Lessons Learned: Reflecting on a Completed School Year

The school year is almost over! As I take a well-deserved break, it's a great time to reflect on the past months and what I learned. Here are some key takeaways:

Time Management is Key. Juggling classes, assignments, and extracurricular activities could be overwhelming at times. Mastering time management skills was crucial for staying organized and meeting deadlines.

Learning From Mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes, and this year was no exception. But instead of dwelling on them, I learned to view them as opportunities for growth.

The Power of Asking for Help. Whether it was a confusing concept or a challenging project, reaching out to teachers, classmates, or even online resources proved invaluable. There's no shame in asking for help when you need it.

Finding Balance. Academics are important, but it's also crucial to maintain a healthy balance. Making time for relaxation, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones helped me avoid burnout.

The Value of Continuous Learning. This year solidified my love for learning. The classroom may be on pause, but my journey to acquire knowledge and new skills definitely continues.

Looking ahead, I'm carrying these lessons with me into the next school year, ready to face new challenges and embrace new knowledge.

 

My Definition of Success: A Roadmap to My Future

 

Financial security is definitely a part of my future success story. But it's not the whole picture. Here's what "winning" looks like for me in the next decade:

Building a Fulfilling Career: I see myself excelling in a field that challenges me and allows me to make a meaningful contribution. Whether it's climbing the corporate ladder or starting my own venture, I want my work to feel purposeful.

Financial Freedom: Having enough financial security to pursue my passions and travel the world is a dream. This requires smart financial planning, consistent saving, and potentially even exploring additional income streams.

Giving Back: Success isn't just about personal gain. I want to use my resources and skills to help others. Whether it's volunteering or supporting causes I care about, giving back is a key part of my vision.

Living a Balanced Life: Achieving my goals shouldn't come at the expense of my well-being. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, nurturing relationships, and making time for hobbies are all essential parts of my definition of success.

This isn't a rigid plan, but rather a roadmap that will guide my decisions and keep me motivated.

References:

www.blogger.com

Araw ng Nanay: Celebrating Moms the Filipino Way

 

Mother's Day in the Philippines, or "Araw ng Nanay," is a heartfelt celebration filled with tradition and love. Here's a glimpse into how Filipinos typically honor their mothers:

Pagmamano: This respectful gesture of kissing the back of one's elder's hand is a core part of Filipino culture. On Mother's Day, children of all ages perform the pagmamano to show gratitude and respect to their mothers (De La Cruz, 2018).

Family Gatherings: Filipinos value strong family ties. Araw ng Nanay is a perfect occasion for families to come together. Expect delicious home-cooked meals, heartfelt messages, and maybe even some karaoke singing! (Lagman, 2021)

Gifts and Flowers: While grand gestures are lovely, Filipinos often express their love through simple gifts and flowers. A handwritten card or a bouquet of Mom's favorite blooms can go a long way (Ancheta, 2023).

References:

De La Cruz, J. (2018, May 10). The Significance of Pagmamano in Filipino Culture. [https://steemit.com/culture/@grace44/mano-or-pagmamano-the-filipino-gesture-of-showing-respect-to-elders](https://steemit.com/culture/@grace44/mano-or-pagmamano-the-filipino-gesture-of-showing-respect-to-elders)

Lagman, C. (2021, May 9). Pinoy traditions: How Filipinos celebrate Mother's Day. Philippine Star. [https://www.philstar.com/tags/mothers-day](https://www.philstar.com/tags/mothers-day)

Ancheta, M. (2023, April 28). Unique Mother's Day Gift Ideas for Nanays in the Philippines. [https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/shopping-guide/2022/05/02/2177675/mothers-day-treats-gift-ideas-dearest-nanay](https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/shopping-guide/2022/05/02/2177675/mothers-day-treats-gift-ideas-dearest-nanay)

Be the Change: Starting Small, Creating Big Impacts

We've all dreamt of changing the world. It's a noble goal, but sometimes the vastness of it can feel overwhelming. Where do we even begin?

The good news is, change starts small. Maybe it's picking up trash in your neighborhood, volunteering at a local charity, or simply being kind to those around you. Every little action has the potential to create a ripple effect (Payne, 2008).

Think about your unique skills and passions. How can you use them to make a positive difference in your own community? Remember, a world transformed is made up of countless individual contributions. Be the change you want to see, one step at a time.

References:

Payne, L. (2008). Change the World for Ten Bucks a Day: A Guide to Doing More Than Just Feeling Good. HarperCollins.

Remembering Valor: Araw ng Kagitingan

Every April 9th, the Philippines commemorates Araw ng Kagitingan, or the Day of Valor. This national holiday honors the bravery and sacrifice of Filipino and American soldiers who fought during World War II, particularly in the Battle of Bataan (Commission on Filipinos Overseas [CFO], 2023).

The Fall of Bataan, though a defeat, became a powerful symbol of Filipino resilience. Despite facing a larger and better-equipped Japanese force, Filipino soldiers valiantly defended the peninsula for months. Their courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds are remembered on Araw ng Kagitingan (Lumina Homes, 2023).

This day serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting for freedom and sovereignty. It's a time to honor our veterans and pay tribute to their sacrifices.

References:

Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO). (2023, April 6). Araw ng Kagitingan. [https://cfo.gov.ph/](https://cfo.gov.ph/)

Lumina Homes. (2023, March 29). Why Do We Celebrate Araw ng Kagitingan in the Philippines?

[https://www.facebook.com/1051858731561595/photos/a.1051877908226344/2947918551955594/?type=3]

(https://www.facebook.com/1051858731561595/photos/a.1051877908226344/2947918551955594/?type=3)

Vigan Longganisa: A Taste of Tradition Through Community-Based Research

When introduced to Community-Based Research (CBR), I knew this project would be special. Sure, I'd done research before, but CBR meant diving into a topic that hit close to home – the world-famous Vigan Longganisa!

Having grown up in Vigan City, the smoky aroma of Longganisa frying has always been a comforting part of my life. But this CBR project was a chance to go beyond the deliciousness and explore the story behind this local treasure.

From Pressure to Collaboration

Forming our groups and realizing it was CBR brought a wave of excitement (and maybe a little pressure!). Deadlines loomed, and we had a lot to learn. But Vigan City's spirit of community shone through as we started working together.

As the leader, I delegated tasks while also delving into my own research on Longganisa production. There were moments when I pitched in for others, but seeing my group's enthusiasm kept me motivated.

The Heart of the Project

Interviewing Process

One of the most rewarding parts of the project was interviewing local Longganisa makers. Stepping into their production spaces, filled with the now-familiar Longganisa aroma, was a sensory experience. But more importantly, their passion and knowledge were inspiring.

These weren't just interviews – they were conversations with the heart of Vigan's culinary heritage. The Longganisa makers weren't just sharing their secrets; they were sharing a piece of Vigan's history and culture.

From Research to Reality

Building a Digital Legacy

With our CBR research complete, we embarked on the next exciting step: building a website using HTML tags. This is where things got really fun! While I had a basic understanding of HTML, applying it to showcase Vigan's Longganisa tradition was a whole new challenge.

Creating the website solidified the importance of those HTML skills and codes. But more than that, it felt like we were building a digital legacy for Vigan's Longganisa makers. Their knowledge and passion deserved a platform, and we were determined to create it.

CBR: A Journey of Learning and Appreciation

This CBR project wasn't just about research and websites. It was about community, collaboration, and a newfound appreciation for Vigan's Longganisa. It was a journey from gathering information to sharing the story of a local treasure.

So, the next time you savor the smoky goodness of Vigan Longganisa, remember the generations of tradition and passion that went into making it. And maybe, just maybe, you'll also get a whiff of the inspiration and collaboration that went into this CBR project!

Like Longganisa, CBR's a Product of Progress

#CommunityBasedResearch

#DoonPOSaViganCity

#LongganisaProduction

#Malaman

Reference/s

www.blogger.com

OTIN: Overcoming and Thriving Intellectually iN the Third Quarter

Wow, months have flown by since second quarter! The school year is almost over, but before I dive into the final stretch, let's rewind and reflect on my third quarter adventure.

Learning that Sticks

This quarter was a knowledge grab-fest! In ICT, I tackled HTML and reveled in the satisfaction of conquering those coding challenges. The feeling of finally cracking a problem code? Unmatched! Just like last time, blogs remain my favorite. It's awesome to express myself on different topics.

Beyond ICT, all my subjects brought something new to the table. It's amazing how these lessons can even be applied to my daily life. From relatable stories to mind-blowing concepts, the learning curve kept climbing.

This quarter also brought new faces – our practice teachers! And guess what? They're awesome! Their kindness and guidance were a welcome addition to the classroom environment.

Challenges and Silver Linings

Let's be real, every journey has its bumps. This quarter was no exception. Problems popped up, and there were moments I wanted to throw in the towel. But here's the thing: I'm a fighter! Positivity is my weapon against the storm, and it always helps me find a solution.

The good news? Every challenge came with a lesson. Each hurdle made me stronger and fueled my motivation to keep pushing forward.

Looking Ahead

The last chapter of this school year is upon us. Time to climb even higher on that staircase to success! Life may throw curveballs, but optimism is key.

Here's to another quarter of experiences, lessons, and growth. We can all rise to the occasion, just like the sun rises every morning. Let's keep fighting, keep learning, and keep that positivity shining bright! Thanks for the ride, third quarter!

#OTINThirdQuarter

#OTINForever

Reference/s:

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122127794690140764&set=pcb.122127796670140764

A TIT Experience as Ilocos Sur National High School Celebrates 122nd Foundation Day in Grand Style!

TITE: Truly Impeccable and Treasurable Experience

Maroon pride filled the air as Ilocos Sur National High School (ISNHS) roared back to life for its 122nd Foundation Day celebration on March 9th. After years of waiting, the energy was electric with students, teachers, and the entire community coming together.

The festivities kicked off with a vibrant parade where each section proudly marched, their discipline earning them a shot at the coveted cash prize. My section, the Marconians, emerged victorious – all those whistle drills and preparation truly paid off! The atmosphere was contagious, the smiles brighter with every step. Even the walk felt effortless, fueled by the camaraderie and the sheer joy of celebrating our beloved ISNHS.

Next on the agenda was the Field Demo, a dazzling display of talent. Students from all grade levels showcased their synchronized rhythms and impressive dance moves. It was a heartwarming spectacle, a symphony of movement and cheers. The Grade 10 boys took home the top spot and Grade 10 girls secured a well-deserved second (runner-up) spot; the true win was the shared experience and the memories made.

As a Science Club Officer, I proudly took part in another aspect of the school day. Our booth, or so-called "Science Club and YES-O Bazaar", buzzed with activity as we sold local products and thrifted clothes. The hand fans were a particular hit, a cool relief from the warm gymnasium. We were thrilled by the overwhelming response, with items nearly selling out!

Ilocos Sur National High School's 122nd Foundation Day was a resounding success. It was a day filled with school spirit, friendly competition, and a renewed sense of community. The event left a lasting impression, reminding everyone of the pride and joy that comes with being a part of the ISNHS family.

#ISNHS122stHighSchoolDayCelebration

#TITExperience

Reference/s:

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=122133028694140764&set=pcb.122133032900140764

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=389118537211049&set=pcb.389118867211016

WE for She: Appreciating Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment

March is here, and with it comes National Women's Month! This year, the theme "WE for gender equality and inclusive society" continues, reminding us of the power of working together. At Ilocos Sur National High School, we're taking this theme to heart by celebrating the amazing women in our school community and fostering a culture of compassion and harmony.

Why "WE" Matters

"WE" isn't just about women – it's about everyone. When men and boys understand and support gender equality, everyone benefits. It creates a more respectful and inclusive environment where everyone has the chance to thrive.

Compassionate Connections

So how can we translate "WE" into action at ISNHS? Here are some ideas:

• Mentorship programs. Connect female students with successful women in various fields.
• Gender equality workshops. Educate students and staff about gender stereotypes and unconscious bias.
• Celebrating women in history. Highlight the achievements of Filipina heroes and role models throughout the school year.
• Respect campaigns. Promote kindness and understanding between genders through student-led initiatives.

Harmony in Action

By fostering compassion and building bridges, we can create a school environment where everyone feels valued and supported. This, in turn, empowers girls to reach their full potential and prepares boys to be allies for gender equality.

Let's celebrate National Women's Month together! Share your ideas for promoting "WE" at ISNHS in the comments below. Remember, a strong "WE" starts with each of us!

#2024NationalWomenMonthCelebrationISNHS

#AllAboutHer

Reference/s:

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=944746680987111&set=pcb.944746897653756

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=427453686329592&set=pcb.427453822996245

ESTUDYANTEPRENEUR 2024: A Thriving Marketplace of Learning Beyond the Classroom

    Excitement buzzed in the air as I stepped into the vibrant world of ESTUDYANTEPRENEUR 2024. Associated with Technical and Livelihood Education (TLE) and ICT, it promised a unique blend of skills and innovation. Witnessing my TLE Club classmates prepare, I knew this event would be a success, and indeed, it was!

Upon entering, a kaleidoscope of activities unfolded. Home Economics students, their aprons donned with pride, showcased culinary delights. An "Ukay-ukay" (thrift store) brimmed with affordable clothes and charming satin roses. But what truly captivated me was the "Quote Corner." For just one peso, you could pick a rolled-up message, a chance encounter with wisdom disguised in paper. My first pick hit home, reminding me to be gentle with myself. Another, Louisa May Alcott's "Breathe, Darling, this is just a chapter, not your whole story," resonated deeply, leaving me with a warm heart and a smile.

My second visit, guided by Mrs. Dela Cruz, revealed a transformed landscape. ICT took center     stage, buzzing with activity. The photo booth, manned by friendly and attentive students, became a haven for capturing memories with friends. Rows of laptops hosted a diverse gaming arena, while the second floor showcased student-made short films, each a testament to their creativity. Even the graham balls with marshmallows were irresistible! The infectious laughter and lively chatter painted a picture of pure enjoyment, a stark contrast to the usual classroom atmosphere. We left, faces beaming, with the knowledge that learning could be this much fun.

ESTUDYANTEPRENEUR was more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of learning beyond the four walls of a classroom. It provided a space to relax, have fun, and, most importantly, learn in a unique and engaging way. In a short span, it opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of experiential learning, proving that education can truly flourish in the most unexpected places.

 

References:

ISNHS TLE-Step Club 2023-2024. (2024). https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=415166777702992&set=pcb.415168231036180

Reimagining Valentine's Day: Love Beyond Romance

    Forget the cliché of February 14th as the sole day for love. This month, let's celebrate the everyday magic of love in all its forms.

    Gone are the days when "I love you" is just three overused words. True love, like time, is a constant flow expressed through actions, not just pronouncements. It bridges the gap between words and deeds, enriching relationships with family, friends, pets, and even inanimate objects.

    This Valentine's Day, I witnessed the beauty of this truth unfold. School hallways overflowed with smiles, not just from couples, but from students exchanging gifts and sharing genuine appreciation. Our classroom radiated joy as we serenaded teachers and celebrated together.

    But the true highlight arrived at home. Amidst family reunions and birthday celebrations for my mom, love wasn't confined to romantic gestures. It was woven into the laughter, the shared stories, and the warmth of togetherness.

    This experience made me realize that love isn't restricted to romantic relationships. It's a language spoken through everyday moments with loved ones - the vibrant smiles, the hearty laughter, the unspoken understanding that fills our hearts with indescribable joy.

    So, this Valentine's Day, let's move beyond the commercialized notion of love. Let's celebrate the everyday expressions - the helping hand, the listening ear, the shared laughter - that truly define the essence of love.

 

References:

Marconi 23'24' Facebook Page. (2024). https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=122127794942140764&set=pb.61554222947471.-2207520000&type=3

Marconi 23'24' Facebook Page. (2024). https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122127794816140764&set=pb.61554222947471.-2207520000