3rd Quarter Reflection: Challenges, Growth, and New Skills This Quarter

This quarter has been a journey of learning new skills and overcoming challenges. I explored HTML lists, conducted community-based research (CBR), and even built a webpage to present our research findings. Some tasks were exciting, while others were frustrating, but everything I learned was valuable. Along the way, I faced different obstacles, but I found ways to push through and improve.

One of the most interesting topics I studied was HTML lists. At first, they seemed simple, but I soon realized how important they are for organizing content on a webpage. I practiced using different types of lists and learned how to structure them correctly. Another major learning experience was CBR, where I discovered the importance of gathering information directly from communities rather than just relying on online sources. This made research feel more meaningful because it connected to real-life problems. The highlight of this quarter was creating a webpage for our research. It was challenging to make it both functional and visually appealing, but seeing the final product made all the effort worth it.

Of course, learning these new skills wasn’t always easy. I had trouble organizing HTML lists, struggled to find accurate information for CBR, and found webpage design tricky. 

However, I kept practicing, managed my research better, and asked my classmates for feedback. Breaking my work into smaller tasks also helped me stay focused and motivated. Looking ahead, I want to continue improving my HTML skills, experiment with CSS for better webpage design, and work on making my research presentations more engaging. This quarter had its ups and downs, but I’m proud of what I accomplished. Every challenge taught me something valuable, and I know these skills will be useful in the future.

Vigan Cityhood: Vigan as a Municipality Then and Vigan as a City Now

 

Vigan is one of the most famous places in the Philippines, known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial houses, rich history, and unique culture. Before it became a city, Vigan was a municipality where people lived through farming, fishing, and trading. The Spanish ruled Vigan for many years, constructing buildings that still stand today. During the American and Japanese periods, the town continued to grow, with the establishment of schools, markets, and churches. Even as a municipality, Vigan was already recognized for its beauty and historical importance.

In 2001, Vigan officially became a city, marking a significant milestone in its development. With cityhood, it received better infrastructure, increased funding, and more business opportunities. Today, Vigan is a top tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who come to see Calle Crisologo, ride a kalesa, and enjoy local delicacies like Vigan longganisa and empanada. 

Despite modernization, Vigan has retained its historical charm, with its old houses, cobblestone streets, and traditions well preserved. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders Cities, Vigan has grown while keeping its past alive. As it continues to develop, it remains a beautiful and historic city, offering a unique experience to both locals and tourists alike.

References:

https://cdn.tatlerasia.com/tatlerasia/i/2022/04/25112030-gettyimages-116030925_cover_1280x853.jpg

https://iamjosemanuel.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/sam_6484.jpg

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.trip.com%2Fmoments%2Fdetail%2Fvigan-14661-119565988%2F&psig=AOvVaw26p3Q4PIG-OYxTShxu8fmr&ust=1740576310706000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBMQjRxqFwoTCIiBs5n23osDFQAAAAAdAAAAABBP

How I Spent My Christmas Vacation

Looking back at my Christmas vacation, I feel very happy and grateful. It was one of the best holidays I have ever had. Every moment was special, from the fun year-end party to the amazing trips with my family. This vacation was filled with laughter, adventure, and quality time with the people I love.

Our trip to Baguio City was an unforgettable experience. It was not just about picking up my brother from college but also about making wonderful memories together. We started by visiting SM City Baguio, where we enjoyed shopping, eating delicious food, and admiring the beautiful view of the city. It felt so nice to be in a place with a cool and refreshing breeze.

One of the most peaceful places we visited was the Baguio Bamboo Sanctuary. The tall bamboo trees and quiet surroundings made me feel like I was in another world. It was a great place to relax and appreciate nature. Another highlight of our trip was visiting the BenCab Museum in Tuba, Benguet. Seeing the beautiful artworks and learning more about Filipino culture made me appreciate how rich and creative our heritage is.

                                                                      Bamboo Sanctuary

BenCab

After celebrating Christmas at home, we went on another adventure, this time to La Union. Staying at a beachside hotel was an incredible experience. Waking up to the sound of waves and feeling the soft sand under my feet made me feel so relaxed and happy. One of my favorite moments was watching the surfers skillfully ride the waves. It was so mesmerizing that I could have watched them all day.

Aside from enjoying the beach, we explored different places in La Union. Agoo Eco Park was a peaceful and green place, perfect for nature walks and family bonding. Another amazing stop was Bahay na Bato in Luna, where we saw unique stone art and sculptures. The creativity of the artists was truly inspiring. We also visited Lakay Ago Nature’s Park, which was surrounded by beautiful greenery. Being in nature made me feel calm and refreshed.

      Agoo Eco Park

                                                                       

Kitty:3

Bahay Na Bato

                                                                                         ...

Aside from our family trips, I also made sure to spend time with my
friends. Whether we met in person or chatted online, I felt happy staying connected with them. These moments reminded me that friendships are important, no matter how busy life gets.

This vacation taught me many things. I learned that happiness does not come from expensive things but from the people we share our time with. Traveling to new places, enjoying nature, and spending time with loved ones made this Christmas unforgettable. It was the perfect mix of fun, relaxation, and bonding. I will always treasure these memories, and I hope to have more wonderful experiences like this in the future.

A New Year, But Still the Same Me

 The new year always comes with this unspoken pressure to change, be better, be different, be new. People set resolutions, rebrand themselves, and act like flipping the calendar automatically resets who they are. But for me? I still feel like the same person I was last year. Same personality, same habits, same struggles. 

 Maybe I expected some kind of shift, some realization that would make everything feel fresh. But the truth is, the past doesn’t just disappear overnight. It lingers. It sticks to you like an old song you can’t get out of your head. 

 And yet, despite feeling like nothing has changed, I still have hope. Hope that things can get better, even if I don’t feel brand new. Hope that I’ll figure things out, even if I don’t have all the answers now. Maybe change doesn’t happen in a single moment, maybe it’s slow, creeping in when we least expect it. 

 So this year, I’m not aiming for a “new me.” I’m just trying to trust myself a little more, be patient with my own growth, and believe that, eventually, things will shift. It’s okay if I don’t feel different right now. Maybe, in time, I will.