New Discoveries Become New Skills

"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." – Mahatma Gandhi. This quarter, I have learned many new things that helped me grow in my studies.

 

One of the most important lessons I learned was about Community-Based Research (CBR). I did not just study it, but I also got to experience it myself by making our own research. This helped me understand how research is done in a community and why it is important. I learned how to gather information, analyze data, and present my findings in a way that helps others. Doing research was not easy because it required patience, teamwork, and good organization, but it was a great learning experience.

 

I also learned how to create a simple webpage using HTML. At first, I thought it would be very difficult, but as I practiced, I realized that it follows a pattern. I learned how to use different HTML tags to format text, add images, and create links. Seeing how a webpage is built was exciting because I now understand how websites work and how they are designed.

 

Another skill I learned was creating lists using HTML. Ordered lists are used when steps need to be followed in a sequence, while unordered lists are useful for listing items without a specific order. I also learned how to make nested lists, where one list is placed inside another. This skill is helpful in organizing information clearly, whether in a webpage or a document.

 

Of course, I faced some challenges along the way. In research, I sometimes found it hard to organize my work and follow the correct steps. In making a webpage, I made mistakes, like missing a tag, which caused errors. But I did not give up. I asked for help from my teachers and classmates, and I made sure to review my work carefully.

 

Moving forward, I will continue to improve my research skills and practice more on HTML coding. I know these skills will be useful in the future, whether in creating websites, organizing information, or doing research. This quarter has been full of new learning, and I am excited for what’s next! 

Embracing Foreign Traditions

Why do Filipinos celebrate Chinese New Year? Chinese New Year is one of the most important celebrations in Chinese culture. It marks the start of the lunar new year and is filled with traditions meant to bring good luck, happiness, and prosperity. In the Philippines, many Filipinos join in celebrating this occasion, even if they are not Chinese. The strong connection between Filipinos and the Chinese community has made this event an important part of the country’s culture.

The history of Chinese influence in the Philippines goes back hundreds of years. Even before the Spanish arrived in the 1500s, Chinese traders came to the country to buy and sell goods. Some of them decided to stay, married Filipinos, and became part of the local community. Over time, their traditions blended with Filipino customs, creating a unique mix of cultures. During the Spanish period, Chinese immigrants played a big role in business and trade, despite facing some challenges. Today, Filipino-Chinese families continue to contribute to the country’s economy and culture, making their traditions more visible and appreciated.

 

During Chinese New Year, families and communities celebrate in different ways. Dragon and lion dances are common in streets, malls, and temples. These dances are believed to bring good luck and drive away bad spirits. Fireworks and firecrackers are also an important part of the celebration because they are said to scare away bad luck. Elders give red envelopes, called ang pao, filled with money to children as a symbol of good fortune. Special foods are prepared, such as tikoy (sticky rice cake for stronger family ties), pancit (noodles for long life), and dumplings (which symbolize wealth). Many people also visit temples to pray for good health, success, and happiness in the coming year.

 

 

References/Sources:

Rove.me.(2025, January 29).Chinese New Year 2025 in Philippines.https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.rove.me%2Fw_1920%2Cq_85%2Fiy43pdrmi1ch0umdbalu%2Fphilippines-chinese-new-year.jpg&tbnid=-sC4O-j-r3MEdM&vet=1&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Frove.me%2Fto%2Fphilippines%2Fchinese-new-year&docid=fAeJqWJi1lhAlM&w=1920&h=1275&hl=en-US&source=sh%2Fx%2Fim%2Fm6%2F4&kgs=440af32eed715217

 

ABS-CBN. (2025, January 24). Chinese New Year 2025: 'Lucky' dishes and new outfits to welcome the Year of the Snake. https://images.app.goo.gl/4LQvjtmE7Co33Fd79

 

Philippines News Agency. (2035, January 28). FINDING LUCK. https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Ffiles01.pna.gov.ph%2Fsource%2F2025%2F01%2F31%2Fchinese-new-year-2025-dragon-dance-01282025jb.jpg&tbnid=-Bi3rEfISJZB6M&vet=1&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pna.gov.ph%2Findex.php%2Fphotos%2F74966&docid=dakCmMgZknIsWM&w=854&h=570&hl=en-US&source=sh%2Fx%2Fim%2Fm6%2F4&kgs=2aa260d697c28924 

The Journey of Vigan

        Vigan, located in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Founded in the 16th century, Vigan is a blend of European, Mexican, Chinese, and Filipino influences, creating a one-of-a-kind cultural and architectural heritage. Before the Spanish arrived, Vigan was already an important trading center, situated at the delta of the Abra River on Luzon’s northwestern coast. The heritage site covers 17.25 hectares and follows a traditional Spanish checkerboard street layout with two main plazas: Plaza Salcedo and Plaza Burgos. Surrounding these plazas are important landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, the City Hall, and the Provincial Capitol. Unlike Spanish colonial towns in Latin America, Vigan has strong Chinese, Ilocano, and Filipino influences, especially in the historic Mestizo district, which was home to wealthy families of mixed Chinese and Ilocano ancestry. This area contains 233 historic buildings along a grid of 25 streets.

        Most of Vigan’s buildings were constructed between the mid-18th to late 19th centuries. These two-story houses are made of brick and wood, with steep roofs inspired by Chinese architecture. The upper floors feature capiz shell windows that slide open for better ventilation. The ground floors were traditionally used as shops, offices, and storage areas, while families lived on the upper floors. Vigan also has important public buildings that show a mix of different architectural styles.

        Vigan has retained its colonial charm, including its street layout and building design. However, over time, many houses have been modified for modern use, with interiors divided into smaller apartments and commercial spaces. Some buildings have been abandoned or left in poor condition. A lack of traditional materials like wood, brick, and lime plaster has led to the use of modern materials like cement and galvanized iron roofs, affecting the original look of the town.

        Despite these challenges, awareness of the importance of preserving Vigan has grown significantly since it was declared a heritage site. Many traditional construction techniques are being revived, helping to restore and maintain Vigan’s unique cultural and historical identity.

 

References and/or sources:

UNESCO World Heritage Centre.(1999).Historic City of Vigan.https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/502/

LAIDBACK TRIP.(2023, April 8).Vigan Guide: Visit A Colonial City In Philippines.

.https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.laidbacktrip.com%2Fposts%2Fwhat-to-do-vigan-ilocos-sur-philippines&psig=AOvVaw2kH2bLkoqYHfmXI0WWe6ts&ust=1739072435489000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCPiC17nqtIsDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAI

AvianQuests.(2017, February 22).Vigan City's Plaza Salcedo Dancing Fountains.https://go

o.gl/maps/gAB4N7ydNDN2

New Chapter, Lot's of Chances

 

     This new year, I want to take time to reflect on myself and make changes for the better. I promise to improve my attitude and behavior, especially when it comes to dealing with others. I will try to be more patient, understanding, and calm in my actions and words. I know that being patient will help me build better relationships and create a more peaceful environment for everyone around me.

     I also pray to God for His blessings, especially for good health for myself, my love ones, and everyone around me. Health is something we often take for granted, but it’s so important in allowing us in to achieving our goals and handle the challenges of life.

     I promise to make the most of my time with the people I love, strengthen my bond with family and friends, and work harder in my studies. I know these are the things that truly matter and will help me grow as a person.

    I wish for luck and guidance as we go through out this year, facing whatever trials and obstacles that may have come. I hope we can all find the strength and courage to overcome difficulties and continue moving forward. May this year bring happiness, success, and countless blessings to everyone.

A Jolly Holiday

     

     Nothing feels more like a warm holiday than when you're with your loved ones. A lot happened during my Christmas vaction that has left me feeling nostalgic. 

     First, we attended and completed the night masses (simbang gabi). In the last day of mass, me and my family went out to eat and celebrate the completion of masses. After that, Let's move on to December 24, 2024. I went to my lola's place to spend time with her and at night, they shared their fiest with us and then we went to our house to prepare our own fiest. Me, my mom, dad and little brother welcomed the Christmas together. At Christmas day, I spent time with my cousins and friends.

     We went out and I also went on a sleep over in my cousin's place. I spent my Christmas with the people I love so now, I am contended with my vacation and soon prepared for New Year's Eve.

New knowledge, New Horizon

     As the second quarter of school year 2024-2025 comes to an end, I have learned a lot of things. I experienced things I have never done before such as coding, specifically HTML coding. Now, I'll tell you all the things that I have learned from basic tags to hyperlink tags.

     My perception towards the basic information of HTML tags has grown as the quarter began. I learned how to use stand-alone and container tags and understood that their importance. I also learned how to change the font tace using the <font face> tag . Adding background colors, fonts and other attributes was fun to learn. It's undeniable and unavoidable that there would be errors or challenges that we encounter during coding. Miss-typed tags or characters, slow internet and many more but it still doesn't change the fact that we enjoyed typing and learning tags that can be used in the future. My classmates and friends, along with my teacher, Mrs. Vera Cruz, has guided me all throughout this journey. Mrs. Vera cruz has taught us everything and my classmates guided not only me but also my other classmates who struggled during the coding. I'm bery thankful of them. 

     Now that I have learned a lesson, it's time to move on yo the next journey I'm about to travel. I know that I did well with my coding and I hope that I will get to use it in the future.

May the new knowledge we gain inspire hope to continue improving our studies.

Her Power, Her Peace

      Protecting women’s rights is very important in solving the serious problem of violence against women (VAW) in the Philippines. A 2022 survey by the Philippine Statistics Authority shows that nearly one in five women has experienced some form of abuse from their partner. This shows why laws like RA 9262 and RA 11313 are necessary to keep women and children safe. RA 9262, also called the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, helps protect victims from different kinds of abuse, like physical harm, emotional pain, financial control, and sexual violence. It allows victims to get protection orders, legal help, and counseling. It also ensures offenders are punished to keep victims safe and for them to achieve justice.

      RA 11313, known as the Safe Spaces Act, was passed in 2019 to stop sexual harassment in public places, at work, in schools, and online. It punishes behaviors like catcalling, stalking, and inappropriate gestures, making public spaces safer and more respectful. The law also encourages businesses and institutions to take steps to prevent harassment and create safe spaces for everyone.

      As we celebrate National Women's Month and the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women, it is important to spread awareness and make sure these laws are followed. RA 9262 and RA 11313 give women the protection they need and help build a community where they are treated with respect and dignity. By continuing to educate and raise awareness, we can create a safer and more inclusive society that cares for the well-being of women and children.

References:

Community-Based Research. (2021). What is CBR? Pacific AIDS Network. Retrieved from https://pacificaidsnetwork.org/research-and-evaluation/what-is-cbr/

Philippine Statistics Authority. (2022). National Demographic and Health Survey.

Google images. (n.d.). [Photo of  women protesters]. Retrived from https://images.app.goo.gl/idM7TvHxUahuLMwF8

Google images. (n.d.). [Photo of abused woman]. Retrived from https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fstclaresmedicalcenter.com%2F18-day-campaign-to-end-violence-against-women-2%2F&psig=AOvVaw3-nsdOSDGpx_dGLVvsqPE_&ust=1733457683144000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCLDryZ3fj4oDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE