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 Drum and Lyre, leading the team with pride during performances. I was also the SSLG Vice President, balancing responsibilities while making sure students’ voices were heard. On top of that, I was an honor student, always striving to do my best in academics while managing my other commitments.  I also enjoyed playing sports—table tennis, volleyball, and even dancesport. Whether it was a casual game with friends or a school competition, I loved the thrill of learning new skills and pushing myself to improve. Sports weren’t just about winning—they were about having fun, staying active, and creating unforgettable memories.  But now, life is different. Moving to the city was a challenging adjustment—everything suddenly felt fast-paced and overwhelming. Instead of hearing the calming waves, I wake up to the constant sound of traffic. Instead of biking around the familiar neighborhood, I now navigate through crowded sidewalks and busy streets. It’s a new adventure, an exciting chapter, and a completely different experience.  

Despite the contrast between my simple province lifestyle and my now fast-paced city life, I’m grateful for both. Living in the province taught me to appreciate the little things—fresh air, slow mornings, and the beauty of nature. Now that I’m in the city, I’m learning to embrace change—meeting new people, discovering new places, and adapting to a different environment.  One thing that hasn’t changed? I’m still the adventurous type, always ready for spontaneous plans. Whether it’s a quick beach trip when I’m back home or exploring an unfamiliar spot in the city, I’m always up for anything fun. Life may be changing, but my love for simple joys and exciting experiences? That will never fade.  

This is me, Aliyah Barut, 17 years old, living, adapting, and making the most out of every adventure, whether by the sea or in the city.