Vigan City Fiesta 2026: A Colorful Celebration of Faith and Culture

 

"Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller." – Ibn Battuta

Vigan City in 2026 during the Conversion of St. Paul Fiesta is like stepping into a vibrant celebration of faith and culture. The city’s cobblestone streets, heritage houses, and Spanish-era architecture set a historic scene, but the fiesta brings everything to life. Parades, traditional dances, and colorful decorations transform the city into a lively hub of joy and devotion.

The 2026 celebration showcases the community’s faith and Ilocano culture at its best. Streets are filled with bright banners, decorative arches, and colorful lights, while locals participate in Masses, processions, and street performances. The sounds of drums, folk music, and cheerful voices fill the air, making the celebration an immersive cultural experience.

One of the highlights is joining the procession, where locals carry statues of St. Paul adorned with flowers. The aroma of Vigan longganisa, empanada, and other local delicacies fills the streets, adding a delicious layer to the festival experience. Every corner—from the heritage homes to the lively streets—tells a story of tradition, faith, and community pride.

Celebrating the Conversion of St. Paul Fiesta in 2026 is more than sightseeing—it’s about experiencing the heart of Vigan. The festival leaves visitors with a sense of joy, reverence, and connection, making it a travel memory to treasure for years to come.

Jose Rizal: A Hero for All Filipinos

 "He who does not know how to look back at where he came from will never get to his destination."

                                                                                                                                               – Jose Rizal

Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda, born on June 19, 1861 in Calamba, Laguna, is celebrated as the national hero of the Philippines. Rizal’s life was marked by intelligence, courage, and love for his country. From a young age, he excelled in education, mastering multiple languages, science, and the arts. His curiosity and dedication made him not just a scholar, but a visionary who dreamt of a free and enlightened Philippines.

Rizal’s writings, particularly “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo,” exposed the injustices of Spanish colonial rule. Through his novels, essays, and poems, he awakened the Filipino people to the importance of freedom, equality, and human rights. Beyond literature, Rizal also contributed to medicine, education, and civic reform, showing that his fight for the nation extended into many areas of society.

What makes Rizal the face of the Philippines is not only his intellect and patriotism but also his unwavering principles and moral courage. He believed in peaceful reform rather than violent revolution, showing that true leadership comes from ideas, education, and example. Even his sacrifice through execution on December 30, 1896, inspired generations to continue the fight for independence and justice.

Today, Rizal’s legacy is preserved in museums, monuments, and schools across the Philippines. His life reminds us that knowledge, love for country, and moral integrity are what make a nation strong. By remembering Rizal, Filipinos honor their heritage and are encouraged to carry forward the values he lived for. Indeed, Jose Rizal is not just a hero of the past; he is the enduring face of the Philippines.

A Family Christmas: Love, Laughter, and Cherished Moments

 "Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts." ✨

This sentiment perfectly captures what Christmas means to our family. For us, the season is about being together as a whole, sharing love, laughter, and cherished traditions that have been passed down through generations. From decorating the tree to singing carols, every small act becomes meaningful, because it brings us closer as a family.

This year, our celebration carries a bittersweet feeling, as some of our loved ones are far away. Their absence is felt deeply, yet their presence remains in our hearts, our conversations, and our memories. Video calls, messages, and shared stories help us celebrate together in spirit, reminding us that family is never truly apart, even when miles separate us. 🌟

The true happiness of Christmas comes from these connections. We laugh at old memories, enjoy
traditional meals together, and take joy in simply being with one another. The season reminds us that love, presence, and gratitude are far more valuable than any material gift, and that these moments of togetherness create memories we will cherish forever. ❤️

In the end, Christmas for our family is a celebration of love, hope, and togetherness. Even with a touch of longing for those not present, the joy we feel is real, heartfelt, and magical. The holiday season strengthens our bond, making us appreciate each other more and reminding us that family is the greatest gift of all. 🎁

Philippines’ National Indigenous Peoples Month

 “Weaving Culture, Enriching Future: Empowering Indigenous Communities as Bedrock of Sustainable Development”

Every October, the Philippines observes National Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month to recognize and honor the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples across the country. This year’s theme, “Weaving Culture, Enriching Future: Empowering Indigenous Communities as Bedrock of Sustainable Development,” highlights the important role of IP communities in preserving heritage while helping shape a more sustainable future.

Indigenous Peoples are the original stewards of the land, carrying generations of knowledge about nature, agriculture, and community living. Their traditions, languages, and practices are deeply connected to environmental protection and sustainable resource use. By respecting and protecting indigenous culture, we also protect valuable wisdom that supports climate action, biodiversity, and responsible development.

The theme emphasizes the need to empower Indigenous communities by ensuring their rights are upheld, their voices are heard, and their livelihoods are supported. Access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities allows IP communities to thrive while preserving their cultural identity. Empowerment also means involving them in decision-making processes that affect their ancestral domains and way of life.

As we celebrate National IP Month, we are reminded that honoring Indigenous Peoples is not only about recognition but also about action. By promoting inclusion, respect, and protection of indigenous rights, we help build a future where cultural diversity strengthens national development. When we weave culture into progress, we enrich the future for all Filipinos.

President Elpidio Quirino: Early Life, Career, Achievements, and Legacy

Elpidio Rivera Quirino was born on November 16, 1890, in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. He came from a humble background and faced many hardships early in life, including the loss of his parents at a young age. Despite these difficulties, Quirino remained determined to succeed through education. He studied law at the University of the Philippines and passed the bar examination, which became the foundation of his career in public service. His early experiences shaped his discipline, resilience, and dedication to serving the Filipino people.

Quirino began his political career as a member of the Philippine Legislature, where he gained recognition for his leadership and intelligence. He later served as Secretary of Finance and Secretary of the Interior, roles that allowed him to contribute to economic and administrative reforms. After World War II, he was elected Vice President of the Philippines under President Manuel Roxas. When President Roxas died in 1948, Quirino assumed the presidency and was later elected to a full term as President of the Philippines.

As President from 1948 to 1953, Elpidio Quirino led the nation during a difficult period of post-war recovery. His administration focused on rebuilding infrastructure, restoring industries, improving agriculture, and stabilizing the economy. He also supported social welfare programs, education, and healthcare to improve the quality of life of Filipinos. In foreign affairs, Quirino promoted Asian cooperation and unity, believing that strong regional relationships were essential for peace and development.

Despite his accomplishments, Quirino’s presidency faced challenges, including political opposition and allegations of corruption within the government. These issues affected public trust in his administration. However, historians still recognize his efforts in rebuilding the country after the devastation of World War II and in strengthening the foundations of the Philippine government during a critical time in history.

President Quirino’s legacy continues to be honored in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, particularly through the Old Carcel Museum, his birthplace. Originally a provincial jail, the building was converted into a museum and is now part of the Ilocos Regional Museum Complex. The museum features exhibits such as photographs, portraits, documents, and personal belongings that highlight Quirino’s life and presidency. Another important historical site is the Syquia Mansion Museum, the ancestr
al home of his wife, Alicia Syquia. These museums allow visitors to learn more about Quirino’s personal life, leadership, and contributions to the nation.

Elpidio Quirino passed away on February 29, 1956, but his dedication to public service and national recovery remains an important part of Philippine history. His life story reflects perseverance, leadership, and commitment to the Filipino people—values that continue to inspire future generations.

Student Leaders Unite for Children’s Safet

In line with the 2025 National Children’s Month celebration, themed “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!”, we, as student leaders, actively took part in an advocacy-centered activity that promotes the protection of children’s safety and rights. This theme serves as a strong reminder of the growing dangers children face today, especially online, and the urgent need to put an end to Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM).

As part of this meaningful observance, we visited the Provincial Farmers to attend a comprehensive lecture focused on OSAEC and CSAEM awareness. The speakers discussed the different forms of online abuse, how perpetrators take advantage of technology, and the long-term effects these crimes have on children’s mental and emotional well-being. The lecture also emphasized the importance of recognizing warning signs and knowing the proper channels for reporting cases of abuse.

The activity gave us a deeper understanding of our role as student leaders in protecting children within our communities and schools. It encouraged us to be more vigilant, responsible, and proactive in spreading awareness among our peers. We were reminded that leadership is not only about guiding others but also about standing firm on issues that affect the most vulnerable members of society—especially children.

Moreover, the lecture strengthened our commitment to promote digital responsibility and child protection initiatives. By sharing the knowledge we gained, we aim to help create a safer environment where children feel protected, heard, and valued. We also recognized the importance of collaboration among students, families, community members, and authorities in preventing abuse and exploitation.

As we continue to celebrate National Children’s Month, we reaffirm our dedication to advocating for children’s rights and welfare. Let this activity serve as a call to action for everyone to remain alert, compassionate, and united in safeguarding children from harm. Together, let us work to end OSAEC and CSAEM and continue to fight for the safety and rights of every child.

Wandering Through Wonders: Our Journey Around Bantay

Traveling is one of the best ways to experience life — it gives us stories to tell and memories that last forever. Our recent trip to Bantay, Ilocos Sur was one of the most memorable adventures I’ve ever had. Together with my friends Fauna, Joanna, Maria, and Ella, we decided to spend a day visiting two of Bantay’s most beautiful tourist spots — Kapan-awan and Caniaw Heritage and Forest Park. It was a day full of laughter, challenges, breathtaking views, and meaningful realizations about appreciating the beauty that exists in our own hometown.

Our first destination was Kapan-awan, a place known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning view of the cities below. The hike going up was not an easy one — the path was steep and uneven, and the heat made it even more challenging. We joked, laughed, and encouraged each other along the way, even when we were catching our breath. There were moments we wanted to stop, but our excitement to see the top kept us going. When we finally reached it, the struggle was instantly replaced with awe. The view was absolutely breathtaking — a wide, beautiful landscape where we could see the cities, trees, and skies blending together. The wind felt refreshing, and for a moment, everything felt peaceful. We stayed there for about an hour, taking pictures, sharing stories, and talking about life. Going down was also a challenge because of the slippery trail, but we supported each other just like we did on the way up. It wasn’t just a hike — it was a moment of teamwork, laughter, and connection.

After our Kapan-awan adventure, we headed to the Caniaw Heritage and Forest Park, another popular tourist spot in Bantay. The place was surrounded by tall trees and fresh air, giving off a calm and adventurous vibe. We tried several fun activities that truly tested our fear of heights, like crossing hanging bridges and climbing structures. At first, we were nervous and screamed a little, but after trying it, we couldn’t stop laughing and cheering each other on. Every step we took brought both excitement and courage. The park also had relaxing spots where we sat, rested, and admired nature. It was the kind of place that reminded us how fun it is to step outside our comfort zones and embrace the thrill of adventure.

What made this trip truly special wasn’t just the places we visited but the bond we shared throughout the journey. We took countless pictures, made jokes, and created memories that we’ll talk about for a long time. This experience reminded me that sometimes, we don’t need to travel far to find beauty and happiness — we can find it right in our own hometown. Bantay has so many wonders to offer, from its natural scenery to the simple joy of being with friends. Appreciating our local tourist spots helps us see the value of our own culture and environment, and it makes us proud of where we come from.

In the end, our trip to Bantay was more than just a travel experience — it was a moment of discovery, friendship, and gratitude. The journey may have been tiring, but it was worth every step. Standing on top of Kapan-awan and walking through Caniaw Park made me realize how wonderful our province truly is. It’s a reminder that every place, no matter how familiar, holds a hidden beauty waiting to be appreciated. And with good friends by your side, every journey becomes an adventure to remember.

Quarter 2 Reflection

During the second quarter, I learned a lot about the different kinds of tags used in HTML and how they are essential in creating and designing web pages. At first, I thought making a website was complicated, but as we went deeper into the lessons, I discovered that understanding tags like <p>, <h1>, <img>, and <a> can actually be fun and creative. It amazed me how each tag has its own function and how combining them can produce a well-structured and visually appealing website. I also learned the importance of proper formatting and organization in coding because even a small error can affect the entire output.

One of the challenges I encountered this quarter was learning how to properly use and close tags when coding. Sometimes, I got confused with where to place certain elements, especially when working on more complex parts of a webpage. There were also times when my codes didn’t work, and I couldn’t immediately figure out why. It was frustrating at first, but I realized that these mistakes are part of the learning process and that patience is very important in coding.

To overcome these challenges, I practiced more and asked help from my teacher and classmates whenever I got stuck. I also searched online for HTML tutorials and watched short videos to better understand how certain tags work. By doing that, I was able to identify my errors and slowly improve my skills. Every time I successfully fixed my code or finished a small project, it gave me a sense of accomplishment and motivation to keep learning. These experiences taught me that perseverance and curiosity are key to mastering new skills.

Moving on, I will continue to enhance my knowledge in web design and explore more advanced coding techniques. I want to apply what I’ve learned to create more creative and functional web pages in the future. I also plan to help my classmates who find HTML challenging, just as others helped me. I believe that technology and web design will play a big role in our future careers, so I’ll keep practicing and learning to prepare myself for more opportunities ahead.

Beyond the Classroom: Honoring Our Everyday Heroes

The 2025 Teacher’s Month Celebration with the theme “My Teacher, My Hero” was a truly meaningful event that reminded us how valuable our teachers are in shaping our future. They may not wear capes or possess superpowers, but their patience, dedication, and love for teaching make them real-life heroes. This celebration became a beautiful way for students to express gratitude and recognize all the sacrifices teachers make to help us learn and grow every single day.

At Ilocos Sur National High School, the celebration was filled with excitement and unity. The school held a lively parade with a sagala, where different clubs proudly represented their groups while honoring their teachers. After the parade, everyone gathered at the gymnasium, where teachers from various departments joyfully performed dances inspired by the Palarong Pambansa. Seeing them smile, laugh, and have fun on stage reminded us that teachers are not just mentors — they are people with passion, talent, and a heart full of joy for their students.

As part of the celebration, our class — Grade 10 Martinelli — organized a late surprise for our adviser and subject teachers. We gave them simple yet thoughtful gifts, sang a heartfelt song, and expressed our gratitude through messages of appreciation. Many students from other sections also made efforts to surprise their teachers, and the happiness on their faces said it all. The moment was filled with laughter, love, and pure joy. It made us realize that even the smallest gestures can make a big difference when it comes from the heart.

Through this celebration, I’ve come to appreciate how much our teachers truly do for us. They shape not only our minds but also our values, guiding us to become responsible and compassionate individuals. Their dedication, often unnoticed, deserves endless recognition. I will always be grateful to all my teachers — for their patience, wisdom, and kindness that continue to inspire us to keep learning and dreaming. Indeed, they are the heroes who go beyond the classroom to change lives.

References:
Department of Education (DepEd). (2025). National Teachers’ Month Celebration Theme: “My Teacher, My Hero.” Retrieved from https://www.deped.gov.ph
Pinterest. (2025). Teacher Appreciation Ideas and Inspirations. Retrieved from https://www.pinterest.com

🔬 Harnessing the Unknown: Powering the Future through Science and Innovation

This year’s National Science Month Celebration 2025 with the theme “Harnessing the Unknown: Powering the Future through Science and Innovation” made me realize how powerful science is in changing our world. The theme encourages us to explore things we don’t fully understand yet and to use what we learn to make the future better. Science isn’t just about lessons and experiments in the classroom — it’s about discovering new ideas, finding creative solutions, and using innovation to help people and the environment. It made me think that even as students, we already have the potential to contribute to the future through science.

As part of the celebration, our section, Grade 10 Martinelli, joined the TraShion Show, one of the highlights of Science Month. It was a fun yet challenging competition where students had to design and create outfits made from recycled materials. At first, it seemed easy, but when we started, we realized how hard it was to collect enough recyclable items and make them look stylish and wearable. We struggled with planning, cutting, taping, and designing everything by hand, and there were times we thought we wouldn’t finish in time. But we pushed through with teamwork and creativity. When our female representative placed 3rd runner-up and our male representative placed 2nd runner-up in the Grade 10 category, we felt so proud and happy! It wasn’t just about winning — it was about proving that hard work, cooperation, and imagination can turn “trash” into something beautiful.

Aside from the Trashion Show, the Science and YES-O Club also organized many other activities that made the celebration more exciting and educational. They held science quizzes, exhibits, and experiments that encouraged students to think critically and explore their curiosity. Some activities focused on promoting environmental awareness, reminding us how important it is to take care of our planet. These events showed how science connects to real-life situations — from caring for nature to developing new technologies. The variety of activities made everyone feel involved, and it inspired us to appreciate the role of science in solving problems and improving lives.

This whole experience made me realize that science and society are deeply connected. Science helps us understand the world, while society benefits from and builds upon scientific discoveries. In the coming decades, science will continue to guide us toward progress — from renewable energy and modern medicine to digital innovation and environmental sustainability. But it’s up to us to make sure we use science responsibly and for the good of everyone. As a student, I’ve learned that even small ideas and projects can have a big impact when done with purpose and creativity.

Overall, the 2025 National Science Month celebration was not just fun but meaningful. It made me proud to be part of Grade 10 Martinelli and to witness how talented and innovative my schoolmates are. The theme “Harnessing the Unknown: Powering the Future through Science and Innovation” reminded me that we all have the power to make a difference — by staying curious, being creative, and never being afraid to explore the unknown. Science truly is the light that will guide us to a better future.

Reference:
Department of Science and Technology (DOST). 2025 National Science Month Theme: Harnessing the Unknown — Powering the Future through Science and Innovation. Retrieved from https://www.dost.gov.ph

🌏 Rising Above the Storm: A Reflection on Climate Change and Filipino Resilience

Every time I see the news about floods, typhoons, and the destruction they bring, I can’t help but think about how much our environment has changed over the years. The Philippines, being surrounded by water, is always at risk — and it feels like the weather gets more unpredictable each year. Sometimes it’s scorching hot, and then suddenly heavy rain starts pouring. These sudden changes remind me that climate change is no longer just a global issue; it’s something that’s already affecting our daily lives as Filipinos.

I realized that the main reasons behind these environmental changes are human actions —
like cutting down trees, improper waste disposal, and the constant use of vehicles that emit harmful gases. Every small act of neglect adds up, and over time, it harms the planet we depend on. Seeing the effects of these actions makes me more aware that we all have a role to play in protecting our environment. We often blame nature for disasters, but in truth, we are also part of the cause.

Yet, despite all the challenges, what amazes me most is how resilient Filipinos are. Even after experiencing loss and destruction, people still manage to smile, help one another, and rebuild what was destroyed. The “bayanihan” spirit truly shines in moments of crisis — showing that even when the world feels like it’s falling apart, hope and kindness keep us standing. It’s this unbreakable spirit that gives me pride in being Filipino.

But I also believe that resiliency should not mean we simply endure; it should inspire us to take action. We can all start small — like conserving water and electricity, planting trees, and reducing plastic use. If we all make an effort to care for our planet, those small acts can create big changes. After all, protecting our environment isn’t just about saving nature; it’s about ensuring a livable future for ourselves and the next generations.

Reference:


Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). Climate Change in the Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/climate-change