THE BAY ECHO VOL 17, ISSUE 4

THE BAY ECHO

VOLUME XXXVII ISSUE 4 MIMAROPA REGION DIVISION OF ROMBLON MARCH 2026

ROMBLON

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF LOOC NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

90% COMPLETE New 3-Storey Building

PRIDE

Signals improved Learning Conditions ANDREA LEOCADIO

The long-anticipated 15classroom building project at Looc National High School is now 90 percent complete, marking a major step toward addressing long-standing issues of overcrowding and limited learning space within the campus.

From steel frames rising steadily in previous months, the structure has now entered its final stage of construction, bringing the school closer to providing students with a more conducive and modern learning environment. Once completed, the facility is expected to house spacious classrooms and specialized learning areas designed to support diverse academic needs.

According to project engineer Oliver M. Trogon of Rolco Construction and Development Corporation, the development has progressed steadily despite minor delays caused by weather conditions. With only finishing works such as painting, installation of fixtures, and final inspections remaining, the building is expected to be completed and turned over within the year.

School administrators expressed optimism that the additional classrooms will significantly improve class arrangements and may help address long-standing concerns on overcrowding. The expansion is also seen as a step toward achieving a more stable and efficient school system, potentially allowing smoother scheduling and better learning conditions for students.

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Golden Triumph. LNHS athletes smile with pride along with their proud coaches as they celebrate their victories.

LNHS Athletes Strike Gold, Advance to Palarong Pambansa ALLISON FLORES

Athletes from Looc National High School (LNHS) delivered an impressive performance for Team Romblon in the recently concluded MRAA Meet, hauling medals in archery, boxing, table tennis, pole vault, volleyball, and taekwondo from March 9–12 in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro.

The archery team emerged as Overall Champion in the girls’ category, collecting six gold, two silver, and three bronze medals.

Hazel Ace D. Garciano was also named Best Archer. In athletics, pole vaulter Cedric Mendoza clinched gold, while Renz Sevilla broke a previous record with a 14.41-meter mark, earning two gold medals in triple jump and one silver in high jump.

Adding to the school’s historic achievements, Andrei Yen Conanan made history as the first-ever gold medalist in taekwondo (bantamweight category), marking a milestone victory for LNHS in the said sport.

Meanwhile, boxing, table tennis, and volleyball teams each secured bronze medals.

Following his standout performance, Sevilla was recruited

by Jose Rizal University, where he is expected to further develop his skills under the guidance of renowned athlete Elma MurosPosadas.

Garciano, Sevilla, Mendoza, and Conanan have qualified for the Palarong Pambansa 2025, set to be held in Agusan del Sur. Garciano encouraged aspiring student-athletes to stay committed. “Ang maipapayo ko

lang sa mga gustong maging student-athlete ay siguraduhin ninyo na gusto ninyo talagang sumali sa ganitong larangan, lalo na sa napili ninyong sport. Dapat handa ang katawan, isip, at puso,” she said.

The athletes’ success reflects their perseverance, discipline, and teamwork, supported by school officials led by Principal IV Erwin M. Marquez, as well as the Local Government Unit of Looc under Mayor Lisette M. Arboleda. Their continued support has been vital in providing the resources needed for training, preparation, and competition.

Youth, Culture Thrive in Panublion 2026 NERBERTH DIMAANGAY

To highlight youth creativity and cultural pride, Looc, Romblon staged PANUBLION 2026: Celebrating Voices and Talents at the Looc Public Plaza on March 19.

The program was spearheaded

by Looc National High School through its Special Program in the Arts, in partnership with LGU Looc, SK Federation of Looc, and the Looc Tourism Office, bringing together youth organizations and local talents in a showcase of creativity and culture.

The event featured a series of competitions in music, literature, and the arts, allowing students from different schools in the municipality to demonstrate their

talents in singing, performance, creative writing, and visual media.

Literary contests highlighted Onhan spoken word and storytelling of Talabukon, showcasing local folklore and language. Musical and performing arts competitions included vocal solo, and modern dance, while digital and applied arts featured photography, promotional video, and landscape painting exhibits.

The activity formed part of

Cultural Showcase. Students take center stage during PANUBLION 2026 in Looc, Romblon, as young performers express creativity and cultural pride.

Looc Town’s 152nd Foundation Day celebration, which aims to foster a deeper appreciation of local traditions and artistic heritage among Loocnons and visitors.

Representing Provincial Governor Trina Firmalo-Fabic, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Ricmel S. Falquesa underscored the importance of preserving culture through the arts, stating, “Ang kasaysayan ang tunay na yaman ng bayan, kaya sana ipagpatuloy ninyong awitin ang kwento, isulat ang kasaysayan, at huwag kalimutang ibahagi ito sa mga susunod na henerasyon.”

Organizers emphasized that the initiative aims to create meaningful opportunities for youth engagement, strengthen community participation, and promote artistic excellence, discipline, and cultural awareness among residents of Looc.

With its strong focus on talent development, cultural preservation, and community unity, PANUBLION 2026 presented Looc’s identity as a community that values creativity, supports its youth, and celebrates the richness of its cultural expression.

Inclusive Training Program Opens Opportunities for LSENs BEA YUANJIA GUMBOC To provide real-life work experience and better prepare Learners with Special Education Needs (LSENs) for future employment, Looc National High School (LNHS) has launched its Inclusive Work Experience Program, titled Pathways to Employment.

The school-led initiative aims to give LSENs meaningful and guided workplace exposure, equipping them with practical skills essential for independent living and career readiness. The program was implemented in two phases to ensure that activities are ageappropriate and properly supervised—Phase 1 ran until March 6, 2026, while Phase 2 was conducted from March 9 to 13, 2026.

Lovely Joy T. Gregorio, in collaboration with partner institutions such as Athenas, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Looc, and various government agencies including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Human Resources Office (HR).

School officials thanked Principal Erwin M. Marquez and the Schools Division Office for their support, emphasizing that the program reinforces LNHS’s commitment to inclusive education and preparing LSENs for the workforce and community. The initiative also inspires confidence and independence among the learners.

Through hands-on experiences, the program helps learners develop communication, interpersonal, and job-related skills, while also building their confidence, responsibility, and independence in real-world settings.

The initiative is anchored on each learner’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and aligns with the inclusive education goals of the Department of Education (DepEd), which promotes equal opportunities for all learners regardless of their abilities.

Inclusive Steps. Learners with Special Education Needs (LSENs), together with teachers and partners, participate in Looc National High School’s The program was spearheaded Inclusive Work Experience Program, promoting skills development and real-world readiness. by teachers Arlyn V. Masajo and

Kim Cyrus Amar, a Grade 12 student of Looc National High School, clinched first place in the Landscape Painting contest, one of the highlights of PANUBLION 2026.

FROM PAGE 1

New 3-Storey Building

Signals improved Learning Conditions For learners, the nearing completion of the building signals a long-awaited change.

“I am so happy that our new building is about to be finished. I am so excited to explore the newly built building of LNHS,” said Ma. Allison Flores Taladtad, a Grade 9 student under the Special Program in Journalism.

She added that a more comfortable environment would make it easier for students to focus and actively participate in class.

Teachers likewise view the project as a vital response to existing challenges. Sir Lyndon C. Glori, a junior high school teacher, shared that overcrowded classrooms and aging facilities have long affected both teaching and learning.

“Most of the classrooms are not conducive for learning anymore. More students are cramped inside classrooms just to accommodate learners,” he said.

With the upgraded facility, educators anticipate a more effective teaching environment, where improved ventilation, safer infrastructure, and better classroom conditions will contribute to enhanced student engagement and academic performance.

Beyond addressing physical limitations, the project represents a renewed sense of hope for the entire school community. As Looc National High School prepares to open the doors of its new building, what once stood as a construction site now emerges as a symbol of progress— promising not only additional classrooms, but a stronger foundation for quality education in the years to come.

THE BAY ECHO

3 EDITORIAL

THE OFFICIAL SCHOOL PUBLICATION OF LOOC NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

EDITORIAL STAFF EDITOR IN CHIEF ZAHKI STEFFANO M. MALABAO ASSOCIATE EDITORS RIANE CYMON P. DEL ROSARIO NERBERTH D. DIMAANGAY SENIOR MANAGING EDITOR: ANDREA FAYE G. LEOCADIO JUNIOR MANAGING EDITORS: RHIAN L. ROBELLO AQUISHA KATE B. SABIGAN CIRCULATION MANAGERS: MA. ALLISON F. TALADTAD NOEL KARL R. YBANEZ OPINION WRITERS: VRYLLE JEZZEL SHAY J. GAA JOSE MARIA EMMANUEL MAGBATA RHEAN GATALLO JILLIAN FAITH MACALISANG FAYE DANIELLE TERROBIAS LEXINE O. CASTILLO IRENEIA P. CUASAY JAPHETH L. BANTANG NEWS WRITERS: ALLYZA MAE TENOSO HEZEKIAH LUISE GAYTANO BEA YUANJIA M. GUMBOC PRINCESS JANDEE M. ADLIT AYESHA FRANCISCO ROJAN HILARIO FEATURE WRITERS: FATIMA ROSE OSORIO NADINE PAHAYAHAY NAYUMI GABUNA ANGEL IBABAO LEOMAR S. FALLORINA ALEXIE M. MARCELO SG R. SOMBILON CHESKA JAMILLE F. MAZO DIANE A. MERIALES GYWN ZHAUNDREI C. GUYO RHIAN S. VILLA SPORTS WRITERS: JENNYLYN TORRES JOHN LEO GACURA CARL JOHN CULLAMAT PRINCESS LOUJELYN V. ENON SCI-TECH WRITERS: ALTHEA CLAIRE T. OBCIANAL REITHER WAYNE EZEKIEL G. DAGOHOY KESIAH DANIEL MAGALLANES LITERARY WRITERS: ALLYSA ZERESH H. GAA MARIAN NINA CANE PHOTOJOURNALISTS: TRISHA CASTILLO ANNE MARLYN G. CASIMERO DASH JUCER C. NALZARO ANGELA FONTAMILLAS RHEAN SOFIE A. MARIANO MICAH ASINAS CARTOONISTS: MAE ANGELLA M. TEOLOGO MARIANNE ISABEL R. CLAUD MC JOHNSON G. MALLORCA LARRY B. BUSTAMANTE JR. RICHARD MARK T. DE GUZMAN JAY FLORENCE ERANES JEREMIAH C. VILLANUEVA MIEL ELVERN N. DELOVIAR EZEKIELA M. DUMALAG ARNEL FELIZAR G. FLORENDO LAYOUT ARTISTS: HILLARY MALUNES GAVE S. SABIGAN PRINCESS ERICH SANTIAGO DENISE GABRIELLE PIOQUINTO

THE COST OF THE RIDE The recent surge in oil prices in the Philippines, driven by conflict in the Middle East, has become more than just an economic headline it is a daily struggle for ordinary citizens, particularly students who rely on motorcycles to reach school. With diesel and gasoline prices rising by more than ₱14 and ₱7 per liter respectively, every trip now weighs heavily not only on the road but also on the pocket.

For many people especially students, motorcycles once symbolized independence and convenience. Today, they have become sources of financial strain. Each refill eats into allowances, forcing students to cut back on meals or school supplies. Classrooms are filled with stories of peers choosing between transportation and other essentials, a dilemma that underscores how deeply the oil price hike affects education and livelihood. What was once a matter of mobility has turned into a question of survival.

Legally, the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act of 1998 (RA 8479) allows oil companies to freely adjust prices based on global market conditions. While the law promotes competition, it leaves consumers vulnerable to international conflicts far beyond their control. The government’s consideration of subsidies and

suspension of excise taxes under the TRAIN Law is a step in the right direction, but these measures remain temporary and reactive.

The reality is clear the oil price hike is not merely inconvenient it is unfair. It punishes students, workers, and families who have no choice but to depend on fuel.

Stronger government action is needed, not only through subsidies but through longterm invest- ments in renewable energy and public

transport systems that reduce dependence on imported oil.

The war in the Middle East may be distant, but its consequences are felt in every liter of fuel purchased in the Philippines.

Education and livelihood should not be derailed by forces beyond the nation’s borders.

PERSPECTIVES

The Role of Religious Activities in Public Schools

Faye Danielle Terrobias

Today’s digital age makes us all live in a balloon surrounded with pins. Everybody is vulnerable, everybody’s values are teetering at the edge. As young people face countless problems and challenges because of mass media influence, vices, drugs, materialism, and lack of proper guidance from parents, a debate arose, should religious activities be conducted in public schools?

As one of the students in public The monthly campus ministry school, I believe activities promoting facilitated by the Values Education the spiritual life of the youths are Department similarly opens the door very important. These activities are for reuniting with old self and with urgent and needed. In Looc National God. Through this, students receive High School where student populace spiritual guidance while facing the is composed of various religious challenges of school life. These denominations, varied activities are programs help us develop a deeper also held each month. There are faith, good values, and live a life of churches offering youth programs strong morality. every Saturday, and others encourage young people to attend As Proverbs 22:6 says, “Teach and be active in church service the child the way he should go, and during Sundays. There are when he grows old, he will not depart recollections and retreats, too, in from it,” we, young people should not which participants can reflect and depart from our faith. We must renew their faith.

Language Transition: The Voice of Change Observe the surroundings.

Have a quick chitchat with young professionals.

Talk to children.

Then, pay attention to how they converse. Can't you notice your nose bleeding? With all the colloquial expressions, slang, and accents uncommon in our usual practice, someone new and unfamiliar with the trend could easily feel stunned.

Is English dominating the Filipino voice and altering our own mother tongue?

The English language is the gateway to big opportunities in education, work, business, and media. No wonder statistical data analysis from Google reveals that urban and highly

nurture that seed in our life until we grow old.

In conclusion, academic excellence, spirituality and morality are equally important. I believe if a person possesses these three, the devil cannot open the gate of hell for him. Therefore, schools in partnership with the church can serve as a guiding light for students.

Continuing religious programs and activities is essential, as they promote strong moral values and help nurture a deeper spiritual connection.

UNSCRIPTED

Jiliann Faith Z. Macalisang

educated regions like the NCR, Baguio, Cebu, and Davao have the highest English users, while rural and remote areas like ARMM and some parts of Mindanao show lower active speaking rates, although comprehension of the English language during conversation remains high. With the influence of mass media, English is dominating our mother tongue.

Despite the many advantages of being a fluent speaker, we should not neglect our own. Filipino is our official language. Aside from it, the Philippines is home to around 170 recognized languages and dialects.

These include major regional languages such as Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon, Waray,

Kapampangan, Pangasinense, Tausug, and Bikolano, along with many indigenous and minority languages spoken across the archipelago.

Romblon’s main dialects, Onhan, Asi, and Ini, have blended with Tagalog due to migration, creating a distinct local sound. Mass media also shapes communication, as many children learn English through TV shows and cartoons. Although English has become more dominant, it does not replace Filipino languages. Instead, Filipinos’ fluency in English shows adaptability, enriching rather than abandoning their mother tongue and contributing to a uniquely modern Filipino way of speaking.

4 SPORTS

Bullseye Dream Bullseye Dream JENNYLYN TORRES

“

It’s not the will to win that matters; everyone has that. It’s the will to prepare to win that matters.” -Paul “Bear” Bryant At the age of 16, Palarong Pambansa qualifier, Hazel Ace Garciano, already proved that sometimes, the path to success takes an unexpected turn.

A flying arrow, a steady hand, and the courage to keep aiming— this is how she made her remarks and inspire others in every shot she takes as she represent Looc National High School and Team Rombalon in Mimaropa Meet 2026, March 9-12 at Sablayan Occidental Mindoro.

Sacrifice Behind the Bow Garciano comes from a hardworking family of five. Her mother works as a fisherwoman, and her father is a construction worker. Their unwavering support, alongside her coach’s guidance, has made an exceptional foundation for her success.

Hazel Ace D. Graciano is proof that with perseverance, hard work, and the support of family, a dream can become reality.

From Ball to Bow

Before she discovered archery, Garciano was a devoted softball player. In Grade 9, when her school discontinued softball, opportunity knocked in the form of a search for a new archer. Sir John Michael Ballovar encouraged her to try out, bringing her to Coach Elme John Gacura. On her first attempt, Hazel hit the target—instantly sparking a new passion. Since then, archery has become her specialization, and daily training has been her routine.

Garciano also shared her gratitude to her family and her mentors. "Thankful ako sa family ko kasi sila ang nag susuporta sa akin palagi at sa aking coach na si Coach Elme John Gacura kasi palagi nya kaming tinuturuan at gusto ko po itong suklian ng magandang performance sa laban," Hazel says.

The journey has not

A YOUNG SHARPSHOOTER’S JOURNEY TO PALARONG PAMBANSA been without challenges. There were moments when the grueling training and occasional drop in scores made her consider quitting. “gustong gusto ko ng mag back out kasi nahihirapan na ako sa mga trainings at bumababa na ang mga scores ko, pero ang ginawa ko nalang ay iniisip ko ang family ko at si coach kasi marami narin silang ginawa na mga sakripisyo para sa akin," she reflects.

Paper and Bow and Focus Hazel’s days revolve around practice and schoolwork. Mornings are dedicated to archery, while evenings are reserved for completing school modules and activities. “Pero minsan ang iba hindi ko nagagawa kasi sobrang busy na sa training, tapos pagod na pag gabi," she explains.

But despite juggling intense training and school responsibilities, she never fails to give her all, maintaining her streak as a consistent honor student.

She also maintains her athletic skills and stays focused while holding her bow during her winning streak in the provincial meet. She has become more relaxed and braver in every match, no longer feeling pressure but instead enjoying the game.

Bullseye Aim Garciano's achievement is remarkable. She recalls her unforgettable moment defeating three former Palarong Pambansa athletes and breaking the 30-meter record at the MIMAROPA Meet, that was the first time she reached such score. In that moment she reminded herself that victory comes from having faith in yourself.

Looking ahead, she hopes to shine at Palarong Pambansa 2026.

"Pinagpepray ko po ngayon ana sana po manalo ako sa parating na palarong pambansa 2026, o kung hindi man po ay sana magka medal man lang kasi malaking bagay na po yun para sa akin," she said.