Experiencing Simballay Festival 2017

             Simballay Festival is the annual festival of Nabunturan, Compostela Valley. It is usually celebrated on the month of December, showcasing the different bahay-kubos (huts) of the 28 barangays of the municipality. Simballay is a Mansaka word which means, “Togetherness, sharing and thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.” The 23rd Simballay Festival was held on December 11-14, 2017. On its first day, after our last period, we headed to the venue where the festival was held. And I was surprised to discover so many new things.

             Firstly, I noticed that I easily get overwhelmed. It was such my pleasure, and I was very happy that the festival started right on my birthday, my 18th. But of course, the Simballay staff didn't know about that and it was just a pure coincidence, but still...nevermind.

             Secondly, I exaggerate a lot. When we reached the destination, it was not as magical as it is at night time (which I've seen in Facebook, by the way), but it was still a feast for the eyes. The people were busy taking pictures, eating, talking, public displaying of affection, shouting, selling, and etc. The street was so full, I was afraid it would explode because of its content. Thankfully, it didn't.

             Thirdly, picturesque views cannot only be seen in other places but even just here in our province. The venue was just several meters long but it was already a sight worthy to be adorned not just by Comvaleños but by tourists from different places as well.

             Lastly, Nabunturan is a home of talented and kind people. The festival was not just about the bahay-kubos, but it was also about the different skills that the townfolks have. I was overwhelmed by the people ushering us into their bahay-kubos. There were coconuts, vegetables, rootcrops, rice and so much more that prove the bountiful supply of nature. I was also amazed by the man painting right inside one of the bahay-kubos. I am a fan of paintings and seeing a painter in action was just like...nevermind. Several meters from him was another display of paintings. We were informed that it was made of coffee instead of the usual paint.

There were also sculptures; The Last Supper caught my eyes first. At night, there were chorale contest, Garbo ng Nabunturan Singing Contest, and so many more. I wasn't able to witness them, though. My parents wouldn't permit me to.

            Honestly, it was my first time to visit Simballay Festival for I am not a resident of Nabunturan. I am used to our own festival, Diwanag, which the Montevista people also celebrate every December. But it was a different, fun experience that every person would want to have. Simballay Festival, just like any other festivals, is everything we see in posters and posts in social media, but it is so much more. You'll definitely feel like...nevermind.

A DAY FOR THEM

                  A special day for the special people in our lives, December 1, 2017, was the day for all the parents of the students of Nabunturan National Comprehensive High School (NNCHS). The school, as a learner-centered public institution, also valued the parents who constantly support the students, and conducting the Parent's Day was just a very simple thing to make them feel happy and special.

               The program was intended to make the parents know the different achievements of NNCHS in different fields. Showcasing the talents, skills and diligence of the students would ensure the parents that the institution does its best to serve and nurture the young minds of the students.

             The Parent's Day served as a break from all the chores, stress, and work that our parents go through every day. But, if we would just allow it, we can make everyday a Parent's Day in our most simple way. By going to school and taking our studies seriously, doing the household chores, being obedient and respectful, or even just by forgetting our favorite television series because they're watching theirs, we can already make them feel special.

             We may hate them sometimes for being too protective, but it's just their way of telling how much they love us, and unconsciously or consciously, we can do things that can tell them that we love them too. So thank Him for giving you parents, no matter how imperfect they may be.

IACAT (Inakala)

        Inakala is one of the entries for the IACAT Song Writing and Music Making Contest 2017. The video talks about human trafficking and abuse.
        Human trafficking is one of the most serious problems in our society. It exists due to man's thirst for money and discontentment, treating other people as prisoners intended to bring wealth and satisfaction to lust.

         It is a very bad disease that affects our country but it can still be cured if we would like to. Spreading awareness on what the signs of  human trafficking are is one of the medicines. People need to know not to trust anyone easily, especially those who ask to be trusted. We should be wise enough not to be a victim of such crime.
         No matter who we are, we can contribute to eradicating or at least lessening the human trafficking cases in our country. Our micro actions can do macro effects for our country's own sake. Be aware. Be wise. Be not a victim of human trafficking.