My Most Memorable Experience as an Immersionist at Anda Pearl Premier Resort

 

My Most Memorable Experience as an Immersionist at Anda Pearl Premier Resort

by EJ Magadan

Some days, I felt both excitement and overwhelming self-doubt. Other days reminded me how hard work truly is and how I needed to push myself every single day. There were mornings when I woke up feeling tired and unsure if I could keep up with everything I needed to learn and accomplish. From talking to guests, washing dishes, asking help from my co-immersionists, to coordinating with the staff and the people around me—everything required courage. Still, I am glad I took the risk and was willing to learn everything I could.

It was challenging, to be honest, especially when I made mistakes because I lacked knowledge or failed to ask how things should be done. There were bad days and there were good days. By taking small steps, I began to feel that I was no longer doing things just because I was an immersionist, but because they were important and would help me in the future.

I am just an ordinary person with no special knowledge about this kind of work. At first, I felt out of place and doubted whether I could do it. However, with the people around me, I found the strength and courage to face something new. The good side of the experience was that everyone believed in me and was willing to help. The resort staff taught me many things—from learning how to be patient and kind, to always smiling at the people around me. Through this, I found ways to overcome challenges that had been a hindrance to me since my first day. As I worked through every challenge, relationships grew stronger, and tasks slowly started to become enjoyable.

Looking back to December 15, when I first started, I realized how much I learned and how much I grew. The challenges helped me become stronger and taught me how to handle difficult situations. I learned that you don’t need to be perfect at everything, nor do you need special talents or skills to work well. With hard work, perseverance, and commitment, every effort pays off. I am proud of everything I went through, and I could not have achieved this without the help of the people around me.

Both the good and bad days taught me that everything takes time and does not need to be rushed—it’s a matter of moving forward step by step. This experience taught me that a privilege like this is not about being inferior or better than others, but about using the opportunity to gain knowledge, learn from it, and make the most of every moment we are given.

 

Education Week: Building Knowledge for a Better Tomorrow

Education Week: Building Knowledge for a Better Tomorrow
By: Rhea Mae Torreon

Education Week is a special school event that celebrates learning, creativity, and student growth. The purpose of Education Week is to improve and enhance students’ skills in learning. It helps students grow not only academically, but also socially and creatively. It gives students the opportunity to present their skills in arts, science, sports, entrepreneurship, and performances. As a TVL student, it was an amazing opportunity for me to practice our skills not just socially, but also in critical thinking. It felt like real practice, especially since we are all preparing for our Work Immersion. It taught me a lot about cooperation, leadership, and teamwork.

My experience during Education Week on November 27–28, 2025, at Badiang National High School was truly unforgettable. I was able to help sell different kinds of street foods such as barbecue, chicken intestines, and chicken feet. The campus was full of energy, and it felt exciting to be part of students who had their own small booths. We also won Best Booth Award and Best Christmas Tree Award. It was very unexpected, especially because we were so busy and did not have enough time to prepare properly. The preparation was rushed, but thanks to the help of the HUMSS students, they managed to decorate our booth and made it one of the best booths on campus. Selling street food taught me a lot—not just about handling money, but also about being patient and responsible.

What made the experience even better was the teamwork and laughter with my friends. We supported each other, helped cook and serve, and enjoyed every moment even when things became hectic. Handling customers taught me how to be patient and more understanding during times of pressure. As a TVL student, I learned how to deal with difficult customers. Based on what I learned in my strand, it is important to empathize with customers and put yourself in their shoes. These real-world lessons are just as important as academics.

 

 

Reading with Faith: My First Time Serving as a Lay Liturgical Minister

Reading with Faith: My First Time Serving as a Lay Liturgical Minister

by Cristel Jane Gultiano

Serving for the first time as a Lay Liturgical Minister (LLM) was an experience that challenged my fears and strengthened my faith in God. At first, I thought it would be a simple task—just reading—but it turned out to be a meaningful moment that taught me that true service is not about performance, but about mission and calling. It is about offering oneself to God sincerely and wholeheartedly.

Putting on the Lay Liturgical Minister (LLM) uniform for the first time, I already felt nervous as I looked in the mirror, constantly reminding myself that I could do it. What ifs flooded my mind—what if I made a mistake while reading? What if I mispronounced a word? As I walked toward the church, my hands trembled and my pulse fluttered. However, knowing that my friends were beside me and that it was also their first time serving somehow gave me a sense of relief. I reminded myself that I was not alone in this journey.

When we arrived at the church, I composed myself and reread the First Reading, since I was assigned as the first reader. I practiced carefully and asked for clarification on the proper pronunciation of certain words to make sure I would read them correctly. A few minutes later, we proceeded to our seats. As I sat down, I looked up and saw the image of God. I silently prayed for guidance, hoping everything would turn out well. I closed my eyes and took deep breaths to calm my tense heart.

When the priest arrived, my attention shifted. I listened carefully and kept in mind everything I learned from our seminars and rehearsals. As we walked down the aisle and bowed before the altar, I felt my heart thump louder than ever. When I reached the podium, I heard nothing but silence. I looked at the people and began to read. As I spoke the first word, a thought flashed in my mind—read with heart. And so I did. With every word I read, I felt its meaning deeply, as if it touched not only my voice but every part of me—my heart, my bones, my spirit. It felt light in my heart.

When I finished reading, it felt as though a heavy weight had been lifted from me. I was deeply thankful that everything went well. I realized that despite my fear of speaking in front of many people, I was able to overcome it—not by my strength alone, but because I was serving God. Since I have the ability to read, I used it to share His words with others.

After the Mass, I came to understand that serving is not about performance or how one appears before others. It is a mission—a calling. This experience made me realize that serving in the house of God and serving God Himself is more than just standing and reading aloud in front of people. It is a calling that humbles me, gives me courage, and strengthens my faith. Through this experience, I learned that when service is offered to God, fear slowly turns into purpose, and even the smallest role becomes meaningful.

 

 

An Unforgettable Night with the Dujanon Queens

An Unforgettable Night with the Dujanon Queens

by Jay Artista

Witnessing the Dujanon Queens at the Anda Cultural Center was an experience I will never forget. I was very excited that day because it was my first time seeing the queens in person. As soon as we arrived at the cultural center, I noticed many cars and motorcycles parked around the area, which already told me that a large crowd had gathered for the event. The place was filled with excitement even before the program began.

As I walked through the crowd, I could sense that the night would be different from any other event I had attended. There were no chairs left, showing how packed the venue was. My friends and I came as supporters, and we reunited with our classmates and mutual friends. We shared stories, laughter, and excitement while waiting for the show to begin. The atmosphere felt warm and lively, and everyone was eager to witness the celebration.

The program began with a doxology, followed by the triple hymns, which gave the event a meaningful and respectful opening. After this, the queens started walking down the aisle, and the crowd immediately grew louder. Everyone was excited to see and cheer for their queens. Supporters brought drums, banners, balloons, and other cheering materials to show their love and loyalty. Cheers echoed throughout the cultural center as people proudly shouted the names of their queens.

Each appearance of the queens was followed by a speech or a dance presentation, allowing them time to prepare for their next outfit. Every walk felt special, and the queens carried themselves with confidence and grace. The audience remained fully engaged, cheering nonstop as the program continued.

The question-and-answer portion made many fans nervous. Supporters held their breath as their queens responded, hoping they would answer clearly and confidently. Loud cheers followed every strong and meaningful response, while moments of silence revealed the tension felt by the crowd. Still, the support never faded.

Finally, the most awaited moment arrived—the awarding ceremony. Smoke filled the stage as the queens walked forward wearing their grand gowns and holding the image of Señor Santo Niño. They danced gracefully while the crowd went wild. Balloons were tossed into the air, banners were waved, and drums were beaten loudly as supporters shouted with pride and joy.

Then, the crown was finally awarded to the queen from Tawid, Juliana Mae Aton. The crowd erupted in cheers as her name was announced. She is the daughter of District Supervisor Danilo Aton, which made the moment even more meaningful. The people of Tawid, especially Juliana’s family, were overwhelmed with happiness and disbelief, as they did not expect her to win. Supporters cheered even louder, showing their pride and love for their queen.

Juliana stood with confidence and grace, showing her deep faith in Señor Santo Niño. Her beautiful personality and thoughtful answer during the question-and-answer portion truly stood out. Her victory felt well deserved, and the celebration that followed was filled with joy, unity, and gratitude. That night was not just about beauty and competition, but about culture, faith, and the strong bond of the community—an experience I will always remember.

 

A Day of Gratitude: Teachers’ Day at St. Cecilia

 

A Day of Gratitude: Teachers’ Day at St. Cecilia

by Gilbert Balabag Jr.

Our whole class at St. Cecilia celebrated Teachers’ Day in our classroom. We put together a small program to say a big thank-you to our most special teacher for all the kindness she has shown us. Every single day, she is not just teaching us lessons, but also guiding us in the right direction. She never stops supporting us, even when we are being difficult or a bit too loud. This activity allowed us to express our gratitude, and it felt good to know that our efforts did not go unnoticed.

The classroom was buzzing with excitement as we decorated and set everything up, creating a cheerful atmosphere. Some students helped arrange the chairs and tables, while others focused on decorating and preparing for the program. Before the event began, everyone was chatting and laughing with classmates, which made the moment even more enjoyable. When the program started, we listened attentively and enthusiastically participated in all the planned activities. We also prepared a presentation filled with pictures and heartfelt messages especially for our teacher. This part of the celebration meant a lot to us, as it showed our appreciation in the way we truly wanted.

The celebration reminded us of something important: our teachers are true rockstars when it comes to helping us learn new things, improve our skills, and grow as individuals—not just as students. In the end, the Teachers’ Day celebration at St. Cecilia was a meaningful and memorable experience. It reminded us that we should always show respect and appreciation for our teachers, not only on Teachers’ Day, but every day.