At this pace, Zamboanga is on track to surpass last year’s numbers. The streets of Zamboanga no longer feel like home; they have become hunting grounds for criminals, and law enforcement is losing this battle. The surge in shooting incidents is a direct reflection of the breakdown in law and order. Gun violence has escalated, with no real efforts to decrease the spread of illegal firearms or ensure effective policing. These incidents are symptomatic of a greater issue— the failure of leadership. Whether driven by economic desperation or social unrest, these crimes are a clear signal that Zamboanga’s authorities are not addressing the root causes of the violence. As shooting incidents rise, Zamboanga’s citizens are forced to live in constant fear, unsure of their safety even in the daylight. This unrelenting bloodshed is not just negligence—it is a betrayal of the public trust, exposing the incompetence and indifference of those tasked to protect the people.
While the decrease in murder, rape, and physical injury may seem like progress, this shift in crime activity reveals the inadequacy of current law enforcement strategies. Violations of special laws—road accidents, drug offenses—now account for a staggering 39.26% of the total crime volume. In particular, road mishaps have increased by 32.26% in the first quarter of 2024, with fatalities and injuries mounting. This statistic highlights the city’s failure to address basic safety measures, such as traffic management and law enforcement. These systemic failures
have resulted in more bloodshed, more lives lost, and more families torn apart. And yet, the city government seems content to look the other way.
The economic desperation in Zamboanga is also fueling crime. Theft and robbery, driven by joblessness and survival needs, are rampant. When people cannot feed their families, they resort to crime. This is the harsh reality in a city where poverty fuels criminal behavior, and without real economic opportunities, the cycle of crime will only worsen. The government’s failure to provide adequate jobs and social services means more people will turn to illegal activities as a means of survival, further destabilizing the city.
Zamboanga’s leadership must understand that crime is not just a police issue—it is a governance issue. The city’s police force cannot single-handedly protect the public without the support of a well-coordinated and effective leadership strategy. The rise in violent crime, road accidents, and other offenses signals that Zamboanga’s government is failing its people. If authorities do not take immediate action, the city will descend into chaos. In addition to better policing, Zamboanga needs a comprehensive strategy to address the underlying social and economic issues that breed crime. Creating jobs, improving public health,
2,058
As of September 2024, Zamboanga City has totaled 70 shooting-related incidents for the year.
Citizens raise concerns at the number, given the city’s previous 79 total reported shooting incidents for 2023.
In aid, Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) have been steadfast in delivering updates on ongoing shooting incidents and apprehending suspects.
On
Though
AP Academics expresses qualms on DepEd subject cutdown
Preceding the Department of Education (DepEd) plans to reduce the number of subjects for students, Ateneo de Zamboanga University - Senior High School (AdZU-SHS) Assistant Principal for Academics (AP Academics), Diane S. Candido expressed concerns to the movement.
“If you check the curriculum, for a particular subject, there are perhaps 100 competencies. And we are offering for the setting of the senior high school, we are offering it for like five months within a semester. So I don’t know if it’s achievable. So I’m into what I want is to minimize the competency,“
Candido stressed.
Additionally, she added that the AdZU-SHS is not yet aware of what the new curriculum might entail, accentuating her full support if the subject cutdown will improve the system, provided the new curriculum also cuts down learning competencies.
“There have been some concerns in their unit, like the minimizing of time, how frequently they
meet, and even the subject conferring. Because changes in the system mean you are to train the teachers,” she said.
Candido explained that the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCs) was the approach to chunking down the curriculum.
“So far with the efforts made by our office, the academics, and even the formation, we are aligned with what we want to end up with our senior high school students,” Candido stated.
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara emphasizes the lack of on-the-job training and work immersion in the skyrocketing job mismatch concerns, stating that students will “become more employable” even without real work experiences.
The Philippine government had long tried to address the concerns, with the Matatag curriculum back in August 2023 and President Marcos instructing Angara to ensure positive results with the K-12 curriculum.
‘‘
I’m really thankful for AI now,” said Rosalina Ajibun, Chairperson of the English Department on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by educators, citing reasons of Philippine-based teachers being “underpaid and overworked.”
AI DING TEACHERS
‘We
Since its rise in 2022, generative AI has established itself as a tool of the education sector to assist teachers in “doing paperwork, creating interactive activities, and crafting test questionnaires to utilize during classes,” as described by Ajibun.
With this, Ajibun agrees with Education Secretary Sonny Angara positive outlook on expanding the use of AI in schools, referenced to an interview Angara stated.
Ajibun elaborated on the many roles of a Filipino teacher: “[Teachers] are the ones who
Tardiness, grooming inspection, two most committed violations
NAEEM MUNSIF ASIRI
Ateneo de Zamboanga University
Senior High School’s Office of the Prefect of Discipline (OPD) released the results of the most prevalent student handbook violations, with the findings highlighting the two most common: Tardiness and Grooming Violations.
Tardiness remains the most common student violation at AdZU SHS, despite the 15-minute grace period initially
After Academic Year 2023-2024, Ateneo de Zamboanga University-Senior High School (AdZU-SHS) saw a loss of around 15 teachers, piquing students’ curiosity regarding the surprising number.
This loss of teachers in a private institution isn’t new, it is common for most Private schools to have high teacher turnover, and this comes for multiple reasons.
given for students to arrive on time. However, tardiness remains consistently high, leading the Office of the Prefect of Discipline (OPD) to remove the allowance and officially mark students arriving past 8:00 AM as late.
Mr. Rionel Perez, Prefect of Discipline Officer, explained that the grace period was often abused by students as an excuse to come to school later, hence the removal of the extra time.
Need Those Help,’ SHS teacher on AI usage
teach, create the learning materials, record students’ grades, sometimes also act as guidance counselors, as mothers, as parents.” She also added, “Teachers should not be restricted in using AI because we need [that] help.”
Despite the positive impact that AI has had, Ajibun emphasized that it should still be regulated by the university because its issues remain, “They’re still present,” she cautioned, “What we have to do is know how to use it and regard AI as our aid, not our replacement.”
Following tardiness, grooming violations are the second most common issue, with boys most often cited for having long hair and girls for colored hair, long fingernails, or polished nails.
In response, the OPD has updated its policy, shifting from merely giving warnings to automatically giving 30 minutes of community service to ensure students comply with the grooming standards promptly as stated in the handbook.
English teachers tie national literacy rate to AdZU-SHS
To commemorate this year’s Literacy Month in September, Eva Mae Largo and Patricia Mae Flores from the English Department comment on the literacy rate yielded by the Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA), the controversy it stirred among lawmakers, and relate the statistics to the gaps in comprehension in Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School (AdZU-SHS).
PSA reported that 90% of Filipinos aged 5 to 14 are literate, starkly contrasting the World Bank’s finding that yielded only 9% literate children in the Philippines; legislators are up in a storm from the towering difference, with most arguing the need for comprehension level as a criterion.
“This gap speaks to deficiencies in the way we approach teaching reading and writing. Perhaps it is because of the bulk of information that students are required to learn that we don’t have enough time for deepening anymore,” Largo stressed.
Additionally, Flores relates the findings to the AdZU-SHS students, emphasizing the gaps in comprehension, grammar, and mechanics. Largo echoed Flores’ sentiments, adding that the issues don’t lie with the students but rather with “how the curriculum addresses comprehension skills.”
‘‘Comprehension for me is a manifestation of literacy. Without comprehension, reading and writing are just mechanical exercises.”
Largo asserts comprehension as a criterion in literacy rate statistics.
Largo adds that comprehension is integral to the student’s engagement with the world, emphasizing its role in students’ responsibility as social media users. Flores supports this sentiment, stating, “you won’t have the desire to improve your thinking skills if you only settle for this kind of thought.”
five private school teachers get paid less than entry-level teachers in public schools, as gathered by the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Private Schools.
ACT Private Schools Secretary Jerome Geronimo also stated, “small schools cannot afford to pay their teachers with decent salaries,” supporting the survey’s findings.
This year, private school teachers still have to combat the ‘glaring disparity’ of salaries with their public school counterparts.
JAMES RUPERT MARSON
CHARLIZE RENEE QUIJANO
JAMES RUPERT MARSON
SILVER LINING
Photo by Brettbrydon Paragas | Vista de Aguila
T
o address tardiness, the Office of the Prefect of Discipline (OPD) requires students to be in their classroom on or before 7:45 AM - highlighting the importance of the students’ presence in the morning inspection.
The OPD explains the importance of punctuality in academic performance and
ABM-ICT
personal development, citing that avoiding late marks “fosters a sense of responsibility and discipline.”
OPD Officer Rionel Perez said, “Be mindful that series or continuous absences and tardiness entail corresponding sanctions from the Office of the Prefect of Discipline.”
Furthermore, the policy, taking effect starting
November 4, 2024 until the end of this school year’s second semester, mandates students who arrive at the campus beyond 8:00 AM to secure an “Admit to Class Slip” and present the slip to their teachers.
Additionally, released memorandum number 24-25:29 is an enforcement of the tardiness guidelines as stipulated in the student handbook, on page 37.
La Funnelrisima
Funnel road, heavy traffic continue in La Purisima Street
The unending pile at La Purisima receives the most complaints from by-passers but receives the least attention from government agencies. It is the main road connecting heavy traffic streets from Veterans Avenue Extension, Governor Alvarez Avenue, and Mayor Jaldon Street that leads to the center of trade in the city, town.
La Purisima street being the heaviest traffic at 7:30 to 8:00 and 3:00 to 4:30 is a no-brainer. The answer behind this question is a simple play of logic:
AdZU’s main entrances, Gate 1 and Gate 2, are located in the same street where most
At the start of the academic year 2024-2025, ABM-ICT department comprises just 7% of the total number of teachers at Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School (AdZU-SHS), making it the smallest faculty department in terms of teaching staff.
In total, there are 71 AdZU-SHS teachers that make up eight faculty departments.
One of these departments is the Accountancy, Business, and Management - Information and Communication Technology (ABM-ICT) department, which consists of five faculty teachers.
Contrary to this, other departments consist of at least eight faculty teachers, with the largest being 10.
Only the Mathematics department has eight faculty members, comprising 11% of the total faculty.
Furthermore, faculty departments with nine teachers
are the Research and Immersion department along with the Kagawaran ng Filipino, each comprising 13% of the total faculty.
Lastly, faculty departments with 10 teachers are the Earth and Life Science, Physical Science, Ignatian Spirituality and Philosophy (ISP), and English departments.
These departments each constitute 14% of the total faculty.
Therefore, there is a 3% to 7% difference between the ABMICT department and the other faculty departments.
Administrators
Being the catch basin of different Barangays like Zone II, Canelar, Camino
minutes of stalling in the piles of vehicle.
Plate number limitations and prohibitions to Public Utility Vans (PUV) and Jeepneys is not as effective as it seems with private vehicles still operating 24/7. In La Purisima Street, most that causes the traffic is the congestion of private vehicles; about 7 out of 10 vehicles are owned by private drivers with their cars not proportionate to the capacity of the roads constructed.
As delays continue, residents are left dealing with daily disruptions and hoping for improvements in the flow of city traffic.
of the Ateneo de Zamboanga University - Junior High School (AdZU-JHS) were “rushingly” informed by the Department of Education (DepEd) on the conduct of the National Career Assessment Examination (NCAE), prompting rushed preparation and orientation to the Grade 10 students.
“Actually, we don’t have any idea on why it was brought back. It was informed to us that the NCAE will come back just a week before the examination takes place,” said Arvin Giva, Assistant Principal for Academics during an exclusive interview.
Giva, together with the Admission Office, rushed the preparation to be able to prepare everything before the exam dates.
on August 14-15, 2024,
“Although we had to make some rushed decisions, we were able to surpass the preparations with the school principal, Fr. Boholst, being on top of it, working with it, including our director for Admission, Ms. Julie Malcampo.” Giva added.
JHS successfully reintroduced the NCAE to its grade 10 students after years-long hiatus, fostering insights of their incoming educational path and beyond.
Athletic cluster dissolves clubs following lack of moderators
LOUISE DE LEON
Due to the lack of club moderators, Student Activities Officer Rodelyn Omega explained that swimming, table tennis, chess, and football clubs were dissolved due to the lack of teachers available to serve as moderators, emphasizing the teachers’ workload in the club dissolution.
place
According to Giva, NCAE will help students to enroll in the track of their choice, as it will guide them toward the program they plan to pursue in college.
Despite the successful examination, no explanations were provided on why it was stopped for several years, affecting students who didn’t have the opportunity to take the NCAE.
Health Concerns rise at AdZU-SHS
Ateneo de Zamboanga
University-Senior High School (AdZU-SHS) has reported an increase in health-related absences. August statistics show “headache” as the leading cause of sick leaves, with 181 cases, making up 9.9% of the senior high population, followed by fever with 90 cases, dysmenorrhea with 77 cases, and cough with 66 cases.
Ms. Lady Ivy Mañalac, Officer in Charge of the AdZU-SHS Infirmary, noted that
headaches, along with dysmenorrhea, cough, fever, and colds, are consistently the top reasons for absences each month.
“There seem to be patterns in these leading causes, which may be influenced by factors like sudden weather changes,” she said.
The data points to common health issues that affect the school community regularly, suggesting a need for further awareness and understanding of these recurring illnesses.
Held
the NCAE took
at the JHS classrooms supervised by DepEd teachers as proctors.
VALARIE KAYLA TANDOC
JAN HURRIGH SURBITO
Photo by Adrian Fuertes
Photo by Bert Boholst Sj
In the Depths of Discrepancy
alignment in its priorities. Fast to spend millions on confidential funds cloaked in secrecy, DepEd has left essential learning materials and equipment gathering dust, failing the very students it claims to serve.
In 2023, lawmakers and education advocates were alarmed to discover DepEd’s spending practices, particularly its use of a P150-million confidential fund, which was reportedly used up with unjustifiable speed. Confidential funds, by nature, lack transparency and accountability—elements that are essential in any public office, especially one that deals with education. DepEd’s allocation and immediate utilization of these funds at a 143% spending rate is, at best,
In an increasingly digital world, access to technology in the classroom is a basic necessity. The department was allocated a substantial P11 billion budget for computerization in 2023, yet by the end of the period, only P2.75 billion had been utilized. This low spending rate showcases the lack of urgency, leaving classrooms under-resourced. In fact, DepEd’s current student-to-computer ratio stands at a staggering 9:1. As students and teachers grapple with inadequate resources, the gap between the department’s promises and actions only grows wider.
The consequences of this inefficiency are far-reaching. The failure to deliver essential tools has stunted digital learning, pushing Filipino students further
‘TUBIG‘ to Ignore
have been evasive, attributing delays to administrative changes in leadership priorities.
But where do the funds actually go? Perhaps, corruption? The vague nature of these expenditures naturally invites speculation and concern. When large sums are shrouded in confidentiality, it creates a ground for misappropriation and misuse. The rapid depletion of a P150-million fund, with scant accountability or transparency, raises critical questions about the motives behind such spending. Are these funds genuinely allocated for educational enhancement, or are they being diverted to serve interests that do not benefit the students?
Addressing these issues requires
Zyihad Tulete
When disaster strikes, the damage doesn’t end with the storm—it’s filled by a government system full of corruption and mismanagement that undermines any chance of effective recovery. Billions are poured into post-disaster recovery efforts, yet time and time again, Filipinos are left asking: where does the money go?
In recent years, flood control funding has increased to staggering amounts. Senator Imee Marcos recently called for an audit of P132 billion allocated to flood control in Bicol alone, with P86.6 billion spent in just the last two years. And yet, as the floods from the typhoons persist, it is difficult to overlook the troubling disappearance of these funds. The Department of Public Works and Highways has a budget of P255 billion for 2024—over six times that of agriculture and ten times that of health. Despite this, residents in vulnerable regions are abandoned, forced to rebuild on their own.
The devastation brought by Typhoon Kristine stands as undeniable evidence. The storm, which entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility on
October 21, severely affected Luzon and Visayas with unrelenting rains, causing lahars to surge from Mount Mayon. It crossed Isabela, Ifugao, and Ilocos Sur, flooding Regions 3, 4A, and 5, and affecting the lives of more than 8.6 million people. Such recurring disasters demand a robust approach, yet the country’s flood management remains piecemeal, split between poorly coordinated local projects that last only as long as a mayoral term.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez recently announced the proposed “Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act,” aimed at establishing storm-resilient evacuation centers across the Philippines, highlighting the urgent need for disaster management reform. But how can we trust the government to
enact this bill when they struggle to construct even basic infrastructure effectively? Perhaps, this is yet another plan that reeks of corruption, where the promise of secure evacuation centers could easily devolve into another scheme for exploiting public funds.
Corruption in disaster management is more than an administrative problem; it’s a life-and-death situation for those unprivileged. It’s time to hold officials accountable for the betrayal of public trust and safety. This is a plague that hinders development, and Filipinos should not have to suffer twice: once from the storm, and again from the failures of their leaders. After all, water should impact people in more ways for good than for harm.
cus on meeting its obligations for digital resources, classroom infrastructure, and teaching materials. Additionally, Congress should push for tighter restrictions on DepEd’s confidential funds. Education is a public concern, and the public has a right to know how their taxes are being spent.
In a nation where millions of children dream of a brighter future, DepEd holds the power to make those dreams a reality. But by choosing secrecy over transparency, it risks becoming a barrier to progress. We urge DepEd to open its books, realign its priorities, and, most importantly, fulfill its duty to the Filipino people. Our students deserve nothing less
Letter to the Editor
Dear Editor,
The Oculus produces quality and informative articles for the Ateneo de Zamboanga University community. Its presence on social media platforms helps disseminate information about the senior high school unit and creates an engaging environment for students to interact with its posts.
Scrolling its feed, I came upon two posts that had the same illustration. At first, I thought it was an article posted twice; however, their headlines were different and their bylines were different writers. Both articles had contrasting views about the recently concluded Juegos de Jovenes: to have or not have a Casa Ultima. The concept was a refreshing and ingenious take of The Oculus, far from the works they have previously published. Representing two perspectives with powerful stances while also maintaining unbiased tones profoundly urges introspection in the readers on what truly matters to them in competitions. Having an overall winner or without it, both carry their own positive and negative effects. However, in the end, it posits the question, “Where does happiness lie?” Can it be on achieving the highest point or the experience of the game?
Aside from this, The Oculus has continuously served its audience with timely and relevant news. It brings its readers to the mainstream and sparks among them healthy discourse on current issues.
A Necessity Beyond LUCxury
State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) have long been heralded as the nation’s gateway to afford
able and quality education, filled with the promise of
Recent data presented by UP President Angelo Jimenez during the budget hearing tells a story of change. For the UPCAT 2024 qualifiers, 56% come from public schools—a six percent increase compared to last year. This is no minor feat; it reflects deliberate efforts by UP to open its doors wider for students from marginalized sectors. The expansion of UPCAT testing centers to 115 provinces enabled students from far-flung areas to compete for slots. With nearly half of the qualifiers coming from families earning less than ₱500,000 annually, it is evident that UP is making headway in balancing accessibility and meritocracy.
Yet the “burgis” accusation stubbornly lingers. Why? Perhaps because the real issue is not access but society’s discomfort with progress. Citizens often conflate the presence of upper-class students in UP with systemic inequity, failing to acknowledge the nuances of the admissions process. Blaming students from well-off families for qualifying undermines the sanctity of this system and shifts focus away from the root causes of educational disparity in the Philippines: the underfunding of public schools and the lack of quality basic education in impoverished communities. It is also worth noting that wealth does not guarantee an academic
advantage. Many private school students, though privileged, must still contend with the rigors of the admissions process. They are not mere beneficiaries of privilege but proof that the system can and does work for those who deserve it.
These institutions have taken commendable steps, but more must be done. Increasing scholarships, enhancing support programs for financially struggling students, and further decentralizing testing centers are crucial. The government must address the systemic inequities in basic education that perpetuate the cycle of poverty.
SUCs and LUCs are not playgrounds
False Integrity is Murder
for the privileged; they are battlefields for the deter mined. It’s high time we stop questioning who deserves a slot and start asking how we can create more opportunities for all. The gates of these institutions are opening wider— perhaps it’s our perspectives that need to follow.
OPINION
The former works of glory that saved lives in the past are now being confronted with the crime of a breach of integrity—killing the innocent, the justification of right from wrong has set the stage for debate. President Rodrigo Dutert turned over old stones and unraveled unresolved crimes of injustice regarding his regime’s war on drugs.
What is absolute justice? In Duterte’s six year term as the President of the Philippines, the most notable occurrence during his regime was the war on drugs. Duterte has carried out this initiative that has led to the deaths of over 12,000 Filipinos to date. Duterte imposed an almost tyrannical governance to eradicate all drug addicts and associates in the
Philippines. This aggressive act of justice cost more than what it was worth. Many lives were taken unjustifiably—the cries of the people unheard and justified with an iron fist—encouraged by our very own President for the sake of “cleansing” the Philippines from drugs. The drug addicts who spread addiction and abuse, to the Philippine National Police who have terrorized the innocent Filipinos with their absolute justice regardless of ethics, who is truly evil?
When confronted with the crime of extrajudicial killing, Duterte said “I alone take full responsibility, ako ang mananagot at ako ang makukukulong.” This statement is filled with irresponsible hypocrisy, especially from a former president of the country. One man cannot take responsibility for the hundreds of lives lost to injustice. Mere words are not enough to cover the killings
experienced by the innocent. Justice does not come at the expense of the people. Duterte’s ideology of using violence to end drugs is not ethical. This form of solution only regresses the progress of the Philippines in becoming a civilized nation. More innocent victims are being vindicated for the sake of capturing the minority of criminals.
It is time for true justice to be solidified. The war on drugs campaign must be debunked for the sake of the people who have been wronged by this crime on humanity.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte’s crimes must not be excused. Laws proportionate towards justice and suppressing crime must be implemented over intensified methods of justice that has done more harm then good. It is time for Duterte’s crime on humanity to end, let this new chapter be one where true justice is served.
comPROMISED Progress
Will MATATAG Curriculum finally achieve the promise of enhancing the education for Filipinos or is it bound to repeat the same mistakes with the premature rollout of K-12? Launched by the Department of Education (DepEd) under Vice President Sara Duterte in August 2023, MATATAG aims to enhance Filipino education by addressing issues in the previous, overloaded K-12 curriculum. However, pushing through this plan risks compromising the learning experience of Filipino students from the lack of data to create a reliable system that is based on proper assessment.
During an August 2024 Senate hearing, DepEd officials were probed that they still managed to push MATATAG without basic data on the number of students who are considered to be “low-performing”. Moreover, EDCOM
2 Executive Director Karol Mark Yee expressed that this type of data is essential for understanding specific learning programs these students
Students will not be able to fulfill their potential if a pattern of inconsistencies will compromise the promises of improving the Philippines’ curriculum.
‘‘need to recover from low performance. DepEd risks implementing MATATAG related initiatives based on assumptions rather than concise evidence, potentially wasting resources and missing the opportunity to help those students who are genuinely struggling academically.
Throughout its early implementation, DepEd has already disregarded the importance of proper teacher preparation before the start of classes. According to Magsambol of 2024, DepEd had released an order containing the guidelines of the MATATAG curriculum on July 23, 2024, just less than a week before the opening of classes, causing sudden last minute changes to fix teachers’ schedules. This untimely notice has already placed teachers on a rough start early on in its implementation.
Before MATATAG, the curriculum was already seen to be ineffective in its goal to sustain skills for students who could influence change and in-
novation in the country. According to Lucson of 2024, A DepEd official clarified that the new MATATAG curriculum “intends to decongest the assignments and performance tasks of students and not to overburden them”. However, early challenges had already been encountered by teaching personnel, alongside DepEd’s inadequate review of related data which can disastrously result in the curriculum overhaul to have a disruptive impact towards teaching students foundational skills.
The MATATAG curriculum faces sig nificant challenges in its implemen tation that will deepen the already complicated problems the Philippines has with its education system. As DepEd moves forward with MATATAG, they must invest more towards mitigating these early flaws in their implementation so that they can truly deliver the promise of reforming Filipino education for the better as they continue to serve as the molders of a society that is well educated.
Leaders Before Last Names
With the 2025 Philippine midterm elections coming near, it is time again to witness a familiar and never-ending pattern where political dynasties and candidates hinging on famous last names block out candidates with real credentials, a persistent trope in our country’s history where legacy and marketability trump over true capability and genuine public service.
As an elementary school student way back 2013, Cynthia Villar was the lone Villar in the Senate, and I envisioned that by the time I was an adult and allowed to vote, we would see new names and fresh faces leading legislative effort and sparking progress, but here I am, on the brink of entering college, watching as yet another Villar— Camille this time—positions herself for a seat at the Senate in 2025, as if running for public office was a family tradition rather than for true public service.
Political dynasties do not just concentrate power within a small group and limit perspectives; they also create a cycle of entrenched power that is historically hard to break, often placing families in power from one generation to the next. When the same families take charge of office across generations, it destroys the core principle that we Filipinos hold dearly—democracy—where competition is reduced from merit-based leadership to the mere continuation of family legacies.
Governance is more than just a popularity contest; it’s about making informed decisions and crafting policies that practically address the needs of the people. It’s students like me who continue to yearn for quality education, farmers and fishermen who call for lowered market prices, and minimum wage workers who demand efficient public transportation. These urgent needs remain unmet when those in power prioritize self-interest and the perpetuation of family legacies over the welfare of the people.
As we approach the 2025 elections, it’s imperative that voters shift their focus from celebrity status and family names to the true qualities that define
DeedNots
Out of Depth
A drop of knowledge is worth seas of passion— underscoring the vital balance between knowledge and interest. While passion is an important seed to successful teaching, the power of knowledge is an incomparable way to educate efficiently– both in the present and towards the long-term. A teacher that teaches without solid knowledge and depth is one that hinders students from being well-developed individuals filled with growth and success.
Lack of expertise in a particular subject area can undermine the quality of education, as it draws students farther from grasping complex aspects of a topic. For instance, when an English major is assigned to substitute a Mathematics class due to scheduling conflicts, the teacher may struggle to provide accurate answers to students’ questions. Haryanto (2021) highlights this issue, stating, “One of the implications
and lead to ineffective teaching strategies, especially in teaching content that the teacher is not adequately knowledgeable about.”
More of which, more than 62% of high school teachers in public schools are teaching subjects outside their major, according to a recent report by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) in the Philippines
The negative impact on students’ academic performance is the response of being supervised by mismatched teachers. This leaves a significant gap of understanding to the students as they are likely to encounter surface-leveled discussions without thorough understanding, analysis, and essential contexts. Fragment learning alone isn’t enough to support learning competencies.
20%
Moreso, asking teachers to instruct in subjects they haven’t specialized or studied to major in can seem like a compromise on educational standards, potentially impacting students’ and parents’ trust in the school system; undermining professional integrational development. Although in some instances that teachers outside their majors are what institutions may consider as helpful to fill out specific roles for efficient dissemination and instructions, in the long run, quality education will be buried to irrelevance.
While knowledge and passion coexist, and as one is nothing without the other, there is an intangible fence; a paradoxical barrier that separates the essence of both vigors– which keeps us lingering with a question: The power of passion amongst mismatched teachers continues to be present, but at what cost?
of students taught by teachers outside their field are more likely to experience difficulties in understanding advanced topics, according to a study by Schleicher (OECD, 2020).
Words Left Unread
Literacy is more than speaking stringed letters from the alphabet; it requires mastery of what one digests. Despite this, learning poverty in the Philippines was at 91% according to the World Bank in 2022, meaning nine out of ten children aged 10 struggle to read simple text.
It’s not that comprehension shouldn’t be part of literacy—it absolutely should. The problem lies in the government’s failure to prioritize long-term solutions, opting for unsustainable band-aid fixes that maintain the status quo, with the Philippines consistently ranking low in reading comprehension.
Despite these glaring facts, state initiatives have fallen short. Plans like the National Reading Program suffer from inconsistent funding and poor implementation, leaving teachers to bear the burden of making DepEd’s “Catch Up Fridays” a success even with a scarcity of government support.
The problem now becomes clear: it is apparent when we expect improvement from a mediocre curriculum that plac-
es a premium on rote memorization, yet fails to prioritize the most critical value—the ability for students to digest and comprehend the very letters and words presented to them.
Moreover, the problem is twofold, with teachers at the center. A World Bank report highlights that teachers’ lack of mastery in their subject matter, coupled with absenteeism, has contributed to the country’s learning poverty.
Solutions focused solely on resources or additional “Reading Fridays” will fall short if the key agents of change—teachers— are facing their own problems. The inability of teachers to be present or their lack of expertise hampers progress, necessitating a focus on improving teacher training and support.
Until the government prioritizes long-term, sustainable reforms in education, we risk condemning another generation to a life where literacy remains a distant dream, not a reality. Legislative action remains urgent, as every child who fails to read is a child that will face life long chal lenges in the work force and beyond.
Driving Through
Strolling—or rather, crawling—through the streets of Zamboanga City, it seems that it is forever under construction. It’s a familiar sight now, with roads constantly being worked on, yet the improvements seem elusive. We see the same cycle of construction that starts but never finishes, and it leaves us wondering—what is the point if nothing truly changes?
For someone like me and millions of Filipinos who commute every day, the ineffectiveness of these road projects is not merely an inconvenience. As a student, I’ve lost countless hours sitting in traffic, struggling to make it to school on time. And it’s not just
Marching Towards Reform
Patriotism should not be a mandatory call to arms but a commitment to building resiliency and an empowered society. Concerns arise as the Senate places the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) at the top of its priority list for discussion. Many are reluctant towards its mandatory nature. However, with adjustments towards making it more bearable for today’s generation of Filipino youth, the government can administer preparedness and a sense of responsibility without imposing overwhelming burdens.
ROTC’s main goal is to apply skills related to military preparedness for times of emergencies. Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino stated that topics like “climate
change, disaster preparedness, and civics” were being considered as key aspects for the reimplantation of the ROTC bill. The Senate must not rush to push this bill without ensuring that they provide revisions that are comprehensive and aligned with these aspects.
Are killing and dying the only ways to express patriotism for the country? This was the kind of thought that Senator Chiz Escudero argued against Senator Ronaldo “Bato” Dela Rosa, one of the Senators who expressed support for the ROTC bill. It exposes the motives of reinstating ROTC mainly for preparation for an incoming war, defending the country solely through the means of weaponry. Those who partake in ROTC must be trained to build life-
long skills instead of being taught the importance of aiming the gun at the enemy’s head.
Students nowadays are susceptible to becoming burnt out and unmoti vated due to the tendency of being overloaded with academic tasks.
According to The Freeman of 2024, Senator Dela Rosa believes that ROTC can help the youth develop mental fortitude and possibly re duce incidents of suicide. However, with people already dreading the possibilities of abuse and overtrain ing, it is not enough to simply trust words from someone who does not realize the reality students are already facing in academics.
Filipinos, especially its youth, should be given the freedom to choose. It
Zamboanga City’s traffic situation has long been a topic of frustration for many, affecting daily commutes, business operations, and overall quality of life. The complexity of the issue stems from a combination of incessant infrastructure repair, rapid urban growth, and increasing vehicle numbers, making it a persistent challenge that seems to have no clear resolution in sight.
We asked the students of Ateneo de Zamboanga University about their experiences with the daily traffic struggles in the city to gain insight into how the congestion affects their routines and perspectives.
me, many others are affected as well. Whether it’s the flyover that has taken far too long to build or the streets constantly torn up, the lack of coordination and proper planning makes these projects feel like little more than a waste of time. It doesn’t end with the flyover; several other projects, including the Zamboanga City Bypass Road, Buenavista-Bolong Bypass Road, and the Cabaluay-Zambowood-Mampang-Sta. Catalina Diversion Road, are also underway.
What makes this situation worse is the blatant use of these projects for political gain. The billboards of Mayor John Dalipe and Representative Mannix Dalipe are
Some road constructions in the city are not needed, as they fix roads that are not broken in the first place. From experience, they are not sufficient because they are not effective at all. These projects hinder my punctuality, as these projects make me find another route to go to places.
Shena Lasola
Naeem Asiri
Gian Bañez
plastered over every construction site, as if their names are more important than the actual work being done. It’s frustrating to see how these political figures use public infrastructure to build their image, rather than focusing on the real issues that Zamboanga faces.
Additionally, the local government’s failure to address the underlying issues, like the city’s outdated drainage system and poorly managed roadwork, reveals a deeper problem. Instead of offering comprehensive solutions, they patch over these issues with temporary fixes that never really solve the problems.
As elections become near, it is
This provides somewhat of an effort to those who live far from the malls and schools. However, it does not diminish the ongoing problem of traffic. The road work in Zamboanga City has no impact traffic-wise on my daily commute wherever I need to go, but it makes the ride uncomfortable due to all the dust and sediments from the construction.
important for us to elect leaders who prioritize efficiency and transparency. We need politicians who will provide comprehensive solutions to the systemic issues that continue to hinder Zamboanga from development, not just those who know how to create a catchy campaign slogan. It’s not just about getting from one point to another; it’s about getting there without unnecessary delays. It’s time for Zamboanga’s leaders to stop using the city’s roads as a political leverage and start actually improving them for the benefit of all its citizens. Only then can we truly call these road constructions a success.
In a market where every peso counts– a battle brews between retailers and consumers—who will bear the brunt of this staple’s rising costs?
The rising ripple of purchasing amounts continues to be a cycling issue– high rice prices have rapidly impacted retailers and consumers within the Philippines with statistics of a reduction from 35% to 15% in import tariffs leading to consumer spending of approximately ₱9 out of every ₱100 on rice– even known to double to ₱18 for low-income individuals.
Inequality and inequity is something that the market faces as high prices dispro-
I commute to school, and seeing such road constructions is nice. However, I feel that they aren’t addressing the problem of having too much cars on the road. They might improve the traffic situation, but to me, they still are somewhat insufficient.
portionately affect consumers— disrupting economic growth, especially towards low-income earners. As prices elevate, essential resources such as food, shelter, healthcare, education, and such, continue to be inaccessible to those who lack financial support. As wealthier consumers can more readily absorb the effects of rising expenses, while poorer households are obliged to forgo incur debt in order to make ends meet, a growing gap between higher and lower-income groups converge.
In addition, as this issue aligns with persistent injustice, it also undermines economic system credibility and social
Silenced by Secrecy
In the Philippines, we’ve long been fed the narrative that our leaders are committed to transparency and good governance. But when powerful figures are in the spotlight, the script flips.
The ongoing investigation into Sara Duterte’s office’s questionable use of funds should have triggered calls for accountability from every corner of the House of Representatives. Instead, lawmakers are treading carefully, dismissing the impeachment route as “premature” while millions in public funds are flagged for irregularities. If the Congress continues to restrain from holding the Vice President accountable, we should be asking: who are they really protecting?
Confidential funds, supposedly meant for vital government operations, are at the heart of the matter. According to the Commission on Audit (COA), the Office of the Vice President (OVP) spent P73 million of confidential funds in 2022 that were unjustified and flagged another P164 million in 2023. These are not small figures; they represent taxpayer money that could have been allocated to
healthcare, education, or social services. And in a country where poverty and inequality are so stark, this level of misuse is nothing short of a scandal.
Despite this, administration lawmakers seem determined to shield Duterte from repercussions. Representatives like Jude Acidre argue that impeachment shouldn’t be taken lightly, suggesting that this legal mechanism has been “weaponized” in recent years. But what Acidre fails to acknowledge is that impeachment exists for exactly these cases: it’s a constitutional check on power, designed to prevent corruption and abuse. When evidence suggests an official is failing their duty, especially one as high-profile as the Vice President, impeachment isn’t a weapon—it’s a responsibility.
While the Congress hesitates, progressive groups like Bagong
Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) are stepping up, drafting their own impeachment complaint. Former lawmaker Teddy Casiño, who chairs Bayan, argues that Duterte should either face the charges or step down. Grassroots organizations and everyday Filipinos understand what some lawmakers seem to forget: public office is a privilege, not a shield from accountability.
If our lawmakers continue to avoid holding Duterte accountable, they risk not only failing the Filipino people but eroding the very principles of our democratic system. We cannot allow Congress to prioritize political alliances over integrity. If they won’t step up, the people will—and they should expect nothing less than fierce resistance from those determined to bring truth to power. And Congress needs to remember who they’re truly accountable to: the public, not the powerful.
Surviving the Bare Minimum
For as long as the Philippines has stood and survived as a country, the people have had to suffer in countless storms and irredeemable disasters, with only their pride as survivors to bring to the table. What is resilience in times of starvation and lack of shelter in the face of a deadly super typhoon?
Filipinos take pride to boast about their “Filipino Resilience” in times of disaster and catastrophe. It is in this that the spirit of surviving becomes a thing of pride and positivity even in the face of the deadly storms and crashing winds, we survive with smiles because we are resilient.
How laughable is it, that people only have their status as survivors to cope with disaster. It begs the question why there are survivors in the first place. In a country like the Philippines, known and scientifically heralded as a tropical prone location due to its geographical location, facing an average of 20 typhoons per year, it becomes common sense that it must be the government, an institution that is made to protect the country, the people, that it is a priority to create preventive measures against such disasters. In times of disaster there should be no survivors, but there must be lives preserved.
During the devastation caused by tropical cyclones Kristine and Leon, the NDRRMC reported that 2.2 million families were affected, with significant casualties worsened by inadequate government precautions. In contrast, for Hurricane Milton in Florida,
residents were warned weeks in advance and evacuated with the help of Customs and Border Protection. Post-disaster, FEMA provided substantial aid, including meals, water, and fuel, highlighting an effective and proactive Western response. If other countries have the capacity to issue prevention on such a large scale to prevent mass casualties, there is no substantial reason why the Philippines has failed to do so in years.
If the people continue to endure government incompetence, this failure reflects on those who chose this path. Enduring is not truly living. The repeated failures makes it clear that mere survival is not enough. To break the cycle of disaster-induced suffering, the Philippine government must act with the citizens as the first priority, prioritizing prevention and disaster plans for mitigation of casualties. It is the time of the present, now, with the pending years of the people who have had to endure years of suffering—the cycle of false resiliency must be broken. A country can only survive with its people, do not settle for survival, settle for safety in the heart of your own country.
If the people continue to endure government incompetence, this failure reflects on those who chose this path. Enduring is not truly living.
stability. Customers become dissatisfied and may push for more government intervention or regulation if they believe that the market unjustly prioritizes profit over cost. The market runs the risk of alienating vulnerable populations and compromising the possibility of inclusive economic progress if the underlying reasons of high pricing and their unequal consequences are not addressed.
Retailers may be encouraged to engage in monopolistic or oligopolistic practices if high prices continue to dominate the market. Bigger stores or businesses with a lot of market power may take use of their position to control the availability,
pricing, or supply of goods and services. Because they are unable to match these larger firms’ price methods or economies of scale, smaller competitors may find it difficult to thrive as a result, leading to a lack of competition.
In reality, low-income households ultimately bear a disproportionate amount of the burden of these price increases, which exacerbates economic inequality and jeopardizes many people’s financial security.
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One Goal, One Victory
Rivalry is paradoxical to victory, as true victory does not fuel negative rivalry. In a world full of people—extensively within the walls of the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School—where superiority is constantly viewed as the sole measure of success, people fail to recognize the pure essence of achievement. An overall champion, or “Casa Ultima,” should be considered during the Intramurals as it fosters healthy competition and honorable growth.
Given the fact that triumphs are open to the risk of failure– the rich value of an achievement is at hand. Casa Ultima is known to be the purpose, the climax, and the holy grail of the event’s entirety, which is the root of each team’s success— a title all casas consider the common goal. However, not everyone views the journey as the weighing matter to victory rather than the trophy itself. What if the very risk of failure that makes victory so meaningful is also the key to unveiling a remarkable achievement?
As one house claims the title of being the overall champion, this does not diminish the discrete successes achieved by each house— disproving the disregard of the smallest to the most complex efforts executed by every individual involved. Each member collectively contributes noteworthy accomplishments that ignite the deserving need for recognition. Intramurals serve not merely as a platform for competition but as a pavement for camaraderie. According to one of Casa Pamplona’s student heads, “The application of Casa Ultima will not hinder the celebration of the small achievements of other houses because they will be given an opportunity to take the spot on the stage when they receive a certain award— it will not have an effect,” further disputing the prevailing belief that it overshadows other achievements.
Additionally, Matt Abequibel, a member of Casa Barcelona, emphasized that “While being an ‘overall champion’ might overshadow smaller wins, those smaller victories hold even greater value. Without them, becoming the overall champion wouldn’t have been possible in the first place,” highlighting that both the small and the big wins continue to coexist. It is evident that every ‘small achievement’ serves as a contributing root to claiming the title of Casa Ultima.
Ateneans continue to embody
their formidable ways of showering good virtue— to embrace the core of Inspiring Excellence, associated with the Juegos de Jovenes 2024 theme. We are bound to use our strengths, even so our weaknesses, to strive for applause while inspiring others, regardless of what we gain and what we may lose. This serves as a reminder for us to work for what we are capable of— to the greatest extent while practicing sportsmanship. With how competitive the students are to begin with, a trophy gives them a chance to feel the thrill; the rush, and crave for what’s best— which is nothing but victory.
Excellence will always start within oneself— the eagerness to improve for yourself, for and with others. Mastering the art of victory will never rely on the sole depiction of negative rivalry. In the end, true excellence does not only revolve around personal success, but about how you acknowledge the achievements of those around you, including your own— which leaves us with a question: Do the smallest wins hold the greatest power within you?
Winner ka? Winner tayo!
For there to be winners, there will always be losers. This reality can weigh heavily on athletes who pour their heart and soul into their sports. While the thrill of victory comes with the risk of failure, most events focus on an overall champion, sidelining the spirit of participation with its lack of participatory celebration. There should not be a “casa ultima” or ultimate champion, as this can overshadow the efforts of all athletes.
In university intramurals, students compete for the title of Casa Ultima, which is awarded to the team with the most victories. Athletes of various shapes, sizes, and skills vie for wins across different categories. The emphasis on winning overshadows the enjoyment meant to be experienced by the student athletes. In moments like these, where do we see the value of sportsmanship? The faces of those who won it all? Or those with crestfallen expressions who faced defeat after all their efforts?
Intramurals should celebrate all athletes who pour their heart and soul into their sports. At its core, the purpose is to foster camaraderie, not compete for fame. Janeana Baylon, Casa Manresa’s student casa head, noted, “Each team gets to celebrate their wins, which makes it fun. Focusing on each game helps everyone enjoy playing and encourages teamwork, rather than just thinking about one big title.” She emphasized that while winning and losing matter, prioritizing an overall champion undermines the student experience. Instead, the focus should be on enjoyment and the spirit of participation without the pressure of competition.
Action and Reaction
Winning and losing are important, but focusing on an ultimate “winner” often leads to negative outcomes. While the victorious team may revel in glory, this attention overshadows the efforts of all participants. What value does a
team have if it cannot claim Casa Ultima? In an interview with student casa heads, Jarell Alfaro from Casa Pamplona shared how the absence of a Casa Ultima has eased the pressure: “I felt a little more at
ease because I’m not pressured anymore to do work... I want my house to gain the title and rank first.” This shift emphasizes less on competitive spirit and more on the enjoyment without the pressure of competition.
Intramurals should avoid one-sided glorification, which breeds rivalry and diminishes the achievements of teams outside the top spot. Mister Jude Isidro from Casa Montseratt noted, “Lacking an ultimate casa winner doesn’t affect my experience, seeing the students celebrating their success, whether big or small, was the priceless feeling a teacher could ever feel.” highlighting that celebrating all successes, big or small, is what matters in competitive events.
The insights from the casa heads remind us of the 5 C’s, the core framework of being an Atenean. In valuable sports events, we should embrace Magis, which emphasizes striving for excellence over comparison. As we’re reminded by “Kalaro, ‘di kalaban” and “cheer not jeer,” the focus should be on support and improvement. Miss Iris Cuartocruz from Casa Jerusalem stated, “Magis... reminds us that it’s not about comparison but about giving our best quality.” True victory lies in the experiences student athletes create along the way.
The intramurals is the place where sports, teamwork, victory, defeat, and everything in between are experienced, leaving an unforgettable mark on all the students who experience it. Therefore it is only right that every athlete is given their due celebrations and granted the joy of fanfare in the event, all without external conflicts brought on by unnecessary rivalry and misconduct.
It is prime time for AdZU to embrace a positive change of approach in its sports fests— one that acknowledges the efforts of all and celebrates every victory of the students.
Zyihad Tulete
Aligning with Newton’s third law, every action in Philippine education follows an equal reaction that reshapes its course. As Vice President Sara Duterte steps down from her tenure at the Department of Education, her departure signals an opportunity for progress. On the upside, Senator Sonny Angara, with his academic credentials and legislative sagacity might be the steps toward transformative reforms and renewed promise.
Without a doubt, Duterte’s leadership lacked the depth and understanding required to address the complex issues facing the education sector. Consequently, her tenure at DepEd was disfigured by controversies and criticisms. Her policies often seemed disconnected from the realities within the classroom setting, further detaching her from the very community she was meant to serve. In many ways, her resignation potentially creates the way for a more qualified leader, marking perhaps her most significant contribution to the nation.
Her missteps have been pointed out from the moment she was appointed, from appointing military generals for civilian roles within DepEd to the controversy surrounding the DepEd laptop fiasco. The dismal performance of Filipino students in international assessments like PISA 2022, where the country continued to rank near the bottom, highlighted the systemic problems under her leadership.
Moreover, her administration’s handling of the mother tongue subject in the K-10 curriculum potentially undermined foundational learning. The severe classroom shortage, which increased from 91,000 to 159,000 under her watch, further exemplified the inadequacies in addressing critical infrastructure needs. Duterte’s focus on substantial confidential funds over essential educational reforms reflected a misalignment of priorities,
ultimately making her resignation a potential turning point for the betterment of the Philippine education system.
Subsequently, the appointment of Senator Sonny Angara as her successor has ignited both hope and skepticism. Angara’s robust legislative experience and academic credentials are undeniable, yet his selection of an educator has sparked concerns regarding his qualifications. The Teacher’s Dignity Coalition (TDC) rightly laments the missed opportunity to appoint someone deeply rooted in the daily realities of teaching—a leader who could bring firsthand insights and practical solutions to DepEd’s challenges.
Conversely, the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) welcomes Angara’s appointment, highlighting his openness to dialogue with teacher unions and his commitment to addressing critical issues like stagnant salaries and classroom shortages. However, mere engagement is not enough. Angara must demonstrate an unwavering commitment to dismantling entrenched bureaucratic barriers and implementing substantive reforms that benefit educators and students alike.
Political science professor Cleve Arguelles aptly notes that the next DepEd Secretary must possess not just political savvy but also the moral courage to advocate
for sweeping changes. Angara’s tenure will be defined by his ability to motivate public support, mobilize resources, and deliver tangible improvements in literacy rates, educational infrastructure, and teacher welfare. This is his chance to prove he is not just another political appointee but a true reformer.
At its essence, Duterte’s resignation and Angara’s appointment represent a critical crossroads for Philippine education—a moment demanding decisive action and leadership. It is imperative that Angara leverages his position not just to manage, but to revolutionize; an opportunity to redefine the trajectory of education in the Philippines for generations to come. Angara must embrace initiatives that go beyond bureaucratic complacency and prioritize the urgent needs of students and educators.
Sara Duterte’s resignation has laid bare the critical necessity for competent and committed leadership within the Department of Education. Now, as Senator Sonny Angara steps into this role, his mandate is clear: to create a path where educational excellence becomes more than a goal, it becomes a fundamental right for every Filipino child. As history often shows, the future of a nation hinges on how it educates its youth.
Shena Lasola Chelzy Cepalon
EXHAUSTED TO EXALTED:
Crossing the BOARDerline
Monday to Friday: Work. Saturday and Sunday: Review. Repeat.
Down the hallway walks a figure: tied-bun hair, standing tall, chin up, an indented poise, equipped with a passion—a strong sense of purpose. “Before I even started, I knew I was committed to this role.”
Through a repetitive process, were the mornings of being an educator and the nights of a studious night owl, how does one manage to weigh their profession and their profound passion, dreaming a dream within a dream?
As a fresh graduate in education, the second I stepped up to the stage was a golden moment, but the significant crowning experience was what the future offered—to teach and to touch the lives of the next generation.
In the process of my teaching career, Ateneo de Zamboanga University has been integral in shaping my perspectives. Everyone was welcoming, and being the second mother of the students fulfilled my inner child, who always looked up to her first mother.
Everything was going well, and my momentum
was fueled to exceed the charts; however, a familiar feeling of anxiety came creeping in from the sidelines as the pressure started to build in when the LETs were coming close.
Overflowing from work responsibilities to studying for the LETs, I eventually questioned myself, “Kaya ko ba? Am I meant for this? Am I meant to touch the lives of young? people?”
Being thrown in the battlefield equipped me to become an insurmountable tool, it made me realize that this is reality, I must wake up, I must face reality. It finally struck me, a persevering student, must equate to a persevering teacher.
During my practice training in teaching, I was met with underprivileged elementary students. It was a moment when the lights in my mind clicked—I want to help them, not in a financial sense, but maybe to be an inspiration in their pursuits.
When the day of the board exams finally commenced, it came to me: I can do this, I studied enough. After the exams came to an end, it was an ironic aftershock that the questions could be answered by a high-school student, indeed, overpreparation stems from overlooking the fundamentals.
I Am English Juan Dela Cruz
In the rich tapestry of Filipino culture, managing a lexicon of languages is quite a challenge, particularly when English dominates as a global means of communication and is much preferred in daily interactions.
Ateneans, in particular, have a reputation for being so-called ‘conyo’ or ‘Englishero’; using Taglish—a blend of Tagalog and English. While practical in daily life, this can sometimes hinder their ability to fully embrace the Filipino subject in the classroom, leaving them feeling as though they are walking on eggshells.
I admit I was once labeled as such, but these eye-opening experiences taught me to love and incorporate Filipino into my repertoire, ultimately strengthening my pride in being Filipino.
Learning Filipino is essential for fostering
patriotism and embracing our culture, though for some students with a strong English background, mastering Filipino isn’t always easy.
John Wayne McClintock, a Grade 11 ABM student, stated, “For me, one of the biggest daily challenges I face is understanding and comprehending the Filipino language itself. It’s challenging to grasp the concepts my teacher is explaining when I don’t fully understand Filipino,” continuing, “I definitely excel more in English since it feels more natural to me compared to Filipino. This is likely because of the environment I grew up in, where English was more of the prominent language.”
While multilingualism is often celebrated, a student’s upbringing and milieu influence their language dexterity both in conversation and in the daunting classroom environment.
Despite facing difficulties, he remains positive, “Learning Filipino has been an interesting journey. Although it has been challenging to grasp, there is still something engaging about it that makes studying the subject enjoyable.”
Wayne values the importance of the Filipino subject, reiterating that, “...seeing the beauty in something difficult makes it easier for me to enjoy and keep learning Filipino, especially with teachers who are truly passionate about their field and teach with genuine interest and enthusiasm.”
As we move further into a globalized world, it becomes increasingly important to nurture and preserve our native language. In a world where English dominates, how do we ensure that Filipino continues to thrive, not just in school but in daily life?
Seeing the student’s brightest smiles of today mirror a reflection of successful citizens from tomorrow inspires me— to be an inspiration for the next generation.
Tandem of GIFT and
CURSE
Aministry of intellect and academic accomplishment, Ateneo de Zamboanga University has long established its excellence in producing well-rounded minds, ready to serve towards the future of a reconciled world — it is AdZU’s mission after all. Yet, underneath the glamorous facade of a vision, and a reputation worth upholding, lies a complex battle faced by those deemed the most exceptional, our scholars. These struggles, that are often undermined and swept under the rug, takes a significant toll even on the “top-notch”.
Being a scholar is a tandem of gift and curse.
n the noise of our everyday lives, the countless voices in our surroundings often end up blending into a blur; a background that fades into little more than a constant hum for us. Rare in its existence is a voice that can command the attention of a sea of people with just one word—or better yet, one
Such a voice finds its home in one of Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School’s very own: Jayda Bue.
A standout talent from 12 STEM Borri, Jayda Russell G. Bue has had a passion for music and a talent for singing ever since she was a child. It was way back in kindergarten when she started joining singing competitions, and her expertise and accolades have only grown in the
Chief of these accolades is her participation in It’s Showtime’s Tawag ng Tanghalan, a singing competition involving numerous contenders from all over the country. It’s no small feat to qualify for such a contest, even less to do so thrice in Jayda’s case: once in TNT’s Kids Edition, once in its Battle of Versions, and once in its School Showdown—in which she emerged as a daily winner and weekly finalist.
What made her join the competition was no external push, no life-changing realization or experience: “It (was) myself for having the confidence and fighting spirit, keeping in mind that I have a talent and own uniqueness that I could showcase.”
Her talent wasn’t the only factor that led to her stellar performances, though— coupled with hard work, courage, support from family and friends, and at the center of it all a pure love for music, Jayda became a force to be reckoned with.
“Managing my time and energy for singing with school, sports, and family commitments was tough,” she recounts. “I overcame it by setting a schedule that allowed me to practice consistently, even if just a little each day.” It was finding balance, she states, that helped her stay on track and represent AdZUSHS with flying colors.
Within its vast halls, it’s undeniable that Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School has a multitude of students who are nothing short of extraordinary, and Jayda Bue is no exception. In the large student body and diverse variety of AdZU SHS students, it’s those like her who bring color and life, together with honor and pride, to the school.
The rigorous demands at AdZU, coupled with the pressure to excel and keep up appearances can place a heavy burden on a student’s mental well-being. “The expectations are tied to me like lead on a balloon,” answered a scholar from 12 STEM Beyzym. Seemingly unable to escape, expectations loom over scholars like a shadow, leaving no room for mistakes — with having to keep up to certain standards of the academe whilst conforming to societal expectations.
How would you feel to be constantly placed on a pedestal of admiration? Overtime scholars associate their identities and purpose towards academic validation and lest the day where they no longer receive it.
From the outside world a scholar is often perceived as “gifted”, academic warriors that conquer and resolve all challenges that come their way. When really it is not talent that defines their success, but excruciating hard work and sacrifice to reach where they are. “Back in the pandemic times I reached the lowest grade of my whole life, being a 79 in science and now I’m still here,” confesses Zyrus, a scholar from 11 STEM Rey.
Scholars are muddled by misconceptions of being “perfect” and one mistake immediately puts them underneath the spotlight for all the wrong reasons, “the pressure from the upkeep of the grade requirement is suffocating,” a scholar from 12 STEM Beyzym.
A scholar, much more an Atenean scholar, carries an inconceivable tower of unrealistic expectations, and harmful misconceptions from the people around them. Constantly perceived through the public eye leaving no room for imperfections, a scholar is often forced to tip-toe around their actions in fear of being judged or ridiculed.
That being said, our scholars should not be a victim of their very own success. Let us create an environment that allows its students to be imperfect and create mortal mistakes, for only with this can we in turn allow growth and instill confidence in the students that define our future.
BERLIE DANIEL YAP
REIN CHIONG
CHARLENE AMEERA CABANGAL
ESHE PEÑAFLOR
Photo by Ateneo de Zamboanga University Facebook
Seven in the morning—the sun rises from the west, and the alarm clock buzzes around the room. “Hala, malalate na ako.” With the residues of twilight after-work stress still lingering fresh, he dashes around the house, picking up his pace yet still holding up that approximate anxious stance, “Ma, ‘Pa, mauuna na po ako.”
It’s become a familiar scene—rushing out the door, balancing the demands of an aspiring student by day and a tireless worker by night.
Gregorio rushes towards three flights of Kostka’s stairs and down the classroom at the far edge—11-STEM Velarde, “Good morning po, ma’am. Sorry, I’m late.”
Eyes around the classroom’s corners center around him; his teachers and classmates are aware of his situation, yet the same expressions of admiration can still be drawn on their faces: how does Gregorio manage it all?
In today’s economy, the marginalized are forced to juggle multiple roles just to keep their dreams within reach.
He takes his seat, fueled by a deep-seated desire, “I want to be a neurologist someday. It’s one of the greatest means in congruence with financial stability.” During classes, he always tries to fit into his condensed schedule all the overflowing responsibilities—to draw a visible line between academics and work, not letting both coincide while still living the teenage life.
4:30 P.M.—The ring bells, the curtains of student’s day-in-a-life finally come to a close, “It’s finally time to go home. Home? I still have work to catch up to.”
He picks up his tired pace with a forced poise, transitioning from a blue to yellow uniform, immersing himself into the metropolis with stacks of orders carried behind his back.
Guided by the wheels of his bicycle through navigating the innermost heart of the city down to the outskirts of town, a thought reminds him of the structured column of motivation etched at the very back of his head, “Once I give up, lugi ako, ano ang maging silbi ng mga paghihirap ko?”
Amidst the hustle and bustle culture of student work life, the vision is always fixated on a narrowly seeming dream. In this economy, the visionaries are forced to step down and struggle for their ambitions, but the passion still burns. There’s only one year left and another four until I’ll finally be closer to being a neurosurgeon.
“I hope my savings will contribute at least a portion to my tertiary education.”
7:00 P.M.—the buzzing sound of the doorbell rings, a woozy guise standing afront the gate, “Maxim Delivery po.”
Under the moonlight, he reflects on his journey as a working student. Reality hits hard, but every delivery, every class, every sleepless night, and every road taken builds his independence, making him stronger, bolder, and braver.
‘‘ Once I give up, lugi ako, ano
Already making an impact in the photojournalism realm with
Four Medals in a Winning Morning blues, THE
DYLANcious Goodies: THE AdZU’S Cookie Guy THE yellow moonlight hues
F
ollow the trail of cookie crumbs, the sound as it falls from Dylan’s bag, ever so diminutive, yet it rattles the ears of people, left and right. Chasing that aroma, luring even the Ateneans from the farthest of classrooms, Dylan Armon De Jesus sits in his room as his classmates clamor, “Will you sell your cookies today?”
Dylan’s entrepreneurial journey began back in 10th Grade, during the Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) subject, when Dylan first explored the world of enterprise and accountancy. “I started when we were tasked to sell something, and I decided to sell cookies,” Dylan shares.
Baking is more than just a business; it’s a passion he’s eager to share with others. “What inspired me is my love for baking and my desire to share what I cherish the most,” he says. This passion also became a means to gain financial independence. “I started to earn my own allowance, which allowed me to save and invest back into my business.”
Yet as all businesses are, no entrepreneurial journey is without its hurdles. One of the challenges Dylan has faced is maintaining a balance between his business and his responsibilities as a student. “It’s not always easy, but I remind myself that balance is key,” he emphasizes.
By carefully managing his time, Dylan ensures that he can maintain the quality of his cookies while keeping up with the demands of being a Senior
High School student.
Dylan also plans to use his business for a greater cause: “I hope to contribute to organizations by donating a portion of my earnings from cookies. I’m thinking of doing something like #CookiesForACause.”
The values instilled in him by AdZU have shaped Dylan’s approach to both his business and his studies.
“As an Atenean, we have this sense of sharing, Cura Personalis, helping each other out,” he reflects. “This value is important in both business and school because it encourages collaboration and growth.”
Dylan’s entrepreneurial journey shows that even amidst the rigorous academic workload, passion is like a flower that can still thrive on concrete. “STEM is a track with prosperous aspects towards excelling in academics in Senior High, and it’s in high demand, with so much work to juggle,” he says.
Dylan Armon de Jesus’ story serves as one massive beacon to the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. His values will indisputably guide him in both his studies and his entrepreneurial journey for years to come.
The halls continue to uproar, asking Dylan whether he is selling his delicious goodies today— unfortunately, it has already sold out.
Cartoons by Louie Bucang
In a press conference held the same day at the Subic Bay Peninsular Hotel, Mushrif captured the substance within Dr. Laura David’s innovation, Fish-i, which aims to provide longterm monitoring solutions for marine life preservation and rehabilitation across the Philippines.
Despite the time constraints, travel time, and competition, Mushrif garnered four awards, including medals and certificates: First in Overall Press Conference and Pamulaklakin Trail, Second in both the Press Conference and Pamulaklakin Trail for the SHS category, and Third in Overall for all levels, making him the most awarded delegate among all the AdZU participants.
“Winning an award was the last thing on my mind. It was a humbling experience that I hadn’t anticipated but one that made me appreciate the journey even more. It feels surreal and deeply gratifying,” he shared, with this milestone stretching beyond the awards received; it relishes the dedication and passion Mushrif has invested in his craft.
Reflecting on Mushrif’s first steps into photojournalism, these achievements motivate him to transcend boundaries and remember the support and encouragement he has received from The Oculus and the AdZU-SHS community.
“Overall, it’s a moment of immense pride and a powerful affirmation of my journey in photojournalism,” he ended, expounding on how photography offers him a unique perspective on people’s lives— this sense of purpose fuels his passion for improving his craft.
Mushrif emphasizes that capturing the world through his lens isn’t just about documenting events but rather about giving a voice to the voiceless, shedding light on untold stories, and inspiring others to view the world empathetically and mindfully.
MAGIStic Supremacy
We dream of making every subject area not only a springboard for globally competitive professionals but also a catalyst for social change for our vulnerable and disadvantaged communities.”
— Sir George Lacerona Jr., SHS Arrupe Office of Community Service and Advocacy (AOCSA) Coordinator.
In a world where citizens suffer from famine, where villains overrule for anarchy, where human population declines exponentially, the universe depends on a hero to save their lives—a hero we all know as “Superman,” but in a third world country where people can’t depend on flight and superstrength to magically leverage their lives in a blink of an eye from walking on eggshells to living under a silver spoon, we have our modern heroes with worn-out hands and hand-rolled sleeves.
of despair during the darkest years of the pandemic, AOSCA never failed to shower at least a glimmer of light on students who lived from hand to mouth by providing incentives of gadgets and loads.
THE
Here in AdZU, there stands a man from the cozy walls of the Arrupe Office of Community Service and Advocacy who has contributed groundbreaking significance in breaking the barriers among marginalized communities within and beyond the premises.
Meet the noble mind behind the cog works, Sir George Lacerona Jr., the man who spearheaded multiple projects under the AOSCA with the aim to provide funding for the various needs of the community in case of disaster, crisis, or community outreach.
His dominion dates back to the year 2018, back when it was still called “Cents for UC” (Centavo Coins for the Underprivileged Children), expounding his influence beyond the walls of Ateneo.
Until today, his unwavering spirit of Magis is cemented into the very tapestry of AdZU’s history of social involvement through the Aguila Cares program, providing daily meals and transportation assistance to five financially challenged beneficiaries.
“The most striking story is from those who shared how, through the daily meal allowance, they no longer had to worry about entering class with an empty stomach and being unable to concentrate during class discussions,” Sir George shares with radical optimism.
Why? All in the hopes of fostering quality education— so that the marginalized can nestle in the fields of green not as entitled leaders but rather as servant leaders who model humility for the greater glory of God.
Despite office operations depending on two personnel, their dedication flickers the flame of the Atenean volunteerism spirit; it’s not just a typical one-man effort for change but a holistic collaboration initiative for all.
over in my Bluetooth speaker inviting parents and students to buy our products. They came over, reminding me of how I taught them the marketing strategy and were surprised to see it being demonstrated right in front of their eyes. These students from STEM De Chardin batch 2024 then offered help as volunteers in the store even though they were supposed to prepare for their exam week.” Who knew that his efforts would touch the students’ hearts?
Nonetheless, all of this is fueled by Sir George Lacerona’s guiding principle, “Human capital should be our number one asset, and collaborations should be our number one outcome.”
Whether it be children, citizens suffering below the poverty line, or even the community as a whole—he is the true epitome of Magis. Not all superheroes wear capes; some are simple everyday men holding a cup of coffee, while some are AOSCA coordinators serving the Ateneans on the back of their hands.
Scholars of today, successful citizens of tomorrow. All thanks to his heroic supremacy.
THE RADIANCE
“My former COM111 students saw me and heard the voice-
Patrolling
say “good morning!” to everyone individuals you encounter every
There’s always more to see than what the puzzle of how one job title does not
garnered a booming 5000 followers on
to flourish beyond the margin.
Amidst the prying parrots, Kuya Guard strives to maneuver towards the brighter gradient.
His active engagement in the virtual world seemingly catches the eye of the netizens as a means of entertainment— stereotypical quotes later translated into memes.
Little did he know his philosophical utterances on social media with the primary goal of motivating oneself patrolled radiance among not only the Ateneo community but reaching heights afar, “Una nagpost, bawat post, para sa akin lahat, hindi ko inexpect na maimpluwensiyahan ang iba.”
Beneath that “enjoy enjoy lang” discourse, Kuya Guard mutters in his internal monologue running through the clumsy steps that built the trajectory of a renowned Atenean social media personality—he’s not only a security guard, but a jack-of-alltrades: an influencer, a philosopher, and a daily affirmations calendar.
shouts to him so clearly, reverberating in the depths of the back of his head,
This is the reality of how underscored themselves out of the stigma of trying
The next time a tall Moreno figure wearing an orange “ALOHA” uniform greets you the moment you enter the campus in the earliest hour of dawn, roving around the premises during the sun’s apex, down the last hour of FWS and Kostka’s lights are closed—it’s probably Kuya Guard.
The same Kuya Guard who construes mischiefs to motivations, weaponizing tribulations as a driving force for getting through life’s revelations.
BERLIE DANIEL YAP
BERLIE DANIEL YAP
AdZU volleyball’s fierce PZSCAA streak cut short in heartbreaking semi-finals loss to ICAS
Ateneo de Zamboanga University’s Volleyball team’s PZSCAA 2024 journey came to a heartbreaking end in the semi-finals. They faced off against Immaculate Conception Archdiocesan School de Calarian in a thrilling match that ended with a nail-biting final set score of 15-13. Despite an impressive run in the elimination rounds, the team struggled with unfortunate injuries leading up to the decisive match.
The captain of the AdZU Volleyball Team, Nathan Evangelista, showed his confidence in their performance in the elimination stages, stating, “Sa qualifiers, I was really happy on how the team performed kasi we’re a new team, marami sa amin nag quit marami rin dumagdag, so us sweeping the eliminations was a really good feeling.”
However, weeks before the semifinals, the captain suffered a grade two ankle sprain, and another key
Starting at the finish line
Manresa
player sustained a minor sprain just days prior.
To make matters worse, their setter experienced cramps on both of his legs, which affected the team’s performance during the game. “Our opponent showed up with 100%, kami 60% lang because of the injuries,” he noted. Despite all the setbacks, AdZU showed their dedication and unity by giving it their all throughout the tournament.
Sepak Girls lineup on way to represent ADZU during PSZCAA
What started as just a team to prevent disqualification, the quadro of Sapalleda, Sali, Tacula, and Ibba, finished with a surprise in Sepak Takraw Girls. Hailing from the Casa of Manresa, they nabbed the Championship title and were offered seats in the varsity roster.
Fortunately for the Casa Manresa kickers, only 1 other team managed to scramble and form a lineup, which they outplayed twice in both the Elimination and Finals match.
After earning their crown, the girls were met with a sheet of paper; the official PSZCAA application form, complete with the parents’ consent, they had been recruited for the varsity
lineup by the Sepak coach Aboc.
This was a shock for the players. From the start, Sapalleda and Sali were beginners having not touched the sport at all, while the other half, Keesha and Ibba have experience by proximity from other kick-centered sports: Futsal, and Taekwondo respectively.
“At first, I was hesitant because I had no experience with the sport, but I decided to give it a try. I figured that participating in the intramurals would be fun and full of memories, which it was.” Sali stated in an interview
“Honestly?, it was my first time playing sepak ever, yet my team was given this opportunity to try playing for the school.” remarked Sapalleda
in the same interview. “ I was really shocked, I never thought they would recruit players during intrams,” Ibba added.
Despite some hesitation, 3 of the 4 Athletes decided to take on this challenge and accept the recruitment.
“I took the opportunity because I felt it would be a wasted chance if I didn’t. I just wanted to try it at least once. In my mind, I thought, ‘Why not? It can’t hurt to try something new,” said Sapalleda when asked about why.
“I confirmed with my Taekwondo coach and dad first, and when they said yes, I went with it na. I didn’t want any regrets.” Ibba explained afterwards.
ADZU announces no plans for Paddling Week Philippines due to ‘lack of capacity’
Ateneo de Zamboanga
Sports coordinator Erwin Pelayo, declared that the institution will not be hosting, or planning any events in line with the recent presidential proclamation No .699, that declared the fourth week of October of each year as the “Moving Forward Paddling Week Philippines,” due to insufficient water-sports facilities and formal programs for the sport.
“Wala naman tayong program sa Deped, MPG, o CEAP for paddling, so bakit tayo gagawa ng team,” Pelayo mentioned in an interview, “Swimming lang yung may program sa DepEd, MPG, at CEAP, kaya yun lang yun active tayo in.”
The lack of proper water-sports facilities that ADZU has access to also contribute to this decision, as even the school’s swimming team only utilizes the scheduled training times at the Grandstand swimming pool.
While the school recently acquired access to the Lantaka campus, including its swimming pool, the facility’s size is not suitable for competitive or training purposes.
Although Ateneo de Zamboanga may consider participating in paddling in the future, it currently lacks the capacity for training areas, and coaches, which are crucial for the implementation of a program.
“For example weight lifting, because we don’t have a coach, we don’t have area, may expertise ba tayo? We don’t have athletes for this. As a sports coordinator inaasses namin yan before mag open ng isang program.”
‘‘
“Hindi pwede ang Lantaka Campus. For recreation or learn to play lang talaga, basic training, it cannot,” the sports coordinator Pelayo stressed.
Last June 22, 2024, players from the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) Basketball team under the TUJI basketball club conquers the court as they bagged nationals in SBP Pambansang Tatluhan 3x3 held on August 1011, 2024, at SM North EDSA, The Block – Atrium in Quezon City.
Their undeniable wit and vigor reigned over the podium, their fury igniting the arena as they prepare to represent Region IX in the Finals, which will be held in Manila, Philippines.
The SBP Pambansang Tatluhan 3x3 offers a fast-paced twist on the traditional rules of a 5v5 basketball game, where instead of having 5 players on each side of the court, this variation requires only three players on each team, pushing the players to adapt quickly as they play unconventionally, contrary to the traditional style of 5v5 basketball.
After a series of hard fought games, the team—consisting of Adrian Carreon, Jesryl Felipe, MJ Pandangan of Ateneo de Zamboanga University, along with Zion Solon of Western Immaculate Conception Archdiocesan School— emerged victorious as the top team in Region IX, securing their spot in the finals of the tournament.
ETHAN BARREDO
ZYRUZ LABINE
ZYRUZ LABINE
RICKMOND TAN
Cartoon by Mary Palma
Photo by Manila Bulletin
BLOCKBLASTing
through norms
Trends come and go, with this year not being any different, as another mobile game has made waves globally, reaching even the walls of the Ateneo de Zamboanga Senior High School community. Due to its simplicity, Block Blast has piqued the curiosity of numerous Ateneans, and with that, this gaming sensation could be the university’s next esports event.
In its essence, Block Blast would be most related to the timeless indie game Tetris, but instead of falling blocks, it features an 8x8 grid that can be cleared either horizontally or vertically with a wider arrangement of pieces to give way for more strategy, and less time crunch.
Although it isn’t meant for a player-versus-player scenario, it can still be set up that way, opening the possibility for Block Blast to be used in the competitive scene, specifically as an esports event.
“Yes! Since there aren’t many rules for playing Block Blast, unlike other digital games, it will be easier for other students to participate.” Grade 11 STEM Representative Alfaro exclaimed in an interview. “It doesn’t take a
lot of skills to play; all you need is your cell phone, and then it can be played anywhere.”.
Though it seems far-fetched at first, the game’s popularity and addictive nature combined actually gives it a realistic chance to be an official event.
“While the idea of Block Blast being part of these events might sound funny, it’s actually similar to other mobile games that require strategic thinking.”
Hailey Basilio, a Block Blast fanatic who peaked with 55k on the game mentioned.
“It shouldn’t be treated as formally or seriously as other competitions”, she added
“Instead, it could be introduced as a casual or friendly game, giving students who don’t want to join traditional competitions an opportunity to have fun and participate”.
The addition of Block Blast in the almost suffocating state of competition and demand in the sports and esportss scene is definitely a shift in the tide, where we are yet to see our University navigating in these new waters.
Salaman-KICKERS
Casa Salamanca’s firm defense outlasts Rome to clinch Championship title, 1-0
The house of discernment, Casa Salamanca keeps their record clean after claiming the throne against Casa Rome for the Juegos de Jovenes (JDJ) 2024 Men’s Football, after a stagnant but defensive 90 minutes which ended with 1–0, held at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School (ADZU SHS), on October 18, 2024.
The men clad in black remained undefeated throughout the whole tournament, with a flawless record of 5-0 after doubling down against Rome, and snuffing out their attempt for revenge during the championship round despite the gloomy morning weather.
Arnis,
From Classroom Practice to Competition Potential
Why is martial arts deeply rooted in Filipino culture yet, Arnis is treated as just another Physical Education class? Could it be more than that - perhaps an opportunity for students to showcase their anyo (forms) in the competitive realm?
Arnis, the national martial art of the Philippines, deserves more recognition beyond the four corners of the classroom. Its rich history and cultural significance are worth preserving and promoting, not just as a PE requirement, but as a legitimate sport with competitive potential. It’s time to rethink its role in education and consider how it can flourish in tournaments, both local and international. Could Arnis be the next big thing in competitive sports, elevating Filipino heritage on the global stage?
In the context of Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School (ADZUSHS), students primarily focus on two sports events, Juegos de Jovenes (JDJ) and Ateneo Fiesta (AtFest). However,
Salamanca relied on the defensive prowess of Aziz Usman, a Grade 12 STEM Cornelius student, whose leadership at the backline was crucial, steering Salamanca’s defense with unwavering focus.
His synergy with striker Jhoemar Baluyo and goalkeeper Ahmed Galbon ensured that Salamanca maintained a strong defensive wall, countering Rome’s aggressive tactics with composure and attacks of their own.
Despite this, Rome’s left winger Kenji Karl Tapao of Grade 12 STEM Borri continued his maneuvers for the game tempo along his formidable set of attacks to Salamanca’s goalpost assisted by the central forwards
despite being a national martial art, Arnis is still not included as a competitive event in these activities. Arnis should be integrated as a competitive sport at the institution, as it promotes cultural pride and physical fitness.
Arnis is more than just a sport or a martial art; it’s a part of the Filipino heritage, reflecting on centuries old traditions and practices. By introducing Arnis as a competitive sport in ADZU SHS, it would not only emit entertainment and excitement to the students but it would also serve as a powerful opportunity to engage more in Filipino culture and to encourage its preservation, which aligns with the school’s vision and mission.
Having Arnis as a PE class already serves a powerful role to engage
SUSTAINEDSWEEPING
composed of Cloud Buenvenida and Myron Chua of Grade 12 STEM Busa, but was met with no avail.
As the final whistle blew, Casa Salamanca celebrated their triumph, and Casa Rome reflected on their journey, one thing became clear—football at AdZU SHS is more than a game. It’s a tradition, a platform for growth, and a stage where future leaders are shaped.
in Filipino culture, its potential extends far beyond the confines of a classroom. By students having the general idea of Arnis, they might also take on a venture of participating in the competitive arena of Arnis, which will also provide inclusivity for the succeeding events as more students are opened to more sports leading them to showcase their hidden talents and express their skills in the arena.
Viewing Arnis as a combat sport will surely make people doubt on its safeness with the means of using sticks for combat - leading to dangerous blows in a battle. But, just like any other combat sports, it also has its defense with the use of gear such as a headgear and body armor for protection and padded sticks as an alternative to real sticks.
AdZU futsal dominates PSZCAA 2024
With strong teamwork at their core, Ateneo de Zamboanga University’s futsal team has been a force to be reckoned with in the Private Schools of Zamboanga City Athletic Association (PSZCAA) 2024, running from October 5 to November 10.
“The team dominated in the tournament with strong teamwork and a strong desire to win,” Bernal stated. AdZU’s offensive strategy focused on quick ball movement
and fluid passing, creating space and scoring opportunities. Defensively, they used a highpressure pressing strategy to win back possession, forcing the opposing team to make turnovers and for them to commit mistakes.
These strategies have delivered outstanding results, with AdZU cruising through PZSCAA while maintaining their crystal record...
Supporting Arnis as a competitive sport would not only improve physical abilities and strength, but it would also instill a deeper sense of discipline and physical conditioning. This field offers a path for personal growth and empowerment, not only for the player but the culture as well.
A lot of students in ADZU SHS may have the talent and passion to excel in Arnis, but the lack of opportunity holds them back. Currently, the school invests more in other combat sports such as Taekwondo and Judo. However, with the right support, Arnis, the sport of the nation, could become a leading sport, not solely in the Philippines but internationally. All it needs is the opportunity to flourish.
MOHAMMAD USSAM
ZYRUZ LABINE
Casa
JOHN BREECH VILLAVERDE
Photo by Therese Jabagat
ETHAN BARREDO
Cartoon by Mary Palma
continuereading
SUSTAINEDSWEEPING...
...after defeating St. Joseph School Foundation Incorporated in a merciless 16-0, and securing another landslide 5-0 win over Claret.
The team’s toughest opponent was Filipino Turkish Tolerance School, which were last year’s champions.
“Tolerance posed the biggest challenge because of their strong defense and wellcoordinated teamwork, which forced us to push beyond our usual strategies,” Bernal noted. Tolerance became a sturdy roadblock with their
well-coordinated defense, however, despite these challenges AdZU continued their streak, defeating Tolerance 2-1 in the tournament, with Gabriella Bernal scoring both goals.
Looking ahead, AdZU’s futsal team is set to face even greater challenges as they prepare for their final game of the PSZCAA 2024 tournament on November 10. With their dominating performance in the tournament, the team is ready to maintain their winning streak as the competition continues to intensify.
‘‘
It’s not just manipulating sticks; it’s about discipline and attitude. It represents what our ancestors left behind.”
Elbrige Quisel
LIFE AFTER CLASS: leisure or training
The after-class hours is
be the most rewarding time for most students to spend activities outside of the academic responsibilities; thus, in a question “What’s life after class?” asked to 35 students:
31 percent of the respondents attends regular training for
The Inspiring Journey of Elbrige Quisel in Arnis
In the realm of sports where dedication and discipline reign supreme, 18-yearold Elbrige Jln Rylle C. Quisel of HUMSS Schumacher stands as a beacon of excellence. An arnisador with an impressive collection of gold, silver, and bronze medals, Quisel’s journey in Arnis exemplifies the blend of resilience, passion, and cultural pride that defines the Filipino martial art.
Quisel’s path to Arnis wasn’t premeditated. “Arnis, or martial arts to be specific, was not my thing,” he confesses. Influenced by an older cousin, he was initially captivated by the intricate twirls and techniques of stick manipulation. What started as curiosity evolved into a full-blown passion. “At first, it was fun—the twirling of sticks, the thrusting of swords—it kept my attention. Over time, I built a love for the art despite the challenges.”
Those challenges were plenty. The physical demands, memorization of steps, and juggling academics with self-motivation and the values instilled by his parents propelled him forward. “I learned to be independent and Quisel’s dedication bore fruit in numerous competitions. He clinched golds at the PSZCAA and Hermosa Festival PUÑADA team with a critical victory in his first-ever where I thought I’d lost. But when the results came, it was me who came out victorious,” he
without consistency will lead you nowhere.” The fighter’s ability to balance artistry and precision in his strikes set him apart, earning respect and admiration within
Quisel prioritized recovery, embodying the discipline he preaches. “Mental toughness is crucial. Losing a loved one during my journey taught me to stay grounded and
To Quisel, Arnis is more than a competitive pursuit—it’s a connection to Filipino heritage. As a coach for AGAP, he now passes on these lessons to aspiring arnisadors,
joining the Philippine Arnis Team, his message to young Elbrige Quisel’s story is one of triumph against odds, a testament to the power of passion and persistence. For him, every medal and memory adds to a growing legacy also honors the Filipino martial art that has become his
