LOVE IS IN the air and Bedans are left pondering this age-old question: “Are you the one?” In the realm of relationships, navigating the journey of love can be both thrilling and daunting. 

So let us explore the signs of red and green flags in relationships, guiding Bedans to find genuine connections and long-lasting love. 

Yuki, Department of Marketing Management  

In the quest for a thriving relationship, Yuki swears by the power of green flags – those moments of understanding differences and genuine connection. Red flags like gaslighting, blame-shifting, and trust issues are strictly off his radar. Luckily, he dodged the “red flag” bullet and can proudly label his six-year love story as “relationship goals.” He also stated that, while there are red and green flag moments, the green ones dominate the scene. The only red flags waving are basketball-related which would claim Yuki’s time with his partner; but hey, love and hoops make a slam-dunk combo!  

To answer your curiosity on whether Yuki is a red or green flag, he acclaimed: “Me, a green flag for sure, for sure, a green flag ako. Patient ako, maintindihin akong tao, ‘tsaka… mabait.” 

Yuki then left a message to “red flag” Bedans: “Magtino na kayo! Hindi joke lang, pero try to be… as nice as you can be and be a green flag person.” 

Emman, Department of Marketing Management 

Meet Emman, the flag connoisseur of relationships! If trust issues are waving, that’s a blazing red flag for him; while thoughtfulness is a vibrant green flag that catches his eye. Having danced with the red flag of trust issues before, Emman’s radar is finely tuned. 

Curious admirers often wonder about Emman’s flag collection. He admits, “Biggest red flag ko siguro [is] lagi akong late, hindi ako nakakasunod sa time, so time management ko siguro kailangan kong ma-improve. And green flag ko, I think I’m a very positive person. I always look at the brighter side.”  

And to all the ‘red flag’ Bedans out there, Emman underscores that development is key, stating “embrace improvement and remember, perfection is a myth.” 

Jenicah, Department of Psychology 

 Unveiling the colorful spectrum of Jenicah’s life to which red and green flags flutter beyond romance, extending their influence to familial bonds and friendships. In this vibrant tapestry, green flags unfurl as the positive traits we proudly showcase, while red flags dance in subjectivity, varying from person to person. 

Jenicah passionately advocates for the transformative power of surrounding oneself with the right people. She proudly identifies herself as a “beacon of green flags,” a testament to the unwavering support and guidance bestowed upon her by her cherished friends. Delving into the intricacies of her relationships, she fearlessly explores moments adorned with red and green flags, underscoring the pivotal role of “open communication and compromise” in nurturing a thriving partnership. 

In a resounding call to action, Jenicah champions the twin pillars of “self-awareness and self-improvement.” Her message resonates with the urgency of acknowledging and addressing our red flags for personal growth and fostering healthier and more fulfilling relationships. In Jenicah’s world, the flags don’t just wave – they weave a narrative of authenticity, growth, and the vibrant hues of human connection. 

Krystelle, Department of Political Science 

In the world of love, Krystelle is no amateur. With a keen eye for emotional authenticity, she sorts through the red flags of “emotional unavailability and misplaced priorities,” while celebrating the vibrant greens of “openness and mutual respect.” 

But she’s no stranger to her imperfections, admitting to moments of both red and green flag behavior. Yet, Krystelle’s mantra remains resolute: cultivate empathy and understanding, striving for the best version of oneself. 

Drawing from encounters with the red-flagged, Krystelle rallies her fellow Bedans to ditch destructive patterns and chase after genuine love and support. Her rallying cry is clear, “it’s time for red-flagged individuals to face the music and nurture wholesome connections. Are you ready to join the revolution?” 

Tricia, Department of Legal Management  

In Tricia’s love lexicon, red flags are “caution signs,” signaling potential pitfalls in a partner’s demeanor. Meanwhile, green flags are the “radiant beacons” of a thriving relationship fueled by communication, trust, and genuine consideration. 

Picture this: amidst the sea of red flags, Tricia sails on the ship of green flag virtues. Care, consideration and a deep commitment to understanding her partner’s feelings take center stage. Sure, there might be occasional storms of anger, but Tricia is all about navigating the complexities of personal growth and relationship self-awareness. 

Sending a sassy shoutout to fellow Bedans flashing red flags:  “Ano na? charot, keep up sa character development, please. Let’s be the best versions of ourselves. We’ll get somewhere if we are,” Tricia concluded.   

Aaron, Department of Legal Management  

In relationships, red flag individuals are characterized by “self-serving behavior, lacking empathy and consideration for others,” while green flag individuals embody “selflessness and unwavering support.” Personal experiences, such as encounters with past partners, highlight the importance of prioritizing green-flag qualities like unconditional love and effective communication.  

Aaron emphasizes “cultivating healthy relationships by embodying green flag traits, empathy, and self-improvement to avoid personal shortcomings from sabotaging future connections.”  

Aedan, Department of Psychology 

 Aedan knows that the art of relationship success is like “spotting colors on a canvas.” Recognizing the crimson warnings like poor communication and dishonesty is vital for safeguarding emotional well-being. Yet, amidst the red flags, Aedan tops the vibrant greens of “effective communication and partner consideration,” symbols of maturity and support in relationships. 

In his world, red flags may wave, but his focus remains on the flourishing green flag traits–growth and understanding. For him, a thriving relationship is built on “mutual respect, support, and joint efforts for personal and relational growth.” Aedan insists on discernment, self-awareness, and emotional maturity as the brushstrokes for crafting fulfilling partnerships. 

Mauri, Department of Political Science  

Mauri’s take on red and green flags is a personal kaleidoscope – subjective, colorful, and uniquely his own. To him, red flags “unfurl” when someone doesn’t sync with his vibe, while the green flags he seeks in a partner are “woven with threads” of kindness and politeness. 

Mauri also shared that the “absence of a grand life plan” is a glaring red flag, emphasizing his belief in the importance of having a roadmap for life’s journey. Paradoxically, he waves a self-aware red flag, acknowledging that his allegiance to friendships precedes romantic entanglements. 

He gives a message of change for the red flag Bedans, Sharing “to all the red flag Bedans, hindi pa huli ang lahat. May chance pa tayo makapag-redeem sa sarili natin, o siguro, may taong makaka-appreciate. Kahit ‘di mo kailangan… ‘di mo kailangan magbago or siguro kailangan mo lang ng ibang perspective para ma-appreciate kung ano man meron ka at kung sino man tatanggap sayo ng buong-buo.”   

Eddie, Department of Legal Management  

 Eddie distinguished red flag and green flag individuals based on their treatment towards their partners and understanding of boundaries. He described red flags as “lacking respect,” while green flags “prioritize understanding” despite lapses.  

Even with his friends displaying red flag traits, Eddie isn’t hesitant to cut them off. He admits to red flag tendencies, influenced by his environment, yet still values care and effort in relationships.  

“Mga tropa, 2024 na sana naman mag bago na tayo[ng] lahat. And alam naman natin may pagkakamali tayo, pero as tropa nga ‘di ba, we have each other’s back. So, dapat tulungan natin magbago ang isa’t isa kasi hindi pwede na habang buhay ganito. Dapat maging better tayo in the future para sa pamilya natin,” he shared.   

As Bedans celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, it is essential to approach relationships with a discerning eye. We can foster healthy connections that contribute to personal growth and a positive University experience by being aware of red flags and embracing green flags. May this Valentine’s Day celebrate love, self-discovery, and meaningful relationships with all of us! 

Artwork by: Rizian Veniz Balleta