Travel Vlog: Vigan

 

Travel Blog: Vigan 

ISSUE 2025             Sunday, 01/25/26             08/03/10

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Every January, Vigan City awakens to the irresistible aroma of garlic and celebration. On January 22, the city bursts into life with the Longganisa Festival, a tribute to Vigan’s most iconic delicacy. The famous Vigan longganisa, rich, savory, and proudly garlicky, is more than just a breakfast staple. It is a symbol of heritage passed down through generations. Held during the last week of January, this festival transforms the historic streets of Vigan into a stage for colorful street dances, culinary competitions, and lively parades that honor the city’s century-old tradition of longganisa-making.

Just as the excitement from the Longganisa Festival begins to settle, another celebration takes over the city. The Vigan Town Fiesta begins on January 25 and is a week-long event honoring St. Paul the Apostle, the beloved patron saint of Vigan. During this time, the streets glow with vibrant exhibits, bustling carnivals, and energetic performances by locals, filling the city with joy, faith, and pride.

This year’s Longganisa Festival left a lasting mark on me. On January 22, I witnessed the grand parade, and it was far more lively than I ever imagined. Walking alongside my friends, surrounded by music, cheers, and movement, made the experience even more unforgettable. Participants from different schools across Vigan City filled the streets, each group wearing striking costumes inspired by Vigan’s culture, architecture, and traditions. Everything from the colors to the rhythm blended beautifully, making the parade feel like a living portrait of the city itself.

As the celebration unfolded, I realized that the festival was not just about honoring Vigan’s famous sausage. It was also a powerful display of unity. The people of Vigan came together as one, showcasing the true essence of the Ilocano spirit through warm hospitality, kindness, generosity, and creativity. Through their smiles, performances, and shared excitement, the festival became a reflection of who they are as a community.

 January 25 marked the grand highlight of the town fiesta as Vigan celebrated the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle. As the grand finale of the week-long festivities, the city felt more alive than ever. The historic streets echoed with celebration, as if the entire municipality was joyfully presenting its culture and faith. Witnessing the harmony between Vigan’s Spanish colonial architecture and the vibrant energy of modern Ilocano life made the moment truly meaningful.

Experiencing these festivals taught me that Vigan’s celebrations are not simply about delicious food or dazzling parades. They are about connection between people, culture, history, and faith

 In Vigan City, every celebration tells a story, and for a few unforgettable days in January, I was lucky enough to be part of it.

references: www.blogger.com

 

 Second to the Last

ISSUE 2026            Friday,10/16/26             08/03/10

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I have learned many new things this quarter, especially about Philippine
history and culture. I discovered how important Indigenous Peoples are in protecting our environment and how heroes like Jose Rizal shaped our identity as Filipinos. These lessons made me appreciate our country more....

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One challenge I faced was managing my time with schoolwork and projects. Sometimes deadlines felt overwhelming, and I struggled to balance everything.

I addressed these challenges by organizing my tasks and asking help from classmates and teachers. Working together made things easier and less stressful.

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Moving on, I will continue to improve my study habits and be more disciplined. I will also try to participate more in class discussions and activities to learn better. And one last thing I want to say to myself, and my classmates is, Anos lang, dandani kay' ag gradwaren.

xoxo, brey!

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REFRENCES: WWW.BLOGGER.COM

Aming Bayani

 Aming Bayani

ISSUE 2025                   MONDAY, 01/13/26                08/03/2010 ♬

 

Merry Christmas

ISSUE 00                Monday, 01/05/26              08/03/2010

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Christmas is one of the most awaited celebrations in the Philippines. For many, it is not just about gifts or decorations, but about the true essence of love, sharing, and family. It reminds us of the birth of Jesus Christ, which is the center of the season.

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The essence of Christmas is seen in how families come together. Even simple meals become special when shared with loved ones. It is also a time to give, not only material things but also kindness and forgiveness.

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For me, Christmas is about joy and hope. It teaches us to be grateful for what we have and to spread happiness to others. Even small acts of kindness can make the season meaningful.

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REFERENCES: WWW.BLOGGER.COM

 

Pili, Pinas!

ISSUE 2025            Friday,10/29/25              08/03/10

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The Philippines celebrates National Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month every October, and the 2025 theme is “Weaving Culture, Enriching Future: Empowering Indigenous Communities as Bedrock of Sustainable Development.” This celebration is a reminder of how important Indigenous communities are in shaping our culture and protecting our environment for the generations to come. Their traditions, values, and way of life are like colorful threads that make up the fabric of our nation. From their dances, weaving, and music, we see how rich and diverse the Philippines truly is.

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The theme “Weaving Culture, Enriching Future” shows that Indigenous Peoples are not only keeping traditions alive but also helping us build a better tomorrow. Their knowledge about farming, forests, and water is very important in solving today’s problems like climate change. By listening to them, we learn how to live in harmony with nature and how to take care of the land that gives us life.

Celebrating IP Month also teaches us respect. Indigenous communities have faced struggles in protecting their land and rights, and this month reminds us to stand with them and make sure their voices are heard. Empowering them means giving them equal opportunities in education, health, and livelihood so they can continue to thrive while sharing their wisdom with the rest of the country.

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For me, IP Month is more than just a celebration. it is a call to action. As students, we can help by appreciating their culture, joining school activities about IP Month, and spreading awareness. When we value Indigenous Peoples, we also value our future as Filipinos. 

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REFERENCES: 

National Library of the Philippines – Indigenous Peoples Month and the 28th anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act

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 President Elpidio Quirino

ISSUE2025 Thursday,11/24/25 08/03/10

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President Elpidio Quirino was one of the

Filipino leaders who guided the country during a very difficult time in history. He was born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Growing up, Quirino experienced hardship early in life, especially after losing his father at a young age. Despite this, he valued education and perseverance, which later shaped his strong sense of responsibility toward public service.

Before becoming president, Quirino built a long career in

government. He served as a lawyer, legislator, and later as Secretary of Finance and Secretary of Foreign Affairs. His experiences in different government positions helped him understand the needs of the country. When he became Vice President and then President in 1948, the Philippines was still recovering from the devastation caused by World War II.

One of Quirino’s greatest achievements was focusing on post-war rehabilitation. He worked hard to rebuild the economy, restore government institutions, and improve public services. His administration prioritized infrastructure development, social welfare programs, and economic stability. He also supported land reform and encouraged foreign investments to help revive the nation’s economy.

As a leader, Elpidio Quirino showed resilience and dedication despite personal tragedies, including the loss of his family during the war. His presidency may have faced criticism, but his efforts to rebuild the country and promote peace reflect his commitment to national recovery. Learning about his life reminds me that leadership requires strength, sacrifice, and a sincere desire to serve the people.

References:

• Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines – Elpidio Quirino

• National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP)

NCM

 National Children’s Month 

ISSUE 2025          Thursday, 11/14/25              08/03/10

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The 2025 National Children’s Month Celebration, with the theme “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!”, highlights a crucial call to end Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM). In today’s digital age, children spend more time online, studying, playing, and discovering the world. However, this also exposes them to threats that put their innocence, rights, and safety at risk. This year’s theme reminds us that protecting children is not just a responsibility, but a collective fight that demands urgency and compassion.

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The government plays a major role in safeguarding children’s dignity and rights by strengthening laws and systems designed to stop online exploitation. Through measures like the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act (RA 11930), authorities now have clearer guidelines to track offenders, shut down abusive content, and hold platforms accountable. Programs led by the DSWD, PNP-WCPC, and DICT also work hand-in-hand to monitor online activities, respond to cases faster, and educate communities on digital safety. These efforts show that child protection must be proactive, not reactive.

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Beyond laws, the government also emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces, both online and offline, where children can grow without fear. Campaigns promoting digital literacy, responsible online behavior, and community reporting empower families to recognize dangers early. The government’s partnership with schools, NGOs, and international organizations strengthens protection networks, ensuring every child’s right to education, safety, and a life free from exploitation is upheld.

As the nation continues to modernize, the fight against OSAEC and CSAEM becomes more challenging, but also more important. National Children’s Month serves as a reminder that every child deserves protection, respect, and a chance to dream without harm. With stronger laws, united communities, and continuous advocacy, we can build a future where children are safe, valued, and free.

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Reference/Source:

Republic Act No. 11930 – Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act.

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) – Official OSAEC Campaign Materials.

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