Valerie

     ​ This year’s National Children’s Month in November (2025) has a very important message: “End Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM): Fight for the Safety and Rights of Children!” This is a call for action. Simply put, we must stop people from hurting our children through the internet. Sadly, our country, the Philippines, is known as a place where these digital crimes happen often. This month is a time for all of us—parents, teachers, and leaders—to think about how we can best keep our kids safe, both online and in real life. Protecting a child’s right to be safe and respected is the most important job we have. ​      The government has put up a big defense called Republic Act No. 11930. You can think of this as a new, strong shield against digital abuse. My view is that this law is a huge step forward. It makes the Philippines a leader in protecting children. The law makes puni...

Step back in time as you stroll along Calle Crisologo, where cobblestone streets, antique houses, and horse-drawn carriages bring history to life. It’s the heart of Vigan City — perfect for photos, souvenirs, and a glimpse of the Spanish colonial past. Find peace and beauty at Hidden Garden, a nature sanctuary filled with flowers, native art, and Ilocano dishes. It’s the perfect place to relax, dine, and reconnect with nature after exploring the city. Witness the art of tradition at Pagburnayan, home of Vigan’s famous burnay jars. Try your hand at pottery and feel the connection between creativity, culture, and craftsmanship that has stood the test of time. Experience fun and adventure at Baluarte, a family-friendly zoo that lets you meet animals up close and learn about wildlife conservation. Every corner of Baluarte is a reminder of nature’s wonder and harmony.  

This Second Quarter, I learned how to be more patient and focused, especially during our journalism training. I discovered more about teamwork, and the effort it takes to prepare for competitions. Even though this quarter felt less busy than the first one, I still gained new experiences that helped me grow as a student. One challenge I faced was balancing schoolwork and practice. There were times I felt tired and pressured because of the many things to do. Sometimes, it was hard to stay motivated when I felt overwhelmed, but I tried my best to keep going and not give up. I faced these challenges by managing my time better and staying positive. I reminded myself that every effort, even small ones, is important. I also asked help from my classmates and tried to rest when I needed to. These small actions helped me finish the quarter successfully. Moving on, I will continue to do my best and keep improving my skills in writing and studying. I will stay disciplined, manage my time wisely...

  This year’s Teachers’ Month theme, “My Teacher, My Hero,” reminds me of the many teachers who helped shape who I am today. They were not just instructors. They were mentors, cheerleaders, and quiet heroes who believed in me even when I doubted myself. Their lessons went beyond textbooks. They taught me how to think, how to care, and how to speak up for what matters. I remember one teacher who patiently explained Filipino idioms until I understood not just the meaning but the emotion behind them. Another teacher encouraged me to use my writing to make people feel something.  I try to make my work both accurate and meaningful, just like they taught me. To show my gratitude, I live out their lessons. I help younger students, I speak up about classroom shortages and sleep health, and I support Filipino heritage through creative projects. I also say thank you—through letters, and small acts of kindness. But the best way I honor them is by continuing to learn and share what I kn...

  The 2025 National Science Month theme, “Harnessing the Unknown: Powering the Future through Science and Innovation,” made me reflect deeply on how science continues to shape our lives and the world we live in. It reminds me that science is not only about formulas or experiments, but about curiosity,, our drive to ask why and how . As a student, I realize that even simple classroom activities or projects can contribute to something much bigger: the search for answers that can make the future brighter and more sustainable for everyone. This year’s theme encourages us to face the unknown with courage and creativity. In a world full of uncertainties like climate change, health crises, and rapid technological changes ; science gives us the power to understand and respond. I’ve learned that innovation starts when we stop fearing the unknown and start exploring it instead. Whether through robotics, renewable energy, or space exploration, each scientific discovery brings new hope for ...

Climate change is already affecting millions of Filipinos. Stronger typhoons, rising sea levels, and unpredictable weather patterns are becoming more common. These changes are caused by global warming—mainly from burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and pollution. The Philippines, with its many coastal towns and islands, is especially vulnerable. Typhoons like Yolanda and Odette  have destroyed homes, farms, and schools. Floods and landslides often follow, leaving families displaced and communities struggling to recover. Farmers face droughts or too much rain, which damages crops. Fisherfolk lose income when storms hit coastal areas. These environmental changes make life harder, especially for poor and rural communities. But Filipinos are known for their strength and unity. After disasters, people help each other through bayanihan—community cooperation. Local groups and government agencies are working on climate adaptation: building stronger homes, planting mangroves, and teaching ...