Poetry Planet International magazine March 2022 edition

ISSN: 2799-0540

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March 2022

The Administration Team

Poetry Planet International Magazine

TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURED ARTIST------------------------------3 Ricky Montano FEATURED STORIES-----------------------------5

Marites C. Ritumalta Chief Administrator Gigi Balita Tanushi Singh Antara Bose Jeffrey Cejero Vicki Hangren Hauler Moderators/Conductors Elmer Buduan Gamulo Odum Kingsford Maria Dulce Leitao Reis Marvin Omosemen Pamela Tennant Evaluators Marie Ezekiel Ruth Alfar Editors Vee Barnes Marites Ritumalta Ailenemae Ramos Tanushi Singh Columnists

Jeffrey G. Delfin Dr Ritu Kamra Kumar Edmon Tolibas Libres Amb Maid Čorbić Sudha Dixit Binod Dawadi Afrose Saad

EXCLUSIVE---------------------------------------12 Eliza Mae Domion Damo

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY PRESENTATION---------------------------------14

The Poetry Planet International Magazine March 2022 edition Celebrates International Women’s day with Writers around the globe sharing their thoughts about women and their strengths. Also, this article tackles on Educators and their researches about homeschooling, the struggles of teachers and students in learning from home because of pandemic.

THE FOUNDER

Printed and Published by: Poetry Planet Book Publishing House Rosario Pozorrubio Pangasinan 2435 Email: maritesritumalta@gmail.com Contact number: 09554960044 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods without the prior written permission of the publisher/author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher.

Anne Maureen Medrano Esperidion Duska Kontic Margaret Karim Eta Mersimi Amrita Mallik Snežana Šolkotović Kerchia Festus Terlumun Loreta C Bande Dolo Res Akshaya Kumar Das

POETRY CORNER-------------------------------23 Daniel Miltz Jaya Karmalkar Davi Ramphal Rampersad Swati Das Rosie B.Licudo James Aglah Naidz Ladia Vijaya Sarmah Ronel David Vicente A.Valdez Jr. A PIECE OF MEMORY

by Marites Ritumalta----------------------------------29 AUSTRALIAN PERSPECTIVE

by Vee Barnes-------------------------------------------30 MIGRANTS VOICES

by Ailenemae Ramos---------------------------------31 CAPTURED MOMENTS---------------------------------32 CONTRIBUTORS’ HUB----------------------------------34 2

HOME LEARNING PARTNERS’ INVOLVEMENT IN THE BLENDED LEARNING MODALITY: ITS RELATIONSHIP TO LEARNERS PERFORMANCE Ricky C. Montano, Lpt, Mem ABSTRACT Through the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan (BELCP) the Department of Education Philippines was able to strategize the continuity of Philippine Educational System by implementing the different learning modalities that would appropriately be applicable for each region and division. The teachers have been prepared also through a series of virtual training and workshops.

As part of the new normal setup, in the teaching and learning process the role of parents or guardian of Addition Hills Integrated School had been emphasized for they will become the Home Learning Partners of the schools. Thus, Study was conducted to answer the research of whether there is a significant relationship between the involvement of Home Learning Partners in the Blended Learning Modality and the Student Academic Performance of Addition Hills Integrated School, Mandaluyong City, Philippines.

Through Pearsons correlation coefficient, the data was tabulated and treated statistically. The results revealed that, the involvement of the home learning partners in the blended learning modality has a moderately significant to the cognitive learning of the students having an R-value of 0.4565 and p-value of 0.001. The involvement of home learning partners through financial support has a very strong relationship to the cognitive learning of the students having an R-value of 0.916 and a P-value of 0.000. there is a weak relationship between moral support of the HLP and cognitive learning of the students having 0.1704, While the involvement of the home learning Partners also has a significant relationship also towards the Values Formation and skills development of the students.

Based on the data gathered and the result presented, it is very evident to say that there is a significant relationship between home learning partners’ involvement in the blended learning modality and the learner’s performance. Thus the null hypothesis stating that there is no significant relationship between the involvement of the HLP and students learning in the blended learning modality is rejected.

INTRODUCTION Change is an inevitable thing in this world. We all face different changes every day regardless of if it is a simple change in our surroundings, schedule, or unexpected change of seasons. These changes affect us all and we need to deal with them so we can adapt and become responsive to them.

The COVID-19 is one of the pandemics that emerged in our country, and everyone is not prepared for it.

It has shaken the different sectors of our country and brought massive changes when it comes to the workforce arrangements, the delivery of the services, the set up of the system, and even the way people used to live their day-to-day lives. This is called the emerging of the new normal paradigm.

The Department of Education ( DepEd) made sure that the education will continue amid the pandemic.

Through the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan (BELCP) the department reinforced the different learning modalities to ensure that learners will continue to learn and receive quality education even without a face-to-face setup. Highlighting the new normal in education the department also includes parents or the Home Learning Partners in the whole learning process. DepEd also highlights the importance and role of the HLP in bridging learning from school to their homes. In this manner, the department is assured that despite the pandemic the learning among students will continue at home.

Keywords: Blended Learning Modality, cognitive, skills, financial , moral support, home learning partners,

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This setup intensifies the beneficial factors of parental involvement in the learning process of the students.

According to Flouri & Buchanan, 2004, Parental involvement in their child’s literacy practices is a more powerful force than other family background variables, such as social class, family size, and level of parental education. Research also shows that the earlier parents become involved in their children’s literacy practices, the more profound the results and the longer-lasting the effects (Mullis, Mullis, Cornille, et al., 2004).

To further prove the significant role of parents in their children’s literacy this study will be conducted to determine the levels of involvement of the Home Learning Partners in blended learning and its relationship to student academic performance, specifically in Addition Hills Integrated school. Thus, this study also will highlight the significant role of the Home Learning Partners in the new normal especially in bridging the learning among learners in the blended learning modality.

OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY The purpose of this study is to determine whether there is a relationship between the involvement of the Home Learning Partners in the blended modality and student academic learning. Specifically, it sought to answer questions such as: 1. What is the level of Home Learning Partners involvement in the blended learning modality in terms of: 1.1 Synchronous and Asynchronous Activities 1.2 financial support; and 1.3 moral support?

2. What is the level of student learning in terms of: 2.1 cognitive; 2.2 values formation; and 2.3 skills?

3. Is there a significant relationship between parent engagement in teaching modalities amidst pandemic and student learning?

In the field of education since the pandemic started, it has been the battle cry of the department to continue learning and so education must continue despite the threat of the COVID-19. The plans of the Department of Education were channeled and carried through the BELCP or known as the Basic Education Continuity Plan. Among the BELCP is the implementation of the different learning modalities depending on the situation and conditions per school or Division. The scenario depicts how the academe tightly adjusting to the impact of the COVID 19.

It is indeed that like any other aspect of everyday life, the pandemic has had a serious impact on students, teachers, and the different education practitioners, (Mailizar, Almanthari, Maulina, & Bruce, 2020). The pandemic caused schools, colleges, and universities across the globe to shut down their campuses so that students could follow social distancing measures (Toquero, 2020).

The closures of the different schools and learning institutions paved way for the different learning modalities to emerge. One of the most common learning modalities is the Blended Learning Modality.

Blended learning has already been widely used in many disciplinary domains but its applications in design education are relatively new. Bender and Vredevoogd (2006).

Nowadays blended learning refers to the use of different multimedia and virtual platforms in teaching. The use of social networking media in design education is newly emerging. Adams, Hyde, and Murray (2013) defined this media as a key factor that would change design education and called for studies on it. In blended learning, the role of the Home learning partners is very significant. Home Learning partners are parents who served as the guide or facilitator of the students while they are studying from home. -------continued on page 33

RELATED LITERATURE The occurrence of Corona Virus Disease has provided challenges itself especially in the academe of education. Anticipating the process and the transmission of the virus, the government projected different alternative solutions and long-term goals to combat the effect that it may gave on the people.

March 2022

Poetry Planet International Magazine

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FEATURED STORIES

THE PERKS OF MY PASSION Jeffrey G. Delfin

I remember when I was a High School student, my father bought a film camera. At that time, I was not aware of its functions and capabilities, so I asked my father to tell and show me what a film camera does.

He showed me some pictures that he took abroad, and I was amazed by the output of the film camera through the developed pictures and learned that a film camera can document various happenings in one's life. A film camera can capture happy moments and can preserve precious memories that we can cherish when we get old. Indeed, an amazing invention.

I borrowed my father's film camera and started to shoot different things that delight my eyes. A high school friend once told me that I have a talent for photography, so he encouraged me to join "The Chromite", the official school publication of Zambales National High School, as the campus paper photojournalist. Unfortunately, I didn't pass the screening but luckily two of my submitted photos were featured in the said campus paper. One of my photos was featured as a Banner Photo and the other one was featured on the Sports Page. I was so happy that time even if I was not selected as the school's campus photojournalist. Probably, that is the reason why I continue my passion for photography and photojournalism. Eventually, I became popular with organizing free photo-shoots for aspiring models.

A lot of aspiring models here in our province but as well as with the nearby provinces contacted me asking if I can also organize a themed photo-shoot for them and the good news is that they are willing to pay for my service as their photographer. My passion turned into a sideline.

March 2022

I conducted themed photo-shoots every weekend only because I have a Teaching job every weekday. I have realized that one of the perks of my passion for photography is in the form of monetary and another one is having a legacy to my mentees.

Featured Photo of the day in Manila Bulletin last 2011

When I got hired as a Secondary Teacher in a Public High School here in our town, during my vacant periods, I took pictures of my students, and unexpectedly my co-teacher, our school paper adviser saw my potential and taught me about photojournalism. He was the one who motivated me to join a photo contest in which I won the grand prize way back in 2007. I also won 2nd place in the Lovethemed photo contest organized by Readers Digest Asia.

In 2010, I saw on Facebook, that organizing a themed photo-shoot is becoming a fad in the city and that gave me an idea to popularize it here in our province.

So, I invited my former high school students to become my models in my themed photo-shoot and we had different themed photo-shoots every weekend. Later, my fellow Instructor in college persuaded me to buy her DSLR so that I can make my shots better than the previous ones.

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SCANNING MEMORY PORTFOLIO AMID PANDEMIC CRISIS Dr Ritu Kamra Kumar Definitely covid pandemic has changed our lives.

Right now I have mixed bag of emotions as I scan my memory portfolio. 2021 began on a sombre note still carrying the 2020 infestations, whimpering of pandemic. Elation and embraces lost somewhere in the fog of anxiety which engulfed the whole world in its jaws. Even now the fear of the third wave of Omicron looms large in the horizon. The word 'positive' gives startling looks from anyone within earshot.

Education, employment, vacation all suffered resulting in recession and inflation. Loss, fear, courage, resilience are the emotions associated with 2021.We saw transcendence of human thought and empathy in sublime fight. We remained optimistic but now again as we are in pandemic flux, virus variants rage on, with no finishing timeline, we need to work on our social and personal strength.

Pandemic taught us many lessons. While I taught my students online, I took them on a virtual tour of my library. The brave new world of on-line classes, Litfests and poetry recitation sessions allowed me to connect to people sitting in different parts of the world. I was able to appreciate the shelves of impeccably arranged books of my students, an antique wooden table, a lamp illuminating the light of hope on faces of worthy poets as I had tete a tete with many a literary luminaries. My son and daughter-in-law gifted me a tripod and made me learn recording my video of poems. So 2021 made me discover many new things, right from how to face the camera, smile while delivering lectures as well as washing vegetables with potassium permanganate. Now I have become so used to sitting anywhere, joining Google meetings and reciting poems that sometimes I feel how I have mastered certain skills I couldn't dream of. Micro-electronic Bluetooth-enabled marvels speaking into my ears, I could carry on with my domestic chores even as I tuned with the news, friendly conversations and listened to views of others.

Earlier they had been lying listlessly in the drawer of my study table. These small things helped me in managing the isolation during lockdown times.

March 2022

I learnt to listen to voice modulation and pauses that punctuate the speech. Humbly I say that I would never have explored these small details and designs during normal times. Typing became new talking for me and my students. So things haven't been as bad as they seem.

Now oscillating between hope and fear due to the current pandemic new cycle, we need to seek inner solace and master this chaos. Good things keep on happening even in dark and dreary times. All it takes is a little positivity and willingness to look for silver lining.

Let us try and take each day as it comes. And if the dreaded Omicron pushes us back with seclusion we mustn't forget the mercies shown throughout the year. Let us hope and pray that this may be the last phase when future archaeologists will find days of discarded masks and write about the world 'before' and ‘after’ pandemic. However, the worst seems to be over and we need to look forward to the 'those old good days' when the pandemic is permanently written off ,friendships are nurtured with real time conversations, handshakes and hugs It would be a rapturous renaissance to embrace, rise of humanity like phoenix to create a new world. Let us pray to Almighty “Deign some incarnation to check our transgressions, Teach us regret and repentance for our requisite redemptions. "

Poetry Planet International Magazine

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LIFE CONTINUES AS IT IS Edmon Tolibas Libres

Problems are part of life. Measuring man’s capacity how he handles his life in spite of problems encountered. It also measures how deep his faith to our Creator. The past two years were years of tribulation that mankind experienced. Economic downfalls of each nation all over the world suffered.

Despite the continued existence of the deadly virus, mankind were able to survive and still fighting for the best of living.

Living in the world full of struggles is a great challenge that a man is facing. Pandemic that hits the world affect the people’s way of living, especially those who belongs to poverty line are the most affected, suffered the most on how to survive on a day to day living, where to get foods for the family.

Government’s support to feed the 75% or more of the total population of the nation does not suffice.

Community pantries came-up during the time of crisis in order to help less fortunate people who experienced hunger. Some lay-off employees have the opportunity to become an entrepreneur, some focusing on food business. Life continues even if Covid-19 still mutates, focusing on the brighter side that pandemic brings. We are facing now the socalled “new normal”, which is very different from our old normal ways. Wearing facemask and face shield is already part of our everyday lives. Sanitizing ourselves and observing social distancing as also part of the protocol for each one of us to be protected from the deadly virus.

What would be our life after pandemic? Well, everything will be back on our old ways but with caution. The government is trying to revive from its economic downfall. Meaning many establishments soon will open and expect the volume of people, who will go to malls and stores to pamper selves from being prison in their respective houses.

Majority of people are eager and excited to go out from their respective homes from their usual routine, before the pandemic strikes the world.

Rampant of tourist destination also opens and many will book just to visit places they longing to go.

The Philippines is one of the tourist destinations in the world, being an archipelago the country composed of more than 3,000 islands and islets and one of which is the Boracay Island, visited by the different foreign tourists who really amazed the place.

Aside from Boracay, Philippines has also El Nido, located in Palawan Island, is also most visited place of the country because of its scenic and panoramic views of the area, especially its crystal clear lagoons surrounded by virgin forest rocked mountains.

Everything will be back to its normal way of living, accessing all from transportation to entertainment all the way to what was ways before the Covid-19 existence. And that is favourable on the government side in order to bring back the economic stability of the country.

But this time around people always cautious from his surroundings where he lives, people he met and acquainted in order for him to be safe and might be infected with the virus if he didn’t mind the safety precaution. This pandemic really rooted in our minds on its big impact brought into us. Especially those people whose their love ones lost life because of this deadly virus. They usually don’t easily forget that ones in their lifetime that this Covid-19 killed the person whom they really love in their entire life.

But in spite of what pandemic brings to us life continues as it is and let us not forgets always pray7 to Him because He is the source of everything.

A NEW AND BETTER WORLD FOR ALL OF US Amb Maid Čorbić The pandemic has made us all alienated and lost in that world where today no one wants to look. But I am aware that this year that was behind us and now to come have been difficult. But we have to be optimistic if we want something special for ourselves and for our best around us. The meaning of life is to dream further where it is most difficult, but also to harmonize ourselves with forces united by forces like never before. The meaning for me is that life after the pandemic continues the same as before and at least in my place we try to make it somehow imperceptible. Although it is difficult, we try to influence each other collectively and encourage us to do wonderful things like never before. The meaning of life is that we can change the world and that only we must be aware of our proportions. We are all trying in the world to return to our activities, because two years of fairies are very difficult for each of us, and especially for young people who want and believe that together and vaccination can change the world. But they should also try to affirm, as in my place, that vaccination is very good and suitable for everyone, no matter where they are from. is something but nothing. Lockdown has killed us mentally, but we are moving forward.

Now everything is easier because we are not under police hours. Because doctors have been on the job for two years, but they are still here. More new strains are coming, but it is positive that the vaccine is important for all of us if we want it to continue to be great in the world. To go to families when there are celebrations and parts, when someone's birthdays. Because, after all, being in four walls again is a mental disorder that leads us all to the limits of madness. But everything is easier when we have support and supports, because we never laugh.

There is good and evil in every game, but like in a fairy tale, good escapes evil, right? Everything is great now, but it will still be if we all try to take care of each other. World also deserves some good and optimistically forces to be all here happy, and we have only one life to live.

March 2022

Poetry Planet International Magazine

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THE STOCKHOLM SYNDROME Sudha Dixit It was two years of confinement due to Corona Pandemic. My age did not allow me to take any risk and venture out. Unlike careless youngsters I stopped going out and mixing with people. Putting on mask for a considerably long period was tedious job. Removing mask was dangerous. Hence, the best option, for me, was to lock myself in my home.

There, I could walk in the garden when nobody was around; social distancing you know! But most of the time it was in my room where I spent my time.

Luckily, I am a voracious reader – a bibliophile. I love all genres of literature. Fiction, biographies, history, articles on environment, information about tourisms, even fairy – tales and comics. Hence it was a golden opportunity to indulge in my favorite pastime. Lots and lots of books came out of my cupboard, got dusted and kept me engaged. It was pure euphoria.

A complete recreation.

At times, for a change, I painted. It was another of my joyful hobby. Whenever I got tired of reading and painting, I would brood. Pensively I would think of my escapades and excursions into outside world. I started penning down my thoughts. My poetic juice flowed. I started writing poems and articles. They got published. I got a little fame. It gave a much-required boost to my ego and self-esteem. With all the time at my hand I got several books published. What an accomplishment! My children were happy that mom is not bored or stressed. They encouraged me to keep writing and publishing. That way they didn’t have to take care of me. I was famously looking after myself. I was absolutely independent.

Time flew. The pandemic was, seemingly, over. Most people felt elated with relief. I didn’t. with me it was kind of Stockholm Syndrome. I was in love with my captivity. For me that whole tenure was God sent golden chance to do something; to be away from the maddening crowd. It was my comfort zone.

After the lockdown lifted, people came out of their self-imposed detention. Everybody began to plan get-togethers. I, too, was flooded with invitations. I felt reluctant. What’s wrong with me? Why I am not happy? more. I was a party animal. I was the glamour girl (Despite my age). At a moment’s notice I used to get ready and attend every social event.

March 2022

But, now, I didn’t want to get up, dress up and deck up. I wanted my moments of solitude back. I, simply, wanted to curl up in bed and read. I craved to write, compile the old stuff and get it published. It was a new vista, an unexplored avenue. I was hooked into it.

I was, once, a lonely but happy child. At this fag end of my life, I am, still, a contented child, lost in my own world of fantasy. I have regained my paradise which was lost in the humdrum of youthful activities of earlier, healthier times.

Life after pandemic confused me. Lots of water had flown under the bridge. I am not the same person I was two years back. I have been acclimatized to the enforced circumstances. After a long time, the doors of the cage have been opened. I, along with other folks, am supposed to move out. I am – we are – released. Is there a relief? Not for me. I don’t want to leave my cage. I don’t feel the euphoria, others are experiencing. My invisible captor has been my benefactor. He charted out a role for me. He let me achieve a goal.

Though, locked up, I was not static. I remained a gypsy – a vagabond. I kept roaming the cosmos, through dreams, fantasies, reveries and books. I wandered far and wide. There were no borders; no physical barriers. The peace and tranquility gave me fulfillment. One may call it complacency but I don’t care. One might need to come out of one’s comfort zone. In my twilight era, I can afford the luxury of being complacent.

Well! Nothing stays forever. The third wave (Omicron) has, inadvertently, left the world joyless again. Sorry universe, back to prison once

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LIFE AFTER THE PANDEMIC Binod Dawadi

Corona came in and killed many people. No one knows how to eliminate this virus. But doctors are scientists are inventing different kinds of vaccines for it. In some way the vaccines seems working and eliminating this Corona but after some times it will again raise. It is challenging the modern world and its people by creating the fearful conditions. Scientists discover and invent many machines which can go up to solar systems. But when this Corona came in our life they are paused and they are thinking and thinking there.

They are also doing many kinds of the experiments after this pandemic. People’s life totally changed after this pandemic. They thought they have not known the real pain and troubles of the life. This pandemic makes them aware about life and diseases. People started to help each other. They have mutual cooperation and unity to fight against this disease. People learn many things from becoming very much far with friends and families.

This taught them their materialist things are useless in front of this small virus. They have modern medicines and weapons but also such things could not touch and kill that small virus. People are always running for the big things and luxurious things. But this made people poor and they should live in their life what they have. This changes our normal life totally. People become aware of cleanliness and they focus more about their health after this pandemic.

What is this Corona and where did this Corona came from? People don’t know people are very much afraid and terrified from this dangerous disease. This take peoples valuable time and life. Many people many have seen the dream that they will fulfil their dreams and desires in this life but such kind of the things are taken by this Corona. This Corona could not give happiness to the people. Corona becomes the villain of our life. Corona challenges our daily life.

It took our life, freedom, and time, ROM us. Not only that it took our half population in front of our own eyes. Why is this coming? What did it want? How it will return we don’t know.

This is playing the dangerous paths in our life. We can’t travel to the far places. We cannot move to the lovely places. We can’t meet relatives and friends.

March 2022

This is the strange things that we are facing in our life. We have not heard about such terrible things in our life.

People imagine and write in books and they also made the many films like this viruses. But this will be our own reality who has thought such kinds of the things.

Our one time life also cannot move forward in the time. This is because of this pandemic.

This is not leaving us any way. Why is so? We are very much terrified and staying there by taking a long breathes. But when this Corona did comes and takes entry in our life and it takes our valuable life we don’t know. Corona is affecting all the things.

Corona is killing the people. Corona enters in our life for forever. Corona spoils our life totally. Corona goes away and gives us our life and time and dead people. If you want to see us happy in our life.

Corona is little bit gone people thought and they started to do their own works for two or three months. All the people take vaccines and they used masks and sanitation daily. But also after three or four months again Corona is following us. Corona will never leave us people thought this also. Now in such a fearful conditions how can people become happier there? After the pandemic the life will not be the life like as the normal life. Peoples mind, heart, body and souls all are filled with this Corona virus.

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So far the pictorial image is so bright. Those blooming flowers are dwelling with the wind. They want to say--- Don't dare to stop our dance. We're Playing with our friends. You can be my friend.

By spreading hands of friendship, we can regenerate the new lovely earth for all."

Life can't be stopped to see any scary sight. We are the best creations of God. We will show our utmost gratitude to God for giving us the strength and passion, to move on enthusiastically towards life's goal.

LIFE IS BLISSFUL Afrose Saad-Bangladesh

Coronavirus, a haunted spirit--- ready to make a scary story on earth. The total world is surprised by seeing each and every scenario of its life. It acts as a great hero--- the unbeatable warrior beneath azure's hub.

Life can't stop here by nourishing fear in the mind.

We must prepare ourselves from first to last to make sure that we will fight until our last breath on this earth. This helps us to make a connection between all of us. We have made a protocol to lead a protective lifestyle. Avoiding gathered places, Avoiding unhygienic food habits, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, etc. will help us to ensure the safety of life.

We will make sure that one after another, any haunted spirit will come to empower our lives and, we must combat that.

We must remember this art-" Life is beautiful.

Make it wonderful. Thoughts will be fruitful and we should be grateful to dear ALMIGHTY GOD for each and every step of our lives.

Look at that tree--- it looks like a barren root. There are not many green leaves ---like a graveyard. But open the inner eyes and try to feel the essence of dreamy earth.

March 2022

Poetry Planet International Magazine

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EXCLUSIVE INTO THE REALMS OF AUTHENTIC ILOCANO VALUES

By Eliza Mae Domion Damo The Ilocano is a homo universalis, forever in search of the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Yes, the Ilocano people are adventurous, and in every adventure they take, they keep with them authentic values that keeps them going, and leads them to their destination.

When I was in my teenage years, I heard a lot of misconceptions about our distinct Ilocano values. These misconceptions have a negative impact on us. Thus, I would like to clear these misconceptions by going into the deepest realms of our authentic Ilocano values.

We, Ilocanos, are not selfish... we are frugal!

When I was a child, a piece of advice from my grandmother always reverberated in my heart and mind: "Agin-inotkayo appok. Narigat ti agsapol ti kuarta.

Agsalimetmetkayo" ("Be thrifty, my grandchildren. It is hard to earn money. Be frugal"). These lines may sound useless for some but for me, it was a big thing. I felt my lola's sincerity so I kept such great advice. I treasured those lines because I believe in the wisdom of the old.

And now, as I reflect on those lines, I must say that it was indeed brilliant advice.

At an early age, I learned the value of frugality. Yes, frugality and not selfishness. I was raised in a lowly but loving family, and never did I remember a time that my family taught me to be selfish. Bueno 2013 cited in his research that the Ilocanos are simply called "kuripot" as they know to save the money for the future of the kapututan (next generations). This is a misconception to us Ilocanos because we are not stingy. As a matter of fact, we Ilocanos are generous and hospitable. We are extravagant as reflected in the conduct of our "padaya" (food banquet) during special events.

I would like to correct this misconception. We, Ilocanos, are not stingy or selfish. The value of frugality is just embedded in our culture, and has become a way of life.

We, Ilocanos, do not have strong familial ties... we have a solid one!

When talking about the extent of the Ilocano familial ties, I must say that it is not just strong but a solid one.

Yes, not strong but solid. It is intact and unbreakable. I remember when my grandfather died, our families, relatives, and friends never left us alone. There was no single second that I felt that our family was alone.

Throughout his wake, I have felt warmth, love, and care.

Indeed, the value of having close family ties among us March Ilocanos can2022 be seen at all times.

Also, we, Ilocanos, are fond of family reunions. We value relationships because we consider our families, relatives, and friends as essential parts of our existence. At times of happiness or sorrow, the solid familial ties remain. It is a fire that warms the soul.

We, Ilocanos, are not brave... we are valiant!

Not all brave people are valiant. Anyone can be brave but not everybody can be valiant like us Ilocanos. The word valiant is more appropriate to use than bravery in describing us Ilocanos because we are characterized by boldness, courage, and the determination to face struggles and adversities. Ilocanos remain unbowed even after the most difficult battles. They are resilient and enduring.

We, Ilocanos, believe that struggles are ingredients of success. We consider failures as great life lessons. Also, at an early age, we were taught by our parents to always look at the positive side of life as supported by Cabisares (2019) when she pointed out in her article: "Adu pay dagiti pannakapaay a pakaipasungalngalan dagiti ubbing.

Nasken ngarud nga isuro kadakuada no kasano a sarangten dagitoy a pannakapaay ket ibilang dagitoy a gundaway tapno maliklikan wenno marisut dagiti parikut" (There will be a lot failures that our children might experience. It is therefore necessary to teach them how to positively deal with these failures. Instill in them that failures are opportunities to avoid or solve their problems).

We, Ilocanos, were really molded to triumphantly hurdle challenges that may come our way. This is an important value that we must teach our children.

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We, Ilocanos, are not ignorant... we are brilliant!

Ilocanos are naturally brilliant. Some Ilocanos have excelled in their respective fields of endeavor such as former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., Diego and Gabriela Silang, Teofilo Yldefonso, Juan and Antonio Luna, and Josefa Llanes Escoda.

As reflected in an article by ilocanoculture.wordpress.com, Ilocano parents are very passionate in giving their children proper education, and would sacrifice everything in order to give them a good life. Ilocano parents live by the mantra of doing everything just for their children to have greater achievements than them.

Moreover, Ilocano parents do not fail to instill to their children the importance of enjoying the beauty of nature. They believe that nature plays a vital role in the holistic development of their children. As stated by Biag (2012), they are guided by the principle: "Ipariknam iti ubing ti agbiag iti sidong ti nakaparsuaan ket dumakkel to a mangipateg iti nakaparsuaan" (Let a child live in nature so he grows up loving it.) This might be the reason why Ilocandia has a multitude of beautiful sceneries to offer both local and foreign tourists.

We, Ilocanos, do not cheat... we are honest!

In his published article "Kayatmo a Dumakkel nga Ulbod ti Anakmo?" (Do You Want Your Child to Grow Up a Liar?), Fampito Combate, unveiled the Ilocanos high regard to the value of honesty. He explained in detail how important it is for Ilocanos to keep their integrity at all times.

After reading the article, it seems like I had a quick travel with a time machine. I cannot stop myself to reminisce my beautiful childhood memories- the times of my innocence.

March 2022

I remember the times when my parents instilled to me and my sister the importance of honesty. I can still vividly recall their words: "Saankayo nga agswitswitik. Ti tao a balangkantis, mapisit a kasla kamatis" (Do not cheat. A dishonest person will be squeezed like a tomato.) I am very grateful that they taught me this priceless value.

These misconceptions on our Ilocano values are truly alarming. Thus, it is high time to change people's negative notions. Now that we have reached the deepest realms of our Ilocano values, we can now say that we, Ilocanos, are rich with desirable values that are worthy of emulation. We do not need a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, because our authentic values are our real treasures.

Ilocanos have a multitude of dominant desirable values such as frugality, solid familial ties, valor, brilliance, and honesty. It is high time to break the stigma that tarnished the Ilocano image.

It is now time to erase the negative perceptions by presenting our authentic, beautiful, and desirable Ilocano values. By unveiling the hidden realms of our Ilocano values, through the analysis of relevant articles, and the integration of my personal experiences, I hope to instill among readers, especially the youth, the importance of exemplifying these great Ilocano values. If so, I am certain that there will be a domino effect among generations of the genuine transfer of the correct perception of our Ilocano value system.

As an educator, I would like to be an instrument in instilling these dominant values in the heart and mind of our learners.

Through value-integration and contextualization in the teaching-learning process, I will be able to plant the seeds of greatness in them. Let us teach them while they are young so that when they grow up, they become the best persons they can be - the Ilocano brand that is known for greatness.

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Poetry Planet International Magazine

IntErnatIonal womEn’s Day A WOMAN IS NOT A SHADOW Anne Maureen Medrano Esperidion “A woman is not a shadow that exists behind someone; she is someone that is extant with her own Sheen and silhouette “Anne Maureen Living in a society where man is dominant and patriarchal culture is practiced, woman always seen to be a umbra or a relic behind a man, she is powerless and voiceless, weak and emotional, she exists to care the household and not in position to build the family.

Women are always deprived of opportunities and being treated unequally over man. She is often stereotyped societal and cultural also being casts oust in the communities matters. Woman is just a trace living to be someone according to what others see and wants her to be. Many years that woman dwells only in the background of a man but a woman regardless with her physical build up, looks and her gender is equally and on a par with that of man’s abilities and aptitudes.

Woman since the beginning is the most creative and most powerful force the universe had. Through her womb life is shaped and through her love and caress a human is nurtured and grow. Her warmth and caring hands the pain and aches of a knee wounds and heartbreaks were healed, her sweet cuddles and affectionate embrace a cozy place to be in for her family, friends, love one and her child and her.

A woman is the best way to define strength, sacrifice and unconditional love. She is talented, skillful ,can perform multi tasks and she, being a mother hold all diplomas of all the degrees without proper courses enrolled She is a nurse when you don’t feel well, a chef who prepare and cook for your food, a manager who manages the household, an accountant ,budget officer and treasure who is accountable in handling and budgeting the finances, she is a teacher and guidance counselor who disciplines ,teaches, molding ,upbringing and educating and preparing her child in voyaging the real and bigger world. She can give all of her without any hesitations and without any returns expecting, she can give up everything she have in her comfort zone to be submissive in creating a home for her own family.

March 2022

She can turn adversities into opportunities in designing a more conductive life for her family.

If a woman can control and bear the pain of their fertility, can plan and manage for the family, build a home and clever enough to perform multitasking thus a woman can as useful as man in the development of the community. Though woman of today is gradually being illuminating their own light and beaming herself likewise being seen luminously it’s not on the total eclipse of her. Thus woman should be treated equally and Co equally be given all the freedom, windows, rights, upshots, responsibilities and authorities in all spheres of life same as man is privileged to have.

The woman must not be existing as a penumbra behind the physique of a man. She herself is a creation that carrying her own torch shining likewise she is a lambent light gleaming.

14

A DEDICATION TO THE MOTHERS Duska Kontic

Mother is a sacred being . She is often misunderstood and humiliated in ignorance by her loved ones or society in general. I will have to set the example of mother Montenegro. When the mother gave birth to a baby girl no one rejoiced but they looked at her with other eyes, a little with regret because she did not give birth to a male child. When I gave birth to my third girl a friend came to me and started crying because God forbid I didn't give birth to a boy. I told her that maybe I’ll be happier with my female children than she is with her sons. That's exactly how it was. The greatest happiness for a mother is when she gives birth to a healthy child.

Mother is the bearer of new lives, a symbol of birth, holiness and light. The cult of the mother should be elevated to the divine being, because the most important and hardest role of the woman who gave us lives is to raise her children responsibly and courageously. The decision to enrich the world for one small creature is worthy of respect and laurels. That is why we must support motherhood as a society and encourage through various forms of help to increase the birth rate, because it is a great responsibility and duty of all countries, especially those in which the number of newborn children is declining.

A mother carries her baby for nine months in her stomach with accompanying difficulties, and the very act of giving birth is very painful, old people said that it is the greatest torment that is easiest to forget because when she sees her baby it is the happiest moment in life for a mother. you. Only a mother nurtures her children so unselfishly and unreservedly and gives them so much love. Fight for their survival and guide them to be good and socially beneficial human beings. That thorny road of a mother, caring for a family and the huge burden she carries on her back must be understood, rewarded and respected.

As long as their mother is alive she is there for them through good and bad.

Let's bless all the mothers in the world because it's the least we can do for them.

Children often forget the great sacrifice of a mother and her selfless love. They start on a strange journey, but the mother never gives up. And in such events she is by her child, trying to open his eyes and save him from vices and mud. That's why we all have to pray to God for forgiveness if we even hurt our mother with a word, because she deserves it the least. From the perspective of a mother, I best feel all these anguish, struggles, anxiety, burning in the desire to show our children by personal example and constant guidance what are the real moral values, that the most important thing in their lives is to be honorable and honest people. A man is rich only if he has a heart full of love and understanding. Everything else is an illusion. Listen to the words of a mother who tried to guide her three children to the real, true commandments Poetry Planet International Magazine March 2022 from God.

15

SHE Margaret Karim She is smart, feisty, loyal, kind, definitely not a saint.

Of a certain age, sandwiched between two generations. Has a challenging job, determined to meet all expectations. Runs her home with remarkable efficiency, an expert at multi tasking .Organizes loved ones lives, ensures its smooth, continuous flow. Always in the back seat, her own wishes, hopes, dreams last on the familial list, below the welfare of pets.

Her children strive for independence, as their grandparents steadily lose their own. She finds herself in the middle, a difficult, complex position. It is an undefined, ever changing role. Her teenage children naturally believe the world revolves around their needs, daily make selfish demands. Her increasingly fragile parents have a different set of requirements, deserve patience and dignity. She loves every member of her family dearly, is prepared to make sacrifices for all in her care, does it from the heart.

Full time employment presents its own demands.

She gives her all, over a hundred per cent, needs her job. Monthly salary essential. Does not have the luxury of resigning, option of reduced hours.

Generally succeeds in compartmentalizing each area of her life, but occasionally they overlap, or one impinges on the other. It is a constant mental and physical battle to keep all aspects under control.

Her close friends are understanding, offer a listening ear, support in an emergency, but have their own commitments. Ultimately she is alone, dealing with the everyday, taking decisions as necessary. Is grateful for an inherent, irreverent sense of humor, which maintains her sanity in fraught situations and on facing the absurd. Her aim is to live in the moment, subsequent one's can look after themselves. Dares not contemplate tomorrow.

Often exhausted, hides weariness well. At times yearns to leave concerns behind, be spontaneous, give in to her inner wild child. She is only human, after all, still relatively young. Periodically questions Fate, complains, gives in to self pity, has the odd temper tantrum, secretly cries, desperate for a rest.

Then, laughs at herself shakes off negativity, puts one foot in front of the other, carries on. Somehow finds the will, inclination, energy to continue juggling all obligations.

My friends do you not recognize this description.

Perhaps assume I am being overly imaginative, exaggerating. Surely such a person does not exist. This super woman, propping up societal foundations, with little assistance, sans recognition. You are wrong, she does, and is everywhere, hidden in plain sight. She is your mother, friend, wife, daughter, sister, niece, colleague, me, you.

Look around, see her, value her worth.

16

INES Eta Mersimi Our Ines has ever been raised by ash in Phoenix in the Phoenix stepped up with the rise head through the juice of diversity, the color and beauty as a sculpted wild with the curls as now to get out of the hairdresser and in the style of glamor and prefectures towards her years. . Socializing in the evening gave some sorcerous, filled by semen, narrowing and elevation of the horizon, the poles welcome and the small steps of women after the juice rose more and more precious pearls, and what was the Ines Today, our Ines is lost in the time of the race during the dose ability and gender equality paid by much more expensive, a woman involved in all segments of this dynamic environment, proud, steps to success fights and reacts to injustice, race to a race with a man but the difference is from it to ask that even a woman is a woman, mother's daughter-in-law, and grandma's worthy of home, as soon as forgetting his own role in life.

Tired of this rapid pace of life is lost in the free choice of her perfectionism and glamour in something that is lost with the time by carrying a new burden, but also new blows to her classes as a woman.

A woman who is part of the development of a family, company and main segment in the development of society in one country.

Together, we should be a major background of the marginalized and to be the main factor in community development at the same time to be a woman who must suffer to be hurt, evaluated or criticized after her exterior length of the dress, the so-called makeup and ..... without seeing her interior and prices as an income icon with her value system, to remember how the artificial figure of the artist of what is in it. Ines will be strong, to bear the subtle of negative reactions and suffers torture but it is difficult to stop and prevent her in a portrait for sexual financing, vulgar injuries, forgetting that she is a lady and a karal that is to be appreciated and respected by a man. (As a gender), In as a perception of a woman is successful for himself, she can stop time to stand on her heels and as a butterfly to be the everywhere,

March 2022

Poetry Planet International Magazine

17

DEAR WOMAN Amrita Mallik No matter what the world says, and conditions you to believe, trust me, you are like the mysterious and endless ocean, reaching eternity.

Yes, you are mostly calm, but like the sea, preferring to ignore the trash and the trivial. And, you can revolt, like the fury of the ocean, too.

Open your senses. Look how the world heaps you with laurels of ‘superwoman’, and cajole you to strive harder. A little freedom it allows to gain your confidence. They are actually shackles, further, tying you to ruthless patriarchy. Basically, you are a commodity, replaceable and having high maintenance cost. It’s a bitter truth. The more you drill that in your mind the more you will be propelled to seek your independence and identity.

You are unparalleled. You play and handle multiple roles. Often not a choice but mostly forced and emotionally blackmailed, but still, you give your best to all the roles you are playing. In this respect, don’t compare yourself to others.

Also, don’t feel upset when you don’t get adequate recognition of your efforts. Remember, before a woman you are a human. Hence, you will fall, stumble, make mistake and yearn for love and affection. And, these are not your weaknesses.

Don’t let the world fool you otherwise.

Stop caring for the world so much that you start detesting yourself. Inculcate self-love and selfcare as the topmost ones in your priority list. Build yourself every day through prayer and introspection. Stay true to yourself and slay the world. Don’t forget that you won’t be able to satisfy everyone. This fact shouldn’t discourage you from taking flight. And, never care for the illogical and irrational demands from the society.

A little selfishness is your weapon to oust your perpetrators.

Instead of becoming the worst enemy continue supporting your clan. Don’t fall into the lure of patriarchy, and start accusing, ill-treating and guilt-trapping another woman. Voice against injustice, and never let deceit win. On the other hand, reach out with whatever you have. You never know how and when you are coming to another’s rescue.

I congratulate you today, and every day – for everything you are doing, you are planning to do, and baby steps you are taking to come out of your cocoon. Whatever rocky terrain you are passing through, let it bring you to your goal at the earliest. I earnestly plead that Almighty bestows you with immense strength and perseverance so that you don’t quit mid-way.

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A WOMAN OR THE ACCORDION Snežana Šolkotović

LESSONS FROM MY "ABANDONED WOMAN“ Kerchia Festus Terlumun

Thomas was a very handsome man. However, in the countryside, it meant nothing to him. One failed marriage was just a step towards finding another life companion under the pressure of a family and the villagers. He replaced one disappointment with another because the young woman was not what he wanted. In those bursts of disappointment, he would play the accordion. The song would sigh with him and the pain he put into the tristful melodies.

In the evening, he would go to the downtown so that he does not have to spend time with a young woman messing up with his tranquility...

"It seems like you spend more time with us than with your wife.", someone made a comment.

Thomas smiled bitterly. The woman was chosen by his family, not by him... He shook his hand as if he wanted to get rid of something. He removed thick dark hair from his forehead staring on the ground.

"Many times I wondered: if you had a choice, what would you choose: the accordion or a woman? ", the younger man dared to ask openly.

He knew the story about him carrying the accordion everywhere, which keys he touched gently as if petting them. The sounds would reach even the hardest of the hearts.

Thomas did not doubt – he readily replied: "The accordion ..."

The answer was clear... No further comment was needed.

She turned twelve without much companionship from her parents as they hardly had time from their works.

One fateful day, she woke up very sick with stomach pain, she was in so much pain that she thought she would give up her life.

She called for help but there was no one at home, she felt lonely......

She needed to go to the bathroom, but when she managed and got up, she realized a lot of blood oozing from in-between her legs which scared her the most.

She did not had any clue on what was the caused and cried much more rather, that she was doomed.

Her heart skipped some beats travelling around if there was any one to save but there was none. No friend, siblings, nor parents present neither a relative.

She laid down on the cold floor, trying to ease her pains and just wait for her end to come.

When her mother lately got home that day, she was startled at the sight of what she saw in her daughter's room. She thought something terrible had happened to her and started panicking. She ran to her, shook her hard for a while before she succeeded waking her.

She cried the most when she saw her mother which scared her mother much more.

In reality, she just had her first period, and she didn't knew what it was. Her mother never taught her about women's stuffs like monthly visitor. She never by mistake came across pads or tampons around the house nor saw her mother on a menstrual period.

If only she was educated about things like that........

She sobbed!

19 March 2022

Poetry Planet International Magazine

THE GOOD WOMAN Loreta C Bande In the heart of the home is a good woman whom without her the house wouldn't be a home. She is the smile that assures the children that a wound would heal for her rocking their cradle had built their confidence, her songs for them were songs of courage and her prayers for them psalms of protection and security. She was their nest for nine months and they had a heart to heart talk and a vein to vein connection then that surpasses all hugs, kisses and loving care.

Being their mother is her major role.

When COVID-19 pandemic has come, she embraces a new role, that of a mentor in reading, writing, Mathematics and science. This is an extension of her being their first teacher in good manners and right conduct, in life skills, in value formation, in piety and love for the Almighty.

As a housekeeper, she manages her chores usually giving up her me-time to keep everything in proper order...the meal on time, the bed sheets clean and each member properly dressed for school, work or for church. Being the budget minister, she keeps the cash flow in her head and augment it by planting vegetables in her yard and in pots, by opening a garage sale of things they no longer need, by buying only what is needed or by enjoining the children to help her in chores instead of hiring helpers, and thus, consequently teaching them to love the home they have helped to keep warm, clean and comfortable and thus, also preparing them for an eventual independent life.

She is the family nurse, the first aid rescuer and the pharmacist full of tender loving care. Part of her healing secrets are the time-tested grandmother's remedies and recipes and the acumen that admits when a doctor is most needed Putting a pedometer on her upon waking proves that she had gone miles by just doing things in the house like cooking, washing, doing the laundry, dusting furnitures, cleaning the yard, watering the plants, pantry check before grocery trips, ordering receipts, paying bills or checking even the over-payment made by her bank through credit card transactions.

Even if she sits her mind grows. She is the approving officer for home improvement like installing solar panels or putting a patio for grilling and al fresco meals.

So she must do the needed research.

March 2022

She is their ambassador ready to meet the homeroom teachers, the parents of her children's classmates and the officers of the school. In addition, she plans cost effective vacation for the whole family.

She may not be dressed in the latest style but her glow from an assuring smile is enough to assuage her children's little fears. She is a seeker of wisdom and she works with focus and no small wonder her children are growing up smart and dependable. While her husband and children trust her, she puts her trust in the Lord to whom she has the faith of a child and daily she feeds on His Words ...the source of her courage in everyday trivialities. The prayers she has taught her children is for the family's collective consciousness against life's uncertainty.

An empowered woman, she has a career of her own to go back to when her man couldn't bring the dough they all need. For the time being she stays as the gold reserve of the family ready to be tapped.

She is a friend and leader to her children always ready to go with the flow of their thoughts yet able to go for deeper truth and discipline. To her life's partner, she is the wing that propels him to heights, the post to lean on and a sweet best friend forever.

She is all of the above rolled into one and can be more if so required of her. This good woman is a super woman no superman can belittle.

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WOMAN- WHO IS SHE? Dolo Res Woman-who is she?

From the rib of Adam, she was taken to be a companion and partner in paradise. Cursed by her sin of deception to her partner. In her womb will spring the source of life. She has to conceive a child for nine months and endure the great pain in labor. Soon her body transformation is visible and becomes shapeless but she doesn’t care. She will neglect herself for the sake of her born child. Her skin will be forgotten and becomes dry and not even a comb will touch her untidy hair. She has no time to powder her face or even a glimpse in the mirror to see her reflection. She merely forgets herself once a child was born. She will transform into a different person with multiple personalities. She will become a superwoman that can do everything inside the home. A multi-tasking that only a woman can do that only her can possess this kind of ability. She can be a doctor once her child gets sick. She becomes a teacher once her child started to asked questions in life. The undeniable wisdom she gives to her children is priceless. A woman is a mother with unconditional love.

Woman- who is she?

Is she the strength or weakness of a man? She can dictate but has the heart to follow. She can be stubborn not to be submissive as wants to exercise her right as a woman. That no man can hurt her emotionally or physically. She has the guts that she can equal the ability of a man. Her mindset is different from a typical woman. She wants to earn money by herself without relying on financial support from her husband. She is typically a working woman with ambitions even she has a family and children. At home, she never neglects her role as a mother. She is a brave human being who can handle different kinds of problems in her heart. She is tough and a fighter.

She is a modern woman. But sometimes a woman can be stupid to sacrifice herself for the sake of love. A weak personality that envelops her whole being that she can not express and defend herself allows her to be physically and emotionally abused by her partner/husband. She cannot retaliate and defend herself fearing for she might lose the man she loves.

She can carry the burden and sacrifice all the agony and pain for the sake of love. She can pretend with a big smile in spite of the heaviness of her heart. She is a martyred woman.

Woman- who is she?

She is your best friend in good times or bad times, a sister or a teacher, and any role. You name it and she has it. A woman is a person with a different personality. She can be bubbly or timid. Whatever shoes she fills in, she still exudes the fragrance of being a woman with essence and importance in others' life . Whatever role, whatever time, where ever she may be, her essence of being a woman will always shine on her.

Poetry Planet International Magazine

21

THE WOMAN Akshaya Kumar Das A woman is compliment to man.

When God created man he exhausted all the hard & solid stuff of nature. Then God realized his mistake that it would be difficult to control the man & that also to respect the law of evolution. So he borrowed the tenderness from a flower, sweet voice from a cuckoo, sweetness from honeybees & created a masterpiece to present it to man. Since then woman is the other half of man. An exact opposite of man naturally attracted towards each other. A woman is versatile artist who plays her roles in the garb of a mother, sister, lover, wife, guide & mentor. In other words a woman is a mother, friend, guide & philosopher. A true mentor who values family as her supreme creation. In the process the woman binds the family values together. A woman dreams of building a society of cultural values with discipline. Her ambition is to see the family prosper to excel in each field of life with positive contribution to society. She is an embodiment of ethics. She nurtures her children, rears them to grow in life. She aspires each of her children to grow in life to fulfill the dreams she has seen for them. A woman plays multifarious roles while exhibiting her multifaceted personality & talents in each field of life. In other words she is not only home builder but also a great reformer, preacher of high morals & values in her role as a mother.

Many great women have shown their valiant roles in different roles played by them since time immemorial.

Virtue is imbibed in her spirit. She plays the role of a great inspirer in encouraging man to build an empire of togetherness & humanity. She dreams humanity & practices humanity in all her activity . A true companion of man in his sorrows as well as happiness.

Rearing her children she feeds them with her nectar the mother's milk. The placental bond binds the family into togetherness inculcating the values of kindness, compassion & honesty.

The hindu mythological scriptures have always projected women with great respect & honour. The role of Sita of Ramayan, Draupadi of Mahabharat , Rani Laxmibai the valiant warrior are few great examples of women centric power centers which have the inspired & encouraged women of all times to follow these noble women in all walks of life while building the family & in the ultimate the world.

March 2022

Vasudhaiva kutumbankam the concept of one world one family is a dream every one dreams for delivering peace & justice to the world.

The role of mother is an unique phenomenon which projects the noble virtues of woman. A woman is a miniature representative of the mass universe. She always stands in high esteem & treats her subjects with love, compassion, equality & honesty. In one sentence had there been no women it would have been a very difficult task to preserve & maintain the laws of evolution. Woman can otherwise be compared with mother nature who preserves her habitat in all her deeds & words.

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ONE SUMMER STORY POETRY CORNER

SUMMERTIME IT IS Daniel Miltz Dawn glistens, so lovely Light gleams with a perfect joy The June discussion is cool and breezy With fresh scents of late spring greenery Plantation places bordering the road There is baby life everywhere Such brilliance Skimming in brindledness Similarly, giggling merrily While weeping incessantly With accumulate tints Sadly, in the zenith's shadows The day goes by in a swoon In a dazzling, reddish burn It glistens as the sun sets In the kingdom of heaven's trim

March 2022

SWEET SUMMERS Jaya Karmalkar In my childhood summers meant holidays and they were laced with our carefree and lazy ways Going to our grandparents houses was much awaited and we’d be so elated Mangoes and Ice cream were delights sought after amidst a lot of cheer, banter and laughter Summers were about juices and water chilled and we’d be amused when on us it would get spilled Our siesta would give us pleasure and it we’d truly treasure We’d play cards and paint the town red and sleep with a relaxed head.

The redolent fragrance jasmine would make my senses delightfully spin Summers meant bonding and making memories to cherish and freeze.

Poetry Planet International Magazine

23

SUMMER MOODS Davi Ramphal Rampersad

CHILDHOOD JOYS

Blue summer skies abound With cotton candy clouds Beautiful scenery all around It's bright and breezy all day Skirts and kites flying away Picnics, barbecues, burgers At the park and poolside Lovers walking hand in hand Romance is in the air Footprints in the sand Telling tales of summertime Children frolicking everywhere Ice cream, lollies and iced tea Quenching thirst from the heat A quick dip in the swimming pool Have a splashing, jolly time Indoors you will need a fan To sit in God's frying pan Flowers and leaves swaying In the sweet summer breeze Grilling and chilling with friends Enjoying a frosty cold beer Youngsters checking babes In their skimpiest wear A slice of summer is here For all to enjoy and savor New stories to make Until next year

It's a summer story that returns Every year , with gleeful throwback, Games unending, in deserted barns With hot summer wind to scorch and whack!

Away from the madding , glittering city, A vacation in the rural, ancestral home, Childhood laps filled with summer kitty Of mangoes, vast farms to roam.

No heart breaks to spoil the fun, No homework to stress the mind, No routines strict , everyone's concern, But a treasure hunt in the midst of hot grind!

The summer sun rose to wake up Splashes in the pools endless, Naked feet, naked horsebacks, riding without a stirrup, Running in bamboo bushes, crushing dry leaves in a mess!

Childhood thrills in acts mundane, Heat or thirst , couldn't bother the soul, Watching the pale night sky and the moon wane, Sailing on boats of fantasy , dreams on a roll !

Ah! Summers sweet , memories wild, Dusty alleys, hidden in mirth, riled , Swings rocking on ropes tensiled, Sweat and smile , the joys of every child!

March 2022

Swati Das

24

THE LOVE THAT BLOOMS Rosie B.Licudo

It is hard to put into words How you meant for me when we first met in the woods.

Where do I belong in this world?

During the night I feel solitude.

All this feeling I can't hide.

Like a flower that blooms in the summer night I can't describe nor decide.

If I will tell to you or wait for the right flight.

This love blooms day by day.

I hope you beginning to see My love is always warmth like a sunny day Nobody is as special as you to me.

Millions of stars at night in the sky Only one is so bright and so special.

The one I love I can't deny.

The world may not know, but for me, you're my celestial.

A love that slowly grows like the sky moon.

Protecting and leading the way.

Looking after you from morning till noon.

Wiping your tears and always stay.

A love so true, a genuine love That comes to me during a summer night.

Sweeter love like the moonlight, though Pure delight like sunlight light.

I love you since summertime The love of my life falls to me.

As angels sing and dance on time The love that blooms in my heart and softly scented me.

March 2022

SEASONS James Aglah Drip of life, seize to fall.

Nature plays dead away it call From far and near the same anthem rings pleading to be redeemed once more.

With sorrow the cakes are prepared, rising and falling to the horror of men the baker laughs.

Our throats finds no mercy neither was the lips comforted, from the terror of it's capturers.

As cold as ice, it sped from north to south muttering its alien glossa.

As it forgot it own D-day praying for it to go away.

With the flame in our bosoms rekindling, from dawn till dusk we yearn only for the drip of life

Poetry Planet International Magazine

25

THAT NOSTALGIC MARCH Naidz Ladia That was march all the leaves had dried As if the sun exposed its hatred To all living things below the sky.

The wilderness turned brown The greenfield had gone All the rivers run dry The meadow turned out to be a desert.

And the story goes like this As i write it this way This happened two years ago When my best friend passed away.

March is his birthday I should have to wake up early I prepare a greeting with flowers And a beautiful exotic poetry.

But when i go to his profile I found so many condolences He left a day before his birthday Everyone was sad and lonely..

There were no words to describe my loneliness Everything became dull My world became empty As if i die too.

That summer was nostalgic My heart sang a requiem My poetry was all an elegy And that was my sad summer story.

March 2022

SUMMER MEMORY Vijaya Sarmah.

Love happened on a beautiful summer day Your seductive smile had blown my mind away Together we went cycling through the rustic village lanes The balmy air filled with ripe fruity scent.

We paddled hard, against the summer breeze It was a joyful ride, an amazing secret trip As jealous village folks gave us queer suspicious looks We went whistling down, to the teasing of raucous rooks.

It was a summer day, what to say, my heart filled with summer hues I was immersed in so much love, though you were without a clue.

On a sudden I lost balance went down hill, and you couldn't stop your laughter I wanted to die, then and there eyes full of tears.

You came my close and picked me up I leaned on your shoulder You washed my wound, wiped my tears O I melted with your warmth.

Many beautiful summers had come and gone Filled the heart with many summer songs Yet the memory of that summer day Still all over lingers on.

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A PLACE UNKNOWN Ronel David Stories I can tell, of times much before Every season has got, something to show A thousand words, from memory to speak Some memories so strong while some pale and bleak But some are so exciting, who's story ought to tell And here's one I'll tell you, of a summer that rings a bell Another day t'was just as all But something exciting, in it was meant to crawl We climbed up a hill to catch the view Beyond over, the other side, of which we barely knew Looked down into the valley, my friends and me Only to find a tally of shrubs and rocks and trees We were all excited, but our excitement broke down When we didn't find in the valley, the rumoured ghost town We pulled out our picnic boxes, sat down to munch on eats And while eating then decided, let's go down before we retreat So down we were then climbing, when we stumbled upon a cave An adventure we were unwinding, for, as kids we were all brave Out came all our torch lights, into the cave they shone We stepped into that black hole, into a place unknown About twelve paces ahead, we couldn't believe our eyes Instead of finding skulls and bones, we were met with a pleasant surprise A chest full of jewelry, which looked few decades old We thought they were just a bunch of fakes, but they turned out to be of gold We picked it up not knowing then, that a treasure we had struck Just happy we had found something to play with, what good luck The moon had started shining bright, as we headed off to our homes All returning satisfied and relieved of not seeing any bones The following day we found the truth, of the treasure we had found A summer's day we'll never forget, until we're buried in the ground March 2022

Poetry Planet International Magazine

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SUMMER ESCAPADE Vicente A.Valdez Jr. Bright day , a summer festive having fun A frenzy moment to scape the humidity Heading to the beach under the scorching sun Deep dive under water, soak wet for serenity.

Under the sun we hail into the flowering farm Into the sunflower maze, to garden of lavender Unto the colorful tulips and roses full of charm Enjoying the fragrance of the sweet Jasmine flower.

Up and away to the hill we walk on the trail The green panoramic view of the distant terrain Dazzling birds sing be heard and navigational sail The river rapidly running along the trek of the mountain.

To complete the summer quest fun ride is the option To the Disneyland, Wonderland or to the Ride Resort, Roller coaster , ferries wheel, tower drop to raise your satisfaction Enjoy foods of different delicacies of your comfort.

Since cruises are not the best way to enjoy the summer And foreign travel is not a safe haven for sight seeing Going lo local places helps you to become a wanderer But the best trip of all is to have friends bonding.

March 2022

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Poetry Planet International Magazine

A Piece OF MEMORY Marites Ritumalta

HUNGER FOR ACHIEVEMENT My daughter and I have been strolling in the grocery store looking for honey. To my surprise, there are hundreds of honeys in the bottle to choose from, from the cheapest to the most expensive, all I wanted is real honey that I can put in my tea. I was able to choose the one with a brand, it looks so real, but when I opened it home, I was so disappointed to realize it was only a composition of sugar in syrup.

Fame is like sweet honey. It is tempting to indulge the sugary taste of success. But just like the honey in the market, you can be confused about which one is real and being forged.

As a publisher, I always give a certificate of publication to my authors as proof that they are published writers. But one author was not satisfied with the certificate, He want to see in the certificate written that he is an internationally published author. I said I cannot do that since I am a registered publisher in the Philippines. I have seen his disappointments.

Should I cheat on a certificate to be able to satisfy their hunger for achievement? Should I tell the truth and lose a client, I have chosen the second. I don’t mind losing a client who is not satisfied than tell him lies of achievements he didn’t gain… Although in reality his book was published internationally in more than 310 countries but as registered in the Philippines my certificates are valid only in the Philippines.

Every day, certificates are being posted on the Facebook wall followed by reactions and comments of congratulations.

This is the fulfillment of their dreams, showered by praises of common people who see their posts of accomplishments. But is a certificate the only proof of achievement? Should it be their works of accomplishments as proof that they did something worthwhile and praiseworthy?

Millions of people died but were not able to justify their greatness. While some used their influence and money to be acknowledged… The world is so unjust, just like the honey in the market, so tempting, but who can prove its ingenuity? Is it at an expensive price? The brand? Or the taste?

Almost 100 percent among Facebook users wanted to get noticed. Writers wanted their works appreciated.

Certificates are being posted for self-appreciations.

We can no longer see the difference if they are telling the truth or faking it to be noticed.

Your achievements do not need to be posted; it is seen in your works, you don’t need to shout to be noticed, your good deeds shouts louder. The best appreciation one receives is not the praises you get in the comments once you post your certificates, it is seeing the fruits of your efforts come to reality. And the “thank you” of the people you were able to help.

Those are the greatest certificates not needing to boost to be recognized.

*Marites Ritumalta’s 10th book coming out this February 2022

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Poetry Planet International Magazine

AUSTRALIAN PERSPECTIVE Vee Barnes

IN RECOGNITION As International women's day approaches I cannot help but reflect on progress made thus far and feel proud to be a woman. Times have changed beyond those primitive days when a woman's place was only to be at home being a mother or a housewife where she was seen as the weak and or fragile gender and had been given no rights. Times have been changing and with every breaking dawn, a woman's place is no longer defined by a man attached to her arm nor ring on her finger or how many children she may bare. No, a woman's place now is where ever her dreams may take her.

The gender battles that had once taken precedence in the outdated world have already begun to melt away to reveal the equality that women have been long awaiting to see. Sharing in opportunities alongside our counterparts of the male generations gives us all reason to celebrate the progression of these times. Sure there are still bumps in the road but in hindsight from where the female generations once were, we have come a long way and with that, I will acknowledge the progression made throughout the world by ordinary women who have stood in unison to bring about the changes that we now see and the women who still to this day stand up for the rights of other less fortunate women around the world. For with acknowledging the progression I also take this time to recognize that in some parts of the world there are women who are still not in the same position as others and who are experiencing gender bias discrimination and stereotypical blockages bought under the reign of men who believe they have the right to treat women as though they are insignificant inanimate objects and should not have rights to be heard and or validated. So I will stand with my arms crossed in solidarity on this international women's day to call out gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping, to be a voice of reason for women who are less fortunate in the gender division. So they too can look forward to the future where all women can forge together for equality. For alone we are but one but together we are many and we all should be equal regardless of gender.

Not only will I do this for equality but for the right to have a voice to be heard loud and clear regardless of being near or being far. Women are not weak inanimate objects nor as fragile as the label may seem. We are stronger than we look regardless of the stereotype that a woman cannot do what a man can, for I as many shall disagree with this bias and unnecessary stereotyping for I know of many women who are just as capable if not more so than many a man.

Every woman throughout this world should have the right to be treated fairly and justly and have the basic right to be heard and acknowledged regardless of egotistical male agendas for without women men would not exist... period. So take the time like me to acknowledge the past present and future progression of international women's day and what this day stands for. For we have come far since 1869 when the national women's suffrage association was founded by Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Staton who first advocated for women's rights and the progression of equality is always changing. Let us stand in solidarity and unison with our arms crossed to be the voices of reason for both equality and the basic needs of women's rights.

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Poetry Planet International Magazine

mIGrants’ voICEs Ailenemae Ramos WILL WE ABLE TO SURVIVE? How does the Migrant Domestic Helper in general deal with the COVID - 19 pandemic?

The current pandemic has placed the whole world in a freezing situation with the ON and OFF lockdown aimed that the virus will go and the people will be saved and be protected from the said virus.

Everything has changed for us Migrants as it is hard to go back home for a vacation to be with our family.

Some of us are suffering from maltreatment from our employers, and because we are afraid to lose our jobs, we choose to stay and sacrifice for the sake of our families back home.

Some of us are lucky enough to be given a chance to enjoy our annual leave by going back to our hometown with complete quarantine expenses from our employers.

Some of us experience staying in a hotel for a staycation to enjoy and relax for a week or more in exchange for our hard work from the past years.

We had a different situation, yet we will never deny the fact that most of us are scared to take the vaccine even it is said to be free. There are a lot of cases that happen in the earliest stage of the pandemic, some migrants took the vaccine and later on they experience difficulty breathing and end up in the hospital, and most worst ended up with their death.

A lot of things need to consider before taking the vaccination. We learned to live with the bare essentials during lockdowns. Healthy home-cooked meals are replaced by junk foods and ordered food from restaurants. The majority realizes the necessity of a sustainable lifestyle for the health of the whole world.

During this pandemic, we learned to work together as families, despite being miles away from them to protect each other from harm. We build a strong foundation of our family to support each other, guide our kids in their online classes, yet we need to admit, it is hard to do so as we can't have our full time to be with them all the time as we have to work as a domestic helper as well. Indeed, time management and patience are needed all along.

We rather choose to stay in our room and learn something new, enhance our knowledge in something productive and learn with our kids together and it brought us the importance of family into focus.

As we experience being maltreated by employers, we realized something that made us strong and brave to face the consequences.

We were aware of the situation to lose our jobs, yet the majority chooses to fight for our rights.

We learn to stand up for the thing that we know is right.

We learn to speak up the truth.

This pandemic we are experiencing has been more than 2 years already, and we can't foresee what will gonna happen in the future. And as a Migrant Domestic Worker, as a wife, as a mother, and a daughter, I sincerely wish for GOD's miracle to heal our land and let this pandemic end by helping humanity to think of a better way to break and stop it.

As we all work together in breaking the chain of coronavirus infection, a better world is emerging. The hard times are sure to pass leaving behind the wisdom of practicing compassion and caring for what genuinely matters in life, like the welfare of ourselves and family members. We have to realize the need for precautions and are taking steps against future contingencies, to keep the coming generations safe.

If we want things to be done for what we are aiming for, it is must be started by our own doing!

We want to change everything for the benefit of everyone, we need to act and start now.

Be the change that you wanted to be.

Be well manned and well-disciplined in many ways.

For sure COVID-19 taught us to protect our loved ones from the uncertainties of life. Let us all hand in hand protect each other to fight for the virus and live happily and peacefully. Nobody could predict our future, yet we need to believe in ourselves that we will survive this battle of life.

And we will survive! We will do that!

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INDIAN PERSPECTIVE Tanushi Singh AN INDIAN PERSPECTIVE ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY "The greatest revelation is the need to raise generations that see women as humans first " - quote from my book Pursuit of Sunshine in Rain Every year early March, I'm reminded of my superpowers on Women's Day by not my family or friends mind you but the media circus via internet and commercials etc.

It is as though the world suddenly wakes up and notices the idea of accepting and appreciating a woman for all of her roles. The sensationalization of International Women's Day has honestly reached a point where I can't understand whether women are being genuinely appreciated or is this just another gimmick to make money. The original idea I believe ,was to celebrate womanhood and acknowledge the importance of women empowerment across the world. At the end of the day, its not the women's day or women's week that will change the course of a million lives but a radical shift in our thought process wherein a woman isn't first objectified before being glorified for her place in society. Two words. Respect.

Freedom. That's the basis of women empowerment.

Where she is looked upon as a human prior to being a homemaker, nurturer, mother ,wife etc. I don't think women are superior to men. But I'll like to believe men and women have both been created to survive as a team and as equals to find their place in this world.

Nature has made a man better in some aspects and a woman better suited for others aspects of living. But both of them are essentially capable to live independently and happily. God created men and women to strike that perfect balance for building a family. A little world of their own. To create a world where men and women are treated as equals ,we need to first build a solid foundation with no scope of cracks brought by the typical conditioning that says only men are supposed to provide and the sole purpose for a woman is to look after the house and reproduce. There had been immense improvement with Save the Girl Child campaigns and the awareness of educating the girl child but the thought process of many living in urban and rural areas is still not as progressive as what is projected.

February 2022

Poetry Planet International Magazine It is still very difficult for a woman to rise and find her pathway without facing tremendous judgments and prejudice, at times even envious guise from society by and large.

Truth is sadly the patriarchal mindset is still prevalent despite the understanding of how much women have time and again proven themselves over the obstacles that held them to say they can't touch the same skies as their male counterparts .Unfortunately countless women still suffer and indefinite women still don't have the courage to voice their opinions in their own homes. So until we don't fix the root of this humaneness .Wipe out the generations of silent sufferings by letting young girls live as per their choice and voice, celebrating International Women's Day is just another day in the calendar. Until the day there is a radical change in the way girls and women are made to feel in society, International women's day will be just one of the many days to remind those who deny the power of a free spirit, who has been conditioned to live otherwise.

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Continuation from page 3 Parents are usually active participants in children’s formal education, which promotes children’s social, emotional, and academic development (Green, Walker, Hoover-Dampsey & Sandler, 2007). Parental involvement can be defined as the actions that parents perform to enhance their children’s school achievement in cooperation with teachers and other school staff (Mcneal Jr, 2014).

According to Christianakis (2011), parental involvement has two different models involving (1) the parent empowerment model, and (2) the parent-teacher partnership model. The first model deals with the opportunities that can promote parents’ engagement in children’s education while the second one represents a partnership between parents and teachers.

Moreover, in blended learning parents can do so much as home learning partners of schools, they can guide students on different levels. According to Miller (2019), online learning could be very challenging for both learners and home learning partners, but once the student is adjusted and adapted it will help them in their career advancement and opportunity for them to explore their skills.

While according to Betkowski (2020), Parents can help their children succeed in online learning if they will supervise or keep an eye on what their children are doing during class time, and if they can help students to set up a schedule to make sure that assignments get done and to strike a healthy balance between work and playtime. furthermore, parents can assist children's learning by nurturing playful moments. While for older students who spend leisure time online, parents can ask them what they’re reading and talk about critical thinking.

Lastly, if parents noticed that their children are still struggling with their lessons, parents should connect with the teacher.

If the learners are feeling demotivated in their virtual classes, parents can help them through moral supports or by providing things that they needed.

According to Sunarjo (2020), parents can support kids during virtual learning by creating a routine and following it together, providing kids with the necessary learning tools, and promoting a growth mindset.

Workplace also plays an influential factor in learning especially in blended learning.

March 2022

According to Cornelius (2020), the right workspace makes an enormous difference and can affect students’ mindset and ability to focus especially when participating in virtual classes. Parents must also consider the interest of their learners in designing for a working station and workplace. Thus, the accessibility and availability of the different learning materials ensuring the completeness of these will lead to satisfaction and activeness of the learners.

The benefits of parental involvement extend beyond the realm of literacy and educational achievement.

Studies show that children whose parents are involved show greater social and emotional development (Allen & Daly, 2002), including more resilience to stress, greater life satisfaction, greater self-direction and self-control, greater social adjustment, greater mental health, more supportive relationships, greater social competence, more positive peer relations, more tolerance, more successful marriages, and fewer delinquent behaviors (Desforges & Abouchaar, 2003).

It is therefore important that parents and careers are aware of the significant contribution they can make to their children’s learning by providing a stimulating environment around language, reading, and writing as well as supporting at home the school’s literacy agenda, both during the early years as well as the primary and secondary years of schooling.

Provision through various media also needs to be made to help guide parents to provide a literacy-rich and stimulating environment. Since not all parents realize the importance of their role in supporting their children’s literacy or have the resources or capabilities to do so, the agencies in contact with them must be able to offer them appropriate support. This may well help such agencies meet their targets, because of the positive effect that increased parental involvement can have on child outcomes.

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To be continued on the next edition

CAPTURED MOMENTS

february 2022

Poetry Planet International Magazine

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ContrIButors’ HUB

february 2022

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REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLISHING

• -100 poems for poetry ( maximum) • -short stories • -novels • Children’s book • Magazine • documentary, thesis, research, dissertations (200 pages maximum for excess, charges will be added for every 100 pages excess) -compile them along with; Biography, Dedication, and info about your book -send to lovelypoetess95@gmail.com BENEFITS - Your book will be published internationally/locally with the National Library of The Philippines registration certificate -you are given a copy of your book (for Filipinos) and will give you one TIME CORRECTIONS once you receive your sample book and want to change slight errors..

-for authors outside the country, pay for shipping TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. Freedom is yours to print copy your book in volumes, sell and launch them as you wish, profit is yours( printing should be under the publishing house only) we also have our own website at: https://poetryplanet114433.wixsite.com/website-1 1. our official bookstore at: https://611c9a51097c9.site123.me/ 2. You cannot republish your book from other companies or publishers unless your publisher has written consent.

3. You have no right to remove your publisher’s logo from your book ROYALTIES: (IN AMAZON, LULU, BOOKEMON) and our official online bookstore 1. If someone buys your book, you will receive 60 % royalty (from your revenue) that is transferable in your bank account, your publisher will be needing your bank accounts 2. Amazon only deals with the publisher, your publisher will be sending your royalty with a 25percent tax deduction.

- You can only claim your royalty fee once it reaches 50usd 3. Royalties will be sent every 3 months if someone buys your book 4. You will be updated monthly for your book sales CHARGES UPON SENDING YOUR MANUSCRIPT FOR PUBLISHING Foreign authors: 90usd-publishing 30usd- editing( for 100 poems) other books will be charged differently with 0.50usd per 100 words 30usd- NLP registration TOTAL- 150USD payment mode: Paypal address: lovelypoetess95@gmail.com Filipino authors: -4500php publishing -1500php editing for the editor for 100 poems book, 20php per 100 words for stories/novels/documentaries ETCH - 1500- printed copies for the national library of the Philippines -TOTAL FEES- 7500PHP PLS NOTE: Once you have your NLP registration, you are no longer a self-published author.

Call the publisher at 09554960044 for more details!

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