#Filipino education support

[beingjellybeans]

Sun Life’s Multifaceted Initiatives: Enhancing Education, Health, and Community Well-Being

Sun Life Financial-Philippines is actively improving communities through a series of impactful initiatives focused on education, health, and overall well-being. These efforts highlight the company’s commitment to supporting Filipinos in various aspects of their lives. Educational Milestone for Sama-Bajau Children Sun Life Foundation recently celebrated a significant achievement with the…

[dailyanarchistposts]

Militant about joy

We want to connect joy to militancy for a number of reasons. We are interested in how the capacity for refusal and the willingness to fight can be enabling, relational, and can open up potentials for collective struggle and movement, in ways that are not necessarily associated with control, duty, or vanguardism. We want an expansive conception of militancy that affirms the potential of transformation at the expense of comfort, safety, or predictability. A common definition of militancy is to be “vigorously active, combative and aggressive, especially in support of a cause.”[29] We are interested in the ways that putting joy into contact with militancy helps link fierce struggle with intense affect: rebellions and movements are not only about determined resistance, but about opening up collective capacities. With joyful militancy we want to get at what it means to enliven struggle and care, combativeness and tenderness, hand in hand.

However, the historical associations and current renderings of militancy are complex. Historically, militancy is often associated with Marxist-Leninist and Maoist vanguardism, and the ways these ideologies have informed revolutionary class struggle and national liberation struggles. These ideals of militancy have been challenged, especially by Black, Indigenous, and postcolonial feminists, who have pointed out the pitfalls of rigid ideology, patriarchal leadership, and the neglect of care and love. The traditional figure of the militant—zealous, rigid, and ruthless—has also been challenged by situationism, anarchism, feminism, queer politics, and other currents that have connected direct action and struggle to the liberation of desire, foregrounding the importance of creativity and experimentation. From this perspective, the militant is the one who is always trying to control things, to take charge, to educate, to radicalize, and so on. This kind of militant tends to be two steps behind transformations as they manifest themselves, always finding them lacking the correct analysis or strategy, always imposing a framework or program.

The contemporary discourse of counterterrorism associates figures of militancy with ISIL,{2} the Taliban, and other groups named as enemies of the United States and its allies. In this way, the specter of the “militant extremist” helps justify further militarization, surveillance, imperialism and Islamophobia. The suspected presence of one militant is enough to turn a whole area into a strike zone in which all military-aged men are conceived as enemy combatants, and everyone else as collateral damage. Within this discourse, the militant is increasingly the ultimate Other, to be targeted for death or indefinite detention. In all of these representations—from the Maoist rebel to the terrorist extremist—the figure of the militant tends to be associated with intense discipline, duty, and armed struggle, and these ways of being are often posed in opposition to being supple, responsive, or sensitive. It’s clear that militancy means willingness to fight, but in its dominant representations, it is cold and calculating.

At the same time, there are other currents of militancy that make space for transformation and joy. When we interviewed her, queer Filipino organizer Melanie Matining spoke about its potential to break down stereotypes:

The word “militancy” for me is a really, really hard one. It was used a lot in Filipino organizing. I would always connect it to the military industrial complex, and I didn’t want to replicate that. And then as I started peeling back the actual things we need to do… As an Asian woman, to be militant—that’s really fucking rad. It breaks down sterotypes of submissiveness. The concept of militancy is a new thing for me, and to embrace it I’m unpacking notions of who I’m supposed to be.[30]

Artist and writer Jackie Wang argues that militancy is not only tactically necessary, but transformative for those who embody it. In the context of anti-Blackness in the United States, Wang shows how the category of “crime” has been constructed around Blackness and how mass incarceration has led to a politics of safety and respectability that relies on claims of innocence, contrasted implicitly with (Black) guilt and criminality. Rejecting the politics of innocence means challenging the innocent/criminal dichotomy and the institutionalized violence that subtends it. This form of militancy, Wang argues, is “not about assuming a certain theoretical posture or adopting a certain perspective—it is a lived position.”[31] Drawing on Frantz Fanon, Wang writes that militancy has the capacity “to transform people and ‘fundamentally alter’ their being by emboldening them, removing their passivity and cleansing them of the ‘core of despair’ crystallized in their bodies.”[32] Living militancy, from this perspective, is inherently connected to a process of transformation that undoes the knot of subjection around innocence, challenges the carceral logics of anti-Blackness, and opens up new terrains of struggle.

When we asked Indigenous political theorist Glen Coulthard about his conception of militancy in the context of Indigenous resurgence, he called it an “emergent radicalism” that destabilizes relations of domination.[33] Coulthard’s work focuses on Indigenous resurgence and resistance to settler colonialism. He reveals the ways that Empire represents Indigenous peoples’ oppression as a constellation of personal failings and “issues” to be addressed through colonial recognition and reconciliation. He also focuses on Indigenous refusal and resistance, the revaluation of Indigenous traditions, and a rise in Indigenous militancy and direct action. Militancy, in the context of Indigenous resurgence, is about the capacity to break down colonial structures of control, including the state’s monopoly on the legitimate use of force; it is a break with the colonial state’s attempt to subjugate Indigenous people and ensure continued exploitation of Indigenous lands. This emergent militancy isn’t based on a single program or ideology, but comes out of relationships, as Coulthard says:

It’s emergent in the sense that it’s bottom-up. But it also emerges from something, and that’s those relationships to land, place, community. So that is the emergent part. Emergent doesn’t mean entirely new, because those relationships to place are not new. They’ve always been there, and are always re-emerging. It comes in cycles. The always-there emergent militancy is acted on through management strategies, recognition and accommodation, whatever. That has its effects: it dampens the crisis, it overcomes contradictions temporarily. And then the militancy will emerge again. And we’ve seen this four or five times in the last half-century, these series of containment/management strategies. …What’s always prior is agency of Indigenous peoples, and capital and the state are constantly on the defensive, reacting. As opposed to thinking that we’re always reacting to colonialism, when we privilege it. It’s this resurgent Indigenous subjectivity that the state is constantly trying to quell or subdue. And it’s successful, but never totally successful. And it boils over, comes to the surface, and some new technology is deployed in order to manage it, and reconciliation is the latest tool that is doing that work. But it’s always because of our persistent presence: we’ve never gone away and we’ve been articulating alternatives in words and deeds.[34]

This conception of militancy as emergent is important because it doesn’t come out of thin air, or from an enlightened vanguard of militarized men who suppose that they can see things more clearly than common people. It comes out of the ongoing refusal of Indigenous peoples to give up their ways of life. As Kiera Ladner and Leanne Betasamosake Simpson write in their introduction to This is an Honour Song,

The summer of 1990 brought some strong medicine to Turtle Island. For many Canadians, “Oka” was the first time they encountered Indigenous anger, resistance and standoff, and the resistance was quickly dubbed both the “Oka Crisis” and the “Oka Crises” by the mainstream media. But to the Kanien’kehaka (Mohawk) people of Kanehsata:ke, who were living up their responsibilities to take care of their lands, this was neither a “crisis” at Oka, nor was it about the non-Native town of “Oka.” This was about 400 years of colonial injustice. Similarly, for the Kanien’kaehaka from Kahnawa:ke and Akwesasne who created “crises” by putting up their own barricades on the Mercier Bridge or by mobilizing and/or mobilizing support (resources) at Kanehsata:ke, this really had nothing to do with Oka, a bridge or a golf course. This was about 400 years of resistance. Like every Indigenous nation occupied by Canada, the Haudenesaunee have been confronting state/settler societies and their governments since those societies began threatening the sovereignty, self-determination, and jurisdiction of the Haudenesaunee. It was not a beginning. Nor was this the end. This was a culmination of many, many years of Onhkwehonwe resistance resulting in a decision to put up barricades in defense of, and to bring attention to, Haudenesaunee land ethics, treaty responsibilities, and governance.[35]

Indigenous resurgence and events like Oka are not joyful in the sense of being happy, but in the sense that they are deeply transformative and able to catalyze solidarity across Turtle Island. But unlike Marxist conceptions of militancy in which the vanguard is supposed to usher in a global revolution, it is clear that Indigenous struggles do not implicate everyone in the same way. As it breaks down colonial structures of control and dispossession, Indigenous resurgence implicates us, as settlers, in complicated ways: it unsettles us and our relationship to land and place, and throws into question received ideas about who we are, our responsibilities and complicities, what it means to live here, and our received ideas about what “here” is. It compels us to learn, together, how to support Indigenous resurgence and resist settler colonial violence.

Joyful militancy has also emerged in spaces where people generate the capacity to move with despair and hopelessness, to politicize it. In her study of the queer movement ACT UP, queer theorist and activist Deborah Gould shows how their militant tactics not only won institutional victories that prolonged and saved lives; they were also a process of world-making:

From its start and throughout its life, ACT UP was a place to fight the AIDS crisis, and it was always more than that as well. It was a place to elaborate critiques of the status quo, to imagine alternative worlds, to express anger, to defy authority, to form sexual and other intimacies, to practice non-hierarchical governance and self-determination, to argue with one another, to refashion identities, to experience new feelings, to be changed.[36]

The militancy of ACT UP was not only about a willingness to be confrontational and defy conventions of straight society and mainstream gay and lesbian politics; the movement also created erotically-charged queer atmospheres and sustained networks of care and support for members who got sick. Catalyzed by grief and rage, it blew open political horizons and changed what was possible for people to think, do, and feel together.

When we asked the Argentina-based intellectual Sebastián Touza about militancy, he discussed the danger of defining it once and for all:

I don’t know if militancy can be defined “as such.” Probably it is not a good idea to define it that way because that would entail a general point of view, an interchangeable and abstract concept, valid for all situations. But, on the other hand, I would say that a militant is somebody who struggles for justice in the situation … Thus we have to pay attention to the situation, to the encounters that take place in it, to how meaning is elaborated there, to the subjectivities that arise as a result of those encounters.[37]

This “situated” militancy does not start from a prefabricated notion of justice. It is an attempt to intervene effectively in the here and now, based on a capacity to be attuned to relationships. An example of this could be Touza’s discussion of the struggle of the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo, a feminist organization that formed in resistance to military repression in Argentina in the 1970s:

Mothers grew up not from strategic plans but from below: from the pain of mothers seeking to recover their children who had been kidnapped, tortured, and “disappeared” by the state. Because they have not separated affects from political activity, Mothers never consider each other means toward ends. Nobody has to be subordinated to strengthen the organization. Rather, they regard each other as ends in themselves. What bonds them together is not an idea but the affect, love and friendship that arises from supporting each other, sharing intimate emotions, moments of joy and sorrow. They organize themselves through consensus, understood not as a system of decision-making or conflict resolution, but as a direct engagement with the lives of one another. As in a now long established feminist tradition, for them the personal is political. Mothers guide themselves by an ethics of intimate conviction whose exercise cannot be detached from everyday life. They have a profound distrust of ideologies and party lines and are proud of their autonomy from the state, political parties, unions and NGOs. Their autonomy does not consist in fighting against a dominant ideology, which might summon the need for the specialized knowledge of a vanguard party, but rather … in the affirmation of liberating aspects of popular culture that already exist among them.[38]

The Mothers are a powerful example of how militancy often springs from everyday life and the bonds of kinship, rather than abstract ideological or moral commitments. These struggles eventually waned or were absorbed by Empire, at least partially. The Argentinean government eventually began using the discourse of human rights and began to offer money and services as an attempt to relegitimize the state and regain control, causing deep divisions between the Mothers and other movements in Argentina.[39] The Canadian government used treaty negotiations, reconciliation discourses, and other formal processes in an attempt to quell Indigenous resurgence and militancy. As Coulthard explains above, new forms of militancy tend to provoke new strategies of containment and absorption by the state, leading to the invention of new forms of struggle. None of these movements stayed frozen in one form: in various ways they transformed, dissolved, shifted, or were institutionalized. But the fact that Empire always invents new forms of containment is not evidence that movements have “failed” or that they were misguided. Joyful transformation sometimes ebbs and flows, becomes captured or crushed, grows subtler or percolates into everyday life, but always re-emerges and renews itself.

Militancy is not a fixed ideal to approximate. We cannot be “like” a militant because militancy—in the way we conceptualize it here—is a practice that is based in the specificity of situations. We cannot become these examples, nor should we look to them as ideals. Rather than boiling joyful militancy down to a fixed way of being or a set of characteristics, we see it arising in and through the relationships that people have with each other. This means it will always look different, based on the emergent connections, relationships, and convictions that animate it.

In relation to this, we believe it is important to hesitate, lest our understanding of militancy become another form of rigid radicalism. Not everyone we spoke with has been enthusiastic about this word. For instance, in our interview with them, writer and artist Margaret Killjoy was ambivalent, emphasizing its connection to armed struggle:

I guess I see it as being someone who is “actively” involved in trying to promote radical social change, and in a non-reformist way. It’s dangerous as terminology … I don’t use it much myself … because of course the first implication it seems to have is that of armed struggle, which is far from a universally applicable strategy or tactic.[40]

We hope that joyful militancy allows for questions and uncertainties that are too often smothered by conventional conceptions of militancy. We also recognize that many will still prefer different language. We are not suggesting that all joyful struggles share an ideology, a program, or a set of tactics. What the above examples have in common is that they express a form of militancy that is attuned to their local situations and arises from people’s needs, desires, and relationships. What we are calling joyful militancy is not a shared content, though we do think there are some shared values and sensibilities. Rather it is an attunement and activation of collective power that looks different everywhere, because everywhere is different.

Besides these highly visible examples, joyful militancy also lives in art and poetry that opens people’s capacities for thinking and feeling in new ways. It is expressed in quiet forms of subversion and sabotage, as well as all the forms of care, connection, and support that defy the isolation and violence of Empire. It is not a question of being a certain way, but a question of open-ended becoming, starting from wherever people find themselves.

[rotzaprachim]

having a moment w the Filipino diaspora rn (🇵🇭 ✌🏼) completely ignoring the ways U.S. backed govs similar to bibis have implemented policies very similar to bibis and they’re very popular especially with working class struggling Filipinos if less so the more educated secularist diaspora and that while we need to urgently stand with Palestine rn and in favour of a ceasefire we need to be honest about how popular these politics are in how we counter them and not act like PI politics suck because Zionism controls them lol but I feel this is actually a pretty common issue in “global south” diasporas in the U.S.

we’re remembering how Tita Rose supported duterte’s drug war because it would bring security yes/no?

particularly those having an interesting time with justifying/straight up ignoring the fact Hamas killed Filipinos, Latinos, Thai farm workers, Nepalese students, etc

[inkcurlsandknives]

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Follow @gabriellabuba!

Head to gabriellabuba.com to find more  fun pride events coming up on the #SaintsOfStormAndSorrowPrideAdventCalendar to celebrate the Launch of my debut novel Saints of Storm and Sorrow coming out June 25th with @titanbooks

Preorder your copy today! Buy link: https://linktr.ee/gabriellabuba

In this an enthralling Filipino-inspired queer epic fantasy, a nun concealing a goddess-given gift is unwillingly transformed into a lightning rod for her people's struggle against colonization. For fans of R.F. Kuang, Tasha Suri, and The Hurricane War.

[zackfairscumslut]

Hello there! May I request matchup for Final Fantasy VII Remake/Rebirth? It's really up to you if you'll pair me with male or female character and I would also like to include reasoning dynamics, headcanons, photos, and music, thank you so much!

𝗦𝗲𝘅𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘀: Transmasc (AFAB-Assigned Female at Birth) Genderfluid, Biromantic and Pansexual; He/They

𝗔𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲: 22 years old, around 5'3", Southeast Asian (Filipino) with Spanish ancestry. Chubby with Messy Medium brunette hair with grayish tips [mistakenly thought to be dyed], Chocolate brown eyes, and a Small beauty mark on my forehead.

𝗦𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲: Feminine Tomboy, Soft Punk/Rocker Chic, Casual Chic, Modernist Chic, and Rustic fashion style (like Malia Tate)

𝗠𝗕𝗧𝗜, 𝗘𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗮𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 & 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: ENTP-T, 4w5, Neutral Good

𝗣𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘁𝘀: Gentle, Warm, Polite, Supportive, Religious, Unassuming, Creative, Multifaceted, Diplomatic, Nurturing, Booksmart, Fair-minded, Enthusiastic, Insightful, Adventurous, Well-rounded,and Childlike

𝗡𝗲𝘂𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘁𝘀: Complex, Sarcastic, Driven, Wary, Reluctant, Loud, Outspoken, Keen, Sensitive, Chatty, Traditionalist, Feisty, Clumsy, Humorous, Stubborn, Hopeless romantic, and Dogmatic

𝗡𝗲𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘁𝘀: Volatile, Flighty, Inconsistent, Aloof or Dependent (depending on the mood), Potty-mouthed, Gullible, [a bit] Manipulative, Exasperating, [can be] Possessive [but needs your own space], Restless, Tenacious, Indecisive, Overly dramatic, Moody, Blunt, and Condemning

𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲𝘀: Arts, Literature, Creative writing, History, Old cathedrals, Catholic theology, Catechism, Saints, Choir, Amateur-fact reading, Social commentary, Beauty pageants, Makeup, Cute minimalistic items, Eating, Night sky, Astronomical events, Galaxy color palette, Karaoke, ASMR, Rock bands, 2000s-2010s music, Kpop, Cartoons, Memes, and Chilling both Indoors and Outdoors

𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲𝘀: Stereotyping (I hate it when I labeled as sunshiny girly girl), Forced obligation, Being left out, Interrupted plans, Emotional invalidation, Apathy, Judgemental people, Hypocrites, Pressuring, No privacy, Forcing to do I'm against with, Gaslighting, Telenovelas, Dirty bathrooms, blackout, Lightning, Firecrackers, Toads, Snakes, Cockroaches, Bees, Toxic Masculinity, Misogyny, Fake woke, Nitpicking, Trash talkers, Extremists, Crab Mentality, and Overly girly things

𝗛𝗼𝗯𝗯𝗶𝗲𝘀: Drawing, Conceptualizing original characters, Writing, Reading random subjects (except math), Singing, Dancing [when nobody's around (I'm very bad at it)], Walking like a so-so called model (if I ever feel so confident), Sharing nerdy or opinionated thoughts, Sleeping, Listening to music, Chatting in social media, Watching videos on YouTube (mostly ASMR and color coded lyrics or audio), Watching cartoons, Creating clay charms, Making terrible jokes/puns, and Cooking

𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀: Drawing, Sketching, Painting, Modeling clay crafting, Hand lettering, Scrapbooking, Creative writing, Essay writing, Singing, Playing flute recorder, Doing makeup, Acting, and Public speaking

𝗠𝘆 𝗙𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗡𝗼𝗻-𝗞𝗽𝗼𝗽 𝗔𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀:

My Chemical Romance

Evanescence

Avril Lavigne

𝗠𝘆 𝗙𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗞𝗽𝗼𝗽 𝗔𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀 + 𝗕𝗶𝗮𝘀𝗲𝘀: (I'm really late in that fandom lol)

ATEEZ (Biases: Mingi, Hongjoong, Wooyoung, and Yeosang)

Seventeen (Biases: Woozi, Joshua, Jeonghan, Wonwoo, Jun, and Dino)

ENHYPEN (Biases: Ni-Ki, Heeseung, and Jay)

TXT (Biases: Yeonjun and Taehyun)

ZEROBASEONE (Biased: Ricky, Jiwoong, and Zhang Hao)

𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘀:

I was diagnosed with mild ADHD when I was a child

Once a Computer Science major shifted to Secondary Education major in English

Used to be a member of Campus Ministry, and served as a lector, a psalmist, and a choir member of my school at the same time for three years from 9th grade to 12th grade.

I’m part of the Education and Hotel Restaurant Management college department choral group who won our school’s chorale competition last December

Currently one of the overall top students in college department of my school (ranked 23 out of 100+ college students)

P.S.: I wait and lurk around Tumblr to see if there are any active Final Fantasy matchups, so thank you so much for making one and have a great day/night ahead! 💖

Matchup for @aeriscallanga <3

Thank you sm for requesting!

💌𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒊𝒔..

Aerith/Aeris Gainsborough!

I Know You

Faye Webster ♥︎

⇄ ◁◁ 𝚰𝚰 ▷▷ ↻

0:25 ━━●━━───── 3:30

ˏˋ➷Starting Off Simple With my Initial Reasons

This might have very well been expected, so I apologize.

<3

⋆ — First, I would like to say that Aerith would greatly appreciate your childlike and adventurous nature, as it matches well with hers. Having her person, who's down to have fun (together, specifically) is definitely something that means a lot to her.

✰ — Her empathy and capability to read others and understand would also be of value to you, I think. She'd never make you feel as though the way you're feeling and/or thinking is wrong in any way. If she didn't understand, she'd try damn hard to. She' never judges nor purposefully makes you feel less than. "You know.. I like that you aren't afraid of the way you feel."

✰ — Following that same idea, she'd give you the freedom to express yourself however need be. Whether it's a suit and tie or a leather top, you're you. And that's all Aerith cares about. Pink and frills kept all to herself. She'd never try and force anything onto you unless it was something you explicitly wanted. "Gender isn't worn on the outside, silly. It's what you got in here." With a little tap to your chest.

⋆ — Along with that, your moody and blunt tendencies, while contrasting with Aerith, wouldn't be much of a problem in her eyes. She really just enjoys having somebody around who wants to be with her as much as she does them. Even if their mood varies. She'd come prepared. Any and all time spent in the others company is good and valuable. Infact, I'd say she'd enjoy not having to guess what you mean.

⋆ — To be met with the same warmth and nurturing hands she provides to everyone else will be a breath of fresh air. Your equal support of one another is something you'd each cherish. Especially Aerith. To her, it had been a rarity her whole life to be included. To be supported. Whether or not you share the same sentiment, you also hate being left out. The two of you would make an excellent pairing for the very reason of never letting the other feel alone.

⋆ — Ah, but one good thing about Aerith is she won't push it too hard. If space is what you need, it's what she's got. Privacy and alone time aren't a price of love, and she knows that well.

✰ — Your creative passions are definitely things she's intrigued by. As evident in Rebirth, Aerith, too, has a knack for singing and taking the stage herself. I could imagine the two of you bonding over these shared interests and talents together. (More on this later..)

⋆ — Aerith's church! The scenic aspect of it, along with the familiarity of a religious environment would appeal to you. Also, the lack of nature in Midgar. Both the church and her house would be two of your favorite places. (More on this later..)

ˏˋ➷Dynamic of the Duo

I Will Be

Avril Lavigne ♥︎

⇄ ◁◁ 𝚰𝚰 ▷▷ ↻

0:36 ━━●━━───── 4:00

<3

🩷: Your similarities make for some good times. Seeing eye to eye is a good thing! She gets you, you get her. Between Aerith's sass and your feist, some pretty eventful stuff is bound to happen.

🩷: Aerith loves your stupid jokes. It's the little things, is it not? Teasing and giggling with each other are some of the highlights of hangouts.

🩷: You're equally as enthusiastic and eager, which leads to very fulfilling dates. And, while going out is certainly on the agenda, neither of you mind kicking it back every once in awhile to invest in some cartoons.

🩷: Being childish does not mean being stupid. Another thing the two of you share is intelligence. Some deep conversations are to come from this, with both of you walking away in comfortable agreement.

🩷: When it gets rough and unstable, Aerith's your rock. Just a glimpse of that smile makes it feel like all the pieces fit together, even if they don't. She stands grounded and constant when you aren't, and that's comforting.

🩷: Being each other's certified hype people! Raising your significant other up is a key point in this relationship. Aerith is your girl, and you're her partner. Some things just come with the package, and unwavering support is all over this one. It's all high-fives and "woohoo!"s.

🩷: Loving what's unique. She'd be so giddy to play with your hair. Forehead kisses, also. "Physical proof of just how cute you are!" Her eyes never fail to catch you in a trance. So deep, and full of life. All of your features are her favorite ones. She gushes all day non-stop about her awesome partner.

🩷: As for taking charge, I say it's shared amongst you guys. Both of you are outspoken and bold people. It just depends on the day, and who gets to it first.

ˏˋ➷Time Spent Together

Hate to See Your Heart Break

Paramore ♥︎

⇄ ◁◁ 𝚰𝚰 ▷▷ ↻

1:25 ━━●━━───── 5:09

<3

💭:Lots of passion.

💭:She'd definitely model for you! Quite a few of your canvases are spent on her.

💭:You'd be the one to show her a pretty sky. Quell that fear.

💭: Karaoke nights are often. From sweet 'n savory duets up in her room to bars/spots you find around town. You find she looks stunning under the cheap lighting.

💭:Academic pursuits. You see her face in every crowd, feel her embrace after every speech.

💭:Shared scrapbook. Preserved versions of everytime you finally had your other half.

💭:You aren't getting out of flower deliveries. A helping hand (or two) certainly won't hurt. And she requires your input, of course.

💭:The church is that perfect mix of indoor/outdoor. Pretty flowers that smell like her. Sophisticated, yet aged and deteriorated structure your eyes can appreciate. Right up your alley.

💭:Her house is cozy and perfect for late nights in. A little chunk of heaven that belongs to her, that she lets you into.

💭:Like the modeling, she doesn't mind getting her makeup done, either. You make her feel especially pretty when she's all done up. You get to have fun, and see the confident sparkle in her eye when it's done.

💭:Carefree and awkward dancing between the two of you and the stars. Her hands here, your feet there.. it's uncoordinated and perfect.

💜: Your hair rests under her curious fingertips, tousled and bronzed. ❝It's so..❞ You suck in a breath, shoulders going slump with disappointed expectation. ❝..pretty.❞ Oh. Hah. Nice.

ˏˋ➷Some Photos<3

Thank you for your submission! This is my first time, so apologies if it isn't the greatest.

[milkboydotnet]

From May 17-18, 2024, an urgent International People’s Tribunal (IPT) will take place. The tribunal is jointly convened by the International Association of Democratic Lawyers (IADL) and Friends of the Filipino People in Struggle (FFPS). The theme and title of the tribunal will be:

Katarungan: The Filipino People vs US Government, and the Marcos and Duterte regimes (An International War Crimes Tribunal on the US-directed Counterinsurgency in the Philippines)

The purposes of the IPT will be to heighten international condemnation and isolation against the US-Duterte and US-Marcos regimes for their widespread violations of International Humanitarian Law, to underscore the repressive character and role of US imperialism in the Government of the Republic of the Philippines’ (GRP’s) counterinsurgency war against the Filipino people, to educate the international community on the just cause and legitimacy of the Filipino people’s struggle for national liberation, and to broaden international support for the cause of a just and lasting peace in the Philippines as led by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

In order to make this event happen, we need your help! We are raising funds to cover the airfare and travel costs of witnesses who have seen the war crimes of the Duterte and Marcos regimes up close, as well as lawyers and other human rights advocates. We are also raising funds to cover the costs of publication for the findings of the tribunal. Will you support our efforts, and in doing so, support the Filipino people’s struggle for a just and lasting peace?

[GOFUNDME]

[cheezekennith]

So uhhhhhh...welcome to my stupid blog!!!!

And i have a list of my ocs to you :)

GUM1

Jaden

K4RM4

Sam (my FNAF oc, and she is a human btw)

Hell madness (my first utau oc that is a Mary sue and a concept(

Akane (my toh/the owl house oc)

Medicine (my 2nd FNAF oc and she is an animatronic)

Willow (my welcome home parody oc)

Ludwig (my welcome home oc)

Yume-loid (my first utau oc)

Charolette

Henry (my fourth fnaf oc that is a carrion crow)

Jerry (my third fnaf oc that is saw whet owl)

Phoenix (my fifth fnaf oc that is a great gray owl)

Bobby (my sixth fnaf oc and is a tanuki)

Ella (my seventh fnaf oc and is a fairy)

Heres my shitty info of me :

my name is ??? Or eli

my birthday is august 24

im a filipino

i am half catholic and christian

I do speak filipino a little bit but speaking english is kinda easy for me

my race is half filipino, half chinese and spainish

im from the philippines

my zodiac and chinese zodiac is virgo and rabbit

im a female

my height is 5'3 tall

and im a multifandom artist

and i am straight and pansexual (yes I have a girlfriend and a boyfriend)

And also I have mild autism

I support LGBTQIA+

stuff i like :

fnaf

dawko

vocaloid and utauloid drawing

making utau covers

undertale/deltarune

kirby

splatoon

ghost and pals

owls

animal crossing

DNI if :

N3cr0ph1l3s

proshippers

p3d0ph1l3s

z00ph1l3s

NSFW

NSFW watchers (cuz i really hate them and they are really gross)

Racist

Transphobic

Homophobic

Lgbtqphobic

p0rn blog

Anti-christian

Muslim-phobic

Naz1$

Dawko haters

Touhou hater

Anti-LGBTQ+ and Anti-LGBTQAI+

Ghost and pals hater

art tracer and art stealer

Goanimate/vyond fan (the uttp ones not the regular ones)

Frans fans (plus do you know sans is older than frisk and also they are a child, that is Pro-Shipping and also pedophilia)

Vore and tickle, and inflation, kaa hypothesis, and DeviantArt k¡nk/F3t¡$h enjoyer

China-supporter

Russia-supporter

K¡nk/F3t¡$h blog

S3x¡$t

SSSniperwolf stan

YOU ARE FUCKING OUT OF THIS BLOG!

Fandoms im not interested (but if you like this fandoms i will respect your opinion) :

barney and friends

marvel

fortnite

goanimate/vyond

disney (a little)

M3G4N

Spongebob

Ok Ko lets be heroes

Gacha life

Sonic

Fandoms im up into :

dawko(youtube)/darkest desire

utauloid and vocaloid

fnaf

kirby

splatoon 1,2 and 3

ghost and pals

animal crossing

sander sides

the owl house

amphibia

Some fandoms I'm gonna get interested now :

Welcome home

Jacksepticeye

Markiplier

FPE or fundamental paper education

Touhou (I just took a break from it but I rarely post)

Fandoms/commnities i left :

Goanimate

Hazbin hotel

Helluva boss

Eddsworld

But some fandoms that I'm not interested in but I created an au :

Tf2

but please do not block me but warning my post contains⚠

Blood

and swearing

and bleeding

and only minors are in this blog but...... no 17+ accounts allowed cuz its disgusting but if your a 17+ account i will report you

Art trade : closed (but no fetish and nsfw because i hate it)

And plus I have bad spelling tho💀

And also I'm a dawktrap simp cuz ye cuz I like this dude cuz idk I'm simping on him.... *Dies of cringe*

Qna

Q1: (🇵🇭) : tagalog ka?/(🇺🇲) : you speak tegalog?

A : unfortunately i cant but i rarely speak filipino or tagalog, im still learning how to speak filipino cuz i havent spoken filipino since during the pandemic i still understand tagalog. and the fact english is my first language and filipino is my second language.

Q2 : how old are you?

A : no but my age is a minor

Main account : @cheezekennith

Alt account : @cheezeyidiot-1000

Putting *character* in places blog : @putting-oliver-in-places

My multifandom ask blog :

@ask-the-simmons-crew

My fpe au blog :

@ask-the-ffe-cast (which is formerly a putting *character* in places blog)

credit to @sweetpeauserboxes, and this pinned post was inspired by @eminsunnytoons123

[appleflavoredkitkats]

so far, all the support i've been seeing for here lies love on tiktok, twitter, and reddit have ALL been written by non-native filipinos, which infuriates me.

all these posts are the same, saying that the show does not glamorize imelda and that they and their families walk out of the theater disliking her. sure, okay, that's good! but not everything is ABOUT you, fucking twats. a lot of native filipinos (and a good few informed fil-ams!) have multiple problems with this musical that specifically affect us, and nobody is fucking listening. while this does not comprise all filipino americans, i am very fucking pissed that a good portion of fil-ams have been the ones most vocal about supporting this musical, using their filipino title as a means of merit.

but i've got news for you bud: the problems with here lies love more directly affect native filipinos. i'm not saying that fil-ams cannot be affected by issues in the philippines, but i'm saying that. the priority of opinion SHOULD be given to NATIVE FILIPINOS. we are the ones under the marcos regime, we are the ones living in the damages he placed in our systems. when WE tell YOU that this musical can be dangerous propaganda, unintentional or not, then LISTEN TO US.

what americans understand of disinformation campaigns is NOTHING compared to the philippines. i have learned in my history class last semester that other countries are using us as their standard for disinformation. my country is a cesspool of gatekept education, internet manipulation, and fraud. when i say that it is dangerous for a musical like this to exist, i mean it. people can use it here to promote the marcoses (who are still in power!). it is DANGEROUS.

[theidioticcowboy]

Filipinos need brains and a good education because filipino boys are out here supporting Project 2025, while they literally just go, "Ma, what's for dinner?"

[jerickreforba25]

CBN Asia × Cignal TV: 5-Year Deal & Standalone Channel... Why?

Jerick Combate Reforba

The future of The 700 Club Asia and its partnership with Cignal TV Inc. offers an intriguing and potentially groundbreaking development for CBN Asia and its commitment to spreading the Gospel. While there have been no official announcements or specific details regarding this new chapter, it represents a strategic shift in how CBN Asia can engage a larger audience through digital and premium television platforms. Let’s break down the potential implications of a five-year distribution deal with Cignal TV and what it could mean for the ministry and its viewers.

CBN Asia’s Strategic Shift

CBN Asia, having been a mainstay in Philippine Christian broadcasting for almost three decades, has consistently evolved its strategies to adapt to the changing media landscape. As we see a broader shift away from traditional broadcast television toward digital and premium platforms, CBN Asia is clearly seeking to stay relevant and accessible to audiences across multiple platforms. The potential distribution deal with Cignal TV would align perfectly with this vision, offering a fresh and dynamic way to continue proclaiming Christ and transforming lives.

Cignal TV Inc., being the leading Direct-to-Home (DTH) satellite provider in the Philippines, offers an expansive network and subscriber base, particularly among premium viewers. Cignal’s subscribers include households that often invest in higher-tier packages for exclusive, high-quality content. If CBN Asia does indeed sign a five-year deal with Cignal TV to launch a dedicated Faith-based, Christ-centered television channel, it could be a significant step forward in bringing the Gospel message into more homes, both in the Philippines and potentially across other regions. The channel would serve as a 24/7 resource for Christian programming, going beyond the weekly airing of The 700 Club Asia and offering a variety of faith-filled content catered to Filipino audiences.

A Standalone Faith-based Channel: What to Expect

The launch of a standalone Christian television channel could allow CBN Asia to provide even more diverse content, potentially catering to different demographics within the Christian community. Instead of just a single program or a segment, this new channel would offer viewers the opportunity to access a wide array of faith-based content that goes beyond traditional shows like The 700 Club Asia. Here’s what could potentially unfold:

1. Expanded Programming: A dedicated faith-based channel could include various genres of Christian content such as inspirational music, Christian documentaries, sermons, films, teaching series, children’s programs (like Superbook), and educational content grounded in Christian values. This would give viewers access to round-the-clock spiritual nourishment and create an opportunity for the channel to impact diverse age groups, from children to seniors.

2. Interactive Content and Live Events: The channel might also include live broadcasts of church services, conferences, and spiritual retreats, as well as interactive segments like live prayer lines and telethons, where viewers can call in and request prayers or support the ministry. Given CBN Asia’s experience with digital prayer counseling through its Prayer Center, this feature could seamlessly extend to the new channel.

3. Cultural and Localized Content: Since CBN Asia is deeply rooted in its mission to reach Filipino audiences, the channel could offer localized content that speaks directly to the cultural and spiritual needs of Filipinos. This may include testimonies, stories of transformation from local communities, and special segments highlighting faith-based outreach programs within the country.

4. Partnerships and Collaborations: This channel might also allow CBN Asia to collaborate with other Christian ministries and organizations, both locally and globally. Such partnerships could further enrich the content and make the channel a hub for viewers seeking various kinds of spiritual growth and encouragement.

5. Exclusive Content for Cignal Postpaid Premier Subscribers: Since this would be offered initially as a premium channel for Cignal Postpaid Premier subscribers, it implies that the content will be of a higher production quality, appealing to a more discerning audience willing to invest in premium content. Cignal’s Premier Plan 1990 is known for offering exclusive content and channels that are not available in lower-tier packages. This aligns with the idea that CBN Asia is transitioning into more specialized, targeted content delivery as part of its ministry strategy.

Implications of CBN Asia’s Potential Partnership with Cignal TV

The move to launch a premium television channel could be both an exciting opportunity and a challenge. Here are some key factors and potential implications of this future partnership:

1. Reaching a More Affluent Audience: By being included in Cignal TV’s Premier Plan 1990, CBN Asia may initially reach a more affluent audience who can afford premium content. While this may limit accessibility for some viewers who rely on free TV, it could open up new revenue streams for CBN Asia through potential sponsorships and advertisements, which could, in turn, help fund their outreach and humanitarian programs.

2. Long-term Sustainability: As television production costs continue to rise, and with declining viewership for traditional broadcast TV, the potential for a sustainable revenue model through partnerships with paid subscription services like Cignal is significant. The shift to premium distribution could help CBN Asia balance its operational costs while continuing its mission.

3. Complementing Digital-Only Programming: While the channel would cater to premium television viewers, it would not negate CBN Asia’s broader strategy of focusing on digital programming. In fact, the premium TV channel could complement digital platforms like the CBN Asia Media Center, Facebook, and YouTube, allowing viewers to access faith-based content anytime, anywhere. This hybrid model could provide flexibility, ensuring that CBN Asia remains relevant in both traditional and digital spaces.

4. The Challenge of Exclusivity: While there is excitement about launching a standalone channel, there may also be concerns about accessibility. Since the channel will only be available to Cignal Postpaid Premier subscribers, it will likely exclude a large portion of the population who may not have access to premium television services. The challenge for CBN Asia would be to balance exclusivity with its mission of reaching as many people as possible with the Gospel. Digital platforms will play a crucial role in bridging this gap.

5. Building a Community of Faith: If done right, a dedicated Christian television channel could foster a strong sense of community among viewers, who may tune in regularly not only for entertainment but for spiritual guidance, prayer, and encouragement. This sense of belonging and shared faith can create an impactful ministry, where viewers feel connected to something greater than themselves.

Both Cignal Prepaid and SatLite Not Included?

CBN Asia’s future standalone Faith-based Christ-centered premium television channel may not be included in both Cignal Prepaid and SatLite subscribers due to the nature of these platforms offering lower-cost packages with limited content. Premium channels, such as the one proposed by CBN Asia, are typically reserved for higher-tier plans like Cignal Postpaid Premier to ensure exclusive, high-quality programming for subscribers willing to pay more for added value. The decision to exclude these lower-cost platforms is likely tied to financial and operational considerations, as premium channels often require significant funding to maintain their production quality and exclusive content. By focusing on postpaid subscribers, CBN Asia can ensure the channel’s sustainability while offering a more curated viewing experience. However, digital platforms may continue to serve as more accessible alternatives for broader audiences.

No Official Announcements Yet

As of now, there have been no formal announcements or details about when or if this channel will launch. It remains a possibility that could unfold in the coming months or years. CBN Asia will likely take the time needed to carefully plan, negotiate, and ensure that this move aligns with its broader mission and vision.

In the meantime, CBN Asia continues to serve its audience through The 700 Club Asia and its various digital platforms. The organization has consistently demonstrated its resilience and adaptability, responding to the needs of the times while staying true to its core purpose: proclaiming the Gospel and transforming lives.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for CBN Asia?

The potential five-year distribution deal with Cignal TV marks a significant development in CBN Asia’s journey of faith-based broadcasting. It is a move that underscores the ministry's willingness to adapt and evolve in the rapidly changing media landscape. While there are many uncertainties and challenges ahead, the partnership holds the promise of expanded influence and new ways of connecting with audiences.

Ultimately, whatever the future holds, we trust that God will continue to guide CBN Asia and The 700 Club Asia. As they navigate this season of change, their mission remains the same: to bring the love and message of Jesus Christ to the Philippines and the world, one heart at a time.

Prayers for CBN Asia’s 5-Year Deal with Cignal TV and Standalone Channel

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and reverence, acknowledging Your sovereignty, power, and grace over all things. You are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, and in You, we place all our hopes, dreams, and plans. Today, Lord, we lift up CBN Asia and the exciting opportunity of a five-year distribution deal in partnership with Cignal TV. We believe that this partnership and the potential launch of a standalone, Faith-based, Christ-centered premium television channel is part of Your divine plan to extend Your Kingdom and to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ into even more homes and hearts.

Father, we thank You for the vision that You have entrusted to the leaders of CBN Asia, a vision that aligns with Your Great Commission to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations. We ask that You bless this new endeavor, guiding every decision and every step in accordance with Your will. We pray for Your wisdom to rest upon all those involved in the negotiations, planning, and execution of this partnership. May the leadership teams of both CBN Asia and Cignal TV seek Your face in every aspect of this project, trusting that You will lead them down the right path for Your glory.

Lord, we lift up the future television channel that is being planned. We ask that You consecrate it for Your purposes, that it would be a beacon of light and hope in a world that so desperately needs to hear Your truth. We pray that this channel would be filled with content that reflects Your heart, and that it would be a powerful tool to proclaim Your love, grace, and salvation. May it serve as a platform to reach not only the faithful but also those who are lost, hurting, and in need of Your healing touch.

We ask for Your provision, Lord. We know that launching and sustaining a premium channel requires significant resources, both financially and spiritually. But we also know that You are Jehovah Jireh, our Provider. We ask that You open the doors to every resource that is needed, from financial support to talented and anointed individuals who will contribute to the content, production, and outreach of this channel. Let nothing hinder the work that You have set in motion, and may all the glory and honor belong to You.

Father, we pray specifically for the viewers of this future channel. Prepare the hearts of those who will tune in, whether they are seeking You intentionally or simply come across the channel by chance. We ask that the programming would speak directly to their spirits, and that lives would be transformed by the power of Your Holy Spirit. May this channel serve as a conduit for miracles, healing, restoration, and spiritual awakening. Let testimonies of faith, redemption, and breakthrough arise from the viewers, as they encounter Your presence through the messages, teachings, and stories shared.

Lord, we also ask for favor with the Cignal TV Postpaid Premier subscribers who will have access to this channel. May it become a cherished source of spiritual encouragement and inspiration in their lives. We pray that this premium offering would not be seen as just another entertainment option, but as a sacred space where people can encounter You in a real and personal way. Let the channel draw families together in prayer, worship, and learning about Your Word.

We also pray for the sustainability of this channel, Lord. We ask that it not only launch successfully but that it thrive and grow in influence over the five-year period and beyond. Protect this endeavor from any attacks of the enemy, any financial setbacks, or any logistical challenges. Instead, let it flourish under Your mighty hand, expanding its reach and touching more lives than we could ever imagine.

Finally, Father, we commit CBN Asia into Your hands. Thank You for the many years of faithful service that this ministry has provided, both in the Philippines and around the world. We believe that this new chapter with Cignal TV is part of the greater work You are doing in and through CBN Asia. Strengthen the leaders, staff, and supporters of CBN Asia as they pursue this vision. Renew their passion and commitment to proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ. May they walk in boldness, creativity, and humility as they seek to honor You in all that they do.

We entrust every detail of this partnership and future launch to You, confident that You who began a good work will carry it on to completion. May Your Kingdom come and Your will be done through this television channel, as it is in heaven. We declare success, provision, and supernatural favor in Jesus' mighty name.

In the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we pray all of these things with full faith and expectancy. Amen.

About CBN Asia

CBN Asia, or the Christian Broadcasting Networks Asia, is a non-stock, nonprofit corporation established on October 1, 1994, in the Philippines and Hong Kong. It is inspired by the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) founded by Pat Robertson in the United States in 1961. CBN Asia’s mission is to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ and transform lives through media, prayer counseling, humanitarian aid, and cross-cultural missions. With a strong presence in the Philippines and across Asia, CBN Asia also aims to empower the next generation by spreading godly principles and providing hope, prayer, and support to the neglected and disadvantaged.

Since its beginnings, CBN Asia has launched initiatives like The 700 Club Asia, the CBN Asia Prayer Center, and the Asian Center for Missions, making a significant impact through media outreach, humanitarian aid, and missionary training across Asia.

About Cignal

Cignal, launched in 2009, is the leading Direct-to-Home (DTH) satellite television provider in the Philippines. It offers a wide range of content, including 134 channels that feature free-to-air, standard definition (SD), and high definition (HD) programming. In addition to television channels, Cignal also provides 17 audio channels and on-demand services through pay-per-view options. The company serves both household and commercial establishments across the country.

Cignal TV Inc. is a subsidiary of MediaQuest Holdings Inc., which is part of the PLDT Group, a major telecommunications company in the Philippines. This connection strengthens Cignal’s capacity to deliver high-quality television and digital services nationwide.

© 2024 Jerick Combate Reforba. All rights reserved.

[beingjellybeans]

ChildFund Philippines targets to help 5 million children and families by 2026

In a heartwarming display of commitment to the future of Filipino children, ChildFund Philippines recently unveiled their ambitious plan to positively impact the lives of 5 million children and families by 2026. Announced during their “Connection for Impact” event, this initiative is part of ChildFund International’s larger goal of reaching 100 million children and families globally by 2030. The…

[extrasolarartzz]

Maybe i'll make a introduction post for this blog???

Hi, i'm SolarPlanetYT, or on tumblr known as @solardaartistperson or extrasolarartzz on this blog, and basically what i do here is post art lmao

The country i live in is The Philippines! 🇵🇭

The fandoms or/and Communities i'm in:

Bluey

Murder Drones

The Amazing Digital Circus

Poppy Playtime (including Smiling Critters)

Inside Out(??)

Batwheels

Gacha

Anime (a bit)

Friday Night Funkin' (including Skyverse and VS Impostor)

Fundamental Paper Education

Baldi's Basics in Education and Learning

I support Palestine!! 🇵🇸🍉

Examples of my Art (that i technically haven't posted here):

Art that i do:

Fanart

OC Art

Ship Art (Such as Canon x Canon, OC x Canon, etc.)

G0r3 Art (will put a warning for those who don't like g0r3)

Sh1tpost Art

Request Art (though only my close friends are allowed to ask requests)

Art that i DON'T do:

NSFW/P0rn Art (that stuff is disgusting honestly)

Pr0sh1p Art (Such as 1nc35t, P3d0ph1l14, Z00ph1l14, etc.)

(IF YOU DISLIKE/HATE ANY SHIP I POST THEN LEAVE ME ALONE AND/OR BLOCK ME)

This is Solar, the mascot of this blog, my main blog, and pretty much all of my other Social Media:

Speaking of Social Media:

That will be all for now! I will edit this if there is something new or if i forgot something

[pannaginip]

ABS-CBN on Twitter @ABSCBNNews:

LOOK: Highlights of the Department of Budget and Management’s proposed P6.352-trillion national budget for 2025

via @/VivienneGulla

2024 Jul. 29

ID under the cut

BRIEFER ON THE 2025 PROPOSED NATIONAL BUDGET

AGENDA FOR PROSPERITY: Fulfilling the Needs and Aspirations of the Filipino People

To support the PBBM Administration's goal of economic and social transformation, the proposed National Budget for FY 2025 of Php 6.352 trillion was carefully and meticulously crafted to meet the objectives of the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. This budget builds on the gains of the first two years of the Administration, sustaining momentum in pursuit of a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Philippines- where all Filipinos can fulfill their individual and shared aspirations.

Budget Comparison

2024 Budget: Php 5.768 T

2025 Budget: Php 6.352 T

10.1% year-on-year growth

22.1% of GDP

Budget Dimensions by Sector

Php 2.121 T: Social Services (33.4% of the Budget)

Php 1.853 T: Economic Services (29.2% of the Budget)

Php 1.083 T: General Public Services (17.1% of the Budget)

Php 419.3 B: Defense (6.6% of the Budget)

Php 876.7 B: Debt Burden (13.8% of the Budget)

Priority Sectors

Education (DepEd, SUCs, CHED, TESDA)

Php 977.6 B

2024 GAA: Php 968.9 B

Includes other education-related agencies

Social Welfare (DSWD)

Php 230.1 B

2024 GAA: Php 248.1 B

Public Works (DPWH)

Php 900.0 B

2024 GAA: Php 997.9 B

Agriculture (DA and attached corporations, DAR)

Php 211.3 B

2024 GAA: Php 221.7 B

Health (includes PhilHealth)

Php 297.6 B

2024 GAA: Php 308.3 B

Transportation (DOTr)

Php 180.9 B

2024 GAA: Php 73.9 B

Interior and Local Government (DILG)

Php 278.4 B

2024 GAA: Php 263.0 B

Excludes education-related agencies

Judiciary

Php 63.6 B

2024 GAA: Php 60.2 B

Defense (DND)

Php 256.1 B

2024 GAA: Php 240.6 B

Excludes education-related agencies

Justice (DOJ)

Php 40.6 B

2024 GAA: Php 38.2 B

[thesubtleartofenglish]

Harnessing the Power of English Proficiency: A Disaster or Blessing for Filipino Workers?

It started with the money, which was one of the most influential things that all of the people wanted to have. Having a good, decent, and high-paying job has been a dream come true for most people. It will sound hypocritical if someone tells you that happiness is the only thing that matters to them. But in reality, what matters most is the money that results in a convenient and stress-free life. Unfortunately, living in a country where high-paying jobs don't exist, where many people are still dependent and forcing themselves into low-income jobs, and where capitalism has ruled the job industry, the Filipinos have been having a very hard time trying to find a perfect job that doesn't only suit the profit they want but also the capabilities and abilities they have.

"Why are Filipinos often accepted for call center jobs?" If someone asks this question, it will be triggering for many Filipinos. A lot of the so-called-proud Filipinos will defend how their Kababayans have been very fluent and talented in speaking English. They will give you links that will direct you to different articles and videos and will show how ignorant you are for not knowing how many Filipinos have been accepted into English-speaking jobs. Precisely, Filipinos are known for being good speakers of English because they were colonised by the Americans. Their influence played a significant role in shaping the English proficiency level of Filipinos. Mostly of schools and educational materials in the Philippines were predominantly in English. This exposure to the language from an early age allowed Filipinos to develop a solid foundation in English. Furthermore, the American occupation brought with it a cultural exchange between the United States and the Philippines. This exchange allowed for the assimilation of American customs, traditions, and language. English became a means of communication between American military personnel and the local population, leading to increased familiarity and usage of the language. And because Filipinos also like to support western movies, singers, and even books, most of them are actually fluent and can speak with foreign people easily and clearly using the said language. 

Almost half of the population in the Philippines are competent with the English language. The last poll that was conducted by Social Weather Stations survey was on March 26 to 2029, 2023. It shows that 47% of Filipinos have the ability to think in English, 80% of them understand the language, while 55% can speak the language. Around only 9% do not apply any of these skills. According to Nakahara's research, over 80% of the 102 Filipino respondents used English mostly in their work fields, such as meetings, conversations with colleagues, emails to colleagues, company documents, negotiations with business partners, emails to business partners, and documents for business partners. A lot of Filipinos are unemployed due to not being able to speak English,  this also affects the economic growth of the Philippines. There's a quote that says, "English is like, if you speak it, then you can get a job in any country," but does it also apply to those unfortunate people inside their own country? The unemployment rate in the Philippines is influenced by these main factors, such as education background, skills, and English proficiency. Unfortunately, for many Filipinos, the language barrier becomes a hindrance to having a job. They might be talented professionals with basic English knowledge, but despite their outstanding qualifications, the employer may still choose not to hire them due to their inadequate English proficiency.  

Gerry Rose F. Legaspi, 32, was one of the Filipinos who shared this concern. As someone who started working at an early age, it's understandable that she'd be rejected because of her educational background. She only finished high school and began working afterward to support her first child. She confesses that it is quite difficult because she has previously worked two to three jobs in one day. “Mahirap kasi nagbabantay ako sa karinderya ng biyenan ko sa umaga, tapos sa tanghali naman pagkatapos mag-tanghalian, tutulong sa paggawa ng mga bracelet beads, tapos sa gabi ay janitress (It's hard because in the morning, I work at a cafeteria that was owned by my mother-in-law, then after I eat lunch, I will help with bracelet beads, and at night, I will work as a janitress.)”  But when she got the opportunity to enroll in a technical vocational course at Xavier Technical Training Center with a diploma in Computer Science, she worked hard to study and graduated as one of the outstanding enrollees of the batch. “Ginalingan ko talaga nung nag-enroll ako ron, hindi lang kasi puro kompyuter `yung tinuturo samin, may isa kaming subject na nag-eenglish kami at ang weird dahil iyon ang mas nagustuhan ko (I did my best when I got enrolled there, however, we didn`t only learn how to use computers, we also had one subject where we learned how to speak English. It's weird, but I did enjoy that one the most.) 

She began looking for work after graduating, using Facebook. She tried scrolling through many job groups and asked them about their requirements; fortunately, one employer from a call center job contacted her. “Pagpunta ko `ron sa site kung saan i-interviewhin ako, nakita ko na ang daming aplikante na naka-formal attire, samnatalang ako `yung damit ko lang ay polo-shirt na puti at pantalon na fitted, naka-rubber shoes pa nga ako, pero sila ang tataas ng heels, naka-gel ang buhok, `yung sapatos halata mong kakalagay lang ng shoe polish, basta halata mong mga professionals. (When I arrived at the site where I would be interviewed, I noticed that many of the other applicants were dressed formally, whereas I was dressed casually in a white polo shirt, fitting jeans, and rubber shoes. They are dressed professionally, with high heels, gelled hair, and their shoes are obviously fresh from shoe polishing.) The interview has not yet started, but she felt intimidated and insecure. When the employer started to call their names, she felt something she had never felt before; her stomach turned, and the butterflies started dancing. When it was her turn, she was first asked by the employer if she could speak English. “Tinanong niya ako kung marunong ba ako mag-english, ang sagot ko naman ay “A little bit, Ma`am” tapos parang natatawa siya tapos tumingin ulit sa resume ko, naiilang na ako at parang napapahiya tapos maya-maya sabi niya na “we can`t accept someone like you because we think you are not ready for this” (The employer asked me if I could speak English. I answered her, "A little bit, ma'am." Then she looked like she was actually laughing, and she looked again at my resume. I felt uncomfortable and shy, and later on she told me, “We can`t accept someone like you because we think you are not ready for this.”) 

After being rejected from the job she was supposed to earn, she experienced low confidence because someone rejected her due to her basic skills in English. “Masakit syempre, sa totoo lang proud nga ako nun` kase may tinapos ako kahit tech-voc lang pero marami kase ang magagaling doon, damit pa nga lang nila walang-wala na ako, pero siguro kung isa ako sakanila, pipiliin din nila ako. (It is truly hurting me. To be honest, I'm very proud that time because I studied, even though it was simply a technical vocational course, but all of the prospective employees there are far superior. Their attires is considerably better than mine. Perhaps if I'm one of them, they will also choose me.)”

Another experience from this matter was shared by Hazeline Soriano. A 24-year-old aspiring English teacher from Bulacan State University-Sarmiento Campus. She said that she and her friends started to find a job to support their studies, especially in the pandemic era where a lot of people have experienced hardships on an everyday basis, such as necessities, money, and resources. “Actually, I'm with my friends at that moment. We tried to apply because someone told us that the company does not require fluency (in English). So we were surprised when we heard our co-applicants speaking fluently (in English). So, yes. Until now, remembering that made me feel uneasy. The reality that I am not very good at English hits me hard.” She also shares that she felt intimidated and insecure at that time. “Yes. Aside from insecurity, I felt intimidated. Because the interviewer appears to be thinking, what the hell am I doing in that room?” She ended her statement saying, “If jobs just let people with necessary skills take a position in their company than people speaking English fluently, maybe we can have a lot of employees now and unemployment will not rise again.”

Maybe this cannot happen if we don't use English as the basis for how we look at different people. Maybe the unemployment rate in the Philippines due to English proficiency will not rise as it is used as a standard for accepting an employee, and maybe this concern will not make other people doubt and feel embarrassed about themselves. We often have a better sight and view of the universal language, but we don't see how it can affect other people in a negative way. Those people who are trying their best to live in a society where they have to deal with double standards. These people only wanted to survive on an everyday basis. We can say that they can just learn English and try to make an effort for them to be chosen for the jobs they need; they can only wish. In a country like the Philippines, learning is much more expensive than the salary you will get after graduating. But money is the king. It is a dream. It dominates everyone. In a society where poverty and hunger are dominant, we cannot blame the Filipinos for finding a job, even though they know for themselves that jobs require an English-speaking worker. And this is the reality: if we are not one of them, they will not choose us.

REFERENCES & SOURCES:

SWS: 47% of Filipinos ‘competent’ with English language | Philippine News Agency (pna.gov.ph)

Arcandi, J. L., & Grin, F. (2013). Language in economic development: Is English special and is linguistics fragmentation bad? In E. Erling & P. Seargeant (Eds.), English and development: Policy, pedagogy and globalization (pp. 243–266). Bristol, UK: Multilingual Matters.

Burton, L. A. (2013). Mother tongue-based multilingual education in the Philippines: Studying top-down policy implementation from the bottom up [Unpublished doctoral dissertation]. University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, U.S.A.

Chavez, A. (2014, January 10). What Asia can learn from Philippines about English education. Huffington Post.

Cabigon, M. (2015). State of English in the Philippines: Should We Be Concerned? British Council.

[cjhern1109]

Feliz Cumpleaños @shorukarts!!! 🎂 🎉 You’re now officially old (I’m also 18 🥲)

Sorry if this gift is late, I already had this piece finished. But my artsy-big-brain thought to make a special bonus to the birthday girl, so here’s a potential outline for this Muslim!Frans AU, let’s call it RahmaTale for now.

* The AU takes place somewhere in Malaysia. Since I head-canon Frisk as Southeast Asian (for me, Filipino) and this Frisk practices Islam openly, Malaysia is good place as it’s 61% Muslim.

* Monsters were already freed several years ago and have been living among humans for sometime now. However, the monster don’t have many rights and options to succeeded. This is out of fear of monster’s ability for magic which is profoundly restricted to use unless otherwise.

* Among the limited rights to monsters is getting an education among humans. Monsters are educated, but can’t go to public school (and some cases college) with humans. There are some exceptions to monsters, but they’re mostly the rich ones.

* With some pushback of the monsters and a few humans that support them, the government finally allowed monsters to go to public school among humans.

* Frisk’s school, which is known to be highly intelligent and innovative, is one of the first schools to accept monsters if they pass a difficult test that human students are also given.

I’m leaving it to that since I would like Shorukarts to also be able to add some things. For example, how maybe Frisk and Sans meet and interact with one other. In addition, I may not know what are some inside Muslim customs that the internet can’t find to tell me. But some other notes are that both Undertale and Deltarune characters are here as shown by little Kris’s appearance. Kris is Frisk’s nephew while Chara is Frisk’s best friend. Chara doesn’t go to the same school as Frisk, but they regularly hangout, often when Frisk is babysitting Kris. Also Chara has a huge distrust for monsters and always warns Frisk about them if not more than Frisk’s mother.

Again, happy birthday to Shorukarts!!👏🎊🎁

[mariellaolden]

Women of the Present

We live in an era where society continues to hold women to such a different standard and point of view lower than the other gender. Whispers of disbelief echo loudly with stereotypes and continue to give limitations to the power they have. The thought of women in the past whose cries for help were ignored and whose ideas were disregarded lingers. Women have been told, “You are just a woman” countless times, and today, that perspective must be changed.

On the moment a little girl takes their first breath to a woman who was taught to stand tall, women have been confined to narrow boundaries and limited opportunities, unable to showcase their true potential. Yet, time and again, despite the challenges they face simply for being women, their resiliency and strength go beyond, freeing themselves from harsh words and discrimination to preserve future generations' inclusivity.

Moreover, women, without a doubt, persistently excel in different fields usually dominated by men, proving that gender is not a hindrance to success. Throughout the years, the Philippine Military Academy has allowed females to perform combat duties. Building companies inside and outside the country are now hiring female construction workers. As a regular passenger, you will witness women driving jeepneys, tricycles, and even trucks! There are also numerous female topnotchers in every Philippine Licensure Examination. In the Senate, some empowering women, both past and current, have been chosen to lead by example and represent and govern fellow Filipinos. Unlike in the past, women today can have education, vote, run for office, and serve as leaders. Women can now amplify their voices and be recognized for their abilities.

Exceptionally, women proved they could be doctors, too. In sports, women showed the nation that no amount of weight can weigh a woman down. In the arts, they are our country’s legacy for creating art using local materials. In the entertainment industry, women keep making waves by showcasing the unmatched talent of Filipino women. Filipino women have made multiple contributions to the humanities, arts, business, and academics, among other fields, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries. Indeed, women are the backbone of society. Their determination and indomitable spirit hold the society together. Women are here, there, and everywhere. Despite the obstacles they faced before, women continue to break through stereotypes with every step they take. 

Notably, as the nation celebrates the 2024 National Women's Month with the theme "Lipunang Patas Sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan!" let us honor and respect every Filipino woman for their contributions to our nation's progress while also reaffirming our commitment to women's empowerment and gender equality. The government must continue to give support by training women for jobs traditionally done by men to enhance their skills further. These women continue to leave an indelible mark on society and have been catalysts for social transformation. Their tenacity continues to serve as a beacon of hope. May every citizen strive for a society where women are valued, respected, and allowed to succeed. As one, let's acknowledge women's boundless abilities, shaping a bright future that embraces all—for the fate of women lies within the hands of every woman in the present.

***

I wrote this essay as my entry in the recent online essay writing contest organized by our municipality's gender and development committee in celebration of International Women's Day, which placed second in the English category.

Thank you to everyone who extended their support, especially to my family & friends. My sincerest thanks to my parents for checking my essay before I submit them, and to Montalban GAD for organizing this writing event. Happy Literature Month and long live to all the women of the present and future!