Climate Change, Nature’s Revenge

            It is the consensus of scientists and meteorologists that the main cause of modern environmental catastrophes is climate change. The emergence of such phenomena has created consequences like the el nino, la nina, severe floods, strong typhoons and abnormal atmospheric conditions.

            The convergence of many factors have caused and aggravated climate change. Scientists say that the pollutions have damaged the ozone which shields the earth from solar heat. Consequently, global warming occurred. This altered the systems of climate cycles and also induced abnormalities in our weather conditions. The extremely hot temperature over the AntarcticOcean is causing a meltdown of colossal glaciers resulting to higher elevation of sea levels, tidal floods and the formations of strong typhoons. Temperature imbalances from different parts of the globe have also given rise to the el nino and la nina phenomenon. Droughts prevail in areas affected by el nino while floods and typhoons devastate areas affected by la nina.

            As a student in Special Science Class, I think that climate change is also the repercussion of man’s abuse against nature. Irresponsible deforestation, illegal mining, industrialization, urbanization, have enormously devastated the original atmospheric, geological and topographical conditions of the earth, this is further aggravated by the side effects of modern technology. For instance, the emission of chlorofluorocarbon from modern appliances and gadgets has contributed to the thinning of the ozone layer. Therefore, the penetration of solar ultra violet rays has become unabated in some spots in our atmosphere consequently creating an abnormal imbalance of cold and hot temperatures.

            It really takes a global effort to mitigate the effects of climate change. Each one of us must play his role, no matter how humble it may be, to save the environment from further deterioration and replenish the elements of our mother nature.

Human Rights and the Equality of all Men

              An ideal society is one in which every man and woman enjoys equal rights and equal opportunities. This condition is one of the basis foundations of freedom which in turn redounds to the welfare of the community in particular and of humanity in general. The innate talent skills and potentials of a person can only be harnessed to its optimum functions if they are not suppressed by any kind of discrimination.
              Equal rights and equal opportunities must be accorded to all regardless of sex, age, race, religions, ethnic groups, etc. However, there are times that discrimination exists to the detriment of the nation. Political power sometimes reign supreme and favors the elite over the masses. This is a discrimination that is even worse than the downgrading of others rights and opportunities. I think that our country can be more prosperous if the rule of law and not of men really governs the implementation of our rights and opportunities.

               Young students like me are inspired to strive and excel for the future if they know that their rights and opportunities are equally safeguarded by the government. Each of us must therefore share his effort to weave a perfect community, enjoying his rights and pursuing his opportunities without discrimination.

English Language for Global Competence

             The English language is the predominant international language. It is also common to all of us Filipinos. But as generations pass by, our country Philippines lags behind in the worldwide ranking of English proficiency based on the survey. It is a challenge to every Filipino especially to the teachers and students to upgrade their linguistic ability on English as an international medium of communication.

             The DepEd implements a program to respond to this dilemma. It launches a solution to promote English language to the Filipino. It is the English Month Celebration which is celebrated in every mo0nth of October. It is very important because it enhances or improves the skills of every student on the English language.

            There are many activities of this celebration. They are poster, making contest, declamation contest, speech choir competition, etc. In this case, the students will easily learn how to use the English language properly and competently.

            Excellent verbal or written ability on the English language is now a major asset in the global competition of various fields of endeavor. Students and practicing professionals need to have a competent ability in English to be at par with their international counterparts. It is therefore commendable that the DepEd is in the forefront of keeping the academe cognizant of the updated standards on the English language.

My Teacher, My Hero.

          HERO… you hear this word and what comes to your mind is most probably not a politician. I mean a pork politician who wallow in glut the people’s money. But if you are one of those who have been brainwashed by the power of corruption, you might be idolizing someone like the hero or heroine of the pork barrel. Hero, indeed, is the diametric of someone whose penchant is the wanton disregard of the people’s welfare. Hero… this word most probably connotes in your mind a battle hardened noble man fighting for flag and country. He might be a charismatic leader, a selfless advocate or a radical proponent preponderantly leading others towards a noble cause. But if you are a sci-fi fanatic, your hero might be the character with supernatural powers shielding people from catastrophic evils. Hero… a many splendored human being, a masterpiece creation of GOD.

          TEACHER… you hear this word and what comes to your mind is most probably not the distinguished nobleman or the heroic movie character. You might be thinking of the ordinary, well-dressed, person confined within the four walks of the room. You regard him or her as someone who is simply performing viciously a pre-meditated teaching routine. You note nothing spectacular. The word hero might not even be in the periphery of your mind to relate what a teacher really means. I think that this is the most popular dilemma of all time.

          Teacher… hero. I don’t want to play semantics but as for me, my teacher is my hero. You don’t need to read between the lines or discern my philosophy to understand what I mean. It’s hero in its bare essentials. It’s heroism in its most magnanimous form. I believe that there’s something more than meets the eye when we stare at a teacher’s eye. It’s there deep within the heart. There’s a spectacular gem of heroism there that’s manifested in the outside world. For every man’s rise, there’s a teacher’s sacrifice!

Reflection…

My lessons in ICT about HTML or hypertext mark-up language are very important especially in preparing my compositions in the web. It’s really a potent tool for an effective presentation of my write-ups and other works. I am delighted by the ease and comfort of its uses. It makes me avoid unnecessary waste of time and energy. The worldwide web consortium otherwise known as W3C deserves a commendation for developing this wonderful feature of the internet.

My perusal on the details, mechanics and system of HTML had provided me an adventure in learning. At first, it seemed to be a confusing and mind blogging topic. But it challenged me and it stimulated my mind. It certainly enhanced my mental prowess particularly in its visualization, memorization and analytical power.

I believe that the HTML plays a vital role in the development of students like me. My knowledge on this has certainly kept me updated with modern technology. It has elevated my enthusiasm in availing the benefits of computer. With such learning, I can now be more efficient to move forward towards my goals.

The Means of Unraveling and Building

             The science month celebration gravitates on the elaborately worded theme: Unravel the causes, Build the solution, Empower Science Clubbers to action. The month-long activities pose a challenge as well as a persuasion to scientific minded individuals. It comes at a time when our environment is under relentless attack from natural and man-made calamities. The emergence of previously unknown phenomena like the climate change or the dreaded dengue disease challenges us to unravel the causes. The greater impact of the celebration is the acquisition of knowledge for us to build the solution. It is not enough that we have an ample awareness or relevant knowledge. We must be action-driven to build the solution.

             Building the solution seems to be the urgent necessity in our environment today. Coping with disasters like floods needs science for an effective solution. In the midst of political turbulence, science can be a mitigating factor to sustain our normal way of life. But we must not only be contented in solving problems. Our main goal must be to equip ourselves with science to elevate our world into a better place.

            As we celebrate science this month, we must join in the greater efforts beyond just celebrating. The cases are there, perhaps thickly veiled, but could be unraveled just the same. Empowered, science clubbers could always take place on which to stand, and move the world. In the end, the dominant power of scientific minds would surely reign supreme over any mystery, malady or calamity.

My Inspiring Grandma

My modern heroine is my grandmother, the mother of my father. To me, she epitomizes every ideal thing that most youths of my generation don’t have. At her age of 74, she shows no sign of physical breakdown. Except for some wrinkles on her brow that years of patience and persistence in work might have scripted, my grandmother still exudes the vigor of youth. It is from her that I derive my personal principles and philosophy in life. Having gone through the rigors of reality, seasoned by experiences, my grandmother speaks with authority and wisdom.

            My grandmother does not have any spectacular position or material possession. This is true if the basis of spectacle is the way most youths today. My grandmother does not flaunt what she has. Her precious wealth is well-kept within her heart. Actually she can afford the most sophisticated gadgets like iPod, laptop, cell phone, and yes even cars. But she has no penchant for material sophistication. Her simplicity is as astounding as her achievements. Formally uneducated, she fought all odds to nurture all her six children to become professionals.

            My grandmother is my heroine because of her indispensible role upon me in all aspects of personal development and refinement. She is always there to support me especially in times of trouble. She is my guiding star whenever I’m confused by life’s perplexities. She is my perennial source of inner strength because she is a living reminder that it is never impossible for me to emerge triumphant in my own battle in life.

            

Wika, Ang Daang Matuwid at Walang Balakid

  
            In celebration for the “Buwan ng Wika”, the DepEd launched different activities for better understanding and appreciation of the Filipino language. These are based on the theme “ Wika Natin Ang Daang Matuwid”. They aim to respond to the challenge of the administration’s battle cry for uprightness in a road to prosperity. The programs will create awareness and promote for our national language so that the Filipino people can move as one nation with one understanding towards our national vision.
            Panahon na upang ang lahat ng Filipino ay pagtuonan ng pansin ang sariling wika. Ito lang ang tanging masasabi natin na pwedeng magpabuklod-buklod sa atin bilang isang lahi. Kailangan natin ng isang wika na siyang daan para maipahayag natin ang ating damdamin, kaisipan at minimithi. Kung ang mga mamamayan ay magkakaunawaan sa pamamagitan ng isang wika, tiyak na matuwid ang daan nila patungo sa pambansang layunin. Ang wika ay di lang salita kung di siya ang gabay at inspirasyon ng isang lahi sa landas na kanilang tinatahak. Matuwid lang ang daan kung matatanggal ang balakid ng di pagkakaintindihan. Ang Buwan ng Wika ay may mahalagang tema. Ito’y hinihikayat at nag-uudyok sa atin ng isang bagong pananaw tungkol sa wika. Di gaya sa dating kinagisnan na karaniwan ang wika ay binibigyan halaga sa larangan ng panitikan at literatura lamang.  Marami na ang nagbago sa mundo natin. At bilang pagtugon nga sa mga patakaran ng makabagong panahon, ang wika natin ang siyang gagamitin na landas patungo sa ating pangarap. Sa bandang huli, ang wika ng lahi ang siyang mangingibabaw na magtataguyod sa atin bilang Filipino.
           The different programs especially in the field of academe on the “Buwan ng Wika” are very beneficial to the students and the community. The culture of understanding by the citizens enjoined together by a common language will surely lead them towards an unobstructed path to success. It is really our language as a Filipino that can provide us better land straight way. 

Amazing Information and Communication Technology Subject

          During the first grading period, I learned the principles and techniques of blogging. It was an awesome experience that really elevated my enthusiasm in technology. My knowledge about blogging was provided me a brand new avenue to explore and expand my horizon as a student. The internet is a medium to express my thoughts and feelings. It is also a means of knowing the opinions of others. My Information and Communication Technology subject helps me a lot to become a netizen and acquire a sense of blogging in the entire world. But I also realized that blogging can also pose a threat if abused. Unscrupulous bloggers may create undue influence and destroy the dignity of others.

SONA: Applaud or a Flaw

         
          In his State of the Nation Address, President Benigno Aquino cited the success of his administration especially the implementation of the “Pantawid ng Pamilyang Pilipino” Program and the TESDA Scholarship Program. He also mentioned the laws that were enacted like the RH Law, Sin Tax Law and the K-12 Law. While he praised some gout agencies, he lambasted others like the Bureau of Customs and the National Irrigation Administration.

I think it’s too pre-mature to assume success for programs that have not yet passed the test of time. The K-12 Program for instance, could not yet be evaluated for its own credibility. The economic growth which P-Noy elucidated seems to be just rhetoric in its technical parameters. The true economic progress must be translated into alleviation of poverty. If the poor don’t feel any upliftment in the standard of living, then the State of the Nation Address is a stagnant economy. I just hope that the applause that roared 88 times for P-Noy is not that ecstasy of the elite but the jubilation of the Filipino masses.

Battle against Hunger and Malnutrition

          
          One of the major impediments to any achievement is malnutrition which is detrimental to health. Hunger aggravates problems in our society like peace and order corruption, moral decay, etc. Due to poverty, many families couldn't afford to provide their children proper nutrition. Consequently we are plunged into the status of a sick nation. We can’t be truly proud of our culture and tradition if hunger and malnutrition remain prevalent in our midst. It is therefore the responsibility of each and every one of us to share in the effort to eradicate hunger and malnutrition.

The academic community can assume a vital in the battle against hunger and malnutrition. The school, which is the main source of knowledge, must impart the proper education about the information to achieve adequate nourishment. It is in the enlightenment of the people where the proper course of action could be initiated. Dissemination of knowledge especially about the elimination of poverty, technical understanding on the aspect of food production, agriculture and other means in the line of nutrition are efficient effort which the academic can contribute to society.

          As a student, I can share my talent and strength in the common objective against hunger and malnutrition. My educational success would be a deduction in the load of poverty which would mitigate the general effect of hunger and malnutrition. For the time being, I am always willing to initiate and join in the programs and projects of our school to achieve such goals. I believe that our prosperity as one nation can be realized only if there’s an adequate meal in every family.

Letter to the President

Ilocos Sur National High School

Gomez Street, Vigan City

June 26, 2013

Honorable President Benigno Simeon Cojuanco Aquino III

Malacaῆang Palace

Manila, Philippines

Dear Mr. President,

            I’m Rexcel F. De Peralta, a fourth year student of Ilocos Sur National High School. I have always been an observer of your advocacy and your presidency. I appreciate your pick up lines “kayo ang boss ko” and “tuwid na daan”. I might be flattered if you would call me “boss” if we even meet somewhere along the “tuwid na daan”. But then, this might just be a dream.

            I hope you don’t mind, Mr. President, if I would be frank about some personal matters which are not relevant to your presidency. I am wondering why you have remained bachelor at your age. Don’t you have dream for family or sons and daughters? Could it be that you have such noble heart that you regard the Filipinos as your sons and daughters?

            As a student, sir, I also have aspirations of becoming a president like you. I am dreaming to free the Philippines from poverty. And I’m also dream that each Filipino would have self-worth and dignity.

                                                                                                                                          Respectfully yours,
Rexcel F. De Peralta