The streets are crowded, hope feels thin,
Mountains of challenges, where do we begin?
Poverty lingers, hunger still calls,
Yet Inang Bayan stands through it all.
The earth grows weary, oceans cry,
Corruption stains the truth, we wonder why.
Yet amidst the struggle, a spark shines bright,
In the hearts of the youth, there’s endless light.
For in our hands, the future is clear,
The strength of our youth will drive out fear.
Together we rise, with courage and grace,
To heal the land and uplift its place.
Joyce Adducul is a 16-year-old writer and student from the Philippines, a vibrant country known for its rich culture, tropical landscapes, and warm, resilient people. Growing up in a community centered on faith and compassion, Joyce draws inspiration from the diverse stories and traditions of their homeland. As a high school student deeply immersed in the humanities, Joyce has cultivated a passion for exploring themes of social justice and human connection through writing. Beyond academics, Joyce is an active participant in swimming competitions and Model United Nations, reflecting a drive for excellence and leadership. For Joyce, being from the Philippines means embracing a blend of history, creativity, and hope, which they seek to capture in their stories.
"Filipino Street Photographers Saturday Photowalk" by Sidious Sid is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.