New knowledge, New Horizon

     As the second quarter of school year 2024-2025 comes to an end, I have learned a lot of things. I experienced things I have never done before such as coding, specifically HTML coding. Now, I'll tell you all the things that I have learned from basic tags to hyperlink tags.

     My perception towards the basic information of HTML tags has grown as the quarter began. I learned how to use stand-alone and container tags and understood that their importance. I also learned how to change the font tace using the <font face> tag . Adding background colors, fonts and other attributes was fun to learn. It's undeniable and unavoidable that there would be errors or challenges that we encounter during coding. Miss-typed tags or characters, slow internet and many more but it still doesn't change the fact that we enjoyed typing and learning tags that can be used in the future. My classmates and friends, along with my teacher, Mrs. Vera Cruz, has guided me all throughout this journey. Mrs. Vera cruz has taught us everything and my classmates guided not only me but also my other classmates who struggled during the coding. I'm bery thankful of them. 

     Now that I have learned a lesson, it's time to move on yo the next journey I'm about to travel. I know that I did well with my coding and I hope that I will get to use it in the future.

May the new knowledge we gain inspire hope to continue improving our studies.

Her Power, Her Peace

      Protecting women’s rights is very important in solving the serious problem of violence against women (VAW) in the Philippines. A 2022 survey by the Philippine Statistics Authority shows that nearly one in five women has experienced some form of abuse from their partner. This shows why laws like RA 9262 and RA 11313 are necessary to keep women and children safe. RA 9262, also called the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, helps protect victims from different kinds of abuse, like physical harm, emotional pain, financial control, and sexual violence. It allows victims to get protection orders, legal help, and counseling. It also ensures offenders are punished to keep victims safe and for them to achieve justice.

      RA 11313, known as the Safe Spaces Act, was passed in 2019 to stop sexual harassment in public places, at work, in schools, and online. It punishes behaviors like catcalling, stalking, and inappropriate gestures, making public spaces safer and more respectful. The law also encourages businesses and institutions to take steps to prevent harassment and create safe spaces for everyone.

      As we celebrate National Women's Month and the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women, it is important to spread awareness and make sure these laws are followed. RA 9262 and RA 11313 give women the protection they need and help build a community where they are treated with respect and dignity. By continuing to educate and raise awareness, we can create a safer and more inclusive society that cares for the well-being of women and children.

References:

Community-Based Research. (2021). What is CBR? Pacific AIDS Network. Retrieved from https://pacificaidsnetwork.org/research-and-evaluation/what-is-cbr/

Philippine Statistics Authority. (2022). National Demographic and Health Survey.

Google images. (n.d.). [Photo of  women protesters]. Retrived from https://images.app.goo.gl/idM7TvHxUahuLMwF8

Google images. (n.d.). [Photo of abused woman]. Retrived from https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fstclaresmedicalcenter.com%2F18-day-campaign-to-end-violence-against-women-2%2F&psig=AOvVaw3-nsdOSDGpx_dGLVvsqPE_&ust=1733457683144000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCLDryZ3fj4oDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

Elpidio Quirino: The Relentless Leader Who Rebuilt a Nation

     Elpidio Quirino, the sixth President of the Philippines, is often recognized as the architect of the country’s post-war recovery. Rising from both personal tragedy and national devastation, he led efforts to rebuild the country’s infrastructure, stabilize the economy, and promote unity during a critical time in the nation’s history.

     But despite his accomplishments, Quirino couldn’t escape the shadow of the infamous Golden Arinola scandal. According to rumors, including those mentioned in Armando Malay’s article A Grain of Salt, Quirino owned a golden chamber pot and a new bed worth P5,000. For many Filipinos struggling in the 1950s, these items became symbols of a government perceived as corrupt and out of touch. Unlike his successor, the charismatic and approachable Ramon Magsaysay, Quirino struggled to win the public’s affection. Some even say the scandal contributed to his loss in the 1953 elections.

     Quirino’s journey to the presidency began long before the controversy. After earning his law degree from the University of the Philippines in 1915, he practiced law before entering politics. He served in the House of Representatives from 1919 to 1925 and as a senator from 1925 to 1931. In 1934, he played a key role in the Philippine independence mission to Washington, D.C., alongside Manuel Quezon. Their efforts led to the Tydings-McDuffie Act, which set the date for Philippine independence on July 4, 1946. Quirino also helped draft the Constitution of the Philippine Commonwealth and later held key roles in the government, including secretary of finance and secretary of the interior.

     After World War II, Quirino became vice president and secretary of state under President Manuel Roxas. When Roxas died unexpectedly in 1948, Quirino assumed the presidency and was later elected to a full term in 1949 as the Liberal Party’s candidate.

  His presidency faced significant challenges, most notably the Hukbalahap (Huk) insurgency. Originally a resistance group against Japanese occupation, the Huks became more radical under communist influence. When peace talks with Huk leader Luis Taruc failed in 1948, the rebellion intensified. Quirino responded by appointing Ramon Magsaysay as defense secretary, and by 1950, Magsaysay had successfully weakened the insurgency.

     Magsaysay’s leadership and his decision to open Malacañang to the public only heightened curiosity about the rumored golden arinola and expensive bed. Many ordinary Filipinos wandered the palace halls, hoping to catch a glimpse of these symbols of excess.

     While Quirino’s administration achieved significant progress in postwar reconstruction and secured increased U.S. aid, it failed to address many social issues, especially in rural areas. Corruption allegations, particularly surrounding the controversial 1949 elections, further tarnished his legacy. In the 1953 presidential race, Magsaysay, running on a platform of clean governance, defeated Quirino and ushered in a new era, marking the end of Quirino’s political career.

References:

Encyclopedia Britanica. (n.d.) Elpidio Quirino. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/biography/Elpidio-Quirino

The Guardian. (n.d.) Golden Toilet. Retrieved from https://amp.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2019/sep/16/maurizio-cattelan-solid-gold-toilet-america-stolen-blenheim-palace

inquirer.net. (n.d.) The golden toilet scandal. Retrieved from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/source/philippine-center-for-investigative-journalism

Pinterest image. (n.d.). [Photo of  Elpidio Quirino]. Retrived from https://pin.it/52KFRt8Kt

Honoring Heritage and Rights: Celebration of Indigenous Peoples Month

 

     PHILSCA’s celebration of Indigenous Peoples Month and the 27th Year of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) Commemoration, with the theme “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalan” (Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge), highlights the institution’s commitment to recognizing and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous Peoples. This significant event, spearheaded by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), aims to raise awareness about the vital role Indigenous communities play in shaping the nation’s identity and fostering sustainable development.

         Throughout October, PHILSCA will host a series of activities that celebrate the diverse cultures, traditions, and wisdom of Indigenous Peoples. These events will feature cultural showcases, educational forums, and dialogues that emphasize the importance of safeguarding Indigenous knowledge, systems, and practices. By providing a platform for Indigenous leaders, scholars, and advocates, the celebration seeks to promote a deeper understanding of Indigenous rights and the need to protect their ancestral lands, languages, and cultural integrity.

       The celebration will culminate in a special event honoring Indigenous Peoples who have been instrumental in the implementation and advocacy of IPRA. These individuals, recognized as prime movers and champions, have dedicated their lives to preserving Indigenous culture and ensuring its transfer to younger generations. Their contributions highlight the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities in the face of modern challenges, inspiring future generations to continue the legacy of their ancestors. Through this celebration, PHILSCA reaffirms its commitment to promoting inclusivity, cultural diversity, and the protection of Indigenous Peoples’ rights in the Philippines.

References:

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

https://pin.it/4QK4qe8L8

https://pin.it/2gzK0AZFL

Filipinos' Strength in a Changing Climate

 

    It is undeniable that the Philippines is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world due to its geographical location, archipelagic nature, and socio-economic conditions. Sudden and progressive environmental changes, such as intensified typhoons, prolonged droughts, rising sea levels, and unpredictable weather patterns, have become more frequent and severe, adversely affecting millions of Filipinos. These changes disrupt livelihoods, particularly in agriculture and fisheries, which are heavily dependent on stable climatic conditions. Coastal communities, in particular, face the dual threats of storm surges and sea-level rise, leading to the loss of homes, livelihoods, and even lives.

   Several factors contribute to these environmental challenges. The Philippines' location along the Pacific Ring of Fire and within the typhoon belt exposes it to frequent natural disasters. Climate change has further intensified these disasters, with warmer ocean temperatures fueling stronger typhoons and altering rainfall patterns, leading to more frequent flooding and landslides. Additionally, human activities such as deforestation, illegal mining, pollution, and unregulated urbanization have degraded natural ecosystems, reducing their capacity to buffer the impacts of climate change and increasing the vulnerability of communities.

     Despite these challenges, Filipinos have demonstrated remarkable resilience. Communities have developed various adaptive strategies, such as disaster preparedness programs, early warning systems, and community-based rehabilitation efforts. Government initiatives, such as the Climate Change Act and the establishment of the Climate Change Commission, aim to enhance the country’s capacity to adapt and mitigate the impacts of climate change. However, there is still a need for stronger policies, increased investment in sustainable infrastructure, and greater public awareness to build long-term resilience.

     In addressing climate change, a collective effort is essential. Strengthening climate education, promoting sustainable practices, and integrating climate resilience into national and local development plans are critical steps. By fostering collaboration between the government, private sector, and communities, the Philippines can better prepare for and adapt to the challenges posed by climate change, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for all Filipinos.

Reference:

https://pin.it/

J4kTmIUzj

Breaking the Cycle of Violence Protecting the Future of Filipino Children

 

     The 2024 National Children's Month theme, “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines,” emphasizes the critical need to address the pervasive issue of violence against children. This global crisis affects an estimated 1 billion children aged 2–17 annually, subjecting them to physical, sexual, emotional abuse, or neglect. In the Philippines, violence manifests in various forms, including maltreatment by caregivers, bullying in schools and online spaces, youth violence in communities, intimate partner violence in early marriages, and sexual exploitation. These acts not only compromise children’s safety but also hinder their emotional, psychological, and educational development, often resulting in lifelong trauma.

     The root causes of violence are deeply rooted in multiple layers of society. At the individual level, children with disabilities, those from marginalized communities, and those exposed to violence are particularly vulnerable. Family-related factors such as poor parenting practices, lack of emotional bonding, family dysfunction, and exposure to domestic violence further increase the risk. In the community, poverty, crime, and weak social cohesion contribute to unsafe environments, while societal issues such as gender inequality, harmful social norms, and inadequate legal frameworks perpetuate violence and limit efforts to address it. These interconnected factors highlight the need for a holistic approach that addresses all levels of risk to effectively prevent and respond to violence.

     To combat this issue, the INSPIRE framework serves as a strategic guide, offering evidence-based solutions for preventing violence against children. These strategies include the implementation and enforcement of laws to protect children, transforming social norms and values that condone violence, creating safe environments in schools and communities, providing parental and caregiver support to promote positive parenting, strengthening economic opportunities to reduce poverty-related risks, ensuring access to comprehensive response services for affected children, and fostering education and life skills to empower children and equip them with the tools to protect themselves. By adopting and integrating these measures, the Philippines can make significant strides towards creating a society where children are safe, valued, and given the opportunity to reach their full potential without the shadow of violence.

References:

(1) Global prevalence of past-year violence against children: a systematic review and minimum estimates. Hillis S, Mercy J, Amobi A, Kress H. Pediatrics 2016; 137(3): e20154079.

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-children

https://medlineplus.gov/childabu

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