Posts

NEW YEAR, NEW BEGINNINGS!

Image
  Each new year resembles a new notebook which is bare but full of opportunities. This year, there is a change in approach as I aim to change my mindset and put on the mantra of “New Year, New Me”.  Most notably, I am now taking my health more seriously, especially my mental health. Now, I am determined to create a habit for myself where I will work out every day for at least 30 minutes. It could be yoga, a jog or even a walk, the main idea is to work out daily. Along with these, I will also make sure to eat healthy meals with more vegetables and fruits.  When it comes down to reading and exploring new ideas, I have set my new target to finish one book every month. Instead of screen time, reading offers a range of new ideas, hence, it enhances my thinking. Furthermore, I am journaling and painting for motivation which is broadening my creative vision.  I am more focused on developing my skills professionally at the moment. These consist of taking online classes in my...

THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS IN THE PHILIPPINES

Image
 In the Philippines, Christmas fills our hearts with joy, and the spirit of the season is a fusion of family customs, Christmas carol songs, and religions. It was heartfelt, and so was the way it helped me with some much needed holiday time. There’s plenty of cultural relevance attached to Christmas. Every year, we simulate the event by combining Simbang Gabi with nightly sellouts at mass centers to introduce ourselves as true believers. I may have struggled by being out of my comfort zone with the early starts of 4:30 AM to 5:30 AM, but the faith within and community vibe felt amazing. The masses started at 5 AM followed by delectable bibingka and puto bumbong We transformed our family home completely into a Christmas wonderland. Parols or Christmas lanterns replaced the dullness in every corner with dreams signified and both decorated and illuminated every room there was. To top it off, we hosted our annual – Noche Buena supper on Christmas Eve. Hamon, lechon, pancit, queso de bo...

coding to a better future

Image
This quarter has been a season of growth and discovery, especially knowing the power of perseverance and flexibility. I have advanced my studies, acquiring new concepts and gaining a deeper understanding of science and medical procedures as I inch closer to my objective of being a physician. Besides studying, I was able to separate work life from my personal life and so remain concentrated and motivated. While reading interesting blogs also broadened my perspective while making it easier for me to synthesize and utilize information in the right manner. That said, it wasn't all smooth sailing. Trying to mix academic demands with extra-curricular activities was not easy and there were also periods of task overload which made self-esteem to be questionable. Technical issues while in the online sessions were a nightmare adding on to the pressure and the all too familiar never having enough hours a day to firstly, finish online sessions then start on course work and even study for exami...

Protecting Rights, Promoting Respect: RA 8353 & RA 7877

Image
  The fight against sexual harassment and violence is very important, for it is in the enhancement of human dignity and the rearing of a safe community. In the Philippines, it has been enacted two particular laws: the Anti-Rape Law of 1997 (RA 8353) and the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995 (RA 7877). These laws prevent sexual crimes, protect victim rights, and punish malefactors. This article will discuss their importance as well as their provisions- how they impact the protection of rights.    RA 8353: The Anti-Rape Law of 1997 RA 8353 redefined rape as a crime against persons instead of chastity, focusing on the issue of human dignity violation. It expanded the definition of rape to include acts other than sexual penetration, such as object or instrument insertion, and considered both men and women as potential victims. Cases that are perpetrated through force, threat, or incapacitation by which the victim is incapable of giving consent due to his being unconscious or...

Elpidio Quirino: The Visionary Statesman of the Philippines

Image
  As the 6th President of the Philippines, Elpidio Quirino is of great importance in the country’s history because of his steadfast resolve in the rebuilding of the nation following the war and his subsequent endeavors towards the development o the nation. Quirino was born on the 16th of November 1890 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur and the background from where he started and became what he is, depicts an iron will and dedication to serve others. Growing up, Quirino was born and raised in single poverty yet he always had the willpower to rise above it all. Completing his primary studies in Vigan, he moved on to study law at the University of the Philippines. It was in 1915 Quirino became a lawyer, passing the bar, and devoted himself to serving and administering justice. Because of his strong belief in public service, he became a politician first as a congressman then as a senator then as vice president then finally as president of the country. Presidential Achievements In 1948, Elpidio Quir...

Indigenous Peoples Month 2024: Honoring 27 Years of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act

Image
     Every October, the Philippines celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Month, rich with the traditions and heritage of the country's indigenous peoples. This year, the 27th anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) takes center stage with the theme "Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalan" (Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge). This month-long celebration points out the significance of acknowledging and preserving indigenous cultures, traditions, and rights by the principles that were established under the IPRA. ### Indigenous Rights and Heritage Promotion The IPRA, which was enacted in 1997, is considered a landmark legislation that confirms the rights of indigenous peoples (IPs) over their ancestral domains, self-governance, social justice, and cultural integrity. Observances such as Indigenous Peoples Month would bring these rights to the limelight through dialogue, education,...

Protecting Children: A Safe Philippines for Every Child

Image
  The Philippines commemorates National Children’s Month every November with the intention of emphasizing, ‘Children’s Rights’. ‘Our’ children, dutifully deserve this recognition, enforces them to focus on the theme of the November, aimed at arousing empathy for protection of children: the theme for this year is *“Break the Prevalence, End The Violence: Protecting Children, Creating A Safe Philippines.”*  Children in the Philippines endure different forms of violence in diverse settings, namely at home, school or through the Internet. Most researchers agree that the majority of abuse takes place within the family unit, which is supposed to be the safest environment for the child. This elicits an urgent response from all quarters-parents, teachers, community leaders and the state to intervene and avert the danger. It is equally pertinent to inform families and communities about the causes and consequences of violence and the preventive measures employed in order to stop it happ...