Reflection on Growth and Learning

 During the second quarter, I learned various HTML codes and how to structure web pages using different tags. This includes creating hyperlinks, adding images, and designing forms. I also learned how semantic HTML can improve accessibility and search engine optimization. I then realized how important HTML is as a foundation for web development.

However, I faced several setbacks during the process. It was hard to understand and put into practice complex HTML elements, especially nested forms and table structures. Debugging errors caused by missing or incorrect tags took a lot of time and got frustrating at times. Equally challenging was balancing how much time I spent to complete assignments and master the new concepts.

In an attempt to solve these problems, I constantly practiced coding and followed tutorials and forums online for deep knowledge. I also looked to my teacher and classmate for clarification on what was going wrong. I utilized the browser developer tools that could help me locate bugs and correct them to produce the correct code.

I will further improve my HTML skills through more projects and add in CSS to enhance the visual designs of my web pages. I will also look into JavaScript to make my designs interactive. With good time management and constant self-improvement, I will set up a solid foundation of web development and prepare myself for even more complex topics.

Life and Legacy of Elpidio Quirino

 Elpidio Quirino was the sixth President of the Philippines who is remembered as a vision leader who advocated national reconstruction and economic progress following the devastation of World War II. His story is that of perseverance and commitment shaped by very humble beginnings and unwavering dedication to public service.

Elpidio Quirino was born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur to a very modest family. His father, Don Mariano Quirino, was a jail warden, and his mother, Gregoria Rivera, a homemaker. Quirino excelled in his studies despite financial hardships and earned his high school diploma from Manila High School. Determined to rise above his circumstances, he pursued law at the University of the Philippines, graduating in 1915 and passing the bar examination the same year.

Quirino's childhood years instilled a robust sense of nationalism in him and the perception that through education and honest toil, he could set a much better future course for himself. His passion to learn and commitment to excellence formed the bedrock of his political career.

Quirino started serving the public as a member of the Philippine Legislature from 1919, after having been elected as one of the representatives of Ilocos Sur. His outstanding services to improve the lives of the Filipinos led to his election as senator in 1925. In his legislative service, he has been an advocate for reforms on the economy, infrastructural developments, and education.

During the World War II Japanese occupation of the Philippines, Quirino was devastated by personal tragedy with the death of his wife and three children. He remained one of the central figures in the new government set up after the war. During the presidency of Manuel Roxas, he became the vice president and secretary of foreign affairs. When President Manuel Roxas died in 1948, Quirino succeeded him.

Quirino focused on national recovery and modernization as president. One of the significant economic programs that his administration implemented included the establishment of the Central Bank of the Philippines in 1949 to stabilize the financial system of the country. He also pushed industrialization and land reform to service the rural sector.

Quirino's foreign policy underscored the strengthening of ties with the United States and sought international aid to reconstruct. His administration also set up the Philippines to participate in international organizations, reflective of his vision of a globally involved and independent nation.

Despite the criticisms and political storms, Quirino's legacy remains as a testament to his resilience and unwavering commitment to public service. His leadership during a crucial time in Philippine history paved the way for the recovery and progress of the country.

https://www.reddit.com/r/Philippines/comments/sg5194/dyk_president_elpidio_quirinos_wife_and_three/?rdt=63197

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-president-elpidio-quirino-lost-his-wife-3-children-quirino

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/06/27/22/inaugural-address-of-president-elpidio-quirino

Guardians of Tradition

 October 2024 proves to be a significant mark for the Philippines as this country celebrates National Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month in addition to the 27th anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) with the theme: "Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan, at Parangalan" or Valuing, Nurturing and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge. This annual commemoration is a reminder to the government and society at large of the protection to be accorded to the culture, heritage, and rights of the more than 110 ethno-linguistic groups that constitute the country's Indigenous people.

 The observance brings the important contributions of Indigenous Peoples to the nation's identity to the fore. This is because the observance promotes their culture, language, and traditions, therefore deepening the understanding of the tapestry of cultural diversity in the Philippines. This month hosts educational campaigns, cultural exhibits, and community dialogues that ensure that the wisdom of the Indigenous communities is preserved and passed down to future generations. These activities underpin the value of Indigenous knowledge in areas such as environmental conservation, sustainable development, and climate resilience—areas where their practices have been invaluable.

 It also reiterates the provisions of the IPRA enacted in 1997. This landmark law affirms the rights of Indigenous Peoples to ancestral domains, self-governance, social justice, and cultural integrity. The month-long commemoration gives the occasion to review the progress made in the implementation of these rights and address continuing challenges. It helps to raise awareness of land disputes, cultural discrimination, and economic marginalization among the Indigenous communities, ensuring that the stakeholders, including government agencies, private sectors, and civil society, work in tandem to advance the welfare of the Indigenous communities.

 The observance inspires collective action to uphold their dignity and heritage by nurturing public consciousness about the struggles and contributions of Indigenous Peoples. As we honor their legacy this October, we not only celebrate the richness of their cultures but also reaffirm our shared responsibility to protect their rights and ensure their voices are heard.

https://www.amnesty.org/en/what-we-do/indigenous-peoples/

https://aippnet.org/network-asia-niwa-indigenous-peoples-pact-aipp-condemns-coercion-threats-against-relatives-women-leader-bai-bibyaon/

https://www.business-humanrights.org/en/from-us/briefings/protector-not-prisoner-exploring-the-rights-violations-criminalization-of-indigenous-peoples-in-climate-actions/

Vow to end VAW

 The Philippines implemented laws that aims in addressing violence against women (VAW) and creating safe, equitable environment. One significant law made is the Republic Act No. 10364, known as the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2013. This law intensifies measures against human trafficking by expanding the law to include forced labor, online sexual exploitation, and various other forms of exploitation. It penalizes offenderss and provides support for victims including legal aid and medical support, as well as rehabilitation services. This law improves the government's effort in reducing violence to vulnerable groups. 

 Another VAW-related law is the Republic Act No. 11313, also known as the "Safe Spaces Act" or "Bawal Bastos Law," offers a structure in preventing and addressing gender-based sexual harassment in different places, including public setting, workplaces, schools, and other online platforms. It discourages different acts susch as catcalling, stalking, unwanted sexual and cyber harassment, and defines different penalities to hold offenders accountable. The law encompasses the different responsibilities of the government and private sector in ensuring safe environment for all individuals. It also explains different ways in reporting compliants, protecting victims, and promoting awareness in creating a culture of respect and gender equality.

https://www.ajalaw.ph/actsofvawc/

https://www.sixthtone.com/news/1006308

Resilience Amidst Crisis

 

           Climate has dramatically changed the environment in the Philippines and exposed millions of Filipinos to its impacts. The country is situated in the Pacific Typhoon Belt, where it is exposed to approximately 20 storms every year, some of which become destructive typhoons, such as Yolanda, the super typhoon that occurred in 2013. Rising global temperatures fuel storms and disrupt weather patterns, making these storms stronger and more destructive. These disasters result in loss of lives, property destruction, and displacement of communities. And of course, there are more Filipinos caught in a vicious cycle of rebuilding and recovery. This is not only an existential threat to coastal communities due to flooding but also causes saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources and agricultural lands, threatening food security and livelihoods.

 

         Another critical issue is environmental degradation due to deforestation and urbanization. Forests, which serve as natural barriers against flooding and landslides, have been depleted by illegal logging, land conversion, and infrastructure development. Once such critical ecosystems are depleted, communities become much more vulnerable to disasters, such as flash floods and soil erosion. The problem worsens with poor urban planning and insufficient waste management in cities, which causes a clogging of waterways and exacerbates the flood during heavy rains. Environmental degradation due to human activities therefore amplifies the effects of natural calamities, making the country one of the most disaster-ridden in the world.

 

         Despite these challenges, Filipinos are amazingly resilient in trying to live and adapt to the effects of global warming. From community-driven mangrove reforestation projects and disaster preparedness programs, collective efforts exemplify the mitigation of risks and building up of resilience. But in order to effectively address the root causes of climate change, these grass-roots movements have to be buttressed by strong government policies and foreign assistance. By prioritizing sustainable development, investing in renewable energy, and enforcing environment laws, the Philippines can chart its way toward having a more resilient and climate-adaptive future.



References:

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.worldbank.org%2Fen%2Fnews%2Ffeature%2F2011%2F11%2F07%2Fmaking-the-philippines-more-resilient-to-natural-disasters&psig=AOvVaw07KaG_r-6qEL8frHitrbtO&ust=1732320909744000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCPDDgb3U7okDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

 

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.netsolwater.com%2Fsolution-to-environmental-issues.php%3Fblog%3D1681&psig=AOvVaw1ORmTgQe0EsDiqZ-4Ck9wa&ust=1732321079275000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCLiZ0IbV7okDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

 

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdattmedi.com%2Fblog%2Fwhat-is-climate-change-and-what-are-its-causes%2F&psig=AOvVaw3eUuHWBjGW4I37MaL8okk7&ust=1732321310075000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCJDnlvjV7okDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

Building a Safe and Nurturing Philippines for Every Child

 

           The celebration of National Children's Month in 2024 marks the theme "Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines" is imperative to fighting the violence and abuse waged against children. The theme inspires an urgent necessity for answering alarming statistics and real-life cases of abuse, neglect, and exploitation oftentimes faced by many Filipino children. It is a call to action to all sectors of society to take responsibility for creating a safer and more nurturing environment where children can grow and thrive.

 

 This advocacy hinges squarely on the recognition that violence against children is not only a personal or family issue but that it represents a systemic challenge that deserves multifaceted solutions. To address this, comprehensive frameworks need to be established that establish education, awareness, and the strict enforcement of law in child protection. Communities, schools, and families have to empower with signs to look out for abuse, respond appropriately, and work in concert with authorities to protect every child. This also involves dismantling cultural norms and practices that foster violence - whether through corporal punishment, exploitation, or neglect.

      

           The theme also envisions an active society that promotes children to regain their sense of safety and dignity. It further emphasizes support for child welfare programs, enhanced access to mental health services, and promotion of the rights of children at all levels. This initiative goes beyond the mere ending of violence to a culture of care, accountability, and active compassion. A safe Philippines starts with empowered communities. Communities that believe in nurturing young minds and bodies so that every Filipino child has a chance to be the best they can be.

 

 

 

References:

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Flessandra.com.ph%2Fblog%2F2021%2F11%2F18%2Fcommunity-childrens-rights&psig=AOvVaw1IHp110k78jLNCqiwmNXiQ&ust=1732237099412000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCLjenKac7IkDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

 

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fpezagenderanddevelopment.wordpress.com%2Fvawc%2F&psig=AOvVaw3lICaR60dN4CD5RHaBehKu&ust=1732237262660000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCNiNn-mc7IkDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expressvpn.com%2Fblog%2F5-ways-to-keep-children-safe-online%2F&psig=AOvVaw1xP7sgbywJt5Kx0zXoI4MZ&ust=1732237359805000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCNi-2Jad7IkDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

Green Steps: Simple Acts for a Cleaner Planet

The planet is the home of all humanity and we are privileged to lend our humble backs to do what we can for it. September is National Clean-Up Month, serving as a reminder for us all to lend a hand in protecting the environment with small actions that have significant positive changes. We go through four simple activities that can keep the world clean and green, and even motivate others to make them a part of their lifestyle too.

Picking Up Trash: Small Actions, Big Impact The path to a better and more clean planet involves dealing with the waste that lies within it. Picking up trash, arguably one of the simplest yet most powerful ways you can give back to Mother Nature. Crappy stuff found in the great outdoors, city streets, along beaches or anywhere ELSE,that can and would become pollution going in our water source(s), harming/irking everything else within said waters. This act not only beautifies our environment but create a social sense of community responsibility.

Watering Plants. One plant pledge at a time for life nurturing the environment watering the plants etc. The healthier plants are, the more disease and pest resilient they will be in your garden, park or shared spaces. Healthy plants, we are told, absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen and purify our breathing air. 

Growing Plants: Replenishing Our Natural World Among one of the most enjoyable means a person can do for the setting is planting new trees as well as plants. This translates as to contributing back more of Earth´s green, returning natural habitats and helping clean the air and support biodiversity. Its power to absorb CO₂ and reduce climate change makes one of the most effective ways to save trees for environmental conservation. The development of such open spaces helps build the green lungs of the earth for future generations as you start planting into fertile soils.

Joining Ecological Events: Honoring Sustainability Getting your hands dirty by having them wet, or gathering for ecological activities like a trashion show (a fashion event with costumes made out of needlework) could help in promoting sustainability. These are examples that shed light on not only the literal beauty in trash, but also show how form and function combine with sustainability to make our environment look good. We remind others of the ways in which they can partake in or witness these activities, to inspire them towards a more sustainable world.

It is a shared obligation to save nature and, often small deeds go a long way. Collecting trash, watering plants, planting trees and involving yourself in eco-friendly activities would have a lasting impact. This National Clean-Up Month, continue to find ways for a causer planet with a healthier environment.