Francis

Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur are each a showcase of history, adventure, and natural beauty in the Philippines. In a recent trip, I have been to two popular tourist spots: Bantay Church Bell Tower and the Ilocos Adventure Zone. These places gave me a mix of culture, excitement, and unforgettable memories. The Bantay Church Bell Tower is one of the oldest and most iconic landmark structures in the region, situated within Bantay, Ilocos Sur. Built in 1591, it was also a watchtower during the Spanish colonial period. As I climbed up into the tower, an astonishing view appeared of the town and its surrounding areas. The old bricks, quiet atmosphere, and history in the background made me feel as if I traveled in time. The place is serene and tranquil-just perfect for those who want to reflect, take pictures, or study Philippine history. From the belfry, I proceeded to the Ilocos Adventure Zone, which was a complete change of pace. This is located near Quirino Bridge and is intended for thrill...

This quarter has been one of growth and discovery, not only in academics but also in self-understanding. I have learned a lot, especially in the Sciences and Math, where lessons made me think further and be more curious about things. I also learned the importance of managing your time well and having self-discipline in keeping up with schoolwork. Working with classmates taught me that teamwork and communication can make any task lighter and more enjoyable when everyone supports each other. Of course, it wasn't always easy. There were days when deadlines piled up, and I felt the pressure of doing well. Some lessons weren't that easy to grasp, and I sometimes caught myself comparing my progress to others. Those moments made me doubt myself, but they also reminded me that learning isn't supposed to be perfect, it's about trying, failing, and getting better each time. To overcome these challenges, I started planning my days more carefully and breaking big tasks into smaller...

The Philippines, a beautiful archipelago of over 7,000 islands, is also one of the world’s most vulnerable countries to climate change. Its location on the Pacific “typhoon belt” and its social and economic challenges leave millions of Filipinos exposed to stronger storms, rising seas, and shifting weather patterns. Around the world, the continued rise in greenhouse gas emissions fuels these changes, bringing more frequent typhoons, longer droughts, and dangerous floods that hit the Philippines especially hard. At home, local issues make things worse. Rapid urban growth, deforestation, and poor land use strip away the country’s natural defenses. Forests and mangroves that once protected communities from floods and storm surges are disappearing, while unplanned city expansion leads to clogged waterways and homes built in high-risk areas. These problems feed into one another, creating a cycle that makes recovery even harder after every disaster. It is a deeply personal impact. Farmers ha...

The Science Month of 2025 The gathering centered on "Harnessing the Unknown: Powering the Future through Science and Innovation" highlights the importance of exploring uncharted territories of knowledge to build a more sustainable and progressive society. Science has always been the foundation for human advancement, whereas innovation drives our ability to tackle problems and improve our quality of life. Facing global challenges such as climate change, health crises, and technological progress, science continues to serve as a guiding light towards a better future. In the coming decades, the relationship between science and society will grow ever more intertwined. Every innovation—from artificial intelligence and sustainable energy to space exploration and biotechnology—will directly impact how we live, work, and engage with the world. Society, in turn, ought to encourage scientific progress through education, research funding, and the responsible use of technology. The more w...

The 2025 Teacher's Month Celebration, "My Teacher, My Hero," gives emphasis to the vital role of the teachers in molding our lives and the future of our nation. They are much more than mere lecturers; they are the mentors, guides, and parental figures that help us reach our fullest potential. Their hard work and commitment often remain unnoticed, yet they continue to invest their time and efforts into our knowledge gain and development as students. I show my appreciation to my teachers through respect, paying attention in class, and trying to excel in my studies. Their effort can be acknowledged with ease through simple actions such as welcoming them, showing gratitude, and paying heed to their suggestions. Teachers inspire us to dream big and never give up, making them the real-life champions who help build our minds and character. Their perseverance and commitment continue to shape our educational development, our principles, and our perspective on life. As we celebrate...