Amid calls to abolish MTRCB, Capstone-Intel says censors board ‘needed’ to regulate video content; highlights need to ‘revolutionize’ its mandate on inclusivity and awareness
Following the recent calls to abolish the censors board, Capstone-Intel Corporation believes that the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) is needed to regulate video content in the Philippine media landscape, adding that it’s time for the mandates of the censors board to be revolutionized in order adapt to the current demands, beliefs, and way of life of the public audience. The MTRCB is currently in hot waters about the alleged “conflict of interest” after the censors board denied Motions of Reconsideration (MRs) regarding the suspension of the noontime variety show “It’s Showtime.” The censors board is chaired by Lala Sotto, the daughter of noontime show “E.A.T.” host and former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III. “In the age of digital content, the censorship board remains indispensable for several significant reasons. The board protects the values, culture, and sensibilities of the Filipinos, which prevents the propagation of content that may be unacceptable, unsafe, or detrimental to social harmony by making sure that media content follows the nation’s values and codes of conduct,” said Atty. Nic Conti, Capstone-Intel Corporation’s Chief of Public Affairs. Conti pointed out that the board “maintains a balance” between “artistic freedom and accountable content creation,” which is why it must ensure media content does not corrupt the minds of the audience. “With the situation the MTRCB is currently in, it is important that the board uphold the integrity of the media industry by understanding the current beliefs that the audiences hold greater value since, during these times, public viewers are starting to be inclusive and sensitive about topics that are previously taboo in the Philippines, which makes sense as to why the MTRCB received negative criticisms online,” he said. “It’s where they can revolutionize their mandates in order to cater to the current public acceptance of its audience about certain topics that are currently at the forefront of controversies online,” he added. According to Conti, it is vital that along with the advancement of people’s thinking, the censors board should maximize its experts to understand the present behaviors of the audience in order to design a fitting mandate for the MTRCB. “It is paramount that our board has an extensive background on how the audiences’ viewing experience, perception, and emotional triggers evolve over time because it’s where we can formulate mandates anchored to the present demands and not backward-looking,” he added.
PhilHealth Faces Serious Threat from Medusa Hacking Group, Public Reacts with ‘Haha’
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is currently grappling with a serious issue concerning the Medusa Hacking group’s demand for a significant sum of money to prevent their malicious plan of exposing the confidential data of the social insurance system. The hackers are demanding $300,000 or approximately P17 million from the government and have issued a threat to publicly divulge private data if the payment is not made. Consequently, Capstone-Intel Corporation has undertaken a study to analyze the public discourse surrounding the matter. An online scan from July 27 to September 27, 2023 was done with the use of various social listening tools to dive deep into the insights and sentiments of the public about the issue mentioning “PhilHealth Medusa.” In terms of top posts, the present topic concerns the performance of various Facebook pages belonging to news agencies and influencers. According to Capstone-Intel analysis, GMA News obtained the highest engagement score of 528.4, followed by the Philippine Star with 315.9, and Rappler with 145.4. The GMA News page has documented a range of reactions for its article, “PhilHealth hit by Medusa ransomware, aims for site restoration by Monday,” including 40% Haha, 38% Like, 16% Sad, 3% Wow, 2% Angry, 1% Loves, and 396 shares. Similarly, the Philippine Star has recorded a variety of reactions to its news, “PhilHealth hackers demand $300,000 – DICT,” totaling 52% Haha, 17% Likes, 15% Wow, 14% Sad, 2 Angry, 1% Love, and 275 shares. Furthermore, Rappler has also the public’s reactions from its news report, “PhilHealth hit by ransomware – report,” with 28 Likes, 20 Haha, 12 Sad, 10 Wows, 2 Angry, 0 Love, and 138 shares. While some individuals may find humor in the current situation concerning PhilHealth, Capstone-Intel recognizes that the government is implementing measures to address the matter, and it is crucial that we acknowledge these efforts. “It is possible that public laughter could be a response to the occurrence of an unexpected event that could have been prevented with adequate precautions. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that the government is taking measures to address this issue,” explains Capstone-Intel. “The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is tackling a ransomware attack on PhilHealth’s systems, restoring functionality and monitoring logs to ensure system stability. As part of their efforts, the DICT is continuing to investigate and monitor the logs from the affected systems and is taking all necessary measures to fully secure and ensure the stability of PhilHealth’s systems,” it said. Meanwhile, according to the findings of the study, the total number of responses related to the topic obtained from the aggregated references on Facebook can be classified according to the following percentage breakdown: 51% are classified as “like” reactions, 27% as “haha” reactions, 9% as “sad” reactions, 7% as “love” reactions, 5% as “wow” reactions, and 2% as “angry” reactions.
74% Pinoys Have Not Been Tested for Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly infectious bacterial infection that is potentially life-threatening, primarily attacking the lungs, but with the ability to affect other parts of the body. It constitutes a significant global health challenge that impacts people of all ages, races, and ethnicities, especially in low- and middle-income countries such as the Philippines. Given this, Capstone-Intel Corporation commissioned a survey to understand Filipinos’ knowledge and perception of TB. The survey was conducted from August 1 to 10, 2023, with 1205 respondents from various regions of the country. According to the data, a certain proportion of respondents reported having undergone a TB test. Nationwide, 21% of Filipinos have undergone a TB test previously. While 4% are uncertain, the remaining 74% have not been tested yet. The testing rates show little variation across different areas. The highest proportion of tested respondents is in the National Capital Region (NCR), with 23% of its population tested, followed by Visayas (23%), Luzon (21%), and Mindanao (20%). The percentages of people who answered “no” in each region are as follows: Mindanao (77%), Luzon (75%), NCR (74%), and Visayas (68%). This critical issue pertains to the news article on pna.gov.ph that reported the alarming statistics of 70 Filipinos die from TB every day, resulting in a total of 1.6 million deaths in 2021 alone. The report further indicates a concerning increase in the number of TB cases in the country, with an estimated 650 cases per 100,000 Filipinos in 2021. Based on the limited number of respondents being tested for TB, Capstone-Intel recommends a course of action. “This highlights the importance of raising awareness about the disease and encouraging people to get tested. To address this issue, one way is to educate the public about the symptoms and risks associated with TB, as well as the importance of early detection and treatment. This can be done through expanded public health campaigns and information dissemination in schools, workplaces, and other community settings,” Capstone-Intel said. “Additionally, expanded incentives such as free or subsidized testing, as well as access to quality healthcare services, can encourage people to get tested,” it added. The research agency acknowledges PhilHealth for its efforts in reducing the incidence of TB cases through the provision of a benefit package that covers the cost of TB treatment. As part of the study by Capstone-Intel, respondents were also asked about their knowledge of different symptoms associated with TB. The most recognized symptom of TB is a persistent cough lasting for more than two weeks, which was identified by 76% of Filipinos nationwide. Additionally, 41% of respondents were aware that fatigue or weakness can be an indicator of TB. Chest pain was recognized as a symptom of TB by 27% of all respondents across the country. A smaller percentage of participants identified night sweats (10%) and headaches or dizziness (6%) as potential signs of TB. Geographically, the highest level of awareness regarding a persistent cough was noted in the NCR at 83%, followed by Visayas (77%), Luzon (75%), and Mindanao (74%). *** To know more about the data, please click here.
Capstone-Intel calls for flood resilient PH; highlights need for creating agency focusing on flood management
The Philippines confronts an average of 20 typhoons annually, with some becoming super typhoons, killing thousands of lives, and leaving billions worth in agriculture and infrastructure damages. Simply put, Capstone-Intel believes that by improving the country’s flood resilience through actionable solutions that bring awareness and protection to the Filipinos, the nation can achieve a promising future not only for the environment but also for its continuous economic progression. “Boosting a community’s capacity to withstand floods also involves enhancing its social, human, natural, and financial quality of life, in addition to its physical capabilities to perform well in the industries it supports,” said Atty. Nic Conti, Capstone-Intel Corporation’s Chief of Public Affairs. Conti pointed out that the Philippines has been tolerant of how floods and typhoons wreak havoc in the nation due to its lack of awareness of the severity of the long-term damage these may have caused to their day-to-day living. “It has become a custom that we are always unprepared whenever there are strong typhoons every year. That’s why we have a number of casualties. Although the rainy season has been truly a part of our climate, our people deserve better ways to face it. The number of lives lost, and casualties are no longer acceptable because they may be prevented if we have enough initiatives to offer,” he noted. “In these times and opportunities, we should strengthen our flood response such as by strengthening information dissemination in far-flung areas that are often hit by disasters and scaling up waste management awareness among citizens and large corporations to ensure floodways flow smoothly,” he added. According to Conti, the national government should also establish a separate entity attached to National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) that mainly focuses on mitigating floods in order to control their impacts on the country, adding that its economic implications will soon burden the lives of Filipinos. “The Philippine government should form an agency attached to the NDRRMC that gives emphasis to solving the long-standing problem of flooding in the country. This includes gathering all industry experts to formulate actionable solutions that trigger the eradication of severe risks of flooding not only in the lives of Filipinos but also in the economic sector,” Conti emphasized. “Floods are too rampant in cities that drive investments, and flooding extremely affects agriculture, which is the backbone of the Philippine economy. If we don’t take this seriously, our industries will suffer rigorously. It’s a domino effect,” he added.
Survey: 64% Pinoys Aware of Online Betting are Actively Engaged
The online betting industry is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. With the rise of technology and the internet, more people are turning to online betting as a form of entertainment and a potential source of income. To gain insights into the perception of online betting in the country, Capstone-Intel Corporation conducted a nationwide survey. The survey was carried out between May 1 and May 11, 2023, involving 1,200 respondents from 17 different regions. The gender distribution of the respondents was 51% male and 49% female, with ages ranging from 18 to 65 years. All respondents were confirmed to have knowledge of online betting. The study aimed to gain insights into the online betting culture among Filipinos, including determining the level of engagement, reasons for engagement, and the amount typically bet, among other factors. Based on the gathered data, the results indicate that 64% of respondents are engaged in online betting. The degree of engagement varies across different age groups, with 66% of respondents aged 18 to 40 engaging in online betting, while 57% of those aged 41 to 55 have participated in this activity. Conversely, respondents aged 46 to 50, 56 to 60, and the majority of those aged 61 to 65 have not yet engaged in online betting. On the other hand, respondents aged 46-50, 56-60, and the majority of those aged 61-65 have not participated in online betting. Moreover, concerning gender differences, it has been observed that 70% of male respondents have shown interest in online betting, whereas the percentage for female respondents is 58%. Based on the study, it was also discovered that out of the 773 respondents who participate in online gambling, 30% of them engage in it two to three times a week, 22% participate once a month, and 20% participate once a week. Based on these findings, it can be inferred that online betting is a growing industry. “One major contributor to its growth is the increasing accessibility and convenience of online platforms for betting. With the widespread availability of internet access, bettors can easily place their bets from anywhere, at any time, using their desktop or mobile devices,” said Ella Kristina Domingo-Coronel, Research and Publications Director of Capstone-Intel. “Another factor contributing to the growth of online betting is the increasing legalization and regulation of this industry. Our governments have recognized the potential revenue that can be generated from online betting. This has led to a more secure and trustworthy environment for bettors,” she added. The study also revealed that respondents engage in various forms of online betting, with 26% participating in e-casino, 26% in online bingo, and 24% in online gaming. Among the most visited online betting websites were eGames (38%), OKbet (25%), Bet88 (24%), and eSports Bet (20%). Reasons, amount for betting According to the survey results, the primary motive of the respondents for participating in online betting was to test their luck (39%) and earn quick money (32%). Furthermore, the survey indicates that 69% of respondents spend less than P1,000 on betting, while 20% spend between P1,001 and P3,000. Only 6% of respondents bet between P3,001 and P5,000, while 3% bet between P5,001 and P10,000.
‘Marcos Dictatorship’ Records Relatively High Negative Sentiment online
A study by Capstone-Intel Corporation found that the issue of the Marcos dictatorship still generates relatively high negative sentiment online. The study aimed at gauging the public’s perception of the controversial martial rule of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. for its 51st anniversary of declaration on September 21. An online scan from August 12 to September 12 was done with the use of various social listening tools across all social and non-social media platforms to dive deep into the perceptions, sentiments, and opinions of the public about Martial Law. The study showed that 86.7% (87%) of Filipinos are still negative about the issue of the “Marcos dictatorship.” However, about 13.3% (13%) believe that Martial Law, in fact, did the Philippines good. Based on the results of the study, Capstone-Intel saw that “Martial Law is extra relevant to Filipinos today because the son and namesake of the late strongman sits as the current president.” Among the overwhelming topics online that related to Martial Law was the decision of the Department of Education (DepEd) to detach the late president’s surname from the phrase “Diktadurang Marcos” in textbooks for Grade 6 students. The results also revealed that this was the most engaged topic online, as it garnered an engagement score of 88.4, topping all the stories under this topic. The online reaction breakdown is as follows: 47.1% are Haha reactions, 24.3% are Like reactions, and another 22.7% are Angry reactions. Love, Sad, and Wow all take up the remaining 3.1%, 2.2%, and 0.6% respectively. Similar to the third most engaged story, the dominant reactions are the Haha reactions, which indicate that they are mocking the report, or worse, not taking it seriously, which can be considered a negative reaction to the topic. The study revealed that many believed the DepEd memo, which is already effective in some educational institutions, is an “insult” to the victims of the atrocities of the Marcos dictatorship. DepEd, meanwhile, justified that contrary to public perception, the decision to drop the Marcos name in fact came with “no pressure of any kind.” Moreover, the agency said the changes were “aligned” and “organized” by curriculum specialists. Capstone-Intel believes that the situation “highlights the importance of a strictly factual account of history that tells the nation’s story accurately.”
Study Finds 42% Pinoys Aware of Cryptocurrency Invested for High Returns
The emergence and growth of the cryptocurrencies market have garnered tremendous global interest and attention in recent times. Nevertheless, the degree of cognizance among the Filipino populace regarding this innovative digital currency is an area that requires further exploration. To this end, the Capstone-Intel Corporation undertook a research investigation to obtain empirical data on the extent of awareness and comprehension of cryptocurrencies within the country. Aligned with this objective, a nationwide survey was conducted by Capstone-Intel from May 1 to May 10, 2023. The study findings indicate that 1,204 participants are aware about the concept of cryptocurrency. Of this group, 42% had made investments in this emerging asset class. Of the total sample, 49.58% were male and 50.4% were female. Educational attainment was also assessed, with 58% of participants having completed a college degree, 20% being current college undergraduates, 12% having completed high school, 5% being graduates of technical-vocational programs, 3% having earned a post-graduate degree, and 2% having only completed high school. The data shows Region X and NCR take up the biggest pool of respondents, at 17% each. Region III and CALABARZON also contribute 10% each. The other 7% come from Region V, and Region XI and Region XII make up another 5%, respectively. Region I, Region VIII, and Region IX both contribute 4% to the total pool. Region II and BARMM also provide 3% each, while MIMAROPA, Region XIII, and CAR each contribute the last 2% to complete the respondent count. Investment in cryptocurrencies From the data, respondents were asked if they have invested in cryptocurrencies, and 42% of them showed that they have invested in cryptocurrencies, 57% answered no, and 2% expressed uncertainty. The investment of these respondents ranges from less than P1,000 to above P10,000. When asked about their reasons for investing in cryptocurrencies, the respondents provided a range of motivations. The most commonly cited reason was the potential for high returns on investment, with 51% of all respondents highlighting this as a primary factor. “This finding suggests that a considerable number of individuals are seeking to grow their wealth through investment vehicles. It is noteworthy that one of the primary motivations for investment was the perceived possibility of achieving substantial returns on investment. This desire for high returns can be linked to the current low-interest-rate environment, which has made traditional savings accounts and bonds less attractive to investors,” said Ella Kristina Domingo-Coronel, Research and Publications Director of Capstone-Intel. Almost half of the respondents aged 35–44 (49%), 45-54 (47%), and 25-34 (45%) have invested in cryptocurrency. 65% of those aged 18 to 24 years old and 74% of those aged 65 to 75 have not invested. Between males and females, only 35% of females have invested in cryptocurrency, and 48% among males. Among the participants who have allocated funds towards cryptocurrency, a predominant 80% have invested in Bitcoin. The subsequent ranking includes Ethereum at 41%, XRP at 24%, and Binance USD at 22%. —- To know more about the data, please click here. Capstone-Intel is a high-impact research company that uses innovative research technologies, tools, and methods to convert data and information into breakthrough insights and actionable intelligence outputs. It is committed to helping its clients solve problems, find solutions, grow markets and constituencies, build reputations, navigate risks, manage crises, and be the country’s leading private research and intelligence agency.
Capstone-Intel calls DepEd to act on ‘education crisis’; adds need to provide ‘better initiatives, platforms’ to uplift teachers and students
Capstone-Intel Corporation is calling on the Department of Education (DepEd) to step up and act on the befalling education system of the country following its recent social listening report on World Teachers’ Day that reveals “education crisis” as the most widely-engaging topic across all social media and non-social media platforms ahead of the month-long celebration. Capstone-Intel is a high-impact research company that uses innovative research technologies, tools, and methods to convert data and information into breakthrough insights and actionable intelligence outputs. It is committed to helping its clients solve problems, find solutions, grow markets and constituencies, build reputations, navigate risks, manage crises, and be the country’s leading private research and intelligence agency. A recent social listening report from Capstone-Intel Corp. revealed that the topic “education crisis” reported an interaction share of 77.6 percent across all social and non-social media platforms, which indicates that audiences are primarily talking and interacting on the topic. “This data illustrates the perception on the state of the education crisis in the country which was related to educational crisis. This would mean that the government should give its full attention to provide accessible and quality education for all,” said Atty. Nick Conti, Capstone-Intel Corporation’s Chief of Public Affairs. The social listening report was conducted from August 1 to September 8, 2023, which covers key events in the education sector particularly Brigada Eskwela, the opening of classes, and the launch of the annual World Teachers’ Month celebration. The report did not specify the primary issues of education in the country but recent data from DepEd shows Philippine classroom shortage has risen to 159,000. Conti drew attention to a critical issue, and it is reassuring to observe that the government has recognized the urgency of the matter. According to DepEd, the projected shortfall of classrooms for the upcoming year can be addressed by allocating close to P400 billion, which is nearly 7 percent of the proposed P5.768-trillion National Expenditure Program for the year 2024. This significant amount is necessary to ensure that sufficient classrooms and facilities are provided to accommodate the needs of students and educators. “We understand that the lack of classrooms can lead to overcrowding, making it difficult for students to focus and learn effectively. The education system is complex, and there are many factors that need to be considered to ensure that it is effective,” Conti added. The public affairs chief also believes that the development of an education system involves more than just having enough funds. “Aside from funding, students should receive high-quality education, which is the most critical of all. As new technologies such as AI continue to emerge and the education landscape evolves, it is crucial that teachers have equal and inclusive opportunities for training, professional development, and access to technology,” Conti noted. “A well-developed education system is an essential component of a successful economy. Education is the key to unlocking the potential of the population, and a highly educated workforce can lead to increased productivity, innovation, and economic growth. Education is not only necessary for individuals to acquire the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce, but it also contributes to the development of a robust, dynamic economy,” he added.
63% Pinoys Support Legalization of Medical Marijuana for Therapeutic Purposes
Capstone-Intel Corporation recently conducted a nationwide survey from August 1 to August 10, 2023 aimed at understanding the attitudes of Filipinos towards the legalization of medical marijuana and their perceptions of its therapeutic potential and regulation. The survey was conducted among 1,205 respondents, with a gender distribution of 51% males and 49% females, aged between 18 and 75 years old. The respondents are from 17 regions including Regions I, Region II, Region III, Region IV A, Region V, Region VI, Region VII, Region VIII, Region IX, Region X, Region XI, Region XII, National Capital Region or NCR, Cordillera Administrative Region, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Region XIII, and MIMAROPA or Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan. Support for legalization of medical marijuana for therapeutic purposes With a total of 1,205 respondents, revealing an overall support of 63% for the legalization of medical marijuana for therapeutic purposes. Conversely, 37% of respondents expressed their dissent on the issue. Regarding geographic areas, Region XI emerged as the region with the most substantial percentage of support, at 71%, with Region XII and NCR following closely at 69% and 68%, respectively. In contrast, Region I demonstrated a higher proportion of respondents, at 58%, who expressed dissent towards the legalization. It is worth noting that Region IX saw an equal number of votes (50%) in favor and against the legalization of medicinal marijuana. Despite widespread support for the legalization of marijuana in the country, it is important to consider certain factors. According to Capstone-Intel, while 63% are supportive, the respondents agreed to conditions to conduct more research, strict policy guidelines for access and dosage control. At the same time, the need for more awareness and education on the issue. Support for medical marijuana as an alternative treatment and other supportive perceptions According to the survey, a significant portion of respondents (38%) agree that the legalization of medical marijuana could offer a viable solution for patients who have not found successful treatments through conventional medicine. Meanwhile, 29% of the respondents neither agree nor disagree with this statement, and 24% strongly agree that medical marijuana legalization could provide relief to such patients. Also, a significant percentage of respondents, namely 49%, express a strong conviction that further investigations should be conducted to probe the potential advantages and drawbacks of medical marijuana. Additionally, 35% of the participants concur with this statement. Based on the study, 55% of respondents expressed a strong level of agreement regarding the regulation of medical marijuana to guarantee its quality, safety, and proper dosage control. Additionally, 30% of respondents agreed with this statement.
Survey Reveals Lack of Familiarity Among Filipinos with DOH Programs
The Department of Health plays a crucial role in promoting, protecting, and improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities in the country. Programs run by the DOH are designed to address a wide range of health issues, including infectious diseases, mental health, and more. The importance of these programs cannot be overstated, as they impact the health of individuals, families, and communities across the nation. However, the findings of Capstone-Intel Corporation’s research reflect a different perception of this matter. Based on a nationwide survey conducted by Capstone-Intel, there is a marked lack of awareness among the public about the various DOH initiatives. Notably, this includes programs aimed at improving mental health, national tuberculosis control, universal healthcare, national HIV/AIDS, and the enhancement of healthcare facilities. The research involved a total of 1,205 participants and yielded significant findings. Specifically, the study showed 50% of the respondents had knowledge of the national HIV/AIDS program implemented by the agency. Additionally, 45% of them were aware of the Universal Health Care program, while 44% knew about the national tuberculosis control program. Regarding other initiatives, 42% of participants were familiar with the mental health program, and 28% were aware of the health facility enhancement program. Based on the available data, it appears that the situation may have national implications that warrant the attention of the government. This viewpoint is supported by the observations of Dr. Guido David, Chief Data Expert of Capstone-Intel. “Lack of awareness of the DOH programs can lead to a lack of participation in health promotion and disease prevention activities. For example, if only a small portion of the population is aware of the importance of getting vaccinated, the overall vaccination rate would be low, leading to increased susceptibility to preventable diseases. Similarly, if only a few people are aware of the benefits of regular health check-ups, many individuals may miss out on critical screenings and early detection of illnesses,” explained Dr. David. “One of the DOH’s top priorities should be to implement comprehensive and consistent public education and awareness initiatives. This is essential to ensure that the public is well-informed and engaged in the Department’s programs, even in the most remote regions of the country,” he added. Capstone-Intel aims to deliver objective, non-partisan research on issues of national importance. The DOH survey was conducted from August 1-10, 2023 with strict protocols to ensure data reliability and accurate representation of public opinion across the Philippines’ urban and rural areas.
