Thursday, 23 October 2025

Second Quarter Reflection

 

    

    During the second quarter, the learning/discoveries that I have gained in the second quarter is to manage my time more better, especially balancing my school works to my training sessions. I also discovered more new lessons in each subject that deepened my own understanding. Just like the first quarter, learning is not only about memorizing but also about understanding and applying what I learn in daily life.


    

    However, this quarter also came with challenges. One of the problems/challenges that I have encountered is balancing my school works to my training sessions. This second quarter was a bit challenging because I do not know what to do first or what to finish. I feel pressured for not going to training sessions or sometimes I get pressured because I'm not doing well with my school works. Especially since I'm chasing my grades so I can enter with honors this quarter.

    


    To overcome these struggles, I started managing my time more wisely, prioritizing important tasks, staying calm, and asking for help when I needed it.

    


    Moving on, I will continue to do my best in everything I do and stay motivated to reach my goals. I will use all the lessons and experiences from this quarter as a guide to improve more in the next ones. I also to be more disciplined, proactive, and positive even when facing challenges. With hard work and preserverance, I believe that I can keep growing as a students and as a person.












    References: https://www.istockphoto.com/search/2/image-film?phrase=teamwork+cartoon
    https://www.alamy.com/deadline-pressure-on-employee-bad-time-management-vector-illustration-cartoon-hands-of-busy-office-workers-hold-out-burning-alarm-clock-paperwork-with-fire-and-phone-with-business-call-to-man-image545070390.html
    https://www.istockphoto.com/search/2/image-film?phrase=work+life+balance+cartoon

Wednesday, 22 October 2025

Vigan City: The Heritage Treasure of Ilocos Sur



    

    Have you ever wanted to visit a place that feels like stepping back in time? Well, welcome to Vigan City, the World Heritage Cite of the Philippines! This charming city in Ilocos Sur is known for its cobblestone streets, Spanish-ctyle houses, horse-drawn kalesas, and most of all, its rich culture and traditions.

    


    Vigan isn't just a place you visit; it's a place you experience. From its historic sites to its mouthwaterining delicacies, everything about Vigan tells a story of Filipino pride and heritage.

    



    

    One of the most meaningful places to visit in Vigan is the Padre Burgos Museum, located near at the back of City Hall. It was once the ancestral home of Padre Jose Burgos, one of the three martyred priests known as Gomburza. The museum showcases Spanish-era artifacts, furniture relics, and displays about Ilocano culture and history.

    


    When you walk inside, it feels like travelling back to the 1800s, you can almost imagine how life was during the colonial times. The museum remind everyone of the sacrifices of our heroes and how they helped shape our identity as Filipinos.



    If you’re interested in local crafts, you’ll love the Pagburnayan Pottery. This traditional pottery-making industry is one of the oldest in Vigan. The word “burnay” refers to the handmade clay jars that locals have been creating for centuries. 


    Watching the potters mold the clay using their hands and feet is truly fascinating. Each jar is carefully shaped and then baked in large clay ovens. These burnay jars were once used to store water, vinegar, or rice wine — but today, they’re also popular as decorative souvenirs that showcase Ilocano creativity.



    



After exploring, don’t forget to treat yourself to Vigan’s most famous snack, the Vigan Empanada! t’s a crispy orange pastry stuffed with longganisa, grated papaya, and egg. The moment you bite into it, you’ll taste the perfect mix of savory and crunchy goodness. 




Locals usually enjoy it fresh off the pan, dipped in sukang Iloko (local vinegar). You can find empanada stalls near Plaza Burgos or along the busy streets where vendors prepare it right in front of you.



    Vigan City stands out because it beautifully preserves the past while embracing the present. Whether you’re learning history at the Padre Burgos Museum, admiring the artistry at Pagburnayan, or tasting the famous Vigan Empanada, you’ll realize that every part of the city tells a story worth remembering.

    Vigan isn’t just about old buildings — it’s about the people who keep their traditions alive, generation after generation.





    References: https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/Attraction_Review-g424958-d1368410-Reviews-Calle_Crisologo-Vigan_Ilocos_Sur_Province_Ilocos_Region_Luzon.html
    https://www.kkday.com/en-ph/blog/25175/asia-philippines-5-experiences-that-will-make-you-fall-in-love-with-vigan?srsltid=AfmBOoqLDfzYPCo6_JYX4kWaOs9Tf8-81aGwaRHhKbbiNjEOMfxGZ2Mp
    



Wednesday, 8 October 2025

My Teacher, My Hero




    Teachers are one of the biggest reasons why we grow not only as students but also as people. This year’s Teacher’s Month Celebration with the theme “My Teacher, My Hero” reminds us how much they sacrifice to help us learn and reach our dreams. They are like real-life heroes who don’t wear capes but carry patience, kindness, and wisdom wherever they go. Every lesson they teach and every piece of advice they give helps us become better individuals.



    I show my gratitude to my teachers by being respectful, listening carefully in class, and doing my best in every activity. Sometimes, I give them small notes or messages just to say thank you. Even a simple “Good morning, Ma’am or Sir” or “Thank you for teaching us” can already make them smile. It’s the little things that show how much we appreciate all the effort they put into helping us learn.



     

    For me, teachers are like our second parents. They see our potential, even when we don’t see it ourselves. They cheer us on when we feel discouraged and guide us back when we make mistakes. They don’t just teach subjects like math or science—they teach us about life, responsibility, and perseverance. Because of them, we learn to dream big and believe that we can achieve anything if we work hard.



    I believe we should celebrate and honor our teachers not just during Teacher’s Month but every day. Their job isn’t easy—they spend hours preparing lessons, checking our work, and making sure we understand. Showing respect, following their guidance, and doing our best in school are the simplest yet most meaningful ways to thank them for everything they do.

    Teachers are true heroes. They light our path when things get dark and never stop believing in us. As we celebrate this year’s Teacher’s Month, I want to thank all teachers for their endless patience, kindness, and dedication. You are the reason we dream, learn, and strive for a better future. Truly, you are our heroes.


President Elpidio Quirino

       Elpidio Quirino was born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Philippines. He came from a humble background and worked as a sc...