Who's Afraid of Human Rights?

Human rights matter, asserts political analyst Walden Bello, as he calls for critical opposition -- defined as supporting the good, criticizing the bad -- to the newbie Duterte administration. A strong opposition is a necessary ingredient in ensuring the evolution of Philippine democracy, Bello explains in his opinion piece this week.

For those dreaming or actually planning adventure travel this year, here are two options:

Tawi-Tawi, the southernmost island of the Philippine archipelago, boasts its sacred mountain, Bud Bongao. Read Again environmentalist Gregg Yan's report on "The Holy Mountain of Tawi-Tawi."

And then there's the pilgrimage walk to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, an adventure that requires good health, endurance and determination (as well as good walking shoes). Read Again contributor Patricia Araneta's first-person account, "A Walk to the End of the Earth: The Camino de Santiago de Compostela Pilgrimage."

Art, as in acting and painting, takes center stage with our profiles this week. LA-based Anthony Maddela focuses on Jessalyn Wanlim, a Filipino-Chinese-Indonesian actress/martial arts expert starting to make waves in Hollywood. Chicago-based Rey de la Cruz meanwhile reaches out to Rod Pedralba, a Vancouver-based painter, who draws on his Surigao roots for inspiration.

Another ideal summer dish is Coconut Shrimps with Mango Salsa, shared by our resident foodie Elizabeth Ann Quirino, as our Happy Home Cook featured recipe.

For Video of the Week, did you know that the biggest hammock that dangles above a rainforest is in the Philippines? Watch and feel your stomach turn somersaults (if you're afraid of heights).