Venue: Bohol Provincial Capitol, Tagbilaran City, Bohol
Event: 2nd CHARTS International Conference
Group 4 Members:
Agripo, Jenny
Asis, John Art
Dela Cruz, Alyssa
Esto, John Michael
Gulayan, Val B.
Honculada, Melanie C.
Valles, Vianca Mae
journal of Day 1 of the 2nd CHARTS INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE”
Our class was selected to assist as the technical team for the 2nd CHARTS International Conference. A few days before the event, our instructor, Mr. Baroro, selected several students who would be assigned for the first and second days of the conference, including our specific responsibilities throughout the event. We were also instructed to bring our phones, tripods, and laptops to help with the livestream.
For the first day, the event was held at the Bohol Provincial Capitol in Tagbilaran City. Only eight students from our class were selected to assist on that day. Our call time was 7:30 in the morning because we would be taking the BISU bus to the venue. Melanie Honculada and Val Gulayan were selected from our table, so we prepared early and arrived at the school before the scheduled time.
Being chosen to be part of the technical team, especially for the livestream, was both exciting and nerve-racking for us. Some of us had no previous experience handling a livestream, especially for an international conference. Since the activity was also connected to our ICT project, we decided to face our nervousness and take the opportunity to learn something new. Even while we were still at school, we were already asking ourselves, “Kaya ba talaga namin ito?” We knew that we had been given an important responsibility, so instead of letting our nervousness stop us, we chose to give it our best.
When we arrived at the venue, some of us were amazed because it was our first time visiting the Bohol Provincial Capitol. The place was spacious and beautiful, and seeing the people attending the conference looking very professional made the event feel even more serious. At that moment, some of us became even more nervous because we were not completely sure what to expect or what we were supposed to do. However, we reminded ourselves to stay focused and learn as we went along.
After entering the venue, we timed in, wrote our names, and began setting up our cameras, tripods, phones, and other equipment needed for the livestream. We were divided into different positions on both sides of the hall. Mr. Baroro also assisted us in connecting our devices to a more stable internet connection and checking the microphones that would be used during the livestream. We conducted several technical tests to make sure that everything would work properly once the program started.
When the conference officially began, so did our livestream. We became more nervous because we had to stay focused and make sure that everything was working properly. Several “what ifs” were running through our minds: “What if the signal suddenly disappears?” or “What if someone asks us a question and we don’t know what to answer?” Thankfully, everything went smoothly, and no major problems occurred. Our nervousness gradually turned into confidence as we continued doing our responsibilities.
The program started with a prayer, followed by the Bohol Hymn and Tagbilaran Hymn. The host then introduced the different speakers. Throughout the event, most of the speakers delivered their presentations successfully, and we learned a lot from listening to their discussions.
Although our main responsibility was to handle the livestream and technical equipment, we eventually realized that the conference was also an opportunity for us to learn. There were different topics, speakers, and perspectives being presented, and we beganlistening more closely to the discussions. We realized that we were not there simply to operate cameras or monitor a livestream. We were also there as students who could gain knowledge from the people and topics being presented.
One moment that really caught our attention happened during an open forum after a discussion about Spain and Western countries. A representative from the BISU-Main Campus faculty raised a question about why discussions often focus on Western countries when our own country also needs improvement, recognition, and appreciation. Her question stayed in our minds because it made us realize that while it is important to learn from other countries, we should also recognize what we have in our own country. Instead of always comparing ourselves to others, we should also focus on improving, empowering, and innovating what we already have.
The open forum was also one of the moments when we became nervous just by watching the exchange of questions and answers. One of the teachers asked a very challenging question to a speaker, and honestly, it felt like the speaker was being “gisa” by the question! Some of us became very quiet and our eyes literally became bigger while thinking, “Grabe, ang hirap ng tanong!” Although we were only watching, the moment showed us how challenging it can be to respond to questions during an actual conference.
At the same time, we were happy to witness how professionals and students handled difficult questions in a formal setting.
Another speaker who left a strong impression on us was a Spanish language teacher. Although we were unable to remember his name, we really appreciated the way he talked about teaching and his students. His approach was not simply focused on deadlines, memorization, and oral recitations. Instead, he wanted his students to actually feel the language—to feel what they were saying, singing, and presenting. He believed that students would not truly learn if they were only asked to memorize and recite lessons.
What we admired most was how he recognized the capabilities of his students and did not limit them based on stereotypes. He allowed them to practice, create their own pieces, and improve through experience. He was also willing to guide them whenever they needed help. His teaching style reminded us that education is not only about memorizing information but also about understanding, experiencing, and appreciating what we learn.
After several hours, it was finally lunchtime. Since we were not included in the conference meal, some of us went outside to find something to eat. After having lunch, we returned to the venue and continued with our responsibilities. The conference continued with new topics, new faces, and different speakers throughout the afternoon.
While the speakers and representatives were presenting, we continued performing our responsibilities as the technical team. We assisted with moving and adjusting the cameras and made sure that the livestream had a clear view and proper audio. As the afternoon continued, some of us became sleepy, while others were staring blankly or feeling cold because of the temperature inside the venue. Despite this, Mr. Baroro continued checking on us and even sent funny messages and snaps in our group chat to keep us awake and motivated. He also made sure that we were doing okay throughout the event.
There were many speakers throughout the day, and the program continued until the afternoon. Despite feeling tired, we were happy that we were able to accomplish our responsibilities successfully. At the end of the event, we had a photo opportunity with ouradviser and instructors, especially Mr. Baroro, who was present and guided us throughout the day. Before leaving, we thanked him for giving us the opportunity to be part of the event and congratulated each other for successfully completing the first day.
We then rode the BISU bus back to the Main Campus. When we arrived, we also helped clean and prepare the venues for Day 2 together with our classmates who were not assigned at the Capitol. Even though we were already tired from the long day, we still helped because we knew that preparing the venue was also part of our responsibility as a team. After everything was finished, we said our goodbyes and went our separate ways to go home.
Reflection:
Our first day at the CHARTS International Conference taught us that being part of an event is not always about being on stage or being noticed. Sometimes, the people working behind the scenes are just as important in making an event successful. As part of the technical team, we learned the importance of preparation, teamwork, patience, responsibility, and focus.
We also learned that we should not be afraid of responsibilities simply because they are unfamiliar to us. At first, we were nervous about handling the livestream because we had little experience with it. However, by trying, asking for guidance, and working together, we were able to perform our tasks successfully. The experience showed us that confidence does not always come before trying something new. Sometimes, confidence develops because we choose to try.
We also learned something meaningful from the speakers. We should not always look at other countries and think that they are better than us. Learning from others is important, but we should also recognize the potential of our own country and communities. Improvement begins when we appreciate what we already have and become willing to make it better.
The Spanish language teacher also reminded us that learning should not only be about memorizing information. Students should be given opportunities to experience, create, express themselves, and understand what they are learning. This made us realize that education becomes more meaningful when students are encouraged to actually connect with what they learn.
Life Lesson:
One of the biggest life lessons we gained from this experience is that growth begins when we are willing to step outside our comfort zone. At first, we were nervous because we were not completely confident in handling a livestream for such an important event. We had many “what ifs” running through our minds, but we learned that worrying about what could go wrong would not help us grow. We had to take the first step and trust ourselves.
The conference also reminded us that we should not measure our progress by constantly comparing ourselves to others. Just like what we learned from the discussion about Western countries, it is good to look at the achievements of others for inspiration, but we should never forget to appreciate and improve what we already have. In life, we do not always have to be the best compared to everyone else. Sometimes, what matters most is becoming better than who we were before.
Lastly, we learned to appreciate the people who guide and support us. Mr. Baroro’s efforts to help us with the technical setup and keep us motivated throughout the long event showed us that good leadership is not only about giving instructions. It is also about being present, understanding your team, and making sure that everyone is doing well.
Our experience also taught us that opportunities do not always come when we feel ready. Sometimes, we are given an opportunity first, and we become ready by accepting the challenge and learning along the way. What started with nervous questions like “Kaya ba talaga namin ito?” eventually became an experience we were proud of.
This experience taught us that every opportunity, even one that initially makes us nervous or uncomfortable, can become a meaningful lesson when we are willing to try, learn, work together, and trust ourselves. Maybe this was only the beginning, and hopefully, there will be more opportunities for us to experience conferences like this in the future—with fewer “what ifs” and, hopefully, less kaba!
“journal of Day 2 of the 2nd CHARTS INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE”
Our participation in the 2nd CHARTS International Conference was a memorable and meaningful experience for our class. We were given the opportunity to assist as part of the technical and support team, which allowed us to experience what it was like to workbehind the scenes of a major conference.
To make the event organized, we were divided into different designation areas: the Learning Resource Center (LRC), Board Room, and Multimedia Area. Each area had different responsibilities, but we all shared one goal—to help make the conference successful and ensure that the speakers, guests, participants, and online audience had a smooth experience.
1. Learning Resource Center (LRC)
Assigned Students: Esto, Gulayan and Honculada
The members assigned to the LRC were given different responsibilities throughout the sessions. Some of us were involved in monitoring the speakers’ time, while others assisted with the livestream, cameras, tripods, and other technical equipment. We also helped guide guests and distribute snacks to the participants and speakers.
During the sessions, we had the opportunity to listen to discussions about culture, history, tourism, cultural heritage, and sustainable development. The speakers discussed topics such as Asin Tibuok, the Manunggul Jar, cultural identity, sustainable development, farm tourism, sustainable tourism practices, and traditional dance literature.
These discussions helped us understand the importance of preserving our culture and history. We realized that our traditions and heritage are not simply things from the past.
They are part of our identity and can continue to contribute to the development of our communities. We also learned that tourism should be developed responsibly so that it can benefit communities without damaging their culture and environment.
The LRC team also experienced one of the more challenging parts of the conference when some members had to transfer to Panda Tea and Suites for the afternoon session. We were assisting at the LRC until around 11:15 in the morning and needed to leave for the next venue shortly afterward, which left us with very little time for lunch.
When we arrived at Panda Tea and Suites, we initially stayed in the lobby with the BISU bus driver because we thought that we were not included in the lunch arrangements.Fortunately, Ms. Donafe Bacalla noticed that we were outside and asked why we were not inside the hall with everyone else. She made sure that we were able to join the group for lunch. We were very thankful because her simple act of kindness made us feel included and cared for, especially after a busy morning.
After lunch, we continued our responsibilities by setting up our tripods and phones for the livestream. We also received snacks later in the afternoon, which made us happy after such a tiring schedule. Although the transition from one venue to another was challenging, we were able to continue working and complete our responsibilities.
The LRC experience taught us that being part of an event requires flexibility and commitment. Even when the schedule became difficult and we were already tired, we still had to adjust and continue doing our responsibilities.
2. Board Room
Assigned Students: Dela Cruz and Valles
The Board Room team also had an important role in making the conference run smoothly. Some members were assigned to monitor the time allotted to each speaker, while others handled the livestream and online platform. We also assisted in guiding guests and distributing snacks.
Before the program started, we prepared the area and made sure that everything needed for the sessions was ready. The event began with a prayer, followed by the introduction of the speakers. While some team members stayed in front to manage the livestream,others remained at the table to monitor the speakers’ time.
The Board Room team was able to listen to several informative presentations. The topics included “Salt of the Earth: Asin Tibuok and the Challenges of Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage in Bohol,” “Manunggul Jar as a Vessel of History: An Archaeological Reading of the Manunggul Jar,” “Space and Identity: Pre-War Malabon Market,” and “The Cultural System of Asin Tibuok Towards Sustainable Development
After the first four speakers, we had a short snack break before continuing with the remaining presentations. The next topics included farm tourism, sustainable tourism practices, and Giok Dance Literature. These discussions gave us a wider perspective on how culture and tourism can contribute to communities while still emphasizing preservation and sustainability.
After all the presentations were completed, we helped clean the room and arrange everything properly. We then had a picture-taking session with our team. Although we were tired after the long sessions, we were happy because we were able to complete our responsibilities and share the experience with our classmates.
Our experience in the Board Room taught us that attention to detail and cooperation are important in any event. Monitoring time, assisting guests, managing the livestream, and distributing snacks may seem like small tasks individually, but when combined, they contribute to the overall success of the program.
3. Multimedia Area
Assigned Students: Agripo and Asis
The Multimedia Area team was responsible for assisting with the multimedia-related activities of the conference. Working in this area gave us a greater sense of responsibility because we had to make sure that the technical and multimedia aspects of the event were properly handled.
We worked together with our fellow team members to support the activities and ensure that everything related to multimedia was organized. We also helped distribute snacks to the participants, guests, and speakers.
Although distributing snacks may seem like a simple responsibility, we realized that every task assigned to us had a purpose. Helping with small responsibilities allowed the event to run more smoothly and ensured that participants and guests were properly taken care of.
After the conference ended, we did not immediately leave the venue. We worked together to clean the room, arrange the chairs and tables, and make sure that the venue was left clean and presentable. We were already tired, but we felt proud because we were able to complete our responsibilities from the beginning until the end.
Our experience in the Multimedia Area taught us the importance of responsibility, cooperation, and service. We learned that being part of a successful event means being willing to help wherever we are needed, whether the task is technical or something as simple as arranging chairs and cleaning the venue.
Our Experience as One Team
Although we were divided into different areas, we never felt that we were working separately. We were all connected by the same purpose of supporting the CHARTS International Conference. Each designation had different responsibilities, but all of them contributed to the success of the event.
Throughout the conference, we experienced nervousness, tiredness, excitement, and happiness. Some of us had to handle responsibilities that we were not completely familiar with, especially when it came to livestreaming and technical equipment. However, we learned through actual experience and by helping one another.
We also created many memorable moments together. We shared conversations, laughed with our classmates, helped one another when someone needed assistance, and took pictures after completing our responsibilities. These simple moments made the long and tiring days more enjoyable.
We are especially grateful to our instructor, Mr. Baroro, for guiding and supporting us throughout the event. He helped us with the technical setup, checked on us during the sessions, and made sure that we were doing well. Even when we were tired, his support and encouragement helped us continue. He also made sure that some of us were able to get home safely and even dropped us off at Dao Terminal, which we greatly appreciated.
Reflection:
Our experience at the 2nd CHARTS International Conference taught us that every role matters. Whether we were handling technical equipment, monitoring the time, assisting guests, distributing snacks, or cleaning the venue, every responsibility contributed to the success of the event.
We learned the importance of teamwork, communication, responsibility, patience, flexibility, and cooperation. We also realized that we can learn a lot when we are willing to step outside our comfort zones and take on responsibilities that are unfamiliar to us.
Beyond the technical and organizational experience, the conference also gave us a deeper appreciation for our culture and heritage. The speakers reminded us that our traditions, history, and local practices deserve to be preserved and valued. We learned that development does not mean forgetting our identity. Instead, our culture and heritage can become part of creating a better and more sustainable future.
Our Life Lesson:
The biggest lesson we gained from this experience is that success is not always about being in the spotlight. Sometimes, the people working behind the scenes are the ones who help make everything possible. Our experience showed us that even small contributions matter when everyone works toward the same goal.
We also learned that challenges are easier to overcome when we face them together. From handling technical responsibilities and long hours to transferring between venues and dealing with a busy schedule, there were moments when we felt tired and overwhelmed. However, through teamwork, patience, and the support of our instructors and classmates, we were able to continue.
Most importantly, we learned to appreciate the people around us. The kindness shown to us by our instructors and other individuals during the event reminded us that small acts of consideration can make a big difference. We learned that being part of a team is not only about completing our own responsibilities but also about looking after one another.
Conclusion:
Overall, our journey at the 2nd CHARTS International Conference was more than just an academic requirement. It was an opportunity for us to experience teamwork, responsibility, service, and personal growth. We gained knowledge about culture, history, tourism, and sustainable development while also gaining practical experience in assisting and managing an actual conference.
The experience may have been tiring at times, but it gave us memories and lessons that we will carry with us. We learned that every task has value, every team member has a role, and every experience can teach us something meaningful.
The CHARTS International Conference reminded us that when we work together, support one another, and give our best in whatever role we are given, even the smallest contribution can become part of something meaningful and successful.
