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Ikaw pa rin ang Patutunguhan by: Jamia Mendez

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                 Ikaw pa rin ang Patutunguhan  ni Jamia April Rose Mendez "Kung saan saan ako dinala ng alon, tila naliligaw, 'di alam ang patutunguhan…"           There was a time when I felt like I was merely drifting—moving forward but unsure of where I was meant to be. Life has a funny way of making us feel lost, like we’re caught in waves with no clear direction. But then, sometimes, someone comes along, and suddenly, everything starts to make sense.           I still remember the first time I really  noticed  him. Not in the fleeting, casual way you see a person in passing, but in the kind of way that lingers. He had this effortless charm, a presence that wasn’t loud yet impossible to ignore. I admired the way he carried himself, the way he spoke, the way he simply  was.  But above all, I fell for his smile. There was something about it—something warm, something ...

When it all started... by Andrea Magparangalan

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Starting a fitness journey can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for beginners. Walking into a gym for the first time, surrounded by experienced athletes and unfamiliar equipment, may feel intimidating. However, every fitness journey starts somewhere, and with the right mindset and approach, anyone can build strength, confidence, and a healthy lifestyle. Understanding the basics of gym workouts, setting realistic goals, and maintaining consistency are key factors in making the gym a comfortable and productive space. On my first day at the gym, I felt overwhelmed. I was unsure of which exercises to do, how to use the machines properly, and whether people were judging me. Instead of diving into complex workouts, I decided to start simple. I warmed up on the treadmill, observed others, and even asked a trainer for guidance. Although I felt nervous, I reminded myself that every fitness enthusiast was once a beginner too. As I continued my gym journey, I realized the importanc...

Four Destinations, One Adventure by: Althea Allyson Chua

 Traveling has always been my way of learning --- not just about places but also about the people, the culture, history, and the little moments that make life special. Each destination I've been leaves a mark on me, a memory that lingers long after I've returned home. My trips to Tagaytay, Baguio, Intramuros, and Laguna were no exception. Each place had something unique to offer.  Tagaytay: A view to remember  The moment I arrived at the tagaytay for the first time. I felt an instant sense of calm. The cool breeze, scenic views, and the iconic sight of Taal Volcano makes it a must visit destination. My favorite moments in Tagaytay is when my family and I went to Sky Ranch, I felt like a kid again with the thrilling rides, i rode some of their rides and It was so fun. After that, we ate at the restaurant and I tried their bulalo, after we eat, we went back to the place where we will stay for the night and get some rest, and stay up all night until midnight and then the ne...

A blog dedicated to fashion, Stepping into Style. by Ayen Nicole Perman

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A blog dedicated to fashion, Stepping into Style. Hello, lovers of fashion! Greetings from this small section of the internet devoted to all things fashion. I'm Ayen, and I'm very excited to tell you about my love of fashion. This blog will cover a wide range of topics, including product reviews, personal style journeys, trend reports, and styling advice. Consider it your go-to resource for navigating the ever changing fashion industry. The hottest trends this week are all about embracing striking hues and unusual textures. Imagine elegant leather with flowing silks, or bright jewel tones with warm knits. Don't be scared to mix and match patterns and try out various silhouettes. The secret is to have fun and use your clothes to show off your individuality. Trend 1: Jewel Tones: The most popular colors on the catwalks and in street style are ruby red, sapphire blue, and emerald green. Add a striking coat, a colorful sweater, or even a striking pair of earrings to your wardro...

The Unfiltered Voice: Speaking Truth to Power by Samuel Umlas

Let’s be real—politics can feel like one big mess. Every day, we see the same headlines: corruption scandals, broken promises, and leaders making decisions that leave the rest of us wondering, Do they even care about what’s happening down here? It’s exhausting. And it’s easy to just tune it all out, right? I get that. I used to do that too. But here’s the thing—ignoring politics doesn’t make it go away. It’s still there, messing with our lives, whether we like it or not. Rising prices? That’s political. Internet censorship? Political. The climate crisis? You guessed it—political. And the frustrating part is that the people making these big decisions aren’t always the ones dealing with the consequences. We are. So why do so many of us stay silent? Maybe it’s because we’re tired, disillusioned, or convinced that our voices don’t matter. I’ve felt that too. Sometimes it seems like no matter what we do, nothing changes. But that’s exactly how the people in power want us to think. Because...

Heels—Women’s Love-Hate Relationship by Princess Anne Ramos

Rubber shoes are a go-to for they provide comfort, allowing people to walk with ease. But for women? Heels—heels are our sneakers. Whether red, black, pink, or white, whether a classic Mary Jane, loafers or a sharp pointed stiletto, heels complete an outfit like no other. They elevate not just height, but confidence, turning a basic outfit into something classy. No matter how difficult they are to walk with, women still and will always choose heels. It’s not just about fashion—it’s about the aura. The soft, rhythmic click against the floor is more than just a sound; it’s a silent scream of elegance, strength, and poise. Even when they pinch the toes or test one’s balance, there is something undeniably captivating about the way they boost one’s confidence. Heels command attention. They make legs look longer, postures stand taller, and steps feel more purposeful. They add an air of sophistication, whether paired with a dress for a formal event or worn with jeans for a casual but polished...

Living life at my own pace By: Shan Philip J. Luga

     People always talk about lifestyle like it’s some kind of formula—wake up early, hustle hard, follow a strict routine. But for me, it’s never been about that. Life isn’t just about being productive or following trends. It’s about how we choose to experience the world, the little things we notice, and the moments that actually make us feel alive. I find comfort in solitude, excitement in adventure, and meaning in the simple things. Whether it’s through writing, playing badminton, or just sitting by the sea, my lifestyle is shaped by the things that bring me peace.      Nowadays, everyone is in a rush. We always feel like we need to be achieving something—getting better grades, improving skills, or planning for the future. But sometimes, I wonder: what’s the point if we’re too busy to even enjoy the present? When I play badminton, I focus on the moment—every movement, every strategy, every hit. It’s one of the few times when my mind isn’t wandering somew...

Do Me a Solid and DON'T. BE. A. SQUARE! Nostalgia Frenzy from the '70s?! by Rico Angelo M. Cipriano

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'70s Fashion Frenzy in the Philippines?! You heard that right! The popular trend of '70s fashion is getting hip.. AGAIN! Not just in the west, but here in the Philippines!  Yes! 1970s fashion trends have been making a huge comeback in the Philippines. Influential filipina figures like Anne Curtis, Liz Uy, Isabelle Daza, Solenn Heussaff, and Georgina Wilson have been seen embracing the 70s hip style in shades. These include bell-bottom pants, tropical prints, midi skirts, and tinted sunglasses.  Additionally, the fashion industry has noted a resurgence of '70s-inspired elements such as disco pants, color blocking, and hippie-influenced attire, allowing people (especially teens and young adults) to incorporate a retro flair into their modern-day wardrobes. This revival reflects the cyclical nature of fashion, where past styles are reimagined to align and mix perfectly with the contemporary tastes of the modern era!  Liz Uy arriving at Self Portrait spring-summer 2019 at New...

Is Philippine Politics Just a Family Business? By: Prince John Romero

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Every election cycle, familiar last names dominate the ballots. Whether at the national or local level, the same political dynasties remain in power, passing down their influence from one generation to the next. It makes you wonder: Is Philippine politics really about public service, or has it become a family business? Political families consolidate power, using wealth and connections to maintain their grip on governance. Unfortunately, this limits opportunities for fresh, competent leaders who genuinely want to serve the people but lack the resources to compete. When politics is treated like an inheritance rather than a responsibility, democracy suffers, and true progress becomes a distant dream. This cycle of political monopoly leads to stagnation. When power stays within the same families, there’s little room for new ideas or genuine progress. Corruption scandals involving political clans have become all too common, yet voters continue electing them. Why? Because name recognition pl...

A Journey to Cherish by Mary Rose

  Some days feel ordinary, and others stand out—etched into your memory forever. This was one of those days, a perfect mix of laughter, adventure, and small moments that made me realize how magical life can be when shared with the people you love. It all started with a trip to the Chocolate Hills, a place I’d only ever seen in pictures. Seeing them up close was a whole different experience. Those perfectly rounded hills looked like giant mounds of chocolate scattered across the landscape. Standing there, I felt so small—but also amazed by the beauty of it all. After that, we visited Mirror World, a place that felt straight out of a dream. Everywhere we looked, there were reflections. It felt like stepping into another dimension, where nothing was quite as it seemed. We laughed, got lost in the mirrors, and took so many photos. It was confusing, trippy, and so much fun. We ended the day with a peaceful visit to Loon Church. The atmosphere was calm and quiet, a beautiful contrast to ...

Do Early Birds Catches Voters? (By: John Allan Simbillo)

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                                                                                                         From: PCIJ              Every election season, I see posters, tarpaulins, and ads for candidates well before the actual campaign period begins. It's irritating since it's clear that premature campaigning is widespread in the Philippines. These politicians use gaps in our laws to get an early lead over their opponents. What is the worst part? It's perfectly legal. Our judicial system only addresses election offenses during official campaign period, even if the problem began far earlier. This loophole allows wealthy and powerful candidates to flood the public with their names and ...

Beach waves to City lights by Aliyah Barut

If there’s one thing I’m grateful for, it’s experiencing the simple yet fulfilling lifestyle of the province before transitioning to the city. Growing up in Palawan shaped who I am—it was a life filled with adventure, nature, and endless opportunities to explore my interests. This is the lifestyle I had back in the province, a chapter of my life that I will always treasure.  Life in Palawan was peaceful yet exciting. I would wake up to the sound of birds instead of car horns, bike around quiet streets, and spend weekends at the breathtaking beaches with friends and family. There was no rushed feeling, no overwhelming pressure—just the joy of being close to nature. Anytime I felt like it, I could take a quick swim, enjoy the ocean breeze, and watch the stunning sunset.   Back in Palawan, I was always active, not just in sports but also in extracurricular activities. I loved being involved in school events and leadership roles. I was the former Mother Majorette of our school’s D...

Aurora’s Serenity: A Journey to Reconnect with Nature By: Princess Helena G. Cruz

Aurora, Philippines – A place that feels like it’s been kept a secret for just the right people to find. During my recent trip there, I was blown away by how peaceful and beautiful it was. If you’re looking for a spot where you can really unwind and experience nature at its finest, Aurora is the place to be. From stunning beaches to hidden waterfalls, every part of this province has something special. Let me take you through some of my favorite places that made my trip unforgettable. 1. La Playa de Solace One of the first places I visited was La Playa de Solace in Dinalungan, where my relatives run a laid-back beach resort. It’s the kind of place where you don’t have to do much – just sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. The beach is beautiful, the water is calm, and the vibe is so chill. But what I loved most was the way the beach felt at night. I’d walk along the shore, the sound of the waves mixing with the quiet of the night, and just look up at the stars. It’s the kind of place wh...

The Radiance Within: Why Inner Beauty Matters, and How Fashion Can Help by Ana Sophia Ramos

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Imagine a sun-drenched meadow, bursting with wildflowers of every hue. Each blossom is unique, some delicate and shy, others bold and vibrant. Some are perfectly formed, others a little quirky and imperfect. Yet, they all possess a captivating beauty, a vibrant energy that draws you in. This is the essence of inner beauty – a unique and captivating energy that shines through, regardless of outward imperfections. Our society, however, often fixates on the perfectly formed blossoms, overlooking the quiet strength and subtle charm of the others. Social media feeds, meticulously curated, present a distorted image of beauty, a relentless pursuit of flawless faces and bodies. It's a relentless chase, a mirage that leaves us feeling inadequate and insecure. But true beauty, like the meadow's wildflowers, is far more diverse and resilient. It's found in the kindness in a stranger's eyes, the unwavering support of a friend, the quiet strength found in overcoming adversi...

Pinoy Microwave Meals: Easy & Budget- Friendly Recipes for Students By: Irish Belo

    Pinoy Microwave Meals: Easy & Budget-Friendly Recipes for Students Missing home-cooked Filipino food while living on a student budget?Are you a student struggling to save money because of school projects and expenses? Don’t worry! I’ve got some easy, student-friendly tips to help you manage your budget. These tips will make surviving the school year much simpler. Get ready to save money and stress less!  Here are simple and easy, microwave-only Filipino dishes you can make with cheap ingredients, perfect for dorm living.   1. Microwave Sinangag (Garlic Fried Rice) The ideal usage for day-old rice is sinangag. This Filipino-style fried rice, filled with aromatic garlic chunks, is a tasty and nutritious side dish for breakfast or any meal of the day. Turn plain rice into flavorful garlic rice in minutes! Perfect for breakfast or a quick meal anytime.   Ingredients: • Cooked rice (day-old is best) - 1 cup • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced • Oil or but...