HUSHED

Painted by: Jhing Casilliano

As I stood before the painting "Roses and Lips," I found myself drawn into a world
where beauty transcends the canvas and whispers secrets of love and passion. The artist's
skillful strokes captured my attention, inviting me to delve deeper into the layers of
symbolism and emotion woven into the masterpiece. At first glance, the painting portrays
a delicate balance between the softness of rose petals and the allure of crimson lips. The
vibrant colors dance harmoniously, evoking a sense of sensuality and intimacy. Yet, beneath
the surface, lies a narrative that transcends mere aesthetics. The roses, with their velvety
petals and enchanting fragrance, symbolize love, desire, and the fleeting nature of life.
Their delicate beauty serves as a reminder of the fragility of human existence and the
ephemeral moments we cherish. Like the roses, our lives bloom briefly, radiating beauty
before fading into memory. Contrastingly, the lips depicted in the painting exude a boldness
and confidence that demand attention. They represent passion, longing, and the power of
expression. In their vivid hue, I see the echoes of desire and the unspoken yearnings of the
soul. The lips, parted slightly as if poised to speak, beckon the viewer to explore the depths
of emotion concealed within. As I contemplate the convergence of roses and lips within the
painting, I am reminded of the interconnectedness of beauty and desire. Like the petals of
a rose unfolding to reveal its innermost secrets, the human heart opens itself to love and
vulnerability. Similarly, the lips, with their ability to convey both words of affection and
silent whispers of longing, serve as a gateway to the soul. Moreover, "Roses and Lips" invites
reflection on the complexity of human relationships. Just as the roses and lips intertwine on
the canvas, so too do love and desire intertwine in our lives. They coexist in a delicate dance
of passion and intimacy, each enhancing the other in a symphony of emotions. In conclusion,
"Roses and Lips" transcends its physical form to evoke a myriad of emotions and thoughts
within the viewer. Through its masterful portrayal of beauty and desire, the painting serves
as a mirror reflecting the depths of the human experience. It reminds us to cherish the
fleeting moments of love and passion, for like the roses in bloom, they are precious and
ephemeral.
 As I gazed upon the painting, I was captivated by the vibrant display of colors and
symbols that told a story of resilience, tradition, and triumph. The scene depicted a fusion
of elements from traditional Filipino culture, modern achievements, and the spirit of
resilience embodied in the Waray people. At the forefront of the painting stood a woman
adorned in the iconic Filipiña dress, a symbol of timeless elegance and cultural pride. Her
graceful movements echoed the fluidity of traditional Filipino dances, reflecting the rich
tapestry of heritage that spans generations. With each step, she exuded strength and
grace, embodying the resilience of the Filipino spirit. Beside her danced a figure draped
in the regal elegance of the 2015 coronation gown worn by Pia Wurtzbach, the Filipina
who brought home the Miss Universe crown after 42 years. The gown shimmered with
opulence, a testament to both Pia's individual triumph and the collective pride of the
Filipino people. In her movements, I saw a celebration of achievement and the fulfillment
of dreams, inspiring hope and aspiration in all who beheld her. Amidst the dancers,
scattered paper bills adorned the floor, each bill bearing witness to the sacrifices and
hardships endured by countless Filipinos who sought a better life abroad. These bills,
though symbolic of material wealth, also spoke of the resilience and resourcefulness of the
Filipino diaspora. They were a reminder that amidst struggle and adversity, the Filipino
spirit perseveres, finding strength in unity and community. As I reflected on the painting,
I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and admiration for the resilience and cultural
richness of the Filipino people. The fusion of traditional dance, modern achievement, and
the enduring spirit of the Waray people served as a powerful reminder of the beauty that
emerges from diversity and adversity. In conclusion, the painting serves as a poignant
tribute to the resilience, heritage, and triumph of the Filipino
 AGDA CASELEA MARIEZUE P. BSES 1

As I walked through the newly constructed capitol of Borongan, memories flooded back
from my years of studying near the capitol. It had been three, maybe four years since I last
visited this place, and the transformation was astounding. The once dilapidated structure
now stood tall and proud, its architectural design paying homage to the rich history of the
Philippines.As I entered the Capitol, I was immediately struck by the attention to detail in its
design. From the intricate wooden carvings to the brightly colored window shutters, every
element exuded the essence of Filipino culture. It felt as though I had stepped back in time,
experiencing firsthand the warmth and hospitality of traditional Filipino homes.Emotions
overwhelmed me as I reminisced about the past, recalling the days when this Capitol was
filled of busy people may be staffs or students who are hanging out. Now, it stood as a
testament to the resilience of the Filipino spirit, showcasing our heritage for generations to
come.Despite my initial shock at the changes, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and
appreciation for what had been accomplished. The new design had breathed new life into
this historic landmark, allowing it to once again serve as a gathering place for the
community.As I wandered through the hallway, memories of my time near the capitol came
flooding back. I remembered the late-night study sessions, the laughter shared with friends,
and the sense of camaraderie that permeated the halls of my alma mater.But amidst the
nostalgia, I also felt a renewed sense of hope for the future. The newly constructed Capitol
stood as a reminder of our roots, inspiring us to embrace our culture and heritage in a rapidly
changing world.Leaving the Capitol, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that its
transformation symbolized something much greater than just a newly constructed building.
It was a testament to the enduring spirit of the Filipino people, and a reminder that no matter
where life may take us, our heritage will always be a source of strength and pride.