The Apprentice | The Official English Publication of Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School 2022

The Accountancy, Business and Management

(ABM) student who graduated with highest honors expressed this with myriad of emotions during the face-to-face senior high school graduation rites at the RMCHS covered court on June 30.

The 19-year-old faced and inspired her fellow graduates and spoke with gratefulness and humility what she went through as a child and student before that moment never pictured in her mind would become a reality.

Mary Rose Esguerra, who dropped out of school in Grade 3, embodied the theme of the graduation ceremonies, “K to 12 Graduates: Pursuing Dreams and Fostering Resilience in the face of Adversity”.

Nandito na tayo sa exciting part! - Esguerra

“Sometimes, we question the Lord about our failing plans, prolonged waiting games, and stagnant seasons. But I stand here as living proof that He will provide His children with a bigger and greater blessing at the right time and at the right place,” Esguerra said.

She even added she had to quit school when she was in Grade 3 because her parents could not provide for her studies anymore.

“I had so many thoughts in mind left unsaid. Nakakainggit! Ma, Pa, bakit sila malayang mangarap? Bakit ko ‘to kailangang maranasan sa murang edad? But right now, seeing everyone proudly wearing their toga goes to show that rather than letting the adversity decide for us, we chose to be resilient. We chose to turn challenges into

opportunities. We chose to take a leap of faith,” she spoke in high spirit.

She stressed that they all have their fair share of troubles coming du their circumstances. In their unique way which hindered and narrowed down their choices in life but followed it up with words of encouragement, “Focus lang sa goal! To those who bravely take huge steps to pursue their dreams, I believe in you! To those who are still uncertain about their next step, I believe in you! To those who fostered resiliency at times of difficulty, I believe in you!”

Esguerra, a valedictorian in grade school, who is set to pursue Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management and Entrepreneurship at the University of the Philippines, Los Baños

ended by thanking her family, friends, schoolmates, teachers, mentors and God who ignited her passion, pushed her to achieve excellence, and encouraged her to sustain her perseverance.

Incidentally, 523 senior high school graduates composed of 168 Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), 120 Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM), 109 General Academic Strand (GAS) and 126 Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) attended the first faceto-face graduation in two years due to the health crisis.

Mrs. Perlita Depatillo (Public Schools Division Supervisor), Mrs. Ruby U. De Jesus (Principal IV), department heads, faculty and parents attended the event.

More students receive booster shots

In preparation for the implementation of full face-to-face class in November, the Quezon City government administered Pfizer booster shots to 306 students, aged 12 -17.

The city’s vaccination cluster, in coordination with Barangay Pinagkaisahan led by Brgy. Capt. Dab Saab, Guardians Students Parents Teachers Association (GSPTA) headed by GSPTA Pres. Haydee Bautista, conducted the vaccination at Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School (RMCHS) covered court on July 27.

“Yun ang kagandahan, itong Barangay Pinagkaisahan nakasupport naman dahil malaki ang school na ito at malaki ang venue, marami ang estudyante ng Ramon so alam na kung bakit dito pinili,” GSPTA Pres. Bautista mentioned.

When asked if the LGU would conduct another inoculation in the school, she said, “Nakadepende ‘yan sa kung ilan ang ma-accommodate as of now kasi may record naman ang ating City Health Office for that. Ako’y biglang nangiti, siguro nakita naman na very accommodating ang mga naririto not only the barangay officials but also ang pamunuan ng RMCHS at the same time GSPTA na lagi namang nandito and the staff of Councilor Irene Belmonte na alam naman nating very supportive, one of our very active councilors in District IV.”

Addressing her fellow graduates, Mary Rose Esguerra expresses emotions through her movements and the way she holds the microphone.

Photo courtesy of Maru Bague Paredes

Angel Nicole Martin

Ryann Gerard Papa

One of the 306 teens receives a booster shot from a member of QC vaccination cluster.

Photo by Ryann Gerard Papa

Hundredsofgraduates,togetherwiththeirparentsandschool personnel,havegatheredattheschoolquadrangleforthefirstfaceto-facegraduationintwoyears.PhotobyMarkJonelAbad

The Apprentice | Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School

67 STEM students qualify for DOSTSEI S&T Scholarship

Lovely Joy Camba

June 12 proves to be more than a day of independence but a day of blessing to some Ramonians.

A total of 67 Ramonians who have high aptitude in science were included in this year’s batch of scholars released by the Department of Science and TechnologyScience Education Institute (DOST-SEI).

They are set to enter college this school year 2022-2023 as new scholars of DOST-SEI.

They shall enjoy the benefits of the scholarship for the entire duration of their programs of study.

They shall receive a monthly stipend of P7,000, tuition fee subsidy of up to P40,000 per school year for those who shall enroll in private colleges and universities, learning materials or connectivity allowance, one-time clothing allowance, one economy-class roundtrip fare per academic year for those who will enroll outside their provinces; group health and accident insurance.

The DOST conducted the selection of qualifiers through E-Scholarship Application System which gathered student’s grades from Grade 9-10 and documents serving as the basis for evaluation. This process has been implemented for the last two years due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Meanwhile, 25 out of the 67 scholars were former Science, Technology and Engineering (STE) Program junior high school students.

1. Abas, Jumael

2. Adriatico, Jordan

3. Asis, John Lloyd

4. Baetiong, Rian Jewel

5. Baltazar, Julius Karl

6. Baluyot, Alyana

7. Banaag, Clarence

8. Barral, Kurt Rance Lenald V

9. Baustista, Jaizel Hope

10. Bautista, Joric Ivan

11. Bonador, Mechaella Bianca

12. Braga, Carla Angela

13. Bringula, Mikaela

14. Cabana, Jhasmin Mae

15. Caballero, Raiza Gencia

16. Cadapan, Jan Guiler

17. Cadizal, Catherine

18. Caguioa, John Vincent

19. Calagui, Carolyn Marie

20. Calvez, John Harrold

21.Camba, Lovely Joy

22. Caralos, Benedict

23. Cariaso, Michael Uriel

24. Cobilla, Charry May

25. Coy-yao, Johanna Kirsten 26. Chavez, Clarence 27. Dacara, Frederick

28. De Lima, Anna Janine

29. Deoso, Cyreen

30. Ele, Julius Rafael

31. Espina, Romie Brian

32. Gajete, Jan Ericka

33. Gali, John Gabriel

34. Gorpido, Arlene

august 2021-July 2022

SDO-QC honors Teneza and Bien

Julius Karl Baltazar

Mr. Mario Teneza and Mrs. Gloria Bien received recognition at the 2021 Gawad Parangal for Awarding Ceremony for Teaching Personnel held at Great Eastern Hotel, Quezon City on December 17.

Mr. Mario Teneza, Guidance Counselor and Mrs. Gloria Bien, Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao Department Head were awarded Outstanding Guidance Counselor and Outstanding Head Teacher, respectively, under the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) through the Schools Division Office – Quezon City (SDO-QC).

Both showed exemplary dedication, competence and meritorious services which contributed to the delivery of quality education and excellence in the division.

“It’s a validation of my work. It’s a big honor for me and not only for me but also for the institution I represent, RMCHS, that we are one of the best public schools in Quezon City. It’s a validation that we really are.” our Guidance Counselor said.

Mrs. Bien, a teacher for 20 years before becoming a head teacher, said, “I have proven it is worth it to be a teacher. It’s a privilege for me to give glory to Ramon Magsaysay that is noted for its excellence.”

Both Mr. Teneza and Mrs. Bien passed through a screening and evaluation process from the district level to qualify where both of them were the unanimous choice to represent District IV in the division level competition.

According to Mrs. Bien, she was hesitant to join because she had already received Outstanding Teacher Award in 2010 and Dangal ng Kababaihan.

Meanwhile, PRAISE aimed to encourage, recognize and reward employees for their suggestions, innovative ideas, inventions, discoveries, superior accomplishments, heroic deeds, exemplary behavior, extraordinary acts or services in the public interest and other personal efforts contributing to efficiency, economy and improvement in government operations which lead to organizational productivity.

Math cons bag awards

35. Gravidez, Ellen Sheene

Inocencio, Kae Denise

Jetajobe, Samru Estephen

Lada, Kyle Stephen

Leguarda, Glenda

Leron, Glenn Allan

Lomiteng, Janry Michael

Lucero, Christian

Lugto, Marcus Josuel

Manabat, Jervie

Manimtim, Rian Mae

Mansit, Johann Carlo

Martin, Angel Nicole

Mentoda, Catherine

Mendoza, Khlowee

Natial, Hilario

Nuas, Maria Angelika

Nunez, Joshielle

Nunez, Joshua

Oliquiano, Marielle Ann

Melanie

Anthony Lee Aleister

Rafael

Jan Xyrus Gabriel

Lyannah Xylen

Yalisha

Leonice

Three junior high school students and one senior high student emerged as winners in the Division Final Sipnayan v.3.1416, “Tagisan ng Talino”, Math Quiz Bee in the New Normal held via Google Meet on March 16.

In the individual category, Jae Venice A. Reyes, Grade 10 - G. Zara, won first place; while, Mary Catherine D. De Jesus, Grade 9 - A. Santos; Aubrey C. Gayon, Grade 8 - F. Del Mundo; and Jeremiah M. Sarenas, Grade 11 STEM- Euclid; won second place, respectively.

Sipnayan highlights the value of mathematics and recognizes the brilliance of young mathematicians is an annual competition that gathers Grade 7- Grade 12 students who excel in numbers, both oral and written. Reyes, one of the junior high school contestants, could not believe that she had won when she saw her certificate flashed on the screen. “Ma’am, legit po ba yan?” she asked Mrs. Melvic Borja.

All winners received a certificate of recognition.

In the district level, they also harvested awards in the same category. De Jesus, Reyes and Sarenas bagged first place while Gayon brought home second place.

Incidentally, Melvic C. Borja, Ronald A. Borja, Mary Ann M. Monis, Luz M. Maraggun and Anthony Victor C. Cabantac served as their coaches.

Brgy. Pinagkaisahan reaches out to constituents

To provide health care service to the residents of the barangay who were unable to visit hospitals or health centers due to the threat of COVID-19 was the main focus of the mission.

Barangay Pinagkaisahan through the initiative of former Brgy. Capt. Vincent Saab, in coordination with Barangay Captain Dab Saab, the First Filipino Foundation, medical practitioners and RMCHS, conducted the medical mission held at the RMCHS covered court on July 6.

Some 146 beneficiaries composed of residents, students, teachers, and parents received medical services such as blood testing, laboratory testing, urinalysis, Electrocardiography (ECG), haircut and facial.

The good turnout of beneficiaries made the organizers glad since they really wanted their constituents to be health conscious.

“We wanted talaga na maraming maging conscious sa kanilang health,” she expressed.

Furthermore, the barangay would like to encourage more residents to participate in other medical missions which they plan to conduct quarterly.

Here is the list of new DOST-SEI S&T scholars.

Angel Nicole Martin

(From left) Mr. Mario Teneza and Mrs. Gloria Bien (second from right) pose for a picture with two other awardees.

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Gloria Bien

Chloe Mae Estanislao

Volunteers start attending to the needs of their patients.

Photo by Ryann Gerard Papa

The Apprentice | Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School august 2021-July 2022

Batch '96 gives back to alma mater

“Iam a leader with a heart and I believe in the capacity of every member,” the president of the batch said in an interview.

Batch ’96 President Nanette Espedido readily answered questions regarding the Zumba dubbed “Indak Mo, Tulong Mo” at the RMCHS covered court on Saturday, July 23.

According to her, the activity with the price ticket of P250 was a fund-raising to be able to provide assistance to deserving Ramonians.

She did add that it was also meant to promote fitness and wellness while, batch VicePresident Michael Monces even stated that the participants did find the activity amazing and enjoyable.

As they wanted a big number of participants, they even invited former Universal Motion Dancers (UMD) and Kidz at Work dancers to lead the Zumba fitness activity

and opened it to other batches.

“Our batch wants a collaboration with others including the students,” Espedido added.

In connection, she mentioned that they are looking forward to having more of the fitness activity depending on the availability of the Zumba instructors.

Meanwhile, the batch has lined up other projects like donation of trash can (Shoot that Kalat), bike racks, mental health seminar, scholarship grant (Grade 7 – 12; two scholars for each grade level), sports invitational events and theater arts training which will be implemented as soon as the officers give their approval.

“The team work is very solid when it comes to our batch officers. Everyone has a task to perform.” she added.

MonSCI wins in science fair

Lovely Joy Camba

And the winning streak continues...

Grade 10 STEP students proved to be strong both in research and video making as they emerged victorious in the virtual Division Science and Technology Fair (NSTF) 2022 with the theme, “Expanding the Horizon: Futures of STEM”, on June 13-15.

Five out of the six entries in three categories called Likha, Siyensikula and #STEMtokperiments received awards.

Michael Aerol Balce, Grade 10 - G. Zara, won second place in Siyensikula with his video creation entitled “Time Dilation”.

Likha Robotics and Intelligent Machine Team entry called “Motion Sensor for Hand Detection, Face Masks and Alcohol Dispenser” by Dion David Fabalina, Erika Antonio, Grade 10- P. Campos; Ryza Mae Laviña, Kyrsten Joy Quiming, and Tiffany Reyes, Grade 10- F. Quisumbing; placed third.

The Likha-Life Science entries of Harry Angelo H.Villegas, Grade 10-P. Campos; Maria Dhaniella R. Regunda, Alexa D. Manaois, and Janel Micaella L. Custodio, Grade 10- F. Quisumbing; entitled “ Efficacy of Katchamita Mango (Mangifera altissima) and Pumpkin Seeds (Cucurbita maxima) and “Asian Green Mussels

GAD seeds a planting project

Gender and Development (GAD) pledges commitment to Child-Friendly School System (CFSS)!

(Pema viridis) Shells as Biosorbent for Oil Spill Response in Water” of Jasmine S. Arances, Nayomi L. Polo, Ayaka Taniguchi, and Jae Venice A. Reyes, Grade 10- G. Zara; won fourth place.

For the individual category, Michelle Louise Sandagan of Grade 10- F. Quisumbing bagged fifth place with her “Gallstones Dissolving Capacity of Turmeric Root (Curcuma longa) in Vitro”.

Their coach was Ms. Jeanne Marie Tenchavez.

Meanwhile when Dr. Angelito B. Arce, OIC of the Science Department, was asked how they prepared for the competition, he simply stated that the research proposal was part of their research subject and the students had already made their proposals, which were screened by their research adviser although, they had to do multi-tasking as they also worked on learning tasks in other subjects.

Incidentally, NSTF 2022 aimed to empower the youth and cultivate innovation, and creativity amid the changing world, and to showcase the competence of the learners in addressing community problems for sustainable development and maximize their potential of being inquisitive and creative in dealing with real-life problems.

GAD arm will launch a seed-giving program called Sustainable Stewardship of Resources in School and Community, in collaboration with the Brigada Eskwela 2022 committee spearheaded by Rocelyn Calinawan, MAPEH Teacher III.

75 packages of seeds will be distributed to the students to be planted around the school.

The head of GAD, Mrs. Gloria Bien said, “Sustainability is something we need to look forward to and it has something to do with our resources, the environment.”

She added, “Ang ating environment ay may malaking factor sa ating gender and development. I am supporting the advocacy of equality with sustainability.”

The focus of this project will be the incoming Grade 7 students who shall be asked to track their seed growth and progress.

GAD will award the most outstanding Grade 7 students for embracing the advocacy and the spirit of volunteerism on March 2023.

Meanwhile, other GAD activities and concerns for SY 2022-2023 such as orientations and seminars to be participated in by parents and students will mostly focus on Sexual Orient -ation and Gender Identity Expression (SOGIE), gender inequality, and sex education to promote gender sensitivity in the campus will be conducted virtually.

Batch '69 holds webinar cervical awareness and prevention

To spread awareness about cervical cancer to Ramonians, despite the challenges of online modality, was the main goal of the webinar conducted via Zoom on May 31.

Batch ’69 Alumni Association entitled the webinar as Cervical Cancer Awareness and Prevention Project.

The webinar which was attended by 70 participants was focused on two major topics: cervical cancer as an illness and its risk factors, signs and symptoms and ways of screening cancer symptoms and education about sex and proper ways of taking care of the woman’s body.

According to the first resource speaker, Dr. Rachel DiomampoWico, M.D., a Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist and Ob Gyn Ultrasound sub specialist Medical Officer IV at Batangas Medical Center, cervical cancer was the fourth most common cancer in women and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) was responsible for

nearly 50% of high grade cervical cancer.

Dr. Diomampo-Wico emphasized that cervical cancer could be detected early by taking some screening methods like Cytology, HPV DNA testing, or Visual Inspection and taking HPV vaccines was highly recommended.

Second resource speaker, Dr. Devina Lupe Lazaro, talked about the importance of sex education and shared information about free vaccinations and screening of HPV and cervical cancer.

Students, teachers and parents who attended the webinar were given the chance to be part of the open forum where they were given time to ask questions.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Maricor Wall hosted the virtual event and introduced the program outline and objectives.

Mrs. Ma. Gina A. Anama, English Department Head, gave the opening remarks.

From page 2

Meanwhile, Brgy. Capt. Dab expressed her gratitude to the school for the accommodation and use of the covered court.

“I would like to thank Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School headed by our

very good principal, Ma’am Ruby U. De Jesus. She allowed us to conduct the medical mission in the covered court yesterday. Ang laking tulong ng Ramon Magsaysay sa Barangay Pinagkaisahan,” she said.

Ryann Gerard Papa

Julius Karl Baltazar

Angel Nicole Martin

Officers and members of Alumni Association Batch ‘96 enjoy dancing zumba with their zumba instructors.

Courtesy of Michael Monces

Courtesy

Residents, teachers and parents wait for their turn to receive medical services during the medical mission conducted by Barangay Pinagkaisahan at RMCHS covered court.

Photo by Ryann Gerard Papa

PEARL OF THE SEAS REORIENT THE Editorial

May9 was the much awaited national elections. Millions of Filipinos, young and old, went out to cast their votes. It was expected to be a game-changing moment for the entire nation. Many hoped it would be one of the country’s most historically significant election in the present times.

Three years has passed since the Covid-19 pandemic began. It has affected the whole world and the Philippines is not exempted. Then President Rodrigo Duterte and his administration were constantly subjected to doubts and flak due to questionable decisions and plans made not only regarding the pandemic but also about other issues and concerns the country faced.

This was one legitimate reason that made the national elections significant. Filipinos hungered for changes and redemption. They endured three years of isolation. They suffered financially,emotionally, psychologically and physically due to the health crisis. All these fueled their desire to vote and to hope for transformations.

Noticeably, the political climate started to change. Filipinos became more active and vocal on social media since they had been forcefully ushered into the era of the virtual world. News, information, and issues spread faster. This made the elections highly publicized; however, with the fast communication also came the fast spread of fake news and disinformation which made elections controversial. Vote-buying, troll farming to outright making of defamation made the whole election similar to a b-list movie. It seemed no politician could be immediately trusted. Everyone had hidden agendas. Did history just repeat itself?

Socrates once said that he hated Democracy for the same reason that it was loved. It was because of the people. People were easily fooled by demagogues and charlatans roaming about. People easily believed what they saw and heard. With flowery words, quick wit and money, politicians easily gained votes. The social media and the internet intensified this effect to an unimaginable extent.

With enough influence, people could twist the truth and could create a “reality” they wanted. It was also the era of information overload. So much so that it was seemingly impossible to discern what was real or what was fake. A large factor to it was because of the illiteracy of Filipinos. They had no sufficient knowledge when it came to things that mattered the most; they could easily be taken advantage of. They had no means to understand and digest information properly.

This was precisely why the elections stood to be one of the most important and needed.

Now, the country has a new president…

Will the new president make the right decisions? Is he capable of facing adversities for his people? Should Filipinos say, “Whether we like him or not, we should be one with him if it concerns the welfare of the country and the people.”?

Hard to keep up

Rhema Pearl Taeza

Twoyears in the online class has never been easy. Almost everything is new and everyone seems to groping in the dark.

As schools try to adapt to the new normal of online learning, students’ academic success and progression become at risk. All day stuck on the screen while being drowned with academic requirements that feel so endless. Being able to attend and do academics seem like a privilege. Considering not everyone has the access to fast and stable internet and not everyone has the luxury of time to attend online classes due to other responsibilities given to them at home even when education should have really been a priority.

Students fail to attend to their academic responsibilities, leading to non-compliance. Those who used to be academic achievers become less and less active during the onset of online classes. Why? A number of possible reasons are at hand but great emphasis is on the lack of motivation. The longtime lockdown with less face-to-face interaction is the reason for motivation going to ground zero. All social media platforms made available of interaction are nothing compared to physical interaction. Concentration has also gotten more difficult. Students find it challenging to maintain their attention span during lectures when they are staring at a screen all day without teacher directions. Distraction is everywhere. The temptation to check the phone or any available gadget from time to time is hard to resist. The noise in the neighborhood is relentless. The bed is inviting for a slumber. Technically, students are present but their attention and mind are elsewhere. Without the close supervision of teachers, students lose concentration. Blessed are those whose teachers and parents are ever present.

With all honesty, it is really hard to learn alone. Even with the availability of stable internet connection, latest gadget and most comfortable study corner, learning is tougher than ever. The limited time of engagement is one factor. Teachers are unable to teach what they used to. Learning competencies are put to a certain limit. Imagine a 60-minute online class and the rest of the days of the week, they go asynchronous. Students find themselves reading, watching, writing, answering and trying to understand learning tasks on their own. Imagine, if questions pop and no one is there to help them answer their questions. Certainly, there are other problems that remain unresolved as more problems arise.

It is really hard to keep up! Learning has become an obligation! Nothing can really beat a face-to-face setup. The news of an improved learning modality is in the works. Here comes the talk about this hybrid or blended learning which is a synchronous learning that simultaneously teaches both inperson and online learners. With this, will it improve teaching instruction? Will it ease the challenges faced by students? Will it ensure quality education? Will learning stop being just an obligation? Will the students be able to keep up with it?

Wait for changes…hopefully for the better!

EDITORIAL 5

On face-to-face...

Vice President and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary

Sara Z. Duterte announced that the government was already eyeing full face-to-face classes in November.

This pronouncement ignited varied opinions from the different sectors of the society. Their opinions stem from these reasons.

First, the threat of COVID-19 is still evident. Second, there are still students who have not been inoculated. Third, mobilization has become a problem since the number of public utility vehicles has decreased plus, new rerouting has been implemented. Finally, families continue to experience financial problems due to unemployment and others.

Para sa akin, okay naman ang face-to-face, kasi natutukan ang mga estudyante ng mga titser, kasi ‘pag nasa bahay nahahati ang (oras) ng mga magulang sa trabaho, sa mga anak at trabaho sa bahay. Ang the best talaga ang face-to-face, yun ang gustong-gusto ko, ‘yang faceto-face tayo. Sa ngayon naghahanap pa ako ng panibagong income, kumukha ako ng mga plastic, sinasako ‘tas binebenta sa (junk shop) para sa pandagdag income.

-Reginald de Guzman, Tricycle Driver

To be honest, I feel bothered since our DepEd Secretary seems eager and almost entirely sure that the full face-to-face modality will return in November. Although it was mentioned that they would be open to suggestions. I personally don’t see enough faculty personnel being brought on forums. Considering the once again growing cases of COVID-19, inflation that’s been affecting Filipinos on top of the expenses that come with the face-to-face classes, I believe that the pronouncement must be reevaluated and adjusted according to the situations of the people in different local areas.

-Ayaka Taniguchi, student

They say there is always a first time for everything. Others even add by emphasizing that when it is the first time make sure it is done right.

“In my head and in my heart, I knew I did the right thing!”

The 9th of May was a day of firsts for 7 million out of the 67.4 million Filipino voters who were ready to cast their votes for the 2022 national elections. When I turned 18, I was able to register, vote, and be a part of this long-awaited day.

It was 9:30 AM when my family and I went to the polling place and with the huge difference in the number of voters this year, long lines were expected. Under the scorching heat of the sun and humid air, we were like a dog looking for its tail as we searched for the end of the line to get into the polling precinct.

The long hours of waiting and the long lines brought different people with different perspectives, choices, opinions and beliefs specifically about their chosen candidates along with their how’s and why’s. It dawned upon me how Filipinos, young or old, were affected by today’s society with the modern technology, various social media platforms and all. People’s choices were mostly influenced by the power of the internet – the online marketing campaigns, the publication materials or pubmats of the candidates’ platforms, and even the explanation videos often shared on social media platforms like TikTok, Youtube and others. I, on the other hand, did my own research which I believed strongly helped me choose my candidates and be more confident in supporting, not because I was a fan, but because I hoped for a brighter future for my generation and generations to come.

I refused to be swayed. I even refused my old me to affect what I set out to do that day. I know fully well how impatient I am but not that day. Standing that long and learning that voting machines malfunctioned, the SD cards and ballots could not be read, were unfathomable to the old me. Patience suddenly became my virtue. I was shocked by the slow-paced lines. I was faced with multiple poll watchers and facilitators getting ready to leave and go home without having a single hint on how messy and chaotic the whole place had become. I was caught off guard when I saw people cutting into the queue and making it longer

I’m actually looking forward to it because I am a incoming Grade 11 student and I think it’s a new journey and a stepping stone for college, I’m excited since I will meet new faces, new friends, I will be able to socialize with people more since I knew in our school that there will be face-to-face on November.

-Chloe Mae Estanislao, student

I feel excited because I would finally be able to meet my classmates. I would be able to see my teacher and interact with them. Returning to traditional learning will take time and students will undoubtedly failed to enhance some of their skills while online.

-Jhudiela Alcano, student

I’m not sure if we are now prepared for face-to-face classes. Big adjustments still have to be made and we should make sure that we’ll continue to follow protocols. What will happen if the number of covid cases will increases again?

-Brenz Carl Moral, student

I still don't like face-to-face. I'm still scared to be in class with the rest of my classmates because we all come from different places. What if they have had contacts with people who are infected? Even if I am already vaccinated, I still don't want to get sick.

- Ghieanne Papa, student

I'm excited! Coming to school is something I look forward. I'll just follow the protocol and I'll remind my classmates to do the same thing. Studying at home is a hit boring. there were times when I just wanted to sleep and not attend my classes.

- Evangeline Cruz, student

Ang problem ko sa face-to-face tiyak gagastos ako sa pamasahe at pagkain ng anak ko wala pa naman akong stable na work ngayon.

- Merly Ramos, vendor

As expected, others may express agreement or disagreement about this issue but whatever happens in November, what counts to be the most crucial is that Filipinos are ready to face the circumstance head on. Whatever the consequences are, Filipinos must find themselves on top of the situation. Resiliency plays a big role.

A day of firsts

Danielle Ladao

and harder to stay calm and be understanding under the circumstances. It was definitely a first for me and others like me. Indeed, patience became my virtue- that was another first.

Clothed with patience, I finally got inside the polling place. I am used to being packed like a sardine in buses commuting home, but this was undoubtedly something I was never ready to face. Talk about system and discipline. Hundreds of people were on that small basketball court to find their precinct stations and it was mind-boggling that I couldn’t grasp how we all somehow fit in there. Nevertheless, I braced myself and conquered a pool of bodies to find mine and vote as soon as possible. For the first time, I took hold of a ballot. I had mixed emotions.

Throughout the process, I was undeniably nervous and anxious. Knowing that it was the day when I could show my part as Filipino. It was all surreal.To finally vote was something that I had been longing for – the right to suffrage.

It was critical to exercise that right, regardless of what I believed in or who I supported. I was a first-time voter. Proudly, I was able to exercise that right as proven by the indelible ink on my forefinger. Whether my candidate won or not, it did not matter much; what mattered was I exercised it with pride, sincerity and honesty.

Now that those firsts are over and done with, don’t you think it is time for you and me to stay focused?

Do you want to join me? Let us set out to fight for what is right and use our voice to ensure a fair political process, to assist communities, and to develop our nation. I believe that, rigged or not, with enough power banking on our freedom, we can make an impact. As Taylor Swift’s song “Only the Young” says, “Don’t say you’re too tired to fight, it’s just a matter of time. Up there’s the finish line” because our future is worth our fight. As every day is a new day, we get new opportunities. It's time to change …for the better.

Democracy is flawed, but in the case of the Philippines (Sad reality!), it is etremely flawed.Let’s start off simple. What is democracy? According to what I know and read, democracy is a system of government in which people have the power to decide. At first, it sounds like the best system of government ever created- a government ran by the people, for the people? Sign me up! Yet, believe me, it isn’t good as it sounds!

How can people make the right decisions if the majority is not educated nor discerning enough to know the weight and value of their decisions? Our country’s educational system for the poor (The majority is poor.) is substandard. Some public elementary schools are as awful as they appear, with a big number of primary school graduates unable to read and write. Things will go down faster than predicted once they reach high school. Teachers in public schools, both elementary and secondary, are paid poorly and are seemingly deprived of good working environment, which could possibly be one of the reasons why they put little to no effort in educating the youth. It’s a good thing there are still those who make every effort to teach them, but they with what is going on around, their number and kind may continue to diminish. It would be a nightmare to see them in small number, too small to make a difference.

Could it be why some students prefer not to go to school? Attaining education from public school doesn’t guarantee them a future of good opportunities.

In addition, going to school also gives them another problem. Poor families cannot afford to provide for their children’s school supplies and more. They’d rather use the money to put food on the table. As a result, their children drop out of school to search for jobs, as soon as possible. They grow up as vulnerable adults prone to disinformation and misinformation.

Bereft of many choices, they discontinue schooling just to learn basic knowledge and skills about things that matter. They’ll spend their years doing undergraduate jobs to earn money as much as they can. Indeed, democracy is flawed! They will be adults who’ll prioritize money more than anything and will do whatever they can to earn for their families.

For some reason, they become victims of politicians. They become vulnerable to disinformation and misinformation created by malicious politicians like in the recently concluded elections. The vulnerability, desperation and poverty are capitalized. This is where these political figures web lies and influence young minds into believing something untrue.

A cherry on top? Vote-buying, the so-called soul of democracy, is ever present. Politicians will smuggle folded blue cash into a non-suspicious envelope, along with their names and numbers on the ballot. Who have fallen for this?

They’re the poor, the uneducated, and the unfortunate victims of the poor system. Such kills democracy!

Why is democracy extremely flawed in our country?

Poor education is one of the culprits. And as expected, this naturally gives birth to more issues and concerns that impact the lives of everyone.

The only hope for the country is for the educational system to be fixed or overhauled. Mobilization of the right people is a must. These prime movers must have genuine love for country and its people. Increase in the national budget for education is required. Organizational goals should be properly aligned. Abusing democracy should be stopped. These and more are all a must. If not, we’ll lose track of what’s next!

Caryll Vheatrish Velasco

The Apprentice | Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School august 2021-July 2022

Charry Mae Cobilla

FEATURE

The Apprentice | Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School august 2021 -July 2022

What is my purpose in life? This may be one of the biggest questions we all have. We, naturally want to find the essence of our life and the things we can do to make it beautiful and meaningful. Ceaselessly, we search for reasons or for one answer to why we are exactly where we are now.

No matter how we change our paths or try to get lost, there’ll always be the right and destined one for each of us that will come at the right moment. Eventually, this guides us to our mission, regardless of our doubts about ourselves. Despite our shortcomings, the Lord provides us with more than a thousand ways to arrive at our destination. This is what one strong and successful woman believes in.

“I don’t want to become a principal, but parang ni-l’lead niya ako rito. I’m happy as a classroom teacher… para kasing napakabigat ng responsibilidad [ng pagiging principal].” Mrs. De Jesus said with a smile on her face.

Mrs. Ruby Urquiola De Jesus, Principal IV, is our current principal. Just like anybody else, there are things she has now that she has never envisioned having at all.

TO FROM maestra Nanay

Growing up with her parents and eight siblings, Ma’am Ruby lived in Aklan. Aklan is known for having a small yet alluring island, Boracay. During her childhood, she witnessed how magnificent the former virgin island was with its crystal clear waters and white sand where she bonded with siblings and friends. According to her, there’s a river at the back of their house with mangroves where different animals inhabited and star apple trees grew. She grew up with nature. Her love for it is evident, both at home and in workplace. Communing with nature completed her childhood.

For the De Jesus family, the seas and any bodies of water would always have a special space in their hearts. It was the kind of home they longed for even when they moved to Manila during her 3rd grade. They moved to the city to pursue her education and that of her siblings. Every day, she would miss their home in Aklan, and to be able cope, her mother, a house wife, would always bring them to Luneta Park.

On the other hand, her father who finished engineering and was a local seaman would have one-on-one recitation and discussion with her and her siblings. As expected, Mathematics would always be the highlight of their session, specifically the multiplication table that she hated as a child. Although this was not the exciting part of her night, it was a special memory with her him that she’d forever treasure. No matter how hard the subject was as long as they studied together, she enjoyed it. Education was their bond, in fact, they’re a family of educators. She has seen how teachers were well regarded in their place as they’re called “Maestra”, leading to her incessant wanting to be one, too.

Adjusting to the life in the city wasn’t hard for them all because their mother was once a “Manila girl”. Adding to that, when she started attending school, she amazed her teacher with how good her diction was in Filipino. She mentioned that her mother’s vast collection of Liwayway, a Filipino magazine she would read daily as a kid was the reason. Although the transition in her life started out smoothly, she came to be a victim of bullying not because she was a province girl but because of how she used to look- small and skinny with dark skin. The bullying stopped when she showed them her wit and confidence. It didn’t hinder her from enjoying her elementary and high school days.

At the age of 19, she finished college as Cum Laude at Philippine Normal College in 1984. She topped the competitive exam in the division office immediately securing a spot in a school as the newest Social Studies teacher. The first time fresh graduate Ma’am Ruby went to her soon-to-be school, she was mistaken for a student for her shirt and jeans fit her petite figure. “Gusto ko sanang mangatuwiran na hindi ako mag-eenroll…,” laughingly, she recalled cleaning a whole room with the actual enrollees. She remembered raising her hand when the principal came in looking for the new teacher. That hilarious moment was an awkward and challenging start with her

Being a classroom teacher for 24 years, the most memorable thing she had was with her students. She said wholeheartedly, “Ah syempre ‘yong mga students… They gave me energy, and [I was] always looking forward to meeting them.” She would not forget all her students. As a teacher, she always made sure her class would never be boring especially since Social Studies wasn’t very appealing to most students. Her efforts had paid off. Her students would even adjust their watches just to have longer discussions with her. She even taught them how to wash their clothes, and how to fix themselves to look presentable, instead of just cleaning their room during Home Economics. She also pulled some clever tricks like pre-assigning the ‘whoever’ to finish the exam first would take the trash out. Her ways with them could be the reason why her students became so attached to her, and saw her as their “Nanay”. Who wouldn’t be to an adviser who’d go out of her way to prepare baby powder and comb for the whole class?

Being a fulfilled adviser, she never hoped for more. She never aspired to be a principal as she knew heavier responsibilities would await. But as she followed the vision the Lord had given her, she became a principal. She is currently the matriarch “Nanay” of Monsay. Being a principal for 16 years, Mrs. Ruby de Jesus has confidently identified herself as an accountable and situational leader. “Leadership is relational,” she pointed out. Throughout her years of doing different roles in different schools, she learned the value of knowing the strengths and weaknesses of everyone that makes the system. “What do I need to change? What do I not need to change?” These are the questions she never fails to answer during her first year in her new workplace. As a sign of respect and connection to new colleagues, she keeps her feet to the ground so they won’t feel any different from her, despite the difference in rank.

Being a principal is very much similar to how her parents raised her. Her conduct of child-nurturing projects she launched at her former school, Flora A. Ylagan High School was inspired by a family legacy that symbolized a compact relationship that nothing could defy. She implemented B.I.G.K.I.S. to save potential drop-out students and to sustain a refreshing atmosphere in school, she advocated the development of vegetation around the campus. “Every school should be excellent. Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School is a school, therefore, Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School should be excellent.” Her target in her stay in Monsay is to sustain its glory to a bright tomorrow of our nation. At the moment, she wants to focus on raising the enrolment and enhancing the trust of students.

Little do we know, there’s more to the life of Ma’am DJ outside the school. Complicated things aren’t her cup of tea; she simply wants to brew them all. Her story with her late husband is another sip. They’re just neighbors and close friends, no hint of romance until out of the blue, a night brought them to an agreement that if no one would date them, they’d just date each other. Guess what? They got married in 1986! They had a daughter and a son. She described her family as simple and closely knit. She was both a mother and best friend to her children.

Her 34-year–old daughter, Regina, and 26-year-old son, Biehn, have taken after her footsteps. Both are teachers. The eldest who used to be a graphic artist was encouraged by her mother and brother to be an educator as she envied their benefits and fun. Today, she is happy thriving as a TLE teacher while the Biehn is an English teacher. It seems, education isn’t just their bond as a family after all; it is their lifeline, too. Truly, hashtag goals!

Great things come in small packages. The small and petite Ma’am Ruby is an incredible teacher, principal, wife, and mother. She bikes, sings, dances, draws, plays the guitar, on top of being a plantita. She also loves bringing joy to everyone through her multiple skills. She is the life of any party. In actuality, if she’s not a principal, she’d be a social worker. Either way, she is able to accomplish both. She’s a part of an organization called CSG where they helped Dumagats, the indigenous people of Panay, Rizal. She spent her days spreading awareness about family planning and livelihood preservation leaving them a “seed” to plant and take care of for a long-term impact. Even now that she is not part of CSG anymore, she continues the work and even has her own house built there. She provided a place they call “Huntahan” where people freely interact, have their chit-chats, or do yoga. This Huntahan is now renamed “Maritesan” derived from “Marites” which equates to someone who always chit-chats.

Even with this long journey she has been to, she knows that she still has a long way to go. Her dream of becoming a “Maestra” didn’t lock her inside the classrooms, instead, she became a “Nanay” and expanded her homes, her family, and herself for the community. All so well, she knows there’s a lot more.

"I serve rather than sit on the sidelines,"

Photo by Mrs. Ruby U. De Jesus

- a quote from our very own “Nanay”, Mrs. Ruby U. De Jesus.

Jae Venice A. Reyes

Mrs. Ruby De Jesus, her children, daughter-in-law, and grandson in one of their bonding moments.

FEATURE 7

ONWARD

Paul Angelo Fabia

this country. As a Filipino, it made me want to study harder, work better, and be more compassionate, more helpful, more inclined to the causes I believed in more than ever before.

I

t was exhilarating to remember how exciting it was one Thursday morning. That day had a feeling of uncertainty to it, but the outlook that was forward-looking seemed to drown it out. Almost everyone on my feed was posting graduation photos as they beamed for the cameras. Here I was, planning to continue on with pursuing Political Science right at the dawn of a new age.

I thought it had sunk in, but it wasn’t until ‘Liwanag sa Dilim’ blasted through the speakers during our graduation rites that the weight of what my choice had made itself known. With shoulders taut, we were asked to stand. In the sea of white, a chorus of voices rang as the oath of allegiance was being recited. It made me further contemplate about the state of our nation’s youth beyond the walls of our schools. The way modern avenues of gathering information had influenced - and sometimes even tyrannized - our minds. The rampant spread of fake news and the constant attack on the free press caused me to wonder if pursuing one of my passions was worth it, or if there would even be a free press that’s intact once I was done with college.

Twenty-four hours later, I was still on the fence about whether or not to take Political Science or journalism, although I have told people who were keen enough to ask that I was leaning towards the former. The course - both in life and academics - that we were about to take would impact not just us as individuals, but the collective family of society as well. My grandmother came up to me. She congratulated me, “You should have taken medicine as your course,” she said, and went on. A commuter that took a seat across from

mine made small talk during traffic. The topic went to career. She asked me what my dream profession was. When I said I wanted to be a lawyer, she grinned and said, “Good. That’s where the money is.” I was about to say that I wouldn’t be in it just for the money, but for passion; the political, social, financial, and personal aspects consecrated on our decisions ultimately hung in the balance.

Certain recent events, and the weight it had brought upon the scales of everyday living had been cathartic. One could think of a hundred different concerns the country’s facing that would span generations: from the skyrocketing of prices for basic commodities and fresh produce to the re-emergence of rising covid cases that had repeatedly shook the economy to its core. According to the Palace, they were setting their sights on having full-fledged face-to-face classes by November this year. It was a good target - given that the green light would be given for a “ligtas na balik

normalcy, or for healthcare to be considered a top priority.

Daily transportation would also be an upheaval since a lot of us would be subjected to it daily from here on out. Fares had increased almost the same time gas prices did. Not to mention the overload of vehicles that was one of the tipping points for triggering climate change. It was said that the future of the world belonged to the youth, but would there even be a future for those who inhabit it if it was on the brink of destruction? Greed and recklessness, after all, was humanity’s downfall.

So, what’s next? I have been in deep thought about this since I left the school grounds last week. It was like crossing the line between senior high school and everything that went beyond that. An era might have ended, but progress does not. And while we are on track towards a new journey, we have to still heed to what is right, fair, and just. As an idealist, the results of certain recent events has

Prior to those that preceded us, these certain events have changed the course of our lives and the future of our nation. A lot has already happened. The results of such recent undertakings must not hinder us from pushing back and pushing through thus, it should make unity, equality, and justice a part of reality instead of mere lip service. The power is with the people, and the future belongs to those who would harness it in the palm of their hands.

Every peso spent and every effort made wasn’t in vain. We just have to move forward until those blurred lines between what was certain and what was not were drawn, those that have existed in our educational and justice system, healthcare, social settings, workplaces, and even in the comfort of our own homes. With all of the present uncertainties at hand, one thing’s for certain: We, as students, would continue to stand strong and keep steadfast with the responsibility that destiny had brought upon us.

We ought to be on the right side of history - smack in the middle of the frontlines of democracy - guarding truth, liberty, the rights of every individual, and all else that would matter.

It was said that the future of the world belonged to the youth, but would there even be a future for those who inhabit it if it was on the brink of destruction?"

G a m e C h a n g e rs

Jhudiela G. Alcano

of time and climbing mountains while having little food to eat, or worse, having empty stomach but they also have the heart strong enough to surmount whatever obstacles come their way…heart and eyes on the future, bright future.

It’s their story to tell. Their passion and positive mindset are on the works. On the other side of the country, the number of working students increases. Faced without many choices, they grab the opportunity to aid their families by working while pursuing their academic goals.

a representation or a mirror of what they see, what they listen to and what they think. Growing up in a damaged and violent familial setting affects youngsters from within, which others do not see. Consequently, it has an impact on their vision of the future or, worse, their way of life. Some people just give up, but to them, it does not spell their demise. The struggles they go through help them succeed. And despite these challenges, they learn to stand for themselves and later, to stand for others.

For the past nine months, Oliver Baylon had felt nothing but fatigue as his classes began. Remote learning surely wasn’t as easy as he hoped it would be – if anything, he was left more tired than he was when he had to travel to school and get back home afterwards. His sleep schedule’s gotten wonky, and he’s pretty sure animals could already create burrows on his face with how deep his eye bags had gotten.

Walking on over his table, Oliver put aside his blankets and left his bed. There, he booted his PC, the light of the screen blinding his eyes so early in the morning. As soon as he entered the meeting, he heard his teacher’s voice. Science had always been his favorite subject, and it was a joy to have it as his first class – it helped him stay awake. Turning on his camera with the rest of his classmates, he began to listen to his

filled with determination to secure a good future and to live good lives. Those who live in the countryside suffer the most yet willing to do whatever it takes. Imagine walking for extended periods

teacher’s discussion. Though “listening” was a bit of a stretch.

He had opened another tab on his PC, switching on over to Discord as he began to chat with some of his friends. How else was he supposed to interact with them when they were so far apart? It’s part of a student’s nature to have little chats whilst. Listening to their teacher’s discussion – online classes wouldn’t stop them.

“Oliver, I’m wondering what you think of this,” a voice rang from his headphones.

Moving with lightning-fast speed, he switched tabs and immediately turned on his microphone. “I’m sorry, Sir, I’m lagging. Could you repeat the question?”

It was a classic tactic that most students had adapted during their online classes, and surely, the

The incapacity of their parents to provide for their education serves as a catalyst for these youngsters to mature fast. According to the Annual Poverty Indicators Survey (APIS), 9% of Filipinos aged 6 to 24 are out of school. Those who do not wish to belong to this, decide to go to school and work at the same time. Despite the burden of being working students, they keep on learning with a smile on their faces. However cumbersome the situation may seem; it becomes instrumental in gaining of experiences which they can bank on in the future. It also becomes a means in building their character as well as relationships with others who do not belong to their age level.

Filipino youngsters are unmistakably

teachers had either grown too accustomed to it to even bother, or they had gotten better at hiding their annoyance. Thankfully, Sir was one of the patient ones, and Oliver didn’t receive an earful from him.

It was hard to talk to his teachers – even harder to stay focused on what they were saying. It’s not that they were boring but being at home just provided far too many distractions for him. He could easily play Valorant as his class went on in the background, and the teacher wouldn’t have a clue. There were far too many temptations, and as each day passed, it was getting harder to subdue them.

Hours passed and today’s classes had come and gone. All that was left now was to finish his homework. That was the agonizing part. Scrolling through his classroom’s page, he realized he

had at least seven assignments due that week – two of them involved him having to record himself. He sighed before checking which one was the easiest and deciding to do that first.

How admirable Filipino youngsters are, despite their flaws and the criticisms they receive. They take their shortcomings as lessons and learning from them. How amazing it is that they develop patience, resourcefulness, and confidence in their abilities!

In a nutshell, they are the game changers.

Tough.

https://www.ciit.edu.ph/k-to-12-tracks-and-strands/

Chico

instead of making things harder for each other? He heaved a deep breath; it seemed he’d be cramming a lot of outputs that day.

How much longer wouldn't last? He didn’t want to find himself

Kaelin

Eventshave turned as the world recovers from the Covid-19 pandemic which first started in March 2020, including the escalation of digital products and innovations and more. Although now the world faces new issues, it seems like most of the world is ready to move on and be in a safer and healthier future.

The symptoms that this new disease appear to be similar to a threat that has been claiming human lives for a long while. It’s named smallpox. During that time the term vaccination was already known, and a lot of people were encouraged to be vaccinated for their safety. Coincidentally, the first vaccination

although these are not as alarming as the case in 2003.

Monkeypox cases didn’t resurface during the onset of Covid-19 still, many cases were also reported and documented. But in May 2022, when there are already 12 countries that have been documented with cases. These are Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, and the United States. Fortunately, there have been no documented cases of death.

But what are the symptoms of monkeypox? According to WHO, the incubation period is usually from 6-13 days, or around a week or two. It has two periods. First is the invasion period, with symptoms similar to flu such as fever, chills, headaches, major exhaustion, and muscle aches. The skin eruption period starts within one to three days and is commonly characterized by swelling of the lymph nodes, which can be mistaken as chickenpox. The majority of the rashes will be visible in the face, extremities or arms and feet, and in some, in cases, in eyes and mouth. The poxes that will appear will appear like pearls that contain pus, or the collection of the dead cells in our body as well as the eliminated viral load. Since the monkeypox is a self-limited disease, the disease will scab out and will go in about two to four weeks.

https://www.contagionlive.com/view/treating-suspected-monkeypox-patients-what-clinicians-need-to-know

As long as humanity finds a way to produce medication, the means to fight these pathogens is always made available for consumption. But what if another virus with no specific treatment comes out on the fray and poses another threat to a recovering world?

Two outbreaks of a pox-like virus that appeared in monkey colonies that were being kept for research are found in 1958.

However, what makes monkeypox mysterious is the fact that scientists do not know how much trouble it can cause, and their suspicion about it remains. According to WHO in 2003, monkeypox outbreak was also reported in the United States with its animal hosts from Ghana. 70 people were affected. Individual reports have been officially received by the organization from 2018 to 2021,

Monkeypox has no specific treatment but the its possibility of becoming a pandemic is lower than Covid-19 While it came from animals, the similarities of monkeypox to the smallpox virus, which has been eliminated in 1980, is the huge deterrent in preventing it to be a major concern. Furthermore, the world has learned from the current pandemic. Measures are already taken specially in countries where there are already traces of cases. The Philippines remains to be safe.

How does the country keep itself safe and secured?

The answer is nothing difficult nor complicated. Following health protocols and continuing to prioritize proper hygiene and overall well-being, from physical and mental health to keeping a balanced diet and exercising on a regular basis. Repetitive and tiring as they seem, they remain to be a good reminder to be on toes when it comes to health.

Gingivitis: A Perilous Diseases of the Gums

“Better teeth, better health.” “Don’t rush when you brush.” These are catchy taglines in most commercials promoting oral hygiene and dental care products. Oral hygiene and dental health are not to be taken for granted. They matter that experts continue to provide valuable information and develop more products and technology to secure oral hygiene and dental health.

As response to the challenge of securing oral hygiene and dental health, Ateneo de Manila University – Institute for Philippine Culture (ADMU-IPC) during its “E-Turo Webinar Series”, along with the Department of Science & Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD), Department of Health (DOH) and visitors from American Academy of Periodontology conducted a webinar focusing on one issue – to prevent gingivitis.

Gingivitis is an infection of the gingivita, a part of the periodontal section in the oral cavity. Periodontal disease such as the aforementioned gingivitis affects the tissues supporting the teeth, commonly known as gums.

But what causes gingivitis is the neglect of cleaning the accumulated plaque, which clings onto the teeth. Plague is a combination of sugary and starchy food sticking between the teeth which turns into a hub for bacteria to proliferate. Having an exclusive breeding ground in the body, this plaque causes the yielding bacteria to directly enter the body via the oral region. In turn, it activates the body’s natural defenses to fight back. Fighting back is not a big deal to the human body, but excessive clotting is the opposite.

Clotting happens when the body gets rid of the bacteria by forming a “wall” of the

platelets. When this happens, the bacteria cannot enter immediately but it can cause complications especially if the bacteria happen to be propagating in the oral regions or the innards of the digestive and cardiovascular systems.

“Bacteria (and other bugs) can enter the bloodstream through opens sores in the mouth. When this happens, a clot-forming protein is deposited. When platelets clump together, they can cause small blood clots, growths on the heart valves, and the inflammation of blood vessels that can block the blood supply to the heart and brain,” according to Prof. Howard Jenkinson of the University of Bristol.

In addition, the status of oral health is too alarming. Studies show that 97.1% of six year olds suffer from tooth decay. 78.4% of twelve year olds suffer from dental carts and 49.7% has dentin genic infections.

To solve this dilemma, brush, rinse, and floss the teeth. Give the dentist a regular visit.

Marc Andrie Bermudo

Marc Andrie Bermundo

Handsfilledwithpimple-likerash,oneofthe signsofmonkeypoxvirus

Tiktok is one application that has taken the world by storm. It has been downloaded over 3 billion times and has had over 1 billion monthly users. Furthermore, it has a worldwide reach in over 150 countries. Tiktok has redefined the way people use social media. With the number of downloads and the number of users, it has become the most popular app in the world at present.

TikTok is one social media application that allows users to create, watch, and share 15-second to 10-minute videos done on mobile or webcams. With its personalized feeds of videos with music and sound effects, it is engaging and addicting.

Tiktok allows users to do wacky dancing and singing which catch the attention of others thus, make them trend. Given this short span of time and all the nice shenanigans, it is also a means to share information – to be specific, in the terms of Science and Technology.

TIKTOK:Promoting Scienceinafun w a y

“The new partnership will provide capacity building for researchers and science communications. Trainings will be done via Zoom meetings and will be facilitated by TikTok content creators,” he added.

Because of this, DOST-PCIEERD will be launching two contests to promote R&D, which is the #PinoyInnovator challenge and the #PinoyScience challenge. The #PinoyInnovator challenge would test the Filipino’s ingenuity by letting them develop a gadget out of common items used at home, while the #PinoyScience challenge would personally require the participants to explain the gist of scientific innovations handled through the projects of DOSTPCIEERD.

In the country today, the representatives of the famous mobile application will assist the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the form of its innovation council body, the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Engineering Technology, Research and Development (PCIEERD). According to PCIEERD executive director, Engineer Enrico C. Paringit, they will collaborate to popularize research and development through a series of training and launching contests through TikTok.

“TikTok looks at this partnership as its contribution in creating a platform for people to learn,” Paringit said. Through this, TikTok Philippines reached out to them last year and invited them to create a fresh new account alongside with its Facebook Page, Pinoy Science.

The #PinoyInnovator would run from February to March of this year while the #PinoyScience would be on April to July. The most creative and outstanding solution on the #PinoyInnovator would be awarded on April while #PinoyScience would reveal monthly winners during its runtime.

A number of influencers and experts who hang around TikTok do not only show entertainment and vlogs but also to give information to increase their knowledge on a lot of interesting things.

Right now, there is “race against time” on the COVID-19 cure, and misleading information and biased stories are around the internet. With the help of these video-sharing platforms such as -TikTok. It goes beyond video sharing. We spread information backed up by SCIENCE.

A better place, a better future

We live in the same single world. This is the only “safe” place for us and other breathing creatures to thrive. Why do we ceaselessly pollute it or destroying it?

Earth is the only planet where life existence is possible so, it is necessary to save it. The sad reality regarding the condition of the place we live in is already right before our eyes.

It is very evident that how damaged Mother Earth is now. The question remains the same. Why? Who is unaware of the answers to this big question?

What are the root causes of the unfortunate condition of our physical environment?

Deforestation is one major problem. Our greed for money pushes us to cut down trees that causes the destruction of the natural habitats of animals thus, destroys the ecosystem. More than that, it causes erosion that affects both human property and human lives.

What about over population? Uncontrolled population leads to the degradation of the biotic and abiotic factors.

Climate change and global warming remain to be big issues. Our daily activities like burning fossil fuels namely: oil, gas and coal contribute to these problems. Climate change and global warming affect human health by worsening the air and water quality, increasing the spread of diseases and changing the intensity of weather conditions. Even the ecosystems get damaged.

But what do we do? We don’t dispose our garbage properly. Hazardous materials can just be found anywhere. We fail to value recycling. We forget that garbage may be turned into compost that can even help us in cultivating plants and crops. We do not segregate. Biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes are dumped together.

How come we do not realize the value of proper waste disposal and management? Waste management is one of the most plausible solutions to our problem. Waste management reduces the effect of toxic wastes on our physical environment including human health. If only, we can follow the protocols in proper waste management, many of our problems will be addressed.

We need to value our environment, the very place we live in. As youngsters, we can spread information and awareness. With our brilliant minds we can make things possible. How? Using software apps, create PubMats, join webinars, write simple articles. Share them with others.Enjoy the accessibility of Youtube, Tiktok, Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms. Seek the help of vloggers and bloggers to help make campaigns to spread information.

Come to think of it, we can do more than what we think. Are we just going to stay still and watch the place we live in get destroyed? Are we just going keep doing nothing to save our future?

Let us be one. Let us be agents of change. Why don’t we take care of one other to ensure the preservation of Mother Earth? We need nothing but a better place and a better future!

Marc Andrie Bermundo

The Apprentice | Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School august 2021-July 2022

Jennebel Kim Eustaquio

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The Apprentice | Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School august 2021-July 2022

GM Torre rehabilitates chess

Joric Ivan Bautista

Former chess grandmaster Eugenio Torre took the initiative in the rehabilitation of the chess center located on the ground floor of the school main building right next to the MAPEH Center in the hope of making more students interested thus, training them to become future grand masters.

The former graduate of the school who belonged to Batch '69 spearheaded the rehabilitation which amounted to approximately P1.8 million.

Torre and his batch mates raised the amount and even sought financial assistance from QC Mayor Josefina “Joy” Belmonte.

According to MAPEH teacher Rocelyn

DISCONNECT FROM SEARVER

Not more than a year after being sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee, eSports will be featured as a medal sport for the first time in the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in our home turf at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan come December. It has been questioned whether it should really be considered as a real sport or not. After its inclusion in the SEA Games, one could say it’s now a real sport, or is it?

According to the United Nations (UN), sports is a powerful tool that promotes one’s individual and health improvement, as well as disease prevention. We see the SEA Games as an event organized to give delegates from Southeast Asian countries an opportunity to showcase their athletic prowess as the fruit of their months and even years of disciplined exercise, eating regimen, conditioning habits, and training.

The SEA Games is for sports that require intense exertion of effort, both mentally and physically, and not for participants who would just sit down and face LED screens for hours. The eSports community, however, claims that anything that requires a specific set of skills, great hand-eye coordination, training, and has a strong competitive format, is a sport.

Besides the fact that prize money is at stake and lucky participants can bring home six digits at least, online games, when played on the pro level may help one’s mental, strategic, and decision-making skills. However, it may pose danger to the players' health.

The Harvard Health Letter Electronic Screen gives the following alert: Avoid this vision risk, one main problem of prolonged exposure to electronic screens is eyestrain due to the brightness or glare that comes from the screen, no wonder most of the gamers you’ll see wear eyeglasses as a result of deteriorated eyesight. Other consequences of really getting into online games, according to unc.edu, are migraines, sleep disturbances, backaches, eating irregularities, and poor personal hygiene.

The inclusion of eSports and the formation

center

Calinauan, Torre wanted to encourage more Ramonians to join the chess club and for the current chess players to train better in a comfortable and safe environment.

With the new facility that was expected to be turned over on August or September, the MAPEH Department could now house both current and incoming chess players when face-to-face classes begin and might become the venue for the conduct of chess tournaments as it already captured the attention of other schools.

Meanwhile, they also would like to provide chess players an allowance coming from the government funds.

of the national team SIBOL may serve as a welcome sight for the Philippine professional gaming community. However, this can develop a negative mentality among the young, local players, who consider gaming as part of their daily lives, just like the pros they idolize. They would think that they can also have a future in this field, causing them to drive away from giving importance to formal education.

It won’t really be hard to accept eSports as a true sport if it just doesn’t drastically contradict the true objective of sports, healthwise. It does promote enhanced strategic and decision-making skills. However, a competition that promotes sedentary, instead of an active and disciplined lifestyle, cannot be called a sport, especially in internationally organized events and does not deserve a slot in the SEA Games.

Ex-Ramonian snatches silver in SEA GAMES

A former RMCHS Grade 11 student brought home a silver medal in kickboxing in the 31st SEA Games held in Vietnam on May 10.

Claudine Veloso, who studied in our school for a year had to transfer to the Mountain Province to start training for kickboxing competitions, took on Bui Hai Linh of Vietnam in the semifinals of the 52 kg women’s low kick division.

The young pinay beat the Vietnamese with a 3-0 card.Her opponent who was unable to

PH places 4th place in SEA Games

After winning the overall championship in 2019, the country dropped in fourth place in the 31st Southeast Asian Games held in Hanoi, Vietnam from May 12 to 23.

641 athletes supported by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) competed in 38 out of 40 sports events.

Pinoy athletes competed against athletes from 10 other countries namely: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma), Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam.

Performing athletes received cash incentives from the national government through PSC. “President Duterte handed out additional cash bonuses to the athletes in the previous SEA Games.

Pursuant to Republic Act No. 10699 or the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act, gold medalists, silver medalists and bronze medalists received P300,000, P150,000 and P60,000, respectively.

match Veloso’s kicks and punches clearly overpowering the Vietnamese.

Veloso’s win secured her of a silver medal before going against La Loupatty Amanda of Indonesia.

Unfortunately, the Indonesian fighter stopped Veloso from capturing a gold medal.

Incidentally in an interview, Veloso expressed her happiness after winning a silver medal for the country and mentioned that the cash incentives she would receive would be allotted for her family.

Mark Emmanuel Palencia

Ryann Gerard Papa

Photo

The newly-renovated chess training center awaits the coming of the future chess grand masters.

Photo by Ryann Gerard Papa

APPR

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Whenthis 22-year-old young man was vetted to compete for World Artistic Gymnastics Championship in 2019, he became the first Filipino gymnast to win gold. In 2021, he eclipsed himself and became the first Southeast Asian and Filipino to win a medal two consecutive times. But beyond all the glory and pizzazz, Filipinos couldn't help but take a closer look at the golden boy of Philippine gymnastics — and how he came to be.

Carlos Edriel Yulo who was raised in the gritty streets of Malate, a strategic geographical district southeast of nearby Ermita. Caloy is the second eldest child of Mark Andrew Yulo and Angelica Yulo neé Poquiz. He has three siblings: eldest Joriel, a member of the National University Pep Squad, and Karl Eldrew and Eliza, renowned gymnasts in their own right.

As a young athlete, Caloy was determined to become a seasoned athlete this early on when he wanted to involve himself in what was known then as the future of Philippine sports. He was motivated by his family and spurred by his desire to bring honor to the country. He grew increasingly interested in pursuing the artistic sport when he stumbled upon gymnasts who were coincidentally training in his hometown, and became even more inspired when he watched them compete.

Caloy had an extensive educa

tional record: he attended Aurora A. Quezon Elementary School where he became active in their sports program, and became a member of the National Capital Region's gymnastics team. He then attended Adamson University during his junior high school years, where he was granted a scholarship by the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines. Graduating in 2015, he flew to Japan and went on to enroll at Teikyo University, where he was again granted a scholarship but with the condition that he would be trained and supervised by the Japan Olympic Association, would install a personal coach, and would help him finish a one-year graduate study. He earned an Associate Degree in Literature upon completion.

Caloy worked his way up inter nationally. In 2016, when he came to Tokyo to work on what his coach Mune hiro Kugiyama — whom he already had an encounter way back 2013 — described as a "very big potential". In the summer of the same year, Caloy and Kugiyama tirelessly trained in the Ajinomoto National Training Center with the very same goal that top-level athletes who were trained there in the recent past had gone on to receive and one that every athlete had spent an entire career in order to achieve — the Olympic gold.

Two years prior, in 2014, he debuted in the Asean School Games and

Paul Angelo Fabia

https://www.rappler. com/sports/gymnastics-carlos-yulo-allset-2021-world-titledefense/

do it, son; we're right behind you in ev erything you do." uttered by his parents during an emotional conversation.

In 2019, Yulo was featured on almost every major local syndication, most remarkably Forbes' 30 under 30 list. After his victories in the World Championships, Caloy emerged as a dynamic and trailblazing pride for the country, and as a key player on the international stage. For his countless contributions to the country's collective sport institution, he was given the Presidential Award.

Caloy wasn't running too tight of a schedule the following year. He joined the revered All Japan Championships, first the senior then the open-for-all division. As representative of his adoptive country, he bagged three bronze medals, went on to duplicate his performance, and

prepared for the much-awaited Summer Olympics 2020, then another shot at the AJC and clinched first place in one of the categories this time. Months later, during the anticipated Summer Olympics, the exclusive competition was attended by the then 21-year-old Yulo, which ended up as a source of disappointment for himself. He failed to stand on the podium and placed fourth on vault, beleaguered with a hip injury.

During this period, he and his coach invested in tending his Achilles heel under the care of the Japanese Olympic Association. The organization's embodiment, Munehiro Kugiyama, took accountability for Caloy's performance in the Olympics, citing that "Critics should shift the blame on the coach, the athlete was always only doing his best." Both Caloy and Kugiyama were the subject of documentaries that highlighted the strongwilled relationship of the coach-athlete.

Once again, Team Yulo was engulfed in a series of victory sprees in 2021. Though disappointed and regretful of his

past performance, Caloy went back up his feet — both literally and figuratively — as he raised his arms up while he finished his routine. He got a whopping six gold and two silver medals in the SEA Games. His win became most talked about topic in the world of sports that year. During a second attempt at the 2021 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, he beat his history-making record and was awarded a gold medal for vault, becoming the first Southeast Asian and Filipino gymnast to do so.

He came from humble beginnings, but now Caloy had proven himself an icon in gymnastics, cementing his place in Philippine sport history as he remains a prominent figure and an inspiration to the youth not just in the country but around the globe. A victory for Yulo is a victory for every Filipino. All because that young boy from Malate has chosen to follow his dreams, give it all he has got, and not give up that easily — not without a fight, that is.

In 2018, Caloy resumed training to qualify for Asian Games in concurrence with him competing in the World Cup Series, first in Melbourne then in Baku. He also prepared for the circuit in Doha up until it ended in Cottbus, and got into the qualifier's cup of the highly publicized SEA Games and the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships.

https://olympics.com/en/news/carlos-yulo-floor-gold-asian-gymnastics-championships

https://www.manilatimes. net/2022/06/20/sports/yulopockets-two-more-golds-inasian-tilt/1847984

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Yulo readies himself for a somersault.