Ilocos Sur Festival for Honoring Traditions Through Time

        The Kannawidan Festival is known as the "Ilocos Sur Festival" now is celebrated in our province Ilocos Sur every January, is a significant event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of our province. The word "Kannawidan" means "heritage" in Ilocano, which perfectly captures the essence of the festival. A celebration of the traditions, culture, and history that have shaped Ilocos Sur into the unique and proud region it is today. Through various activities and exhibits, it brings together the locals and visitors to honor the province's agricultural, historical, and artistic achievements. The festival serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the cultural identity and legacy of the Ilocano people. 

        One of the most notable features of the Ilocos Sur Festival is the wide array of cultural exhibits, including handicrafts, traditional food, and local products of each city and province in Ilocos Sur. The "Trade and Food Fair" showcases the best of Ilocos Sur's artisanal crafts, such as the famous Abel weaving and pottery. Visitors can also savor the region's delicious delicacies like longganisa and empanada. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience the authentic flavors and craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations. The festival also highlights the skills of the local artisans and provides a platform for them to reach a wider audience.

        A highlight of the Ilocos Sur Festival is the grand "Saniata ti Ylocos" or is now called the "Miss Ilocos Sur" beauty pageant, which celebrates the grace and beauty of Ilocos Sur’s young women. This event not only emphasizes physical beauty but also recognizes the intelligence, poise, and advocacy of the contestants, encouraging the youth to be involved in the community and social issues. The pageant embodies the spirit of empowerment and pride for the Ilocano culture, with the crown symbolizing the preservation of tradition while embracing modernity.

        But Ilocos Sur Festival is not just a festival for celebration, it is an educational experience for both the young and old. It allows the youth to appreciate their roots while giving them the opportunity to learn about the traditions and practices that their ancestors upheld. As the festival continues to grow, it is becoming a beacon of unity, cultural pride, and the resilience of Ilocos Sur’s people in the face of change. With its vibrant array of performances, exhibitions, and activities, the Ilocos Sur Festival stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Ilocano people. 

References:

(2025). Pia.gov.ph. https://pia.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Ilocos-Sur-festival-trade-fair-fosters-economic-growth-cultural-preservation-scaled.jpeg 

(2025). Politiko.com.ph. https://northluzon.politiko.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/a-1.gif

The True Meaning of Valentine’s Day

     

        Valentine's Day isn't just about giving flowers and chocolates to loved ones. It is a celebration in all its forms. It’s a reminder to appreciate the people who bring light and joy into our lives, whether they are family, friends, or that one special person in our lives. We celebrate love because it brings joy, warmth, and comfort. Like a candle in the dark, love brings light to our darkest days and gives us hope when we need it. Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance, but it’s about making the people we love feel special and appreciated.

        For me, expressing affection comes most naturally through words. I believe that words can hold a special power. They can heal, inspire, and make someone feel truly loved. A heartfelt message, a sincere compliment, or even a simple "I'm proud of you" or "I appreciate you" can make difference in someone’s day. Speaking or writing from the heart helps me express my feelings, turning emotions into something real and meaningful. Whether it’s a heartfelt letter, a sweet message, or simply telling someone how much they mean to me, I feel happy and comfortable showing love in this way. 

        But love isn’t just about words, but it’s about actions too. While I am comfortable expressing my affection through what I say, there are still moments that words aren’t enough. That’s when small yet meaningful actions come in the way. There are ways I show love beyond words, like a simple hug, a helping hand, or just being there when someone needs me. Sometimes, love is felt more in the things we do rather than the things we say. It’s in the effort we make to check on a friend, in the time we spend with family, with a loved one, and in the quiet moments of simply being present for someone.

        But at the end of the day, love is not measured by grand gestures or the perfect words, but by how deeply and sincerely we make others feel appreciated. Whether through words or actions, what really matters is making sure the people I care about feel loved—not just on Valentine’s Day, but every day. As Ed Sheeran sings, “All that you are is all that I'll ever need.” Love isn’t just about what we say, but it’s about what we do. And for me, showing love in any way, like through kind words, small gestures, or simply being there, is one of the best things we can share with the world. 

References:

(2025). Freshangleng.com. https://freshangleng.com/articleimg/081916f3-2921-4acd-bd43-48f1233f1855.jpg

(2025). Istockphoto.com. https://media.istockphoto.com/id/1028892946/photo/woman-hands-in-winter-gloves-heart-symbol.jpg\ s=612x612&w=0&k=20&c=wAh_jzFiFLalm3UnR9NHilrk7lcMf8u58H1FZxndoJ0=

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The Reality and Experiences

    Before anything else, I want to express my appreciation to my groupmates. Throughout this Community-Based Research journey, their cooperation, patience, and dedication made everything smoother and more meaningful. Each of us played an important role, whether it was planning, conducting interviews, and until the finalizing of our paper. Despite the challenges we faced, we supported one another, ensuring that our research was both insightful and well-executed. Without their teamwork, this study would not have been as successful and fulfilling.

                                                    

    Our journey began with a simple conversation, where we sat together, discussing which topic to pursue and which community to study. After careful discussion, we chose to focus on waste management in Barangay Tamorong, Santa Catalina. We believed that by focusing ourselves in that community, we could better understand their challenges, practices, and the effectiveness of their waste management protocols. This was more than just a research project, thus, it was a chance to see firsthand how one barangay handles one of the most pressing environmental concerns of our time. 

    To gain deeper insights, we conducted interview to the Barangay Kagawad Gregorio Rabena, a member of the Barangay Solid Waste Management Committee. We prepared a set of questions focused on waste disposal rules, existing protocols, and challenges faced by the barangay. The face-to-face interview provided us with clear and direct answers, eliminating biases and allowing us to understand the real situation. It became evident that while there were waste management programs in place, challenges such as improper segregation and lack of facilities remained.

    Beyond the interviews, we conducted a more detailed on-site evaluation. We checked for material recovery facilities, trash bins, and other waste disposal structures. We noticed that while some areas had proper waste disposal, others showed signs of neglect, such as scattered plastics and uncollected trash. These observations gave us a clearer understanding of where improvements were needed.

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    After completing our CBR paper, we applied our knowledge of HTML and CSS to create a website that showcased every part of our research. Each section of our study—introduction, methodology, findings, and recommendation has turned into a web page with organized content, images, and interactive elements. Through this, we not only documented our research but also strengthened our skills in coding and web design. It was a fulfilling experience to see our hard work transformed into a digital platform where people could easily navigate through our findings. This added an extra layer of impact to our project, making it more than just a written document but also a visual and interactive presentation of what we had learned.

Sailing Through Knowledge of my Third Quarter Journey

        This quarter has been a journey of discovery, much like setting sail on an ocean of knowledge. One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is about HTML coding, specifically how to create lists—ordered, unordered, and nested lists. At first, the codes looked like a maze of strange symbols, but as I practiced more, they started to make sense, like fitting puzzle pieces together. Learning how to structure information properly in a website using lists made me appreciate how the internet was built, turning scattered data into organized content. We also explored Community-Based Research (CBR), where we conducted our study in Tamorong, Sta. Catalina. 

      However, this learning journey was not a journey without challenges. HTML coding sometimes felt like trying to understand a foreign language, where a single misplaced tag could break an entire structure. In our CBR research, gathering data was also difficult because we had to approach people and ensure that their responses were reliable enough for the information we needed. There were moments when it felt overwhelming, as if we were climbing a mountain without knowing how far the top was. It was easy to doubt ourselves, especially when things didn’t go as planned. 

  To overcome these challenges, I took small but steady steps forward. For HTML coding, I practiced regularly and also the exercises of the HTML lists helped me to better understand how the tags can be used. In our CBR research, teamwork played a big role as we divided tasks, supported each other, and stayed patient even when faced with setbacks. Talking to people and conducting surveys became easier with experience, and I learned that persistence is the key to overcoming challenges.

       Moving on, I will continue sharpening my skills in both HTML coding and research, knowing that every challenge is a stepping stone toward growth. Like a traveler navigating an unfamiliar road, I will embrace learning with curiosity and determination, ready to face new obstacles. This quarter has taught me that knowledge is not just found in books but also in real-world experiences, and I am excited to discover more in the next quarter of my academic journey. 

Reference:

Blogger.com

Chinese New Year 2025

    Filipinos celebrate Chinese New Year because of the strong influence of Chinese culture in the country. For centuries, Chinese traders and settlers have been part of Philippine society, bringing traditions that have blended with Filipino customs. Many Filipino families have Chinese ancestry and even those who don’t still embrace the celebration by participating in traditions like dragon dances, wearing red for good luck, and giving "angpao". This shows how Filipinos respect and appreciate different cultures, especially those that have shaped the country’s history.

  Another reason why Filipinos observe Chinese New Year is because they believe in attracting good luck and prosperity. Many people follow traditional practices such as lighting firecrackers to drive away bad spirits, preparing special food like tikoy for stronger family bonds, and consulting feng shui for guidance in the coming year. Even businesses and malls decorate their spaces with red lanterns and Chinese symbols to bring in more customers and positive energy. These traditions reflect how Filipinos are hopeful and hardworking, always looking for ways to improve their lives and have a better future.

   

    The occasion became a time for families and friends to bond and reflect on their goals for the new year. Since the day was declared a holiday nationwide, people had the chance to take a break from work or school and spend quality time with loved ones. The celebration on January 29 reminded everyone that beyond traditions and superstitions, Chinese New Year is also about strengthening relationships and welcoming a fresh start. It highlighted how Filipinos embrace different cultures, making the country a truly diverse and united nation. 

References:

New, C. (2024). Chinese New Year 2025 – Birmingham Hippodrome. Www.google.com. 

Retrieved from: https://images.app.goo.gl/1zBe5gv53KAbR7ax9

Philippines, in. (2024). Chinese New Year 2025 in Philippines - Rove.me. Www.google.com. 

Retrieved from: https://images.app.goo.gl/vvyaEQvopa86Cozt8

Vigan Through the Years

   

Vigan City is a place where the past and present meet. Before it became a city, it was a simple municipality known for its cobblestone streets, old houses, and rich culture. The people lived simple lives, relying on farming, weaving, and fishing to support their families. Despite its simplicity, Vigan stood out because of its rich culture and unique heritage that connected the past to the present. The shift to cityhood marked a turning point for Vigan. Today, it is recognized worldwide as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Modern establishments rise alongside Calle Crisologo’s timeless beauty, creating a unique blend of old and new. Festivals such as the “Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts” breathe life into the city, celebrating its heritage while drawing tourists and boosting the local economy. What sets Vigan apart is its commitment to balancing progress with preservation. Infrastructure projects enhance the lives of residents, while educational advancements ensure that the younger generation appreciates their cultural inheritance.

    Vigan’s story is about progress and preservation. It teaches us that a place can grow without losing its identity. With better roads, schools, and opportunities, Vigan continues to thrive while keeping its traditions alive. It’s an inspiring example of how history and development can work together, showing the world how to honor the past while building a bright future.

References:

(2025). Tatlerasia.com. https://cdn.tatlerasia.com/asiatatler/i/ph/2021/05/14120924-untitled_cover_1085x694.png

(2025). Unesco.org. https://whc.unesco.org/uploads/thumbs/site_0502_0008-750-750-20140415173651.jpg

The Best Version of Myself

        

        Like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly, I am shedding the layers of doubt and hesitation that once held me back. This year, I’m not just making a resolution but making a revolution within myself. “New me” is no longer just an idea but a commitment to becoming the version of myself that I’ve always aspired to be. I'm embracing growth and will face life with a tougher and wiser mindset. Problems will come, but I won’t let them stop me, knowing each challenges I overcome will bring me closer to the person I want to be.

        One of my greatest motivations is my younger self, the dreamer who saw the world with big dreams and endless hope. This year, I’ll work harder, stay focused, and never give up. I owe it to that younger me to never give up and to keep striving even when the road gets tough. Every choice I make this year will reflect where I am now and where I want to be. I’ve learned that life isn’t just about avoiding mistakes but about learning from them. This time, I’ll take my time with decisions, think them through, and learn from the outcomes, good or bad. I’ll treat every mistake as a lesson and every step forward as a win. 

        This year, I’m not just growing older, but I’m growing better. The new me this 2025 will keep chasing dreams while staying true to the past version of myself. I will be a stronger and braver person who rises above struggles. With every sunrise, I’ll remind myself that I’m capable, strong, and worthy of everything I strive for. For too long, I’ve let my kindness bring me down, always putting others before myself and ending up hurt in the end. I hope to become stronger, both emotionally and mentally, leaving behind the soft-heartedness that made me cry, even the smallest things in the past years.

www.blogger.com

A Holiday of Love Across Borders

       

        My Christmas holiday experience was a blend of joy and nostalgia as we gathered in San Juan to celebrate with my family from my mother’s side. The house was alive with laughter, chatter, and the occasional burst of cheering as we played games to pass the time before midnight. It felt as if each game we played was a thread, weaving us closer together into a tapestry of cherished moments. The smell of freshly cooked dishes filled the air, and the decorations reminded us that Christmas is more than just a date—it’s a feeling of togetherness.

        But even amidst the festive glow, there was a quiet ache in my heart. My closest cousin, who had always been the spark of every gathering like this, wasn't there. She was now in Italy, chasing her dreams, and her absence left a space that no amount of cheer could fully fill. That year’s Christmas reminded me that love knows no borders, and even when we are apart, the ties of family remains unbreakable. 

        During the rest of the holiday season, I found comfort in quiet moments. I spent most of my time reading books and wattpad, and I also played with my ukulele. These small activities became my escape and my way of cherishing the season in my own way. 

References:

(2024). App.goo.gl. https://images.app.goo.gl/93b1SgQkDjhvB1Y66

My Journey with HTML

This second quarter, I learned a lot about HTML, a language used to create websites. I discovered how to use different HTML tags, each with its own purpose, to organize and structure a webpage. It was exciting to see how a simple tag can turn into something useful and creative on the screen. Learning how to put these tags together to make a webpage was a big accomplishment for me, and it made me appreciate how websites work. 

At the beginning, I felt confused because there were so many tags to remember, and I wasn’t sure how to use them properly. It was confusing to organize my code in a way that made sense, and sometimes I would get errors that I didn’t know how to fix. This made me feel a little frustrated at times.

To deal with these problems, I practiced a lot by creating simple web pages and then slowly trying more difficult ones. When I didn’t understand something, I asked for help from my teacher and classmates, who were very supportive. This practice helped me understand the tags better, and I became more skilled in coding.

Moving forward, I will keep practicing HTML so I can get even better at it. I also want to start learning about CSS, which can make web pages look more attractive. I plan to look for more resources, like videos or websites, to help me learn more about web development. I will stay patient with myself and keep working hard, knowing that every mistake is a chance to learn something new.  

Safe Homes, Stronger Communities

        The Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Act of 2004 (R.A. No. 9262) is a law that protects women and children from harm, such as physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. It provides help for victims through protection orders, counseling, and legal actions against abusers. This law is an important step in making sure women and children feel safe and supported, especially at home and in relationships. The campaign spreads information about R.A. 9262 through events and activities to encourage people to take action against violence. Communities are urged to support victims and report cases of abuse. By promoting this law, the campaign helps create a safer and more respectful society where women and children can live without fear of violence. 

        The law is a key focus during the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women, held every year from November 25 to December 12. This campaign aims to educate people about women’s rights and raise awareness of the different forms of violence that the law addresses. It reminds everyone that abuse is wrong and that victims have the right to seek help and protection.

        

The Anti-Rape Law of 1997, or Republic Act No. 8353, redefined rape as a crime against a person, emphasizing the violation of human dignity and physical integrity. This law expanded the definition of rape to include acts committed through force, threats, intimidation, or in situations where the victim is unable to give consent, such as being unconscious or under the influence of drugs. By broadening the scope of the offense, RA 8353 ensures that victims receive justice and that perpetrators face stricter penalties. It reinforces the importance of consent and establishes that any sexual act without mutual agreement is a serious crime.

        

The Safe Spaces Act, or Republic Act No. 11313, addresses sexual harassment in public and online spaces, creating safer environments for everyone, particularly women. It prohibits acts such as catcalling, stalking, and online harassment, recognizing that these behaviors harm personal dignity and safety. This law extends protection to both physical and digital spaces, reflecting the evolving nature of harassment in modern society. By imposing penalties on offenders and providing accessible avenues for reporting, RA 11313 empowers victims to speak out and promotes a culture of respect and accountability in all settings. 

References:

(2024). Antaranews.com. https://cdn.antaranews.com/cache/1200x800/2023/03/20/kekerasan-1a.jpg

(2019). Sohris.com. https://sohris.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Anti-rape-ordinance.jpg

(2024). Gotadeleche.ph. https://www.gotadeleche.ph/wp content/uploads/2022/11/312525163_3085709984984843_1926461629499052942_n.jpg

Elpidio Quirino: A Legacy of Service and Leadership

        

The life of Elpidio Quirino, the sixth President of the Philippines, is a remarkable story of perseverance, dedication, and leadership. Born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Quirino rose from humble beginnings to become a key figure in post-war Philippine reconstruction. His journey from a modest upbringing to the highest office of the land reflects his unwavering commitment to the Filipino people.

        Quirino’s early life was marked by challenges. The son of a farmer and a schoolteacher, he grew up in a rural setting where resources were scarce. Despite this, he excelled academically, earning a law degree from the University of the Philippines in 1915. His entry into public service began as a technical assistant in the Philippine Commission, and his passion for governance soon led him to politics. As a representative of Ilocos Sur in the Philippine Assembly, Quirino championed reforms in education and social welfare, setting the stage for a distinguished career. 

        

Quirino’s presidency focused on economic stability, rehabilitation, and international diplomacy. His administration established the Agricultural Credit Cooperative Financing Administration (ACCFA) to support farmers and improve rural livelihoods. Education also became a priority, with efforts to rebuild schools and expand access to learning. On the global stage, Quirino strengthened the Philippines’ international standing by fostering alliances and joining organizations such as the United Nations. While his administration faced criticisms of corruption, Quirino’s legacy as a leader who navigated the complexities of post-war governance remains significant. His resilience and vision for the Philippines laid the groundwork for future progress.

        Elpidio Quirino’s life serves as an inspiration to all Filipinos. From his modest roots to his pivotal role in nation-building, his story is a testament to the power of perseverance and public service. As we look back on his achievements, we are reminded of the enduring values of leadership, dedication, and patriotism. 

References: 

(2022). Wp.com. https://i0.wp.com/www.nndb.com/people/145/000098848/elpidio-quirino-1.jpg        Elpidio Quirino - Wikiwand. (2021). Wikiwand.com. https://www.wikiwand.com/en/articles/Elpidio_Quirino

Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Communities

        

Every October, our country observes National Indigenous Peoples Month, a celebration dedicated to recognizing and honoring the invaluable contributions of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) to the nation. This year, the commemoration carries a deeper significance as it coincides with the 27th anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA), signed into law in 1997. With the theme, “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalana” (Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge), the month-long event aims to shed light on the rights, culture, and heritage of Indigenous communities across the country. The IPRA, hailed as a landmark legislation, underscores the importance of recognizing the rights of Indigenous Peoples over their ancestral domains, self-governance, and cultural integrity. By promoting the law and its benefits, this year’s observance seeks to address ongoing challenges such as land disputes, marginalization, and cultural erosion. Events such as dialogues between IP leaders and policymakers, cultural showcases, and educational campaigns not only highlight the rich traditions of Indigenous communities but also emphasize their role in shaping the nation’s identity.

        

Moreover, the celebration serves as a platform to protect and promote Indigenous knowledge systems. Traditional practices in farming, medicine, and resource management, often dismissed in modern contexts, are now being acknowledged for their sustainable and holistic approaches. Educational institutions and organizations are encouraged to integrate these knowledge systems into curricula and programs, ensuring their preservation and relevance for future generations.

        Beyond cultural appreciation, the observance underscores the need for active empowerment. Indigenous Peoples continue to face significant socio-economic challenges, from limited access to education and healthcare to political underrepresentation. By commemorating this month, the nation reaffirms its commitment to creating an inclusive society where IPs can thrive and fully enjoy their rights.

        

As we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Month 2024, let us take a moment to reflect on the value of our Indigenous communities. By nurturing their knowledge and honoring their contributions, we are not only preserving our heritage but also building a future that respects and uplifts all voices.

 

 

 References:

(2024). Festivepinoy.com. https://festivepinoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Indigenous-Tribes-of-the-Philippines-1024x576.webp

(2024). Rainforest-Alliance.org. https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Elder-woman-in-ASODIQ-nursery-scaled.jpg.optimal.jpg

(2024). Change.org. https://assets.change.org/photos/8/ly/tf/QalYTfPtyjcysqs-1600x900-noPad.jpg?1521994361

Fighting For Tomorrow, For A Brighter Philippines

   

Our country faces significant challenges due to climate change. Climate change is not just an environmental problem, it is a people problem. It has caused environmental changes that impact Filipino lives and living conditions. The changes we see in our environment today are caused by human activity and natural processes. This issue is the harsh reality of global warming. For example, deforestation leaves our lands vulnerable to landslides and floods during heavy rains. This can cause loss of natural barriers that help absorb water and stabilize the soil. 

   

Despite the challenges, the resilience of the Filipinos shines through. Time and again, we’ve rebuilt after disasters, endured during extended droughts, and stood together in the face of difficulties. However, resilience alone is not enough. Adapting to climate change is no longer optional, it is important for our survival. We, Filipinos, have always been known for the “bayanihan” spirit, where communities come together to help one another. Resilience should not mean constantly rebuilding from calamities but preventing them from becoming worse.

    

Climate change affects everyone. We don’t have to let climate change define us. Instead, let’s define how we respond to it by turning struggles into solutions and hope into action. Together, we can ensure that our country remains not just a land of beauty but also a beacon of strength for generations to come. Let’s turn this into a movement that empowers us to rise above and become stronger. Because at the heart of every Filipino is a fighter, a dreamer who believes in a brighter, better tomorrow.  

References:

Climate Finance: Helping the Philippines to Cope with Climate Change. (n.d.). Www.afd.fr. https://www.afd.fr/en/actualites/climate-finance-helping-philippines-cope-climate-change

x.com. (2024). X (Formerly Twitter). https://x.com/mayocesar/status/1201747199828336641