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Jhizzah Mae Francisco When I was a little girl I used to dream of being a nurse. The idea of caring for individuals, of providing a comforting presence when they were sick or in pain had always excited me. I was in awe of medicine, and the idea of learning a science that could preserve my family's health seemed like a noble ambition.  Life had other plans for me, but I ended up going on another journey that took me through the world of tourism. After I realized that I would face my first encounter with public speaking by pursuing a degree in Tourism Management, i had defined options of what i wanted to be, yet. Somehow, I knew my shortcomings and still light-heartedly wished to break out of them. The course looked like an opportunity not just to better my communication but open doors for me. Only this decision would ultimately lead to unexpected possibilities in my life. I travelled; I met with people from different walks of life, and experienced diverse cultures far beyond my own. The world was open to me, and I would find out after every trip that it's okay to change your route when something is not for you. Through tourism, I was able to combine my love for learning and service. But I discovered and way to truly take care of others that didn’t start in a hospital rather from making experiences that brought people joy, wonder, happiness.   I began this as a journey to better my communication and ended up in a way of personal-related growth and discoveries. I do not anymore view me as "the one" who has to go after a schedule. After all, life is open to the winds of change, and I have grown to accept whatever new paths are opened for me. I look forward to whatever the future holds, Today I am excited. Life can be funny that way, life have a tendency to know where you belong even when at first glance it may not look alike to what you might expect.

JOHN LLOYD GUERRA My name is John Lloyd Guerra,21 years old and Born in Nabas, Aklan. As a kid of born lineage of fisherman family, I faced the dreams of marine biologist. I was always in wonder of the ocean as a child, its mystery, its secrets and the wondrous world beneath the surface kept my imagination alive. I spent hours reading up on marine ecosystems and strolling at beach hoping to find some marine animals, But then as I started school, It finally hit me when I discovered that this dream might not be economically feasible with my family and began to look for a more practical path. After Graduated at High School I pursued Tourism Management program at University of Antique, I have learnt to appreciate the path that was never meant to be. My hopes and dreams of marine biology turned into an opportunity to travel and discover cultures and experiences through tourism, and now I’m a 3rd year tourism student. Well Actually I don’t have any inspiring story about me I’m Just an ordinary guy who kept striving to have a better life , being a regular guy with modest aspirations is just as true. I may be just an ordinary boy, but my dreams are anything but average. With each step I take, I believe that a brighter future is within reach, a future where money isn’t a problem, where I can live my life to the fullest. In the end, my goal is simple: I just want to create a life where money stress doesn't steal joy. I may not have yet an uplifting story of success, but I will do everything possible to take advantage of my uninteresting journey. Every day has its own lessons, and every step is a win already. I also think that, at the very least, those simple dreams can lead to an excellent way of life, and I cannot wait to see where this path in tourism takes me. Striving for a future where money is no longer a limit to the lifestyle ideally  I seek, through hard work and dedication I’ll claim it someday.

As a young child, I followed in the footsteps of others. I am Rimella Mae O. Apura and I was born in District 4, Sibalom Antique. I grew up in a home with my two loving parents when I was a child. But when I turn 7yrs old, my only mother take care of me and that have been with me through it all and now of days that is something to be truly thankful for. My mommy taught me to strive to be anything that I wanted and that I could be anything that I set my mind to. These dreams changed throughout my life as I grew older and as I grew into the person that I am today. I'm now studying tourism at the University of Antique, which gives me the opportunity to learn more about the value of cultural preservation and sustainable tourism methods. I can say that I am a responsible and a hard-working student becayse being a sociable person, I have many friends since I like to communicate with people and get to know new interesting individuals. When i was 2nd year college I transfer here at University of Antique, I really enjoy my time here in UA it is really nice to study, the students are very friendly and ready to help. I am a very enthusiastic student and I think this is a strong point of mine. I meet new friends at University of Antique and some of them say that I am a very funny and an interesting girl with a good sense of humor. And as soon as I meet new people who are happy to meet me, I feel extremely comfortable with them. I believe that friendship is one of the most important values in human life. The goal I’m currently striving for is to make this world a better place to live in by starting the changes with myself. Sure, I’ve had bad experiences in my life too, but this is exactly what made me the way I am now grateful, full of love, with a desire to study well because it will help me become a successful person in future and have a high quality of life.

I was born in Taguig City , and currently living in Villa Salomon, Patnongon, Antique. I have only one brother. I enjoy watching K-dramas, different kinds of vlogs, riding a bike, and playing with our dogs. I prefer to stay quiet and be reserved around strangers or in new places that I am not familiar with, but I am jolly and easy to get along. I like to observed and listen rather than be the center of attention. I prefer to think before I speak, and I often need time to recharge after social interactions. I find comfort in my own thoughts and ideas, and I hate it when someone raises their voice because I prefer to have conversations where everyone feels respected. There are scenarios that cause me to overthink and many "what ifs" in my mind, but now I am proud to say that I am different. I stopped needing validation from others, and I began putting myself first. I embraced my flaws, understanding that they make me unique. No more comparing my journey to others, realizing that everyone moves at their own pace. Life isn't a race; it's a journey, and every step, no matter how small, is still a progress.

I a nonchalant person aiming for stars type of person. I was born on Tamayoc, Patnongon, Antique and currently living in simple and peaceful barangay known as Igburi. I have two siblings and i am the youngest member of the family. I like reading comics and watching anime, it really made my day. Im not a kind of person who wants to sleep all day, that's so lazy. I am a fan of a toy cars instead of barbie dolls. But now growing up i have lot of realization like its not simple to make money to buy what you want you have to earn it on your own.  Now in college where you need to be strong even though your near the point of giving up. Im literally thinking that am i in the right path today, can i really do this or finish but i remember my parents once said if you really love what you're doing right now there so much opportunity awaits in you. In that line I always see what my purpose in continuing my journey it's for my dreams that i needed to turn into reality. They said study as long as there is someone who able to provide to your needs for studying and it is for your own good in the future. From that, Im always reminding myself to continue what i started. Sometimes it's the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination.

I am Creamy P. Delatorre from Caluya Antique a dreamer and believer that I can do what my heart pumps and wants. As a kid, I was very goal oriented. In my dreams, I desired to go to college so that I could create a better future for myself. But this dream had challenges, of its own. It was stepping into the unknown for something other than living at home with my family. Independence sounded both exhilarating and terrifying. DID I ACTUALLY THINK ABOUT BEING ABLE TO SURVIVE WITH MY FAMILY AND THEIR SUPPORT AROUND ME? I missed my family so much well just things we shared like joking at our meals and laughter. Yet, I noticed that this space was something to learn from. I needed to learn to be my best support system and get used to my new environment. In order to beat this point, I had to see things differently. I reframed my aloneness as an opportunity to carve out my own identity. I dove into my work, reminded of what I can do and met some new friends who were feeling the same. I started by challenging myself to integrate more with the place and what surrounded me every single day. I discovered how to enjoy the little moments in life; acing a test, making new friends. Through this journey, I learned that my goals were transforming. I hatched dreams on how not only i wanted my academic scorecard to look like but also the kind of person i visualized above it. I wanted to be strong and patient, a light for whomever might go through their own struggles like this. I began to work on my sororities, studying different subjects that intrigued me and doing things that were only virtues of mine. As a result I realized how precious my family really were. Their love and encouragement had always been the very cornerstone of my aspirations. The distance was tough, but it also served as a constant reminder to me of what the purpose was behind why I was doing my course. Those late night calls from home, it kept me going through those tough days. I realized that this was not my journey of redemption or the story of personal success, it was also my duty to their sacrifices for me to make it here. These experiences have since been empowering for me as I head into the future. I know that our soul and spirit grow when we are willing to step into discomfort, looking in the challenge through the eyes of strength. Attending college has made me more confident and independent, however prepared for the world can a senior in college really be. Looking back on that journey, I am so thankful for all the setbacks and obstacles. They taught me how to be a single independent fighter going against all the problems and challengers by myself and how much my family stood behind me. Distance, I have learned is both challenging and empowering. I have clearer ambitions and I am determined not to waste this honor on behalf of myself, but also my family that believed in me all that time. As today as I continue my time in this college journey, I hold tightly to my dreams, knowing that with a hard work and an open heart, I can overcome any challenge that comes my way #Treat yourself as you could be, and you will become what you should be.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson..

In the small barangay of Mag-aba, where everyone knows each other, lives Joselle Bautista. With her curly hair and outgoing personality, Joselle is a young woman making the most of her life. She dreamed of being a teacher, imagined herself at the front of a classroom watching children blossom. However, teaching wasn't a long-term fit and as she got older decided to pursue Tourism Management. What made her lose, then what cause her to change it? When she was in high school, she realized that teachers faced a lot of struggles. She would see that the job is stressful, and they pay peanuts. People always said, “Teaching is not for the weak" and she knew that she was to impatient to deal with kids all day. She also found out that she was more attached to monetary security than she knew. She even considered that perhaps teaching was not her thing. It was during this period that she stumbled upon something that change her interest. The Tourism Industry. The thought of traveling and working sounded ideal. She loves to travel and discover new cultures, so the proposition of doing it in return for cash in hand sounded oh-so good. She said she was now concentrating on her next target : getting a job in the cruise industry. Travel to different countries Meet new people Other places she'd like to visit forest, caves and experience thrilling adventures, This appeals to her adventurous spirit, and is a way for her to make money while doing what she loves. Her journey shows that dreams can change as we grow. What’s important is finding a path that makes us happy and helps us reach our goals. For her, that path is now leading her toward a life at sea.

He is Christian Paul Tambagahan and he was born in 2004. Currently living in Dumrog, Pandan, Antique. He’s studying at the University of Antique taking a Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management. An introverted person but doing his best to cope with it to be confident. Growing up in a small town, he’s been surrounded by nature and the strong sense of community that comes with it. Raised by his father and his grandma(his father’s mother) after his mother left them when he was six years old to work abroad, sadly, his grandma passed away in 2018. He learned early on the value of hard work, independence, and perseverance. These lessons, coupled with his passion for tourism, have shaped the person he is today. As a tourism student at the University of Antique, he is eager to contribute to the growing tourism industry. Christian Paul is now a student of tourism in college at the University of Antique, enabling him to further learn about sustainable tourism practices and how significant cultural preservation is. The very same studies have been a stepping-stone for him to improve himself further, and create a nice direct effect on the tourism sector; especially when it comes to promoting & encouraging traveling in hidden places Off-the-beaten-paths areas. Outside of his academic journey, one of his greatest joys is playing badminton. He started playing when he was six years old, it all started when he saw a single badminton racket hanging inside his grandma’s little sari-sari store. Playing badminton is not just a hobby for him; it’s a way to stay active, focused, and balanced. Whether he’s training for a local tournament or simply playing with friends, badminton has taught him the value of discipline and teamwork. Growing up without his mother’s presence was difficult for him, but it made him appreciate the unwavering support of his father and grandmother even more. They instilled in him the resilience to overcome challenges, and he carried this mindset into every aspect of his life, from academics to personal pursuits. As he pursues his tourism degree, he is inspired to build sustainable and genuine travel experiences that link travelers closer to the best of the Philippines. More emotively, his background, the struggles he faced on personal front covers and love for Badminton. He cherishes resilience, community and the moments that matter. As he looks to the future, He is particularly excited about how they can support travel and tourism by providing sustainable, authentic experiences that preserve the culture of locals.

My name is Japs Esguerra Riola, 21 years old and born in Dasmariñas, Cavite on May 18, 2003. I had lived and raised in Cavite until I got 5 years old and transferred to my father's province. I studied my nursery years here, but it didn't take long, and my parents decided to move and continue my studies in the province where we are now. I finished my grade school at Talisay Elementary School and Secondary level at Pandan National Vocational High School. And currently we are living at Talisay, Pandan, Antique. I have been a student athlete since I was in high school till now and I'm part of the UA Red Ants Volleyball Team, I am now a 3rd year college at University of Antique taking Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management. I started playing volleyball when I was in grade 5. One of my very close friends encouraged me to play volleyball even though I don't really have a passion for that sport at first because basketball is what I played before. When I entered in high school, I was determined to join the try out for school volleyball team. I spent even more time for practicing and improving my skills. It's hard for me to balance my studies since I was a consistent honor student when I was in grade school, have a good record at high school level and graduated with honors even though I've been suffering from skin disease but still manage those challenges. My life changed when I became a varsity player in our school, juggling my schoolwork with daily practices and games and it wasn’t easy. There were times when I stayed up late to finish homework after a long practice or missed out on social events because of tournaments. But i never complained. I knew that this was the path to achieving my dreams. But my hard work paid off when I become part of our school's team the UA Red Ants Volleyball Team. I may not have experienced playing at the highest level during high school, but I was able to experience it in college to play at highest level, competing with different universities representing our school, plays with some best player in the Philippines that I can only see on TV, and playing representing our school but not only the school but the region 6. Some school noticed me and eventually, I received offers from some universities in Manila like the Colegio de San Juan de Letran. But the decision is hard for me so I chose to stay and continue my journey here in Antique and balancing my studies to have still a good record and my volleyball career. Balancing the issues that sports bring on in school is never simple with everything student-athlete has to do. This is one of the biggest issues here, time management. Playing football and running track takes up lots of time, so they use that experience to help with their time management on the pitch — while also focusing on their academic work. My journey is a testament to the fact that all it takes for your dreams to come true is passion and determination. As I began with visions of playing volleyball on larger stages, I have been successful in balancing academics and athletics, but it is no easy feat; discipline/focus, sacrifice, and time are all factors of (an) organizational method(s). These hardships — giving up on nights out and events with friends and digging through physical tiredness — have only strengthened my fire to be the best. But now, with me playing in college and representing our school at the national level my dream has finally been realized that hard work does pay off. This journey akin to a rollercoaster ride indicates Dedication goes a long way. Through my story, it teaches us that with hard work, passion, and a clear vision, even the biggest dreams can come true. I am here to prove that the road to success is built on dedication and perseverance, and I hope that one day, I'll wear the national team jersey with pride, representing not just my school, but everyone who believed in me from the start.

"Fall seven times, stand up eight" is a Japanese proverb that emphasizes resilience and perseverance. It means that no matter how many times we face challenges, failures, or setbacks, we should always rise again and keep pushing forward. I am a person who is positive about every aspect of life. There are many things I like to do, see, and experience. I like to read and I love to write poems. Some of my worked entitled (Sana, Ikaw, Alas Dyes, Wag kang OA, Makakaahon rin, Times Two, Sa tamang panahon, Tahanan etc.) I always appreciate the beauty and power of poetry. It's a form that I can express my feelings or thoughts that challenges me to think creatively and explore more themes of love, loss, joy, sorrow, and everything in between. It's so nice to reminisce about those times. And I'm sad because my passion for writing poetry is slowly fading away. Sometimes I like to be alone , and I hate this feeling because I'm broken inside. I miss the way I am doing what I loved before. Now, I have the hidden pain that I want to face by myself, and no one knows. This shift wasn't about ignoring the challenges life threw my way. I'm still facing setbacks, disappointments, and moments of self-doubt. But instead of dwelling on the negative, I learned to reframe my perspective. I saw every obstacle as an opportunity for growth, every failure as a chance to learn and adapt. And even the broken hearts can heal with time, love, and the courage to seek help from God.

My favorite dish to eat when I go home to Caluya is my mother's specialty called ginagataang hito(catfish) and the souped hito (catfish) with the leaves of a lemon basil that gives aroma and extra taste to the soup of the soup.The process of my mother's cooking of this soup of hito(catfish) with lemon basil, first, my mother cleans the catfish, cuts off its spines, then removes the liver or dirt from the stomach, squeezes it with salt to get the langsa, then rinses it with water twice, after that then she will boil water with salt and onion when the water boils he will put the cleaned catfish and let it boil and if it is okay she will season it with vinegar and when it is finished the lemon basil that gives the aroma and extra delicious.  When the cleaned catfish is cooked, the cleaned catfish will be placed in a pot containing onion, garlic, ginger, seasoned with pang paksiw and when it is cooked, fresh milk will be added and when it is cooked, you will taste the sweet and delicious taste. If you wanna try it go to Caluya and my mother can cook it for you. References: https://www.facebook.com/muqins.kitchen/posts/ginataang-hito-catfishhitovinegargarliconiongingerfish-saucebirds-eye-chilicocon/2364182916935389/

Pandan, my hometown located along the coastlines of the northern part of Antique, is more known for its breathtaking sceneries but is also a haven to many traditional local cuisines. Example of that is the well-known Ginataang Kinhason, a well-loved Pinoy meal from fresh seashells (known as kinhason) cooked in creamy coconut milk. It is a dish that charmingly embodies the way this region bridges land with sea. The taste of Ginataang Kinhason, is in its simplicity. The shellfish that are freshly harvested in the town rich marine water at barangay of Mag-aba and Tingib. I remember when I was a kid, we used to walk up and down the beach searching for seashells during low tide, as tide pulled back, laying bare all the seashells placed there through sifting the seaweed and sand pulling out shells in all shapes, sizes and colors, and for us finding and collecting kinhason is a source of food for as and income as well. Ginataang Kinhason (Seashells in Coconut Milk) Recipe, from Pandan Antique is a simple yet rich dish made of seashells and coconut milk cooked with local flavors First, fresh kinhason  (seashells) are cleaned thoroughly to remove any sand or dirt. Then, we throw garlic, onions, and ginger in some oil in a pan until they are cheap. Cleaned seashells are then placed to it and then finally, coconut milk (gata), which produces its rich creamy texture. Which is then brought to a simmer cooking the seashells and letting it absorb some of that flavorful coconut milk. When the shells pop open, they are salt and peppered generously with maybe some chilly salt hit at the end for heat. An excellent complement to a plate of rice, — showcasing the freshest harvest of the sea, and a taste of Pandan coastal cuisine. Ginataang Kinhason is a dish that goes beyond being just food — it tells of Pandan’s kinship with the sea. The dish is best had piping hot with a steamed rice on the side, where the flavor profile from the freshly picked living seashells will just melt in your mouth with its rich creamy taste and slight brininess alongside the sweet juiciness and warm of coconut milk and ginger. Every spoonful is meant to evoke the heart, soul and belly of coastal Pandan -- childhood homes; homegrown harvests; and a mother's brand of loving with every dumplings and rice bowl. A dish that represents the soul of this gorgeous little town from tide to table.         References 1. Alvina, R. “The Flavors of Antique: Coastal Cuisine and Local Dishes.” Philippine Culinary Heritage Journal , 2021. 2. Fernandez, D. "Coconut Milk in Filipino Cuisine: A Coastal Tradition." Food and Culture in the Philippines , 2019. 3. https://www.bing.com/search?pc=OA1&q=Cooking%20Ginataang%20Kinhason%20%28seashells%29%20in%20Pandan%2C%20Antique%20process%20and%20ingredients 4. https://peakd.com/hive-120586/@yzamazing/whats-for-lunch-spicy-ginataang-busikad-or-cookwithyza-or-lent-edition