Heritage of thee, Indigenous Katutubo's Honor and Beauty

Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalan." 

(Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge).

October is a very important month in the Philippines, marking the celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Month and the 27th anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA). This year with its theme, highlights the importance of safeguarding the cultural heritage, rights, and wisdom of the Indigenous Peoples across the country. 

In 1997, the IPRA Law was passed, signifying a landmark legislation that sheds light on the rights of Indigenous Cultural Communities or the Indigenous Peoples to their ancestors, cultural identity, self-governance, and social justice. This celebration serves as a reminder of collective responsibility to ensure that the Katutubos are recognized for their significance and heritage as well as empower our ancestors to preserve the traditions, protect the lands, and thrive and coexist in a modernized society.

The commemoration of this celebration includes activities that highlight the indigenous culture with their knowledge systems and practices, cultural festivals, and interaction between the government, Indigenous Peoples Leaders, and the community as a whole. These efforts and actions amplify the voices of the Katutubos which foster greater awareness and appreciation of their contributions to our national identity. Moreover, they provide a platform for addressing the challenges of the Katutubos such as land encroachment, loss of traditional knowledge, and limited access to services.

This celebration goes beyond recognition, it strengthens the movement to protect our ancestors' rights and ensure that their wisdom will carry on to future generations to guide sustainable development efforts. By valuing, nurturing, and honoring their legacy, we commit to inclusivity and cultural diversity that pave the way for a future that respects and celebrates the unique heritage of each and every Filipino. 

Image References:

https://www.facebook.com/PanayNews/posts/october-is-national-indigenous-peoples-month-pagpupugay-sa-mga-katutubong-pilipi/940628578096080/

https://katutuboproject.org/2014/09/03/ifugaos-punnuk-celebration/

NURT-HER-ING FEMALE EMPOW-HER-MENT

Violence Against Women (VAW) is a persistent issue in the Philippines and around the globe. According to the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), nearly 1 in 5 Filipino women have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual violence by their partners. The National Women’s Month Celebration and the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women highlight the urgency of addressing VAW and fostering a culture of respect, equality, and safety.

Republic Act (RA) No. 9262, also known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act of 2004, is this campaign's central Act or Law. This landmark law criminalizes violence whether it is physical, psychological, sexual, or economic against women and children. The VAWC Act provides legal remedies, protection orders, and rehabilitation mechanisms for survivors which emphasize the country’s commitment to safeguarding women's rights. Its integration into the campaign reflects the critical need to strengthen public awareness and encourage survivors to seek justice.

The 18-Day Campaign to End VAW also draws attention to other key VAW-related laws that complement RA 9262 in addressing the broader spectrum of violence and exploitation against women:

 RA 8353: The Anti-Rape Law of 1997 redefines rape as a public crime that emphasizes the victim's autonomy rather than societal morality. It expanded the definition of rape to include acts beyond penile penetration and removed the marital exemption, recognizing that spouses can also commit rape.

 RA 7877: Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995 prohibits sexual harassment in workplaces, schools, and training institutions. It establishes accountability for those in positions of authority and promotes environments free from abuse of power.

Each of these laws underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach to combating VAW. Together, they provide a legal framework that not only protects victims but also fosters accountability for perpetrators. The annual 18-Day Campaign serves as a reminder of these laws' existence and aims to educate citizens about their rights and the available legal mechanisms.

Through partnerships with government agencies, civil society organizations, and local communities, the campaign highlights the prevention, survivor support, and the continuous fight for gender equality. It calls for vigilance and proactive efforts to build a society where women are free from violence and empowered to thrive.

By commemorating these initiatives, the nation strengthens its commitment to a safer, equal,  and more equitable future for all women.

Image Reference/s:

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ending-violence-against-women-giving-voice-powerless-earthin-lee-kxquc

https://ovcre.uplb.edu.ph/press/features/item/442-how-women-s-month-came-to-be

https://www.shecodes.io/challenge_submissions/2451030/embed

Against All Odds, The Filipino People's Resiliency towards Climate Change

Climate change has become one of the most pressing global issues, and among the countries that are most vulnerable to this devastating change is the Philippines. This is due to its geographical location, situated close to the equator, the country is exposed to frequent typhoons, rising sea levels, heat waves, and earthquakes. The weather has become unpredictable since then, these sudden and progressive changes which stems from human activities such as deforestation, rapid urbanization, and greenhouse gas emissions. For many Filipino families, these shifts in the environment have become a daily challenge especially to their homes, livelihoods and income, and essential resources.

One of the predominant reasons for this change in the Philippines is the excessive exploitation of natural resources. Urban areas have grown rapidly, resulting in deforestation and destruction of natural barriers. Furthermore, unsustainable logging practices and mining have degraded forests and masses of land which leaves communities without protection from floods and landslides. While around coastal communities, experience rapid rising sea levels and salt intrusion that strip families from their sources of income and displace them. 

However, these problems are no match for  Filipino's resiliency. From the typhoon Yolanda's destructive landfall years ago, it is seen in the hearts of Filipinos of how much they bounce back from the adversities thrown at them. Grassroots movements, local government initiatives, and international aid have helped communities adapt and recover.

But, resilience alone is not enough; there must be proactive measures to mitigate climate change impacts. This includes adopting sustainable practices, investing in renewable energy, and ensuring that disaster risk reduction programs are inclusive and community-driven.

The problems and challenges are still present but the Filipino people's enduring adaptability and strength offer hope. By prioritizing climate action and fostering collaboration between the government and society, the Philippines can build a more sustainable and resilient future against Climate change.

Image source/s:

https://www.greenpeace.org/philippines/press/1237/the-climate-change-and-human-rights-petition/

https://greendevsolutions.com/climate-change-in-the-philippines-2023/

Elpidio Quirino: A President of Excellency and Resiliency

Born on the 16th of November 1890 in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur at the Provincial Jail, Elpidio Quirino's humble beginning shaped his determination and sense of purpose. He grew up in a modest family where he worked hard to pursue an education. He then earned a degree in law from the University of the Philippines in 1915 and passed the bar exam that same year which marked the start of his career in public service. His political career began when he was elected as a member of the Philippine House of Representatives in 1919. Later on, he served as a senator, secretary of finance, and secretary of foreign affairs. His expertise in governance and law positioned him as a pivotal figure in the drafting of the Philippine Constitution in 1935. When World War II came around, he lost both his wife and children during the Japanese occupation. Despite enduring this tragedy, he remained focused on improving the country. 

Quirino was the sixth president of the Philippines, he was a notable figure in the country's history for his remarkable leadership during the post-war era of World War II. As president from 1948-1953, he focused on post-war recovery, economic rehabilitation, and addressing the Hukbalahap rebellion. He implemented programs for industrialization and infrastructure development which laid the groundwork for modernization. His administration also prioritized foreign relations that secured international support for the Philippines.     Furthermore, among his achievements was the establishment of the Central Bank of the Philippines in 1949 which stabilized the country's currency and bolstered its financial system. 

Quirino's six years of presidency were notable in terms of post-war reconstruction, general economic gains, and increased economic aid from the United States. However, basic social problems especially in rural areas, remained unsolved. His administration was also tainted by widespread graft and corruption. One example of an issue he had was the Golden Arinola. Furthermore, the 1949 election in which he won, was among the most dishonest in the country's history. Magsaysay was largely successful in eliminating the threat of the Hukbalahap and sadly, this broke with Quirino's issue regarding corruption, campaigning for clean elections and defeating Quirino as the Nacionalista candidate in the presidential election of 1953. After this time, Quirino retired and chose to have a private life. 

All in all, even if Quirino's presidency was not perfect, his legacy is one of resilience, vision, and dedication to public service. His leadership during a pivotal time in the country's history continues to live on and inspire Filipinos to rise above adversity and strive for progress.

Image Reference/s:

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

A Reflection: Embarking on My Second Quarter Journey

      During the second quarter of the School Year 2024-2025, we tackled the use of HTML Tags such as the <p>, <br>, <hr>, <table>, <b> HTML tags, etc., and had hands-on activities to apply them. The lessons this quarter have taught me a lot, it was enjoyable learning and playing with all the HTML Tags and seeing how each file, text, or activity we have done work and come to life. 

     Because of the frequent suspensions during this quarter due to the successive Typhoons, it was much harder to finish all the activities and lessons we needed to learn. Also, each activity we did required effort and focus. One wrong symbol, or letter, or even forgetting the closing tags can alter the look or output of each file. Because of these small but very impactful mistakes, some elements were hard to manage since the page would not load correctly or show the correct content.

                                              

                                                                               

     Despite these problems, I addressed these challenges by putting much effort and focus into learning how each HTML tag should be used correctly in each lesson as well as tweaking and playing with the HTML Tags learned so that I could practice more with each code and consistently learn the correct way of doing it. Furthermore, I always checked my work to ensure that the result was good, and if ever there were mistakes, I would immediately correct them and check my work again until I was satisfied with the outcome. Moreover, because of the challenges I have faced, I did not hesitate to ask for assistance from my classmates as well as my ICT teacher whenever I had issues with loading each HTML File or whenever I made mistakes while using HTML Tags.

    With the remaining two quarters, I will continue to learn and practice the use of HTML Tags and apply it to my daily life. No matter what problem arises, I will continue to bounce back from the adversities and improve myself while enjoying and having fun.

Image Reference/s:

https://images.app.goo.gl/QVGpb4F2PSH7KKah8

An Environment Where Youth is Safe and Free, Violence Ends its Occupancy

 

The 2024 National Children's Month Celebration: 

"Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines."

This celebration capitulates the importance of children's rights, freedom, safety, sheds light on children's issues, and celebrates their significance to society. This month-long event was established in 1989 to emphasize the importance of child welfare and highlight the need for comprehensive programs and policies supporting Filipino children's well-being which serves as a call to action for the protection of children from physical, mental, and emotional abuse and neglect.

A child is part of the population, we show them that they are loved and cared for by shielding them from the harmful world we live in. We must see the world for what it is and we must work together to prevent abuse and neglect to our future generations. We must educate and advocate about children's rights and that even they deserve an environment wherein they do not need to worry about their safety being compromised and they have the freedom to be children without worry. Furthermore, it is also important that we implement stricter laws and improve our system to protect children and hold those predators accountable for their actions. 

By doing so, an environment where youth is safe and free, violence ends its occupancy. 

Image Reference:

https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/international-childrens-day/

Let's Clean-Up and Blog!

    September is National Clean-Up Month. On September 17 to 23 every year, it is the World Clean and Green Week. It aims for the protection of the environment by shedding light on environmental problems that need to be eradicated, inspiring the community to lead an environmentally conscious lifestyle. As students and members of the community, for the environment to blossom and thrive, we are responsible for keeping the environment clean and pampered with love and care to shield it from the negative effects.                                  

                                      

Here's what I did and what you can do to contribute to the protection and preservation of the environment:

1. Waste Segregation - Segregating waste reduces pollution and lessens harm to humans and animals. 

2. Planting - Trees and plants protect us from heavy rains and floods as well as provide the air we breathe, fighting climate change.

3. Educate and Advocate - Understand the importance of the environment and advocate it to others in the community.

4. Coastal Clean Up - Whenever at a beach, try to be mindful on where to put your waste and observe cleanliness.

     It is in our hands to take care of and change the environment we live in, One Day or Day One! 

Image Reference/s:

Lake. 

https://pin.it/246Zq3oJ4

Climate change. 

https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/shot-of-a-group-of-people-protesting-climate-change-gm1397818462-452134558