Traditions That Refuse to Fade

 “A city’s true beauty is revealed not in its streets, but in the traditions its people choose to remember.”

The Heritage City of Vigan is renowned for its rich culture, well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, and vibrant traditions. Every January, Bigueños come together to celebrate the Fiesta of the Conversion of St. Paul—one of the city’s grandest and most anticipated events. Filled with colorful parades, lively competitions, energetic dances, and mouthwatering food festivals, the celebration reflects the heart and soul of Vigan. This year, I had the opportunity to witness it firsthand, and it became an experience I will never forget.

The streets were alive with excitement as locals and tourists filled the city, enjoying street performances, parades, and the much-awaited Longganisa Festival. Families, friends, and communities gathered, creating an atmosphere of joy and togetherness. Everywhere you looked, Vigan’s unity and deep respect for its heritage were proudly displayed.

On January 22, 2026, I joined the celebration with my closest friends—people I truly cherish. We enthusiastically cheered for performers from different schools and organizations, especially our own Ilocos Sur National High School (ISNHS). Supporting our classmates made the event more personal and meaningful, and the joy we felt was unmatched when our school emerged victorious in one of the contests.

One of the highlights of the celebration was the Longganisa Festival Dance. The performers wore vibrant costumes and delivered lively choreography that captured the spirit of Vigan’s iconic delicacy. Their movements reflected creativity, pride, and a deep connection to local culture, leaving the audience entertained and impressed.

The youth performers were truly breathtaking. Their high-energy routines, precise synchronization, and bold, exaggerated steps instantly drew everyone’s attention. By blending traditional dance elements with modern styles, they created performances that were dynamic and visually striking. The use of props such as fans and banners added color and excitement, making each performance memorable.

The Fiesta of the Conversion of St. Paul is more than a display of performances and celebrations—it is a living reminder of who the Bigueños are. Through faith, culture, and community, the people of Vigan continue to pass their traditions from one generation to the next. Witnessing this festival allowed me to better appreciate the importance of preserving our heritage and celebrating it with pride.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

During the third quarter, I gained several important learnings and discoveries that helped me grow both academically and personally. I was able to deepen my understanding of the lessons discussed in class, especially through activities that required critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. I also discovered that consistent effort and active participation greatly improve my performance and confidence. Through discussions, written tasks, and projects, I learned how to express my ideas more clearly and connect lessons to real-life situations, which made learning more meaningful.

Despite these accomplishments, I encountered various challenges throughout the quarter. One of the main difficulties was managing my time, especially when multiple tasks and deadlines overlapped. There were moments when lessons felt overwhelming, particularly when topics were complex or required deeper analysis. I also struggled at times with maintaining focus and motivation, especially during busy or stressful weeks.

To address these challenges, I made conscious efforts to improve my study habits and mindset. I organized my schedule better by listing tasks according to priority and setting specific times for studying. When lessons were difficult, I asked questions, reviewed my notes, and used additional resources to help me understand the topics better. I also reminded myself of my goals, which helped me stay motivated and encouraged me to push through challenges instead of giving up.

Moving on, I will continue to apply the lessons I have learned from the third quarter. I plan to further improve my time management skills, stay consistent in my efforts, and actively participate in class activities. I will also challenge myself to be more confident in sharing my ideas and to remain open to learning from both my successes and mistakes. With these experiences, I am determined to grow more responsible, disciplined, and prepared for the next quarter.

Ink That Awakened a Nation

“He who does not know how to look back at where he came from will never get to his destination.” — José Rizal

José Rizal is widely regarded as the face of the Philippines because of his immense influence on the nation’s identity and struggle for freedom. Among his many contributions, Rizal’s novels and literary works stand out as his greatest gift to Philippine society. Through his writings, he awakened the consciousness of Filipinos and exposed the injustices experienced under Spanish colonial rule without resorting to violence.

Rizal’s novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo revealed the abuse of power by corrupt officials and friars, as well as the suffering of ordinary Filipinos. These works did not merely tell stories—they reflected the reality of society during his time. By using fiction, Rizal was able to criticize the system in a powerful yet intellectual way, encouraging Filipinos to think, question, and seek reform.

Aside from his novels, Rizal’s essays, poems, and articles promoted education, nationalism, and peaceful reform. He believed that knowledge was the key to freedom and that change could begin through enlightenment rather than armed struggle. His literacy pieces inspired Filipinos to value education, love their country, and stand up for their rights with dignity and reason.

Overall, Rizal’s greatest contribution to Philippine society lies in his ability to ignite nationalism through words. His literary works shaped the minds of Filipinos and laid the foundation for the Philippine revolution. Even today, his novels remain relevant as they continue to remind us of the importance of freedom, justice, and love for the country.

References / Sources:

Rizal, José. Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo

National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP)

Britannica. José Rizal: Filipino Patriot and Writer

Wrapped in Warmth

“Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts.” — Janice Maeditere

The Christmas season is more than just decorations, gifts, and festive music—it is a time of love, togetherness, and gratitude. At its core, Christmas reminds us of the importance of sharing joy, strengthening relationships, and appreciating the people who make our lives meaningful. Especially in the Philippines, Christmas is celebrated as a season that brings families and communities closer together.

Because of Christmas, our family became whole again, giving us the chance to forget about school activities for a while and focus on what truly matters. It became a time to rest, reconnect, and enjoy meaningful conversations and laughter. This break from school responsibilities allowed us to feel the warmth and comfort that the season brings.

For our group, Reufam, we also celebrated the essence of Christmas by spending quality time together. We went swimming, which helped us relax, bond, and create joyful memories. We also had a by-color exchange gift, an activity that highlighted the true spirit of giving—not measured by the value of the gift, but by the happiness it brings.

In addition, we participated in a Christmas program in 10-Markov, where everyone came together to celebrate through fun activities and shared moments. Overall, our Christmas celebration reflected the true essence of the season: love, unity, and togetherness. These experiences reminded us that Christmas is best celebrated not through material things, but through shared time and strengthened relationships.

References / Sources:

Bible, Luke 2:10–11

Catholic Online. The Meaning of Christmas

National Geographic. Why Christmas Is Celebrated Around the World

Threads of Heritage

 “Culture is not just a reflection of the past; it is a guide for building a better future.” 

The celebration of the Philippines’ National Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month with the theme “Weaving Culture, Enriching Future: Empowering Indigenous Communities as Bedrock of Sustainable Development” highlights the vital role of Indigenous Peoples in shaping a sustainable and inclusive nation. Indigenous communities are the original stewards of the land, carrying knowledge systems that have protected forests, waters, and biodiversity for generations. By recognizing their culture and rights, the celebration reminds us that development should not erase identity, but instead be rooted in respect and inclusion.

Empowering Indigenous Peoples means valuing their voices in decision-making, especially in matters that affect their ancestral domains. Their traditional practices—such as sustainable farming, herbal medicine, and communal living—offer solutions to modern challenges like climate change and environmental degradation. When these practices are supported rather than marginalized, they contribute not only to cultural preservation but also to long-term national development.

This celebration is also an opportunity to educate non-Indigenous Filipinos, especially the youth, about the richness and diversity of IP cultures. Awareness helps break stereotypes and encourages solidarity. Schools, communities, and institutions play an important role in promoting respect for Indigenous knowledge and traditions through education, dialogue, and inclusive policies.

Ultimately, National IP Month reminds us that a truly progressive future is one where Indigenous communities are empowered, protected, and respected. By weaving their culture into the nation’s development goals, the Philippines can create a future that is not only economically strong but also culturally rich, just, and sustainable.

Reference / Source:

National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). National Indigenous Peoples Month. https://ncip.gov.ph

Not One Child More

The 2025 National Children’s Month theme, “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!”, reminds us that children today need protection not only in the real world but also online. With many kids using phones and the internet, they become more vulnerable to strangers who may harm, deceive, or exploit them. This theme encourages everyone to speak up and take action so that all children can enjoy a safe and respectful online environment.

The government has taken important steps to protect children from online sexual abuse and exploitation. One of these is the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act (Republic Act No. 11930), which clearly defines crimes related to child abuse online and gives stronger punishments to those who commit them. Government agencies like the DOJ, DSWD, and PNP also work together to investigate cases, rescue victims, and provide support services. These efforts show that the government is becoming more active and organized in safeguarding children’s rights.

But laws alone are not enough. Keeping children safe also requires educating families about online dangers, teaching students how to protect themselves online, and giving victims proper emotional and psychological support. Parents must be aware of their children’s online activities, schools should include digital safety in their lessons, and communities need to stay alert and involved. As technology continues to change, our awareness and actions must grow with it.

Another important part of this advocacy is empowering children with knowledge and confidence. When children understand their rights, they can better recognize unsafe situations and know when to ask for help. Schools, youth groups, and online communities can create safe spaces where children feel heard and supported. Giving them a strong voice in discussions about safety helps build a generation that is more aware, responsible, and ready to protect themselves and others.

In the end, protecting children is everyone’s responsibility. The government can lead the way, but families, schools, and even online platforms must work together to end OSAEC and CSAEM. The 2025 theme encourages us to stand united and ensure that every child lives with safety, dignity, and respect—both offline and online.

Reference:

Republic Act No. 11930 – Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act. Philippine Official Gazette.

The Roots That Strengthened a Growing Nation

“A nation is great not because it is big, but because its people are great.” 

— Elpidio Quirino

President Elpidio Quirino’s story is one of perseverance, discipline, and a genuine desire to uplift the Filipino people. Born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, he grew up in a humble family and experienced firsthand the hardships of ordinary Filipinos. Despite these challenges, he showed remarkable determination—walking long distances to attend school and dedicating himself to learning. His early struggles shaped his empathy, especially toward marginalized communities, and helped form the leadership qualities he would later bring to the nation.

Quirino’s career began in public service long before he became president. He worked as a teacher, reporter, and later a lawyer after graduating from the University of the Philippines College of Law. His entry into politics was marked by service in the Philippine Assembly and eventually the Senate. During World War II, he suffered tremendous personal loss when Japanese forces killed several members of his family. Despite this tragedy, he returned to public service determined to help rebuild a war-torn Philippines. This resilience became one of the trademarks of his presidency.

As the sixth President of the Philippines (1948–1953), Quirino played a major role in post-war reconstruction. His administration focused on stabilizing the economy, rebuilding infrastructure, and strengthening diplomatic ties—especially with the United States. One of his notable programs was the Social Security Study Commission, which laid the groundwork for what we know today as the Social Security System (SSS). He also pushed for housing programs for the urban poor, land reform, and rural development. Although his administration faced controversies, his long-term contributions to nation-building are still recognized today.

In the end, President Quirino’s legacy can be summarized as that of a resilient leader who chose service over comfort and responsibility over personal grief. His life reminds us that true leadership is built on compassion, persistence, and a deep love for one’s country.

References:

• Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines – Biography of President Elpidio Quirino

• National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) – Elpidio Quirino Profile

• Britannica – “Elpidio Quirino, President of the Philippines”