The Induscantadia

As I've said, I am Amihan here. Anyways, the Indus people call me Jopay. I was a member of the publication for five years.

Josh as Amihan at Induscantadia

This is my graphic version! I was Amihan of Induscantadia, our student publication's (The Industrialist) version of Engcantadia. It was published years back in our paper. All of the editors and staffs were given characters based on the casts of the said program. And there I go, I am Amihan. I really like this graphic, not just because it was me during that time, but I find it very cute.! I even go to the publication's office just to have a copy of this graphic. It is either made by Jonald or Mark , our graphic artists.

Anyways, Amihan is the engkantada who holds the power of the element,air. It was casted by Izza Calzado. Anyways. I just want to post it here! super cute!

PORTFOLIO ASSESSMENT

This is a journal review which I made for one of my subjects in the graduate school. I posted it here because I personally believe that this issue is interesting especially to educators. Hope you'll learn something from it.

A REFLECTION TO THE JOURNAL

PORTFOLIO ASSESSMENT FOR BETTER EVALUATION

Teachers using portfolio assessment find they not need to be limited to traditional standardized test when evaluating student performance.

by THOMAS W. GOOLSBY

Educational system has grown in ways on how to evaluate students’ performance- exploring advancement to get rid off the limitations of traditional assessments. Assessment tools must conform to the area of what is being measured as evaluators must consider the learner’s multiple intelligence. Educational reformers call it “alternative assessment.”

"Alternative assessment is probably the most generic term that best describes those methods that differ from traditional standardized, multiple-choice tests for assessing students' achievement. This term and its variations refer to the direct examination of student performance on tasks that are relevant to life outside the school and are therefore considered more valuable than what standardized tests measure” (Thomas (pp 39)).

The author stressed that this form of assessment is being supported by policymakers after the realization that standardized test may not be the best means of evaluating the students. Advocates of the alternative assessment developed a test that is worthy of being taught- portfolio assessment. Portfolio assessment has carried many reformers to support it most especially by many music education teachers. This is not from a firm commitment to alternative assessment but rather as a reaction to traditional standardized test. Advocates recognized the problems they have encountered with the reliability and referred to the countless tomes in educational evaluation that remind teachers and researchers that validity is more important than reliability. The realization that no matter how reliable a measure is if it fails to measure what it purports to measure; a failure makes it an invalid measure.

The journal also emphasized advantages and disadvantages of the portfolio assessment. It states that this assessment measures the students’ growth but on the other hand, it categorized students’ work. In addition, it will be damaging if objectivity and accountability are abandoned if there will be reliance on teacher’s decisions and judgement. However, the author highlights that portfolio assessment when viewed as a teaching tool and not as final word in terms of evaluation, can be beneficial.

The journal accentuated the use, the advantage and disadvantage of the alternative assessment more specifically to music education. Author’s claims may also be applied to other fields especially those areas that measures the abilities and capabilities of students. I agree with the author in providing an alternative tool in evaluating student’s performance to achieve more of validity. More than anything else, teacher’s assessment tools may always conform to what is being measured. Thus, teachers should be equipped with various assessment tools. The only dilemma that is being seen is if they are not expert in using alternative assessment for teacher may be confined with the traditional ways and are not open for developments. Though, I am not saying that, we have to leave the traditional, for traditional may fit other measures, but the openness and acceptance of alternative ways will be beneficial to both teachers and students. Teachers should always bear in mind that they must be after the student’s growth and development more than anything else.

A Splendid Trip in Ilocos Sur

Both relaxing and tiring- this is how I will describe my trip to Ilocos Sur last weekend. The calm South China Sea, sweet touch of sea breeze, authentic Ilocano dishes, and warm and accommodating people made me feel so relaxed and comfortable. However, our almost eight-hour travel made me feel so tired.

Ilocos Sur is the home province of Gideon. It is located in the Ilocos region in Luzon to which Vigan seats as its capital. It was founded by a Spanish conquisitador, Juan de Salcedo, in 1572. It is also filled with colonial churches which is a legacy of Spanish Catholicism.

Written on the 27th book of Visitacion de la Torre, “The Ilocos Heritage,” it was said that Ilocano legacy and the life of Ilocano-are as described as- “browbeaten, industrious, cheerful and simple soul who has shown remarkable strain of bravery and a bit of wanderlust.” Ilocanos have made themselves distinct in their own ways. Their uniqueness creates difference when compared to other people within the country and even around the world. It is also prides itself with its rich and vast culture and history. It proves their braveness from the numerous battles it had encountered even during the pre-spanish era, but mostly distinguished during the Spanish colonization.

And well, though I am a Kapampangan, whose culture is known in its cuisine, I am also highlighting the Ilocano cuisine for their specialties and expertise. Though Pampanga and Ilocos were always being compared with their cuisine, in my own pinion, there is really no need of comparison for these two province hold their respective tastes, techniques and specialties.

I find some of their terms quite funny and naughty when translated to Tagalog “like their “utong’ which simply means “sitaw;” “puki-puki” which means “tortang talong;” kabatiti which means “patola,” and “warek-warek” which means sisig. All these words are written on the souvenir shirt that I bought in Vigan.

Vigan, the capital of Ilocos Sur and the seat of the provincial government, is the center of the province’s tourism. Its name came from the Ilocano word “kabiga-an” pertaining to plant, which is a tuberous plant that grows along the river banks. The “Heritage City of Vigan,” is inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage, because of its houses- the most intact example of a Spanish colonial town in Asia. I won’t enumerate all of the houses and buildings that can be found here because everywhere here will certainly call your interest.

During our visit, we were able to meet Gidz' father's best friend and the former Vice Mayor of Narvaca, Mr Boy Valera. He is indeed rich with his businesses here. He has a Tobacco, resort, farm and gasoline station. We were able to visit their Tobacco bodega...(is it the right term?)

In our tour at Vigan, I was able to experience their famous “empanada and okoy. They are delicious! We were also had a chance to meet the national artist awardee in pot making and also discovered the Hidden Garden, which really fascinated us when we reached its site.

And of course, I enjoyed Baluarte! It is a zoo where you can touch tamed animals lie deer and camels. It is my first time to see camel! I also enjoyed the picture taking with the ostrich which took us several shots before we can have a picture near it. I was really so afraid but definitely I enjoyed it!

I am very thankful, again,to Gidz for giving me the chance to travel several places. And for now, I would like to thank him for letting me meet his relatives. despite of all the problems that I have now, I am really enjoying my summer vacation because I'm spending it with him!

Revealing the reasons why...

Getting thin. I am always questioned about my health, especially this past few days. I was sick the past days and I am still suffering to it though it may not really be obvious. I definitely don't have concrete answer. I used to say several reasons to which I think are valid too- appetite, studies, pressures and stresses. It may be my appetite that goes along the pressures and stresses that I have.

Who would not be pressured with the school requirements that I have to submit? My summer class is about to end next week. Thank God I'm done with the hardest one, Dr. Leus' sample exam which measures validity. It was just now that I realized how hard it is. I thought doing an exam is just as simple as ABC but, definitely I'm wrong. Few papers to go and I'm done!

Who would not be pressured of having much expenses without gaining any money to support them? Shouldering all the expenses at home without anyone to help me, is never a joke. It is hard. It is stressful especially when you don't have work that will support you. since it is vacation, I have no work, and I will only have it back on June. I feel so burdened with the expectations and the angst of my family members especially when I can't give the luxury that they want. This creates the most stressful burden.

If only they bear with my situation... If only they appreciate... that what I am doing is for them...

If only they just can keep silence for a while...

If only they can be contented with what I can give...

If only they can wait...

If only...

Then... they can help.

To God, I seek strenght, mercy and guidance.

A TRIBUTE TO MOTHERS

HER ENDLESS SELFLESSNESS

What is the essence of being a mother? What does it mean to you? Have you tried thinking why do mothers cry when you’re hurt? Or did you even realize how much she loves you? How do you inscribe the greatness of a mother? These are just simple questions which are often neglected and ignored. Mother is more than just a word..It is more than just giving birth and raising a child. I have never satisfied with what philosophers, poets and authors on how they define the term mother. Several concepts were written but it never really revealed its essence. Why? For no one can ever give the price and value of being a mother.

A MOTHER TO HER CHILD

Generally, a mother is said to be a woman who had bore a child. It is true that the moment a child is born, the mother is also born. A mother had carried her child for nine months in her womb. Feeds him with what she eat; let him breathe with what she breathe and shares with him the same blood, veins and cords that provides him life. When she gave birth, she unconditionally gambles her life. She never hesitates to give birth even this might end her life. Risking her life is even an understatement for a mother to equate her love for her child.

Her arms are always there to carry him whenever he cries. Simple lullabies are rhythms which can fade away his tears. She never gets tired of changing diapers and feeding him at the middle of the night. She tended him when he is sick wishing she can take the pain. With no one to protect him, a mother is more than a warrior for she will fight for her child against any danger. She is the source of refuge from the threatening risk and a vision of strength when he is weak. As the child grows, little by little he can manage to do things without her mother. He can eat by himself. He can change his clothes whenever get dirt. He can play and talk. But mother is still there, to teach him the basics of life and prepares him to the real world where he will live. She teaches him the basic of ABC’s and 123’s. She sent him to school because she wants him to know more and discover much.

A mother would never want her child to get hurt. She will rather wish to own the pain. When her child grows older, whether he asked him or not, mother stays beside him; willing to guide and shelter him to any path of life. She laughs more when her child is happy. She cries more when he shed tears. She gives back what is lost. She returns love during betrayal. For she lives with her child’s joy and dreams. There is no really language could express the power and beauty and heroism of a mother’s love.

She is a mother; a mother who can take the place of all the others, but whose place no one else can take. And who is the child? It is us.

LIGHT THAT GLOWS

A home without a mother is a home of darkness. A mother is said to be a light keeper that brings light to each member of the family. Like the stars at night, it keeps burning to give the world light and beauty. Like the noontime sun whose fire can keep them warm when coldness run. A mother embraces her family when they become weak. She offers her light to guide them whenever they fail.

Mother understands more of what a child does not say. She knows when we are sad. She can sense when some things bother us. She feels when our hearts are wounded. When everything seems to be dark, she is there with wide arms open to embrace our pains, wearies and angst. Her arms are made of tenderness to caress us. Her love can perceive no impossibilities.

Through thick and thin, she keeps sailing the longest ocean to cope with her family’s hardship. When nothing to fill their stomach, she wholeheartedly offer hers to her child. She can pretend she is full even she is hungry. A mother never loses sacrifices. She is a mother; a light; the heartbeat of every home

CELEBRATE HER DAY

There is simply a no way on how we can really repay our mother for all she have done and sacrificed. A mother is nothing but a special person in our life filled with unconditional, selfless and infinite love who will be the first person who deserves our gratitude. Mother’s day, a day of paying tribute to the woman who gave us life, is celebrated on the second Sunday of May by some of the countries; some of which are Philippines, United States and Canada.

Mother’s Day is the perfect day to celebrate the greatness of having a mother. This day will give us a real quality time for her. She had given a lot; her life, her time and her love. Aren’t she deserves appreciation? Of course she does. One single day is just a very little thing we can offer her from all her sacrifices and pains. Show her how much we thank for all she has done for us throughout the years.

There are lots of ways on how to celebrate this special day. Going out with the family, going theater to see the latest musical or shopping at your favorite stores are some of the choices. Give her gift. It doesn’t really mean spending a lot. We can give something with personal touch. Think of the thing that she likes most then you can have different choices of gift.

Tangible things are not of important, anyway. This may just add spice and memories on this special celebration. There is much more important thing that we should not forget. To personally say what we feel towards her; on how grateful we are for having her, how much thankful we are for always being there, how much we value her, and how much we love her. Apologize with our mistakes committed. Say sorry when we forget to give respect and answer her back. Don’t be selfish to utter our love that may melt her heart and may fulfill her life. Pamper her just as she pampers us; give her a warm and a sweet kiss as we wish her a Happy Mother’s Day. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY MAMA! LOVE YOU! YOU ARE INDEED THE BEST MOTHER IN THE WORLD! (Your patience, your love, and your selfless care for me and papa makes me proud that you are my mom.) I love you so much!

Baler, Aurora- A Summer Treat!

Baler, Aurora- a must see place for people whose interest is into surfing or simply relaxing. Baler is the capital, oldest and a third class municipality in the province of Aurora. It is known for its numerous tourist attractions. Aside from its historical sites and Baler Catholic Church (which I wasn’t able to see), resorts in Sabang and in Cemento are the most visited one. These were also the place where the annual International Aurora Surfing Cup was held.

Definitely, Baler is a place that tourists must experience. But it is unfortunate for the town that aside from it is far from the city, its road is not yet cemented/asphalted. This is also a reason why we have to travel too long.

I am fortunate enough to be able to experience this place with Giddy. With his friends (previous office mates at NCCA) and other surfers, we went there last May 1-3, enjoying the long weekend. The travel time was too long which took us around seven hours. Via Genesis Bus, we left Manila at 1Am of May 1 and reach Baler at 8AM. This was a perfect time to enjoy and maximize our stay here.

Unfortunately, we weren’t accomodated at Bahia de Baler because it was already full so we had no choice but stay at Amihan Aplaya Lodge. Anyways, better than having no place at all. We ate our meals at either Bay’s Inn or the rolling stores at Baler community proper.

During our stay here, I found no dull moments. Of course, with Giddy around, there will never be a dull time for me.I enjoyed every moment-swimming, touring, drinking, eating and sleeping (hehe,ako lang pala ang tulog ng tulog!)

During the first day, I enjoyed the scenic view of the coast of Baler at Ermita Hills and also the beautiful experience at Cemento Beach. Thanks to manong tricycle driver for touring us around the place at a cheaper amount. We drunk at Bay’s Inn after our dinner at Bay’s Inn and continued it with the other surfers at Bahia de Baler.

The second day was exhilarating. The falls at L. Pimentel really made me chill. The water was clear yet really cold. I just slept during the afternoon while the rest played beach volley.

We simply enjoyed the beach at the third and our last day. Giddy took a surfing lesson which according to him, he gained body pains. I was able to ride on that surf board but I am really not into it. Just for the sake of experiencing it.

This summet trip at Baler was purely Giddy’s treat. I know he prepared and planned it for us, and I really and sincerely appreciate his effort and sweetness for making it possible. Despite of the threatening typhoon Crising and Dante, (to which we didn’t feel) we were able to enjoy the trip. I also hope that although I have so much kacornihan, he still enjoyed my company. Anyways, with what we had and shared in this Baler summer treat, he just made me love him more. Thanks for this wonderful experience.

Ermita Hill/Park, Zabali, Baler

Witness the sweetness of Baler

Overlooking the Baler Bay

Giddy, Josh, Glenn, Carlo, Luli

Giddy,Glenn, Carlo and Luli (nice shot!)

Luli, Carlo, Glenn and Josh

Zabali, Baler- the best place to go if your target is to see a nice overlooking view of Baler Bay as well as the nearby travelling fishport is the Ermita Hill/Park.

Quoting from viewpoint, “ History has it ... the locals of Baler went up Ermita Hill to take refuge during a Tromba de Marina (tidal wave or cyclone?) in the 17th century.” It is a historical place for the people of Aurora.

Falls at L. Pimentel

Josh Giddy Glen, Luli, Josh and Giddy

Surfing team with Giddy

other angle near the falls

El Pimentel, Kalisetan, Caunayan Falls. Just in the neighboring of Baler, is Brgy. L. Pimentel, San Luis where you can find the chilling and beautiful falls of El Pimentel. You have to ride a tricycle or any vehicle that can survive the rocky road going to this falls. You have to pay 20 pesos for entrance for motorcycles and another 10 pesos per person. There are also cottages there if you feel like eating or having a picnic. There are several water falls here but I only saw this falls. Even though, I really enjoyed the crystal clear and cold water here. The feeling after swimming is definitely refreshing.

Anilao Islets

Off the coast of Barangay Zabali, Baler found Anilao Islets. They are two small but imposing islands lie south of the islet of Dimadimalangat. These islets jut straight from the sea like bullets. The black islets attract rock climbers and even those mere tourists.