Standing on a stage on a gloomy September afternoon in 2018, in the heart of Malolos,

Bulacan, I found myself enveloped in a warm glow from the spotlight. It was cold time of the
Pambansang Balagtasan, a event honoring the grace of traditional Filipino poetry and the skill
of discussion. My heart was racing as I stood there, a mixture of nervousness and excitement.
The discussion on the importance of protecting our cultural heritage and remembering our
origins was a touching subject. As an advocate for tradition and education, I prepared to
transform words into a meaningful picture that would strike an emotional chord with the
viewers.

With their eyes fixed to the speakers, the audience gathered in anticipation. A strong sense of
pride entered the air, and the event gained additional significance from Malolos' rich history. I
inhaled deeply and found strength in the echoes of our complex history. I created a clear
picture of our ancestors' hardships, their sacrifices, and the resilient spirit that characterized us
as a people with every word I purposefully selected. I talked about the customs that have been
carried down through the ages and the histories that are built into the very foundation of who
we are.

With great passion, my opponent countered, arguing in favor of modernity and progress. The
audience's emotions were altered with each well-crafted sentence as the verbal sparring
became more intense. I channeled my parents' wisdom and used my own experiences as
inspiration during the debate. I could still hear their voices in my head, repeating how
important it is to embrace the modern world while holding on to our cultural heritage.

Ultimately, the judges had the final say, and when their decision echoed throughout the arena,
I felt overwhelmed with emotion. Not only is this a debate, but it's also a celebration of our
culture and heritage, and we had won—I won the most prestigious event of my life. The victory
belonged to all Filipinos who respected and bravely defended our traditions, not just to me.
That day in Malolos, under the rain and the watchful gaze of ancient monuments, I came to
understand the profound power words have in influencing people's opinions and preserving our
cultural heritage. The Pambansang Balagtasan evolved from a contest to a symbol of the
perseverance of the Filipino people.