The Pis Siyabit Volume 2 (2nd Issue)

The offfcial student publication of Siocon National High School • May-October 2017 • Volume II, No. 1

EMPOWERED TO EMPOWER

TESTING THE TESTED. Grade 12 students take their First Quarter Examinations in the covered court August 10 as they await the completion of the new buildings due November.

K-12 enters final stage

Last lap presents opportunities, challenges to implementors, students

With the opening of Grade 12 this year, the K to 12 program is finally on its 12th year which marks the final stage of transition of our educational system from the 10-year Revised Basic Education Curriculum (RBEC) to the current 13year program.

According to data from the Department of Education (DepEd), as of August 15, there are 5,965 public schools and 4,895

private schools that offer Senior High School (SHS) including Siocon National High School (SNHS).

These public schools, operated and funded by DepEd, utilize new classrooms and facilities constructed under 2014 to 2016 budget for the new batch of G11 and G12, school year 2017-2018.

Furthermore, using the data projected by DepEd, there are more or less 1.5 million Grade 12 enrolees this

year.

In SNHS alone, there are 280 enrolees in Grade 12, dispersed in the different strands.

“We are doing K to 12 for ourselves and for the Philippine education. We are doing this to be able to compete in our own country so that we can equip our learners with appropriate skills, creativity, and intelligence to cope with the changing world,” Education Secretary Leonor

Briones said during the 2nd National K to 12 conference last January 10-11.

K-12 triumph for Filipino learners

“A 12-year program is found to be the best period for learning under basic education. It is also the recognized standard for students and professionals globally,” a statement in the DepEd website asserts. continued on page 2

Siocon NHS continues G7 extension classes amid obstacles

New Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) Pedro Melchor Natividad expressed support in the continuation of

Grade 7 classes in Zamboanga del Norte (ZN) division including that of Siocon National High School (SNHS)

BRINGING HOPE. The fist batch of Grade 7 students from Makiang annex accomplish their task in one of their subjects during a visit of Mr. Marlon Micubo, principal of Siocon NHS. The annex is under Mr. Micubo’s supervision. Photo credit: George Michael Reyes

INSIDE STORIES

Municipal Hall rennovation...

3

News

Makiang and Candiz annexes.

This is “a way of addressing the low completion rate (68.02%) and dropout problem (2.94%)” in ZN, a memorandum from the division office said.

Currently, 25 students in Makiang and 52 in Candiz attend classes since June 19 in the Barangay Multi-Purpose Hall and the elementary building respectively.

Three teachers were hired for each annexes with the school still under the direct supervision of SNHS principal Marlon Micubo.

A four-classroom junior high school building will soon be established in each of these barangays with the total budget of P6, 671, 690 funded by Kapit-Bisig Laban

sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Service (KALAHI-CIDSS).

The Candiz annex had its groundbreaking ceremony September 1 for the new building to be built in a land donated by a local resident.

On the other hand, Makiang annex has yet to do the same with a one-hectare land procured through a P480, 000 budget from the Congressional Development Fund (CDF).

The division office directed the school to comply with the necessary documents to establish the annexes into independent national high schools as mandated by the Department of Education through an order released in 2014.■ -Mary Lord Joanne Echem

Math-Sci Yeah! Camp...

9

PH in SEA Games...

Sci-Tech

12

Sports

2 NEWS

May-October 2017

Pis Siyabit, In Amanat journalists reap 19 awards in Campus Journalism Seminar-Workshop

PFC Orboda

Sioconian soldier killed in Marawi clash Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte—A soldier from Barangay M. Fransisco, Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte was killed May 25 in the midst of the battle between the Maute Group and military forces in Marawi City.

Private First Class (PFC) Dondee D. Orboda of Charlie (Kamagong) Company, 33rd Infantry (Makabayan) Battalion was a part of the Scout Ranger Group which assaulted the enemy positions while rescuing the trapped mechanized troops of the 5th Mechanized Battalion.

PFC Orboda was also a SR Class 200 doing test mission in the area.

His body was brought back to Barangay M. Francisco and was laid in Siocon Public Cemetery.

PFC Orboda is just one of 114 government forces who were killed in the war against the Maute terrorist group who pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS). The war erupted on May 23 and continues up to this writing.■ -Mary Lord Joanne Echem

The Pis Siyabit

DRUGS AND CURFEW. A roofless tricycle which is common in Siocon passes through a sign in Brgy.

Bucana discouraging illegal drug use and reminding the passersby of the imposed curfew. Drug addiction is one of the problems the local curfew seeks to address.

Curfew imposed pursuant to Mindanao-wide Martial Law Siocon NHS faculty, studs voice out varying views

Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte—Local leaders and the PNP-Siocon established curfew hours here since May that prohibits any outdoor activities from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.

This has been initiated to curb criminalities and threats of terrorism in the municipality in congruence with the Proclamation Act. No. 216 or the declaration of Martial law in the whole Mindanao May 23 after government forces clashed with ISIS-inspired Maute terrorist group in Marawi City.

According to PO3 Ariel Tagaloguin, police officers patrol and inspect every part of Poblacion and nearby barangays to ensure

http://www.aseanstats.org/asean-50/

that everyone is already staying indoors and to establish security in the municipality.

If caught, the police will turn over the violators to the Siocon Police Station. In case of minors, they will only be released with the presence of their parents or guardian.

Students and faculty of Siocon National High School (Siocon NHS) have mixed reactions to this implementation.

“The implementation of curfew brings positive effect to the safety of all children especially for those minors,” says Mrs. Mayvelyn Ferrer, a master teacher of Siocon NHS.

In contrast, Miss K-12’s final stage... continued from page 1

The re-introduction of technical and vocational education in high school provided opportunity for the youth to acquire practical skills to gain employment after graduation.

Specifically in the Technical-Vocational and Livelihood (TVL) Track offered in the SHS of SNHS, students are taught specialized skills in Electrical Installation and Maintenance, Caregiving, Information and Communication Technology, Bread and Pastry, Technical Drafting, and Cookery.

After finishing the required hours for their specialization, students of these strands can immediately take the Philippine TVET Competency Assessment and Certification System (PTCACS) from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and earn their National Certificate (NC) or Certificate of Competency (COC).

Clearly, there is an exit point for each Filipino learner.

Overcoming hurdles

With the unfinished construction of the two-unit, three-storey school building with 24 classrooms, the Grade

Stephanie Barazon, a senior high school teacher believes that the curfew becomes a burden especially that the bus schedule from and to Siocon is affected by the implementation.

“When the bus from Zamboanga or Dipolog arrives at Siocon before 4 a.m., we are not allowed to enter the town proper so we have to stop before the Mendiola bridge for hours.

This is a hassle especially if we have work in the morning. I suggest they just allow entrance of public utility vehicles after a thorough inspection,” Miss Barazon explains.■ -Dane Shanreil Tagaloguin & Kimberly Baganao

12 SHS students of SNHS conduct their classes at the covered court of the campus since June.

The 35 million-peso building started construction on June 29, 2016 and its target completion is at the week of November this year.

“The building will be occupied upon its completion this November if there will be no mechanical defects to occur.” Neoriente Ferrer, the sub-contractor of the project said.

Aside from the buildings, equipment and materials needed for the different strands are insufficient or totally unavailable.

This is due to the irregular release of the Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) fund for SHS.

Despite these challenges, both the school administrators and teachers try their best to mitigate these problems.

Although the final stage of the K-12 program is here, its impact to the nation as a whole, either positive or negative, are yet to be felt.■ -Omar Pawa and Walter Jay Magdua

Campus journalists of Pis Siyabit and In Amanat of Siocon National High School (SNHS) seized the most number of awards totalling to 19 in the ZN Press Club Campus Journalism Seminar Workshop 2017 held at Siocon National High School Covered Court, July 15-16.

Over 120 high school students coming from Siocon, Sibuco, and Baliguian participated in the said event.

Lectures and workshops were given in Media Ethics, News Writing, Editorial Writing, Sports Writing, Feature Writing, Copyreading and Headline Writing, Editorial Cartooning, and Layout and Photojournalism.

The seminar workshop’s purpose is to enhance student journalists’ skills and equip them with journalistic principles so they can publish competitive school papers.■ -Lorraine Von Capada and Chelsea Soriano

Natividad

ZN welcomes new SDS Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte—Pedro Melchor Natividad was appointed new Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) of the Department of Education, Zamboanga del Norte Division.

Natividad was officially sworn in during a turn-over ceremony together with former SDS Natividad Bayubay July 6 in the ZN Division Office, Dipolog City.

With his guiding principle “be much better and do much better with a sense of urgency,” he urged all employees of the division especially teachers to perform their mandated duties and responsibilites with love.

Meanwhile, former SDS Bayubay was installed in Zamboanga Sibugay Division.■ -Loieza Fe Torrefranca

The Pis Siyabit

NEWS 3

May-October 2017

SONA 2017

PDU30 promises to enhance education

“In our bid to accelarate human capital development, we should ensure lifelong opportunities by enhancing quality of and access to education, training programs.”

This was President Rodrigo Duterte’s pledge to support the enhancement of the Philippines’ education system during his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) July 4 in the Batasang Pambansa, Quezon City.

Duterte added that he will give investments for higher education in support of the K to 12 Basic Education Program.

“We have widened the reach of skills training and increased the number of out-of-school children and youth who have availed of the Alternative Learning System,” Duterte emphasized.■ -Crisbel Mendoza

Municipal hall demolished; solar-powered building to be constructed Siocon’s decadesold Municipal Hall was demolished for remodeling as it is outdated and noncompliant with the standards set by the National Building Code of the Philippines.

The project which started June this year is one of the major platforms of Mayor Julius Lobrigas since the old hall which was built in the late 1930’s could not withstand disasters and calamities.

According to Project Engineer Josephine Jamolod, the new municipal hall will be a four storey-building and will be built as an eco-friendly structure by powering it with solar panels in support of the Local Government Unit’s (LGU) efforts to promote energy conservation.

The building will use renewable energy from the sun and will not use the grid lines of the Zamboanga del Sur Electric Corporation (ZAMSURECO) or any power

RUBBLE. Construction workers of the overhaul of the municipal hall stand inspecting of what has remained of the decades-old structure. Photo credit: Bobby Baunto lines.

Engr. Jamolod said that the new municipal hall will run a total of 30 to 40 million-peso budget from the general funds of LGU and Provincial Government and is expected to be finished within

G10 stud clinches 3rd spot in NDCM essay writing contest

Province donates chairs for STEM classrooms

Siocon National High School (SNHS) received 150 new monobloc chairs from the provincial office through Governor Roberto Y. Uy for the students of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), August 7.

Last school year, Mr. Mario Ontanan, the school’s temporary head then, requested the monobloc chairs from Governor Uy due the lack of chairs for the STEM students.

The chairs were transported from Dipolog City to Siocon through the truck owned by the local government.■ -Walter Jay Magdua

the demolition which include that of Mayor Lobrigas are temporarily relocated to the Siocon Cultural and Exhibition Center which is also undergoing minor repairs and renovations.■ -Lorraine Von Capada

3SB teachers converge for Teachers’ Month celebration

SCHOOL NEWS BITS

A Grade 10-Euler student won third place in the Congressional District (CD) level 2017 National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM) Essay Writing Contest in Liloy National High School, June 27.

Lorraine Von Capada said she wrote in line with the NDCM theme “4K’s: Kamalayan sa Kahandaan, Katumbas ay Kaligtasan” in which she amplified the importance of information dessimination and disaster preparedness.■ -Walter Jay Magdua and Mary Lord Joanne Echem

five years.

Moreover, an LGU representative said that they aim to have a new image for the municipal hall and the new administration.

For the meantime, the LGU offices affected by

NO SMOKING? A tricycle driver marks his number of trips while holding a cigarette in front of a “No Smoking” sign.

LGU implements comprehensive smoke-free ordinance Local Government of Siocon strengthens the nationwide smoking ban with a local ordinance that prohibits the use, sale, distribution and advertisements of cigarettes after a public meeting last July.

According to the ordinance, this is to safeguard public health and ensure the well-being of all the local constituents by protecting them from the harmful effects of smoking and tobacco consumption, reduce potential exposure to tobacco marketing and advertising.

The ordinance deems it unlawful to sell or distribute tobacco products to minors, in schools, playgrounds and other places frequented by minors, or within 100 meters away from these places.

Penalties will be imposed on violators of this smoking ordinance: Php 500 for first offense, Php 1000 for second offense and Php 5000 or imprisonment for third offense and subsequent offenses.

Also, penalties

for selling and advertising tobacco are: Php 2000 for first offense; Php 3000 pesos for second offense and Php 5000 pesos for third and subsequent offenses.

The Philippine National Police-Siocon with the help of the school administration of Siocon National High School periodically inspects stores near the school premises to make sure they abide by these rules.

Furthermore, a school-based information drive has been implemented headed by the guidance counselor-designate Mrs. Mayvelyn Ferrer.

This ordinance is a reecho of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order 26 signed May 16 this year which provides for the establishment of smoke-free environments in public and enclosed places.

The order took effect on July 23.■ -Lorraine Von Capada and Farrah Muti

Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte—For the first time ever, teachers from all over Siocon, Sirawai, Sibuco and Baliguian (3SB) gathered here on September 14-15 to celebrate Teacher’s Month.

Newly installed Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) Pedro Melchor Natividad and both Assistant SDS Virgilio Batan Jr. and Filma Catalan also joined the commemoration on the second day and gave their speeches in front of the teachers during the Teachers’ Night.

“I am a results-oriented leader,” said SDS Natividad who urged the teachers to do much better each day with a sense of urgency.

Other activities were the Talent Showdown on the first night and different sports events during the day.

“I am really happy that we had the chance to gather and unwind from stressrelated works. We even met our SDS whom I felt has the heart for us teachers,” said a teacher from Baliguian.■ -Faisal Muti

ALL YELLOW. Teachers from Siocon District make themselves comfortable in the Siocon Sports Complex after a town parade.

Photo credit: Rubilita Tolentino

G9 orator places 2nd in CD3 English Festival With more than 20 contestants, Siocon National High School (SNHS) took home a trophy for winning second place in oration contest in the 3rd Congressional District English Communication Arts Festival 2017 held at Kipit Agro-Fishery High School, September 13.

Vlessy Kaye Daplinan who comes from Grade 9-Descartes with her coach Mrs. Editha Myrna Aduca said

their victory was unexpected.

“To think that my fellow orators are well versed and to think that I was the first performer, I get to see how they perform and deliver their piece. And they are really good,” Daplinan said.

Moreover, SNHS students also garnered 4th place in radio broadcasting, 4th place in grade 9 English proficiency and 10th place in dramatic monologue.■ -Jayvie Shrine Felizarta

4 OPINION EDITORIAL

N

o person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws.

Section 1 Article III of the 1987 Philippine Constitution. The first statement in our Bill of Rights.

Also emphasized in UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights under Article II, the right to life is a basic moral and legal principle in any civilized and democratic society, our country included. It asserts that everyone—rich or poor, young or old, criminal or not—has the right to live and no one has the privilege to rob any one of this right. The police and the president are not exempted, except for instances when their own lives are jeopardized.

“You are free to kill the idiots, that is my order to you.”

A horrifying pronouncement of President Rodrigo Duterte referring to those suspects who resist arrest.

Cue in Kian delos Santos. Seventeen years old.

Senior high school student. Accused of drug dealing.

May-October 2017

The Pis Siyabit

The right to life Dragged into an alley by the police. Begged for his life.

Wanted to go home for he had class the following day.

Shot dead.

If it were not for the CCTV which documented the incident and the number of eye-witness accounts, this could have been brushed off as “nanlaban” (fought back), the go-to excuse of the police every time a suspect is killed on a drug raid.

Are Kian and the thousands of Filipinos killed for the noble purpose of eradicating illegal drugs in the country not covered by the right to live?

Guilty or not, Kian has the inalienable right to life. In all noble cause, the end does not justify the means.

Skimming through Facebook comments, hundreds of genuine and troll accounts defend the killings as a necessary evil. This is quite gruesome especially for Filipinos whose population consists mostly of people who believe in a Higher Power.

Worse, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), the department mandated by law to oversee human rights violations, has been painted in a bad light. It is seen as an enemy of justice when in fact it

is the opposite. The House of Representatives led by Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez even approved a meager 1,000-peso budget for CHR next year. Hopefully the Senate will be wiser.

If CHR will be powerless, who will protect our right to life?

The right to life transcends beyond political affiliation, religion or personal beliefs. The way we treat this right is a barometer of our very humanity. If we fail to guard this basic right, we also fail as humans.

We commend our president’s desire to change the country for the better. After all, it is for our benefit especially the youth. We also dream of a crimeless society where we can roam our streets without fear.

However, the laws of the land must also be respected.

We hope that the police will take heed of President Duterte’s recent words that he did not command them to kill on bended knees either men, women or children even if they are enemies. He is right when he said this is not and should not be the norm of democracy.

If the right to life will still not be upheld, we just hope the police would not fancy us to be “idiots”.■

Peace be with us Commentary

by Crisbel Mendoza

“Yes because I believe that no one should be above the law even the president.”

-Respondent 1 “No because eliminating criminals is protecting our right to life.”

-Respondent 2 “Maybe because although lives were lost, lives were also saved.”

-Respondent 3

The Pis Siyabit Editorial Staff

Emp owered to emp ower May-October 2017 • Volume II, No. 1

Published annually by the Siocon National High School student body/D. Riconalla St., Poblacion, Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte/contact number: 09778561091/email: pissiyabit@gmail.com

The House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved President Rodrigo Duterte’s requisition for a five-month extension of Martial Law in the entire Mindanao. A total of 216 lawmakers approved and sealed the president’s request and extended its validity until the end of the year.

The president asked for the extension for he believed that the threat posed by the Maute Group in Marawi City will still continue with the terrorist leadership still intact.

He also feared that the chaos brought by the terrorist group will spread like wildfire along the neighboring cities and provinces of Marawi.

With the extension of the Martial Law, peace will prevail for the police will remain in implementing their tight security measures thus assuring the citizen’s security. The citizens will also stay vigilant and also report terrorist presence to the authorities. With this, government can set up a mechanism to facilitate anonymous security alerts from concerned citizens.

Curfews and checkpoints will continue to be imposed to prevent any possible terrorist attacks, in relation with the Maute Group attack in Marawi. This will also ensure that no further terrorist group will set foot in Editor-in-Chief: Mary Lord Joanne Echem Managing Editor: Crisbel A. Mendoza Associate EIC: Lorraine Von T. Capada News Editor: Omar N. Pawa Feature Editor: Faisal A. Muti Sci-Tech Editor: Walter Jay Magdua Sports Editor: Vlessy Kaye A. Daplinan Cartoonists: Crisbel A. Mendoza,

Nicole Marc A. Dahunan Photojournalist and Layout Artist: Liam Iñaki B. Gillamac Copyreader: Dane Shanreil B. Tagaloguin

any area in Mindanao. This will also prevent destruction and chaos caused by terrorist groups.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will also have the full military power to eradicate the few Maute Group members lurking and spreading mayhem all throughout Marawi and ensure that no one shall escape the warzone and cause further annihilation in the neighboring areas. This also allows AFP to use all the ammunition, machines and drones that will help eliminate enemy forces so that rebuilding of the ruined city can start in earnest.

This is not just a battle between government forces and terrorist groups, this is also a battle among Filipinos, a battle that everyone must take part. Let us be responsible and vigilant, report any suspicious actions and terrorist presence in the area, support the AFP with their fight against injustice and never send invalid news and information that may cause panic.

We will never know if the five-month extension of the Martial Law is enough to once again bring peace not only in Marawi but also in Mindanao. The only thing we know is that this Martial Law will be our ticket to grasp the freedom we longed for.■

Senior Writer: Jayvie Shrine M. Felizarta Junior Writers: Farrah A. Muti,

Kimberly D. Baganao,

Krizzy Mari M. Lobrigas Chelsea Soriano,

Loieza Fe D. Torrefranca Advisers: Kent Jestoni Q. Gabo, Annajeson A. Quinones Consultants: Marlon P. Micubo (Principal III), Edilberto Comisas (PTA Pres.)

The Pis Siyabit

OPINION 5

May-October 2017

A matter of overload

Balancing both academics and extra-curricular activities remains a major dilemma among students. Both time and focus of the students must be divided equally to maintain good performance in both fields but it is also very impossible to divide so little time into truckloads of work.

Busy.

Perhaps the primary descriptor of today’s students in Zamboanga del Norte.

Most of the actively participating students of Siocon National High School come from the STEM class. As students of the pilot section, we are often expected to participate and join such activities and be a model to the other sections. Also, most of these active students cannot say no to these activities and unable to shake what has been so deeply ingrained, they sign up for as many as they can which leads to holding down too many works, volunteering for too many tasks, serving on too many committees and have too many friends which theoretically means they are

Standpoint

by Lorraine Von Capada

trying to be all things to all people all at once all by themselves.

Just in August alone, an elephant of activities were lined up for the school including the commemoration of language month (Tagisan ng Talento), lung month and indigenous peoples’ day; division-wide synchronized school-based scouting; and intramural and district sports meets. This left nine days out of the supposedly 20 days of actual classroom learning. This defeats the purpose of having curricular and extra-curricular activities to reinforce holistic learning.

Activity overload also leads to exhaustion of which we have no shortage.

Because of the hectic schedule faced by the students, they undergo stress which is believed to have negative effects in terms of health and can lead to over fatigue and loss of appetite.

Furthermore, the new

School District Superintendent (SDS), Melchor Natividad has announced that this school year’s division level activities will be done simultaneously.

Math Olympiad, Technolympics and the Division Schools Press Conference will all be done in the same municipality and on the same day in October 12-14 at Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte.

The Provincial Meet was also scheduled on the same dates but later on moved to the last week of October.

So what will happen to those students who are multifaceted and excel in different fields? Unfortunately, they will be making a very difficult choice that may frustrate them.

Simultaneous activity takes away the pleasure of anticipation.

Suddenly the activity is upon us, and we must rush to it.

Reforms are good if they benefit everyone. So hopefully, our division officials will think this through.■

No carefree in curfew

On May 23, President Rodrigo Duterte declared the rebirth of Martial Law solely in Mindanao in connection with the unstoppable attacks of Maute group in Marawi City.

To be perfectly in tune with the President’s order, Siocon laid out curfew from 10 pm to 4 am.

In terms of the concept, Philippine National Police (PNP)- Siocon Station indeed made a great job in regulating the effectiveness of curfew.

According to SPO3 Eduardo Calasang, more than 50 violations were spotted and stopped, mostly with the involvement of minors.

However, we noticed that the police implemented it a little over the top.

Ever since, buses have been one of Siocon’s major means of transportation. Bus lines have trips in wee hours to provide adequate services for passengers travelling in and out of Siocon.

With the implementation of

Perspective

by Mary Lord Joanne Echem

curfew, these trips are somewhat affected, trips from Dipolog City are stopped and are not allowed to enter Poblacion’s premises because of the curfew and are forced to park in Mendiola Bridge and wait for the curfew hours to be over.

This serves no other purpose than to inconvenience and waste the time of both the passengers and the driver.

Worse, if lawless elements create commotion, these people become very vulnerable to their violence because instead of being safe in their homes, they are unreasonably stranded.

Another problem is that people are not allowed to cross from one barangay to another even in the midst of emergencies if no ID’s are presented. This is

a whale of burden especially to farmers who are required to tend and visit the rice fields during daybreak. With less time looking after the rice fields, the total harvests are affected thus the economics of the municipality is affected.

This is also a huge inconvenience especially during medical emergencies since the only hospital is located in Poblacion.

It is true that the police are taking this regulation by heart but they must also be a little considerate in implementing this rule. They must think that others will be greatly affected if they do it exaggeratedly. They must be aware of the limitations behind this rule and think about the consequences and what is really at stake.

When all is said and done, the citizens must still be on top.■

The Desk On motivation and achieving goals

by Mr. Marlon Micubo, Principal III

We can all agree that we are not always in our best selves. Sometimes, we lose the fire and motivation to keep going and achieve our goals. These goals may be as simple as your drive to get a higher grade next grading or as grand as your dreams of becoming a doctor or lawyer someday.

If ever you are on the verge of losing your enthusiasm to reach success, maybe because of being disappointed, overwhelmed or any other factors, here are some ways to reclaim your motivation lifted from an article by Caroline Jalango, a life coach, motivational speaker and author, posted in the Forbes website. I also

included my own insights.

1. Readjust your focus.

There may be times that you do not want to attend classes anymore and would rather spend time at home or worse, engage in unhealthy habits.

These habits may mess up your focus and negatively influence your mood.

Readjusting your focus is assessing what are more essential and what activities will positively affect how you feel towards reaching your goals.

2. Identify your greatest sources of inspiration and motivation. These people might be your teacher or a community leader whose words inspire your faith

and confidence and whose presence keeps you alive.

Recall their pieces of advice and words to live by and identify how these can help you get motivated.

3. Identify environments and activities that unlock energy and creativity. Find time to do what makes you feel energized. This may be playing your favorite sport, strolling in the park with friends, walking on the beach or dancing and singing. Use the energy acquired from these environments and activities to work on your goal.

I wish you all the best in reaching your goals. Be motivated and dream high!■

Surat

A Tausug term meaning letter, this corner of the paper publishes unfiltered and unedited opinions sent to us by the students.

“There are so many activities happening in the school that we cannot yet manage to divide our time and do our tasks.”

Krizzy Mari Lobrigas “Sometimes students aren’t paying attention during flag ceremony.”

Gem Crisel Malbacias “If there are school activities, most of the participants come from the STEM class in all grade levels because students from other sections do not believe in their selves.”

Jayvie Shrine Felizarta “Some students do not clean their comfort rooms after using it.”

Glenn Ruel Maujon “More students are getting stubborn. Sometimes they even backstab their own advisers and subject teachers.”

Omar Pawa “Late students should have self-discipline in going to school early.”

Justine Jean Maghanoy

Letter to the Editors Dear Editors,

I noticed that some students in our school are smoking. One time I saw a group of students smoking at the back of Grade 11 building, and some of them are still at their very young age.

I’m just concerned about their health especially the people around them and it’s very disturbing for those people who hate smoking.

I hope this issue will be given action and attention for the betterment of the image of our school.

Sincerely,

Concerned Student Dear Concerned Student,

Thank you for bringing this issue up. You have made a way for this particular problem to be given serious attention.

The publication is doing everything in its capacity to bring awareness to all students in our school by making informative articles including smoking.it is our duty to inform our fellow students and friends about Republic Act No. 9211 or Tobacco Regulation Act. In this edition of the paper, we have a news report about the new national smoking ban.

We referred your concern to our school nurse and according to him, if you caught anyone smoking you can directly report it to the school authorities for necessary interventions, including the suspension of students found guilty of smoking in school premises.

However, if the smoker was caught by the police they will be warned and fined. On the other hand, the store that sells tobacco will be visited by the police for inspection.

Let us all work together, inform everyone, help us build a better, cleaner and smoke-free environment.

Truly,

The Editors

FEATU

6

The Pis Siyabit

By CRISBEL MENDOZA

Y

OU DEFINITELY SAW us twelfth grade having our classes under the reassuring roof of the wall-less covered court. And even if you would not admit it, you surely whispered to yourself “Thank God I don’t have to endure such misfortune,” then gave us a glance with a glint of pity. But we, the ever-optimists, pity those who are not us because here is news for you: making the covered court our second home is an experience like no other!

You do not believe me? Well here is a list of reasons why our classes are more fun and thrilling than yours: 1. Free ventilation, free light source, free water, free everything! Who needs the noisy, irritating sound of the wall and ceiling fans? Who are discomforted when the intermittent blackouts turn their rooms into a blazing furnace and a cube of darkness? Definitely not us! We are truly one with nature as we receive its ever-blowing breeze from all directions. Not only that, we take in the vitamin-rich, albeit sometimes skin-piercing rays of the sun in the early morning and late afternoon.

But wait! There is more! Even if we do not need it, water comes dripping down from the perfectly engineered roof every time the rain falls.

This helps us improve our reflexes and intuitiveness.

2. Tamarind-shaped chocolates every day. Try to go early in school every morning and look for these “blessings” that are scattered everywhere.

There are different types: dry, wet, squishy and hard. Unfortunately, these “delicacies” are not edible and they do not smell good. That is why we just cover them with sand (when they are wet or squishy) or scoop them out (if they are dry and hard). They make our day much more exciting. A word of warning though: watch your steps or face the consequences.

3. “Wider” source of knowledge. This is true. As only loose blackboards separate our class from the rest, our ears take in so much information for we hear the discussions and watch the activities from the other classes. At some points, you would even share the laughter and create mental opinions about everything. This enhances our senses and our ability to multitask.

But beware, you might be caught off guard by your current teacher whose question you cannot answer for you were physically present in your section but you were mentally attending the adjacent class!

4. Students of this covered court will surely learn a thing or two about teamwork, responsibility, ownership and diligence. As school and even community programs are conducted in the covered court, our classes are interrupted time and again wherein we need to help each other in rearranging the chairs, decorating the stage, and bringing in the sound system. During the actual event, we need to keep an eye on our chairs for they may be taken away or recklessly used. And right after the closing remarks end, we scamper to look for them which sometimes find their way in another class. This becomes an opportunity to hone our social and diplomatic skills.

See, it is not that bad to have your classes in the covered court. You would experience priceless moments missing in a regular classroom.

So maybe you can join us because it sure is more fun in the covered court!

But, in all honesty, it would be a great improvement from our current situation if we can finally move in to a more convenient classroom.

We sure love the things I mentioned here and will truly miss them but the breeze often brings in a wave of dust with it, the dog poops every morning becomes a problem, the ongoing classes from our neighbors distract us and mess up our concentration, and the unending loop of arranging and rearranging our chairs can really be a real chore.

It’s indeed more fun in the covered court but together we cry “Rooms please!”■

URES

7

May-October 2017

Jejemon’s Guide to School Fashion

Jejemon Rush to the nearest ukay-ukay stall and dive for a denim jacket to match your floral jumpskirt. Layered inside the jacket could be anything from the boldest blouse to the simplest plain shirt.

Nothing shouts jejemon more than outfit experimentation. And to complete the look, knee socks and your basic school shoes will do. A red bandana tied around the head or a bull cap may be worn for effect.

By LIAM IÑAKI GILLAMAC

h0w j3j3 r U?

The word jejemon has taken a very negative connotation lately and we are here to redeem its reputation. It is a Filipino sub-culture that reflects socioeconomic realities in the country as well as the diversity of Filipinos in terms of taste. That is why it deserves to be celebrated rather than mocked. And with the no uniform policy of the Department of Education, unleash your inner jejemon and wear your jeje proudly as we are about to give you some ideas for your next go-to school #OOTD. Do not forget to wear your ID though!

Get the attention of that ultimate crush from next door with this headturning get-up. Scour through the wardrobe section of the local tiangge and pick the loosest baseball shirt you can find. If that is not available, you may opt for those KPOP-inspired shirts with the huge numbers and random star prints. Be sure it is a few inches bigger than your frame. Layer it over with an equally oversized long sleeves, preferably from your father’s closet. Then pair this with the shorts tailored for the latest barangay basketball league you joined. Wear the obligatory knee-length socks and slip into the imitation Converse shoes your mom bought for the first day of class. Top it all of with a red or blue bandana on your head and Ray-Ban imitation shades.

noun

: a pop culture phenomenon in the Philippines. According to Urban Dictionary, a Jejemon is a person “who has managed to subvert the English language to the point of incomprehensibility.”

The Philippine Daily Inquirer describes Jejemons as a “new breed of hipster who have developed not only their own language and written text but also their own subculture and fashion.” from en.wikipedia.org

8 FEATURE

May-October 2017

The Pis Siyabit

PO2 SABTIRI: REPORTING FOR DUTY E

very police in service lines up with the motto “To serve and to protect”: to serve every citizen without bias and to protect them from any injustice. As a public servant, one must give his full effort and eagerness to serve the populace and is willing to risk his life to fulfill the call of his duty.

Different controversies haunt the image of the Philippine National Police (PNP). Despite this, there are still manifestations that behind all the controversies, the peace makers are still worthy of our praise.

Police Officer II Nasser E. Sabtiri is the living proof of this.

Where it all began

Being a son of a Jolonative fisherman, PO2 Sabtiri lived most of his life on the shores of Siocon. He was the first of 15 infants who left her mother’s womb.

As the eldest, he acted as the family’s little police and watched over his six younger brothers and eight sisters every time their Aya (a Tausug endearment for father) Mohammad Nur Sabtiri was on the open sea and their Inah (a Tausug endearment for mother) Saada Sabtiri was on the town market selling what has been caught by her husband.

With a dozen and three mouths to feed, they have to help in providing for the family.

While attending school in Bucana Elementary School and afterwards in Siocon National High School (Siocon NHS), he was also on the small fishing boat

By MARY LORD JOANNE ECHEM and JAYVIE SHRINE FELIZARTA

owned by their family, burning his bare skin in the middle of the sea while pulling the fish net with all his might. Although this is not an easy job for a young man, he never complained and even enjoyed working with his Aya and brothers.

However, he, the son of a fisherman, dreamed bigger dreams for him and his family.

The family guy

Ainor, their youngest and a Grade 9 student of Siocon National High School would fondly relate that her Utoh (Tausug endearment for older brother) is a very thoughtful, responsible and understanding brother.

“When I was younger, Utoh Nas would always bring home some pasalubong every time he went home from Zamboanga although Aya sends him only enough allowance for college,” Ainor related to us.

PO2 Sabtiri attended college in Zamboanga Arturo Eustaquio College now Universidad de Zamboanga. He took up a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering. Looking back, he can only imagine how difficult it was for his parents to send him to college.

“He never failed to make us feel that he loves us. If I were to compare him to an object, I would say he is a pillow for I feel safe and comforted whenever he is around. That is, of course, besides the fact that he is very huggable,” Ainor amusingly continued.

“

Mr. Saler Sabtiri, a Math teacher of Siocon NHS also has only good things to say about his brother.

“Utoh Nas would always remind us the boys in the family to always take good care of our sisters. He would constantly remind us to lovingly discipline them because they are the family’s precious jewel. And every time we come in conflict with each other or with others, he is always the voice of reason,” Mr. Saler said.

good if they are in the hands of good people. This pushed him to reroute his life and become a peace maker. As willed by Allah, he passed the National Police Commission or NAPOLCOM exam in the first take and officially became a full-fledged police officer on October 3, 2005.

He thought that everything was smooth-sailing until a tragedy fell on their family. The white horse took away his Aya. He then took it to himself to take his father’s responsibilities Since I became a police, and emulate the way his I always aimed to be the Aya raised them. Now, he must also take care of his best policeman.

Inah who is not getting any younger.

The watershed moment The rise of a hero

PO2 Sabtiri finished

He was first assigned college in 1999. He was very as part of the Regional Mobile determined to become a Group.

Without hardships we successful engineer. can never know how sweet

But little did he know life can be.

PO2 Sabtiri also that the universe is planning encountered many of them. something bigger than his

He experienced going current plans. During the late to the Regional Command in 1990’s his father was a victim of Zamboanga City with no food extortion by the lost command to eat but he never stopped while fishing out in the sea. doing his duty.

Gravely hopeless, his

It is inevitable that Aya asked for mercy. being a police, your life is

“Ano pang ibibigay ko always on the line. PO2 Sabtiri sa inyo, sa dami ng mga anak and his company encountered ko. Ipapakain ko na lang sa Commander Jaoji Sallan that kanila,” his father said to the killed his comrade PO1 Alih extortionists.

Banguih. His bravery was also

That thought made PO2 noticed when he captured an Sabtiri realize that with gun Abu Sayaff member in Nonoyan everyone will respect you. This and was caught on camera. great turning point of his life

He fears none and believes that if he dies in line convinced him that if guns can with his duty, he would be happy do harm, it can definitely do

knowing that he did it for his country and Allah.

“Since I became a police, I always aimed to be the best policeman,” he asserted.

His dream that he thought was impossible became a reality when he was nominated as the Best Junior Non-Commissioned Officer in Operation in Region IX. This for him is already a great achievement. Because of his incredible heroism, he was also awarded with two medals last April.

He did not expect to receive the award and being nominated is already enough, but he received a letter last September 11 stating that he was chosen as the Best Junior Police Non-Commissioned Officer Operator for 2017.

PO2 Sabtiri’s efforts are indeed astoundingly heroic but he still keeps his feet on the ground.

“Habang may mga taong naghihintay, habang ako ay nabubuhay, kakampihan ko sila,” he told us with emotions showing in his eyes.

Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear. PO2 Sabtiri’s story proves that we have to take chances and make mistakes because that is how we grow. Pain nourishes our courage. You have to fail in order to practice being brave. Life is a battle and brave men rejoice in adversity, just as brave soldiers triumph in war.■

The Pis Siyabit

SCI-TECH 9

May-October 2017

Math-Sci Yeah Camp highlights STEM skills

By OMAR PAWA and LIAM IÑAKI GILLAMAC

Egg Drop. Using only straws and paper tapes, Team 1 find ways to protect their egg from being broken on a drop from the second floor of the Senior High School building. The activity is one of the five stations during The Amazing Race event.

Robotic Dance. The event kicked off with a Talent Night which applied Science and Math concepts in their performances.

Sci-Math and Arts. Participants were busy in the second day with contests such as handicraft, Sci-Dama, Damath, Quiz Bee, Impromptu, Essay Writing and among others.

Math and Science departments of Siocon National High School (Sionahayz) through the Math-Sci Yeah Club organized the first ever MathSci Yeah Camp on September 22-24, 2017.

The event which was participated by Sionahayz students aimed at applying and honing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics skills and competencies from the classroom to outdoor and real-life activities.

“One of the major objectives of the Math-Sci Yeah Camp is to help us select the best contestants for the upcoming SciQuest and Math Olympiad later this year,” Mr. Saler Sabtiri, Math-Sci Yeach Club adviser said.

Here are some highlights of the event:

Looks and Earth Awareness. The most awaited part of the camp is the Search for Mr. and Ms. Sci-Math 2017 on the second night where teams chose their representatives who embody beauty inside and out. Exposure highlights were Eco-Friendly and Futuristic Attire. Loieza Fe Torreranca of Team 2 (sixth from left) and Darwin Ganua of Team 1 (fifth from left) won the crowns.

Candle Lighting. Math-Sci Yeah campers hope that they be guided to the right path as they forge forward in their pursuit to make STEM an integral part of their lives.

Community Outreach. The event culminated with an outreach program in Sionahayz Makiang annex. Donations by teachers, students, faculty and stakeholders were given to the Grade 7 students of the school.

Blow Your Nose. Campers had fun with their final activity: The Amazing Race. The five stations tested their ability to use Math-Sci concepts in accomplishing different physical and mental tasks. The stations were Success! Overall champion Teams 1 and 2 pose with the school principal during the closing program. The Math-Sci Yeah Camp ended with tired yet happy campers who are more the Egg Drop, Draw Down the Lane, Shoot the Ball, equipped with STEM skills and who bring with them memories to share.

Pass the Discs and Find Nine Triangles.

New fresh water crab species found in Mindanao

The fifth species of freshwater crab in Mindanao was recently discovered at Barangay Seloto in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato by Jose C. E. Mendoza and Emerson Y. Sy, his co-author, through purchasing it from a vendor.

The discovery is treated as “a fruit of collaborative work”, Mendoza said.

The species was identified as Sundathelphusa miguelito, named after Michael Türkay, a carcinologist from the Senckenberg Museum and Research Institute in Frankfurt, Germany.

According to Mendoza, Sundathelphusa miguelito is different from other freshwater crabs due to its relatively circular body with short limbs and unique shape of its male genitalia.

As their name suggests, “they are highly dependent on good and healthy freshwater

habitats, and because of this, they tend to have very limited distribution ranges,” Mendoza declared.

Michael Dobson (2004) in his study on fresh water crabs in Africa, the colonization of fresh water has required crabs to alter their water balance; freshwater crabs can reabsorb salt from their urine, and have various adaptations to reduce the loss of water.

Cabrera (1973, 1984) and Liu et al. (2008) stated that freshwater crabs also bear some socio-economic significance because they are an occasional source of food in some parts of the Philippines. The crab is edible like most freshwater crabs but it is not preferable to eat it raw due to lung flukes which cause paragonimiasis – an infection usually of the lungs, acquired by eating raw or insufficiently

cooked crabs or crayfish.

Paragonimiasis is a disease caused by a parasite, also known as a fluke (flatworm), which commonly infects usually the lungs and other body sites of humans and other mammals.

Comparisons were based on the other four species found in the Mindanao region.

Dating as far back as the last century, the other discoveries were Sundathelphusa mistio (1904), Sundathelphusa montanoanus (1904), Sundathelphusa wolterecki (1937), and Sundathelphusa hades (2001).

This discovery only proves that Philippines particularly in Mindanao is biologically diverse and in a few years’ time more and more species of our fauna will be discovered and studied.■ -Mary Lord Joanne Echem

Sundathelphusa miguelito. Photo credit: Jose C.E. Mendoza and Emerson Y. Sy/gmanetwork.com

10 SCI-TECH

May-October 2017

The Pis Siyabit

Philippine coral reefs in steady decline—study

Researchers from De La Salle conduct a national assessment on the status of coral reefs in the country

The condition of coral reefs in the Philippines is mostly unfavorable, according to the results of a national assessment of coral reefs in the Philippines

by Licuanan et. al. (2017) of De La Salle University.

The findings published in the June 2017 issue of the Philippine Journal of Science revealed that more than 90% of the 166 sampled coral reefs were in the poor and fair categories.

As Filipinos are highly dependent on marine products which in turn rely on reefs for survival, these findings are alarming.

The assessment stations dispersed randomly all over the country (108 in Luzon, 31 in Visayas, and 27 in Mindanao) were surveyed from 2015 to 2017 using the photo-transect method of van Woesik et al. (2009).

Coral Reef Monitoring Program of Okinawa Churashima Foundation states that the photo-transect survey “aims to quantify the projected areal cover of coral and other sessile animals using digital photography and subsequent image analysis.” Sessile animals are organisms which are

attached permanently to a base, making them immobile so they rely on outside sources—in case of the corals, water currents— to move.

After taking the photos or transect images (transect means a sample area), they were analyzed through a software, the Coral Point Count (CPC) which analyzes and calculates the percentage live hard and soft coral cover. This yielded results that were then analyzed using

two established quantifying systems. One is based on Live Coral Cover (LCC) which sums up both hard and soft corals while the second scale uses only Hard Coral Cover (HCC) since soft corals are not considered essential reef builders.

Hard corals produce a rigid skeleton made of calcium

carbonate (CaCO3) in crystal form while soft corals do not produce this so they do not form reefs, though they are present in a reef ecosystem. (NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program, retrieved September 6, 2017)

Previous studies by Gomez et.al. showed that 70% of the reefs were poor in 1981 and 75% were of the same assessment in 1994. As there are no excellent reefs found in the Licuanan et.al. evaluation with more than 90% in poor

condition, it is believed

that “the establishment

of marine protected areas, and other interventions in the

past 40 years have not caused an appreciable impact on overall reef condition in general, except in particular localities.”

(Licuanan et.al, 2017)

This translates to the need for a coordinated national reef management and conservation to mitigate the already sorry state of the coral reefs before drastic environmental and economic impacts occur.■ -Dane Shanreil Tagaloguin and Liam Iñaki Gillamac

Trash to riches: solution to growing garbage problem

Plastic wrappers and Styrofoam are some of the factors that negatively impact our environment and cause problems to humans. In this world where garbage are everywhere, how can we help solve it?

Engr. Felizardo R. Canama, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources (MENRO) Officer-in-Charge, found a way to solve the increasing number of trash in Siocon.

Engr. Canama said that they will be making recycled materials out of these garbage, such as catwalk bricks, table tops and chairs.

Plastic wastes and Styrofoam are now collected around Siocon and delivered to Barangay Tagaytay to undergo such process to make

bricks.

The program is under the Solid Waste Management Office and is funded by the Local Government Unit.

In making the catwalk bricks, the Styrofoam and plastic wrappers are shredded into small pieces with the use of a plastic shredder.

This will then be mixed with used cooking oil in order to help the shredded plastics to melt. With the use of plastic densifier, the mixed shredded plastics and used cooking oil are melted. Then they will be poured into the molder to form into bricks. It will only take one hour and a half to solidify.

Catwalk brick is a tilelike brick that is commonly used on town plazas.

As of now, there are ap-

BIOREACTOR. A machine operator pours shredded organic materials to the bioreactor. Photo credit: LGU-Siocon

proximately 15 produced catwalk bricks which are ready to be used and commercialized.

However, MENRO set out priorities for these bricks for the Siocon Public Cemetery and Ecological Solid Waste Park to be constructed on Upper Tagatay.

On the other hand, organic wastes such as fruit peelings and leaves will also be shredded into small pieces with the use of an organic shredder. Afterwards, they are poured into a bioreactor to produce fertilizers. Unlike the catwalk bricks, the fertilizers are now commercially sold.

Currently, MENRO has one plastic shredder, two organic shredders, one plastic densifier, one bioreactor and two sets of molder.

As the system cannot process PET bottles and thick cellophanes, they are dumped on a sanitary land fill, the first in Zamboanga del Norte.

“As LGU officers we only ask the support of the people of Siocon through segregation of their garbage. They just have to properly throw their trash on the Municipal Recovery Facilities (MRF) strategically constructed throughout the municipality and we will do our part,” Engr.

Canama said in an interview.■ -Walter Jay Magdua

NEW IN TECH

Everwing craze hits Sionahayz studs

The days of Clash of Clans and Mini Militia are numbered as they make way to the new viral mobile game in school: Everwing.

Awarded “Facebook Game of the Year” in 2016, Everwing is a vertical scrolling shooter game where the player controls Guardians with their dragon sidekicks as they glide attacking legions of Monsters and Bosses to reclaim their kingdom.

The game was developed by the Blackstorm Labs Company and is currently available in Facebook Messenger. What makes it more addictive is that friends go head-to-head to score higher.

With over seven million players in the country,

the company added five Filipino mythical creatures in its list of dragons possessing unique skills: the Sarangay, a bull with a muscular body and bejeweled ears; the Lampong, a bright-eyed deer with a long beard; the Kiwig, a fierce and fiery pig; the Buwaya, a crocodile with a saddle on its back; and the Bakunawa, a serpentine dragon. (Press Release from Smart Communications, Inc.)

“This lineup of Philippine dragons is our treat to millions of Filipinos, who are among our most engaged and passionate players in the world,” said Michael Carter, CEO of Blackstorm.■ -Dane Shanreil Tagaloguin

The Pis Siyabit

SPORTS 11

May-October 2017

Intramural Meet 2017

Baang, Moras dominate wushu, qualify for ZNAA Meet

Palarong Pambansa 2017 wushu players Rico John Baang and Mary Joy Moras dominated once again the first three levels of the wushu competition.

Baang of STEM Stingers did not have it easy in the Intramurals August 23 as neophyte Niel Pineda of Grade

9 Megavolts showed promise in sanda. But season made Baang grapple his way to the top, winning the gold in the 48 kg. category.

Moras was unchallenged in the same level and category. However, a valiant Canatuan National High School (NHS) student Rose-

WOOSH! Rico John Baang mercilessly engages Niel Pineda during his last fight in the Intramural Meet wushu competition.

lyn Tii tried to bring down Moras’s power during the Siocon District Meet, August 24-25, Siocon NHS covered court.

Tii fell down too early in the fight sustaining minor injuries that prompted the referee to discontinue the match.

Baang and Moras will go straight to the Zamboanga del Norte Athletic Association (ZNAA) Meet with no opponents in the Triple SB (Siocon, Sirawai, Sibuco, Baliguian) Area Meet. ZNAA Meet is set to be held at Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte on October 29-31.

“We know that competitions will be stiffer in the ZNAA Meet so we should not be complacent,” Baang said in an interview.

They are currently in training every four to five in the afternoon.■

Siocon district lashes Sibuco, 86-67 Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte—Siocon clobbered Sibuco, 86-67 in their bid to qualify for the provincials during the Triple SB (Siocon, Sirawai, Sibuco and Baliguian) Area Meet 2017 in the Siocon National High School covered court here, September 6.

Edgar Dusing had an all-around game with 24 points and 11 rebounds for Siocon and contributed fully with his team win against Sibuco.

Siocon players led the first quarter of the game as they showed their passion and thirst to win the game, 22-19.

However, Sibuco team had a quick counter of two three-point and one two-point shots by Kevin Francisco, together with Vertudez, 3; Manalo, 3; Gomez, 2; and Caril, 4 on the second quarter, 39-35.

Tables turned when Mark Lloyd Gadem stepped in the court in the third quarter whose intimidating presence weakened Sibuco and enabled his team to regain momentum.

With one stunning three-point shot, he earned 11 points in this quarter, supported by Fracoso with 8 and Dusing with 6 that

stretched an 18-point gap, 6652, in favor of Siocon.

Siocon finished Sibuco in the last quarter with a great cumulative score earned by Gadem, eight points, Dusing two points and two points from three others, 86-67.■ Siocon: Gadem-19, Taib4, Dusing-24, Abalos-10, Fracoso-18, Moro3, Tampang-6 and Salas-2.

Sibuco: Vertudez-3, Gonzales-3, Gomez-9, De Leon-6, Imperial-3, Tutuan-1, Dumaguit-2, Caril-8, Manalo-11, and Francisco-20.

Sionahayz faculty shine in Triple SB sports clash Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte—Siocon National High School (Sionahayz) faculty prided their athletic prowess during the Triple SB (Siocon, Sirawai, Sibuco and Baliguian) Teachers’ Month Celebration here, September 14-15.

The sports activities which aimed at harnessing camaraderie and unity among Triple SB teachers highlighted the two-day event.

Mr. Jayson Dayawan, Sionahayz MAPEH teacher and local basketball superstar had his heyday on the basketball finals between Siocon and Sirawai districts September 15 at 2 p.m. in the Sionahayz covered court. He gutted a thrill-

ing 74-72 finish after earning two flawless free throws with only 55 seconds left on the clock.

On the other hand, MAPEH teacher Cristine Gumapo and administrative officer Noha Nalzaro put their best feet forward in the badminton doubles event after upsetting their opponents from Sirawai in two successive sets, 2-0. Gumapo also conquered the table tennis event against Sirawai. Both games happened in Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Siocon Campus, September 15.

Other top finishers were Mrs. Eugelyn Tibli for lawn tennis, Mr. Arnold Co-

dezar (39 below) and Principal Marlon Micubo (40 above) for badminton doubles.■ -Chelsea Soriano

FAST BREAK. Limba harasses Jayson Dayawan as the latter agressively makes his way to the ring.

EDITORIAL

Reaching that gold How school sports can help

With the undeniably lousy finish of the Philippine team in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games last August and the Rio Olympics last year, it is no denying that there is a colossal room for improvement in preparing our athletes for international competitions. Why is that a country where majority are hard-working and determined people ended not soaring in sports? Are our athletes’ hardships and sacrifices not enough? How can we get that gold medal?

It is maybe because we fail to consider that every athlete started as an amateur. Becoming a great athlete does not start during the first day of training for the SEA Games or Olympics. It started with a child who had the dream and talent. The road to greatness is a life-long venture. And an athlete’s first exposure to sports is most probably in school. This is why attention must also be given to school sports.

Celebrating school sports events can teach the young athletes the qualities that distinguish Manny Pacquiao and Hidilyn Diaz from the rest of us. Jim Taylor, Ph.D. who has worked with athletes identifies five most important psychological qualities that make a great athlete great: drive, confidence, calmness, focus, and emotions. In the school level, these can be developed through proper training and adequate support from coaches and administrators.

That is why it is necessary for our sports programs to be properly funded and our athletes consistently motivated. Teachers are the major impetus for these athletes to have their drive and confidence. Administrators must also assist in terms of allowing school sports to flourish. Sports should not be regarded as an enemy of academic excellence. Rather, it reinforces holistic development which is the real purpose of schooling.

We know that these are more easily said than done. But we Filipinos are known for our resilience and resourcefulness.

Investing more in sports, supporting our young athletes, and helping them enhance their skills as early as possible can bring out the best of them. When their time comes to represent our country, hopefully they can finally reach that elusive gold.

Vol 2, No, 1

The Pis Siyabit

May-October 2017

SP RTS

GO FOR GOLD. Taekwondo male poomsae team gold medalists (from left to right) Rodolfo Reyes Jr., Dustin Jacob Mella, and Raphael Mella perform their winning martial arts routine in the 2017 SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, August 26. Photo credit: Philippine Sports Commission Facebook Page

Graph from cnnphilippines.com

2017 Southeast Asian Games

PH thumped at 6th place, worst finish in 18 years Philippines crashed to its worst Southeast Asian (SEA) Games finish since 1999 with only 24 gold, 33 silvers and 64 bronzes and winds up 6th place in the 29th SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, August 19-30.

This year’s 497 delegates failed to surpass its 29gold medal output from 2015 and 2013, despite its target of 50 gold medals.

Despite the struggle

with garnering gold medals, Filipino athletes still had their winning victories.

Dines Dumaan won the last Philippine gold in pencak silat while Mary Joy Tabal collected the country’s first gold in marathon event. Other gold winners come from triathlon, gymnastics, pool, men’s 200- and 400-meter dash, 400-meter hurdles, boxing, men’s basketball, women’s wushu, women’s judo, fencing,

decathlon, ice hockey, taekwondo, lawn bowls, billiards and equestrian.

The country’s chef de mission to the SEA Games, Cynthia Carrion forecasted five (5) gold medals will be possibly brought home by the Philippine archers but none.

Carrion also predicted two gold medals for golf but the team was not able to get one.

They also expected five (5) gold medals in wushu but the

team only garnered one.

The absence of events such as women’s weightlifting and women’s boxing which the Philippines typically finds success in also denied the Filipino’s chances in the games.

Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco said the heart-breaking campaign in Kuala Lumpur should be left behind and, instead, urged everybody – including his crit-

Gadem’s the it!

The rise of a great arnisador

By VLESSY KAYE DAPLINAN

It is a Sunday but the school is bustling with energy as athletes tune up for the upcoming provincial meet. Each of them is hoping to make it to the regionals.

Achievements • Zamboanga del Norte Athletic Associ-

ation Meet (2015-2017) - Anyo (Solo and Doble), 8 golds; Combative, 3 golds; and Espada y Daga, 2 golds

Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Meet (2015-2017) -Anyo (Solo and Doble), 3 silvers and 3 bronze; Combative, 3 gold; Espada y Daga, 1 gold •

This is not something new for Grade 11 arnisador Mark Lloyd Gadem.

As he started his journey in the early age of 14, he already had the same intense training like a Pambansang Palaro player in arnis because of the guidance of his brother, Jonathan, who motivated him to give the national sports of the Philippines a try so that he will continue what he has started.

Aside from regular jogging, shadow fighting, dropping, attacking and blocking, he still managed to accomplish other achievements outside the arena. He is a veteran in pageants. He garnered second runner-up in Ginoong Buwan ng Wika, Mr. Intramurals 2015 and recently declared as the Mr. Teen Siocon 2016. He also did not miss out from school and receives good grades quarterly.

In front of all the struggles and challenges, Mark Lloyd Gadem still managed to strike the Pambansang Palaro level for three consecutive years since Grade 8. He confessed that achieving this feat is not easy. There were times when he doubted himself and thought that he may not make it. But he forcefully did.

Arnis tournament manager in Zamboanga del Norte Mrs. Evelyn Malbacias revealed that only Gadem holds this record in the ZNCOHSAA (Zamboanga del Norte Coastal High Schools Athletic Association) team.

It did not take long for people to notice his passion and skills for arnis and was offered to continue his Senior High School in the Far Eastern University (FEU) and Arellano University (AU) as a scholar. But because he does not want to be separated from his loved ones, he preferred to stay here in Siocon National High School.

ics – to rally behind the athletes as they brace for the country’s hosting of the Games in 2019.

“All of us, including the critics, should rally behind the 2019 Philippine hosting and support the athletes in any way we can,” said Cojuangco.

With the Philippines hosting the 30th SEA Games in 2019, the athletes may acquire more gold in front before a home crowd.

-Mary Lord Joanne Echem

“Facing the challenges in life is just like fighting your opponent in the arena. Don’t let them take you down, instead strike forcefully, attack wisely and defend strategically. Never lose hope, strive harder, trust yourself and you will reach your goals,” Gadem asserts as he keeps moving forward.

He plans to study criminology and be part of the country’s police force. With the discipline and dedication he possesses, this would be an easy fight.

“D

on’t let them take you down; instead, strike forcefully, attack wisely and defend strategically. .”