Khaizel

          Can you believe that this is already our fourth quarter—and the last one of Grade 10? When I think about it, my heart feels a little heavy. Soon, I won’t be walking into the same room and sitting with my classmates from 10 Marconi anymore. It’s sad to think that our days together as a class in this room are coming to an end. But even though goodbyes are hard, this quarter has also been full of learning and growth, especially when it comes to my studies. Looking back, I realized how much I’ve accomplished and how much I’ve grown, not just as a student, but as a person too.          One of the biggest things I learned and discovered this quarter is all about sitemaps. At first, I didn’t really understand what they were or why they mattered. But as we studied them, I realized that a sitemap is like a map for a website—it shows how all the pages are connected and helps people find their way around. It was really interesting to...

          Have you ever stopped to think about the strongest woman you know? For National Women’s Month, my mind immediately goes to one person, my mom. She is the heart of our home and the person who has shaped my life in so many ways. When I look at her, I don’t just see a mother—I see a fighter, a caregiver, and a true inspiration. This month is all about celebrating women like her, and I want to take a moment to say how much I admire her and everything she has done.      My mom has been through so much in her life. She has faced hard times, worries, and challenges that would have made many people give up. But she never did. She always stood strong, kept going, and made sure that my family and I had everything we needed. Even when she was tired or hurting, she put us first. Seeing her overcome all those difficulties makes me respect her even more. She has been through enough, yet she still gives so much love and strength to everyone around...

     Have you ever looked at the stars and wondered, “What will I be when I grow up?” For as long as I can remember, this question has filled my mind with excitement and a little bit of wonder. When I was just a little kid, I had one big dream that stood out above all others, I wanted to become a cardiologist. I imagined myself wearing a white coat, helping people with heart problems, and saving lives. That dream felt so big and bright, and it still stays with me today, even as I’ve thought of other paths I might take.      Now that I’m older, I’ve thought more about what I really want to do, and I have three main options for my future. My first choice is to become a nurse. I want to be a nurse because I love taking care of people. I want to be there for them when they are sick, hold their hands, and help them get better. It’s a job that needs a lot of kindness and hard work, and I know it would make me feel good to know I’m making a difference in someone’s...

     Who says Valentine’s Day is only for couples? This year, February 14 turned out to be extra special for me, not just because it’s the day of love, but because it was also our 3rd Recognition Day! Imagine, hearts and awards all in one day. I got to spend this meaningful occasion with the people who matter most, my family. It was a day filled with double the joy, double the love, and memories that I’ll keep close to my heart forever.      The day started with excitement as I got ready for school. I was nervous but happy, knowing that I would be going up on stage to receive an award—well, not exactly a big stage, but right there in our classroom. When my name was called, I walked proudly to the front of the room, and I could see my tita smiling from the back of the class, and that moment felt like the best Valentine’s gift I could ever ask for. Being recognized for my hard work was great, but having my family there to share it with me made it even more wo...

     Have you ever been to a festival that feels like a big, warm family reunion? That’s exactly what the Ilocos Sur Festival is like! This event is a colorful celebration of the province’s rich culture, history, and the strong bond between its people. Every year, locals and visitors come together to dance, eat, and make memories that last a lifetime. It’s not just a festival—it’s a heartwarming reminder of how beautiful community and tradition can be.      One of the most exciting parts of the festival is the street dancing. Dressed in bright, traditional clothes, dancers move to the beat of lively music, telling stories of Ilocos Sur’s past and present through their steps. The streets come alive with color, music, and laughter as everyone watches and cheers. It’s impossible not to feel happy and energized when you see the dancers smiling and giving their all. Even if you don’t know the steps, you’ll find yourself tapping your feet and wanting to join in. ...

     What takes place when old cobblestone streets are filled with drum beats, bright carnival lights, and the friendly warmth of a whole community celebrating together? In January 2026, I found this answer in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, when the city became full of life for the yearly Longganisa Festival, which is held at the same time as the Fiesta of the Conversion of St. Paul.     The very moment I walked into Vigan’s historic area, the air was full of energy. Colorful decorations were put up on every side of the well-kept Spanish colonial streets. Live music could be heard moving through the small streets where local people and travelers had come together to celebrate the event. What I noticed most was how smoothly the city combines its deep historical roots with practices that are still part of daily life. This turns the festival into an experience that has important cultural meaning and is also very interesting for every person who is there.   ...