Efforts to expand the knowledge base form the cornerstone of every research endeavor.
In the Philippine context, the field of human development and family studies faces
numerous challenges, including a scarcity of literature, limited capacity and capability
to execute development programs and projects, and restricted access to grants and
funding. These obstacles are common hindrances encountered in the pursuit of research
projects. As we enter the second year of the Asia-Pacific Journal of Human Development
and Family Studies (AHEAD), the Editorial Team is delighted to present eleven articles as
fruits of the authors' unwavering commitment and dedication. These studies,
undeniably, lie at the heart of human development and family studies. Beyond their
contributions, these studies also serve as exemplars of advocacy: pagtindig.

Pagtindig, or "standing up," is a call to action. In an era marked by historical revisionism
and misinformation, pagtindig aptly calls for accountability and responsible information
consumption and dissemination. We must heed the calls to assist our fellow citizens,
especially the minority, the disadvantaged, and the marginalized. Pagtindig offers
informed solutions rooted in data, driven by research, and grounded in science.
Pagtindig brings light to the darkness that we currently face.

Inero V. Ancho
Editor-in-Chief
October 2023