Jerome

This year, my Christmas was filled with warmth, joy, and plenty of meaningful moments. From the twinkling lights to the cozy atmosphere, it was a celebration I’ll cherish. Here’s a glimpse into how I spent my holiday. The festivities kicked off with decorating the house. There’s something magical about hanging up ornaments and stringing up the lights. I spent the afternoon with loved ones, setting up the tree and playing Christmas music in the background, creating the perfect holiday vibe. On Christmas Eve, we gathered around the table for a delicious dinner. There was laughter, great conversation, and plenty of food to go around. Afterward, we exchanged gifts. There’s always something special about seeing the joy on someone’s face as they open a thoughtful present. I received some beautiful gifts, but the best part was the time spent together. Christmas Day started early with a hot cup of cocoa, watching the snow gently fall outside (if you live in a colder region, this part could be ...

Each year, the Philippines observes the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), highlighting the need for society to take action against violence that disproportionately affects women and girls. During this campaign, various programs and discussions are held to raise awareness, promote gender equality, and push for stronger enforcement of laws that protect women from all forms of abuse. The Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act of 2004 (Republic Act No. 9262)  Republic Act No. 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, is a landmark law that addresses the issue of violence against women and their children, including physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse. This law recognizes the importance of safeguarding the dignity and rights of women and children in the family and in society at large. The VAWC Act provides legal protection to women and children who are victims of violence, offering remedies such as the i...

Elpidio Quirino, the sixth President of the Philippines, is a significant figure in the country’s post-war history. Born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Quirino grew up in a modest family. His early education was marked by his hard work and dedication, as he pursued a degree in law at the University of the Philippines College of Law, where he graduated in 1915. He initially served as a lawyer, but soon transitioned to public service, quickly establishing himself as a committed and capable leader. Quirino’s early career was marked by his involvement in various government positions, from serving as a district representative to becoming the Secretary of Finance in 1939.  Quirino’s presidency, which lasted from 1948 to 1953, was shaped by the challenge of rebuilding the Philippines after World War II. He worked tirelessly to restore the country’s economy, rebuild its infrastructure, and heal the scars of war. His administration focused on securing aid from the United States...

  October marks the celebration of the National Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month in the Philippines, a time dedicated to recognizing the vital contributions of indigenous communities to the country's cultural diversity and social fabric. This year's theme, “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalana” (Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge), highlights the importance of protecting the rights and preserving the rich heritage of indigenous communities. The observance is not only a reminder of the historical and cultural significance of indigenous groups, but also an opportunity to promote their welfare, amplify their voices, and safeguard their rights.  A central part of this year's observance is the commemoration of the 27th anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA), a landmark piece of legislation that was signed into law in 1997. The law recognizes and protects the ancestral lands and cultural...

 The Philippines is one of the countries most vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change. With its geographical location in the Pacific Ring of Fire and the typhoon belt, the nation is highly susceptible to extreme weather events such as typhoons, floods, and droughts. These environmental changes have severe consequences for the lives and living conditions of millions of Filipinos. In recent years, the increased frequency and intensity of typhoons, rising sea levels, and changing weather patterns have disrupted lives, destroyed homes, and affected agricultural production.  One of the most predominant reasons for sudden or progressive environmental changes is the global warming caused by human activities such as deforestation, overconsumption, and industrialization. The Philippines, with its rich natural resources, has seen rapid deforestation, which not only contributes to loss of biodiversity but also reduces the capacity of the environment to mitigate natural disast...

November marks the celebration of National Children’s Month in the Philippines, and for 2024, the theme is “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines.” This powerful theme serves as a call to action for all sectors of society to address the alarming prevalence of violence against children, and to focus on building a safe, supportive environment where children can thrive. As we come together this month, it is a moment to reflect on the safety and well-being of the next generation, and how we can work together to break the cycle of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.  One of the most pressing issues highlighted by this year’s theme is the need to end all forms of violence against children. This includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. The prevalence of such violence, unfortunately, remains high in the Philippines, and its impact is often life-long. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, a significant p...