THE PHENOMENAL popularity of cellular phones in the country is now matched by portable digital music players or MP3 players. As cell phones become strictly for utility (young adults couldn’t care less about “forward” quotes and cell phone humor), MP3 players give consumers portable and personalized entertainment. Portable entertainment has become a booming industry, constantly evolving and coming up with ways to cater to every caprice.
Even non-techies or anti-techs seem unable to resist the lure. Most of us are drawn to the MP3 because of our sheer love of music. But for others, it is merely a fashion statement or a status symbol.
But as with cell phones, will there also be rules set on the use of MP3 players in relation to, say, our everyday tasks? A “Pod-ethics,” perhaps?
For example, is it okay to listen to your MP3 player while commuting, driving or dining? Does doing so affect productivity? Obviously, it is impolite to listen to your MP3 player when someone talks to you, but in what other instances would the use of MP3 players be considered impolite or unethical?
This simple question demonstrates the irony of how technology, however helpful, sometimes gets in the way of social relations and even becomes an instrument of social disintegration.
MP3 players may contribute to the dilemma. Some users simply don’t care. But there will always be a right time and place for technology.
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It’s amazing how Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao’s victory over Mexican opponent Hector Velasquez muffled talk on politics weekends ago. On the one hand, it does wonders for our country’s morale, but on the other, it leaves the impression that the Philippines may only be known internationally either through athletic prowess or through slip-ups done by Filipinos themselves (Filipinos allegedly killing other Filipinos, Filipinos accused of espionage in a foreign country, etc., etc.)
Pacquiao himself admitted feeling the pressure to please his kababayans. He said he did not want and not to fail the Philippines during his match. He is aware that he carries the burden of lifting the country’s spirit. But it should not end there; there must be other ways through which we could be proud to be Filipinos. This should be a challenge not just to athletes, but to anyone who still hopes of a bright future for the nation.
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Congratulations to the Salinggawi Dance Troupe for showing the true Tiger spirit and bagging the 2005 University Athletics Association of the Philippines Nestle Non-Stop Cheerdance Championship. for four years in a row.
