citizenship is the awareness, understanding, and active participation of individuals in
addressing global issues and promoting positive change. It emphasizes interconnectedness and
shared responsibility for humanity and the planet.
Ethical Obligations of Global Citizenship
● Requires self-examination of personal values, biases, and privileges.
● Encourages reflection on how one's background influences perceptions and actions.
Example: A person who acknowledges their environmental impact may take steps to reduce
their carbon footprint and advocate for sustainability.
Promoting Global Understanding and
Engagement
● Involves learning about different cultures, perspectives, and global challenges.
● Encourages intercultural dialogue and collaboration for collective solutions.
Example: A student engages in cultural exchanges, mentors international students, and spreads
awareness of global issues.
Critical Factors for Global Citizens
● Security and Protection – Stability, human rights, and effective institutions ensuring
safety.
● Economic Opportunities – Job availability, financial stability, and fair distribution of
resources.
● Quality of Life – Access to healthcare, education, infrastructure, and sustainability.
● Global Mobility – Freedom to travel, work, and live in different countries.
● Financial Freedom – Access to economic opportunities, financial services, and
investment options.
Key Takeaways
● Global citizens believe in eliminating extreme poverty and tackling systemic inequalities.
● Advocacy and collective action can mobilize resources and bring meaningful change.
● The interconnectedness of global issues requires awareness, ethical responsibility, and
engagement.