Where the Legacy of Vigan Begins

  

  Vigan, one of the oldest towns in the Philippines, has a long history that began in the 16th century when Spanish explorer Juan de Salcedo created a town called Villa Fernandina. Vigan is located at the mouth of the Mestizo River, making it a perfect spot for trading between the local people and Chinese merchants long before Spain arrived. This made Vigan an important center for trade and helped shape its culture and economy.

 

    As a small town, Vigan became a place for business and culture. The town’s buildings showed a mix of Spanish, Chinese, and Filipino styles. The lower floors of the houses were made of stone and brick and were used for shops or storage. The upper floors were made of wood and it is where families lived. During the Galleon Trade, Vigan became a big part of global trade, making it an important city in Asia at the time.

     By the late 1800s, Vigan’s role as a trading center started to fade, but it still kept its cultural importance. The town kept its old cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and important public places, like Plaza Salcedo and Plaza Burgos. These areas showed how Spanish, Chinese, and Ilocano cultures all came together to create Vigan’s unique identity.

     In 2001, Vigan became a city under a new law called Republic Act No. 8988. This was an exciting change for the town, as it gave Vigan the chance to improve its roads, services, and facilities, but still keep its old charm. Becoming a city also helped Vigan grow its economy, especially through tourism. The city’s beautiful old streets, like Calle Crisologo, were restored, attracting visitors from all over the world.

    Now as a city, Vigan has found a way to grow while keeping its history. Its old buildings and streets are still standing, and Vigan has added new services and buildings for locals and tourists. Festivals like the Longganisa and Binatbatan festival celebrate its culture and traditions, helping people remember and appreciate the city’s past.

    Vigan’s journey from a small town to a city shows how it has stayed strong and proud of its heritage. It shows that it’s possible to honor the past while moving forward, making it an example for other towns to follow. Vigan proves that the past and the future can live together in harmony.

References:

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

Lonely Planet. (n.d.). Vigan, Philippines, Asia. Retrieved from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/philippines/north-luzon/vigan

Tatler Asia. (2021, May 14). Exploring Vigan: A well-preserved Spanish colonial town in the Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/travel/in-its-full-glory

Philippines Cities. (2020, August 14). Vigan City, Ilocos Sur: History, tourist spots, language, and more. Retrieved from https://philippinescities.com/vigan-city-ilocos-sur/

Facebook. (2022, July 7). The Vigan City Hall. Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15fXfuL53h/?mibextid=oFDknk

A Better Tommorow

     

    As the clock strikes 12:00 midnight, people all around the world cheer, and fireworks light up the sky. The scene is one marking not only the end of a year but also the beginning of a new one—a fresh start, a blank page, a chance to reset. The past year, with all its highs and lows, triumphs and failures, had finally come to an end. It's time to put the past in its place, our past mistakes, missed opportunities, and regrets. With a hopeful heart, we welcome a new year, full of endless possibilities.

    This past year really was tough. I did things that made me regret my actions, but still, it was never too late to change. There is always hope for better times and another chance to improve myself. We are not failures because we did not become what we wanted to be or did not achieve all that we dreamed of. It's a long journey, and at times, we fall down. But I will always hold on to the belief that there will be a better tomorrow, for each new day presents an opportunity to try once more.

    The beauty of the new year lies in its promise. The promise that we can grow, change, and be the person and live the life we’ve always wanted. In so many ways, it reminds you, no matter how tough or challenging this year has been, that tomorrow starts anew the chances to rebuild your life better, into a finer and more improved version. The new year is more than just new year resolutions, it is about actually putting words into actions to become the person that we want to be, even if it means starting from zero. 

    We all have moments that we regret, some decisions we wish we could change, or paths we wish we'd taken. But the past is behind us, and the future is ours to shape. It's time to forgive ourselves, let go of the baggage, and work on becoming the best version of who we are meant to be. In 2025, we'll be working on our progress and not perfection. It's okay to stumble and fall along the way. The most important thing is how we rise again, how we learn from the fall, and how we continue.

    This year, it's all about embracing change and growth. It's a reminder that we need not be bound by our past; rather, we can create the future we want. Whether it be for personal development, new passions, or just being in the moment, each day provides an opportunity to transform.

    So let's step into this new year with open hearts and minds, ready to leave the past behind and embrace the endless possibilities ahead. A new year brings new beginnings—and with each new beginning comes the chance to redefine ourselves. Here’s to 2025: a year of growth, resiliency, and becoming the best version of you.

References:

Time and Date (2024). New Year's Day. https://images.app.goo.gl/Qev98YLhLSvp74zU8

ReplyForward Add reaction

Merry Moments, Endless Enjoyment

    

    

        Having the christmas vacation means having a break and rest from school, or in generally, from everything. It means resting, having a time for yourself, spending more time with your family, reconnecting with nature, and having more time to sleep! And of course, making the most of every moment. Additionally, the atmosphere during christmas season is very calming, it is really cold and windy. I love that weather, really.

    During the christmas vacation, of course I was really looking forward to getting more sleep, and waking up at any time of the day that I would like. I really loved sleeping. I also spent my vacation in my gadgets, or course. I played games and watched a lot of movies and series that i really enjoyed. I was happy I could finally watch the movies I was saving for the christmas vacation.

    Of course I didn't want to just be on my room lying down all day. Our family went to Ilocos Norte for something important and I went to join them. We didn't do much exploring and just went to Robinsons Mall, but I enjoyed the views along the way during the trip there. Also, on Christmas, we, my family, went to Abra, where my father side lives. We spent the christmas there reconnecting and bonding together as we didn't see each other for too long.

    What I loved the most during my Christmas vacation was when my cousins went to us and we shared bond, happiness, and laughter together. I truly cherished spending quality time with them, whether it was playing games, talking to each other, laughing together, or simply enjoying each other's company. The laughter and joy we shared made the holiday season even more special, and those moments are ones I will always treasure.

    My Christmas vacation was truly a memorable one, filled with moments of relaxation, family bonding, and self-care. It was a time to unwind from the usual routine and focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with loved ones and cherishing the simple pleasures of life. The joy of reconnecting with family, the peaceful weather, and the time to rest all made it an unforgettable experience. I’m grateful for the memories created during this holiday season.

    Looking back, I realize how important it is to take a break from the busyness of everyday life and enjoy the holiday moments. Christmas is not only about gifts and celebrations but also about creating memories with the people who matter most. This vacation allowed me to reconnect with family, appreciate the little things, and recharge for the upcoming year. It was a reminder to cherish every moment and make the most of time spent with those we love.

References:

Twinkl (2021). What is Christmas day? | Origin, History & Traditions | Twinkl. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.twinkl.com.ph%2Fteaching-wiki%2Fchristmas-day&psig=AOvVaw0naliRA9CcADIM5u9q2UaX&ust=1736308357877000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBcQjhxqFwoTCMihw-La4ooDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAb

Interhampers (2024). How Christmas is Celebrated Around the World. https://images.app.goo.gl/te6oHs9ipYMLS6kr5

Time and Date (2024). Christmas Eve 2025 in the Unitwd States. https://images.app.goo.gl/7nxXASmK6py85eCz8

Skills in Bloom, Growth to Consume

     It feels so unreal, knowing half of the school year already passed and the second quarter is at its end. This quarter was surely an exciting chapter in my academic journey. Since day one, I already knew that coding would be included in the curriculum. For the topic of coding, I had less experience, and being honest, I was somewhat frightened. I was concerned that lessons would be hard to catch up on or that I would fall behind, but these weeks have found me surprised that I not only understand the basics of coding, but I actually enjoy it.

     Learning HTML allowed me to create simple web pages, experiment with tags, and see how small changes could make big results. It's like unlocking a whole new world of creativity and problem-solving. Accomplishment with each project drove my confidence. This quarter reminded me that stepping out of your comfort zone often leads to the greatest growth.

    Besides coding, blogging lessons were the most enjoyable moments of the quarter. Blogging gave me an opportunity to express myself, be creative, and therefore improve my writing skills. Writing articles on different topics was entertaining but at the same time taught me how to get in touch with an audience. Whether it be discussing current events or sharing personal reflections, blogging helped me put my ideas across with more confidence.

    Of course, no journey is without its hurdles. This quarter presented its fair share of challenges, from technical issues like HTML tags not working as expected to moments of confusion while trying to grasp new concepts. These obstacles taught me the value of patience, problem-solving, and collaboration. Asking for help from classmates became one of the most important strategies to get over these difficulties, and I felt how much we are capable of doing when we work together. And asking for help is not a weakness; it is one of the most powerful ways to learn and grow with others.

    In addition to the technical knowledge, this quarter also instilled in me a much deeper sense of persistence and adaptability. It is so easy sometimes to turn and run away when everything is not going right, but to find a solution out and keep moving is just exhilarating. Each setback proved to be an opportunity to learn something new: at times troubleshooting some technical problem, and at other times some refinement of an approach to some task at hand.

    In the future, I am excited to further develop my knowledge of coding. It's been great working with HTML and creating something from scratch; thus, this is a skill I am interested in developing further. Maybe this will be a useful hobby or even a career some day. Apart from coding, I'm going to take the knowledge of this quarter, including patience, creativity, and collaboration, into every single part of my life.

    The second quarter has been bittersweet; it was a mix of ups and downs, but most importantly, one of growth. I am rather excited to see what the third quarter has in store and how I apply the knowledge and skills that I have gained. This whole experience has taught me something: every challenge is an opportunity, and every lesson learned brings us closer to becoming the best version of ourselves.

References:

Blogger. <http://www.blogger.com>

Standing Tall, Empowering Women’s Role

    Violence against women (VAW) continues to be a set, yet complex shadow, that lies embedded in culture and society. Numerous women privately endure violence and harassment in the employee's back alley, in the street, and even in cyberspace. It is a crisis that cuts across individual boundaries, reaching families, communities, and countries.

    Imagine waking up every day to a reality where one out of three women globally faces abuse. It's more than just a number; it's a call for attention that resonates in our schools, shops, and even our own living rooms. Here in the Philippines, the problem is more personal. As per the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey, almost one in five women has experienced at least one type of emotional, physical or sexual violence perpetrated by an intimate partner. This is why the presence of the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Act 2004, or Republic Act (R.A. No. 9262, a beacon to lead hope and justice. It's not just a law but a call to action for every Filipino to rise and fight against this pervasive social injustice.

    The VAWC Act is not a paper where rules are written but is, in fact, the lifeline of women and children trapped in abusive environments. This law recognizes forms of violence, from physical, sexual, psychological, to economic; therefore, abuse is multifaceted and deeply ingrained in power dynamics. It is a bill that reflects and defines the invisible hold of economic control and the emotional scars of psychological abuse, providing a voice and the means to fight back for victims. Across the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women this law goes beyond a legal code; it goes to become a banner song. Schools, barangays, and communities become learning arenas and empowerment grounds, where words of the law come to life through workshops, public forums, and grassroots initiatives. The campaign underlines the empowerment of women and children because their safety is part and parcel of the progress of the nation.

    Awareness, by itself, will not be able to break up the systems of violence that underlie it. The greatest effect of the 18-day Campaign is to use learning to action. Why do victims choose silent suffering over speaking out against abuse? Why are abusers protected by cultural norms? Those uncomfortable questions force us to grapple with the societal issues that allow violence to live on. R.A. 9262 directly tackles these concerns, affording not only women, but the children, born legitimate or not, a protection against violence perpetrated against them. Its provisions, such as protection orders and penalties against abusers make it more accountable and enable the victim to regain his life. The law alters relationships, so that even dating couples are accountable and victims are protected from the emotional and psychic abuses of relationship. With this extensive coverage, it is paramount in fostering a culture of zero tolerance of abuse.

    

    The role of the youth cannot be overemphasized. As torchbearers of change, young people can uniquely redefine societal norms and move beyond the status quo. It becomes possible through art, social media campaigns, and initiatives within schools that make students an active participant in the campaign while amplifying its message through mediums that resonate with their peers. That exposure of ideas like "Battered Woman Syndrome" to these considerations prepares the next generation for understanding the psychological consequences of abuse and the justice survivors are entitled to have. The young remind us that this struggle is multigenerational, that the baton of advocacy should continue to be carried forward unbroken. Their participation is a sign of optimism for the achievement of the R.A. 9262 principles, in the future. Are we prepared to take a stand and try to give this law a vitality and movement?

    In contrast, statutes as Republic Act (R.A. No. 7877, the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995, and R.A. 11313, also the Safe Spaces Act of 2019, are also pieces of legislation that safeguard women from violence. These laws don't just protect women; they make us think about how we conceptualize safety and respect in our daily lives This legislation defines sexual harassment as any unwelcome sexual behavior or proposition that is made by a person of power, like a professor, employer or supervisor, for which submission is a prerequisite for employment or academic standing. The importance of R.A. 7877 lies in its emphasis on accountability. It is able to instill systems of, for example, grievance committees, whereby victims are provided with a safe environment to make reports. In this way it not only penalizes violators but also delivers an unambiguous message that abuse of power will not be accepted.

    Rearranging the fight against harassment with the Safe Spaces Act (R.A. 11313) to include spaces not specifically workplaces or schools has raised the bar. Already passed in 2019, this law criminalizes gender-based harassment in public spaces and online platforms. It deals with behaviors, such as catcalling stalking, and cyberbullying because it acknowledges that harassment can take place on, and possibly to, any where at all. What makes the Safe Spaces Act so groundbreaking is its breadth. In contrast to R.A. 7877, which is limited to hierarchically related relationships, this law is concerned with daily interaction of the people, as it seeks to shield them from harassment in the public places like roads, parks and social media. Through deconstruction of the societal normalization of behaviors like wolf-whistling and obscene remarks, R.A. 11313 Creating mutual respect and no harm to anyone, irrespective of the gender one owns.

    Even though both laws are designed to protect against harassment and violence, they provide strong rules when taken together. All this has a tendency to remind us that it is just an elementary right that cannot be tolerated by mere respect and safety. Students and citizens alike, we must uphold these statutes, not merely by following the rules, but by setting an example of their principles. Not through that the power of laws lies and that only faithful as people believe in them. The real question is whether we are prepared to stand up, speak out, and make our spaces—be it the classrooms, offices, streets, or even online truly safe for all?

    Together, these statutes create a legal framework that protects the common experience of gender-based violence and harassment. These laws target abuse in all its aspects and contexts by offering victims protection, criminal responsibility for offenders, and a vision for improved safety of society. However, the law is not only a means for achieving justice; it is also a means for social cultural change. They encourage all of their citizens to stand up and challenge the stereotypical rules, abuses of power, and to engineer the conditions in which equality and respect will prosper. Collectively, as a nation commitment to these statutes shapes the future we are all working to create-a future where no woman, child or person is living in fear.

 

References:

Dalli, H., & Jourová, V. (2017, February 3). Tackling violence against women: A priority for the EU. Euractiv. Retrieved from https://images.app.goo.gl/3FRmzG1chVbKsxUE6

Goodman, L. (2024, May 7). Domestic violence statistics by state (2024 update). Law Office of Louis J. Goodman. Retrieved from https://images.app.goo.gl/Cvxhnc7NiNDKhffy6

VectorStock®. (2024, March 18). Violence against women poster vector images (over 620). VectorStock. Retrieved from https://images.app.goo.gl/HrL8gogimAYziJr28

Leechong, C. H. (2024, April 28). Ending violence against women: Giving a voice to powerless women on Earth—in the darkness & voiceless. LinkedIn. Retrieved from https://images.app.goo.gl/7iUnJiViuaVfD2A88

From Trials to Triumphs, His Legacy Lives

      "True leadership is not measured by the titles we hold, but by the transformative legacy we leave behind." This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the life and work of Elpidio Quirino, the sixth president of the Philippines. Rising from humble beginnings in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, to guiding a nation through the aftermath of World War II, Quirino’s journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment to public service. His life story inspires generations of Filipinos, proving that greatness is not defined by where we start, but by how we rise above adversity and dedicate ourselves to the greater good.

      Born on November 16, 1890, Quirino was the son of a modest family that valued education. Despite financial challenges, he proved to be an outstanding scholar; he graduated from the University of the Philippines with a law degree and passed the bar in 1915. His political career, at first in the House of Representatives, soon earned him a seat in the Senate. He was immediately recognizable due to his exceptional leadership in handling complex political dynamics. He had to end up in the presidency, his true test as a leader began.

  Quirino’s presidency was during 1948 to 1953 when the Philippines was in the process of recovery from the devastating effects of World War II. The nation needed not only physical reconstruction but emotional healing and economic stability. Quirino tirelessly worked towards the reconstruction of the country, targeting growth economically and socially in its welfare. He established several initiatives with regards to healthcare, education, and housing improvement of the people to end the poverty levels, his leadership during these desperate times was bringing hope to the once despairing nation; therefore, the great leader knew how to stand up for times like that.

  Quirino's foreign policy was no less impressive than his domestic. He was instrumental in securing close relations with the United States, promoting the interest of the Philippines in international fora. Quirino's diplomacy, such as when he helped establish the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO), cemented the position of the Philippines in a new world order after the Second World War. His international relations leadership portrayed him to maintain the country's pride at the national level and international cooperation for the attainment of peace and strengthened sovereignty.

     Outside of political legacy, Elpidio Quirino was remembered through social justice as well as elevating the Filipino people from poverty. His administration promoted programs that benefited the underprivileged sectors such as the farmers, and introduced landmark changes in land reform and economic balance. Quirino realized that the Philippine nation had to move forward as long as the common masses, which were mostly and continually neglected, were taken into consideration. His thrust of social welfare and balanced development forms a solid foundation for further leaders to build on from here.

  Elpidio Quirino: an icon of strength, sympathy, and leadership. While he may not always be in the limelight, his contributions to the Philippines' post-war recovery and the social reforms he advocated are undeniable. As we reflect on his life and leadership, let us remember that true leadership is not about holding power but about lifting others up and serving the greater good. Quirino's story is a powerful reminder that with dedication, humility, and a vision for the future, no matter where we come from, we can impact the world around us in such a lasting manner.

References:

Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Elpidio Quirino. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved November 29, 2024, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elpidio_Quirino

ABS-CBN News. (2022, June 27). Inaugural address of President Elpidio Quirino, December 30, 1949. ABS-CBN News. Retrieved from https://images.app.goo.gl/ihWBhGrrRDHgBGYq8

Flickr User. (2013, September 27). President Quirino receiving Taruc at Malacañan Palace. Flickr. Retrieved from  https://images.app.goo.gl/2sSiH87ccUtg9PRz9

Echoes of Tommorow’s Hope

"When we silence the voices of the past, we risk losing the wisdom of the future."

    For generations, indigenous people of the Philippines have stewarded our lands and kept their beauty, traditions, and wisdom alive for centuries. Despite richness in heritage and depth of connection with the environment, their voices are continuously drowned out, their rights trampled. It's time to stop sidelining the very people who hold the key to sustainable living and the preservation of our culture. It is beyond mere recognition that they deserve; it is about empowerment and respect. We have to act today and start honoring their contributions, giving them space to thrive, not just survive.

    The wisdom of the indigenous people in the Philippines has been passed down through generations but is always drowned out by the noise of modern society. These communities have been carrying the torch for richness in culture, environmental wisdom, and spiritual strength through the ages. They are the heartbeat of our nation, deeply in touch with the land, yet continue to be one of the most marginalized groups in this country. Passively standing by and reflecting is all too done with; the actions come next. Valuing indigenous peoples, nurturing, and giving power to them creates not just a future where their voice is heard but sets pathways leading us toward justice in being truly sustainable and inclusive. Their struggle of survival is our struggle to justice because, through protecting the Indigenous Knowledge and Culture, we do end up protecting the very base for a National Identity.

    The rights of indigenous people in the Philippines are not a matter of mere legal necessity but one of moral responsibility. While the passage of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act was a milestone in history, 27 years hence, many indigenous communities still face threats to their land, culture, and self-determination. While large-scale industries continue to encroach on their ancestral lands, their cultural practices and beliefs are labeled "primitive." That is systemic injustice that mustn't continue. As a country and as individual people, it is our obligation to rise in the belief that indigenous peoples' rights are human rights. And we need to make sure that their voice is loud in every conversation, in every decision, about their land, about their lives.

    It is within this struggle that indigenous knowledge is at the forefront. From agriculture and natural resource management to disaster resilience and climate change, indigenous peoples have long been caretakers of sustainable practices. Their deep connection with the environment offers solutions that mainstream society often overlooks. It's time to recognize that their wisdom isn't just a relic of the past but a vital tool for the future. We must cease to look at indigenous knowledge as something "quaint" and move into welcoming it as integral to the solutions for our most intractable problems. The time has thus come when the voices of indigenous peoples should be heard, their rights respected, and their wisdom incorporated into development designs towards a common future that would be genuinely sustainable and equitable.

    The time to act is now. It's not good enough just talking about the value of indigenous culture and knowledge once a year; this needs to become part of our lives and policy. Valuing, nurturing, and honoring indigenous peoples must be more than the celebration of their culture but put in an empowered position to continue playing that vital role in the shaping of our country's future. Let us come, not as saviors, but as allies committed to the protection of their rights, preservation of their traditions, and recognition of their knowledge. It is a matter not only of justice but of survival for all of us. Let us make sure the heartbeat of our nation is heard, respected, and honored for generations to come.

    The indigenous people of the Philippines are more than the guardians of our natural heritage; they are the soul of our nation. The struggle for the rights of indigenous peoples is not an abstract issue, but a moral one and a call to action for us all. We must act now, but not as passive observers; rather, as active allies in this fight for justice, this fight for empowerment, and this fight for respect for indigenous communities. It is their strength, wisdom, and resilience that will guide us toward a sustainable future. Let us honor, protect, and empower them-not just today, but every day. The heartbeat of our nation is in its roots. Let’s make sure their heartbeat echoes through the future of our nation.

References:

Cumpio, M. F. L. (2023, October 9). The role of indigenous peoples in Philippine society. Retrieved from https://images.app.goo.gl/EBA8p3yS6bCTZLox7

iStock. (2017, April 25). Ifugao ethnic people wearing traditional clothes, Banaue, Philippines. Retrieved from https://images.app.goo.gl/xGMW7nye6kWnSrTp8

Riches, S. (2022, September 17). The Philippines: Where to experience indigenous culture first-hand. Wanderlust. Retrieved from https://images.app.goo.gl/PhiPSAT5SYepPTYE7

Garcia, L. (n.d.). Your essential guide to brass in indigenous Filipino jewelry: What to know before you shop. Retrieved from https://images.app.goo.gl/MpyjUpYrxc5neWXV6