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DOCUMENT OUTLINE

 Concept Paper on the Budget Hearing and

VP Sara Duterte's Confidential Funds
 Introduction
 Need for this Study
 Background
 Conclusion
 References
 Power Point Presentation {PNG/JPEG Format}

 Critique Paper
 Introduction
 Plot Summary
 Narrative Structure
 Character Development
 Themes
 Cinematography and Music
 Impact and Reception
 Conclusion
 References

 Reflection

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 Concept Paper on the Budget Hearing and VP Sara Duterte's Confidential Funds

Introduction

The allocation and utilization of government funds are pivotal in ensuring transparency
and accountability within public administration. Recently, the budget hearing concerning Vice
President Sara Duterte's confidential funds has attracted significant attention. Confidential funds
are typically earmarked for sensitive government operations where discretion is paramount.
However, the recent scrutiny surrounding the use of these funds under VP Sara Duterte's
administration has raised questions about their application, oversight, and adherence to legal and
ethical standards. This concept paper aims to explore the recent issues related to the budget
hearing on these funds, examining the facts, related articles, and the broader implications for
governance.

Need for This Study

1. Public Accountability: The primary need for this study stems from the necessity to
uphold public trust in government institutions. Confidential funds, by their nature, are
shielded from full public scrutiny, which can lead to concerns about their misuse or
misallocation. Investigating these funds helps ensure that their usage aligns with public
interests and legal frameworks.
2. Transparency in Budget Allocation: Understanding the allocation and use of confidential
funds is crucial for promoting transparency. This study aims to clarify how these funds
are allocated, managed, and monitored, shedding light on whether the existing
mechanisms are sufficient or require reform.
3. Strengthening Oversight Mechanisms: By analyzing the recent issues and discussions
surrounding the confidential funds, this study seeks to contribute to improving oversight
mechanisms. Effective oversight ensures that funds are utilized effectively and ethically,
reducing the potential for corruption or mismanagement.
4. Informing Policy and Reform: The findings from this study can inform policymakers,
advocates, and the public about potential gaps or issues in the current handling of

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 confidential funds. This can lead to discussions about necessary policy reforms and
enhancements in financial governance.

Background

Recent Issue Overview

The controversy surrounding VP Sara Duterte's confidential funds emerged prominently
during recent budget hearings. Confidential funds are typically used for intelligence and national
security purposes and are not subject to the same level of public scrutiny as other budgetary
allocations. During the budget hearing, questions were raised about the justification, allocation,
and oversight of these funds under VP Duterte’s office.

Key Facts and Articles

1. Budget Hearing Controversy: According to reports from the Philippine Daily Inquirer
and other news outlets, there was a notable public and legislative inquiry into the amount
allocated for confidential funds. Critics argue that the increase in these funds, alongside a
lack of detailed reporting on their utilization, raises concerns about transparency and
accountability.
2. Legal Framework: The allocation and use of confidential funds are governed by various
laws and regulations. The General Appropriations Act (GAA) provides the legal basis for
budget allocations, including confidential funds. There are stipulations on how these
funds should be reported and audited, but the level of detail required can be limited due
to the nature of these funds.
3. Public Response: There has been significant public and media reaction to the increase in
confidential funds, with many questioning the rationale behind such allocations amidst
other pressing public needs. Social media and editorial pieces have amplified calls for
greater transparency and accountability in the management of these funds.
4. Oversight Mechanisms: The Commission on Audit (COA) plays a critical role in auditing
the use of government funds, including confidential funds. However, the effectiveness of
these audits, particularly for funds used for sensitive operations, has been a subject of
debate.

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Conclusion

The issue of VP Sara Duterte’s confidential funds during the recent budget hearings
highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing transparency with the need for discretion in
government operations. This concept paper seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of the
controversy, the legal and oversight frameworks in place, and the implications for public trust
and governance. By addressing these aspects, the study aims to contribute to a more informed
and effective approach to managing confidential funds in the future.

References:

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer articles on VP Sara Duterte’s confidential funds and budget hearings.
2. General Appropriations Act (GAA) for relevant legal framework.
3. Reports and statements from the Commission on Audit (COA).
4. Editorials and public reactions from media sources and social platforms.

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PRESENTATION

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PRESENTATION

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PRESENTATION

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 REFLECTION
Reflecting on the modules from the English for Academic and Professional Purposes
(EAPP), several key learnings emerge that enhance both understanding and application of critical
reading, writing, and evaluation skills. These lessons go beyond rote memorization, encouraging
students to develop higher-order thinking skills, particularly in the realms of critique, concept
explication, and formal definition writing.
First, the importance of a critique (from Module 7) becomes clear as a vital skill in
academic and professional environments. Critiques require a balanced evaluation of works, be
they literary pieces, performances, or art, encouraging writers to analyze strengths and
weaknesses objectively. By learning to write critiques, students sharpen their ability to look at
works through a multifaceted lens, appreciating both the craftsmanship and areas for
improvement. This fosters a culture of constructive feedback, which is crucial for academic
growth.
Formalism and Feminism as critical approaches (from Module 6) offer students various
lenses through which to analyze texts. While Formalism focuses on the intrinsic elements of a
text—like structure, language, and literary devices—Feminism situates the work within broader
social and historical contexts, particularly looking at gender relations. This diversity in analytical
frameworks allows students to appreciate literature not just for its aesthetic qualities but also for
its societal relevance. These critical approaches are not limited to written works but can be
applied to art, film, and other cultural products, providing students with versatile tools for
critique.
Concept elucidation (from Module 8) involves defining, explicating, and clarifying
abstract ideas, allowing students to tackle complex academic writing with more clarity and
precision. Learning how to explain concepts using various techniques like formal definitions,
analogies, and clarifications enriches students' academic writing. This module stresses that being
able to define and explain abstract ideas is crucial for academic discourse, as it lays the
foundation for clear communication in scholarly writing.
Moreover, critical reading is emphasized across all modules as a precursor to writing
well-argued critiques. Understanding how to dissect texts, look for thematic elements, identify
biases, and assess the effectiveness of arguments are key steps in creating a well-rounded
critique. Students learn to not only engage with the content but also understand the underlying
strategies authors use, leading to a deeper comprehension of the text and, ultimately, more
effective writing.
The modules also highlight the importance of structured writing. Whether in critiques or
formal definitions, having a clear introduction, body, and conclusion provides coherence and
allows for logical flow in writing. Structure is fundamental, as it enables the writer to present
their arguments or evaluations clearly, guiding the reader through the reasoning process without
confusion. This skill is essential in both academic and professional settings, where clarity of
communication is paramount.

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 Finally, the focus on objective and balanced writing reinforces the idea that critiques are
not just about personal opinion but are grounded in evidence and reasoning. This teaches
students to separate emotional responses from logical analysis, an essential skill in academic
writing. A well-crafted critique balances subjective impressions with objective analysis, allowing
the writer to present a fair and credible evaluation.
This module has provided a comprehensive introduction to the concept of writing and
utilizing concept papers. Through this lesson, I have learned that a concept paper is a critical tool
in academic and professional writing, serving as a foundation for proposals, research projects,
and business initiatives. It offers a concise summary that explains the importance, methodology,
and goals of a project. I now understand the essential components of a concept paper, such as the
title, rationale, and research questions in academic settings, and how these differ from business
formats that focus more on objectives, timelines, and budgets. The module also emphasized the
importance of clarity and persuasion in writing a concept paper, as it aims to capture interest,
particularly from potential funders or stakeholders. By comparing different formats and kinds of
concept papers, I have developed a deeper appreciation for the flexibility and purpose of this
document across various disciplines. Ultimately, this module has enhanced my skills in planning
and organizing a concept paper, preparing me for more extensive academic and professional
endeavors.
In summary, these modules foster critical thinking, structured writing, and balanced
evaluations, essential skills for both academic success and professional communication. Through
mastering critiques, explications, and formal definitions, students are better prepared to engage
with complex ideas, communicate clearly, and contribute meaningfully to scholarly
conversations.

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 Critique Paper on “A Walk to Remember”

Introduction

A Walk to Remember, directed by Adam Shankman and based on the novel by Nicholas
Sparks, is a romantic drama released in 2002. The film stars Shane West as Landon Carter and
Mandy Moore as Jamie Sullivan. Set in the 1990s in a small North Carolina town, the story
follows the transformative relationship between a rebellious high school student and a devoutly
religious girl. The film explores themes of love, redemption, and faith, offering both heartfelt
moments and melodramatic elements. This critique will examine the film's narrative structure,
character development, thematic depth, and overall impact.

Plot Summary

The film begins with Landon Carter, a popular but troubled high school senior, who is
forced to participate in the school’s drama club as punishment for a prank gone wrong. He
becomes involved with Jamie Sullivan, the shy and devout daughter of the town’s Baptist pastor.
Despite their differences, Landon and Jamie develop a deep, transformative relationship. As their
romance progresses, Jamie reveals her terminal illness, which challenges Landon’s previously
shallow outlook on life and love. The film culminates in a poignant exploration of faith and
personal growth.

Narrative Structure

The narrative of A Walk to Remember follows a traditional romantic drama arc, with a
predictable rise and fall in the relationship between Landon and Jamie. While the film effectively
uses the “opposites attract” trope, its plot can be seen as formulaic. The progression from
Landon’s initial resistance to Jamie’s values to his eventual personal transformation is clear, yet
somewhat predictable. The climax and resolution, marked by Jamie’s illness and death, aim for
emotional impact but may feel contrived to some viewers.

Character Development

Shane West delivers a solid performance as Landon Carter, capturing his character’s
journey from a self-centered teen to a more compassionate individual. Mandy Moore's portrayal
of Jamie Sullivan is heartfelt, though some critics argue it leans towards idealization. Jamie's
character is well-written with depth and sincerity, but her role sometimes borders on the saintly,
which can limit her relatability. The secondary characters, including Jamie’s father and Landon’s
friends, add texture but are not as fully developed.

Themes

The film delves into themes of redemption, love, and faith. Landon’s transformation is
central to the narrative, illustrating the impact of genuine love on personal growth. Jamie’s faith
and strength in the face of illness are portrayed with sincerity, yet the film can be criticized for

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its somewhat superficial treatment of these themes. The portrayal of faith, while sincere, might
come across as overly sentimental, potentially alienating viewers who prefer a more nuanced
exploration of spirituality.

Cinematography and Music

The film’s cinematography captures the charm of a small-town setting, with warm,
nostalgic visuals that complement the story’s emotional tone. The soundtrack, featuring Mandy
Moore’s own music, enhances the film’s emotional resonance. The music effectively
underscores key moments, though it sometimes risks overshadowing the narrative’s subtler
elements.

Impact and Reception

A Walk to Remember received mixed reviews from critics but was generally well-
received by audiences, particularly those who appreciate tear-jerking romantic dramas. Its
emotional appeal and message of redemption resonate strongly with viewers, though it may not
offer new insights for those familiar with similar genre films. The film’s ability to evoke strong
emotional responses is both its strength and its weakness, as it can come off as overly
sentimental to some.

Conclusion

In summary, A Walk to Remember is a well-crafted romantic drama that effectively

explores themes of love, redemption, and faith through a familiar narrative structure. While it
succeeds in eliciting emotional responses and showcasing strong performances from its leads, its
predictability and occasional sentimentality may limit its appeal to some viewers. The film’s
impact lies in its ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, though it may not break
new ground in the genre. Overall, it remains a poignant, if conventional, exploration of personal
growth through love and faith.

References

1. Shankman, A. (Director). (2002). *A Walk to Remember* [Film]. Warner Bros. Pictures.

2. Sparks, N. (1999). *A Walk to Remember*. Warner Books.

3. Reviews and critical articles from sources such as Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic.

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