A Tribute to our Teachers: Those who shape the future

 

This year’s theme, "Together4Teachers," shows the collective respect and gratitude that we owe to our teachers who shape the minds of future generations. They are our mentors, role models, and guides who devote their lives to encouraging curiosity, building our thoughts and character, and establishing values that we will use in life. 

They are more than just teachers.

 

We should think about it. Behind every successful story of a person, there’s a teacher who saw and nurtured that person's potential, even when they couldn’t see it themselves. A teacher who stayed up late, preparing and reviewing their lessons and took their time to explain concepts to us so that we the students could properly understand the lesson. They are the ones who guide us, pushing us to challenge ourselves and get over that hurdle that we once thought was impossible. 

 

In reality, teaching isn’t that easy. The classroom is just one of the things to consider. Many hours have been spent preparing lessons, creating presentations, and finding ways in order to get the students engaged in a world full of distractions. Many teachers go above and beyond, just for us students, using their own resources to provide study materials or staying after school to provide some extra help, even if it means sacrificing some of their personal time.

 

Despite this, they still show up. Why? You may ask because they see something within us. Those are our potential, dreams, and something that is worth fighting for. Through every lesson, they give us knowledge, values, empathy, and the belief that we can do more than we thought.

 

As we celebrate National Teachers Month this year under the theme "Together4Teachers," let's do more than just use our words. Let's recognize the tremendous amount of love and effort that our teachers put into their work, even though they are often times left unappreciated. Let's push for a meaningful change that will provide teachers with the respect their profession deserves, better resources, and adequate pay.

 

Let's now take a moment to reflect upon the teachers who shaped our personalities, the lessons they imparted, and the doors they assisted in opening. They are the main reasons behind our accomplishments, and they deserve all of our gratitude and support.

Reference:  

Ordonio, Cassandra(2024).[Picture for Teachers].[Photograph].Facebook,Messenger. 

“The Rise of Our Nation, Defying the Odds”

 

 The state of a country’s economy in an increasingly connected world is not just about the “numbers”, but also the strength and status of our people. The Philippines, like many nations, faces many difficulties that put its economy and citizens to the test. Events like global financial crises, natural disasters, and pandemics, show how fragile our economy is and how resilient the Filipinos are in times of turmoil.

 

 

At the core of the Philippines, there are Filipinos who work tirelessly to build a brighter future for their fellow men. From the farmers attending to their fields, fishermen casting their nets, to the overseas workers sending remittances home, every Filipino contributes to the nation's strength and economy. Their collective effort helps drive the country forward, ensuring that even in times of difficulty, the economy not only survives but also thrives.
 

 

The Philippine government has recognized how fragile our economy is and has taken steps to build a more resilient economic foundation. By diversifying into fields like technology, tourism, and manufacturing, the country is less reliant on traditional industries like agriculture. Government policies aim to support small businesses and attract foreign investments that are designed to help communities flourish. Infrastructure projects, such as Build, Build, Build Infrastructure Programs (BBB) are laying the groundwork for development and investment, while financial policies focus on stability that helps protect us from external shocks. These actions are essential not just for the economy but for the Filipinos who seek growth and opportunities in the country.
 
However, the road to true economic stability is not without difficulties. Poverty remains a persistent issue, with many families still struggling to access basic amenities and services. The shift toward automation and digitalization also presents new difficulties, especially for the workforce that still needs time to properly implement and use these tools. If we are to build a future where no Filipino is truly left behind, we need to invest in infrastructure, skill development, and education that benefits every aspect of society. Ensuring every Filipino benefits from this economic growth is just as important as sustaining it.
 

In the end, the strength of the Philippine economy reflects its people. Together, through hard work, innovation, and determination, we can overcome these challenges and build a brighter, more resilient future where every Filipino can thrive.

References:

https://www.investmentexecutive.com/news/research-and-markets/global-economy-remains-fragile-amid-signs-of-hope/

https://bilyonaryo.com/2024/01/08/agricultural-push-philippines-seeks-larger-slice-of-japans-import-pie/food-nature/ 

 https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Philippines-on-verge-of-economic-boom

 https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/06/12/2104975/duterte-hopes-brighter-future-robredo-rallies-unity-independence-day-messages

A letter to our Philippine President: A Call for Action

 

August 22, 2024

Gabriel Angelo E. Peralta

Dear President Marcos,

        I hope this letter finds you well. My name is Gabriel Angelo E. Peralta, a Grade 10 student, and I am writing to you to express my thoughts and feelings regarding the current state of our nation under your leadership. First and foremost, I would like to commend you for your commitment to the Philippines. Your dedication to improving our country, particularly in areas such as economic development, infrastructure, and foreign relations, is truly appreciated. As a young Filipino, I look up to you and your efforts to guide our nation toward a prosperous future.

 

However, I must also convey some concerns that I, and many others, carry. I am deeply worried about the ongoing issues of poverty, corruption, and the impact of natural disasters on our people. These challenges are especially troubling to me as I witness their effects on my own community and family. Working in our family’s sari-sari store, I have seen firsthand the struggles of ordinary Filipinos trying to make a living. Many families around the Philippines work tiring hours yet some still find it difficult to simply live or afford necessities. These experiences and reality have made me more aware of the urgent need for and importance of strong and effective leadership in addressing these issues. Also, I find it difficult not to feel some frustration with the carelessness and corruption that persist in our government. Many communities feel disheartened due to the fact that some funds that are meant for essential services and disaster relief are often embezzled because of corruption. This creates a break in trust between our government and slows down the development of the country. I believe that these problems need to be addressed more effectively to ensure that the government truly serves the needs of the people, particularly those who are most vulnerable.

 

In addition to these internal concerns, the ongoing conflict between China and the Philippines over the West Philippine Sea is becoming very alarming. The Increasing tension, as well as reports of continuous harassment against fishermen by the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG), which continue to endanger the safety and the sovereignty of our nation. One particular report is about a case involving a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) boat, carrying crew members, military personnel, and a journalist, that was attacked with a high-powered water cannon. The CCG has also been reportedly intercepting, boarding, and conducting searches on vessels, seized possessions, and forcibly drove the PCG away.

 
While I appreciate the government and your efforts to maintain diplomatic relations and peace, I believe stand firm in order to protect our sovereign rights as declared by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016. The rising conflict between our neighboring nations cannot be ignored, as the consequences would leave a lasting blow on the safety and health of the nation and its citizens.
 

 Despite these concerns, my love for our country remains strong, and I am hopeful for the future. I believe in the resilience of the Filipino people, and I am confident that, under your leadership, we can overcome the obstacles that we face. I respectfully urge you to continue listening to the voices of young people like myself, who care deeply about the future of the Philippines.

 

Sincerely,

Gabriel Angelo E. Peralta


References:
https://www.blogger.com/
https://www.shutterstock.com/video/clip-17910391-4k-philippine-flag-animated-background-features-high

https://asianews.network/philippines-inches-up-in-corruption-index-but-low-score-persists/

https://media.philstar.com/photos/2023/12/10/1_2023-12-10_21-39-59.jpg

" Who are we, really?”

Who are we, really? Are we defined by what we do, the goals that we set, or the people we surround ourselves with? These are the questions I’ve been asking myself lately. Hello, I’m Gabriel Angelo E. Peralta, and I’d like to take you on a journey, not just through my life, but through my thoughts and experiences that shape who I will become. 

 

As an incoming Grade 10 student here in Ilocos Sur National High School from the special program called “SSC”, it feels like juggling multiple responsibilities. I balance school, help out at our family’s store, and carve out time for my own passions. But here’s the thing: does what we do really define us, or is it how we feel about it? Working at our store might seem mundane or “boring”, but for me, it’s more than just handing people what they need. Its managing and overseeing all processes, transactions, and interactions with people. Every interaction is a chance to learn something new—about people, their patience, responsibilities, interests, and character. It’s where I’ve learned to think on my feet, and how to stay calm even when things get chaotic.

 

 

But here’s a question for you: Do we truly know ourselves through routines, or is it the unexpected moments that reveal who we really are? I often think about that after a chaotic time of attending to the customer's needs or organizing the store. In those quiet moments, I start to wonder, am I just simply complying with tasks, or am I shaping the person I want to be?
I’m not just a student or a helper. I’m someone who is driven by curiosity and the desire to understand the world around me. I also find joy in small things such as keeping my room organized, exploring the latest technology, enjoying my me time, and staying active. People say I’m dependable, but I believe it’s more than that. I’m constantly trying to shape who I am today and who I want to become.

 

 

 So, who do I want to be? That’s the next big question, isn’t it? I don’t have a simple answer just yet. But I do know this, I want to be someone who lives a fulfilling life. My current dream is to pursue the course engineering, though I’m unsure which path I will choose whether it's mechanical, technological, or environmental--- it depends on what syncs with me the most. Whatever I choose, I want to graduate not just with a degree, but with a master’s degree, pushing myself to the limits, understanding ideas, and creating solutions that have an impact. 

Aside from Academics, I would like to envision my family’s small store become one of those “Super Stores”, a thriving business that supports the whole community. I also want to grow into someone who is capable and resilient, in ways that refine my body or skills such as working out, learning martial arts, or continuously challenging myself with sports and languages.

 

Though my ambitions are wide and varied, I do know one thing: I want to leave an impact here in our country. Whether it’s through developing solutions that contribute to solving real-world problems, serving and protecting our country, or creating something meaningful that benefits my fellow men. My end goal is to be someone who leaves a mark on history.

 

References:

https://www.blogger.com

 https://piedmont-ins.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/64ac0b_5999d39121ec42799f862476f0367bb0-768x432.jpg

https://stock.adobe.com/search?k=throwing+graduation+cap

https://ar.fity.club/Philippine-Flag-Wallpaper-By/