March brought the summer heat as tensions worldwide intensified, shaping a month felt on every level. Here’s a recap of the month’s intensity:

1. Iran closes Strait of Hormuz

(Photo from NBC News)

Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor for global energy trade, following coordinated airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets. This evolved into a global economic concern as Iran leveraged its geographic advantage over the narrow waterway.

Iranian authorities said the action is a response to foreign aggression, but it also served a broader strategic purpose. The Strait of Hormuz carries roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply, making it a vital artery for global energy markets.

The disruption triggered widespread economic consequences, straining supply chains and driving oil prices higher. Countries dependent on energy imports, including the Philippines, now face increasing pressure as the effects ripple beyond the region.

2. UST holds ALAB 2026

(Photo by Gian Detera/TomasinoWeb)

The University of Santo Tomas held its three-day university-wide retreat, themed “ALAB 2026: Pananampalataya, Pag-asa, Pag-ibig,” at the Quadricentennial Pavilion from March 4 to 6, bringing the Thomasian community together for reflection and renewal.

“It means that in a culture of ruthless ambition and relentless competition, we are called to outdo one another not in prestige but in service, not in self-promotion but in generosity, and not in dominance but in love,” said Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula, as he called on the Thomasian community to pursue excellence rooted in love, humility, and service.

The program is part of the University’s long-standing tradition of institutional retreats aimed at strengthening spiritual formation and community through reflections, liturgical celebrations, and guided activities to rekindle the fire of the Thomasian spirit.

3. QC Rep. Bong Suntay faces criticism over remark during Women’s Month

(Photo from Inquirer)

Quezon City Representative Bong Suntay drew criticism after making a lewd remark directed at actress Anne Curtis during a House Committee on Justice hearing on March 3. The statement quickly spread online, prompting backlash from netizens who questioned its content and broader implications on attitudes toward women in public discourse.

The incident has drawn sharper criticism during Women’s Month, reigniting conversations about sexism in politics and the responsibility of public officials to uphold respectful discourse. Women in the industry supported the actress and expressed anger over the remark.

Anne Curtis said in a social media post, “Any leader who cannot respect women does not understand leadership at all. Respecting women, after all, is simply basic decency…The integrity of public office depends on the standards it upholds.”

4. Global cancellation of flights surges due to Iran war

(Photo from Inquirer)

A wave of flight cancellations swept across the globe in early March and throughout the month. Following the outbreak of the Iran war, airspace across key Middle Eastern countries, including Iran, the UAE, Qatar, and Iraq, was abruptly closed, effectively freezing one of the world’s busiest aviation corridors.

Within days, more than 23,000 flights were canceled worldwide, leaving hundreds of thousands of passengers stranded and major transit hubs like Dubai and Doha at a standstill.

Missile and drone attacks damaged infrastructure and forced airport shutdowns, and safety concerns led airlines to suspend operations entirely. The closure of key oil routes drove fuel prices sharply upward, making flights more expensive and unsustainable to operate. Airlines were forced to cancel routes, reroute planes through longer paths, or ground fleets altogether.

5. Oscars turn political

(Photo from The Guardian)

Conan O'Brien opened the Oscars 2026 on March 15 with a monologue warning audiences that the night might get political at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California. Along the series of awards was a string of statements, symbols, and speeches that reflected the state of the world.

Spanish actor Javier Bardem openly called for a “free Palestine” during the ceremony, while presenting the best international feature film award with Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Celebrities also wore pins reading “ICE out,” condemning the violent immigration enforcement in the U.S.

Joachim Trier won the best international feature film for Sentimental Value and quoted American writer James Baldwin in saying, “...all adults are responsible for all children. Let’s not vote for politicians who don’t take this seriously into account.” Paul Thomas Anderson also apologized to the younger generation for the current state of global politics in his acceptance speech for best adapted screenplay.

6. Marcos declares state of national energy emergency

(Photo from PCO)

In response to escalating fuel prices and growing uncertainty in global energy supply, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a state of national energy emergency on March 24.

The declaration comes as disruptions in major oil-producing regions affect domestic supply and prices, raising concerns over long-term energy stability. This allows the government to mobilize resources more aggressively, potentially fast-tracking energy projects, enforcing conservation measures, and exploring alternative energy sources.

7. Bela Padilla reunites with Carlo Aquino in ‘A Special Memory’

(Photo from IMDb)

A Special Memory premiered in Philippine cinemas on March 11, marking the on-screen reunion of Carlo Aquino and Bela Padilla, directed by Jerry Lopez Sineneng and written by Ricky Lee. The film is a local adaptation of the Japanese drama Pure Soul.

It follows a couple whose relationship is tested after one is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, exploring love and devotion as memory fades.

Since its release, the film has gained attention, with screenings expanding from 200 to 240 cinemas on March 13.

8. Government suspends fare price hike

(Photo by Edd Gumban/The Philippine STAR)

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. suspended fare hikes on March 18, aiming to ease the burden on commuters with increasing daily expenses. The move is a temporary relief measure for minimum-wage earners and students who rely heavily on public utility vehicles.

“Sa aking palagay, dahil nga may problema pa rin tayo dahil sa gyera sa Middle East, ay sabi ko siguro hindi ito ang panahon para magtaas ng pamasahe para sa ating mga kababayan,” said Marcos.

The announcement was issued a day after the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board approved fare increases for jeepneys, buses, airport taxis, and transport network vehicle services.

9. BTS releases 'Arirang' after 3 years of hiatus

(Photo from BigHit Music)

BTS released their anticipated album, Arirang, marking their first major group comeback in nearly four years on March 20. The release comes after a three-year hiatus, during which all seven members completed their mandatory military service and pursued individual projects.

The album, inspired by the traditional Korean folk song of the same name, blends cultural elements with pop and hip-hop influences. Upon release, it quickly topped Billboard charts and sparked global online discussion. The comeback reinforces BTS’ global influence and marks one of the year’s most anticipated pop culture returns.

10. Philippines and China talk oil exploration

(Photo from PhilStar News)

The Philippines and China discussed possible oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea, signaling a cautious step toward cooperation amid ongoing territorial tensions. The talks, held on March 27 and 28 during bilateral consultations in China, focused on what officials described as “initial exchanges” on potential joint exploration efforts.

The renewed dialogue comes at a time of growing energy concerns, amid global disruptions, particularly the Middle East conflict, that are putting pressure on fuel supplies and prices. Both sides emphasized the need for stable energy access and explored broader areas of cooperation, including renewable energy and trade. While discussions remain preliminary, Philippine officials maintained that any agreement must align with national law and protect the country’s sovereignty, highlighting the delicate balance between energy security and territorial interests.

March stressed a deeper sense of awareness of the forces that shape our present, as events across the globe continue to unfold with far-reaching impact.