althea

Early Life: From Humble Beginnings to Public Service Elpidio Quirino, the sixth President of the Philippines (1948–1953), was born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. His early life was marked by hardship: orphaned at a young age, he worked odd jobs to fund his education. Despite these challenges, he excelled academically, earning a law degree from the University of the Philippines in 1915. His humble origins shaped his empathy for the poor and fueled his dedication to public service. Quirino began his career as a lawyer and later entered politics, serving as a congressman for Ilocos Sur and a senator during the Commonwealth era. Quirino’s political ascent reached its peak during one of the Philippines’ most challenging periods. As Vice President under Manuel Roxas, he assumed the presidency in 1948 after Roxas’s sudden death. His administration faced immense challenges: a nation ravaged by World War II, rampant poverty, and a budding Hukbalahap rebellion. Quirino prioritized r...

  The 2025 National Children’s Month theme, “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!” , is a powerful call to action against the escalating threats of online sexual exploitation and abuse of children. This theme highlights the urgent need to protect Filipino children in an increasingly digital world, where predators exploit technology to harm the most vulnerable. My view is that while the Philippine government has made strides in legal and institutional reforms, systemic challenges persist—demanding stronger collaboration, education, and grassroots empowerment. Despite progress, root causes like poverty and lack of education continue to drive vulnerabilities. Many OSAEC cases involve families coerced into exploitation due to economic desperation. Moreover, stigma often silences victims, while cybercriminals exploit encrypted platforms and the dark web to evade detection. The government must address these gaps by investing in poverty-alleviation programs, ex...

  A glimpse of local governance in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. 🏛️ A taste of elegance in Caoayan—Ricardo's Dining Room.   A touch of nature and local artistry at lHAWAN Sa Caoayan.  Stepping back in time in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. Preserving history one photo at a time. 🕰️✨

Witnessing the Energy of Intramurals               Attending intramurals is like stepping into a microcosm of passion and school pride. The air thrums with laughter, chants, and the rhythmic pounding of sneakers on courts. I’ve watched students transform from quiet classmates into fierce competitors, their faces alight with determination. The games—whether soccer, chess, or dance-offs—become stages where personalities shine. Even the shyest individuals bloom under the spotlight, fueled by cheers from friends. It’s a reminder that sports and activities aren’t just about skill but about breaking barriers and embracing moments of unscripted joy.   The Unpredictable Drama of Friendly Rivalries What makes intramurals unforgettable are the unexpected twists. A last-minute three-pointer, a tiebreaker in tug-of-war, or a rookie team defying odds—these moments electrify the crowd. I’ve seen rivalries spark good-natured banter, with teams teasing each other...