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Chinese New Year is a widely celebrated event in the Philippines, even though the country is not primarily Chinese. This is because of the deep historical ties between Filipinos and Chinese people, dating back to early trade and migration. Many Filipinos have Chinese ancestry, and over time, Chinese traditions have blended with Filipino culture. Customs such as dragon dances, red envelopes ( ang pao ), and eating tikoy ( sticky rice cake ) have become common practices during the celebration. Aside from cultural influence, the business sector also plays a big role in the celebration. Chinatowns, especially in Binondo, Manila, are filled with festive decorations, fireworks, and special sales. Many businesses believe that starting the year with good luck and prosperity will bring success. Because of this, even non-Chinese Filipinos join the festivities, hoping for a prosperous and lucky year ahead. The Philippine government recognizes Chinese New Year as a special non-working holiday, all...

 As we step into 2025, I can’t help but reflect on the struggles and challenges I faced in 2024. It was a year full of hidden tears, moments of doubt, and a constant battle to keep up appearances. I often cried alone at night, masking my emotions behind a smile during the day, pretending everything was fine. It was exhausting, trying to hold it all together while feeling like I was falling apart inside. But as I turn the page to a new year, I realize something important: it’s okay to not be okay. It’s okay to feel lost and uncertain at times. What matters now is what I choose to do moving forward. And that’s where 2025 comes in—a year filled with new possibilities and hope. This year, I want to focus on me. I want to travel, explore new places, and experience things I’ve always dreamed of. I want to step outside of my comfort zone, find joy in the little things, and pursue the passions I’ve put on hold for too long. But most importantly, I want to learn how to love myself again, fu...

  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 ...