Once, Still, Yet

    A new year brings with it the chance to leave behind the things that no longer serve you. It's like a reset button. Are you ready to hit it?

    As I look back on the year that has passed, I can’t ignore how challenging it was. It wasn’t easy—I was my own worst enemy, trapped by the voices in my head that told me I wasn’t good enough and I let those whispers consume me. Every small mistake felt like a heavy burden, and every day felt like a battle. But despite all of that, I made it out.

    This year, I choose to be better—not better than anyone else, but better than the version of myself I was before. I want to silence the doubts in my mind and believe in myself more. I want to face life’s challenges with courage, not fear, and remind myself that I am capable of more than I think.

    To do this, I’m starting with practical changes. Balance will be my starting point—between academics and self improvement, between productivity and rest. Last year, I often neglected my own needs, and I’ve realized the heavy cost it had on me. This year, I’ll prioritize my mental and physical well-being. I’ll focus on healthier habits, like maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, eating better, and allowing myself to pause and recharge. Instead of dwelling on small problems, I’ll find better ways to resolve them and move forward. This isn’t just about working harder; it’s about working smarter, knowing when to push myself and when to give myself permission to rest.

    Above all, I will be gentle with myself. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, and I need to embrace the imperfections that make me human. I’ll be kind to myself, allowing room for mistakes and celebrating even the smallest victories.

    New Year, New Me isn’t just a resolution—it’s a promise to myself to live with sincerity, grow continually, and embrace the beauty of starting fresh. This year, I am choosing to rewrite my story—not as someone defined by self-doubt, but as someone who finds strength in the simple act of moving forward. This year is a canvas, and each decision adds a stroke to the masterpiece we call life. So, let’s make it bold, beautiful, and uniquely ours, because every day is a chance to start anew.

References:

https://www.blogger.com/

Joys Beyond Gifts

    This Christmas felt different but in the best way possible. Instead of our usual routine of visiting relatives, it was them who came to us, filling our home with laughter, warmth, and a sense of togetherness we hadn’t felt in a while. It wasn’t just another holiday gathering; it felt like a reunion—a time for all of us to reconnect and celebrate not only the season but the birth of Jesus Christ, the true reason for the season. The joy of being together, even if incomplete, made the season feel whole, reminding us that Christmas is not about where you are but who you’re with.

    

    The days were packed with fun and energy, with everyone coming together to play games that brought out the best in all of us. Whether it was a board game, a friendly competition, or just sharing stories, the time spent together was a true gift. Each game was a mix of laughter and good-natured teasing, creating moments that bonded us even closer. Our dining table became a symbol of tradition, packed with delicious food prepared with love and care.

    What made this holiday even more memorable was a spontaneous trip to Ilocos Norte. It wasn’t planned, and that was the beauty of it. The spontaneity of the trip brought a refreshing sense of joy and reminded me that some of the best moments in life come when you least expect them. Back home, my cousins kept me away from screens, replacing digital interactions with real-life fun and heartfelt conversations. While we weren’t complete as a family, the time we spent together was enough to remind us of how blessed we are. This Christmas was simple yet unforgettable—a reminder that the best gifts in life aren’t wrapped in ribbons but found in shared experiences, love, and faith.

References:

https://www.blogger.com/

Coding My Way Forward (REFLECTION)

    I gained new skills this quarter by learning the basics of HTML coding. I learned how to make web pages with heading, paragraph, picture, and link tags. I found myself appreciating the logic and organization behind each command as I observed these elements come together to create an organized layout. I learned the value of paying attention to details from this practical experience because even the smallest error could have a big impact on the result. Every victory, no matter how minor, seemed like an outstanding achievement.

    This quarter was a welcome change of pace, with more focus on coding than writing, allowing me to direct my time into learning a new set of skills. Although the procedure was interesting and fulfilling, I still had difficulties. Sometimes, technical problems like unresponsive computers or malfunctioning USB flash drives got in the way. Even when I was prepared and able to complete my work on time, these issues led to delays and made it difficult to meet deadlines. However, these experiences taught me to be flexible and patient and served as a reminder that not everything is always under my control.

    I took quick action to overcome these challenges by notifying my teacher about the problems. I used my time wisely by going over our teachings again or organizing my next course of action while I waited responses. I was able to maintain my concentration and productivity even when things didn't go as planned thanks to this strategy. I discovered that, despite how upsetting failures may seem at the time, maintaining a composed and positive mindset is essential to overcoming them.

    In the future, I want to be more flexible and organized. To lessen the impact of technical issues, I'll make sure that my equipment are operating correctly and make backups. Beyond that, I'm excited to learn more about coding and go into more complex topics. Every quarter has fresh chances and challenges, and I'm determined to take them with an open mind and a willingness to develop. Every action I do strengthens the base I'm preparing for the future.

References:

https://www.blogger.com/

https://tinyurl.com/2d3s86fm

https://tinyurl.com/yhsb3t6a

https://tinyurl.com/mutjt4t9

SHEltered Strength (THEMATIC)

 

        Within the silence of broken souls and silent cries lies a storm—a storm of courage, perseverance, and voices longing to break free from the cycle of abuse. Violence against women is not simply a problem; it is a worldwide crisis that destroys futures, crushes dreams, and diminishes dignity. However, there is a ray of hope within this doom: the strength of laws that empower, heal, and protect. We are reminded of the urgency to end the cycles of violence and change the histories of countless lives as we commemorate the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women.

R.A. 8353 (The Anti-Rape Law of 1997)

       R.A. The Anti-Rape Law of 1997, or 8353, was passed in order to widen and redefine the definition of rape. This law acknowledges that rape is an assault on a person's very dignity in addition to being a physically crime. In order to ensure that more survivors are protected by the law, the definition of rape was expanded under this legislation to include obligation in addition to physical force. The main difference between the old and new standards is the recognition that rape covers any act of sexual penetration or attempted penetration under pressure, not just the conventional type of forced sexual contact. 

        In accordance with R.A. 7877, sexual harassment is illegal, especially when it is perpetrated by someone in a position of control. This includes verbal, physical, and provoking gestures. Employers and school officials are required by law to set up complaint procedures, including committees, to look into and resolve complaints. Because of this institutional accountability, victims can speak up in safe spaces without worrying about retaliation or more harm.

        The legislation enforces harsh punishments on rape convictions. Depending on the circumstances, the criminal may be sentenced to life in prison without a chance of release if proven guilty. Although the death penalty has since been abolished in the Philippines, it may be raised to death in worsened cases, such as those involving great cruelty or victims who are younger than 18 years old. These sanctions send a clear message that the legal system will not put up with such infractions, in addition to acting as a prevention.

R.A. 11313 (Safe Spaces Act) 2019

       R.A. The Safe Spaces Act of 2019, commonly referred to as the Bawal Bastos Law, takes a strong stand against harassment in all its manifestations, including online and in real-life situations. This law shields women and the LGBTQ+ community against harassment that too often goes unpunished, including offensive messages sent online and catcalling on the streets. The law guarantees that people can go about their lives without worrying about being harassed or objectified in public places, workplaces, educational institutions, and even online.

    One of the main clauses in R.A. 11313 is focused on gender-sensitive education. Establishing safe spaces, addressing harassment, and educating the public about equality and respect are all encouraged under the law. It aims to alter a mindset of entitlement that encourages harassment by emphasizing awareness and prevention. Unwanted advances—verbal, physical, or digital—are undesirable and will no longer be accepted, according to the law.

    The severity of the offense determines the penalty for violators of this law. Catcalling and public harassment are examples of minor violations that carry a fine of up to ₱1,000, a 30-day jail sentence, or both. Serious crimes including stalking, cyberbullying, or violence can result in fines of between ₱100,000 and ₱500,000 as well as up to six years in jail. These penalties demonstrate the law's dedication to combating harassment promptly and effectively, making sure that those who engage in it suffer the consequences of their conduct.

    These laws—R.A. 8353 as well as R.A. 11313—are more than mere legal protections; they are evidence of the tenacity of survivors and the constant appeal for a world free from violence against women and children. A cause that encourages us all to unite, speak up, and defend the weak, the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women is more than just a date on the calendar. Every voice counts, every legislation acts as a barrier, and every brave act has the power to end oppression in the struggle against violence.




References:

https://www.blogger.com/

Republic Act No. 8353: Anti-Rape Law of 1997." LawPhil, 1997,

    https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra1997/ra_8353_1997.html

FAQ: Republic Act No. 8353 – An Act Expanding the Definition of Crime and Rape." Philippine

    Commission on Women (PCW), 

    https://pcw.gov.ph/faq-ra-8353-an-act-expanding-the-definition-of-crime-and-rape/

    

Republic Act No. 11313: Safe Spaces Act of 2019." LawPhil, 2019,

    https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2019/ra_11313_2019.html

FAQ: Republic Act No. 11313 – Safe Spaces Act." Philippine Commission on Women (PCW),

    https://pcw.gov.ph/faq-republic-act-no-11313/

"Empowering Filipina Women Against Domestic Violence."  Pinaywise, 2023,

    https://pinaywise.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/empowering-filipina-women-against-domestic-violence.png

"THE ANTI-RAPE LAW OF 1997" Facebook, 2016, 

    https://tinyurl.com/2a9nwfx8

"Safe Spaces Act Design Campaign: Posters and Stickers"  Women's Legal Bureau, 2022,

     https://wlbonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/SSA-1080x675.png

Rooted in Knowledge

 

        A timeless wisdom that has been handed down through the years like a river of blessing can be found in the center of the earth, where the soil and the sky meet. It can be heard in the wind's whispers, the seasons' rhythm, and the stars' tales. Deeply ingrained in the country, this wisdom is more than simply history; it is life itself, directing, molding, and nourishing those who pay attention. A wealth of knowledge about the soil, plants, animals, and the essence of existence is held in the palms of the hands of Indigenous peoples in the Philippines and around the world.

        The land has long been cared for by indigenous peoples. They have a respectful relationship with nature rather than one of ownership. They realize that, like the people who live on it, the earth is a living entity that breathes, grows, and changes. Their survival, their relationship to one another, and their position in the world are all based on this sacred bond, which is more than just a cultural tradition. The cycles of planting and harvesting, the changing winds, the silence of the mountains, and the fierce fury of the seas are all essential to the information they convey. It is an in-depth understanding of ecosystems, the interdependence of all things, and the respect for the balance of life.

        However, Indigenous peoples and their knowledge have frequently been disregarded, ignored, or even destroyed in spite of this close connection. Their voices, those in charge of centuries of wisdom, have been buried by modernity and the relentless forward motion that frequently disregards historical teachings. Indigenous Peoples Month serves as a reminder that this knowledge should be preserved, encouraged, and honored in addition to being appreciated. We lose the keys to a more sustainable, peaceful way of living when we lose their knowledge. The teachings that could save our world are forgotten.

        This year's celebration theme, "Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalana," encourages us to commemorate and preserve Indigenous culture in addition to valuing it. It encourages us to support people who have coexisted peacefully with the environment, to take note of their wisdom, and to make sure that their legacy endures. In order to remember that the wisdom of the earth is a living, breathing guidance that has much to offer us in our contemporary world, it is an invitation to rebuild a connection with the roots that unite us all.

        We are reminded that we are all a part of a greater story that started long ago and will continue for a very long time as we consider the power of Indigenous knowledge. Knowledge has profound roots that transcend culture, time, and location. They help us remain rooted in the past while pointing the way toward a time when connection, sustainability, and respect are not just ideas but are realities. We must stop, listen, and keep in mind that some of the most significant teachings are those that have been embedded in the soil for years in a world that is frequently devoured by speed and progress.

        Recognizing the depth of their wisdom and the power derived from their connection to the land is crucial for honoring the Indigenous peoples of the Philippines and beyond. By appreciating their knowledge, we not only support their cultures but also our own common fate, recognizing that we are all anchored in the same ground.

References:

https://www.blogger.com/

https://tinyurl.com/7z6vyzjx

https://ncip.gov.ph/news/2024-indigenous-peoples-month-27th-ipra-commemoration/

https://www.philsca.edu.ph/announcement/indigenous-peoples-month-celebration-and-the-27th-ipra-commemoration/

https://media.istockphoto.com/id/1069517042/photo/ifugao-ethnic-people-wearing-traditional-clothes-banaue-philippines.jpg?s=612x612&w=0&k=20&c=2OfEZRpYSLHoCe7lBIEngJLMUoo3Auj3OJol-02Fe4o=

https://www.britishcouncil.ph/sites/default/files/styles/bc-landscape-800x450/public/ph_ipse_03.jpg?itok=r-AwtFQK

https://sinaunangpanahon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Leading-Organizations-in-Indigenous-Rights-Advocacy-1024x585.jpg

Where Quirino Walked

    Elpidio Rivera Quirino was born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. His early life, far from luxurious, was shaped by the discipline and diligence of his parents. Elpidio was taught the value of education and perseverance at a young age by his parents, Gregoria Rivera and Mariano Quirino, a jail warden. These values helped him along the way, which saw him rise from a small provincial town to the position of sixth president of the Philippines.

    Quirino's journey to prominence wasn't by chance. After graduating from law school in 1915, he entered the public service right away, serving first as an Ilocos Sur representative in 1919 before becoming a senator. His appointment as Secretary of Finance and then Secretary of the Interior under President Manuel Quezon was made possible by his expertise in law and government. When Quirino took office as president in 1948, the Philippines was still recovering from the devastating effects of World War II, and Quirino's leadership was essential at this difficult time for the country.

        The Philippines was dealing with severe economic difficulties in addition to the physical effects of the war when Quirino gained office. He promised to directly address these concerns in his inaugural speech. The economy of the country was in chaos following the war, and Quirino's administration concentrated on restoring it. He worked to pass the Bell Trade Act and the Philippine Rehabilitation Act, two laws that were essential for luring in foreign capital and boosting the economy. In order to strengthen the country's agricultural industry, Quirino also worked on irrigation system improvement and the relocation of displaced farmers.

        

    Quirino's empathy and awareness that genuine change comes within communities were marks of his leadership. In order to provide urgent assistance to people in need, he established the President's Action Committee on Social Amelioration, demonstrating his strong commitment to combating poverty and natural disasters. Additionally, his attempts to improve the Philippines' foreign policy established the country as a major actor in world events, guaranteeing the country's place in the advancement of the world.

        Quirino's leadership legacy was not without controversy, as his administration was frequently criticized for the way it handled particular subjects. However, his term was one of recovery, resiliency, and rejuvenation in the larger historical context. The same determination he displayed in his early years in Vigan was evident in his movements along the protracted path to nation-building.

    Despite Quirino's presidency ending in 1953, his influence is still felt throughout the Philippines. His influence on the development and recuperation of the country continues to serve as a template for modern leaders. The story of Quirino is one of unwavering dedication to serving his country, from his early years in the provincial jail to the halls of Malacañang. As we reflect on his life, we see a guy who did not just lead from the top but walked alongside his people, encouraging them as he moved forward. Hope grew where Quirino walked, and his footsteps continue to serve as a reminder that a leader's real power comes from being able to walk with, not above, the people they lead.

References:

https://www.blogger.com/

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Elpidio-Quirino

https://elpidioquirino.org/the-life-and-times-of-president-elpidio-r-quirino/

https://bloomspresidents.wordpress.com/elpido-r-quirino/

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bc/Elpidio_R_Quirino.jpg/640px-Elpidio_R_Quirino.jpg

https://tinyurl.com/4h6jarck

https://tinyurl.com/mrfkhcsu

Resilience Amid Climate Change

    Climate change has a significant impact on the Philippines, leading to increasingly unpredictable weather conditions, stronger typhoons, and rising sea levels. The country is extremely vulnerable to catastrophic weather occurrences due to its geographic location, even though it contributes very little to global carbon emissions. Many Filipino communities are impacted by these changes, particularly those that depend on fishing and agriculture, which are increasingly affected by landslides, floods, and storms. Those who are poorest, who frequently reside in rural and coastal areas, suffer the most from regular natural disasters that destroy their houses and means of subsistence.

    Still, Filipinos have always displayed remarkable resilience in the face of hardship. In disaster recovery, the idea of bayanihan, or community collaboration, is essential, where neighbors help one another out by sharing resources and reconstructing. Communities have benefited greatly from this system of mutual support as well as assistance and training from governmental and non-governmental organizations following disasters. Additionally, local governments are striving to enhance catastrophe resilience and infrastructure, notably by constructing homes using weather-resistant building techniques.

    But resilience on its own is insufficient. Long-term plans for reducing vulnerability and minimizing climate threats are required in the Philippines. This involves making investments in renewable energy, enhancing preparedness for emergencies, and integrating indigenous knowledge into climate policies. The nation can create a future that is more resilient to the growing challenges of climate change by equipping communities with the means to prepare and adapt.

References:

https://www.blogger.com/

https://opinion.inquirer.net/82967/the-philippines-ramping-up-climate-resilience

https://www.iom.int/news/climate-change-adaptation-and-community-resilience-philippines

https://philippines.iom.int/stories/no-calm-after-storm-facing-climate-change-philippines

https://currents.plos.org/disasters/article/resilience-and-disaster-trends-in-the-philippines-opportunities-for-national-and-local-capacity-building/

https://ibtekr.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Case-303_Inside-the-Philippines-natural-emergency-preparedness-program_final.jpeg

https://cdn.manilastandard.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Shopee-Bayanihan-Mt.-Kanlaon.png

https://www.davaocity.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/CIO_3875.jpg