ICC slams Former President Duterte on alleged crimes against humanity
SHAMEEKAH ARILUV BERBOSO
Following the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, tensions sparked in the government once again after Former President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested and is now flying to Hague to face charges of alleged crimes against humanity filed by the International Criminal Court (ICC), March 11.
Due to the request of the ICC, the former president who led the country from 2016-2022 was sent as part of the investigation into the “war on drugs” during his term.
The organization issued a public 15-page warrant for Duterte, defining the accusations of killings, in which he has insisted that the police are only to kill in self-defense.
”The plane is en route to the Hague, in the Netherlands, allowing the former president to face charges of crimes against humanity in relation to his bloody war on drugs,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated in a press conference.
Moreover, VP Sara expressed that the arrest of her father was a “state kidnapping”, which the Malacanang dismissed.
Victims Who Suffer the Consequences of the Guilty
“Sinasabi ko sa inyong lahat Pilipino kayo, ‘wag kayong pumayag na ang isang Pinoy ibigay sa sa mga dayuhan lalo na pag labas na sa batas ‘yun. This is actually some sort of state kidnapping. Parang ganyan na nangyayari,” VP Sara stated.
“Unang-una po, paano po magiging kidnapping kung may warrant of arrest? It was issued by an authority, by the court. Kapag ka meron nang issuance ng anumang order from the court, we have to comply,” Palace Press Officer and Undersecretary Claire Castro defended.
She further added that all the elements required to validate the warrant of arrest and the assistance from the Interpol are already complete, crossing out the credibility of the Vice President’s complaint.
The former president will be taken to the ICC detention unit where he will soon face the judges in court.
ONHS Learners take home 5th
War on Drugs by the Numbers
Waving the banner of Oton National High School in the National Schools Press Conference 2024 held in Carcar City, Cebu last July 7-12, Shameekah Ariluv Berboso, Editor-in-Chief of The Seaside Echo and Shanelle Syth Legislador, Managing Echo, claimed the 5th Best
Script Award as part of the Radio Scriptwriting and Broadcasting English Team who represented Region VI, along with five learners of Pototan Comprehensive National High School.
“I felt an overwhelming sense of fulfillment because we managed to secure 5th place out of the 17 regions who were also champions in their own ways,” Legislador shared in an interview.
In acknowledgment, the Oton Local Government Unit ( LGU ) also presented Resolution No. 2024-194 of Commendation to the students during the regular flag-raising ceremony, September 23.
JANINE TACAISAN
Opinion
JANINE TACAISAN
ANGARA’S VISIT. DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara visited Oton National High School last December 13, 2024.
Oton NHS ABM
Learners Participate in Digital Marketing Program
The Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) learners of Oton NHS attended a digital marketing program launched nationwide by the Asia Foundation in collaboration with the Iloilo City Government with the theme, “Digital Business: Building Customer Experience Strategies for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)” held at Solana Premiere, Mandurriao, Iloilo City, September 12.
The learners, accompanied by their advisers, were equipped with the knowledge of how to leverage digital tools for business enhancement and improving customer experience.
In pursuit of empowering the participants, key speaker Lorna Bontoc imparted advice that highlighted the importance of technology in businesses.
“For students, digital is native to you. Take advantage of technology, but don’t lose heart for customers,” she stated.
With more than 450 listeners, Iloilo City had the most participants in the whole Philippines who were given the opportunity to acquire the insights of experts in the field.
SE+A Celebrates Diamond Anniversary with ‘Press Forward’
In celebration of the 75th Anniversary of The Seaside Echo and Ang Aplaya (SE+A), the student publication of Oton National High School (ONHS) launched its two-day school-based training titled “Press Forward,” at the ONHS Gymnasium, January 4-5.
The training aimed to promote students’ excellence in media and communication, with the theme, “Unveiling the Scroll of Diamond Potential and Preserving the Strong Legacy of Journalism Excellence.”
Over 450 student journalists from different schools, the majority coming from the Municipality of Oton, participated in the event, which featured lectures and workshops conducted by top journalism trainers from across Iloilo.
The poll of trainers is composed of Darwin A. Haro, CESE, for news writing, Dr. Eugene Mallorca, CESE for
feature writing, Boni Camilon for Editorial and Column Writing, Romel Mediavilla for Editorial Cartooning, Rujay Aaron Gargarita for Photojournalism, Kristian Turija for Radio Scriptwriting and Broadcasting, Joseph Ian Gempeso for TV Scriptwriting and Broadcasting, Joed Peñafiel for Collaborative Desktop and Online Publishing, Jessa Christie Silvederio for Copyreading and Headline Writing, and Science and Technology Writing, and Herneil Anthony Barza for Sports Writing.
Haro emphasized the importance of gathering the best trainers to help students unlock their full potential during the opening program.
The training concluded with an awarding ceremony on the second day, recognizing the outstanding campus journalists in various categories.
NAPSSPHIL Iloilo Elects Haro as President
ton National High School’s Principal IV, Darwin A. Haro, CESE, was elected as the President of the National Association of Public Secondary Schools of the Philippines (NAPSSPHIL) Iloilo Chapter in the Principal’s Conference held in Cagayan de Oro City, June 2024.
To officially establish the organization, the officers held an oath-taking during DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara’s visit to
Haro also spearheaded multiple trainings and
congresses conducted by the NAPPSPhil Iloilo, including the first Secondary School Heads Convergence to further excellence among the educators where the event featured multiple significant guests such as the Regional Director, Dr. Ramir B. Uytico and the NAPSSPHIL Philippines President, Dr. Warlito Rosareal.
held in Punta Villa, Iloilo, December 16-17.
During the congress, he shared the best practices of Oton NHS and also featured other schools in the program.
JEN RHINO NULUD
SHAMEEKAH ARILUV BERBOSO
Dr. Darwin A. Haro, CESE speaking for the NAPSSPHIL Iloilo Secondary School Heads Convergence, fostering collaboration and educational development, December 16.
DIGITAL BUSINESS SEMINAR. The Accountancy, Business, and Management Learners of Oton National High School attended a seminar with the theme “Digital Business: Building Customer Experience Strategies for MSMEs” at Solana Premier, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.
ONHS Student’s Science Story Shines in DOST finals
Driven by her passion for Science and Technology, Shameekah Berboso, a learner of Oton National High School, took the challenge as a Kalipunan Correspondent in the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Gawad Alunig x Dalumat Competition with the theme “Dalumat at Alunig: Pagninilay at Pagpapahayag sa Agham at Teknolohiya,” on October 19.
Competing with multiple participants in the Region, she was chosen as one of the national qualifiers in Western Visayas.
Her report featured Sam Agustin, a 24-year old
entrepreneur from Oton, Iloilo, who developed an innovative winemaking process using fresh fruit and repurposed water gallons for fermentation.
“With science and innovation, winemaking became easier and more accessible, allowing more people to create their own products and improve local competitiveness,” Berboso said.
The Gawad Alunig x Dalumat competition bridged science and the public by showcasing innovations that transformed communities.
SE+A Joins 15th USA Gusting Journalism Seminar
BY CHYNN TRINITY D. VILLAREAL
Selected staff from Oton National High School’s student publication, The Seaside Echo, and Ang Aplaya
participants from numerous schools across Western Visayas attended. The seminar featured various
Additionally, several learners earned awards in their respective categories: Shantel Eunice Garcia won first place in News Writing
SHANELLE LEGISLADOR
PRIDE AND PASSION. Shameekah Ariluv Berboso, represented Oton National High School during the 2024 Gawad Alunig Awards.
BEYOND CAPABILITIES. Seaside Echo and Ang Aplaya, showcased journalistic excellence during the 15th Gusting held at the University of San Agustin.
Continued from Page 01
A groundbreaking ceremony was also done to signify the beginning of construction of another building near the Gymnasium, opposite to the newly constructed one.
Congresswoman Dr. Janette L. Garin, Representative of the First District of Iloilo, along with, Sir Darwin A. Haro, CESE, School Principal IV of Oton NHS, accompanied Sec. Angara in his visit. After this, the DepEd Executive Committee
entertained questions posed by the faculty, SSLG President, and staff of the school’s publication, SE+A, about relevant topics concerning their plans for education in the country.
The school publication also created a newsletter to publish the events that happened within the 45-minute visit; five copies of these articles were given to the Assistant Secretary Veloso during the end of their visit.
DepEd
Secretary Visits Oton NHS
Sonny Angara takes oath as new DepEd Secretary
resident Ferdinand Marcos Jr. officially appointed Former Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Manalang Angara as the new Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) during a ceremony at the Malacañang Palace, July 19.
Sec. Angara took his oath during a swearing-in ceremony presided over by the President marking the beginning of his term as the new DepEd Chief as this formalizes his role in the Cabinet.
“We are looking forward to many good things from his appointment. We have had some discussions before he took his oath to give ourselves a good idea of what we think needs to be done,” President Marcos said.
The Executive also expressed confidence and optimism about the new leadership in the department, anticipating the “positive changes” in the educational system.
“I know that Sonny knows what is important, and I know that he knows how to get things done, and so I am very, very optimistic for DepEd,” he added.
Angara stepped down from his post as a Senator to accept the President’s appointment as new secretary, where he expressed gratitude and shared an eagerness to work.
“I’m extremely grateful to our President for entrusting me with this important task— to lead a very important department. Mr. President, I know how much you value education, as much as every Filipino family does,” Angara expressed.
He later added that he is “honored to lead the Department of Education, listen to and work with all stakeholders, and collaboratively address the challenges in the education sector. Together, we will drive the progress our education system needs and deserves.”
Angara is the 37th Education Secretary following the resignation of Vice President Sara Duterte from the position on June 19 of the same year.
SEQUENTIAL SUCCESS: Oton NHS prevails in the Group Categories during the RSPC ‘24
Further polishing its image as the Best Performing School in the group category, Oton National High School, once again, secured the title during the Regional Schools Press Conference 2024 held in Iloilo Grand Hotel, May 26.
Oton NHS forged their way to the top with the following feats: Collaborative Desktop Publishing, Filipino (2nd Place).
Radio Scriptwriting and Broadcasting, Filipino (2nd Place) who won 1st Best Infomercial, 4th Best Script, and also 4th Best Technical Application.
TV Scriptwriting and Broadcasting,
Filipino (2nd Place) who claimed 2nd Best Anchor, 2nd Best Script, 2nd Best Technical Application, 3rd Best News Presenter, and 4th Best Infomercial.
Fitz Ethan Daut, a two-time RSPC Qualifier and a member of the Collaborative Desktop Publishing Filipino, articulated his pride as a witness of the consecutive victories.
“It makes me incredibly proud to be an ONHS student, knowing that I am part of this remarkable achievement. It is also heartwarming to see how proud our mentors and trainers are of us,” Daut stated.
JESSA BELLE SILLA
SHAMEEKAH ARILUV BERBOSO
SONNY ANGARA BECAME NEW DEPED SECRETARY Sonny Angara took his oath as Education Secretary on July 19, 2024. The Commission on Appointments confirmed his appointment on August 7.
Oton NHS Triumphs at First CDSSPC ‘25
Journalists from Oton National High School made their mark at the First Congressional District Secondary Schools Press Conference (CDSSPC) 2025, bagging numerous awards in various categories, February 19.
The students showcased their exceptional skills in journalism, grabbing top spots in the individual and group categories, sculpting their way to the title of being the Top Performing School during the competition.
In the individual categories, seven writers were awarded as champions in their respective categories.
Meanwhile in the group categories, six groups clinched the First Place accolades.
Oton NHS Learners Show Off at National Tech-Voc Day
JOANNA
LIZLE DEMAFILES
Displaying their skills and enhancing their mastery in the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood field, Oton NHS students exhibited products and services in various areas of the track, with the theme “TechVoc tungo sa Pag-unlad at Pagbangon, Angking Talino at Kakayahan, Linangin at Isulong.”
Their creativity was shown through services such as Food and Beverages services for the Home Economics students, Events Management Services, Computer System Services for the Information and Communication Technology students, Hairdressing,
Automotive Servicing, and Electrical Insulation Maintenance for the Industrial Arts students.
Simultaneously, a poster-making contest was held along with the engine display and food display of the Grade 9 and 10 Cookery.
In addition, School Principal IV, Darwin A. Haro, CESE, shared his perception of the program and future plans about the said track.
“And so, next school year, we’ll be offering additional two programs.
We’re planning to offer SMAW, and the other one is dressmaking and tailoring.”
Moreover, Division TLE, TVE, TVL coordinator Mr. Ritchelle John T. Trogani, SB Member of the Municipality of Oton Chairperson Committee in Education Vanessa T. Salinas, ONHS SPTA President Emelie M. Mana-ay, and Assistant School Principal Designate in Senior High School, Kristian H. Turija also gave their messages.
Hence, Oton NHS students are persevering to bring success in different areas of the academic and the non-academic tracks, continuing down the path of proving that they are indeed the best.
RYLAI NAISHA CARREON
WRITE, WIN. Young journalists of Oton National High School, garnered awards during the Congressional Schools Press Conference 2025.
OTON NHS CELEBRATED NATIONAL TECH-VOC DAY
On August 30, Oton NHS showcased Tech-Voc students’ skills through demos, competitions, and exhibits. Guest speaker Sir Ritchelle John Trogani inspired learners.
Victims Who Suffer the Consequences of the Guilty
In hopes of correcting the faults of the guilty, the victims find themselves miserable in the consequences of the same damage done to them. On the 2025 General Appropriations Act, the Department of Education (DepEd) decried a 12 billion peso budget cut in their office for the whole year. Although it is crucial for a fair society to hold its officials accountable for actions that do not align with their positions, it is never to the extent of sacrificing the well-being of the people they serve.
DepEd’s budget cut was argued to be “a call for accountability,” Rep. Ramon Rodrigo “Rodge” Gutierrez reflected that this was caused by the former DepEd Secretary, Vice President Sara Duterte’s confidential funds under the sector. The bicameral conference committee is crossing its fingers that this will forge a lesson for the two government agencies.
However, despite all the rational objectives for executing such measures, one disappointing but unsurprising theme prevails. The grave situations these agencies experience are treated as consequences for the Government’s incompetence in handling their work. But this isn’t the worst part, because the people behind these agencies aren’t the ones that will truly suffer, but the Filipino people who rely on these services for survival and basic needs.
The Philippines suffered from the digital divide
during the COVID-19 pandemic, which worsened the quality of education in the country. This pushed the DepEd to implement a computerization program to “make education accessible to all and accelerate delivery of basic education,” as stated in DepEd Order N0. 16, s. 2023. This hopes to address the growing crisis of unequal and limited education, especially for marginalized and geographically unfortunate communities. However, this cause was specifically targeted as 10 billion pesos was reduced from the agency’s computerization program.
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized that this will only widen the longstanding digital divide that already separates the privileged from the underprivileged, and prolong the
technological crisis in the Philippines.
Even without the reduction, the allotted budget for DepEd is already unconstitutional as Senator Ping Lacson noted that this directly violates Article XIV Section 5 (5) of the 1987 Constitution, which states that “the State shall assign the highest budgetary priority to education.”
Instead of cutting the funding for the agency, it would be much better for Congress to think of other ways to address these problems better. It is acknowledged that a large portion of the debt DepEd is paying is the confidential funds of the former DepEd Secretary. Yet a report from the Commission on Audit showed that only PHP 2,180,000,000 out of PHP 11,360,000,000 funds were used for ICT equipment in 2023.
Now that Vice President Sara Duterte is no longer the DepEd Secretary, someone more
legible can lead the agency. President Ferdinand Marcos appointed Former Senator Sonny Angara as the new Secretary in July, last year. Right after the news about the bicameral committee reducing the budget from the President’s original plan, Angara quickly decried and called for revisions of the Bill. So, better results can surely be expected from the agency as the quality of its leaders has changed.
Local health experts also emphasized the importance of strategic planning to ensure the people, places, and projects the budget lands on. Investing this money to the men is targeted to the right agenda is also encouraged as a way to manage the agency’s reserves better.
The Government needs to realize that the purpose of the budget is to aid the people, not use them as instruments to slam public agencies. Again and again, the public sees the will to create change, but never in sight the fair and justifiable solution to equal it.
Cartoon by: Marco Millennio Babol
A Long-Term Solution, Or A Band-Aid Fix?
Fbreathtaking picturesque view to a sight of scattering garbage and litter – that will surely knock you out with its reeking smell, Iloilo’s Sunset Boulevard has lost its natural beauty due to the lack of discipline of the visitors lounging in the area. In response to this, Iloilo City’s mayor – Jerry P. Treñas, has decided to ban park shots within the area of the boulevard. His heavy-handed move divided the public into two, igniting a debate between the two sides. Is the park shot ban a definite answer to this problem, or is it just one of his band-aid solutions?
Iloilo Sunset Boulevard, also known as the Iloilo River North Bank Road, is a new four-lane thoroughfare stretching 4.99 kilometers along the north bank of the Iloilo River (from Tabucan Mandurriao to Oton Iloilo). It is a road that aims to lessen the traffic congestion along the Iloilo-Antique Road. But, the purpose of the boulevard is more than that. It serves as a public space where people can bond,
enjoy, and relax on the roadside – without any constraints.
Moreover, people were also allowed to park shots in the area, as most of the people find relaxation in drinking their worries away with their friends and loved ones. However, the park shot ban was lifted in the boulevard as the visitors irresponsibly threw their garbage – specifically liquor bottles – around the premises. This decision has left people in a clamor as it is a clear violation of what is the intended purpose of the boulevard: to serve as a place of leisure and relaxation.
There are several ways that Mayor Treñas could have responded – like providing proper waste disposal bins around the area and enforcing responsible waste management and disposal– because clearly, it is the local government’s failure to provide a better waste management plan that has caused the improper waste disposal, not the people’s lack of discipline. Simple issues like this require a simple – but definite –
solution, not the one that was only implemented to appease the public but to sacrifice the needs of the many.
Not only that but along with the enforcement of the park shot ban, the ban on ambulant vendors also followed. As a city that takes pride in supporting small businesses, banning these vendors is an erroneous move that has profoundly affected the lives of micro-entrepreneurs who deeply depend on the profit that they earn in selling in public spaces like the boulevard. These vendors are not at fault if the main concern of these bans is the cleanliness of the area because again, it is the local government’s failure to provide an efficient waste management plan beforehand. These vendors are a part of the reason why we thrive economically – therefore, taking away their livelihood is not a proper way to show gratitude for their contributions to the growth of this city.
Instead of enforcing bans, they can provide a designated
space for the vendors – as well as a designated trash bin near the stalls, so that the problem regarding improper waste disposal can be easily solved. Things like these can easily be resolved without the need for bans, only if they are dedicated enough to seek solutions that do not restrict or affect the livelihood of others. The vendors should not suffer for the local government’s inability to formulate a solution—no one should.
To answer the question—is the park shot ban a definite answer? No. It is a band-aid solution that was recklessly made because it has come to the attention of the public. It is nothing but a careless decision; a decision that was created out of fear – of being on the bad side of others, without even considering the bond that was never made, the joy that was failed to be felt, the relaxation that was never experienced, and the livelihoods that were lost due to banning. Public spaces exist for the public; therefore they should be included – not restricted.
Seeing Beyond the Pen, Doing Beyond Other Men
When I decided to join the student publication of Oton National High School, I knew that I have one purpose in mind: to exercise the true essence of journalism beyond the glamour of competitions. I wanted to write, share stories, and express my opinion. So I went for it and it gave me more than what I had asked for.
Being part of the student publication, I have seen my journalistic skills that I haven’t discovered in all my years of participation. It has dawned in me that the real purpose of journalism is public service and commitment to truth.
A lot may argue that actively working in a student publication will only add to the burden of being a student. Well,
it might be true for some. The amount of work in a student publication can be heavy for some, especially for those who are new to the field. Balancing this with your academics can be a daunting task. But, it is truly possible to balance these factors if you are willing to do so because the rewards of acquiring this skill are incomparable. When there is an active student publication in the school, learners will get the best possible service from truthful and reliable sources. Communication at all levels will be smooth and it will surely ease the flow of information in the school community. For instance, during the Intramural Meet this year, the winners for each category were easily identified
because it was posted on our official publication page.
Moreover, as one of the representatives of a competitive school during press conferences, it is crucial for us to maintain the winning streak every year. Thus, I personally view my duties and work as “free” training to get better at the craft. Every article written and every critique received is added to the knowledge that will build up over time. By doing all of this, I realized what it truly meant to be a journalist. It is to jump fences just to get information, walk through crowded aisles just to get the perfect shot, and run as fast as you can until your legs feel weak just to get the interview you want.
A favorite encounter of
this is when the Secretary Department of Education— yes, Sonny Angara—visited our school. We were left to take care of the production of the newsletter in 45 minutes because of the limited time of the visit. The newsletter was done in approximately five minutes. I had to run across the field to get it to him. Their car was already starting the moment I got to the other side of the field, and the faster I ran, the faster their car escaped the school premises. The adrenaline it gave me was able to sustain a lifetime of passion for journalism. It no longer came from the validation of winning, but rather from the fulfillment of work.
JANINE TACAISAN
If Knowledge
is Power, Why Do We Fear Arming the Youth?
Living in a country, like the Philippines, where the word “sex” is often misconstrued as an inappropriate topic, especially for young individuals, the Comprehensive Sexual Education (CSE) Act is difficult to implement. Amidst the reality that the number of teenage pregnancies in the Philippines is soaring above normal, the majority of Filipinos still refuse to allow children to be taught about sex education as it opposes the traditional values they follow. If knowledge is power, why do we fear arming the youth with it?
Comprehensive Sexual Education was established to educate young generations about how the reproductive system works. Knowing our reproduction system is fundamental, especially now that cases of teenage pregnancy are prevalent in the Philippines. According to Save the Children (2024), sex education in homes and schools and more adolescent-friendly health services are crucial in the Philippines to address a 35 percent hike in pregnancies of girls aged 15 and under. Through sex education, these children are instilled with awareness which can also help decrease the number of individuals who get pregnant at a young age.
Moreover, through the Comprehensive Sexual Education Act, young individuals are taught about the essence of contraceptives, like condoms, in alleviating the skyrocketing cases of teenage pregnancy. Also, upon knowing about the implications of indulging in unplanned sexual activities, young Filipinos will be able to make wise choices, since they are not at the right age to do so.
However, amidst the great benefit it provides, several groups have raised concerns about comprehensive sexual education as for them, it allegedly introduces “abhorrent concepts” that can corrupt young minds. But sex education is not about that at all. It is about teaching them how their reproductive parts work, not teaching them concepts like masturbation, bodily pleasure, or sexual rights. The goal of CSE is to raise sexually aware Filipinos, not individuals who thirst for lust and pleasure.
The children are a beacon of hope—a light that will guide us to a better future for the Philippines; therefore, it is imperative that we, adults, think not just for the sake of upholding our traditional values, but we must act according to what is more necessary for the sake of the people and our country. We must open our eyes to the irrevocable truth that the Comprehensive Sexual Education Act is the definite
We must break space where ours to make.
“Every child deserves a quality education and a safe place to learn,” says a famous quote from Gigi Hadid. Education is deemed as a shining beacon of light towards a bright future. After all, the future of the youth is also the future of our nation and the world. As much as we want it to be a right—it still is a privilege in more ways than one. Some students can’t afford quality education, squandering their chances and potential to be more than what they are. Which is why educational vouchers and scholarships are so important. Giving those who can’t afford it otherwise a chance to receive it. However, lately, there’s been a situation plaguing the Department of Education (DepEd)—ghost students. An article published by the Inquirer.Net on January 22 comments on the aforementioned “ghost student” issue. These “students” were called as such since they don’t even exist. DepEd saved more than 50,000,000 pesos in taxpayer money, commenting on how it “stopped the release of vouchers meant for Senior High School (SHS) in 12 private schools” and was found to be “nonexistent”. DepEd Secretary, Sonny Angara calls it a “potential defrauded”. He revealed that the 52,571,500 pesos for the SHS voucher program should have covered School Years 2023-2024. However, he said in a statement that they did not process nor release any payments from the investigated schools with the answers still being far from arm’s reach. Said issue falls into “Attempting to defraud the Philippine government through falsification and misrepresentation” as a “serious criminal offense”. Students who aren’t even really being accepted into these voucher programs, potentially stealing opportunities from capable youth who need these vouchers to afford quality education. This is an incredibly large error made by the DepEd, potentially losing copious amounts of taxpayer money due to these fraudulent causes. Furthermore, this truly does put into perspective how easy it is to tamper with something so important when the government lowers its guard. Moreover, a Philstar article published on February 19 comments on how this issue has already existed since the SHS program was adapted to the country. Showing that clearly, the government should be doing more to rectify this issue or increase their defenses to avoid this from worsening. Misusing tax money in a sense since they couldn’t manage it properly. Aside from the potential loss of opportunity, let’s not forget the other terrible effects that this spikes. A 2018 study from the Philippine Journal of Psychology, spearheaded by Bernando & Resurrection comments on how this spikes financial stress into the well-being of Filipino students. More or less, this does pose an ethical and moral dilemma and leaves more questions in our minds than it answers. Unless DepEd manages to track down which schools have done these fraudulent crimes, and how many “ghost students” have accidentally been listed as actual people and given these opportunities. Posing real concerns if we ever want our country to have a better future and give our youth the chance for a brighter tomorrow. This does make us ask the question that has been itching your minds all throughout this article.
How many of the youth have their hopes and dreams shattered and futures squandered due to the selfishness of the older generation?
The Irony of it All
They wield their red pens like swords but fear the students whose words cut deeper. Ironic, don’t you think?It has always puzzled me why, when a student wins a gold medal in a sports competition, the teacher proudly excuses them from missed classes, extends deadlines, and even rewards them with high grades. When a dance team returns victorious from a contest, they are celebrated, honored, and given time to recover, but when a student journalist spends sleepless nights covering events, writing newsletters, and representing the school in press conferences, they return to class only to be met with indifference: no extensions, no consideration - just a cold reminder that “academics should come first.”
Why is it that some teachers can easily recognize the efforts of athletes and performers but turn a blind eye to the sacrifices of student journalists? Why is it that students who bring honor through words and stories are treated as if their contributions are insignificant?
The hypocrisy is glaring. Some teachers praise students who give their time and effort to bring recognition to the school, but only when it fits a certain mold. They accommodate, adjust, and even reward those who win in other events, but when it comes to student journalists who dedicate just as much passion and effort, they suddenly become gatekeepers of “academic priorities.”
These teachers claim they cannot adjust or give consideration because it would be “unfair to others” and would affect their so-called integrity. But where is that integrity when they bend the rules for athletes, performers, and other competitors? Where is that fairness when they choose who deserves recognition and who does not? The double standard is blatant.
These same teachers dismiss our exhaustion as laziness, our missed deadlines as excuses, and our sacrifices as “not real work.” This isn’t just neglect. This is manipulation. This is gaslighting: and we see right through it.
This isn’t just about grades. It’s about respect. Student journalists do not just write. We serve. We are the ones ensuring that every achievement is seen and that every voice is heard. We sacrifice our time, energy, and sometimes even our health to document the very events that the school takes pride in. And yet, instead of recognition, some teachers dismiss us. Instead of support, we are told that our work is not enough.
The truth is, many student journalists are among the top students—not just in academics, but in our field. We are leaders, critical thinkers, and storytellers. We give voice to the school community, yet some teachers silence us with apathy. They celebrate those who win on the court, on stage, under the spotlight—so why do they fail to recognize those who win through words?
We have had enough.
Dear Ma’am/Sir, Intelligence is not confined to books and exams. It is found in the newsroom, in the field, in the courage to ask the right questions and tell the truth. You honor athletes for their victories, celebrate performers for their talent—so why must student journalists fight just to be acknowledged?
As you often say, “Kitaay ta sa punta sang ballpen ko.”
Well, I also have a pen. And mine writes the truth.
Yours, Ice
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
As we open a new chapter flowing with learning, experiences, and growth, we bring you with utmost pride the 75th Volume of The Seaside Echo — something that does not merely remain a string of words, but the people’s voice from the school and beyond.
This edition contains stories that reflect the wide interest, as well as the concerns of the school community. We wrote this with the genuine desire to reach out to you in hopes that we could help you connect with the latest issues, from the eloquent flow of words to the splashing color of the cartoons.
We would also like to take the time to acknowledge the members, School Paper Advisers, and Journalism Trainers who served as the foundations of this paper, who tirelessly served to show the world the truth, and truth alone. Only through the efforts of everyone involved that we were able to produce this.
With our publication stepping on the mark of its Diamond Anniversary, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who carved honesty, fairness, and dedication to the very roots of The Seaside Echo, and to the future generations who shall continue the legacy. We hope that we have inspired you to also take courage to pick up your pen and amplify your voice.Here’s to 75 years of integrity, and for the years to come.
THE SEASIDE ECHO EDITORIAL BOARD
Editors-in-Chief
Shameekah Ariluv Berboso
Janine Tacaisan
Associate Editors
Joemele Panaguiton
Adryanna Llorente
Managing Editors
Shanelle Syth Legislador
Jessa Belle Silla
Media and Circulation Editors
Chloë Lanne Panes
Head of Writing Corps
Beatriz Carolyn Ercilla
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Contributing Writers:
Rylai Naisha Carreon
Jen Rhino Nulud
Joanna Lizle Demafiles
Chynn Trinity Villareal
Krizia Reign Clavel
Nicolette Frances Sañonte
Mayumi Angel Ogata
Darlyn Gwyneth Ocera
Jewel Azucena
Sam Ashley Mondejar
Head of Creatives and Photography
James Clifford Deocampo
Contributing Artists:
Gabriel Santander
Kian Andrei Esposado
Jarred Cang
Marco Millennio Babol
Precious Viel Casalan
Gian Soldevilla
Shenina Graceril Berboso
Angela Ballesteros
Sofia Regency Mejia
John Lina Torilla
John Eric Ardales
School Paper Adviser:
Denesie Jane Sansolis
School Principal IV:
Darwin A. Haro, CESE
The Dance Between Praise and Purpose
The best way to kill a harmonious society is to turn its people against each other. Competitions may serve as ways to evaluate one’s progress and give pride to their accomplishment, but in terms of weighing students’ journalistic skills, an invitation to a joyful dance between authentic service and roaring praise knocks at the door.
Behind all the whys and wherefores of architecting competitions, there is one undeniable consensus that adds to its flair of excitement. Winning. Winning is glorifying. It validates the hours of work one has put into their craft. The feeling of walking up the stage and receiving the award is an addicting scene that pure human nature cannot resist.
However, such a sweet moment could all go wrong if the shiny trophy becomes the ultimate goal and all of the rest shrinks as background noise. The destination has become so bright that it could blind the eye and cover everything with shadow—a sure way to lose, not in reward but in purpose.
The primary role of campus journalism is to teach students the value of truthful information and a way to disseminate it to the public. A mission that is engraved in the mind of every journalist who vows to serve for the greater good and safeguard the trust of the people.
Moreover, as students conclude their journey in education, they also put a mark on their role in campus journalism. Navigating the real world with fresh eyes, a crucial realization comes to mind. A bigger energy awaits—those who do not play the game but to win it regardless. People who attempt to manipulate the truth, conceal information, and spread fake news.
The only ones who can combat this are journalists, but who will fight against these enemies if they, themselves, are praying against each other?
Journalism is the backbone of an authentic society, and one cannot fulfill this purpose if he or she is too blinded by the illusion of the shiny and shimmer.
With all the chaos transpiring in the world today, a bigger enemy hides along the way. We realize that it has never been a journalist versus another. It is journalism versus the villains who silence its existence and deny its value.
JANINE TACAISAN
In the quiet aftermath of a heavy downpour, the streets tell a familiar story—pools of dirty water creeping onto sidewalks, vehicles slowy navigate flooded roads, and pedestrians stranded on higher ground. Beneath the surface, the true culprit remains hidden: clogged drainage systems, unseen yet devastating. Silt, debris, algae, and waste accumulate over time, silently choking the flow of water until the next storm exposes the problem in the worst way possible.
The cycle of flooding repeats itself in both rural and urban landscapes, while solutions remain reactive rather than preventive. Workers are sent out only after the damage is done, relying on manual inspections that are slow, costly, and often ineffective. The process is not only labor-intensive, but also dangerous. Many drainage systems are inaccessible, forcing inspectors to navigate dark, confined, and hazardous spaces, often with no guarantee of finding the exact source of the problem.
The consequences of inaction are severe. Streets submerged in knee-deep water bring cities to a standstill, damaging property, crippling businesses, and putting lives at risk. Crops are drowned due to excessive water. The food supplies are under threat and livelihood is being impacted. The question remains: how can we break this cycle? What if technology could offer a way to see the problem before disaster strikes? What if we could peer into the depths of these hidden channels, uncover blockages before they turn into crises, and take action before streets become rivers?
To address this growing problem, a student from Oton National High School started to navigate the seas of innovation. Meet Dexter John Niño Torreces, a Grade 10-Newton student in ONHS’ Special Program in Science, Technology, and Engineering (SPSTE). Dexter developed a wheeled robotic surveillance car capable of monitoring dysfunctional drainage systems, providing video feedback in real-time.
A remote-controlled car serves as the base. It has four DC motors, which are like small
electric engines attached to the wheels. These motors make the wheels spin, allowing the robot to move forward, backward, and turn as needed. To control these motors, the robot uses an L298N motor driver. Think of this as the “brain” for movement – it tells the wheels when to start, stop, or change speed, making sure the robot moves smoothly even in tight or rough spaces.
One of the most important parts of the robot is the ESP32CAM module, which is a small camera that captures live video. This camera lets people see what’s inside the drainage system without physically going in. It is mounted on a pan-tilt kit, which allows it to move up, down, left, and right. This movement is controlled by a servo motor, which acts like a tiny robotic arm that shifts the camera’s position to get a better view of clogs or blockages.
Since the robot needs the power to run, it has a DC-DC step-down buck converter, which makes sure the right amount of electricity reaches each part. Without this, some components might not work properly or could get damaged.
To keep all the electrical parts connected, jumper wires are used, and everything is secured tightly with screws and zip ties to prevent wires from getting tangled or coming loose while the robot moves.
The robot moves, it has accelerometers and a GPS (Global Positioning System) module help track how well the robot moves. The accelerometer measures movement, like whether the robot is going straight or tilting due to an obstacle. The GPS is like a tracker—it records the robot’s location and helps in mapping out areas inside the drainage.
To ensure that the wheeled robotic surveillance car performs effectively in real-world conditions, Dexter conducted several tests: The first test focused on blockage detection in different conditions. In bright light, the camera detected blockages with 95% accuracy at 25 meters, but accuracy dropped to 80% at 20 meters in low light and 70% at only five meters in obstructed views. This showed that while the robot works well in well-lit spaces, it struggles in darker, cluttered areas. Since video clarity is essential for monitoring, he measured footage quality in the same conditions. The camera provided high-quality video (90%) in bright light, but clarity decreased to 65% in low light and 30% in obstructed views, making visibility a challenge in certain environments.
On the other hand, the navigation test evaluated the robot’s movement on three different routes: a narrow passage (100m), a path with moderate obstacles (150m), and rough terrain (200m). It moved efficiently in simpler paths but took longer and consumed more battery on rougher surfaces, highlighting the need for better movement control. Meanwhile, to test obstacle response, different barriers were placed in its path. The robot adjusted quickly to small debris (onesecond delay) and narrow passages (two seconds) but needed more time to navigate medium obstacles (three seconds) and steep slopes (five seconds). While it successfully maneuvered through drainage systems, further improvements are needed for complex environments. Finally, a cost and time efficiency test compared
the robot’s performance with manual inspections. Results showed that the robot worked faster and more efficiently, detecting blockages early and reducing the need for frequent human checks. Overall, the tests confirmed that the robot is an effective drainage monitoring tool, though enhancements in camera sensitivity, movement control, and obstacle handling could improve its performance.
Dexter’s research, titled “Wheelchair Robotic as a Surveillance Car for NonFunctional Drainage,” clinched third place in the Robotics and Intelligent Machine category at the Science Investigatory Project (SIP) Fair, held at Guimbal National High School on November 8, 2024, with the guidance of Sir Benjamin L. Banaag Jr. and Sir Ronald B. Sase. Navigating this arduous exploration was just done by Dexter himself, as he saw beyond the flooded streets and clogged drains—he saw a problem that needed a smarter solution. With determination and ingenuity, he built a robotic surveillance car that could go where people couldn’t, capturing what often remains unseen. His work is a reminder that technology is not just about inventions and awards, but about solving real-world issues that affect everyday lives. As urban and rural areas continue to battle flooding, innovations like this offer a glimpse of a future where prevention is prioritized overreaction. The roads may still flood, and the drains may still clog, but with minds like Dexter’s at work, solutions are never far behind, just like this drainage detective.
From Scraps To Shields
eneath bridges, inside aging pipelines, and on the surfaces of forgotten tools, a slow, unseen war rages on. Metal, once strong and unyielding, succumbs to a creeping enemy— green corrosion. It eats away structures, weakens machines, and turns once-reliable tools into fragile relics. But what needs a question between this sentence if the answer isn’t found in laboratories filled with synthetic compounds? What if the key to slowing rust’s relentlessness lies in something far more natural, far more unexpected? The answer may have been hiding in plain sight all along—tucked away in the scraps we mindlessly throw away. Green corrosion, defined as discoloration and degradation of metal surfaces that appears as a greenish tint by Machine MFG.com, is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a costly, widespread issue affecting everything from infrastructure to household tools. When metal is exposed to moisture and oxygen, it undergoes oxidation, forming rust that weakens its structure over time. Traditionally, synthetic inhibitors—chemicals designed to slow this process, have been the industry’s goto defense. However, these inhibitors often come with a hidden price: environmental pollution, toxicity to aquatic life, and health risks for those handling them. But what if there is a greener, safer way to fight rust? That’s exactly what a group
of young researchers set out to explore. Jay Rainier Suacillo, Adriel Elijah Sayno, and Jen Rhino Nulud, students of the Special Program in Science, Technology, and Engineering’s
medicinal properties. However, the researchers hypothesized that bromelain might also have another, lesser-known ability—to protect metals from rusting. They introduced sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
potential where others saw waste. As they studied the effects of synthetic corrosion inhibitors, they realized the need for an alternative—one that is effective, affordable, and environmentally friendly. This led them to a surprising candidate: pineapple peels. At the heart of their research was a simple but ambitious question: “Can pineapple peel extract be used as a green corrosion inhibitor?”
area of corrosion on treated and untreated metal surfaces. The findings reinforced their hypothesis—samples treated with higher concentrations of pineapple peel extract showed minimal rust coverage. The most effective setup, a 50-50 mixture of pineapple peel extract and baking soda, reduced rust formation to as little as 6.67 mm², a drastic improvement compared to untreated samples, which had over 5,000 mm² of rust coverage. These findings offer an exciting glimpse into the potential of natural corrosion inhibitors.
Using existing literature, they discovered that pineapple peel extracts contain bromelain, a powerful enzyme known for its
Tbarrier on metal surfaces. The result? A potential gamechanger in corrosion prevention. To determine just how effective this natural inhibitor could be, the team conducted a series of experiments. In the first test, metal rods were treated with different concentrations of pineapple peel extract and monitored to measure the time it took for rust to appear. Some samples even lasted 140 to 152 hours before rust appeared, compared to only 23 hours for the control group. The second test measured the extent of rust formation, analyzing the total
For Jay, Adriel, and Jen, this research is just the beginning. They had already defended their research last February 17, with the guidance of Sir Benjamin L. Banaag Jr. and Sir Ronald B. Sase as their research consultant. With further refinement, pineapple peel extract could serve as viable, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic rust inhibitors, providing industries and consumers with a safer, more sustainable option. Maybe, just maybe, the answer lies in the remnants of the fruits we eat, waiting to be rediscovered, like turning scraps into shields.
Where Science Meets The Sink
JOEMELE CIANDEL PANAGUITON
he kitchen: a heart of every home—a space where flavors blend, memories are made, and daily routines unfold. Water gushes from the faucet, washing away remnants of a hearty meal, while dishes clink and clatter in an unspoken rhythm. But beneath this familiar routine, an unseen challenge lurks. Every drop of water carries with it tiny fragments: bits of food, grease, and waste that slip past unnoticed, slowly accumulating where no one thinks to look. What seems harmless at first builds over time, turning a simple act of washing into a hidden problem waiting to surface. Yet, where there is a challenge, there is also innovation—a new way to rethink the way we manage what disappears down the drain. What if there is a simple way to stop these problems before they start?
That’s the question of three young researchers from 10-Newton of ONHS’ SPSTE: Natha Ciram Salado, Rheiss Andrea Ojerio, and Jianna Venice Garcia. Their solution?
The ‘Kitchen Waste Separator System,’ a device that helps separate solid waste from water before it reaches the pipes, making kitchen sinks more efficient and easier to maintain.
At first glance, this device may look like an ordinary sink strainer, but its design is based on real scientific principles. It consists of three key parts: Flat Slanting Strainer –This is the first line of defense.
A strainer that is tilted at an angle, which allows water to flow freely with the use of gravity while guiding food scraps into a separate collection tank, reducing the chances of clogging.
Solid Waste Collection Tank – this is where all the captured food waste goes. Here, heavier particles like rice grains, vegetable peels, and small food scraps settle at the bottom, while lighter materials like grease and oil stay on top. This method, called sedimentation, helps keep waste out of the drainage system. Drain Pipe–after passing through the strainer and collection tank, the cleaner water exits through the drain pipe. Since most of the solid waste has already been removed, the chances of pipe blockages are greatly reduced.
To prove that their design works, the researchers conducted two important tests: Flow Rate Test (How fast water drains) – They measured how quickly water passed through their device under different conditions: a clean sink, a sink with light waste, and a sink with heavy waste. In their research paper, the results stated: “As solid waste accumulation increased, the flow rate gradually decreased. However, even at the highest level of debris accumulation, the flow rate remained within an acceptable range, suggesting that the kitchen waste separator effectively managed waste without completely obstructing water
drainage.”
Waste Collection Test (How much waste gets trapped) – To compare their device with a regular sink strainer, they poured the same amount of food waste into both and measured how much each one collected. The results were promising: The Kitchen Waste Separator trapped 558 grams of solid waste, compared to a conventional strainer’s 529
that make life easier. Thanks to these young researchers, a cleaner, clog-free
IT’S GOING IN THE CITY OF LOVE
The air was filled with anticipation as experts, visionaries, and advocates from all walks of life came together in Iloilo. Leaflets and banners lined the venue, each bearing messages of hope, innovation, and perseverance. Conversations buzzed with excitement—discussions of challenges, breakthroughs, solutions, and the urgent need for action. It was more than just an event; it was a movement in the making, a testament to a shared vision of saving the planet.
change, taking a step forward on humanity’s efforts towards mitigating climate change. United by the theme, “Ako ang Bukas: Quantum Leap to Carbon Neutrality,” the summit is in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
With each passing moment, it became clear—this was not just another gathering. This was a step for something bigger, something that could shape the future for generations to come. But in a world facing mounting environmental challenges and unfulfilled promises, will these ideas spark real change before it’s too late?
This was the vision of the Green Convergence for Safe Food, Healthy Environment, and Sustainable Economy when they held the Fifth Philippine Environment Summit at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, from February 19-21, in Iloilo City. According to the Manila Bulletin, the three-day summit gathered key individuals and organizations both in public and private sectors to find solutions and propose projects that directly or indirectly addressed climate change, and also encouraged stakeholders to be an active part of this
According to Victoria M. Segovia, the President of Green Convergence,“Instead of feeling desperate or helpless, we are gathering stories on how different sectors of society serve as inspiration in managing the negative impacts of climate warming.”
This summit is just one of countless summits organized in the archipelago, and there are several climate change initiatives that are being pushed by organizations like Green Convergence. First, governments, businesses, and individuals must take decisive action to combat climate change by implementing scientifically credible solutions. The shift to renewable energy, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, must be accelerated to cut greenhouse gas emissions like carbon dioxide to slow global warming. In 2023, the Philippines generated 25.7 terawatthours of electricity from renewable energy sources (26.6% of the country’s electricity capacity), according to Statista.
Reforestation and afforestation efforts must be expanded, as trees play a critical role in absorbing carbon dioxide and maintaining biodiversity. Industries must take responsibility by reducing waste and investing in sustainable transportation and walkable cities, transitioning to circular economies, and adopting carbon capture technologies to mitigate their environmental impact. Finally, we must enlighten the archipelago with climate education and advocacy, ensuring people understand the urgency of reducing energy consumption. Climate change is a reality, and immediate, large-scale action is necessary, so we can still exist and live peacefully in a place we call ‘home’. The science is undeniable—climate change is happening, and action cannot wait. Every small step reverses the stopwatch of doom, as the future is in our hands, and the choices we make today will define the world for generations to come. The time to act is now—and it’s going green in the City of
254,000 kp/h
Dreams Take Flight, Shining Bright
s the sun drifts beyond the moon’s orbit, the sky transforms into a breathtaking spectacle—glimmering stars scattered like celestial jewels, galaxies shimmering from afar, and planets subtly shifting in the cosmic dance.
For centuries, humanity has turned its gaze toward this vast celestial canvas, seeking answers to fundamental questions about existence. Each scientific breakthrough brings us closer to unraveling the universe’s most profound mysteries, strengthening our connection to the infinite wonders above—the realm of astronomy.
Across the sky-washed Pacific, the Philippine archipelago prepares for its annual celestial celebration: National Astronomy Week (NAW). More than a week of stargazing, NAW is held every third week of February under Presidential Proclamation No. 130, s. 1993, which serves as an odyssey of discovery, a journey into the depths of space and our place within it. This yearly event makes the wonders of the cosmos accessible to all, fostering curiosity, inspiration, and a profound appreciation for the universe’s beauty. It is a tribute to human ingenuity, scientific exploration, and the enduring allure of the night sky.
In 2025, the National Astronomy Week took place from February 1622, embracing the theme “Stellar Encounters: Astronomy in Daily Life (in Music, in Arts, in Film, in Climate Change, and in Mental Health).”
This theme highlighted the presence of astronomy beyond observatories and telescopes, embedding it into culture, creativity, and global issues. A diversed array of activities engaged audiences nationwide, transcending backgrounds and age groups, making astronomy a bridge between science and everyday life.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) spearheaded the celebrations with an exciting lineup of events. The ‘PAGASA Astro Vlog Contest’ invited astronomy enthusiasts to creatively share their cosmic perspectives, while the webinar series “Revisiting Philippine Ethnoastronomy Amidst the Pandemic” explored the country’s ancient celestial traditions. Additionally, the research symposium “Understanding
Philippine Ethnoastronomy” delved into the astronomical knowledge of indigenous Filipino cultures, shedding light on how the cosmos has shaped the nation’s history and beliefs.
These initiatives underscored the power of science outreach programs in fostering public engagement and inspiring future generations of scientists and astronomers.
As the echoes of National Astronomy Week 2025 fade into the cosmic abyss, the theme “Stellar Encounters” leaves an enduring impact—igniting dreams and aspirations across the archipelago. Like ripples in the vastness of space, the event’s influence continues to spread, promising a future where more Filipinos will look to the stars, find inspiration in their celestial glow, and dream boundlessly among them.
DARLYN OCERA
Repainting The Dark Canvas
The sky darkened like a brewing tempest on a painter’s canvas, the hush of the wind turning into an eerie whisper that sent shivers down spines. Waves crashed against the shore with a force that foreshadowed devastation, and the air was thick with the anxious silence of waiting. Locals stood frozen, their faces etched with fear and uncertainty, watching from a distance as nature prepared to unleash its wrath. Typhoon Kristine was coming—not just as a storm, but as an unrelenting force set to shatter lives and livelihoods.
On October 21, 2024, Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (International name: Trami) entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) as a tropical depression, growing in strength as it barreled toward land. The storm rapidly intensified, reaching Signal No. 3 in multiple provinces, bringing torrential rains and howling winds that battered the islands of Luzon and Visayas while extending its reach to parts of Mindanao. It wasn’t just a storm—it was a force of destruction, uprooting families, flooding entire communities, and leaving a trail of despair. The violent downpour triggered landslides, and in the Bicol Region, the lahar flow from Mount Mayon’s slopes buried homes and livelihoods under a suffocating layer of mud and debris, and the aftermath was staggering: 17 regions were impacted, leaving entire provinces grappling with destruction; 7.1 million people were
DARLYN OCERA
affected, forced to endure loss and displacement.
While, 935,114 individuals sought refuge in evacuation centers or makeshift shelters.
There were 83,777 homes were damaged, some reduced to mere rubble.
Additionally, 61,746 hectares of crops washed away, threatening food security and farmers’ incomes.
Thirty-two (32) cities and municipalities struggled with access to safe drinking water.
In total, 353 cities and municipalities experienced power outages, cutting off communication in 57 areas.
For many, the storm was more than just a natural disaster—it was a nightmare that reshaped their reality. Families lost loved ones, livelihoods were swept away, and the once-thriving communities turned into landscapes of wreckage. Trauma gripped the survivors, as they faced not only the immediate devastation but also the uncertainty of how to rebuild.
Yet, amid the despair, the Filipino spirit refused to be broken. Relief efforts sprang into action, painting a new picture of resilience and hope. Government agencies, local officials, and humanitarian organizations mobilized swiftly, ensuring aid reached the hardest-hit areas. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided financial assistance, distributing ₱3,000 per family to help them meet their immediate needs. In
Surigao City, over ₱1 million in aid was released, offering a lifeline to those struggling to recover. The DSWD’s Field Office in the Bicol Region alone allocated ₱3.29 million to help families in Masbate rebuild their homes and regain stability.
Volunteer groups and private organizations also played a crucial role in the recovery, delivering relief goods, medical aid, and psychological support to those traumatized by the storm. Communities banded together, neighbors helping neighbors, proving once again that unity and compassion are the cornerstones of Filipino resilience.
What was once a landscape of destruction is slowly being repainted with colors of hope and renewal.
Rebuilding is not just about restoring homes—it’s about restoring lives, dreams, and the sense of security that Typhoon Kristine tried to steal. The scars of the storm remain, etched in memory and history, but they serve as a reminder of a nation’s unyielding strength.
As the sun rises over the oncebattered communities, there is a renewed promise in the air. The Philippines has weathered yet another storm, proving that even in the darkest of times, the Filipino spirit shines the brightest. The canvas, once dark and foreboding, is now brushed with resilience, courage, and the unbreakable will to move forward.
Contribution
It’s
ANot Cupid
frantic rhythm pounded in my chest, a wild heartbeat mirroring the agitated fluttering of butterflies trapped within the cage of my stomach. Each tiny creature whispered of potent, alluring chemistry, but beneath this romantic surface lies a deeper wonder. Love isn’t just a poetic mystery—it’s a full-blown scientific phenomenon, a vibrant reaction unfolding within the brain. It’s a surge of electrical impulses, a storm of hormones, a breathtaking ballet of biological processes painting the world in vivid hues of passion and connection.
For centuries, the heart has been hailed as love’s true vessel, but science tells a different story. The heart may quicken, palms may sweat, and words may falter, but behind the scenes, the brain is the master conductor of this exquisite symphony. Love, at its core, is a biological marvel—a complex interplay of hormones and neurotransmitters dictating the emotions we feel, the connections we form, and the devotion we nurture.
The Hormonal Orchestra of Love: A Symphony in Five Movements
Dopamine: The Spark of Euphoria. The overture begins with dopamine, the neurotransmitter of pleasure and reward. This chemical sets the stage for attraction, filling us with elation, excitement, and an insatiable focus on our beloved. It fuels the euphoria of love, making every moment feel electrifyingly significant.
Norepinephrine: The Thrill
of the Chase. As the tempo quickens, norepinephrine surges, triggering the body’s “fight or flight” response. This is love’s exhilarating rush— heightened energy, a racing heartbeat, and a sense of being thrillingly on edge whenever that special someone is near.
Serotonin: The Obsession Factor. A surprising counterpoint emerges with serotonin, the mood-regulating neurotransmitter that actually decreases during the early stages of love. This drop may explain why infatuation feels so all-consuming, leading to obsessive thoughts and a tunnel-vision focus on the person who has captured our heart.
Oxytocin: The Bonding Agent. As the relationship matures, oxytocin, often called the “cuddle hormone,” takes center stage. Released during physical touch and emotional intimacy, this hormone fosters trust, deepens attachment, and
strengthens the foundation of lasting love.
Vasopressin: The Commitment Keeper. The final movement features vasopressin, the hormone responsible for long-term devotion and loyalty. It cements emotional bonds, reinforcing commitment and ensuring the stability of a relationship built on trust and mutual affection.
The next time your heart races, your cheeks flush, and butterflies awaken within you, remember—love is more than a fleeting sensation. It’s a harmony of chemistry, biology, and evolution, a scientific masterpiece that has captivated humankind for millennia. Beneath every romance, every lingering gaze, and every tender embrace lies an intricate world of neurochemical magic, proving that love is as much a wonder of science as it is of the soul. And who’s responsible for all this? It’s hormones, not cupid.
DARLYN OCERA
The Night They were feature
KRIZIA REIGN CLAVEL & JEWEL AZUCENA
Echoes of Wisdom
K Beauty Queen at Heart
CAROLYN ERCILLA AND KRIZIA REIGN
imberly Custodio’s journey to the crown was nothing short of remarkable. As a young girl growing up in Iloilo, she was drawn to the world of performance, where she especially excelled in dance. Her passion for self-expression naturally led her to the stage, where she would eventually shine as a beauty queen.
From the moment she was crowned Miss Iloilo Dinagyang in 2004, Kimberly embodied grace and confidence, captivating both the judges and the audiences. But her journey in pageantry was about more than just winning a title—it was her embracing beauty and culture in its finest forms. As a titleholder, she proudly became the image that represented her city. Kimberly was more than just a beautiful face; she was a woman of depth.
Pageantry refined her poise and elegance while also strengthening her ability to inspire others. She used her platform to encourage young girls to embrace their uniqueness and chase their dreams, no matter what society expected of them.
Her background in majorette and ballroom dance gave her an edge on stage, making her both graceful and courageous. Whether she was walking down the runway or answering challenging questions during the Q&A portion, she carried herself with confidence, proving that intelligence and charm are just as vital as beauty in the pageant world.
Kimberly’s reign as Miss Iloilo Dinagyang opened many doors, allowing her to represent Iloilo’s rich culture on a bigger stage and further deepening her understanding of the significance of her title. These experiences shaped her personal and professional growth, reinforcing her belief that beauty is more than
just appearance, it is also about purpose. While many expected her to continue competing for bigger titles in the world of beauty contests, Kimberly’s path took an unexpected turn. Yet, even after stepping away from pageantry, her experiences remained a strong foundation for her growth. The discipline and confidence she had built on stage would later help her in pursuing new endeavors.
Kimberly Custodio’s story is a testament of transformation. She proved that a beauty queen is not just about gowns and crowns but also capable of being a woman of great strength and perseverance. Even if she decides to leave behind her pageant days, her legacy continues to inspire many young women and her love for pageantry will always remain in the back of her heart.
n your arms, I feel warm solace that can only be felt in a cloudy daydream. Let the day be gloomy, for I know that your radiance could brawl into society’s riddance. You took the portrait of a smiling young girl into the battlefield and fought the greatest of wars. Mother, I am no longer that little kid in furtherance of me turning into a lady. But in heart, you know I will always be.
In honor of International Women’s Month, I wish to share a tale—a story told through the eyes of a child who bore witness to her mother’s struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs. It is a story of dreams born in the innocence of youth, falling gracefully into the hands of fate, and transforming into something far greater than imagined. Each morning, the aroma of coffee fills the air, a constant reminder of perseverance and resilience. A teaspoon of sugar and a splash of creamer soften its bitterness, much like the moments of joy that sweeten life’s hardships. The golden sun casts its warmth upon my skin as I settle onto the balcony, embracing the serenity of nature’s embrace. In perfect timing, my mother appears, just 20 minutes before this peaceful moment
law
school.She had once carried a fierce determination, vowing to be the first in her family to step into a courtroom, armed with ambition and conviction. She had dreams as vast as the sky, dreams she chased with unwavering tenacity.
But life, unpredictable as ever, had other plans. On September 9th, 2007, I entered this world, and with my arrival, her path was rewritten. The money she had carefully saved for law school was redirected toward hospital bills, baby essentials, and the foundation of a new reality. With my father and me in her sights, her aspirations shifted—not in loss, but in newfound purpose. Her greatest dream was no longer a title or a career but a future filled with security and love for her children.
As I dip my pandesal into my coffee, I watch her eyes gleam with nostalgia, a sparkle of bittersweet memories dancing in their depths. I am overwhelmed with gratitude, unable to fully grasp the magnitude of the sacrifices she has made for our family. Every choice she made, every dream she reshaped, was a testament to her boundless love.
She sits beside me, and tells me her college chronicles. How she pursued developmental communication in hopes of her becoming a radio broadcaster or a lawyer if she ever makes it into
She went inside and continued her job as a home-based teacher, facing students from Japan, China and Korea. I contemplated about how she could’ve been what she aspired to be when she was young. And this dream of hers is just a shore in the deep trenches of her love, care and affection towards us.
If I were given a chance to travel back in time, I’d tell her that the future is kinder than what she expects it to be. Just not what she expects it to be. On the upcoming celebration for all mothers and fathers who stood as mothers. Keep in mind that you are beloved and shown with deep adulation for your heroic sacrifices that no superhero can bestow upon.
A Mother’s Radiance
BEATRIZ
Journey of Passion, Courage, and Resilience
In a realm where glamour often reigns supreme and beauty is measured in superficial standards, an extraordinary woman has emerged, embodying both
elegance and strength. Picture a beauty queen, adorned in sequins and representing ideals of grace, who chooses to trade her tiara for a belt. This metamorphosis isn’t just a personal journey; it’s a vibrant testament to the idea that true beauty is shaped not only by outward appearances but also by inner strength, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s passions.
It all started in 2015 when Kimberly, who was already an outstanding majorette and ballroom dancer, stepped into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). After just one year of training, she secured a silver medal at the IBJJF World Championship in 2016. However, in spite of all the outstanding awards that she received, that was only the beginning of her epic rise. Local sports media quickly dubbed her the “ArmBar Queen” for her fearsome mastery of the move, and soon, the world started taking notice.
Gold in Manila and Pasay in 2018, a stunning victory at the 2022 JJ World Championship in the UAE, and then another gold at the JJIF World Championship in Greece
in 2024, all of these occurred while she was ranked the number one BJJ athlete all around the globe.
But Kimberly’s story isn’t just about victories, it’s about resilience. Amidst her victory, one of the most unfortunate tragedies occurred, because two weeks before the 2022 World Championship, she dislocated her arm. Most people would’ve called it quits, but not Kimberly. She fought through the pain, proving that champions aren’t made by avoiding obstacles, but by crushing them headon. “Success isn’t a straight line,” she says, “it’s a messy, beautiful journey.”
At 27, Kimberly took the bold leap of quitting her job to pursue BJJ fulltime. Five years to make the national team, and three more to claim her first world title. And when that Philippine National Anthem played as she stood on the podium, tears streamed down her face. “I never imagined I’d be here,” she reflects during her speech with a smile playing on her lips.
This transformative journey illustrates a powerful message: true empowerment knows no boundaries. In challenging the norms of society, she demonstrates that the essence of beauty and strength can coexist harmoniously. This narrative encourages individuals everywhere to embrace the multifaceted nature of their identities, showing that personal growth is a journey worth pursuing,
Oton NHS Archer Tops
ISSC Meet ‘25
JANINE TACAISAN ton National High School athletes brought home multiple awards after competing in the Iloilo Schools Sports Council (ISSC) Meet 2025, February 7-11.
After their triumph in the First Congressional District Sports Association (CDSA) Meet 2025, athletes from Oton NHS advanced in the ISSC Meet 2025 to represent the school and the First Congressional District.
The Softball Team (Girls) of Oton NHS clinched Gold in the ISSC Meet with their coach Ma’am Stephanie N. Sañonte, Assistant Coach Ma’am Neriza B. Acupio, and Chaperone, Ma’am Katherine B. Salinas; and, they will proceed in the Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Meet 2025 to represent the Division of Iloilo.
Another athlete who bagged the gold is Joshel Kate Enorme in Archery (Individual) with her coach Sir Jhovanny DeLa Cruz. Enorme’s skills shined the brightest among the other athletes while playing in a team game along with other players from the First Congressional District.
She explained in an interview that her team’s individual and overall points were higher than those of their opponents which made them win the match. Before she was able to play in the WVRAA, Enorme won silver
in the First Congressional District Sports Association Meet (FCDSA) 2025 which advanced her to the higher competition.
Moreover, the taekwondo jins of Oton NHS also won accolades in the competitions with two silver and one bronze medal with their coach Ma’am Marjoe C. Haro.
The school’s Wushu team also brought home one silver and three bronze medals in the competition with their coaches, Ma’am Jo-ann Grace S. Balandra and Ma’am Raissa N. Mabanes.
Furthermore, the boxing team of the First Congressional District consists of different athletes from Oton NHS, Tubungan NHS, Sta. Rita NHS and Sinugbuhan NHS finished third in the meet with Sir Kent John S. De la Cruz and Ma’am Merly B. Banzuelo as their coach and assistant coach, respectively.
The Baseball Team of Oton NHS with their coach, Ma’am Daisy G. Calumpita, and assistant coach, Sir Emmanuel S. Sasi finished Second Runner-up in the matches.
The winner and delegates of the school were recognized and awarded during the school’s flag raising ceremony last February 17.
JANINE TACAISAN
ONE WON AND sports
The First CDSA Meet 2025, held in Oton from January 22-25, showcased student athletes and performers in celebration of skill and unity. Delegations marched proudly at the opening, with leaders emphasizing discipline and sportsmanship. Brazilian JiuJitsu Champion, Kimberly Custodio, inspired athletes to persevere. Exciting matches in basketball, volleyball, swimming, badminton, and chess displayed physical and mental excellence, while track and field events pushed competitors to their limits. Miag-ao’s Marc Anthony Galvan and Hazel Fajarito, along with Tigbauan’s John Christopher Tentativa and Franklin T. Catera, were named Most Bemedaled Athletes. Oton won Best in Saludo, Tubungan was Most Disciplined, and Igbaras had the Cleanest Billeting Quarters. Oton emerged as the overall champion before passing hosting duties to Tigbauan. The event ended with a Unity Dance, celebrating dedication, teamwork, and passion.
OTON NHS SOFTBALL TEAM SECURED THIRD STRAIGHT TITLE
On February 12, Oton NHS defeated Sta. Barbara NHS 3-1 to win their third consecutive Iloilo Schools Sports Council Meet championship, earning a WVRAA spot.
Oton NHS Softball Team Clinches Third Consecutive Championship Title
SAM ASHLEY MONDEJAR AND RAPHAEL ANGELES
The Oton National High School Softball Team for Secondary Girls proved their dominance once again, winning their third consecutive championship title in the Iloilo Schools Sports Council Meet, February 12.
The team prevailed over Santa Barbara National High School with the score of 3-1.
Their coach, Ms. Stephanie Sañonte, conveyed her admiration for the team’s performance.
“Of course, I’m happy and proud of the girls because they really executed their training in the game,” Sañonte mentioned.
The 2025 Softball game began with a fierce fight from both teams, resulting in a scoreless tie until the fifth inning.
Rejene Grace Jimenez and Bea Marie Planta then
Doncic, a five-time All-Star and four-time All-NBA First Team selection, has been a huge contributor behind the Mavericks’ success in recent years. His impressive stats and clutch performances have made him a fan favorite in Dallas.
“It was a big shock. (Dallas) was home, so it was really hard moments for me. … (But right now) I get to play in the greatest club in the world, and I’m excited for this new journey,” Doncic stated.
The Lakers, on the other hand, are thrilled to have acquired Doncic, who is expected to form a formidable duo with
stepped up, scoring and giving their team a 2-0 lead.
The Second District managed to score a run in the sixth inning, keeping the competition intense
However, the First District gained and continued their momentum, with Fremie Laranja scoring and locking in the win for ONHS.
“I am happy that we were able to defeat the 2nd district during the championship game.
Despite losing to them during our first game, we still got the chance to play against them again in the championship,” Sañonte further added.
This remarkable performance earned them a spot to proudly wave the banner of the Division of Iloilo in the upcoming Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Meet.
The Trade that Rocked the NBA: Luka Doncic’s Departure from Dallas
RAPHAEL ANGELES
In a move that sent shockwaves throughout the NBA, the Dallas Mavericks traded away their superstar, Luka Doncic, to the Los Angeles Lakers on February 2, 2025 — a trade which many deemed as one of the worst in NBA history, marked as a significant shift in the NBA landscape.
The Mavericks received Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick in exchange for Doncic, a 25-year-old phenom who was meant to be the face of the
LeBron James.
As the dust settles on this blockbuster trade, one thing is clear, the NBA landscape has changed dramatically. The Mavericks will have to rebuild and find a new identity without their star player, while the Lakers will look to capitalize on their newfound talent and make a deep playoff run.
The trade has sparked widespread interest and debate among NBA fans and analysts. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the Mavericks and Lakers to see how this blockbuster trade plays out.
franchise for many years to come.
The trade has raised questions about the Mavericks’ front office and their decisionmaking process.
According to Mavericks General Manager Nico Harrison, the trade was made with the intention of improving the team’s defense.
“I believe that defense wins championships,” Harrison said in a press conference.
Total points garnered by each municipality in
Oton Hosts and Triumphs First CDSA ‘25 PORTS
The Official Student Publication of Oton National High School Volume LXXV, No. 1
Earning the gold in its home court, the Municipality of Oton hosted and triumphed the First Congressional District Sports Association Meet 2025 with the theme “Atletang Palaban, Nangingibabaw sa Diwa ng Makabansang Paligsahan,” January 22-25.
The four-day event started with a parade and an opening program that welcomed the delegates, coaches, teachers, and public officials from all elementary and secondary schools of the seven municipalities of the First Congressional District of Iloilo.
Kimberly Anne H. Custodio, two-time World Champion in Jiu Jitsu, who is also an alumnus of Oton National High School stood as the Special Guest speaker for the opening program where she shared her journey from being an Intramurals Queen to a World Champion in martial arts.
Moreover, the Senior High School students of Oton NHS performed a field demonstration led and choreographed by Sir Marcos Valencia, which ended with a massive release of dove birds into the sky.
Various clubs and organizations from Oton NHS lent a hand to make this event possible, including the student publication, The Seaside Echo, and Ang Aplaya, in collaboration with the Media Team to offer overall coverage of the event.
Elementary and secondary schools in Oton and other venues across the municipality were used as game locations to host the matches and billeting quarters to house athletes from every town for the fourday event.
The Official Closing Program was held at Oton Amphitheater Green along with the awarding of all minor and major awards
for each municipality, including the Most Disciplined Delegation, Most Clean and Orderly Billeting Quarters, Most Attended Delegation, Best in Saludo, Most Bemedaled, and Best in Uniform; as well as the First and Second Runner-up and the Overall Champion.
The municipality of Oton maintained its title as the Overall Champion for the entire competition with 2466 points, as it was also awarded the same title during last year’s First CDSA Meet in San Joaquin, Iloilo.
Shina Grace Marie Panuela, of athletics from Oton, won seven gold medals and received the Most Bemedaled Athlete Award during the Closing Program.
During the closing ceremony, the hosting of the First CDSA Meet 2026 was turned over to Tigbauan as agreed upon during the Board of Directors (BOD) Night on January 23.
EJ Obiena ascends Gold at Orlen Copernicus Cup
Filipino pole vault Olympian Ernest John Obiena, also known as EJ Obiena made a miraculous comeback, clinching the gold medal with a season-best performance of 5.80 meters during the World Athletics Combined Events Tour at Orlen Copernicus Cup in Torun, Poland last February 16, 2025.
This victory marks Obiena’s second gold medal of the indoor season, acknowledging his status as one of the world’s top vaulters.
After hurdling 5.50m and 5.70m both in a single try, Obiena surpassed 5.80m in three attempts
to vault Poland’s Piotr Lisek and Norway’s Sondre Guttormsen for the gold. Obiena’s clutch performance on his final attempt reset his season’s best early in the indoor season.
Competing against a worldclass field, Obiena outmatched Poland’s Piotr Lisek and Norway’s Sondre Guttormsen, both of whom cleared 5.70 meters. Lisek took silver, while Guttormsen settled for bronze.
“This was a high-level ‘gold’ meet designation by World Athletics, featuring a world-class
field with three six-meter vaulters,” said Jim Lafferty, Obiena’s adviser, as it was a well deserved medal grabbed by EJ.
“We were hoping to get 5.85 and secure an automatic spot, but EJ is still refining his rhythm and steps,” he added.
To seal his world indoors spot, Obiena now sets his sights on clearing the 5.85m qualification standard in upcoming competitions.
The two-time Olympian aims to secure a spot in the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China, set for March 21 to March 23.
