Valerie

Jose Rizal is often called the "face of the Philippines" because he provided the intellectual spark that ignited the country's quest for independence. While he was a doctor, poet, and linguist, his greatest contribution was awakening the sense of national identity among Filipinos. Before Rizal, the archipelago was a collection of divided islands; through his writings, he helped the people realize they were one nation with a shared struggle against colonial oppression. ​His most powerful tools were his two novels, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. These books did not use weapons to fight, but rather "truth." By exposing the corruption of the Spanish friars and the injustices of the colonial government, Rizal forced Filipinos to see the reality of their situation. These stories acted as a mirror, showing the people their own dignity and the need for peaceful but firm reform. ​Beyond his books, Rizal’s contribution lies in his moral example. He believed that f...

Christmas, for me, truly begins with faith. Every year, my family and I make it a point to attend Simbang Gabi, a tradition that reminds us of the real meaning of the season. Waking up early, praying together, and reflecting on the birth of Christ helps set the tone of Christmas—not as a celebration of excess, but as a season of hope, humility, and gratitude. Through this tradition, I am reminded that Christmas is first and foremost about God’s love for humanity. This year, Christmas became even more meaningful when we went caroling, something I experienced for the first time in almost a decade. What struck me the most was how people, even those who seemed to have very little, still chose to give. Whether it was coins, food, or simple smiles, their generosity showed that giving does not depend on wealth. This experience made me realize that Christmas is truly the season of giving, where kindness comes from the heart, not from abundance. Celebrating Christmas with family and God com...