ISNHS 124th Foundation Day: A Day to Remember

 

A Quarter of Lessons

 

Every Woman Matters

 

From Rhythm to Reason

 

When I was a child, I always knew what I wanted to become in the future. I dreamed of becoming a lawyer. I imagined standing in a courtroom, speaking confidently, and defending people who needed justice. I admired how lawyers could use their knowledge and voice to fight for what is right. From a young age, I believed that one day I would also stand up for others and help protect their rights.

  

But there has always been another dream close to my heart. Dancing has always been my passion. Ever since I discovered my love for it, dance has been more than just a hobby. It is a way for me to express my emotions, creativity, and passion. I imagined teaching students, creating performances, and inspiring others as a Dance Instructor or Dance Choreographer. Dance is beautiful because it allows people to communicate without words and bring joy to both the performers and the audience.

  Even though dancing has always been my dream, I have realized that pursuing it as a career might not be realistic for me at this time. Becoming a professional choreographer or dance instructor requires opportunities and financial resources that are not easy to secure. Considering my family’s situation and the financial realities of life, I feel that choosing a more stable career is the best path for now.

  That is why I have decided to prioritize law as my future career. Being a lawyer offers stability and the chance to help people in real ways. While dance will always remain my passion, law has become my main goal because it is practical and allows me to support myself and my loved ones. I still hope to continue dancing as a hobby or even teach small classes in the future, but my focus now is on building a secure and meaningful career.

  Making this decision was not easy. There are moments when I feel torn between what I love and what I need to do. I have learned that life often requires balancing dreams with reality Choosing law does not mean giving up on dance completely. It means finding a way to grow, learn, and prepare for the future while still keeping my passion alive.

  dreams guide us, but reality teaches us how to make them possible. My love for dance will never disappear, but choosing law as my career is the decision that will help me achieve my goals and build a future I can be proud of. I hope that with hard work and dedication, I can succeed in both my responsibilities and my passions.

Love Beyond February

Valentine’s Day is usually celebrated on February 14. On this day, many people give flowers, chocolates, letters, and gifts to the people they love. Couples go on dates, friends exchange small presents, and families spend time together. Because of these traditions, many people think that Valentine’s Day is only about romance or relationships. However, love is much more than that. Love is something that should not be shown only once a year. It should be expressed every day in the way we treat other people.

  Love can be shown through simple actions. We do not always need expensive gifts or grand gestures to show someone that we care. Sometimes, the smallest actions can mean the most. Saying thank you, helping someone who is struggling, or listening when a friend needs someone to talk to are all ways of showing love. These small acts of kindness can brighten someone’s day and remind them that they are valued.

  Family is often the first place where we learn about love.

 

Parents show their love by working hard to provide for their children and by guiding them as they grow. Children can also show love to their parents by respecting them, helping with household chores, and appreciating the sacrifices they make.

Love within a family creates a strong bond that helps people support each other during both happy and difficult times.

Intayon Sirmata ti Ili

A Short Visit, A City Full of Stories

The Vigan Festival runs from January 16 to 26, and even though I only visited for a few days, the experience was more than enough to make it memorable. I did not go on the exact feast day, but the events I witnessed still showed how alive and colorful the festival was. Each visit felt special in its own way and made me appreciate Vigan more.

On January 21, after our periodical exams, Aubrey and I

decided to go to Vigan as a way to relax. We went to Calle Crisologo, a place known for its old houses and peaceful atmosphere. Walking along the street felt calming, especially after days of studying and exams. 

The sound of footsteps on the cobblestone road and the warm lights around the area made the place feel comforting. We took our time walking, talking, and simply enjoying the moment. After spending some time there, we went to McDonald’s to eat. It was a simple meal, but it felt rewarding after a long and tiring day. That short visit helped clear our minds and made us feel refreshed.

On January 22, we went back to Vigan to watch the festival dance competitions.

The place was filled with people, music, and excitement. I was truly amazed by the performances, especially Category A, which was composed of elementary students. Despite their young age, they performed with confidence and energy. Their costumes were colorful, and their choreography was well prepared. It was impressive to see how much effort they put into their performances.

We also supported our school’s dance troupe, Sanggalaw. Watching them perform made the event more meaningful for me. 

After the dance competitions, my classmates and I went to the food fair.

 

There were many foods to choose from, and it was fun trying something new. I tasted pani puri, an Indian food, for the first time.

 

Unfortunately, I was only able to taste the base and not the sauce, but even so, it still tasted good. The experience of trying food from a different culture made the festival even more exciting.

At around six in the evening, we watched the festival showdown. All the performances were amazing, and the energy of the crowd made everything more exciting. When the winner was announced and our school’s dance troupe won, I felt very proud. It was a happy moment not only for the performers but also for those who supported them.

After the festival dance, there was a band performance.

Parokya ni Edgar performed that night, and I felt very emotional because they are one of my favorite bands and will always be special to me. Watching them perform live was something I did not expect, and it made the night even more unforgettable.

A quarter

The second quarter taught me lessons that were not always written on the board. I learned about pressure, expectations, and how words can stay longer than lessons. Hearing things like 

“kaya mo yan dati ah”

 “dapat perfect score ka” or

 “parang nagdadrasal ka lang ng sagot”

slowly sank into me and made me question myself. Still, I learned that learning is not always loud success. Sometimes it is quiet survival, showing up even when confidence is shaking. I discovered that growth does not always look impressive, but it is still growth.

This quarter was emotionally heavy for me. There were days when I felt overwhelmed, tired, and afraid of disappointing others. The pressure to do well made simple tasks feel heavy, and there were moments when I felt like my efforts were not enough. I also struggled with comparing myself to others and feeling like I was falling behind. At times, it felt lonely carrying all these thoughts while trying to keep going.

I faced these challenges with the help of my friends and my own determination. My friends became my safe space, the ones who reminded me to breathe, laugh, and keep going when everything felt too much. We shared stress, jokes, and encouragement, making the hard days lighter. I also learned to push myself gently, to study even when motivation was low, and to remind myself that trying is already an achievement.

Moving forward, I will choose to be kinder to myself. I will continue learning without letting harsh words define my worth. I will value progress over perfection and hold onto the people who support me through my highs and lows. Next quarter, I will move forward stronger, not because everything became easier, but because I learned how to keep going despite everything.

 

Growth Beyond Winning

The third quarter taught me so many things that I did not expect to learn. I learned not only lessons from schoolwork, but also lessons from experiences that tested me as a person. One of the biggest moments this quarter was our hip hop performance. I was the leader and also one of the choreographers, and through that role, I realized that leadership is not about being the best or knowing everything. It is about learning alongside others. Even if I was the leader, I was still learning too. We were all learning together, making mistakes, correcting them, and growing as a group. That experience taught me patience, responsibility, and humility.

Despite the learnings, this quarter was also challenging. Being a leader was not easy because I felt pressure to guide my group while still figuring things out myself. There were times when practices were exhausting and stressful, especially when things did not go as planned. Balancing academics with practice was difficult, and there were moments when I doubted myself. Losing the competition was painful because we worked hard and gave our best. It made me feel disappointed and frustrated, especially knowing how much effort everyone put into the performance.

I addressed these challenges by choosing to reflect instead of giving up. I listened to my teammates, accepted criticism, and tried to improve where I fell short. Losing helped me realize that winning is not the only measure of success. That experience made me more mindful of my skills and my attitude. Instead of blaming myself or others, I used the loss as motivation. It pushed me to think about what I could do better next time and how I could grow, not just as a dancer, but as a leader and teammate.

Moving on, I want to continue improving myself. I want to sharpen my skills, be more confident, and stay open to learning no matter what role I am given. I will carry the lessons from this quarter with me and remember that growth often comes from challenges and failure. This quarter taught me that learning does not stop when you lead, and that sometimes losing is what helps you become better.

A Pen That Changed a Country

José Rizal is often called the face of the Philippines because his life and ideas reflect the struggles and hopes of the Filipino people. His greatest contribution to Philippine society was not through weapons or violence, but through his words and ideas. “Ang panulat ay mas makapangyarihan kaysa espada” perfectly describes Rizal’s belief. He showed Filipinos that change can begin by opening minds and speaking the truth.

Through his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, Rizal exposed the abuses of the Spanish colonizers and the suffering of Filipinos. His writings made people realize that what thy were experiencing was injustice, not normal life. “Hindi tayo ipinanganak para magtiis habang inaapi” is the message many Filipinos felt while reading his works. 

Rizal helped awaken national consciousness by making people aware of their identity and worth as Filipinos.

Rizal also showed that loving the country means being willing to sacrifice. He chose to face death instead of abandoning his principles. “Mamatay man, may iiwan akong diwa” reflects how his execution did not silence him. Instead, it strengthened the desire for freedom and unity among Filipinos. His courage inspired others to continue fighting for independence and dignity.

Jose Rizal’s greatest contribution lies in how he taught Filipinos to think, question, and love their country deeply. He reminded us that freedom starts with awareness and that change begins when people refuse to stay silent. Even today, his ideas continue to shape Philippine society, making him not just a hero of the past, but a voice that still speaks to the present.

Reference/Source:

Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines

National Historical Commission of the Philippines

https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph

Finding Meaning in a Different Christmas

Christmas, in its true essence, is more than decorations, gifts, or celebrations. It is found in simple moments, quiet nights, and the warmth we try to give to others. Christmas reminds us to pause and reflect, to be gentle, and to remember love even when life feels heavy. The season is not always loud or bright, sometimes it is calm and silent, but still meaningful.

This Christmas, I did not expect much. Our family no longer celebrates it the way we used to before, when everything felt complete and joyful. “Hindi na tulad ng dati” became real for me. There were no big gatherings or long preparations like in the past. Instead, Christmas felt different, quieter, and a little empty, yet honest. It reminded me that change is part of growing up, even during seasons meant for happiness.

Even so, I learned that Christmas does not lose its meaning just because traditions change. A simple meal, a short conversation, or a moment of peace can still carry the spirit of the season. “Tahimik man, totoo pa rin” describes how Christmas felt for me this year. It was not about what I received, but about accepting what is and appreciating small moments.

In the end, the essence of Christmas is not measured by how grand it is, but by how it makes us feel inside. Even if celebrations are no longer the same, Christmas still reminds us to choose kindness, gratitude, and understanding. I may not expect much now, but I carry the meaning with me, hoping that warmth will return in its own time.

Weaving Identity, Protecting Tomorrow

The celebration of the Philippines’ National Indigenous Peoples Month with the theme “Weaving Culture, Enriching Future: Empowering Indigenous Communities as Bedrock of Sustainable Development” reminds us that Indigenous Peoples are not part of the past, but part of the present and future. Their traditions, stories, and ways of living carry wisdom that has been passed down through generations. When we say culture is being woven, it means their identity continues to live, even as the world changes.

This celebration highlights how Indigenous communities protect nature and live in harmony with their environment. Their knowledge of land, forests, and resources shows that development does not always mean destruction. “Alam nila kung paano alagaan ang lupa” reflects how their practices support sustainability. By respecting their culture, we also learn better ways to care for the environment and future generations.

However, many Indigenous Peoples still face discrimination, lack of access to education, and threats to their ancestral lands. Some are told “maiwan na lang kayo,” as if progress has no space for them. This shows why empowerment is important. Protecting their rights means listening to their voices, respecting their land, and making sure they are included in decisions that affect their lives.

National IP Month is a reminder that Indigenous Peoples deserve recognition, respect, and protection. “Ang kultura ay hindi dapat binubura” reflects why their traditions must be preserved. By supporting Indigenous communities, we help build a future that values diversity, justice, and sustainability. Their culture strengthens the nation, and their presence enriches our shared identity as Filipinos.

Reference/Source:

National Commission on Indigenous Peoples

Department of Education Philippines

https://www.ncip.gov.ph

Serving a Nation After War

Elpidio Quirino was born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. He grew up in a simple family and learned early on the value of hard work and discipline. His childhood was not easy, but it shaped his determination to study and succeed. He later earned a degree in law, which opened the path for him to serve the country through public service. His early life showed how perseverance and education played a big part in his journey.

Before becoming president, Quirino built his career in government step by step. He served as a lawyer, congressman, senator, and later as Vice President under Manuel Roxas. His time in public office allowed him to understand the struggles of Filipinos, especially during and after World War II. The war deeply affected his life, as he lost his wife and children during the Japanese occupation. This personal tragedy influenced his leadership and strengthened his desire to rebuild the nation.

When Quirino became president in 1948, the Philippines was still recovering from the damage of war. His administration focused on rebuilding the economy, restoring public services, and strengthening foreign relations. He worked to improve agriculture, industry, and national security while pushing for peace and order in the country. Despite facing criticism and challenges, his efforts contributed to the early recovery of the Philippines during the post-war period.

President Quirino’s achievements may not have been perfect, but his leadership reflected resilience during a difficult time in Philippine history. His life story shows how personal loss, dedication, and service shaped his presidency. Through his efforts, he helped guide the country toward stability and recovery when it needed it most.

Reference/Source:

Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines

National Historical Commission of the Philippines

https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph

“Wala Kang Kasalanan”: Fighting for Children’s Safety

The 2025 National Children’s Month theme “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!” reflects a truth many people avoid facing. When we hear the words “wala kang kasalanan,” it speaks directly to children who are blamed, silenced, or ignored after experiencing abuse. Children should never have to carry shame for something done to them. This theme reminds us that behind every statistic is a child who deserved protection but was failed by the system around them.

The government has created laws and programs meant to stop online sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These include efforts to track online crimes, remove abusive materials, and rescue victims. Awareness campaigns during National Children’s Month help inform people that online abuse is real and happening. Hearing statements like “may karapatan kang maging ligtas” matters because it tells children that someone is supposed to protect them and that abuse is not normal or acceptable.

Still, many cases continue because protection does not always reach the children who need it most. Some victims stay silent after hearing “huwag ka nang magsalita” or feeling that reporting will only make things worse. Slow action, lack of access to help, and fear allow abuse to continue. This shows that protection should not stop at written laws. It must reach homes, schools, and online spaces where children are most vulnerable.

This theme is a reminder that children cannot fight these battles alone. When we say “ipaglaban ang bata,” it means listening when they speak, believing them when they are scared, and acting before harm happens. A safer future begins when children are treated with dignity and when their safety is taken seriously, not later, but now.

Reference/Source:

Council for the Welfare of Children

Department of Social Welfare and Development

Republic Act No. 9775 Anti Child Pornography Act of 2009

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. As you walk along its cobblestone streets and see the old Spanish-style houses, it’s easy to imagine what life was like hundreds of years ago. The sound of the horse-drawn kalesa, the warm smiles of the locals, and the gentle breeze that carries the scent of history — everything about Vigan feels magical.

Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its incredible preservation of Spanish colonial architecture. The most famous spot here is Calle Crisologo, a charming street filled with ancestral homes, souvenir shops, and cafés. It’s a place where the past and present come together — where history lives side by side with modern life. 

All around the city, there’s something worth discovering. The Bantay Bell Tower gives you a stunning view of Vigan, especially during sunset. The Syquia Mansion and Crisologo Museum tell stories of the people who helped shape this city’s history. And when night falls, the Vigan Dancing Fountain lights up the sky, bringing smiles and laughter to everyone watching at Plaza Salcedo.

Vigan is also a city of tradition and craftsmanship. In Pagburnayan, you can see how skilled potters shape clay into jars using techniques that have been passed down through generations. You can also visit weaving centers where locals create Abel Iloko, a handwoven fabric known for its beauty and strength. These crafts are not just souvenirs — they’re living pieces of culture. 

And of course, you can’t visit Vigan without tasting its food. The crispy bagnet, flavorful longganisa, and the famous Vigan empanada are must-tries. Each dish tells a story — a story of family, culture, and the Ilocano love for food made with patience and heart.

But beyond all the sights and flavors, what truly makes Vigan special is its people. They’re kind, hardworking, and proud of their heritage. They remind us that progress doesn’t mean forgetting where you came from — it means honoring your past while moving forward.

The Heritage City of Vigan isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a living memory of who we are as Filipinos. It’s a place that reminds us to appreciate our history, celebrate our culture, and carry our stories with pride.

My Human Chatgpt

Happy Teacher’s Day

There are some people in life who leave a lasting mark on us not because of what they gave us, or what they expected in return but because of how they made us feel. Because of who they were when we needed someone to believe in us, to guide us, to listen. Teachers are those people. And today is about you.

From the outside, a classroom might look like just desks, whiteboards, and lesson plans. But anyone who’s ever been taught by a real teacher knows it’s so much more than that. It’s where confidence is built. It’s where mistakes are welcomed and turned into growth. It’s where students are seen, heard, and valued for who they are — not just for how they perform. Behind every lesson you’ve ever planned, every hour you’ve stayed up late marking papers, every moment you’ve paused to check in on a student — there’s love. Quiet, patient, steady love for what you do and who you do it for. And the thing is, most people will never fully see the sacrifices teachers make. They won’t see the weekends spent preparing, the moments of doubt you carry in silence, the emotional weight of caring for dozens of students who each need something different. But we see enough to say, from the bottom of our hearts: thank you.

Thank you for choosing this path even though it’s one of the hardest.
Thank you for showing up, even on days when it feels like no one notices.
Thank you for giving your time, your energy, your patience — your heart.

You’ve taught us far more than what’s written in textbooks. You’ve taught us how to think critically, how to treat others with kindness, how to get back up after we fall. You’ve shown us what it looks like to keep showing up, to keep trying, to keep believing — even when things don’t go as planned. There’s something incredibly special about a teacher who can look past grades, test scores, and behavior, and still see the human behind it all. That’s you. You saw us when we didn’t know how to ask for help. You gave us chances when we didn’t deserve them. You pushed us to be better — not just smarter, but stronger, kinder, and more capable of facing the world.

And maybe we didn’t say it enough. Maybe we were too caught up in growing up to stop and tell you what a difference you made. But know this: the lessons you’ve taught, the support you’ve given, the belief you’ve shown — they stay with us. Long after the school bell rings for the last time. Long after we move on. Because of you, we know a little more about who we are. Because of you, we believe we can do more than we once thought we could. Because of you, we’re braver — and more ready for the road ahead..

Happy Teacher’s Day to all Teachers!

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.

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 Bañez 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.