Thursday, September 25, 2025

Science: Lighting the Path to the Unknown


Science is like a key that helps us open doors to things we don’t yet understand. The 2025 National Science Month theme, “Harnessing the Unknown: Powering the Future through Science and Innovation,” reminds us that the unknown isn’t something to be afraid of—it’s something we can explore and learn from. With every discovery, science gives us new ways to make life better and prepare for the future.

Science and society have always been connected. Whenever people face new challenges—whether in health, technology, or the environment—science steps in with solutions. We’ve seen this in many ways: medicines that save lives, technology that connects us to people around the world, and clean energy that helps protect our planet.

 In the years ahead, science will continue to help us deal with big issues like climate change, pandemics, and the need for sustainable resources. But science also comes with responsibility. If it is used without care, it can create problems like inequality or harm to the environment. 

That’s why society needs to make sure science is guided by fairness, ethics, and sustainability. With the right policies and education, scientific progress can benefit everyone—not just a few.

At the same time, science is a source of inspiration. National Science Month is a chance to spark curiosity, especially among the youth. When students see how science can solve real problems, they are encouraged to think critically, be creative, and dream of contributing to a better world. The theme invites all of us, no matter how small our role, to take part in exploring the unknown.

In the end, science is about hope and empowerment. It gives us the tools to face challenges with confidence and turn uncertainties into opportunities. This year’s celebration reminds us that the unknown is not a wall but a doorway—to a brighter, fairer, and more sustainable future for everyone.



 

Climate Change: A Global Crisis of Our Time



 

One of the biggest issues facing Filipinos today is still climate change. As an archipelago, the Philippines is extremely susceptible to both gradual changes like rising sea levels and rising global temperatures as well as unexpected calamities like earthquakes and typhoons. 

In addition to the nation's natural resources, millions of families' livelihoods, safety, and health are also at risk due to these environmental changes.

Human activities play a major role in driving these environmental changes. The burning of fossil fuels, improper waste disposal, and large-scale deforestation greatly contribute to global warming and the degradation of ecosystems. In the Philippines, these disruptions increase the risks of stronger typhoons, flooding, and prolonged droughts. Unfortunately, the most vulnerable communities often bear the heaviest burden, as they have limited resources to recover quickly from such disasters.


BURNING OF FOSSIL FUELS



IMPROPER WASTE DISPOSAL


DEFORESTATION


Filipinos continue to be incredibly resilient in spite of these difficulties. Following disasters, communities band together to support one
and rebuild their lives with resiliency and hope. 


This fortitude, which has its roots in bayanihan (community spirit),
demonstrates how well the Filipino people can adjust to adversity. But resilience shouldn't be the sole answer; increased local and international climate action, catastrophe preparedness, and sustainable practices are all urgently needed.


In the end, climate change is unavoidable, we can lessen its impacts if we act now. Sustainable living, renewable energy support, and environmental protection are not just obligations but also needs. We can improve our towns and environment for future generations if every Filipino makes a contribution.

Sunday, September 14, 2025

Intramurals


Intramurals 2025: A Day to Remember




The day started really early. My alarm rang at 4:30 in the morning, and I remember lying in bed still half-asleep, asking myself why I had to wake up so soon. But then I remembered—it was for Jillian. Together with my friends, we helped Jillian Bilgera get ready for her big moment. We fixed her hair, adjusted her gown, and made sure she looked her best. It felt good to know we were there for her, not just as helpers but as friends who believed in her.


When Jillian finally walked on stage, she looked so beautiful and confident. The crowd went silent for a second, and then everything turned loud when her name was called as Ms. Intramurals 2025.

We screamed so hard, hugged each other, and even cried. That victory wasn’t just hers, it felt like it was ours too.



Later that day, we went to the DANCESPORT

competition to cheer for our friends Emman BaƱez and Aleina Abonita. The moment they stepped on the floor, the crowd clapped and cheered. When the music started, they moved with so much confidence and grace that it gave me goosebumps. We shouted their names, clapped until our hands were red, and smiled the whole time. 

Watching them dance made me so proud because I knew how much courage it took to perform in front of everyone.


The next day, we went to the football field. The sun was setting and the sky was painted in soft orange and pink. The players were running nonstop, kicking the ball with so much energy, and never giving up even when they were tired. Every time the ball got close to the goal, my heart raced. And when a point was scored, the crowd went wild. I shouted as loud as I could, almost as if I was part of the team.




Two days after the intramurals ended, we went back for the volleyball game. The gym was filled with excitement. You could hear the squeak of shoes on. the floor, the thud of the ball, and the cheers of the crowd. 

Right in the middle of it all was 
my best friend Karl
When it was all over, I started to think about everything that happened. At first, I felt a little left out because I did not join any of the games. 




I wasn’t on stage, I wasn’t on the field, I wasn’t holding a ball. But then I realized that being part of the intramurals isn’t only about playing. It is also about showing up, cheering for your friends, and celebrating their wins as if they were your own.


I may not have competed, but I was there when Jillian wore her crown, I was there when Emman and Aleina danced their hearts out, I was there when the football players gave their all, and I was there when Karl ruled the volleyball court. Those moments made me feel like I truly belonged.


In the end, intramurals taught me that sometimes, the most important role you can play is to support, to cheer, and to keep the memories close. And for me, that will always be something unforgettable.

Vigan: Ti Siudad Ti Nasantuan a Daan

  The   Heritage City of Vigan   in   Ilocos Sur   is one of those places that instantly makes you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. A...