Jules Morales

This is my last reflection post on this list of blogs I have made and will try to make this short as much as I can. So, did I enjoy writing? Yes, like the previous posts, I've managed to discover and/or voice what I've been keeping inside for a while now, and tell my insights or views about traditions and such, like Mother's day. With fun, follows problems however. Some issues I experienced lately was the lack of time to write or complete my tasks. I had to constantly keep the posts in draft because I had a limited time to write before I had to focus on more enduring tasks. But even so, I still tried having fun writing.  So, what will I be doing after this? Or more specifically, during school break? Well, I want to focus a little on content creation, mainly gaming. This school activity of writing blogs has actually helped immensely for me because I have expanded my writing abilities a lot more and now, I think I have no problem with expressing, which will become very useful...

How do I see myself 10 years from now? It's a question I normally get asked about, and I'm sure many has gotten the same question from other people, be it family, friends or teachers. But has any of you actually managed to answer this question? If yes, then I hope it's a good one and it does happen. If not, then there's still time to think about it. As for me, I can't seem to answer the question, no matter how hard I try. I've had a constant stream of bad luck that goes my way every now and then. For example, I'd like to visit a friend's house and planned it next week. When the day arrives, all of a sudden my family is going out somewhere and I have the choice to be left behind or go with them. It's moments like that, that gets me to think without any time.  I can still try to answer the question, but I'll be giving a general answer, not a specific one since I might attract my bad luck and just mess up. As to how I see myself in the future 10 yea...

Mother's Day is a special occasion celebrated worldwide, but in the Philippines, it carries a unique blend of cultural and familial significance. Rooted in deep respect for family ties and the maternal figure, Mother's Day in the Philippines is a time of heartfelt expressions, family gatherings, and cherished traditions that highlight the country's rich cultural heritage. In the Philippines, Mother's Day, known locally as "Araw ng mga Ina," is typically celebrated on the second Sunday of May. This special day is dedicated to honoring the sacrifices, love, and dedication of mothers. Filipino families go out of their way to make their mothers feel appreciated, often starting with a thoughtful greeting or a touching letter filled with gratitude and love. Family is the cornerstone of Filipino society, and this is evident in how Mother's Day is celebrated. Extended family members often join in the festivities, turning the day into a large family reunion. It...

            Wanting to change the world is a big dream, but also a tough challenge. However, it's pretty rewarding if you pull it off. Want to try it? Here's something I realized just a couple weeks ago. The power to change the world or anything around us is present in anyone. It just depends on how you use it. I like to call these types of changes as "Creation, Sustain, or Destruction." The names are pretty self-explanatory; Creation is simply making new things to happen in you, your surroundings, and everyone you know, or don't know. Destruction is like what it sounds —breaking things, people or the environment.  Meanw hile, creation involves bringing new things into existence and destruction involves removing or changing existing things, sustaining focuses on preserving and nurturing what already exists. This threefold classification suggests a balanced perspective on change—acknowledging the importance of not just creating or destroying but also en...

           Every year on April 9th, Filipinos commemorate Araw ng Kagitingan, or the Day of Valor, a day dedicated to honoring the courage and sacrifices of Filipino soldiers during World War II. But why do we remember this day with such reverence? During the war, the Philippines became a crucial battleground in the Pacific, and Filipino troops played a vital role in the fight against the Japanese invasion. The events leading up to and during the war were marked by immense bravery and unwavering determination displayed by Filipino soldiers and guerilla fighters. One of the pivotal moments of valor was the Fall of Bataan in 1942. Despite being vastly outnumbered and lacking resources, Filipino and American troops fought relentlessly, holding their ground for months against the enemy's advance. The eventual surrender after enduring such hardships led to the infamous Bataan Death March, where thousands of Filipino and American prisoners were subjected to i...

 This will be my second last reflection blog I will publish, I think... But that's not the thing I want to focus on. I want to enjoy the days I have left before I move up, or graduate from Junior High. So, like the previous reflection posts, what did I learn during this quarter? Well, I again, learned more and more about myself. I was able to express how I felt through writing on this account, especially the one about Valentine's day! I poured emotions into that post. Little by little, I'm enjoying writing, better than last time, I should say. I remember before, I tried writing a short novel out of boredom, I did give up on it, but activities like these make me want to continue it, as during the beginning of this account, the posts I wrote were mostly for obligatory purposes. But now, I enjoy doing this, I have mentioned it many times, but I won't get tired of it. Writing has been one of my ways I can express my feelings, without having to repeat it to a different perso...

           A special day to remember for all ISNHS'ians is the Ilocos Sur National High School Day! Or, HSD Celebration (Foundation Day, if you like to keep it simple). Celebrating about a certain something or someone whenever they reach a milestone in their life, or overcome a great obstacle is always a must for me. It shows you truly care about it/them no matter what happened.           My thoughts on the event? It was fun! Very, very fun! The days of being constantly under the Sun, practicing a dance that's aim is to leave and everlasting impact on the audience, by dazzling them with well-synchronized movements and such? It all became worth it in the end. The dance competition we students have performed during HSD is like a way of showing all our efforts as students throughout the school year, and the years to come, in a dance the people will never forget.           Aside from the dance competition for gr...

            Valentine's day, a time of the year when all people, single or taken, always has something to do on said event. Wether it's to bring the person you like out on a date, to act as a third-wheeler, or just stay at home and watch Netflix to your heart's content. I also like to call it a day where relationships are created, or destroyed. Yes, it happens, but the second thing? Rarely, so long as you know what you're doing.           Now, what is there to talk about Valentine's day, when it's already long done? There's still quite a few, honestly. One is going to act as a reminder but, don't treat February 14 like it's the only time of the year you'll actually show how much you care about the people around you; you can do that everyday! And those people will surely appreciate it. Although, you don't necessarily have to show how much you care every, single day; but have some time to take care of yourself. After all, how will you...

  This is one of Vigan City’s most busiest times in the year and it never ceases to amaze a lot of people with how there’s so much things for people to do. Every year on January 25, Vigan City in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, celebrates its city fiesta. This event is held in honor of the conversion of St. Paul the Apostle, the city’s patron saint. The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle, a significant landmark in Vigan, stands at the core of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia. Let’s do a little bit of history. St. Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, was a zealous persecutor of early Christians. His dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, where he was struck blind by a heavenly light and heard the voice of Jesus, marked a turning point in his life and in the spread of Christianity. In the face of the ongoing pandemic, Vigan City has creatively adapted its commemorations to the “new normal”. The city offers live-streamed services and online prayer...

            Can you believe it? We've stepped into a whole new year! New Year, New Me – that's the vibe I'm feeling right now. So, let's dive into this blog post where I spill some thoughts, dreams, and maybe a sprinkle of awkwardness.   First things first, happy New Year to all of you! I hope your year started with positive vibes and maybe a plate of your favorite food. As for me, well, I spent the New Year's Eve wrapped in my favorite blanket, sipping hot chocolate, and watching the fireworks from my front yard. I like the cold, but the blanket's just there to make things more cozy. Introvert things, y'know?   Now, let's talk about the phrase we've all heard a million times: "New Year, New Me." I've always rolled my eyes at it, thinking, "Do I really need a whole new version of myself?" But this time around, I'm looking at it differently. It's not about changing who I am but more about growing, learning, and ...

  In the rich tapestry of Philippine history, one name stands out as the face of the nation—Dr. Jose Rizal. Known for his intellect, passion, and unwavering dedication to the ideals of freedom and national identity, Rizal played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the Philippines during a critical period in its history. In this blog post, we delve into the life of this national hero and explore the question: What was Rizal's greatest contribution to Philippine society? Born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna, Rizal was a true Renaissance man—a polymath who excelled in various fields such as literature, medicine, and the sciences. His brilliance was evident from an early age, earning him a scholarship to study in Europe, where he would eventually complete his medical degree and become a prolific writer. Rizal's pen was his most powerful weapon against the injustices of the Spanish colonial regime. His novels, "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo,...

           As the calendar flips to December, the air is filled with a sense of anticipation and warmth, signaling the arrival of the Christmas season. The streets adorned with colorful lights and the familiar tunes of carols echoing through the air create a festive atmosphere that captures the essence of joy. This yuletide season is more than just a time for exchanging gifts and indulging in feasts; it is an opportunity to embrace the values of love, compassion, and community. Inspired by the Filipino spirit, my family and I have found meaningful ways to celebrate Christmas that go beyond the materialistic aspects. In our household, Christmas is a time for reflection and gratitude. We take a moment to appreciate the blessings we have and consider those who may be less fortunate. This year, we decided to extend our celebration beyond our family circle by participating in community outreach programs. Together with our neighbors and friends, we organized a ...

          As we immerse ourselves in the celebration of National Children's Month, the resonating theme, "Healthy, Nourished, Sheltered. Ensuring the Right to Life for All," prompts a profound reflection on our collective responsibility towards children's well-being. Among the multifaceted dimensions of this responsibility, one stands out prominently — healthcare. This essay explores the imperative of actively contributing to the promotion of children's rights and welfare in the sphere of healthcare.           The bedrock of a child's well-being is laid upon the foundation of accessible healthcare. It transcends the mere presence of medical facilities; it demands a commitment to ensuring that every child, irrespective of socio-economic background, has unfettered access to quality medical care. Advocacy emerges as a potent instrument in this pursuit. Engaging with local and national initiatives, r...

  Moving ahead, my commitment is to apply the skills and knowledge gained in the first quarter to my studies and daily life. I'll continue exploring new learning opportunities and embracing fresh experiences while actively working towards clear goals set for the coming quarters. Becoming a better student and person each day is my overarching goal, and I'm dedicated to making the most of my time and resources. Despite encountering challenges in the first quarter, including balancing academics and extracurricular activities, managing time effectively, staying organized, and navigating the online learning environment, I remain undeterred. These challenges serve as reminders that I've addressed by: - Setting a schedule for daily activities and adhering to it as closely as possible - Breaking down long-term assignments into smaller tasks and focusing on one task at a time - Using organizers and time-management tools to stay on track - Seeking help when needed and garnering suppo...

  September holds a special significance for me. It’s not just the ‘BER’ month that signals the start of the Christmas season. This is a time when we all come together to do our part in preserving our environment. It’s more than just picking up litter; it’s about adopting a lifestyle that values sustainability and respects nature. When natural disasters strike, they serve as a stark reminder of what can happen when we neglect our environment and disrupt the balance of our ecosystems. That’s why I’ve decided to start a Photo Blog. Through this platform, I can share my experiences and the steps I’m taking towards disaster prevention and environmental conservation. It’s not just about raising awareness, but also about inspiring others in my community to take action. By emphasizing the importance of these issues, I hope to encourage more people to join me in cleaning up, fixing up, and conserving our environment. After all, it’s the only home we have, and it’s up to us to ensure it r...

  Dear President Marcos,          I am writing this letter to express my feelings about you and your administration. I am a 10th grade student from Vigan, Ilocos Sur, and I have been following your political career since you became president in 2022.           First of all, I want to say that I admire your courage and determination to pursue your vision for our country. You have faced many challenges and criticisms from your opponents and the international community, but you have never given up on your goals. You have shown strong leadership and charisma in dealing with various issues, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the territorial disputes in the South China Sea, the economic recovery, and the peace process with the rebel groups.           Secondly, I want to say that I appreciate your efforts to improve the quality of education and health care in our country. You...

          The Philippines is a country that faces many challenges, from natural disasters to social issues. Yet, despite the hardships, the Filipino people have shown remarkable resilience and optimism in the face of adversity. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from difficulties and cope with stress. It is also a quality that can be nurtured and developed through various means.             One way to build resilience is to foster a sense of community and solidarity among Filipinos. The spirit of bayanihan, or mutual help, is a cultural trait that has been demonstrated in times of crisis, such as during typhoons, floods, and volcanic eruptions. Filipinos are known for their generosity and compassion, offering what they have to those in need. They also find ways to bond and have fun together, even in the midst of calamity. A picture of children playing basketball while waist-deep in floodwater shows how Filipinos can f...

 In a classroom where we gather each day, Our teachers guides us on our way, With wisdom, patience, and a caring heart, In this poem, we'll play our heartfelt part. Oh, dear teachers, you shine so bright, Guiding us from the morning until the night, Your wisdom and knowledge, you freely share, In your classroom, we always find care. With a smile that warms the darkest skies, You help us spread our wings and rise, Through lessons, laughter, and some tears, You've been with us through the years. In the realm of knowledge, you're our guide, Your inspiration flows from deep inside, With your encouragement, we dare to dream, In our hearts, you reign supreme. In your class, we've learned life's golden rules, A sanctuary where we're no longer fools, Your nurturing hand and words so wise, Help us reach for the endless skies. Through tests and trials, you've been our rock, Teaching us to think, to question, and to talk, With you, we've grown, learned, and thrived...

          As an  introvert, I've often felt like I exist in a world that revolves around extroverted qualities like sociability and outgoingness. Yet, I've come to realize the incredible power in embracing my introverted nature. I find my energy and creativity in moments of solitude, and in this blog post, I want to share the unique strengths I have discovered as an introvert and how I've learned to harness these qualities to lead a fulfilling life.           One of the things I've learned to appreciate about being an introvert is my ability to reflect deeply on my thoughts and emotions. Solitude provides me with a space for self-discovery, allowing me to gain a deep understanding of both me and the world. This self-awareness helped me enhance creativity and problem solving.          I've heard of sayings that go: "A quiet person is talkative to the right people," and that's exactly right! While I prefe...