
Ethel Mae Gabutina
Ethel Mae Gabutina is a compelling voice in Mindanaoan social commentary, known for her incisive analysis and a deeply rooted commitment to civic discourse. As a columnist and social critic, she moves beyond the headlines to explore the underlying currents of local governance, public policy, and the cultural shifts shaping Northern Mindanao. Her writing is characterized by a balance of sharp scrutiny and community empathy, often challenging established narratives to advocate for transparency and marginalized voices. Whether dissecting the intricacies of legislative probes or reflecting on the evolving identity of the modern Kagay-anon, Ethel Mae provides a platform for critical thought and meaningful dialogue. Through her opinion pieces, she invites readers to look closer at the world around them, making her one of the region’s most consistent and thought-provoking commentators.
187 stories


Elegy of the left stiletto: A soliloquy on power, pain, and the rise of loafers

Cordless phones, character shoes: A life in three acts

Steer-otypes: Reading people by their ride

The hangover after the hype

Care no evil: Evolution’s final download
I’M writing this from an airport lounge — flight was delayed, of course. What else is new? I’m three espresso shots in (purely medicinal), and while I’m not jittery, my brain is staging a full-on TED Talk without my consent. Somewhere between gate changes, overlapping announcements, and restless babies crying in surround sound, I wondered if this was where humanity’s evolution quietly stopped.

Botox, ballads, and BP pills

Chronicles of a caffeinated critic in loafers
THEY say, write what you know.

Fairy godmothers in barong
THE castings are over, the tarpaulins are gone, and so are the motorcades that block traffic like they were entitled to a police escort from God. But the fairy godmothers in Barong? Their magic lingers — especially in the hearts of those who received their “blessings” just weeks before castings.

And just like that, we take it black
Four women, no sugar, and a friendship steeped in time, truth, and caffeine.

The gift of gab and other human tragedies
I promised myself I would hold my tongue when it comes to commentary. I’ve written my fair share of rants, closed the iPad, and told myself, “That’s it. Enough!” But here we are again.

Still reading that?
“TELL me what your favorite book is, and I’ll tell you who you are.” It’s a popular quote among the literati. But allow me to offer a minor revision: “Tell me what your favorite book still is, and I’ll tell you you’ve stopped evolving.”
