ISNHS Day

 The sun felt a little warmer and the air was filled with excitement as the gates of Ilocos Sur National High School swung open for our Foundation Day. It wasn’t just a regular school day; it was a grand celebration of our history, our talents, and our unity as one big family. From the moment I stepped onto the campus, the usual sound of pens scratching on paper was replaced by loud music, cheering, and the happy chatter of students.

There are various activities prepared by our school's administrator and the SSLG officers. It was fun yet memorable experience to be a part of this celebration. As this serves as my last participation of the annual foundation day in junior year.

During the celebration, we, students were busy preparing and crafting props for our field demonstration. We made colordul fans, and practiced our dance at the same time. And yes, it was very tiring but it is worth it!

In the morning every student

 participated

 in the parade. It wasvery sunny and hot, but we found the way to enjoy every minute

 The parade was filled with colors and smiles!

After a long day of activities, I met up with my friends one last time to witness the final event of this year's foundation day: the Battle of the Bands. The energy was absolutely electric! Every beat of the drums and every guitar riff seemed to lift the spirit of the entire campus, turning the night into a massive celebration of music.

​I was there for more than just the show, though, I went to cheer as loud as I could for my boyfriend. The atmosphere was intense, but his band delivered an incredible performance. And the best part? THEY WON! Seeing him take the championship was the perfect ending to an already unforgettable day. CHAMP!!!

Sources:

https://www.facebook.com/share/175T7gFrNs/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Herstory: National Women’s Month

 March is a special time because we celebrate Women’s Month. This is a time to honor all women,our mothers, sisters, teachers, and friends—for their hard work, love, and the important roles they play in our lives.

​For a long time, women had to fight for the right to go to school, to vote, and to work in different jobs. Today, we see women leading countries, running businesses, and becoming doctors or scientists. They show us that gender does not limit what a person can achieve. When women are given the same chances as men, the whole community becomes stronger and better.

​However, Women’s Month is not just about big achievements. It is also about the quiet strength women show every day. It is in the way a mother cares for her family, the way a teacher inspires her students, and the way young girls dream of a bright future. We celebrate their kindness, their patience, and their bravery.

​As we celebrate this month, let us remember to respect and support the women around us. We should listen to their stories and make sure they feel safe and valued. By cheering for women, we are building a world where everyone can succeed, no matter who they are.

Sources:

https://share.google/y2SGZDUu5foHW1Pkl

https://share.google/FzKIEdGhJfDURc21u

https://medium.com/@aleenaofficial40/the-role-of-women-in-society-5f3955034e52

My dream, my future

 

The dream of becoming a doctor usually begins with a simple desire to help, but it evolves into a fascination with the human body's complexity. To be a successful doctor means more than just wearing a white coat; it represents the bridge between scientific knowledge and human compassion. This future theme is built on the belief that everyone deserves a chance at a healthy life, and I want to be the one providing the expertise to make that happen.

Beyond the stethoscope and the prescriptions, a successful doctor is a pillar of support for patients in their most vulnerable moments. I envision myself as a practitioner who listens as much as they treat, understanding that emotional well-being is often tied to physical recovery. Success for me will be measured by the trust my patients place in me and the moments where a difficult diagnosis is met with a clear, effective plan for restoration and hope.

Medicine is a field that never stands still, and my dream includes staying at the forefront of innovation. Whether it is adopting new surgical technologies or participating in groundbreaking research, I aim to be a lifelong learner who contributes to the advancement of healthcare. By combining a sharp intellect with a tireless work ethic, I hope to leave a legacy of care that improves the lives of my community and inspires future generations to follow the same path.

Sources:

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https://share.google/62P7XXUolwGwuzA7dhttps://share.google/lg5pRfvTfon1GOcoE

My funny Valentine

 My funny Valentine

Valentine’s Day is a special day celebrated

 every February 14th. People all over the world use this time to show love and appreciation for their partners, friends, and family. It is a day filled with red hearts, beautiful flowers, and sweet chocolates. Many people feel happy because the atmosphere is full of kindness and affection.  

​This year, I spent a wonderful Valentine’s Day with my boyfriend. We decided to keep things simple and meaningful. After our recognitiom, he surprised me with a small bouquet flowers. We spent the afternoon walking in a quiet park and talking about our future. It felt great to slow down and just enjoy each other's company.

​For for lunch, we went to a cozy little restaurant. The lights were dim, and there was soft music playing in the background. We shared a delicious ilocqno cuisine and talked for hours. He gave me a handwritten card that expressed his true feelings. Reading his kind words made me feel very lucky and loved

​Overall, my Valentine’s Day was perfect because it was not about expensive gifts. It was about the time we spent together and the bond we share. This day reminded me how important it is to cherish the people we love. I will always remember this beautiful day with a big smile on my face.

Sources:

https://www.rosesonly.com.au/what-is-valentines-day?hl=en-PH

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine%27s_Day?hl=en-PH

Ilocos Sur Festival

 The Ilocos Sur Festival 2026 was a grand celebration of culture and unity. It took place in February to honor the founding of the province. This year, the theme was "The People’s Celebration." The event brought together farmers, fishermen, and many young people. Everyone felt a strong sense of pride in their local heritage.  

​The festival featured many exciting activities for everyone to enjoy. There was a big parade with colorful costumes and rhythmic music. Many people visited the trade and food fair to see local products. There were also modern events like drone shows and "Gen Z-arzuela" plays. Famous singers and bands performed for huge crowds at night.  

​Faith and tradition were also very important parts of the festival. Many people attended a special mass and a long procession of patron saints. The province also honored its senior citizens and balikbayans. It was a time for families to reconnect and celebrate together. The 12-day festival ended with a beautiful fireworks display that lit up the sky.

Me and my classmates also attended the Ilocos Sur night. Where we watch big artists like Yeng Constantino and Arthur Nery. It was really a fun and joyful night!

Sources:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1E2urGyZLE/

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1B2DXjUXsv/

A Stroll in Vigan’s Fiesta Celebrations!

 The Vigan City fiesta is held every January 25, during the feast day of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle. Before his conversion, Paul was formerly named Saul and persecuted many Christians before encountering the call of God. During these times is the best to visit the Historical and joyful city of Vigan!

There were many activities that happened during the week before Sunday, which is the Longganisa Festival, which I took photos of since I strolled around Vigan that time and decided to be an audience to the competition.

During the fiesta, there are many activities held in the City. Such as the Longganisa Festivial, a colorful and vibrant street dance that reflects the ilocano's traditions, the loud drums echos our culture and the streets is filled with cheer and smiles! This tradition is held every January 22nd. This celebrates the city's famous Longganisa and to boost tourism.

One of the famous spot in vigan is the Plaza Burgos park! Plaza Burgos is the smaller of the two major plazas in the city of Vigan. It can be found just beside St. Paul's Cathedral's Bell Tower. Many activities are held in this plaza such as the Agriculture night which I went and enjoyed the show! Plaza Burgos is the right place to rest after a long tour around vigan, just sitting and enjoying the calm atmosphere along with the warm breeze!

The Vigan's Carnival is also a must to visit! It's really enjoyable to take a walk there at night and enjoy the Blast full rides! Wel, make sure you're brave though, because I almost couldn't survive a ride, but that what makes it fun isn't it? The food there was also Incredibly delicious, you taste the Ilocano's Empanada, which is a must, and variety of Ilocano foods that you must try! There's also a bargain stalls which you can buy random stuffs at a cheap price!

When visiting Vigan, you can't skip the Calle Crisologo. A place must visit! Stepping in the brick stone street feels like the clock has just taken you back at the pre colonial era. The warm light, warm breeze, and the sound of the Kalesa elevates the ambience of the street! Take your camera out and capture the exquisite architecture of the Calle crisologo!

Source: Vigan.ph https://share.google/iTIddapfDF2mG63Qn

Source: Vigan.ph https://share.google/xZSDprQDjLiOqJNhS

My 3r Quarter journey

 I had a great time in my ICT class this quarter. I learned many new things about computers and technology. Every week, we would post in our blogs and it was a very exciting subject because we got to work on the computers every day.

​The best part of the class was learning how to build a website. Our teacher explained the basics of coding and layout. At first, it seemed difficult to understand all the rules. However, I practiced every day and soon it became much easier.

​I really enjoyed creating and designing my own web pages. I chose the colors, the fonts, and the pictures myself. It felt like magic to see my ideas appear on the screen. Making a website is fun because I can show my own style to the world.

​ICT class taught me that technology is a creative tool. I feel more confident using computers now than I did before. I am proud of the website I built from scratch. I hope to learn even more about web design in the future.

sources:

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https://share.google/taSV9QeZoXdr8m0nV

https://share.google/8VJZkTXiPgi49X80d

Jose's greatest gift

 Jose Rizal’s greatest gift to the Philippines was waking up the love for country. Before him, people in the islands did not feel like they belonged to one nation. Rizal used his books to show everyone that they were all Filipinos. He helped them feel proud and united for the first time.

​He wrote two famous books to show the truth about how Spain treated the Philippines. He did not use guns or knives to fight. Instead, he used his writing to show the unfair things happening to his people. His stories opened people’s eyes and made them want to change their lives for the better.

​Rizal also believed that schooling and learning were the best ways to be free. He told Filipinos that they must study hard to help themselves. Even when he was put in prison, he kept teaching and helping others. His brave life and his death inspired the people to finally fight for their own freedom.

Sources:

https://share.google/oirN0ivvcsRphbAMY

https://share.google/qwsdc8ozlCpKmgudP

https://share.google/Tt2LsqNi1uq8lplkz

The essence of Christmas

Christmas is a very special time for people all over the world, especially Christians. It marks the birth of our saviour, Jesus Christ. Most families gather together to celebrate this event. It is a time filled with love, bright lights, and happy smiles.

​Christmas Eve, many people prepare a big feast. In the Philippines, families share a special dinner called Noche Buena. They serve a lot of food such as lechon, pancit. and many more. Everyone eats together and enjoys the company of their loved ones.

The true essence of Christmas is not just celebrating it with our love ones, but we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our saviour. In December, most people attends Simbang Gabi or Misa de gallo, in honor to commemorate the birth of Jesus. In Christmas, we are not just celebrating but we are gathered to share our love and we learn values from our All mighty Father. 

​                          

Sources:

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https://share.google/J5fQEFQKPIBj4PbWT

https://share.google/8BVZooatIR9uG2sUh

Philippines' National Indigenous Peoples (IP)

 The celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Month is very important. It honors the different tribes and groups in the Philippines. This year's theme shows that their culture is like a beautiful cloth being woven together. It tells us that their traditions help make our country's future stronger.

​The theme also says that indigenous people are the "bedrock" or the foundation of development. This means they protect our forests, land, and water. They know how to take care of nature so it lasts for a long time. When we empower them, we are also protecting the environment for everyone.  

​Protecting their culture is not just about the past. It is about helping them lead their own lives today. We must give them the right to their land and education. By supporting their crafts and voices, we make sure their wisdom is never lost.

​Finally, this celebration reminds us to be proud of our roots. We should respect the unique identity of every indigenous group. When we work together and value their skills, we build a better and more colorful future for the whole Philippines.

Sources:

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https://share.google/Z5NnjEy11w9BoIOQX

https://share.google/LBi8Kkk18kNXGuEUf

Elpidio Quirino

 Elpidio Quirino was born in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. He came from a humble background. He worked as a school teacher while studying. He paid his own way through school. He graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 1915. He later worked as a private secretary for Senate President Manuel L. Quezon. This started his long career in government service. 

Quirino was elected as a Congressman and then a Senator. He also served as the Secretary of Finance and Secretary of the Interior. He helped pass the Tydings-McDuffie Act. This law paved the way for Philippine independence. During World War II, his wife and three children were killed. This happened during the Battle of Manila. He became the first nVice President of the new Republic in 1946.

President Manuel Roxas died suddenly in 1948. Quirino then became the President. He led the country during a difficult time. The Philippines was devastated after the war. He started a a program for post-war reconstruction. His government focused on industrialization and economic growth. He also had to deal with the Hukbalahap (Huk) rebellion. Quirino's term laid the foundation for the economy.

Reference/Source:

https://share.google/YPMoNHMZnl5iBiTmG

https://share.google/Ghj2VO2MCUgWcTppp

​Britannica. Elpidio Quirino | 6th Philippine President, WWII Veteran.

​Philippine Embassy in Rome. The Life And Times Of President Elpidio R. Quirino.

Insight on the 2025 National Children's Month Theme

 ​The 2025 National Children's Month theme, “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!” is very powerful. It directly addresses the serious and growing threat of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM). The theme shows a clear recognition that the digital world has created new dangers for children. This focus is urgent and necessary. It puts the safety and rights of the child at the very center of the national conversation, which is exactly where it should be.

The government has taken important legal steps to protect children's safety, dignity, and rights.

The passage of Republic Act No. 11930, or the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act, is a clear example of this commitment. This law gives stronger penalties to online predators. It also requires internet providers and social media companies to help stop the spread of abusive materials. This shows a legislative effort to match legal protection with the fast pace of technology.However, laws alone are not enough. 

The key challenge lies in the effective implementation and enforcement of these acts. It is good that the government is partnering

with other groups, like local police and social welfare offices. They are the ones who give 24/7 support and conduct awareness campaigns in communities. When the police do more cyber patrols, they are actively looking for offenders. This hands-on work is crucial for turning legal mandates into real-life protection for vulnerable children.

Overall, the 2025 theme is a powerful call to action. It confirms the government's commitment to fighting for children's rights and

safety. The government has put in place strong laws and is working on comprehensive programs. Yet, the fight against OSAEC and CSAEM needs continuous effort and better cooperation from all sectors, including parents and the community. This collective duty is the best way to ensure every child can grow up safe and free from harm.

Sources:

https://share.google/xjghA8HGnrmvW4fPT

https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Fblog.peps.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F11%2FThe-Happy-Film-Company-PEPS-West-Seattle-Dec2021-0042.jpg&tbnid=nSe-K6YOrkAqQM&vet=1&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fblog.peps.org%2F2017%2F09%2F18%2Foutdoor-preschool-awesomeness-a-photo-essay%2F&docid=2TIHVtxQ-rb5gM&w=6720&h=4480&hl=en-GB&source=sh%2Fx%2Fim%2Fm5%2F4&kgs=ed2ed0719b572beb&shem=issthttps://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Fi0.wp.com%2Fblog.peps.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F09%2Ftt-photo-8.jpg%3Fresize%3D1140%252C761%26ssl%3D1&tbnid=X6NUaS4DY5xHVM&vet=1&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fblog.peps.org%2F2017%2F09%2F18%2Foutdoor-preschool-awesomeness-a-photo-essay%2F&docid=2TIHVtxQ-rb5gM&w=1140&h=761&hl=en-GB&source=sh%2Fx%2Fim%2Fm5%2F4&kgs=e62bc11cdb2eda08&shem=isst

https://share.google/zIahsGaP0d6QYslvs

Exploring Historic Vigan City💜

 Vigan is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines located in the province of Ilocos Sur. Vigan is known for its beautiful scenery, rich culture, and historical sites such as Calle Crioslogo, Hidden Garden, and St Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral . Not only are the views the most anticipated in this place, but also the delicious food. Local industries, products, and tourism have contributed greatly to the economy because they provide jobs to the citizens, generate tax revenue for the government, and boost business through tourists visiting the city.

Calle Crisologo is a popular street in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, known for its old Spanish-style houses, stone streets, and horse-drawn carriages. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tourists can stroll around, ride a horse-drawn carriage, and take pictures of the various views and designs of the old houses. There are also shops where you can buy local products, souvenirs, and delicious Vigan-style foods. Calle Crisologo helps improve the economic status of the government through tourism. Many tourists visit here to see the old Spanish-style houses and stone streets, which has led to the growth of businesses such as shops, restaurants, and horse-drawn carriages. This has increased the income of the citizens and the tax collected by the government, helping to develop the economy of Vigan.

The St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral is in Vigan City. It is a very old and important church.

The main style of the building is called Earthquake Baroque. This style makes the walls thick and strong. The cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia. It has a separate bell tower nearby. The current church structure was finished around the year 1800. It is a major landmark within the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Hidden Garden is a lovely place in Vigan City. It is like a green escape from the busy streets. The garden has many different kinds of plants and flowers. You can walk on its quiet paths. The place also has a restaurant called Lilong and Lilang. This restaurant serves authentic Ilocano food. Visitors can eat their meal surrounded by nature. The garden also sells plants and local pottery items. It is a spot for relaxation and enjoying local culture.

Burnay is one of the most known and popular product in Vigan. The city is known for making burnay, with wide range of uses, back then they used burnay to cook and store food, but now, people use it as a display or as a flower pot. Burnay can be made in different shaped and purposes which I am amazed about!

Visit Vigan City for a truly special experience. You can walk on old cobblestone streets. See beautiful old Spanish houses everywhere. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can ride a traditional horse-drawn carriage called a kalesa. Buy and try the famous local food and products like bagnet and burnay. See the massive St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral. Relax in the green space of the Hidden Garden. Burnay pottery shows you local craftsmanship. Vigan feels like stepping back in time. Come and explore this unique Philippine gem soon.

Sources:

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Melvyn Manio