My first job

On this day, May 19, 2003, I had the privilege of graduating from a diploma course at STI Ilagan. Following my graduation, I was fortunate to be offered a position at the same school, initially serving as a Librarian based on my qualifications. I am grateful to Sir Rolando B. Fernandez, the COO of STI Ilagan, who recommended me to our superiors and played a pivotal role in my hiring process.

My experience working at STI Ilagan was immensely enjoyable. I had the opportunity to interact with students from various towns across Isabela province, forming lasting connections and memories along the way. While there were undoubtedly both pleasant and challenging moments, I believe it is important for us to embrace the experiences and lessons learned, and to move forward with a positive outlook. After all, we live in a free country where we have the freedom to chart our own paths and pursue new opportunities.

My 19th birthday message

It's been a few months and years since I am writing this blog of mine, and I hope that life may treat me well. I want to know that no matter what challenges or obstacles I will face, I will come out stronger and more resilient. I will keep pushing myself and don't be afraid to take risks and chase my dreams. I will stay true to my values and beliefs, and always be kind to myself and specially to others. Always taking the time for self-care, and to enjoy the simple things in life. Above all, trust in the journey and know that everything will work out in the end.

The Old Path – I shall walk in it for it is where my soul found rest

During my childhood, I was introduced to my parents' religion, Catholicism, which is prevalent among Filipinos. However, my parents were not active members of the Catholic church, allowing me to explore other religious paths. Thus, during my youth, I became actively involved in the Casilagan Pentecostal Church in our town. I participated in various church activities, including group gatherings and youth camps, eventually taking on the role of a Sunday morning teacher for children.

As I entered my senior year of high school, I began to question my faith and sought answers to my spiritual inquiries. I turned to various sources, including radio sermons by different pastors. It was through this search that I discovered the teachings of Bro. Eli Soriano, aired on DZCV Tuguegarao, in the year 2000. Bro. Eli's profound understanding of the Bible resonated with me, leading me to reevaluate my beliefs and ultimately renounce my previous religion due to its erroneous doctrines.

In October 2001, I sought out a local chapter of the Members Church of God International (MCGI) and met Bro. Danny Manuel in Naguilian, Isabela, who introduced me to church worker Bro. Nick Janqui. My journey of faith continued as I attended Bible studies, delving into topics such as the use of the Bible in attaining salvation. In early 2002, I underwent indoctrination services and was baptized on March 12 of the same year by Bro. Sonny Catan, alongside 20 others, marking a significant milestone in my spiritual journey.

Now, I am committed to serving the true God that I have come to know through the teachings of Bro. Eli Soriano and Bro. Daniel Razon. In the Members Church of God International, I have found a community that emphasizes the importance of faith and good works, as well as fervent prayers for the propagation of the Word of God. With their guidance and the grace of God, I am steadfastly walking on the old path described in Jeremiah 6:16, where my soul finds true rest and fulfillment.

Happy 18th birthday to me

Today is the day to be happy. It is because it's a happy 18th birthday to me! Today marks a new chapter in my life and I am so excited for all that is to come. I am grateful for the love and support of my friends and family, and for the experiences and lessons that have shaped me into the person I am today. Now that I am on my first year of my diploma course in Information Technology at STI Ilagan, I am looking forward to embracing new opportunities, taking on new challenges, and making the most of this next stage in my life when I graduate. Here's to a year filled with joy, growth, and adventure!

Let's be mature and graduate together, batch 2001!

Congratulations on your high school graduation! This is a significant milestone and a time to celebrate your hard work and accomplishments. I would like to dedicate this letter of mine to the Isabela National High School batch 2001 graduates in Ilagan, Isabela:

Dear classmates,

Today, we gather together to celebrate one of the most significant milestones of our lives – our high school graduation. We have worked hard to reach this point, and it is a moment that we will never forget.

As we look back on our journey which we started in the year 1997, we can see how much we have grown and changed since we first started high school that year. We have learned new skills, made new friends with fellow Ilocanos and as well as Ibanag speakers. We faced challenges that have helped shape who we are today and to who we may become in the next 10 or 20 years.

But our journey is far from over. We are moving on to the next chapter of our lives, filled with new opportunities and adventures. I encourage each and every one of you to seize these opportunities and to never stop learning, growing, and exploring. Together, let's be mature and graduate together.

Remember that no matter where life takes us, we will always be connected by our shared experiences and memories of our beloved Isabela National High School. Let's take a moment to reflect on what we have accomplished and to celebrate the journey ahead.

Congratulations to my fellow graduates, classmates and friends. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Sincerely,

Gerry Yabes

May this letter finds you well. As we enter into another chapter of our lives, remember what Walt Disney said, if you can dream it, you can do it. We are the real batch millennium!