Q3 - THEMATIC

After the periodical exam on January 23, 2026, my friend and I headed to Plaza Burgos to check out the Bigueno Clash of Talents festival in Vigan. We arrived around 5:30 p.m., but the event started late. While waiting, we decided to take a walk around the plaza and enjoy the scenery. We returned at 8:00 p.m. when the event had finally begun.

The festival was full of excitement, with talented performers lighting up the stage. The atmosphere was lively, and it was great to be part of the crowd, enjoying the music and the energy. Although I didn’t stay too late because of my parents, it was still a fun and memorable experience.

The event continued until 12:00 a.m. on January 24, 2026, but I had to leave earlier. Despite leaving before it ended, it was definitely an enjoyable night, and I'm glad I got to experience the festival.

Q3 - REFLECTION

 This Third Quarter, I learned a lot about using a computer and creating things like blog posts. I found out how important it is to learn different tools to make tasks easier, like writing and organizing my work.

One challenge I had was figuring out how to use some programs. It was sometimes confusing, and I felt a bit lost. It took longer than I expected to get the hang of it.

To solve this, I just kept practicing. I took my time to figure out the programs and looked for help when needed. Slowly, I started getting better at it.

Moving on, I’ll keep practicing and learning more about these tools. I want to get faster and more confident, and I’ll keep asking for help when I need it.

Jose Rizal

 José Rizal is known as the face of the Philippines because he stands for the wisdom, bravery, and love for the country of the Filipino people. Through his books Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, he showed the unfairness of Spanish rule and encouraged Filipinos to fight for their rights, but without violence.

Rizal believed that being a patriot wasn’t just about fighting. He thought education and peaceful actions could make a big difference. As a doctor, writer, and reformer, he used his talents to help improve the lives of Filipinos and push for change.

Even though he died a long time ago, Rizal's ideas still inspire the Philippines today. His values of freedom, truth, and love for the country are taught in schools and remembered across the nation. Because of his sacrifices, José Rizal remains a symbol of what it means to be Filipino.

Celebration of the Christmas Season in its essence

 

 

The celebration of the Christmas season, in its true essence, goes beyond decorations, gifts, and festivities. At its heart, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, symbolizing love, hope, humility, and compassion. It is a time that invites people to pause from their daily routines and reflect on values that strengthen human relationships—kindness, forgiveness, and generosity. These values give meaning to the season and remind individuals of the importance of caring for one another.

Christmas is also a season of togetherness. Families and communities gather to share meals, stories, and traditions that deepen bonds and create lasting memories. In many cultures, including in the Philippines, Christmas highlights the spirit of bayanihan—helping one another, especially those who are less fortunate. Acts of charity, such as giving gifts to the needy or sharing food, reflect the true joy of Christmas, which comes from giving rather than receiving.

Furthermore, the essence of Christmas encourages peace and reconciliation. It is a time to heal broken relationships, extend understanding, and promote harmony within families and communities. Amid global challenges and personal struggles, Christmas serves as a reminder that hope can be renewed and that light can overcome darkness. This message remains relevant regardless of one’s background or beliefs.

References / Sources:

The Holy Bible, Luke 2:1–20 (The Nativity of Jesus Christ)

Catechism of the Catholic Church, Part One: The Profession of Faith

UNESCO. Intangible Cultural Heritage and Celebrations

Philippines' National Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month

 

The celebration of the Philippines’ National Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month highlights the vital role of Indigenous Cultural Communities in shaping the nation’s identity and future. The theme, “Weaving Culture, Enriching Future: Empowering Indigenous Communities as Bedrock of Sustainable Development,” emphasizes that indigenous knowledge, traditions, and values are not relics of the past but living systems that contribute to national progress. By honoring Indigenous Peoples, the celebration reminds Filipinos that cultural diversity is a strength that enriches society as a whole.

Indigenous cultures are often deeply connected to nature, emphasizing respect for the land, balance, and sustainability. Traditional practices in farming, resource management, and community leadership offer lessons that are especially relevant today, as the country faces environmental challenges and climate change. Recognizing and protecting these practices supports sustainable development that does not sacrifice the environment or marginalize communities. Empowering Indigenous Peoples means allowing them to lead and share their wisdom in addressing modern problems.

Moreover, National IP Month is a call for social justice and inclusion. Despite their contributions, many Indigenous communities continue to face discrimination, land dispossession, and limited access to basic services. This celebration encourages government institutions, schools, and citizens to uphold the rights of Indigenous Peoples as guaranteed by law. True empowerment goes beyond recognition—it involves meaningful participation in decision-making and respect for ancestral domains and self-determination.

References / Sources:

Republic Act No. 8371 – Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997

National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). National Indigenous Peoples Month observances and advocacy materials

UNESCO. Indigenous Peoples and Sustainable Development

President Elpidio Quirino

President Elpidio Quirino: His Early Life, Career, and Achievements

President Elpidio Quirino, the sixth president of the Philippines, was a leader shaped by hardship, resilience, and dedication to national recovery. Born on November 16, 1890 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Quirino grew up in a modest family and worked hard to finish his education. He took up law at the University of the Philippines and passed the bar in 1915. His early experiences as a son of Ilocano parents and a survivor of the Filipino-American War deeply influenced his desire to uplift the lives of Filipinos.

Before becoming president, Quirino established a strong political career. He served as a member of the Philippine House of Representatives, a senator, and eventually as Vice President under President Manuel Roxas. His dedication to rebuilding the nation became more evident after World War II, when he helped craft policies promoting rehabilitation and strengthening the Philippines’ ties with the international community. His rise to the presidency in 1948 came after the sudden death of Roxas, placing him at the forefront of a country still recovering from war.

During his presidency, Quirino focused on economic reconstruction, social welfare, and maintaining peace amid the Hukbalahap rebellion. His administration laid the groundwork for modern economic development through programs that improved infrastructure, education, and industry. He also pushed for land reform, rural development, and diplomatic relations that would secure international support for the Philippines. Despite criticisms, Quirino is now often recognized for guiding the nation during one of its most challenging periods.

Today, President Elpidio Quirino is remembered as a symbol of perseverance and hope—a leader who faced personal tragedies and national crises yet continued working toward rebuilding a strong and stable nation. His legacy remains visible in the resilience of Filipino democracy and the continuous pursuit of national progress.

References / Sources

Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. “Elpidio Quirino.”

National Historical Commission of the Philippines. “Presidents of the Philippines.”

Britannica. “Elpidio Quirino – President of the Philippines.”

Q3 Blog Post 1 - 2025 National Children's Month Celebration: Protecting the Safety and Rights of Children

The 2025 National Children's Month theme, “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!” emphasizes the importance of ending online sexual abuse and exploitation of children and tackling child sexual abuse and exploitation materials (CSAEM). This is an urgent call to action for both government agencies and society as a whole to protect children from digital harm. With the rapid expansion of the internet and social media platforms, children are increasingly vulnerable to online predators. It is vital that the government intensifies its efforts to ensure the safety, dignity, and rights of children in an increasingly digital world.

In recent years, the Philippine government has taken significant steps to combat online sexual abuse and exploitation. The implementation of the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children Act and the creation of the Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center are steps in the right direction. These efforts aim to curb online exploitation and provide law enforcement agencies with the tools needed to track and prosecute offenders. However, while these measures are commendable, the government needs to continually adapt to the ever-evolving nature of the internet. There is an urgent need to educate the public, especially children, about online safety and responsible internet use to prevent exploitation.

The role of the government also extends to creating strong partnerships with non-governmental organizations, international agencies, and local communities to ensure the safety of children. The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) have been active in promoting programs that raise awareness about the dangers of online sexual abuse. Additionally, the government needs to focus on stricter regulations for internet service providers, ensuring they have mechanisms to detect and prevent the distribution of child sexual abuse materials (CSAEM).

While progress is being made, there is still much work to be done. Combating online sexual exploitation requires collective action from both the public and private sectors, as well as the general public. The government must continue to invest in technology, training, and public awareness campaigns to protect children’s rights, dignity, and safety in the digital age. By standing together and holding those who exploit children accountable, we can work towards a future where children are not just protected but empowered to thrive without fear.

References:

1. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children Act

2. Philippine National Police (PNP), Internet Crimes Against Children Unit