The Nightingale Issue 2 | The Literary & Arts Section

The Nightingale Issue 2: Kahilwayan

Copyright © 2024 by The Nightingale

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Published in Davao City, Philippines.

This publication is protected by copyright and permission should be obtained from the publisher prior to any prohibited reproduction, storage in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or likewise.

To obtain permission(s) to use material from this work, please submit a written request to

The Nightingale

The Official Publication Arm of Protection of Women's Equality & Rights in Ateneo de Davao University (POWER AdDU). poweraddu@addu.edu.ph.

Editorial Board Editorial Board

Mari Andreiane Dormitorio Mari Andreiane Dormitorio

Lorrhaine Mae Baintin Lorrhaine Mae Baintin

Editor-in-Chief

Editor-in-Chief

Rena Christine Bustamante Rena Christine Bustamante

Associate Editor Associate Editor

News Editor News Editor

Princess Louise Gracelle Lacorte

Princess Louise Gracelle Lacorte

Feature Editor Feature Editor

Andre Ysabelle Costañemo

Andre Ysabelle Costañemo

Graphics & Layout Head Graphics & Layout Head

News Writers News Writers

Claresse Artiaga Claresse Artiaga

Andree Sibonga Andree Sibonga

Literary Editor Literary Editor

Staff Writers Staff Writers

Feature Writers Feature Writers

Andrea Ma. Isabelle Colis

Andrea Ma. Isabelle Colis

Jullia Laurice Bantiding

Jullia Laurice Bantiding

Gwen Stefanie Etang

Gwen Stefanie Etang

Mikylla Lorraine Labis Mikylla Lorraine Labis

Literary Writers Literary Writers

Nicole Abenojar Nicole Abenojar

Christie Angel Cadiz Christie Angel Cadiz

Claire Luneth Deomampo Claire Luneth Deomampo

Zoexandra Andrea Enricuso

Zoexandra Andrea Enricuso

Megan Andrea Fuentes Megan Andrea Fuentes

Alex Andrea Gumera Alex Andrea Gumera

Elizah Kym Ortiz Elizah Kym Ortiz

Gwyneth Nicolle Pesidas Gwyneth Nicolle Pesidas

Aldianne Champagne Tamayo Aldianne Champagne Tamayo

Graphics & Layout Team Graphics & Layout Team

Ave Mae Abonado Ave Mae Abonado

Czarls Audrey Davienn Andrew

Czarls Audrey Davienn Andrew

Kristina Fatima Anna Guba

Kristina Fatima Anna Guba

Keathly Shyne Masiglat

Keathly Shyne Masiglat

Ella Marie Quilo

Ella Marie Quilo

Bea Janine Tupas

Bea Janine Tupas

Tableof Contents

Notefrom the Editors

In a world where voices are often silenced and experiences overlooked, it is imperative we elevate and celebrate the diverse narratives of our women. With the theme Empowering Diverse Narratives: Intersectional Feminism at the Forefront, The Nightingale's second issue Kahilwayan recognizes that gender equality cannot exist in a society that does not address the intersecting systems of oppression that impact individualsdifferently.

This issue is a testament to the strength and resilience of those whose stories have been marginalized. From amplifying the voices of women of color to shedding light on the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, this magazine aims to center intersectionality in the discourse, acknowledging the complexities of lived experiences andstrivingtofosterinclusivityandsolidaritywithinthefeministmovement.

As you navigate these pages, you will encounter narratives that challenge traditional norms and defy simplistic stereotypes. We invite you to read with an open heart and mind,recognizingthateachstoryaddsauniquethreadtoourcollectivejourneytoward equality,expandingourunderstandingoffeminism.

In the spirit of empowerment and solidarity, let us champion diverse narratives, lifting each other up as we march towards a future where every voice is heard, and every individual is valued. Together, we can build a world where women's empowerment and rightsarearealityforall.

Thereisnowheretogobutup.

RianDormitorio&ChristineBustamante

Literary Literary Sec Secttion ion

A Strong Woman, You Say?

by Nicole Abenojar

Growing up, I've always looked up to the strong women who rowing up, I've always looked up to the strong women who made it. Women who have titles on their names, women who can made it. Women who have titles on their names, women who can financially support themselves and their families, and women who financially support themselves and their families, and women who can proudly stand on their own. But now, perceiving the world as it can proudly stand on their own. But now, perceiving the world as it is, I now have a different definition of my inspirational motto: "Strong is, I now have a different definition of my inspirational motto: "Strong women who made it." I no longer boxed my inspiration only to women who made it." I no longer boxed my inspiration only to women who dreamed about being corporate leaders, scholars, and women who dreamed about being corporate leaders, scholars, and policymakersbutalsotowomenwhofindfulfillmentinnurturingtheir policymakersbutalsotowomenwhofindfulfillmentinnurturingtheir homes and families. Looking around, such women surrounded me— homes and families. Looking around, such women surrounded me— my mother and aunties—all of whom embodied strength in their own my mother and aunties—all of whom embodied strength in their own unique ways. I've witnessed my mother's dedication to her work and unique ways. I've witnessed my mother's dedication to her work and my auntie's passion for homemaking, which shifted my perspective my auntie's passion for homemaking, which shifted my perspective that strength isn't limited to professional success. The unspoken that strength isn't limited to professional success. The unspoken sacrifices and quiet resilience of these women who hold families sacrifices and quiet resilience of these women who hold families together made me realize that I've narrowed myself on a fantasy together made me realize that I've narrowed myself on a fantasy where women are only strong when they are in line with men at where women are only strong when they are in line with men at work. Thanks to these women who have different dreams that are work. Thanks to these women who have different dreams that are invaluable, I've acknowledged the complexity of being strong, and invaluable, I've acknowledged the complexity of being strong, and that includes women who are housewives, running the household that includes women who are housewives, running the household with their light. Admittedly, women are also ordinary people, but an with their light. Admittedly, women are also ordinary people, but an ordinarywoman,mayshebeahousewifeoronewhoclimbedupthe ordinarywoman,mayshebeahousewifeoronewhoclimbedupthe corporate ladder, can shine brightly in her own small ways, corporate ladder, can shine brightly in her own small ways, regardlessofthepathshechoosestopursue. regardlessofthepathshechoosestopursue.

Illustration by Ella Quilo

Graphics by Andree Sibonga

by Christie Angel Cadiz

ForgiveMe,LittleGirl

F F

orgive me, little girl orgive me, little girl

For I didn't know For I didn't know

To earn my wings and fly, To earn my wings and fly,

You'd given up your own

You'd given up your own

Forgive me, little girl

Forgive me, little girl

Now we've come eye to eye

Now we've come eye to eye

The chance I took from you,

The chance I took from you,

Today I recognize Today I recognize

Forgive me, little girl

Forgive me, little girl

Then let me grieve for two

Then let me grieve for two

The one you hoped to be

The one you hoped to be

Forgive me, little girl

Forgive me, little girl

Though you never blamed me Though you never blamed me I live, for you have grown I live, for you have grown I stand, for I'd killed thee I stand, for I'd killed thee

Forgive me, mother

Forgive me, mother

For I didn't know

For I didn't know

To earn my wings and fly

To earn my wings and fly

You'd given up your own

You'd given up your own

The one who dreamt this too

The one who dreamt this too

The Power of a Voice

by Claire Luneth Deomampo

DD

o we have a voice that speaks for our minds? Or should we stay quiet

o we have a voice that speaks for our minds? Or should we stay quiet andletlifeflowwithourunsaidwords? andletlifeflowwithourunsaidwords?

Many tend to stay quiet in pursuit of peace, but what about the unsaid Many tend to stay quiet in pursuit of peace, but what about the unsaid words that hold the potential to impact others? Can one find solace in a words that hold the potential to impact others? Can one find solace in a mind full of unspoken narratives? The power of a voice is more influential mind full of unspoken narratives? The power of a voice is more influential than one can imagine. Leaders in our society wield their voices to than one can imagine. Leaders in our society wield their voices to empower and encourage others, but they also mainly give justice to empower and encourage others, but they also mainly give justice to something. We use that voice to speak out, do what is necessary, and something. We use that voice to speak out, do what is necessary, and championequityandrights. championequityandrights.

Feminism was born from the need to listen to the aspirations and needs

Feminism was born from the need to listen to the aspirations and needs of women. As women, our struggle extends beyond the confines of of women. As women, our struggle extends beyond the confines of ourselves, embracing the plight of all who have been marginalized and ourselves, embracing the plight of all who have been marginalized and muted as well. Our voices serve the call for justice and empowerment, a muted as well. Our voices serve the call for justice and empowerment, a testamenttoourresilienceandfortitude. testamenttoourresilienceandfortitude.

One may ask, what are we fighting for? We are fighting to show that One may ask, what are we fighting for? We are fighting to show that women can be whoever they want, with no one belittling our power, women can be whoever they want, with no one belittling our power, standing up on our own feet, and voicing out the needs and issues buried standing up on our own feet, and voicing out the needs and issues buried beneath our feet. From a thousand years ago until now, it is still a battle to beneath our feet. From a thousand years ago until now, it is still a battle to dismantlethestructuresofinequalitythathavepersistedthroughtheages. dismantlethestructuresofinequalitythathavepersistedthroughtheages. It is imperative we voice out the thoughts that reside within us, It is imperative we voice out the thoughts that reside within us, empowering not only ourselves but others as well in the quest for a more empowering not only ourselves but others as well in the quest for a more justandequitableworld. justandequitableworld.

Corporate Woman’s Lament:

A Poem About Misogyny in the Workplace

by Andree Sibonga

walk into the room feeling dread and walk into the room feeling dread and unrest unrest

New offensive statements masked as New offensive statements masked as jokes jokes

Another day of snide comments, glares, Another day of snide comments, glares, and jest and jest

“Just ignore them,” they often say “Just ignore them,” they often say “They will eventually lay off you.”

“They will eventually lay off you.”

So, a level and composed demeanor I So, a level and composed demeanor I display display

To be the rose among thorns, I learned

To be the rose among thorns, I learned

Isn’t a flex per se Isn’t a flex per se

Because to be the last woman standing

Because to be the last woman standing doesn’t guarantee my stay doesn’t guarantee my stay

In their eyes, I'm merely replaceable In their eyes, I'm merely replaceable

A diversity quota to fulfill

A diversity quota to fulfill

“She got this job ‘cause she's a woman, “She got this job ‘cause she's a woman, not ‘cause of her skills.” not ‘cause of her skills.”

So frustrating, I have to admit! So frustrating, I have to admit!

But at this point, it seems normal

But at this point, it seems normal

But still, be the bigger person But still, be the bigger person

Avoid any conflicts or quarrels Avoid any conflicts or quarrels

Desensitized to the condescension, Desensitized to the condescension, Their lack of accountability and bias

Their lack of accountability and bias

I mean, should I not be grateful?

I mean, should I not be grateful?

To even have a seat at the table is a

To even have a seat at the table is a feat feat

But what’s the point of this opportunity

But what’s the point of this opportunity

If among my contemporaries, If among my contemporaries,

My gender is still a hindrance My gender is still a hindrance

For me to be seen as equal and

For me to be seen as equal and worthy? worthy?

Why do I have to work twice as hard

Why do I have to work twice as hard

Yet, barely get any credit?

Yet, barely get any credit?

I argue I’m as good as they are, I argue I’m as good as they are,

But I hold neither recognition nor merit?

But I hold neither recognition nor merit?

That hardly seems fair; it’s always been this way this way

That hardly seems fair; it’s always been

But the frustration I feel doesn't go away away

But the frustration I feel doesn't go

But still, I persevere

But still, I persevere

I look in the mirror and furiously remind I look in the mirror and furiously remind Myself that I’m strong and competent, Myself that I’m strong and competent,

To leave all my doubts behind

To leave all my doubts behind

To find the strength to march on is no

To find the strength to march on is no need need

I’m a woman, for God’s sake! I’m a woman, for God’s sake!

And I earned my place here; make no

And I earned my place here; make no mistake mistake

Graphics by Andree Sibonga

IIn the sweltering hot and sticky air, I stand burned under the

n the sweltering hot and sticky air, I stand burned under the unforgiving sun, thinking of a life that is better. I think of snow and the unforgiving sun, thinking of a life that is better. I think of snow and the girls on TV screens with their shiny smiles and ivory skin, promising me girls on TV screens with their shiny smiles and ivory skin, promising me a world out there. I think of the times when I would sit in church and a world out there. I think of the times when I would sit in church and feel an ache in the deepest pit of my chest, longing for something feel an ache in the deepest pit of my chest, longing for something more. I think of the times when I’d bring up my dream of being a writer, more. I think of the times when I’d bring up my dream of being a writer, not a doctor, a lawyer, or a nurse. Dreams that will remain as thoughts not a doctor, a lawyer, or a nurse. Dreams that will remain as thoughts as I sit like a nice, sweet girl who keeps to herself and helps when she as I sit like a nice, sweet girl who keeps to herself and helps when she is needed. I live my days as if I’m standing in front of a podium— is needed. I live my days as if I’m standing in front of a podium— everyone staring, waiting for every misstep, and sighs. I’d feel this everyone staring, waiting for every misstep, and sighs. I’d feel this gripping guilt as I pray for the lives of the girls I see on my phone and gripping guilt as I pray for the lives of the girls I see on my phone and to escape from the expectations and standards that they shove down to escape from the expectations and standards that they shove down little girls’ throats. Like a lurking ghost, I’ve lived my whole life seeking little girls’ throats. Like a lurking ghost, I’ve lived my whole life seeking to escape. To escape my fate of becoming a wife by the time I’m to escape. To escape my fate of becoming a wife by the time I’m thirty, like an alarm clock, waiting for me to grow old. thirty, like an alarm clock, waiting for me to grow old.

However, I began to realize that it’s impossible to erase what’s However, I began to realize that it’s impossible to erase what’s already in my blood—to change my identity and become one of the already in my blood—to change my identity and become one of the girls on television screens as it is simply escaping a life just to follow girls on television screens as it is simply escaping a life just to follow another. I now realize that the only things I have control over are the another. I now realize that the only things I have control over are the decisions I make in my own life. And that is to live it without anyone decisions I make in my own life. And that is to live it without anyone else’s input. And so I take in the sun's heat, let the sweat drip down my else’s input. And so I take in the sun's heat, let the sweat drip down my forehead, and stay right where I am at this very moment. forehead, and stay right where I am at this very moment.

Graphics by Andree Sibonga

Women in the 21st Century, Women in the 21st Century, as the History Books Say as the History Books Say by Nicole

WAbenojar by Nicole Abenojar

hat will the future scholars discover when they study women in the hat will the future scholars discover when they study women in the 21st century? 21st century?

They will find the tales of these beautiful and industrious individuals They will find the tales of these beautiful and industrious individuals carrying the world. They will learn how women of today carry the burden of carrying the world. They will learn how women of today carry the burden of feeding the family, the burden of their children's and lovers' troubles, the feeding the family, the burden of their children's and lovers' troubles, the burden of what society constructed for them, and the burden of being a burden of what society constructed for them, and the burden of being a woman alone. Along with these burdens, they will also learn the strength woman alone. Along with these burdens, they will also learn the strength and beauty of modern womanhood—carrying their children in one hand and and beauty of modern womanhood—carrying their children in one hand and bags in the other, juggling work with chores, running the world on heels, bags in the other, juggling work with chores, running the world on heels, and holding the weight of family obligations while leading the way for and holding the weight of family obligations while leading the way for progress in the workplace, politics, social justice, and to other fields. progress in the workplace, politics, social justice, and to other fields.

Future scholars will learn how these women are not only dreamers but Future scholars will learn how these women are not only dreamers but also achievers who have turned their visions into realities and pursued also achievers who have turned their visions into realities and pursued excellence beyond their own definitions. The women before helped shape excellence beyond their own definitions. The women before helped shape the women of today, and the women of the future will be much more. In the women of today, and the women of the future will be much more. In today's era, women are the pillars and light of the world, instilling today's era, women are the pillars and light of the world, instilling empowerment and courage in the hearts of not only women but also men empowerment and courage in the hearts of not only women but also men who support women. who support women.

Pretty Late Pretty Late Pretty Late

by Christie Angel Cadiz by Christie Angel Cadiz

could hardly make sense of what was happening—thoughts seemed to could hardly make sense of what was happening—thoughts seemed to come to me a second later than they should have been. A hazy vision of a girl come to me a second later than they should have been. A hazy vision of a girl in her school uniform. She sat across from me as she combed her hair, pausing in her school uniform. She sat across from me as she combed her hair, pausing occasionally as the comb hit a knot or two. Another girl walked past me, occasionally as the comb hit a knot or two. Another girl walked past me, holding a bottle, seemingly in a rush to get to her closet. A brief moment holding a bottle, seemingly in a rush to get to her closet. A brief moment passed until I recognized the familiar scent of vanilla in the air as I sat up from passed until I recognized the familiar scent of vanilla in the air as I sat up from my bed. The silk linen seemed to be beckoning me once again. I was starting to my bed. The silk linen seemed to be beckoning me once again. I was starting to lose consciousness when I heard the girl with the bottle speak. lose consciousness when I heard the girl with the bottle speak.

“Won’t you be late?” She asked as she grabbed what seemed to be a skirt uniform. uniform.

“Won’t you be late?” She asked as she grabbed what seemed to be a skirt

I couldn’t make sense of what she was saying at first before a sudden jolt

I couldn’t make sense of what she was saying at first before a sudden jolt was felt through my veins and forced my eyes wide open. A quick glance at my was felt through my veins and forced my eyes wide open. A quick glance at my phone, which I forgot to charge last night, made me realize it was a school day phone, which I forgot to charge last night, made me realize it was a school day —I woke up who knows how many minutes later than I should have. The —I woke up who knows how many minutes later than I should have. The thoughts that were once a second late before getting processed started thoughts that were once a second late before getting processed started coming in twice as fast as they should have. coming in twice as fast as they should have.

“Wait, no one’s using the mirror?“ I asked while trying to comb my brunette

“Wait, no one’s using the mirror?“ I asked while trying to comb my brunette locks. locks.

“All yours. I just have to finish my hair. Our other roommate already made

“All yours. I just have to finish my hair. Our other roommate already made her way out a few minutes ago.” her way out a few minutes ago.”

All I could do was nod as I grabbed a black pouch containing my cosmetic

All I could do was nod as I grabbed a black pouch containing my cosmetic products and sat facing the mirror on my window. Just as I got my mascara products and sat facing the mirror on my window. Just as I got my mascara tube opened, I heard a spritz go off before getting a waft of a new floral scent. tube opened, I heard a spritz go off before getting a waft of a new floral scent. It didn’t take a while before I heard the door open and close, but not before I It didn’t take a while before I heard the door open and close, but not before I heard a rushed wishing of luck thrown my way. I whispered a silent thank you heard a rushed wishing of luck thrown my way. I whispered a silent thank you in my mind to both my roommate, who just ran out, and this stranger I saw on in my mind to both my roommate, who just ran out, and this stranger I saw on

the internet some time ago, who once mentioned that a quick way to get your the internet some time ago, who once mentioned that a quick way to get your kempt brows done is to use black mascara. kempt brows done is to use black mascara.

I grabbed my phone, which I thankfully remembered to plug in despite I grabbed my phone, which I thankfully remembered to plug in despite rushing to the bathroom, and saw I would be written down as late five minutes rushing to the bathroom, and saw I would be written down as late five minutes from now. I could feel my insides forming knots as my right hand could barely from now. I could feel my insides forming knots as my right hand could barely hold the concealer wand in place. hold the concealer wand in place.

I felt myself starting to tear up and let out a frustrated sigh before blending I felt myself starting to tear up and let out a frustrated sigh before blending the liquid products on my face. Another glance at my charging phone confirmed the liquid products on my face. Another glance at my charging phone confirmed that I was indeed already late for class. I was tempted to send a quick message that I was indeed already late for class. I was tempted to send a quick message to my classmates just to ask if our professor was already in the classroom—but to my classmates just to ask if our professor was already in the classroom—but that would delay me even more as I was trying to put the right amount of liquid that would delay me even more as I was trying to put the right amount of liquid blush on my cheeks. I paused for a second, trying to steady my breathing as I blush on my cheeks. I paused for a second, trying to steady my breathing as I could feel my nerves getting all jittery again. After getting the last few products could feel my nerves getting all jittery again. After getting the last few products fixed on my face, I had to pause for another second just to look into my mirror fixed on my face, I had to pause for another second just to look into my mirror and smile. and smile.

“Half the time taken to prepare, still looking as good as ever,” I whispered

“Half the time taken to prepare, still looking as good as ever,” I whispered to myself before rushing once again to my closet, grabbing the skirt uniform I to myself before rushing once again to my closet, grabbing the skirt uniform I ironed the night prior. ironed the night prior.

A quick zip and clasp motion was all it took before I rushed, yet again, to

A quick zip and clasp motion was all it took before I rushed, yet again, to my bedside table and grabbed my bottle of perfume. my bedside table and grabbed my bottle of perfume. The sweet scent of The sweet scent of tropical fruit wafted through the air, along with the faint scents of flower and tropical fruit wafted through the air, along with the faint scents of flower and vanilla. It made me giggle a bit as I was trying to tame the mop of waves on my vanilla. It made me giggle a bit as I was trying to tame the mop of waves on my head with a white headband—thinking to myself how a person doesn’t even head with a white headband—thinking to myself how a person doesn’t even have to look through our things but merely smell our room to know girls occupy have to look through our things but merely smell our room to know girls occupy this space. this space.

I grabbed the mirror near my window, checking how I looked one last time I grabbed the mirror near my window, checking how I looked one last time before gathering the black pouch, my phone, and my charger. I then packed it before gathering the black pouch, my phone, and my charger. I then packed it along with the stuff I prepared in my bag the night before. A quick grab of my along with the stuff I prepared in my bag the night before. A quick grab of my water bottle and I was out the door, locking it before dashing four flights down water bottle and I was out the door, locking it before dashing four flights down our apartment—only pausing for a second or two to catch my breath when I our apartment—only pausing for a second or two to catch my breath when I reached the gate. Walking to the campus would take five minutes, so I opted to reached the gate. Walking to the campus would take five minutes, so I opted to hail a tricycle that conveniently just passed by in front of the apartment. Before I hail a tricycle that conveniently just passed by in front of the apartment. Before I ..

even got myself settled, the driver mentioned the name of the university I even got myself settled, the driver mentioned the name of the university I attended—I assumed based on my uniform. attended—I assumed based on my uniform.

He then proceeded to ask if I would like to be dropped by the front or back

He then proceeded to ask if I would like to be dropped by the front or back gate. gate.

“Front, please.” “Front, please.”

It was a fairly quick and quiet ride after that, merely taking a minute and a It was a fairly quick and quiet ride after that, merely taking a minute and a half. After giving the driver the exact amount, he gave a polite smile and a small half. After giving the driver the exact amount, he gave a polite smile and a small compliment my way—to which I nodded and mumbled a small thank you. I was compliment my way—to which I nodded and mumbled a small thank you. I was back to walking as fast as I could after the guard at the gate checked my bag back to walking as fast as I could after the guard at the gate checked my bag and mentioned how adorable my headband looked. Admittedly, the and mentioned how adorable my headband looked. Admittedly, the compliments I got so far helped calm my insides that I started to breathe compliments I got so far helped calm my insides that I started to breathe properly despite the mad dash I was making towards my room. properly despite the mad dash I was making towards my room.

Finally, my hand was on the handle of our classroom’s door, but for a

Finally, my hand was on the handle of our classroom’s door, but for a moment, I had to pause. My nerves started to get all tingly once again, and my moment, I had to pause. My nerves started to get all tingly once again, and my hands started to shake. I thought to myself that I knew I wouldn’t be excused, hands started to shake. I thought to myself that I knew I wouldn’t be excused, but should I lie as to why I’m late? Before I even formed a final decision, my hand but should I lie as to why I’m late? Before I even formed a final decision, my hand opened the door as if on instinct or perhaps in sheer panic—I honestly couldn’t opened the door as if on instinct or perhaps in sheer panic—I honestly couldn’t tell. tell.

“I- Well, where is…” I mumbled, my voice getting smaller as I barely even finished the sentence. finished the sentence.

“I- Well, where is…” I mumbled, my voice getting smaller as I barely even

This caused even more snickers and giggles here or there from my This caused even more snickers and giggles here or there from my classmates. I slowly made my way to my assigned seat as the rest of the class classmates. I slowly made my way to my assigned seat as the rest of the class went back to doing their own thing. I then looked at the person to my right, but I went back to doing their own thing. I then looked at the person to my right, but I didn’t even get to ask before she stopped me with a hand on my shoulder. didn’t even get to ask before she stopped me with a hand on my shoulder.

“First of all, super love your makeup today. Next, you never saw the email, “First of all, super love your makeup today. Next, you never saw the email, did you?” My classmate said, trying to stifle a giggle as she scrunched her brows, did you?” My classmate said, trying to stifle a giggle as she scrunched her brows, forcing a frowning yet agape mouth—seemingly trying to mock how I looked a forcing a frowning yet agape mouth—seemingly trying to mock how I looked a while ago. while ago.

“What email?” I asked while opening my bag to swiftly check my phone. Lo “What email?” I asked while opening my bag to swiftly check my phone. Lo and behold, there it was, our professor’s email telling us she was going to be and behold, there it was, our professor’s email telling us she was going to be thirty minutes late at most. thirty minutes late at most.

Before I even got to explain myself to my seatmate, the classroom door

Before I even got to explain myself to my seatmate, the classroom door opened, and there stood my professor looking as radiant and well-poised as opened, and there stood my professor looking as radiant and well-poised as ever. I assumed she had to head over to the bank for an emergency just as she ever. I assumed she had to head over to the bank for an emergency just as she did a few weeks ago, considering how well she’s dressed with makeup and hair did a few weeks ago, considering how well she’s dressed with makeup and hair done. A clearing of the throat got my attention back to our professor, now done. A clearing of the throat got my attention back to our professor, now standing behind her table and setting up her space. standing behind her table and setting up her space.

“Right, class, I’m truly sorry for arriving late today. Your professor forgot to “Right, class, I’m truly sorry for arriving late today. Your professor forgot to set her alarm clock last night, so you can guess what happened just this set her alarm clock last night, so you can guess what happened just this morning.” Our professor explained with a bashful smile on her face. morning.” Our professor explained with a bashful smile on her face.

A light laughter rang through the class as everyone started to get their space A light laughter rang through the class as everyone started to get their space set up as well. I opened my bag to get my pen and notebook while realizing the set up as well. I opened my bag to get my pen and notebook while realizing the irony of it all. A brief glance at my professor’s artificially pink-dusted cheeks irony of it all. A brief glance at my professor’s artificially pink-dusted cheeks elicited a smile on my rose-painted lips. A sigh escaped my lips as I discreetly elicited a smile on my rose-painted lips. A sigh escaped my lips as I discreetly shook my head. Before our professor started her lesson, she caught me staring shook my head. Before our professor started her lesson, she caught me staring at her well-kempt, slicked-back ponytail hair, to which she unconsciously fixed at her well-kempt, slicked-back ponytail hair, to which she unconsciously fixed the invisible out-of-place strands before smiling at me. the invisible out-of-place strands before smiling at me.

“I like your little headband. It’s nice. Looks like someone woke up early to look

“I like your little headband. It’s nice. Looks like someone woke up early to look extra cute today.” extra cute today.”

Her words caused fits of chuckles from the class as I returned the bashful Her words caused fits of chuckles from the class as I returned the bashful smile she had given us just a few moments ago before explaining. smile she had given us just a few moments ago before explaining.

“I actually went in a few minutes just before you did, Ma’am.” Light laughter

“I actually went in a few minutes just before you did, Ma’am.” Light laughter rang again across the room as my professor gave me an assessing look before rang again across the room as my professor gave me an assessing look before nodding and chuckling as well. nodding and chuckling as well.

Before starting with her lesson, she gave me one more approving look, a Before starting with her lesson, she gave me one more approving look, a subtle hand gesture to the face, and smiled. It was a smile that only we two, or subtle hand gesture to the face, and smiled. It was a smile that only we two, or perhaps the women in the room as well, understood completely. perhaps the women in the room as well, understood completely.

Like the varied petals of a blossoming garden, we, as women, each possess unique facets that authentically reflect our identities. In the delicate forms of a flower, one finds a reflection of humanity itself, for within every bloom lies a narrative of beauty. But what does beauty mean? Is it merely skin deep, or does it definethedepthsofone'ssoul?

The uniqueness of a flower mirrors the essence of womanhood. How do you define a woman? Is it merely the physical attributes that society distinguishes from man? Or the myriad experiences and challenges that shape her journey? Amidst the fluidity of life's chapters, one constant remains: change. In every phase of a woman's life, she undergoes a metamorphosis, emerging stronger and more resilient with each passing trial. Going through different stages, we slowly grow and become what we want to become. Growth, like a slow-paced love song, unfolds gradually as we navigate the labyrinth of self-discovery, embracing the revelations unearthedwitheachpassingday.

WhatItMeans T LikeTheBeau

uToBeAWoman, tyOfAFlower

by Claire LunethDeomampo

A Love Letter To My Girls

by Andree Sibonga

T This is a love letter to my girls

his is a love letter to my girls

An ode for the women in my life

An ode for the women in my life

You all made me who I am

You all made me who I am

To say I'm grateful doesn't suffice

To say I'm grateful doesn't suffice

To my mother, my first teacher

To my mother, my first teacher

A great educator and role model

A great educator and role model

From you, I learned to persevere

From you, I learned to persevere

And to always rise up to my potential

And to always rise up to my potential

Your firm words and constant presence

Your firm words and constant presence

Motivates me to get up and try again

Motivates me to get up and try again

Whenever I get lost in my doubtful head

Whenever I get lost in my doubtful head

I will always remember your resilience I will always remember your resilience

To my sisters, Rein and Ez

To my sisters, Rein and Ez

My sources of joy and pride, My sources of joy and pride,

I lean on you both for the strength I lean on you both for the strength and the comfort and love you provide and the comfort and love you provide

Both stand strong amidst scrutiny

Both stand strong amidst scrutiny

With lively personalities to match

With lively personalities to match

Pushing me to never settle for less

Pushing me to never settle for less

And that I deserve better than what I And that I deserve better than what I have have

To my best girlfriends, old and new

To my best girlfriends, old and new

Life's problems may get in the way Life's problems may get in the way

But I hold you all close to my heart

But I hold you all close to my heart

Communications cut short or subdued

Communications cut short or subdued

From lighthearted compliments From lighthearted compliments

To brutally honest advice

To brutally honest advice

You've all been trusty confidants

You've all been trusty confidants

And I'll always treasure our time And I'll always treasure our time

The girl who once stuttered and stared

The girl who once stuttered and stared

Too anxious to take opportunities

Too anxious to take opportunities

I've come out of my shell ‘cause of you

I've come out of my shell ‘cause of you all all

Adopting your kindness and tenacity

Adopting your kindness and tenacity

To the women who made me who I am

To the women who made me who I am

I now have bettered myself and grew

I now have bettered myself and grew

Believing in my capabilities no matter

Believing in my capabilities no matter what, what,

I'll spend my whole life being thankful

I'll spend my whole life being thankful for all of you for all of you

Skin & Bone

by Andre Ysabelle Costañemo

ver since I was little, I’ve always felt like I am made up of clay that has ver since I was little, I’ve always felt like I am made up of clay that has been laid out in the sun for too long, with brittle wooden sticks as makeshift been laid out in the sun for too long, with brittle wooden sticks as makeshift bones. Molded into the shape of Eve—the fruit takes its place in my chest and bones. Molded into the shape of Eve—the fruit takes its place in my chest and between my hips. However, it does not hold its shape for long. My skin between my hips. However, it does not hold its shape for long. My skin stretches and inflates and peels off, and I’m not five anymore. The mirror in my stretches and inflates and peels off, and I’m not five anymore. The mirror in my room is replaced by the ones they use in carnivals, and the clothes I bought a room is replaced by the ones they use in carnivals, and the clothes I bought a month ago stretch around my hips. I go to school with an ache in my chest as month ago stretch around my hips. I go to school with an ache in my chest as my skin feels like it is being tightly wrapped in plastic. Now, every task is a my skin feels like it is being tightly wrapped in plastic. Now, every task is a chore as I struggle to bend down to pick up a pen. Like hummingbirds, boys chore as I struggle to bend down to pick up a pen. Like hummingbirds, boys snicker and smirk, throwing snide remarks about my jeans. I then mistook their snicker and smirk, throwing snide remarks about my jeans. I then mistook their glare for knives and stones—to pick me apart for the change in my body. But I glare for knives and stones—to pick me apart for the change in my body. But I soon realized that hungry beasts can’t hide behind their weapons for long. soon realized that hungry beasts can’t hide behind their weapons for long.

Trivial thoughts that would’ve disappeared in a breath now eat up my entire

Trivial thoughts that would’ve disappeared in a breath now eat up my entire being. The fruit that is now ripe leaves trails of sticky, sweet air around me, and being. The fruit that is now ripe leaves trails of sticky, sweet air around me, and follows me in cubicles I hide in at lunchtime. At night, with tear-stained it follows me in cubicles I hide in at lunchtime. At night, with tear-stained cheeks, I pray for machines and curse the passing of time. I curse the cheeks, I pray for machines and curse the passing of time. I curse the time that takes me and my body within its tight grasp toward the threshold after innocence and naivety. I curse the threshold after innocence and naivety. I curse the time that replaced my anxiousness over pretty time that replaced my anxiousness over pretty that wouldn’t fit me turn to the fear of clothes that wouldn’t fit me turn to the fear of clothes that would fit me just right for them to see. clothes that would fit me just right for them to see.

see a girl who is now a woman and for them

To see a girl who is now a woman and for them to mistake it for an invitation. With every second to mistake it for an invitation. With every second I’ve had the urge to carve my body with a knife, I’ve had the urge to carve my body with a knife, there’s a bigger one that uses it to cut a piece of there’s a bigger one that uses it to cut a piece of me and make it their meal. me and make it their meal.

Fe-Male Generation

by Claire Luneth Deomampo

In this generation, where the resounding voices of women resound around us, illuminating the shadows of silence and offering solace to the marginalized, there emerges a narrative steepedinresilienceanddetermination.It is a narrative that finds its genesis in the corridors of history, where the echoes of the first wave of feminism, born amidst the tumult of industrialization and the fervor of progressive ideologies, still linger.

Born from the desire to open up opportunities for women, one of its first beginnings started at the Seneca Falls Convention of 1848. Here, amidst the gathering of three hundred men and womenalike,therallyforgenderequality was first sounded, setting in motion a tidal wave of change that would echo across ages. From this moment on, the waves of feminism surged, each iteration building upon the foundations laid by its predecessors.

Amidst these ripples of change, the term "Fe-Male Generation" emerges as a symbol of inclusivity, a testament to the collaborativespiritunderpinningthequest for equality, and a poignant reminder of the inclusivity inherent in the movement. It transcends the boundaries of gender, beckoningbothmenandwomentostand shoulder to shoulder in the pursuit of a shared vision. As the ranks of feminists swell across generations, a sense of solidarity permeates the struggle for rights and justice, fostering an environment wherein stereotypes and biasesfindnoplace.

Together, we wield the power to sculpt a world wherein gender ceases to be a determinant of opportunity or influence.Aswestand,wedrawstrength from the legacy of those who came before us and paved the way for generations yet unborn. In this ongoing saga of empowerment, let us be the architects of change where equality rings true for all. There is no end to our beginning; let us continue to walk on our path to success as prideful feminists and become role models for the next generation.

by Aldianne Champagne Tamayo by Aldianne Champagne Tamayo

Amelia's first memory of picture day was when her kindergarten class took was when her kindergarten class took their class photo. It was rowdy and their class photo. It was rowdy and chaotic, as one can expect from a bunch chaotic, as one can expect from a bunch of hyperactive kids told to sit still for a of hyperactive kids told to sit still for a few moments. She was no different, as few moments. She was no different, as Amelia was also missing a front tooth Amelia was also missing a front tooth from colliding face-first with a tree. from colliding face-first with a tree. Nevertheless,shebeamedaswideasshe Nevertheless,shebeamedaswideasshe could,asitwasamomentthatsheknows could,asitwasamomentthatsheknows willcarryhersmileforever. willcarryhersmileforever.

It was in high school that she started It was in high school that she started dreading picture day. Looking back, she dreading picture day. Looking back, she neverhadafightingchancetobeginwith. neverhadafightingchancetobeginwith.

As photos were taken to capture a As photos were taken to capture a certain fragment of time, it was hard to certain fragment of time, it was hard to argue that this was only a fabrication of argue that this was only a fabrication of reality. The deep fake photo of her reality. The deep fake photo of her spread like wildfire, causing irreversible spread like wildfire, causing irreversible damage that left no crumbs in its wake. damage that left no crumbs in its wake. "Boys will always be boys," the teacher "Boys will always be boys," the teacher announced with such mirth as the class announced with such mirth as the class jeered and wolf-whistled. It was but a jeered and wolf-whistled. It was but a cruel joke, they said, as teenage boys do cruel joke, they said, as teenage boys do stupid stuff in the heat of the moment. stupid stuff in the heat of the moment. However, the internet never forgets. It However, the internet never forgets. It immortalizes everything it consumes, and immortalizes everything it consumes, and the body of a stranger will forever be the body of a stranger will forever be associatedwithhers. associatedwithhers.

In a split second, everyone within her orbit strayed away. It was easier to point orbit strayed away. It was easier to point fingers than to be associated with a bad fingers than to be associated with a bad seed.Themostharrowingofallwerethe seed.Themostharrowingofallwerethe eyes that followed her, seemingly eyes that followed her, seemingly undressingherwiththeirstares.Whispers undressingherwiththeirstares.Whispers tailed her every step, getting fainter as tailed her every step, getting fainter as she climbed the steps to the rooftop. As she climbed the steps to the rooftop. As soon as the bell rang, the students soon as the bell rang, the students trickled out of the school doors, carefree trickled out of the school doors, carefree and unassuming. She thought it was and unassuming. She thought it was foolishofthemtobelievetheyweresafe. foolishofthemtobelievetheyweresafe.

In a split second, everyone within her

As long as a clear picture exists on the

As long as a clear picture exists on the internet,anyonecanbeontheotherside internet,anyonecanbeontheotherside ofthescreen. ofthescreen.

Amelia closed her eyes and took a

Amelia closed her eyes and took a step. It was a picture-perfect day; the step. It was a picture-perfect day; the weather was agreeable, the flowers weather was agreeable, the flowers bloomed, and the sun gave soft kisses. bloomed, and the sun gave soft kisses. However, that day, the blue skies, green However, that day, the blue skies, green meadows, and the light breeze stopped meadows, and the light breeze stopped asshepaintedtheearthred. asshepaintedtheearthred.

Intheend,allittakesisoneclearpicture. Intheend,allittakesisoneclearpicture.

Sugar n’ Spice

by: Ella Marie Quilo

What does love mean?

What makes it so prominent in our daily lives that it becomes the force behind the most impactful human endeavors? Why does it drive us to seek connection? How does love even form to begin with? To love your family, to love your friends, to love your community, and to love yourself. It was easy to define those things, actually. You prioritize them and give them ample attention because you know in your heart that those people are genuine towards you. But what about romantic love? What makes it so different? Why is it something that makes people so euphoric, making it such a priority above any other type of love?

Illustration by Ysa Costanemo

Evangeline tapped her finger on the desk as she stared into space. The question echoed in her mind, fueled by a recent romance article from her school's gossip column. It wasn't that big of a deal, but she's only starting to realize how there isn't any guy who lasted a week with her. She takes her phone out and starts skimming through her apps, hoping for an answer from the divine technology.

"According to Google, love is, in obvious terms, an intense feeling of deep affection. According to the newly introduced ChatGPT, love is personal and subjective. But what does love mean to me?" she muttered to herself, more to fill the empty air than to get an answer. Her friends, the people supposedly listening, were too engrossed in someone's Instagram profile.

Evangeline clicked her tongue at the scene in front of her.

"I'm clearly talking to the wrong group of people," she snides.

One of the girls groaned. "You've been fixating on the concept of love for God knows how long, even before that lame article," she turned her phone towards Evangeline to show the screen, the same Instagram profile her friends kept staring at. "It's time to do some field work."

Evangeline raised an eyebrow. Easier said than done, she thought. The guy was conventionally attractive, with different angles of his muscles displayed on his Instagram highlights. She'd been introduced to other men before and even had encounters of her own accord, but none stirred her heart. Was there something wrong with her? He was apparently handsome to her friends. Why wasn't she, like the other teenagers, swept up in the romance of dating these boys?

"I'll pass," she sighed, turning away from the phone.

"Wouldn't it be easier to find your answer to this love dilemma you have if you actually try being with someone?" One of her other friends finally spoke, slightly frustrated at Evangeline's all-bark-no-bite crisis about love.

"I can hear your thoughts, Evie. Don't dwell on it too much if you really don't like this guy. There's nothing wrong with pursuing what's best for you," another chimed.

Evangeline responds, "I'm not even sure if there's a best for me."

Her voice sounded defeated, but she didn't prolong the mood. She shrugged off the conversation and turned to the opposite side of her friends.

As she turned around, she was greeted by a girl humming to a particular tune playing on her AirPods. She didn't even realize that someone was sitting next to her. The girl's presence was so subtle, almost invisible. She hummed in a hushed tone, but now that Evangeline noticed her, she recognized what the other girl was singing to.

The melody the girl hummed was all too familiar—Denise Julia's song, the one Evangeline had watched the night before. It was a song about loving another woman, a concept that had never crossed Evangeline's mind until then. That was something that never lingered in her mind. Ever.

The fact that the other girl sitting next to her was listening to that very song made her heart skip a beat. Evangeline wasn't the type to think irrationally about her actions, but every gut feeling was telling her to speak.

She swallowed deep before talking. "Sugar n' Spice?"

The girl was startled, removing her AirPods. "What?" she asked, unsure if Evangeline was talking to her. "I was asking if you were listening to Sugar n' Spice, that Denise Julia song," Evangeline clarified.

The other girl was a bit stunned.

"Oh," was all that the girl could muster. Then, she cleared her throat as if trying to compose herself in her seat. "Yeah, it's that song. Have you listened to it?" says the girl, but it is as if she says it in a manner that she wants to know if Evangeline listens to the song. Listen, in a way, a girl yearns for another of her kind.

Evangeline was starting to get amused by this interaction, but simultaneously, the innuendo slightly scared her. She was stepping into unknown territory, one that she hadn't even lingered for that long yet.

The girl stared at her blankly, but Evangeline saw the eagerness to know her response in her eyes. Evangeline also wanted to see her reaction, albeit not knowing why.

Slowly nodding, Evangeline felt a sense of revelation as the girl's lips curved into a relieved smile. They didn't need to say much; their understanding was unspoken, a silent bond forming between them.

"I'm Ev-"

"Evangeline, I know," the other girl interrupts her. She looked at Evangeline amusingly. She seemed already familiar with Evangeline, but the latter knew nothing about her until today. Evangeline wore the shame on her face.

"I'm Aliyah," she says. Ring. Ring. The school bell rang, cutting their moment short. She slipped a note onto Evangeline's desk before turning to focus on the teacher.

Curious, Evangeline glanced at the note—a phone number and a little heart drawn in the corner. Her heart fluttered at the gesture, unsure how to process the sudden rush of emotions.

She hears someone clearing their throat behind her. A knowing smile from one of her friends caught her off guard. "What?" Evangeline asked, feeling a blush creep up her cheeks. She immediately hides the paper in her pocket as if caught red-handed.

It looked like her friend wanted to laugh but decided otherwise. Instead, she shook her head and turned her attention back to the teacher.

"Nothing," her friend vaguely replied as if she held a secret that Evangeline was only just beginning to uncover.

Copyright © 2024 by The Nightingale