Aurum: COEUR

Aurum Ang pampanitikang aklat ng The Fusion: Opisyal na pahayagan ng mga mag-aaral ng Tarlac State University, COLLEGE OF SCIENCE Tarlac City.

Reserbado ang lahat ng Karapatan © 2022 Walang bahagi ng aklat na ito ang maaaring gamitin o sipiin sa anumang anyo at pamamaraan nang walang nakasulat na pahintulot mula sa mga aklat maliban sa ilang siping gagamitin sa pangrerebyu.

Inimprenta ng ****

The Fusion

Scientific Writers, Initiating Actions

A Letter to France Bonjour!

My cœur belongs to you. As a Francophile, a person who greatly admires France, I can feel how romantic is Paris, how pleasant is the riviera of Côte d'Azur, the magnifique Versailles and Lille, the vibrance of Marseille, Lyon, and Strasbourg.

They say that being a Francophile is a sickness.

But I think I will seek no cure for this. I only want to appreciate it better.

You may think I'm crazy, but I promise that I will see you in the future. I will keep holding on to my dream of meeting you someday. À bientôt !

Je vous envoie mes amicales pensées, -Jamel Aaron Dauz

It came to my mind that entangled strings are the reason why people keep choosing the wrong person. Those confusing knots led people’s relationships into ruins. But, is this the enough reason to quit? Open your eyes, feel your heart, and focus on finding a way to disentangle those twined strings to be freed.

Be patient enough to find who’s on the other end of the string, this may sound too ironic, but this is what truly matters, this is what we deserve.

To all who's reading this, I have to remind you that true love will come at the right time, it isn't always perfect, but it endures.

JAMEL AARON C. DAUZ Editor-in-Chief

What is love? Is love even real? Or is it just our illusion? When can you say that you are in love?

How can you say that it is love? Is it really love? Is love blind? Timeless?

Unconditional?

With all these questions, do we really know what is love?

“What is love?” A question that has an endless answer. A question with no right or wrong answer. A question whose answer can truly be understood by the person who answered it.

CRYSTAL ANNE MALLARI Associate Editor-in-Chief

Sabi nila ligaya ang magmahal. Ibang klase raw sa pakiramdam kung ang puso ay iniaalay sap ag-ibig. Ngunit laging tanong ko sa isip, pano ba ang magmahal ng tunay? Kailangan bang buhos-buhay? Pero pano ko kung ang taong mahal mo ay pinili kang iwan at saktan?

NOLY KIG IVOR DE GUZMAN Managing Editor

Nowadays, the word "love" is thrown haphazardly, making it lose its meaning. This made me believe that it's not worthy anymore because everyone should say it willy-nilly. Then there were unexpected turn of events. I am mostly hesitant still and do not believe that love already regained its meaning, but all I can say that someone is the only exception.

DONNA ANGELICA PANLICAN Junior Layout Artist

The Languages of the Heart Corazon

Stellar Free Empty Jar A Slip to Forever Knot Lulling Lake Pagitang Malaya Paghilom Blow me Deeper Probability

ハート (Haato)

Little Things Let Me to be with You Oh Pag-Ibig Dangerous Games \ ˈhōm \ Cloudy Ngumingiti ka na naman Secrets of the Shattered

8 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 17 18

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심장 (sim-jang)

Self > Balong Oras Honey Piece of the same Puzzle Your Name in my Eyes Choke Me, Harder Para Saan Pa? Float Away

Inhliyizo

Fashioned 69 Proportionalities Pacify my Soul HOME Ps of Mind Soon, I Promise Through Night and Day Sa Pelikulang hindi ako ang Bida

Сердце [serdtse]

Run On Ending the Empire of You Stranded All that is Wrong I am scared Stone Runaway Treasure To my favorite person

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Coração

Taste Me I Love You Penetration of Life Ugh! Home Until there is nothing Left Weird

Yalo

My Ultimate Decision Past. Present. Future.

Summer Snowflakes Langoy na hindi pumapagod Dapat Mahaba

Puso

Para sa aking nag-iisa Anxious Heart Pula ang kulay ng Rosas A Hand to Hold You'll Always have Yourself Panahon ng Sariwang Loob Forbidden You

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Stellar

JAFFY BUSTAMANTE

I am not saying We forget the wounds Some still pull us in Like black holes.

But when I run a fingertip over The bump of the scar, I trace constellations.

And when I want To hide in the dark, The stars illuminate the sky To remind me that honesty Is the most important part Of healing.

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Free

SHANIEL BRAGA

Even if it's hard for me To set you free I'll do it for you So that you'll not be lonely It may take me a river of tears For you to be happy, I'll bear Just don't you glance again to me 'Cause I may not set you free I'll be keeping my love for you To the deepest part of me I will not forget what we've shared Because that's the only treasure I'll keep I loved the parts of you that I did not own.

And you owned the parts me that I did not love.

So I am taking my love back today.

And today, I am giving you, back to you.

But when the time comes You want to be with me I'll accept you whole heartedly But for now I am setting you free.

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Empty Jar

CRYSTAL MALLARI

E

ach of us have their own jar of love. We fill the jar with happiness, life goals, personal achievements, and happy memories. And when the day comes that your jar is already overflowing, that is the day you can already share your love to others.

When your jar is still not full and you decide to give someone a portion of it, eventually your jar will be empty. There will be no love left for yourself. That’s why love is not something you give; it is something that you share. You share your happiness with others. You’ll reach your goals with the people around you. Your personal achievements will be accompanied by the achievement that can be achieved with others. And you’ll create happy memories with the people who you share your love with.

It is not wrong to first love yourself and share that love when you are already capable of sharing it. Love is not something you should keep to yourself. Love would be more meaningful when it is shared. But don’t ever let yourself be left with an empty jar.

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A Slip to Forever MARCO CAPATI

A

s a freelance writer, coffee is as vital in our human systems, the lifeblood of our imagination, our drive, a drink to get the feeling of work going, and of course, the one keeping us awake after those all-nighters, those hard and tiring all-nighters just to beat those deadlines. Body at max speed to get to take a sip of their one-day special Hawaiian Kona coffee milk-tea fusion, my prized ambrosia, my nectar of the gods, and it will be the greatest moment in my life to indulge myself in its majesty. Running with both of my feet at the speeds of my laggy laptop, and of course my slow brain cells, I was supposed to be getting a cup or two of which when embarrassingly, I slipped accidentally on the wet flooring at the doorstep of the shop, it rained awhile back, so automatically I was full-force cursing at the weather, and the earth, and of the fate of my life in this world, and of course at climate change and the first person who started it, but to my surprise a stranger clutched my hand in his at the when I was all cries falling, held me tight, pinned me against his body, feeling the warmth of his chest, carving a picture of his physique in my mind where each part of my skin touched his, his heartbeats, as fast as mine, both overwhelmed by the spur of the moment, his other hand coursed through my back and grabbed me by the waist, never letting go, never letting me fall into hurt. Time stopped like a scene in your everyday fairytale, like I was the princess in the arms of her knight in shining armor, her one destined prince, a framed moment of forever, it lingered inside my mind, echoing, carving itself into my entirety, it was so downright cliché, yet so awe-strikingly beautiful. And until this moment, he never did let go.

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Knot

Graphics by: Gema Rose Simon

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Lulling Lake MIRO SALUNGA

If I jumped, what would be the light of the world?

Beyond the surface, what would I see; Maybe murky waters in a lull, How about dwindling lights as it all fades black Or the harsh hardening of water to snow.

As I gaze upon the glassy slate, I wonder again how it would feel; Will it be a bath of cold caress, Or a suffocating grasp of fate.

A calming swing and a kiss goodnight?

Or a battle between heaven and earth.

Now I gaze around the mountaintops, How would the world turn without me?

Would they converge and look up to the heavens, Or would they break apart like two hearts.

One wonders as they think about the sweet kiss.

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But I gaze upon the silhouette, of one who stands, And think about how it would all feel, If I dove down the lake at spring.

Will I think of a cold swinging death, Or a warm welcome?

But once a smile has broken out, Like daylight shining upon us at this lake; Jumping seemed only moot, For no kiss goodnight, Or dying fight, Will ever make me feel happier Than one who holds your hand While gazing at clear glass.

No kiss goodnight, Sweet caress, Or tug of war, Would ever let me jump, For I am here to stay, And hold their hand back.

If it means restlessness, Let me be tired all my life, As long as you're by my side.

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Pagitang Malaya JAY Z NAS ARLAN

Malayo sa loob ang masiglang silahis Mabungkal ng masama nang kaybilis Mahirap-hirap ang sakal na mabangis Sana ay kaya ko ng malihis Pagpapaalala ang araw na ito Sa mga bagay na dapat hindi pinagtatanto Nawasak ang loob kaya nagkaganito Hapdi ang sa may puso nabubuo Pagitang Malaya sa mata ay hindi nakikita Pagitang Malaya dahil sa na troma Pagitang Malaya sana ay bukas na Pagitang Malaya na makapagmahal na

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Paghilom

CHRISTIAN BUENAVENTURA

Tila pagpintig ng pusong wala ng tunog Ang bawat sakit ay tuluyang huminog Hindi na din kilala pati ang pagtulog Puso’y punong puno at nais ng sumabog Tuyong tuyo na ang pagkatao sa bawat hagupit Umulan man, pagdampi nito sa iyong balat ay kay pait Hindi maapula yaring nakakapasong pag-ibig Yakap na syang patuloy na hanap sa tuwing taglamig Apat na sulok ng silid ng iyong nakaraan Kasagutan ay iyo ding makakamtan Paghilagpos sa yakap ng Kahapon ay iyong magagawa Bigat ng kahapon na syang dahilan ng sakit sa kasalukuyan, Ay tuluyan na ding makakalaya at makakalimutan.

Sa huli, ang Paghilom ng nakaraan ang syang bubungad sa iyo kinabukasan.

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Blow Me Deeper JOEL TAN

I am like a sea with a lone island accompanied by a coconut tree in the middle You are the breeze that makes the tree sturdier and stronger I am begging please keep on blowing Make your winds blow down to the tree’s very bottom Please wrap my whole with your warmth for the waters to shore I love interacting with your heat, it gives me comfort and the feeling of being loved Make you blow deeper and stronger, more than just a storm Why? Because I was about to die, and I want my lone tree to be still there standing hard and strong I leave it with do, do what you want to do Just take good care of it It will give two coconuts for others to eat Embrace me tightly, do not lose your heat, bring me the mirage The satisfaction and pleasure.

I love you, please do not leave me.

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Probability REIGN ROSE SORIANO

What are the odds of falling in love?

Looking back, I never anticipated for a love to transpire Even condemned myself as a lovelorn soul Probably improbable to feel such strong fondness Yet, then came you As if the universe conspired To end my seething uncertainties That exist beneath the thin air I hated math because of second doubts within As I seek for answers for solution But I never thought the probability of falling in love Was highly foreseeable the moment our eyes met And never have I been certain from the theory of everything However, now I am able to grasp That you are the hypothesis that became real— Love, can’t you see, You are the one that destiny has brought to me

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Little Things PEARL ANGELI SABAL

I felt the cold breeze of air as I rose from my bed Mr. Sun was there smiling as I turned to my windows and gazed Today should be a good day, I said Wore my slippers and grabbed my coffee, outside I head Those green leaves looked peaceful as they sway Dancing along with the birds like they play The flowers looked bright as they bloom Stopping myself from taking them into my room I had nothing else to do today But to be mesmerized of the things I can see everyday A quiet and reflective day would be enough Because it’s in the little things we feel the love

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Let Me to be with You SHANIEL BRAGA

Let me take care of your broken heart And show you how to fly Let me hold you gently by the hand And kiss your tears goodbye Let me lead you to tomorrow's light And out of needless rain, 'Cause all I want right now Is to see you smile again.

Let me sing you all the songs I wrote 'Til you sleep in my embrace, And I'll keep you safe and warm until The sunlight strokes your face.

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Let me bring you up the mountain's peak, And I'll let you touch the skies To remind you of the strength I see When I look into your eyes.

Let me kiss and show you what is love And the happiness it brings.

You'll sail again like a butterfly Endowed with pretty wings.

Let me do all these to let you see Our fates are intertwined.

You're the accidental precious gem I've waited long to find.

The earth and sky conspired to make us meet.

They knew we both belong To each other like words and lovely notes Give life to every song.

So fly with me, my beautiful one.

It's time we leave the past.

I'm yours to keep, and you are mine.

We're finally home at last.

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Graphics by: Ma. Biena Lapitan

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Oh Pag-Ibig JAY Z NAS ARLAN

Oh Pag-ibig nga naman, Di minsan maintindihan Lalapit nalang ang sinong ninuman Kapag ikaw nga ay tiyak na matatamaan Di mawari ang kalagayan ng kalooban Oh Pag-ibig napagsisino ang sarili Nauurat sa tunay na pagpili Puso ba o utak ang maghahabili Minsan ay di na maintindihan ang sarili Oh Pag-ibig na lumalapit nalang basta Walang pakundangan kung ako ay mabalisa Basta wala ng kung ano ano ako'y natamaan na Mag mamahal nalang ako basta bahala na

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Dangerous Games JAFFY BUSTAMANTE

We play dangerous gameslooking so deep into each other’s eyes.

It’s a risk we take, knowing very well that we might fall and never recover.

ˈ ōm

\ h

\

LADY NICOLE PAG-ONG

How does it feel to be addressed as "my home"?

I guess I’m just a waiting shed.

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Cloudy MIKA ELEA PAMINTUAN

A wonder to what he'll say A wonder if he'll stay Cloudy with a chance of rainfall Another baby doll added to his cozened hall An unheard ballad she is A charlatan he really is Cloudy with a chance of heartbreak Another baby doll fell for the fake A thunder hits a flower A flower that did not pondered Cloudy with a chance of hollo Another baby doll wore his polo A rainfall he is A heartbreak he is Cloudy he is Another lothario he truly is A wonder to what he'll say A wonder if he'll stay Cloudy with tears at bay But will he ever pay?

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Ngumingiti ka na naman LADY NICOLE PAG-ONG

Naalala mo pa ba iyong panahong sulok lang ang pamilyar na lugar sa iyo...

Naalala mo pa ba iyong luhang hindi matigil tigil sa pag-buo...

Naalala mo pa iyong mga panahong ang iyong iniisip na lang ay pagsuko?

Ngunit ngayon, ngumingiti ka na naman...

Nguminginiti ka na naman sa bagong taong nagpapadala ng mensahe sa iyo.

Nguminginiti ka na naman sa bagong taong hindi ka naman sigurado.

Ngumingiti ka na naman…

Pero huwag mong pigilan.

Naaalala mo lahat ng nakaraan ngunit iyon ay mananatiling ala-ala na lamang.

Ngumiti ka lang.

Kung ang panibagong boses at salita ang bumubuhay sa diwa mong akala mo’y ubos na.

Ngumiti ka lang.

Pakawalan ang sarili at sumubok muli.

Dahil paano mo matatagpuan ang pagmamahal na para sa iyo kung pilit kang magtatago?

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Secrets of the Shattered VALERIE GAEL DIMARUCOT

Countless days and nights, I continue to wonder What if I had told you Of how the simple thought of you creates thunderstorms in my heart And jumbles up the wires in my head.

How a single echo of your name Could bring my stone walls to the ground And my breath be stolen right out of my lungs At the sight of your very existence.

Yet I knew I could only look at you from afar So, I remind myself that one could only dream For someone like me, standing behind the curtains Could never dream of entering the stage and ruining your spotlight.

So, I became a part of the crowd Hidden in the sea of your admirers, We watched as you met your match And shone brighter than the sun in its truest form.

But worry not, for the truth of my shattered pieces Would never come to light As always, I’ll keep it locked in a room deep inside my heart And throw the key away.

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Self >

LADY NICOLE PAG-ONG

M

any people believe that they should have the same things as others. You'll find yourself continuously wondering what they have that you don't. You'll start comparing yourself to others, and you'll begin to believe that you're unlovable. You will believe that your physical and inner selves are insufficient to be appreciated and cherished.

You are not single because you are unattractive.

Ladies and gentlemen, do not be influenced by the world's deeds. Stop seeking the "right one," since it will all comes together at the perfect moment. Do not underestimate the process, and do not hurry as your patience will be rewarded. Do not rush because life is preparing you for a tremendous blessing that will come when you are ready.

There are several things that must be prioritized before engaging with somebody. Study harder, strive toward your eat nutritious foods, spend time with friends, family, and relatives, explore the world, and remember to love yourself first.

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Don't settle for those who just bring half of themselves, when you're worth a life. Please be informed of your worth. We all deserve the best, and in order to meet the wonderful one, we must first shape ourselves to be better for others. Be the best version of yourself that you can be.

Singleness is not loneliness.

It is better to be alone than to be in a destructive relationship.

Learn to enjoy and celebrate life without anyone else.

You are exactly in the right place.

You are not left behind.

Seize and honor your season and grow beautifully.

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Balong Oras JOB ORJE

Kabataan, kabataan pag-asa pa nga ba ng bayan?

Isang tanong na gumugulo sa aking isipan.

Alibughang kabataan nagsisilabasan na, Buyo ng kasamaan ngayo'y laganap na.

Kung maibabalik lang sana, balon ng oras, Babalik sa nakara at aayusin ang nakalipas.

Muling isasalba, kulturang di dapat kumupas Para sa kabataan ng bansang Pilipinas

Lahat ng bagay sa mundo, nawawala't lumilipas, Dahilan ito sa paggalaw ng oras.

Kabataang mabubuti, ngayo'y balasubas, Paano na kinabukasan ng bansang Pilipinas?

Bilang isang kabataang nais ibalik ang nakalipas, Busalsal na pag-uugali naway magwakas.

Sa katotohana'y hinding hindi ka makakatakas, Nawa'y maapuhap kahalagahan ng oras.

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y e n o H Painting by: Trisha Dela Cruz

A

puzzle that is composed of a thousand pieces is like the world that has a billion of people. People meeting each other is like trying to find pieces of a puzzle that matches each CRYSTAL ANNE MALLARI other. After spending a lot of time trying to find the piece that is fit for me, I found you. When you are solving a puzzle, it is mainly based on the shape of the pieces. Looking from afar, there are pieces that you thought would match, but when you try to put them together, they aren’t. Looking from afar, I was certain that we’re fit for each other. But by the time that we are looking into each other’s eye, I can clearly see how fit you are, not for me but for someone else. Trying to put a piece of the puzzle in a place that it shouldn’t be would cause damage for both pieces. So, you then let the other piece go and continue to find the right piece you need. Like how we should let go of the people that would cause damage to us when we continue to try to hold onto them.

Piece of the same Puzzle

We are a piece of the same puzzle, not just the pieces that would be laid side by side. But I am still glad that I met you, I am glad that we are a piece of the same puzzle. Because without you in it, a masterpiece won’t be created. Without you in my life, I won’t be able to experience the beautiful moments that we’ve shared. A puzzle would be pointless if it has a missing piece like how my life would not be the same if you are not in it.

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Your Name in my Eyes SHANIEL BRAGA

Don't talk anymore, my love.

Just look at me and you will understand how I feel.

Look deep in my eyes and you'll see your name, my soul's broken mirror.

I love you more than you believe, like you are my life, My other half, my subconscious guardian angel.

Look around you, has anyone loved you more than I do?

Never cry, my love 'cause you'll make me bleed.

Always be happy 'cause your smile is a source of life for me.

I breathe when you breathe.

But forgive me for what I say.

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I know you feel nothing.

For you, I'm just a silly game that you played with once And now you hate even to look at me.

I'm sorry for my feelings, I know they drown you, they don't set you free.

Come and tell me you hate me, that there's no other chance, no fake hope.

Don't show me, but tell me.

And then I will leave, I swear I will leave you with my endless pain.

It's not your fault, I can't blame you; it's me who loves you.

Tell me your truth and you'll never see your name in my eyes again, 'cause I'll keep our past and my love In the bottom of my heart And I'll be gone.

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Choke me, Harder JOEL TAN

This life makes me hungry You spread bad rumors about me, Just because I did not let you touch my body They all make me feel filthy Then, why don't you just choke me Why do they think am that creepy?

With your hard and long pride tree!

My eyes were once dreamy I know you will never set me free I thought I was now living in my fantasy Then let me bathe with your I believed you love me truly hot cloudy white water of fake love I give my all even my sanity You keep on teasing me with You ruin me! that hard rock ab full of wrath and disappointments You steal my smile I don't want you anymore You are still my hope Choke me! Choke me to death!

You made me cry I can't sense any signs for me to live Are you happy now?

Since you already took, my breath with your kiss You destroyed me! full of blades that wounded my poor being.

Now I am useless!

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Para Saan Pa? CHRISTIAN GENER BUENAVENTURA

Patuloy ang pagkatha ng mga tugma Kahit hindi na alam ang isusulat na letra Paubos na ding yaring mga matatalinhagang salita Para saan pa?

Ang patuloy na pagsulat ng mga tula?

Kung ang karamihan ay pilipit na yaring mga dila?

Kung ang sukatan ng ating katalinuhan, ang basihan ng mga banyaga?

Patuloy pa bang tutula?

Kung ang wika ay tila isa na lamang paksa Isang aralin na dapat na lamang ipasa Isang bagay na pangkaraniwan na lamang sa madla?

Kung ang pagmamahal mo sa sariling wika, upos na’t wala ng baga?

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Float Away MIKA ELEA PAMINTUAN

W

ater droplets on his face pose as freckles under this blazing sun, near the sad sad blue ocean, while laying in my arms as time runs— waiting for me to be gone, waiting for our happiness to be gone.

Will everything be okay as he told me a couple of times before?

When I'm already gone here and by far far away from this warm white sands and his magical brown eyes? Can't we just go back to his salty summer air and shining blue ocean waves— days long gone? I will be too, soon.

And when the midnight sadness hits me, will I remember our memories or just the memory of his lips upon hers? Perhaps it it would be neither; I will probably be reminded how I left loving him and uncertain of how he feels. This spot, this ocean, this big sun are all ours yet I wonder when I'm gone, will these become a sanctuary for them two, too?

His golden chocolate skin and that perfect white smile, I'm afraid will either linger in my heart forever or will be damned as soon as I leave.

Will he beg and be sorry if I told him what I know? Or will he excuse himself and leave me first before I can?

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I smiled to hide the tears starting to form in my eyes while hoping he's still sincere as he was. A part of me is hoping that he notices it and will ask me why. A part of me is also hoping that the sun will set and we'll be kissing good night just like before. I am going to miss him and I hope he will, too. I just hope I'll miss him less than I already long for him now. I just hope I'll miss him just enough that I can still move on with my life, even though there's no longer us. I looked at him. His eyes seem to focus to me and to me only. He brushed my hair away from my face using his fingers and held my chin closer to his face. "I can't lose you", he spoke quietly, as if his life belongs to me and then, just as the sun set, as the seagulls fly and land, he kissed me. Longer than before, fervently than before. Almost like the first. Almost like the one they shared.

Tomorrow, I'll be gone from this town. No more sunsets by the beach, no more of him.

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Fashioned MIRO RAPHAEL SALUNGA

Angels fashioned your eyes Around stars in the sky.

And their hands weaved Your black hair From magnificent spindles Of dark space time.

Your lips from nebulae— Cold eyes and dust.

Your strength fashioned From the mightiest thunder; Tenacious and enduring, Loud and authoritative.

You are feared, Yet you are loved.

Your gentleness fashioned From the purest fleece.

A heart that even No diamond can match.

Silver white and tender; Never dreaming crimson.

Your greatness fashioned

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69 Proportionalities JOEL TAN

(Her) My life was intended to be happy as I walk alone Your life was so occupied because you got a lot of friends I am simple, average, and no one You are handsome, excellent and casanova But why do I always catch You are gazing at me every time You make me feel uncomfortable, yet it feels awesome Please do not show false alarms Do not let me think that you are interested in a piece of garbage like me Or just you hated me, so you stare at me like that.

I hate to admit but I also want your attention I am willing to be his lover I hope he feels the same way as 69 proportionalities

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(Him) She’s so exceptional, she is not like the ladies around me She’s so cute and kind. Why I am happy that she’s not giving any attention to anyone She never avoided my gaze; I always see her smiling back at me I always try to impress her, I wear my best clothes and most expensive perfume I tried going near her, but why did she avoid me Maybe she was uncomfortable with me I really like her; she is not looking forward to me because of my popularity I can’t take my eyes to her, and I admit I hated if some other guy was near to her Gosh! I want to hug her right now and shout out she will be mine I am in love with her I hope she feels the same way as 69 proportionalities

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Pacify my Soul JAFFY BUSTAMANTE

I just need to have a good cry and let this sad song wring my tears out.

With the volume up, I scream from the top of my lungs until my eardrums can’t cope anymore.

Please come back and pacify my soul.

For you’re the only one who can cure my arrhythmia and bring my heartbeat back to the pace of sanity.

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Home Graphics by: Gema Rose Simon

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Ps of Mind KYLA NAPO

I

lang gabi rin tumakbo sa aking isipan.

Ilang panaginip ko rin ay ikaw ang laman.

Alam mo bang napakahimbing ng tulog ko noong mga gabing bago ko ipikit ang mata’y kausap ka at kinikilala natin ang isa’t-isa?

Subalit noong naisipan mong lumisan, noong mga panahong mensahe mo'y hindi na nasisilayan, tila ba naging araw ang mga gabi at mistulang parusa't pasakit ang pagtulog. Sa bawat pagpikit ng mga mata, dumaragsa sa ‘di matahimik kong isipan ang mga bagay na ating napag-usapan at bumabalik sa akin ang nakaraan.

Sa haba ng panahong alam mo ang pangalan ko. Sa rami ng pagkakataong nagkita tayo. Ni minsa’y hindi sumagi sa isipan nating dalawa na kausapin ang isa’t-isa. Kung hindi pa muli tayo nagtagpo sa pambihirang pagkakataon ay hindi pa natin maiisipan na pagbigyan ang ating sarili na kilalanin ang bawat isa.

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Minsa’y naiisip kong para tayong nasa pelikula. Sa ganda ng pagkakaguhit ng ating nakaraan kung saan palagi tayong nagkikita sa mga patimpalak, sa hilig natin pareho sa agham at pagsusulat, at maging sa pagiging tahimik natin at hindi palakibo. Masisisi mo ba ‘ko kung lubos akong umasa kahit papaano’y may koneksyon tayo?

Marahil ay nasa simula pa lamang tayo ng pelikula kung saan hindi pa natin alam ang mga susunod na kaganapan. Marahil din ay isa lamang maikling palabas ang kwento natin kung saan nagtapos ito sa eksenang hindi ko gusto.

Maging ano pa man, isa lang ang sigurado ako, panahon lamang ang makapagsasabi kung nagsisimula pa lamang ba ang pelikula kung saan tayo ang bida o nagwakas na.

Panahon at Pelikula.

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Soon, I Promise REIGN ROSE SORIANO

Whenever we play games together And laugh our hearts out Or complain our madness Not knowing the time flew In a blink of an eye— My heart sank, dawned with gloom Oh, just how fast the day passed by, then I sighed I wished for the longer nights To witness your eyes on how they twinkle As if a myriad of stardusts lived inside Yet tons of works were toppling over one another My hand cannot reach yours Nor can I tell what’s on your mind But remember I am here and you can find me

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And someday soon, When the universe would let me free I’d come home to you, unwavered So please let me in as I knock into your heart And we’ll play once more, morning until daylight Wait for me, I am drawing closer Soon, I promise, we’ll never be apart from each other

Through Night and Day JAFFY BUSTAMANTE

Allow me to love you during the days you can’t pull yourself back together.

But allow me to love you more at nights where you’ll find yourself saying you never need love

Sa Pelikulang hindi ako ang Bida

LADY NICOLE PAG-ONG

At kapag dumating ang panahong tila naguguluhan ka na, kung ako ba dapat o siya...

Pakiusap, piliin mo siya.

Dahil kung tunay mo akong mahal, walang dapat pagpilian— walang dapat siya.

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Run On

CRYSTAL ANNE MALLARI

“Of all the things I’ve loved, why have I never loved myself?” Run On, S1:E6, 00:22:40

A

re you doing that because you want to or because you need to? We sometimes forget to ask ourselves the question “Who am I doing this for?”. We tend to forget that our opinion and feelings are also important in everything that we do.

“Who do you think will end up living with me forever?

It’s me. Myself.

I really want to get along with myself.

I don’t want to love myself too much, but I don’t want to be too hard on myself either.”

Prioritizing yourself will never be wrong. In fact, it is something that we should always do. When you give your everything for others, what’s left for you? Nothing. We should learn to balance the love we give to others and the love we give to ourselves. Because at the end of the day, all you really have in life that no one can take away from you is you, yourself.

“I want you to love yourself a little more” Run On, S1:E14, 00:08:42

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Ending the Empire of You VALERIE GAEL DIMARUCOT

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I drowned myself in a sea of papers and work, In hopes that the words ingrained in my mind, Would finally stop its constant pounding And for my heart to loosen its clenching grip on every inch of me.

Like a madwoman, I craved for your words of appraisal Molded myself into your very definition of perfection And cut off parts of myself that others used to love and see me for.

Every little thing I did and move I made Was well-calculated to catch your eye, Yet no matter how well I did, At the end of the day, I was nothing but a weed in your garden of beautiful flowers.

So, I took off the blindfold and freed my hands from the chains you kept me in, I now know that even if I carried the skies for you, You would still point out my weaknesses and imperfections And not see the empire I’ve built for you.

Now, here I am Making the first move and knocking down the empire I’ve built to worship you To finally put up a home for myself and do all the things I’ve always wanted to do, Starting off with learning to love myself first.

Stranded MARCO CAPATI

T

hat late April night, stranded, unknowing, we were locked inside my room, two friends locked inside a room yet hoping it could be more than what meets our eyes. A summer storm suddenly barged out in the open, and rained on everyone’s parade, well, I guess except for me. April showers do bring May flowers, as she was my tulip, the one flower I always longed to see whenever this season takes foot, her scent, my every breath of fresh air, she was my springtime’s finest. And at that night, shivering as we stripped of the blankets over the bed, baring it cold to cover ourselves, bundled in each other’s heat, clasping her hand that was nearly frozen pale, at best to keep the frigid whirrs at bay, her whole entirety was pressing against mine, body to body, heart to heart. It was dark and barren here even before this storm came, I was quite used to it, until she came here and ignited that warmth that I thought was lost here forever, with her stories, her neverending epic adventures swept away the deafening silence, a nightmare that crept every time I lie here quiet. I was tired running away from those monsters that wanted to get me, and in my darkest times she was there, she was my lighthouse, my beacon of hope, she lit up the darkness until it scurried fast and far away, relentless, until all that I can see was her, she saved me and lifted me up, and from there on, I want to be with her for the rest of my time here. Waking up next to her, half-asleep as if I was still dreaming, the breaking dawn painted a bright golden tapestry upon her face with fleeting streaks of sunlight, looking at her, she unknowingly drew a smile upon my stiffened lips, hoping, on high spirits, for the first time in forever, that this day would never end. And until this day, almost year after, upon the blossoming of the tulips over yonder gardens, it never did end, nor it did start.

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All that is Wrong MIKA ELEA PAMINTUAN

All that is wrong is true For my face turns to a rosy hue It is all because of you But, will I ever become your beau?

For all that I know, all that is wrong is true All that is wrong is wrong For you are my love since we're young But, fate played me a sad song So, I can not love you for too long For all that I know, all that is wrong is wrong All that is wrong is right For my dear—you, I gave a fight But, you let her stole my light With the truth so ruthless, I lost the fight For all that I know, all that is wrong is right

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All that is wrong is me For I gave my heart to thee So perfectly naive to find the wrong key On love's manipulative game I didn't foresee For all that I know, all that is wrong is me All that is wrong is you For your soul had forgotten about me and you How could your heart be beating for someone new?

When you said you love me too?

For all that I know, all that is wrong is you But all that is wrong, shall be corrected For I don't deserve you nor for you I am fated For I didn't knew I am just the second For I didn't knew that for you, girls are meant to be collected For I didn't knew how many we really are in your head For this affinity won't ever last, so it ended All that is wrong should be corrected.

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I am Scared LADY NICOLE PAG-ONG

Others will envy you for having a writing aptitude or talent.

Some writers are constantly eager to write to stimulate and inspire their audience. However, I am terrified when I am starting to write...

When love arrives, I stop being a poet. There is no need to describe the feeling in words because you are already living with it.

So, whenever I picked up a pen and paper again, I realized the love I had known was no longer there.

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Stone

Painting by: Trisha Dela Cruz

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Runaway MARCO CAPATI

T

he dog ran after a runaway ball, gnawed on it, dropped it to only gnaw on it the second next. The dog ran after a runaway ball, gnawed on it, dropped it to only gnaw on it the second next. God knows where it came from, and God knows where it will go. The two raced till the bitter end of my horizons, maybe looking for a morsel of joy, attention, and warmth the dog has been yearning for, hoping for the fun never ends, but neither it knew.

Setting aside all odds, an ignorant fool is always mistaken, yet still pushing forward, hoping on false hopes that everything will be better. Like that dog I ran every time, running with open arms, faster, with steps quicker than the ticks of my each and every heartbeat, to take hold of an illusion or another to the ends of my whole being, and back again. I kept on moving, starting another chase, tumbling into that hard spot that always hit me harder than last time, unconscious, left me sinking into a bottomless pit, with rock bottom still to be reached, yet with callous fingertips I still scramble up always after to only begin another silly race.

With every time snuffed out, much distorted, missing, only to be more miserable than before.

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Last time I woke up from this sick reality, a godforsaken nightmare, stinging like poignant ammonia, breaking through once more the broken record of my self-pity that had been going on for a while now, a slap of sense in the face from that one man in my mirror, he was wretched, pale, wrinkled, and stale, his hair was messy, skin and clothes all full of stain and grime, blemishes, his teeth yellow to the core and his eyes with rings of darkness as thick as of Saturn’s, with that slouched back, as crooked as the question marks that thrusted so deep it hurts, he was dirty, he was hopeless, he was dying, I was dying.

Cried a tear, I gave up to the games, people that came once, now had gone away, every time with a part of me taken along with their farewells, never once getting that runaway ball.

Yet apart, a hard lesson to the head that this body, this sunken temple of my glory left with me, it’s the only thing in this world that I can trust. With its worth, I began nurturing it, as if it is a little kitten cub, cared as though a prized pet, gave it lots of love to chase runaways no longer.

It is me, myself, and I that have been looking after one another nowadays.

I gave it some chew toys and a scratching pole, at least its gnawing its teeth and playing on something quite steady and unmoving, unable to run away.

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reasure T Graphics by: Gema Rose Simon

To my favorite Person JAFFY BUSTAMANTE

I

was just a normal university girl trying to survive college. Then I met this guy. We got close. He courted me. Things were going

He would cheer me up when I'm sad. He would listen to my stories and rants.

He would always ask me how my day went. He would send me song covers.

He would also give me assurance every time. I also did things to make him feel special and cared for. Each day, I was slowly becoming more sure of my feelings until I became sure that I already love him. I was just waiting for him to say it first. Until one day he told me he wasn't sure of his feelings and that we should stop what's going on between us. That shattered my heart into tiny little pieces. I didn't know what to do. I actually thought we were on the same page but unfortunately we weren't. It hurts because he left as if I was never a reason to stay. Just like that, he let go of my hand. Just like that, my favorite person was gone. "Just when I thought I couldn't be any happier, you took me to the highest place then you pushed me off the cliff in the cruelest way possible" (from Our Beloved Summer). I really felt that. That's basically what he did. It still hurts until now but it's becoming more bearable.

To my favorite person, I never had the chance to tell you this, but I want you to know that I genuinely loved you (and I think I still do). Thank you for making me feel special even just for a short while. You're everything I wanted but I guess that's not the same for you. That hurts but that's okay because every moment we shared felt genuine and everything you told me seemed sincere. I'm slowly moving forward but I'll forever be grateful for everything. It was an honor to have my heart broken by you.

Goodbye, my love.

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Taste Me JAFFY BUSTAMANTE

Keep me in bed a little longer And let your breath linger In the valley of my desires.

Taste me with fire on your tongue Until the first rays of the sun Caress my skin.

Breathe me in, make me fly.

Taste me more Just taste me until sunrise

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I love You SHANIEL BRAGA

My love for you will never fade.

With both our feelings combined, and how our love was made.

You give me the strength to stand up tall.

You reach out for my hand every time I'm about to fall.

There is not a day you're not on my mind.

A person like you is really hard to find.

Without your presence, I was feeling blue My day isn't complete without you.

I love to hold you and hold your hand.

From this day on, you are my very best friend.

I'm happy when I talk to you every day.

"I love you" are my favorite words you always say.

I love it when I look into your eyes.

I see no hatred and no lies.

Forever in my heart is where you will be.

Nobody else will enter because you have the only key.

Just to keep you, there isn't anything I wouldn't do.

Because my love, I love you.

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Penetration of Life JOEL TAN

Back and forth The train never stops entering and exiting the tunnels It is in real pleasure carrying many lives In and out Even sometimes the tunnel is quite narrow Its long body never get tired to serve the lives inside it Inside are many lives with such amazing dreams and hopes The train never regrets letting go of its passengers Because after they leave the vessel, the real war will begin They keep competing for happiness Like the train, we should be resilient and persevere No matter how narrow or wide our paths are, We should always find a reason to be happy and confident Never try stopping yourself to go back and forth Use all your stamina and all you’ve got So that in the end, we may say we don’t regret being alive Love ourselves to the fullest, it will also make your loved ones happy.

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Ugh!

JOEL TAN

It is so strange...

I can’t take it anymore My heart is pounding like crazy I want to scream!

You accepted my love You illuminated my dark past Brings light to my hopeless life.

I really want to hug you tight, I will make you shout the word “Ugh!” Ugh love you more than the sky above Ugh like you more than the deep sea I’m gonna make you love me more When you enter my life, there is no escape

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Do not try to run away, I am watching you If you leave me behind, watch your footsteps, I will be underneath the ground My hands will surely grab your feet I will bury you and me to nothingness but dirt of my love Ugh! I am so crazy about you If you escape, never try to cross any body of water, My long slippery tentacles will grab you and drown you to my selfishness Do not try to set me on fire or else you will see your ashes beside me Because we are connected You are mine and always be mine Ugh! I am really in love with you!

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Home KYLA NAPO

I

was walking down that dark and cold street every night. It had been my routine since the day that I learned to be independent and realized that in this life, I am all alone.

Each night that I pass by that lonely street, I will always see and bump into different people who come and go, strangers. But one night is totally extraordinary. That chilling night, I wasn’t able to bump or hit someone.

There’s this guy who just appeared out of nowhere, maybe he emerged from a pentagram or just came out of a puff of smoke. I was stunned when I felt something warm touching my bare shoulders. “Relax,” he said then chuckled. I am used to the coldness of this street so I never worry about it but his jacket lying on my shoulders made me feel warm. The guy went beside me, introduced himself, and told me stories until I reached my destination and he bid his goodbye.

The second, third, and fourth nights have gone the same as that night. The guy, whose name I can’t remember, would always tell me stories until we reached my place. The fifth night became the difference because that night, he brought a lamp, lighting and guiding us. And that fifth night, I finally decided to talk about myself and answer his questions that I ignored in the past nights.

I opened myself up to a stranger. Who wouldn’t? He’s very consistent. Putting his jacket on my shoulders, bringing his lamp, and telling stories about himself as well as getting to know me more. We’re able to know each other well.

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Night after night after night, I got used to his presence and company. I welcomed him in my life and realized that I am not alone after all. His consistency, kindness, and his company made me feel safe and secured.

I never saw life as vibrant and brilliant the way I saw it now with him and his lamp. I never saw someone as warm as him and his jacket. I never saw a smile as pure as his and his intentions. Everything was different. He was different.

I never prayed before but one night under those bright stars, I prayed. I prayed that nothing would change. But my prayer seemed to have fallen on deaf ears because he didn’t come.

I waited for him. I didn’t walk home. I just sat on the pavement and waited for him to give me warmth and shed some light.

Until the next night came, I stood up and prayed again. I prayed for him to come and walk me home. I stayed and waited. I can't remember anymore how many nights have passed. I noticed how my hair grew from my shoulders down to my waist. For the very first time, I cried.

I cried because I never moved forward, I wasn’t able to move forward after that night that he didn’t show up. Slowly, with shaking knees, I stood up. I couldn’t count how many times I stumbled but I kept on standing up and walking.

Alone, shivering from the coldness of the night, and blinded by the dark. Finally, I was able to see home – him, waiting for me, smiling with open arms.

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Graphics by: Julianne Desiree Regidor

Until there's nothing left JAFFY BUSTAMANTE

Sometimes, ENOUGH is just a word.

Because to some, It means- GIVING MORE Until there’s nothing left

Weird

REIGN ROSE SORIANO

They said, It’s better to give, Than to receive.

Then, Why it hurts So bad That I love you But don't love me back?

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My Ultimate Decision JAFFY BUSTAMANTE

I was never courageous enough To wander off too far from the safe shores If my comfortable existence.

But for you, I’d sail on ferocious seas, I’d wade through wild jungles I’d conquer galaxies after galaxies Just to travel to you ‘cause you’re my ultimate destination You are where I need to be.

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Graphics by: Ma. Biena Lapitan

Past

H

ello, little one, it’s me, you.

I just want to ask u if this is the life that you dreamt of living?

Did we make it? Are you proud of me? Because I am so proud of you.

Thank you for living life the way your heart desires. Thank you for meeting good people that helped me become who I am today. I just want to tell you that there will be a lot of hard times ahead, but because of the help of the people around you, your strong heart and desire to pursue the things you want to do, you’ll C R Y S T A L A N N E M A L L A R I eventually overcome everything. Of course, there are also a lot of good days ahead, cherish every happy moment you’ll experience, those are the things that would help you to keep on going. Thank you for all the risks you took, for all the efforts you did, and for all the memories you’ve made, all the good and bad, thank you for all of those. I am still holding on to those memories and those memories are what keeps me going. I’ll keep doing my best to fulfill your dreams, please keep rooting for me.

Past.

Present.

Future.

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Present

L

ife feels like everything is all over the place right now, isn’t? So, I just want to check on you, how are you? Are you doing well? I hope with everything that is going on right now, you don’t forget to take care of yourself. Take a rest when you are tired. When things feel too much, give yourself a break, you deserve it. In every effort you exert, you are becoming one step closer to your goal, so hang in there, okay? Don’t pressure yourself too much, live your life at your own pace. Live a life that your future self will be proud of when she looks back at the past. Your past self is rooting for you and your future self is patiently waiting for who you will become.

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Future

D

id we make it? I hope we did. Are you living the life that I dream of? I hope you are. But whatever life you are living right now, I just hope that you are genuinely happy with it. Yourself, your well-being, and happiness should always be your top priority in life. Whatever decision you will make, I know that you will decide on it with much consideration. I hope you are living a life that you are content with and please continue living life the way your heart desires. I look forward to meeting you.

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Summer Snowflakes

REIGN ROSE SORIANO

Midday, I sat by the windowsill Melted snowdrops on the edges Bare hands wrapped with cold Oh, will you hold it still If I am the frostbites on your lips?

While I am the freezing point, you are the latter— You are a flame—and I cannot fathom How you burn right before my eyes But darling, I’ll lay on your arms over and over again For your warmth means home; my eternal haven And they say it’s impossible to have snowflakes In the midst of summer season

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Yet we reflect the two Our hands were made to fit for each other Just as the fire and ice—to fill the gaps, to create balance So if you’ll get frostbites from my touch, I’ll buy you hundreds of sweaters And if my cheeks burn from your kiss, We’ll stay under the shade and I’ll be healed For that’s how we were made for each other We were defined as summer snowflakes— But we are made for love

Langoy na hindi pumapagod LADY NICOLE PAG-ONG

Sa tuwing nasa tubig, Hindi maiwasan ang hiling sa sanang Pag-agos sa ‘yo ng pag-ibig.

‘Yung malamig, Ngunit hindi nang-giginaw.

‘Yung naka-lulunod, ‘Yung ding umaapaw.

‘Yung pag-ibig na kahit malalim, Hindi ka binibigyan ng takot upang sisirin.

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Dapat Mahaba KYLA NAPO

B

akit tuwing sumasakay tayo ng jeep at hinihintay munang mapuno bago maka-larga'y nakapaghihintay tayo? Kahit umaapoy na ang pang-upo at ngawit na ang mga binting hindi magawang maiunat ay nagpapasensya tayo mairaos lang ang byaheng maghahatid pauwi sa atin.

Bakit kahit ang haba ng pila sa Jollibee ay nananatili tayo sa pila? Kahit halos bumigay na ang mga binti sa kakatayo at ngawit ay nagagawa nating maghintay mapawi lang ang gutom sa chicken joy at jolly hotdog.

Bakit ang tiyaga natin maghintay sa mga orders natin sa Shopee kahit minsa’y umaabot pa ng ilang linggo o di kaya’y buwan bago sila dumating? Kahit gusto na natin kanselahin sa tagal ng pagdating ay tinitiis natin para lang makita kung kasing-ganda ba ng nasa larawan ang mismong produktong binili natin.

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Bakit? Bakit ang patient mo naman sa mga bagay at pagkakataong nabanggit ko pero apuradung-apurado ka magka-love life?

Bhie, wag kang magmadali. Darating at darating din ‘yan. May tamang oras at pagkakataon na nakalaan para makilala mo na ang taong para sa’yo. Ang mga bagay na mabilis at madali mong nakuha, mabilis ding nawawala. Sa madaling salita, trial card.

Maghintay ka at magpasensya muna. Darating na lang ‘yan bigla sa panahon at pagkakataong ‘di mo inaasahan. At habang wala pa, ilaan mo muna lahat ng pagmamahal at pag-aalaga sa sarili mo. Kahit sa dami ng tao dito sa mundo, ikaw at ikaw lang ang tanging may alam kung paanong pagmamahal ba ang gusto mong maranasan.

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Para sa aking nag-iisa SHANIEL BRAGA

Para sa aking nag-iisa, para sa natatangi, Nais ko lang sabihin na paborito ko ang ‘yong ngiti.

Lahat ng pangamba ay napapawi, Sa aking pagmamahal ay wala kang kahati.

Para sa aking nag-iisa, sa aking inspirasyon, Hindi magbabago ang pagsinta, lumaon man ang panahon.

Pagtingin ay lalong lumalalim na parang balon, Pag-ibig ay nadaragdagan sabay sa pag haba ng panahon.

Para sa aking nag-iisa, sa walang kasing ganda, Pati na ang kalooban at hindi lamang ang mukha.

Kaya naman lalo ako sa iyong nahahalina, Sa mundong ito’y nag-iisa, walang kapareha.

Para sa aking nag-iisa, sa aking walang hanggan, Nais ko lamang na iyo laging pakatatandaan.

Ikaw lang ang gustong kapiling sa bawat kinabukasan, Hanggang sa pagtanda ikaw lamang ang hahagkan.

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Anxious Heart REIGN ROSE SORIANO

Whenever catastrophic sceneries Etched in my mind— Please do hold my hand To lull my aching heart I strive to be well When I’m with you Our phone calls and your words of assurance Were my 24/7 dosage of comfort A solace to my ears, a peace of my mind You helped me breathe When I was suffocated with self-doubts And ended my 2:15 a.m. rambles What a lovely feeling to embrace Who’s willing to understand my language

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If my soul lives in another life, It would beat for your name still, endlessly And if you see me unsatisfactorily, Then I’d breathe out fine As long as you didn’t lie, It would make my heart less anxious

Graphics by: Ma. Biena Lapitan

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Pula ang Kulay ng Rosas CHRISTIAN GENER BUENAVENTURA

Pula ang kulay ng Rosas Halimuyak nga ba ang dulot sa nakaraan?

Kulay ng Rosas na dumilig sa lupain ng ating kasaysayan Rosas na syang nagsilbing tanikalang tinik ng ating sambayanan.

Pula ang kulay ng Pag-ibig Nang Dahil sa labis na pag-ibig sa kapangyarihan Nais pang patuloy na diktahan ang sanlibutan Sa paglingon mo sa kahapon, lahat ng tao ay tila may busal ang bibig.

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Pula ang kulay ng Katapangan Na syang lumupil maging sa sarili nitong mamamayan.

Kulay ng dugo ang syang naging kasagutan, Sa bawat mamamayan na may nais masumpungan.

Kung ang pag-ibig sa tinubuang lupa Ang syang patuloy na umaagos sa bawat sapa Kung ang Pag-ibig sa ating sariling bayan, Ang syang nagmulat sa atin sa karimlan Masasabi pa bang Pula ang kulay ng Rosas, Kung ang inang bayan ay tila isang tupa, Patuloy pa ring pinagkakakitaan, patuloy pang ginagatasan?

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A Hand to Hold MIRO RAPHAEL SALUNGA

Though man goes through dawn at each Passing day, the nightfall still fills dread Over weary hearts. As the sun sets into The frigid shadows, and moonlight fills The rampant blackness, a hand to hold Glimpses into the merry future, with hopes To go by as the night progresses.

Never leave the darkness cold, till the dawn Unfolds, till dusk will thine hold one's hand, Till joy from dread will you stay by.

A hand to hold always by my side, Through all odds, through all pain.

As the pedestal is atop a scaffold of ink, Atop the climax of the night, lonesome Standings shadow by, only comforted By thin cardigans. Yet a hand to hold Always steps by, to ferry through midnight To early morning.

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And the shadows only grow colder and colder, As the breeze flows through the heaven's gate— Lonely are the mourning hours Where all ice and wind come to grieve, And their tears blown by passing leaves.

Never, you left, and stayed by, singing with The whistling branches.

And the denouement is but a static show, Emptiness fills only chambers, and nothing, Nothing happens. But only dread flows by As if a cascade motions out, bellowing winds Gush forth down. Still despite the abyssal walls, Never left, a hand to hold.

Dusk to dawn did you stay by, never leaving My side. And now the night cycles into day, As the sun rises from the east. Not only does The day cycles, but the bellowing fate Of two hands that hold. And now, As the night cycles into day, Yours to night, you will always have A hand to hold.

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You'll always have yourself JAFFY BUSTAMANTE

I

learned not to always be there for people when I know they can deal with their sh*t on their own. You can call me selfish all you want, but I guess I just realized how I've been playing hero a lot when the truth is I also need saving.

That I also want a happy ending of my own. I learned how not to give a d*mn about most of what other people say, especially when I know they don't play a big role in my story, anyway. In this world full of temporary people, I don't think it's such a bad thing to think that sometimes, you're all that you got.

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Panahon ng Sariwang loob JAY Z NAS ARLAN

Sariwang loob, Puso ay nagbabatid Bawat kasiyahan sa diwang hatid Damdaming malugod sa ating dibdib Diwang malalim sa mga umiibig Panahon ng pagmamahalan Diwa noon pa man Mabuksan ang loob ng masidhian Malaya ang puso sa kasuklaman Tinatamasa ng lahat ang mahalin Ako rin naman ay nadadala rin Sumasabay doon ang saloobin Kaya una muna ang sarili sa akin

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Forbidden

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Graphics by: Rizalde Tacujan

You SHANIEL BRAGA

I know I am insecure But your words are my only cure.

"You're strong" you said that once But they say I don't hold a chance.

You were there, when it was dark.

Your smile was like a spark.

You never complained, only adored.

I never explained but you ensured.

Those were the time I needed you the most And you were there as if you were my host.

"You're Pretty" is what you always say Even though I never repay.

Some words are not spoken.

Some hearts are just meant to be broken.

You're an angel who killed the devil inside me.

You're the reason I lost my insanity.

I don't want to be on the receiving end.

But you would never resent.

I know it's hard for you too Cause you're not as well perfect, that's true.

Soon, you'll be the one I love.

Cause you said I make your heart to move.

It's confidential I know But I will gonna love what we have now.

Wish is I could be there for you Forever and ever till it's my cue.

Your love for me have always been so intense When we're in a relationship I hope it becomes more dense.

I promised under the chandelier.

That I'll never leave your side ever.

It's all gonna be fine.

And one day you're gonna be mine.

94

PASASALAMAT Sa edisyong ito ng aming publikasyon, ang pag-ibig ang siyang nanaig. Kaya’t amin itong ipinamamahagi sa mga taong sa ami’y walang sawang nagmamahal at tumutulong.

Pangunahin naming pinasasalamatan higit sa kaninuman ay ang Diyos na Maylalang dahil sa dalisay na pag-ibig na iginagawad sa amin.

Sunod ay ang mga Propesor, Guro ng aming mahal na Kolehiyo, ang Kolehiyo ng Agham, sa masiglang pangunguna ng aming Dekana na si Propesor Mary Jane N.Rigor. Espesyal na pasasalamat naman ang aming handog sa Gurong Tagapanguna ng aming publikasyon na si Propesor Estrella B. Pagco dahil sa mainit na pagsuporta sa lahat naming mga tahakin bilang organisasyon.

Nais rin naming bigyan ng pasasalamat ang mga mag-aaral ng aming Kolehiyo, gayundin ang aming mga kaibigan na laging nasa aming tabi sa tuwing kami ay nakakararanas ng lungkot at pighati.

Hindi rin naming malilimot na handugan ng pasalamatan sa tuwi-tuwina ang mga mahal naming mga magulang. Maraming sakripisyo ang binuno at sa kanila namin nadama ang tunay na pag-ibig na kailanma’y di nagmaliw. Salamat po Nanay at Tatay dahil di niyo po kami iniwan, sinaktan man kami ng mundo.

At sa pagkakataong ito, salamat rin sa mga taong sa una’y inibig namin subalit kami ay iniwan, sinaktan at pinaglaruan lamang. Salamat pa rin dahil kami ay natuto na lumaban kahit nasasaktan at nagawang magpatuloy sa buhay kahit kami ay labis na sugatan.

Gayunman, salamat pa rin dahil naging bahagi kayo ng aming buhay at sa minsan ay dinulutan niyo rin ng ligaya ang buhay naming puno ng lungkot at dusa. Kayo ang inspirasyon ng mga lathalaing isinulat namin.

Sa huli, piliin nating ipamahagi ang pag-ibig! ‘Wag itong sarilinin!

Sa Diyos ang lahat ng kapurihan!

THE FUSION Scientific Writers, Initiating Actions