Learning, Growing, and Having Fun Along the Way

        One of the highlights of my third quarter journey is embarking on a Community Based Research (CBR) along with my groupmates and incorporating the lessons we learned about coding into the making of our webpage. It allowed us to use coding to support a community-focused initiative, which enhanced our technical skills while also fostering a sense of social responsibility. Engaging in CBR was not only educational but also fulfilling, as we learned how to engage with the community and understand their concerns.

     As our group was formed for this task, Reindel was appointed as our leader. For our project category, we selected Science, Technology, and Health, and within this, we focused specifically on the topic of biological life (flora and fauna). After discussing potential ideas, we decided to narrow our focus to cauliflower, exploring its biological aspects, including its growth, environmental requirements, and relevance. 

    He assigned each of us specific components of the research, ensuring that everyone had a clear and distinct responsibility. With these tasks in hand, we were able to focus on our individual contributions. I was tasked with writing the Brief Research Description, where I created an overview that clearly outlined the scope and purpose of our study. This involved summarizing the key objectives and providing context for the topic, making sure it was both informative and engaging for our audience. Throughout the process, each of us took full ownership of our respective roles, ensuring that our work was cohesive and aligned seamlessly with the overall goals of the project.

    To gain a deeper understanding of our topic, we visited Pudoc Norte, the community that served as the foundation of our research. There, we conducted interviews with local farmers, focusing specifically on those who cultivate cauliflower. Our goal was to learn more about the agricultural practices surrounding cauliflower, its significance to the community, and the role it plays in their livelihoods. Through these conversations, we gathered valuable insights that enriched our understanding of both the crop and its importance to the people who grow it.

    In addition to the interviews, we also visited the farms where cauliflower is cultivated to observe the farming process firsthand. This allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the techniques and practices used by the farmers. 

 

    We were able to witness the different stages of cauliflower growth, from the small, delicate seedlings to the fully matured, large heads of cauliflower. Observing the farms gave us valuable insight into the conditions that contribute to successful cauliflower cultivation, as well as the challenges farmers face in ensuring healthy crops.

  

    After gathering all the necessary information through interviews and farm visits, we carefully compiled and analyzed our findings. With all the data in place, the paper was finalized, ensuring that our research was thoroughly well-organized.

  

     We then moved forward with the webpage, where various codes were incorporated to enhance both its functionality and presentation. The incorporation of these codings allowed our webpage to be presented in a way that was not only informative but also interactive and engaging. After that, we presented our webpage.

This journey has been an experience, allowing me to expand my knowledge while also enjoying the process along the way.

  

Reference:

    

    Blogger: <http://www.blogger.com>

Three Quarters of the Way

    In the third quarter, I had the opportunity to delve into coding, which was both exciting and challenging. One of the key concepts I learned was how to create ordered lists, where the sequence of the items matters. I discovered how to use the "start" attribute, which allows me to set the starting point for the list, such as beginning at a number other than 1. Additionally, I explored the "type" attribute, which enables the use of different types of markers in the list, such as Roman numerals, letters, or numbers, to structure the order. In contrast, I also learned about unordered lists, where items are presented with bullet points instead of numbered or lettered markers. Furthermore, I was introduced to nested lists, a list placed within another lists, which allowed me to organize information hierarchically. Alongside coding, I also engaged in a Community-Based Research project, where we designed a study based on a real community issue in the community that served as the foundation of our research, where we also created a webpage that presented our findings in an interactive and informative way.

    While coding was an exciting challenge, I did encounter significant difficulties, primarily due to my lack of experience in this field. I found it particularly hard to spot small errors in the code, as even a tiny mistake could cause the entire webpage to malfunction. These errors often prevented the page from displaying correctly, which was frustrating and time-consuming to troubleshoot. My lack of knowledge about coding made it even harder. However, I addressed this challenge by turning to various online resources. By learning from my errors, I was able to learn how to carefully check my code, identify common mistakes, and understand how to resolve them. Over time, I became more comfortable with the debugging process, improving my confidence in coding.

    Moving on, I will apply the knowledge I gained from this quarter to further develop my coding skills and deepen my understanding.  This journey has sparked a passion for both coding and research, and I am excited to continue honing these skills in the coming quarters. This journey has sparked a passion for both coding and research, and I’m eager to continue refining these skills and exploring new opportunities for growth in the upcoming quarters.

Reference:

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

A Fresh Start with Unity and Prosperity

    Red lanterns, dragon dances, and the excitement of a new beginning—what makes Chinese New Year so special? For many Filipinos, Chinese New Year is more than just a celebration for the Chinese community. It is an occasion to embrace new beginnings, prosperity, and tradition. The Philippines, home to a significant Chinese Filipino population, has long celebrated this vibrant festival, blending Filipino and Chinese customs in a way that highlights the deep cultural connection between the two. As the Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, marks a fresh start, Filipinos join in the festivities, adopting practices that symbolize good fortune and success for the coming year.

    The celebration of Chinese New Year in the Philippines is a beautiful mix of tradition and cultural exchange. Whether or not Filipinos have Chinese roots, many eagerly join in the festivities as a way to honor their Chinese neighbors and embrace the positive energy the holiday brings. Simple practices like cleaning the house to get rid of bad luck, wearing red for good fortune, and making sweet rice cakes for prosperity have become cherished parts of Filipino celebrations. One of the most loved traditions is giving "ang pao" or red envelopes filled with money, a gesture of sharing good fortune and well-wishes for a bright year ahead. These customs, rooted in the hope of attracting luck and harmony, are deeply meaningful, echoing Filipino values of unity, generosity, and family.  Parades with dragon and lion dances, fireworks, and other lively activities often take place in areas with large Chinese communities, adding to the excitement and festive spirit of the day. 

       Filipinos observe Chinese New Year not only for its festive nature but also as a way to strengthen community ties and promote unity. The event offers an opportunity for people of different backgrounds to come together, share joy, and celebrate a common hope for success and happiness. With its blend of ancient Chinese traditions and Filipino values of hospitality and family, Chinese New Year has become a meaningful celebration for Filipinos, reflecting a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and the universal desire for a prosperous future.

As the lanterns light up the sky, the warmth of Filipino unity and tradition shines even brighter, reminding us that no matter our heritage, the Lunar New Year is a time for new beginnings, shared blessings, and hope for a prosperous year ahead.

References:

Mysak, S., & Nicdao, J. (2025, January 10). Chinese New Year 2025 in Philippines. Rove.me. https://rove.me/to/philippines/chinese-new-year

Hygienique, D. (2024, January 19). Chinese New Year Spring cleaning tips for a vibrant home. De Hygienique. https://www.dh-asia.com/latest-updates/chinese-new-year-spring-cleaning-tips-for-a-vibrant-home

Hackwriters.com - Visit Manila for Chinese New Year. (n.d.). https://www.hackwriters.com/MonkeyFW.htm

Bridging Eras: Preserving Heritage While Embracing the Future

     “History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.” This quote by John Dalberg-Acton perfectly captures the essence of Vigan, a place where history and modernity intertwine, creating a vibrant yet deeply rooted community. Have you ever wondered how a place can maintain its charm while evolving over the years? Vigan, once a small municipality, is now a thriving city that has beautifully preserved its historical richness while adapting to modern changes. Located in the Ilocos region of the Philippines, Vigan has evolved from a quiet, charming town into a lively city that beautifully preserves its rich cultural heritage. As you stroll through its streets, the old Spanish-style buildings and cobblestone roads whisper stories of the past, while the city’s modern progress shows how it's making its way into the future. It’s a place where the charm of yesterday and the promise of tomorrow live side by side, creating a unique, living blend of history and innovation.

    In the past, Vigan was known primarily for its colonial architecture, with cobblestone streets and

Spanish-era buildings that reflected the town's rich history. As a municipality, it was more laid-back, not well-known beyond the region, drawing in only a handful of travelers who were curious about its historical beauty. The town was a quiet place where the pace of life was slow, and the community was closely knit. The presence of old churches, ancestral houses, and a strong sense of tradition kept its cultural identity intact, making it a hidden gem for history lovers and explorers alike. It was a place where time seemed to stand still, and every corner held a piece of the past waiting to be discovered.

     Vigan has blossomed into a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern growth. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it draws visitors from around the globe, captivated by its beautifully preserved Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant cultural traditions. But Vigan isn’t just a relic of the past. It’s a city that has embraced progress, with improved infrastructure, thriving businesses, and a higher quality of life for its residents. Tourism, agriculture, and small enterprises now fuel its economy, while the city continues to honor its roots. Despite all these changes, Vigan has managed to hold onto its cultural identity, showing that growth and heritage can thrive side by side. Vigan’s journey from a quiet town to a lively city is a powerful reminder that while we evolve, we must always carry our past with us. 

Vigan’s journey from a quiet town to a lively city is a powerful reminder that progress doesn't mean forgetting where we come from—it means honoring our history while shaping a brighter future.

References:

A quote by John Emerich Edward Dalberg-Acton. (n.d.). https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/700065-history-is-not-a-burden-on-the-memory-but-an-illumination-of-the-soul

Tewell, J. (n.d.). Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Northwest Luzon, Philippines, before 1896. Flickr. https://www.flickr.com/photos/johntewell/35661543234

Reyes, M. G. (2024, July 17). Exploring Vigan: a Well-Preserved Spanish colonial town in the Philippines. Tatler Asia. https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/travel/in-its-full-glory

Medel, A. (2023, October 6). Visiting Vigan - Yale Daily News. Yale Daily News. https://yaledailynews.com/blog/2023/10/06/visiting-vigan/

In This New Year, I Rise Anew

   I take this new year as an opportunity to improve myself and rise anew. I seek growth in both my academics and my character. With gentler words, I’ll speak to me. I’d embrace my flaws and let them be. I’ll mend the cracks that time has made, heal the wounds that I didn’t inflict on myself, and fix the life I had messed up a bit. I will avoid committing the same mistakes I’ve done in the past, and take it as a lesson as each trial cast. Instead of criticizing myself, I will try to offer the same kindness I offer others. To spread positivity and be a source of joy and comfort to the people I value the most. To offer help before it is asked for. 

   My academics is something that really matters to me the most. I aspire to excel as much as I can, and I hope that this new year will allow me to show my potential. For me to improve every day so that I can make myself and my parents proud. My academic journey the previous year had a lot of setbacks which made me unmotivated to continue being better. I hope that the version of me this year will be more consistent and motivated to do everything she used to love to do. To not be afraid of taking chances and to not be discourage every time something doesn’t go my way. 

   I also want to focus on my relationships with my family, friends, and others. I hope to be present when they need someone, to listen to them with empathy, offer every support I can offer, and to show my appreciation to them for making my life tolerable. This year, I want to build bridges rather than walls. To strengthen  the connections that mean the most to me and investing in new ones carefully. 

I’ll strive to be better than what I was yesterday.

Reference:

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

Wrap It Up: Holiday Highlights

    During the Christmas, I simply celebrated it with my family as usual. Spending quality time with them was the highlight of my Christmas.  It’s the one time of the year when everyone makes an effort to come together, despite their busy lives and schedules. One of the most meaningful moments was waiting until midnight to welcome Christmas. The house was filled with laughter and chatter as we indulge in delicious food and baked goods. I ate various dishes, not only satisfying my appetite but also enjoying the shared experience of feasting together. The men in our family gathered together, drinks in their hand and shared stories and laughter, while the women kept things organized, guiding us through the games and making sure no one’s left out. The kids, full of energy, are off in their own little world, running around and getting caught up in their playful chaos, adding their own spark to the celebration.

    Playing games was another source of joy, where I bonded with everyone, regardless of age. It became an unforgettable memory, filled with shared laughter and friendly competition. What made it even more thrilling was the prize for the winners, usually a money or product. Reconnecting with family members from abroad was also a beautiful aspect of the holiday. Despite the challenges of distance and time zones, Christmas brought us closer, even if just for a few precious moments. 

    Overall, this Christmas holiday felt like a time of reconnection, not just with people, but with traditions and values that are easy to overlook in our busy lives. It was a reminder of what truly matters, family, love, and the joy of sharing moments with others. 

“At Christmas, the true gift is not found under the tree, but in the warmth of family gathered around it.”

References: 

Gilbert, R. C. (2020, September 17). Richard C Gilbert’s Merry Christmas blog. WACB 860AM. https://860wacb.com/richard-c-gilberts-merry-christmas-blog-2/

Gallery.Yopriceville. (n.d.). Christmas Snowman Transparent PNG Clip Art image. Gallery Yopriceville. https://gallery.yopriceville.com/Free-Clipart-Pictures/Christmas-PNG/Christmas_Snowman_Transparent_PNG_Clip_Art_Image

Christmas Tree Clipart PNG images, Transparent Christmas Tree Clipart image download , page 2 - PNGitem. (n.d.). https://www.pngitem.com/so/christmas-tree-clipart/2/

 

Understanding HTML: A Quarter of Growth

        In the second quarter, I gained a solid understanding of HTML, learning essential tags and how to implement them in creating web pages. I discovered the importance of tags like <h1>, <p>, and <a>, which helped me structure content such as headings, paragraphs, and links. Additionally, I learned about stand-alone tags like <br> for line breaks and <hr> for horizontal rules, which were crucial for organizing and separating content on a webpage. By combining these tags, I was able to create simple, functional web pages. This knowledge provided me with the foundational skills needed for web development, and I felt a sense of accomplishment as I applied these techniques through hands-on projects.

     One of the challenges I encountered was my lack of knowledge about how certain tags work and how even a small mistake could cause everything to malfunction. At times, I found myself frustrated when a webpage wouldn't display as expected, and it was often due to something as simple as forgetting to close a tag or using the wrong tag in the wrong place. These small errors were hard to detect, and they could prevent the entire page from functioning properly, making the troubleshooting process more time-consuming and challenging.

   To address these challenges, I focused on paying more attention to the details, making sure I carefully reviewed my code to catch any mistakes. I also used online resources and sought help from my peers and instructors to better understand how each tag functions and how to troubleshoot effectively. With more practice, I became better at spotting errors and learning how to fix them quickly. Moving forward, I will continue to deepen my knowledge of HTML and begin exploring more. 

Reference:

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