Pendulum Chronicle | Volume 7, Issue No. 2

HYPNOTIC TACTIC

Scholars urge voters to elect wisely succeeding politicians’ scheme

by PATRICIA MAE B. DOCTOR

Sci-high integrates electives to Enhanced EnSciMa

by SHIAN FELICITY T FABRERO

The Junior High School (JHS) depar tment integrated its elec tive subjec ts to Enhanced English, Science, and Mathematics, improving subjec ts and strengthening the curriculum of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (AC NSTHS).

The Depar tment of Education (DepEd) prescribed DepEd No. 55, Series of 2010 on adding elective subjects in strengthening the curriculum on English, Science, and Mathematics.

ACNSTHS had four elective subjects per grade level in JHS, a requirement of elective subjects in science high schools in the K-12 Curriculum.

enhancing the Mathematics, Science, and English subjects; this resulted in Enhanced English, Science, and Mathematics (EnSciMath).

“Based on the consultation to stakeholders and parents, they are suggesting to limit the other factors to students especially the congestion of subjects, late dismissals - that is why we came up with this program. Not to totally eliminate elective subjects but just to improve the elective subjects,” he added.

Moreover, previous subject teachers had mixed reactions to the removal of elective subjects this academic year

“I wish that us, science teachers, will rotate so that I would always teach physics since that really is my major ” said Mr Baldwin Batac, a JHS science teacher

However, Oliva Malto, a JHS teacher, disagreed on the elective subjects removal but added that students can hone their academic skills under electives.

added to the work we had to do,” Rafael Camba, a JHS student, agreed.

SHIAN FELICITY T FABRERO

numbers

Source: Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey

of Filipino families consider themselves under poverty

6K Salary increment not su cient

by ANIKA SADIE A. SIBAL & DENISE CRIZZIA M. SABAUPAN

Teacher I called for more salary increase after the reported wage increase from 27, 000 to 33, 000 in Antipolo City on October 5, noting that the recent increment is ‘not enough’ for daily for teachers.

the Department of Education (DepEd) issued teachers and non-teaching personnels. department propounds that the income raise

increase can sustain one person but not a children, mother, and father. But if it is solo said.

02 NEWS DECLINING RATE

AnScians attain 48.68% PISA post-test score

by PATRICIA MAE B. DOCTOR

98 15-year-old learners of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) scored a mean percentage of 48.58% in Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) post-test last December 6, dropping 1.32% from pre-test mean percentage of 49.90% in pre-test despite 2 months of learning sessions.

Education (DepEd) Regional Memorandum No. 703, series of 2024, ACNSTHS conducted

out of 15 items in the given science subject test. AnScians gained a decreasing mark in contempt of lesson integration and learning sessions during the Phase 1 of the

December 6, falling behind 1.32% of the initial mean percentage.

PRE-POST PROGRESS

ACNSTHS conducted the pre-test assessment

Succeeding the pre-test assessment, Grade 10 student Alex Turano shared that

DepEd Php12-B budget cut inflict education, digital modernization

by SANTINO PAUL S. BERONILLA

The recent approval of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of the 2025 National Budget last December 30 reduced a initially proposed budget of the Department of Education (DepEd), provoking concerns among educator learners and parents.

increases with 4.11% compared to the reduction made during the budget

billion, but following the approval process, a substantial cut of Php 12 billion was made.

However, the unequal allocation

among the DepEd and the Department of Public Works and about the misalignment in national budget priorities for the government, DepEd to have the highest budget among all government agencies.

The major point of concern from this Php 12 billion cut is the Php 10 billion cut of the supposed budget for the DepEd Computerization Program (DCP), which computers and

digital learning tools and bridging the digital divide in rural areas.

questions of the actual test,” Turano added Moreover, according to Grade 10 student James Jacom Martinez after the post-test assessment, the questions given were similar to the pre-test questions, however he admitted that it was still hard to answer.

iba po parang bago pero same thought pa rin

TEST PROCESS

ACNSTHS Science Department Head last

Development goals will become inaccessible, so we will not be able to achieve information literacy or digital literacy.

High School (ACNSTHS) highlighted the implications of the budget cut for technological resources.

“With regards to the alignment of the development goals of education

MATATAG curriculum is all students from DepEd should become literate in computer or when it comes

purchase for computer programs, internet, laptop.... it will become inaccessible, so we will not be able

“The national budget for DepEd other pressing concerns, such as addressing the devastation caused curriculum rollout, and ensuring readiness for

Furthermore, the ACNSTHS students preparation, using computers as a means to answer the test within an hour. performance ng science high schools Juntado shared.

Meanwhile, the Philippines take the test 2022; however, the assessment will change

CALABARZON enrollment surge: ACNSTHS faces classroom shortage

Region IV-A grappled with a severe classroom shortage crisis as Department of Education (DepEd) recorded over 3.4 million enrollees for School Year 2024-2025, the highest in the country, leaving schools like Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) struggling to meet the demands of overcrowded classrooms

students were enrolled in public and private schools, Alternative Learning

CALABARZON having the most number of enrollees at a staggering 3.4 million students.

ACNSTHS acquired 662 students, with 618 students with the Grade 7 and 11

classroom back then, the section

experience of students and teachers.

nag-aadjust ng strategies just to make PCs at hindi masisira ang mga tables

adviser of 11-Marsden stated.

Moreover, Grade 11 - Marsden student Kurt Ocol said that the occurrence had an impact on the performance of the students, pitching for more classrooms and facilities to address the classroom shortage issue. Although the school has made progress in addressing classroom shortage, overcrowding within classrooms in CALABARZON remained a problem as 3.4 million enrollees in the region face issues regarding the shortage of school facilities.

BRAIN ON FIRE

Captured and Captioned by CHARILENE Q. UGALI

by CRYSTELLE P. SARABIA & SANTINO PAUL S. BERONILLA

Source: ACNSTHS Admin

a mother of two shared her suggestions for

Furthermore, the public school teachers

teaching allowance incentives worth P10,000, medical allowance worth P7,000, and decrease of hardship index.

HYPNOTIC TACTIC

coverstory

TEACHER I SALARY GROWTH OVER

Source: Department of Budget and Management

Scholars urge voters to elect wisely succeeding politicians’ scheme by

Scholars of Antipolo City dissented propaganda by politicians’ family lineage, City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) to vote wisely succeeding notice of premature scheme and to not be consumed by the tactic.

Among the 235 Senior High School (SHS) the upcoming national and local elections

According to a student voter, politicians gathered last December 22 on stipend giving games for the upcoming elections in 2025.

na sinasabing susunod sa isang puwesto at pinapa-recite na rin ang mga pangalan ng

Furthermore, a student said that the last allowance release brought frustration as campaign for re-election bid and lineage.

ng mga politicians para sa campaign,” the student shared when asked regarding the seen

PATRICIA MAE B. DOCTOR

CITY RE-ELECTION BID

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC)

website last November 15, indicating names of the aspirants to run for the 2025 local elections.

Conforming to the given list, the incumbent upcoming municipal elections with six current district councilors.

58.8% of the respondents reiterated to be

citizens, and 17.6% refused to state their opinion.

Moreover, 47.1% student voters will leave the ballot blank and 35.3% is still undecided

pero tignan pa natin. Parang no choice na rin kasi sila-sila lang naman tumatakbo paulitulit,” a student shared when asked about contains same names.

G12 Rep quits SSLG post amid PC-Student gov’t dispute

by KARYL ALEXANDRA C. IPAC

Supreme Secondary Learners Government (SSLG) Grade 12 representative Anika Sibal has resigned from her position following a strife between the student organization and Pendulum Chronicle over the latter’s released opinion article.

According to Sibal, she tendered her resignation letter to school head Janice Maravilla on September 6, 2024 and was

The former grade 12 representative resign from their position.

that time. Decision ko rin to remove

position,” she stated.

serve in the position for a short time but would still do the same if elected in a higher position.

CLASPED SERVICES

president, stated that she and the

“Naging main struggle ng org ang information dissemination talaga sa batch 6 dahil nawalan ng rep. During

those two gaps,” Peñano added.

Cainlang also expressed his initial disappointment, stating that it was “not the right attitude” to leave the position trusted on Sibal.

the Learner Government Program (LGP) Article 20 section 8, SSLG conducted a position.

However, the lone candidate that applied for the vacant position became representative.

ADMINISTRATION RATE

With the gathered data, the ACNSTHS voters rated the municipal administration an average of 2.76 out of 5 and an average of 2.12 out of 5 for the national administration.

to support the citizens, but believed that the problem was the same faces that has been in

ang lahat ng ginagamit for those projects voter said.

in the Programmed Appropriation and calendar.

Moreover, respondents expressed that the national administration.

“ I can’t tolerate the current issue at that time. Decision ko rin to remove myself from that situation because like I said, I value my principles more than my position.

by VALERY KEN G. CAÑEGA

With the movement of traditional libraries to digitalized versions, academic library declined from zero to two visits monthly in Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) as 40.6% students are unfamiliar accessing the library.

Club conducted, 51% of students—both Junior High School and Senior High School—admitted to not utilizing the

45.6% books and modules with research manuscripts as the rest. “One of the existing problems for

(LTO) anti-colorum campaign 2024 impounded seven unregistered school services of Antipolo City National Science and Technology 200,000 pesos each van and tenure of three months before release.

a parent owning a school service, anti-colorum operations six times in August, highlighting that theirs was also impounded.

that most of the passengers in their van were children of his fellow principals who were due to attend a seminar. “Kasama

that we are attending a seminar and that the other principals whose children are in our vehicle cannot drive them to

Natalie Gaspo, the anti-colorum scheme is not just implemented in Antipolo, (HPG), LTO, and policemen. said.

Junior High School Coordinator stated

that a ruling—subsequent of the special

implemented for the impounded vans to have ample time to be registered as legitimate transport vehicles and operate in AnSci.

“So, we are waiting for the current update but according to Sir Fred Dela

LTO and the DOTR to issue the said

because our students are our clientele to Antipolo Science is ranging from 20 kilometers. So, that is one of the reasons

Meanwhile, according to the JHS coordinator, the school is still waiting until now.

Moereover, ACNSTHS administration is still waiting for the approval of Public assuring owners of impounded vehicles regarding the vehicle release.

copied literature,” Book Lovers Club (BLC) President exclaimed. Moreover, factors that contributed to small space, mishaps in monitoring, and lack of promotion in which there was a lack of proper facilitation.

open for student to access and the unabling others to visit it,” Research Club President Paolo Miguel M.

S. Gonato argued that students should teachers.

preference of digital to traditional resources in libraries were prominent which is one of the reasons for the rare Due to the low logged recorded initiative of Research Club will be set

to meet modern needs and demands of ACNSTHS students.

by PATRICIA MAE B. DOCTOR & VALERY KEN G. CAÑEGA

Captioned by JAMI SHILOH G. CASAUAY

Illustrated by ALPHA ALTHEA J. BRIONES

COLORUM CURB

Photo From: LTO CALABARZON

Captioned by: JAMI SHILOH G. CASAUAY

Captioned by JAMI SHILOH G. CASAUAY

Illustrated by ERVYN RYLE G. MEDIANO

AnScian soars to Top 5 in Gawad Teodora Alonso ‘24

When an opportunity for his creativity strides, Roshann Aimielle Uba, a student of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) did not miss to come up with ideas that will eventually turn into an unimaginable milestone.

about the Gawad Teodora Alonso 2024 contest.

pop out, highlighting the idea of “Makatao” in animal characters,” he added. What began as a chance to showcase his ideas turned into a Palakang Pakalat-kalat”, won as one of six: Maka-Tao on December 5, 2024.

Gawad Teodora Awardee because the said.

TREK OF THE (UN)HOUSED

When asked about the inspiration of his tale, Roshann said he views a deal of

REFORMED OVERPASS

Renovated footbridge now accessible following half-year closure

After six months of foot bridge closure due to the detection of wirings and faults, the government of Antipolo City reopened the newly renovated bridge in front of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) on January 2, opting students to utilize pedestrian bridge to lessen risk of fatal accidents.

(OPSS) inhibited the usage of the initial impelling learners to use the bridge from now on.

Merlita Lucido, the bridge was closed for the ast six months due to the wiring

removed last December.

by PATRICIA MAE B. DOCTOR

“Yung current bridge kasi hindi pa rin

TEMPORARY CLOSURE

that the bridge should be used was

closed the bridge due to the detection of defects and insisted on using the pedestrian lane instead.

Grade 12 commuter Christian Olangca shared that the bridge has wires along is prone to accidents.

wherein napaka-dangerous ‘nun sa mga

commuter Olangca shared.

Moreover, Grade 12 student commuter Denise Sabaupan said that the bridge needs to be accessible again pedestrian lane is not safe considering the recorded fatal accident.

be due to environment or other factors,” Roshann explained.

search of what it will call a home, but found his own.

Becoming the awardee is a surreal experience.

11 VOTES

Over 70 countries conducts ‘24 elections; AnScians prime ‘25 PH election

by ALANNAH LUZAYNE E. ORDOÑA & HANNA

Over 70 countries conducted elections in 2024, the Philippines will also hold the midterm elections on May 12, 2025, with Senior High School (SHS) learners of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) being among election.

The Cable News Network (CNN) with elections occurring in more than 70

DOST scholars leap ACNSTHS teachers count

by RICHARD JELO S. BABOR

the world population.

According to The Associated Press (AP) the recent results of 2024 United states of America (USA) turned favor to 48.4% votes.

Meanwhile, the Commision on Elections (COMELEC) reported that candidates.

shared her experience as a teacher despite pursuing nutrition and how the graduation.

“Kasi ano ako eh nutrionist, pero buti nalang, sa guidance ng mga master teacher, and even other teachers tapos

Sabaupan added.

REPORTED FATALITY

ACNSTHS student Bience Emoricha was reported Dead on Arrival (DOA)

November 3, 2017, making the school pitch for a safer pedestrian route for students.

passing student after the school hours.

nahaharap sa patung-patong na kaso,” declaring that Emoricha was found dead on arrival.

to assist the students while crossing the

Moreover, the positions for voting in the upcoming national and local elections include 317 seats of the House of Representatives, 12 of the 24 seats of

Over 7.4 million people applied as voters during the registration period September 30, 2024 for the election, 233 SHS students enrolled in ACNSTHS.

According to Jazz Mariñas, a Grade 12 student, he registered to vote in order nation, urging his co-students to vote

pedestrian lane since the fatal accident was reported, insisting for a safer route for the learners.

BUILDING PLAN

On September 1, 2023 the construction in the second quarter of 2024 and after the eight months contract given to the workers.

According to an interview with the said that the project was being completed Engineer Christian Joaquin.

foreman regarding his post-construction expectations.

The pedestrian bridge will serve as a path for the students of four schools

pagdating sa mas malaking level o sa magawa?” Mariñas shared. with Kiko Pangilinan leading the senatorial picks with 12 votes, followed

respondents were still undecided who to vote for in the election soon.

According to Mr. James Letolio Jr., an English teacher in the Junior High School (JHS) level, the number of return-ofservice teachers at ACNSTHS showed service teachers from SY 2021-2024, compared to the combined three returnof-service teachers from one in SY 20172020 to two in SY 2018-2021.

Furthermore, in the case of return-ofservice teachers this SY 2024-2025, most taught for SHS students where there

research regarding the candidates.

are 12 total teachers, four of which are male and eight are female. While, some are part of the JHS teaching personnel and 13 female teachers in SHS level. The return-of-service teachers recipient of the JLSS Scholarship from teaching responsibilities as their graduating, aiding ACNSTHS teaching personnel shortage from the previous

Child Development Center (CDC).

Photo From: WIKIPEDIA BRIDGING THE GAP Students at ACNSTHS started

Photo from: Anika Sadie A . Sibal

05 CLOAKED CREVICE

Standardized quality education has been a long-term issue yet to attain as cracks in the supposed standard still vainly uproots from the lack of learning equipment and facilities that will cater the needs of the students which only drag both the students and educators in despair. Despite being awarded as the Top Performing Public High School in the locality, Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) remains left-behind in terms of having su�cient support that should have long equipped the students. The dismaying negligence on the necessities of the students only proves the rampant desolation of the government in providing the service that Philippine schools need.

While awards were granted to schools for their utmost competent performance, this mere accomplishment extends beyond the struggle inflicted on ACNSTHS learners as they progressed, an ugly fact that prevails in a chokehold. With the continuous deprivation of accessible facilities and equipment needed to instill a strong foundation in education, the school would only fail to serve the rightful education mandated by its name as Regional Memorandum No.184 s.2023 included the

school as one of the legislated science high schools in the region.

Based on the 2025 General Appropriations Act budget, Php 1.055 trillion has been allocated to the education sector which will be further divided into di�erent departments and regions, significantly lessening the funds allocated for the supposed future of the country. With Php 12 billion cuts in the Department of Education, there is no wonder that quality education will remain inaccessible to those people deprived due to poverty as classrooms and learning materials continue to be insu�cient in aiding all the learners.

Following the budget cut, schools would unjustly su�er from the scant funds that will be provided to them. Science Teacher Coordinator Leah Burbos-Juntado divulged the debilitating impact of the cut on the threshold of the school as funds for ACNSTHS will be further shortened as mandated by the DepEd Memorandum No. 008 s. 2019 whereas schools with a small population were given low funds although the cost of expenditures remain high. The unjust mandate only hinders the capacity of the school to attain development and deliver a better education to the students as scarcity of funds remains a prevalent issue yet to be solved.

Aside from the snail-paced advancement of the school towards an equipped, well-developed institution, educators were also harshly burdened by the insu�ciency of teachers with mastery in the subject they were given. Mathematics Coordinator Crystal D. Oabina unveiled the harsh reality that concerns involving educators who weren’t teaching their major persist.

Although there has been a significant increase in the number of educators in ACNSTHS since its establishment, there’s still an undeniable need for expertise on the course they were discussing to actually instill the appropriate and needed skills on the students. While the teachers could still explicate subjects di�erent from their major, not utilizing the learnings they’ve gained over the years would only get wasted and their hardships mastering the course would be seemingly discarded and left in vain.

According to DepEd Order No. 69 s. 1993, science high schools should have an enriched Science, Mathematics, and English curriculum as electives added to the existing requirements in a standard public high school. However the lack of action from the government obstructs the standardized curriculum that is supposedly followed by science high schools as it impedes the quality education received by the students.

Ruled Out Reality

by MARIANNE N. MAGANA

A p ty h long been celebrated for its perfec t balance of urban convenience and breathtaking natural landscapes. That is why it is indeed a boast for the city for its constant Seal of Good Governance (SGLG) Award, although it is questionable how the recognition does not take into account the neglec t the city had for its rural areas. Beneath the pic ture-perfec t scener y of Antipolo lies the reality of communities grappling in challenges, which have remained ruled out for years.

Life in Antipolo s lower por tion was constantly marked by struggles that many urban residents might never encounter This balance that we tr y so hard to por tray consequently conceals the harsh reality for those living in its rural areas and Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) was never a stranger to this. Despite being the sole science high school’ in the city its inconvenient location pleas.

One per tinent issue is the lack of a reliable water supply in nearly half of the 16 barangays of the city. This forces residents to rely on capitalistic deep-well businesses, paying as much as Php 50 per drum. In

But we were never alone as the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF ) repor ted that 53% of rural households in the Philippines still lack access to safely managed water, highlighting the inequality of a fundamental necessity that has turned into a luxur y for many rural families.

Fur thermore, the absence of stable internet connectivity fur ther widens the gap between rural and urban areas. In Ookla Speedtest Index 2024, the Philippines ranked 76th globally in internet speeds,

behind cities. This is proven by students from ACNSTHS who often travel to internet cafes or the city ’ s upper par ts just to access research materials. The cost of another burden to their already constrained resources.

One ACNSTHS student residing in Brgy San Jose explained that obtaining school supplies often requires a 30-minute trip to Cogeo, with transpor tation costs nearly doubling their expenses. This highlights how necessities become hurdles for those in less developed areas. Meanwhile, those

living in well-supplied areas are for tunate enough to not go through such a cycle of burden.

Additionally, looking at the educational oppor tunities also reveal the troubling imbalance in lower Antipolo . Schools in rural areas frequently lack access to updated teaching materials, functional equipment, or adequate infrastructure. For the last frontiers of Antipolo such as Sitio Paenaan, Sitio Calawis, San Ysiro, Apia, and San Jose, grasp with little to no resources at all. Yet they were expected to compete with peers from urban schools despite having fewer resources. The discrepancy in educational performance but also diminishes the aspirations of rural youth who feel trapped in a cycle of limited oppor tunity promised improvements in rural areas, these commitments have yet to produce tangible results. It is utterly frustrating how development in rural zones often comes second to urban progress, leaving many communities neglected in aspects the government kept on looking past through. Indeed, Antipolo is blessed with both natural beauty and urban potential, as its city anthem proudly declares: “Bundok mo t

Upon the 10-year celebration of ACNSTHS since its establishment, the City Government shouldn’t turn away from its promises, leaving the school community hoping for the betterment even with the lasting eternity it may take for the already feebling dreams to come to reality. The confounding failure of the government to immediately respond to the needs of its people would only mark AnSci as a science high school solely for its name and the achievements of its people but not on the facilities it can o�er as evident inadequacy of such necessities prevails. Stakeholders and the local government must work hand-in-hand to furnish the cracks in the system instead of cloaking the crevices with a seemingly outstanding performance.

“ There are still needs that we lack to be qualified as a science high school.

Mrs. Crystal Oabina

JHS

Former

OIC and Mathematics Coordinator of ACNSTHS

kapatagan, taglay ang kalikasan ” However, this beauty is not a badge of succe it comes at the expense of its rural residents’ struggles.

The city government, led by Mayor Casimiro “Junjun” Ynares III, must take urgent steps to address these issues. Development needs to be sustained equally instead of concentrating only in the urban areas. For we all should know that true progress is not measured by scenic views or urban development alone. It ultimately lies in molding a city where all por tions thrive without being ruled out of the reality they kept battling.

O I N I P O N 05

“Beneath the picture-perfect scenery of Antipolo lies the reality of communities grappling in challenges.”

Hard Hit

by RAJAH NOUVELLE F LUZON

disaster preparedness among the students of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNTHS), the School ParentTeacher Association (SPTA) led by Maria Concepcion Benitez, initiated the purchase of 400 pieces of hard hats wor th Php 34,000. However, while this project is a beacon of initiative in light of disaster preparedness, it is disappointing how the Depar tment of Education (DepEd) kept on missing this need to the point that parents shoulder such responsibility of safeguarding students amidst constant threat of disaster. When it should have been the agency’s topmost priority ever since.

The investment on this project alone is no small feat

Unfor tunately we must confront the reality that the growing population of the student body which currently consists of 661, a shor tfall of approximately 200 safety gears remains.

With this gap in consideration, it is evident that despite the conduct of various drills and seminars promoting disaster preparedness and the SPTA’s initiative (something like

instruments that will fur ther decrease vulnerabilities to the school populace is still a pipe dream within the educational sector

Tracing back to the past 10 years of record, there have been approximately 7 998 h k i h

of 4.0 or above within close range of our countr y, averaging about 800 ear thquakes per year, roughly translating to one ever y 11 hours. With such implications, it is dismaying how the Depar tment of Education (DepEd) only had Php 2 billion budget for Disaster Preparedness and Response Program (DPRP) this 2024 when

Besides, DepEd has always fallen shor t on disaster preparedness in schools across the countr y Even more disappointing, the pounding lack and implementation gives spotlight to the aching mishap of not ser ving FIilipinos to the point of readying for what disaster may come at any time. Although another responsible agency is the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Age (NDRRMC ) that has b constant on conducting drills, seminars and simulatio However, it is a devas

of tangible resources su as safety gears for public institutions to use. For enough for ACNSTHS what was supposed to about those unfor tuna no resources at all? It see that they are left with nothing amidst the freque threat of natural di

Truly, the government lacks in providing a sustainable approach to ensure disaster preparedness coverage for all. hence the government needs to step up.

While it is true that educational institutions and its organizations are expected to adhere and comply with safety standards to ensure safety throughout the students’ learning experience, they should not be left to their own devices. More so, undue pressure on both

inadequacy be it in supply or existence of safety materials, is a residue of inadequate government suppor t Disaster preparedness should not end with hard hats and lessons. While panic is a natural reaction to crises, students must be

resources, such as safety gear provided by the SPTA, students will have little to rely on when disaster strikes. The undeniable truth is that the government s negligence in equipping schools with proper safety measures puts students’ lives at risk, leaving the brunt of it all to parents who are eager to ensure their children s welfare. Without systemic change and headstrong commitment from the local government unit and concerned sectors,

like the SPTA will continue to ser ve as nothing more than a desperate, temporar y solution to a preventable crisis with the community feeling the hard hit of this neglect

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor,

As a student in Ansci for almost four years, cheating is one of the most common issues I have encoun tered throughout my high school life. While some play it as a joke, it is a problem that has been tolerated for too long. Indeed, the students are aware of the consequences they will face if they get caught. However, it seems like it doesn’t concern them at all. It is unfair that students who involve themselves with such acts are the ones that receive the most recognition for their e�orts. Even a simple summative test or quiz, which can be aced by studying earnestly, requires them to have a “kodigo” or a cheat sheet. Is it possible for this problem to cease to exist in our school?

Sincerely, Lianne Tisha Del Mundo Antipolo City

Dear Reader,

As an editor, I understand how the gravity of cheating significantly impacts you as a hardworking student, especially that this unethical conduct secures them a high score without putting a just amount of e�ort as the learners who truly exert time reviewing di�cult and overwhelming amounts of lessons. Given that you are a responsible AnSci student, I personally do not encourage you to take a blind eye with regards to this issue, in line to the Department of Education (DepEd) provided student handbook, cheating is punishable and an absolute major o�ense, not only it stains integrity of a pupil, but it also shows incompetence and dishonesty. Thus, us, a part of the school’s community, have the utmost freedom to exercise our rights to speak up and to not tolerate unscrupulous acts. Lastly, amid the rampant dilemma we are facing, I am challenging you to be as truthful and stand firm with your morals. May this lesson find you to be more eager to strive for equity and fight for injustice.

Sincerely,

Chloui A. Ybañez, Associate Editor

ding Responsibility

o, an Overseas OFW ) previously onvic ted in Indonesia, returned to the Philippines on December 18, ending 14 of being in e 14 years of e sickening

Ws alike. W hat’s cerning is that e is our countr y atistics Authority ’ s ated that the reased to 9.8% ear. An increase ymen leaving the ok for the nation as ues to not provide or tunities enough o turning to ter jobs.

4, the Philippine ant Workers t at least 44 ow abroad. Some ed with murder harged with being e public’ s eyes oso, underneath hat the countr y t an eye. s a surprise as o. 10801, or rs Welfare ” mandates state s. Yet, nearly nine ment repor ts of d abuse surged s in 2016 to 24,000 in

correlation that should rightfully raise reasonable doubt about whether or not the government is only spouting meaningless words.

All of this can be stemmed because OFWs are, often than not forced into a corner. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) repor ted a steady decrease of the unemployment rate following the pandemic. Still, the unemployment rate stays at a high 3 9% in 2024. Failure to ser ve many Filipinos with employment is a considerable disregard of the government for the welfare of its citizens and is what exactly encourages resor ting to working abroad just to not fall into pover ty Consequently, OFWs who are forced to work abroad would mean subjugating their child to hardships. A sur vey conducted in the 4th quar ter of 2023 showed that 6.3% of the sur veyed households in the Philippines had a member who was or had been an OFW Unfor tunately, a few of our fellow students here in Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) are among those 6.3 percent

ACNSTHS Grade 12 student whose mother works as a caregiver in Saudi Arabia said that it’s extremely hard to live without their mom, however, it was what they thought would help

This evidently proves fur ther neglect from the government that was supposed to aid Filipinos. Yet all they did was watch and wait for danger to swallow their fellow countr ymen in the foreign lands. Because of this, the protection of OFWs must strictly be mandated in accordance with R.A. 10801. Programs that would ensure the protection of OFWs and help them apply for proper

employment should be implemented. Already, the recent inauguration of the Bagong Pilipinas Aksyon Center proves as a strong example. While the countr y enjoys the remittances being sent, OFWs unfor tunately got the shor t end of the stick. The Ibon Foundation repor ts that in 2024, the average gap between the minimum wage and the living wage for

worker is Php 762 nationwide.

This disparity, coupled with higher exchange rates, makes working abroad more appealing for Filipinos seeking to get out of pover ty Wage hikes can close the gap. However, as the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Depar tment (CPBRD) noted, wage hikes would have severe consequences on the economy since it would increase both almost 11 9 million minimum wage workers losing their jobs. A long-term solution is focused on giving better job oppor tunities to its citizens. There has never been a better time for our governing authority to stop evading their responsibility. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has already proven that he has the capability of mitigating the problem with, again, the inauguration of the Aksyon Center Working overseas should be a choice not a necessity Under these words, Marcos vowed in his 2024 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO) in Malacañang. It is with utmost hopefulness for such actions from the administration to ser ve as head star t to facing OFWs with care for their welfare instead of evading their topmost responsibility of safeguarding Filipinos.

Deprived of Safety

by ERIN B. MATRO

Although it is encouraged in schools to foster a good relationship and camaraderie between the students, the irony that lingers between the learners in expressing an excessive amount of prevalent among the students. Amidst the (PDA) in Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (AC NSTHS), the Supreme Secondar y Learner Government (SSLG) issued a statement and monitoring ac tions as an attempt to cease the outrageous occurrences of PDA. However, a mere statement and monitoring would not address the roots of the issue as we constantly neglec t the ac tual concern needing immediate attention, leading to an utter disgrace to the supposed highly respec ted institution. The adamant failure to implement the regulations in our school only reveals the lacking of the laws in the school. I am truly disturbed over the fact that students no longer deemed their actions inappropriate as they persist with their misdemeanor despite the fact that they were already repor ted. The negligence on the repor ted disputes only unveils the lack to properly govern the behavior of the learners as it not only concerns the viewpoint of their peers but also their welfare as a student under the super vision of school.

Despite the existence of DepEd Order No. 031 s. 2018 which is the Policy Guidelines on the Implementation of the Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), sex education remains a taboo to curriculum in sex education. Although seminars were being conducted in the school, the inadequacy and infrequency of the events failed to sustain and provide the needed education to the students. This dismayingly prevails the various misconceptions and only fur ther arouses the curiosity of the students.

repor ted cases may have rooted due to the age of the students as they hit adolescence. Hence, there s no doubt that the school should be more mindful and open in instilling sex education to the students.

With the proposed Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) Program under the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill, schools should introduce and lead the students at all levels toward destigmatizing the misbeliefs surrounding the sex education, a long vetoed concept linked to our culture. While this may be a seemingly conducive action, strict implementation must be taken to actually inform the young adolescents and lift them from the pit of burden.

Although there were no teenage pregnancy cases in Antipolo, ACNSTHS still has no escape to the rampant inobser vance of the mandated policies of DepEd. Based on the 2000 Depar tment of Education, Culture and Spor ts (DECS) Ser vice Manual Chapter which the school failed to address. This only proliferates disobedience among the students, a basic manner that should be instilled already to them.

Following the adamant increase of PDA cases, SSLG President Peñano admitted that the organization and the school system still need to forcefully implement the prohibition of PDA in the school, rooted from the scant discussion on sex education in the school. Since the school struggles in handling its students, I stipulate that the school must pull the roots of this long persisting issue education to the students.

With the vastness of strategies in an attempt to obliterate the PDA and pregnancy cases, schools should be unshackled in educating the students toward safe sex and on their reproductive system as they reach adolescence. Students, meanwhile, must be informed of the implications of their actions and not lean to deviation from their life due to deprivation of safety shield — the sex education.

Access Denied

y CASEE YVONNE P BERREY

It is no longer just a cr y for help, but a full-blown appeal for sur vival as 38 state universities and colleges (SUCs) across the Philippines ask Congress to restore the Php 14.38 billion slashed from from these institutions, including prestigious universities like the University of the Philippines (UP) and Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), have united in a call to ac tion, demanding the restoration and augmentation of their funding

The proposed budget cut is concerning as countless Grade 12 students seek higher education. A sur vey showed 88 out of 113 students from Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School prefer SUCs for their cut threatens to limit access to these institutions.

The proposed 2025 National Expenditure Program allocates Php 113.75 billion for SUCs, a decrease from Php 128.13 billion last year Of this, Php 14.38 billion vital infrastructure and longterm investments. Apparently these cuts will harshly impact not only SUCs but also thousands of students who rely on them for higher education.

Moreover, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr s veto of Php 194 billion from the 2025 national budget, including Php 26 billion from the Depar tment of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Php 168 billion in unprogrammed appropriations, raises concerns about the government’s priorities. While the education sector received the largest allocation at Php Php 1.06 trillion, cuts to SUCs—along with a Php 12 billion reduction in DepEd’s critical programs such as the Computerization imbalance. It is questionable how the government can justify reducing funding for higher education, which is vital for developing a skilled workforce while continuing to allocate large sums to infrastructure.

While physical infrastructure is cer tainly impor tant for national development, the decision to reduce funding for education at a time when the demand for skilled professionals is growing undermines the long-term progress the countr y needs and sends a message that education is not being prioritized as it should be. Investments in education are investments in the future workforce, and cutting these budgets risks limiting the oppor tunities available to

students and undermining the nation s ability to thrive.

Christian Kyle Olangca, a Grade 12 student of ACNSTHS, expressed his concerns about the future, as the cuts may limit access students to stop their studies or students rely on SUCs as their only option, and the cuts risk increasing the divide between wealthy and underprivileged students.

Even more concerning, the Philippine Constitution guarantees ever y citizen the right to education, but this right is rendered meaningless without adequate resources. To genuinely ensure national progress, the government must prioritize the education sector by restoring and increasing the budget for state universities and colleges (SUCs).

For thousands of Grade 12 students, SUCs represent a vital pathway to a brighter future, and the proposed budget cuts are expenditure plan—they symbolize closed doors to their dreams. If left unaddressed, these cuts could limit access to quality education, ultimately hindering the nation’s growth. Additionally, lawmakers must act now to safeguard the oppor tunities these students rely on, as the looming cuts contradict

Mocking Miser y

by MAYA DENISE M. DEL ROSARIO

suspension memes mocking the devastation caused by typhoons in the Philippines is plain insensitive, morally reprehensible not even bearing the Filipino masses in mind. The casual and often gleeful appropriation of PAGASA, DepEd, and the local government’s logos to create jokes around cancelled classes is a gross display of apathy toward

From my standpoint, these must not be the coping mechanism in lighthear ted or worr ying terms. They are merely disregarding realistic human threats that give costs on these disasters.

While some argue that humor ser ves as a coping mechanism, this argument will not hold against the reality that families are losing their homes, businesses are destroyed, and people’s

RANTS

The negligence on the reported disputes devastatingly concerns the welfare of my fellow students under the supervision of the school.

it s a celebration of for tunate avoidance, a stark contrast to the desperate realities faced by countless Filipinos.

government logos is par ticularly egregious. Not only are they insensitive but also, blatant displays of government disconnection

people. These memes suggest something about the plight

funny, and as such, more public distrust develops and profound absence of empathy at the high end of political power. Instead of focusing

the focus is on creating and sharing cheap jokes that trivialize a national crisis. It frustrates me to think that such mocker y can be associated with beings that should be focused on helping victims.

Fur thermore, the speed at which they are sharing on the damage that brings me and my fellow

that reduces other people s cheap online enter tainment That is, desensitization

dehumanizes the individual, of amusement for low cost fun. The ver y mechanism that can be harnessed to elicit suppor t and empathy is on the other end weaponized to compound the miser y of the already traumatized group. This is not an argument about freedom of expression

deepl people expressions of an eroding moral underpinning of

to a G just di people l somet My fami society which values

the constitutional promise of quality education for all.

Many students rely on SUCs private universities’ high tuition fees are out of reach for most families. Reducing funding risks widening the gap between privileged and underprivileged students, perpetuating inequality individuals but also weakens the public education system, hence the nation s insecurity threatens to prevail.

To genuinely ensure national progress, the government must prioritize the education sector by restoring and increasing the budget for state universities and colleges (SUCs). f the government genuinely aims to uplift its citizens, it must prioritize funding for education, ensuring that all Filipinos—regardless of socioeconomic status—have access to quality learning. Without this commitment the unfor tunate truth is that many students will face a harsh reality: access to education will be denied.

“Cutting

SUCs’ budget reflects deliberately denying Filipinos of access to free tertiary education.”

of such disaster should not be made to form punchlines for viral content For my own par t, I believe social media platforms should take greater action and responsibility in restraining such content, as they are allowing this behavior

inferior to having cheap laughs at someone’s expense. These victims deser ve not to be an item of malicious jest. Class suspension memes are not just a disgrace—they collective loss of compassion.

This action indeed does take care of collectivity to uplift empathy and awareness; schools should star t disaster awareness programs where real-life impacts are shown as a legacy to be inherited by the younger generation who become compassionate. The stricter content moderation policies of social media to eliminate the spread of insensitive materials

campaigns of the government that would change the drastic public discourse towards

It is a matter of respect, dignity, and for which

traged so ma to eva alone, but also about and underneath a cer tain level of the basic decency and human feeling of compassion is no laughing matter to the devastation wrought by typhoons. The production and spread of these memes are not innocuous exercises in creative expression, but

lost so it’s not fun all ” T experie mem to eng be a s of avoiding ha privile unavailable strug afterm isn’t c

This has nothing to do with freedom of expression but decency and sympathy I strongly feel that there is nothing funny about

It is just disappointing to see people laughing about something this serious. My family relatives had to evacuate and lost so much — it’s “

Sparrow Bloom

by GERUZELLE F ELLA

A dismaying menace with the implementation of the Supreme Secondar y Learner Government (SSLG) bylaws arise from the campus of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS).

The inconsistency of implementing cer tain standards in maintaining a well-organized schematic set-up is a great threat to the school populace including I, who perceive this as a sinking hole of an immense drawback.

This must not be tolerated as it shapes the appalling degradation in a supposed school framework honing youth model leaders.

It is not for me to disregard this issue that harms the school and the learners into a cradle of a threatening loss of competency where the supposed guidelines are thrown away to exhibit struggle. Admittedly this must not carr y on to build the dereliction bound to fail the community - a dying system with no growth because of noncompliance to what must be abided by It is just humiliating to feed up false hope to the masses, concerning the

ON SSLG BYLAWS

Planting Impotence Ironic Demands

in a devastating pit into thinking that ever y rule is obser ved while actually breaking propositions written down in known standardized ruling.

“While I believe that the SSLG bylaws can still be obser ved in the school, there were undeniable lapses as obser ved from the events that occurred”, stated by Deputy Chief Admin Erin Matro of the General Club Council (GCC ) in the institution. Issues surfaced upon the administration, setting aside the hope that is ought to the campus. The gap that opened a demeaning system shatters the basic etiquette of an ideal image of leaders, having the true essence be engraved down a scarce. From my standpoint it is the terrifying framework of implementation that is arranged for defeat, shaping neglect with a blind eye with all possible unconscious actions made by the organization as it forgets the publicized bylaws for all governing bodies.

Fur thermore, Matro argued that the SSLG released an Interim Guidelines and Procedures on the election of club

Section 2 which merely said that a student must only take one major club position and one minor position respectively Unfor tunately, some

must be followed . I is then wrecked by the misimplementation of the abandoning this slamming principle forgotten in a façade. According to SSLG adviser John Jayson Cainlang, with the upcoming administrations, this bended action must be stopped and is not possible since this seems to be the problem with mishandling propositions amongst the organizations a learner is par ticipating to.

Never theless, this doesn’t deny the slap of reality that there are setbacks with the enactment of the bylaws directed upon SSLG, that acts as a hindrance to establish consistency of the administration. Matro also highlighted the fact that while it is commendable that some pupils hold a high par ticipator y discipline in taking major roles

“ Dis regarding the fragileness o f learners shatters the essence o f honing students to

Prac tical Scheme

by PATRICIA MAE B. DOCTOR

W hile clubs and organizations are meant to fur ther hone and

interest, it is still aforethought to be an extracurricular for the learners. This forms the mere heav y burden that delivers the AC NSTHS population, including I, into a grappling state of weight to balance academic workloads and and responsibilities. With the recent reform of the policy of clubs within the school, the General Club Council (GCC ) decided to limit the club membership from four to two — letting the students have only a major and minor club respec tively. In my perspec tive, the amendment into consideration the bursting workload one has to deal with academically.

The shaping of learners in a framework to hone brains and skills is highly needed where one can prosper with better competence. From my standpoint it is just dismaying to multiple responsibilities to comply with and then just be given no fur ther credit for their accomplishments. Hence, it is just the right act to do to let the students linger with their exper tise while giving them space to in a set-up with correct enhancement propositions.

As a member studying in a science high school, students should be

able to juggle both scholastic and extracurricular tasks to properly comply with our standards as a well-performing campus to compete.

With this, I suppose that two clubs are more than enough to foster learners in non-academe, highlighting their of the area they engage in. Moreover, I believe that the policy revision allowed them to still have the ability to fur ther prioritize their educational activities and perform well inside their classes as a main priority above all.

In the past year, supplementar y membership wherein a learner is allowed to have four clubs brought anarchy to the membership roster is a disorganization in the system that prompts confusion to the club members became futile in the club s management during projects and events as to which clubs tend to prioritize major members than the rest. The supposed four par ticipated clubs of the pupils are shadowed due improper management of too many ver y busy setting in the campus.

This sets aside the focus to improve each club into a better position in the school community. In view of the also aids not so well known clubs and gives them more platform to advocate for their objectives. This gives the highlight to fur ther establish a scheme bound to grow and be given more

are wholly required to stand with the regulations that they hold. I stand that this development is what is actually needed as ACNSTHS grapple in incompetency. In my viewpoint, setting this aside will just withdraw the standards made to justify why they are deser ving to lead a community of learners.

high solution must be given to this peril as we die in this decaying pattern of campus incompetency where each and ever yone is unaware, each and ever yone is left struggling in depth. The SSLG, together with the school administration, must strengthen their roles as facilitators to progress students into prosperity and a much more constructed system. Such that, more leadership training, seminars for school development, and elaboration of the bylaws must be obser ved. The set-up must be cer tainly enhanced to an extent to wrangle against the appalling planting of impotence for a so-called government

“ I am dis app ointed that even the allegedly prac ticed bylaws and its prop o sitions are exhibited in a such a premature manner.

by AIZLE KATE M. PASION

being recognized as an academic institution that houses the to strain the potential of AC NSTHS’ students. A challenge that seems to surmount the possibility of attaining genuine growth and vic tor y, leaving students with the burden of battling not only their competitors but the over whelming weight of unmet needs. A proof of how vic tories, though hard-earned, have become hollow While the joy of attaining victor y is present there is no doubt that the in competitions. Being a science high school student entails demanding academic workloads, imposing additional challenges in successfully completing tasks while striving to make progress in the skills required to secure medals and trophies in competitions. An undeniable strain, toll on the students due to the absence of such suppor t

Recognizing the struggle of balancing multiple commitments appears to be a myth for academic institutions, like ACNSTHS, which results in limited assistance or help provided for the students’ competitive endeavors. Flexible schedules continue to be a far-fetched dream, competitions, forcing them to navigate the hurdle of achieving an almost implausible balance between their academic and competitive undertakings.

Fur thermore, students are often burdened with the expectation of their own initiative when it comes to their preparation for competitions, mile to engage in self-study sessions and conquered the intimidating thresholds of competitions at their own expense.

While it is undeniable that securing a win entails the need of providing resources, students of ACNSTHS experience the struggle of demonstrates the inability of the institution to grant students with essential access to the resources to obtain success, which sometimes creates a struggle for the educators, as they are left with the responsibility of providing the necessar y resources at their own the idea of having to enter a battle without being equipped with the skills necessar y to assure pragmatic progress—an experience personally encountered by a Grade 12 student

In addition, as stated by the student athletes, a challenge they often face includes having to train without the necessar y equipment and gear that they need. Lack of necessar y equipment has proven to be a developing their skills and surpassing their own potential. A testimony to how lack of suppor t could terrorize even the bravest of dreams, as it ser ves as a constraint in achieving greater things.

focus on to alleviate the typical system of leaving behind some clubs while the others reach their peak. I believe that the two club policy stabilizes the 17 clubs present within the school and enables them to constitute themselves inside the campus since they have their own propositions to abide by and programs to engage in.

Thus, disregarding the fragileness of learners shatters the essence of honing students into greatness in

Personally, we must tolerate the continuous cycle of putting freight amongst the learners and let them struggle into an obvious learning gap that is not even given attention. It is a mere slap of an unending lack of impor tance to all pupils given much responsibilities.

Organization membership comes with a responsibility and duty Thus previous four clubs approach just fur ther excruciating students, involved and in-charged in the system. Such that, this puts them to grapple in a measure that is supposed to harness learners to fur ther improve themselves and their competencies. Admittedly, having the new two clubs policy promotes equal oppor tunity for the learners to relish and prioritize scholarly giving them much time and space to focus and provide attention to what is needed right away It is a practical scheme that must be fully nur tured and pushed through for a growing community like ACNSTHS

A shift in the system is required, one that incorporates tangible support systems tailored to the needs of students. “

Despite countless wins, irony dulls the shine of the trophies gained. A victor y that perpetuates a paradox, wherein achievements appear to be empty as the struggle to succeed overshadows the joy of triumphs. Suppor t and guidance are two factors that truly nur ture success, however these are nowhere to be found. Students are somehow destined for a path that strips away their oppor tunity to fully embrace and savor the process of acquiring the skills and knowledge necessar y to attain their goal of securing the top spot. Ser ving as the backbone of students to be recognized and upheld as pillars of such prestige through ample suppor t In conclusion, it is only fair for the school to match the enthusiasm they show in encouraging students to par ticipate in competitions with the same level of commitment in delivering the necessar y amount of suppor t My belief lies in the fact that expecting wins over an uphill battle without the presence of any suppor t or guidance would only impose a burdensome weight, one that distor ts the ver y essence of winning. Without a proper foundation, success would be nothing more the pursuit of excellence, inequitably getting rid of its true value and meaning.

The school must recognize that success is not just about the glor y of victor y alone, but rather the process of achieving victor y Academic institutions must provide the necessar y suppor t, resources, and guidance that empower students to attain excellence. A shift in the system is required, one that incorporates tangible suppor t systems tailored to the needs of students whether through specialized training programs led by professionals or funding for competition-related

improvements in the way students hone their skills. A system that ensures all its students are equipped is the only way that true victor y can be reached.

PINKY SWEARS

GOLDEN VERITY

Golden Verity

Truth

Pinky Swears

School Supplies

by HANNAH ZOEY A. NARCA

intertwining with the earthly scent emanating o� wood, the synthetic whi� of rubber from an eraser, and the faint yet pleasantly musty fragrance percolating. The sun rises through the horizon, signifying the start of a new day–as the schooling commences, the learning materials prepare themselves to lead students into various dimensions of lessons and topics, opening doors of knowledge and wisdom as they tread the journey of education—carrying school supplies as the school supplies.

Like school supplies, teachers aid students in learning, contributing more than just the skill to write, read, and calculate. Imparting learners with life-long lessons, laughter, and most importantly, wisdom. Many have come and gone to Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS), from new batches of juniors to graduating seniors, each is on their way to unravel chapters of their lives in pursuing an educational journey. However, materializing ambitions aren’t reserved for students, as the school’s teachers leap to explore a world filled with possibilities in hopes of reaching their dreams. In celebrating the month of teachers, we commemorate those who have parted ways with ACNSTHS but remain in our hearts.

SUPPLYING

JOY

A collection of paperwork and memories. Through the years, portfolios have been the staple of Ma’am Ginelle Airisse Repala, a former English teacher. Suppose you were to ask her students, the recollection of days where each of them had to answer a question and have seat works after

“I miss you guys so much. I miss the students, I miss the teachers, I miss the culture,” she said. Leaving the school wasn’t an easy decision for her, in her own words, it was a ”bittersweet experience”. Saying goodbye to the school she worked in, the students she loved, and the colleagues she spent years with was hard, but it was time to expand the folder containing her life and compile her growth as a person in reaching for the same dreams she saw her students aim for.

Diving into her memories, Ms. Airisse wandered into the folders containing her recollections during her time in teaching. It wasn’t the initial life she had planned for herself.

something Ms. Rochelle Berosil is new at. She has been coaching students since the beginning of her work as a teacher in the school, sharpening them to become learners who are ready to innovate. She’s the force that pushes them to be keen, academically, and practically, like a sharpener.

“Happy memories ang makarating sa regionals and nationals, bonus na lang ang manalo,” Ms. Berosil said while recalling the moments in ACNSTHS. To her, the school bridges connections despite leaving the campus–in her own words, being in ACNSTHS was rewarding. “Ansci built my resilience and adaptivity. Being there increased my curiosity and lifelong learning,” She added.

School supplies are not the mere tools we use in school every day. Sometimes, they take the form of a teacher, supplying further than basic skills–they give us hope, drive, and wisdom that we can carry everywhere in any situation as we step further into becoming a part of the real world.

Working behind the camera, writing a script, and being in a production team, this was the big picture. A picture never taken, because for her, she was set to become a teacher, and she did. Working at ACNSTHS was a unique experience ,she was given a chance to take her big picture by helping students memorize scripts in musical plays. Ms. Airisse projected her dreams, giving her students all she could o�er because their dedication inspired her to do more and reach further into her aspirations.

Without a doubt, the students she fostered have excelled in di�erent fields, continuing to pursue heights of knowledge from the essence of curiosity she bequeathed them. In this and their journey, Ms. Rochelle knew the gravity of her existence , being an inspiration to future scientists, students, teachers, and parents inside and outside ACNSTHS to keep pursuing their ambitions in view of success. Embossing in their minds to believe in themselves because Ms. Berosil believes in them.

removed. It withstands time, remaining significant even after multiple attempts to clear it. The marks might appear to be removed, but they linger in the memory, showing up time after time.

Ms. Dhel Joanna Castro, a former English teacher, has left a permanent mark in the hearts and minds of the ACNSTHS community.

“Staying in Ansci was a roller-coaster of emotions. It is either very happy or really sad. And there were a lot, each has its own lesson that I learned–it was hard to let go of something I started, but I felt that it is time for another teacher to experience the rush of handling such events,” she said. It was an experience having her as a teacher. Ms. Castro had helped students elevate their lives in terms of desiring more while maintaining boundaries to avoid burning out. She accentuated the need for the students to become respectable as they are bearing the name of the institution, while not forgetting their individuality. This is important in a school filled with people constantly pushing themselves to the point of exhaustion.

As the celebration for the month of teachers takes place, we commemorate those who have left the ACNSTHS community. Wholeheartedly expressing gratitude to the ones who nourished and nurtured the minds of Batang Siyentipikos. Instilling the memories shared by di�erent batches in the soul of students to preserve the values these educators have worked hard to bequeath. Functioning like an advanced folder,, sharpener, and permanent marker, the unparalleled studens they produced are further proving how these school supplies are the core of how the school supplies.

Slice of Life

The dreamers cooking behind Banchetto de Cogeo’s success

Home. Rushing thoughts linger in the mind as flavors burst in the mouths of those who frequent the night market. Vendors prepare their staples for another evening of serving the starved, those who are peckish of rest after a long day of working, of companionship after school, of family as the week passed by without greetings, and of food after a backbreaking craving. Worth every penny in its insatiable nature, Cogeo’s delicacies are home to those who seek burning viands without burning pockets.

A place known to locals, Banchetto de Cogeo provides a variety of dishes.

From the traditional Pinoy palamig to Takoyaki from Japan; if you can name it, they probably have it! At night, the place explodes with joyous music intertwined with laughter as Antipolenos dig in their grub. With recent posts about the Banchetto going viral, the people behind the cuisine are flashed on screen—nothing beyond. Maricris Abay, Mary Joy Lagasca, and Roy Lagasca are only some of the cooks deserving of recognition after the challenges they went through to get a place on the renowned Banchetto.

THIRST

“Nahuli ako ng o�cers, nakikipag-agawan ako sa cart ko. Tinakbo ko na lang habang umiiyak ako kasi paano na pag nakuha yung mga galon ko, paano na ako makakapag trabaho nun.” Maricris shared.

Like an oasis in the middle of the desert, Maricris Abay is one of the few in Banchetto selling drinks amidst the flux of food. Known for her tasty ‘palamig’ consisting of variations of lemonade mixed with di�erent flavors, she has built her family on this business, a�ording her children an education despite the absence of her husband’s financial support.

Before serving as an oasis for the thirsty in the food industry, she first had to experience drought brought by a di�cult time in making a living out of her drinks. Maricris sought luck in the streets, promoting beverages in the middle of racing vehicles on the streets catering to parched drivers—it was only when tra�c o�cers would come to strip the roads of Cogeo clean of vendors when she finds herself holding on to a blimp of hope, in a desperate attempt, to salvage her humble means of survival.

by JOHN ASHLEY S. MAGDALENO & MA. RIANE JADE T. SALTIGA

Since the beginning of time, the definition of beauty continuously evolved—from queens to first ladies, and now to modern women, makeup has been passed down for generations. Heteronormativity made it socially acceptable for only women to wear makeup products to conceal parts deemed ugly. In the constant shift of beauty standards, there’s always a blemish to cover, a color to correct, and a look to make up for societal acceptance. Upholding both masculine and feminine standards of beauty, the LGBTQIA+ community was seen di�erently. The community then found a way to express the colors they were once told to conceal. Drag, an exaggerated use of makeup—a slap in the face to societal judgements and expectations. The community created their own definition of identity, leaving the chase for approval from anyone.

CONCEALING BLEMISHES

by JOHN ASHLEY S. MAGDALENO

Foundation serves as a great base of many makeup looks because of how it can hide the imperfections of a person—their genuine self. For countless decades, the LGBTQIA+ community was shunned from society for living their authentic lives. This resulted in most of the queer children hiding inside the

closet from everyone that surrounds them, some faking their identity just to be accepted. Their identity has always been seen as a “blemish” that has to be covered; a mistake that has to be corrected.

“If I were to be a fully straight guy, then I would not have to hide the real me everyday,” Christian Olangca uttered with a heavy heart.

Many still try to camouflage amongst the crowd and bury their feelings deep inside, hoping to “pray the gay away” or for the “phase” to be over. Only to find out that their identity is not a blemish easily hidden by foundation.

GLOSSED SHINE

Living in seclusion within the darkness, the queer community aspires to shine bright with a shimmer of glitter in their eyes. This practice had given the community an uplifting feeling—a refuge where individuality thrive, overthrowing trauma and fear.

Jestony Buergo, a drag enthusiast, expressed that, “With the art of drag, I think natutuhan ko ang self-love, acceptance, and embracing individuality.”

The art of drag has given a chance for little gender-diverse children to bloom into eccentric and ecstatic artists that display jaw-dropping performances. Makeup has di�erent eras that span on for years to even just a few days, however,

A picture. It captures a moment, a memory in one frame. Unfortunately, memories fade in the face of disastrous events, with the only thing left being the remains of those images in their brains, hearts, and hands. The Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) MAPEH Club took the chance to help out the fire victims in Inarawan, Antipolo City. While the excitement in di�erent sports and games was in full force during the annual intramurals of the school, a spot solely dedicated to a photo booth filled with varying designs aligned with the main theme of the event—Demon Slayer, can be found in one building. However, this photo booth was not merely for design and photoshoot purposes, it was built to generate income for those who are severely a�ected. "I think that it is beneficial for everyone, like the participants on the intrams can get their picture as their remembrance for the event," stated by the ACNSTHS

Foundation to Flourish

for how long these trends last does not matter on how much of an impact they create in the space.

DRAGGED TO LIBERTY Drag challenged conventional beauty, inspiring not only the queer community, but also those who hide themselves away. It is more than just an expression—it’s a form of protest. These artists continue the practice to fight the gender norms that society has created to conceal the magnificence of the people in the community. Individuals embracing their genuine identities bridges the gap in society created by bigotry and hatred.

“This encourages na we could do activities na ginagawa ng mga member ng LGBTQIA+ as this can serve as a gesture of appreciation and support sa art that they, established within their community,” emphasized by Sabrina Alfaro.

Although makeup is primarily worn by women, these experiences show that they are genderless. Anyone can use them to amplify the beauty that was given to them—presenting themselves as the ones inside their heart. Many youngsters are scared to dive into colorful waters, but with the help of an inclusive community, are ready to jump in knowing that someone will catch them.

MAPEH Club President Kenji Carigma. Even though it was an exciting event that most attendees enjoyed, not everyone was enthralled, simply because they had something di�erent in mind—more or less a stressful situation . During this time, one of the students endured the pain of their fading because of a disastrous event that scorched their life days before. The MAPEH Club was quick to jump into action to aid in a time of need, and most of the profits collected were given to the student.

Illustrated by ERVYN RYLE G. MEDIANO

“Sa totoo lang, ‘di ako nakapagtapos ng kolehiyo. Kaya kayo, gusto kong makapag tapos kayo. Lalo na ang mga anak ko.” She says in tears.

Life on the road was the least kind to Maricris, it had her constantly shu�ing with her guard up to keep her family afloat, and with the opportunity of selling in the Banchetto securely without fear of the authorities making their way towards her cart; she earned her place inside the food market. Apart from her inept business ideas and e�orts, studying was the only thing she couldn’t complete. It hindered her from acquiring employment and latched her to the sidewalks, keeping her in a constant state of fear. A future she does not want for her children, and to every child everywhere.

Thirst is the thing she quenches, but Maricris’ thirst for success not only for herself, but for the people depending on her existence, she is an unstoppable force that continues to flow. To dive deep into the sea of beverages, she aims to make her children achieve what she could not, to attain a future much more vibrant and tasty than the drinks she sold; until she retires from the business and cares for herself, drinking the juice of her e�orts.

HUNGER

“Kapit lang. Kapit lang talaga. Kahit na mahirap.” Couple Joy and Romeo Lagasca, Pares food cart employees, said.

Sounds of rumbling envelop the place, calling for the delicious food the carts have to o�er, and in the middle of mixed aromas, the smell of beef broth and deep fried pork stands out—the Pares stand at the end of the line can catch all the eyes as workers Joy and Romeo Lagasca do their best to serve the starved good food. Selling pares in the Banchetto wasn’t the initial plan they had, it was a di�cult time in a di�cult place; pares became the present and their hopes for the future.

“Business talaga kami, ganito lang din simula sa maliit pagkain pa rin, kasi siyempre kailangan din ng budget, ‘pag nakaluwag-luwag na, restaurant na.” They stated. Cooking food wasn’t the only thing they’re good at, concocting dreams for the lovers’ future might just be their expertise. Since becoming employees for a family member, they began hoping for their own cart to sell food, and if given the chance to, their own restaurant. In the soup they serve the people comes the ingredient of their dreams and their

love, bearing in mind the hurdles they have jumped; the act of being precise in cooking, values they hope to apply in the future.

FULFILLMENT

It is indeed a place to quench your thirst and satiate hunger, but behind the food that people feed from, there are dreams and stories waiting to be uncovered. The lives of Maricris, Joy, and Romeo that stem from feeding others to feed their families are the tales deserving to be known by those who eat and bask in the glory of the Banchetto.

With tears streaming down your face while fighting an o�cer for the cart stocked full of supplies, to becoming a business owner who sells drinks in Banchetto de Cogeo to having another branch, an inspiring story lived by Maricris. Being employees of a food cart and dreaming to achieve more than just the life they are living now is their aspiration.

Even with the patriotism of small businesses, they are more than just the business, they are people with stories to tell, some inducing tears from those it reaches. A taste of home from those who dream of a bright future for their loved ones.

C

HARMS mosaic of

To eat, or not to eat, that is the question. When the focus is mainly on what you warm your bellies with, when can the spotlight reach those who strive to make the food in hopes of warming their families? “

by MA. RIANE JADE T. SALTIGA

Have you ever seen an “anik-anik girlie”? Or are you an anik-anik girlie yourself? Immediately spotted by the melody of jingling and clanking of figurines, friendship bracelets, pins, and keychains they adorn when they walk by. Every trinket, with each telling a unique story of the collector’s journey, shows how every individual is truly a mosaic of things that they love.

“Anik-anik,” also commonly spelled as “anek-anek,” originated from the Filipino expression “ano-ano,” which roughly translates to “a variety of anything.” Anik-aniks can be defined as any items regarded with sentimental value collected by a person regardless of their function or use. This collection of arbitrary trinkets—with some even deemed unnecessary and trash—is often a way of holding on to a memory, a piece of nostalgia.

Anik-aniks aren’t just for celebrities and Gen Z with their Sonny Angels, Labubu, and Sanrio bag charms—it's not an entirely new concept either. Anik-anik is a form of expression by personalizing items. This form of keeping is deeply engraved within the colorful and expressive maximalist culture that we Filipinos possess— representing our resourcefulness and sentimental nature by holding onto fragments of what we once had.

Fine Chinese glassware safely kept in cupboards, magnets on the refrigerator, are only some of the anik-aniks you can find in a Filipino household. We Filipinos have always found a way to keep things for the

The Arts Sector Head, Eden Culala, suggested that the photo booth should serve as a fundraiser towards the victim after the news spread. “Kahit kaunting halaga lang, we want to help,” she stated.

Some of the most beautiful things we adore are the most fragile of things, just like our memories. It can easily fade into obscurity, lost inside our minds, leaving behind a trail of mystery and dread for our heart to yearn. You may forget it, or discover it in pieces, but the picture etched in the soul will never be erased.

Illustratedby SOPHIAOLIVIAJ. CAMBA

memories—anik-aniks, abubots, and burloloys.

Professor Felipe De Leon, teaching Art Studies at the University of the Philippines, used the term “maximalism” in his discussions to describe the need of Filipinos to fill up empty gaps and spaces with forms and things. This longing feeling of nostalgia is deeply rooted in Filipinos’ emotional sensitivity and the strong urge to connect with others. The Filipinos’ maximalist approach to life creates a colorful culture to be proud of.

“I find these items adorable, but on a deeper level, I collect stationeries because I have this mindset that ‘It's too pretty; I can use this later,’” Marleex Reyes confessed, recalling the items she piled up—unused. For her, collecting items is a way for her to remember experiences and hold on to sentiments.

“The great thing about keeping gifts is that they allow me to hold on to something given during times when situations haven't changed yet—like a broken friendship,” Marleex said, explaining her reason for collecting . “These small items encapsulate the intangible memories and lessons I've learned along the way,” she added.

Anik-aniks meaning anything and everything, any item that makes you happy. All of these anik-aniks represent an extension of ourselves—a mosaic close to our hearts.

“The flash of a picture will be the light inside the darkness.”

harg i ng to take C harg e

by HANNAH ZOEY A. NARCA

Life is a battlefield.

To most, it is spending every waking hour pulling meat from bones. Working tirelessly to provide shelter for their loved ones, often having time slip away from their clutches as they retire from reaching dreams and strive for survival. But to Naima, home is the battlefield forever etched in her mind—a war not even a place of refuge can pacify.

Business is the battlefield she tread from Marawi to Antipolo,. beingBeing in the industry for the past decade, trading di�erent goods was the only source of income that supported her family, giving them something to feed, shelter, and clothe from.

Naima Abdulmalik is an accessory vendor in Cogeo, selling chargers, earphones, and phone cases for more than a decade; she is one of the typical side street sellers most ignored. Born and raised in Marawi, Naima witnessed the harrowing siege that caused the death of a thousand Maranaos, and once the chance to flee presented itself, she took her family out of the battlefield into another one.

“Wala akong alam eh. Magtinda lang talaga. Kahit sa Marawi nagtitinda ako, sari sari store. Tapos ngayon, dito accessories,”

Knowing the di�cult challenges life prepared for her, instead of letting bullets hit her, she braced herself for itshe braced herself from the bullets passing her—biting it right on time, saving her loved ones and building a bright future for them. One brighter than what she had, aiming for her children to gleam under the light through charging them towards success with her charger, earphones, and phone accessories.

“Pangarap ko ay makapag-sarili ng tindahan na hindi vendor. Gusto kong makapagtapos ang mga anak ko.” Naima stated.

No man is an island, and no man can live without their phone accessories; –especially, if a family hangs onto it. Making the charger

Captured by HANNAH ZOEY A. NARCA

Banchetto de Cogeo | Local food cart vendors find success

Fool’s Gold

How the shift in Naeumi Gonzales’ writing paved her way to the NSPC

by KARYL ALEXANDRA C. IPAC

Beneath the ink stains of pens that bled for the sake of a gold that gains temporary applause and praises, lies the only true mark that pierced words into the hearts of the fiery and brave. An ink, that even with the absence of an audience, unfolds stories worth telling and speaks volume for the unheard cries of the masses.

It was not long ago when Naeumi Gonzales, a student of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS), championed her way to National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) delegate for Column Writing- Secondary English and became the school’s very first NSPC delegate.

for the same category in the national level, but also embraced a new perspective about writing.

"I thought it was all about recognition. To be one of the great, or even the good. To be the most awaited. To sign books you have written and to see how many lives you've impacted," Naeumi stated in an interview.

"I thought that writing is worthwhile when you know that someone is reading it.

However, it was as if all the odds were in her favor when she was introduced by her friend, Sui, to campus journalism—a field she was particularly foreign to. Little did she know, that she will soon embrace herself with a new view in writing: that now, for her, writing is not only for the masses, but it is being one with the masses and an ink that sparks the desire for a

“Now, writing for me is to be one with the masses and to anchor the truth in every paper I choose to bleed upon.” She shared. Along the way, Naeumi battled the whispers of her own doubts, whether she deserved to represent her school in the NSPC or not. But even with those nightmares, she reminded herself of the support, people had given her—as well as the true purpose of her action.

“It

doesn't matter anymore if you reach the summit; what matters now is who I am beneath the permanence

of the ink.”

CUSTODIANS OF CARE

by JOHN ASHLEY S. MAGDALENO

A school is considered as a student’s second home. This is the place where knowledge flourishes and a person is nurtured into becoming a quality human being. However, this is also a place where everyone works like a busy bee, from teachers to students, checking grades and doing their homework in school. With almost everyone in school being occupied you would think that its state would be in crumbles right now, but because of these warriors wielding a walis tingting like a sword, they save our school from looking like an aftermath of a disaster.

Ever since Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) was built in the grounds of Brgy. San Jose, alongside the teachers and the first batches of students, Ate Lorna and Ate Lani, the groundskeepers of the school, have been with the institution for almost a decade now. They are the reason why the school looks spotless and why the animals of ACNSTHS are in their best health, and for people in the school.

“Having their presence, especially Ate Lorna, helped me to cope up when the days were somehow unbearable.” Andrew Dumangas, a class of 2023 graduate, stated. They have resided with the school for as long as some of the master teachers, so it is not surprising that they know and see the problems that many students have to face on a daily basis. However, instead of turning the students out, they have provided comfort and became companions to many when hard times start to hit. The safe spaces they had created have accompanied students, from alumnis to the recent students of ACNSTHS.

“Their care for students was really shown during my stay.” The alumnus also added.

A clean environment helps the mind to properly function, and for a school filled with brainiacs and hard workers, students and teachers alike, these conditions are vital for everyone's performance. Ate Lorna and Ate Lani work non-stop to maintain cleanliness of the school. From inside the buildings to the field filled with mango leaves that fell, trying to tidy up every mess that is visible to the eyes.

The school has always been a haven for greenery with little to no trash ever seen on the winding paths of the school. Ate Lorna and Ate Lani have always kept up with their schedule.

“Their e�orts in maintaining a well-kept school create a more conducive learning environment for the students.” Mrs. Joan Yaguel-Busa, a senior high school teacher stated. For how long they have been doing this job, it would come as a surprise that they haven’t stopped serving this school and for their needs. With new students coming every year, they are open with their arms to the new changes of the school.

Ate Lorna and Ate Lanie have not only helped us in keeping our environment clean, but they have also provided us comfort and advice that will forever hold dear in our hearts for as long as we can. And finally, they continue to fight o� pollution in our environment for the safety of all in the school.

And because of that, we would like to thank you both for providing us a home filled with care and love that you have given to us for the past decade.

From Dreams to Reality

Sweat travels in the crevices where tears stream as the blood owed in calloused hands seep into the weave of the fabric they adorn—bringing smiles into existence as their very flame lies on the brink of fading. Their everyday life relies on the number of simpers they earn, each garnering them emotional and monetary rewards following a strenuous day of work. What color manifests in the future of those who brighten smiles in others' visage?

Mascots work day and night in Antipolo, they often wander the Cathedral in the middle of crowds in hopes of gathering tips to take home after the job.

For the mascots, Jasmin Nuñez and Mark Jazen Tarin, being in this line of work is fun but di�cult, especially since they have to work after school.

“I just want to explore. Gusto kong mag-laboy laboy.” Mark Jazen shared.

He can cook and clean—ever since, home economics and everything related to it is the bane of Mark’s existence. He studies hospitality and plans to take a job around the things he likes. In spite of such desires, he lacks the finances to cook his dreams into existence, leading him in the mascot industry where he can get to bring home the bacon.

“Masaya naman kasi nakikita mo yung smile ng mga bata pag lumalapit sayo. Pag lumalapit sila tapos naka-hug, ang saya.” He explains.

Perhaps back then, writing was all about medals. But with the cries, forced silence, su�erings, and bloodshed, her heart was set ablaze driving her to use her pen in unfolding the truth. She overflowed with love for the Filipinos that proves her worthy of the title, ‘journalist’. A writer that does her job not for the medal, but for impacting the lives of Filipinos that is worthier than the luxury of a fool’s gold.

hthings ate aboutAnSci

by HANNAH ZOEY A. NARCA

Underneath the sweltering sun, the heat beneath the costume consumes Mark. Even so, he doesn’t seem to mind the warmth he receives from children who embrace the costume of their favorite character. In fact, it’s one of the drives that keeps him going.

Moving from Manila to Antipolo, day by day, he bears his dreams of stepping foot in a cruise ship to work. Living for his family, his love, and himself, to sustain his education and lead him towards the life he wants. Getting outside the costume, and inside the ship, just as Mark planned.

mother after school, so they could both work near the Antipolo Shrine. Donning Valak, being the adorable stature inside the terrifying facade, Jasmin dresses up as these characters and sets her box for tips while her mother sells flowers beside her. Indeed, being employed should not be a part of a child’s activity. But with poverty, Jasmin and her mother are put in a situation where they have.

“Tuloy tuloy kami, kasi di lang naman to yung raket namin.” Jasmin’s mother said. A free spirit, one that yearns to wander and play in the streets with friends, this must be the life of a child. However, Jasmin’s situation is out of the ordinary as she goes straight to her

Smiling as she paints smiles on the faces of others, her nature never falters though smothered by the costume of the characters she portrays. Jasmin remains playful and keeps on playing while working—a liberty provided under the eyes of her mother and by her age. She is granted happiness in bringing joy to others, a way to find glee in her situation.

“Gusto ko maging pulis. Para manghuli ng magnanakaw.” Jasmin reveals.

This is what dreams are made of.

Aspirations of the youth, especially those who go through the same experiences as Mark and Jasmin, who use their time to earn money for supporting their education and lessening the burden of their impoverished families. A noble yet unjust path they must take in life.

A beaming future gleams for them three, for their e�orts are not without reward and regard. The work they had put into their life will bear fruits and they too, shall shine as brightly as the smiles they put in the faces of people from Antipolo to Manila, and in the near future—everywhere.

list 1 2 3 4 5 7 6 8 9 10

by JULIAN CEDRICK D. RESTAURO

Treat life as if it was a movie, they say. However, the same can’t be said for a life inside the halls of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (AnSci). As an AnScian for over six years, I’ve not only seen the campus’ wonders but also its horrors which I tend to dislike—some of which belonged in a special list of mine. A listing including the ten things that I hate about AnSci.

I hate that AnSci’s so far away. A quiet place from the noisy city.

I hate that it has no gate. It lets my friends to sneak in late.

I hate our neighboring schools. I get to meet wonderful people every day.

I hate AnSci’s muddy grounds. The splatter of the Earth reminds me of the days I spent running in the fields.

I hate the mango trees. I can see the the branches and the fruits grew with me.

I hate the buildings’ dusty halls. It glimmers like glitter when under the sun.

I hate the loud campus pets. They provide me too much comfort during tough times.

I hate AnSci’s sound system. It reminds me of our slow mornings waiting for the day to start.

I hate the school work and hell weeks. It allows me to become a smarter and free-thinking individual.

Above all, the one thing I hate about AnSci the most is that I don’t hate it, not even a little bit, not even at all.

Columnist, Naeumi Gonzales defies the odd to secure 5th at the national level in journalism,

Captured by JAMES S. LETOLIO JR.

Photo from AnSci Faculty

Drenched Skies

by JOHN MARC A. GULANGAYAN

As the skies darkened over Antipolo City, residents braced themselves for a storm they believed their high, mountainous city could withstand. But soon, a deluge of rain blurred the line between sky and land, bringing unprecedented floods that left the 'City in the Sky' submerged.

That is how Antipolo City (known as "The City in the Sky") experienced an unthinkable event. The nickname of the city has been tainted after an unforgiving event took place in the city on September 2-6. Typhoon Enteng (Tropical Cyclone) dumped a month's worth of rain on Rizal, triggering massive landslides and overfilling areas that do not often experience floods, such as Antipolo and nearby areas, Jalajala and Teresa.

ROOTS OF DISASTER

On September 6, two days after Typhoon Enteng left the Philippine Area of Responsibility, Antipolo City Mayor Jun Ynares stated that the local government "remains blind" on the main cause of flooding in Rizal Province.

Ynares said that several factors may have caused flooding and landslides in Rizal. "The root remains is clear po ng reason; di pa namin alam which contributes the most," he added. According to the DENR, Ynares also stated that mining is not the reason for flooding.

However, Environmental Undersecretary Carlos Primo David said otherwise at the press briefing on September 5 as the quarry site has been there for the last 20 to 30 years, which covers around 350 hectares of the 69,800-hectare Marikina River Basin.

Furthermore, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. conducted an aerial inspection of flood-hit areas in Antipolo and Marikina City on September 4. He said overpopulation, blocked drainage systems, garbage problems and deforestation triggered the massive floods and landslides in many areas in Luzon.

DIRECT HIT!

After Tropical Storm Enteng made landfall on September 2, there are at least 13 recorded cases of people who died in the Philippines due to the typhoon as some residents of Antipolo didn't expect that much impact of the typhoon as the city is in higher ground of Rizal.

Sofia Talagon, an AnSci student and resident of Antipolo, emphasized "This is the first time na a�ected ‘yung family namin ng typhoon – kasi no one expected na magiging ganun ‘yung result ng bagyo sa Antipolo, knowing na nasa higher ground tayo ng Rizal.”

On the other hand, Sir Cresencio Awa, AnSci Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Club Adviser, opposed that, “In terms of damage - hindi siya (Typhoon Enteng) nakaapekto. Hindi rin ito

nakaapekto sa school natin in terms of classes.” Solution for the Nation

Rizal Governor Nina Ynares said that there have been e�orts from the provincial government to encourage tree planting for the past 20 years. "We encourage tree planting and recycling, hoping that this would contribute to lessening our flood problems," she added.

On the other hand, Environmental Undersecretary Primo David stated that a concrete and attainable solution must be the reforestation of 26,100 hectares of Marikina Watershed that is now under the various LGUs in the National Capital Region (NCR).

Also, the national government is preparing for the construction of three dams in the upper portion of the Upper Wawa Dam in Rodriguez, Rizal to compensate and mitigate future floodings in the province of Rizal.

LESSONS FOR THE FUTURE

The recent floods have left an indelible mark on Antipolo City, a place once seen as shielded from such disasters. These events have revealed both the immense power of nature and the pressing consequences of neglecting the environment. The scars of the calamity now serve as a wake-up call, urging the city to rethink its approach on climaterelated challenges.

Recovery is not just about rebuilding roads and homes but also empowering a mindset of resilience and adaptability. The community must embrace environmental care and disaster preparedness toward securing its future.

Change will require unity—residents, local leaders, and environmental experts must hand in hand to create lasting solutions. As Antipolo rises from the loss, it carries forward hard-earned lessons and a renewed determination to build a city that stands stronger and more prepared for the challenges ahead.

This unfortunate event must serve as a firm statement and lesson of conviction. It is much more terrifying when we face hardships due to the consequences of our actions, but the light will shine upon after the hardship. In Antipolo City, where the floodwaters may have receded, but scars remain, it is worth reminding residents that even places once considered invulnerable are now at nature’s mercy.

“As the city rebuilds, it must grapple with a new reality – one that demands resilience and change.”

Red Light, Green Light!

by MARLEEX R.

Red Light, Green Light! Don't look back, because Player AnSci has made it to the top 20 of the 8th iMake.Wemake competition.

Players Princess Erica Decena, Prince Skylee Mannag, Joseph Johanne Syjuco, and team leader Paolo Miguel Cabugoy from Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (AnSci) have advanced to the Citadines Bay Manila Hotel for the highly anticipated Arduino bootcamp. With nothing but determination and a single box in hand, the team faced the project pitching challenge head-on with one clear objective: to win.

Their research entitled “SPEC3RA: Development of a Portable RGB-Arduino Sensing Device for the Detection of Pb2+, Hg2+, and Cd2+ in soil” is an innovative lab-on-a-box prototype that integrates Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and biosensing technology to detect three hazardous heavy metals—lead(Pb), mercury(Hg) and cadmium(Cd)—present in soil samples. This bright solution is designed to reduce both costs and labor by utilizing carbon quantum dots (CQDs) as a fluorescent probe. These CQDs are then analyzed by a TCS34725 RGB detection sensor, which emits red light, green light, and blue light to identify which heavy metal is present in

the sample.

As the screening process commenced, the team’s were mixed of fear and apprehension. With limited time, they worried about whether the project would make it on time, whether the prototype would perform as intended, and whether they would be able to secure the necessary funding. When asked about the challenges they faced, their

unanimous response pointed to financial costs. “Personally, I fear the money that we have to spend for this. I think around 35,000 yung aabutin sa study na ‘to” Skylee added. However, the group remained optimistic, hoping they

could find a sponsor before their testing phase.

Despite the challenges, the group had their share of memorable experiences and insights to take home. They valued the time spent, and learned more about the field of technology, and as Joseph phrased the experience,

“Extravaganza”. Dr. Jayeel S. Cornelio, director of DOST-Science Education Institute left a quote that struck the heart of many researchers, including Erica and Paolo: "Innovate not for the sake of innovation, but for the sake of the nation”.

In Paolo’s words: “It emphasizes the idea of creating purpose-driven innovations to contribute to society’s greater good rather than pursuing it for personal gain,” highlighting the real foundation of every research study—to serve the community.

Much like the suspense-filled Red Light, Green Light game from Squid Game, the team’s journey was one of tense anticipation, where every step forward was a calculated risk. As they navigated the obstacles of time, resources, and uncertainty, the parallel with the sensor technology in their project became apparent.

Just like the Red Light, Green Light game required focus and strength, the team had to act quickly, adjust to new challenges, and make decisions that could change the course of their project. In the end, together with their research adviser, Mrs. Corazon Adrales-Calderon, success would depend not just on the technology they developed, but on their perseverance, teamwork, and ability to seize opportunities when the light turned green.

REYES

Photo from DOST-SEI

Illustrated by ERVYN RYLE G. MEDIANO

Photo from DOST-SEI

TECH AGAINST THE TIDES: A Storm of Technical Innovation

by JOHN MARC A. GULANGAYAN

AnSci young scientists bag double gold awards in RSTF '24

by PAOLO MIGUEL M. CABUGOY

The School Division O�ce (SDO) Antipolo City delegates were hailed champions in the 2024 Regional Science and Technology Fair (RSTF) on November 13 to 14, 2024 at Lucena City, Quezon Province, claiming Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School’s (ACNSTHS) first-ever national entries. Marleex Reyes bagged the best research paper in the Life Science Individual Category, followed by Rajah Nouvelle Luzon and Aliyah Erik Paa that also triumph in the Life Science Group Category, making them the first-delegates of AnSci to receive the award.

PINK GOLDEN TRIUMPH

ACNSTHS Grade 11 student Marleex Reyes’ winning study entitled “Extraction of Golden Apple Snail (Pomacea canaliculata) Eggs as A Source of Dye for Cotton and Silk Fabrics” was recognized as the Best Research Paper for the Life Science - Individual Category in the said competition. With the idea of upcycling useless resources into something useful, Reyes utilized Golden Apple Snail (GAS) eggs, a known pest, as a source of bio-pigment for fabrics.

Meanwhile, on May 28, Reyes presented their study in the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI), under their Joint Research Undertaking (JRU) program.

“Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how problematic Golden Apple Snails are for farmers, especially in my province, which is why I aimed to reduce their spread; I then researched what they contain and discovered that they have a pigment that can be used for fabrics,” Reyes added.

SYMPHONIC SPROUT TANDEM

Moreover, ACNSTHS Grade 11 students Rajah Nouvelle Luzon and Aliyah Erik Paa placed 1st in the Life Science - Team Category with their winning research entitled “The E�ect of Classical Music on Physicochemical Parameters of Red Onion (Allium cepa).”

Unlike any other study, Luzon and Paa turned their random idea as music enjoyers to creating purpose-driven research in addressing the persistence of onion shortage in the country.

“We wanted to explore something unique and creative, and since I personally enjoy

Antipolo City, long known as the "City in the Sky," was unprepared for the chaos brought by Typhoon Enteng way back September 2024. The deluging rains flooded the mountainous city, leaving homes, schools, and livelihoods in disarray.

Amid the aftermath, a beacon of hope emerged from the Antipolo

City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) as a group of student researchers created the "Development of School-Based Arduino Uno Flood Alarm with SMS Capability System", utilizing di�erent parts of the Arduino Uno sensor to provide an innovative solution to the events of future typhoons.

MICROCONTROLLER: THE BRAIN OF THE OPERATION

The Arduino Uno microcontroller serves as the system's brain, accurately processing data from sensors and executing programmed instructions. Just like the microcontroller, behind the successful project is a group of researchers from Grade 12-Euler. Gezel Gonato, the research leader, together with her team—Arjane Batan, Julia Dacer, Erica Decena, Hannah Narca, and Julliana Imperial—sharing their creative minds to bring the concept to life.

Not only that, “We asked for Sir Dorosan's guidance in building the Arduino-based prototype since he's knowledgeable in that field,” the researchers stated as they were mentored by Sir Louis Angelo

Dorosan, Senior High General Physics Teacher in ACNSTHS.

SENSOR MODULE: IMPARTING WHAT WAS LONGED FOR

On the other hand, according to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Antipolo and Marikina lack a flood monitoring system as well as overlooking the blocked drainage system, leaving the residents vulnerable to sudden disasters. The researchers took this unfortunate event as an opportunity to innovate something that will help the community. Similar to the sensor, being the heart of the system that monitors rising floodwaters and activates alerts when critical thresholds are reached.

“That event inspires us to create a flood alarm system to provide early emergency warnings ensuring safety and preparedness for students, sta�, and the community," Julliana Imperial added in the interview.

SMS WARNING: ‘SENDING MESSAGE FOR SIGNALING’ WARNINGS

While Arduino sensors are already widely used to detect flash

music, the thought of how it might a�ect plant growth intrigued us; there was a shortage of onions at the time, which ultimately inspired us to pursue this study,” Paa explained.

BREAKING BARRIERS

Despite setbacks from financial constraints, laboratory testing, packed schedules, and contest jitters, standing on the regional stage has been a great milestone for these grade 11 researchers as they set history on being the

first Anscians to reach the contest’s national level.

“We're very thankful to have gotten this far; besides, we were already satisfied with just reaching the regionals—so what happened was an unexpected surprise,” Luzon expressed.

floods, what makes their research prototype special is its special feature—the SMS communication module. The inclusion of an SMS communication module elevates the flood alarm system’s utility. This feature allows the system to send real-time notifications to designated recipients, such as school o�cials and local authorities, during emergencies.

"Considering the damages in schools without warning, we can mitigate the risk by having early warning systems to alert the community and local governments," the researchers emphasized. The module ensures swift decision-making for evacuations and safety measures, bridging the gap between detection and action. This Arduino flood alarm system is more than just a clever piece of technology. Awarded the "Best Research Award" at the Inquiries, Investigation, and Immersion (III) Research Defense, this project highlights the incredible potential of young people to drive real change. As the team continues to improve their prototype for wider use, their work can inspire communities to embrace innovation and prepare for a safer, more resilient future.

by JOHN MARC A. GULANGAYAN

The Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (AnSci) continues to make waves in science and technology related competitions, recently securing victories at the Division Science and Technology Fair (DSTF). Despite facing limitations in resources, the AnSci students excel in competitions, showcasing the students’ resilience and dedication.

This isn’t the first AnSci students have succeeded in competitions despite the challenges posed by limited laboratory accommodations. Teachers and coaches have consistently stepped up, dedicating time and e�ort to mentor young talents in their research projects to compensate for the lack of adequate laboratory equipment.

The Antipolo delegates continue to work hard for their cliniquing as CALABARZON’s national entries, aiming to secure a spot in the national fair.

RESEARCH CONTENDED

by JOHN ASHLEY S. MAGDALENO

SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS

As we age and progress, we attain more and more knowledge by just living. However, even then, there is so little that we know about our world alone. But despite that, there are a plentiful amount of dedicated people in the field who, just like the others, want to find the truth and secrets of our planet. This may include scholars and professionals, even young and aspiring researchers like Ishiah— who even though is still quite young, wants to make a di�erence.

After much deliberation, it was decided that Ishiah Soriano, the winner of the Physical Science Category during their school’s Science and Technology Fair alongside his partner Gabriel Marcus Agustin, would compete in the upcoming Division Science and Technology Fair (DSTF) in the individual category. With their winning study, “E�ectiveness of Chipboard Sheets made from Waste Banana Fibers (Musa acuminata) Compared to Industrial Chipboard Sheets,” he had to compete with the best of the best from di�erent schools. However it begs the question, what makes his study worthwhile?

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

“We do research not only for the grades but

rather it is for finding solutions to the problems that we face,” the president Paolo Miguel Cabugoy stated. Research is an integral pillar in our community with its purpose is to improve our everyday lives. The product itself, for how tiny it is, makes a huge impact towards some of the biggest issues we face today.

“Maybe 5,000 (Pesos). Yes. Actually, it was very small po compared to other groups, other studies.” was the answer of the researcher when they were asked about how much money was spent for their research. Sadly, money doesn’t just grow on trees, if it were, many students would be able to fund their research to finally unravel the hidden potential deep inside their studies. With every failed try, a bit of their money starts going down the drain. Still, even with these limits of not having enough money and equipment, the researchers persevered until they eventually were victorious.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Even after a long and suspenseful amount of time has passed, he was just short of reaching the top and he unfortunately placed second, making him just out of contention to compete in the Regional Science and Technology Fair. Yet, on the brighter side, his study was recognized by one of the panelists who was a part of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and they o�ered to give some sponsorship for his research. Without research, we would know nothing about everything around us. It has and will continue to be a bridge towards understanding and to learn about true knowledge. Even though he wasn’t successful in bringing home the gold, he has already proven that his research is much more valuable than gold, it is priceless.

According to Baldwin Badillo Batac, the Former Laboratory Custodian, “Teachers help the students get the travel permit for them to go out". The students are required to seek laboratory results from Institutes like the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) since the school laboratory cannot cater the experiments.

The lack of funding has undoubtedly impacted the school’s capacity for research and innovation.

Without proper equipment, students are often limited in the types of experiments they can conduct, sometimes being forced to change studies.

Lalaine Rarick, the new Laboratory Custodian added, “I think there has been a significant lack of equipment, which prevented us from conducting actual experiments, but now this issue is gradually being resolved”.

On the other hand, AnSci recently received additional laboratory equipment this October. Although these equipment may not be enough to accommodate all of the experimentation of the students, it is still a significant step for teachers and students to conduct more activities and experiments within the school, minimizing the cost.

According to Rarick, there is still a lot of equipment needed for future activities and the Science Department will further discuss a request in the future. However, she added that the AnSci is indeed fortunate after receiving additional lab equipment which will hopefully be utilized to enhance laboratory skills and deepen understanding across various fields of Science.

Captured by JAMI SHILOH G. CASAUAY

Wave Watch | Grade 12 - Euler researchers, from Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School, developed an Arduino Uno-based Flood Alarm System with SMS capability, designed to provide accurate, real-time warnings to mitigate the impacts of heavy rainfall and flooding.

Captured by RYAN S. CABILLEDA

Captured by CHARILENE Q. UGALI

BATTLE FOR BALANC

by MARIANNE N. MAGANA

The implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum in Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) has introduced a unique schedule: students now enjoy three breaks - morning, lunch, and afternoon. This change, although beneficial for students' well-being, has increased the demand for canteen services. However, alongside the growing demand, it has been concerning that the canteen was reportedly selling food items that does not meet the requirements provisioned in the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Order No. 13, S. 2017, also known as the "Policy and Guidelines on Healthy Food and Beverage Choices in Schools and DepEd O�ces." This violation is alarming as it compromises students’ health - the canteen’s utmost priority, and also poses a battle for balance between profit and public health.

D.O. No. 13 was established to ensure that health is prioritized in public school institutions. Ultimately, the policy addresses malnutrition that remains to be a significant global and local health issue. With that being said, there is no doubt that its governing framework for canteens should not be overlooked as it forsakes health among students.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as of 2024, 25% of Filipino children under the age of five su�er from stunting due to malnutrition, while 7% are wasted. By implementing the aforementioned order, DepEd aims to combat these statistics and safeguard students' well-being through proper food regulation. By categorizing foods into green, yellow, and red categories, since a hefty seven years ago, the policy has put an end to the crisis that threatens to challenge students from absorbing the ultimate potential of development.

In relation, the green, yellow, and red categories are the ardent focus of this policy. Green represents food items that meet the highest health standards, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and water. While Yellow includes moderately healthy options that should be consumed in controlled portions, like low-sugar snacks and baked goods. Red, however, consists of food items high in sugar, fat, and salt - such as fries, sugary drinks, and processed foods which should be avoided, or worse should not be sold in

school grounds. For such categories to be considered in selling foods, it is an undeniable challenge for the management to maintain composure on strictly following the order as the students definitely crave what's forbidden.

In a country where diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are on the rise, strict adherence to this system is crucial. A 2023 Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) report highlights that 18.3% of Filipinos are obese, and heart disease and diabetes are among the leading causes of death which are often linked to unhealthy diets. These alarming figures emphasize the need for schools to uphold the guidelines, especially in an academic driven environment where students tend to overlook what they eat and neglect health in search of success.

Moreover, another basic framework that reflects the order is Pinggang Pinoy, a food plate guide developed by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) to promote balanced meals. It recommends a plate comprising 50% fruits and vegetables, 25% grains, and 25% protein sources. For students of ACNSTHS, who are often preoccupied with the demanding academic nature of a science high school, it should be a priority, too, to maintain a balanced diet to sustain their physical and cognitive health.

However, the canteen faces a significant challenge. According to one of the sta� members, Kimberly Shane Balaoro, the school’s operational funds largely depend on canteen sales. To meet students' preferences and maintain profitability, the canteen often caters to their cravings -

unfortunately, these tend to fall under the red category. Interviews with students reveal that flavorful and indulgent food items, such as fried chicken, fries, and sugary drinks, are their top choices. While these options satisfy students' cravings, they clash with the intent of DepEd Order No. 13 which jeopardizes both the health of students and the institution’s compliance with regulations. Furthermore, statistics reinforce this dilemma as research from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in 2023 indicates that processed and high-fat foods are the most consumed items among Filipino youth, contributing to increasing rates of obesity and related diseases. Despite this awareness, many students and canteen operators continue to prioritize immediate satisfaction and

“In the end, the battle for balance is not a choice between health and profitability - it is a call to integrate both. By prioritizing innovation and strategic thinking, ACNSTHS can uphold health standards while maintaining financial stability. In doing so, the school can resolve this tug-of-war, proving that good health and good business does not have to be a losing war for either the school or the students' health.”

sales over long-term health. Hence, the result is a tug-of-war between adhering to health standards and meeting the demands of profitability.

But still, school canteens, however, are not merely profit-driven entities - they are auxiliary pillars for promoting food health inside schools. Their primary role is to provide students with safe, healthy, and nutritious meals that support their development and not to cater cravings, which are often unhealthy. In the case of ACNSTHS, continuing to sell red-category foods risks endangering the institution’s mission to foster health amongst students. Yet, completely removing these items poses a financial risk to the canteen’s operations, which support other school functions.

To resolve this conflict, the ACNSTHS administration must take this chance to innovate. By reimagining green-category foods to suit students' palates, the canteen can strike a balance between health and sales.

Most importantly, DepEd and local education authorities must continue to strictly monitor and enforce compliance with the guidelines. Regular inspection, nutrition seminars, and partnerships with health organizations can help schools remain aligned with the policy. Whereas, educating students about the long-term benefits of a balanced diet can also foster healthier eating habits and reduce the demand for unhealthy foods.

DON’T BREATHE.

In just a mistake as little as a sigh, a silent epidemic of consequence might emerge. In the high, frigid hills of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS), a sudden surge of sickness has taken over the campus, leaving the students with no choice but to battle its adverse e�ects. For the last few months, the northeast air has sent ACNSTHS in a trance after it brought a seasonal outbreak of respiratory illnesses around. The odds of the students contracting the disease have heightened than ever considering the campus being located in a mountainous area. The respiratory illnesses spread through ACNSTHS at a hasty speed. According to Dalmacito Cordero of Sage

by CHRYSTELLE JUNE P. SARABIA

Journals,close proximity in and shared spaces most likely contributed to the rapid transmission of the viruses in classrooms. These illnesses just add fuel to the fire. Not only do these a�ect the students’ health, but they also a�ect their school life. These alter their prioritization of their academic performance, shifting their attention to their physical condition.

Azel Barbosa, a Senior High School student in campus, battled with the conflict between paying more care for her grades versus her health. “It's really a big hindrance to my studies, kasi almost every school day talaga ako may sakit non and instead of focusing sa discussion ay mapupunta yung attention ko sa sarili ko,” she stated. Aside from flus and common colds,

dengue is also in season with a cold climate. Chian Racelis, a Grade 12 student, expressed her experience with having dengue amidst the sudden shift of cold winds, inviting infectious mosquitoes over. “Naging factor talaga yung changes sa climate since evident ang paglabas ng mga lamok during this season. During my stay sa hospital, my doctor said na marami akong kasabay na patients with dengue cases so hindi na rin ako magtataka kung bakit,” she stated.

Moreover, with the small capacity of the campus clinic, some students who go to the place in order to be assisted medically aren’t accommodated sometimes. This results in those students having no choice but to endure the pain while in class.

The ACNSTHS Cross Youth Club,

being one of the facilitators of the clinic revealed that the issue lies within the lack of funds to equip medicines and things needed to aid the students who require medical assistance. “One problem about our clinic is funds. Our clinic needs funds for medicines, napkins, and other health needs of students,” Azel Barbosa, the SHS Public Information O�cer explained. Vjames Guanlao, the ACNSTHS RCY Club President, insisted that students must focus more on protecting themselves amidst flu season, as it is much better to avoid being infected.“Prevention is better than cure. Protect yourself via handwashing, facemask, vitamins and supplements, and iwasan ang mga dirty environments.” Prioritizing health and well-being is essential for students to navigate with their school lives normally without their condition getting in the way. With this, the fear of the probable infectious disaster will let go of the mind. Just one more step and it would finally be safe to take a break, and breathe freely.

Illustrated by JUAN MIGUEL C. JAMINAL

Illustrated by ALANNAH LUZAYNE E. ORDOÑA

AnSci faces robotics-inclined researches gaps despite STEM-focused curriculum

by KARYL ALEXANDRA C. IPAC

Despite having a robust Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)- based curriculum, it is a surprising twist that Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) faces a shortage in the number of conducted robotics-inclined research.

According to ACNSTHS Science Coordinator, Leah B. Juntado, only a range of 10 to 15 robotics-related research were conducted starting from the pioneer batch before pandemic, while Senior high school department teacher Louis Angelo Dorosan stated that the number of researches related to robotics in Senior High School can “only be counted by fingers”.

“Bilang lang sa daliri. Tapos ‘yong mga students pa na nag-coconduct noon, ay nag-aaral pa ng robotics from scratch,” Dorosan stated. Moreover, in comparison to other fields, AnSci researchers mostly conduct their studies inclined on environmental and life sciences.

INSUFFICIENT FUNDING, EXPOSURE

Meanwhile, the pandemic, funding, and lack of exposure have directly a�ected the students’ interest to conduct the robotics-inclined research.“Yes, maybe napapanood online— sa social media, but the exposure [sa] gagawin nila

Library of the Stars: DOST Starbooks and its impact on ACNSTHS

by JOHN ASHLEY S. MAGDALENO

On June 24, 2011, the Science and Technology Information Institute (STII), an organization under the Department of Science and Technology o�cially launched the DOST Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated KioskS (STARBOOKS). Back then it was the first ever Philippine Digital Library available. Its creation was in order for more people to be interested in the Science and Technology strand fand for it to be used as a tool in researching, teaching, and in studying.

Over time, it has been a safe haven for many students as it has been a strong basis for lessons that can be quite extensive, and this goes the same for the learners inside Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) as it has been used for studying the vigorous subjects that has been accustomed within Science High Schools.

“Since it provides me with presentations that I can use as a reference since there are no modules in some subjects, I use this instead. I use this to review and make reviewers as well,” a student stated.

With the creation of modules being lessened due to how it can a�ect pollution and deforestation being needed for them to be created and with the continuous development of technology being used in learning, this online library serves as the new books of knowledge for students and teachers to use.

Another student said that, “Before knowing DOST Starbooks, kinailangan ko pang hanapin online yung mga modules sa Scribd o sa CourseHero para lang makapag-review para sa mga summatives, pero noong nalaman ko yung Starbooks, biglang mas napadali dahil sama-sama na yung mga lessons.”

Starbooks has made several students feel at ease because of how accessible they are to the masses, and it gives them a soft landing to fall to when they are in need to learn the lessons they have di�culty in.

The implementation of the DOST Starbooks, it has given a new of path of learning for these students who may need aid within their studies, and it is extremely important nowadays especially because last year our country reached almost rock bottom within the proficiency of di�erent educational sectors, and this library may be the way to finally reach the stars.

or yung chance na gagawin nila, hindi naging inclined ang students natin. Well, mas nag-incline sila sa conventional research compared sa robotics,” Dorosan noted.

Jhon Lloyd Catudio, a grade 12 student of ACNSTHS also highlighted that educators with prior knowledge on robotics are not enough to cater the students’ queries about the mentioned research field.

“Another factor din na surely nakaaapekto sa kakaunting number ng students na nagko-conduct ng robotics ay 'yung lack of support from the administration, lalong-lalo na kapag sa gastusin ng mga parts and mechanics,” he added.

In a separate statement, Juntado stated that the pandemic’s occurrence has limited the feasibility for students to conduct this type of research. "Mas mahal [din], kagaya ng first, yung study nila Endiraj [Tapales], yung sa drone. Kumbaga ilang members ‘yon para mabuo ‘yong study na ‘yon”.

TIME GAPS

Furthermore, students who wish to do research involving robotics face problems in time as they do not have enough time to conduct the research inside and outside the campus.

“Minsan kulang sa time din dahil siyempre hindi naman one time big time yung pag-create ng ganong prototype. May possibilities of course na mag error and so on e kaso di na aabutin ng time kung ganon,” Norainne Dela Paz, a grade 12 student said.

Scientific researches in ACNSTHS for junior high school were often conducted from first to fourth year to complete the paper, whereas the senior high school were only given a semester.

WAYS FORWARD

To foster the school’s support and exposure to robotics research, Dorosan encourages the school to have a program that teaches electronics and robotics among students.

“Kung magpapatuloy ang electronics robotics program, mas dadami. Mas ma-eexpose ang bata, at dadami ang idea na mag-cacapitalize ng power of electronics for their research,” Dorosan said.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Juntado calls for an increase in funds as a means of support to the inclination of researchers on robotics. Concurrently, she also mentioned that science and research teacher Maria Leoneth Ileto now focuses on integrating robotics in the research proposals of junior high school.

LEADing tumblers: Hydration with bits of Lead?

by MARLEEX R. REYES

by ALPHA ALTHEA J. BRIONES

A high amount of toxic lead-containing paints detected in reusable water bottles purchased from several retail stores in Metro Manila, including Antipolo City, between July and October 2024, was reported by Ecowaste Coalition.

Marketed to children, water bottles decorated with cartoon characters are being sold in Antipolo City, Caloocan City, Quezon City, City of Manila, and Teresa in Rizal, the organization reminded that the paint pieces could be chipped upon repeated use and could be swallowed by children.

"Lead a�ects a child's developing brain, causing decreased intelligence, behavioral disorders, and learning problems which can reduce potential earnings in adulthood. It also a�ects almost every organ in a child’s body, including the heart, lungs and kidneys," UNICEF stated.

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), explained how lead consumption causes problems in behavior, health, and also a�ects a child's standing in an educational environment through reduced intelligence.

Ecowaste recorded that 15 of the reusable steel water bottles had lead levels exceeding the government’s standard of 90 parts per million (ppm) in their exterior coatings, while ten water bottles contained “dangerouslu high" levels of lead above 10,000 ppm, with one bottle showing over 100,000 ppm.

“Even low levels of lead in blood have been shown to a�ect learning, ability to pay attention, and academic achievement,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said.

There is no safe level of lead for children, as it can still a�ect their learning, moreover, lead accumulates in the body, signifying that persistent

exposure, even at extremely low levels, can become toxic.

A survey conducted at Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) revealed that 46.1% of students use a metal tumbler from the brand Aqua Flask, with unbranded bottles coming in second at 20.4%, Tyeso in third with 14.6%, Hydro Flask with 6.8%, and 12.1% using other brands.

More than half of the population uses insulated bottles that may contain lead, as the current industry standard for insulated water bottles is lead-based solder–the material used to seal the vacuum layer into the steel water bottles.

“I had heard the news but wasn’t aware that it referred to Aquaflask, so I felt a bit disappointed. Aside from investing in a water bottle for long-term use, I chose Aquaflask because I believed they used only high-quality materials to ensure the product’s safety” Charilene Ugali, an ACNSTHS student, expressed her disappointment. The Aquaflask trend began in 2022, inspired by America's use of Stanley, capitalizing on its unique design and wide range of colors. This trend influenced many students to join the bandwagon, unaware of the potential risks.

Normally, the sealing dot covers the lead solder; however, during the vacuumization phase–process of creating a vacuum within a sealed container–trace amounts of lead from the solder can end up on the surfaces of the reusable water bottles available in the market.

“Our manufacturing process currently employs the use of an industry standard pellet to seal the vacuum insulation at the base of our products; the sealing material includes some lead. Once sealed, this area is covered with a durable stainless steel layer, making it inaccessible to consumers.” a Stanley spokesperson cleared in an email.

Although some water bottle brands like Owala and Hydro Flask, are now switching from lead sealing to alternative sealing processes, other

Illustrated by KENNETH V. DEMONTEVERDE

Captured by JAMI SHILOH G. CASAUAY

Infographic

AnSci Aces piling up medals from Unit Meet: 4

Athletes up for City Meet

by MIGUEL B. ABIOG

pulling out of the play in se

another great second pla

“Since Novemb mas maraming time for t da kami sa mga makakala nabigla kami nitong Unit Burning Tracks

Charging out on Kilmer Ray Sernal swiftl against his valiant compet and Adrian Villorente. R

upon the heat of the mom

With the 4 num

move for ward to the City

second week of Novemb ment for AnSci athletics. Sa

Competitiveness, passion, and commitment are the key factors that enabled AnSci athletes to gather numerous victories that paved the way for opportunities.

Spor ts in general is a wager of skills and dedication, where vic tor y is often a testament to athletes’ extent to place cards

requires an applaudable foundation of unwavering suppor t, commitment, and dominable training to be able to surpass an opponent Athletes at Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (AC NSTHS) face their own share of challenges. A missing foundation for players with aspiring goals and a thirst for full house cards on hand that will shape them, a newly approved Projec t AC ES that will create a den of “Sharks” to devour their dreams— the master hand of gambles.

CARDS ON HARD

AnSci has

lie within

ays b

well-crafted title. From limited resources, a shor tage of spor ts

equipment, and a lack of training spaces that is solely for our players. But as years went by, the Athletes, also known as AnSci Aces showed their competence and skills, dominating multiple tournaments, and after back-to-back Regionals Association Athletics Meet heads, securing suppor t from Antipolo’s

Local Government Unit (LGU).

“It’ s not about having ever ything perfectly in place,” stated by the ACNSTHS spor ts head, Mr. Ariel

Zarate, “it’ s about making the best of With the resilience and evident determination, combined with talents shown by the athletes, coaches, and suppor t system, ACNSTHS managed

to get the Project Athletics Coaching and Education on Spor ts or “Project

Aces” approved, which aims to implement formal trainings and enough funding allocated on equipment and tournaments.

Project ACES is made to be a pathway to growth, designed to develop each athlete ’s full potential and instill a love for spor ts. When

Sir Zarate made this task, 2 types of athletes been competing for years and those who are is rooted in a vision that brings experienced athletes and rookies

3 FOR 3

Gigante bags 3 Gold Medals for third straight year in Ar tistic Gymnastics; books RA AM Ticket

by YANKEE C LAWIS

Angela Gigante established complete dominance in the rece

Gold me

represent Antipolo,

happened last November 14 in Antipolo City National

High School Covered court

Gigante tri

ibiting the gracious control and dexterity

with a ball, lastly she completed the sweep with another gold in the Individual All Around category This year, ang focus ko is achieving greater consistency

and showcasing more advanced skills in my routines.”

Gigante explained. “Last year was more about learning, but this year, I aim to take on more challenging elements and improve my artistry to stand out.” Gigante continued

With great awareness and reactions, Gigante breezed through her ball routine that oozed elegance and class, she displayed a performance that’s inspired from her personal

shinin

with her hands feet

her b ack showing

c

ativit y

My routine s often dr aw inspir ation from s torie s or emotions of p eople. Pero syempre hindi lang ako gumawa ng routine ko, I dev

Students were always encouraged to explore hobbies beyond academics resulting in varieties of extracurricular ac tivities. But despite the unwavering support for student-athletes of Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (AC NSTHS), cases where athletes are banned from attending training due to the academic baggage imposed by their teachers spike this tournament season. I, as a student-athlete, think that it is quite ironic and hypocritical how they love the golds and honor we bring home for our dearest school but despise the process of how to ac tually bag it According to the Spor ts head of ACNSTHS, Mr. Ariel

Zarate, this school year showed disseminating information with regards to memorandums for spor ts tournaments. However, some teachers do not even have an ounce of sympathy nor consideration

despite after them being handed a full signed papers indicating the and training-proper. As a matter of to get excused in lessons, there are

also cases where athletes are not allowed to be excused in class on

the day of competition.

FRESH BLOOD

KYLE CHRISTIAN N. QUIDILIG

Antipolo Shredders Left to Dr y

t on t he f r e sh w o o d of t he p a rk a s so on a s p o s s i ble Ho w e v er, w h at w a s d ay s , t hen b e c a me w e e k s , a nd t hen mont h s W it h no upd ate w h at s o e v er f r om t he g

Moreover, I think that some teachers who don’t give a dime about spor ts or those who s plainly not spor ts inclined type of people are more likely to be a terror in this cases as they meticulously make ever ything harder with their self-centered thinking that academics and their subject is the most impor tant thing to mull over even in tournament and training hours. Never theless, it is not a reason to bur talize athletes. It just shows incompetency as a teacher

skills of students.

To give more suppor t to the athletes, teachers should give considerate extensions for deadlines, especially when it comes to performance tasks, and missed activities. Lastly, schools should give oppor tunities for varsity players to train more while balancing a decent amount of schoolworks, to help them reach their full latent and not actually maul it

They even have the guts to call ACNSTHS as “ the home of champions” but fatuously tormenting athletes by deducting points to late works with a sensible reason for being in a tournament In my opinion, sweeping gold for a school who never suppor ted me is not a win but a burdensome obligation to represent it rather especially that it is in exchange of my own grades. This confounding system is hindering studentathletes to meet their full potential.

w ay s b e e n t he m h av i n g no pr op e r a r e a to r ol l out le ad i n g t he m to s ome t i me s b o t he r ne a rb y c iv i l i a n s t h at r e s u lted to a mut u a l fe e l i n g of i nconve n ie nce . T h i s i s why whe n

P a rk lo c ated i n t he G ove r n me nt Ce nte r of Sit io

C ab ad i n g , s k ate r s we r e lef t w it h no t h i n g b ut hy p e a nd joy for t he ne w ve nue i n wh ic h a l l a r e e x p e c ted to domi n ate a nd s h r ed w it hout h av i n g to wor r y ab out b y s t a nde r s a nd l ac k of s p ace

LIVE FOR THE HYPE

A nt ip olo C it y Nat ion a l S c ienc e a nd Te c h nolo g y ’ s r e s ident sk ater D a r ene Cer a s t ate d , P er s on a l l y, I w a s s o e xc ite d w hen t he m ay or p o s te d pic t ur e s of t he s ite c los e s t one me a nd my fr iend s h ad to go to w a s t he one i n C a i nt a T hen w hen my fr iend s fou nd out a b out it a s w e l l w e a l l a g r e e d t h at w e ’ d go t her e w hen it w a s done a s ea rl y a s p o s s i ble W it h t h i s an nou nc ement . mor e p e ople w ou ld b e enc ou r a ge d to t r y a nd sk ate No t j us t sk ateb o a r d s but

s c o o ter s , bi k e s , a nd r ol l i n g sk ate s c a n a l s o b e i nc lude d i n t he sk ate p a rk Gi v i n g A nt ip olo a no t her s p o t for o t her

p e ople to v i s it w h i le st i l l k e epi n g t he a s pe c t of e x t r eme

t h at ’ s av a i l a ble to t he m a s s e s Cer a adde d I w a s a l s o r e l ie v e d b e c au s e nor m a l l y

me a nd my fr iend s w ou ld j us t sk ate on s t r e e t s w it h a s mo o t h g r ou nd a nd no t m a ny p e ople nor m a l l y a r ou nd t he 7/ 1 1 nea r ou r s ub d i v i s ion , s o w e w on t h av e to b o t her

e v en t i me s w her e ou r u s u a l s p o t w a s o c c upie d ” DUDE NOT SO PERFECT

St ate d b y t he go v er n ment t he t a

v en i f t he an nou nc ement w a s m ade s o lon g a go , t her e w er e no upd at

s w h at s o e v

A s D a r ene Cer a e x pl a i ne d sho w i n g d i s t r au g ht a nd d i s s ap oi nt ment to t he sk ate p a rk he w a s lo ok i n g for w a r d to “ It ’ s b e en t he topi

d of b e c a me a n i n s ide j ok e a mon g u s sk ater s t h at w e ’ l l ne v er ge t t he p a rk a nd t h at t he c on st r uc t ion w ork of t he c it y i s no t h i n g ne w ” Cer a adde d F r om b ei n g s ome t h i n g to lo ok for w a r d to , no w b ei n g s ome t h i n g to j ok e a b out a nd to s top hopi n g for T he p o tent i a l of a ne w sk ate p a rk t h at c a n s p a rk t he i nter e s t of A n S c i a n s i s no w di m i n i she d HOW IT’S HANGING

A l mo s t a y ea r p a s se d a nd no upd ate a b out t he sk ate p a rk h a s b e en r e lea se d T he e x t r eme l y lon g de l ay r e s u lte d t he sk ater s to e x pr e s s t hei r c onc er n on ho w o t her sk ate p a rk c on st

by CHLOUI A YBAÑEZ

by DAVID D SALES

Photo by ELIZABETH P MANCIRA

Defec tive Anchors

by YANKEE C LAWIS

Not only did Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) show dominance in academic related activities, it is also known for making waves in the sporting world the past few years Despite its applauding title as an achiever, need to nourish its aspiring athletes. Known as the best performing public school in 2024 yet they failed to meet the expectations of the athletes to provide true coaches that can boost their potential in winning more competitions

Based on a survey, 80% of the current coaches in AnSci don’t have a true background to the sport they’re assigned to coach. And 3 out of 5 answered that there’s no relationship between the subjects they teach and their in ACNSTHS is a betrayal of its athletes’ hard work and ambition. Relying solely on the talents of the student as they blatantly overlook one of the most critical pieces to a winning

The school expects their athletes to achieve success and break barriers but they’re left to train under generic guidance or, worse, fend for themselves. The administration’s failure to prioritize hiring skilled and experienced coaches not only impedes our athletes’ progress but also sends a disheartening message that their dreams and dedication to being a sports-athlete is secondary According to Sir Mark Anthony Aro, one of the only coaches that has a background in the sport they’re coaching ‘Taekwondo’, “As a coach, kailangan din may background talaga Kailangan. Sabi nga nila “experience the best teacher.” And, kung walang experience, hindi mo kabisado yung yung sports.” For a school that prides itself on excellence, this negligence is inexcusable and shameful. If ACNSTHS truly wants to live up to its title as the best-

by YANKEE C LAWIS

a bl e o f t aki n g o n v ari ou s c ha ll e n g e r s i n dul g ed i n t h e s p o r t . This disp l ay o f sel f- d i sci p li n e a n d c o n si s t e n c y m ana g e d t o bri ng h i m on t o p , d e s p i t e b ei n g a n i n de p e n de n t a t hl e t e h e g a t h e r ed up hi s se c o n d ti m e t o domi n a t e t h e n a ti o na l s c om p e t i t ion a t G r a de 1 1 , a s a r e s ul t of hi s o v e r wh elm i ng dedi c a tion O n e u n f o r t un a t e o c cu r r e n c e t o ok p l a c e a s h e l o s t t h e 1 s t pl a c e f o r b e i n g ou t o f t h e t h r o w i n g b ou n ds , c a u si n g a p e n a l t y t h a t p ut h i m a t t h e 5 t h p l a c e f o r 3 7 m e t e r s i n t h e dis c us t h r o wing c a t e g o r y Gl a d ly t h e di s a s t e r did n ot c o s t hi m his flo ur i s hi n g p a ssio n t o p u t his h ea r t o n t o wh a t ma k e s hi m f ee l t h e b es t “ Tu t ul o y p a r i n s a c o l l e g e ” Ne u s ana a dded wh e n h e w a s a s k ed if h e w o u l d s ti ll p u r s u e t h e s p o r t s o o n , a s h e is n o t cur r e n t ly a bl e t o p a r t i c i p a t e t his y ear d u e t o b ei n g o v e r t h e a g e o f 1 7 W h a t lu r e s hidd e n b e hi n d t h e li m eli g h t o f his a c hi ev e m e n ts a r e t h e f r ag m e n ts t h a t f o r g ed him t o b e c o m e a n i n do m i t ab l e f o r c e o f b r av e r y a n d

SILVE R B RONZE

Pendulum Chronicle

Swing to the Top sports

Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School Division of Antipolo City | Region IV-A Volume 5, Issue 2

HEFTY CROWN

“Pa, natupad ko na ‘yung sinabi kong mag u-unit meet ako”...

SPOTTED GEM

Competing in the Unit meet has always been Kenneth’s “TOTGA”, or his the one that got away, as he was supposed to join last year’s tournament in the year 2023. But faith definitely did not favor him after his knee injury, causing him to not have the chance to participate. Since then, Kenneth became eager than ever to

by CHLOUI A. YBANEZ

have an ultimate comeback after his regrettable broken journey towards athletics, and he surely made a promise to his father that he will join this year’s match, especially that this is his last year as a high school student.

“Namali kasi ‘yung bagsak ko no’n sa tuhod kaya ayun, hindi ako nakalaban, kaya sinabi ko talaga kay papa bago siya mamatay na next school year, makakapasok akong unit meet, magkakaplace ako”, he narrated further.

WIELDING TREASURE

After hours of training, his dedication bloom crawling its way out of its isolated pot. The amount of time he spent, equated to his thirst to nab that victory, resulting him to get pass the athletics tryouts conducted by his coach. This earned him a sure spot to the 2024 Unit meet, but the thrill did not stop there, he proved the desperate need to win as he continuously exerted as much e�ort on more exhilarating preparations, not

knowing that the biggest obstacle was just about to beat him down to the grounds of grief.

“Wala na talaga dapat akong balak lumaban, three days before ng tournament, namatay si papa, and ayaw ko na talaga pumunta, pero naaalala ko ‘yung pinangako ko kay papa na makakalaro ako sa Unit meet at mananalo ako,” he stated.

He admitted that it was no longer about him, for the crest he was about to claim will be solely for his father.

with the former varsity from Batch 3, Carlo Briñosa, who was invited for tryouts, started o� the drill by observing each contender’s prior skill in serving, spiking, and blocking followed by an exhibition game to fully test one another’s ability.

“Nakakatuwa rin kasi mas may malaking potential akong nakikita sa players ngayon compared sa dati na super onti pa lang ng population sa AnSci as well as the players,” Briñosa

Briñosa pointed out the outstanding improvement of the current team having more support, sponsors, and exemplary competitors as he also noticed the astounding performances of the players even at lower grade levels.

”Mas mahirap dati kasi wala kaming support, pero ngayon super improved at skilled na nila”, he added.

The release of results will soon be announced and posted on the MAPEH club page.

Throwing Triumph | Kenneth Demonteverde defied personal challenges to secure a remarkable 2nd place in the discus throw at the highly competitive Unit Meet, marking a standout achievement in the season.

Captured by JOHN MARC A. GULANGAYAN

Captioned by JAMI SHILOH G. CASAUAY