123rd High School Day Celebration in Ilocos Sur National High School

The 123rd high school day celebration of Ilocos Sur National High School, which happened on March 21, 2025, was a form of observance to commemorate the founding of our school. This was the second time I had experienced high school day in ISNHS. During this celebration, there are a lot of activities going on, from having the practice before the field demo and making the needed props to the actual field demo and the announcement of winners. This year, the different clubs in the school organized booths in the field area to let the students enjoy and buy things, like keychains and so on. Moreover, ISNHS also had a battle of the bands in the SPTVE area.

As March 21—the day of the field demo—was approaching, we had our practice. We organized the steps, formations, entrance, and exit. It was exhausting because we had to stay under the sun for more than 3 hours just to master the steps. It was also hard to memorize the steps because of a severe headache caused by the heat of the sun. But we survived and were able to perform during the field demo.

After the steps and formations have been formed, we started doing our props. For us grade 10 girls, we bought our own sunglasses and a 50-inch stick, which we painted white. The flag and the bangs were provided by the MAPEH department, with a total cost of ₱165 per person. I had no trouble making my props since everything was provided, and the flag was just easy to put in the stick. If I were to compare it to last year, I would say our props this year were easier to make.

During the field demo, we saw so many talented ISNHS students as they showed off their skills in dancing. All grade levels, boys and girls, did a good job in each of their performances. When it was time for the grade 10 girls to perform, I was a bit nervous that I might forget the steps. Additionally, I also had trouble turning my flag due to the strong wind. It was also hard for me to see anything because the sun was so bright, and I was wearing sunglasses and the fake bangs—which is part of our props.

After the field demo, we went to our room to rest a bit and have a snack. And when it was time for the announcement of winners, we gathered in front of the stage in the field area. Although we did not win, it was fulfilling to have performed in front of so many people raising the flag of the LGBTQIA+ community. We showed equality through our performance with the songs of Lady Gaga. I was so proud of myself and my fellow grade 10 students to have performed and made an impact on the LGBTQIA+ community.

After everything was done, we went to the booths to visit our friends there and also to look for things that we could buy as remembrances. There were so many things that you could buy there. There are keychains, customized bracelets, Legos, and so on. My friends and I bought a plastic balloon to blow up and have fun. After which, I went home already.

The battle of the bands was at the SPTVE area. It was scheduled at 3:00 in the afternoon. After the field demo, I was planning to join my friends to watch the event. However, I was not able to attend the event because I was already exhausted, so I had to go home and rest. But some of my friends attended the event and listened to the voices of the contestants.

In conclusion, the 123rd high school day celebration in ISNHS was filled with joy and excitement. It was a fun experience, and I would definitely want to attend again next year. Having the yearly celebration of the founding of ISNHS is significant because it reminds us that through the years, this school stayed strong and is still doing its job to give the students a second home to learn new things. It's a tradition worth cherishing and upholding for many years to come, a beacon of knowledge and community. In the end, we must always remember to SOAR, FLY, AIM HIGH, ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL.

Reference:

Blogger: http://www.atheamaeparayno.blogspot.com

Networking All the Discoveries

During the fourth quarter in information and communications technology, I have gained new discoveries. First is creating a webpage design using Microsoft FrontPage in an easier way. I also get to remember the previous lessons about coding and also the lessons from last school year. I remembered the different types of networks and cables. Moreover, I also got to recall how to create my own ethernet cable.

During the process of learning and discoveries, it is inevitable to encounter challenges. The first problem that I encountered was having difficulties in using Microsoft FrontPage. Due to having so much schoolwork during that time, I had trouble processing things. The second problem is having trouble coming up with a design suitable for our community-based research. Because of this problem, I spent a lot of time making my webpage design.

However, I found methods to address these challenges. First, I searched the web on how to use Microsoft FrontPage. It helped me a lot because I was able to gain knowledge and was able to start my webpage design. Second, I made my webpage design by getting ideas from our previous webpage design using HTML and CSS codes. It was useful because I was able to come up with a design that fits the theme of our community-based research.

Moving on, I will continue to strive harder for the future. I will continue to explore to gain more knowledge and discoveries. I will also find ways to address the challenges that come my way. I will treat them as opportunities for growth. I will not give up, and I will be better to achieve my dreams.

Reference:

Blogger: http://www.atheamaeparayno.blogspot.com

The Future of My Story

"Dreams are illustrations from the book your soul is writing about you." This statement suggests that dreams are not random occurrences but rather symbolic reflections of our inner self, our soul's journey, and our personal growth. It's like our soul is writing a book about us—our experiences, our fears, our desires—and dreams are visual illustrations from that book. Dreams, the illustrations from the book our soul is writing, are not merely reflections of our present; they are blueprints for our future. They are the plans we make, not necessarily in a conscious, meticulously detailed way, but rather as intuitive, symbolic maps guiding our path.

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As a student, I have so many dreams for my future self. First is planning to become a certified public accountant after graduating from school. 15 years from now, I see myself as someone who is well-off, with a house and a car. I see myself as someone working hard, not just to buy luxury things, but also to build a life of purpose and meaning. By doing this, I can cultivate my talents and skills to improve.

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To conclude, dreams are the plans that are guiding us toward a specific path. These are the ones that shape our future, to become more successful and to improve ourselves. Having a plan for the future is a good thing because we know that it provides direction and increases the likelihood of achieving our goals. A well-defined plan acts as a roadmap, guiding our actions and decisions and offering a sense of control amidst life's uncertainties. So, we should all make a plan for our future—dream big for a successful future.

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Reference:

McGuire, Kelly. (March 30, 2022). Don’t Stop Believing! 9 Quotes That Inspire Us to Pursue Our Dreams. Retrieved on March 30, 2025 from https://www.girlsontherun.org/blog/dont-stop-believing-10-quotes-that-inspire-us-to-pursue-our-dreams/

WEMEN

"The world needs strong women. The world needs women who will stand up for themselves and stand up for others." Women are important in our society. They are the heart and soul of our communities, the backbone of our families, and the driving force behind so much progress. They are teachers, doctors, scientists, artists, entrepreneurs, and mothers—shaping our world in countless ways. Their contributions, often undervalued, are essential to building a better future for all.

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This March, the Philippines celebrates Women's Month with the theme—WE for Gender Equality and an Inclusive Society. It serves as both a positive affirmation and a call to action, renewing the commitment to advocacy. This recurring theme highlights the ongoing need for compassionate, unified networks to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. The society needs everyone—not just women—to participate in fighting for gender equality. By including everyone in this campaign, we can achieve unity and equality.

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Women are important because their contributions are essential to building a better future for all. The theme, WE for Gender Equality and an Inclusive Society, is an empowering campaign that aims to include everyone in order to achieve equality. It's a powerful call to action, reminding us that true equality isn't achieved by lifting some up, but by lifting all of us together. Women are innovators, leaders, caregivers, and change-makers. We need to celebrate their strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication to making the world a more just and equitable place.

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Reference:

National Women's Month. (n.d.). Retrieved on March 30, 2025 from https://pcw.gov.ph/national-womens-month/

Intayon, Ilocos Sur!

Kannawidan Ylocos comes from the word "tawid," which means tradition, legacy, or heritage. It is an annual festival that celebrates the founding anniversary of the province of Ilocos Sur every 2nd of February. The celebration starts from the last week of January up to the second week of February. During this time, there are a lot of activities and festivities happening in Ilocos Sur, with so many people from across the province just to come and celebrate the Kannawidan Festival. Famous people, such as artists and singers, come here to perform and celebrate the festival. In 2025, Ilocos Sur invited so many celebrities, including TJ Monterde, Kamikazee, Shaira Diaz, EA Guzman, December Avenue, Maki, Rayver Cruz, and many more. The Kannawidan Festival serves as one of the very important festivals in Ilocos Sur because it promotes our culture, traditions, and local products.

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The Kannawidan Festival is a very significant celebration for the province of Ilocos Sur. Kannawidan Ylocos was first launched within the term of Deogracias Victor "DV" Savellano in 2008. It was started to promote awareness and preservation of the local culture, tradition, heritage, and customs. It was also an opportunity to showcase local products, artistry, and craftsmanship. Moreover, it was also created to boost the local tourism industry, with several activities that make the tourists attracted to the beauty of Ilocos Sur. Activities for Kannawidan Ylocos include traditional games, cultural shows, drone light and dancing fountain shows, fireworks displays, comedy nights, entertainment, food fests, pet shows, and competitions. It also has talent contests, exhibits, sporting events, trainings, street dance, festival dance showdowns, and other fun activities.

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To conclude, the Kannawidan Festival is an important part of the lives of the people in Ilocos Sur because it promotes our culture, traditions, and local products. It is not just a celebration, nor just a festival that honors the origin of a province, but also a fiesta that will surely make tourists visit and get a glimpse of the beauty of Ilocos Sur. It captures the beauty of the origin, traditions, and culture of the province. So, what are you waiting for? Don't miss the chance to visit Ilocos Sur in the next Kannawidan Festival in 2026! Intayon, Ilocos Sur!

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Reference:

Kannawidan Ylocos. (2025). Retrieved on March 2, 2025 from https://www.festivalscape.com/philippines/ilocos-sur/kannawidan-ylocos/

Valentine's Day: A Day of Love

Love is not just a feeling; it's a choice. Make the choice to love this Valentine's Day. Valentine's Day, celebrated on February 14, is a day of romance and love. It is the day celebrated especially by couples by giving gifts, such as flowers, chocolates, and something valuable and memorable. However, Valentine's Day is not just for couples; it's also for family and friends. Valentine's Day is all about expressing our love to the people important to us.

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Valentine's Day is celebrated in different parts of the world because we all want to express our love towards the people important to us. We want to make them feel special during the day of love. Additionally, Valentine's Day is also regarded as St. Valentine's Day. One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. Still, others insist that it was Saint Valentine of Terni, a bishop, who was the true namesake of the holiday. According to one legend, on the other hand, an imprisoned Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting himself after he fell in love with a young girl—possibly his jailor’s daughter—who visited him during his confinement.

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In conclusion, Valentine's Day is about expressing our love to the people we treasure. It is about spreading love and care towards the people around us. And we can do this by saying kind things, giving our full attention, doing thoughtful things, hugging, kissing, and giving gifts. So, we should express our love, not just on Valentine's Day, but every day. We should stop hating and start loving.

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Reference:

History of Valentine's Day. (2009, December 22). History. https://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day/history-of-valentines-day-2#valentine-s-day-meaning-a-day-of-romance-and-love

Community-Based Research: A Zoological Adventure

Community-based research is a great way to provide solutions to a community's certain issue or problem. Community-based research is referred to as research that involves the members of a community in the design and implementation of research projects, demonstrating respect for the contributions of success that are made by community partners, as well as respect for the principle of "not harm" to the communities involved. It is a means to resolve up-to-date affairs that concern a community. It aims to improve a community's quality of life. Most importantly, it also allows the researchers to explore and enhance their socialization skills and critical thinking skills.

The Baluarte Zoo is a very popular tourist spot in Tamag, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, visited by many travelers around the world. When we went to the zoo, we were bombarded with so many people who came to visit the prominent zoo. We were guided by the workers there, and they were very accommodating to the visitors. The workers also chatted with us, telling us the origin of the animals and what kind of food they eat. We also had fun exploring the whole Baluarte Zoo while doing our research.

With regards to our research, we took pictures of the animals in the zoo, such as camels, peafowls, lions, zebras, tigers, snakes, iguanas, turtles, crocodiles, and ostriches. They were very friendly, well-trained, and entertaining. We did not find trouble in searching for the name of certain animals because the zoo provides information about them through signs, and the workers also taught us the kind of food they eat. My favorite among these animals are the turtles because they are so cute and adorable. I also love the fact that they are the symbol of protection because of their covering, which is their shell.

Aside from seeing the animals, we also got to visit the Safari Gallery. The Safari Gallery contains a collection of animals, which Chavit Singson has hunted. These statues of animals serve as tourist attractions because of their precise and almost the same structure as a live animal, which is done by the process called taxidermy. The gallery has a top view, which I love because I can see all the statues and the people below. And at the top, we can see the photos of Chavit Singson along with the animals.

Furthermore, we also had the chance to feed the animals, specifically the camels, ostriches, and deer. It was a fun activity for visitors because it allowed us to interact with the animals. They were very playful. As soon as we stopped to feed them, they came running towards us. We also got stuck because there were so many deer, and they approached us and circled us; luckily, we were not hurt.

To finish off our trip to Baluarte, we took pictures as a remembrance. We paid to get a picture with the lion. He was very obedient and calm. I also took a picture in front of the iguanas' cages. Lastly, we went to the top, where the "Baluarte" sign was located, and asked one of the people there to take a photo of us.

Lastly, to gain more data regarding our research, we interviewed some of the visitors and workers. The visitors stated some problems with the zoo and recommended some ways to resolve them. One of which is the dirty water, especially in the area of the crocodiles. The visitors recommended that the zoo improve its cleanliness because the animals are at stake if their environment is not clean. We also got the chance to interview the supervisor of the zoo, where he informed us about the methods they use to maintain the animals' well-being and their environment.

After we had gained all the information needed, we wrote our research paper and started doing its web design. We used our knowledge about HTML to make it. In addition, we also make use of CSS. We watch tutorials from the web to further enhance our knowledge about coding. And we combined all of these to create our CBR web design.

The last step in CBR is to report our research findings and to present our recommendations to address the issues stated in our research. On January 28, 2025, we were scheduled to present our research. We talked about the contents and the web design of our research. We explained the codes we used in order to come up with the different elements shown in our web design. And we successfully defended our research and also took a photo with our practice teacher in ICT.

To sum up, CBR enhances our socialization and critical thinking skills. It allows us to analyze information objectively, evaluate evidence, and draw rational conclusions. CBR helps us improve the betterment of our community because it aims to provide a solution to the various problems. But research is not enough to resolve the issues in the community. We must also exert effort and work together in order to attain a positive change.

Reference:

Blogger: http://www.atheamaeparayno.blogspot.com