My Personal Symbols by Fiona Balugo

San Sebastian Cathedral

fiobalugo941 — 2024-05-29 14:39:50 UTC

The San Sebastian Cathedral served as the primary church me and my family would go to weekly when we were still in the Philippines. I've learned so much from all the homilies the priests would share with the people. The Cathedral allows people to light candles in honor of their deceased loved ones, which really takes me back during Undas (Day of the Dead).

Batangas "lomi"

fiobalugo941 — 2024-05-31 14:51:22 UTC

"Lomi" is a type of noodle soup which originated in the province where I was born, Batangas. Specifically in the city of Lipa, the scent of joints who sell lomi makes me reminisce of the times I would accompany my grandfather in some mornings to buy lomi as our breakfast.

SJAVPA

fiobalugo941 — 2024-06-03 12:38:39 UTC

St. John Academy of Visual and Performing Arts was the first school I ever attended (kinder-grade 4). This school gave me the very first impression of how it was like studying as a kid in the Philippines. I've developed memories that I will never forget from the people I got to know.

SCC

fiobalugo941 — 2024-06-03 12:44:00 UTC

The months I spent in St. Charles shaped me of who I am today. This was the very first school I attended when we arrived here in Canada, specifically in the city of Sudbury. Even though I had a few Filipino friends, some of my fellow classmates had the kindness to approach me. I will never forget all the memories we've created and the happiness I felt when I was with them.

SMC

fiobalugo941 — 2024-06-03 12:45:24 UTC

When I heard that my father had been accepted for a new job here in Sault Ste Marie, I had some bittersweet feelings. The thought of having to leave everything I've done and everyone I've met made my stomach churn. That was changed with the first few days of my stay here in St. Mary's. Before we even moved, a friend of mine informed me that there would be more Filipinos here compared to SCC. And right as I stepped in the school, I immediately saw familiar faces. SMC gave me a chance to improve and develop my skills, and I look forward to more opprtunities in the future.

SMC Hip-Hop Dance Team

fiobalugo941 — 2024-06-03 12:56:56 UTC

This picture shows the hip-hop team of SMC at the Shine Dance Competitions held in Northbay in April. During the first months of our stay in SMC, me and my friend saw that the school's dance team were accepting new members. We were thrilled to audition and get accepted, and thankfully, we were eventually members of the hip-hop team. Prior to our competition, we've practiced diligently to achieve what is standard for the competition, through hardwork and discipline, we formed unforgettable memories for our first year as members of the team.

Guitar

fiobalugo941 — 2024-06-03 13:01:20 UTC

Way back when I was a kid, I have observed my father playing the guitar and thought to myself, "How can he play it effortlessly?". From there on, I tried and tried to learn it but always ended up with no fate. Although when we arrived here in Canada, I started to mention about playing guitar. One day, my father came home and surprised us with one! My passion for guitar started and still continues on.

Pandesal

fiobalugo941 — 2024-06-03 13:23:56 UTC

Similar to lomi, the "pandesal" holds a special place in my heart as it provides warmth on a cold morning. Usually eaten with coffee, some pandesals can be bought with cheese in it which contrasts the sweetness of the dough.