HTML Foundations: Beyond the Journey's End

    

    As the second quarter of the 2024–2025 academic year draws to a close, I've had the chance to delve into the world of HTML coding and have learned a lot in the process. As I learned how to use HTML tags and attributes to create and structure web pages, this quarter has been a period of learning, development, and acquiring challenges.

    This quarter, I developed a better understanding of HTML's functionality and how it influences a website's structure.  I gained knowledge about the functions of stand-alone and container tags as well as the significance of these tags and their attributes, including how to work with tables to arrange data and how to create links using the <a>  tag and the href attribute. In order to manipulate text and produce visually pleasing pages, I also learned how to add style in elements like fonts, colors, and sizes using tags like <font>, <b> , <i>, etc. Working with backgrounds, frames, images, and many more was an especially exciting experience because it imparted the websites I made with more dynamic elements. Throughout all of this, I used Notepad as my HTML editor, which gave me a hands-on approach to understanding the basic structure of HTML files.

  

 I ran into certain challenges while I was learning HTML coding, especially with slow computers. Performance problems occasionally made it difficult for me to work effectively, delaying tasks or HTML file testing. Overall progress was slowed down as a result, particularly when adjusting or viewing the results in a browser.

    In order to overcome these challenges, I developed my patience and organizational skills. To prevent feeling overwhelmed, I focused on managing my time wisely by prioritizing tasks and setting achievable goals for each period given per day. I also ensured that I maintained a steady pace, balancing my time between coding and reviewing my work to stay efficient. I also discovered that testing small code segments rather than large ones and saving my work as soon as I can, often prevented frustration and made it simpler to spot problems as they appeared, giving me more time to edit the errors I may have missed.

    I want to continue building on the foundation I laid this quarter. I want to get faster and more proficient at coding by practicing frequently and learning HTML syntax. In order to make my websites both useful and aesthetically pleasing, I also plan to experiment with various layouts and design approaches if time will permit. While slow computers were a challenge this quarter, I now know how to adapt and manage my time better, and moving forward, I will continue to apply these lessons to overcome any obstacles that come my way. 

    To conclude, this quarter has taught me various valuable learning experiences. Despite the challenges, I’ve gained a thorough understanding of HTML and the tools needed to create functional, engaging web pages. I’m excited to continue learning and improving my skills in the coming quarters. 

Two Quarters Down!  

Hustisya para sa Pagdurusa ng mga Biktima ng Karahasan Laban sa Kababaihan

    Every 3 out of 10 women worldwide have endured the devastating reality of physical or sexual violence, a stark reminder that it's time to break the silence and confront the global crisis of violence against women. In the Philippines, the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey found that almost one in five women experience sexual, physical, or emotional abuse at the hands of their intimate partners. The lived experiences of multiple individuals whose voices must be heard are represented by these figures, which go beyond simple statistics.

    Not only do victims of violence against women suffer, but their communities and societies are also influenced. In order to address this issue, laws like the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (R.A. 9262) are essential because they protect survivors and provide them with justice while also raising awareness and encouraging accountability. Unwavering dedication to creating safe spaces and enabling women to recover their rights and dignity is necessary to address this crisis.

    One of the most urgent social problems in the Philippines continues to be violence against women (VAW). 17.5% of Filipino women between the ages of 15 and 49 report having been the victims of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse at the hands of their intimate partners, according to the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). With 1,791 rape cases, 1,505 acts of lasciviousness, and 8,399 physical violence cases recorded in 2021 alone, the statistics are truly concerning. These figures, however, only scratch the surface because of a widespread "culture of silence," which prevents many cases from being reported. Women tend to keep quiet out of shame, fear, or a lack of faith in the legal system, which allows the cycle of violence to continue uncontrolled.

    VAW has a profound effect on families and communities in addition to its individual victims. Women suffer terrible consequences that range from physical injury to severe emotional and mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and even suicide. Families suffer because VAW fosters an environment of instability and fear, and children frequently carry the emotional scars of seeing such violence, which may result in behavioral problems and a higher chance of experiencing or committing acts of violence in the future. Communities experience social and economic instability on a larger scale. Women who experience violence might find it difficult to enter the workforce, and the nation spends billions of dollars every year on dealing with the fallout, which includes medical care, counseling, and legal actions.

    The progression of VAW emphasizes how urgently we must act as a team. Society must address the underlying causes by opposing damaging gender norms, advancing equality, and making sure that strong systems are in place to protect women and hold offenders accountable, in addition to providing support to individual survivors. Ending VAW is crucial for building stronger communities, healthier families, and a more peaceful society—it is not just about justice for individuals.

    The Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (R.A. 9262) includes provisions for economic, psychological, sexual, and physical abuse. Sexual violence encompasses acts such as sexual harassment and rape, whereas physical violence involves bodily harm or the threat of harm. Emotional abuse, threats, and dominating actions are examples of psychological violence, while economic abuse aims to control or isolate the woman financially. By offering legal protections like the ability to file criminal complaints and apply for protection orders (Barangay Protection Orders, Temporary, and Permanent Protection Orders), this law empowers women. It protects victims' rights to child custody and safety, and it punishes violators with fines as well as jail time. R.A. 9262 provides victims with assistance and legal options to leave abusive relationships, safeguarding their well-being and that of their children.

    The Anti-Rape Law of 1997, Republic Act 8353, radically reinterprets rape as a crime against a person rather than merely a violation of virginity. It broadens the definition to encompass sexual assault involving any object or body part as well as acts carried out by compulsion, threat, or force. Anyone with knowledge of the crime can now prosecute someone for rape, even if the victim withdraws or pardons the perpetrator. Marital rape is also recognized by the law and carries harsh penalties, such as reclusion perpetua (20 to 40 years imprisonment). By raising the legal age of sexual consent to 16, the 2022 amendment (R.A. 11648) strengthens safeguards against sexual exploitation of minors.

    The Safe Spaces Act of 2019, also known as Republic Act 11313, addresses gender-based sexual harassment in public places, workplaces, online settings, and educational or training facilities. It expands what constitutes to sexual harassment including lewd remarks, stalking, wolf-whistling, catcalling, and online harassment like cyberstalking and sharing explicit content without permission. In order to guarantee that people of all genders can freely move through public areas without worrying about harassment, the law defines important terms like gender-based harassment, gender identity, and public spaces. Public officials, educational institutions, and employers are also required to develop preventative measures and hold offenders accountable. Depending on the seriousness of the offense, offenders may face fines or jail time, which promotes safer environments for women and other marginalized genders.

    Education is essential for raising awareness of laws that protect women, like the R.A. 9262 as well as other relevant laws. We enable people to take action against violence by educating them about their legal rights and remedies. Since both individuals and organizations can provide resources, support victims, and execute campaigns to increase awareness of violence against women (VAW), community involvement is equally important. By uniting, we present a unified front against this problem. In order to provide victims with prompt justice and discourage future offenders, the government and law enforcement must also make sure that these laws are implemented effectively.

    Making a difference requires taking part in the 18-day campaign against VAW. Everyone can help combat gender-based violence by raising awareness, offering support to survivors, and pushing for reform. To make sure victims get the assistance they require, distribute resources like hotlines, counseling services, and legal aid. By working together, we can establish a culture that values and protects women. Involving everyone is essential to putting an end to violence and creating a society that is less dangerous and more.

    To sum up, in order to protect women and combat violence against them, R.A. 9262 and other relevant laws are essential. Ending VAW requires a shared responsibility at the legal, social, and personal levels in addition to legislative changes. We can all live in a safer and more risk-free society if we band together, help victims, and advance education.

References:

Philippine Commission on Women. (n.d.). Violence against women. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://pcw.gov.ph/violence-against-women/

  World Health Organization. (n.d.). Violence against women. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women

  Philippine Commission on Women. (n.d.). FAQ: RA 8353 – An act expanding the definition of the crime of rape. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://pcw.gov.ph/faq-ra-8353-an-act-expanding-the-definition-of-crime-and-rape/

Situation of Children. (n.d.). Republic Act No. 11648: An act raising the age of sexual consent. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://situationofchildren.org/latest-evidence/all-reports/publication/republic-act-no-11648-act-raising-age-sexual-consent#:~:text=11648%20increases%20the%20age%20of,below%2016%2C%20regardless%20of%20consent.

Supreme Court of the Philippines. (n.d.). Republic Act No. 11648: An Act raising the age of sexual consent. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph/thebookshelf/showdocs/2/94255

Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. (2019, April 17). Republic Act No. 11313: Safe spaces act. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2019/ra_11313_2019.html

Redirect Notice. (n.d.-w). COVID-19 and violence against women: What the data tells us. UN Women.

 Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://www.unwomen.org/en/news-stories/feature-story/2021/11/covid-19-and-violence-against-women-what-the-data-tells-us

Council of Europe. (n.d.). Feminism and women’s rights movements. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://www.coe.int/en/web/gender-matters/feminism-and-women-s-rights-movements

OpenGlobalRights. (n.d.). The forgotten origins of women’s rights are human rights. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://www.openglobalrights.org/the-forgotten-origins-of-womens-rights-are-human-rights/

  Philippine Information Agency. (2022, December 11). VAWC: Ang isang publikong krimen [Infographic]. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://mirror.pia.gov.ph/infographics/2022/12/11/ang-vawc-ay-isang-publikong-krimen

  AJA Law. (n.d.). Acts of VAWC. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://www.ajalaw.ph/actsofvawc/

  Philippine Commission on Women. (2019, June 18). 18-day campaign logo [Image]. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://pcw.gov.ph/assets/files/2019/06/18-day-campaign-logo_72-1024x996.png

United Nations. (n.d.). International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women: Background. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://www.un.org/en/observances/ending-violence-against-women-day/background

  Facebook. (n.d.). [Description of the image] [Image]. Facebook. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=584443458855633&id=191809564785693

Gota De Leche. (n.d.). Safe spaces act (Bawal Bastos Law). Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://www.gotadeleche.ph/safe-spaces-act-bawal-bastos-law/

Just Peace The Hague. (n.d.). International Women's Day. Retrieved December 4, 2024, from https://justpeacethehague.com/en/theme/international-womens-day

Parangal sa Pamana, Pagtangkilik sa Lahi

    October is a month that holds a profound significance in the Philippines especially for the celebration of the National Indigenous Peoples Month, coinciding with the 27th anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA). The theme of this years' commemoration " Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalan" (Valuing, Nurturing, Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge), highlights the crucial role of indigenous communities in shaping up the country's identity and preserving its heritage way of life. The observance not only recognizes their rich culture and wisdom but also reaffirms the commitment to upholding their rights and dignity.

     The Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997(Republic Act No. 8371) was a landmark legislation, which was a significant step in recognizing the sacrifices and contributions made by the Indigenous Peoples. By protecting their ancestral lands, cultural heritage and right to self-determination made IPRA an essential foundation for preserving their own way of life.The law's continued relevance and the necessity of encouraging its implementation are brought to light by commemorating this milestone in 2024. October is filled with events that highlight indigenous languages, knowledge systems, and customs, ensuring that these assets are preserved for future generations and encouraging inclusivity in a world that is rapidly modernizing.  

    The purpose of this observance is to increase public awareness of the difficulties that Indigenous Peoples encounter, including environmental threats, displacement, and marginalization. Cultural exhibitions, advocacy campaigns, and educational events emphasize how indigenous knowledge is linked to environmental preservation and sustainable development. By encouraging a group effort to defend and advance their rights, these initiatives help to create a society that respects cultural heritage and values diversity.

   

 The beauty of unity in diversity is brought to Filipinos' attention during National Indigenous Peoples Month in 2024. It acts as a rallying cry for every aspect of society to support Indigenous Peoples' voices, preserve their revered customs, and recognize their priceless contributions to the development of the country. The goal of a society that is more respectful and inclusive of everyone can be realized with coordinated efforts.   

References:

Supreme Court E-Library. (n.d.). Republic Act No. 8371: An act to recognize, protect and promote the rights of indigenous cultural communities/indigenous peoples, creating a National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, establishing implementing mechanisms, appropriating funds therefore, and for other purposes. Retrieved from https://elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph/thebookshelf/showdocs/2/2562

Redirect Notice. (n.d.). The role of Indigenous Peoples in Philippine society. Retrieved from https://medium.com/@2020047211/the-role-of-indigenous-peoples-in-philippine-society-2971f2353158

Redirect Notice. (n.d.). World’s Indigenous Peoples Day. Retrieved from https://www.epochapp.com/blog/worldsindigenouspeopleday 

Redirect Notice. (n.d.). 17 calls to action: Indigenous Peoples Day 2023. Retrieved from https://www.culturalsurvival.org/news/17-calls-action-indigenous-peoples-day-2023

Redirect Notice. (n.d.). Indigenous village. Retrieved from https://yayimages.com/index.php/search?phrase=indigenous%2520village&content_type=-1

Pamumuno Tungo sa Pag-Unlad: Ang Legado ni Elpidio Quirino

     Elpidio Quirino, one of the most significant leaders in Philippine history, was born in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, on November 16, 1890. He was the third of nine children and came from a family that valued public service and education. Early on, Quirino attended private schools in his hometown and the surrounding areas, where he demonstrated a natural aptitude for learning. Later, he attended Manila High School, where he graduated in 1911. In 1915, he earned a Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Philippines and passed the bar exam.

    After winning a seat as an Ilocos Sur representative in 1919, Quirino entered politics. His involvement in politics advanced quickly; he was elected senator in 1925 and the Commonwealth Government's first secretary of finance in 1935. He held several significant positions as a result of his political intelligent, including Senator-at-Large in 1941 and Secretary of the Interior in 1936. Furthermore, Quirino's contribution to the Philippine independence movement cannot be overstated; he played a crucial role in ensuring that the Tydings-McDuffie Act was passed, opening the door for Philippine independence. In addition, he played a significant role in the Constitutional Convention that drafted the Constitution of 1935.  

    Quirino held the position of Vice President under President Manuel Roxas following the Philippines' independence in 1946. In addition, he received the titles, Secretary of Foreign Affairs and then Secretary of Finance. When he succeeded Roxas following his unexpected death on April 17, 1948, his leadership skills were put to the test. During his presidency, Quirino prioritized economic recovery and post-war reconstruction. He sought to stabilize the economy, fortify the country's banking system, and rebuild its infrastructure. The Philippine Central Bank was established during his administration, and he prioritized helping rural farmers safeguard their livelihoods from loan sharks and guaranteeing their access to fair markets.  

        Another aspect of Quirino's presidency that stood out was his diplomacy. He was renowned for his capacity to negotiate the complexities of post-war international relations and interact with world leaders. In addition to promoting peace and security in Asia, his administration collaborated closely with the US for financial support and assistance. Notwithstanding obstacles, his presidency brought about notable economic improvements and breakthroughs, including a renewed emphasis on the nation's industrialization, for which he became known as the "Father of Philippine Industrialization."  

    During World War II, Quirino's personal life suffered tremendously when his wife, Alicia Syquia, and three of their children perished in the Japanese massacre in Manila in 1945. He kept serving the country in spite of this terrible loss. Quirino's term as president came to an end in 1953 when Ramon Magsaysay defeated him in the reelection race. At the age of 65, he passed away from a heart attack on February 29, 1956, after retiring to his rural home in Novaliches.  

References:

The Kahimyang Project. (2011, November 16). Today in Philippine history, November 16, 1890, Elpidio Quirino, the sixth president of the Philippines, was born in the town of Vigan, Ilocos Sur. The Kahimyang Project. https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/753/today-in-philippine-history-november-16-1890-elpidio-quirino-the-sixth-president-of-the-philippines-was-born-in-the-town-of-vigan-ilocos-sur

Elpidio Quirino - Google Arts & Culture. (n.d.). Google Arts & Culture. https://artsandculture.google.com/entity/elpidio-quirino/m02bmxs?hl=en

Vice presidnt Elpidio Quirino. (n.d.e). http://www.ovp.50webs.com/bio/quirino.htm

Redirect Notice. (n.d.-s). Elpidio Quirino, the sixth president of the Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/govph/16082245719

Redirect Notice. (n.d.-u). NHK World special: Hatred and forgiveness [Photograph]. Retrieved from https://www.kpbs.org/news/arts-culture/2015/09/03/nhk-world-special-hatred-and-forgiveness

Redirect Notice. (n.d.-v). Elpidio R. Quirino [Photograph]. Retrieved from https://bloomspresidents.wordpress.com/elpido-r-quirino/

Together We Are Stronger: Filipinos' Resilience in the Face of Climate Change

          

            I'm pretty sure climate change is no longer new to us, most of us have already heard this term many times. The Philippines is one of the countries experiencing the dreadful effects of climate change, including extreme weather conditions like typhoons, floods, and droughts happening occurring more frequently and intensely. These events are happening due to irresponsible actions of human beings such as deforestation, pollution, and burning of fossil fuels. The increasing global temperature and sea levels have put coastal communities at risk affecting the lives and living conditions of Filipinos.

    

        The environmental shifts we are witnessing are largely because of the destruction of natural ecosystems and unsustainable resource application. Deforestation has depleted vital resources like forests, which help regulate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. Meanwhile, waste disposal problems and plastic pollution continue to worsen the environmental crisis, leading to more frequent floods, typhoons, and the displacement of the communities.

    Despite these challenges, Filipinos have shown remarkable determination and the spirit of togetherness. They are not giving up and always find ways to help each other, especially during disasters. From dedicated rescuers saving lives to communities banding together to rebuild what was lost. The presence of this unity and strength are the ones that help people cope with the devastating effects  of climate change. However, solutions notably sustainable farming, better waste management, and renewable energy adoption must be prioritized to ensure long-term recovery.

References:

Redirect notice. (n.d.-k). Typhoon Gaemi hits Philippines, halts work and stock exchange market trading. Channel News Asia. Retrieved from https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/typhoon-gaemi-philippines-halt-work-stock-exchange-market-trading-4500506

Redirect notice. (n.d.-m). Top 10 strongest typhoons in the Philippines. Lumina. Retrieved from https://www.lumina.com.ph/news-and-blogs/blogs/top-10-strongest-typhoons-in-the-philippines/

Redirect notice. (2024, July 24). Manila underwater after Typhoon Gaemi turns streets into rivers. Reuters. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/pictures/manila-underwater-after-typhoon-gaemi-turns-streets-into-rivers-2024-07-24/

Stolen Childhood That Must Be Restored and Ensured

How many more innocent lives must be lost before we realize that protecting children is no just a duty, but a moral imperative?

        This year’s 2024 National Children’s Month (NCM) celebration, with the theme "Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines," suggests a powerful action for change.  This celebration serves as our reminder to create an environment where children can thrive free from abuse, fear, exploitation and other forms of violence. The heartbreaking fact that young lives still suffer from violence whether it be emotional, physical, or through neglect is just something that I cannot accept. The theme for this year’s celebration allows us to reflect that each one of us can break the cycle of abuse and ensure that every child has access to a future filled with hope, hope and security.

        It is our duty as members of society to recognize the widespread existence of child abuse and take preventative measures to prevent it. This involves avoiding the underlying root causes of violence as well as addressing the immediate harm caused. Children should be raised in settings that make them feel loved, safe, and appreciated. To address the underlying causes of violence and give children the support they require to recover and thrive, initiatives like awareness campaigns, adequate training for law enforcement, and strengthened child protection policies are essential.

            More importantly, education is a must in order to reduce the prevalence of violence against children. We enable people and communities to act in the best interests of children by educating adults and children about their rights and methods for protecting themselves. Establishing an inclusive society where diversity is valued and every child has an equal chance to develop, learn, and thrive is another aspect of creating a safe environment for adolescents. The commemoration of National Children's Month challenges us to consider our responsibility to safeguard the most defenseless members of our society and create a future in which they can genuinely feel safe and has nothing to be worried about.

References:

Redirect notice. (n.d.-i). Share these posters to spread awareness regarding denial of child rights. Facebook. Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/106065598246416/posts/share-these-posters-to-spread-awareness-regarding-denial-of-child-rights/106075271578782/?locale=zh_CN

Redirect notice. (n.d.-j). Children’s rights. Retrieved from https://childrens-rights.digital/fokus/index.cfm/key.3774

Redirect notice. (n.d.-h.). Group of kids. Unsplash. Retrieved from https://unsplash.com/s/photos/group-of-kids

Care for the Environment Towards a Sustainable Development

    Nelson Mandela once quoted, "You can start changing the world daily-no matter how small the action." This powerful saying reminds us  that every effort creates a difference no matter how small it may look, and through my photoblog, I am building moments of individual efforts towards preserving and managing the environment and challenging this community to live more sustainably. All these simple things add up to a healthier and cleaner world: planting a tree, picking up trash in our backyard, participation in a cleaning drive, or just putting out the trash on time.

    

     Participating in a Clean-Up Drive. This initiative not only help protect the environment but also raises awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal and recycling, fostering a sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship among participants  

    Tree Planting. Planting trees is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change, as trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, improving air quality. This simple action contributes to the long-term healthy condition of our environment by ensuring cleaner air, healthier ecosystems, and a more sustainable future.

   

    Sweeping Trashes in the Backyard.  Keeping our home environment clean is a vital step in reducing waste and preventing it from being polluted, which ultimately helps protect our ecosystem. This small effort contributes to creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable community.

     By implementing these necessary steps, we are not only making the world healthier but also strengthen  our sense of community and shared responsibility. We can inspire others and start a positive change chain reaction by joining together to clean up our environment, plant trees, and advocate for sustainable practices. When we work together, we can change things and certain of a more secured future generation that is cleaner and more environmentally conscious.



REFERENCE:

Blogger. <http://www.blogger.com>

Nelson Mandela Quote:  “You can start changing our world for the better daily, no matter how small the action.” (n.d.). https://quotefancy.com/quote/874457/Nelson-Mandela-You-can-start-changing-our-world-for-the-better-daily-no-matter-how-small

                Facebook. (n.d.). https://www.facebook.com/dokorecyclers/photos/%F0%9D%97%A7%F0%9D%97%BC-%F0%9D%97%A0%F0%9D%97%AE%F0%9D%97%BB%F0%9D%97%AE%F0%9D%97%B4%F0%9D%97%B2-%F0%9D%97%AA%F0%9D%97%AE%F0%9D%98%80%F0%9D%98%81%F0%9D%97%B2-%F0%9D%97%9F%F0%9D%97%B2%F0%9D%98%81%F0%9D%98%80-%F0%9D%97%A6%F0%9D%97%B2%F0%9D%97%B4%F0%9D%97%BF%F0%9D%97%B2%F0%9D%97%B4%F0%9D%97%AE%F0%9D%98%81%F0%9D%97%B2-in-most-homes-and-institutions-today-we-practice-/798488485788767/?paipv=0&eav=AfYTItXqH2ds8eYAPXxkQfKusTE6JvD8ptv4dZhWhvGPtkDTWYYb7_bowEUeJV9zMPQ&_rdr