Roman

  This year’s Christmas vacation was quiet and simple. I stayed home for the entire break because it felt too short to plan anything special. It made me realize how different Christmas feels now compared to when I was a kid. Back then, everything felt so magical—opening gifts, playing with family, and soaking in all the festive decorations. Now, it seems more like just another day, and the excitement isn’t quite the same anymore. Most of my time was spent resting, but Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve had a little extra charm, thanks to the food. I indulged in my favorite holiday treats like graham desserts, baked macaroni, and macaroni salad. While I didn’t go out or celebrate in any big way, these simple dishes brought a bit of festive cheer into my quiet nights. It wasn’t anything extravagant, but it reminded me of the joy I used to feel during the holidays. Although this Christmas wasn’t as exciting as I remember from my childhood, it gave me a chance to rest and recharge. I mis...

Violence Against Women (VAW) is a heartbreaking reality that affects so many lives. Globally, 1 in 3 women has experienced abuse at some point, and in the Philippines, the situation is just as alarming. To address this, laws like RA 9262—the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004—were created. This law is a lifeline for women and children who have suffered physical, emotional, or economic abuse, especially from people they trust, like their partners. It not only protects them but also offers legal remedies and support, ensuring that survivors have a way to rebuild their lives. But RA 9262 isn’t the only tool we have to fight VAW. There’s also RA 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act, better known as the "Bawal Bastos" Law. This law makes harassment illegal in public places, workplaces, and even online. It gives people the power to call out inappropriate behavior and ensures there are consequences for those who cross the line. Then there’s RA 8353, the Anti-Rape La...

Elpidio Quirino, the sixth President of the Philippines, was a towering figure in the country’s history. Born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Quirino’s humble beginnings shaped his commitment to public service and nation-building. Despite financial challenges, he excelled academically, graduating with a law degree from the University of the Philippines in 1915. His legal background would later serve as the foundation for his political career. Quirino’s public service began in earnest when he was elected as a member of the Philippine House of Representatives in 1919, representing Ilocos Sur. He subsequently served as a senator and later as Secretary of Finance and Interior under the Commonwealth government. As Vice President to Manuel Roxas, he also held the position of Secretary of Foreign Affairs, where he played a crucial role in strengthening international relations during the post-war reconstruction period. As president from 1948 to 1953, Quirino spearheaded significant...

  Every October, Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month becomes a time for Filipinos to celebrate and reflect on the unique contributions and enduring struggles of the country’s Indigenous Peoples. This year, 2024, carries even greater significance as it marks 27 years since the passage of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA). With the theme “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalan” (Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge), the nation is called to embrace the rich heritage, wisdom, and resilience of its indigenous communities. The IPRA, enacted in 1997, is more than just a law—it’s a lifeline for the preservation of the rights, culture, and autonomy of Indigenous Peoples. It recognizes their ancestral lands, self-determined governance, and cultural integrity, while ensuring their voices are heard in national and local development plans. For many indigenous families, these rights are essential safeguards against the ...

                             The Philippines takes the crown as the most storm-prone nation on Earth and one can hardly argue against this fact with the current climate changes affecting the country. Recent weather patterns even include the recent and worrisome trend that has been nicknamed a ‘parade of storms’ seen in November 2024 where multiple storm systems have aroused. Threats of Typhoons Marce, Nika, Ofel, and Pepito brought heavy rains leading to floods, landslides, and preventive evacuations in different parts of Luzon and the Visayas, signaling the increasing difficulty to cope with the climate. You may also like how, despite all the odds, the Filipinos remain positive and demonstrate inner strength. The Sierra Madre mountain range, known as the “natural barrier” of Luzon, has an important role in mitigating the impact of typhoons when they strike the region. They are also called Outside storm tropic ar...

Every November, the Philippines celebrates National Children’s Month to focus on children’s rights and well-being. This year’s theme, “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines,” highlights the importance of ending violence against children and building a safer country for them to grow up in. Many Filipino children face different forms of violence, such as bullying, abuse, or neglect, often in places that should feel safe, like their homes or schools. These experiences leave deep emotional scars and affect their ability to study, make friends, and dream of a better future. As a student, it’s heartbreaking to imagine classmates going through such pain. We can all help create a safe environment for children. Schools can promote kindness and respect, while students can take part by being inclusive and reporting bullying when they see it. Parents and communities should also educate themselves about positive discipline and show children that th...