The Flash Single Pages S.Y 2023-2024

ESCALATING THREAT

Amidst the implementation of the DepEd Matatag curriculum and constitutional mandate to promote nationalism and patriotism, Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) took a stand against proposed amendments to the 1987 constitution, specifically those permitting foreign entities to oversee Philippine basic education, March 8.

A survey of 3,141 students revealed that 2,855 (90.9%) students are against the amending of the 1987 Constitution, over 198 (6.3%) students supported the revision, while 88 (2.8%) students abstained, a clear rejection by more than two-thirds of the student body.

The 1987 Philippine Constitution’s proposed amendment, Article XIV, Section 4, stipulates that “basic educational institutions should be owned by citizens or corporations with at least 60% of their capital, with control and administration vested in Philippine citizens unless otherwise provided by law.”

Secondary School Principal John R. Mina said that the admin’s decision might be influenced by foreign entities referring to the possible control of foreign people to several factors regarding education such as foreigners teaching in the Philippines.

According to House Speaker Martin Romualdez, the amendment of the 1987 Constitution will allow opening up the

Philippine economy to foreign investments, dealing with the restrictions of foreign capital and backing.

Department of Education Undersecretary Omar Romero feared that the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law”, would ‘potentially serve as a gateway to expand the scope of control and administration over educational institutions not solely by citizens of the Philippines but other entities as well.

This would contradict Section 3, wherein Romero cited the said article, which states that all educational institutions shall inculcate patriotism and nationalism, which will nullify the MATATAG curricula that emphasize a core value: Makabansa.

Renz Ian Dacoron, a CCSASHS teacher, mentioned that the ongoing pilot implementation of the MATATAG curriculum could be affected.

“It’s a little bit vague since we’re adjusting [to the] MATATAG curriculum. It would wreck [the] MATATAG curriculum [and] nullify the MATATAG curriculum. Maybe there is [a] hidden agenda

focusing on foreign entities and investors,” he said.

Additionally, “If foreigners were to enter our education system, I believe that the Philippine education system should not be named the “Philippine education system” in the first place,” said Vanessa Dianne Antonio, a grade 12 student from CCSASHS. The Department of Education has yet to express its concerns regarding the amendment of the 1987 Constitution.

90.9% OF CCSASHIANS ARE AGAINST THE AMENDING OF THE 1987 CONSTITUTION.

6.3% OF CCSASHIANS ARE IN FAVOR.

2.8% OF CCSASHIANS ARE ABSTAINED.

SOLUTION TO ADVERSITY

byHeleneRoseReynaldo

Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) established the TVL - Mindful Inventors-Nurturing Initiatives of the Marketing Team Project (TVL – Mini Mart Project) at the TVL Triangle, May 2023.

The TVL - MINI Mart Project is an income-generating initiative managed by TVL students aiming to profit from products crafted by students who would like to earn while attending school.

The project focuses on providing different products such as bread, pastries, and juices, and services crafted by TVL students, specifically, those students in the Bread and Pastry Production and Food and Beverage Services courses, cultivating mastery of skills such as entrepreneurship while generating profits to help financially struggling students with their daily allowances.

According to Carolyn Alibania, Head Coordinator of the project, many TVL students struggle financially, often leading to school

absenteeism as they work to afford daily allowance in going to school.

“As a TVL teacher, I don’t want to fail them just because they couldn’t perform. However, the reality is that even though they have the desire to perform, they lack the financial capacity to do so,” she stated.

Addressing the issue, she mentioned that teachers often contribute to cover the student’s expenses for laboratory tasks and ensure that there is a profit afterward.

Moreover, the earnings generated from the project are systematically divided, with a structured division of 70-30%, where 70% of the total income goes to the students and the 30% goes to the laborato-

70% Of TVL-MINI Mart Project proceedearnings to students in need

CCSASHS opens ALS-SHS program for out-of-school learners

byMystyllynneCastillejos

“Our role is hard and challenging, but also fulfilling, especially when we see our learners come back to school and graduate.”

This is the vision of Sir Romel C. Sor, the teacher-coordinator of the Alternative Learning System - Senior High School (ALS-SHS) program that was launched at Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS), August 29.

CCSASHS was the pilot school to open the ALS program that aims to provide access to quality education for Out-of-School Youth and Adults (OSYA) who want to complete their basic education and pursue their college aspirations.

The ALS-SHS program is a component of the ALS, which is a non-formal education program implemented by the Department of Education (DepEd) to cater to the diverse learning needs of OSYA. It offers the same curriculum and learning competencies as the regular SHS program but with more flexibility and support for the learners.

Sor stated that ALS-SHS is open to OSYA who are at least 18 years old and have completed the Junior High School (JHS) level through the ALS Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) Test or the Philippine Educational Placement Test (PEPT).

Moreover, he said that the ALS-SHS program is a great opportunity for OSYA who are working, married, or have other responsibilities that prevent them from attending regular classes.

He also added that the ALSSHS learners only need to attend classes twice a week, Tuesday and Monday, allowing them to choose from various tracks and strands that suit their interests and goals.

However, he also acknowledged the challenges in implementing the ALS-SHS program, such as the low attendance and retention of the learners, the lack of learning

ry expenses and other operational costs to sustain the project.

Furthermore, the initiation of the project traces its roots back to September 2022, when Alibania, spearheaded the project’s conceptualization and later joined the Ideal Pitch 2.0 during the Gawagaway-yan Festival, selecting Jhodel Porras as the student proponent, who secured 20 thousand pesos grant, allocating 5000Php to the presenter and 15000Php for the project’s launch in May 2023.

“We can say that it is sustaining and helpful, and aside from that, they are able to master the business process. They no longer worry about their allowances, and they are also able to attend school,” she added.

30% Of TVL-MINI Mart Project earnings proceed to the operational costs of project.

resources and facilities, and the need for more training and support for the ALS-SHS teachers.

“We are doing our best to address these challenges by conducting home visits, reaching out to remote areas, and partnering with various stakeholders,” he added.

The ALS coordinators described that the responsibilities of ALS-SHS teachers is challenging because they need to reach out and motivate the learners who are facing various personal and social difficulties.

Despite the struggle, he mentioned that they have received support from the Rotary Club of Caloundra from Australia, who donated boxes of learning materials and equipment for the ALS-SHS learners, and thanked the initiative of the Sangguniang Panglungsod of Cauayan City, led by the City Councilor Garry Galutera, who donated ALS-SHS t-shirts for the learners.

The ALS coordinator expressed his optimism that by 2025, there will be graduates from the ALS-SHS program who will be able to enroll in college or find better employment opportunities.

CCSASHS implements Project TAPAT to aid teaching gaps

byLeslyKeithBaniaga

Secondary School Principal John R. Mina introduces Project TAPAT (Teacher’s Assessment of Performance and Aptitude Tool) by the fourth pillar of the DepEd Matatag Agenda: Give support to the teachers to teach better, this December 1.

Project TAPAT is an assessment tool that aims to provide a comprehensive overview of teachers’ behavioral performance over time including quarterly, semi-annual, and annual evaluations.

It relies on objective ratings derived from students’ consistent observations of teachers’ interaction over a specified period.

Mina emphasized that this tool is not intended to diminish teachers’ efforts, rather it serves to cultivate growth and improvement by facilitating honest and objective feedback from students.

“You assess objectively based on the exhibited behavior of your teachers,” he said.

Teachers will be rated by the following; clarification of objectives, subject of matter, presentation of letter, classroom management, assessment of students’ performance, and students’ treatment.

The first survey was issued this February 19, after the first-semester examination, and the student body is required to fill up the Google form.

CCSASHS welcomes new batch amidst population shifts

byAngelineManarang

Cauayan City Stand Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) opened the school year with 3,141 enrollees, a significant increase from the previous year’s 1,639, yet within expected projections.

Furthermore, the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand has seen a surge in enrollment compared to the previous academic year, comparing this year’s enrollees with 1230 while the previous year was 608, this increase can be attributed to other schools’ decisions not to offer certain strands, resulting in a redistribution of students.

Moreover, the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) department has experienced a decline in enrollment compared to the previous year, this decrease can be attributed to a rigorous assessment process for STEM applicants, resulting in a smaller student population in this academic year.

Regardless of this, the administration of Cauayan City Stand Alone Senior High School is committed to providing quality education and opportunities for its students, ensuring their holistic development and preparation for future endeavors.

DepEd introduces new school calendar; CCSASHS teachers adjust lessons to end in May

byRosminAndreiMogatas

Rotary Club of Caloundra Pacific funded the Radio Laboratory of Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School which targets Alternative Learning System (ALS) students, on January 29.

The school has recorded 68 ALS students coming from forest regions as well as other communities who will be the beneficiaries of the project.

“Iyong ALS students kasi natin ay ‘di ba required sila pumasok twice a week, marami pa rin kasing hindi kaya sa schedule nila, nahirapan sila pumasok… ‘yung iba working student, ‘yung iba mothers, kaya nahihirapan silang pumasok, kaya pinagawa ‘yong radio laboratory (Our ALS students are required to attend classes twice a week, and majority of them are either mothers or working students, so they struggle to come to school, thus, the production of the radio laboratory),” Romel Sor, ALS Subject Group Head (SGH), said.

Furthermore, John R. Mina, Secondary School Principal IV, expressed his concerns regarding the struggle of ALS learners coming from urban areas.

“We are proposing the establishment of the ALS radio laboratory that will cater to our learners from far areas and other towns and cities kaya mas maganda may radio [laboratory] tayo (so it is better that we have a radio [laboratory],” Mina expressed.

According to Mina, the Rotary Club of Caloundra Pacific is one of the school’s international stakeholders supporting the school’s interven-

tion programs.

Malou Deakin, one of the members of the mentioned organization stated that she, together with her colleagues, Mr. Greig Lee-Archer, Area Governor, Mr. Ross Harris, Incoming Director of International Project Service, Mr. Dan Thomasson, Club Secretary, and her husband, Mr. John Deakin, member, collaborated with Mina and saw this as an opportunity to have their own project.

“After I presented my own charity project and to my club...this is the golden opportunity for us to have our very first international project of our own,” Deakin said.

Furthermore, Print and Prep, an income-generating project of ABM, was also initially funded by the said organization.

In addition, Deakin emphasized her admiration towards Mina’s leadership, leading her to choose CCSASHS as one of the beneficiaries.

“I love his principles, his values and there’s always accountability and transparency, and that is what I’m looking for,” Deakin expressed.

The Rotary Club of Caloundra Pacific, located on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia, brings together people of all generations who desire to make a difference in the world, their communities, and their personal lives.

PH students 5-6 years behind in learning based on PISA 2022

byJillianeGilmo

City Youth Development Officer Christian Gonzales, Public Attorney II, convened tricycle drivers to discuss the significance of the Safe Spaces Act, held at the Isabela Convention Center (ICON) in December 9.

With around 100 attendees, including Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) Supreme Secondary Learner Government (SSLG) officers and tricycle drivers, Gonzales highlighted the purpose of Republic Act (RA) 11313, known as the Bawal Bastos Law.

The focus was on addressing Gender-Based Sexual Harassment (GBSH) in public spaces, educational institutions, workplaces, and online platforms.

The Center for Women Resources (CWR) found that one child or woman is raped every 62 minutes, with 70 percent of the victims being children.

Moreover, According to the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority, 17.5% of Filipino women aged 15-49 have experienced some form

With the newly-released Department Order No. 003 series 2024 or the new school calendar released on February 20, Cauayan City StandAlone Senior High School (CCSASHS) strives to deliver lesson plans in the remaining months to meet the May 31 end-of-class deadline reducing numerous activities and expediting lesson delivery for school year 2023-2024.

The main purpose of the newly signed school calendar by Department of Education Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio is to rapidly bring back the April-May break with June as the start of classes from the June-July break with August as opening of school year

DepEd also announced the school year 2024-25 will begin on July 29 and end on May 16, 2025, resulting in a slow exchange and mass modification for the following school year.

CCSASHS educators are not concerned with the recently released schedule due to their adjustments in Most Essential Learning Competency (MELC) cutting back duplicate competencies and lessons. “I prioritize the most essential learning competencies, and based on my assessment of my students, in the subject that I handle, there are repetitions in the MELCS, and I’ve adjusted performance activities,” according to Grade 11 teacher, Joyce G. Basanes. Additionally, many teachers teach their lessons more quickly to ensure the delivery of the lesson

to the students; however, many are concerned since the mode of delivery of the lesson is fast and learners need to catch up with the shortening of the school year.

According to Romel C. Sor, ALS teacher-coordinator, the phase of teaching learners is not a hindrance that may be a good side since the repetition of teachings from the MELCs is evident, and removing it would not affect the learners’ absorption of the lesson.

DepEd plans to press even harder to reinstate the regular AprilMay vacation to compensate for the calendar disruption caused by COVID-19, which erupted at the end of 2019 and will continue until 2022. Students voicde out the numerous holidays that can cause a shortage of learning toward the student with the present school calendar that will end in May instead of June-July.

However, teachers promise learners that the MELCs can meet their needs for lessons following the 2023-2024 school year-end.

REMOTE SCHOLARS

Rotary Club of Caloundra grants CCSASHS radio lab for ALS

byVanessaDianneAntonio

Department of Education (DepEd) acknowledged that the Philippines’ poor performance in the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) reflects a five-to-six-year lag in the country’s learning competencies.

The Philippines placed 77th out of 81 countries globally in PISA. The nation’s scores fell significantly below the global average in the 2022 assessment, scoring 347 in reading, 355 in mathematics, and 373 in science - roughly 120 points lower than the global average.

“The low performance of our learners is not just an issue for education alone, but for our entire country,” stated the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) in a statement released following a national forum where the DepEd revealed the latest PISA results.

Due to the disappointing result, Irene Blas, a teacher at CCSASHS, expressed her dismay and suggested a deep evaluation for stu-

dents and teachers to hone them to achieve desired outputs and master prescribed competencies.

“Implementers of the curriculum should exert the required efforts to guide learners to learn better,” Blas stressed. She also added that the Department of Education (DepEd) should implement retention policies for students who cannot meet the desired competencies.

Despite the DepEd’s extensive reforms and preparations following a disappointing performance in PISA 2018, only slightly less than a quarter of Filipino students who participated in the 2022 test achieved the minimum proficiency level in math, reading, and science.

Cauayan orients

of physical, sexual, or emotional violence from their intimate partners, thus the need to highlight continuous vigilance and enforcement of anti-bullying policies

In response, the Philippine government passed the Safe Spaces Act, which criminalizes different types of public sexual harassment.

Meanwhile, the CCSASHS administration received formal complaints from three students, revealing that they have been experiencing sexual harassment from tricycle drivers, while a few also raised their concerns directly to their advisers.

Additionally, it was mentioned at the symposium that any future reports of student harassment by tricycle drivers will be referred directly to the Public Order and

Division (POSD),

intervention.

drivers, students on Safe Space Act

JAYCEE launches Teen Center; to address students’ mental health

byAltheaMaeGuillermo

CAUAYAN CITY, Isabela —The Junior Advocates for the Youth of Cauayan City Envisioning Excellence (JAYCEE) led by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Cauayan headed by Mayor Caesar “Jaycee” Dy Jr. encourages students to visit the new Teen Center in Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School.

The center was established during the school year 2023-2024 and aims to expand the experience of young Cauayeños in their time as they stay in CCSASHS, with the help of Joyce Jose Soriano, Guidance Counselor of CCSASHS.

Due to the large number of students, CCSASHS was chosen to have a Teen Center with the assistance of LGU Cauayan.

The purpose of Jaycee Teen Center is for the students or even teachers to unwind and relax their minds from stressful school work.

Students can play board games, watch TV, and have a fun conversation with their friends, teachers, and loved ones.

“One of the purposes of the Teen Center is not just to help them emotionally but also for couples there to educate them on the right relationship they should have,” Soriano stated.

SDRRMC points out students’ ‘slow response’ during NSED

byVanessaDianneAntonio

School Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (SDRRMC) Adviser Julie Ann Zalun expressed her concerns regarding the slow response of the students during the 1st Quarter of the National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED), March 22.

“Mabagal ang reporting ng mga students, (the students’ reporting were slow, )” Zalun said.

According to Zalun, the SDRRMC club coordinated this morning to improve the procedure of the drill, thus the incorrect execution of some students was concerning.

Chris John Romer, Auditor of SDRRMC also gave his feedback regarding the conducted drill.

“Hindi sila nakikinig, tatawa pa rin sila kahit duck, cover and hold (they don’t listen, they will still laugh even if the drill is ongoing),” he said.

Meanwhile, John R. Mina, secondary school principal, suggested that the school body must improve their reaction time during the conduct of earthquake drills.

More than 1,200 students took part in NSED, which was less than the usual number due to Grade 12 students who had completed their work immersion and National Achievement Test (NAT).

In accordance with the Division Memorandum OSDS-2024 03-1515, the supposedly NSED was on March 14 yet later on moved to March 22.

RECLAIMING FRIDAYS

CCSASHS Reading Coordinator notes ‘Catch Up Friday’ effective for students

byLeslyKeithBaniaga

Reading Coordinator Christine Guya classifies the implementation of Catch-Up Fridays in Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School as ‘effective’ to students noting the feedback by students overlooking possible activities during Fridays.

“For me, it’s effective because the feedback I receive from my classes is what I look forward to, like “Ma’am, what are our activities today?” because they see the interrelation and connection in the class, that is why I see to it that it is effective,” she said.

According to her, students can interrelate and see the connection between their topics during normal classes and Catch Up Fridays such as the reading and writing subject which is inclined with their topic.

‘Catch-Up Fridays’ is a learning mechanism intended to strengthen foundational, social, and other relevant skills necessary to realize the objectives of the basic education curriculum.

Inclined with the Catch Up Friday program, there are activities under the reading program that help the reading gap of students such as tutorial sessions and peer assistive programs but the results of these

activities are not evident since they were only implemented last year.

During the 2-year run of CCSASHS, the school accumulated 1490 independent readers, 65 instructional readers, and two frustration learners for grade 11 while 1440 independent readers, 140 instructional learners, and two frustration learners for grade 12.

“Because of that [data of independent, instructional, and frustrated readers], and also because of the results of PISA, we will be more determined to address the reading gaps we observe,” Guya said.

However, according to some students, they are having a hard time enjoying the said program as they experience boredom during class hours and structured directives are yet to be implemented.

Grade 12 Adviser Rowena Ladia noted that students experience boredom during class hours and some do not attend their classes knowing that they will do nothing in

class.

“It would be better if there are additional programs or lesson plans that we teachers should follow and the students should also be mandated to attend their classes,” she said.

Additionally, according to Mickyla Jane Bandayrel, a grade 12 student, she noted that Catch-up Up friday is however effective but it needs improvements so that students will get motivated during that time.

“Yes, I can see that there are students who are taking this seriously, some of my classmates are part of them however, large portion of the class seems bored when they are reading so instead they use their mobile phones, it would be better if there are activities for us to do during catch up fridays,” she said.

Despite the challenges, CCSASHS still continues to implement Catch-up Fridays and still looking for solutions to the possible reading gaps of the student

CCSASHS responds to DepEd’s directive removing admin tasks from teachers byAuraViennGive

Following The DepEd Order No. 002, s. 2024, during the second Basic Education Report (BER), the Department of Education (DepEd) officially relieved public school teachers of their administrative tasks to refocus efforts on teaching, January 25.

The DepEd Order entitled “Immediate Removal of Administrative Tasks of Public School Teachers” aims to enhance the quality of education by allowing teachers to dedicate more time to classroom teaching. Under the new policy, administrative tasks previously handled by teachers will be transferred to school heads and non-teaching personnel. This transition is supported by the creation of 10,000 administrative personnel positions for 2023 and 2024, ensuring a smooth reallocation of responsibilities. Moreover, DepEd has mandated Schools Division Offices (SDOs) to implement clustering strategies and deploy administrative support personnel to clustered schools immediately. Furthermore, SDOs are required to transfer existing administrative tasks from teachers to the appropriate staff within 60 calendar

days. On the other hand, administrative tasks are defined by the DepEd as operations related to the effective and efficient functioning of schools or programs, which are not directly linked to teaching and academic learning. By removing non-teaching responsibilities, the DepEd seeks to improve the quality of education and student learning experiences. This policy is a direct response to the 4th pillar of the MATATAG agenda which advocates to give support to teachers to teach better and represent the DepEd’s dedication to prioritizing the welfare of teachers and the quality of education in the Philippines. in adherence to the policy, Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School began initiating changes in the organizational structure revoking designations that are administration in nature.

50k SCHOOLS SUFFERING FROM BEING UNDERSTAFFED WITH TEACHERS CATCHING EXTRA ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS. MORE THAN byDepartmentofEducation

CCSASHS

grabs best RDNEB school implementer

byWillmarJoachimCamus

Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) is steadfast in its commitment to maintaining this esteemed status being recognized as the Second Best School Implementer on the Regional Validation of Development: Nurturing Exquisite Behavior (RDNEB), December 12.

This year, active participation from students and the admins soars higher, as every first Monday of the month runs a convocation program after their flag rites.

Within the documents submitted to the Regional Validation Team, the projects and programs that the school implemented are all in line with the goals of RDNEB.

In force-to-force, admins and students work together to present a value-provoking program, inviting different guest speakers every month to share words of motivation that the students will be instilling in their minds and hearts.

Moreover, it is said that during the previous school year, the school has set funds for the construction of the RDNEB Park which has been furnished and opened for the present school year, serving as an everyday reminder for everyone to carry these values within their heart.

According to Angelbert

Tangonan, RDNEB Coordinator, receiving the recognition is greatly important to show that CCSASHS is dedicated to supporting the program.

Tangonan branded the school “lucky” to be able to implement the project, not only on a homeroom basis but the entire school drives to embody and promote the project’s value, hand-inhand.

Meanwhile, John R. Mina, Secondary school principal IV, emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and growth.

“As for how I feel about our current implementation process, I would express pride in the progress we’ve made but also acknowledge that there’s always room for improvement,” Mina said. Furthermore, Mina added that his future plans regarding the implementation process of RDNEB is to work collaboratively with students to address any challenges and a goal

to ultimately continue to strive for excellence.

Project RDNEB is intended to support learners’ intellectual, personal, and emotional development, as well as their professional development.

The Flash bags multiple awards in Cauayan City DSPC’24

byVanessaDianneAntonio

Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School’s (CCSASHS) official English student publication, The Flash, achieved remarkable success at the Division Schools Press Conference 2024 on February 12-13.

After clutching multiple awards at the ceremony, The Flash set their goals to reach the National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) this year.

The Flash dominated with seven championships, particularly in sports writing, column writing, photojournalism, science and technology writing, collaborative and desktop publishing, television broadcasting, and Mobile journalism.

They also secured high rankings in various categories; 2nd place in feature writing, 2nd place in editorial writing, 3rd place in copyreading and headline writing, 5th place in editorial cartooning, 8th place in news writing, 2nd place in online publishing and 2nd place in radio broadcasting.

As the Flash secured their championship, some participants may feel disappointed with their rankings, and there is a collective belief in improvement for the next year.

During these events, the coaches encourage the participants to give their best effort, surpassing their expectations.

The Flash coaches took immense pride in their students, including Dr. John R. Mina, secondary school principal, for their hard work in representing CCSASHS across different regions.

Lone CCSASHSian advances to national level of PALAISIPAN ‘24

byNicolaiTagudando

byJohnLorenzRamones

Schools Division of Cauayan City permits Cauayan City Stand Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) to proceed in a half day classes from 7:00 in the morning to 12:00 noon, as heat index arises dramatically, at Cauayan City, April 16.

Classes between grade 11 and 12 are delimited by the heat in the following days for students to come home in the strike of 12 noon when levels of heat are just about to reach its critical point.

A new type of schedule had been designed for the students’ class without disruption of the given curriculum guidance in rush with the up coming graduation day in May.

For the grade 11, usual morning classes are scheduled on Monday and Wednesday and afternoon classes at Tuesday and Thursday while still maintaining one hour per subject.

On the other hand, grade 12 students with only five curriculum subjects must retain their schedule of all the subjects daily while also maintaining one hour per subject and delimiting the number of classes for their Work Immersion subject. This half day schedule of classes will affect the number of hours per classes remaining that is

needed to be finished before the end of the quarter on May 18.

With only a few weeks left with limited hours and Catch up Friday blocking the schedules to be finished swiftly, teachers begins to think their plan on how to finish their subject topics in just a short span of time.

Students like Trishean Aimar Nera is happy in this new type of schedule because of the intense heat that is limiting the mind to focus and people with health conditions will be affected in the process.

“If Tuguegarao City can reach upto 45 degrees celsius, what about Cauayan City? Students will have a hard time to participate in the class if they are already having difficulties in the topic, in addition to the hot climate,” he added.

Within the past week, Cauayan City has the average temperature of 39 degrees Celsius and although the city have not reacher beyond 40

the critical point of the index. If a person is left under this kind of harsh temperature, health factors may be affected such as elevated blood pressure levels, asthma, heart attack, and stroke.

Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) representative, a Grade 12 STEM student, advanced to the national level of Pambansang Labanan sa Isip, Sining, at Panitikan (PALAISIPAN) 2024 during the Annual Literacy, Academics, and Music (ALAM) 2024 contest, March 8.

With 20 participating schools, Pia Andrea Dawn Toledo, topped the slogan-making category, advancing her to the national level of PALAISIPAN 2024.

“Honestly, I wasn’t really expecting to win, but I’m happy that I secured first place in the ALAM competition this year for the second time. In addition, I’m glad that I was able to fulfill my dream of rejoining ALAM for my last year of high school and that I could make my family and everyone who helped me feel proud of me”, she said.

Moreover, the national qualifier said that aside from reading articles about the food security situation and agricultural developments in the country, she is learning different art styles and techniques as a part of her rigid training.

Meanwhile, PALAISIPAN 2024 is set to commence at the University of the Philippines Los Baños campus on April 27 to 28, 2024, with the theme “Strength in Sustenance: Nourishing Knowledge on the Food Security through Agricultural Developments”.

Cauayan City, Isabela

byLGUCauayanCity

EN-GRAVE-ING VISION

To dream the impossible dream, to fight the unbeatable foe. That is the vision of the Marcos Administration as House Speaker Martin Romualdez announces Charter Change (ChaCha) as a response to the compacted global economic system of the Philippines. The Congress’ decision not only leads to catastrophic events but also infiltrates the entire Philippine system. Filipino citizens are indeed doing the ChaCha— as they are dancing towards danger. Charter Change (ChaCha) refers to the amendment or revision of the 1987 Constitution. It can be proposed through a Constitutional Assembly (Con-Ass) with a threefourths vote, a Constitutional Convention (Con-Con) with a two-thirds vote in each district, or a People’s Initiative (PI) petition signed by at least 12% of registered voters in each district. While both Con-Ass and Con-Con can suggest changes and modifications, People’s Initiative is limited to proposing amendments. In December 2023, Romualdez proposed reopening discussions on ChaCha to drive economic improvement in the Philippines. Resolution on Both House (RBH) 7 seeks to lift foreign ownership restrictions in public utilities, advertising, and education. However, concerns about ChaCha, such as the method of joint voting on Con-Con and People’s Initiative, have been raised. With the Senate outnumbered 24

to 316, it could be compelled into a Con-Ass. In this scenario, lawmakers could amend the Constitution, subject to ratification by Filipino voters through a plebiscite. This could potentially concentrate power in Congress, particularly regarding economic provisions.

The RBH 7 proposes amendments to Articles XII, XIV, and XVI of the 1987 Philippine constitution, aiming to eliminate foreign ownership prohibitions in public utilities, advertising, and education. The amendments include adding the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law” which allows foreign investors to participate in the governing body, potentially causing economic dominance.

Economic factors such as businesses, labor and employment, income, capital, taxes, and the economic growth in general are affected with foreign entities deployed within the economic sector. If foreign corporations dominate key sectors, profits may flow out of the country, leaving local workers with minimal benefits. Additionally, without proper protections, foreign ownership could result in resource exploitation. Allowing foreign firms to control large tracts of land could adversely affect local residents and the environment. This could disrupt the nation’s economic equilibrium and leave Filipinos neglected by their own government— standing

and stranded on the same ground.

RBH 7’s amendments to Section 4 of Article XIV contradict Section 3, which requires the inclusion of patriotism and nationality in school curricula, diverging from the Department of Education’s MATATAG agenda.

RBH 7’s amendments to Section 4 of Article XIV contradict Section 3, which requires the inclusion of patriotism and nationality in school curricula, diverging from the Department of Education’s MATATAG agenda. Allowing foreign control over the curriculum undermines the nation’s education system and erases Filipino cultural uniqueness, raising doubts about its identity as the “Philippine” education system. Foreign investments can indeed improve educational facilities but their impact diminishes if not used for agreed-upon projects. For example, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte spent 125 million in just 11 days. Furthermore, Romualdez emphasized that the 1987 constitution alteration is primarily for the people, not political intentions, yet also noted that the ChaCha

will serve as the legacy of the 19th congress. Smells like something rotten is cooking inside the house. If the RBH 7 is approved, the house may gain control of the constitution, changing all sections, including political elements. They think that bandaids will fix bullet holes Fostering international ties and attracting foreign investment can strengthen the Philippines’ economy by providing government funding, equipment, and resources for infrastructure and initiatives. This can lead to new industries, higher output, and job creation. However, it can also lead to the downfall of the poor as foreigners become rich and Filipinos suffer from a poverty cycle. Providing inclusive work opportunities is better than exposing the business sector to political crocodiles and hungry immigrants. Economic concerns require firm action, not immediate ChaCha. A country’s constitution can be altered, but the objective is equally important as the means for achieving it.

Charter Change has been lurking around the corner once more, emerging itself from the cemetery due to one’s wish of bread-and-butter. Yet, making that wish will need a pinch of dark magic, camouflaging the wisher’s real intentions and reviving zombies to poison the countrymen. The Philippine government has indeed created a vision; an en-grave-ing vision.

theflasheditorialboard

Vanessa Dianne Antonio

EDITORINCHIEF

Lesly Keith Baniaga

ASSOCIATEEDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Francoise Therese Casalda

MANAGINGEDITOR

Shealtiel Angelo Melki Pagala

Jose Nicolai Tagudando

CIRCULATIONMANAGER

Mystyllynne Castillejos

NEWSEDITOR

Aura Vienn Give

FEATUREEDITOR

Rosmin Andrei Mogatas

SPORTSEDITOR

Kyle Jhayzee Mallillin

Rosmin Andrei Mogatas

CHIEFLAYOUTARTISTS

Lesly Keith Baniaga

CHIEFCOPYREADER

Lyndon Paul Saet

CHIEFPHOTOJOURNALIST

Aquil Andrei Rabago

CHIEFCARTOONIST

John Lorenz Ramones

SCIENCEANDTECHNOLOGYEDITOR

Glenn Castillo

Angeline Manarang

Althea Mae Guillermo

Tristan Kyle Paclarin

Aaron Jake Lardizabal

Pia Andrea Dawn Toledo

Ronaldo D. Eugenio

Willmar Joachim Camus

Althea Alyssa Buncag

Faye Ashlee Vargas

Sherwin Tuliao

Bon Anthony Cruz

Tristan Kyle Paclarin

Helene Rose Reynaldo

Jilliane Gilmo

Jasmine Kyla Dela Peña

Nicole Jane Antonio

John Keneth Favilla

Michaela Pulbosa

Nixone Talledo

Ma. Karla Celene Dacoron

Peejay Daranciang

Sheila Mae Pagulayan

John R. Mina

Elizalde Suguitan

Nida Pinlac

Basilio Tadaya

Steel Truth

PUBLIC-ations in Veil

jasminedelapena@theflash

Hearing the word journalism connotes a person’s line of work, which is to report on what they see and hear. However, to what extent should it be reported based merely on the surface? Numerous incidents involving campus journalism have vaguely sparked conflicts. One such instance is the recent incident at the University of Santo Tomas, where the OSA (Office of Student Affairs) was alleged to have ordered TomasinoWeb, the campus online media organization, to take down an image of its uniformed students entering a well-known convenience store, implying that the photo had become public ridicule. It is easy to give this kind of situation the benefit of the doubt if it just happened once, but when it repeats once more, there is a drawback.

UST-OSA also censored TomasinoWeb posts on the jeepney phase-out struggle, student comments on student activities, and a photo of an LGBTQ+ couple. Instead of exploiting campus journalism to hide impurities and alter widespread concerns in the area, should not there be a threshold for students with the urge to uncover the mantle of truth, to unleash the real essence of being a writer, and to refine the hidden injustices lingering on the grounds?

Journalists are viewd as individuals full of non-ending stories person who write what they are told to write.

Journalists are viewed as individuals full of non-ending stories—persons who write what they are told to write. Journalism should always be unbiased; news reports should not be tainted with personal opinions, and articles, in general, should be angled toward objectivity. Growing accustomed to this norm has altered since the outset of being a journalist.

Campus journalism is more than just an organization; rather it upholds the voice of the public. By etching journalism towards people’s minds, not only does it give them the power to hold the government accountable for their never-ending issues, but also serves as the heart of democracy. Becoming and labeling yourself as a journalist is secondary; it is the process you have gone through while embodying a spirited journalist that will ingest the true nature of being triumphant. Journalism is not limited to narrating tales; it is also to reimburse tranquility, evolve as a part of the field, and recognize memoirs and situations from many perspectives. Delving beyond the surface and exploring the nuances of distinct circumstances augments the information that comes with the process. It is about making frank remarks that are not marred by blood or grime. A publication will never be complete without the word: Public.

Vox Veritas

School DEAD-velopment

In the breeze of the summer heat, drops of sweat from my foreheads drip as if it is an open faucet. I kept asking myself why I had to suffer from the punches of the rays of the sun. Why does the school year have to start during the peak of the typhoon season and end during the summer season? Well, say no more, says the Department of Education (DepEd). With the newly released school calendar, We, the students, do not have to struggle with the intense heat surrounding the congested classrooms. But before you rejoice with the sudden reversion, ask yourself, is this the heaven-sent prayer you have been wishing for?

DepEd Order no. 003 series of 2024, an amendment to the school calendar, was implemented due to the pandemic in the Philippines. The order aimed to gradually return to the old calendar, following the third pillar of MATATAG, which is to decongest the educational system, and address the overwhelming heat experienced by students. The media has reported multiple cases of heat stroke among students. In March 2023, the Department of Health reported over 118 incidents of heat exhaustion among students due to the summer heat. Of course, who would want to risk their health for the sake of finishing their education? Well, everyone does, as education is the foundation for a better future.

Yet, do you not wonder why? Why was the reversion of the school calendar abruptly released? It seems like this DepEd order was not a solution but rather a mask to avoid addressing the fiery heat. Moreover,

does this not put students into another period of adjustment?

Adjustments regarding the school calendar will put the students into another dilemma.

Adjustments regarding the school calendar will put the students into another dilemma. For instance, the student’s body clock is already accustomed to the new school calendar, and restoring it to its old form will cause modifications to the lifestyle it already established. Although returning to the traditional school calendar will free students from the sun’s raging rays, it creates another dilemma within the education system; a stopgap solution.

The recently released calendar sets the start and end of classes for SY 2024-2025 on July 29, 2024, and May 16, 2025. The order also pushes back the end of classes for the current school year (SY 20232024) by two weeks, scheduling it on May 31 instead of June 14. With this, there will be almost half a year of vacation that the students will experience. Sounds wonderful, right? Think again.

With the gradual adjustment period of the school calendar, the senior high school class of 2027-2028 will have almost half a year of just wandering around and enjoying the relaxing breeze. This creates a gap as these graduating students will struggle to transition to the tertiary level, weakening the link between secondary and postsecondary education. More-

Dear Editors,

I am quite intrigued by the news you are uploading to your Facebook page; it keeps me updated about the recent issues and happenings at our school.

I am fond of reading columns as they voice out students’ opinions about certain topics.

As you know, I am an academically-inclined student. I am quite concerned about the recent issue regarding the amendment of the national constitution. I heard that it will affect our educational institutions.

I am curious about your perspective on this issue and how it will affect the present educational crisis in our nation.

Sincerely, Mac Jemus

Message to the Editors

over, extended school breaks can interfere with the learning process and make it difficult for pupils to remember what they have learned, particularly if they don’t participate in any educational activities over the break. Extended vacations also have the potential to break habits, which makes it harder for children to return to the routine and structure of school.

For the newly released school calendar to be plausible, teachers must congest the learning competencies of the learners. Thus, this results in a marathon discussion, as if teachers are chasing a cheetah. Not only does rushing the learning competencies put the students’ learning at risk, but also drains them to the core. Furthermore, it reveals how insufficient the government is to provide students with the quality education they deserve. If the MATATAG Agenda intends to achieve higher quality education and decongest the educational system, why does it seem like their feet are moving backward?

The reversion of the school calendar is indeed a stepping stone to bringing back the traditional set-up of the students’ schedule as this will ease the struggle of the students regarding weather changes and return to the usual school schedule. However, with the sudden announcement, it seems that instead of using this order as a connecting bridge to further improve the educational system, it just puts the students’ education at risk for their downfall. There is indeed a development; a school dead-velopment.

Dear Mac Jemus, We appreciate you keeping an update with the Flashiest news online.

With regards to the amendment of the 1987 constitution in the educational sector, the possible effect is the change in our education system due to foreign influence, removing its essence and identity.

If you wish to know more about the amendment, you may read page 06 of the opinion page.

Sincerely, The Flash

Refurbished Country

ronaldoeugenio2@theflash vanessaantonio@theflash

In the grand stage of political theatrics, where promises sparkle like fool’s gold, the recent launch of President Bongbong Marcos’s Bagong Pilipinas campaign presents itself as a polished gem, but beneath its glit

tion reveals a troubling pattern of coercion and extravagance.

The mandatory attendance directive, reminiscent of autocratic regimes, raises concerns about the erosion of individual agency and the manipulation of public resources for political gain. Under the guise of unity, dissent is stifled, and public servants are forced into participating, casting a shadow over the “celebration of democracy”.

Moreover, the exorbitant expenditure on the kick-off rally, while essential services remain underfunded, underscores misplaced priorities and highlights the stark disparities in resource allocation. As millions are poured into the glitz and glamor of the new campaign, ordinary Filipinos grapple with the harsh realities of poverty, unemployment, and inade-

Critics rightfully denounce the campaign as a smokescreen, masking the government’s true intentions.

keen observation of Bagong Pilipinas as a front for constitutional amendments rings alarm bells, signaling a potential assault on democratic institutions under the guise of progress. Progress, at its very core, should uplift the marginalized, empower the voiceless, and foster genuine social cohesion. However, the Bagong Pilipinas campaign, with its echoes of past authoritarianism, risks repeating the mistakes of history, sacrificing democratic principles at the altar of political expediency. In the face of such challenges, it falls upon us, the guardians of democracy, to remain vigilant and steadfast in our commitment to truth and justice. Let us not be swayed by the allure of empty promises, but instead, demand accountability, transparency, and genuine reform. For a truly refurbished country, one must be built on the pillars of integrity and empathy. It cannot be realized through grand displays of power, but rather, through humble dedication to the welfare of all its citizens. As the specter of the past looms large, let us not forget the lessons it teaches, lest history repeats itself in the guise of progress. Are we heading to a New Philippines, or are we turning back the time to Dekada ‘70?

Black Bird

rosminmogatas@theflash

After more than a year of the Marcos administration serving the nation, Jaime Bautista, the Department of Education secretary, was appointed to oversee the country’s transportation system. Hence, the administration that has been optimistic amidst the reign faces numerous adversities, and one of them is the transportation fare that continuously skyrockets from time to time, making the transporters hole their pockets, especially students. Students – the ones who faced this burden, are struggling to relieve this problem. For example, a 20 pesos tricycle fare today compared to a 15 pesos fare last 2018 from Barangay San Fermin to Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School is a huge loss for those who have limited allowance. Nevertheless, the students cry for discounts to be imposed. Yet, some drivers do not comply with the

Inclusion (TRAIN) Law. The spike in gasoline prices has not yet prompted an official fare increase from the Department of Transportation or any legitimate transportation association yet the drivers carry on with pricing increases in their fare. Occasionally, drivers ask commuters to increase their fares more than the fare matrix. This puts a hole in every penny of the fare payer. Additionally, in this new era, drivers are forced to fill their vehicles with more than their capacity, exceeding the minimum number of passengers allowed inside. Thus, the vehicle reaches its limit, leading to little to no air to breathe due to the suffocating space. The maximum capacity for a single tricycle is at least 3 people, yet, drivers who are greedy to earn more push the vehicles’ limits and carry more than 4 passengers, desperate to acquire more money. In the end, their greediness

“

The students are taken advantage of by the imaginary fare matrix, and it seems as though there is no further decline.

the fare matrix due to their incompetence, thus, commuters chose to accept the drivers’ avarice. Yet, the drivers’ guilt was nowhere to be found. Illegal action of not following the standard matrix is prevalent and it was concealed up to this time that the one in power does not have the guts to change the adversity of transportation.

The students’ dwindling hopes only get worse as the oil keeps spiking like wildfire. Over time, the outrageous price of 60 pesos per liter of gasoline has become so high that even the fare is starting to reflect the rapidly increasing cost of living. Given the fact that the majority of oil importers worldwide were at odds with one another, ending standard agreements between nations, including the Philippines, the oil shortage was a real concern. Furthermore, despite the students’ outbursts, the fare hike still has the upper hand over commuters.

The drivers strive to earn as much. However, as their franchise’s extensive expenses eat away at their income, it leaves them with nothing left to spend on other expenses, particularly the needs of their family. These drivers earn less than the minimum wage and must deal with modern-day expenses. However, despite their low cut income, the mere fact of doing it an illegal way just to acquire a large sum of income, students are left at stake, especially those who are unfortunate to have the baseline allowance on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, drivers should be the ones to voice out not to do illegal things that will face an enormous upshot, rendering their capabilities to strive.

As pledged to have a better Philippines and better transportation, it becomes ambiguous intensely further, thus, numerous factors impede the country’s transportation system. The ineptness of those in power is evident in the state of transportation, particularly the baseline-fare matrix that continues to fog the eyes of every individual. Due to the incoherence of the appointed power, the hole in every student’s pocket strives to grow larger.

Fiery Hawk Unmasking Illusions

jillianegilmo@theflash

The Philippines sits on a bed of coals. With an alarming fact adding to the heat; the Philippines ranked 77th out of 81 countries in reading comprehension, according to the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). The suggestion to rip out mother tongue-based instruction (MTBI) in early grades is, frankly, educational malpractice. It is like ripping out a seedling’s roots because It is not growing fast enough in the wrong soil. MTBI is not the problem; it is the foundation.

Early exposure to English as the medium of instruction from grades one to three might seem like a quick fix, but it is very significant to consider its potentially detrimental effect on younger generations. While this intensive exposure can benefit language acquisition, it is equally important to respect students’ cultural heritage, their diverse linguistic backgrounds, and the whole multilingual community that is walking on threads if this suggestion is pushed through.

When someone is described as ‘the best,’ it typically implies excellence beyond comparison. However, what if this superlative can only be gauged relative to others whose standards merely reach the level of average? Consider the paradoxical notion of a government investing its discretionary allowances, pushing boundaries solely to vie for a semblance of parity with nations deemed ‘the best’ in global standards. A big question to our present educational system, wherein the emphasis appears to favor quantity over the paramount importance of quality.

In recent months, a wave of disruptive and embarrassing news has permeated online platforms, prompting concerned netizens to blame the underfunded educational system of the Philippines.

In the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) results released in December 2023, the Philippines once again found itself at the bottom of the rankings in reading, mathematics, and science. This persistent trend, echoing the 2018 PISA findings, raises significant concerns about the country’s educational performance and highlights the urgent need for targeted reforms putting our nation in a ‘sorry’ state. Among ASEAN countries, the Philippines remains at the bottom of the line, higher than Cambodia. Even the institution that holds the different school departments did not expect the country to garner a ‘good’ score during the survey.

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The Prevalence of such shameful phenomena indeed prompts individuals to confront an alarming reality

The prevalence of such shameful phenomena indeed prompts individuals to confront an alarming reality. Compelling them to inevitably compare themselves to students beyond national borders, evoking the nagging question: “Am I sufficiently competent compared to others elsewhere?” The cascading effect of this phenomenon can be traced back to the decline in edu-

Educational Cry-sis

cation quality during the pandemic era, where learners faced significant gaps in knowledge and experience, leaving many students lagging “6 years behind” their counterparts in other countries. Following the turbulent period of pandemic education, some students have been labeled as “non-readers” and left feeling frustrated, a consequence of inadequate materials provided by the Department of Education.

The funds allocated to the Department of Education (DepEd) are meant to support crucial educational initiatives and resources for the betterment of students and educators. Unfortunately, recent incidents have raised concerns about the management of these funds. In a recent case, a lack of experience or oversight resulted in the misappropriation of Php150 million within a mere 11 days. This misuse of public funds has been likened to a pickpocketing of educational oppor tunities, as the resources were not utilized for their intended purposes but rather in a confidential manner, shielding the mismanagement from public scrutiny. Such actions under mine the trust and integrity of the educational system and deprive deserving recipients of vital sup port.

The Department of ucation has taken proac steps to address the skills gap among learners, recognizing it as a crucial priority.

Under the DepEd MATATAG Agenda, educational leaders aim to bolster student morale and bridge learning disparities.

The implementation of programs like “Catch-up Fridays” is anticipat ed to enhance young minds with additional knowledge and un derstanding.

However, despite these well-intentioned initiatives, achieving desired outcomes remains a challenge. Following the trial run of “Catch-up Fridays,”

leslykeithbaniaga@theflash

educators find themselves grappling with how to effectively engage and motivate their students. This underscores the underlying flaws within our educational system, both past and present, which persistently hinder progress toward global standards.

Comparatively, when assessing the products of our educational system against those of nations with renowned educational excellence, the disparity becomes glaringly apparent. It is disheartening to acknowledge that our educational outcomes often fall below average or merely meet baseline standards. This raises the pressing question: when will our country’s educational system ascend to the ranks of global excellence?

If our current educational framework continues to struggle to meet even the basic benchmarks of quality education, the prospect of achieving international recognition

Focusing solely on replacing the English language as the primary acquisition is not the only solution. Those who are proposing this suggestion seem to be jumping off a huge cliff, knowing there is a gap that must be addressed first. What the Philippine Education System needs right now is to address the root causes of the problem, such as the need for well-qualified educators across all subjects, including English, math, and science, which are the top subjects in which many students, even those who are in senior high school, are still having a hard time comprehending. Instead of abandoning MTBI altogether, why not retain it as a dedicated subject in grades one to three while incorporating English as the medium of instruction for other subjects? Why not consider incorporating it with the proper and necessary training to support and implement MTBI effectively? In this case, there will be a balanced approach that will nurture the exposure to English while preserving cultural identity and sustaining a sense of pride in one’s mother tongue. Furthermore, removing MTBI disregards the richness and diversity of Philippine cultures and languages, as it is a clear representation of disrespecting others first and their native language. It risks silencing and marginalizing certain communities, potentially creating a sense of division and disengagement from the education system. What we perceive as the problem is not the cause but a way for improvement and a key to opening the eyes of those who need attention the most.

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Ultimately, the key to combating this educational crisis lies in recognizing the needs of our students.

Ultimately, the key to combating this educational crisis lies in recognizing the needs of our students. We must prioritize their holistic development, fostering both reading comprehension and a strong sense of cultural identity. It is time to move beyond guarded traditional practices and embrace a modern and progressive approach that prioritizes the future of our students. We must address the “sickness” with the appropriate “cure.”

In the end, the paramount concern must be the future and well-being of our students. Confronting this crisis demands not just passive observation but an active recognition of the deep-seated issues requiring immediate remedy. My perspective has dramatically shifted from a rigid belief that our initial perceptions are infallible truths to a more nuanced understanding. It is only through thoughtful engagement of our cognitive faculties that the truth, often ob- scured by our biases and mis- concep- tions, begins to reveal itself.

Error 101

Sharp Quill

Old Man’s Joke

nicolaitagudando@theflash

There is a flea in the present administration. Amidst different

arate the island of Mindanao from the islands of Luzon and Visayas.

The “No Read, No Move” policy of the Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines is indeed important. As per DepEd Order No 45, s. 2002, it is mandated that no student should be promoted to the next higher level unless they have shown mastery of basic literacy skills at their current grade level. The policy is designed to ensure that all students develop good reading skills, which are fundamental to their overall education. A quality-driven education for all True enough, we have ridden a tight vessel for change. The education sector is one of the crucial components to ever exist in our country. It perpetuates the essence of living: to learn, to comprehend, to apply, and to influence. Now with the decreasing number of students having the ability to read at their best to formulate words, does the newly established policy break the tarnished reputation of the state of the country in terms of basic literacy?

According to the 2020 Census of Population and Housing, ”Out of the 97,600,336 household population aged five years old and

over, 94,627,566 persons (97%) were literate. This shows a 1.2 percentage point improvement from the 95.8% literacy rate recorded in 2015.” However, the Programme for International Students Assessment (PISA), has shown that many students need to strengthen their reading comprehension and vocabulary enhancement.

According to the latest PISA evaluation, “The Philippines ranked among the lowest in Math, Science, and Reading in the global student assessment.” Without these initiatives spearheaded by DepEd, it will hinder the hard-earned progress and growth of innovation since reading is a catalyst for change that needs to be improved.

The “No Read, No Move” policy requires students to demonstrate a certain level of reading proficiency before they can progress to that level.

The “No Read, No Move” policy requires students to demonstrate a certain level of reading pro-

Bald-Nut Haircut

auravienngive@theflash

Have you ever seen a bald yet not bald man? Those people who have hair on the side of their head yet nothing on top? A haircut that is semi-bald? If you have not seen such “amazing” scenery, then just visit the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, as it also looks like those bald men on the streets.

I, for one, have not even seen the chocolate hills. Yet, with its controversial resort, might as well not visit at all. Imagine hearing all the wow-standing reviews then in a split second, it just disappeared into thin air? Apparently, some crazy citizen decided to build a resort and made the middle of chocolate hills as its location.

Filipinos were furious to discover a photo on Facebook showing a resort built within the protected national geological monument of the Chocolate Hills. How could anyone dare to destroy this cherished heritage? The answer lies in dirty politics and selfishness.

Transfer Certificate Title No. 37139 officially declares Edgar Buton the owner of a parcel of land with Lot No. 3555, CAD 959-D, Case No. 10, situated in the Barrio of Canmano, Municipality of Sagbayan, Bohol. The document states that the origi-

sovereignty of our country, the best thing that he can do is to at least enjoy his retirement chapter. The Philippines is already suffering at the hands of corrupt government officials, and we can no longer afford another dilemma just because of a senseless idea from an old drunk man.

The idea of Digong is very impractical, knowing how Mindanao contributed 7% to the country’s Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) in 2023. With the given statistics by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), it can be shown how big the island can contribute to the economy of the Philippines. Hence, the separation of Mindanao from the rest of the Philippines will result in a degrading economic status of the country.

Frankly speaking, even if Mindanao was already conquered by the Duterte Clan—politically— still, they cannot own the whole of Mindanao Island because it is a part of the Philippine country. With this move, it can be seen how the Duterte Clan is still not satisfied with how prevalent their political dynasty is in Mindanao. I know that he is just

over-protective of his homeland, but his over-protectiveness is so ludicrous that he is becoming a laughingstock of his fellow Filipinos.

There are present adversities that the Philippines is facing, but secession is not, and will never be, a solution to those.

There are present adversities that the Philippines is facing, but secession is not, and will never be, a solution to those. The present administration is already a pain in the ass to the Filipinos. And the statements uttered by the former president are just a testament to how itchy his ass to meddle in politics even if his term has already come to an end.

At some point, drinking a beer while telling a joke is risky. It might make your fanatic supporters laugh, or the majority of your fellow countrymen dismay you. Given the chaotic status of the Philippines, great leaders with better solutions are what Filipinos need, and not an old man’s joke.

Progress Behind Chaos

francoisecasalda@theflash

ficiency before they can progress to that level. If the student is unable to read at the required level, they may be held back or be subjected to attending reading support programs. One of the initiatives is the Catch Up Friday, which was introduced to public schools nationwide last January 12, 2023. The main goal is to reinforce learning and fully focus on honing reading skills on Friday. However, there are remarks revolving around this issue that firmly believe that the Catch Up Friday initiative is a time-wasted opportunity and will only disrupt the curriculum of all grade levels as it will take a toll on each of the time for all subjects, meaning the learning competencies will be compressed to make way for Fridays to just only indulge on reading. Yet, it is important to understand that the problem is systemic and shall be fixed systemically, hence, the Catch Up Fridays.

It seems that all of the regulations set are far from the state of damage. A nice way to end tiring weekdays, giving the excess energy to read and focus on that alone. It is not the time for people to question its efficiency, instead, it is the time

for people, especially learners to abide directly. It will serve as a wake-up call for students who are at a higher level and at the same time are lacking in reading proficiency to lend their time in reading to advance to the higher level. With Catch-Up Friday backing up the “No Read, No Move” policy, a tarnished reputation for basic reading skills will come to an end with robust participation. It is time to embrace that reading is the foundation for every profession.

97.6 M

RECORDED LITERATE PERSON IN THE COUNTRY IN 2020

94.6 M

RECORDED LITERATE PERSON IN THE COUNTRY IN 2015

nal owner of the land was a member of the Amores clan that was granted the lot on August 14, 1996.

One may argue that it is a rational move, considering that it is an owned land that adheres to the set regulations since officials, through PAMB Resolution No. 1, s. 2018, resolve to endorse the proposal under the following conditions such as: No structures to be erected at the top of the hill, aside from two existing tree houses. The hill should not be altered nor be defaced, and extraction is strictly prohibited. And so on.

However, the issue never escaped the criticisms of the concerned netizens

However, the issue never escaped the criticisms of the concerned netizens particularly on Twitter and Facebook which sprung tens of thousands of sentiments claiming that it is deteriorating the entirety of reputation the Chocolate Hills possesses. It is true that the longer irresponsible politicians are given a platform to serve, it will always resort to an infuriating and absurd event and in this case, a resort

beside the known wonders of the country, Chocolate Hills in Bohol.

Captain’s Peak owner Buton and administrator Sablas get their official business permit from the office of the mayor of Sagbayan. The mayor at the time is Ricardo Suarez. The management of Captain’s Peak does not have an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) but begins operating as a resort, wel coming guests.

Why was it given an ounce of attention to push through? In the height of pandemic back in 2020, it tells us that the govern ment has its eyes on un necessary things, one in which is the formulation of Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort. Now, frankly asking, was it worth it?

The resort was a waste of money and effort, it also showcases how hellish the government in Bohol is, as they allow these preposterous idiots to take our nature for granted. Another is that it illuminates

the negligence of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources as they only discovered this now, and did not even take a second to address concerns like this. The chocolate hills are–were once a majestic place to visit. Yet, majestic things were not meant to last long. Like a haircut, once

Azure Ink

Adler Inkwell

Rizal Head Value-morphosis

byWillmarJoachimCamus

Last December, I remember giving my brother a six-peso coin to buy candies before we headed to our vacation place. Just a little something to eat on an hour ride. He came back home from our neighboring sari-sari store with four candies. I suspected him for eating the other one before going home, but he defended, “Limang piso, apat na piraso na ngayon, Kuya.” It was just a few months ago when it was one for one. How did the peso value drop to only 75 cents?

Recent reports of the peso value drop have triggered the Filipino purses, impacting the poorer part of the classes most.

“The peso dropped as much as 0.5% to 57.29 per dollar on Wednesday, the lowest since November 2022.” Karl Yap & Malavika Makol on “Philippine Peso’s Drop Past 57 Puts Pressure on Central Bank.”

On that same day, Governor Eli Remolona stated the central bank’s tendency to allow currency adjustments to happen unless the movements are very sharp. He said he is comfortable with the peso’s current level and that the central bank has hardly been intervening in the foreign-currency market on monday.

The Philippine peso, as the primary currency of the Philippines, has undergone significant transformations throughout its history. From its inception to its current standing, the value of the peso has been subject to various economic, political, and social factors.

In the early 20th century, the Philippine peso was pegged to the United States dollar at a fixed exchange rate of two pesos to one dollar, a stable but confining arrangement that lasted for decades. However, with the dawn of Philippine independence in 1946, efforts were made to carve out a unique identity for the peso, leading to fluctuations in its value as it sought its place in the world.

Over the years, the Philippine economy has experienced periods of growth and stability, reflected in the value of the peso. Factors such as (Gross Domestic Product) GDP growth, inflation rates, foreign exchange reserves, and

government fiscal policies have all influenced the value of the peso relative to other currencies. Evidence from economic indicators shows that the peso has appreciated in value during periods of robust economic growth and stability, while depreciating during times of economic uncertainty or external shocks.

The purchasing power of the peso, or the quantity of products and services that a certain amount of money can be used to purchase, is a significant component of the currency’s value. In the past, inflation has reduced the peso’s buying power, which has gradually raised the cost of goods and services. Robust evidence derived from inflation data demonstrates how inflation affects the peso’s value and emphasizes how crucial price stability is to retaining the currency’s purchasing power.

In the expansion of foreign exchange, the value of the peso in the market is influenced by supply and demand dynamics, as well as external factors such as global economic conditions, geopolitical events, and investor sentiment. Evidence from foreign exchange rate movements demonstrates the volatility of the peso relative to major currencies like the US dollar, Euro, and Yen, emphasizing the importance of market forces in determining its value.

The metamorphosis of the Philippine peso unveiled the intricacies of our nation’s economic evolution and integration into the global tapestry. From its historical mooring to the United States dollar to its contemporary regimen of floating exchange rates, the peso had weathered fluctuations in value instigated by economic bedrock, market dynamics, and policy prerogatives.

For a simple citizen like me, I find Piso’s value drop purse-aching— and I belong to the fine line between the middle class and the low class of the class hierarchy. What sends me tossing and turning in my bed, with this thought, is those people that live life “one day at a time.” It is already confusing to pay five Pesos for four candies, how much more purse-pocketing does it take to eat a meal and survive the day with this coin value-morphism?

VALUE OF PESO

Unearthing Hidden

byFrancoiseTherese

It is not uncommon to hear predictions and beliefs regarding how machines and robots will soon devour humanity, rendering many jobs for humans obsolete. The notion stems from the technological advancement that ensued with the rise of automated services, artificial intelligence (AI), and digitalization. Cases of ignorance and abuse by the users also fanned the flames. In contrast, this has created more jobs and provided numerous opportunities for many even ailing citizens and People with Disabilities (PWDs), showing proof of capabilities behind

The labor shortage in the AI industry was recognized by Japan in 2020, which sprung the efforts of mitigation. AI training centers in Tokyo like the Neuro Dive opened their doors to new programs catered for PWDs, particularly under the developmental category which includes individuals with autism spectrum disorder. They are given work that suits their circumstances after completion. It is also common in establishments, restaurants, and cafes in China to have paralyzed people behind the scenes controlling robots that serve customers.

The Philippines is a third-world and falls many years behind other countries like the aforementioned ones. That said, it is not as though there are no advancements in technology when it comes to careers. It has become an integral part of many sectors and industries. For instance, in the fields of education and business. The use of e-learning platforms and digital classrooms has expanded, especially in light of the global pandemic. This shift has paved the way for the emergence of new roles such as online educators, instructional designers, and

The rise of e-commerce and digital marketing has transformed the world of entrepreneurship in the Philippines. Small businesses

Unearthing Hidden Gems

and startups widened their audience with technology and digital platforms, leading to the demand for digital marketing spe cialists, e-commerce managers, and data analysts. Corporations also embraced PWDs in the workplace through the help of assistive technology. UniLab, ePLDT, Microsoft, and more have employed them throughout the years.

Furthermore, the Filipino government has recognized the importance of tech nology in driving economic growth and creating new career opportunities. As far as 2014, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has allowed PWDs to be part of the Information, Tech nology, and Communications (ICT) industry, allowing them to work from home without commuting and being inconvenienced by in teracting with others face-to-face. Initiatives and policies were put in place to support the development of the technology sector, including incentives for tech startups and measures to enhance digital infrastructure across the country.

The negative notions of technology are not completely groundless. However, it is evident that the role and impact of technolo gy in careers have become prominent in the Philippines. This resulted in the increase of job opportunities for both normal citizens and those who possess special circumstances and allowed them to become productive members of soci ety.

Like how a geode has beauty hiding behind a run-of-the-mill exterior, PWDs also possess under-recognized traits. Technology, when used properly and efficiently, is a formi dable tool for unraveling their capabilities.

Femininity’s Fingerprints

byVanessaDianneAntonio

The embodiment of Filipinas within history dancing towards the midst of the crowds. Maria Clara, the epitome of purity and elegance. Believe it or not, Maria Clara is the standard of Filipinas; to act gracefully, speak softly, and most of all, dress modestly. A demure soul, if you will. Mayari, on the other hand, displays beauty through ways that elders nowadays do not seem to approve, as they kneel before Maria Clara. A stand-up straight woman who speaks her mind and portrays a strong personality. A lady with, as people see it, an “off tune” melodic voice. Yet, in reality, as society evolves into something more, women, as exquisite creatures, also have different versions.

Going back into history, Maria Clara is a literary figure in Jose Rizal’s book, Noli Me Tangere. She was described as a young woman who was reserved and courteous. It is indeed in our culture that Filipinas should demonstrate composure, sophistication, and tenderness. Moreover, with Maria Clara’s devoted religious actions and familial loyalty, she has become the “ideal” representation of womanhood. In short, women must serve men by staying at home, serving them with scrumptious meals and bowing to everything they say.

However, her character also symbolizes the silent struggles of Filipinas under the shadow of Spanish colonialism. Women were expected to conform to patriarchal norms, silencing their voices and enduring abuse. Like the calm streets at midnight, they were taught to remain composed and restrained, fearing the

and independent spirit, represents a different kind of feminine ideal—one that is not afraid to speak out, to fight for what is right, and to defy oppressive norms.

Mayari, a deity in Philippine mythology, mirrors the modern woman’s journey. Her story unfolds as a tale of boldness, a woman who courageously challenged patriarchal dominance. According to myth, Mayari and Apolaki, children of Bathala, found themselves in a power struggle after their father’s passing. Apolaki sought sole rule over the earth, but Mayari demanded equality. The story ends with Mayari losing an eye due to the battle, yet, as the goddess of the moon, she still shined with strength and magnificence.

Another character in Philippine history is Gabriella Silang, the first woman to led the revolution against the Spanish conquerors. After her husband’s assassination, she marshaled the revolutionary struggle in Ilocos with courage. She led Filipino warriors in the war against Spain and fought for their independence, while facing tremendous odds. Like her, Filipinas are boldly asserting their identity and redefining what it means to be a “Filipina”. They devote March to a historically grounded movement, passionately defending rights and rejecting traditional views. Their work addresses many different topics, such as equitable pay, reproductive rights, and the abolition of gender-based violence.

In the ever-changing terrain of womanhood, may we celebrate the variety of experiences and identities that create our shared jour-

ThereseCasalda

Quack-tastic: The Rise of the Duck Hair Clip Trend

byAuraViennGive

Step into any bustling shopping center and you might encounter a surprising sight: individuals sporting bright yellow rubber ducks perched atop their heads. Before you start questioning your sanity or suspecting a hidden prank show, rest assured, you’re not hallucinating. Welcome to the world of the duck hair clip—a whimsical trend that has taken the fashion scene by storm, catching us all off guard.

In a world where fashion trends seemingly appear out of nowhere, the duck hair clip

alongside other novelty items. From there, the trend swiftly migrated to metropolitan areas, leaving us all to collectively ponder, “Does everyone have a duck now?”

Naturally, the internet has erupted with a mix of confusion, amusement, and curiosity in response to the duck hair clip phenomenon. Social media platforms buzz with debates over the trend’s absurdity versus it’s undeniable charm. Yet, despite the skepticism, there’s an undeniable allure to joining the yellow duck bandwag

the Philippines-Diliman professor Dr. Jimmuel Naval observes, “What’s in fashion, let’s imitate.”

The bandwagon effect is deeply ingrained in the cultural psyche, reflecting a fundamental human desire to belong and connect with others.

Amidst the debates surrounding the duck hair clip trend, some voices offer a more relaxed perspective. Department of Education

Assistant Secretary Francis Bringas sees no harm in embracing the trend, likening it to a harmless hair accessory akin to a ribbon clip. As

Childhood Wounds and Collective Dreams

byRosminAndreiMogatas

In the vast landscape of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entries of 2023, one film stood out, casting its warm glow upon audiences and critics alike. “Firefly,” directed by Zig Dulay, emerged victorious, claiming the coveted title of Best Picture. But what is it about this film that captivated hearts and minds, making it shine brightly among its competitors?

At its core, ‘Firefly’ is a testament to the power of storytelling. Through the eyes of young Tonton, brilliantly portrayed by Euwenn Mikaell Aleta, audiences are transported into a world where imagination reigns supreme. Tonton’s quest for the mythical island of fireflies, guided by his mother’s bedtime tales, serves as a metaphor for the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Alessandra de Rossi delivers a heart-wrenching performance as Elay, Tonton’s loving mother whose stories serve as beacons of hope in the darkest of times. Her portrayal breathes life into the character, making Elay a symbol of maternal love and unwavering strength.

However, ‘Firefly’ is not merely a tale of fantasy; it delves deep into the complexities of human relationships and the scars they leave behind. Cherry Pie Picache’s portrayal of Linda, Elay’s friend who takes Tonton under her wing after Elay’s passing, adds layers of depth to the narrative, highlighting the importance of chosen family in times of need.

The film’s supporting cast, including Jeffrey Quizon, Miguel Tanfelix, and Ysabel Ortega, deliver standout performances, breathing life into their respective characters and adding richness to Tonton’s journey. Each character, flawed yet inherently human, contributes to the tapestry of emotions woven throughout the film.

One of the film’s most striking elements is its seamless integration of Philippine folklore and culture. From the majestic landscapes of Albay to the mythical creatures that inhabit its shores, ‘Firefly’ pays homage to the rich tapestry of Filipino heritage. The incorporation of animation further enhances the film’s magical realism, capti-

vating audiences and immersing them in Tonton’s world.

Yet, amidst the whimsy and wonder, ‘Firefly’ confronts themes of trauma and healing with sensitivity and nuance. Tonton’s journey serves as a mirror for audiences, reflecting the universal struggle to confront and overcome past wounds. Through his encounters with newfound friends and the revelation of his own family’s history, Tonton learns that courage and resilience can illuminate even the darkest of paths.

While ‘Firefly’ is not without its flaws, particularly in its pacing and execution of certain plot points, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

Angeli Guidaya-Atienza’s masterful screenplay provides a solid foundation for the film, weaving together elements of fantasy, drama, and adventure with finesse.

Moreover, ‘Firefly’ serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of Philippine cinema━It shone brightly at the Manila International Film Festival in Hollywood, California on February 3, 2024, clinching four prestigious awards: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress for Alessandra de Rossi, Best Screenplay for Angeli Atienza, and Best Director for Dulay. This film, previously honored with the Best Picture award at the MMFF, unquestionably deserves its accolades. With its heartwarming storyline and universal appeal suitable for the entire family.

As the credits roll and the lights dim that leaves audiences with a lingering sense of wonder and hope. Its exploration of childhood dreams and collective resilience, it reminds us that the greatest adventures often begin with a single spark of imagination.

In the end, ‘Firefly’ is more than just a film—it’s a journey. A journey through the depths of the human spirit, guided by the flickering glow of a firefly’s light. And like Tonton’s quest for the mythical island, it invites audiences to embark on their own voyage of discovery, where the magic of storytelling knows no bounds.

MINDS: With theinvitationoftheNAST, thegrade11and12STEM studentsparticipateinthe Scientech:Symposiumfor theyouth,gainingmore knowledgetoachieve higherperformanceon researchwriting.

scie-tech

NAST, DOST hold symposium; ignite excellence among CCSASHSians

byJohnLorenzRamones

CAUAYAN CITY, Isabela—To be informed with the latest trends and to achieve higher performance on research writing, 130 Grade 11 and 12 Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) students participated in the invitation of National Academy for Science and Technology (NAST) and the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office 02 (DOST02) in the ScienTeach: Symposium for the Youth at Maximilian Hotel, Cauayan City, September 14-15, 2023.

Dr. Arnel Del Barrio, Dr. Roel Suralta, and Dr. Mudjekeewis Santos, along with Outstanding Young Scientists, Dr. Jillian Aira Gabo-ratio, Dr. Jessie Pascualp Bitog, and Dr. Reiner Mendoza guided the students as they shared their expertise on the field of Science and Technology. Del Barrio discussed “Gatas Pinas Dapat Sapat” which emphasized the purpose of pursuing Science and technology in the field of agriculture in helping farmers and fish folks all around the country by enhancing the use of farmed milk.

Career planning became the core topic of Dr. Gabo-ratio in the different fields of Geology which expands in different categories explain-

I am a registered voter, and I believe that my vote counts as a big deal in bringing forth good governance and a fair system for the people. I may be able to vote fairly, but why is it that politicians always find a way to rig the elections just to get the seat they want? It has come to such heights that vote buying is the new “ayuda” or financial assistance. It is also absurd that those in power found a way to tinker the people’s ballots using a new electronic machine for the upcoming 2025 midterms elections.

The next presidential election is in danger from powerful names that, now, have the capability to control the system. They now have a new way of controlling the entire Filipino people’s votes by using new electronic voting machines from Miru, a South Korean company that sold new voting machines to the Commission On Elections (COMELEC) to replace the previous electronic machines from Smartmatic. Over 100,000 machines were bought that are worth a whopping 18 billion pesos. How will this tactic destroy the fairness of the election?

The 2016 elections brought the most controversial results in the Vice presidential seat with Leni Robredo, edged, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (BBM) at the end of the tally votes. Robredo had 14.4 million votes while BBM had 14.1 million votes. A hairline of a gap for the two parties. This result enraged the public, especially those in favor of BBM leaving them

ing how exciting rock can be.

On the other hand, Dr. Bitog explained the technological advancements in agriculture focusing on their study of being the NEXT (Navigating, Exploring, Xperimenting, and Tomorrow) generation of scientists.

Academician, Dr. Suralta, centered his topic of bringing stronger crops in the ever-changing environment of rice and the hazards it may face such as using the root science of rice’s productivity in abiotic stress soils.

Dr. Mendoza, emphasized the importance of mathematics as he explained how math could not only be numbers but can also be applied in real life situations such as calcu-

confused on what happened during the election counting.

BBM did not accept his defeat and ordered another run of diagnosis in the voting as he pointed out Robredo of cheating the elections. It was approved and the result showed a funny number for BBM as the gaps widened for him and Robredo. Robredo gained more votes during the recount leaving BBM in shame.The votes were tallied in the traditional way of counting without the use of digital machinery. 2022 presidential elections, the two faced again to gain the presidential seat. Votes showed a huge gap between Robredo and BBM’s votes. BBM at 31 million and Robredo at 14 million. BBM finally got what he wanted, to gain power. What strings did he play during the elections to gain that much votes? One, the counting was not a traditional ballot count, rather, it was counted using an electronic machine from Smartmatic.

An automated machinery powered by computer programs. We put our trust into machines that can easily get tampered by simple codes to reveal results we don’t expect to see.

Instead of putting trust on the traditional way of counting votes, how did we end up using machines? Unlike BBM, Robredo did not request a recount for the 2022 elections. She accepted defeat, unlike someone who was like a child in the past election.

lating possible disasters especially tsunamis.

Meanwhile, the last guest speaker showed the amazing wonders of marine life in the entire nation, discovering a new species of fish who he named “Pogi Perchlet” in reference to the word handsome, or also known in its scientific name Chelidoperca Santosi in recognition for his last name “Santos”, Dr. Mudjie Santos.

Training students to better understand their Science Investigatory Project (SIP) in which they shall comply to actively participate in the upcoming Regional Science and Technology Fair is one of the purpos es of this event.

According to Lesly Keith Baniaga, “Nakakainspire makita yung mga work nila at mas na-motivate ako na mag-explore pa ng mga bagong ideas mula sa mga studies nila.” (It was inspiring to see their work and it motivated me to explore new ideas from those studies).

After the seminar, students got the chance to meet the speakers, lining up to have their autographs at their program sheet.

Practical Research, Science, and Mathematics teachers will also bring wisdom to the school as they join the students on the first day and an exclusive symposium only for

Electronic voting system became a fan favorite for those seated within the government. They must have seen how easy it can be accessed and controlled. George Garcia, COMELEC chairman, signed an agreement with MIru to purchase the said new voting machines. Iron ically, Miru already had some issues in the past with its machines in Iraq from allegations of its performance being “biased”. Despite these bad reviews, the Philippines still proceeded to take this 1-star product. End of History Lesson Is it just a coincidence that COMELEC decided to buy a new type of voting machine regardless of its questionability for the midterm elections? Or was it more like a planned map that goes from start to finish after the humiliation of the current president, BBM at the 2016 elections? COMELEC is the institution that deals with election affairs, but who is running as chairman? Is it Garcia, or the person who appointed Garcia?

After being crowned as the new president of the Republic of the Philippines, BBM assigned his mugs to wreak havoc in the government, including COMELEC. He appointed Garcia as chairman. Surprisingly, Garcia and BBM had been friends, or rather partners in crime, since the 2016 elections. “This history between Garcia and Marcos sparked fears in the past among critics”, stated by Dwight De Leon at Rappler. Are we truly free? Or are we

leaders? Our country is controlled and we are a fool to tell ourselves that “maybe they have a reason for themselves, but I’m sure it’s for the greater good.” Finding the greater good within the recent action of COMELEC is nowhere near bringing fair elections, rather they make us, the filipino people, a fool of removing our freedom to vote.

I am a registered voter, and I feel unsafe using the new voting machines given by COMELEC from the company of Miru. My vote deserves to be used for the leader which I know will bring greatness in our country. Miru’s machinery destroys the ethics of automotive machinery by abusing its capabilities as a tool for the destruction of our country. It is in the most disrespectful that a machine could actually steal my vote.

I am a registered voter, and I feel unsafe using the new voting machines given by the COMELEC from the company of Miru.

METALLIC PUZZLE

Solving the Maze between Blood Vessels

byFrancoiseThereseCasalda

There was a time when I questioned whether I was adopted or not despite being the spitting image of my father and younger sister. In 11th grade General Biology, teacher Jayzeelyn “Jayz” Vanessa Cornejo introduced us to the topic of blood types. Antigens play a crucial role in determining them. They are the different sugars and proteins present on the surface of all cells, including blood cells. What antigen is present or absent in the red blood cell is what decides a blood type.

WHO DECIDES?

Blood types are classified into 8 blood groups: A+, A-, B+, B-, AB+, AB-, O+, and the universal donor O-. What you have depends on two main blood groupings, ABO and Rh. First, the ABO system for the letter. This is where the antigens A & B’s presence or absence comes into play. Blood type A only has A antigens in red blood cells, blood type B has only B antigens, AB has both A and B antigens, and O has neither. Next, the Rh system decides whether the blood type is positive or negative depending on the chemicals that one has on the surface of red blood cells. There are about fifty distinct red blood cell antigens in the Rh blood group system, but the most significant is a protein known as RhD. With its presence in red blood cells, blood type is positive. The lack thereof makes it negative.

DECIPHER

Ma’am Jayz brought blood typing materials to identify the class’ blood types. We started by cleaning our hands with alcohol and then pricking one of our fingers with a lancet, a small device that pokes a tiny hole in the skin to produce a

few drops of blood. We then placed two drops on two separate areas of a glass slide. To stop the bleeding, we applied a bit of pressure on the wound with a cotton ball with alcohol.

Following that, it is time for the reagents Anti-A (blue) and Anti-B (red) to be mixed with the droplets, one for each, using small wooden sticks. Toothpicks can be used in this process tool. This procedure follows the agglutination principle in which what reagent mixed with blood clumped together determines the present antigen while no clumping represents its absence.

When blood with Anti-A clumps, the blood type is A. Blood type B is when Anti-B clumps with blood. Clumping on both reagents indicates type AB and on neither is blood type O. The red mixed with my blood clumped, which makes me a type B. I have been told that both my parents’ blood types are O, so it should not be possible that mine is B.

If I am their child, that is.

The same dilemma befell one of my classmates, Mariel. The others comforted her, pointing out how she and her sister could pass as twins. Still, her cheeks remained wet to the point that Ma’am Jayz offered the materials for her to take home and check the blood types of their family.

Rebel of the Plant Kingdom

byAltheaMaeGuillermo

Throughout history, Marijuana has sparked both intrigue and controversy due to its lowly origins. Marijuana, is a botanical mystery with a complicated chemical composition that is more than just a recreational drug. This green buddy is experiencing a resurgence, revealing a hidden side as a possible therapeutic ally, while being frequently connected with the counterculture.

Back in time

Skepticism also crossed my mind, but panic did not reach me. Mariel did enough for the both of us.

The genes from both parents combine to form a child’s antigen, so the parents’ blood type also affects the child’s. For instance, both parents with blood type A can only produce off spring with blood type A or O. This is because the parents can all pass down either antigen A or antigen O. The same concepts apply to parents who both have either blood type B or O. However, for parents with at least one AB, their children can be type A, B, or AB.

It turned out that our parents were merely mistaken about their blood types. Hence, I and Mariel respectively came from their flesh and blood. It is a common occurrence since for most people, blood type is a mystery. It was neither in birth certificates nor explicitly mentioned during check-ups.

as there is in the blood. However, it may not work for everyone.

There are multiple ways to figure out a blood type other than through a blood typing kit as we did. Another method includes asking the doctor for records that may have them. Undergoing a blood test not only determines the blood type but also illnesses that may not be discovered via normal check-ups. Donating

The history of marijuana is entwined with the fabric of many different cultures, ranging from Indian rites to ancient Chinese therapeutic traditions. Throughout history, this adaptable plant has served a variety of purposes, from offering solace from bodily distress to having spiritual meaning.

The history of marijuana shows how cannabis has persisted in human experience over time, overcoming fads and becoming a constant in many societies and eras. Cannabis’s adaptability and tenacity demonstrate its ageless nature, constantly changing alongside shifting social norms and cultural contexts, from ancient therapeutic practices in China to spiritual ceremonies in India.

Nature’s Pharmacy

The cannabinoids within, notably THC and CBD, are taking center stage in the medical arena. Imagine a natural pharmacy where these compounds interact with the human body’s endocannabinoid system, influencing everything from pain perception to mood regulation Plant chemistry and human biology in-

teract harmoniously to provide potential relief from chronic pain, anxiety, and other health issues. This organic combination works by utilizing the innate therapeutic properties of a plant that has coexisted with people for ages, rather than only treating symptoms.

Body’s Little Helper

The effects of marijuana on our bodies are not coincidental. It turns out that we possess an internal body regulating mechanism known as the endocannabinoid system. Marijuana’s THC and CBD interact with this system to influence mood, appetite, and sleep. They appear to be in unison, maintaining the equilibrium of our bodies.

From Rebels to Friends

Marijuana is starting to be seen less as a rebellious substance and more as a potential medical treatment. More money is being invested in figuring out how to make laws work better for us. It is like turning a new leaf when we start to view marijuana as more than just a recreational drug; it could even be a useful ally in the medical supply closet.

Legal Labyrinth

The catch is that marijuana laws are complicated and resemble a maze. It is acceptable in some locations, but not in others. It can be challenging to navigate this legal minefield, which has an impact on who can obtain marijuana products and how much research can be done.

The significance of blood types extends beyond personal curiosity or family dynamics. It plays a critical role in blood transfusions, organ transplants, and pregnancy, making it a topic of broader significance that goes beyond individual identity. At present, all of the General Biology teachers in Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School offer blood typing as an activity along with its lessons. It is valuable knowledge that teaches the science of blood types as well as the unique ways in which genetics can surprise us.

Browsing the Stars

byMystyllynneCastillejos

In this age, information and resources are at arm’s reach thanks to the internet and technology. This has made lives easier, especially for students. However, not everyone’s resources are on par with those privileged enough to access these, particularly in remote areas. Internet connectivity is limited and even if one desires to scan through pages, library books are finite. As a means to mitigate this issue, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) created STARBOOKS.

The Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated KioskS is essentially a “Library in the Box,” which is part of DOST’s Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) project. The contents are supposedly worth one million pesos and this system contains the research outputs of DOST, knowledge when it comes to health, education, and disaster preparedness. Modules from kindergarten to grade 12 that teachers can use in their lessons are also placed here.

It can be accessed even offline or without an internet connection and the contents of the system can be upgraded online. STARBOOKS are usually stationed at the school library and are available to students to satisfy their research needs or merely to quench their curiosity.

The system is also simple to navigate. Simply click “Register here,” fill up the registration form, then click “Submit data.” Log in using the user ID provided by the system and the password provided by you. This will be your permanent ID in all STARBOOKS transactions. After that, you are now ready to explore STARBOOKS. Key in your desired topic in the search bar and categories will be provided such as videos only, text only, or you can also select search all to have them in a single place. Click Enter or the search button, and you may view the information at your discretion. It is similar to browsing online search engines like Google.

Approximately 1,000 centers across the region have been provided with STARBOOKS under DOST’s CEST program. This includes Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School’s (CCSASHS) partnership with the DOST, represented by Patrick Cristobal. STARBOOKS stands as an innovative and inclusive solution that con tributes to the advancement of education and knowledge dissemination, ensuring that all students have access to valuable learning resources regardless of internet con nectivity. With this, scientific quests will prove to be easier and enable students to access remote information and even reach the stars.

Rambuchoco: From Waste to Wonder Drink

Innovative minds often find inspiration in the most unexpected places, a revolutionary solution emerges from an unexpected source: Rambuchoco, a groundbreaking food product born from the discarded seeds of the Rambutan fruit (Nephelium lappaceum). These seeds, once seen as mere waste, now hold the promise of revolutionizing both nutrition and sustainability. Inspired by the urgent need to combat these dual challenges, the creators of Rambuchoco embarked on a mission to unlock the hidden potential of Rambutan seeds, crafting a solution that not only nourishes but also repurposes what was once considered refuse into a vital resource for the future.

Exploring the potential of Rambuchoco required a comprehensive understanding of the underlying science and its implications. This study delved into the rich nutritional composition of Rambuchoco, unveiling its abundance in protein, premium high-grade fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. Beyond its nutritional prowess, Rambuchoco represents a solution to the burgeoning waste management crisis, offering a novel approach to repurposing agricultural by-products while concurrently maximizing resource utilization.

Beneficiaries of this groundbreaking venture extend beyond individual consumers to encompass broader societal and environmental realms. By mitigating waste through the conversion of overlooked resources into a valuable commodity, Rambuchoco contributes to a more sustainable and eco-conscious future. Furthermore, its nutritional profile offers health benefits, potentially addressing malnutrition challenges prevalent in certain demographics. Crafted from roasted fermented

dried Rambutan seeds, along with conventional ingredients like creamer, sugar, and water, Rambuchoco epitomizes the fusion of tradition with innovation. A meticulous examination of roasting times underscores the study’s commitment to optimizing aroma, taste, appearance, and overall product acceptability. Comparative analyses against commercialized beverages not only validate Rambuchoco’s sensory appeal but also underscore its potential to disrupt conventional markets.

However, amidst accolades, judges offer insightful suggestions. Contrary to the use of yeast in the fermentation process, they advocate for salt-washing and sun-drying methods, citing concerns about anaerobic fermentation. While acknowledging the importance of fermentation in enhancing product quality, researchers concur with judges’ recommendation to explore product lifespan. This constructive feedback underscores the collaborative spirit driving Rambuchoco’s evolution.

Following the judges’ feedback, adjustments were made to the fermentation process of the Rambuchoco study, emphasizing a salt wash and sun drying method over anaerobic fermentation. This change was crucial as it not only reduces product toxicity but also enhances aroma and taste. Considering yeast’s facultative anaerobic nature, this alteration ensures a smoother fermentation process, aligning with research suggesting yeast’s preference for aerobic conditions. Additionally, an upcoming focus lies in determining the product’s shelf life, a vital aspect for sustainability and consumer satisfaction.

In conclusion, the Rambuchoco project emerges as a beacon of innovation, addressing both waste management concerns and nutritional exploration. By harnessing the often overlooked potential of Rambutan seeds, this study pioneers a path towards sustainable food production. With its rich blend of protein, premium fats, and antioxidants, Rambuchoco not only tantalizes the taste buds but also champions environmental stew ardship, marking a significant leap forward in the realm of food sustainability.

Fruitful Hand Cleaner

Thou Shall Not Fear Paper

Thesis papers pose a formidable challenge, demanding unwavering dedication and a zero-tolerance approach to failure, yet they serve as a gateway to academic success and innovative breakthroughs across various spheres of life. Ten students from Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) showcased inventive solutions at the Regional Science and Technology Fair in Madela, Quirino, addressing pressing local issues through Science Investigatory Projects (SIP), marking a pinnacle of innovation in the Cagayan Valley. Among the standout projects was Kyle Jhayzee Malillin’s exploration of soil erosion in Cauayan City, identified hazardous areas prone to landslides, emphasizing the need for broader regional assessment beyond Cauayan. Conversely, Jaye Yap addressed the issue of costly

norm for everybody. And with his study, the hand soap, with its antibacterial properties will help communities and even students. Also, germ related diseases were targeted such as Influenza, Measles, Chickenpox, COVID-19, etc. Also, the use of rambutan became a good opportunity for farmers and increased the production rate of the fruit for more profit. For it to work, the rambutan was dried using an oven and ground the peel using a mortar and pestle to make it as fine as possible for the next step. To observe if it is better in ethanol or aqueous solvent (water), it was then mixed to the two liquids and observed the result. It was found out that there are four antibacterial properties rambutan contains which are saponin, tannins, phenol, and eugenol. According to the judges, to further develop the study, Sid must not use any surfactant in his solutions which are surface active ingredients. These are solutions added to cleaning agents such as detergents to kill of bacterias. With surfactants present, it disregards the properties of rambutan which is vital in his study. It reduces photochemical energy conversion efficiency of plants which highly regulates its solar energy and may damage the components of rambutan.

I n summary, Sid’s study uses rambutan as the main ingredient and it assesses if the fruit in grounded form with its antibacterial component is more suitable as hand soap mixture using aqueous-based solvent or ethanol-based I-liquid. His study concluded in finding out the different properties within rambutan and ending with a suggestion of not using surfactants in his solution. By utilizing a, supposed to be, waste from the fruit, rambutan peels became an antibacterial agent for better hygiene.

in creating a chocolate drink, highlighting its potential as a nutritious and affordable resource.

In Mathematics Innovation, Francoise Casalda, Lesly Baniaga, and Maria Guillen Alonzo introduced Daan-Gazoen, a novel solution simplifying geometric calculations using the Vitruvian Man’s arms. Meanwhile, John Lorenz Ramones, Paul Justine Reyes, and Illa Mhea Cuaresma presented Aquapyr, a groundbreaking machine harnessing electrolysis to generate fire from water for kitchen fuel, albeit with safety precautions due to its explosive nature.

These projects not only brought accolades to CCSASHS but also exemplified the transformative power of youthful curiosity and ingenuity in addressing societal challenges through scientific exploration. They underscored the importance of resourcefulness and innovation in improving people’s

Waters Do Burn

Impossible, it may seem, to witness wa ter, a counter element for hot fire, turn into heat itself. John Lorenz Ramones along with Paul Justine Reyes, and Illa Mhea Cuaresma, and their associates, Ayasha Janine Tudtud and Joamafath Sogelio, took the challenge of becoming young inventors for the Regional Sci ence and Technology Fair 2023. In three months of hardship, the team developed an invention with a tagline “Tubig mo ipanggasul mo” translated as “Make your water into gas fuel.”

Aquapyr, from the two Greek words “aqua” mean water and “pyr” trans lated as fire. Their invention transforms water into fire using a method called electrolysis using the combustibility of hydrogen. By inputting electricity into water, containing positive and negative energy, the hydrogen and oxygen, the elements that make up water, separate into its single components. Their ma chine, half a meter long, and a quarter of a meter wide and high, collects hydrogen inside a chamber to be released into a small valve.

Because of the rising prices of LPG tanks and its environmental effects from fossil fuel production, the group decided to use a cleaner type of gas fuel from 70 percent of the world’s surface. They targeted households and industrial companies that commonly use gas tanks for daily necessities. In addition, burning hydrogen from water is much cleaner than burning fossil fuels, and in terms of quantity, water is more abundant than where LPG comes from.

ing it to the orig- inal weight since the student’s did not have any kind of equipment to weigh hydrogen. They then used a method to test if the fire generated would be continuous or not while the machine is turned on, and it was found that using 12 volts under 30 minutes has the best result.

Judges suggested that it must be patented by the group before it is taken by others. Also, the prototype was very small and produced a tiny height of fire, thus the judges said that the device must be a lot bigger. The plastic containers must be as large as an ordinary water tank from regular homes and the electric input must be 10 times it already is, and the collection containers must be observed to actually preserve hydrogen from within. Basically, making it 10 times bigger.

FearShallthe Turns WATER into FIRE

Materials used were simple ob jects found within the surroundings but were enhanced and upgraded to accom plish the study. To start an electrolytic process, the team needed two contain ers, plastic tubes, a piece of metal, salt, a power supply, and especially water. Ac cording to the group, the materials were simple to gather but hard to upgrade. They then contain it into a large box for

Their study concluded the time quicker by weighing the remaining water from the electrolytic process and compar-

Their study opens opportunities for cleaner energy by utilizing hydrogen which is the most abundant element in the world. By its combustibility, households will be able to use Aquapyr for cooking rather than LPG which contains numerous health hazards including lung defects and heart failures in addition to the problem the world is already facing, burning of fossil fuels. The students combined two contradicting elements and put it into use, concluding that water can actually burn.

Skyward Harvest: Urban Eco-Growth

In the midst of rapid urbanization, where skyscrapers dominate the skyline and green spaces are scarce, Jaye yap shed a beacon of innovation in agriculture. With a keen eye for sustainability and a passion for nurturing green spaces in urban environments, Jaye embarked on a journey to develop an affordable aeroponic system using indigenous materials. Inspired by the pressing need for urban-centric farming solutions, Jaye sought to revolutionize traditional agricultural practices with a system that defies conventions and embraces efficiency.

At the heart of Jaye’s study, lies the construction of an aeroponic system that mirrors the functionality of commercial models, albeit with a fraction of the cost. By suspending plant roots in the air, free from soil, this innovative approach optimizes nutrient delivery and minimizes water usage.

The system’s design, meticulously crafted from PVC pipes, paint pails, a water pump, PVC elbows, and bowls, showcases the ingenuity of utilizing readily available materials to create a sophisticated farming infrastructure.

Science & Technology Fair

The benefits of this aeroponic system extend far beyond its urban context. By enhancing crop production and mitigating environmental impact, this technology becomes a catalyst for economic growth in the Philippines and beyond. Farmers, often marginalized by conventional farming practices, stand to gain immensely from the implementation of this system. With increased yields and reduced resource consumption, agricultural communities can thrive in the face of environmental challenges. He presented a detailed examination of the materials used in their study that sheds light on the simplicity and effectiveness of the aeroponic system. From PVC pipes meticulously arranged to facilitate nutrient flow to paint pails repurposed as plant containers, each component serves a crucial role in creating a sustainable farming environment.

The methodology employed in constructing the system reflects Jaye’s commitment to accessibility and affordability, ensuring that even resource-constrained communities can benefit from this technology.

The culmination of the study reveals a groundbreaking discovery: the aeroponic system is 53% more affordable than its commercial counterparts. This significant reduction in costs not only democratizes access to advanced farming techniques but also accelerates the adoption of sustainable practices across diverse agricultural landscapes. With increased affordability comes the promise of widespread implementation, heralding a new era of sustainability in urban farming.

Throughout the evaluation process, judges offered invaluable feedback aimed at further refining the aeroponic system. One notable suggestion involved adjusting the angle of the holes on the tower to facilitate optimal plant growth. Jaye, ever receptive to constructive criticism, embraces these recommendations, recognizing their potential to enhance the system’s effectiveness and maximize crop yields.

To conclude, Jaye’s aeroponic system represents a paradigm shift in urban farming. Rooted in ingenuity and driven by a passion for sustainability, this invention holds the promise of a greener, more resilient future. As urbanization accelerates and the pressures of climate change intensify, Jaye’s vision serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards a harmonious coexistence between cities and nature.

Through innovation and collaboration, we can cultivate a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow for generations to come.

Francoise Casalda, John Lorenz Ramones

CCAAM ‘23: CCSASHS settles for silver in Badminton Mixed Doubles, 0-2

byRosminAndreiMogatas

After a scorching battle for the coveted victory, Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) was unable to strike for gold after being defeated by Cauayan City National High SchoolMain (CCNHS), letting go of the badminton mixed doubles and settling for the silver medal, 14-21; 7-21, held at Cauayan City South Central School Gymnasium, December 7.

CCSASHS settled for the silver medal after failing to fill the score disparity in two consecutive games, paving the way for CCNHS and dropping the hope of securing their ticket to CAVRAA 2024.

Aldrich Thyrdee Quinto, CCNHS-Main Asset, fired the racket-bashing multiple strikes to the CCSASHS court, which gained a hiatus in the early minutes of the first game, 21-14.

“My partner and I planned this to start strong, to keep the way for us, and to easily see if this strategy would work, and somehow it did,” according to Quinto in the post-game interview. On the other hand, four minutes into the first game of the

match, CCSASHS has some slack rallying for points, gaining close points for CCNHS-Main, but fails to keep the momentum as Quinto blasted numerous smashes, securing the lead.

“As Shane continued to back me up on defense, I tried to keep up with their momentum, but it was difficult because their play was solid,” said King Larry Reyes, a CCSASHS player.

Shane Apostol, a CCNHS-Main player, dispensed with net attacks that faltered the defense of Jasmine Kyla Dela Pena, a CCSASHS player, losing the chance to catch up in the first game.

Opening two minutes in the second game, the CCNHS-Main

TVL swimmer makes history as first CCSASHS international athlete at AOSI ‘24

byAltheaAlyssaBuncag

Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) player Jedric Babaran clinched victory against Cauayan City Private School Athletic Association (PRISAA) player Jahziel Madalura, with a score of 11-2 in table tennis, men single, securing his spot in advancing for Cagayan Valley Regional Athletic Association (CaVRAA) during city meet at Cauayan City Complex, December 9.

With only one point away from winning, Babaran served a fast ball service followed by a third ball attack, leaving Madalura with no opportunity for a counterattack in the critical moments of the match, making Babaran triumphant in the match, attaining the gold medal and a spot for CaVRAA.

In a closely contested match, the Grade 12 CCSASHS student secured the first set with a score of 11-9. Madalura then took control of the second set, but Babaran fought back and reclaimed the lead in the third set.

Despite a shift in momentum in the fourth set, Babaran remained focused and eventually won the match with a set point score of 3-2.

“I focused during our game so I could find Mandalura’s weakness and beat him with it. Playing with him also made me wise,” Babaran said.

Employing a calculated strategy, Babaran prioritized precise placements and controlled ball distribution, preventing Madalura from gaining momentum and launching powerful counterattacks.

The champ mentioned that his victory was preceded by rigorous training sessions spanning nearly two weeks before going to competition in the city meet.

“Before our game in the city meet, we had preparation training for 2 weeks, during our training, we had a program every day, we start our practice; we first do the footwork and ball control, and the next day, serve and receive, and then repeat it,” the 17-year-old Babaran said.

Meanwhile, Babaran is gearing up and marked his final year to compete in CavRAA 2024, scheduled to set on April 26, 2024, at the Ilagan

remained bold as they prevailed over CCSASHS, soaring with 10 10-point hiatus, putting CCSASHS at risk to earn the golden opportunity to enter the CAVRAA 2024. Reyes, the CCSASHS athletes, were feeble with their edging assaults as Quinto’s defenses remained robust.

The 17-year-old Reyes, however, tried to gain defenses against Quintos and Apostol with greedy bashes from Dela Pena, but it was not enough to turn the table and retain the chance to win.

With a 15-point gap on the line, the 15-year-old Quintos ended the hope of CCSASHS with a solid smash to have their chance to snatch the championship and bag their ticket for CAVRAA 2024.

byAuraViennGive

Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) arnisador Isabelle Taguiam dominated the Girls’ Padded Stick finals, defeating Rouiena Sanchez of Palayan City National High School (PCNHS),1-0, in Panagbenga Arnis Encounter ‘24 at the Easter College in Baguio City, March 3.

In a display of might and fury, Taguiam wasted no time, fiercely launching calculated strikes at her Luzon counterpart in the first thirty seconds, gaining her points, and establishing early dominance.

Under Taguiam’s assault, Sanchez tightened her defenses, locking her eyes on Taguiam with a steely determination to score.

Absorbed in defense and prepping her charges, Sanchez left herself open for a strike as the CCSASHS arnisador strategically shifted her attacks to gain the upper hand. With Taguiam visibly worn out from her earlier matches up to the finals, Sanchez sensed an opening, lunging for a quick strike as Taguiam’s guard faltered, leaving her struggling to recover.

Taguiam admitted that her PCNHS opponent is good at blocking so she opted to change her attacks.

“My opponent, she is good at blocking, so I looked for ways to get my strike in [my opponent],” Isabelle Taguim stated.

Sanchez pressed for another attack, but Taguiam countered with a decisive blow, securing victory just before the 1 minute and 30 seconds match concluded, resulting in an 8-2.

Moreover, Taguiam’s journey as a female arnisador helps to break stereotypes projected on women in the sports scene.

Andre Luis S. Corpuz, a Grade 12 Technical Vocational Livelihood (TVL) student of Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS), notched his name in the school legacy, becoming the first-ever athlete from CCSASHS to debut internationally in the recent Asian Open Schools Invitational (AOSI) Aquatics Championships ‘24 held in Bangkok, Thailand, on February 2.

The 18-year-old Corpuz, though competing for the competing for the first time internationally, glided through in the men’s 100-meter freestyle with a record of 1 minute and 5.47 seconds, coming off as first in his heat at Assumption University, Suvarnabhumi Campus, beating his fellow countrymen seconds off with Sebastien Albert Castro (1 minute and 6.28 seconds) and Steve Izenn Tan (1 minute and 6.81 seconds) in the second of forty-two qualifying heats. Motivated to do better in his second match on a different swimming stroke in AOSI, Corpuz adjusted his mindset for the competition as his coach and father, Elmer C. Corpuz, cheered amongst the crowd. With his second match in the men’s 50-meter butterfly, Corpuz trod the water fast enough to clock a swift time of 30.53 seconds, just

two milliseconds shy of Filipino Juan Paolo Cortez’s 31.45-second record, dominating the 2nd qualifying heat out of 42.

“It pressures me as this is my first time competing internationally, and with all the warm support that has been showered on me by everyone, I can say that my victory is our victory,” the proud swimmer said.

Moreover, Corpuz had recently dominated as the school’s representative in the swimming competition at City Meet ‘23 in Cauayan City, Philippines, nabbing an impressive five gold medals at various swimming strokes, advancing him to the Cagayan Valley Regional Athletic Association (CAVRAA).

Corpuz is eying for another shot before he leaves the school, before he says farewell in his senior year.

Babaran prevails Madalura in Table Tennis Singles, secures spot in CaVRAA ‘24

byNicoleJaneAntonio

City complex.

BREAKING WAVES OF HISTORY: TVL swimmer carves out their name as the in CCSASHS International athlete at AOSI ‘24.

Jack-Plot: Play, Frail, Fail

The government punches the guts of the heroes’ bottled voices in the sports industry. While they tackle other forms of development lifestyles, a huge irony occurs, yet there is no public access to parks, sports facilities, rampant mistreatment, improper funding, and many more.

Sports is a jackpot opportunity to grow beyond capabilities, encompassing key aspects of maintaining a physically fit body alongside mastery of discipline, which surely does make the entirety of those who indulge in recreational and leisure activities prosper. But, if one may ask, is it true that sports, in any shape or form, are given a platform to establish other facets that could foster the interest of young budding and athletic youth? Or, is it just a make-believe facade of development for the sake of utilizing greed and wealth in the sports industry because there are things that lie in the shadows of the fields?

Rolling Fake Dice: The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) provides leadership, policies, priorities, and direction for all amateur sports promotion and progression, giving emphasis on grassroots participation.

However, the government continually burdens itself with responsibilities. With the historic win of Filipino athletes in the Tokyo 2020 Olym-

pics, the government was quick to claim their victories as an achievement of the Duterte administration. The truth is that their stories are among the many stories of Filipino athletes who were failed by their own government. In 2019, Hidilyn Diaz showcased that she was struggling to fund her bid to compete in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. For being true and vocal about her experience, she was maliciously red-tagged and sent ill wishes by Duterte supporters.

Olympic boxing qualifier Irish Magno revealed that she was unable to focus on her training because she was worried if her family could even eat regularly. She said that the allowance she receives from the government is delayed often and would cause her to be pressured to cover the expenses needed.

Filipino chess player and grandmaster, Wesley So, had to switch allegiance just so he could thrive in his sport, in his passion. So used to compete for the Philippines, but he was pushed to his limits when the PSC withheld incentives after he won a gold medal in a competition that the commission did not officially recognize. So now it competes under the US flag.

These are just a handful of instances that show that the common denominator among all of the athletes’

Sinking Power

The 2024 Paris Olympics is approaching, and the Philippines is grappling with its representation. While the country has a history of producing excellent athletes, it has yet to achieve significant Olympic success. Hidilyn Diaz’s gold medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics was a breakthrough, but the country’s overall performance has been inconsistent. Only six athletes have been confirmed to represent the Philippines in the upcoming Olympics, highlighting a declining trend in the country’s participation. The Philippines is becoming less in the field of sports, and even if every corner of the country nurtures a potential athlete, it still goes down the drain as the government gives no support for the country’s athletes.

With a total of 14 medals from the event—and 1 gold, 5 silver, and 8 bronze, —the Philippines is still extremely far from other nations that have competed in the Olympics for more than a century, such as China, Japan, Korea, and many more. In order to surpass these nations’ Olympic momentum, it will likely take millennia or maybe an endless amount of time for us to catch up to them. This is the sad reality of sports in the country. Sports in the Philippines is often seen as a street-level activity, with children playing while others watch. However, the reality is that without years of dedication and effort, those players are likely to remain at the street level and struggle to make a name for themselves in the field of sports.

The government’s failure to support our athletes damaged the nation’s reputation abroad and caused it to gradually deteriorate. Merely relying on non-governmental organizations to address the challenges faced by

our athletes is not enough to bridge the gaps and overcome the obstacles to their success. When it comes to sports, the nation’s government is still in its infancy. Less money, less space for practice, and less nutrition push developed athletes to push themselves to new limits—unless they are the ones wearing the shoes to fulfill their needs. Although the government still provides even at the storm of the country, the providing factor of the country is below the bare minimum. The government’s lack of commitment to Philippine sports shows a lack of diligence, as its actions seem more geared towards creating a facade of good governance rather than providing meaningful support. This ineffective approach has led to a situation where support for sports is lacking. As long as the government is unwilling to assist the sports state in competing in world sports, we will quickly fade in the eyes of observers.

As the country’s international sports participation remains limited, the prospects for achieving desired results or making a significant impact seem bleak.

As the country’s international sports participation remains limited, the prospects for achieving desired results or making a significant impact seem bleak. Despite attempts to hype up sports through street-level showcases, the reality is often far from the portrayed image. While some individuals may receive support and recognition domestically, gain-

stories mentioned is the lack of ample support from the Philippine government.

Play stupid games, win stupid prizes. The lack of support and public spaces for sports facilities curated the recognition of e-sports (electronic sports), a sedentary practice. There are no platforms to physically play with; the world evolves, and so does fun too. Children are exposed to only grasping the idea that playing with fingers is fun, but underneath that practice, it makes it hard for children to socialize and indulge in the real world. Not only that, it creates health problems, breeding cardiopulmonary diseases, lack of sleep, addiction, lack of focus, and more.

No public spaces for sports is a downfall. Senator Sonny Angara said, “I think maybe [we] could use [public parks and sports facilities] on top of buildings. Maybe there are ways that we can be creative about it.”

Down Bad, but here is the key.

In 2015, the PSC received only P800 million. For comparison, neighboring countries such as Thailand allotted P14.37 billion for their sports budget in 2011. Filipino athletes not only have to compete in their respective sports; they also have to compete with each other for scarce resources.

The government fails to properly invest in Philippine sports

programs, mainly because the government is in a state of permanent austerity. As with anything that the Philippine government does, it wants the greatest output with the littlest input. The government is quick to claim glory but slow to reimburse training, lodging, travel, registration, and food expenses. This is why it is infuriating to know that corruption still occurs inside the sports commission. Sports and the determination of Filipinos always coexist, but with how the government is treating athletes, even if some may say that it is more than enough, it is more than what is needed, there are still layers of things to fully indulge in with its complexities and intricacies. We Filipinos are the eyes of hope, determination, passion, and desire for the greater good. We should challenge the prevailing narrative that athletes, or anyone else for that matter, can achieve anything through sheer determination alone. We must demand consistent and proper support for our athletes. It is not an excuse to not care because they are on a “jackpot” pedestal; if mistreated, the plot will always prevail. As they play with the smallest input being demanded for a greater output, they are pushed to the core and frail, causing windows of newer opportunities to blur and fail.

ing global recognition often requires connections, authority, and years of effort. For many aspiring athletes, the path to success seems uncertain or unattainable. With limitations in action and no progress at all, sports will soon die in the country due to the neglect of those who are in power. Looking back, when Fidel V. Ramos in power, the Philippines’ sports was at its peak, with participation excelling vigorously and the attention given to the athletes is high, however, those happy times soon ended when Ramos ended his time after those glows, the Philippines enters the nightmare stage, the sports situation become less and less to be entertained nor appetizing. As of this time, the series of doubts is still prevalent up to this day.

Despite ongoing societal issues such as economic status and poverty, the Philippines is undergoing a process of evolution. Sports is a topic that raises various discussions in society, highlighting its significance. Sports has not only opened doors for the nation in terms of economic opportunities but has also played a crucial role in various aspects of society. However, the importance of sports is often overlooked or undermined by those in power. Well, the joke’s on us, as long as corruption persists among the country’s leaders, the idea of sports bringing about meaningful change may remain a fantasy. As the 2024 Paris Olympics draw near, the participation of standout Filipino athletes like Carlos Yulo, EJ Obiena, Nesthy Petecio, and others raises hopes. However, the chances of winning a gold medal remain uncertain, akin to the murky canals filled with debris in the Philippines. Despite the presence of these exceptional athletes, the

overall participation rate of Filipino athletes pales in comparison to other countries. The potential for exceptional performance is overshadowed by the challenges posed by governance issues.

Promised with the “Bagong Pilipinas” by the son of the dictator, Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., The new face of the country is rarely seen and sounds rebuilt, as is the case with sports in the Philippines, where there has been no fresh progress. There is no prospect that the country would excel in sports that blunt the power of the country. Despite our athletes’ best efforts, the sport is on the verge of collapse. It is all in luck and how the athlete will strategize on the stage bringing no support from the country’s government, at least there is from the people. Even if we reiterate that the change will be visible and can be committed by our athletes just by striving for the best, it will be all just an illusion even if they strive if the present leaders are the ones who suck up the state of the sports and the country all in all.

Young Pulse

With their second year of joining, they again graced the oval field with their delicate and precious golden dust after the ample and intensive training to deliver the best performance during the biggest athletic event of the city, proving that she’s undefang-able.

Showered with 80 gold medals, Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School’s Gray Wolves were blissed with blinding luster during the 2023-2024 Cauayan Athletic City Meet, bagging the back-to-back champion title on December 9.

Ignited with the ever-supporting howls of their pack, the district athletes defended their flaming title, polishing 80 gold, 47 silver, and 32 bronze, for a total of 159—a handful. Pre-Games

swimming coach Sarah Jane Curampez shared.

According to many players in a mass Q&A, all of their efforts, even with constraints, are going off the table once they are in their respective courts, giving their all to win.

Before the players embarked on their journey to fight, representing CCSASHS, they underwent intense training, shedding blood, sweat, and tears all in order to keep their minds game-focused.

“It takes great courage to compete in this event, especially since our swimmers are all rockies. Despite facing challenges such as limited resources, scarce training time (2–3 hours per session), and a compressed schedule (3–4 days a week), the city meet preparation persevered,”

2nd Golden Shower: A Failed Attempt in Defanging

byWillmarCamus

Wolves on the Hunt

Heated courts, pools, boards, floors, and tables are vividly visible during the event while athletes go through easy wins, thrice-to-beats, and close matches, surviving neck-to-necks against whatever district they go up against.

“Before the game started, we started with a prayer and yelled. I always remind myself too, as a coach, that I have to show confidence to have a domino effect with the athletes,” archery coach Rochelle Sanchez said for the pre-game.

On the other court, during the basketball game held at Minante Dos, player Banjo Maximo expressed his experience during the game, highlighting both the nerves and the empowerment he felt while both opposing teams chanted at the top of their lungs, signifying their desire to win.

“Bago pa man mag simula kami ay nag huddle [kami] at pinatanggal ang kaba ng bawat isa. After the game, we won. Sobrang saya ng feeling knowing na pasok kami sa CAVRAA and [may] gold medal para sa city meet,” he shared. Maximo is one of the many athletes who showed

CCSASHS grabs City Meet Lawn Tennis Doubles Category Title, secures ticket in CavRAA ‘24

byNicoleJaneAntonio

exemplary dedication to the school, contributing to its momentous success.

Though some athletes had their regional journey cut short, they still faced losses with the correct and proper attitude, embodying the mindset of a true athlete.

Howling Moment

The entire pack howled after emerging undefeated, with the school’s secondary school principal IV, John R. Mina, PhD, expressing his overflowing joy from the moment.

“Bagging the championship crown in the city meet pushes us to a greater challenge; that’s why we should not rest on our laurels,” he expressed in an exclusive flash interview, pointing out that the school’s awards are not reasons for being rest-assuring but a wake-up call to push and strive for the best in all aspects.

“[The] CCSASHS family once again proved that excellence is never a coincidence. It is the result of hard work and discipline,” he added. The celebratory cheers roared triumph, imprinting a sports paw on the city’s sports history and recognizing the school as a home of excellent, award-winning, and prized athletes that practice good sportsmanship.

Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School (CCSASHS) triumphantly took the lead in the 2023 Lawn Tennis, held at Cauayan City Sports Complex Tennis Court last November 7, bagging the championship title in the doubles category.

In an impressive display of skill and determination, Keziah Jirah Calimag and Krisha Moana Peralta secured the gold award against CCNHS-Main, with Sheena Tamani and Jobelle Balais having a leading score of 8-2, earning their way into the upcoming CaVRAA 2024.

In the first minute of the game, both teams engaged in an equal exchange of scores, with neither side gaining a significant advantage.

However, as the game progressed, Calimag and Peralta adjusted and eventually pulled out.

“My partner and I already discussed that we should focus more on ball placement, move more on the court, and have a presence of mind on the ball,” said Calimag.

In the last minute of the game, Calimag and Peralta took control of the match, disrupting their opponent’s rhythm by making them run and move around the court, seizing points and ultimately scoring 8 points.

Guided by their coach, Precious Sapla, Calimag and Peralta secured the victory with Calimag.

“All the sacrifices were so worth it after the game because we really prepared intensively for the divi-

sion meet,” Calimag said. Calimag also mentioned in an interview that their preparation for the city meet involved training sessions focused on conditioning and skill refinement.

“A week before the city meet, athletes were excused, so we used that time to do body conditioning and train our skills and consistency in hitting the ball,” she added. As CAVRAA closely approaches, Calimag and Peralta gear up to prepare themselves for the CaVRAA 2024.