It has always been my belief that getting a good education will help us to become better person. Not only a better individual for ourselves, but also for our friends, family, and for the society we belong to. It is through education, an individual, can acquire the vital knowledge and skills necessary to have a worthy and prosperous life. Like what Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” And I, too, strongly believe in that. Hence, as one of those individuals who have faith in the power of education holds, I decided to follow my intrinsic desire to make a positive impact, and help the people by giving them a high quality of education. I want to become an educator that has a great influence on her students- one that will engage her learners in meaningful thinking and learning, and make them responsible citizens of the world.

As a teacher, I know that it is my responsibility to make the learning environment a responsive and conducive one. If I become a teacher, I will surely commit myself to what is best for my students. I will focus my teaching style on student-centered teaching approach as I acknowledge the diversity of my students. I do understand that they may be different from each other, whether it is their backgrounds, abilities, interests or their learning styles and needs. Therefore, I will make sure to shift my teaching style into one which incorporates a diversity of teaching methodologies and strategies; so that I can enthusiastically encourage them to attain a greater height of success and be brave to continue taking risks during the teaching and learning process.

Furthermore, as a teacher in the making, I also believe that a strong and genuine connection with my students will help me to build an honest and fair learning environment. An environment where my students will feel that they are wanted and loved, their efforts are seen and heard, and who and what they are doesn’t really matter. I recognize that everything they do, certainly, will bring a wonderful contribution to the world. I will and can do that by being a teacher who is honest, respectful and determined to “go the extra mile”, while keeping in mind not to cross and go beyond the line of our teacher-student relationship.

In conclusion, teaching is both an honor and a responsibility, a noble and highly rewarding profession, in which one is able to directly touch and change the lives of others. My goal as a teacher is to instill in my students a love and passion for life-long learning and to ensure that they are fully equipped while facing the challenges of today’s world. I hope to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for success and foster the individual talents of each student, giving them the confidence to embrace their dreams and make them a reality. Above all, I also hope that together, we will be the other “tools” needed to create a “change”, and make this world a better place to live in.

Written By:
Mabale, Kaira Clarice Z.
Cababat, Janelle M.
Ubante, Erica A.
Garcia, Cindy C.
Diwa, Via Jane
Bungay, Jessa B.
Cabaya Cruz, Prince Jobetroh N.

“While all the people are busy running their feet to survive, I’ll go run for those who can’t run by themselves. It’s hard…Very hard, but that’s the greatest run I’ll never get tired of.”

-Behati, VentreCanard

Maintaining the peace, order, and safety of the people is one of the major roles the government is playing, hence, the implementation of National Security. However, have you asked yourself: “Does securing the safety of the people is solely the government and armed forces’ duties and not mine? What is my part, as a young adult, in bringing sustainable peace and national development?” Yes, as constituents of this country, one of the team players of the Philippines, it is also our responsibility to lead and defend our motherland from any form of threats, may it be coming from the inside or outside. Module 9 revolves around the topic of National Security wherein it helps us to know what is meant by national security, its goal, purpose, and the roles we will be playing now and in the near future.

One of our exercises for this module is to give our understanding regarding the meaning of National Security. Upon reading and analyzing the given module, we, as a team, came up with the points that National Security focuses on protecting the four elements of the state: territory, sovereignty, government and people. It serves as a protection of the whole country, involving different aspects such as for economic, foods, health, agriculture, energy and many more. Additionally, it is linked with having and creating the nation’s strong military defense that would lead and defend the whole country from the threats of the terrorists. In other words, National Security is the nation’s capacity of protecting and imposing safety to their people’s living environment and welfare, securing territorial integrity, enforcing agencies and forces to defend the country’s territory from all threats either physical or mental, and upholding nation’s culture and way of living by providing better solutions to the issues the country is facing.

Indeed, whenever there are lives at stake, threats could hinder our progress as individuals and as one nation. On the other hand, being secured helps us grow limitless and to enrich our purposes in life. That is why the government’s plans and actions particularly in the field of national security are vital for the country and its people. In the past years and even until now, the Philippines has been experiencing different forms of threats. Way back 2017, the battle in Marawi City that killed 165 soldiers and 47 civilians threatened the national security. During those times, we could not help it, but to feel worried and frightened, worried for our safety and most of all, worried for those who put their lives at the edge just to make sure that Filipino people will be safe. This particular incident tested the government strong stand and preparedness as well as people camaraderie to help the affected ones. Another is what happened here in Palawan. Sadly, although Palawan has been one of the peaceful provinces in the entire country, we also experienced threats from local terrorists. These are the consecutive ambush incidents both in Northern and Southern part of the province. Despite that, the local government unit with the help of the armed forces was quick to address and resolve the case to avoid further damages.

Yet, threats did not end at this because world health security is being threatened now by the Coronavirus; making all nations and its people to suffer more. Coronavirus does not only affect health but also the economic, food security, and even women and children. It is like a domino effect, as we describe. First, in economic, it lessens the activities in business, transportation, and other related sectors in which continuous supply and demand, as well as cash flow, are decreasing. As a matter of fact, many Filipinos inside or in abroad loss their jobs that add to the number of unemployment. Then, food security, since most people lost their jobs, securing enough food their family became a major problem of every Filipino household. Lastly, women and children safety wherein reported cases of violence against them are rapidly increasing.

Given all of these, we have learned to appreciate more our government for providing national security. Without these protections, probably, we won’t have the freedom to enjoy our lives because of fear and threats. As well, our military forces by maintaining the peace and order in our community and by protecting the whole nation from territorial invaders or even local terrorists. In relation to our health security, we have also learned to appreciate our front liners for fighting in this current battle we are in, the pandemic crisis. We know, it’s very difficult to go out in our situation today but putting ourselves in their shoes, we should be more thankful for them for bravely facing the battle in hospitals and other health facilities even knowing that they will be risking their lives just to help their fellow countrymen.

As we become aware of the threats we are experiencing and the efforts the government have been exerting, it made us more conscious of our surrounding. This is where the question, “What is my part, as a young adult, in bringing sustainable peace and national development?” may start. According to the Philippine Information Agency, regarding the role of youth in national security, aside from being an active member of society, the youth are also responsible for building sustainable peace. We are the key players in peacebuilding because of our adeptness in developing personal integrity, discipline and open-mindedness. We can also play an active role in peace and conflict resolution by forming a new flock of peace missionaries and non-government organization network in the grassroots, concentrated on values education among children.

The tens ways on how youth could make an impact by Giovanna Lucignano implicitly directs our thinking on the steps we must commit. First, to be knowledgeable of our rights so that we will be aware if someone is trying to deprive it for us; also to enrich our potentials and skills righteously. Second, to be updated on the latest happening in our country as well as the government’s responses in addressing any issue. It will not just exhibit our nationalism but also our care and consciousness of our security. Lastly, we will continue to use our social media accounts such as Facebook, WordPress, LinkedIn, and Twitter educationally and productively so that we could share our insights and factual information. Moreover, based on Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defense Studies and Analyses, the current trend of the youth being hyperactive on social media needs to be channeled by diverting our energy towards national integration and building a pluralistic society. Also, by involving ourselves to the community with the support from barangay official or powerful individual, we can monitor unlawful activities, prevent violence and promote national security.

We do hope that our small steps could influence other people so that number of active, concern, and responsible citizen will increase which could be advantageous in having a peaceful and productive community. Being a role model requires no age. If we feel like we can be, the one who is capable of doing something, then do it for many people out there are waiting for someone who is bold enough to take the first step. Yes, we are young, we need more experiences to say that we have learned so much. However, we must acknowledge that courage is innate on us, it is within us. And this pushes us to take the lead and do the right thing. The vision would remain as it is when someone does not take an action to do it. Accordingly, even we believe that we can do better things for others and our country, if we do not take steps to walk through it then everything will be useless. We have been experiencing safety, security and protection now but who could say when it will last. Should we wait more for the time when our security will be snatched from us? Or we will make our final decision now, do what our country expects us to do and make the difference we have been dreaming off since then?

References:

Philippines: ‘Battle of Marawi’ leaves trail of death and destruction. Retrieved November 1, 2020 from https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2017/11/philippines-battle-of-marawi-leaves-trail-of-death-and-destruction/

Recuenco, A. (2020, August 8). Nurse killed as ambulance is strafed with bullets in Palawan. Manila Bulletin. Retrieved October 31, 2020 from https://mb.com.ph/2020/08/02/nurse-killed-as-ambulance-is-strafed-with-bullets-in-palawan/amp/

Reyes, D. (2020, September 4). NPA leader shot dead in Palawan clash. The Manila Times. Retrieved October 31, 2020 from https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/09/04/news/regions/npa-leader-shoy-dead-in-palawan-clash/763490/amp/5

Interaksyon. (2017, July 19). Suspected NPA assassins kill 2 Marines in Northern Palawan. Philstar. Retrieved October 31, 2020 from https://interaksyon.philstar.com/breaking-news/2017/07/1985543/sssuspected-npa-assassins-kill-2-marines-in-northern-palawan

Abuhan, Alehia Therese V. (2019 October 25). Youth plays important role in national development. Philippine Information Agency. Retrived November 1, 2020 from https://pia.gov.ph/features/articles/1029113

Goddard, Fred (2018 April 25). Young People and Their Role in Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Peace Negotiations. Mindanao Peacebuilding Institute Foundation, Inc. Retrieved November 1, 2020 from https://www.mpiasia.net/newsresources/allnews/alumni-news/373-young-people-and-their-role-in-the-government-of-the-philippines-gph-and-moro-islamic-liberation-front-milf-peace-negotiations.html

Lucignano, Giovanna (2015, August 11). Ten ways youth can make an impact. Retrieved November 1, 2020 from https://www.undp.org/content/undp/en/home/blog/2015/8/11/10-ways-youth-can-make-
an-impact.html

Written By:
Mabale, Kaira Clarice Z.
Cababat, Janelle M.
Ubante, Erica A.
Garcia, Cindy C.
Diwa, Via Jane
Bungay, Jessa B.
Cabaya Cruz, Prince Jobetroh N.

“Humans are the stewards of nature and should not assume to be the powerful ruler of Earth.” These words are our realizations towards the end of Module 8: Environmental Awareness and our understanding of what our main role is; for the continuous abundance of resources and sustainable earth. Nature has been the man’s greatest partner since the very beginning. It can be compared to a companion who stands with us in every situation we battled on and to all victories we celebrated. Hence, not all people see that when we need something, we first run to nature but when we are celebrating, we run from it. Supposedly, man is nature’s best buddy. However, as time passes, man becomes its greatest enemy. We have been living for 20 to 21 years now with free fresh air, unending water supplies, all living creatures underneath the water and from above, lands to crops and reside, and many grateful things from nature yet, most of us take those blessings for granted. As we move toward advancements and progress, we are forgetting and neglecting the sake of our environment. And we are becoming the main reason for its degradation and deterioration. The lesson for this week helped us to assess and asked ourselves: “In our entire existence, have we accomplished something that nature could thank us for? Or maybe nature would look down on us more? When are we going to wake up and take our responsibilities?”

Initially, when we were young we thought our main role is to finish studies to be able to provide for our family once we become adults. But, as we grew together with varied learnings being taught, we became conscious of our actions. We able to practice at the young age the concept of conservation, however, it is still not enough to be fully aware. We remember, there were environmental activities held by LGUs with the cooperation of various schools, that we participated. And there was one particular activity that made an impact on us as high school students. It was a clean-up drive near the national highway bridge. As we started, we thought it will be a piece of cake, but it was not. For as we dug deeper, we found out that there was more garbage. It was like the grave, as we described. We were disappointed and sad, as a volunteer and as a human. We realized at that point, one action alone is not enough to make a change for the betterment of our environment, for it should be a collective effort of LGUs, various institutions, agencies, and especially the youths.

As the saying goes, “Youths are the hope of nation”, it may sound cliché, but it is the reality. For we will be playing a major role in bridging past actions to future ones. Similarly, the scripture from 1 Timothy 4:12, “Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you teach, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity,” reflects the significance of our actions and decisions in tracking the right path so that mistakes of past generations could be amended. Turning back time is way too impossible, but making a global movement and becoming a global citizen is conceivable. That is why we come up with the following milestones. First, to take our education seriously so that we will be embodied with righteous ideologies and theoretical knowledge, that will be our foundation in aligning our actions to environments prosperity. Second, take part in governments or non-government organizations’ environmental activities for a reason that a single plant we planted and single trash we threw properly could mean so much to our environment. Third, to be a role model of our younger generation as well as to those who are older than us. This is due to, responsibility does not require a specific age range, for we are all accountable in its welfare and demerit in its deterioration. Furthermore, as pre-service teachers, we could do something too. Teach the young ones the importance of environmental education and awareness. For instance, we can take our deployment to the Badjao children as an opportunity to impart to them the thinking and actions they must acquire as stewards of God’s creature. Fourth, to be observant, of our actions and others as well, because even a simple act we do for nature will aid in lessening the effects of human activities. Lastly, to influence and to share factual information regarding ecology’s status and issues; also ways on how to address the problems to be able to converse and preserve it. And through it, one’s awareness could multiply; increasing the number of concern citizens.

Moreover, if we engrave awareness and love for nature, it will lead to undying support for environmental movements and plans. As we have the opportunity to use everything that the earth has; we also have the responsibility to perpetuate it. Wherein, if we want to use plants and trees, then we should replant; and if we want meat as a food, then we should breed, since humans and nature have a direct relationship; benefitting each other in a two-way process. Additionally, we know human advancements cannot be stopped at this point. That is why let us take time to rethink, reflect, and realign our actions. We still have time, it is not yet destroyed, to collectively repaint our healthy green home so that it will be more enough to survive and to support life forms generations to generations. Above all, we strongly believe, we could do something if you also believe that we can find ways to save all inhabitants and the home we called earth.

There are so many things we could do to help prevent the continuous degradation of our environment and to preserve it, however, it will only remain as ideas if we do not execute it. What we are going to do now is to walk the talk, meaning, do what we think, say and let the result speaks for itself. Nature is our partner and let us prove to it that we do not only need it because of the benefits it may bring nonetheless because we truly are concerned about its status. We could do something, we just need unity and one goal. Let us work now before we utter the words, “It is too late.” Man up young people, nature is waiting for us. Let’s take this strength we have now to save our nature and create something that will make our Earth the best place to live in!

Written By:
Mabale, Kaira Clarice Z.
Cababat, Janelle M.
Ubante, Erica U.
Garcia, Cindy C.
Diwa, Via Jane
Bungay, Jessa B.
Cabaya Cruz, Prince Jobetroh N.

“Be more concerned in your personality than your reputation, for your personality is what you are, while reputation was merely what people think you are.” This is a quote from Dale Carnegie and it sums up our understanding for the lesson of this week about personality development. Indeed, our personality defines our entire human nature. It carries our family reputation, our education, our dignity, and our culture. In fact, even if we are not speaking, our personality defines who we are and speaks for us. The teaching profession is one of the noblest professions one could ever have for it raises another profession that later contributes to national development. Honorable teachers may also become the role models of the learners. In line with this, as future educators, we know that cultivating our personality is the most basic obligation we need to accomplish.

Before stepping on the College of Teacher Education, we thought that our parents’ personality is the sole factor for our characteristics, traits, and how we present ourselves in front of the others. But, as our knowledge and understanding go deeper and wider, we realized that the people around us, our community, school culture, social and financial status, culture, tradition and many other factors also play a major role in our development. That is why as a person, we understood that we are also responsible for our personality development. And since we are still on the process, it is still not too late to make amendments for our betterment. Thus, on this journal, we focused more on the Areas of Teachers’ Personality and the 9 Different Types of Teacher Personality Traits that we must develop and attain as we prepare for our on and off-campus deployment.

For the past 2 years, our professors and instructors had embedded to our hearts and minds the responsibility we will carry in the future- to cultivate, nurture, and enhance our students’ learning. With the help of them, we have learned that our responsibilities as teachers are not only limited in training them to grow intellectually. As well, we realized that upon entering this profession, it creates the duty of guiding our students and molding their personality to become morally upright individuals. However, before performing the obligations and duties assigned to teachers, we know too that we should develop areas of our personalities which are essential on becoming well-equipped and productive inside and even outside of our classroom.

First and foremost, we need to assess our selves. We may ask ourselves: What are our strengths and weaknesses? What are the personalities, characteristics, traits we possess and we are lacking? In what areas of our personality development we should focus more? Our group agreed to this as the first step as it will help us to reflect and determine the areas of our personalities that need enhancement and nourishment. In addition, self-awareness and self-reflection can track our progress and points of strengths and weaknesses. Correspondingly, being open to constructive criticism aids in the process of reflection. For instance, if we know that we are not flexible or adaptable enough to adjust when there is a sudden change without letting the academics suffer, then we need to develop it more. During this time of pandemic, we must allow ourselves to get familiar with how the curriculum can change and adapt to it as quickly as possible. Meaning, assessing ourselves and reflecting to it, can make us more aware with the areas of the personality of ours we must enhance.

Another way we saw as we accomplish the needed teacher’s personality is through gaining enough knowledge and experiences. We have to know everything about the specific personality that needs development. Make a research, consult others, and arrange an observational visit to know the right response, action, and treatment we should give to ourselves. We can also set the personalities we are lacking as our goals before entering into the real world of teaching. Practice those personalities in home, school, and even in our community until we finally achieve those. Furthermore, we can also join seminars, training, programs, and other activities the school offers that promotes communication skills, leadership skills, collaboration, responsibleness, passion, and more to gain experiences and lessons as well. Adopt what we have learned and surely, in a long run, we will become expert on this field and our personality will be developed well.

Lastly, we have learned that supplying our mind with positive thoughts and the end goal of being an excellent teacher will help us in developing and preparing ourselves for the nearer future. Being optimistic does not cost any single penny that is why we should not be feared to find light in every dark moment. Similarly, it will fuel our courage and willpower to help ourselves. Upon writing this reflection paper, we realized that if we allow our vision and goals of becoming well-equipped teachers to drive us, it will encourage us to try harder, strive harder, and attain more things in life. We should never stop aspire for continuous learning, align our work to our goal, always stick to the plan, do not lose track and most importantly never take our eyes to where we are heading to. Best things happen through an absolute goal, constant hard work, proper planning and straight forward executions.

Developing our personality for the better is not only because our profession requires us to but, because it is necessary as a person. As of now, we become aware of how crucial the role of teacher, we think it is now the right time to apply and practice those steps: assess ourselves, gaining enough knowledge and experiences, and supplying our minds with positive thoughts and the goal of becoming an excellent teacher. It will be advantageous and beneficial if we establish a strong personality as early as now. This module helped us realize that there are traits that we still need to develop and we will use our remaining years in college to fully develop those skills to be fully equipped to face the future. There are things needed to experience and criticisms to be heard, but it brings further development and opportunities. We should avoid negativities and attract positivity to continue to replenish our soul to its finest.

“Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean.”

-Ryunosuke Satoro

Knowledge and education are the basis for all things that can be accomplished in life. Teachers are the providers of that power of education to today’s youth, thereby giving them the possibility for a better future. However, we know that the teaching career is not only limited to imparting knowledge to the students. As teachers, it is also one of our duties to be leaders in the classroom affiliated with the responsibility of being team players, may it be a leader or a member, inside the faculty room. Teachers who are both great leaders and followers can make a great team that anchors towards the institution’s success. The lesson for this week about teamwork helped me realize the importance of recognizing my role inside my workplace when I become an educator too.

Earlier this day, while browsing my Facebook account, I came across with the shared post of one of my former teachers in high school. The original post was made by the principal of that particular school. It is about how my previous school changed for the better since she stepped in as the head a few years ago. There she narrated the improvements and accomplishments the school achieved, physically and academically, under her supervision. She wrote, “Dahil sa maganda nating samahan, pagkakaisa, at pagtutulungan, ito na ang bagong school. At super saya na nakatulong maiangat ang 4 na guro sa pwesto mula Teacher I to Teacher II at III.” You are maybe wondering why I am telling all of these in my journal. It is because she amazed me, from the leadership style she executed to the collaboration, she together with her co-teachers, demonstrated to become one of the top-performing schools in the entire Division of Palawan. I may not be able to experience the way she leads the school, all I know is that she is indeed a great leader as proven by the accomplishments.

From there, it jogged into my mind the importance of being a team player inside the faculty room. I am very much aware that being either a leader or a member requires great responsibility. It is difficult to fulfill these roles for sometimes when we are leading, due to unexpected changes of people, they begin to feel upset by the journey we are leading them on and take it out on us; being a follower as well limits the decisions and actions we can make towards the team’s success. However, although there are some difficulties in leading and following, still, recognizing our role as team players in our future workplace may bring greater impact not only to ourselves but, above all to the school itself. First, I have realized that although teachers differ from each other, may it be our fields of teaching, characters, values, and views in life, being a team player allows us to establish unity amidst diversity. A good relationship between leader and members leads to better team performance and overall productivity. Fostering harmony and working together as one will make the school a better place for education and lifelong learnings. Second, I understood that as an educator, being a team player will help me grow professionally. Listening to my fellow teachers’ ideas and not limiting myself to only one perspective, will allow me to assess myself. New ideas from different individuals may direct me to new strategies and techniques for making the school a better place, more productive and innovative. Like what happened in the above situation, as a leader, I can be helpful to my fellow teachers as I encourage them to achieve a greater height of success. On the other side of the coin, as a member, following the examples of those higher to me will help me to be holistically matured. Lastly, being a team player prepares me to accept new challenges in life and work. It can build my competency, efficiency and most of all the sense of leadership and teamwork that I may be needed in the following years.

As I said, teaching doesn’t end on the four corners of the room. It goes beyond the box we called the classroom. Hence, we need to acknowledge the importance of our roles being team players as it is one of the causes of a pivotal change inside the faculty room and of the school itself. In the end, if we fullfil our duties and responsibilities as team players (leader and member), collaborating and working as one, we can do something promising and outstanding to our school, community and country.

“Lead from the back and let others believe they are in front.”

-Nelson Mandela (1918-2013)

Teachers fulfill many roles in today’s world and one of the most important is the role of a leader. Leadership occurs every day in the classroom and provides an environment that enriches the lives of not only the students but all of the professionals with whom they come in contact. The lesson for this week about leadership opens up my mind on the role I will be playing in the near future, and that is being a leader. First, I want to emphasize what I have learned about leadership. Others might think that leadership is all about the position or the title you will earn but, it is definitely not. Leadership is the action itself and showing good examples. I understood that being a leader doesn’t begin and end on just telling your followers what to do, instead, you have to show how it should be done. Ronald Reagan said, “The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.” Therefore, I also want to ask myself: At this point in my life, do I possess the qualities and characteristics of a good forerunner? Can I really become a true leader?

As part of the lesson, we are given the task of writing a character analysis essay. I chose Nelson Mandela not because he is already a well-known personality but, because he is a leader that led by example, a true representation of a visionary leader. Nelson Mandela used his moral authority to inspire a nation to rise above its terrible history, to attain heights most did not think possible. Even his actions put him in jail, he didn’t think of it as a hindrance rather as an opportunity to influence those people around him to fight for what they believed was right. As a leader, Nelson did everything he could do to fight apartheid and standing strong, and that eventually direct his country into having an equal and free future. Nelson possesses the qualities of being a good influencer and empathetic leader. He didn’t focus on the benefits he will gain but for the common good of the masses.

Nelson Mandela once said, “You can start changing our world for the better daily, no matter how small the action.” While writing my analysis paper, this made me assess my past experiences. Back in high school, I was always chosen as a leader in various group activities. There was a time when my school had to compete for a division level contest and I was selected to do the leading. At first, I was hesitant. I admit that I doubted myself. I am too afraid to fail my teachers and those who trusted me, most of all are my teammates. That pressured me so much and I even came to the point of giving up. However, while preparing for the competition, my teacher told me that I should set my eyes to my goals. Those simple words made me realize that I am all-seeing this whole scenario in the wrong way. From that, I started to put into my mind that the responsibility I am carrying on my shoulder is the honor not of myself but of my school. While leading my team, I learned the essence of communication, self-awareness, learning agility, and empathy. From the life journey of Nelson Mandela, I have learned that a leader must not always the one who should do the bigger part, it must be the whole team. Although my actions seem small, I know that I did my best to do my part. The result of the competition was unexpected. We placed in Top 3 among all the schools in Palawan. Truly, when you lead keeping in mind the principles and qualities of a true leader, it will come back good to you.

In this module, I have learned that great characters and qualities make a great leader and a great team. If we want to be a great leader, we must first inculcate to ourselves good and commendable traits such as being committed, competent, having integrity, empathy and many more. If we find these traits within ourselves, improve it for the better. As for myself, I’ve decided to withdraw from all the negative traits I possess. I will be teaching in the future. Surely, I will be one of the leaders of tomorrow and so, as early as possible, I should keep in my heart and mind the spirit of leadership.

“As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”

-Nelson Mandela (1918-2013)

In conclusion, I may not able to give up my life or put myself into prison like what happened to Nelson Mandela, but in my own little ways, I can be a great leader too. As a pre-service educator, this lesson made me realize more the importance of my chosen career. Playing the role of a leader is a big responsibility and honor. I know if I do it well, it will bring a great impact on my future students. Thus, to prepare and improve myself in the real world, I will start from leading my Badjao students by the next semester and teaching to them the importance of acquiring positive characteristics and qualities of a leader, knowledge, and love. With this, I believe, that together we can bring change to the world.

“I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.”

Speech from the Dock quote by Nelson Mandela on 20 April 1964

After the National Party gained power in South Africa in 1948, its all-white government immediately began enforcing existing policies of racial segregation, controlled the land, wealth and the government of its native Black inhabitants- a discriminatory social structure that would later be ordered in the country’s legal system and called apartheid. However, there was one person in the history that never gave up on what he believed to be right; he helped unite South Africa as it was ripped to shred by the cruelest system of laws of white alternative rule and represented for all Africa an assurance to democracy and freedom; Nelson Mandela, a great man and leader who left a huge inspirational legacy that later changes the world.

The life story of Nelson Mandela has become a legend, a story that transcends race, borders, culture and language. I found his biography and journey on the article written by Nelson Mandela Foundation, a non-profit organization that focuses on his memory, dialogue, and legacy work, founded by Nelson Mandela in 1999, retrieved from https://www.nelsonmandela.org/content/page/biography. Nelson Mandela was born on July 18, 1918 into the Madiba clan in the village of Mvezo, Eastern Cape. He began his early life under another name: Rolihlahla Dalibhunga Mandela. His mother was Nonqaphi Nosekeni and his father was Nkosi Mphakanyiswa, a chief of the Thembu people- South Africa’s second-largest cultural group. The old Mandela had been stripped off of his chieftainship, title, and land after defying a British Magistrate. Likewise, Nelson was also stripped off of his identity when his schoolteacher gave every child an English name on their very first day in a segregated elementary school. Nelson, upon hearing the stories of the elders about their ancestor’s bravery during the wars of resistance, also dreamed of making a contribution to the freedom of his people. During his tertiary level of education, he was expelled for becoming an activist and protesting the student government’s lack of power. In Soweto, Mandela became a part-time law student at Wits University and began to practice law, starting the nation’s first Black law firm. He then joined a grouped that overactive for the civil rights of Black South Africans, the African National Congress. When apartheid started to become state law, Nelson Mandela and his fellow members of the ANC used nonviolent tactics like strikes and demonstrations to protest against apartheid. Years later, he encouraged more than 8,000 Black people to actively violate laws. Due to that reason, they were put in jail. That didn’t stop Mandela, after serving his sentence for numerous protests and attempts to stop the cruel government, he flew out of the country to receive military training and gain support for the cause. But soon after he returned, he was convicted for leaving the country without permission. While he was in prison, they discovered the documents related to Mandela’s plan for guerrilla warfare and again, they sentenced him to life in prison.

Over 27 years of imprisonment, Mandela became the world’s best-known political prisoner. His imprisonment called other anti-apartheid activists all over the world. In the 1960s, members of the United Nations called for sanctions against South Africa. Eventually, in 1990, because of the international pressure and the threat of civil war, South Africa’s new president, F.W. de Klerk, end apartheid and released Mandela from prison. Nelson Mandela with de Klerk planned to build a new constitution that would allow majority rule. With 62% of the popular vote in a peaceful democratic election, ANC as a political party won and Mandela became the new president of a new nation, South Africa.

As a leader, I think that Nelson Mandela was a concrete example of a visionary leader using transformational leadership. He relentlessly fights against racial discrimination all through his life. Even his actions brought him to prison, it did not hinder him. Mandela led by example, doing everything he could do to fight apartheid and standing strong, and that eventually direct his country into having an equal and free future. I believe that Nelson was strong and resilient for facing the unbelievable hardship and adversity, for not giving up even when the National Party treated him inhumane. In addition, although he was put in segregated schools and experienced racism in very young age, I acknowledged his excellency in speaking, delivering powerful and significant speeches that made people follow his steps, one of the qualities of a good leader. Nelson Mandela not only possesses the qualities of integrity, gratitude, influence but above all is being empathetic. He showed that his focus is on the people and not his own sake. While serving as a president, he chose to be a democratic leader, one who gives importance to his people as part of a large society. To give some, Mandela, while serving South Africa as a president, implemented South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission. It was designed by him to document human rights violations and help victims and violators come to term with their past. This gave way to the beginning of restorative justice- a process that focuses on repair rather than vengeance. From this, we can also see that Mandela did not seek retribution to his oppressors. In fact, Mandela had the willingness to reach out and connect with those who hated and feared him. Despite all of these, some people considered Nelson Mandela as an ineffective president and leader and was criticized for his handling of violence and the economy while in office. Still, there are more people who believed that Nelson Mandela was a man who played a pivotal role in bringing change during such an oppressive time in South Africa.

Nelson Mandela’s life journey and decisions at major points in his lifetime hold lessons for individuals who are aspiring to become a good leader. While writing this character analysis, I came to the conclusion that without a doubt, Nelson Mandela is a great leader. I’ve learned that we, in many ways, can be a good leader too. It is not necessary to give up our lives or to put ourselves in prisons like what happened to Mandela but, possessing the qualities of a good leader and bringing change in one’s life is already enough. As the future leaders of this nation, we have to think of the importance of leading by heart and mind. Nelson Mandela reminds us that anyone can be an agent of change. We can all make our world the best place to live in!

References:
Biography of Nelson Mandela. Retrieved from
https://www.nelsonmandela.org/content/page/biography

How Nelson Mandela fought apartheid—and why his work is not complete. Retrieved from https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/reference/people/nelson-mandela-fought-apartheid-work-not-complete/

Honestly, since the first week of our classes, I find the lesson for this week regarding Filipino characteristics and values system the most interesting one. This reminds me of the saying from Jamie Sawyer that says “Good morals and values start at home and a uniform won’t change that.” The Philippines was able to bag Rank 1 as the ‘Friendliest Country’ in Asia. Some international bloggers even labelled our country as the best not only because of its exquisite sceneries but also due to its people. They said that Filipinos are truly welcoming and naturally empathetic. Isn’t that amazing? Recently, I am fond of watching social experiment videos and documentaries especially those in which they are reviewing the Philippines and Filipinos. I came across with this one particular video wherein they asked foreigners with just one question: What is the first word that comes into your mind when you hear the word PHILIPPINES? Almost all of them answered ‘Happy’ and ‘Smile’. As a Filipino, it made me really proud upon knowing that they see us in that way. Indeed, Filipinos are resilient and happy people to the point that even we are struggling, we can still stretch our lips into a smile and bring joy to everyone. Take note, it doesn’t end there. Filipinos still have a bunch of good qualities, characteristics, and values under their sleeves and I would like to emphasize some. However, have you asked yourself: What is the importance of these Filipino characteristics and values system in society?

I grew up in a typical Filipino home where the value of being respectful is a must. Whenever we visit our relatives or family friends, our parents taught us to observe our culture pagmamano and of course, using po and opo when talking to them. As a sign of respect, we are also trained to call those older siblings or elders as Ate and Kuya. I could say that our family really inculcated to us the importance of respect to everyone that even up to this day, it is still observable in everything we do. Moreover, there is a characteristic that we are notable for, the value of being hospitable, one of the trademarks of being a Filipino. Growing in a Filipino family, it is truly remarkable. Back then, I remember that when there are visitors at home, my Mama will do a lot of preparations for good entertainment and accommodation so that they will feel at home. She will even put out her new plates and other new kitchen utensils to be used by the visitors. At the end of the occasion, you can also expect to bring take-outs or the famous pabalot. This also gives meaning to our value system as family-oriented individuals. Filipinos are known for having strong and close family ties. We place high affection and put importance on our family before anything else. In other countries, when an adolescent turns 18, he/she can live on their own, away from their family. We are not like that. In fact, because we value our family so much, we keep them intact through the years. Personally, through good and bad times, I am always looking for my family. They are the one I needed the most when I am happy or when I am struggling. I don’t know but it just feels so natural to depend on them first whatever circumstances I am in.

Now, let me raise again the question: What is the importance of these Filipino characteristics and values system in society? First, values reflect our sense of right and wrong. It helps us grow and develop as responsible citizens of our country. The decisions we make every day are the manifestation of our values system and characteristics. In addition, it directs us towards a specific purpose or end goals. Our values and characteristics such as being resilient, family-oriented, God-fearing, hospitable, and camaraderie enable us to feel that we are part of something bigger than ourselves- the belongingness within the Filipino community. Second, culturally speaking, these values serve as our identity as one nation. We are known as a Filipino because we possess the characteristics that make us distinctive among any other races. That being said, the third importance of Filipino characteristics and values system also mirrored in our tourism industry. Tourists from different countries were likely to go back here in the Philippines due to their experiences socializing with other Filipinos. Usually, they are getting in love with Filipinos welcoming them with open arms. Not to be biassed because I am a Filipino but, these are all true, based on my experiences too. Since I live in El Nido, it is getting natural in us to have foreign visitors in our place. I recall that I asked one tourist friend why she is always coming back in the Philippines every summer, and she said that slowly the Philippines is becoming her home. She also said that Filipinos are too nice that she got attach from them quickly. Her words remained in my memory and deeply touched my heart. This taught me that the values we are practicing now and today attracts those people without us knowing and realizing its impact on others. Lastly, the values system we are observing can be contagious. If others see that we practice them, many will also, including those children we will be teaching in the future. In the end, our world will surely be a better place to live in. This is the real importance of possessing good Filipino characteristics and values.

If you are a Filipino, you probably know that these are just some of the good characteristics and values we possess. These attributes and values of ours serve as our trademarks among any other countries. From that alone, we can say that these are really important. Filipino characteristics and values system will surely prevail throughout the years. It will never be removed to us because it is already part of our culture, of our race. The Philippines may not be the richest country in the world or may not have the highest standard of living yet. Still, I have learned that Filipinos are very rich to have good qualities that genuine love and happiness. Our tourism slogan board says, “It’s more fun in the Philippines.” Well, I claim that it is without a doubt more fun in the Philippines from its land itself to its people!

As future educators, we are expected to deal with diverse students. We have to recognize the nature of their development and their behaviors. Erik Erikson’s ‘Theory of Psychosocial Development’ plays an important role in understanding these factors that may contribute to their learning. His theory is centered on what is known as the epigenetic principle in which he proposed that all people go through a series of eight stages. According to him, a person experiences a psychosocial crisis during each stage which could have a positive or negative outcome that may serve as a turning point for personality growth.

While studying his theory, it made me reminisce my past memories, the success and failure of my experiences that made me who I am today. My childhood was not a typical and cliché story of a normal kid. I was born with a clubfoot. Despite my condition, I was blessed with loving parents. I believe that I do not have a problem with my Trust vs. Mistrust stage for I was endowed more than I deserve. They made sure that I will be receiving adequate care and love. And so, they didn’t ignore my disability and treated me immediately. My Papa told me that when I was in my 3rd month, I started to receive bone transformation process, stretching and casting it until my foot becomes normal. Although it was cured, it still left a side effect on me. I cannot participate in strenuous activities and games unlike any child on my age because jumping, running, and long walks are a bit difficult for me. As a kid with little engagement in any physical activities, it made me weak and prone to different diseases. At the age of 5, I developed anemia and hospitals has been my playground. One year later, I started wearing eyeglasses as one of the aftermaths of it. Due to that, I started to think that I will never experience being a normal kid, one who can play anytime and anywhere she wanted. I started to feel shy and insecure to myself. In such a young age, I even came to the point when I ask myself why I am experiencing all of it.

During my school age, the Industry vs. Inferiority stage, bullying added to my childhood dilemma. Before, wearing glasses while you are still young seems weird for others. For that reason, my classmates started to tease me causing me to isolate myself from them. I made friends but eventually, they will leave me because they are afraid to be bullied too. That experience lasted until my 4th year in elementary and worse, it triggered my inferiority complex. However, my family and teachers take actions quickly. My parents taught me to draw closer to Him and ask for his guidance in everything I do. They enlightened me to have faith in my abilities and knowledge. They inculcated to me to love myself more than anything. I didn’t excel in physical activities but, I find my way through the academic field. When I was in Grade 5, I started to participate in quiz bees, math contests, and even listed as one of the honor rolls. At that time, I remember myself doesn’t even believe in what is happening. I can’t imagine how my life turned upside down in just a blink of an eye. The positive feedbacks of my classmates, teachers, and my family motivated me a lot to achieve more. Even though I didn’t ask to graduate with honor, God gave it to me. Until in high school, I brought this attitude with me. I keep on reminding myself that I may be lacking in some aspect, but I can still excel in my chosen field. Now, I always think that whatever I do, it is for the best of me. That truly helps me.

You might think that I experienced a horrible childhood. But as for me, I treated it as an avenue of development. I didn’t see it as a hindrance but an opportunity to nurture my personality growth. Although there are conflicts while I am growing, I know that it is part of me and I have to deal with it successfully. I am grateful to my parents, classmates, friends, and teachers who stood by me during my trying times. They didn’t give up on me even when I myself is on the edge of admitting my downfall. Their encouraging words lift my spirit and mind to look at the brighter side of life. In the future, I will be an inspiring teacher too to my students. I will make sure that anyone will not be left behind. Furthermore, there are lots of lessons I have learned from these. Among all of them, the lesson I cannot forget is to love myself first for I believe that loving myself is the very first step of growing as a person. During my lowest time, I remind myself with this quote from my favorite boy group during their UN speech, “I have come to love myself for who I am, for who I was, and for who I hope to become.” If you are still reading up to this, I want to remind you too that we are already incredibly full of goodness. All we have to do is to realize it and start to honor ourselves, things will surely change. I have understood that any change you and I strive for is no longer about fixing a broken and valueless self, it’s about acknowledging that we’re already bursting with goodness and we’re just looking to create more.