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.

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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