The Resilience of Filipinos Amidst Climate Change

In the Philippines, climate change isn’t a distant concept, it’s a daily struggle. From typhoons growing stronger to cities flooding after just a few hours of rain, it’s clear that the environment is changing rapidly. What’s causing these problems? Deforestation, plastic pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions play a major role. But for many Filipinos, the biggest challenge is how these disasters hit the most vulnerable communities which are those with fewer resources to recover.

But if there’s one thing Filipinos are known for, it’s our resilience. After every storm, we see neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers stepping up, and communities coming together to rebuild. This spirit of "bayanihan" or as we call it working hand in hand, which shows that no matter how tough things get, we don’t back down. Still, we have to ask ourselves: How can we move beyond simply enduring these challenges? Is there a way to protect not just ourselves, but future generations, from the worsening impacts of climate change?

The good news is that solutions are within reach, and they start with the actions we take today. For example, planting trees in our own backyards or local parks not only helps fight climate change, but also improves air quality for everyone. In areas prone to flooding, simple steps like clearing drainage systems and planting vegetation along riverbanks can reduce damage during typhoons. While these may seem like small acts, when done together, they help create a long-lasting impact that helps future generations.

Education is another factor in dealing with climate change. When children grow up learning about climate change and its effects, they become knowledgeable on what to act. Parents and educators can teach not just the science of climate change, but also the value of protecting what we have. Because let’s face it the fight against climate change isn’t just about big policies or international agreements, it’s about the choices we make every day big or small.

In the end, resilience isn’t just about surviving the next storm. It’s about thriving in the face of uncertainty and ensuring a brighter, greener future for all. What role will you play in this fight for our planet and our people?

References:
www.blogger.com
https://www.afd.fr/sites/afd/files/styles/visuel_principal/public/2022-07-02-40-48/philippines-finance-climat.JPG?itok=WNlVLnZR
https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wsj.com%2Fvideo%2Fphilippines-requests-help-as-death-toll-rises%2FF456399E-83E7-4CB2-911A 970F1C097EC8%3FstartPosition%3D%257Bseek_to_second_number%257D&psig=AOvVaw2376PNyQrgryDRW66W1kQ&ust=1732201293991000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCOjY9OiW64kDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAg
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https://youthtoday.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/13/2022/06/Latino-activism-leads-in-grassroot-efforts-on-climate-change-771x514.jpg

Breaking the Chains of the past for the future of our children

 

We celebrate National Children’s Month every November as it serves as a reminder to us all about the responsibility we possess regarding the children's welfare, Filipino children to be specific. In this year, the theme is “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines,” the message called for the daily violence that children live with to be brought into the limelight. Bullying in schools and various forms of emotional abuse are major issues that not only need to be addressed but are also growing problems that require immediate attention.

 For most of us, it is easy to forget that violence occurs in many other forms other than physical violence. What goes on inside the head of a child who feels hopeless to express what is going on in their life, be it shame or fear? These forms of abuse are often not visible but are present and may affect these children s lives forever, being reactive or inactive. 

This is why in this month’s theme reminds us of the responsibility we all share: that there’s work to be done. No matter the role, a parent, a teacher or even a student, every person has to play a part. It can even be as easy as listening, reporting, or teaching the children about the rights that they ought to have but don’t have due to ignorance. 

 Ending violence is not just stopping the violence, it is the creation of a society where every child is appreciated, every child is secured and every child is listened to. Schools can be at the forefront by initiating programs and campaigns on children’s rights, communities can foster safety, and parents can introduce or try positive disciplinary measures that foster respect and understanding. 

As we continue with National Children’s Month, it’s important to ask ourselves how we can help solve this problem. Everybody has a role in building the world where our children are safe from harm and free to grow up without fear. The responsibility is on us, for the future of all Filipino children. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and create a brighter, safer tomorrow for the next generation.

References:

www.blogger.com

https://depedsarangani.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/National-Childrens-Month-Cover-Photo-small-700x300.png

https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR3V_KAIy5F_oP5DE-2IhOQvTy2QrxgzxxNGmvf3XspCYMafp5n

"Together for a Cleaner Tomorrow!"

 

Have you ever stopped to think about the legacy we’re leaving for future generations? In a world where mountains of trash tower over our majestic landscapes, the question isn't just how we can make a difference—it's how we must make a difference. Our planet is crying out for help, and it starts with each one of us acting, no matter how small.
 
As we dive into National Clean-Up Month, we must remember that the problem of waste isn't just something happening far away; it's in our backyards, schools, and streets. Imagine walking through your neighborhood and being greeted by a landscape free of litter, where children can play without the threat of plastic waste and where wildlife can thrive freely. But how do we get there?
 

We start small. The first step in our journey towards a cleaner tomorrow is joining in Clean-Up Drives. Imagine this: a group of students armed with gloves and trash bags, chatting as they collect the litter that negatively impacts our environment. At a recent clean-up event at our school, I witnessed the joy and cooperation in my classmates' faces as they turned an eyesore into a clean space for all to enjoy. It might seem like a “small act,” but every piece of trash picked up is a significant step toward restoring the beauty of our planet.
 

Tree planting is one reliable strategy in our fight against pollution. This act goes beyond the obvious of planting a seed; it’s about nurturing the trees as they grow. Recently, I witnessed a community tree-planting event, where they planted young saplings in local forests. Watching those trees thrive will remind us all of our commitment to a healthier Earth. Trees not only purify the air but also create habitats for countless species.

 

But we can’t stop there. Reducing our reliance on vehicles that emit smoke and choosing to walk, bike, or use public transport is crucial for cleaner air. Let’s also commit to using eco-friendly products—reusable bags, tumblers, and metal straws. Every little choice adds up to a significant impact.
 

So let’s unite in our efforts. The future of our planet depends on our actions today. Remember, there’s no other planet that could sustain life. Together, we can create a cleaner tomorrow, one step at a time.

References: 
https://www.blogger.com/

https://www.wickedlocal.com/gcdn/presto/2021/03/31/NBSP/b4f1f25b-795e-4367-bbfc-5db648c5ee9e-gettyimages-1211984920-612x612.jpg
https://www.facebook.com/photo.phpfbid=505409002248668&set=pb.100083387160352.-2207520000&type=3
https://www.classy.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/blog_x-impressive-tree-planting-organizations-exceeding-expectations.jpg

"Reflecting on My Journey Throughout Quarter 1"

 

This first quarter has been very eye-opening. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how digital platforms work and how internet history has shaped the way we communicate today. Learning about the internet’s pioneers and the various types of blogs has been an intriguing experience. Additionally, It has also been exciting to see how online content can take many different forms, each providing a unique way to share ideas. Through these lessons and discussions, I not only improved my technical knowledge and skills but also began to think about how I can use digital platforms to communicate with the world.

 

One challenge I faced this quarter was understanding the details of how the Internet evolved, often called the “Internet’s History”. Sometimes, trying to keep track of notable figures and the specific timeline of events felt overwhelming. Additionally, creating high-quality content for blogs also posed a challenge, as I had to ensure that what I wrote was engaging while also meeting the criteria for a Grade 10 Student. Balancing that with my role as class informer meant I often found myself juggling both schoolwork and personal responsibilities, which was tough.

 

To address these challenges, I took time to break lessons down into smaller pieces, more manageable, just like how I approach tasks at school. I also found that reviewing resources, watching videos, and discussing with classmates helped improve the quality of my material. In terms of blogging, I tried to channel my thoughts into content that reflects both creativity and clarity, making sure to give my posts a personal touch.

Moving forward, I’m excited to dive deeper into digital content creation, not just for school but also as a way to express myself. I believe that by learning more about different platforms like blogs and vlogs, I can find new ways to improve my online communication. The lessons from this quarter, especially in ICT, will stick with me as I explore this digital world, and I look forward to using what I’ve learned to create content to share with others.

References:
https://www.blogger.com/
Ordonio, Cassandra(2024).[Picture for Teachers].[Photograph].Facebook,Messenger.

https://plan.io/images/blog/break-down-projects.png?1726569186
https://stenbergcollege.com/blog/5-tips-for-managing-a-busy-schedule-and-school/

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