Jules Morales

            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...