Viva San Pablo, Viva Vigan

 

You can enjoy watching marching band, a competition among all schools in Vigan City. Before they perform, they usually parade around the city.

During the Vigan City Festival, the carnaval located at burgos street vigan city opens. Here, they offer many rides and foods you can enjoy. Outside the amusement park, there is a flea market of what bigueños call “bargainan”.

Life During the 2nd to the Last Quarter

The 3rd grading period was filled with meaningful experiences that contributed to my growth as a student. This quarter was not only about academic lessons but also about activities that helped develop my skills, values, and self-awareness. Through different tasks and events, I learned important lessons that I can apply in school and in real life.

One of the most memorable experiences during this grading period was our Christmas party. It was truly enjoyable because we shared a lot of laughter and special moments together. We played many fun games and exchanged gifts, which made the celebration even more meaningful. Being with my classmates during this time strengthened our friendship and created happy memories. Another important activity was our community-based research, where I learned more about the situation and issues in our community. This experience helped me understand the importance of research and how it can be useful in real-life situations. Lastly, taking the NCAE was a meaningful experience because it helped me discover my strengths and interests. It also guided me in thinking about possible career paths for my future.

Overall, the 3rd grading period was a memorable and meaningful phase of my school life. The activities I participated in helped me grow academically, socially, and personally. I am grateful for these experiences, and I will use the lessons I learned to improve myself and strive for success in the next grading period.

The True Essence of Christmas

 The celebration of the Christmas season, in its true essence, is about love, kindness, and togetherness. It is a time when people open their hearts to others through sharing, forgiving, and helping those in need. Beyond the bright decorations and exchanged gifts, Christmas reminds us to value compassion, humility, and gratitude for the blessings we receive, both big and small.

This Christmas, I celebrated the season with my family, making it even more meaningful. As early as December, we began preparing by decorating our home. Together, we assembled our Christmas tree and placed Christmas lights at the front of our house, filling our home with warmth and excitement. These simple moments of preparation allowed us to bond and appreciate each other’s presence.

On Christmas Eve, our togetherness became more evident as we prepared our food as a family. We shared responsibilities in cooking and cleaning, with each of us assigned to prepare one dish. I made mango graham float, and seeing my family enjoy it made me feel happy and fulfilled. The laughter, teamwork, and shared effort made the celebration more special than any gift could.

Indeed, Christmas strengthens the bond among families and communities. It brings people together to spend time with loved ones, reflect on the year that has passed, and spread hope for the days ahead.

Jose Rizal: The Face of the Philippines

Jose Rizal’s greatest contribution to Philippine society was his role in awakening Filipino nationalism through his ideas, writings, and love for his country. During the Spanish colonial period, Rizal showed that Filipinos could fight oppression through peaceful means such as education and truth. He became the “face of the Philippines” because he stood as a symbol of courage, intelligence, and patriotism.

Through his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, Rizal revealed the abuses of the Spanish government and the corruption of some church officials. These works helped Filipinos understand the injustices they were experiencing and encouraged them to stand up for their rights. His writings united the people by reminding them of their shared struggles and identity as Filipinos.

Rizal strongly believed that education was the foundation of a free and progressive nation. He encouraged Filipinos to seek knowledge, develop good values, and think critically. Instead of promoting violence, he supported peaceful reforms, showing his hope for a better future for the country.

Rizal’s execution made his ideas even more powerful. His sacrifice inspired Filipinos to continue fighting for freedom and independence. Today, his life and works continue to teach Filipinos the importance of patriotism, justice, and using knowledge to bring positive change to society.

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Weaving Heritage into Progress: Honoring Indigenous Peoples as Pillars of a Sustainable 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 more inclusive and sustainable nation. This theme reminds us that IP cultures, traditions, and knowledge systems are not relics of the past but living sources of wisdom that continue to guide communities in caring for the environment, preserving identity, and fostering harmony.

Indigenous communities have long practiced sustainable ways of living through respect for nature, responsible use of resources, and strong communal values. Their traditional knowledge in farming, fishing, healing, and environmental protection contributes greatly to sustainable development. By recognizing and empowering IPs, society acknowledges that progress does not only come from modern technology but also from time-tested practices that promote balance between people and nature.

This celebration also emphasizes the importance of protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples. Despite their contributions, many IP communities still face challenges such as discrimination, land dispossession, and limited access to education and basic services. National IP Month serves as a call to action for the government, institutions, and citizens to support policies and programs that uphold IP rights, strengthen cultural preservation, and ensure meaningful participation in development initiatives.

Ultimately, National Indigenous Peoples Month encourages Filipinos to value cultural diversity and shared responsibility. By weaving Indigenous culture into national development efforts, the country enriches its future—one that is rooted in respect, equity, and sustainability. Empowering Indigenous communities is not only an act of justice but also a crucial step toward building a resilient and culturally grounded nation.

References / Sources:

• National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997 (Republic Act No. 8371).

• Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. National Indigenous Peoples Month Proclamations.

• United Nations. Indigenous Peoples and Sustainable Development.

Insight on President Elpidio Quirino

Elpidio Quirino’s life is a story of hard work and perseverance. Born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, he grew up in a simple family and experienced many hardships at a young age. Even with financial struggles, he studied diligently and eventually became a lawyer in 1915. His humble beginnings shaped him into a leader who understood the needs of ordinary Filipinos.

Quirino’s political career started when he became a member of the House of Representatives in 1919. From there, he continued to rise, serving as a senator and later holding important government positions such as Secretary of Finance and Secretary of the Interior. After the death of President Manuel Roxas in 1948, Quirino became president. At that time, the Philippines was still recovering from the destruction of World War II, and he carried the heavy responsibility of helping the country rebuild.

As president, Quirino focused on restoring the economy, repairing communities, and improving the lives of Filipinos. He worked to strengthen the country’s relationship with the United States, which helped bring aid for rebuilding. He also supported programs on education, social welfare, and land reform. One of his most remembered acts was granting clemency to Hukbalahap leader Luis Taruc—a gesture of peace that showed Quirino’s hope for unity among Filipinos.

Although his leadership faced criticisms and political challenges, Quirino’s efforts left a meaningful mark on the country. He helped the Philippines rise again after the war and guided it toward stability and recovery. Today, Elpidio Quirino is remembered as a dedicated statesman who chose compassion, patience, and service during one of the most difficult times in Philippine history.

References / Sources:

https://share.google/WpVtutAcV2EYuPQcx

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

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

Zaide, Sonia M. Philippine History and Government

Agoncillo, Teodoro. History of the Filipino People

Protecting Rights in Digital Age

The 2025 National Children’s Month theme, “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!” highlights a growing and urgent concern: the alarming rise of online sexual abuse and exploitation of children. In a world where digital spaces have become extensions of children’s homes and social lives, this theme serves as a powerful reminder that safety must not end at the physical doorway. It calls on families, schools, communities, and institutions to recognize that protecting children in the online world is just as critical as ensuring their safety offline.

The government of the Philippines has shown increasing commitment to safeguarding children’s dignity and rights, especially in cyberspace. Laws such as the Anti-OSAEC and CSAEM Act (Republic Act No. 11930) strengthen accountability for offenders and clarify the responsibilities of digital platforms in monitoring harmful online behaviors. Additionally, agencies like the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) continue to collaborate on rescue operations, legal support, and community education efforts. These actions reflect an evolving system that recognizes the complexity of modern threats to children.

Ultimately, the 2025 celebration is a call to action, a reminder that every child deserves to grow up in an environment where their rights are respected, and their safety is guaranteed. Ending OSAEC and CSAEM is not just about preventing crime; it is about upholding the dignity and humanity of every Filipino child. By working together and strengthening the systems that protect them, we take a strong stand for their present well-being and future potential.

References

https://share.google/SvTAgGH4wAIaQnmGP

Republic Act No. 11930 – Anti-OSAEC and CSAEM Act of 2022.

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) – Child Protection Programs.