The Indigenous people of our land, Philippines

 

          October is National Indigenous Peoples Month in the Philippines, and this year pins the 27th anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA).  The theme, "Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalana" (Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge), highlights the importance of recognizing and protecting the rights and unique cultures of Indigenous Peoples (IPs).  This month-long observance is a way for the whole country to learn more about the IPs and their contributions to our nation's rich history.

 

               The celebration helps promote IP rights by raising awareness of the IPRA law.  IPRA protects the ancestral domains of IPs, giving them the right to self-determination and control over their lands and resources.  During Indigenous Peoples Month, many events and activities focus on educating Filipinos about IPRA and how it works to safeguard the rights of IPs.  This education is key to preventing land grabbing and other injustices that often affect indigenous communities.  By understanding IPRA, more people can help protect IP rights and advocate for their well-being.

 

               Beyond legal rights, the observance also focuses on preserving and promoting IP culture.  The theme emphasizes the value of "katutubong dunong" – indigenous knowledge.  This includes traditional practices, arts, and beliefs that are passed down through generations.  During this month, we see many displays of traditional IP art, music, and dances.  We learn about their unique ways of life, their connection to nature, and their rich history.  This celebration helps ensure that these valuable cultural traditions are not lost but are appreciated and celebrated by everyone.

 

                 In short, National Indigenous Peoples Month is a crucial time for the Philippines.  It's a time for learning, celebrating, and reaffirming our commitment to protecting the rights and cultures of our Indigenous Peoples.  By understanding IPRA and appreciating indigenous knowledge, we can build a more just and inclusive society where the contributions of IPs are valued and celebrated, not just in October, but throughout the year.

 References:

https://medium.com/@2020047211/the-role-of-indigenous-peoples-in-philippine-society-2971f2353158

Elpidio Quirino: One who stood up to the top possessing a humble start

  

         Elpidio Quirino, the sixth president of the Philippines, had a humble start. Born in Vigan City,  Ilocos Sur on November 16, 1890. His early life demonstrated the simple values and struggles of everyday lives of Filipinos during the Spanish colonial era.  He started his career as a teacher, showing a strong commitment to education, before becoming a lawyer, a profession that would influence his political career significantly.  This early experience helped him see the needs of the Filipino people, and their needs.

 

        His political career progressed steadily.  He served in the Philippine House of Representatives and later as a senator, gaining valuable experience and establishing important connections.  These roles weren't merely titles, he actively engaged in addressing critical national issues, showcasing his dedication to public service.  His rise culminated in becoming vice-president under President Manuel Roxas, providing him with crucial insight into the challenges facing the newly independent nation. 

          Upon President Roxas's unexpected death in 1948, Quirino assumed the presidency.  He received a nation still recovering from World War II and wrapped with severe economic difficulties.  Despite these challenges, he implemented programs focused on economic recovery, infrastructure development, and strengthening the government.  His commitment extended to improving education and social welfare, aiming to build a stronger and more prosperous Philippines.

 

           In summary, Elpidio Quirino's journey from a humble teacher to the president of the Philippines is a testament to hard work and dedication. His presidency, though marked by significant challenges, presents efforts toward economic recovery and social progress.  His legacy serves as a reminder of the potential for achievement through perseverance and a commitment to serving one's country.

Reference:

https://www.google.com/search?gs_ssp=eJzj4tTP1TcwSsqtKDZg9OJPzSnITMnMVygszSzKzMsHAH-ACZI&q=elpidio+quirino&rlz=1C9BKJA_enKW1075KW1075&oq=elpidio&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqDwgBEC4YQxixAxiABBiKBTIGCAAQRRg5Mg8IARAuGEMYsQMYgAQYigUyDQgCEAAYkQIYgAQYigUyDQgDEAAYkQIYgAQYigUyDQgEEAAYkQIYgAQYigUyDAgFEAAYQxiABBiKBTINCAYQLhivARjHARiABDIHCAcQABiABDIHCAgQABiABNIBCDIzMzRqMGo3qAIKsAIB4gMEGAEgXw&hl=en-US&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-8#vhid=e_XyZ1A-06ILDM&vssid=l&ebo=0

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Elpidio-Quirino

The Resiliency of Filipinos

  

         The Philippines, a land highly vulnerable to climate change, faces environmental shifts impacting Filipinos' lives. Sudden changes include intense and frequent typhoons, causing widespread destruction of homes, infrastructure, and agricultural lands. Progressive changes, such as sea level rise and drought, lead to long term displacement, food insecurity, and water scarcity. These environmental pressures add to existing social and economic inequalities, making vulnerable populations, including children, more susceptible to exploitation and violence.

          Several factors contribute to these environmental changes. Deforestation, driven by logging and agricultural expansion, reduces the land's ability to absorb rainfall, leading to increased flooding and landslides. Unsustainable agricultural practices deplete soil nutrients and contribute to land degradation. Overfishing and destructive fishing ways deplete marine resources, causing a negative impact to the livelihoods of coastal communities. Rapid urbanization and industrialization contribute to pollution, affecting our air and water quality.

 

       Addressing these environmental challenges is crucial for building resilience and protecting Filipinos, particularly children. Sustainable land management practices, responsible fishing methods, and investments in renewable energy sources are essential. Strengthening disaster preparedness and response mechanisms is also vital. By mitigating climate change impacts and promoting environmental sustainability, the Philippines can create a safer and more resilient environment for its citizens, thereby contributing to the goal of breaking the prevalence of violence and creating a safe Philippines for all, especially children.

Reference:

https://giganticthoughtbubble.blog/2020/11/13/accountability-over-resiliency/

The 2024 National Children’s Month in the Philippines

 

         The 2024 National Children's Month in the Philippines, themed "Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines," serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address the issue of violence against children. This isn't merely a statistical concern, it represents the countless stories of children whose lives have been impacted by abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The theme itself is a powerful call to action, urging an effort to transform the landscape of child protection in the nation. One important aspect of achieving this goal lies in strengthening the legal framework and its enforcement. While laws made to guard children exist, their effectiveness depends on consistent implementation. This requires strengthening the capacity of law enforcement agencies, social workers, and the judicial system to handle the cases efficiently and with the sensitivity that these vulnerable children deserve.

          Beyond legal measures, empowering communities is equally vital. Protecting children is not solely the government's responsibility, it demands the active participation of every community member. Investing in community based programs that educate parents, caregivers, and the wider public about child protection is important. These programs should equip individuals with the skills to identify and report abuse effectively, forming support.

 

       Addressing the root causes of violence against children is also important. Poverty, inequality, lack of access to education and healthcare, and harmful societal norms often contribute to the vulnerability of children. A holistic approach that tackles these underlying issues is essential for creating a truly safe and protective environment. This requires significant investment in social programs aimed at reducing poverty, promoting gender equality, and improving access to essential services.

 

          In conclusion, the 2024 National Children's Month provides a critical platform to urge action against violence against children. By strengthening legal frameworks, empowering communities, providing support services, addressing the root causes, and forming a culture of protection, the Philippines can move closer to creating a nation where every child can thrive in safety and security. The theme is not merely a slogan, it is a commitment that demands action and unwavering dedication.

References:

https://www.google.com/search?q=children%C2%A0&sca_esv=2519e3bcac7d97bc&rlz=1C9BKJA_enKW1075KW1075&hl=en-US&udm=2&biw=1080&bih=695&sxsrf=ADLYWIJ2t2p_hNPaNTKz-76uErKsVgfT8w%3A1732803307830&ei=63pIZ_mkMvTh2roP-rG_0QQ&oq=children%C2%A0&gs_lp=EhJtb2JpbGUtZ3dzLXdpei1pbWciCmNoaWxkcmVuwqAyBBAjGCcyCBAAGIAEGLEDMggQABiABBixAzIIEAAYgAQYsQMyCBAAGIAEGLEDSOAWUJ8NWIgUcAF4AJABAJgBXKAB7gSqAQE4uAEDyAEA-AEBmAIHoALTA8ICCBAAGAcYChgewgIGEAAYBxgewgIFEAAYgASYAwCIBgGSBwE3oAeeIA&sclient=mobile-gws-wiz-img#vhid=TyZrPDzBsumrMM&vssid=mosaic