

The Gift That Keeps On Giving Q&A With Br. Gus 8
News That Matter, Stories That Count Q&A With Mr. Rico Hizon 10
From The Archives: The St. Benilde Gym 14
FLETCH: The Great Shift To Online Education 16
A Look Into The Pioneers Of LSGH's Arts & Design Track 26
The Coed LSGH: A Move Towards Inclusivity 28
Rise To The Top, Woman Up! 32
Heart Of Champions 36
LSGH Unveils School Mascot’s New Pal In Renewed Kindness Pitch 39
QARO: Research Team Cited As Best Presenters 40
In Memoriam 42
Br. Sockie de la Rosa FSC
Associate Editors
Trixie Supangco Johanna BatolosCreative Director Marc Gepaya
Art Director
Cat Ting-Garza – Parents Jamby Santos – Students and Faculty
Rusel Miranda
Reg Mariano
Gab Legaspi
Kej Male
Caity Atienza
Renzo Andrew Lirag
Denise Comia
Photos
Edward Rivera
Rodel Macadaeg
Jun Flores
Reggie Francisco
Ian Saulog
De La Salle Philippines - Central House Administration Archives
Jose Mari Magpayo
Jigger Rayel
Marvin Bienvenida
Ritche Bongcaron
Jocelyn Malaki
GH343 is published by the LSGH Marketing and Communications Office (3rd floor, St. La Salle Building, +63.2.8721.2000 local 702).
The magazine is named after the location of La Salle Green Hills; GH is an abbreviation for Green Hills, where the school is situated, while 343 is the landmark number along Ortigas Avenue. The school is home to outstanding faculty, students, and notable alumni who are leaders in business, public service, education, arts, and many other industries. The magazine aims to feature developments, milestones, and stories of interest about the school.
Call for contributions. Members of the LSGH community are invited to submit articles and/or photos for possible inclusion in the magazine. Contributions must be original works and should include the name, office, and signature of the sender. Submitted materials may be edited for clarity or space considerations. No responsibility is assumed for the return of unsolicited materials.
GH343 may be accessed online through the official website: www.lsgh.edu.ph
For submissions and/or feedback, emails may be sent to mco@lsgh.edu.ph
From family day celebrations and community masses to intramurals, high school proms, and graduation ceremonies, the St. Benilde Gym, the most iconic landmark in La Salle Green Hills, evokes nostalgia.
The dome-shaped structure, that saw completion in 1969 as a fitting memorial to St. Benilde Romancon, is a testament to our Lasallian roots, an enduring witness to our shared Lasallian past.
Come and revisit the St. Benilde Gym.
Go up the steps and sit on the bleachers; or take the good old ramp and walk through its doors. It will always ‘feel’ the same.
No matter how far we have gone, no matter how old we have become.
PUBLISHED BY
La Salle Green Hills 343 Ortigas Avenue, Mandaluyong City 1550 www.lsgh.edu.ph
Anton del Rosario
This Issue Would Not Have Been Possible Without The Help Of
“The bamboo that bends is stronger than the oak that resists.” (Japanese Proverb)
The past two years have been tests of flexibility of resilience for La Salle Green Hills and many other organizations and individuals. Some were able to bend and survive, some broke.
La Salle Green Hills thrived. This magazine, particularly this issue, is a testament to the ability of LSGH to thrive amidst adversity:
The homecoming of Br. Gus Boquer, a pillar of the school, to ensure that the school is sustained for many more years to come (I jokingly thought to myself when I learned of his assignment: Best prepare your checkbooks, boys and girls, your Principal has returned and it’s time to give back!)
The pivot to online education through FLETCH, ensuring the teaching and learning will go on, no matter the circumstances.
Finally, the awakening to inclusivity and dropping of “exclusivity” by the admission of female students to the school.
These milestones and other (his)stories hopefully provide a comforting assurance to you, dear readers, whether you are a graduate, a student, a parent, an employee: LSGH, your home is here to stay.
I’ve encountered many people in different fields and industries. This could be anecdotal and will need to be backed by further study but I’ve often mused: What makes a graduate of LSGH stand out from all the other excellent schools around? I’d say one main factor is flexibility. “Marunong makisama at makihalubilo." After the past two years, I will add -- anyone from LSGH knows how to thrive amidst adversity.
We bend but we do not break. We come back stronger and better.
May I end this note by thanking Brother President, Br. Edmundo Fernandez, for his trust in appointing me Editor of this magazine. To our readers: on behalf of the editorial team, please accept my best wishes and warm regards. We sincerely hope you enjoy this maiden issue.
Br. Sockie de la Rosa FSC
LSGH Batch 2001
To say that it is my joy to see you all is an understatement. The two years of the pandemic were dark days but the early months of the lockdown in 2020 were the darkest. And as I went around, not exactly knowing what was going to happen to the world, the campus looked like they were scenes right out of Twilight Zone — there were food left in classrooms, shirts and clothes left, board work unerased. In its starkness and emptiness it became clear to me that a campus isn’t a school without its students and teachers and staff. It was only the last few months that I felt life returning back to school. And so I welcome you all with so much joy and gratitude. You bring life back to La Salle Green Hills, you are the Life of La Salle Green Hills.
First, I wish to speak about what we have done in the intervening two years to ensure that we will emerge from the pandemic a stronger, more resilient institution:
• At the start of the pandemic we put together a Mission Continuity Plan that allowed us to navigate the early days of COVID. That included the creation of FLETCH and the transparent and clear rationalization of our fees which parents appreciated;
• The introduction of new systems and upgrading of outdated ones including a new School Management System and soon a new HR information system. We’ve recabled the whole campus and installed new CCTV cameras that should allow us to monitor our students better. The recabling will also allow us to upgrade our wifi to ensure the whole campus is connected; we have also invested on our concurrent classroom set up and I do hope we can use that moving forward even if we are mandated to go full F2F;
• We have made La Salle Green Hills education more inclusive by accepting female students, first in SHS in 2020 and all levels in 2021;
• We have arrested an 11-year decline in enrollment in 2021 and our numbers are looking good for this SY;
• In all of these, the teachers and staff remain an integral and important part of the educational undertaking. With a lot of pencil pushing and without raising tuition and fees unrealistically, we have managed to upgrade compensation. I wish to let you know that we do understand the work and the demands put upon teachers and staff and it is my wish to be able to continue to look after all of you well.
The second point I wish to speak about is FLETCH, Flexible Lasallian Education Through Technology and Collaboration at Home. I wish to emphasize two aspects of this pedagogical philosophy as we begin to move into version 3 this year:
• One is FLEXIBLE. The education we offer should be as flexible for as many learning styles as possible. We are moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach as we know that each child and student is unique and different. I hope the modalities we are offering this year, granting we are still allowed by DepEd to continue, allows for this kind of flexibility.
• Second, is COLLABORATION. Our pedagogy and education is primarily a partnership with parents but also with students and other stakeholders and we should, as much as we can, have conversations with all these stakeholders as we try and personalize our education to each and every child entrusted to us.
I am of the firm belief that these two characteristics are very Lasallian and I believe that we should develop and strengthen these characteristics in the coming years.
My third and final point. We are launching our new thematic slogan: “Learn More, Be More.”
• In this very competitive environment, and as schools emerge from the challenges of
the pandemic, it is imperative that we distinguish our brand to rise above the “noise”;
• We did a “deep dive” into how our stakeholders viewed us by conducting a 2-pronged study - qualitative and quantitativewhich provided valuable insights into how stakeholders see our institution;
• Chief among the findings is one that should make everyone proud: that LSGH is an aspirational brand. Likewise, when compared to other similar institutions, our school is distinct among all the rest through its well-rounded education. This is what sets us apart. In marketing, this is what is referred to as a Unique Selling Proposition and this is what we need to focus on when talking about our school and the programs we offer and in the way we convince others that this is a go-to school.
• We reference these findings, not so much as rebranding but more of a reinforcing of our strategic advantage, - which brings us to our new thematic slogan: “Learn More, Be More.”
The slogan brings together two concepts that are offshoots of our well-rounded education, individually strong but together even stronger. Sure, all schools promise quality education. But here, we promise more: innovative learning paradigms,
technology-driven learning tools, agile learning delivery platforms, future-proof skills learning and teachers who remain passionate about what they do. Thus, LEARN MORE.
• What sets us further apart?
Our students are exposed and encouraged to become whole persons: smart and street smart. It is a philosophy that has never wavered for the more than half a century we have been in existence. Through a whole range of extra and co curricular initiatives, we shape our students into becoming well - adjusted, multi dimensional young men and women immersed in civic, spiritual, artistic, athletic and special interests and skills pursuits. We are therefore committed to make them BE MORE.
• LEARN MORE, BE MORE. This is who we are and this what we have always promised and our stakeholders recognize this as our unique characteristic. Our mission is to make sure we deliver on this promise in everything we do for each and every student entrusted to us.
Let me end with a promise of prayers for all of you as we begin a new chapter not just in LSGH education but the whole Philippine education. May we always be guided by the pioneering spirit of St. John Baptist De La Salle. Thank you and welcome to SY 2022 - 2023.
*President's welcome remarks delivered during LSGH's general assembly on 25 July 2022"
Our students are exposed and encouraged to become whole persons: smart and street smart. It is a philosophy that has never wavered for the more than half a century we have been in existence.
It is not unusual for a De La Salle Brother to have a long list of present positions, special recognitions, professional and international affiliations, committee memberships and ongoing projects.
While each Brother may take on different paths as they grow into the vocation, many of them start on LSGH grounds, and where, after some 34 years, Br. Gus Boquer FSC, finds himself coming full circle.
Q: Please tell us about your fondest memories at LSGH.
Br. Gus: LSGH was to me, as a very young Brother, a place where I learned the fundamentals of living and loving my response to serving God. There were so many opportunities to undertake creative initiatives and make them happen with my students; I witnessed their growing years being formed as catalysts for social transformation. The letters of St. John Baptist de La Salle were much appreciated during those growing years, for me as a young Brother mentor and by my mentees -- the students entrusted to me.
Br. Gus was High School Principal in 1977 to 1988. Two years prior to this assignment, he served as Social Sciences Department Head and SACB Adviser for four years. Concurrently, he was Director of the Christian Brothers’ Community at LSGH after serving the La Salle Provincialate as the Philippine District Vocation Director from 19691973.
Unknown to many, Br. Gus remains a staunch supporter of our premiere music ministry group, Kundirana, from the time he was Moderator in 1975. He arranged the group’s international tours of the early 80’s, bringing them to Hongkong in 1980 and the US in 1983 through his parent-contacts, organizations, and friends. Kundirana has stood the test of time, now on its 52nd year, much like Br. Gus who, at 79, continues to be devoted to his Lasallian ministry.
Today, he returns to LSGH as Director for Advancement.
Q: Please tell us about your beginnings with Advancement and how has the work been all these years.
Br. Gus: They were great learning experiences where I began with very simple projects, like raising funds for a prayer book I prepared for a series of retreats I conducted for seniors and their parents. I realized in raising funds, the project must be very meaningful, and for the donor to be able to identify himself or herself – to find it a worthy project to undertake. In all these, there must be credibility when asking. There must be a sense of fulfillment for the giver and receiver. In essence, there is that realization that doing God’s work is an accompaniment experience of journey with a God who provides for as long as we take that ‘leap of Faith’ as we dream, believe, and hope, that with God, nothing is impossible, despite challenges, big or small, that comes along as we go about doing God’s work.
All through the years have been moments of grace in all my undertakings. I always say thank you to our God and make it a point to help donors realize that they are part of God’s plans in all these. But they must believe, with a humbling faith experience.
Q: What do you look forward to in your new assignment at LSGH?
Br. Gus: My new assignment at LSGH, as well as my other assignments included, are not entirely a new beginning but a continuation of God’s much appreciated accompaniment. My assignments from my Superiors, I consider as God’s Holy Will for me. With a leap of Faith, God shall provide. I look forward to these new assignments that I am to undertake – to do God’s work. There will be new ‘friendraising,’ as potential fundraising ideas and ideals are presented to me.
Similarly etched in our school history is Br. Gus’ involvement in one of our hallmark achievements -- the foundation of the Adult Night High School in 1978. This life-changing opportunity for adults to gain a Lasallian education may not have been without its share of struggles, but alongside it is a lot of success stories. And it all began with people opening their hearts to giving.
Q: Why do you think people give?
Br. Gus: People who believe in the nobility of the project – and the credibility of the person asking, will give from the sincerity of their hearts knowing where the money will go. In all these, there must always be the principle of transparency, accountability, and sense of stewardship where donations are given. They must see for a period how the support was fully utilized as requested and explained. There will be occasions for true friendship to begin unfolding and strengthened, that this is a moment of grace where our experience of being touched by God’s grace will be lived and shared.
Q: How would you define the act of giving? Who would be the ideal Lasallian donor?
Br. Gus: It comes from the heart. Anything coming from the heart is big in the eyes of God. Anyone can give, and best to remember, the best time to give, is when it is hardest to give. God’s blessings of multiple graces are overwhelming. I have witnessed all these through the years. I do not distinguish a Lasallian donor from a non-Lasallian donor. I have always been all to all. I love them all, and they know it. God’s blessings are overwhelming!
It has been more than three decades since LSGH has had the privilege to be under Br. Gus’ tutelage and it is with utmost pleasure that he is welcomed back to La Salle Green Hills. Bringing with him a multitude of learnings and the gentle but firm stewardship that is his nature, the LSGH Community could not be luckier.
Q: What is your message to the LSGH Community?
Br. Gus: I am being sent to do God’s work, with all the graces that can only come from Him. Your prayers for me to accomplish God’s Holy Will in these new beginnings shall be my only desire. May I live my life as a De La Salle Brother in the manner God sees it. I entrust everything to Him, knowing I cannot do these alone. Without God, and His chosen new friends introduced to me, and with friends through the years who have become a part of my life, I will do as asked. I shall be a Brother and friend to all!
Last November 2022, I launched a new movement as part of my advocacy called Friends FOREVER! as another chapter in my life to be your caring Brother to respond to challenges that could together become opportunities. There is no limit to what good friends can do for God’s Honor and Glory, and the welfare of those entrusted to us, remembering from Kahlil Gibran’s inspiring reflection, “Today well-lived, makes every yesterday a dream of happiness, and every tomorrow a vision of hope.”
It is with utmost pleasure that La Salle Green Hills welcomes Br. Gus back to its fold. n
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All through the years have been moments of grace in all my undertakings. I always say thank you to our God and make it a point to help donors realize that they are part of God’s plans in all these.
Much like the tagline of media giant CNN Philippines, broadcast journalist extraordinaire Rico Hizon is one news anchor you can trust, someone with inspirational credibility and credence.
He is proudly Filipino, and he is proudly Lasallian.
A member of LSGH Batch 1984, Rico saw his beginnings in public speaking, debate and even singing; he developed the confidence to face live audience from being onstage to onscreen and blossomed into the pioneering force he is today.
Q: Please tell us some of your fond memories of LSGH?
Rico: From Grade 1 to 4th Year High School, I had a lot of milestones in this educational institution which will forever be my alma mater.
In grade school, I competed in all the major public speaking competitions from Declamation to Bigkasan, to Oratorical and Talumpatian and came away with gold medals. I was fortunate to have been the President of my classes in grade school and high school. I was also the President of the Forensics Guild and the Debating Club. I was fortunate to have served at the SACB (Student Council) and help our schoolmates in school activities and reach out programs to help our kababayans in need. I was truly honored to have been chosen to be part of the Circulo summer batch organized by Bro Gus. Organizing activities for my fellow batchmates was one thing I was always looking forward to during the school year.
Another fond memory was joining the Music Talent Discovery in 2nd and 3rd HS. I was one of the 10 finalists, although I did not win, it was a great experience singing Lupa of Rico J Puno and Lift Up Your Hands of Basil Valdez in the finals.
Thirty years into his chosen career, Rico has shown tenacity, displayed integrity and exhibited passion in his undertakings. These are marks of a true industry leader, one who is not only multi-awarded, but also much respected in the field.
Q: Please tell us about your beginnings with journalism/broadcasting.
Rico: Having been a reporter and news anchor for quite some time – 34 years to be exact – I’ve reported and stood witness to a virtual parade of events that have served to define our lives such as stock market upheavals, economic crisis, presidential elections, natural calamities like volcanic eruptions, typhoons, tsunamis and earthquakes, and lately, the Covid-19 pandemic and the recent 2022 elections.
The phrase I would use to aptly encapsulate my past three decades in the broadcast industry and as an OFJ (overseas foreign journalist) is “I LIVE, BREATHE, AND EAT NEWS.”
From 1995 to 2020, I was singularly blessed to have represented our country, Asia and the world to hundreds of millions of viewers on CNBC and BBC World News. To this day, I continue to look back in awe and humility that I was chosen to fulfill such a great opportunity.
Without doubt, I’m extremely proud of my work, but the stories wouldn’t have been written and produced without the faith and guidance of certain individuals, who have been instrumental in helping nurture my career.
These include my time at GMA News and Public Affairs from 1988-1995 mentored by TV moderators Atty. Art Borjal and Atty. Ricardo “Dong” Puno. Then from 1995-2002 with CNBC Business News in Hong Kong and Singapore. The network owned by NBC News gave me my break in the international broadcast news arena and lastly, from 2002 to 2020 at BBC World News in Singapore and London, my home for 18 years.
Most importantly, if I have succeeded as a professional and as a person, that’s also due to the love and support of my family: my dad, Jose and late mom, Leonor; my wife, Melannie and son, Migo. They are my eternal rock and inspiration.
Now, as CNN Philippines senior anchor, I have taken my place, among my colleagues, armed with the best practices I’ve gleaned from my 25 years overseas.
Back on Philippine shores, we are lucky to have Rico on local airwaves, sharing local and foreign news with transparency and genuine journalism. Given the particularly disconcerting state of truth in information and media broadcast-sharing in the country today, he remains a solid, reliable force as senior news anchor and host.
Q: Please describe your current job/post in CNN Philippines.
Rico: On CNN Philippines, I'm the senior anchor of the daily evening primetime news program ‘The Final Word’ and the weekly business show ‘The Exchange.’ I have also anchored major CNN PH specials from the KBP Presidential Forum, the CBCP Presidential Forum, The Vice-Presidential Debate, Senatorial Forums and the Vice-Presidential and Presidential Inaugurations.
In developing news content for The Final Word, the team follows a formula which we believe comprises the key elements to a good newscast: the newsmaker or the hard news, international news, and a light and inspiring story to end with.
We start off with the top local story of the day, then we shift to international news to give our viewers a global perspective of what's happening beyond our shores, international politics, trade and business and its impact on our daily lives. We now live in a borderless world; we not just rely on ourselves but also on many other countries to survive.
And then, we have a light, inspiring and ‘good vibes’ stories in our final segment.
In 45 minutes we want to give our viewers an overall view of what’s happening in the Philippines, around the world, and at the end, give them a sense of hope, inspire them that there is still a light at the end of the tunnel.
Every day, I always try to stay on top of the news. I have to be well-versed in a variety of topics, from politics and business, to culture and sports. We have to know the facts inside-out because there is a lot of gossip and noise out there. So we always have to double check and triple-check our sources, so what we broadcast is fair, accurate and balanced news.
Q: What do you think is the relevance of news and information?
Rico: News and information is that part of communication that keeps us informed of the changing events, issues, and opinions. The foremost value of news is empowering us to be informed.
The news media has a huge impact on our daily lives because they are the window through which we look at the outside world. Watching broadcast news and reading newspapers daily keeps us updated with the latest news from politics, business, sports, games and entertainment.
Q: What makes for a good news writer/ news reporter?
Rico: Manila’s newsrooms boast an abundance of patience, persistence, optimism in the face of overwhelming odds, grace under extreme pressure and ingenuity, especially when resources are scarce.
But what truly sets the Pinoy journalist apart is his or her ability to find joy and passion in the work wherever they’re planted, and no matter what the circumstances they encounter.
To be a good journalist one must act independently of any interest and aspire
to the highest ethics. One must uphold the key principles of impartiality, fairness and accuracy. This means taking extraordinary measures to provide a full and fair view of people and cultures, respect differences in viewpoints, as well as be mindful of inclusivity.
Q: Tell us your views on the proliferation of 'fake news' -- how it begins, what happens, what are the target information, what can be done to stop this?
Rico: Round the clock, we contend with rumors and misinformation that are so rampant during these confusing times. Against this backdrop, we struggle to disseminate facts that are well researched and as authentic as we can make them -- by providing both sides of the story.
As a result, we hope to empower people with information they can rely on to make decisions.
In these uncertain times, it’s vital that a news stream, presenting balanced, accurate and fair information, be available. No matter the subject, whether it be business, politics, sports or even lifestyle or entertainment, the journalist’s responsibility to the story and audience is clear and uncompromising.
With the bedrock of CNN Philippines being “News You Can Trust, News You Can Use,” Rico is indeed a model broadcast journalist who has strictly adhered to the ideals of being one’s truest self, where day-in and day-out, ‘the goal is to give the public – YOU – an accurate, truthful and unbiased account of the news.’
To be objective is his commitment and duty, which makes him truly worthy of being called a Lasallian Leader of today. To him, La Salle Green Hills always is a school for others. We are a blessed educational institution and will always find a way to give back to those in need of assistance.
LSGH is equally blessed to have Rico Hizon to call as one of its own. n
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" News and information is that part of communication that keeps us informed of the changing events, issues, and opinions. The foremost value of news is empowering us to be informed.
From The Blessing And Dedication Of Saint Benilde Hall Program, October 31, 1969
The need for service facilities for the students of La Salle Green Hills prompted the planning of a building to include a dining area, activity rooms, and a gymnasium. After much discussion and advice, we decided that a building in the round would be most commodious and economical, because of the limited space we have on the campus.
On October 29, 1967, Saint Benilde was canonized in the traditional colorful ceremonies in Rome. On the same day, the event was solemnized here in Green Hills with a Mass at Santuario de San Jose. After the mass, the fifteen hundred participants proceeded to La Salle to take part in the Ground Breaking ceremonies for Saint Benilde Hall.
Almost immediately, the excavation began and the wooden frames started to outline the future building. Soon the massive steel bars started to jut from the
cement forms and the big Linden crane began to lift the huge buckets to pack the gaping cavities with tons of readymixed concrete.
Month after month the structure became more massive as equipment and materials cluttered the campus. Finally the concrete work was finished and the steel beams for the 200 ft. diameter roof were hoisted over sixty feet and began to frame the dome. In the meantime the interior of the building started to take on a finished appearance so that before Christmas of 1968, the cafeteria on the first floor was put into service. Six rooms in the mezzanine were also opened up as Senior classrooms. After the Christmas holidays, the Physical Education offices and locker and shower rooms in the basement were in full use and the Maintenance department occupied its spacious quarters at the same time.
Meanwhile the aluminum roof was nearing completion and the Gym floor being installed. By the time the baskets were in place and the floor finished, we were well into the 1969-70 School year.
And now just two years after ground breaking, the building is bustling with activity all day long, including Saturdays and Sundays. This service building for you and your boys is a reality and we join in Holy Mass to thank Almighty God for bringing a dream to completion.
COVID-19 is a threat to the global community, challenging governments, health systems and institutions to effectively respond to “the biggest disruption of our generation.” The situation is characterized by limited access brought about by lockdown/ quarantine resulting in the work from home set-up, online classes, increased social distancing and avoidance of large gatherings.
The Mission Continuity Plan (MCP) was designed to address the effects brought about by the disruption of COVID-19. La Salle Green Hills, through the leadership of its President, Br. Edmundo L. Fernandez FSC formulated six teams to help address the impact of the pandemic to the school and its learners. It ensured that learning opportunities for students, the well-being of the members of the community, and the school’s financial stability are sustained.
In exploring alternative learning opportunities, School Year 2020 – 2021 was the transition year for becoming an Integrated School. This was also the time when the Senior High School went coeducational, and eventually in all levels, ending the era of exclusivity of the school for boys. It was also the introduction of LSGH FLETCH- Flexible Lasallian Education Through Technology and Collaboration at Home; a learnerdriven collaborative experience where meaningful learning opportunities
Ranger 360) helped the teachers manage and organize educational materials online and conduct online courses. It also helped streamline the learning process by providing a central location for accessing material online and developing content and allowed tracking of student progress.
Health and safety protocols were reviewed and implemented since paramount consideration is the health and well-being of all the members of the community. Other concerns such as centered on the Lasallian core values are created and supported in a safe environment.
The Home-Based Online Learning (HBOL) model included interaction between teachers and students hinged on digital forms of communication such as video conferencing, messaging, and discussion boards. Requirements to ensure that needs for online learning were addressed included technology support and provisions, official online platforms, tools to be used, and retooling of teachers. Blended Learning (BL) was a combination of home-based online and on-campus learning. A schedule to attend classes on campus for face-to-face encounters was provided.
Key areas were focused on the use of technology in the aid of online learning - delivery of educational services to learners, processes involving the student life cycle, and technology and methods preventing the spread of COVID-19. Plans of action included ensuring internet service availability, enabling hot seats within the school, strengthening virtual private network capabilities, selection of learning platform (Open LMS-Ranger 360), implementation of virtual classrooms, enhancing manpower competencies, purchase of software and equipment to support online classes and equipping faculty and partners with equipment to support online classes.
The learning platform Learning Management System (Open LMS-
mental health and counseling services, integrated information campaign, HRrelated requirements, vaccination, and inclusion of importance of health and well-being in the curriculum were in place.
As we continue to emerge from this pandemic, La Salle Green Hills is committed in pursuing innovations and modifications to continuously respond to the changing needs and ensure that the “new normal” is a better one for all of us. n
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This was also the time when the Senior High School went coeducational, and eventually in all levels, ending the era of exclusivity of the school for boys.
Something’s cooking. Students take up Culinary Arts to acquire essential life skills and discover possible careers and a life-long passion for food.
Get into sports! Students at a young age are exposed to physical sports, for skills training and character building for beginners and varsity players alike.
It is a phrase heard countless times by many of those who choose to pursue art as their career. The pursuit of a career in art is a challenging one, no doubt, with prejudice at every turn and hardship at every step. This, however, has not hindered the dreams of the La Salle Green Hills (LSGH) pioneer batch of Arts & Design (A&D) students.
Teaming up with De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, School of Design and Arts, LSGH introduced the new A&D strand for Senior High School students. Aside from lectures, the A&D strand offers workshops wherein students will learn firsthand from veteran artists, share their outputs through exhibits, and tour renowned studios.
To provide a glimpse of what it is like to be an A&D student, we interviewed Lukas Ezra Magbanua and Mara Kyryne Tamaliuan from the first batch of LSGH’s A&D strand – being among the few individuals who have chosen to pursue this career path despite the many inevitable challenges.
Both students spoke of their experiences and sentiments being the first-ever students of the A&D strand, as well as some of their concerns and worries for it.
“For me, it feels surreal because I never thought LSGH would have an Arts and Design strand, and being in the first A&D class feels even more surreal because... the more I think about it, the more I realize how lucky I am to have entered this strand,” said Lukas.
“The last few weeks for me have been incredible, everyone in my class feels so tightly-knit and having such a great adviser, Sir Luis, who just emits such a
“There is no money in art.”
positive energy and is very enthusiastic to teach us, is probably one of the best parts of the class,” he added.
When asked about her experiences in the A&D strand so far, Mara explained how being in a small class allowed her to build close connections with her teachers and classmates.
“I am thankful for my understanding and approachable teachers and classmates. We may be really few in class, but we are all close,” she explained.
Despite the warm reception, however, there are still ongoing concerns that were raised by these A&D students.
“My main concern with the strand is that LSGH might not give [A&D] as much attention compared to the other three strands. Another concern of mine would be that I feel like [A&D] focuses really mostly on traditional forms of art and not other forms of art like theater and music,” said Lukas.
On the other hand, Mara spoke out against the bad rap that artistic careers receive, stating that given how widespread art is, this essentially renders prejudice as a waste of time.
“I won’t tolerate people who will [look down on] us artists. There is art everywhere so being prejudiced towards the art community is pointless,” she said.
To add, Lukas explained how the everevolving world has allowed for more job opportunities for artists that were not even possible before.
“People need to understand that the world is constantly evolving and new job opportunities arise from it. From making traditional art with a brush and canvas to making something digitally with softwares like Blender and After Effects. It's crazy what you can do now,” he explained.
Despite the concerns on the strand and stigma around the art world, in her optimism, Mara will continue to pursue her dreams in art and in her A&D strand.
“I will learn new art forms and techniques, I will make more friends and [A&D] will be a fun ride with my classmates and teachers,” she said. In the end, these individuals continue to pursue the arts because of their passion for what they love despite the stigma towards it. While most wish to live comfortable lives, for an artist, a career of challenges and obstacles is nothing compared to the satisfaction that comes with living their passion.
When people say, “There is no money in art,” artists reply – “There is life in art.” n
Acouple of years ago, La Salle Green Hills (LSGH) opened its doors to female students for the first time in its over sixty years as an academic institution, opening its Senior High School (SHS) Department to female applicants. Being the last remaining Lasallian school in the country to be exclusive for males, this was its first step towards fostering a more inclusive community and more holistic educational environment for its students.
By: Denise ComiaThis school year, LSGH finalized its transition towards becoming a completely coeducational institution. Its coeducational set-up has expanded to encompass all grade levels, marking the institution’s first year in an entirely coeducational system. With that, everybody, most especially the girls, has had to deal with a period of adjustment to their new environment.
We reached out to two of our new female Lasallian students and asked them to share their experiences during their stay so far in the LSGH community.
Leissandra Gonzales, from 11-G, temporarily stopped her schooling because of the pandemic and because of it found her experience in LSGH to be initially intimidating and different, being thrust into a whole new environment for her after a year without attending classes.
"It was very daunting at first, to be completely honest. I came from not attending school for an entire year due to the pandemic, and now I'm thrown into this big, foreign school. Fortunately for me, the people here are very welcoming and kind! I'm glad to say that I'm enjoying my stay here so far," said Gonzales
The no-exams policy during online classes was highlighted by Erika Presas, Gonzales’ classmate, to have relieved some of the pressure faced by students to do well academically amidst the circumstances forced upon everyone by the pandemic.
"The no exam thing. I think they did a great job of not implementing exams while online to help lessen the students' pressure," said Presas.
When asked about the most unforgettable experience she had in the LSGH community, Gonzales stated that the activities developed by the school that enabled
students
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LSGH places the greatest emphasis on morals and values when it comes to their students.
to somehow interact with one another despite the online setup struck out to her the most so far because it gave her the opportunity to make friends as a new student.
"I really enjoyed activities and such that made me interact with other students from different sections like Homebound, Clubs, etc. I love making new friends and these sessions give me a chance to do so," she explained.
To add, Presas praised the school administration for how they have handled the transition to the coeducational setup so far, stating that there was nothing she would change about how the institution has handled things so far.
“As of now, there's nothing I would like to change because LSGH is good as it is right now,” she said.
Prior to enrolling in LSGH, Gonzales had difficulties believing in her own abilities as a student, causing her confidence to plummet. Now, she believes that
the education LSGH provides its students would help her rediscover her confidence, enabling her to embrace new experiences that would aid her in her growth as a student and prepare for college.
“Before studying in LSGH, I was constantly doubting my abilities as a student which then caused my confidence to pummel. I wondered if I would be as good as I thought I was before now that I'm entering a big school. That is why I truly expect that my stay in LSGH would help me rediscover the confidence in myself. As a SHS student, I also expect that my experiences here would mold me into a headstrong person ready to take their first step in entering college,” she stated.
Presas emphasized that the values LSGH instills within its students through the education it provides them were an essential aspect to the strength of their character, hoping to imbibe them as well and explaining that she believes these values make the students become both
academically achieving and socially responsible.
“LSGH places the greatest emphasis on morals and values when it comes to their students. As a result, not only are the students academically successful, but they are also responsible and trustworthy citizens,” she stated.
Although they may have found it difficult to adjust to their new environment at first, our transferees have slowly begun to adjust to their new surroundings, learning to take in what they have right now, enjoy the warm welcome from the LSGH community, and look forward to what they have to learn from an education in this school.
As LSGH moves forward into the future, it will continue to evolve as an academic institution, becoming a more inclusive community that will continue to serve as a center of growth for more people. n
Hearts skipping a few beats, their hands clutching the microphones. As they stand side by side, they begin to fill the auditorium with the sound of their voices accompanied by various instruments. A round of applause follows soon after the performance ends, and the group bows, each member smiling from cheek to cheek. Somewhere in the audience, is a dreamer, whose passion starts burning even brighter.
By: Caity AtienzaA proposal for a then-yet-to-be-named singing group — for female students from grades 9 to 12 including those from the Alternative Education Department — was made by Mr. Jamby Santos and eventually approved. Soon after, the opening of auditions was announced in the Daily Bulletin. Female students quickly auditioned in the hopes of honing their musical skills and becoming members of the first-ever girls music group in the institution.
Now, the wait is at long last over, the pioneers of the girls’ music scene of LSGH are finally here. A chance for them to come out of their shells, a brand new chapter of their lives awaits. Let us find out more about them!
The music ministry comprises eleven students. Their name, Woman Up!, was inspired by Meghan Trainor's song with the same title, which is an anthem of empowerment and self-confidence -- two important values that not only keep the group motivated, but are also the foundation of their sisterhood.
“I have always admired girl groups and how they empower and represent women as confident and freespirited through music. Choosing Woman Up! meant that I would have the platform to do the same,” Amor Marayag, the Woman Up! president, shared.
In their very first year, Mr. Jamby Santos will be directing the music ministry; as well as Mrs. Marie Santos, Mr. Dexter Alvarez, and Mr. Cloyd Lobaton, who accepted
the roles of moderator, arranger, and editor respectively. Throughout the year, they will be the people responsible for guiding each member and helping them realize their potential.
“Just like The Kundirana and Ps96, the group was envisioned to be a ministry, using their talents to uplift the spirits of the downtrodden,” Mr. Santos said.
When asked why they decided to join the group, most of the Woman Up! members answered that it was because of their love for music, and their aim to improve their singing. Although, for some, it was a leap of faith since it was their first time trying out for a singing group.
“As I was growing up, music has always caught my back. It became like the translator of my feelings when I couldn’t describe my overflowing emotions with words. Moreover, loving music made me discover awesome friends with the same interest. It also opened new doors for me to hone my talent in singing,” explained Alexa Zipagan, a member of Woman Up!.
" Their name, Woman Up!, was inspired by Meghan Trainor's song with the same title, which is an anthem of empowerment and self-confidence -- two important values that not only keep the group motivated, but are also the foundation of their sisterhood.
Being a part of something new for the very first time can undoubtedly cause a mixture of emotions. Since Woman Up! is still unable to perform live, the process of producing performances has become quite difficult and challenging for its members. They have to practice individually, and record the audio and video separately, taking a lot of time and effort.
Being a member of the first all-female group of LSGH is a difficult but fulfilling duty. The members admit that they are bound to make mistakes, although what is important is that they see it as a learning experience and a way to improve themselves.
“I feel honored, as I get to contribute to starting this singing group from scratch, and further developing it for future Woman Up! generations to follow,” added Marayag.
The members of Woman Up! described their strong affinity to music as influenced by their families and friends, as well as their favorite singers and musicals. Watching artists that leave an impact on their audience, the members of the group were inspired to do the same as well. Singing songs that people can connect and relate to, reminds them that they are not alone and there are those that understand them.
You can definitely expect a lot of passion and dedication from this music ministry. With their harmonic vocals, make sure to keep up with their covers and collaborations, and be ready for an LSS or Last Song Syndrome experience! Through their vocal capabilities and singing prowess, they aim to stimulate change while enjoying the passion they have for music along the way.
Watch out as they rise to the top, Woman Up! n
" My favorite memories in LSGH is yung championship na naibigay namin sa school. May mga ups and downs kami na naranasan, pero hindi hadlang yun para hindi namin makuha yung goal namin.
LSGH homecourt heroes take part in historic championship win
La Salle Green Hills is proud of top-level college players JD Cagulangan, Ricci Rivero, and RC Calimag who are products of the LSGH basketball program and who have graduated from a Lasallian education.
" My last year in high school was also memorable because, no matter how hard that journey of mine was, I learned a lot from that experience.
For the maiden issue of GH343, LSGH invited JD, Ricci and RC to share their fondest basketball memories at LSGH, thoughts about winning a championship and being an athlete.
JD, Ricci and RC’s journeys are alike in so many ways.
For JD Cagulangan, who in 2017 led the Jr. Blazers to their historic NCAA championship and was adjudged the Finals MVP, it has indeed been quite a journey since the time he left Butuan City for LSGH at just 12 years old.
“My favorite memories in LSGH is yung championship na naibigay namin sa school. May mga ups and downs kami na naranasan, pero hindi hadlang yun para hindi namin makuha yung goal namin,” he shared.
Fellow LSGH alumnus, Ricci Rivero, who last played for LSGH in 2015, agrees, recounting that “The year I played in the finals with both of my brothers is something I will treasure forever. My last year in high school was also memorable because, no matter how hard that journey of mine was, I learned a lot from that experience.” The pride of Ilagan, Isabela was barely 11 when he left his hometown and played competitive ball in Manila, eventually enrolling in LSGH in 2012 and leading the Greenies to Final Four in the NCAA Season 91.
RC Calimag couldn’t agree more, also counting his finals appearance and his senior year as some of his fondest LSGH memories. He also talked about basketball being a life changer for him, how the sport helped him improve as a person and made him feel good about himself every single day.
After graduating from LSGH and following their stellar performance in the NCAA, all three players went on to play collegiate basketball, with JD and Ricci suiting up for the DLSU Green Archers and RC for the Fighting Maroons. But, as fate would have it, JD and Ricci’s journey would eventually lead them to UP, helping the school claim its historic UAAP victory.
We then asked, “What does winning a championship mean to you? What lessons did you learn from being a champion?”
According to JD, “Being part of a championship team is something to be proud of kasi alam mo sa sarili mo na binigay mo ang lahat.” For Ricci, just being a part of the champion team is already very satisfying; while for RC, winning goes beyond the confines of the game.
JD: Maglaro kayo ng may pusong Lasalyano. Kung gaano ninyo kamahal yung family ninyo, ganun din dapat ang school.
Ricci: Just keep on working and don’t stop trying and believing that you can. It really does take time; but if you put in the effort and willingness to improve, no one can stop you from reaching your dreams.
RC: Don’t ever give up on your dreams no matter what happens.
We are proud of you JD, Ricci and RC. Continue to be an inspiration and a good example for aspiring studentathletes. Continue to work on improving your craft and creating a name for yourselves. n
In an earnest bid to continually pursue its laudable promotion of the value of kindness, the La Salle Green Hills school administration, in partnership with the La Salle Parents’ Association (LSPA), recently launched “Jess B. Kind” as the female counterpart mascot of “Johnny B. Good” in a simple, remote, video streaming ceremony conducted on March 11, 2022.
The introduction of “Jess B. Kind” comes on the heels of LSGH opening its doors to coeducation that allows girls to finally join and be an important part of the expanding and flourishing Lasallian community. Mr. Jose Ramelle E. Javier, who graced the occasion as LSGH’s Director for Administration and LSPA Adviser, recalled how “Johnny B. Good’s” inauguration a couple of years back was such a significant help in reminding and giving attention to "the value of kindness that resides in us.” With girls having been welcomed by the school, he found it fitting and commended the LSPA, through the efforts of its Education and Cultural Committee, for coming up with the idea of having a female mascot opposite “Johnny B. Good” to represent this new sector of the community.
Just like in the past when “Johnny B. Good'' made its first public appearance on February 14, 2020, the launching of “Jess B. Kind” was also preceded by a contest that was widely participated in by enthusiastic LSGH students who were challenged to ingeniously think of the most suitable name that the new mascot should be officially called. The competition brought in more than 150 entries, three of which were eventually chosen as winners by the Board of Judges composed of Ms. Carmela Boncodin, the school principal; Mr. Mike Marcos, the LSGH Alumni Association president; and Mr. Jose Ramelle E. Javier. Based on the results read by LSPA President Catleya T. Garza, third place went to Marc Rommulus Gonda of Grade 5E; while second place went to Simon Andres Padilla of Grade 4G for the proposed names “Jenny B. Kind” and “Sally B. Kind”, respectively. John Mattheus Racho of Pre-Nursery A clinched the first prize for his entry “Jess B. Kind.”
The tandem of “Johnny B. Good” and “Jess B. Kind” is the culmination of the LSPA Education and Cultural Committee’s initial project dubbed as the “Choose to be Kind” Campaign in 2019. According to Mr. Jake and Mrs. Angela Robillo, formerly of the said committee and presently the LSPA Board Treasurer, the campaign was launched via a “name the mascot” contest whose objective was “to support the school in creating a culture of kindness among the students” as this played “a significant role in having a positive learning environment.”
The mascot “Johnny B. Good” came to be the concrete realization of the said project as it served as an ambassador to “encourage students to practice acts of kindness and spread positivity in their everyday lives.”
Atty. Angelica B. Lirag, who acts as chairperson of the LSPA Education and Cultural Committee, likewise elucidated on how she fully supported the kindness campaign from the moment it was conceptualized up to its approval by the LSPA leadership and the school administration. This then led to the featuring of “Johnny
B. Good”, the mascot imaginatively designed by a Lasallian alumnus, Mr. Aaron Manuyag, of High School Batch 2014 as a way of putting “a face or symbol for our kindness project.” The same creative talent was likewise tapped into the subsequent creation of “Jess B. Kind” which, in the words of Atty. Lirag would serve as a female counterpart “to send the message of welcome and inclusivity to our female students” and as a continuing campaign that is aligned with LSGH’s zero-tolerance against child abuse and any form of bullying.
The animated duo of Mr. Jonathan Espino and Isabella L. Libunao hosted the hourlong program with Ms. Garza concluding it by expressing her “sincerest appreciation for the Lasallian community’s priceless participation and contribution in making this event possible” as she looked forward to everyone’s “continuing support every step of the way.” n
Apositive research culture is pivotal to excellence and quality education, so much so that La Salle Green Hills continues to engage all faculty and staff across the organization to conduct studies in aid of instruction.
Last January 14-17, 2022, members of the Quality Assurance and Research Office (QARO) research team was cited as Best Presenters in the 13th International Conference on E-Education, E-Business, E-Management and E-Learning (IC4E 2022) held online at Tokyo, Japan.
Organized by Waseda University, our ace Lasallian faculty researchers have successfully presented their work dubbed, "An Analysis of the Perception of Students and Teachers towards the Home-Based Online Learning Modality and the Students’ Academic Achievement of a Private School in the National Capital Region (NCR) of the Philippines," a very timely piece of research involving 169 faculty, 39 administrators and 1600 students from Grade 1 to Grade 12 as participants.
In a nutshell, the team examined how the implementation of HomeBased Online Learning (HBOL) was perceived by the survey respondents. Findings show that overall, respondents find the HBOL’s design and objectives clear, the provision of technical support sufficient, and schedule manageable. However, the migration from in-person to full virtual classes caused stress and adjustment difficulties, stemming from several factors, including connectivity issues, amount of workload, and class preparations.
Regarding students’ academic achievement, the formative and summative assessment results of select Math, English, and Science classes are all above the passing grade, with the final grade average of the students in the first trimester of SY 2020 – 2021 at highly satisfactory.
We truly laud our Lasallian faculty’s hard work and their commitment to research and education at a global level.
of the
Office (QARO) research team were cited as Best Presenters in the 13th International Conference on E-Education, E-Business, E-Management and E-Learning (IC4E 2022) held online at Tokyo, Japan.
Research Title: "An Analysis of the Perception of Students and Teachers towards the Home-Based Online Learning Modality and the Students’ Academic Achievement of a Private School in the National Capital Region (NCR) of the Philippines"
Authors: Cinches, Janel C., De Gracia, May Maricel B., Galang, Amy C., Villanueva, Cheryl J.
2020
ADELAIDA V. ABELARDO
December 16, 1937 - August 15, 2020
Former Grade School Teacher and Administrator 1964-1998
BUENAVENTURA RAYMUNDO
July 14, 1937 - December 30, 2020
Former High School (1966-1992) and Adult Night High School Teacher 1992-2003
DRUSILLA V. ZAMORA
October 25, 1945 - November 18, 2020
Former High School English Teacher, HS Learning Resource Center Coordinator 1977-2011
LYDIA R. SANTOS
October 9, 1934 - May 12, 2020
Former Grade School Teacher and LRC Personnel 1959-1995
MERCEDES C. ILAGAN
September 24, 1939 - August 24, 2020
Former High School Support Staff 1968-1998
NOEL A. SALALIMA
August 27, 1954 - January 20, 2020
Former High School Teacher 1980-2002
NORBERTO N. MARTINEZ
June 6, 1969 - August 22, 2020
St. Benilde Teacher Exemplar High School Teacher 2000-2020
REV. FR. JOSE GARCIA, JR.
October 10, 1934 - December 25, 2020
Former Chaplain and Chaplain of the Scholasticate Community
SMEDLEY V. ZAMORA
July 16, 1962 - January 29, 2020
Former Grade School and High School PE Teacher 1992-2020
VIRGINIA R. NATIVIDAD
November 9, 1942 - August 27, 2020
Former High School English Teacher CUE Drama Club Moderator
St. Benilde Teacher Exemplar 1983 - 2009
2021
BELINDA S. CORTEZ
November 25, 1935 - July 15, 2021
Former Grade School Teacher and Librarian 1969 - 1996
DOLORES P. DORIA
September 18, 1949 - April 28, 2021
Former Support Staff / Secretary and Receiving Clerk 1974 - 2010
JUBILEE T. BAUTISTA
June 9, 1960 - April 24, 2021
St. Joseph, The Worker Awardee Support Staff 1992-2021
LETICIA B. DIASANTA
November 8, 1951 - September 15, 2021
Former Support Staff [FRD, Bookstore, BGO, Warehouse] 1979 - 2008
LYDIA C. CRUZ
August 3, 1960 - February 10, 2021
Former Support Staff / Office Secretary 1982 - 2018
LYDIA D. VERGEL
January 6, 1931 - September 25, 2021
Former Grade School Teacher and Registrar 1966 - 1991
MA. RUBYLYN A. LANUZA
March 21, 1982 - May 27, 2021
Support Staff
Asst. Principal and Coordinators' Secretary, IPO Team Leader / Clerk-Typist 2003 - 2021
MICHAEL E. TORRIJOS
August 10, 1978 - December 29, 2021
Integrated School Mathematics Teacher 2002 - 2021
LSGH Batch '97
MINDA T. MIRANDA
January 17, 1949 - April 21, 2021
Former High School Teacher and Administrator 1971-2014
PRIMO J. JACOSALEM
June 9, 1949 - February 14, 2021
Former Support Staff / Utility Man, Mimeographer, Messenger 1968 - 2010
RAYMUND T. PEREZ
September 21, 1973 - May 18, 2021
GS Reading Recovery / HS English Teacher
CENTRO-EIP Researcher for Publications
LRC Archivist / GHArchives Coordinator 1997-2001, 2008-2021
LSGH Batch '91
RODOLFO J. MORALES
July 31, 1940 - December 26, 2021
Former Grade School Teacher 1978 - 2001
TERESITA E. BUNGALON
August 21, 1938 - May 16, 2021
Former GS Faculty / HS Archivist and AV Center Head 1974 - 1999
WILMA P. GONZALES
May 19, 1943 - May 20, 2021
Former Grade School Teacher 1977 - 2003
CLEMENTE M. BAUTISTA
February 16, 1939 - March 10, 2022
Former High School Filipino Teacher 1974 - 2004
CONRADO C. VILORIA
October 15, 1933 - May 4, 2022
Former Physical Education Teacher 1978 - 1999
CRISPIN V. PAMANDANAN
December 15, 1956 - January 31, 2022
Former HS Math and Computer Teacher 1991 - 2003
FILADELFO B. BARBON
April 10, 1950 - April 1, 2022
Former Support Staff 1994 - 2008
JANE A. MISA
December 25, 1945 - January 27, 2022
Former HS English Teacher and Academic Coordinator 1969 - 1984
MA. FE P. VILLALBA
October 6, 1963 - March 29, 2022
High School Filipino Teacher Academic Coordinator 1990 - 2022
REMEDIOS P. ANDALIO
November 1, 1935 - May 12, 2022
Former Media Center Head and Head Librarian 1970 - 1986
VIRGILIO M. LIM
February 6, 1962 - April 27, 2022
Former GS Araling Panlipunan Teacher and Academic Coordinator 1994 - 2005
BENIGNO P. RELIGIOSO, JR.
May 6, 1937 - September 16, 2022
Former High School Arts & Technology Teacher 1972 - 1999
EMILIA C. MALLARE
February 8, 1951 - October 4, 2022
Former Grade School Science Teacher 1985 - 2008
THOSE WHO INSTRUCT OTHERS UNTO JUSTICE SHALL SHINE LIKE STARS FOR ALL
343 Ortigas Avenue, Mandaluyong City 1550 www.lsgh.edu.ph
La Salle Green Hills