Chinese New Year 2025

    

 Here in the Philippines we are celebrating Chinese New Year every second new moon which usually falls on January. This year, we celebrated Chinese New Year on January 29,2025. Based on my research the celebration lasts for 15 days, the celebration was ended with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the first lunar month. Chinese New Year is significant celebration in our country, every time we celebrate it is also a non working holiday here in the Philippines.

    Filipinos celebrate Chinese New Year because of the country's historical and cultural ties with China.The Philippines and China have had trade and cultural exchange relationships for centuries. Over time, there’s a lot of Chinese immigrants intermarried with Filipinos, they are also coming here in the Philippines to establish a business, resulting in a significant number of Filipinos with Chinese. In the culture and tradition, Chinese culture has had a significant impact on Filipino customs, traditions, and values, particularly in areas like food, festivals, and business practices. A lot of Filipinos celebrate Chinese New Year as a way to honor their Chinese heritage and cultural roots.

Celebrating Chinese New Year is also a way for Filipinos to show solidarity with their Chinese-Filipino friends and community. Chinese New Year is celebrated in the Philippines with festive decorations, lion and dragon dances, fireworks, and traditional Chinese food. 

    Chinese New Year is also an important business and economic event, as many Filipino-Chinese entrepreneurs and traders participate in traditional ceremonies and rituals to ensure prosperity. Chinese New Year celebrations in the Philippines attract tourists and promote cultural exchange between Filipinos and Chinese nationals. Filipinos celebrate Chinese New Year due to the country's historical and cultural ties with China, as well as the significant influence of Chinese culture on Filipino customs and traditions. We are also celebrating the New Year of Chinese because a lot of Filipino are married with Chinese, we celebrate it to thank Chinese because of their contributions.

references;

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Chinese-New-Year

https://images.app.goo.gl/nLnP1UbW3UFLLScBA

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A Brief History of Vigan

VIVA VIGAN

 Vigan is known as the capital of Ilocos Sur. Vigan is unique because of its Hispanic colonial character, its significance also lies on how different the architectural influences from those where we adopted the blended designs to create a beautiful townscape. Vigan was founded by Spanish conquistadors in the late 1500's, originally named " Villa Fernandina" after a Spanish prince. Vigan was established in the 16th century, it is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe, resulting in a culture and townscape that have no parallel anywhere in East and South-East Asia. Vigan was a port city near the mouth of the Mestizo River and it was a trading hub between Chinese merchants and indigenous peoples of the Philippines, the city was named after the "Biga", a giant taro plant that grew on the banks of the Mestizo River.

  Then, Vigan is already a popular place in Ilocos because of its history. The building or houses in the street of Crisologo does not exist like a store of souvenirs and it's just a place where tourists can visit before, it also served as the houses by the old generations. Plaza Salcedo and Plaza Burgos is a garden before. Until it became a promenade where people can visit the place, Plaza Salcedo was susceptible to fire during Spanish regime based on my research according to history. So, they decided to plan that they are going to create a man-made lagoon to avoid the fire incidents on 2013. Plaza Salcedo was located between the Cathedral and the Capitol, where a fountain called thingamajigs was installed. The beauty of Vigan before is very simple.

  Today, Vigan is one of the wonderful places in Ilocos and one of the famous tourist spot. The simple Calle Crisologo before, is now a famous place that foreigners and people from the different part of the country are visiting frequently. The Plaza Burgos is now a place where people can stay to rest and some students are visiting it when they are making their pojects and sometimes they are using it as a venue of some activities of an event in Vigan. While the Plaza Salcedo is now a beautiful historic spot in Vigan. Plaza Salcedo is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into the country's rich past. Visitors can explore the plaza's surroundings, take a leisurely walk, or simply sit and enjoy the ambiance. The plaza also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant and dynamic destination.One of the highlights of visiting Plaza Salcedo is the Dancing Fountain Show, which takes place every night The show features an impressive display of water, light, and music, making it a truly unforgettable experience.Vigan's beauty is not just about its physical appearance, but also about the warmth and hospitality of its people. As you walk through its historic streets, you can feel the town's rich history and culture come alive. The locals' smiles and welcoming gestures make you feel like you're part of their community. It's a place where time stands still, and the stresses of modern life melt away. Vigan's beauty is a reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful things in life are the ones that touch our hearts and souls.

References;

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http://thehappytrip.com/2014/04/ilocos-vigan-pagudpud-trip-part-9-calle-crisologo-vigan-dancing-fountain/

fbrpc://nativethirdparty/f?app_id=256002347743983&app_name=Facebook+Messenger+for+Android&is_app_profile_page_eligible=0&tap_behavior=web_always&target_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwhc.unesco.org%2Fen%2Flist%2F502%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2smviDn7pP6T8WDLFrCwrufGeMGV6La5KeWv4DNEputS_1hov4asTZR6Y_aem_QCI5CErUjHgFaMG2etwkww&app_sites=%5B%22fb256002347743983%3A%5C%2F%5C%2Fauthorize%23target_url%3Dhttps%5Cu00253A%5Cu00252F%5Cu00252Fwhc.unesco.org%5Cu00252Fen%5Cu00252Flist%5Cu00252F502%5Cu00252F%5Cu00253Ffbclid%5Cu00253DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2smviDn7pP6T8WDLFrCwrufGeMGV6La5KeWv4DNEputS_1hov4asTZR6Y_aem_QCI5CErUjHgFaMG2etwkww%22%5D&has_app_link=0

https://images.app.goo.gl/Z5tzHopZXnAaA6RaA

https://images.app.goo.gl/3hhddFm7m5xDoMX89

Story of Elpidio Quirino

            Elpidio also known as "Pidiong" was born on November 16 1890, the third child of Mariano Quirino and Gregorian Mendoza Rivera. Elpidio spent his childhood at the warden's quarters adjoining the provincial jail of Vigan where he was born. When he was baptized in the Roman Catholic Church of  their town, his family held a big celebration, then Elpidio certainly become famous. Based on the book that I've read, when he was 5 he enjoyed sliding down the sturdy mohave stairway. He was also doing art work in their living room, he drew a pencil sketch of a relative which displayed his early inclination toward art. From his early childhood they started struggle with poverty, but Don Manuel helped Elpidio in his journey. The environment of poverty did not discourage him, it server to spur Elpidio to be ambitious and sterling qualities that led to self reliance and self confidence. Even he was a young child, Elpidio showed signs of leadership when he was often chosen by his companions to lean them in their games during his childhood. Quirino attended elementary school in Vintar and later studied at the Ilocos Norte High School. He graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 1915.

Elpidio began his career in politics as a municipal councilor in Vintar (1917-1922) and later became a member of the Ilocos Norte provincial board (1922-1925), then he was elected as a congressman representing the 1st district of Ilocos Sur (1925-1931) and later served as a senator (1931-1935). Elpidio served as Secretary of Finance (1934-1936) and Secretary of the Interior (1941-1944) under President Manuel Quezon. Until he was elected Vice President of the Philippines in 1946, alongside President Manuel Roxas, then after Roxas' death in 1948, Elpidio succeeded him as President and served until 1953.

President Quirino oversaw the reconstruction of the Philippines after World War II, focusing on infrastructure development and economic recovery.

In establishment of the Central Bank, he played a key role in establishing the Central Bank of the Philippines (1949) to stabilize the country's economy. When It comes to land Quirino implemented the Land Reform Act (1950) to redistribute land to small farmers and reduce inequality. Also, the foreign policy. He strengthened the Philippines' relations with the United States and other countries, participating in the formation of the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO). Elpidio  administration promoted economic development through the creation of the National Economic Council (1950) and the Philippine Economic Council (1951). And especially he established the Social Welfare Administration (1948) to provide assistance to the poor and vulnerable populations.

Quirino's presidency was marked by significant challenges, including corruption allegations, the insurgency, and economic struggles. Despite these challenges, his administration made notable progress in rebuilding the country and promoting economic development. 

References:

https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Flookaside.fbsbx.com%2Flookaside%2Fcrawler%2Fmedia%2F%3Fmedia_id%3D100066545386042&tbnid=r9Xn5Q9Fge7HmM&vet=1&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fp%2F7-6-Elpidio-Quirino-100066545386042%2F&docid=ZQzUqpXzUMh1nM&w=235&h=235&hl=en&source=sh%2Fx%2Fim%2Fm1%2F2&kgs=09ce850c575e2ac2

NEW YEAR NEW ME

 As I welcome another year, It started a happy new beginning. In this new year, I'm focusing on nurturing habits that bring balance and joy. My daily routine became better. I'm starting this year simply, I changed my eating habits. Last year, I'm not eating lunch but I'm eating lunch. Now, I'm eating 3 times a day because my goal is to get fat. I'm setting goals and trying new things. This year, I'll take care of myself, I'm so thankful and I want to learn from mistakes. I'm enjoying life and I'm taking care of myself. No big promises and adjustments. Just being me. It's amazing how these small adjustments can recalibrate my perspective. Now, I'm loving myself exactly as I am, I won't pressure myself from different instances because I want to be myself and enjoy life.

My Christmas Vacation Experience

Since the Christmas break started my day becomes boring, because my daily routine was the same as how I spend my weekends. Most of the time I’m on my bed playing online game with my friends. This is my boring daily routine during Christmas break; when I wake up in the morning I’ll pick up my phone to see what time is it, if it’s still early like 6-7 am Ill continue sleeping until 10am, then after I get up furnished my bed and go to the kitchen, to wash my mouth and find foods to eat. After eating it’s either I’m going to wash dishes or play mobile legends with my friends, that's what I'm doing before the Christmas day.

During Christmas or Noche Buena I did not really enjoy the moment unlike the Christmas before, the spark will never be the same as the past. After the Noche Buena back to normal again, then in December 28,2024 we went to Narvacan to visit our relatives and go to our niece christening. Then, when we are preparing for mega noche I felt so happy because my family is complete, I enjoyed watching fireworks during new year, I enjoyed this season of Cristmas although the joy is unlike the Christmas before. That's all my boring Christmas vacation, until we go back to the reality that we need to go school

The 2024 Indigenous Peoples Month

          The Indigenous Peoples Month and 27th Year Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA),this aims to promote and Protect Indigenous Rights.  Based on my research the celebration of 2024 Indigenous Peoples Month and the 27th commemoration of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997, the NCIP is gearing up to deepen the country’s awareness and understanding of Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples.With the theme, “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalan” or “Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge,” the month-long festivity underscores key areas that identifies ICCs/IPs, specifically their contributions in agriculture and food security; their culture and customs and traditions woven in their natural environment and ancestral domains; their roles as stewards of our country’s land and seas; and their leadership role in nation building.

         The cultural preservation that showcase traditional practices, music, dance, and art. It is also for awareness campaigns such as conducting a documentaries, forums, and discussions on indigenous issues. And in advocating for policies protecting indigenous rights. The inclusivity and recognition in integrating indigenous knowledge for incorporate traditional practices into modern education, and language preservation that promotes indigenous languages, and also in cultural exchanges like inter-community dialogues. Furthermore in addressing historical injustices we should reconciliate initiatives such as addressing past human rights violations, land rights to protect ancestral domains, and also the social services for them to access healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities.

      This celebration honors the contributions of indigenous peoples to Philippine society, promoting unity, recognition, and protection of their rights. In celebrating Indigenous Peoples Month, we honor their contributions and resilience of their communities, we recognize the importance of cultural diversity, advocate for social justice and equality, and foster a more inclusive and equitable society. Thus, we should encourage all Filipino to join this celebration, although we're not belong the indigenous peoples.

References:

https://ncip.gov.ph/news/the-national-commission-on-indigenous-peoples-indigenous-peoples-cuisine-photo-exhibit/

https://images.app.goo.gl/qV5BLNJTrScGUR1x5

https://www.google.com/search?q=indigenous+people+in+the+philippines&client=ms-android-oppo-rvo2&sca_esv=636238c710bc0fc7&udm=2&biw=360&bih=692&sxsrf=ADLYWII5sYDiYwjT-S6yS-9qPyLhqF9y_w%3A1733919736169&ei=-INZZ7X_CazF1e8PuY_n6AE&oq=indigenous+people&gs_lp=EhJtb2JpbGUtZ3dzLXdpei1pbWciEWluZGlnZW5vdXMgcGVvcGxlKgIIATIEECMYJzIKEAAYgAQYQxiKBTIKEAAYgAQYQxiKBTIKEAAYgAQYQxiKBTIKEAAYgAQYQxiKBUiWClAAWABwAHgAkAEAmAGDAaABgwGqAQMwLjG4AQHIAQCYAgGgApwBmAMAiAYBkgcDMC4xoAeWBA&sclient=mobile-gws-wiz-img#vhid=MFqkg1N-WUmf7M&vssid=mosaic

Resiliency of Filipinos due to effect of Climate change

         Climate change has significantly impacted the Philippines. The following are the reasons why climate change occurs; increased carbon emissions from industrialization, transportation and energy consumption contribute to global warming, widespread deforestation for agriculture, urbanization and logging reduces natural carbon sinks and other illegal activities that is affecting our planet. Climate-related stresses the impact of agricultural productivity. Filipinos' resilience amidst climate change is remarkable. Addressing these challenges requires collective action, balancing economic development, environmental protection and social justice. Effective governance, community engagement and sustainable practices will help mitigate climate impacts.

Because of climate change the strong successive typhoons entered the country. Due to consecutive typhoons here in the Philippines especially in Luzon, a lot of Filipino were affected. Successive tropical cyclones have severely impacted the Philippines, Cagayan and Batanes are the mainly affected by the typhoon. The typhoons caused widespread damage in the Philippines, thousands of families and children without access to safe water and sanitation facilities based on the news. Based on my research the 11th and 12th tropical cyclones to hit the country this year affected at least 4.2 million individuals approximately 1.3 million of them children and displaced over 300,000. The agriculture also affected especially crops. For the rice production, the damage amounted to P5.93 billion with a production loss of 325,860 metric tons, based on the update of PhilStar. In agriculture Billion pesos were wasted. Several roads, bridges, and schools were also damaged, and the flooding and typhoons lasts for weeks or almost a month which really affects their lives. The typhoon caused major damage to lives and livelihoods, with a significant number of deaths, and made a historical impact.   

           Yet, Filipino remains resilient although we faced a lot of struggle due to calamities. We all know that Filipino are surviving from a lot of calamities and disasters especially on typhoons which is showing how resilience Filipinos are. By cooperations and collaboration or the bayanihan spirit alive, it helps them to build a good and resilient community. Filipinos are known as survivors, a strong fighter in times of calamities. We manage to survive from disappointments, we emerge more strongly and determined to face the challenges. 

References :

https://images.app.goo.gl/5dWrdVCa4FRzxHWZ9h

https://images.app.goo.gl/aQSbJMGs81KaBJ7k6

https://images.app.goo.gl/7w2dom5VGJEwv2cd8

https://images.app.goo.gl/hfSnQVKF212y9n5p7

https://www.google.com/search?q=collage+photos+causes+of+climate+change&client=ms-android-oppo-rvo2&sca_esv=636238c710bc0fc7&udm=2&biw=360&bih=692&sxsrf=ADLYWIKAkoVitwbt3rMaps739eA0kVZfxw%3A1733913223188&ei=h2pZZ8T_Cvip2roP3qn20AI&oq=collage+photos+causes+of+climate+change&gs_lp=EhJtb2JpbGUtZ3dzLXdpei1pbWciJ2NvbGxhZ2UgcGhvdG9zIGNhdXNlcyBvZiBjbGltYXRlIGNoYW5nZTIIEAAYgAQYogQyCBAAGIAEGKIESLKwAVDvH1iBrQFwBngAkAEAmAHUAaABmBKqAQYyLjE0LjK4AQPIAQD4AQGYAhegAo8TwgIEECMYJ8ICBhAAGAcYHsICChAAGIAEGEMYigXCAgUQABiABMICBxAjGLECGCfCAgcQABiABBgKwgIHECMYsAIYJ8ICBxAAGIAEGA3CAggQABgHGAgYHsICBhAAGAgYHsICCBAAGAgYDRgewgIEECEYCpgDAIgGAZIHBjguMTMuMqAHu0E&sclient=mobile-gws-wiz-img

https://www.google.com/search?q=typhoons+impact+on+philippines+collage+photos&client=ms-android-oppo-rvo2&sca_esv=636238c710bc0fc7&udm=2&biw=360&bih=692&sxsrf=ADLYWIKHNlKuWvuX6_krFzg0YJTaIWh9-g%3A1733913841911&ei=8WxZZ6vjNoLf2roPuKa_6Aw&oq=typhoons+impact+on+philippines+collage+photos&gs_lp=EhJtb2JpbGUtZ3dzLXdpei1pbWciLXR5cGhvb25zIGltcGFjdCBvbiBwaGlsaXBwaW5lcyBjb2xsYWdlIHBob3RvczIIEAAYgAQYogQyCBAAGIAEGKIEMggQABiABBiiBDIIEAAYgAQYogQyCBAAGIAEGKIESKkwUJIQWLYpcAF4AJABAJgB5wKgAckTqgEIMC4xNC4wLjK4AQPIAQD4AQGYAgygAr4OwgIEECMYJ8ICBhAAGAgYHsICBBAAGB7CAgQQIRgVwgIEECEYCpgDAIgGAZIHCDEuMTAuMC4xoAfiIQ&sclient=mobile-gws-wiz-img

https://www.google.com/search?q=resilience%20of%20filipino%20during%20typhoons%20collage%20images&hl=en&tbs=rimg:Cfe3zjTMtg8iYcigqSM8x707sgIAwAIA2AIB4AIA&udm=2&client=ms-android-oppo-rvo2&cs=1&sa=X&ved=0CBQQuIIBahgKEwjon8v6y5-KAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQogE&biw=360&bih=748&dpr=2#vhid=I97UX8W-rXGeTM&vssid=mosaic