Fragment of History, Heritage of Tomorrow VOL 1 ISSUE NO. 1 - NOVEMBER 2026VOL 1 ISSUE NO. 1 - NOVEMBER 2026 Before the roosters even finish their first morning call, the loom is already awake. .Somewhere in the municipality, in a village where the road narrows into streets and alleys, a sound echoes inside, "tak-tak, tak-tak". It is steady and unhurried, as if it was a heartbeat. That is the rhythm of an inabel coming into life.OH PAOAY!OH PAOAY! An Ode to a Beloved Hometown Composed by Angel Gabriel C. Lerios, “Oh Paoay!” is a musical tribute to the town's beauty, heritage, and enduring identity. Through melody and words, the song celebrates the charm of Paoay and the pride of being part of a community rich in history and culture. More than a song, it is a reminder that the stories of a place live not only in its landmarks and traditions but also in the hearts of its people. It gives a voice to local pride and keeps the spirit of Paoay alive, one note at a time.Lugar a naggapwan Naisangsangayan a kultura Raraemen da gapu ti tattao na Ilalaen ka Itan-ok daka Agingga't tungpal biag Dayawen da ka Ipasindayag Wagas mi ti biag Ipatpateg mi a nakaiyanakan Oh Paoay, agragsakka Oh Paoay, nalibnoska (2x) Nasin-aw a puspuso ken arapaap Pusaksak mo awan latta ti makaartap Kalalatakan A pagnaedan Tradisyon ken gameng mo naindaklan Nasudi nga ili Pagtangtangsit mi Ubbog tarigagay mi ken ballaygi Oh Paoay, agragsakka Oh Paoay, nalibnoska (2x)BY ANGEL GABRIEL C. LERIOS

AdrianAdrian Literary EditorLiterary Editor NiñoNiño Literary EditorLiterary Editor ArielleArielle ReporterReporter MaeritriciaMaeritricia CartoonistCartoonist EllaElla Literary EditorLiterary Editor SamanthaSamantha Literary EditorLiterary Editor AngelAngel Editor in ChiefEditor in Chief SamSam Associate EditorAssociate Editor JulianaJuliana Layout ArtistLayout Artist AngelicaAngelica PhotographerPhotographerILLUSTRATION BY: MAERITRICIA ASHANTI A. RIVERAILLUSTRATION BY: MAERITRICIA ASHANTI A. RIVERA i ii

PAOAYPAOAYPAOAYPAOAYCONTENTSTable ofTable ofTable of iii iv Cover Page Tumba Festival Kusina Valentin Paoay Lake Panag-abel St. Agustin Church Parish Garden Paoay Convent Ruins Letter To Our Younger Selves Paseo de Paoay Editorial Board Table of Contents A scenic Journey through Paoay A scenic Journey through Paoay A scenic Journey through Paoay Back Page i-ii iii-iv 1-4 5-6 7-8 9-10 Foods of Paoay 11-14 15-18 19-22 23 24 25-26

PASEO DE PAOAYBeneath the waters, secrets sleep, While painted stories guard them deep. Each stroke holds mysteries yet untold, Of vanished worlds and tales of old. What do these paintings wish to say? What secrets have they kept away? Look closely, and perhaps you’ll see A past that hides in mystery. Beneath the waters, secrets sleep, While painted stories guard them deep. Each stroke holds mysteries yet untold, Of vanished worlds and tales of old. What do these paintings wish to say? What secrets have they kept away? Look closely, and perhaps you’ll see A past that hides in mystery.Yesterday’s ShadowYesterday’s ShadowNot far away from the famous St. Augustine Church, here stands a Spanish-inspired building blending with the ambience of post-colonial surroundings. The Paseo de Paoay is a multi-purpose commercial complex that businesses could rent in order to support and boost the growing tourism industry of the municipality. Not far away from the famous St. Augustine Church, here stands a Spanish-inspired building blending with the ambience of post-colonial surroundings. The Paseo de Paoay is a multi-purpose commercial complex that businesses could rent in order to support and boost the growing tourism industry of the municipality. 1 2 Standing Tall inStanding Tall in

templateWHEREWHERE Behind every handmade piece is a story of patience, creativity, and tradition. In every woven fabric, carefully crafted ornament, and locally made souvenir lies the dedication of artisans who turn simple materials into meaningful works of art. From colorful textiles and intricate handicrafts to keepsakes that reflect the beauty of local life, each creation carries a distinct sense of identity. These are more than objects displayed on shelves; they are reminders of the skills, stories, and traditions passed down through generations. For visitors, taking home a piece of local craftsmanship means bringing along a little memory of the place. For the makers, every purchase is an appreciation of their hard work and a reason to keep their craft alive. Because culture is not only found in places and traditions—it can also be held, worn, and brought home.Beyond their beauty and craftsmanship, these handmade treasures offer a glimpse into the lives of the people behind them. Every stitch, weave, and detail reflects a knowledge shaped by experience and carefully passed on through time. In supporting local crafts, we do more than appreciate their artistry—we help preserve livelihoods, honor cultural roots, and ensure that these traditions continue to find a place in the hands of future generations. Selling is not always about making a profit. Sometimes, it is about sharing a story, preserving an identity, and introducing the world to the treasures of one's hometown. Through Ilocano abel and other local creations, every product offers a glimpse of Paoay's rich culture, artistry, and heritage. Selling is not always about making a profit. Sometimes, it is about sharing a story, preserving an identity, and introducing the world to the treasures of one's hometown. Through Ilocano abel and other local creations, every product offers a glimpse of Paoay's rich culture, artistry, and heritage. A TRADEA TRADE Beyond every transaction is a greater purpose: to let people discover what Paoay has to offer and bring a piece of its identity beyond its borders. Because local products are more than things to buy; they are stories of a place, its people, and the heritage they proudly share with the world. Beyond every transaction is a greater purpose: to let people discover what Paoay has to offer and bring a piece of its identity beyond its borders. Because local products are more than things to buy; they are stories of a place, its people, and the heritage they proudly share with the world. || EDNA SANTOS|| EDNA SANTOSCRAFT MEETS CULTURE CRAFT MEETS CULTURE 3 4MORE THANMORE THAN

As November falls over Paoay, bamboo huts rise, offerings are prepared, and memories of the departed find their way back into the hearts of the living. In most places, November 1 is spent visiting cemeteries, offering flowers, and lighting candles for loved ones who have passed away. But in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, remembering the dead takes on a different form through the centuries-old Tumba Festival. The word "Tumba" comes from the Spanish word for tomb. Held every Novem- ber 1 during All Saints' Day, the tradition brings together the own's communities to honor their departed loved ones. Niño Anfrei U. UfanoNiño Anfrei U. Ufano Where the Past Refuses to Rest: Where the Past Refuses to Rest: Although its exact beginnings remain uncertain, the practice is believed to be more than 200 years old. One of the festival's most interesting sights is the construction of small huts made from bamboo and other local materials. Inside these structures are altars filled with atang, or food offerings, prepared in memory of those who have passed away. Each participating district creates its own Tumba, often decorated with diffe- rent designs and themes that re- flect the beliefs, creativity, and tra- ditions of its people. But behind the unusual displays lies something deeper than what meets the eye. The food is not simply decoration, and the huts are not merely attractions. They represent the Ilocano belief in remembering and honoring family members even after death. It is a re minder that although peo- ple may be gone, the love and memories they leave behind remain. Over the years, what was once mainly a household and community practice has grown into a cultural attraction. ILLUSTRATION BY: ANGEL ROSEVYL V. VICENTE Inside Paoay's Tumba FestivalInside Paoay's Tumba Festival Today, the different districts showcase their Tumba creations, allowing visitors to witness a tradition that makes Paoay distinct from other towns. The celebration also brings together generations, giving younger people a chance to learn about customs passed down through time. There is something hauntingly beautiful about Tumba. Perhaps it is the thought of remembering those who can no longer sit beside us, or the sight of small huts filled with offerings and stories of lives once lived In Paoay, death is not remembered only through sadness. It is also remembered through food, art, faith, and community. And when the candles are lit and the offerings are prepared, the town sends a simple message across generations: those who have left this world may be gone, but they are never forgotten. 5 6

A Hero's Name, A Town's Flavor: A Hero's Name, A Town's Flavor: The Story That Lives On in Paoay The Story That Lives On in Paoay Niño Anfrei U. Ufano Niño Anfrei U. Ufano Some stories fade with time, while others find a way to stay alive. In Paoay, the name of Valentin Diaz continues to echo through history, carried by a restaurant that brings the past and present together. Across the centuries-old Paoay Church stands a restaurant with a name that holds a piece of history. Kusina Valentin, formerly known as Herencia, is more than a place to enjoy good food. It carries the name of Valentin Diaz, a revolutionary whose story began in the quiet town of Paoay, Ilocos Norte. Born on November 1, 1849, Diaz became one of the founding members of the Katipunan, alongside Andres Bonifacio and other Filipino patriots. Founded in 1892, the secret organization aimed to free the Philippines from Spanish rule. As its treasurer, Diaz helped support the movement that would later lead to the Philippine Revolution. He also served in the revolutionary army, showing his commitment to the country's fight for freedom. Today, more than a century after his time, his name remains part of the town he once called home. Through Kusina Valentin, his memo- ry continues to reach people in an unexpected way. While history books tell the story of his courage, the res- taurant gives visitors another reason to remember his name. One of its biggest attractions is its famous Pinakbet Pizza, a creative mix of traditional Ilocano flavors and a familiar Adding to its charm is its location right across Paoay Church. With the old church standing nearby, diners find themselves surrounded by reminders of the town's past while enjoying the flavors of the present. There is something special about how these two stories come together. Valentin Diaz represents the bravery of a generation that fought for freedom, while Kusina Valentin celebrates the food and culture that make Paoay unique. Time may have passed, and the voices of the past may have grown quiet, but some names refuse to disappear. In Paoay, Valentin Diaz is one of them. His story continues to live on, not only in history, but also in a restaurant where every meal carries a small taste of the town's heritage. Western favorite. It also serves local dishes such as bagnet and longganisa, allowing visitors to experience the rich taste of Ilocos. Its unique food choices have helped make it a popular stop for tourists and locals. P i n a k b e t P i z z a 7 8

Long before the waters of Paoay Lake mirrored the sky, there stood a town nestled between the mountains, where the fields were generous, the houses stood tall, and the people wanted for almost nothing. It was a town blessed with abundance. Its streets were lined with beautiful homes, its markets overflowed with harvest, and its people adorned themselves with gold necklaces, precious stones, and jewels that glittered beneath the sun. From afar, one could mistake the settlement for a kingdom, so much so that even its peo ple had begun to believe they were above everyone else. Long before the waters of Paoay Lake mirrored the sky, there stood a town nestled between the mountains, where the fields were generous, the houses stood tall, and the people wanted for almost nothing. It was a town blessed with abundance. Its streets were lined with beautiful homes, its markets overflowed with harvest, and its people adorned themselves with gold necklaces, precious stones, and jewels that glittered beneath the sun. From afar, one could mistake the settlement for a kingdom, so much so that even its peo ple had begun to believe they were above everyone else. When The Waters Remember When The Waters Remember Angel Rosevyl V. VicenteAngel Rosevyl V. Vicente What once brought the people together soon became the very thing that divided them. Neighbors began measuring their worth against one another. A longer necklace was never enough when another wore a heavier one. A grander house was no longer impressive when someone else built an even greater one. Their days were spent gathering more, displaying more, and proving that they had more. And somewhere along the way, they forgot how to be content. Among the many households lived a humble couple, Juan and Maria. Unlike their neighbors, they found no need to compete. Their home was modest, their possessions few, but their hearts remained grateful. They had not forgotten the blessings that had once made their town beautiful, nor the values that had kept its people together. What once brought the people together soon became the very thing that divided them. Neighbors began measuring their worth against one another. A longer necklace was never enough when another wore a heavier one. A grander house was no longer impressive when someone else built an even greater one. Their days were spent gathering more, displaying more, and proving that they had more. And somewhere along the way, they forgot how to be content. Among the many households lived a humble couple, Juan and Maria. Unlike their neighbors, they found no need to compete. Their home was modest, their possessions few, but their hearts remained grateful. They had not forgotten the blessings that had once made their town beautiful, nor the values that had kept its people together. ILLUSTRATION BY: MAERITRICIA ASHANTI A. RIVERAILLUSTRATION BY: MAERITRICIA ASHANTI A. RIVERA Then, one night, a warning came. In their sleep, the couple was told of a great flood that would soon swallow the settlement. They were instructed to leave before nightfall and never look back when the thunder came. Frightened, they immediately went from house to house, pleading with their neighbors to abandon their homes. But the people only laughed. Some mocked their little belongings, while others refused to leave behind the wealth they had spent their lives collecting. What good was a warning, they thought, if it meant abandoning everything they owned? As the sun disappeared behind the mountains, Juan and Maria gathered what little they could carry and made their way toward higher ground. Behind them, the town continued its usual festivities, unaware of what was about to unfold. Then came the thunder. It was not the ordinary rumbling that announced a passing storm. It was louder, deeper, as though the heavens themselves had split open. The ground trembled beneath their feet. And then came the waters. Then, one night, a warning came. In their sleep, the couple was told of a great flood that would soon swallow the settlement. They were instructed to leave before nightfall and never look back when the thunder came. Frightened, they immediately went from house to house, pleading with their neighbors to abandon their homes. But the people only laughed. Some mocked their little belongings, while others refused to leave behind the wealth they had spent their lives collecting. What good was a warning, they thought, if it meant abandoning everything they owned? As the sun disappeared behind the mountains, Juan and Maria gathered what little they could carry and made their way toward higher ground. Behind them, the town continued its usual festivities, unaware of what was about to unfold. Then came the thunder. It was not the ordinary rumbling that announced a passing storm. It was louder, deeper, as though the heavens themselves had split open. The ground trembled beneath their feet. And then came the waters. But wealth, they say, has a way of changing the hearts of

A T A S T E O F P A O A Y CRUNCH OF CRUNCH OF Sam. Luijie MateoSam. Luijie Mateo Follow the sound of a crinkling wrapper, and you might find yourself somewhere familiar. Between rows of colorful packets, jars of homemade treats, and shelves filled to the brim, Paoay has its own way of welcoming visitors— not always through grand attractions, but through the simple pleasure of something good to eat. Here, chichacorn is more than a crunchy pasalubong. It is a familiar favorite, a little piece of Ilocano food culture that travels from neighborhood stores to homes far beyond the town. Alongside it are other local treats, each with its own flavor, each waiting to be discovered, tasted, and shared. But look beyond the products, and there is another story worth telling. Behind every counter are people who keep these small shops running, arranging goods, serving customers, and making a living one purchase at a time. Their stores may be modest, but they hold something valuable: the everyday enterprise and resourcefulness that keep local communities moving. Perhaps that is the charm of shopping in Paoay. You come looking for a snack, but find yourself taking home something more—a familiar flavor, a new discovery, and a small reminder of the place you visited. In Paoay, tradition does not simply sit on display. It comes in little packages, ready to be opened, tasted, and passed around. Follow the sound of a crinkling wrapper, and you might find yourself somewhere familiar. Between rows of colorful packets, jars of homemade treats, and shelves filled to the brim, Paoay has its own way of welcoming visitors— not always through grand attractions, but through the simple pleasure of something good to eat. Here, chichacorn is more than a crunchy pasalubong. It is a familiar favorite, a little piece of Ilocano food culture that travels from neighborhood stores to homes far beyond the town. Alongside it are other local treats, each with its own flavor, each waiting to be discovered, tasted, and shared. But look beyond the products, and there is another story worth telling. Behind every counter are people who keep these small shops running, arranging goods, serving customers, and making a living one purchase at a time. Their stores may be modest, but they hold something valuable: the everyday enterprise and resourcefulness that keep local communities moving. Perhaps that is the charm of shopping in Paoay. You come looking for a snack, but find yourself taking home something more—a familiar flavor, a new discovery, and a small reminder of the place you visited. In Paoay, tradition does not simply sit on display. It comes in little packages, ready to be opened, tasted, and passed around. The experience does not end with the first bite. Each purchase becomes an opportunity to support local sellers and keep familiar food traditions alive. Whether brought home as a gift or enjoyed along the way, these little treats carry the warmth of Paoay beyond its streets. And as visitors discover one flavor after another, they become part of a simple but meaningful exchange: locals sharing what they have, and visitors taking home a taste of where they have been. The experience does not end with the first bite. Each purchase becomes an opportunity to support local sellers and keep familiar food traditions alive. Whether brought home as a gift or enjoyed along the way, these little treats carry the warmth of Paoay beyond its streets. And as visitors discover one flavor after another, they become part of a simple but meaningful exchange: locals sharing what they have, and visitors taking home a taste of where they have been.Flavors to RememberFlavors to Remember T R A D I T I O N 11 12

alo-alo-SSSSaloaloA good meal fills the stomach. A shared meal fills the heart. Some of life’s fondest memories begin with a simple invitation: Kain tayo! Around the table, food becomes more than something to enjoy—it becomes a reason to gather, share stories, and create moments worth remembering. A good meal fills the stomach. A shared meal fills the heart. Some of life’s fondest memories begin with a simple invitation: Kain tayo! Around the table, food becomes more than something to enjoy—it becomes a reason to gather, share stories, and create moments worth remembering. Yema PastillasYema Pastillas Linga and Sweet ManiLinga and Sweet Mani Pinakbet PizzaPinakbet Pizza From the familiar crunch of kornik to the comforting sweetness of kankanen, every local delicacy carries a piece of our culture and a taste of home. These are flavors rooted in childhood, traditions passed down through generations, and little reminders of where we come from. Perhaps the beauty of local food is not just in how it tastes, but in how it brings people together. Because the most memorable part of a feast is not always what’s on the table, but the people gathered around it. Salo-Salo—where every bite is shared, every story is welcomed, and every gathering feels like home. From the familiar crunch of kornik to the comforting sweetness of kankanen, every local delicacy carries a piece of our culture and a taste of home. These are flavors rooted in childhood, traditions passed down through generations, and little reminders of where we come from. Perhaps the beauty of local food is not just in how it tastes, but in how it brings people together. Because the most memorable part of a feast is not always what’s on the table, but the people gathered around it. Salo-Salo—where every bite is shared, every story is welcomed, and every gathering feels like home. 13 14

THREADTHREADE V E R YE V E R YTells a StoryTells a StoryA glimpse into the hands that keep tradition alive A glimpse into the hands that keep tradition alive15 16

threads of legacy Clack. Thud. Clack. The rhythmic sound of the wooden loom fills the weaving space. Hands move with practiced precision, guiding threads back and forth until a beautiful pattern begins to emerge. Each movement requires patience; every strand has a purpose. Behind this seemingly simple process lies a tradition shaped by generations of craftsmanship. In Barangay 22, Nagbacalan, Paoay, this tradition continues through Glenda Tapec, owner of Glenda's Loom Weaving and Manufacturing. More than a business venture, her enterprise represents a commitment to keeping Ilocano weaving alive while creating opportunities for local artisans. Clack. Thud. Clack. The rhythmic sound of the wooden loom fills the weaving space. Hands move with practiced precision, guiding threads back and forth until a beautiful pattern begins to emerge. Each movement requires patience; every strand has a purpose. Behind this seemingly simple process lies a tradition shaped by generations of craftsmanship. In Barangay 22, Nagbacalan, Paoay, this tradition continues through Glenda Tapec, owner of Glenda's Loom Weaving and Manufacturing. More than a business venture, her enterprise represents a commitment to keeping Ilocano weaving alive while creating opportunities for local artisans.Nainsigudan nga ugali, intuloy iti tunggal panagabelFragment of History, Heritage of TomorrowFragment of History, Heritage of TomorrowFragment of History, Heritage of TomorrowFragment of History, Heritage of Tomorrowefore the roosters even finish their first morning call, the loom is already awake. Somewhere in the municipality, in a village where the road narrows into streets and alleys, a sound echoes inside, "tak-tak, tak- tak". It is steady and unhurried, as if it was a heartbeat. That is the rhythm of an inabel coming into life. For centuries, it has been more than just fabric. It wrapped newborns in their first hours of their life. It lay folded in the dowry chests of brides. It covered the shoulders of farmers in the cold season, and it was the last gift given to the departed towards the afterlife. Beneath the old shack, a weaver sits at her loom, her feet working the pedals, her hands sending a spool flying through a field of cotton threads. She does not look at her fingers, she simply trusts them, it is as if they have their own consciousness. A girl would sit at her mother’s lap and learn the rhythm first, and then the patterns follow later, similar to how a song is learned by listening. Today, the tradition faces its greatest threat. Machines can produce a thousand meters of cloth in the time it takes a weaver to finish a foot's width, and many young people have left for the cities where the work and pay is more secure and stable. Yet the looms have not gone silent. As the test of time continues, so does the resiliency of the industry. Weavers continue to work, and a new generation of designers and cooperatives are being established. Nowadays, inabel appears in modern tote bags, table runners, scarves, and gowns that walk the runways far from the fields where they originally belong. The designs are changing, but the legacy behind them remains the same. Here, patience is not a virtue to be admired, but rather craftsmanship.BBB Adrian V. Quibin Every Thread Tells a Story: The Woman Behind the Loom, Weaving Heritage and Hope in PaoayPEOPLE & CULTURE | NAGBACALAN, PAOAY, ILOCOS NORTE MORE THAN A PIECE OF CLOTH Known as Inabel or Abel Iloko, handwoven textiles are among the most treasured expressions of Ilocano artistry. Each creation reflects the patience, creativity, and technical skill required to transform individual threads into intricate designs. At Glenda's Loom Weaving and Manufacturing, this heritage takes different forms, from shawls and blankets to tote bags, table runners, placemats, and other woven accessories. These products demonstrate how traditional craftsmanship can find a place in modern lifestyles without losing its cultural identity. Yet, behind every finished textile are the skilled hands of the workers. Their dedication and familiarity with the loom turn raw materials into creations that carry the character of Ilocano craftsmanship. MORE THAN A PIECE OF CLOTH Known as Inabel or Abel Iloko, handwoven textiles are among the most treasured expressions of Ilocano artistry. Each creation reflects the patience, creativity, and technical skill required to transform individual threads into intricate designs. At Glenda's Loom Weaving and Manufacturing, this heritage takes different forms, from shawls and blankets to tote bags, table runners, placemats, and other woven accessories. These products demonstrate how traditional craftsmanship can find a place in modern lifestyles without losing its cultural identity. Yet, behind every finished textile are the skilled hands of the workers. Their dedication and familiarity with the loom turn raw materials into creations that carry the character of Ilocano craftsmanship. Such knowledge is

STILLSTANDSSTILLSTANDSSTILLSTANDSSTILLSTANDSSaint Agustin ChurchWHERE HISTORYA LANDMARK ROOTED IN FAITHA LANDMARK ROOTED IN FAITHA LANDMARK ROOTED IN FAITHA LANDMARK ROOTED IN FAITH tanding proudly in the heart of Paoay, Ilocos Norte, the Saint Augustine Church, better known as Paoay Church, is more than just a place of worship. It is a historical landmark that has stood for over 300 years, carrying stories of faith, strength, and the rich culture of the Ilocano people. Built during the Spanish colonial period, the church reflects the lasting influence of Christianity in the Philippines. Its remarkable architecture and historical importance have earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it one of the country’s most treasured cultural landmarks. Known for its unique Earthquake Baroque architecture, Paoay Church shows how early builders combined creativity with practical construction methods. Built between 1694 and 1710 under the supervision of Augustinian friars, the church was designed to withstand the frequent earthquakes experienced in the Philippines. Its massive stone buttresses extend from the walls like the roots of a giant tree, providing support against strong movements of the ground. Unlike many European churches, its design was adjusted to suit the country’s natural conditions. Beyond its impressive structure, Paoay Church also reflects the skills and dedication of the people who built it. Made from coral stones, bricks, and other local materials, the church displays a combination of Gothic, Baroque, and Oriental architectural influences. Its facade features detailed carvings and designs that reflect both European and Asian traditions. Chinese-inspired floral patterns can also be seen alongside religious decorations, showing the different cultural influences present during its construction. Behind its remarkable architecture were the skilled hands of local Ilocano craftsmen, leaving behind a structure that continues to represent their hard work and talent. The church is also closely connected to important events in Philippine history. During the Spanish colonial period, it served as a center for religious activities and community gatherings, becoming an important part of the daily lives of the people. Historical accounts also connect . Local stories have also added mystery to the long history of Paoay Church. Some tales speak of secret tunnels and hidden passages beneath the structure, believed to have been used during dangerous periods in the past. Although these stories remain unverified, they continue to capture the interest of residents and visitors. Passed down through generations, these accounts have become part of the local stories surrounding the church, adding another interesting side to its already rich history. Today, Paoay Church continues to attract tourists, pilgrims, and history lovers from different parts of the world. Many come to admire its massive stone walls, detailed facade, and towering bell tower, while others visit to experience its peaceful surroundings and learn about its past. The combination of its centuries-old architecture and the lively community around it creates a beautiful scene that reflects both history and everyday life. Even as modern buildings and developments continue to change the town, Paoay Church remains one of the most recognizable and meaningful landmarks in Ilocos Norte. Paoay Church continues to stand as a reminder of the faith, strength, and creativity of the people who came before us. Its walls hold stories of changing times, while its architecture reflects the hard work of generations who helped build and preserve it. More than a historical attraction, the church remains an important part of Paoay’s identity, connecting its past with the present. As the years continue to pass, Paoay Church stands as proof that history is not only found in books, but also in the places that continue to tell its stories. the church to the Philippine Revolution, when it was used as a place of defense, and to World War II, when Japanese forces reportedly used its bell tower as an observation post. Despite periods of conflict, natural disasters, and changes in society, the church has continued to stand. In 1993, UNESCO included Paoay Church among the Baroque Churches of the Philippines, recognizing its importance to the country’s history and architectural heritage.S Samantha S. Vicente 19 20

A DEVOTEDA DEVOTEDA DEVOTEDA DEVOTEDSANCTUARYSANCTUARYSANCTUARYSANCTUARYWhere Faith Finds a Place to Rest Beyond the walls of a church lies a place where hearts find comfort, prayers are whispered, and hope is renewed. Through quiet moments of devotion, lighting candles, and offering sincere prayers, people find strength in their faith. It is more than a sacred space; it is a refuge for weary hearts and a reminder that no one walks life’s journey alone. 21 22

Paoay Convent RuinsAmidst the quiet, weathered stone, Where fallen walls now stand alone, A golden cross defies the years, Holding its ground through faith and tears. Though time may wear the world away, And turn the grandest halls to gray, The silent cross remains upright— An ancient spark of sacred light. Amidst the quiet, weathered stone, Where fallen walls now stand alone, A golden cross defies the years, Holding its ground through faith and tears. Though time may wear the world away, And turn the grandest halls to gray, The silent cross remains upright— An ancient spark of sacred light. 23 24 Though time has weathered its walls, the ruins remain a silent witness to centuries of faith, history, and Ilocano heritage.

Makapaway nak kadin?A Letter to our Younger SelvesThere are moments in life when the people around us cannot make every decision for us. They may offer advice, encouragement, and comfort, but some choices still wait quietly in our hands. In those moments, a question begins to rise: Can I do things on my own? The question may sound simple, but it can carry many worries. What if I make the wrong choice? What if I fail? What if I discover that I am not as capable as I hoped? These thoughts can make even a small task feel like a mountain. We may look for someone to lead the way because following a familiar path feels safer than stepping onto one we have never tried. When we are young, it is natural to depend on other people. Parents, teachers, friends, and family members often help us understand the world. They show us how to solve problems, encourage us when we feel unsure, and remind us that we are not alone. Their support matters. Still, growing means slowly learning to carry some responsibilities ourselves. It means making choices, accepting their results, and finding the courage to try again when things do not go as planned. Doing things alone does not mean that we must do everything without help. It does not mean shutting people out or pretending that we never feel afraid. Independence is not a wall built between ourselves and others. It is more like a bridge: we can listen to guidance and accept support, while still learning to trust our own thoughts and abilities. Asking for help is not a failure. Sometimes it is the wisest choice we can make. The important thing is to remember that support can guide us, but it does not always have to take the whole journey for us. The first attempt is often the hardest. A new responsibility can make us feel uncertain, especially when we have always relied on someone else to do it. We might hesitate before speaking up, making a decision, or trying something unfamiliar. But courage does not always arrive as a loud, fearless feeling. Sometimes courage is simply beginning while our hands are still shaking. It is taking one small step even when we cannot see the entire road ahead. And yes, we may make mistakes. We may choose poorly, misunderstand something, or discover that a plan does not work. Failure can feel heavy because it makes us question ourselves. But a mistake is not a final judgment on who we are. It is a moment from which we can learn. When we reflect on what happened, we gain experience that no one can simply hand to us. We begin to understand what we might do differently next time. There is a quiet kind of pride in completing something by ourselves. It may be finishing a difficult task, solving a problem, or making a decision we once believed was beyond us. The achievement does not need to be large or impressive to matter. Sometimes the greatest victory is realizing that we continued even when the result was uncertain. Each small success becomes a reminder: I tried, I learned, and I made it through. Still, being independent does not mean we must prove our strength by refusing every helping hand. People are not meant to carry every burden alone. We need one another, and there is no shame in leaning on someone when life becomes difficult. The goal is not to become a person who never needs anyone. The goal is to become someone who can stand on their own when needed, while remaining open to connection, advice, and kindness. Maybe I cannot do everything, and I may not always know exactly what to do. But I can start with one thing. I can make an effort, learn from my choices, and ask for help when I truly need it. I can give myself the chance to grow instead of deciding that I am incapable before I even begin. The road ahead may sometimes feel lonely, but being on our own for a moment does not mean we are abandoned. We carry the lessons, care, and encouragement of the people who helped us along the way. And with every step we take by ourselves, we learn that independence is not about having no fear. It is about discovering that fear does not have to stop us. Perhaps the answer is not a perfect or confident “yes.” Perhaps it begins as a quiet “I will try.” And sometimes, that is enough. A single attempt can become a new skill; a small choice can become greater confidence; and a difficult beginning can lead us to a place where we finally believe, I may be able to do this after all. And to live for the hope of it all. There are moments in life when the people around us cannot make every decision for us. They may offer advice, encouragement, and comfort, but some choices still wait quietly in our hands. In those moments, a question begins to rise: Can I do things on my own? The question may sound simple, but it can carry many worries. What if I make the wrong choice? What if I fail? What if I discover that I am not as capable as I hoped? These thoughts can make even a small task feel like a mountain. We may look for someone to lead the way because following a familiar