From Cobblestones to City Lights

    "The past is never dead. It's not even past." William Faulkner said. A  city that is rich in culture and history, has come a long a long way since it was only a simple municipality, Vigan. It is known for its strong, well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and charming cobblestones streets, Vigan was once a quiet and simple town that whispered stories from the past. The beauty of Calle Crisologo, a popular stop for visitors because of its antique houses and calesas.

   In 1999, Vigan officially became a city. New opportunities for growth and development was caused by the change, but it didn't erase the town's culture, its traditions, and timeless charm. While modern infrastructure and businesses began to bloom,  the old-world beauty of Vigan remained, creating a unique blend of vintage and modern style.

   Vigan shines as a bustling city with new establishments, new and safer roads, a growing economy, all while keeping its heritage alive. Until to this day, Vigan still attracts both tourists and residents who appreciates the balance of history, and modernity. Vigan is a perfect example of how a city can grow without losing the essence of its roots.

SOURCES:

(1) Tewell, J. (n.d.). A street in old Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Northwest Luzon, Philippines, before 1896. 

Flickr. https://www.flickr.com/photos/johntewell/36227106562

(2) Vigan | New7Wonders Cities. (2023, June 5). New7Wonders Cities. https://cities.new7wonders.com/wonders/vigan-philippines/ 

(3) Reyes, M. G. (2024, July 17). Exploring Vigan: a Well-Preserved Spanish colonial town in the Philippines. Tatler Asia. https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/travel/in-its-full-glory

Rewriting Myself in January Blue

    "This is the beginning of forever,' and I'm ready to make it count." Lana Del Rey said. As 2025 begins, I'm ready to embrace, grow from my past to be a better version of myself and make positive changes in my life. One of my goals is to read more books to expand my vocabulary, imagination, and most importantly, to gain more knowledge. I also plan to play my ukulele more often that my Mother got me for Christmas—it is so fun to explore my creative side. And at school, I'm ready to study harder and focus more on my lessons so I can achieve my dream; to be a runway model.

    Another thing i want to work on is being more responsible at home; doing household chores and cleaning my lovely room. I also want to improve my saving skills by spending less on "wants" in life and putting money aside for the future. These small habits will help me become more practical, organized, and disciplined as the year goes by.

    And Lastly, I want to take good care of myself. I plan to reduce on what I eat every day to feel healthier and more confident about my body. I also want to start a proper skincare routine to take care of my pimples, acne, and dark spots, which sometimes make me feel so insecure. This year, I'm focusing on self-improvement and building habits that will make me happier and more confident. New year, new me indeed! I'm ready to make this year my best one yet—Hopefully!

Soft Nights and Festive Lights: How my Christmas Break Went

    Our Christmas Break started on the 21st of December, it was short yet memorable. During our Christmas Break, it was the time for me to break for a while in academics, it was the time for me to relax and enjoy simple yet memorable moments with my family. We spent the holidays together, chit-chatting about random things, and many more. It felt comfortable and nice to be surrounded by the people i really love the most. I barely think about school during the break and appreciating the holiday season.

    And aside from spending time with my family, I made sure to have a quiet time to myself. I spend most of the time sleeping and relaxing, which helped me regain my energy. I also started exploring new hobbies, such as reading books, specifically novels that are somehow related to my life. I finished a couple of interesting stories like "Girl in Pieces" by Kathleen Glasgow and "The Virgin Suicides" by Jeffrey Eugenides. Listening to music and watching films became part of my daily routine too. It was fun to spend some time with myself without thinking about school.

    Also, during the break, i learned the importance of balancing time with family and myself. I really loved the peaceful days when i didn't have to rush or cram about anything related to school. It was simple yet memorable, it gave me the energy to start the new year. I'm so excited and really looking forward to my next holiday.

Behind Every Bruise, A Story Of Silence Longs to Be Heard

 “Violence against women is perhaps the most shameful human rights violation, and it is perhaps the most pervasive," former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan once said. This statement speaks for itself that there is an urgent call to put into place a law such as the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Act of 2004, more commonly known as Republic Act No. 9262 in the Philippines. The law has a significant role in criminalizing various abuses, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuses. This legal framework gives a guarantee of justice and protection to women and children from abusive situations. The significance of this law is very well realized during the annual 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women. This influential movement promotes awareness and urges action against the pervasive issue of gender-based violence with an aim to create a safer environment for all.

    The 18-day campaign leads directly to R.A. 9262, for that matter, since it happens to be an avenue towards the education of the community in terms of what lies in the provisions of the said law and what the former safeguards. It helps that it highlights the harsh truths behind violence against women because this is how survivors begin to seek help while upholding the fact that one has to make amends as a society to effectively stop such acts. In addition, it reiterates in every region that the elimination of violence does not just end there in being able to fulfill the obligation which is already established by the law itself, but rather as a moral duty.

    Apart from awareness, the campaign further encourages collaboration from different sectors: local governments, NGOs, and communities are now aligned in facing and fighting cultural norms that have been so strongly ingrained for such a long time and still sustain violence. The initiative goes very close to the heart of the global human rights movement and has been very well aligned with very important international instruments among which is the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, CEDAW. In such efforts, the Philippines is not only raising public awareness on the issues but is also major contributions to developing a culture in the world whereby everybody values respect for every individual and fights against violence.

    Republic Act (RA) 8353, also known as the Anti-Rape Law of 1997, redefined rape as a crime against persons, emphasizing its severe violation of an individual’s dignity and human rights. This law expanded the legal definition of rape to include acts committed through force, intimidation, or when the victim is unconscious, mentally incapacitated, or under 12 years old. The law even recognized marital rape as a crime, hence ensuring that a married person is not exempted from responsibility.

    The law made rape a public offense, such that anybody who is cognizant of the commission of the crime can file a case. Prosecution could continue even if the victim forgives the offender or drops the complaint. It also provides for other forms of sexual assault, that is, those involving penetration using objects or other body parts, thus covering the different types of sexual violence. The penalty for rape may be reclusion perpetua (20-40 years imprisonment) or even death in capital cases such as rape by multiple offenders or when it results in the victim's death or insanity.

 Republic Act No. 7877, or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995, is enacted to protect individuals from sexual harassment in all types of settings such as workplaces, schools, and training venues. The law targets cases where persons with authority like employers, educators, and supervisors demand sexual favors through their influence. The law holds sexual harassment as illegal, whether or not it is connected to job security, academic performance, or benefits, and whether or not it creates a hostile and intimidating environment for the victim.

    RA 7877 imposes responsibility on employers and heads of institutions to prevent and address incidents of sexual harassment. This law mandates the formation of a Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) which will deal with complaints, ensure proper decorum and formulate clear procedures in solving cases. Offenders may be punished by imprisonment, fines, or both, and those who abet harassment by doing nothing may also be liable. Respect, equality, and dignity at the workplace and in academe are stressed under this law.

REFERENCES:

            Salengalaw. (2023, July 26). Understanding VAWC: Protecting Women and Children through RA 9262. Salenga Law Firm. https://philippinelawfirm.com/other/understanding-vawc-protecting-women-and-children-through-ra-9262/

      Republic Act No. 9262. (n.d.). https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2004/ra_9262_2004.html

R.A. 8353. (n.d.). https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra1997/ra_8353_1997.html

                                              OB ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 18 - RULES AND REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7877 (ANTI-SEXUAL HARASSMENT ACT OF 1995) - Supreme Court E-Library. (n.d.). https://elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph/thebookshelf/showdocs/10/45610

https://isap.edu.ph/news/republic-act-no-7877-anti-sexual-harassment-act-of-1995/

https://hrep-gad.congress.gov.ph/category/homepage/laws/

https://www.dreamstime.com/fist-text-stop-violence-against-women-closeup-man-his-threateningly-closed-off-white-background-image164232645

My Journey and Insights From 2nd Quarter

https://www.semrush.com/blog/html-tags-list/

    During the second quarter of ICT, I gained a lot of new knowledge about utilizing HTML to create web pages. I understood how to format and organize a webpage using simple HTML tags like and. In order to practice creating web pages from the start, I also learnt how to enter in Notepad and save the HTML code. Except that, I practiced on framesets, on table generation, background color addition, and pictures adding along with hyperlinks, to URLs. All those gave me proper well-practices regarding the knowledge of mechanisms inside HTML and the use inside which easy and efficient web pages might get designed.

    While learning these skills, I faced some difficulties. One of the major problems was proper usage of some tags, especially when using multiples together: framesets and tables. Sometimes it would not load the page as it should, and I wouldn't know why. For a while it was really tough to debug my own code because the lack of or improper usage of tags could sometimes lead to errors that was not easy to trace. I also had a problem in memorizing the different formats of the tag and their application.

    To overcome difficulties, I practiced intensively and divided my code into sub-components in order to check each sub-component step by step. In that way, this has improved my ability to identify and correct errors. If I was not clear on something, I'd ask my teacher or friends for their help or follow online tutorials or guides to clear my doubts.

    These resources made learning easier and helped me overcome my problems. I learned that one can't be perfect; he must make mistakes to learn from each mistake and improve himself. I will learn more about web development. Of course, the practice will continue, but this time using even more HTML tags to build creative and well-designed web pages, learning about CSS and JavaScript to make my pages even more interesting and interactive. I am confident that with continued practice and patience, I will be able to design and code better web pages. I like the idea of continuing to learn and improve my ICT skills.      

A President's Rise and Fall: Elpidio Quirino's Achievements and the Golden Arinola Controversy

    

    Elpidio Quirino was born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. He was a big figure in Philippine politics and the 6th President of the Philippines. He passed the bar in 1915 after his graduation in law at the University of the Philippines before he entered politics. Early in his career, he did legislative work as congressman and later senator. Quirino joined the resistance movement against the Japanese military forces during World War II and lost his family to the war.

    As president, Quirino focused on reconstructing the country post-war. He rebuilt the infrastructure and the economy of the country and got immense aid from the United States by initiating some major social reforms like land distribution and improvement in education. Quirino furthered international relations, particularly with the U.S., knowing that the Philippines depended upon a strong foreign relation as one of the stabilizers for the country.

    However, the "Golden Arinola Scandal" marred Quirino's administration, a very controversial issue when it was known that one of the expensive gifts he received was a golden chamber pot, or arinola. These gifts were reportedly from businessmen who wanted government favors. This situation opened doors to graft allegations, especially at a time when the Philippines was still recovering from the pains of war and economic losses. Even with claims of innocence, Quirino proclaimed that he did not know what the gift was; the scandal tarnished his reputation and public perception became ever so skeptical of his administration.

    Despite these difficulties, the Quirino administration has been remembered as one who made great efforts to rebuild and lay down the foundation of the country in its effort to develop in the long run. He was a very instrumental part of rebuilding this country to stabilize it after the war. Still, the Golden Arinola scandal remains an important part of his legacy which typifies the problem of perceived extravagance and corruption in the government.

REFERENCES:

          ABS-CBN News. (2024, October 31). Inaugural address of President Elpidio Quirino, December 30, 1949 | ABS-CBN News. ABS-CBN. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/06/27/22/inaugural-address-of-president-elpidio-quirino

             

              Today in Philippine History, November 8, 1949, sitting Chief Executive Elpidio Quirino was elected formally as  president. (2011, November 8). The Kahimyang Project. https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/734/today-in-philippine-history-november-8-1949-sitting-chief-executive-elpidio-quirino-was-elected-formally-as-president

            Who was Elpidio Quirino? Everything You Need to Know. (n.d.). https://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/elpidio-quirino-10505.php

             

            Camus, M. (2024, April 24). Elpidio Quirino (1890–1956): the 6th President of the Philippines. SINAUNANGPANAHON. https://sinaunangpanahon.com/elpidio-quirino-the-6th-president-of-the-philippines/

Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Strengthening Their Rights

         

                                                [2]                                                                   [1]

           Every 10th month, National Indigenous People Month 2024, is the time to support the rights, culture, and traditions of the Indigenous communities here in the Philippines. This year is also the 27th year anniversary of the IPRA: A law that upholds the rights of the IPs over their ancestral lands, self-determination, and culture heritage. The theme "Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalan" speaks of respect and support to the people and their societies.

          This will assist in sustaining and conserving Indigenous rights by educating people about their culture. Some of the functions, like cultural performance, art display, and dialogue, will be a move forward to the understanding and appreciation of the traditions and wisdom from the Indigenous communities. For example, their way of handling the environment is very educative concerning sustainability. The shared experience of people will be appreciative and respectful of Indigenous culture that could reduce discrimination or even criticism.

          And finally, this is a celebration to honor the indigenous people and their identity. They share this with others in music, dances, and stories. It ensures their culture remains alive while the youth in their community remain proud of their origins. The theme reminds each of us to take care and be worthy of their knowledge for their sake as well as future generations.

          This is to give respect and support to Indigenous communities since this raises awareness, protects their rights, and celebrates the culture. This reminds everybody of their wisdom and traditions as the identity of the Philippines, being protected for years to come.

REFERENCES:

             [1] QueenaPadron. (2021, December 24). GEE2- Philippine Indigenous Communities - QueenaPadron - Medium. Medium. https://queenapadron02929.medium.com/gee2-philippine-indigenous-communities-1bdfa2fadd9

             [2] Empowering the indigenous people through social enterprise | British Council. (n.d.). https://www.britishcouncil.ph/programmes/society/magazine/empowering-indigenous-people

                          

                          The Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997 (Republic Act No. 8371). (n.d.). https://www.wipo.int/tk/en/databases/tklaws/articles/article_0017.html

                        Busybee. (n.d.). National Commission on Indigenous Peoples. www.foi.gov.ph. https://www.foi.gov.ph/agencies/ncip/

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

Crhm. (2018, January 2). Gallup: Filipinos, happiest in 2017. Crossroads Hostel Manila. https://www.crossroadshostelmanila.com/2018/01/02/gallup-filipinos-happiest-in-2017/

    The Celebration of National Children's Month in 2024 reminds one of how crucial it is to protect children and keep them safe. This year's theme, "Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines," calls everyone together to stop violence and abuse against children. Here, it puts forth stronger actions towards a right protection of children and making the country safer and able to provide healthy surroundings for growth, learning, and thriving for children.

    There exist forms of violence against children; such examples include physical harm, emotional abuse, or even neglect. All these take place in places that are usually regarded as the safest, for instance, within schools and communities where the child resides. By raising awareness about these issues, the celebration encourages individuals, families, and organizations to take responsibility for creating environments where children feel secure and respected. All people contribute to creating a society that raises children's rights.

    In fact, this theme inspires hope for a better future of the Filipino children. By breaking the cycle of violence, we give them the opportunity to dream and reach their full potential. A safe environment allows children to focus on their education, develop healthy relationships, and contribute positively to society. Protecting these children today promises a brighter and stronger Philippines tomorrow. Let this be the month that calls out the best of us all, to stand up together for the well-being of every child.

Climate Change and Resiliency of Filipinos.

    

Climate crisis. (n.d.). https://serp-p.pids.gov.ph/feature/public/index-view?feauredtype_id=1&slug=climate-crisis

    Climate change, one of the biggest problem filipino’s are suffering right now. It causes strong typhoons—recently, there are 4 typhoons that passed the philippines—and rising of sea levels. These changes affects the life of filipino’s, especially those leaving near the ocean or sea, and areas that are prone to flooding. Climate change occurs when abusing and taking earth for granted, such as cutting too much trees, using too much plastic, and relying on dirty fuels like coal and oil.

    One reason the environment is changing is deforestation, where trees are cut or removed to make new cities, roads, and etc. Trees help us balance the climate and protect us from floods and landslides such as the sierra madre mountain range that is full of trees. Another problem is pollution—air, water, and land—this occurs when people are using too much plastics or the company is releasing too much waste from factories, which harms the marine life and makes life harder to those people who are selling fishes for money.

    Even with these challenges, Filipinos are strong and work together to recover from disasters. People help each other rebuild homes and find solutions. But being resilient is not enough. We need better solutions, like protecting forests, using clean energy, and learning how to care for the environment. By working together, we can make the Philippines a safer and better place for everyone, even with the effects of climate change.

Our Community, Our Responsibility

Pixabay (2019)

      

    Our community, our home, and our responsibility to   keep it clean and green. This September, we'll celebrate   National Clean-Up Month, by working together, we'll   make a difference. Were not only gonna clean but also   raising awareness about disaster prevention and   environmental conservation.

    Here I am watering the plants because it helps maintain a greener, healthier environment, supporting the ecosystem and air quality.

 

    Here I am cutting grass because it keeps the surroundings neat, reduces pest habitats, and contributes to cleaner environment.

 

    Here we are cleaning the environment of our home to contribute to the National Clean-Up, fostering a sense of responsibility and promoting a healthy and sustainable community.

    Here I am picking trash to help reduce litter, prevents pollution, and protects wildlife from harmful waste.

    So, to summarize, this National Clean Up Month and this World Clean and Green Week remind us to start being watchful about our environment. By embracing clean-up initiatives, conserving resources, and taking-on sustainable practices, we can become better practitioners of stewardship toward Mother Nature. Let's get down to work, shall we?

References:

Pixabay (2019). Community.

My Journey and Insights From 1st Quarter

     The first quarter taught me about the most important principle of blogging: content/posts, and so important dates in internet history-from when it started to how it grew over time. I learned about Internet pioneers and also the Philippine pioneers.

    The hardest part of the course for me was memorizing everything on that internet timeline including the events and dates. It was hard to remember people's names and what they did to help create and grow the internet.

    To overcome these difficulties, I created simple notes and flashcards to help me remember the names and work that the internet pioneers did.

    From now on, I will continue practicing my blogging techniques, digging deeper into the things I learn about the history of the internet. I will make a schedule which consists of study work with important figures in order to better prepare myself with other resources such as videos and articles that might enable me to understand more and make learning easier.