Today, November 19, marks the commencement of the 17th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week in accordance with Proclamation No. 1667, signed by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. This celebration strives to drive meaningful climate action and prioritize sustainability in all national initiatives.
Since 2008, government offices, agencies, and Filipino citizens have united to actively participate in activities aimed to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change in support of the Kyoto Protocol, which mandates efforts for reducing carbon dioxide. Aligned with this year’s theme, “Aksyon at Adaptasyon ng Makabagong Henerasyon,” the Climate Change Commission emphasizes the localization of the National Adaptation Plan, an outlined approach to implementing climate change adaptation initiatives and measures. This plan seeks to reduce the nation’s vulnerability to the damaging results of global warming through appropriate policies, programs, and strategies.
The Aquinian, the official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas Junior High School, stands in solidarity with the country’s efforts against climate change. May this observance catalyze awareness and reformation to persist in sustaining the planet for the present generation and beyond.
Written by Francine Zacarias
Layout by Chelsea Dabon
KALEIDOSCOPE 2024
Tune in at “Kaleidoscope 2024: Awakening Creativity Within to Heighten Socio-Political Awareness in a Progressive Society,” as we address the ever-growing socio-political issues and highlight the significance of creativity and communication for raising awareness in our society.
Today, November 10, marks the beginning of Deafness Awareness Week that was established through Proclamation No. 829, signed by late President Corazon Aquino, to encourage impartiality for people with hearing loss and to raise apprehension about deafness.
Throughout this period, a secure environment is crafted for the deaf community by empowering the public through education on early detection and successful intervention and fostering greater awareness of the causes of impairment. This event, aligned with the advocacy of the World Federation of the Deaf, gives way for individuals who are deaf to integrate themselves into society freely.
The Aquinian, the official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas Junior High School, is one with the deaf community in raising awareness about deafness and fighting for equality. May this week lead to a significant change in how the deaf community is understood and supported, fostering an environment that values sensitivity and individuality.
Written by Keizha Dominique Demiar
Layout by Alyanna Margareth Contreras
Today, November 2, marks the commemoration of All Souls’ Day where the souls of deceased loved ones and those waiting in Purgatory are reminisced and given prayers. This day is celebrated by Catholics and other Christian denominations across the globe with similar beliefs and practices.
During the 10th century, the observance was first introduced by St. Odilo of Cluny, a past Benedictine abbot, so that locals may pray for the souls of all the faithful departed. Ever since it was standardized as an annual and universal holiday around the 11th to 13th century, some earlier Christian communities, such as Eastern churches, adapted All Souls’ Day in their own customs. Just like the Filipino church, it became a tradition for them to attend masses, give flowers, light up candles, and spend the night by their late loved ones’ graves.
The Aquinian, the official student publication of the UST Junior High School, joins the whole Thomasian community in offering prayers for each other’s relatives and cherished ones who have passed away. May all continue to remember and honor the dearly departed souls as they find eternal peace in the land of the Father above.
Written by Rhozienne Presas
Layout by Princess Colorada
Today, November 1, marks the celebration of All Saints’ Day, which honors saints who devoted their lives to God. Also known as All Hallows’ Day, this holiday was originally celebrated in Greek custom on the first Sunday following the Feast of Pentecost to honor saints and martyrs who have dedicated their faith and devotion to God.
All Saints’ Day officially became a holiday on May 13, 609 A.D. by Pope Boniface IV when he dedicated the Pantheon in Rome to the Blessed Virgin Mary as a Catholic church. It was later moved on November 1, 837 C.E. by Pope Gregory III, who extended the celebration to the entire church. In Filipino tradition, it is celebrated through offering prayers, gathering together, and paying respects to honor deceased loved ones.
The Aquinian, the official publication of the UST Junior High School, joins in this holy day as we continue to commemorate and remember the saints and martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the church. May we dedicate time for reflection and prayer to this day, seeking the intercession and communion of our patron saints.
Written by Gabriel Fontanilla
Layout by Nicolo De Dios
Today, October 18, marks the first day of United Nations (UN) Week in accordance with Proclamation No. 483, signed by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. From today until October 24, this week will highlight the UN's mission in promoting global peace and security for all nations, encouraging awareness and action amongst citizens in pursuit of this goal.
In 1945, national leaders from 50 nations gathered in San Francisco to establish an international treaty, the Charter of the United Nations, to secure equal rights for all individuals and uphold peace. This week was the birth of the UN, which now has 193 members who all uplift and practice the goals that have expanded in inclusivity from 79 years ago. The organization aims to address social issues, promote justice, and partner with countries and nations that continue to strive for world peace.
The Aquinian, the official publication of the University of Santo Tomas Junior High School, echoes this testament by continuing to build a community molded by the collective mission in eliminating inequality and ensuring global stability for all nations. May this day celebrate, uplift, and inspire more active members in the institution’s continued journey in building a community that practices the United Nations’ goals in their everyday lives.
Written by Althea Nolasco
Layout by Nicolo De Dios
The second week of October marks the commencement of the National Mental Health Week, in line with Presidential Proclamation No. 452 signed by former President Fidel V. Ramos in 1994. Guided by the Philippine Mental Health Association, the country aims to establish an opportunity for the psychological health of Filipinos and support the community with activities that boost one’s mental well-being.
With the theme “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” the event encourages forging healthy professional relationships that encourage better working attitudes and promote camaraderie. As reported by the Department of Health in 2023, three out of ten Filipinos are recorded to develop mental disorders, with work-related concerns being a significant contributor to this effect. Commemorating this event with a hospitable approach is vital to provide genuine support to individuals battling the difficulties of coping with job-induced stress through engaging programs.
The Aquinian, the official student publication of the UST Junior High School, advocates for the creation of healthy workplaces in pursuit of further nurturing the mental well-being of every Filipino. May this week serve as a reminder to establish a safe and flourishing environment, especially in sites of service.
Written by Princess Colorada
Layout by Chelsea Dabon
Today, October 5, marks the celebration of World Teachers’ Day, highlighting the transformative role of teachers in shaping young minds and fostering a brighter tomorrow. The celebration pays tribute to educators with events showcasing their role in helping students achieve academic accomplishments and develop strong and personal moral character.
The World Teachers’ Day is held annually to commemorate the assumption of the 1966 International Labour Organization/United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers. The goal of this day is to appreciate, assess, and improve the educators of the world. This year’s theme, “Valuing teacher voices: Towards a new social contract for education,” underscores the importance of addressing the systemic challenges teachers face and integrating their perspectives into educational policies.
The Aquinian, the official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas Junior High School, joins the global community in celebrating the outstanding educators who shape today’s learning environments. Let this day be a tribute to the pillars of the Thomasian community and a reminder of the vital role education plays in shaping the modern world.
Caption by David Agullo
Layout by Alyanna Contreras
This October, we commemorate the annual celebration of the National Scouting Month, as declared by the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. through Proclamation No. 1362 in 1974. This day underscores the significant role of the Boy Scouts and the Girl Scouts of the Philippines in fostering well-built values among the youth.
This observance aims to inspire young Filipinos to become resilient leaders of tomorrow by organizing various activities that instill servant leadership including community service projects, team building workshops, and cultural activities. Through these initiatives, young scouts cultivate their senses of responsibility, trustworthiness, and loyalty, shaping them into respectful individuals, ready to serve God and the country.
The Aquinian, the official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas Junior High School, stands in solidarity with the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the Philippines in this month-long celebration. May all young scouts continue to strive and serve, manifesting the spirit of service and leadership.
Written by Jairus De Francia
Layout by Nicolo De Dios
Today, October 1, marks the beginning of the Elderly Filipino Week, as enacted by former President Fidel V. Ramos in 1994 through Proclamation No. 470. This observance aims to raise awareness of elderly rights by organizing accessible programs that provide elders with civil services and social security privileges.
With this year’s theme, “Senior Citizens - Building the Nation, Inspiring Generations,” the week-long commemoration features and focuses on the vital role and influence of the elderly in Philippine history. It aims to further empower the population through a series of activities that introduce new opportunities which can keep them physically active and can nurture their mental and emotional well-being.
The Aquinian, the official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas Junior High School, partakes in recognizing the significance of the elderly as they impart wisdom in the new generation. May this week-long event honor and pay respect to them for their contribution to shape the foundation of the society today.
Written by Cecilia Alger
Layout by Chelsea Dabon
Today, October 1, marks the celebration of the National Indigenous People Month in the Philippines. This day highlights the essential roles of Indigenous groups in preserving and sustaining traditional knowledge, languages, and practices, as well as emphasizing the responsibility of Filipinos to protect them.
Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo issued Proclamation No.1906, series of 2009, which declares the month of October of every year as the National Indigenous People Month, opening the doors to greater recognition and awareness of the rights of indigenous groups across the Philippines. In line with the commemoration, the National Commission on Indigenous People also leads the creation of various activities to further promote the heritage and contribution of the indigenous communities.
The Aquinian, the official student publication of UST Junior High School, joins in celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Month. May this day empower the protection of the rights of all the Indigenous groups in our country, ensuring voices are heard and standing firm in solidarity.
Written by Miyami Dazzle Espinola
Layout by Princess Colorada
This October 1 marks the beginning of Consumer Welfare Month in accordance with Proclamation No. 1098 of 1997 signed by former President Fidel V. Ramos. This month-long celebration aims to educate Filipinos by promoting their consumer rights, including the right to safety, fair trade, and access to adequate and accurate information.
In 2023 alone, the Department of Trade and Industry recorded a three-percent growth in consumer complaints, with forty-two percent of which are about online transactions, proving a continuous threat to the Philippine economy. This concern highlights Consumer Welfare Month's importance in safeguarding Filipino consumers' rights. Through this campaign, Filipinos are encouraged to be more well aware of their consumer rights and how to practice them, especially when purchasing products and services, by carefully examining the quality of such products. Efforts are also being made to ensure that consumers will be vigilant and protective about their personal information to avoid scams and fraud.
The Aquinian, the official student publication of the UST Junior High School, actively supports efforts to protect and uphold the integrity of Filipino consumers. Recognizing the significant impact that consumer behavior has on the economy, the publication emphasizes that students, as citizens, hold the right to a fair and safe economy for all.
Written by Althea Manalo
Layout by Alyanna Contreras
