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GROUP 5

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Stars danced brightly in the sky, while crickets leapt in the old bedroom of a grown woman. The cool night breeze drifted through the tall mango tree that had stood for decades beside an old house built thirty years ago in USA. The faint scent of ripe fruit lingered in the air, mixing with the nostalgic aroma of old wood.

Inside that house lived a woman named Megan Collins. She had grown up in a high-class family and possessed striking beauty—long, straight, black hair that gleamed like silk, a gorgeous face framed by neat eyebrows, a pointed doll-like nose, heart-shaped lips, delicate features, and eyes so captivating they could melt glaciers. Her tall, model-like figure and flawless, fair skin made her look nothing short of perfect.

Now, she stood on the balcony of her old bedroom, gazing at the stars above while the cool air kissed her soft skin. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she reminisced about the history of this house and the memories she had once lived here as a innocent young girl.

Twenty years ago…

Megan was just ten years old and loves to draw and paint. One day, the school principal invited her to join the competition of painting in France. The moment she heard the news, excitement surged through her—but so did worry. She knew her family would never support her and that they would forbid her from attending, especially since it was a well-known and prestigious competition.

Her older sister, Margaux Collins, shared her beauty but in her own way—long, soft, curly hair, rosy cheeks, thin pink lips, a perfectly straight nose, and an hourglass figure. Though Margaux was tall, Megan was taller. Margaux also wanted to attend the painting competition, but their teacher had not invited her. Megan had a strong feeling that her sister, who had always taken everything from her—including the full love, care, and attention of their parents—would try to take this chance away too.

Their mother, Margarette Collins, was strict, greedy, and looked down on people she deemed “low class.” Their father, Myzhou Collins, was cold and ruthless, but had a soft spot for his family—everyone except Megan. Yet despite all this, Megan still respected and loved them, telling herself, “No matter what happens, family will always be family.”

Still, she couldn’t stop thinking about how her parents might react to the invitation. Even though she hesitated, she wanted them to know what was happening in her life.

When she arrived home from school, she headed straight to the dining room. Her family sat around the table, laughing and showering Margaux with praise. Megan walked toward them quietly, but Margaux spotted her and waved.

“Megan!” her sister called out, motioning for her to join them.

Megan tilted her head slightly, confused. Margaux had never paid attention to her before—not once. Still, she joined them and said nervously, “Hey… how are you guys doing?” But their parents ignored her as usual, continuing to praise Margaux.

The pain, sadness, and jealousy grew unbearable. Tears welled in her eyes until she could take no more. “I… I have to go. I still have schoolwork to do. Excuse me,” she said in a trembling voice before quickly leaving the room.

One of the maids, Cecelia Blackwood—the kindest and most genuine among all the household staff—noticed Megan’s unusual behavior and followed her. She found Megan in her bedroom, crying into her pillow.

“Oh God, please help me. I don’t think I can handle this pain any longer. They say this is one of Your ways to strengthen my faith in You, but… why does it feel like I’m slowly losing hope?” Megan sobbed.

Hearing this, Cecelia silently entered the room—Megan had forgotten to lock the door—and sat beside her. Without a word, she wrapped her arms around the girl, offering silent comfort. In that unexpected embrace, Megan felt the warmth she had never received from her own family.

Moments later, Megan fell asleep in Cecelia’s arms. Stroking her hair gently, Cecelia whispered, “Poor girl… she’s never known what it’s like to be praised or loved. Don’t worry, Megan. From now on, I’ll care for you as if you were my own daughter—not by blood, but by heart. You will know what it’s like to be loved and to have someone proud of you. Sleep well, my dear.”

Days passed, and Megan still couldn’t find the right moment to tell her family about the invitation. But as the competition drew nearer, she thought, I must tell them before the day comes.

Just then, Cecelia knocked on her door. “Megan, come down. Dinner is ready—they’re waiting for you,” she said gently.

“Yes, I’m coming!” Megan replied, rising from her bed.

When she reached the dining room, she noticed her family’s faces were unusually serious. She sat next to Margaux, but before she could speak, her mother said coldly, “Megan, are you hiding something from us?”

Nervously, Megan answered, “Mom, Dad, Sis… the school principal invited me to attend the competition of paintings in France.”

Her mother’s eyes hardened. “Do not accept the invitation. Give it to your sister, or I will completely disown you.”

“But—”

“No more buts. Why are you so hard-headed, Megan? Either give the opportunity to your sister and stay here, or accept it and you’re no longer my daughter,” her mother said sharply before walking away.

Margaux smirked. “Think carefully, sis,” she whispered, then followed their parents, leaving Megan speechless.

Though fear twisted in her chest, Megan had already decided. She would accept the invitation, no matter the cost.

She rushed to find Cecelia. “Cecelia, I’ve decided—I’m going to accept the invitation. If they will disown me for disobeying, I’ll gladly accept it,” she said with determination. Cecelia was shocked but also proud and worried. Still, she knew Megan’s mind was made up.

So, the only thing she could do was fully support her and make sure she knew she wasn’t alone.

One day before the day of the competition arrived. Megan packed her belongings, and while she was at it, Cecelia knocked on the door.

“Megan? Megan? Knock, knock—it’s me, Cecelia,” came the voice from outside.

“Come in!” Megan replied.

Seeing the luggage, Cecelia smiled. “Let me help you.”

Megan gladly accepted. For the next five hours, they packed while talking and laughing—something Megan had never experienced with her own family. She felt deeply grateful that Cecelia had come into her life.

That night, Megan planned to leave at midnight. She made sure everyone was asleep—except Cecelia, who would see her off. Quietly stepping out of her room, she found Cecelia waiting.

“Thank you for everything, Cecelia. Don’t worry—I’ll be careful on my trip,” she said, waving goodbye.

The next day, her family found out. A message from her mother read:

You really disobeyed us. Don’t ever come back here—you have no family, no house, no home. From now on, you are no longer my daughter. Let’s forget each other. It’s shameful to have a hard-headed child like you.

Megan was in the middle of competition training when she read it. She ignored the message.

When the competition of painting began, the first thing Megan felt was pure joy. All her sadness vanished. The beauty of color paint, the colorful design of her paint brush, and the slow music from the violin and piano wrapped around her like a warm embrace. After a long day of competition, she won and retrieved the belongings her family had thrown outside. With Cecelia by her side, Megan walked away—ready to pursue her dreams without looking back.

Theme: Determination/Bravery

Message:

Stay focused on your goals and don't let setbacks hold you back.

Performance task of group 5

Leader: Krystel Jell Ulla

Members: Rhianna Regaspi

Juliet Jean Saavedra

Aira Apatan

Eowyn Kaimo

Carl Fortaliza

Niño Taculod

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Dear students, kindly upload your short stories to this platform. Make sure to include your names as the authors or writers before submitting.

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In the lively heart of California—where skyscrapers tower, traffic buzzes, and life never slows—lived a 13-year-old girl named Maria Isabel Josefa Cruz Ramirez.

Every morning, she rode her bike to school, earbuds in, backpack bouncing, wind tugging at her hair. She smiled at neighbors, waved at the corner shop owner, and always stopped at her favorite bench near school to watch the trees sway and listen to the quiet hum of early chatter.

But inside, Isabel—Bel, as she liked to be called—carried something invisible but heavy: the legacy of her Filipino roots. The language, the stories, the pride. She’d learned the hard way that not everyone understood. So she kept it tucked away, like a secret she wasn’t sure the world would honor.

One morning, as she squeezed through the noisy hallway, books clutched tight, she passed Khian, Mason, and Liam near the lockers.

“Hey, Izzy!” Khian called. “Wait, what’s your real name again? Ee-sa-bell?”

Mason laughed. “Nah, it’s longer than that. Something… impossible to say.”

“Yeah, just stick with Izzy,” Liam added. “Way easier.”

Bel looked down and mumbled, “Yeah… Izzy’s fine,” before slipping away, shoulders low. Behind her, they snickered.

They didn’t know her name held generations of love, strength, and history. They didn’t know how much it stung to have it dismissed like it didn’t matter.

That night, the warm scent of sinigang filled the kitchen. Her Lola Nena hummed a soft kundiman as she stirred the pot.

Bel dropped her bag. “Lola, can you… maybe not sing so loud? The neighbors might hear.”

Lola chuckled. “And if they do, apo? Let them hear our songs.”

“I just… don’t want people to think we’re weird,” Bel said quietly.

Lola turned, ladle in hand, eyes kind but firm. “We’re not weird. We’re Filipino. That’s something to be proud of.” She cupped Bel’s face. “When I was your age, we sang in the streets, cooked for everyone, and wore our names like crowns. We didn’t hide. We celebrated.”

Bel hesitated, then whispered, “But it’s different now. People don’t get it.”

Lola smiled gently. “Then help them understand. That’s how change begins.”

Just then, her phone began to buzz and an announcement was sent to her. Mrs. Carter’s message popped out of her notification dial—it said:

“Reminder: International Heritage Day is next Friday. Share something about your culture!”

Bel groaned. “Great… another reason to stand out.”

Lola smiled. “Maybe standing out isn’t so bad, apo. Sometimes, it’s how people finally see you.”

Later that week, Bel watched Lola sew a baro’t saya, each stitch delicate and full of care.

“I’m not sure I want to wear that,” Bel said.

“Why not?” Lola asked, still sewing. “It’s beautiful. It’s part of you.”

“Yeah, but… no one else will wear something like that. They’ll stare. They’ll say stuff.”

Lola looked up, hands still moving. “Apo, you don’t have to choose one world or the other. You belong to both. That’s your strength. This dress, your name, my songs—they’re all threads in the same cloth. Don’t hide them. Wear them with pride.”

Bel didn’t answer, but something inside her shifted. A quiet promise she wasn’t sure she could keep—but wanted to try.

On Heritage Day, the classroom was bright with decorations. Mrs. Carter stood at the front, clipboard in hand. On Bel’s desk sat a tray of food, covered in foil.

“Next, we have… Isabel Ramirez!”

Bel took a deep breath and stepped forward, wearing the baro’t saya. Gasps and whispers filled the room. The fabric shimmered under the lights, every stitch a piece of her story.

“Whoa… she’s using her full name,” Khian whispered.

“And that dress…” Mason muttered.

Bel stood tall. “My name is Maria Isabel Josefa Cruz Ramirez. In my culture, names carry stories. So let me tell you mine.” She pointed to her outfit and tray. “This is a baro’t saya. My Lola made it. She taught me to cook adobo and sinigang, and she sings kundiman—songs about love and home. The Philippines has over 7,000 islands, each with its own language, dance, and food. We’re connected, no matter where we are.”

Her voice grew stronger. “I used to think I had to hide this part of me to fit in. But I’ve learned that being Filipino is just as important as living here. I’m not half of each—I’m whole. My roots and my present don’t compete. They complete me.”

Mrs. Carter smiled. “That was beautiful, Isabel. You’ll have to share that adobo recipe.”

The class clapped. Even Khian, Mason, and Liam didn’t look like they were laughing anymore.

The next day, Bel was at her locker when the boys walked up.

“Hey… Isabel,” Liam said. “Your presentation was awesome.”

“Yeah… and that food? So good,” Mason added.

Khian hesitated. “Can you… teach me how to say your last name right?”

Bel smiled. “It’s Ra-mee-rez. And yeah—I can.”

They walked out together. For the first time, Bel felt lighter. The weight she’d carried had turned into something else—something strong. She could almost hear Lola’s voice in her heart, singing that familiar kundiman.

She used to think belonging meant blending in. Now she knew it meant standing tall, letting her name, her heritage, and her heart speak loud and clear. From that day on, she didn’t shorten her name. She didn’t hide her food, her language, or her roots.

She belonged—not by erasing herself, but by embracing every part of her story. And every time someone said her name, fully and correctly, it felt like music—like home.

Theme: Identity and Belonging

Message: Belonging begins when you learn to be proud of who you are.

Performance Task of Group 2 (TUESDAY CLEANERS)

Members:

Ma. Franchezka V. Balansag

Samantha Chloe Valdez

Clydeine B. Beloy

Marco S. Selencio

Jan Dion S. Ordavisa

Princess Ashley S. Prieto

Trisha Vionne A. Emboy

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When the Disrespect is Loud, but the Apology didn't even made a Sound.

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When the Disrespect is Loud, but the Apology didn't even made a Sound.

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Once upon a time, there were twins playing at their backyard in Canada, there are twins named Althea and Athena, Althea is the Apple of their parents eyes, because she's beautiful, intelligent, talented, and participates in every school events, while Athena grows up alone and knowing everything at the age of four without her parents care and guidance, Maria, their mother, always praised Althea for her achievements, leaving Athena in her sisters shadows. Her mother, Maria is a teacher, and their father Anthony is a successful civil engineer. One day, Athena was given an opportunity to play as a "tree" on their school roleplay, and Althea was the main character of their roleplay, she got to be the princess. They requested and told their parents to be there, Athena was excited and over the moon and she said to herself

"I can finally prove my mother that i can do things that only my twin sister can do" Althea said with excitement.

But one thing her parents didn't knew was that she was only playing as a tree on their roleplay.

As promised their parents went, Maria and Anthony thought that their daughters hot the main roles, but they only saw Althea as the princess of the roleplay, they did not saw Athena, because her role was just being a tree or a prop. After the roleplay was done Athena saw that her parents were smiling widely and cheering loudly for Althea, not just her parents, but the other popular kid took a selfie with Athena. Athena felt jealousy and anger to her sister Althea, Athena went home earlier than her parents. When Maria, Anthony, and Althea arrived, they were surprised to see Athena, Maria asked her

"I thought you were part of the roleplay, your father and I didn't daw you?"

And finally Athena snapped, she answered her mother

"I was the tree on the roleplay, you didn't saw me because you're only paying attention to Althea and not me, you aren't even looking for me".

Her mom replied

"Your role is not even that important! Be like Althea!"

Then Althea stepped in while grinning

"You're just being over reacting! Quit it your being a attention seeker, such a pain in the butt!".

They fought nonstop, until their parents pulled them apart, her mother shouted

"Stop with all this drama! You're mature enough to think of what's wrong and right! Figure this problem out! And Athena, stop being so dramatic, it's just a roleplay, get over it!"

And Athena answered her mother

"Just a roleplay? Even if it was just a tree on that roleplay, that part is enough for me! I may be overreacting, but my feelings are valid mom, and i hope you'll remember that"

And Althea stepped in once again

"Good! You know you're not enough, and even if how much you want to be me, you'll never be like me!"

Athena was suffering with depression, anxiety because she's being bullied at her school just because Althea is better at everything, and mental health issues.

Athena said to herself

"I can't live like this anymore, mom and dad always compared me to my twin sister Althea, no one even cares about me, i'm just living behind her shadows"

She couldn't handle it any longer, all the pain and suffering in silence, she was thinking of ending her life, she said to herself

"Did God made me just to suffer all of this drama? Am i even still existing? No one cares about me nor talk about my feelings, I'm being bullied at school and i've been suffering in silent, do i even deserve this life?"

Before she committed suicide, she wrote a letter for her parents and friends, in her letter said

"Thank you you for the sacrifices and love that you've given me, this life of mine may be unfair but I'm still thankful for everything"

And then she ready her rope and chair, and ended her life.

After her parents heard about Athena, they hurriedly ran to her room, but it was too late, they saw their Athena hanging, her face as white as a paper. Her parents saw her letter and broke down into tears, her mother said to herself

"I failed as a mother to Athena, i wasn't treating them equally, I didn't treat her like how she wanted to be treated"

Althea saw her sister and regretted everything she did when Athena was still alive. They're all crying and couldn't accept that Athena left the unfair and pressure life. All they can think about is Athena, how bad they treated her, not giving Athena equal rights and responsibilities, they spent all their money on Athena's funeral, many people, classmates, teachers, and even the bullies attended, even the bullies regretted their treatment towards Athena because she's known for being the opposite side of her sister Althea. When the day of Athena's funeral, they went to the church along with her coffin and prayed for her resting beautiful soul to rest. They arrived at the cemetery and said their last goodbyes to Athena.

A day without Athena was silent, no more comparing, pressure, stress, anxiety, and mental health problems. They always visit Athena's grave and showers all their lives he and longing for Athena. When she was still alive, she never got the love and attention she onced dreamed of, but ever since she died they showered their love and attention Athena was asking for. When we're still existing, we didn't received the things we asked for my, but once we're gone, mao pa nila ma-show na they only care once your gone. Maria, her husband Anthony, and Althea accepted the reality, and proceeds to pray for Athena's soul to finally rest in peace, and moved-on. Sometimes it's really hard to face reality, and deal with the pain and hurtful words.

Theme : Unfair treatment, not having equal rights and responsibilities.

Message : Just because you're kind doesn't mean you should allow them to abuse you. Sometimes, when you know they're crossing the line, you need to fight back.

GROUP 4

Leader : Chlouie Jade S. Laran

Members :

Maryeh Dalanon

Princess Remojo

Cindy Uy

Jheyden Flores

June Montages

Jovin Macase

Josh Arbiol

Nathaniel Grullo

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Years ago, a 7-year-old boy named Juan and her mother Eliza, lived in Quezon City. On June 14, 2024, Juan and her mom, crossing the street when a speeding van hit him. The driver apologized profusely. Fortunately, Juan sustained only minor injuries and was rushed to the hospital for treatment.

The incident sparked a discussion about road safety and the importance of following traffic rules. The community came together to raise awareness about responsible driving and pedestrian safety.

After the accident, Juan's mom, Eliza, was determined to help her son recover both physically and emotionally. She took time off work to take care of him, making sure he attended his physical therapy sessions and took his medication on time.

As Juan healed, her mom Eliza noticed that her son had become more cautious and fearful when crossing streets. She make sure that, she would always be there to protect him.

One day, while they were walking, Eliza had an idea. She suggested that Juan help her create a campaign to promote road safety in their community, and Juan agreed to her moms plan.

Together, they started a project called "Safe Streets for Kids." They created posters, flyers, and even a social media campaign to raise awareness about road safety. Juan shared his story, and people began to listen.

Their campaign gained momentum, and soon they were invited to speak at local events and schools. Juan's story inspired others to take action, and the community came together to create safer streets for everyone.

Eliza was proud of her son's resilience and determination. She knew that their journey wasn't easy, but she was grateful for the opportunity to turn a difficult experience into something positive.

It's now 2025, and Juan's "Safe Streets for Kids" campaign has become a huge success. The campaign has spread across the country, and Juan has become a recognized advocate for road safety. Sharing his story and inspiring others to take action.

Eliza is proud of the person Juan has become. She's seen him grow from a timid boy who was afraid to cross the street to a confident young advocate who's making a difference in his community. She's grateful for the opportunity to work alongside him and support his passion for road safety.

A week ago, while Juan was walking with his mother to the grocery store, they encountered a mother and her child on the road who were about to cross. Later on, a motorcycle sped through a red light, almost hitting the mother and child. Fortunately, Juan and his mother were able to warn them that the light was red. They spoke to the driver, advising him to follow the rules and drive the motorcycle slowly to avoid accidents.

After many years, Juan's mother died due to her heart disease. Even though Juan's mother is gone, he continued their "Safe Streets for Kids" campaign. Juan become a successful, advocate, and determined teen boy. Many were amazed by him. He became an inspiration to other people.

Group 2 Performance Task

Theme: resilience, advocacy, and community action in the face of adversity.

Message: about turning adversity into advocacy and the power of resili

ence and community action in promoting positive change.

Leader: Glenda M. Basco

Members:

Chariz P. Aragon

Erich G. Resos

Kaitlyn Aleli B. Matulin

Samuel P. Gemeniz Jr.

Piolo G. Mancio

Nikke T. Cortel

James Ethan Gonzales

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In the country of Japan, in Osaka, Amagasaki, there was a 16 year old teenage high school girl named, Sachiko. Sachiko has long black hair, dark brown eyes, and a soft white skin. Her face looks like a goddess, but behind her beautiful face is a demon hiding within her. She treat other people with kindness and respect, but the way she treat her parents are the opposite. She treat her parents like they are slaves, like they're useless to her. As Sachiko get older, she gets more, and more mean and cruel to her parents, making them suffer even more. But Sachikos parents still love her, even if it makes them suffer, but they are also hoping that one day, someday she will love them back.

Days went by, it is time for Sachiko to go back to school. Sachiko is excited, for she wants to leave the house so she will not see her parents. And so, school started again and Sachiko went to school early, she met new friends and new classmate. She treats her friends, and classmates like they are family, and because of this, she became popular in her school. Time pass, and it's time for Sachiko to go home "Time to go home again, great", Sachiko said, annoyed. She goes home with an angry look on her face, "Sachiko, welcome home dear!, how was school?", Sachiko's mother said, "That's none of your business, old hag", Said Sachiko angrily. Sachiko walk to her room, feeling annoyed and angry, she slamed the door shut Infront of her mother's face.Her mother, feeling sad , just accepted the faith that her daughter is like this , "Oh Sachiko, when will you changed?" her mother said.

Sachiko is inside her room, just scrolling through tiknok, suddenly felt a shivers down her spine. She pause for a moment , thinking she hears a noise coming outside from room. She walked out of her room, and saw her mother laying on the floor, unconscious "Old hag, don't play dumb with me!" Sachiko said, but her mother was not moving. Sachiko was worried. Sachiko called her father, but she remembered he was off to work. So, Sachiko, alone, called an ambulance, and they took her mother to the hospital. Sachiko waited outside the room of her mother in the hospital. A few minutes a Doctor came towards her, "Dear, your mother is really stressed, due to this your mother had fainted, and her blood pressure is slowly increasing, she might stay here for a while, is it ok for you?" said the Doctor, "Thank you Doc, she can stay here, I don't need her anyway", said Sachiko feeling worried and happy at the same time. The Doctor was too stunned to speak, "What an disrespectful girl, she doesn't care about her mother at all", said the doctor in his mind. Sachiko left the hospital, and went home. While walking home, Sachiko saw her Father, holding a glass bottle of alcohol, he was drunk "Father, your drunk again?, ugh you always drink",Sachiko said to her Father. "This is none of your business Sachiko, you hate us, remember?, you don't care about me and your mother, so stay out of it!",said Sachiko's Father angrily. "Fine, Sumura!", Sachiko said, saying her Fathers name. "How dare you?!, you have no respect!", Sachiko's Father said, very angry at her. Sachiko ignored her Father's reply, and went home feeling tired and exhausted. When she arrived home, Sachiko went directly to her room and slept. Sachiko, as usual woke up, went to school early, and go home after school. This routine continues until weekends .

One Saturday morning, Sachiko woke up with silence in the house. Sachiko look around the house looking for

his father. "Father?, come on don't play games with me!", Sachiko called for her father angrily. She search around the house but her father was nowhere to be seen. "Ugh!, what a waste of time!, I should go visit my friends instead". And so, Sachiko visited her friends. After Sachiko visited, she decided to visit her mother in the hospital, not knowing what comes next .

Sachiko arrived at the hospital. The same Doctor that helped her mother walks towards her in the hospital's hallway, looking sad, "Oh dear, I tried everything, but..", said the Doctor. "What?, what do you mean, Doc?", said Sachiko being confused. The Doctor told her everything that happened. Sachiko immediately run to her mothers hospital room, there she saw her mother, with no life, only her body laying down on the hospital bed. Her skin white as snow, and lips black. Sachiko broke into pieces, and cried, seeing her mother. "Mother..., I'm sorry, please stay with me!", Sachiko said as she cried. "I'm sorry Mother, for everything I've done, i love you". Sachiko cried and said I love you to her mother but it's too late now. Her Father came to the hospital and saw Sachiko and calmed her down, "Sachiko, don't cry", her Father said."Oh Father, thank you that your here, I want to say I'm sorry for everything, for being mean and talking back to you, please forgive me", said Sachiko as she hugged her Father. "It's ok Sachiko, I forgive you", "Thank you, Father " Sachiko smiled.

Group 3

Leader: Joyce S. Javier

Members:

Jimuel Sumaya

Mark Joel Tomon

Vanrick Aves

Lhian Mae Costillas

Rhian Rose Ireneo

Angelito Daniel Gloria

Alexandra Geraldo

Theme: Personal Growth and Self- Discovery

•Coming of age with a deeper awareness of ones background.

Message of the story:

LOVE YOUR PARENTS, WHEREAS THEIR STILL HERE IN THIS WORLD

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    Lia's Lantern/Parol                    

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    Lia's Lantern/Parol                    

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Cultural pride and preservation:

: The importance of keeping cultural traditions alive.

One's upon a time, there's a one kid she's name is Lia, and his grandfather, his name is Lolo Carding, Lia lived in Combado, Maasin City, Southern Leyte, Philippines. She liked playing games on her tablet/phone. She liked watching videos and talking to her friends.

Her grandfather, Lolo Carding, lived in a small house near by the house of her granddaughter. Lolo make colorful paper lanterns called "Parol" in Tagalog. He used bamboo sticks, glue, and paper. He make them every Christmas.

One day, Lia visited Lolo. She saw him cutting bamboo and pasting paper. "Lolo", she asked", why don't you buy lanterns from the store?. Lolo smiled, "Those are nice, but the one i make are special. This making lanterns are showing our tradition, if we stop making this, our tradition will be gone.

Lia didn't understand what Lolo said.

The next week, Lia's teacher said, "Bring something that shows our tradition." Lia think about it. She remembered Lolo's lanterns. She decided to learn how to make one lanterns.

At next day, she begin to make a lantern, at first, it was hard, because the paper ripped, the glue stuck on her hands. The bamboo bent to much. Lia felt upset and sad and she said, " I can't do it, but Lolo Carding said ,"you can",. Making Lanterns takes long time and focused. It's part of your life, because you are begginer, this is your first time making lanterns, it's normal to be have a mistakes just try your best.

Lia tried again, and she worked slowly, she focused, she cut the paper slowly and gently, she glued the sides carefully, And after she make, her lanterns looks better.

Finally, it was done. It had red, yellow, and green colors. Lolo put some decorations that looks colorful.

On contest day, Lia carry her lanterns. Her classmates had plastic lanterns, but her lanterns are made of paper, and her classmates said , did you make that?, yes, Lia said ,it so very colorful and amazing, "thanks", Lia said. When it was Lia's turn, she showed her lanterns and said," My grandfather guided me how to make this. It is our tradition.

The judge smiled."This is beautiful, and it shows our tradition, the one judge said." Lia felt happy and she won the first prized.

One night, Lia returned home and she showed the prize she got, to her Lolo, and Lolo Carding hugged her." And said," I am so proud of you, Lolo said , I am so proud of you to Lolo because you teached me how to make a lantern, Lia said.

From that, Lia still used her tablet, but every Christmas, she maked lanterns with Lolo.

Message from the story: Tradition should alive, Even if we live in a modern life, we should keep, so we can remember our family, and past.

GROUP-2 Performance task

Leader:Yza M. Bueles 8-D

Members:

1.Mayseh Salvaleon 8-D

2.Sabrina Dag-uman 8-D

3.Merry Gloria 8-D

4.Angela Datoon 8-D

5.Lynar Javier 8-D

6.Alexis Malasaga 8-D

7.Flora Mae Candole 8-D

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PERSONAL GROWTH AND SELF DISCOVERY

One day theirs a girl named Ella, who's 15 years old, lived in Cebu City, but she dreamed of going to another country. She loved K-pops and her best friend kim is famous and lives in another country. It felt like she don't appreciate her own culture, like she was just visiting.

The bright colors of the jeepneys, the smell of roasted pig in the street the sweet songs that played, it all felt like she is missing somewhere else.

Her parents tried to get her to like her own culture. They tried to teach her filipino dances like tinkling, but she don't want to, she didn't really try hard to love her culture. Ella didn't pay so much attention. She's always texting her friend or watching K-pop videos on her phone. She told her friend that everywhere in cebu felt boring. Her friend made her want to leave and see the world to experience new things and meet other peoples.

Ella and her parents argued a lot about this. They were worried that she was forgetting something. But ella didn't get it, she just wanted to be like her friend, someone who is free and didn't have to worry about old traditions. She felt like her parents just didn't understand her.

One year ago, her school made everyone go to Sinulog, which is the best festival in Cebu. Ella really didn't want to go. She thought it would be a long, noisy day filled with many things she won't enjoy, she texted Kim, saying she'd be rather be anywhere else. Her friend surprised her saying, " maybe it won't be so bad. Try to have fun you might actually like it if you go ".

Ella didn't want to, but she went with her class and watched the Sinulog parade. At first she was annoyed, because the sun was super hott, the music was way too loud, many people pushing each other to get a good view. But Ella remembered what Kim said.

So, Ella peeked and noticed how amazing and beautiful their costumes and make up, she was shocked because she didn't expected it.

So ella continued to observe their

performance to see if her parents is right about it. while she was observing, a kid come close to her and said " HI do you like my mommy dance the sinulog?", Ella don't know what to answer, and said I don't know I'm still observing if it's a good or a bad performance. The kid suddenly cried, Ella was shocked and thinked " ohhww noo I think her mom is gonna be angry, she's crying like the streets are gonna be full of tears", then Ella saw the mothers kid running and shocked because she saw her daughter cry. The mothers child asked Ella " Hello do you know what's the reason why my daughter is crying?", ella replied " sorry I said that I'm still observing If the sinulog dance is bad or good and then she suddenly cried" the mothers child said " ohh sorry my daughter is just a baby".

Ella got home after the mothers child left. Ella's mother asked " ella how was the sinulog dance?"

Ella said " mom I made a kid cry, but I promise I will not do it again"

her mother said " what did you do ella why would you make a kid cry"

ella said " mom, because I said I'm still observing if the performance is good or not" her mom said "

Ella why would you need to observe very long, I know you like the performance why would you said that"

Ella said " yes mom I'm regretting that I said that, but yeah, I like the performance, because it's colorful, its just I didn't think, that why I said thatt.

Ella's mom said " ow honey I'm so proud of you, you realized it now".

From that day on ella liked her culture, she learned how to cook filipino foods and know every kind of filipino games, stories, and she even join some kids who plays or practice tinikling.

GROUP 5

Members:

- Lovella A. Arnaiz

- Kate Malasaga

- Judie Fe Tomon

- Herald Melorin

- Ruth Jean Awi

- Kyla Castro

- Alan Rasonabe

- Alfred Montesclaros

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GROUP 3 (WEDNESDAY)

Members:

leader: Zamm Aroy

members:

Honey Abando

Hannnah Ingeniero

Farrell Orit

Keith Rivera

Alberic Cero

Mencee Baragenio

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THEME: CULTURAL PRIDE AND PRESERVATION

GROUP ONE

Leader - Mary Christine Tero

Zaffra Korg Doron

Scarlett Kaye Pedrera

Gay Bactul

Caleb Chairne Daven Lariba

Jhazrelle Mac Rojas

Lerwin Bantillan

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GROUP 4 (THURSDAY)

Leader- Mae Dioemi Cua

Members:

Yna Gabrille Tan

Chrislaine John Ponce

Mykhaela Jade Basetas

Carmelle Xeanne Lamberte

Angelo Custodio

Clint James Bolic

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Lena's life is exactly what highschoolers want—always attending at school, bringing home straight A grades, and being productive each day when she goes to school. But despite all of the precious things she had done as a teenager, she also experienced a challenge that she always carried throughout her life. As someone who lives in Brookridge City, her days were filled with the cacophony of car horns, chatter, and the wail of sirens in the distance. The savory smell of street foods wafted through the air, tempting her taste buds.

As she walked home from school one evening, the setting sun cast a warm glow over the towering skyscrapers. The sound of her mother's voice calling out from the kitchen greeted her as she entered their small apartment. "Lena, come here for a minute," her mother said, her voice firm but gentle.

Lena dropped her backpack on the floor and walked into the kitchen, where her mother was preparing dinner. The aroma of steaming vegetables and sizzling meat filled the air, making her stomach growl with hunger. "Yes, Mom?" she asked, trying to sound attentive.

"You know your cousin is a doctor, right?" her mother asked, her eyes fixed on Lena's face. Lena nodded, feeling a sense of unease creeping up her spine. "You should focus on becoming a doctor too. It's a stable career, and you'll make a good living."

Lena forced a smile, trying to hide her doubts. "Yes, Mom," she replied, feeling like she was trapped in a predetermined path. But deep down, she felt lost.

The next day, Lena met her best friend Maya in the city park. They bought bagels and coffee, and sitting on the bench beside the lampose while chattering a few topics about their school life. Not until a moment of silence came and Lena confessed, "I don't think this is what I want. I feel like I'm just going through the motions." Maya looked concerned as Lena confessed.

"Yeah... I felt that. But what do you want?" she asked, her voice filled with curiosity. Lena shrugged, feeling a sense of uncertainty. "I don't know yet. I just know I need to find my own path."

That summer, Lena's family sent her to stay with her grandparents for the whole month in a quiet coastal town called Harmony Bay.

As she walked along the beach, the sand between her toes and the wind in her hair, Lena felt a sense of freedom she had never experienced before. She met an elderly man painting quietly beneath a large oak tree. Lena was drawn to the vibrant colors on the canvas.

"Why do you paint alone?" Lena asked, watching as the artist's brush strokes across the canvas. "Because this is how I wanted." The artist replied, not looking at Lena, busy focuing on his work."Why did you like it that way?" Lena asked with confusion, the artist took a while to reply, "It helps me find myself," he replied with a voice of passion. "Art is a journey of self-discovery and growth, it helps you pour all of the burden emotions and feelings that you've carried for a long time onto your work."

That moment Lena heard what the artist has said, she felt a glimpse of freedom and realization. Inspired, Lena spent her days sketching seashells and sunsets. She felt a sense of joy and fulfillment she had never experienced before. As she sat on the beach, watching the sun set over the ocean, she felt like she was finally finding her own path.

When she returned home to the city, Lena finally have the courage to say this to her mom after a long time. She called her mother, her heart pounding in her chest. "Mom, I want to study art," she said, her voice trembling with nervousness.

Her mother paused, and for a moment, Lena wondered if she had made a mistake. But then her mother spoke, her voice filled with understanding. "Are you sure?" she asked, her tone softer than Lena had expected.

"Yes, Mom. I'm sure. I need to follow my own path," Lena replied, feeling a sense of conviction.

Her mother sighed, and Lena held her breath, waiting for her mother's response. But then her mother said, "Okay, Lena. I'll support you. But you need to work hard and make the most of this opportunity."

Lena felt a wave of relief wash over her. She knew it wouldn't be easy, but she was ready to take the leap. She enrolled in art classes and started journaling, feeling a sense of creativity and freedom she had never experienced before.

As she walked through the city park, where she has always been with Maya, one afternoon, Lena felt like a different person. The sun was shining brightly, and the flowers were in bloom, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. She smiled, feeling a sense of joy and fulfillment. "I feel free now," she said, her voice filled with conviction. "I'm finally discovering who I am."

Group 4 members:

Irah Cabrera

Arainne Macaldo

Teejay Costillas

Aaron Jay Costillas

Angel Lorraine Gozon

Arkhen Mackenjie Marquez

Jousha Bulawan

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Once upon a time, in City Of Maasin in Southern Leyte, Philippines, there was a 14 year old girl named Jessa. She was a loving daughter to her Mom, but she didn’t like cooking. After school, she use her phone while her Mom cooking dinner in the kitchen.

One day, Mom was cleaning and found an old apron in the old sack. She smiled and said, “This was my mother’s old apron. She taught me to cook traditional Filipino recipes while wearing this in the kitchen.” Jessa didn’t say anything she just sit on the couch.

One week later, Mom got sick and couldn’t cook for lunch. Jessa was worried for her mother, so she decided to wear the old apron, get the cookbook from the cabinet, and cook sinigang in the kitchen for her. She struggled with the step-by-step instructions, trying her best.

When she was done. Mom blow on the hot soup and took a sip. Then she smiled warmly and said, “I did not expect it to taste like this. I’m proud of your work. That’s exactly how my mother taught me.”

Jessa was touched by her Mom. From that day, Jessa changed. Her Mom begin teaching her more traditional Filipino recipes, and she started helping in the kitchen every day.

In school, Jessa always brings food she cooked with her Mom’s help and shared it with her classmates. After tasting it, her classmates were proud of Jessa’s work. Jessa explained to them how she learned from her Mom step by step instructions, and her story really inspired them.

One day, the school announced a cooking show contest. Jessa was excited and wanted to join. After school, she sprinted towards her home like a cheetah because of being excited and told her Mom. Jessa practiced cooking 2 option recipes to get choices when if she was in the final, wearing the old apron while her Mom watched proudly.

The next day at school, the cooking show begins. Jessa was felt nervous about her opponents and wants to back out, but her Mom giving her confidence. After the competition, the judges rated their work, and Jessa was the only one who cooked Pancit Bihon a Traditional Recipe in the Philippines. When the judges tasted her work they smiled.

Finally, the  judges announced, “The winner of this cooking contest is Jessa!” because of her unique work and traditional recipe in the Philippines.

Jessa’s heart beat with full happiness. She looked at her Mom, who was smiling with tears. Jessa walked to the stage to receive her medal and certificate and said "This is for my mom who taught me everything" .

From that day, Jessa named a young chef in her school and Jessa learned that even when you are in the struggle and hard days always remember to believe in yourself. She keep wearing her Mom’s old apron whenever she cooked, remembering it was not just a old cloth—it was a symbol of love.

And they lived happily ever after.

Message: The story shows that hard work and believing in yourself can lead to success. Even  Jessa struggled at first,she keep trying and never gives up until she improved and learned.

Theme: Family And Generational Wisdom-Learning from the struggles and resillience of ancestors.

Members: Group 1

Hannah Jubel Siega

Caye Antonette Terora

Angel Mae Egido

Jann Arwin Gagan

Xyrelle Dayola

Khim Jhazen Metch Ranes

Kirk Ramos

John Kylle Orais

Levis Lendio

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Once upon a time, five kingdoms lived in harmony: the First Kingdom ruled by King Abraham, the Second by King Julian, the Third by King Bernard, the Fourth by King Chris, and the youngest ruler, King Joseph, who governed the Fifth Kingdom. For years, they coexisted peacefully—until one fateful night when a thief stole gold from King Julian’s treasury.

The kings gathered for a royal meeting to address the crime. They agreed to increase patrols across their lands. That very night, a guard in King Julian’s kingdom spotted a cloaked figure carrying a large sack. The man was captured, and when his mask was torn off, the emblem of the Third Kingdom (King Bernard’s realm) was revealed on his cloak. The thief was executed, but news of his allegiance spread like wildfire. Outraged, the other kingdoms accused King Bernard of treachery, and alliances fractured. King Chris joined forces with King Joseph, while King Abraham and King Julian forged their own pact.

Years of tension erupted into war.

The Armies Clash

- First Kingdom (King Abraham): 5,000 soldiers, including elite archers.

- Second Kingdom (King Julian): 5,000 spearmen and 1,000 mercenaries.

- Third Kingdom (King Bernard): 3,000 swordsmen and a legion of legendary archers.

- Fourth Kingdom (King Chris): 5,530 cavalrymen armed with siege weapons.

- Fifth Kingdom (King Joseph): 7,000 warriors, including 3,000 Spartans.

King Joseph, a tactician, divided his forces: Squad 1 marched north to confront King Abraham, while Squad 2 headed south to flank King Julian.

At dawn, King Abraham ambushed King Julian’s advancing army. Though 3,000 of Julian’s spearmen survived, the attack forced the Second Kingdom to merge forces with the First. Meanwhile, King Bernard’s archers rained hellfire, and King Chris’s cavalry crushed entire battalions. But Joseph’s Spartans held firm, their discipline turning the tide.

The Final Stand

Only two kings remained: Joseph and Abraham. Their armies collided in a storm of steel and blood. When Abraham struck down Joseph’s brother in battle, the young king roared, “For honor and peace!” His Spartans charged, scattering Abraham’s forces. The two rulers dueled fiercely until Joseph plunged his ancestral sword into Abraham’s heart.

Silence fell. The survivors wept for fathers, sons, and brothers lost. Standing atop the carnage, King Joseph declared, “No more blood shall water these lands. Let peace reign—today, we rebuild as one kingdom!”

The war ended, but its scars lingered. Joseph’s wisdom united the realms, and though harmony returned, the people never forgot

Message: The Destructive Cycle of Pride and the Redemptive Power of Wise Leadership

Group 1 Performance task

Leader: Ruben Cadavero Jr.

Members: Princess kyle lagarteja

Melanie buyan

Aldreana lyn Mori

Jersan S. Buling

Kayle Gellardo

Rosemarie Bacala

Jheniel jake Montajes

Froilan Fernandez

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The love for our cultures and traditions

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The love for our cultures and traditions

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SETTING:A village in an ancient city

CHARACTERS:3 Siblings(Sam,Mary, Sasha, Father, mother, Guardian A&B, Elder spirit

(NARRATOR) Once upon a time,one day the three siblings lives peacefully in a village in ancient city, with there parents. Then the next day the three siblings was giving a task by his father without her mother knowing to get some woods in the forest early in the morning

the first sibling replied

Mary:Yes,father why of course

Second sibling

Sam:Oh father my pleasure

Third sibling

Sasha:Okay father, but may I ask, at what time do you want us to come back home exactly?

Father:You need to come home before sun down

3 Siblings saids:okay dad

A few minutes have passed their mom wakes up

Mother:Oh what a beautiful morning, oh honey kids?

Father:oh yes honey coming, what is it honey

Mother:Where's the kids, where's our kids?

Father:Oh don't worry, will ya a just asked them get some woods, don't worry they will be fine, glpp yeah I hope so..

Mother:okay then if they come home not alright we will have a ton of discussions, about this

Father:okay, okay I'm sorry please forgive me geez

Meanwhile, after the three siblings were done, they decided to go back home already because it's already getting late, while they were walking in the deep woods they saw something unusual, and weird wall of full of carved rocks, and they found out that it was a passage way to somewhere new, they try, and try, of opening it but wouldn't budge a single bit, they almost lost hope when suddenly out of nowhere a strange man opens the wall full of carved rocks, and asks the three siblings carefully

Strange man:excuse me if you don't mind asking? How on did you find this place

The three siblings replied:uhm, why wouldn't we it's just in the side of the path way, duh

Strange man:Yes, yes I know but what I meant how did you know this is a secret wall

The 3 Siblings said: uhm just guessed

But we really want to explore but fast

Strange man:okay but be aware of the guardians, follow me

3 Siblings: okay

Strange man said :behold the hidden tribe for generations with there own cultural traditions

be free to explore, but be careful of the dark part where the guardians take in charge because if they know the three of you, that you are explorers only and not a part of our cultural traditions they will, and will be willingly to posses you with there black magic

3 Siblings replied:gullp hmm seems pretty scary to us then bye, thank you for the warnings

The three siblings keep on exploring the hidden tribe until they saw a giant old house, and it was likely sorounded by tall crops

They explore the house and in the basement was a surprise of treasure waiting for them

The three siblings were excited to come back home with treasure, but the three siblings forgot the strange man's warnings

the three siblings was going home when suddenly out of nowhere it appears that the guardians where waiting for the outside the guardians soon found out there explorers the guardians possesses them and forced to join the cultural traditions of the hidden tribe

Guardian A:Wahahaha your all our now including your souls hahahahahah

Guardian B:Hahahhah

But the three siblings had faith, and has true love, and compassion for their cultural traditions

Then the elder spirit guides them to safety

Elder spirit said:Oh I am here and in my power all you demon guardians vanish, and dissappear out of nowhere

The three siblings were glad

The elder spirit said the faith and your compassion for our cultural traditions is inspiring hope that next generation will be same as today

Thank you so much

Members of group 3

1) Felran Eduard Tripoli

2)Darvin Mark Catubigan

3)Raymark Ratilla

4)Angelo Eileen

5)Mary joy Mendoza

6)Ariane joy Serdan Pacunla

7)Natasha Grullo

8)Alouisa Macaldo