THEBAYECHO
LNHS Celebrates Early Valentine’s Day Valentine’s Day with Joy and Creativity
Looc National High School joyfully celebrated an early Valentine’s Day on February 13, 2026, filling the campus with love, friendship, and excitement
The event featured a variety of engaging and creative booths, including the Marriage Booth, where students took part in a fun and symbolic “wedding ceremony,” and the Blind Date Booth, which brought thrill and laughter as participants met new friends in a lighthearted and entertaining way Several other interactive booths and activities were also set up, giving students plenty of opportunities to participate and enjoy throughout the day
Adding to the excitement was the presence of special guest Ash Galang, who captivated the audience with an engaging performance The program was made possible through the guidance and support of the dedicated teachers and the hardworking SSLG officers, who worked together to ensure the event’s success
The celebration highlighted the unity, creativity, and vibrant spirit of the students of Looc National High School It was truly a day filled with smiles, mu- sic, and unfor- get- table me- mories
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Looc National High School’s (LNHS) TV Broadcasting Filipino Team made a strong mark at the MIMAROPA Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) 2026 held in Nasugbu, Batangas on February 3-6, 2026 under this year’s theme, “Navigating Truth, Amplifying Voices: MIMAROPA Journalists Building Informed Communities.”
TV Broadcasting anchor A Leocadio described the experience as the highlight o journey as a campus journal saying it was an unforgettab achievement and an honor t represent the school and th whole division of Romblon a prepares to graduate from S High School and close her h school chapter at LNHS
Coach Villaruel expressed in the team's performance, n that their achievement was t t t t th team’s work, and s
Villaruel also shared that there is still room for improvement, particularly in scriptwriting by strengthening local news connections and improving technical aspects, such as HDMI connections, for smoother production
The team prepared intensively for the competition through regular scriptwriting workshops, mock broadcasts, and technical rehearsals under Villaruel’s guidance
stayed overnight in the studio for extended practice to ensure a polished performance
Technical Director Adrian Diaz said the competition was challenging due to limited production time and complex news segments
masasabi nt ng min ng 5th chnical hil hindi lan d kundi pa , teamwor team ko sa V broadcas malaking il nakita k wat miyem ls hanggan yon sa aruel said
“As a coach, our preparation for the competition was intensive and well-structured We conducted regular scriptwriting workshops to deepen content quality and strengthen its connection to local issues, invited a guest speaker to further train the team in scriptwriting and delivery, and held mock broadcasts to enhance their confidence and on-camera presence We also dedicated extra time to technical rehearsals to master camera setup, proper HDMI connections, and overall equipment management ”
He also revealed that they even
“The most challenging part was the pre-production time frame We only had four hours to complete five complex news files, which were different from our usual training exercises Despite the difficulties, placing 3rd in Best in Technical Application made me proud, especially of my group, who gave their best,” Diaz said
The school also recognized the support of Principal Erwin M Marquez, parents and guardians, subject teachers, and Hon Mayor Lisette M. Arboleda, along with the LGU Looc, whose encouragement helped the students prepare and compete
The LNHS team’s success adds to the school’s growing record in regional journalism competitions and highlights the dedication, skill, and teamwork of its campus journalists
RIANNE CYMON DEL ROSARIO
BEA YUANJIA GUMBOC
Broadcasting Triumph LNHS TV Broadcasting Team earns a number of awards during the RSPC 2026 competition
Sweet Gesture Ash Galang shares a sweet moment with one of the LNHS students during the early celebration of Valentine’s Day
Students from Looc National High School (LNHS) brought pride to their school and the country after securing top spots in the Online International Entrepreneurship Competition, the largest robotics event in Northern Iran, held on November 26–28, 2025.
Representing Team Philippines, two LNHS teams placed 5th and 6th overall in the prestigious international event, organized by Fibonacci Iran in partnership with various Iranian government agencies and private companies
The competition featured participants from different countries, show- casing innovation, crea-
tivity, and technological excellence in robotics and entrepreneurship
The 5th Place award was won by Team LIMPYO, coached by Christian S Siba, with members Kurt Anthony I Fabellar, John Harold C Asinas, and Cristine Mae Rosas Meanwhile, Team Silent Signals secured 6th Place under the guidance of Coach Catherine M Castejon, with members Venice Keith G Lota, Hezekiah Luise P Gaytano, and Princess Ryan S Javier
In an interview, Kurt Anthony I Fabellar, a member of Team LIMPYO, shared his thoughts on
their victory He admitted the team did not expect to win and thanked their coaches for their support “We wanted the school to be recognized as ‘The school for Achievers,’” he said, adding that the award motivates them to continue striving for excellence
The Philippine delegates, winners from the eROBOLUTION Dubai 2025 online preliminaries, showcased outstanding innovations from around the world
This achievement reinforces LNHS’s growing impact in STEM and highlights Filipino students’ excellence on the global stage
Looc National High School (LNHS) opened its campus to regional and division validators for the assessment of its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Schools (WinS) Program, demonstrating its continued commitment to maintaining a healthy and learner-friendly environment on February 11, 2026
The activity formed part of the monitoring efforts of the Department of Education to ensure that schools meet standards in sanitation, safe water access, and proper hygiene practices for both learners and school personnel
Recognizing teachers’ efforts, experience, and professional growth, the Department of Education (DepEd) granted the promotion of qualified educators under the Expanded Career Progression (ECP) System.
A total of 1,303 educators across Romblon were promoted and formally took their oath du- ring a Mass OathTaking Ceremony held at the Rom- blon Public Plaza on Feb- ruary 2 Among them were 56
teachers from Looc National High School, highlighting the institution’s strong commitment to excellence in education
The significant event was graced by key provincial officials, including Congressman Budoy Madrona, Governor Trina Firmalo-Fabic, Vice Governor Armand Gutierrez, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, and mayors from various municipalities in Romblon, along with representatives from the Civil Service Commission Their pre- sence underscored the collective support of the province in celebrating the achievements of its educators
Adding prestige to the ceremony, Regional Director Niclas Capulong led the oath-taking, inspiring the promotees as they stepped into higher roles in public service
The ECP System allows teachers to advance in rank based on merit, without the need to wait for vacant positions or the retirement of other personnel This initiative aims to reward dedication, competence, and commitment, providing educators with faster and more meaningful opportunities for career advancement
More than just a formal ceremony, the oath-taking served as a celebration of dreams, perseverance, and dedication It reaffirmed the educators’ commitment to delivering quality education and continuing their service to every Romblomanon learner
Leading the validation team was Dr Felicidesta L Rolluqui, Regional WinS Coordinator and Dentist III She was joined by Karla Isabel C Zapata, Technical Assistant I (TA I) and SchoolBased Feeding Program (SBFP) Focal Person; Hannah R Pacija, Technical Assistant II (TA II) and School Mental Health (SMH) Focal Person; Frances Reynova Monton, WinS Focal Person; Julie Ann Tan, Medical and Dental Nursing Services (MDNS) Focal Person; Jenalyn Motin, Technical Assistant for SBFP; Jameson Mirabete, Administrative Aide I (ADA I); Angelica Gan, SBFP Milk Component Focal Person; and Liezl Yasu, SMH Focal Person
During the validation, the team conducted a campus inspection to assess LNHS facilities and programs related to sanitation and health Areas inspected included comfort rooms, handwashing stations, drinking water sources, and the school canteen to ensure cleanliness, functionality, and food safety
The validators also reviewed the school’s implementation of WinS initiatives and observed how hygiene practices are integrated into daily school routines Teachers, learners, and school personnel assisted the visitors and presented the school’s ongoing efforts to sustain a safe and sanitary environment
Rolluqui noted that the school has improved from last year’s assessment, while officials highlighted the activity as a chance to showcase LNHS’s best practices in hygiene and childfriendly facilities
Through the continued implementation of WinS and related programs, LNHS aims to further improve the well-being of learners while fostering a culture of cleanliness, safety, and shared responsibility within the school community
AQUISHA KATE SABIGAN
BEA YUANJIA GUMBOC
ANDREA LEOCADIO
Global Recognition LNHS students celebrate their top placements at an international robotics competition
EDITORINCHIEF
ZAHKISTEFFANOM MALABAO
ASSOCIATEEDITORS
SENIORMANAGINGEDITOR: ANDREAFAYEG LEOCADIO
JUNIORMANAGINGEDITORS:
ROBELLO AQUISHAKATEB SABIGAN
FLOODED BYBETRAYAL, DROWNING IN GREED
SCI-TECHWRITERS:
The Philippines is once again shaken by corruption, as the fraudulent flood control projects of 2025 come to light.Authorities revealed that disaster mitigation funds were siphoned off through fake contracts amounting to billions of pesos. Outraged citizens took to the streets, staging protests across the country The movement reached its peak during the massive “Trillion Peso March” at the EDSAShrine, echoed by similar demonstrations in provinces nationwide.
By early 2026, the scandal had significantly reshaped the Philippine political landscape. Senate President Chiz Escudero was removed from his position, Senator Bong Revilla was arrested, Representative Zaldy Co remains missing, Undersecretary Catalina Cabral was found dead in a ravine in Baguio, and the Department of Public
Works and Highways (DPWH) suffered a major blow to its credibility For many Filipinos, these events serve as clear evidence that corruption has deeply penetrated the system.
The nation’s laws clearly condemn such acts.The 1987 Philippine Constitution affirms that public office is a public trust, requiring officials to serve with integrity and accountability The Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA3019) criminalizes actions that harm the government or unjustly benefit private interests.
Meanwhile, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for
Public Officials (RA6713) mandates transparency in the use of public funds.The flood control scandal violates all these principles, betraying both the Constitution and the Filipino people. The consequences are severe. Communities now face greater risks from typhoons and flooding because funds intended for protection were stolen. Political stability has been shaken, and the Philippines ranked 120th out of 182 nations inTransparency International’s 2026 Corruption Perceptions Index.Yet amid the damage, the scandal has also sparked unity. Citizens from all walks of life have come together to demand accountability, refusing to accept corruption in silence. As student journalists, we stand firmly against corruption. It undermines the nation’s values and leaves ordinary Filipinos vulnerable. This betrayal is not merely a political issue—it is a threat to the safety, trust, and future of our country. While we already struggle against rising floodwaters, we must not allow ourselves to be drowned further by the greed of those in power
From natural resources up to people’s beliefs and values, spoken dialects, arts and literature spreading across customs and traditions, Romblon’ culture is intricately woven and crafted. However, as humanity continues to progress, does local culture still flourish today, or is it gently disappearing under the influence of digitalization?
Modernization can kill our culture. As the older ones fight to preserve the identity and cultural heritage passed by our ancestors, the availability of unlimited internet access blended with the influence of migration, greatly influence the way the younger generations think and live today
Romblon’s culture struggles to survive especially among the Gen Z. We cannot blame them. But we can alter the course of their thinking. Here’s how: allotting a specific day athome in which local dialect is spoken among family members
instead ofTagalog or English; inviting elders or cultural practitioners for storytelling sessions every Sunday in the community; buying and promoting locally made products like our very own Sarsa and Suman; organizing and participating in traditional events, dances, and rituals; and using digital platforms to share cultural content.
Both school and the community have roles to play. Kudos to the organizers of the recent Festival of Talents! Because of Bayle sa Kalye, Siniliksik, Sayawitan, and Histopop among others, we are not far from preservation of our Romblomanon identity Through the various event categories, student participants did not just showcase local culture; they became catalysts for promoting it. When asked if modernization can
blend with cultural preservation, the answer is a resoundingYES. Modernization does not erase the line – it can reinforce it and serve as the binding thread that unites the past and the present. With a positive mindset and openness to possibilities, Romblomanons can excel at both.
ROBOTICS IN EDUCATION AND SOCIETY THE RISE OF
BY REITHER WAYNE EZEKIEL G. DAGOHOY
Robots have seized today’s world, expanding its limits from professionals to young enthusiasts. Robots are automated machineries encoded to perform complex actions or tasks – an awe-inspiring discovery showing that science beats the impossible In 1954, George Devol invented Unimate, the first digitally controlled and programmable robotic arm Later, Joseph Engelberger marketed Unimate and founded the first robotics company “Unimation,” pinning the modern robotics industry in history
This beginning proves that robotics innovation augments critical thinking and transforms theories into reality Its functions have advanced beyond artificial life, like Surgical Robots, Rehabilitation Robots, and Collaborative Robots, challenging the world to settle for an easier lifestyle
Since robotics impacted the world and the Philippine education system, the Department of Education began participating in organizations to include Robotics and Research as learning competencies With these implications, the number of students in Special Science Classes has increased, showing technology catches youth curiosity Programs and contests challenge young minds and keep their interest from division levels like the Sci-Math and Robotics Fair held at Looc National High on November 12–14, up to national levels
However, robotics innovation is costly
Robotics machineries are made of expensive parts and need proper maintenance Societal dependency is another issue If we rely too much on these inventions, we might not obtain true skills but develop limitations on talents, confidence, and independence
Since robots ask for personal data, privacy concerns arise Robots may simplify life but can lead to job displacement Lastly, some worry robots may take over the world since they disregard limits of basic motion resembling living characteristics Even with issues dividing opinions, experts still support upgrades for robots “Sometimes a technology is so impressive that imagination runs with it – often far, far away from reality,” says Daniel H Wilson Robots will never be an opposing danger With proper supervision and operational commands, we can achieve better collaboration Robotics did not just conquer education It is education itself
RoboSoccer Thrills at the 2025 Division Robotics Competition
CHLOWEE V. GARACHICO
The excitement of robotics reached new heights this year as RoboSoccer took center stage at the 2025 Romblon Division Robotics Competition Students and enthusiasts gathered to witness robots not just racing or solving mazes, but actually playing the world’s most beloved sport- soccer
Robots on the Pitch
In RoboSoccer, teams design and program autonomous robots capable of passing and scoring goals Unlike remote-controlled machines, these robots rely on sensors, coding, and artificial intelligence to make splitsecond decisions The result?Afastpaced match where every move is calculated by algorithms, yet still full of surprises
From Local to Global
While RoboSoccer entertained audiences at the Division Robotics Competition, it is also part of a global movement known as RoboCup Founded in 1996, RoboCup’s ambitious mission is that by 2050, a team of autonomous humanoid robots should be able to defeat the FIFAWorld Cup champions Today, RoboCup attracts thousands of teams worldwide, making RoboSoccer one of the most popular robot games internationally
Why It CaptivatesAudiences
RoboSoccer captivates audiences for several reasons Its familiarity makes it instantly relatable, as everyone understands the game of soccer and can easily follow the action At the same time, it highlights innovation, with matches showcasing cutting-edge robotics, from advanced vision systems to complex teamwork algorithms Adding to the excitement is the entertainment factor, as robots sometimes miss shots, pull off clever passes, or score dramatic goals; creating a thrilling spectacle that blends science with sport
Inspiring the Next Generation
For many students, build-
ing a soccer-playing robot is their first step into the world of robotics and artificial intelligence The competition not only tests engineering skills but also inspires creativity, teamwork, and problemsolving- qualities essential for the future of science and technology
RoboSoccer at the 2025 Division Robotics Competition wasn’t just a game; it was a glimpse into the future of robotics, where machines learn teamwork, strategy, and innovation on the field
