11/04/2026
Lifeโs Collaborative Masterpiece
The beauty of a symphony lies not in a single note, but in the harmony created when diverse instruments blend together, each contributing its unique timbre and range to form something greater than the sum of its parts. Friendship mirrors this intricate composition, a living testament to timing, resonance, and the occasional improvised solo. This is much like my experience growing up in Roxas, Palawan, where the simple joys of island life and the strong bonds of friendship shaped my character.
Each visit to Roxas, Palawan, felt like a homecoming, a warm embrace from childhood friends and a gentle immersion into the simple, unadulterated joys of island life. The sea served as our boundless playground, and I, a fearless little explorer. I can still feel the sun's caress as I swam and the thrill of seaweed harvests. Without goggles, I relied on pure instinct, diving down to gather the fallen seaweedโa natural treasure hunt. The best part was presenting my catch to my grandfather, a prominent buyer on the island. Those meager earnings of 10 pesos felt like a fortune, a sweet reward that filled my small heart with immense pride. This early connection to the sea, a lifeline for many Roxasenos, instilled in me a deep respect for nature's bounty and the value of hard work.
High school in the main town marked a new chapter. In 8th grade, I found a new passion and a second family in the RNCHS drum and lyre band. Every afternoon, as the school bell rang, we gathered to practice. The rhythmic beats weren't just sounds; they were the heartbeat of our dedication, echoing loud and clear. Local parades and competitions became our training grounds, shaping us and preparing us for something greater. These shared experiences forged bonds that transcended the classroom, mirroring the close-knit community spirit of Roxas.
Then came that life-changing message during my 9th-grade year, an invitation to the SUBARAW drum and lyre competition. It was a momentous occasion, our first time competing outside our municipality, and the very first drum and lyre event ever held at SUBARAW. We saw it as a chance to showcase our talents and represent our town with pride.
We went there eager to prove that heart and spirit matter most. We stood tall alongside the other talented bands, embracing the challenge with enthusiasm. We emerged triumphant, claiming the very first drum and lyre title at SUBARAW 2019. It was a victory of passion and resilience, a testament to the unyielding spirit of Roxas, Palawan, that lives within us. Our journey continued, and we carried that same fire to Pasinggatan 2023, where we proudly brought home 2nd place, adding another beautiful chapter to our story. This victory was a resounding echo of the Roxaseno spiritโresourceful, determined, and united in the face of any challenge, embodying the values of perseverance and camaraderie that define our community's strength.
Looking back, I realize that it wasn't just about the trophies or the accolades. It was about the journey, the friendships forged, and the unwavering belief in ourselves and each other. It was about carrying the spirit of Green Island with us, no matter where we went, and proving that with enough heart, even the smallest of towns can achieve the greatest of dreams. These experiences reinforced the importance of "bayanihan," the Filipino spirit of communal unity, a value deeply ingrained in Roxas culture, teaching us the significance of helping one another and working together for a common goal, evident in our community's response to challenges and celebrations alike.
Today, as I look to the future, I carry that same spirit with me. The triumphs achieved with my drum and lyre family continue to guide me. They remind me that no matter the challenges I face, with passion, perseverance, and the unwavering support of those around me, anything is possible. And so, I step forward, ready to write new chapters, knowing that the heart of Roxas, Palawan, will forever beat within me, shaping the person I am and the dreams I dare to pursue. The bonds we forged through music and shared experiences have become a foundation, reminding me that success is sweeter when shared, a lesson learned from the heart of Roxas, where community and collaboration are cherished above all else, reflecting the essence of our shared identity and way of life.
This connection to our culture and the spirit of being a Roxaseno fuels my ambition and shapes my perspective, reminding me that I am part of something bigger than myself, a community that values hard work, resilience, and unity.
About the Author
Hanna N. Poligrates
Tourism Management Student & Secretary of the Student Tourism Society, 2019 RNCHS Drum and Lyre Champion, 2023 Pasinggatan Festival 2nd Runner-up (Drum and Lyre), Certified Freelance Vlogger & Travel Blogger, helping municipalities in promotion and marketing.
Disclaimer: We are the 3rd-Year Tourism Management students of Palawan State University-College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (Main Campus). We are doing this to help promote the Tourism Destinations in respective municipalities under the Destination Management and Marketing course. This is not paid promotion and we are not connected or representing any private institutions, nor government offices or agencies.
