A Fresh Start and New Beginnings

 The start of a new year always feels magical—a chance to close one chapter and begin another. It’s a time of hope, reflection, and setting intentions for the future. This year, I approached the New Year with excitement and optimism, ready to embrace what’s ahead.

The days leading up to New Year’s Eve were buzzing with activity. We prepared a table of round fruits, a Filipino tradition said to bring prosperity, and hung up vibrant decorations to set a festive mood.

One of my favorite parts of the preparation was planning our Media Noche feast. My mom and I debated over which dishes to include. The anticipation of gathering around the table and celebrating together added to the excitement.

When New Year’s Eve arrived, the air was filled with joy and laughter. As the clock ticked closer to midnight, we gathered for Media Noche. The table was a beautiful spread of food, symbolizing abundance and gratitude. My family shared stories and laughter as we waited for the countdown.

At the stroke of midnight, the sky exploded with color as fireworks lit up the neighborhood. And before it stroke midnight, I tried the 12 grapes un the table trend, it's said to bring good luck—while others banged on pots and pans to chase away bad luck. It was a vibrant and joyful way to welcome the New Year.

This New Year, one of the most memorable moments was an singing with my family in the living room.

Another highlight was a heartfelt video call with our relatives abroad. Even though we were miles apart, sharing wishes and seeing their smiles made the celebration feel complete.

Looking back, the past year was filled with both challenges and triumphs. There were moments of doubt and uncertainty, but also times of growth and discovery. I’m proud of the small victories I achieved, from overcoming difficult tasks in school to building stronger relationships with my family and friends.

One lesson I carry with me is the importance of resilience and gratitude. Even in tough times, there were always reasons to be thankful.

Reference:

New Year. Wilstar. (2023, February 17). https://wilstar.com/holidays/newyear/

A Heartwarming Christmas: My Holiday Experience

The main purpose of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ and to give thanks for the love, hope and joy found in Jesus, but, Christmas is also the time when we have family gatherings, having fun with our loved one,giving gifts, and eating together at Christmas Eve. 

The days leading up to Christmas are always filled with excitement in our house. We began decorating early, putting up a Christmas tree adorned with twinkling lights, shiny ornaments, and a star on top.

My mom, sister and I planned our Noche Buena meny, lising down the dishes we want to eat, and we even went to our church to attend our Sambang Gabi; our Sambang Gabi is different from what Catholics have, we will go to our church at Christmas Eve and worship the Lord, then listen to the preaching of the gospel.

On Christmad Eve, our family gathered for Noche Buena. The table was a feast of delicious dishes we prepared. The highligh of Christmas Day was rueniting with extended family. We shared funny stories, and indulged in another round of festive food.

While this Christmas was filled with joy, it wasn't without its challenges: but, through these challenges, I learned that the true esesence of Christmas isn't about the gifts, it's about love, gratitude, and the joys of being with the family.

References:

When was jesus actually born? biblical, historical evidence. Christianity.com. (n.d.). https://www.christianity.com/wiki/jesus-christ/when-was-jesus-born.html

Mailonline, U. B. F. (2016, December 1). So much for the 12 days of Christmas! modern families celebrate the festive season for more than a month. Daily Mail Online. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-3991514/Families-start-celebrating-Christmas-November.html

                                    Reflection on Learning HTML, HTML Tags

As a student, learning about HTML, HTML tags, tables, and frames has been a rewarding experience. HTML is like the language of the internet, and understanding it helps me see how websites are created and structured. It’s exciting to learn how the basic building blocks of web pages come together to create the content we use every day.

HTML tags are especially interesting because they act like instructions that tell the browser what to do. By using tags for headings, paragraphs, images, and links, I realized how every detail in a website starts with just a few lines of code. It made me appreciate the importance of being accurate and organized while coding.

Tables were another highlight because they help present data in a clear and structured way. Whether it’s for organizing schedules or comparing information, tables make things look professional and easy to read. It’s a useful skill I can apply in creating school projects or presenting data effectively.

Frames, although less common now, gave me insight into how websites were designed in the past. They show how different sections of a webpage can be displayed separately, which was an eye-opener for understanding the evolution of web design.

Learning these topics not only gave me technical skills but also inspired me to think creatively. As a student, I now feel more confident about creating simple web pages and exploring the endless possibilities of web design. It’s a valuable foundation for future projects and maybe even a potential career in technology.

 

reference : 

    Sandals, J. (2022, August 31). What is HTML? HTML Coding Guide for Beginners - Coding Dojo. Coding Dojo. https://www.codingdojo.com/blog/what-is-html

‌

The Importance of RA 9262 and Other Laws in Ending Violence Against Women

The 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) is a yearly event in the Philippines aimed at raising awareness and fighting against gender-based violence. At the heart of this campaign is the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (RA 9262), which protects women and children from abuse. This law is vital because it addresses different types of violence, such as physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse. It provides victims with legal help, protection orders, and support, giving them the courage to seek justice and rebuild their lives.  

Other important laws also support the campaign. RA 8353, the Anti-Rape Law of 1997, makes rape a public crime and broadens its definition to include situations where force, threats, or manipulation are involved, even in marriage. Another key law is RA 10364, the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012, which aims to stop human trafficking, especially for women and children, who are often the most vulnerable.  

These laws work together to protect victims, punish offenders, and promote respect for women and children. The 18-Day Campaign highlights these laws, ensuring people know their rights and encouraging everyone to take action against abuse. It’s not just about raising awareness but about creating a society where women and children are safe and treated with dignity.  

Through laws like RA 9262, RA 8353, and RA 10364, the campaign reminds us that ending violence is a shared responsibility. With awareness and teamwork, we can build a community where women and children can live without fear.

reference :

           Skibell, A. (2020, January 23). ‘It’s a real loss for survivors.’ Domestic violence law stalled in U.S. Senate. Wisconsin Examiner. https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2020/01/24/its-a-real-loss-for-survivors-domestic-violence-law-stalled-in-u-s-senate/

 Elpidio Quirino: A Life of Service and Nation-Building

 

Elpidio Quirino, the sixth president of the Philippines, remains a significant figure in Philippine history. While often overshadowed by his predecessors and successors, his contributions to the nation's development deserve recognition, especially for students learning about the country's past. This blog post will explore his early life, career, and key achievements.

 

Early Life and Education: Humble Beginnings

 

Born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Quirino's early life was marked by humility. He came from a modest family, but his parents instilled in him the values of hard work and education. This emphasis on education led him to pursue his studies diligently. He initially attended local schools before moving on to higher education at the University of the Philippines, where he earned a law degree. This foundation in law would prove crucial to his future career.

 

A Career in Public Service: From Lawyer to President

 

Quirino's legal background naturally led him into public service. He began his career as a lawyer, but soon transitioned into politics. He held various positions in the government, demonstrating his administrative skills and political acumen. His roles included being a member of the Philippine Assembly, and later, a Senator. These positions allowed him to gain experience in governance and develop relationships that would be vital later in his career. His dedication and effectiveness in these roles paved the way for his eventual rise to the presidency.

 

Presidency and Achievements: Navigating Post-War Challenges

 

Quirino's presidency (1948-1953) was a period of significant challenges for the Philippines. The country was still recovering from the devastation of World War II, and faced economic instability, social unrest, and the growing threat of communism. Despite these difficulties, Quirino achieved notable successes:

 

- Economic Recovery: He implemented policies aimed at stabilizing the economy, including promoting industrialization and attracting foreign investment. While the results were not immediate, his efforts laid the groundwork for future economic growth.

- Social Reforms: Quirino introduced various social programs designed to improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos. These initiatives, although limited in scope due to the economic constraints, reflected his commitment to social justice.

- Foreign Policy: He successfully navigated the complex geopolitical landscape of the Cold War, maintaining close ties with the United States while also pursuing independent foreign policy initiatives. This delicate balancing act was crucial for ensuring the Philippines' national security.

- Strengthening Democracy: Despite facing challenges to his authority, Quirino worked to strengthen democratic institutions. This commitment to democratic principles, even amidst political turmoil, is a testament to his belief in the power of self-governance.

 

Legacy: A President's Enduring Impact

 

Elpidio Quirino's legacy is complex and multifaceted. While his presidency faced significant challenges, his efforts to rebuild the nation after the war and lay the groundwork for future economic and social progress are undeniable. His commitment to education, social justice and democratic governance continues to inspire. For students, studying Quirino's life provides valuable insights into the complexities of nation-building and the challenges faced by leaders in times of crisis. His story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, progress is possible through dedicated leadership and a commitment to the welfare of the people.

reference :

(2024). Philembassy.net. http://tokyo.philembassy.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/pr-20160608.jpg

‌

 Valuing and Honoring Indigenous Peoples: A Celebration for Students

National Indigenous Peoples Month 2024, with the theme “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan, at Parangalan” (Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge), is an important time for students like us to learn about and appreciate the contributions of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the Philippines. This celebration also marks the 27th anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA), a law that protects the rights of IPs and ensures their culture is respected and preserved.

As students, this observance teaches us to value the rich traditions, wisdom, and practices of IPs. Their unique knowledge, such as sustainable farming, traditional medicine, and their way of caring for the environment, can inspire us to create solutions for modern problems like climate change. By learning about their culture, we not only discover new ways of thinking but also develop respect for their contributions to our nation’s heritage.

This celebration also reminds us of the importance of protecting their rights. Many indigenous communities face challenges such as losing their ancestral lands and discrimination. By understanding their struggles, we can stand in solidarity with them and support efforts to protect their way of life. Simple actions, like joining school activities about IP Month or participating in cultural presentations, help us honor their identity and stories.

National Indigenous Peoples Month is not just about learning; it’s about recognizing and celebrating the diversity that makes the Philippines unique. As students, let’s use this opportunity to respect, preserve, and share the knowledge and culture of our Indigenous Peoples. Through awareness and appreciation, we can help ensure their rights and traditions are protected for future generations.

reference :

(2014). Worldbank.org. https://www.worldbank.org/content/dam/photos/1440x600/2017/jul/Indigenous-Peoples-Myanmar-Meriem-Gray--World-Bank-1440x600.png

‌

 The 2024 National Children's Month theme, "Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines," focuses on the urgent need to stop violence against children. It calls for creating safe and nurturing spaces where children can grow without fear, harm, or abuse. This theme reminds us of the responsibility we all share in ensuring the safety and well-being of every child.

Violence has a serious impact on children’s physical and emotional health, often preventing them from reaching their full potential. Addressing this issue requires a united effort from parents, teachers, communities, and the government. By enforcing laws, raising awareness, and providing support systems for victims, we can take significant steps toward protecting children from harm.

Building a safe and child-friendly Philippines means promoting children’s rights, providing proper care, and ending harmful practices. When we prioritize children’s safety and development, we not only protect them today but also secure a brighter future for the nation.

reference :

(2024). Stairwayfoundation.org. https://stairwayfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/children-1020x642.jpg

‌