The Best Is Yet to Come

 "Every day is a chance to begin again. Don't focus on the failures of yesterday; start today with positive thoughts and expectations." — Lacey Sturm

Now that the new year has arrived, I totally welcome the mantra "new year, new me" and view it as a powerful catalyst for transformation and renewal. At this moment, I have an opportunity to look back at my past, consider what I achieved and what was challenging, and set ambitious but achievable goals for the future. I realize that personal growth starts from within, so I am ready to let go of the worn-out habits which are no longer helping me in my life but rather to allow the good positive changes that can reflect the better version of myself.

On this premise of rebirth, I promise myself that I am going to work towards maintaining and nurturing my body through healthy wholesome foods, doing exercises regularly, and practicing mindfulness for mental lucidity and hardiness. I will be responsible for taking care of my self-care, not only in terms of physical fitness but also emotional and spiritual health. Time will be created for rituals that will include meditation, journaling, or spending quiet time alone in nature.

I also want to explore new passions and interests that can reignite my creativity and curiosity. Whether it be learning a new hobby, taking a class, I've always thought I should take, or diving into the book that I have been intending to read forever, I should learn and challenge myself to the unknown. Stepping out of my comfort zone this year with new challenges such as trying some things I really want to but haven't stepped out to accomplish yet.

Equally important, I will always be committed to nurturing meaningful relationships. I will always invest time into connecting with my family and friends, strengthening those bonds that will bring joy and support into my life. My goal is to surround myself with positive influences—people who inspire me to be better and who celebrate my journey as much as I celebrate theirs. Together, we can uplift each other and build a network of encouragement and love.

A new year in a new dawn-while all around, and in my world anew, I vow to remember each step of this journey is both up and down as I change through the ups and downs, for every small success, I must learn from small failures. For with hope alive in my heart and determination coursing through my soul, it is with faith that I hope to become, one day at a time, the very best of what I can become, for life is full of promise and boundless possibilities.".

Tis the Season for Love and Happiness

"Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind." — Calvin Coolidge

This year's Christmas holidays were simply a beautiful and joyous culmination of love and connection with good reflection, set against the backgrounds of precious moments spent with families, filled with laughter and rich storytelling. This warmth of those moments brought so much love into the atmosphere while reminding us all of the love that bonds together. Engaging in festive traditions like decorating the tree brought out a sense of unity as we reminisced over past holidays but created new ones. Baking cookies not only filled our home with the wonderful aromas of cookies but also brought us closer together in the kitchen, creating a haven of joy.

The pleasure of thoughtful gifts, giving and receiving them, added magic to the season. Every gift that was exchanged was a symbol of our love and appreciation for each other, which reinforced our connections and gave us memories to last a lifetime. Ice skating and holiday movies were seasonal activities that enriched our experience, creating opportunities for laughter and shared enjoyment. These moments together helped to create a festive atmosphere that made the holidays feel truly special.

At the end of the year, I took time to reflect on what I had accomplished and what I would like to achieve in the coming year. This introspection was beneficial, as it helped me set intentions for personal growth. Volunteering and donating to those in need made the holiday season even more meaningful, reminding us of all of the importance of empathy and community. Special meals, music, and other cultural practices deepened connections as we cherished the holiday and made this an experience I will not forget.

“Christmas is forever, not for just one day. For loving, sharing, giving are not to put away.” – Norman Wesley Brooks

REFERENCE:

xmas xmas decorations - Bing. (n.d.-b). Bing. https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=4ndyRkfe&id=05650738F5F0E13EC10D6B79F5667B592B099465&thid=OIP.4ndyRkfewAn879CjH5cPMgHaFU&mediaurl=https%3a%2f%2fth.bing.com%2fth%2fid%2fR.e277724647dec009fcefd0a31f970f32%3frik%3dZZQJK1l7ZvV5aw%26riu%3dhttp%253a%252f%252finteriordesignparadise.com%252fwp-content%252fuploads%252f2016%252f10%252fholiday-decor-living-room-decorating-ideas-for-christmas.jpg%26ehk%3dA54imy9%252bNyahpny4T5CPasMU092QrkGmJhNoYel0%252bHI%253d%26risl%3d%26pid%3dImgRaw%26r%3d0&exph=1150&expw=1600&q=xmas+decorations&simid=607986882704189097&FORM=IRPRST&ck=950DF0BF0CDBA34CDA8FF03F03698558&selectedIndex=12&itb=0&qpvt=xmas+decorations

A Deep Dive into Learned Lessons

Reflections on My ICT Learning Journey

A. What are the learning/discoveries have I gained?

During the second quarter of Grade 10 ICT, I learned several HTML tags, links, and many other basic concepts of web development.

B. What are the problems/challenges have I encountered?

Some of the weaknesses I had were comprehensive understanding of a few lessons, for instance, how to open an account. Also, there was the <time management problem caused by the various projects that were very sensitive to time and required multitasking.

C. How did I solve those problems?

To solve those problems, I did to reached out to my teacher and classmates whenever I needed help.

I utilized online resources and tutorials to explain concepts I found difficult.  I improved in time management by creating a timetable for study, setting specific time allocations for each project and assignment. I will continue improving my ICT skills and take steps to enhance the learning process by taking proactive measures. This includes attempting to solve problems independently before asking for help as this will enhance my problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.

REFERENCE:

https://i.pinimg.com/474x/5c/04/4d/5c044dfa3ddd5ef809f1c8e473d9bf35.jpg

From Shadows to Strength: Women's Rights and Safety (Thematic)

 "Empowered women empower society—ending violence begins with protecting their rights."

"How can we create a society where no woman lives in fear of violence or abuse?"

     The Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004 Republic Act No. 9262 is one of the most significant pieces of law enacted in the Philippines on violence against women and children. It comes into focus with the annual 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women, which runs from November 25 to December 12, with awareness-raising and action on gender-based violence.

    While victims of violence can apply for protection orders, the law grants immediate enforcement responses and various support systems (including counseling and legal aid). The campaign is intended to inform the public about violence against women, with statistics that show almost 1 out of 5 women suffers from it.

    This year's campaign, "VAW Bigyang Wakas, ngayon na ang Oras," is significant in that it symbolizes the 20th anniversary of the Act and furthers the government stand of agencies, such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in safeguarding women's rights.

     The VAWC Act has the value of influencing responses to gender-based violence and serves as a motivating force for social change-the catalyst of community dialogues to break norms and foster support for survivors. The advocacy continues for stakeholders to create a safer environment for women and children throughout the Philippines.

"A Step Toward Equality: The Spirit of RA 8353 and RA 11313"

Picture a world where every woman walks fearlessly, her rights protected, her opportunities boundless, and her dignity upheld. Let’s explore how this law transforms lives and builds a better, safer future for all.

RA 8353

   In a world striving for justice, there comes a moment when society decides to rewrite its rules—not for convenience, but for dignity and respect. The Anti-Rape Law of 1997 (Republic Act No. 8353) is one such moment, a turning point that challenged old definitions and gave voice to a long-silenced truth: consent matters.

   Republic Act No. 8353: "Anti-Rape Law of 1997" defined rape in the Philippines as "Crime Against Persons" instead of a crime merely against chastity. This law redefined rape as an act of penetration (or not) and act of sexual assault applicable to both women and men and established that statutory rape occurs when the victim is less than twelve years of age, irrespective of other factors.

   Under RA 8353, it can be legally pursued by anyone with the right knowledge of the incident of rape, thus bringing the charge within the publicity scope and bringing even the community into the search for justice. The penalty meted out to offenders includes reclusion Perpetua (i.e. imprisonment from 20 to 40 years) for rape accomplished through penetration. All in all, RA 8353 strengthens legal protections against sexual violence and promotes the accountability of perpetrators' actions in the Philippines.

RA 11313

For too long, the subtle, insidious forms of violence that women endure daily went unchallenged, buried under the weight of cultural norms and silence. Republic Act No. 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act, is more than legislation—it’s a movement that dares to say, “Enough.”

This statute, the Republic Act No. 11313, coined as Safe Spaces Act is all about defining and penalizing gender-based sexual harassment taking place in several places such as streets and public places, in workplaces, and virtually. The law was enacted into effect in April 2019 to ensure not just the safety but even the dignity of an individual against any unwelcome sexual advance or unwelcome comments touching someone sexually or any similar act of harassment.

The Safe Spaces Act is heralded as "not only placing the definition per se of sexual harassment outside the four walls of the general boundaries of the workplace but extends to all public areas and cyberspaces." It also enumerates what behaviors constitute sexual harassment, such as catcalling, indecent remarks, or unwanted touching. Moreover, the law obliges employers to ensure that within the organization, policies are ensured to create a harassment-free condition for all employees.

There are administrative sanctions and fines amounting to a penalty for the punishment of violations. It also provides for victim access to reporting incidents of such kind without the privilege to retaliate. Thus, there is a more established culture of accountability and respect. Overall, RA 11313 is a plus step towards reducing the problem of gender-based violence in communities and thus only therein does it create safer communities in the Philippines.

"Ending violence against women is not just a fight for women—it's a fight for humanity."

REFERENCES:

RepubRepublic Act 11313: Safe Spaces Act | Bangsamoro Women Commission. (n.d.).

  https://bwc.bangsamoro.gov.ph/republic-act-11313-safe-spaces-act/

Law, R. (2022,March 29). What Is The Purpose Of RA 8353 | What Is The Purpose Of RA 8505 | RALB Law. RALB Law. https://ralblaw.com/what-is-the-purpose-of-ra-8353/

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"Elpidio Quirino: A Statesman's Journey from Humble Beginnings to National Leadership"

 "A leader's true legacy lies in the lasting progress he builds for his people." – Inspired by the life and service of Elpidio Quirino

We remember President Elpidio Quirino in commemoration of his birthday

November 16, 1890.

Elpidio Quirino (1890–1956) was the second president of the Independent Republic of the Philippines.

Born in 1890, Elpidio Quirino was elected to the Philippine Congress in 1919. He was part of the independence mission to Washington that freed the Philippines from American control in 1934. He then served as vice president under Manuel Roxas, becoming president upon Roxas' death in 1948. For six years, Quirino oversaw postwar reconstruction.

Elpidio Quirino was born on November 16, 1890, in the small city of Vigan, on Luzon Island in the Philippines. His father, Don Mariano Quirino, was a warden at a provincial jail. His mother was Dona Gregoria Mendoza Rivera Quirino. Young Elpidio graduated from elementary school in nearby Caoayan. Advanced beyond his years, Elpidio became a barrio (rural village) teacher while studying at Vigan High School.

Elpidio Quirino moved to Manila and graduated from Manila High School in 1911 and then passed the civil service exam. He entered law school at the University of the Philippines, graduating in 1915, and served as secretary to Senate President Manuel Quezon, where he began his rise through the Philippine government. In 1919, he was elected to the Philippine House of Representatives. In 1925, he was elected to the Philippine Senate and was quickly given Senate committee appointments.

In 1931 Elpidio Quirino was reelected to the Senate, and in 1934 he served as a member of the Philippine Independence mission to Washington, D.C., helping secure the Tydings-McDuffie Act, which set the timetable for Philippine independence from the United States. Quirino was also one of the drafters of the Philippine constitution, which was approved in May 1935

In April 1942, the Philippines were captured by Japanese imperial forces. Elpidio Quirino refused to join the Japanese-sponsored “puppet government” of Jose Laurel and instead went underground. He was captured by Japanese military police and imprisoned. His wife, son and two daughters were killed by Japanese forces as they fled their home during the Battle of Manila in early 1945.

After the war, Elpidio Quirino became the leader of the majority Liberal Party and president pro tempore of the Senate. Anticipating the country’s impending independence, elections were held in April 1946, and Manuel Roxas was elected president, with Quirino as vice president. When President Roxas unexpectedly died in April 1948, Quirino became president.

Elpidio Quirino was reelected president in November 1949. As president, he attempted to improve social, economic and agrarian conditions. He also established relations with Western and Asian countries.

In 1949, the Philippines, under the administration of President Elpidio Quirino, accepted around 6,000 white Russians who were fleeing from the Communist rule in China. President Quirino was also continuing a tradition of reaching out to victims of suffering all over the world.

He was best known for leading the Philippines after the second World War, and for his unbelievable decision to forgive Japanese prisoners of war. This, despite losing his wife and three of his children to brutal murders committed by Japanese soldiers.

Photo shows the Tydings-McDuffie Act, signing:

Pres. Franklin D. Roosevelt signing the Philippine Commonwealth and Independence Act on March 24, 1934. Standing behind him (left to right) are Wyoming Sen. Joseph O'Mahoney, Secretary of War George H. Dern, Sen. Elpidio Quirino, future president Manuel Quezon, Maryland Democratic Sen. Millard E. Tydings.

REFERENCES:

Commemorating the birthday of Philippine President Elpidio Quirino

https://ph.pinterest.com/pin/40250990407241168/

"Embracing Heritage: Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Month 2024"

 "To honor Indigenous peoples is to honor the roots of humanity itself, recognizing their wisdom, resilience, and contributions to our shared journey."

This October, in the celebration of 2024 Indigenous Peoples Month and the 27th commemoration of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997, the NCIP gears to deepen the country’s awareness and understanding of Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) in the country.

With the theme, “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalan” or “Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge,” the month-long festivity underscores key areas that identifies ICCs/IPs, specifically their contributions in agriculture and food security; their culture and customs and traditions woven in their natural environment and ancestral domains; their roles as stewards of our country’s land and seas; and their leadership role in nation building.

Through various activities, the NCIP seeks to highlight the daily chronicles of ICCs/IPs and their Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSP) and celebrates their rich cultural heritage and traditions; advocates for their rights; and educates and promotes solidarity among stakeholders and ICCs/IPs across the country.  

The activities are in partnership with national government agencies and stakeholders, all in unison to uplift the well-being and promote the rights of ICCs/IPs.

“Samahan nyo kami sa NCIP, para sa pagdiriwang sa taon na ito – sa pagpahalagaan at pagtaguyod sa natatanging wika, mga kaugalian, salindunong/tradisyon at mga katangiang at dunong ng ating mga Katutubong Pamayanan bilang  kaagapay at katuwang sa isang Bagong Pilipinas,”  Chairperson Jennifer Pia T. Sibug-Las. Encouraging all to participate and join this year’s celebration.

The NCIP is the primary government agency responsible for the formulation and implementation of policies, plans and programs to promote and protect the rights and well-being of ICCs/IPs and recognition of their rights as stipulated in the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997.

Observance of National Indigenous Peoples Month 2024 promotes and protects the rights and culture of the Indigenous Peoples, an act which increases awareness about their history, traditions, and contributions. It fosters respect and understanding, advocating for their rights and amplifying their voices in the fight for justice and self-determination, bringing attention to the importance of preserving Indigenous art, language, and customs. It promotes the integration of Indigenous perspectives within curricula and public discourse through educational campaigns while strengthening the partnerships between the Indigenous communities, governments, and organizations. This celebration inspires advocacy, action, and collaboration to ensure that their heritage and identity are honored and protected for the future generation.

REFERENCES:

NCIP NCIP marks Indigenous Peoples Month - Malaya Business Insight. (2024, October 1). Malaya Business Insight. https://malaya.com.ph/business/marketing-board/ncip-marks-indigenous-peoples-month/

https://ph.pinterest.com/pin/199495458487316141/

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"Facing Environmental Crisis: Challenges for Filipinos"

 "The Earth is not a gift from our ancestors, but a loan from our children." — Native American Proverb

    Climate change is having serious impacts in the Philippines such as increased frequency and severity of natural disasters, sea level rise, extreme rainfall, resource shortages, and environmental degradation. All of these impacts together have greatly affected the Philippines' agriculture, water, infrastructure, human health, and coastal ecosystems and they are projected to continue having devastating damages to the economy and society of the Philippines.

   According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the Philippines is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. The archipelago is situated along the Pacific Ocean's typhoon belt, leaving the country vulnerable to around 20 typhoons each year, a quarter of which are destructive. The December 2021 typhoon known colloquially as Typhoon Odette caused around a billion dollars (₱51.8 billion) in infrastructure and agricultural damages and displaced about 630,000 people. The United Nations estimated that Typhoon Odette impacted the livelihoods of 13 million people, destroying their homes and leaving them without adequate food or water supplies. More tragically, the physical and economic repercussions of Typhoon Odette led to the death of over 400 people as of December 2021.

   In addition to the Philippines' close proximity to the Pacific Ocean's typhoon belt, the Philippines is also located within the "Pacific Ring of Fire" which makes the country prone to recurrent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Compounding these issues, the impacts of climate change, such as accelerated sea level rise, exacerbate the state's high susceptibility to natural disasters, like flooding and landslides. Aside from geography, climate change impacts regions with a history of colonization more intensely than regions without a history of colonization. Colonized regions experience the repercussions of climate change most jarringly "because of their high dependence on natural resources, their geographical and climatic conditions and their limited capacity to effectively adapt to a changing climate." Since low-income countries have a history of colonialism and resource exploitation, their environment lacks the diversity necessary to prevail against natural disasters. A lack of biodiversity reduces the resilience of a specific region, leaving them more susceptible to natural disasters and the effects of climate change. With its history of Spanish colonization, the Philippines is not environmentally nor economically equipped to overcome issues it is currently dealing with, such as natural disasters and climate change. This inability to recover exacerbates the problem, creating a cycle of environmental and economic devastation in the country.

REFERENCES:

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https://ph.pinterest.com/pin/986006912163082474/

https://ph.pinterest.com/pin/823103269394810336/

WikipWikipedia contributors. (2024b, October 31). Climate change in the Philippines. Wikipedia. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Climate_change_in_the_Philippines?f_link_type=f_inlinenote&need_sec_link=1&sec_link_scene=im