Code, Patience, Progress (REFLECTION)

    This second quarter was spent learning HTML Coding, which was a unique experience for me. Initially, I was uncertain by the thought of coding because it appeared to be something only those with computer skills could do. However, when we began with the basic concepts, I learned that HTML was not as complicated as I had previously imagined. We started by learning how to create sites using tags, and I was shocked at how simple it was to add headings, paragraphs, and links to a webpage. The more we trained, the more confident I became, especially when I saw the results of my efforts on the screen. It felt enlightening to know that I could create something from start using code.

    Learning HTML has helped me in unexpected ways. One of the most important lessons I learnt was the value of patience and attention to detail. Coding needs cautiousness because even minor errors, like as missing a tag or forgetting a letter, might cause the entire site to fail. This caused me to constantly review my work and pay great attention to each and every line of code. It wasn't always simple, and I felt frustrated trying to repair mistakes, but that frustration taught me patience. I've recognized that this kind of focus and dedication isn't only vital in coding; it's a talent I can apply to other aspects of my life, whether it's school assignments, projects, or my personal goals. 

    Throughout the quarter, there were multiple times when something didn't go as expected, and I had to figure out what went wrong. Sometimes it was as simple as a missing symbol, but other times I had to go further into the problem. It taught me how to think properly about difficulties. Rather than becoming trapped or giving up, I learnt to break down the problem step by step until I found a solution. This quarter was about more than just studying HTML; it was also about developing new skills and discovering how they may help influence my future.

REFERENCES:

https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/image-text-wrap-css-html/

https://www.vecteezy.com/photo/8612703-html-code-on-computer-monitor-software-web-developer-programming-code 

Value HER Worth

    A society that is equitable and just requires the protection of women's rights. With these rights in place, women have equal opportunity to prosper, are treated with the same respect as men, and are safe from potential threats. The Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (RA 9622) is very important in protecting women and children from many forms of abuse, including as physical violence, emotional suffering, and difficult times. It conveys an unambiguous message that violence in any form should never be tolerated and is protected by law.'". Every year, the Campaign to End Violence Against Women organizes an 18-day campaign to push for this legislation and encourage continued education, support, and responsibility for violators. It also highlights the necessity of creating a culture that prioritizes women's safety, respect, and dignity in the absence of fear or discrimination. This campaign aims not only to raise awareness, but also to inspire women to protect their rights through society and the system of law.

RA 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995)

    Under RA 7877, work, education, or training related sexual harassment is “committed by an employer, employee, manager, supervisor, agent of the employer, teacher, instructor, professor, coach, trainer, or any person who, having authority, influence or moral ascendancy over another in a work or training or education environment, demands, requests or otherwise requires any sexual favor from the other, regardless of whether the demand, request or requirement for submission is accepted or not by the object of said act.”

    Any person who violates the provisions of the law shall be penalized by imprisonment of not less than one (1) month nor more than six (6) months, or a fine of not less than Ten Thousand Pesos (P10,000) nor more than Twenty Thousand Pesos (P20,000), or both such fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court. Any act arising from the violation of the provisions of this Act shall prescribe in three (3) years.

    The Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995, or Republic Act 7877, is a law that forbids sexual harassment of workers, students, and trainees in all workplaces, educational institutions, and training facilities. Any unwanted sexual approach, request, or action that interferes with someone's ability to get employment, educational benefits, or working conditions is considered sexual harassment. It emphasizes how important it is for those in authority—like employers, managers, and teachers—to stop and deal with this kind of behavior. In both work and educational settings, this is important for ensuring that everyone truly feels appreciated, safe, and shielded from sexual misbehavior.

RA 11313 (Safe Spaces Act) in 2019

    The law covers all forms of gender-based sexual harassment (GBSH) committed in public spaces, educational or training institutions, workplace, as well as online space. GBSH in street and public spaces is defined as acts which are committed through any unwanted and uninvited sexual actions or remarks against any person regardless of the motive for committing such action or remarks.

    The penalty of online GBSH violation is prisons correctional in its medium period (imprisonment of six (6) months and one (1) day to two (2) years and four (4) months) or a fine of not less than one hundred thousand pesos (PHP 100,000.00) but not more than five hundred thousand pesos (PHP 500,000.00), or both, at the discretion of the court. If the perpetrator is a juridical person, its license or franchise shall be automatically deemed revoked, and the persons liable shall be the officers thereof, including the editor or reporter in the case of print media, and the station manager, editor and broadcaster in the case of broadcast media. An alien (foreigner) who commits gender-based online sexual harassment shall be subjected to deportation proceedings after serving sentence and payment of fines.

    The "Safe Spaces Act," often referred to as the "Bawal Bastos Law," is Republic Act No. 11313. It addresses sexual harassment based on gender in public places, online, at work, and in educational or training facilities. By addressing sexual harassment in peer-to-peer and public encounters in addition to hierarchical connections, it broadens the protection beyond RA 7877. All people, regardless of gender, are guaranteed protection from harassment under the law, including vulgar gestures, online abuse, and catcalling. It encourages a society that values equality, respect, and everyone's safety. 

References:

https://pcw.gov.ph/faq-republic-act-7877-anti-sexual-harassment-act-of-1995/

https://prezi.com/p/m51u-m9f0uzf/ra-7877/

https://pcw.gov.ph/faq-republic-act-no-11313/

https://su.edu.ph/republic-act-11313-safe-spaces-act/

A President Who Brought Hope to a Nation

    Elpidio Quirino was the sixth President of the Philippines. He was born November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. He came from a humble family, and his parents taught him the value of hard work and honesty. Growing up, he was an intelligent student who enjoyed reading books. He completed his studies and became a lawyer. Before he became president, Elpidio Quirino worked in the government. He served as a congressman, a senator, and even as the country's vice president under President Ramon Magsaysay. People trusted him because of his honesty and his love for helping others. When Quirino became president in 1949, the Philippines was still recovering from World War II's devastation, and he fought tirelessly to reconstruct the country and improve Filipinos' lives. He established programs to assist those in need, improve education, and provide jobs for those who needed them. One of his most important achievements was the "Philippine Rehabilitation Program," which helped the country's recovery from the war.

    Quirino's efforts to improve education and provide jobs for people are relevant today. Many government programs continue to focus on expanding possibilities for learning and helping people in finding work. His concern on assisting the poor continues to guide leaders as they try to improve the lives of many Filipinos, particularly those in need. Quirino also, worked on strengthening the Philippines' relationships with other countries. Today, the Philippines values good relations with other countries, particularly in dealing with global issues such as climate change, trading, and safety. Our leaders today, like Quirino, are working to create secure relationships with other countries to ensure the Philippines' safety.

    Quirino's leadership serves as a reminder that no matter what challenges we encounter, whether it's rebuilding after a calamity or recovering from a war, the spirit of working together, dedication, and concern for others can help the country to move forward.

References:

https://web.senate.gov.ph/lisdata/2149118233!.pdf 

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Elpidio-Quirino

https://mis.ilocossur.gov.ph/2023/11/16/the-province-of-ilocos-sur-honored-the-exemplary-life-of-former-president-elpidio-quirino-on-his-133rd-birth-anniversary/

https://lakansining.wordpress.com/2020/01/30/quezon-city-the-peoples-homesite-and-housing-projects/03a-1948-president-elpidio-quirino-shaking-hands-with-huk-leader-luis-taruc/

Raising Voices for Indigenous Rights

    

    The celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Month 2024 helps with the protection of Indigenous Peoples' rights and culture in the Philippines. The Ifugaos and Igorots, for example, have rich traditions, including known rice terraces to exquisite weaving. Celebrating IP Month encourages more people to recognize these practices and helps to keep them alive. It's just like bringing light on their past so that more Filipinos can recognize and value what they have to offer the nation.

    Aside from learning about their culture, this celebration shows the challenges they face. Many Indigenous Peoples, like the Igorots, have problems in terms of land rights, education, and medical care. Some still face discrimination in schools and work due of their identity. By knowing about these issues, we may help in lots of ways. For example, we may advocate for laws to protect their lands or raise awareness of their needs. Even sharing their story on social media can help because it allows more people to learn about their struggles.

    Most importantly, recognizing IP Month reminds us that we are all citizens of the same country, and Indigenous people have the same right to the equal respect and opportunity as everyone else. We may all contribute to Indigenous communities by supporting their art, or simply teaching others about their culture and struggles. When we stand with the Ifugaos, Igorots, and other Indigenous peoples, we help in creating a society that is fairer and better for all.

References:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ifugao-people

https://www.remotelands.com/travelogues/home-of-the-ifugao-discovering-tribal-banaue-and-the-trek-to-batad/

Adapting to Change

    Climate change is a topic that is frequently discussed, but it is more than just a term found in books. It's genuine, and we witness the results every day. The weather is becoming more unpredictable, sometimes it's excessively hot, and other times we have strong storms that cause flooding. For us Filipinos, this means dealing with both sudden changes, like typhoons.

    One big reason for these changes is pollution, especially from cars and factories. Every single day, toxic gases are released into the atmosphere, trapping heat. This is known as global warming, and it causes our world to heat up quicker than it should. Deforestation is another reason. We cut down trees for wood and food production, but trees are necessary because they absorb carbon dioxide. Without enough trees, there's more carbon in the atmosphere, and that contributes to the problem.

    Filipinos are resilient by nature. Even when circumstances are tough, we manage to survive and recover. But we must also do more to protect our environment. We can begin by minimizing plastic waste, growing more trees, and raising awareness about climate change. We need to learn more about climate change and teach others about it too. Climate change affects everyone, and by understanding it, we can take action.

 

Reference:

https://www.istockphoto.com/illustrations/climate-change

Defend the Innocent

     "Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines." is this year's theme, and it makes a powerful statement for all of us. It highlights how important it is to prevent child abuse and establish a safer environment in which we may all grow, learn, and find happiness. As a student, I believe this theme is very important because violence can affect anyone and is an issue which needs serious attention.
    
    Violence against children can take many forms, such as emotional, physical, and online. Bullying in schools, for instance, can damage children's mental health and cause them to fear going to school. In other circumstances, children may face abuse in their own homes, which is much worse because a home should be a place where we feel protected. There's also the issue of online bullying, in which young people are targeted on social media, which can have long-term consequences for their confidence and self-worth. Having strict rules on bullying and ensuring that all children feel involved can help to minimize violence in schools. I feel that if students become more aware of these concerns, they will be able to start standing up for one another and reporting any violence they encounter. Sometimes, children may not feel safe enough to discuss their problems, which is why parents needs to provide support and listen. When children feel secure and heard, they can share their problems and find solutions before things get worse. So, parents have a huge responsibility at home to make sure their children feel loved and protected.
 

    In conclusion, this theme inspires everyone to act. Raising awareness is not enough; action is also required to shield children from harm. 

Reference:

https://www.coe.int/en/web/commissioner/-/no-violence-against-children-is-acceptable-all-violence-is-preventable

Let's be Earth Helpers! (THEMATIC)

 

    The necessity of addressing environmental concerns that impact our planet grows with each year. It raises the most important issue: given our current rate of progress, how will our environment change over time, and what does it look like now? Concerns like pollution, deforestation, and climate change are becoming more and more pressing, so the decisions we make now will surely affect how the Earth looks in future generations. This month isn’t just a celebration of nature, but also a call to action—how can each of us contribute to preserving it? 

     

    I have made an effort to protect and take care of the environment in any small way that I can. Watering the plants is one of the easiest things I do on a daily basis. Although it may seem insignificant, making sure plants receive enough water contributes to the upkeep of a healthy and strong environment, particularly in urban areas with limited green space. Watering my yard's plants has made my surrounds more vibrant, providing fresh air, blooming flowers, and a safe habitat for insects and birds.

 

      Cleaning up leaves that have fallen in my area is another way I help. Rather than burning them or letting them damage the area, I collect and put them into a compost pile. By doing this, you can maintain cleanliness while also allowing the leaves to naturally break down and enrich the soil. Simple as the cycle may be, it has a significant impact on trash reduction and environmental quality.

    Last but not least, I always pick up trash that I notice. Trash dumped in parks or on the streets can harm the wildlife around it and contaminate nearby water and soil resources. I consider each item of rubbish I remove to be a tiny win for the environment. It serves as a reminder that caring for the environment involves regular, steady action as well as great gestures. I want to encourage people to take care of the environment and ensure a healthier future for all of us by doing these small acts of kindness.