SCI WINGS
Yannah Fajardo
through PAKIGLAMBIGIT
AS A PART of its continued mandate of serving the nation, teachers from the Philippine Science High SchoolSouthern Mindanao Campus (PSHSSMC) engaged with officials and fellow educators from the various divisions of Region XI in an effort to uplift disadvantaged communities through education.
Aimed at equipping disadvantaged communities with better resources and preparedness towards fostering quality education, the PAKIGLAMBIGIT initiative served as an avenue for PSHS-SMC to exchange knowledge, resources, and teaching methodologies with marginalized schools.
According to Davao del Norte Provincial Science and Technology Director Judy Donna Nueva Ecija, “[...] we could say that access to learning materials and education, due to distance and accessibility issues, is quite different from urban areas. With this kind of undertaking with the PSHS, somehow,
somehow, we can close that gap.”
The initiative included workshops, resource sharing, and training sessions that targeted both teachers and students in these remote areas.
“Our aim is that those learners have in the urban areas, even just like Pisay, these learners from the marginalized communities can also experience,” she asserted.
The PAKIGLAMBIGIT program also aligns with broader national educational goals, striving to ensure that all Filipino students, regardless of their background, have the chance to succeed and contribute to the nation’s progress.
In addition to the theoretical aspects, sessions of the PAKIGLAMBIGIT program spotlighted hands-on training. Participants engaged in practical activities designed to gauge their application of scientific concepts.
With the guidance of experts like Bernard A. Beduya and Trextan Thaddeus B. Sanchez, participants learned to program robotics sensors, giving them a glimpse into the advancing field of robotics.
“There are concepts na hopefully these learners be introduced to as early as now- that when they go to college, they wouldn’t be surprised of such thing, ‘ the Director noted.
Looking ahead, PSHS-SMC plans to expand the PAKIGLAMBIGIT program to reach even more communities. Future sessions will continue to build on the foundation established in the initial trainings, introducing broader applications.
The success of the PAKIGLAMBIGIT initiative is evident in the positive feedback from both participants and the local communities. Teachers from participating schools have reported increased enthusiasm and engagement from their students.
CHEERS FILLED THE GYMNASIUM as the PisaySMC community closed its celebration of Math Week 2024 with the Math Fun Quiz Bee and Awarding of Winners. The program served as the finale to a week-long series of talks and educational activities organized by the school's Mathematics unit from March 4 to 15.
The highlight of the culmination program was the Math Fun Quiz Bee. Two students from each section raced to finish their solutions and provide the correct answer in the hopes of garnering the most points.
As suspense built up among contestants and the audience alike, participants of the MMCM Street Dance Battle Competition took the floor, delivering an applause-worthy performance to uplift the atmosphere.
The program ended with the recognition of students who had won in the various competitions and activities held throughout the celebration.
The Official English Publication of the Philippine Science High School - Southern Mindanao Campus
Matt Ticaro
Dyll Valdez and John Bedez
Justin Diez
Dwane Daquioag & Manuel Dugan
GUARANTEEING that the annual Faculty & Staff Day team-building activities of school staff are not affected, Pisay-Davao management committee (MANCOM) says human resources be affected by the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) budget rejection of P1.5 billion on the system’s nationwide proposed allotment of P4.2 billion for the year 2024.
“Lahat ng personnel benefits for our employees are not under the budget cut. In fact, all budget for human resources won’t be cut,” stressed Giemar D. Legaspi, head of the school’s Finance and Administration Division (FAD).
The school celebrates its yearly Faculty & Staff Day on a Friday near the date of the international celebration of World Teacher’s Day every October 5, marked with a day of asynchronous learning for students as their teachers gather for a day of relaxation.
“Activities might be affected [by the budget cut] — those minor ones. But those major activities will still be implemented,” said Dr. Jonald P. Fenecios, PSHS-SMC’s campus director.
Biddy Gaspar
“CONGRATULATIONS” is an expression that means sending someone good wishes and showing your happiness for another person’s achievement --- it is a word that unifies people rather than separates them by their levels of success.”
Jaymee L. Rubillar, the Likharal president, remarked.
Recognizing the hardwork and determination of its students, the scholar-led organization, Likharal, holds its culmination program on April 13, 2024 in the Philippine Science High School - Southern Mindanao Campus (PSHS-SMC) gymnasium.
With over 100 students, the said organization completed its eight-week academic program after nearly four months due to multiple suspensions.
Likharal aims to provide accessible and fun quality education to grade 5 students from public schools around Davao City, preparing them for the annual National Competitive Examination (NCE).
IN THE WAKE of the 329 million pesos budget slash from the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS), the PSHS–Southern Mindanao Campus (PSHS-SMC) faces unease regarding the continuity of its school activities, leaving its scholars disconcerted due to uncertainties posed by the budget cut.
During a press conference held on Thursday, January 4, 2024, the school’s management committee (MANCOM) In the wake of the 329 million pesos budget slash from the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS), the PSHS–Southern Mindanao Campus (PSHSSMC) faces unease regarding the continuity of its school activities, leaving its scholars disconcerte due to uncertainties posed by the budget cut to their academic pursuits.
During a press conference held on Thursday, January 4, 2024, the school’s management committee (MANCOM) openly shared the reasoning behind the lowered funding, hoping to provide clarity amid the students’ challenges.
Giemar D. Legaspi, head of the school’s Finance and Administration Division (FAD) stressed that the various disruptions caused by the pandemic, such as the suspension of activities, and the transition to online learning necessitated the budget reduction.
“During the pandemic, our budget utilization got hampered to 86% to 92% because some activities were
329M budget cut strains Pisay scholars
not conducted, and online classes were implemented. This is very low compared to the typical 95% to 99% utilization rate,” he underlined.
The 2024 budget allocation is in line with the system’s Department of Budget and Management (DBM) analyst evaluation, which was constructed two years before the execution of the budget, the FAD Chief remarked.
“The Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) proposed a
total budget of 4.2 billion pesos for the year 2024. [...] However, the approved budget was lowered to 2.7 billion pesos. So, malaki yung difference,” he emphasized.
In a statement released by the DBM, various attached agencies of DOST, including the PSHSS were reduced in funding under the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP) due to the termination of certain localfunded projects, as well as the ‘noncompliance’ of pertinent documents.
TO MITIGATE THE RISKS of costly mass production of printing necessaries, PSHS-SMC introduces the highly enhanced Student Information System (S.I.S), thereby replacing its previous costly online hub.
In a press briefing with the school’s management committee (MANCOM) on Thursday, January 4, 2024, Jearvy R. Lañohan, head of the school’s Curriculum and Instruction Division (CID), stated that the S.I.S.’s range pushes to be more inclusive by implementing student IDs and passwords handed for access, similar to those of university student dashboards.
“We think is something very innovative para hindi kami magbibigay ng printed cards because students can easily access them
‘Tipid Papel’
commits
through their portals. Darating yung panahon na wala nang hassle with printing physical report cards,” Lañohan stressed.
The CID Chief further added that the new system functions as a repository for tracking a scholar’s clearance and attendance, with a particular focus on the convenience of retrieving disciplinary reports which may potentially aid in the students’ practice against misconduct.
“In many universities, this online system has been implemented already. I believe it will change the landscape of our card-giving system. Makakatipid tayo ng papel at ink,” she underscored.
Addressing questions about its implementation, the CID chief elaborated that the MANCOM is still
IN A PROACTIVE MOVE to navigate budget constraints, Giemar D. Legaspi, head of the Financial and Administrative Division (FAD), prompts student cooperation from the Philippine Science High School – Southern Mindanao Campus (PSHS-SMC) to reduce expenses for 2024.
“I’m encouraging all the students to help us in lowering our expenses. There’s already a school policy regarding the prohibition of charging
in the midst of migrating data from the old Online Student Information System (OLSIS) to S.I.S., resulting in it initially beginning with Grade 7 students before moving on to other grades.
In the meantime, Raffy A. Tatel, the school’s Information Systems Analyst (ISA), assures scholars of its upgraded capabilities in contrast to OLSIS, wherein the student body was initially prohibited from obtaining crucial documents.
STARTING ANEW
With the cease of the system’s Knowledge Hub (KHub) from the budget cut, several students believe its shutdown had a marginal impact on the matter of their academic progress, noting their preference for face-to-face rather than online methods.
“It [KHub] was just a hassle to get every assessment to actually submit and sometimes when it fails to
gadgets for personal use, so let us all follow that,” Legaspi spurred in a campus press interview.
The school policy on tightening measures against scholars discovered to have been using gadgets whilst charging other than for academic purposes has been implemented within the campus since the start of the school year. However, when employees were asked about the actions of students in advocating for the efficient usage of electricity, they expressed
submit, it irritates me and I’m glad that I’m back to physical submissions.”, Adrian Garcia of Grade 9-Sodium expounded.
Aligned with this, the discontinuation of the school’s KHub gave way to a reallocation of significant funds towards the implementation of the S.I.S.
The scholars and personnel of Pisay-SMC conveyed the potential efficiency of the system and trusted that it would settle a propitious effect in resources and academic approach.
“While transitioning to online school records may require some initial effort and adjustment, the benefits of accessibility, efficiency, and security make it a worthwhile try. It can streamline the record-keeping process and save time and resources for our school and the parents alike,” Kathleen Abroguiña, a Grade 10 English teacher, expressed on the imposition of the S.I.S.
discontent and letdowns.
“Marami po talagang classrooms ang nakakalimutan mag turn off ng electric fans after classes,” a school janitress signaled.
The FAD Chief acknowledged several instances similar to these, further urging the students to strictly adhere to regulations allied towards alleviating the financial burdens.
John Bedez
DECELERATED RAYS. Philippine Science High School System experiences huge budget cut for academic year 2023 - 2024. Slowing down improvements, Southern Mindanao Campus lacks proper facilities for laboratories and other needs as the budget lowers down to 22.4%.
E-Records. Pisay Davao’s Student Information System (S.I.S) in action.
John Bedez & Simone Indapan
Justin Diez
Ashley Dugho
Ashley Dugho
CAMARADERIE
SMC spearheads Mindanao-wide PSHS Research Fair
FURTHERING THE ROLE of research and development towards scientific progress, the Philippine Science High School – Southern Mindanao Campus (PSHS-SMC) pioneered its Mindanao-Wide Research Fair from April 15 to 17, 2024 in the PSHS-SMC gymnasium.
The event, which was done in collaboration with the four other Mindanao PSHS campuses namely, PSHS-Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Campus (PSHS-ZRC), PSHS-Central Mindanao Campus (PSHS-CMC), PSHS-SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Campus (PSHS-SRC) and PSHSCaraga Regional Campus (PSHS-CRC), also sought to immerse students and personnel with captivating advancements and breakthroughs in STEM.
Altogether, six scholar-written and one faculty-published research studies were presented, each respectively
tackling on the topics of maximizing energy storage potential, exploring antihyperglycemic alternatives, developing technology preventing heat-related complications, utilizing wood densification, combatting antimicrobial resistance, characterizing infused biofilm composites, and green synthesizing silver nanoparticles.
When interviewed by Sci-Wings, Veatriz Angeline Blancaflor, a studentresearcher from PSHS-SRC, expressed her enthusiasm for participating in the event, noting the opportunity to connect and impart knowledge with fellow scholars.
“Personally, [these research fairs are] very important because maganda siyang avenue for scholars to share their own studies, and in turn, they can also inspire upcoming students on what fields or topics they can pursue in research,” she added.
Pisay-Davao bags RSPC 2024 campaign
QUALITY JOURNALISM takes center stage as the PSHS-SMC garnered several awards during the group stage of the 2024 Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) held in Tagum City, Davao del Norte from March 10-13, 2024. For Radio Broadcasting, the team behind DXIB 84.2 Spark Radio took home the award for Best in Overall Radio Production at the Secondary – English level, along with 1st Best in Script
and 1st Best in Technical Application.
Jea Leanne Ong led the group towards achieving the 1st Best in Infomercial, as John Bedez and Angelina Tancontian were recognized as 2nd and 3rd Best Anchors, while Gabrielle Dwane Daquioag secured the 5th Best News Presenter.
Euleces Dela Victoria capped off the winners for Radio Broadcasting, joining DXRD 11.97 Balitanglaw for Best in Overall Production, as
Adrienne Bautista
FOLLOWING A SCHOLARSHIP
AGREEMENT between the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) and National Taiwan University, the NTU-PSHSS Experience Days were held on Apr 12, 2024, at the PSHS-SMC Mini Auditorium.
“Two students from the graduating batch are looking forward to attending NTU. We hope that this program can encourage those from the younger batch to seek opportunities for studying abroad, especially with NTU,” expresses Curriculum and Instruction Division Chief Jearvy Lañohan.
As an opportunity to explore possibilities for tertiary education, the entirety of the Grade 11 batch along with two Grade 12 students attended the program. Prof. Kuo-Hsin Yang and Prof. Louis Grillet gave presentations on their fields, civil engineering, and agricultural chemistry, respectively.
well as 1st Best in Script, 1st Best in Technical Application, and 1st Best in Infomercial.
In the field of internet media, the English Online Publishing Team composed of Dyll Valdez, Maria Agulo, Gaea Magadia, Samuel Apale, and Yannah Fajardo was able to fight its way amidst challenges and setbacks experienced during the event, emerging victorious and claiming 1st place amongst ten other Secondary – English
AMIDST THE ONGOING ISSUE on the People’s Initiative for Modernization and Reform Action (PIRMA), the Discipline Unit Head of PSHS-SMC, asserts that the “cash for signature” scheme associated with the initiative corrupts the youth and undermines their integrity.
In an interview, Jefferson Nuñeza, Discipline Unit Head of PSHS-SMC, expressed his concern over the ongoing signature campaign for People’s Initiative which seeks to amend the 1987 Constitution. He highlighted that the campaign, which is marred by allegations of bribery, negatively impacts the minds and morals of the younger generation who are exposed to it.
participants across the region.
Despite falling short of a Top 5 finish, the Filipino Online Publishing Team of Chiara Grassi, Karisah Galendez, Marlo Gordoncillo, Vaughn Quinto, and Q Angos also demonstrated their ability to write and tell eye-opening stories with their sharp and meaningful words, as their magical three-year run together in the competition came to a close.
“If there is truth behind the bribery allegations, then it corrupts the young ones today that are exposed to it. Signature campaigns [for People’s Initiative] are done through communities, meaning, every individual could be exposed to it. It may lead young ones to think that ‘nakakuha si mama ng 100 [pesos] para dito’, is okay when it is not. The corruption creeps into the child’s mind,” Nuñeza stressed.
In early January, petition forms for the People’s Initiative to pursue Charter Change began circulating nationwide. The forms seek to amend Article 17 Section 1 of the Constitution by allowing all members of Congress to jointly vote on
‘Pedestrian lane coming, tanod on post’ — Brgy. Capt.
AS CASES OF ROAD MISHAPS in Barangay Sto. Niño increased, Barangay Captain Romeo Alberca comments on possible solutions to prevent the foreseen safety and traffic problems in an interview conducted by Philippine Science High School -Southern Mindanao Campus (PSHS-SMC) scholars.
As the concern of pedestrian safety and congested traffic arose, the barangay captain was asked about their plans to install a pedestrian lane in front of Vista Mall and preparations
for the traffic congestion the mall may cause due to the increasing number of visiting people.
“I have already had an online meeting with the Davao City District Office and we are about to send a letter to them requesting the establishment of a pedestrian lane in front of Vista Mall. However, this request isn’t guaranteed to be granted because there is already an overpass built in that area,” Alberca said.
He also added that the barangay tanod will assist with the foreseen traffic problem. Alberca assures that these problems will be dealt with accordingly during his
Ongoing ‘cash for signature’ scheme
Discipline head: ‘It corrupts the children’s minds’
Dianne Daodaoang
proposed changes to the 1987 Constitution, giving the House a significant advantage in the future Charter change process.
Residents from various regions of the country, Davao City included, have reportedly been offered monetary incentives to sign the petition forms. This circulating signature-buying scheme to amend the Constitution has sparked public outrage among Filipinos.
Residents of Davao City rallied and hung posters of the sentiment: “Dabawenyos Are Not For Sale”, uniting to condemn the unlawful signature campaign for Charter Change.
Biddy Gaspar
Dyll Valdez
Dyll Valdez
YOUNG INNOVATORS. Scholar researchers from Mindanao campuses gather at the PSHS-SMC Research Fair, showcasing their projects and sparking new ideas through dynamic student-led presentations.
Zyescha Lim
TRIUMPHANT SCRIBES. PSHS-SMC campus journalists celebrate their success at the Regional Schools Press Conference, showcasing the ir dedication to truth and storytelling
ENTRANCE EXAMINEES
DOUBLE
Matt Ticaro
Private applicants overtake public counterparts
SEEING AN UPSURGE of 1270 applicants, Pisay-Davao sees double the amount in participation from last year’s, with more than half of private school applicants taking over the admitted students.
It was estimated that this year 68% of examinees came from private schools and only 32% from public schools compared to last year’s 39% and 61%, respectively.
This boost in participants can be attributed to the removal of the National Competitive Examination - Requirements for Admission, Criteria, and Evaluation (NCE-RACE),
previously employed due to the onset of the pandemic, and the bringing back of the National Competitive Examination (NCE).
Campus Registrar Jonna Leah Arabejo underscored that the transition from online to on-site test setups marked substantial growth in the number of participants, enabling a more inclusive approach in enticing potential applicants to partake.
“Before, during NCE-RACE, we had limited movement in calling on students from elementary schools. This year’s edition allows us to freely move the PSHS Caravan that aims to encourage Grade 6
‘DI LANG TURO, TULONG DIN
students,” Arabejo remarked.
To foster a culture of Science and Technology amongst Grades 5 and 6 students, the PSHS Caravan is an activity held yearly spanning the system’s 16 campuses, seeking to captivate the youth to actively involve themselves in the NCE.
“We believe na tumaas ang [number of] applicants dahil naenganyo sila sa pagbabalik ng pen and paper format during the tests,” the registrar added. Out of the 1270 hopefuls, only 120 will be secured admission into the institution of PSHS-SMC.
Likharal backs Matina fire victims’ recovery plan
AS FIRE HIT the residents of Brgy. Matina Aplaya on April 21, 2023, Likharal, a scholar-led SCALE organization aimed at preparing public school students across Davao City to take the PSHS System’s National Competitive Examination (NCE), extended aid to those affected by the incident through monetary assistance and donation of inkind goods.
Among the victims of the Matina fire incident was a fifthgrade student being assisted by the Likharal program. In response, the organization immediately took to launching a donation drive for the victims’ recovery from the tragedy.
“We prioritized the donations to the child and his family and we were able to give them last
Likharal’s vice president.
The Likharal executive committee was thankful for the PSHS-SMC community’s prompt support despite the short notice.
“The donation box we placed outside the Humanities and Physics faculty room was so full.
SPECIAL REPORT
It was undoubtedly a positive experience, we received an support within and beyond the organization,” said the president of the organization, Gabrielle Dwane
Logistics member, remarked. Consequently, the child affected by the fire was able to continue attending his Likharal classes every Saturday along with the other children.
“I was really happy when I learned that he came back, and I’m glad that Likharal is able to help children in any way they can, even doing things outside of educating the skilled and and passionate students,” Chiara Grassi remarked. Likharal also hinted at future fundraiser activities for the further continuation of the program.
further noted a sense of compassion felt as committee members packed the donations for the studentsand other families.
“I don’t think anyone expected that we’re going to do things outside of teaching them,, but I was glad that there were fast actions, and that we were able to maintain good communication with every child,” Chiara Grassi, a
DORM-POX
Contagious virus alarms resident dormer students
Lavinia Elizan
Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Its symptoms are an itchy rash, a fever, headache, and tiredness. The rashes start on the chest, back, and face, and then spread all over the body, including inside the mouth, eyelids, and/or the genital area.
It takes about 10 to 21 days after being exposed to the virus for the rash to show up and usually lasts for 5 to 10 days. A person can be infected by breathing in the virus from someone who has it or by making contact with the rash. It can cause problems like skin infections, pneumonia, or swelling in the brain, especially in people with weak immune systems.
Nine cases have already been recorded with three students still absent from school. Six out of the Nine
“We’re looking at the merchandise option for the sake of funding Likharal as a whole because the entire organization runs on donations. It’s difficult to say that it’s in preparation for similar situations in the future because while Likharal tries to extend as much help as it can, constant donation drives aren’t really in the scope of the organization,” said Daquioag.
students are dormers, who all reside in the Boys Residence Hall (BRH), which all happened within one month.
According to Grade 11 student and BRH resident, Derek Jacob Persigas, whose two roommates are infected by the virus, social distancing in the dorms has been more observed since the outbreak. Chickenpox is typically a one-time infection after which individuals develop immunity and can not get infected again.
This is also why he can continue living with his roommates despite them being infected. In addition to his interview, he also advised that students should avoid people in general to minimize the risk of getting infected.
Nobel Prize laureates welcome PSHS-SMC Teacher
OPENING THE DOOR to opportunity, the Nobel Prize Teacher Summit 2023 invited teachers from the Philippines for the first time in June 2023, enabling Ma’am Rochelle Papasin to attenwd the event held in Stockholm, Sweden on September 28, 2023.
Ma’am Rochelle remarked that the presence of the Nobel Prize winners and Nobel Prize recipients during the Nobel Prize Teacher Summit impacted her worldview as a teacher.
“The thing that made the most impact on me was the idea promoted by The Nobel Museum – that many of the Nobel Prize winners expressed that their careers and their works were influenced largely by a teacher,” the educator stressed.
“It is with this knowledge that The Nobel Prize organized The Teacher’s Summit to honor teachers and to encourage teachers to be good mentors,” she added.
Moreover, Ma’am Rochelle claimed to have stopped counting her teaching experience in years, opting instead to measure it by the number of students she has taught.
Director OKs building construction amid budget dip
Jaymee Rubillar
Hannah Llena
Justin Diez & Jaymee Rubillar
Johnel Lumacao
EXAM UPTURN. Pisay Davao experiences a surge in annual entrance exam participants driven by increased interest following the reinstatement of the National Competitive Examination.
Marco Magnaye
TEACHING TENACITY. Likharal student reaching for Likharal’s provided snacks.
Angelina Tancontian
OUTBREAK ALERT. School nurse urges scholars to candidly report any signs of chickenpox amid its rampant spread on the campus.
Ashley Dugho
REASSURANCE. Campus Director Jonald Fenecios addresses concerns regarding the budget cut.
Colin Barcenas
DELEGATED HONOR
SMC Model United Nations, now UNESCO-certified
FOSTERING GLOBAL PEACE and security through quality education, cultural heritage, and scientific cooperation, the Model United Nations Club (PisayMUN-SMC) joins the list of accredited clubs of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on December 9, 2023, at the Manila Grand Opera Hotel.
Becoming an accredited UNESCO Club is a testament to a club’s ability
to constantly excel in the promotion of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, said Ariane Lou Sanchez, the club’s adviser.
“The receiving of our certificate in Manila was merely a culmination of our hard work and persistence. Our team here at MUN worked countless days, even through the summer, to catch up with the requirements and interviews required for accreditation, ”
Secretary-General Manuel Antonio R. Dugan brightened up.
YOUTH IN YALE:
Scholar advocate joins Ivy League program
Adrienne Bautista
SURPASSING an application pool of more than 7,500 participants from 175 countries, Keene Yael Dampal, Student Government (SG) President of PSHS-SMC, attended the Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) pre-college summer program in Yale University last July 2023.
Along with outstanding high school students from around the world, Dampal was part of less than five Filipino high school students who were accepted into the program. He was a part of the Innovation, Science, and Technology (IST) strand that was geared towards students aiming to pursue a college education and a career in STEM.
university, aspirations from young and bright student-visionaries can be uplifted and enriched.
Throughout the program, Dampal was involved with a capstone project in adolescent neuroscience with a special focus on the mental health issues faced by teenagers.
“The YYGS experience is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It made me even more motivated to work on my mental health and LGBTQ+ advocacy when I returned to the Philippines,” Dampal explained the significance of the YYGS opportunity in his endeavors.
To encourage his fellow Pisay scholars to seek out this academic
Joining a national community of fellow changemakers to share resources and knowledge that help uplift communities in all parts of the country, PisayMUN-SMC aims to use this accreditation to empower its scholar-delegates to take the lead in sustainable development.
“Our members do truly realize what a privilege it is to join this esteemed group of clubs dedicated to pushing forward the Sustainable Development
goals and missions of UNESCO for a more sustainable world, ” the Secretary-General highlighted.
As one of only 81 clubs selected for accreditation amongst 155 applicants, this achievement comes after successfully passing all stages of the screening process, from the accomplishment of dozens of organization documents and two interviews with the NCBUCP Panel and representatives of the UNACOM.
Threatening public security Sto. Niño, Davao Light to lighten dim streets
SAFETY CONCERNS over dim streets and poorly lit spaces have prompted the local government of Barangay Sto. Niño to take action in improving lighting near the community compound and overpass.
In a campus press interview, Barangay Captain Romeo Alberca announced the nearing installation of brand new street lights surrounding the barangay hall and overpass.
According to the official, the project will be carried out in cooperation with Davao Light, which will provide most of the required electrical equipment and services for operating the streetlights.
Citizens of Sto. Niño have long complained about the lack of sight at night when passing by areas of the neighborhood that lack proper illumination.
THROUGH IN-KIND DONATIONS, Batch 2025 shared their resources with the Lingap Center for Mentally Challenged Children and Golden Haven Home for the Aged during their first batch field trip on January 17, 2024.
Despite being one year away from graduation, Batch 2025 of Philippine Science High School - Southern Mindanao Campus did not experience field trips for the past four
years as scholars due to interruptions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I am very happy that this was the batch’s first field trip activity. I believe it helped us gain more experience, interact with new people, and reflect on our daily lives,” Diane Billiones from Grade 11 - Franklin expressed during an online interview after the field trip.
During the field trip, short programs were conducted for each beneficiary, and all the scholars were allowed
to interact with the clients in each venue.
“Our families tend to be far away like mine is in another country and I can’t see my young grandchild, so we’re really happy when visitors come,” one of the male residents in Golden Haven Home for the Aged claimed.
This exposure trip also served as an opportunity for the Grade 11 scholars to pursue outreach efforts to the aforementioned beneficiaries or similar
venues during their Social Sciences 6 Civic Engagement activities and SCALE completion.
“Exposure trips are a very big help to our institution since we anticipate that these trips will raise awareness about our government-funded presence in Davao City and our advocacy to assist those in need,” Prenie L. Taguibao RSW, the overseer of the Lingap Center for Mentally Challenged Children also emphasized.
THROUGH THE EXCHANGE of critical thinking skills on relevant geographic issues, four scholars secured the “Top Performing School” title for the PSHS-SMC in the 13th Philippine Geography Olympiad at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman. During the grandest nationwide inter high-
school geography quiz bee, from March 2 to 3, 2024, participants undertook written response tests, and fieldwork exercises to measure their grasp of geographical concepts.
Advancing to the global stage, Lemiel LJ Acuña who secured the competition’s championship award, shall
represent the Philippines along three other participants
Dyll Valdez
at the International Geology Olympiad (iGeo) in Dublin, Ireland this August 19 to 24. Jared Arden Apas, Adrienne Faye Bautista, and Earl Michael Jayme were among the standout participants, with Jared Apas making it to the Top 10 Finalists.
Jaymee Rubillar
John Bedez
Dwane Daquioag & Manuel Dugan
EYE TO EYE. Student Margaret Tongcua empathizes with elderly during first field trip to Golden Haven Home for the Aged.
Calvin Canoy
GLOBAL SCHOLAR. Pisay Davao SG president Keene Yael Dampal advocates for mental health.
Ashley Dugho
John Bedez
John Bedez
he Philippine Science High School System is a government-funded, research-oriented public science high school system in connection with the Department of Science and Technology. For 2024, The Department of Budget and Management only finalized 2.7 billion pesos from the proposed amount of 4.2 billion budget for the Philippine Science High School System. This 11% budget decrease in comparison to the 2023 allocation leads to a major decline in the aspect of research in the PSHS system, potentially creating a barrier to innovational progress in the pursuit of truth and excellence.
The budget cut may be useful to the stewards and administrators of the PSHSS because it welcomes opportunities to develop responsibility and growth as individuals. It shows the students’ ability to utilize the limited budget and resources given to them. Finance and Administrative Division Chief Giemar D. Legaspi urges the students and staff of the PSHS-SMC community to minimize the use of water and electricity, as well as observe the resources around the campus from time to time in order to ensure the stability of certain tools and supplies in the school grounds.
Although the budget cut allows students to use their resources more attentively, it does not broaden the limits of the PSHSS in the use of funds for research projects, and other developmentally-driven plans for the calendar year 2024. PSHS-SMC Campus Director Dr. Jonald P. Fenecios stated that the campus will begin to have a research ethics committee actively conducting activities ‘hopefully’ by the end of 2024. He also expressed his eagerness to make the PSHS system’s plans to cultivate a research-centered environment in PSHS-SMC.
When striving for innovative development, there will be many instances wherein advanced technology and specialized facilities will be needed. With the persisting budget cut, the individuals partaking in these processes and the facilities used will face declines on equipment upgrades and maintenance. The lack of allocation for these objectives may slow down crucial progress and disrupt possible scientific advancements. This potentially hampers the PSHS system’s ability to be competitive with fully funded student research facilities, and become a hindrance to further progress.
Pisay students have wings made of candle wax, just like Icarus. They can reach new heights, explore the scientific world, and make resounding change capable of uplifting the Filipino people which for so long have lived in a country deaf to their needs. However, their wings are just that: candle wax. So fragile that with just one sweep cut, their wings are no more. Recent budget cuts beg the question: are Pisay students even seen as youth with immeasurable potential worth investing in or are they seen as just another namesake to add to a long list of petty achievements?
Apart from the decelerated progress innovation-wise, the PSHS system may also face challenges in upholding high-quality research projects and successes. With the inability to consistently invest in state-of-the-art tools for scientific exploration, experimentation may be overwhelmingly undermined. In addition to this, the construction of more infrastructures accommodating researchers might experience setbacks. According to PSHS-SMC’s FAD Chief Legaspi, the campus’ third academic building is expected to be established during the calendar year 2025.
In order to get through the multiple trials presented by the PSHS system’s fiscal restraint, scholars and their stewards must collaborate in order to continue making advances in society and in the world of science. Cost-saving measures with present utility and resources must be taken, but not to the extent of diminishing educational quality nor compromising the crucial areas of research and cultivation. It is also important to actively engage with the alumni and other organizations that might help in initiating financial support and more growth assets to support the cause. Most importantly, as scholars, we must also speak our truths and become advocates for an increase in financial support from the government to the PSHS system, highlighting the benefits of opening more doors to pioneering development and influencing breakthroughs for the country as a whole. Navigating through this financial issue allows us to prove resilience as custodians of research, but also provides opportunities to bring the system closer to one another. We, as Filipino scholars, are dedicated to continue emerging in research and development in the middle of these constraints. We will rise above the occasion, utilizing the provisions granted upon us for top-notch Filipino education in science and technology, while conducting inquiries for new Filipino milestones. This transparency allows us to demonstrate our abilities as scholars dedicated to serving the nation with truth and excellence, and most importantly, the knowledge to take the nation forward.
Even in the modern age, the selfdestroying myth that plagued the ancient Greek myths lives on. They will ask the House of Atreus who destroyed it, and the answer will be: themselves. If nothing will be done about the recent budget cut, so will Pisay echo this. Pisay students are the crème de la crème, pillars of knowledge and skill, those who would bring prestige and honor to the nation. But noble and bright as they are, they are being cut off from the essential funds and resources that would propel them to the best opportunities. How can a scholar be expected to succeed when they have no means to? The House of Atreus collapsed within itself due to the follies of its members. Pisay is in danger of this as well. For its students to succeed, they must have a strong, solid foundation. But what happens now, when there is rot within the walls? There is only one answer: to build anew. To fund again.
LioraCercado
Dear Editor:
InAnotherSkin
TSci-Mail
hereflectionweseeinthemirrorcan greatlyalterhowweviewourselves.
Ironically, however, the image does not always reflect our true identity. The student dress code has long been established by the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) system to regulate student attire and grooming. These regulations were originally put in place to maintain uniformity and equality in the institution and eliminate distractions that could impede a scholar’s learning environment. In recent years, however, there has been a surge in inquiries concerning the timeliness and rationale behind thecurrentstudentdresscode.
Many students in Philippine Science High School - Southern Mindanao Campus (PSHS- SMC) believe that a revisit and update of the existing dress code is necessary to align the rules and regulations with contemporary norms. Students have also criticized the heteronormativity of the dress code, which disproportionately impacts both female and queer students. Much to their dismay, the administration has steadfastly adhered to the strict enforcement of existing rules. This, however, never stopped a few passionate scholarsfromspeakingtheirtruth.
In a survey conducted by the Student Government on queer inclusivity, it experienced ahighresponseturnoutofmore
Social media provides a space where people can freely express themselves, whether anonymously or not. Nowadays, it enjoys widespread popularity among teenagers, like myself. Despite the comfort and convenience it offers, there exist underlying dangers that demand caution. Among these dangers is cyberbullying and sadly it is an ongoing issue in our school. Cyberbullying can negatively affect an individualʼs daily functioning since we, Pisay scholars, already go through so much stress because of our academics. This can only lead us quicker to our breaking points. What worsens the situation is the anonymity often associated with cyberbullying, making it difficult and hopeless to identify the perpetrators. The internet is supposed to be a virtual escape from reality for us from our heavy academic workload. Yet, it is sad to say that one of our “safe spaces” can actually cause us harm. Will the school be able to mitigate this issue? Will we be able to experience the serenity we yearn for?
Respectfully yours, Biddy Jo Hansh T. Gaspar
REPLIED
to Biddy Jo Hansh T. Gaspar
We extend our gratitude for bringing attention to the pressing issue of cyberbullying in our school community. Your thoughts on the continued harm being done to our online culture only pinpoint how critical it is to nurture a supportive digital space for every student.
Just this November, our publication club, alongside the student body, was appalled by the actions of perpetrators who exploited the vulnerability of a Grade 7 scholar who just entered Pisay. We have persisted with our stand to accord with the victim by urging the schoolʼs management committee to implement swift and appropriate measures to ensure that such incidents are prevented.
Rest assured, the management committee is not taking this matter lightly. When asked about their measures to curb this, the Discipline Unit was resolute in their stance and emphasized that the recent incidents have prompted their administration to prevent such behavior.
We, as a campus publication committed to uplifting the voice of scholars, trust that this obstacle shall not extinguish the flame within you to articulate your perspectives via social media platforms freely.
Sincerely, Sci-Wings
Ithan 90 percent. According to the survey, the majority of PSHS-SMC students expressed their support for changes in the student dress code and believe that amendments should be made in order to better accommodate queer individuals. This unanimous response from the students is a strong testament to their like-mindednessandcommitmenttoinclusivity.
The administration, however, saw things from a different perspective. In a Student Government meeting with the school’s Management Committee (MANCOM), the management emphasized that a change in the dress code would require a systemwide intervention. While they expressed their openness to hearing the plea of the LGBTQ+ community, they feel as though their hands are tied. Unable to enforce change on a campuslevel,itbegsthequestion,“Whatnow?”
The MANCOM’s response can greatly discourage scholars, especially higher years, from continuing their fight for inclusivity. Chester Pedral, a Grade 10 pansexual student emphasized his abandonment of hope of the MANCOM hearing his plea, surrendering to the notion that he will never experience the fruit of his efforts despite their long-standing advocacy against the regulations. It is disheartening to know that validating the identity of hundredshingesonthedecisionsmadebyaselectfew.
Butshouldthisbetheendofthestruggle?
While most scholars of today may never see amendments in their high school days, it is essential to recognize the enduring impact of advocating for change. The current state of affairs may seem discouraging, but the seeds of transformation planted by those who challenge the status quo can pave the way for a more equitable future. Dominick Payson, who prefers calling himself Monique, expressed his genuine support for the continuation of the inclusivity movement. In his words, “We’ll try our best to run so our future scholars can walk.” While it may be difficult to kickstart change, refusing to take action will lead to the perpetuationoftheproblem.
By engaging in thoughtful dialogue, raising awareness, and collaborating with stakeholders, the possibility of effecting positive change remains alive. Even if the results may not be immediately evident, the persistent pursuit of a more inclusive and responsive system is a testament to the power of advocacy. It is only by giving scholars the freedom to freely express their true selves, can the school genuinely achieve its core value of integrity. Until then, scholars will have no choice but to go about their school days hiding inanotherskin.
The ability to create has long been considered to be humanity’s greatest cornerstone. However, people think that technology, specifically artificial intelligence (AI), has caught up to our most prized possession. The implications of this on the academe are great, but the responsibility that should be upon our shoulders in handling this tool should begreater.
The rise of generative AI coupled with the seemingly insufficienttimetocopewithanintensiveworkloadhasled to students to resort to such tools. They either quickly generate ideas that can serve as a basis for an assessment or, in worse cases, have entirely AI-generated text be submitted for an academic output. This can be the root of major plagiarism issues and a lack of definitive regulations from the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) can perpetuate such malpractice in our academic environment.
In a press conference with the school’s Management Committee, Dr. Jonald P. Fenecios, the Campus Director, stated that AI must be embraced but with caution since the text it generates might contain misinformation. He explained his stance using an analogy, “Why would we not allow everyone to use a calculator when it makes our job easy?” Since the institution aims to mold its students into pioneersofSTEM,itwouldbeincrediblyfutiletogoagainst thewaveoftechnologicalprogressthatAIbringsus.
Amidst the many requirements that an average Pisay scholar is expected to complete over a tight schedule, one mightbeforcedtoemploythehelpofAItomeetdeadlines. Not all uses of AI are unethical since it could be used to boost the productivity of students and faculty if used carefully.
Self-regulatedcautioncannotbedeemedsufficientwhen it comes to preserving academic integrity, especially when it involves potential conflict with Intellectual Property (IP) law. Jearvy R. Lañohan, the Curriculum and Instruction Division Chief, clarified that the PSHSS “is actually conveningfromdifferentcampusestocreateguidelineson using AI.” She added that it would be difficult to establish rules on how to set arrests. Despite this, the dawn of a new technological age needs updated regulations and standards that academic institutions should hold to prevent complacency and plagiarism within both the faculty and studentpopulation.
In the world of technology, what once was a novel breakthrough met with wary critique will eventually become the new norm. The waves of change require society to either sink or swim amidst the turbulence of a new normal. It is no use to fight the flow of progress as it is inevitable. However, regulations should be put in place to ensure that integrity, which is one of the core values of the school, and respect towards human creation are still preserved.
ConsistentbottomfivePISArankingunveilseducationalcrisis
n an era of globalization, education stands as a beaconofhopeforpeopletobetternotonlytheircountry butalsotheirlives.
Much to everyone’s dismay, however, the Philippines’ latest ranking as 77th of 81 participating countries in the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), has unveiled the true extent of a crisis that continues to plagueourcountry’seducationsystem.
PISA, administered by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), is a global assessmentthatevaluatestheknowledgeandskillsof15year-old students in reading, science, and mathematics. Since the turn of the millennium in the year 2000, these tests have consistently been used as a benchmark to gauge the effectiveness of a country’s system of education, with the Philippines entering its first cycle in 2018, where it ranked last out of 79 countries in reading andsecondtothelastinscienceandmathematics.
Sadly, results have instead shed light on the significant shortcomings in the performance of our Filipino students. In the 2022 PISA examination, the Philippines scored 120 points below the OECD average, suggesting that Filipino learners significantly lack competencies in mathematics,science,andreading,comparedto15-yearolds from other countries. The country also lags behind intermsofthe3coresubjectstested.
Moreover, students in the country are still 5 to 6 years behindintermsoflearningcompetencies.Thisislargely attributed to the “no child left behind” policy, where studentsarepromotedtohigherlevelseducationdespite lacking the necessary skills and apprehension needed to advance.
Oneunderlyingreasonsisthatthecountry’sclassroom shortage has risen to 159,000, with some institutions containingasmanyas100studentsperclassroom.Ofthe 7,250 and 10,188 existing senior high school and junior high school classrooms, 50% and 41% have been classified as congested and are expected to progressively increase in the future. Aaron Siatan, a student from a publicschoolinDigosCityexpressedhisconcernsonthe issues he experienced. “Some classrooms even had 70 students and only those who belonged to the advanced class got to learn lessons that were appropriate for their gradelevel.”
Education is a fundamental element in the development of countries. An educated workforce will expedite economic improvements and address other issuessuchaspoverty.Butunlessproperactionistaken, quality education will continue to serve only those who are privileged enough to have the money or skills to access it. Average learners will remain neglected as they desperately fight just to achieve the bare minimum. It is timetofinallytakeastandtowardsimprovingeducation, in order to exercise education as a right and not as a luxury.
ARemovalofKto12programrevealsunderlyingfinancial,educationalissues
ccesstoeducationisoftenregardedasafundamental right that every child should rightfully enjoy. However, for young Filipinos grappling with economic challenges, education can seem like an elusive privilege. This is especially true for families struggling to make ends meet, butareforcedtodepletetheirsavingseverysemester.
SeniorhighschoolwasintroducedtotheKto12reformsin order to complete the foundation for basic education. The overarchinggoalwastoequipgraduateswithessentialskills foremployment,entrepreneurship,andhigherprofessions.
Despite its good intentions, however, the Senior High School program still encountered widespread discontent among parents. In fact, a 2023 Pulse Asia survey, commissionedbySenatorSherwinGatchalian,revealedthat only four out of 10 Filipinos expressed satisfaction with the seniorhighschoolprogram.
A paper from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) also revealed that senior high school graduates do not demonstrate statistically significant advantages or disadvantages in pay compared to those who have completed Grade 10 and second-year college. This revelation fueled perceptions that the additional two years imposed an unnecessary financial burden on families, diverting funds that could have been allocated to their children'scollegeeducation.
On December 18, 2023, the Commission for Higher Education (CHED) issued a memorandum directing State UniversitiesandColleges(SUCs)andLocalUniversitiesand Colleges(LUCs)todiscontinueofferingtheseniorhigh
school program. CHED Chairman Prospero de Vera III argued that the commission had no more legal basis to continuethefundingofhighschooleducation.
Despite raising a few eyebrows, this decision surprisingly garnered widespread acclaim, particularly among financiallychallengedparentswhoperceivedtheactionasa step towards the total dissolution of the senior high school program.
While the removal of senior high schools can theoretically alleviatefinancialchallenges,theremovaloftheprogramin SUCs and LUCs does not. Without additional support from SUCs and LUCs, its 17,700 Grade 11 students will be forced to transfer to schools under DepEd. Many of them will lose opportunities for scholarships and more will be forced into overcrowdedclassrooms.
With50%ofthe7,520seniorhighschoolclassroomsunder the Department of Education experiencing congestion, the expectedsurgeinnewenrolleesposesathreattothequality of education. Not only will this overwhelm school facilities, but it will also heighten the financial burden on parents, who must now invest in supplementary materials in order tocompensateforthedeterioratingeducationalstandards.
This coarse action by CHED overlooks the situation of many families. It aggravates the financial hardships of pupils and disrupts educational opportunities for the less privileged. It is important for CHED to adopt a more nuancedapproachinordertomitigatetheexistingissuesat hand. Until then, the impoverished learners of today will havetograppletheirwaythroughtheirstudies.
SANS SERIF Angelizalde Panal
Sci-Wings
SENT
Biddy Jo Hansh T. Gaspar to Sci-Wings
Written by: Adamant Adage Adrienne Bautista
YannahFajardo
LioraCercado
Marco Magnaye
NARROWROADS, WIDE RESOLUTIONS
Narrow roads connecting occupied establishments in Tugbok, Barangay Sto. Niño, Davao City; such as the Pisay campus, National Police Training Institute, Vista Mall, and Mintal Comprehensive Senior High School creates safety concerns for pedestrians and complicates emergency response actions for the nearby police station, especially during peak hours.
The narrow roads may lead to serious issues such as limited accessibility for transport, which heavily applies to emergency vehicles taking this route to reach the main road.
Plans and initiatives from the barangay are crucial to develop prompt solutions and to avoid grave consequences that can harm the community of Barangay Sto. Niño. Inaction from local officials can only make the issue expand into widespread congestion that can be the catalyst of numerous traffic accidents.
The safety of pedestrians is a concern, as proximity from pedestrians to traffic may increase accidents due to the absence of pedestrian paths. Moreover, the road’s inadequate infrastructure overlooks the capability and capacity of the road itself. With its narrowness, problems may arise with the addition of illegal parking on the roads, hindering traffic flow. The garbage collection at the side of the road may also lead to issues with road maintenance. Extending the lanes of the road may be one solution that can be applied to address the issue.
However, community members might disagree due to the imbalance of needs for home and business owners in the area. The lack of budget for the program also contributes to the barangay’s hesitation to push forward with lane extension. They are currently adjusting the roads near the police facility and the school in the area, but other parts of the barangay’s roads are still in the planning process.
Romeo F. Alberca, Sto. Niño barangay captain, stated in an interview last January 10, 2024 that the barangay’s sketch plans and initial measures, “ In this case, we really need the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) personnel to handle the traffic congestion that we have right now. But what we did for now was to assist the barangay tanod to handle these situations in our area.”
With regards to the satisfaction of the residents, surveys should be conducted to ensure their consent and concern about making changes with slim transport ways. This implementation also allows the personnel of such to further investigate what crucial roads impose a significant challenge.
The second solution, one that regards the situation that speaks of a low budget for construction, can easily be handled with collaborations and funding.
Although it may be quite heavy for a small district to handle such big changes, we can still assure that efforts are greatly done with solutions and precautions being implemented.
n the Sto. Niño community, there is an overpass that connects students and residents to their desired locations. During the day, it serves as a convenient pathway, but as night falls, its safety becomes a growing concern due to the absence of proper lighting. The shadows cast by the unlit path raises questions about the welfare of those who tread it after dark.
In a recent interview, the Brgy. Captain Romeo F. Alberca shed some light on the issue. According to him, this was not always the case. There used to be lights illuminating the overpass, providing a sense of security for the pedestrians who frequented the area. However, the current darkness was a result of a burnt electric meter, for which the barangay claims to have paid Davao Light for reinstallation. The last step seems to only be the action from the power company.
The barangay captain assures the community that they are actively carrying out a resolution, stating, “If the company will approve, then I’m sure magkaroon na tayo ng light diyan.” Although the promise is encouraging, the reality paints a different picture The overpass has been without lights for a while, ever since the start of the previous school year.
One cannot help but question the efficiency of the follow-up process. It has been over a year since the issue was first addressed. The community deserves more than mere promises, provoking a false sense of hope. With the number of personnel at the barangay’s disposal and the significant amount of time that has passed, the lack of resolution implies neglect to this small community.
The safety of the people in our locality, particularly the students, as well as residents who use the overpass regularly, should be a top priority. Darkness should never
AS DENSE AS A
Mr.Conventional
hilippinehistoryhasalwaysbeen riddledwithfamousandoutspoken politics.Itiswhatmakesourmaturing democracysounique,inthesensethatthe votersseldomvoteduetopolicy,butbecause ofhowmuchtheyheartheirchosencandidate onFacebookortelevision.Throughtheyears, wehavealsoseenthatnomatterhowmany timestherehavebeenpromisestoeradicate corruptionandpovertybyface-value,minimal changehasbeenseen.
Yet,thisFilipinodilemmareallyhasasimple answer,itistheFilipinovoterhimselfwhocan answerwhyweareinthestatethatweare rightnow.Youmayhaveseenswarmsof commentsonlinesayingthat certainpeople continuetosupporttheirpolitical"lodi".
be an obstacle to their safety. The barangay, being the first line of defense for local concerns, must take more proactive steps to ensure the prompt resolution of such matters.
It is not just about installing lights; it is about restoring a sense of relief and security for everyone who utilizes the overpass. The community has entrusted its safety to the barangay, and it is high time that this trust is reciprocated with tangible actions.
As we face the delay of bureaucratic processes, let us not forget the fundamental responsibility of our local leaders to address the immediate needs and concerns of the community. This disturbance’s impact on our citizens’ safety and peace of mind is significant. It is time to turn the promise of luminescence into a reality and ensure that our overpass is once again a well-lit, stable passage for all.
How safe do you feel in Brgy. Sto Nino?
Ithasonlyseemedtohaveboostedits presencewiththeongoingfeudbetweenthe HousesofMarcosandDuterte,andthe nationaldebateonwhetheritisessentialto amendthe1986Constitution,althoughsuch attitudesareperhapsasolderasour Republicitself.Iamremindedofthetwohorseraceinthe1986snapelectionbetween thethen-incumbentPresidentMarcos,and thechallengerCorazonAquino.Therace wasbitter,butitshostilitywasaccelerated duetothefactthatitwasprettymucha choicebetweenthepersonalitiesofboth candidates.
Whyhavesomeinourcountryresortedto beingunwillingtolistentotheothersideand hurlattacksoneachother?
errorism breeds a special kind of fear. It only takes one misstep for this fear to pounce and take shape, only one accident to turn fear into mass hysteria. The recent Mindanao State University (MSU) Marawi bombing last December 3, 2023, has led to doubts about safety. As a barangay housing multiple schools, it begs the question, “Is Barangay Sto. Niño safe enough?”
To illustrate, the Philippine Science High School Southern Mindanao Campus, Sto. Nino National High School, Holy Child College of Davao, and Imelda Elementary School are the schools situated in Sto. Niño. This makes for hundreds of students alongside thousands of inhabitants as possible targets for acts of terrorism.
In fact, the Global Terrorism Database reported that terrorist attacks on educational institutions have increased to 100 since the 1990s. Political scientists speculate that this increase was in part influenced by global networks like al-Qaeda and ISIS,
Itisasignofwillfulignorance,andwhenfactsare involvedagainstyourcase,aresimplyshouted downasthoughtcrime.Citizenparticipationis crucialtothefunctionsofeverydaygovernment, andoverthepastfewyears,concernedcitizens haveralliedfromallbackgroundsinsupportofa cleanandtransparentgovernment.
However,therecomesapointwhere disinformationandblatanthostilityare introduced,andthisiswhereitstartstoget dangerous.Nomatterhowmuchonemaytryto differwiththeirviewpoints,itwon’tchangethe factthatpeoplewillcontinuetobea‘die-hard’ supporteruntilthedaytheydie.Itisakinto talkingtoabrickwall,really.
Idirectthisnextparagraphtotheyouth,the
futureleaderofthenation.Itis understandablethatthedesireforvotes triumphsoverthewelfareofthepeople,but therecomesatimewhenviolentwordsturn intoviolenceitself,andyouwillfindyourself atthecenterofagreatFilipinodivide.
Thereisagreatermeaningtoapolitician’s careerthanjusthissecuredposition.Itis servingthatisthegiftonehastheultimate privilegeofhaving.
Tothefutureleaderwhoenvisionsanation strongertogether,itisyourcalltodiscourage yoursupportersfromtreatingyoulikethe SecondMessiah.Donotencouragethe spreadoffakenewsandbribery.Betactful, useyourvoicetoliftothers,nottodivide.
RecentbombingalarmsPisayscholars
but also because terrorist groups have learned that doing so brings far more attention to their cause.
Analyzing the previous MSU bombing, it is haunting to realize that the target of the attack was a school. Even more, the attack was orchestrated to occur during something as peaceful and as mundane as a mass. We must understand that for these terrorists, people’s lives are only something to prey on, a means for an end they ceaselessly fail to justify.
The question in the back of the people’s minds is, “Will it happen again?” The job of the local government now is to ensure that safety precautions are enacted and contingency plans are drawn out. After all, terrorists are ruthless. What stops them from bombing schools when it could emphasize their cruelty?
It proves that fear must be tamed; not into denial and complacency, but into wariness and caution. In an
with
the
are currently over 40 personnel employed to roam the streets day and night, including the Chief of Tanod and the Chief of Police.
Along with the Philippine National Police (PNP), barangay tanods guard over the roads entering and exiting the barangay. For the safety of its minors, the barangay has also instated a curfew between 10 pm to 4 am. In a barangay with hundreds of students aside from 20,934 inhabitants, no safety measure is ever overkill.
As we go about our daily lives, let us not play ignorance to the danger that abounds us; let us shape our fears into something productive and concrete. We, too, have a part to play. To be vigilant means to help keep the barangay safe; reporting any suspicious activity would help security by leaps and bounds. After all, even one life lost is a loss too many.
YannahFajardo
YannahFajardo
Idriao.o Sarah Plaza
Jellyfish
Rodolfo Cruz
Manuel Dugan Blindesmouth
Katerina Lopez
Manuel Dugan
interview
Sto. Niño’s barangay captain Romeo F. Alberca, he reported that
barangay was ready: there
YannahFajardo
he economy plays a big part in establishing a good status for a country. Recently, the Philippines has been experiencing a great deal of inflation, deeply affecting many citizens especially those under the threshold of poverty. Although the pandemic has been slowly lessening its impact on our country and its people, this problem has risen and caused a serious delay in the industrial areas of our nation. With this, the ordinary citizen is left with no choice but to endure the ever-rising prices of daily necessities. It cannot be solved with just the simple flip of a switch. However, a collective consciousness of economic policies can be the coil of a chain of development in our homeland.
As of October 2022, the Philippines’ inflation rate has increased to 7.7%, which is 0.8% more than the previous rate in September. It has been quite difficult for many citizens to fend for their families, let alone their own needs. In addition, the situation worsens as we are living in a third-world country. Poverty is a constant barrier blocking us away from progressing as a whole nation, with 18.1% of Filipinos under the poverty line in 2021. Simply put, we must do a lot more than just unifying our country to make a significant mark of change.
In addition, many students also suffer due to these drastic changes in the economy. Most students are unable to provide for their own needs because of their age limitations. As scholars, we get a good amount of our stipend and allowance from the government. However, expenses are highly limited for most scholars because of the high demand in the current world.
Numerous scholars do not have families that are as fortunate as the rest, declining their ability to be in a pocket- friendly environment.
Although we may regularly face disadvantages, inflation also has a few of its benefits. “More demand can trigger more production to meet these economic needs,” an investor named Sean Ross said. “There are also loans that can be paid with less value than the originally borrowed money,” he added. While this may sound like a general advantage, only the producers will gain from it. However, a few factors blocking the road to the productivity of this strategy are the limitations brought by the pandemic and the production of money in the Philippines.
What the youth, as individuals, can do to turn the tides of our current situation is unfortunately limited. Even so, things can be done as mitigation for a problem as impactful as this. The projected increase in living costs will most likely lead to an emergence of a sense of prudence and economic consciousness that would lead us to closely evaluate what is truly needed versus what is superfluous. This may manifest through speaking up about the issue, educating ourselves and our peers, and wisely managing our funds.
Politics, societal expectations, and delayed production are among the many factors that led to this predicament. This tangled web of various socio-political circumstances is exactly what makes solving the problem particularly difficult. However, awareness can lead to better decisionmaking during a time of instability and help us purge the poison in a troubling world.
PRICE HIKES POVERTY
he success of an academic institution and its students is rooted in the quality of its faculty. People always say that quality should matter more than quantity. However, in predicaments involving sufficient manpower, the solutions are not as clear cut as the well-known phrase. It is not black-and-white. Requests can be futile despite their urgency. The complexities of funding, hiring policies, and processes within a government agency all paint the issue a vague gray.
From A.Y. 2019-2020, the number of scholars accepted into the school increased to 120 from the original 90. The increase of the number of students resulted in a spike in the workload of school staff. 5 out of the six batches on campus exceed 100 students. One of the subject teachers in the school handles 4 batches, a total of 480 students.
Additionally, teachers from the Natural Science and Research faculty have to juggle responsibilities with multiple grade levels and numerous research advisees. In an interview with Glenn Mitchell Laud, Human Resource Officer of PSHS-SMC, the library and guidance unit, among others, have already requested for more employees to be hired.
Meanwhile, amidst this problem of an ever-expanding clientele and manpower shortage is a plantilla assignment that restricts employee hiring. According to Laud, “Walang control ang campus when it comes to the number of personnel na mabibigay. It’s actually DBM, Department of Budget and Management, who assigns the number of personnel for each agency. What the agency can do is request for additional manpower, but still that’s
subject for approval for DBM.” However, the unfilled vacancies in other campuses prove to be a hurdle in pushing forward requests for more manpower.
Seeing the entirety of Philippine Science High School as a system and not as individual campuses, the DBM deems it unnecessary to add more jobs where positions are already left empty. This reflects a larger national issue wherein thousands of vacant government posts remain unfilled. According to an official statement by the DBM in 2022, there are 169, 688 vacant positions.
Hurdles that line the path towards alleviating the manpower issue cause the school administration to resort to contractualization for hiring sufficient teachers and nonteaching staff.
Currently, all campuses within the Pisay system have pushed the request for more personnel, but only time will tell if the country’s current manpower peril will heed such a call.
While daily student life might compel scholars to complain about the insufficient support given by the school administration towards the faculty, troubles in hiring more personnel are only manifestations of larger problems. The efforts of the government to reorganize the setup of an agency by reducing the overall number of vacant positions might seem ineffective at first glance, especially for institutions whose problems with manpower are hidden behind mere numbers and statistics. Focusing on the bigger picture, this policy of the DBM has the potential to mend the root cause of the hurdle.
n the dynamic world of STEM education, where precision is paramount, the recent STEM camp event encountered an unexpected hurdle in the form of a tallying mishap that caused the wrong rankings in events such as Battle of the Bands and Amazing Race. However, what sets this incident apart is the commendable response of the Sci-Mates, the dedicated facilitators of the event, who not only owned up to their mistakes but also extended
a heartfelt apology, showcasing resilience and the core value of integrity.
After an interview with the club adviser of the Sci-Mates club, Sir Ronald A. Gica or Sir RG, we shed light on the reasons for this mishap. The first reason is due to the challenge posed by inexperienced inspectors, noting that it was their first time facilitating the event. “I trust them (facilitators) but they are still newbies, what I mean by newbies is that you guys are experiencing and f
acilitating this event for the very first time.”
Another factor that also emerged is time constraints, primarily due to the postponement of the water rocket launching events and unexpected delays in the allocated time for the quiz bee. These changes disrupted the carefully crafted schedule, putting pressure on the Sci- Mates to recalibrate timelines in real time. The unexpected surge in participants, growing from 90 students per batch to 120, posed
Breaking Bread Barriers
hilippine Science High School Southern Mindanao Campus (PSHS- SMC) is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence. However, students with specific dietary needs, particularly those adhering to religious practices, face challenges in finding suitable food options. EMS Catering, responsible for handling the school’s food services in the current school year 2023-2024, presents limitations for religious students particularly in terms of halal meal choices.
A Muslim dormer, Jamilah Nur, shared insights into the challenges of finding suitable meals within the school’s canteen. The dormer-resident revealed difficulties during dinner, with a lack of halal options, resulting in the need to wait for alternative dishes, primarily fried chicken or eggs. Moreover, concerns arise from the shared use of utensils and containers for both halal and non-halal food, impacting the overall dining experience. According to Nur, “Serving utensils and containers are used to serve food with pork content and halal foods, and my parents advise me to avoid such, but I have no choice but to just settle for it.” Expressing her wish for more choices of food, Nur highlights the need for a broader and more accommodating menu.
Khail Hernandez, another Muslim scholar, also spoke up about his regardingexperiences the food limitations in the canteen. “As a Muslim student, I am never really sure if the food available is pork or not.”
While the students have not directly addressed their dietary needs with the canteen staff, there is some recognition of their dietary restrictions among some of the canteen concessionaires. According to Hernandez, one of the canteen staff who was part of last school year’s concessionaire,
logistical challenges. Not all students had the opportunity to experience all the stations during the amazing race due to the increased cohort size.
Managing the larger group proved to be a hurdle, impacting the seamless execution of certain activities.
“We will make sure that next time, me or any other faculty,
Limited food options spark distress in religious communities
and is now working on the canteen’s cashier, is greatly appreciated for she remembers who the people with dietary restrictions are and reminds her coworkers about it. During instances when no halal options are available, the staff provides alternatives such as fried chicken, eggs, or hotdogs. The staff also makes an effort to inform these students about which dishes contain pork and suggests alternative options.
The primary recommendation is an increase in halal food options within the canteen with a suggestion that chicken or beef pastil be included in the menu. Additionally, the dormer suggests exploring the possibility of using separate cooking and serving utensils and oils for pork-containing dishes to avoid crosscontamination and also suggests having distinct steamers for snacks with pork content and those without, ensuring a more diverse selection for snacks.
“To better accommodate diverse dietary preferences, I suggest that the school canteen shall provide clear and exact meat labels on every viand that is available for the day. It would be very much helpful not only for us practicing Islam but also for other religions and their respective dietary practices,” says Hernandez.
The limitations in food options for religious students in Pisay emphasize the importance of fostering an inclusive dining environment. Christians or Catholics who are not practicing any specific religious food restrictions may make up the vast majority of the community, but it is time that we become more considerate to the minority of individuals who are restricted with certain food types. Together, let us overcome barriers in breaking bread.
manage the time very well.” Sir RG assured that in the next STEM camp, time will be strictly monitored, and the 120 students per batch will be managed to avoid making the same mistakes again.
SamuelApale
CampusDecoder Jianne Colina
Adrienne Bautista
LioraCercado
Manuel Dugan ScholarSentinel Lavinia Elizan
Lavinia Elizan
HIV,knownastheHuman ImmunodeficiencyVirushasgoneon tocorrupthumanlivesonaglobal scale NineteenthousandinfectedFilipino youths-thatisjustanapproximationofhow substantialtheimpactofHIVaffectedthe youngergenerationinthePhilippinesforthe pasttwoyears InMarch2021alone,30%(316) ofthe1,041confirmedHIV-positive individualswere15-24yearsoldatthetimeof diagnosis,justbesidethe52%(538)casesthat camefrompersonsrangingfrom25to34years old
Amidstthislanguishingstateofthecountry’s youth,spiritedmembersofthesamegroup havetakentheinitiativetoaddressthis pressinghealthissuethroughvarious approaches InBarangaySto Niño,Tugbok District,DavaoCity,twoofthesepassionate membershavebeenlocated:oneresident,and onestudentinanearbyschool Tamara,whochosenottorevealherlast name,hasbeenrecognizedasaremarkable youthresidentbytheSKChairmanofthesaid barangay Tamaraherselfmentionedthe differentcontributionsshehaspropagated throughouthercareer “ThehelpIprovided forourbarangaywouldbethedistributionof commodities,suchascondoms,pills,and lubricants ThesearetheitemsthatIamgiving forpeopletoavoiddiseasessuchasHIV/AIDS, andSexuallyTransmittedInfections(STIs),” shesaid,expandingonthereasonbehind theseactions
BNotonlywithinherbarangaydidshelenda helpinghand,butshealsoreachedaregional scalethroughherroleasacommunity-based screening(CBS)motivatorforHIV “Ifnota motivator,wewouldbetheoneswhowill screenthosewhowouldliketoknowtheirHIV status,”sheadded
KeeneYaelDampal,aGrade12studentof Pisay-Davaoalsoservesasavolunteeratthe samecenterwhereTamarahasbeenpartfor threeyears:theDAYAWCommunityCenter undertheFamilyPlanningOrganizationofthe Philippines-knownasFPOP
“Throughoutmytimeasavolunteer,Ihad takenpartinruraloutreaches,hadprepared HIVawarenessboothsatcity-wideevents,and hadgivenHIV101talksandcounselingto variouspeople,”heemphasized Healso sharedthathehasdistributedover3,000 contraceptiveswithinhislocalcommunity Oneofthehighlightsofhistrekasanadvocate washisrepresentationofFPOPduringthe NationalChildrenandYoungPeople’s Planning(NCYPPF)onHIVandAIDS,whose effortswouldberecognizedinthedraftingof thePhilippineAIDSMediumTermPlanfor 2023upto2028
Whenaskedabouttheimportanceofhaving theentireyouthbeawareofongoingsocial andhealthissuesconcerninggender,Tamara responded,“Forme,it’smuchbetterforthe youthtobemadeawareofthesetopicsand seminarsbecauseinthisgeneration,many humansarealreadyengaginginsex Therefore,theymustbegivenproperactionto avoidthesethings ” TamaraandDampalarejusttwoofthemany youthswithinthecitywhohavecollectively madeeffortstomitigatethecurrentHIV extremityinthecommunity Additionally, bothofthemhavepresentedthemselvesas modelsofactioninthesenseofproblemsthat aretrickytoresolve Indeedjustfromthese two,asingleinferencecanbedrawn:the youthcanconstructthewavesthatcanerode theseashoreplateausoflastingHIVeffectsin ourcountry Thestrongerweworktogether, thestrongerthewave
efore Filipino Sign Language (FSL), efore American Sign Language (ASL), efore any kind of language in the world, there was one language with which all people could perceive the world: love Love is fierce and unflinching, a force that cannot be stopped, not by disability or discrimination Love is a language louder than any shout, one heard through deft-fingered signs and the way emotions take shape on a face Every language is born of love; it does not matter whether one is deaf or blind or mute, love can be perceived by all It is the only truly universal means by which a human may reach out into the world and touch another soul
In the Philippines Science High School - Southern Mindanao Campus (PSHS-SMC), the student-led, non-profit organization PiSIGN aims to teach the student body basic FSL and ASL, while also raising awareness and advocating for the deaf community Through PiSIGN, a student learns the history of sign language, its basic tenets, and basic vocabulary They also learn to implement it in their daily lives
already the members use it when communicating with each other from far away
Alyssa Marie E Pellerin, co-head of PiSIGN, expressed this sentiment in a one-on-one interview conducted on February 10, 2024 “The biggest dream and goal of the organization is to promote inclusivity in the Pisay community, and hopefully help allow Pisay to be more accessible to the deaf community ”
As a SCALE (Service, Creativity, Activity, and Leadership Enhancement) program, the organization requires its members to complete a culminating activity For PiSIGN, this is the implementation of sign language through song Members translate a chosen song into sign language and then use their hands and bodies to perform it Silently, without a single melody slipping past their lips Music, then, does not need to be heard, only to be listened to Through the emotions painted by the body and the face To sing and to even deafness cannot stop the en
LOVE:THEPOWER OFUPLIFTING
SavineCansancio
Isloveanart?Thenit requiresknowledgeandeffort Loveisnotaspontaneousfeeling, athingthatyoufallinto,butis somethingthatrequiresthought, knowledge,care,givingand respect
quotes psychoanalyst Erich Fromm in his book, The Art of Loving Love is often perceived as a magical feeling that slithers into your heart and tickles your stomach, prompting the question whether or not there’s even anything crucial us people need to learn about
On September 21, 2023, a student-centered organization known as #NotAlone held a talk in Pisay to its dormer residents, with not more than 15 boy dormers and 93 girl dormers respectively This advocacy group focused on holistically assisting youth by spreading a message rooted in the love of God
Cart Cartilla, another advocate for #NotAlone, said, “Love is powerful and can help others to be compelled to do well We must continue to show love, even if it’s hard ” He articulated the
need for students to discover inner peace, a peace modeled by Christ Cartilla also highlights that the love endured within #NotAlone’s community is so profound that they must share it with the students
Gian Rafael Pilapil, a volunteer of #NotAlone, shared a significant perspective on the gravity of love in a student’s life He admitted that like many students, he once longed to be loved However, his priorities shifted through his journey with #NotAlone and his connection with the love of God
The message of #NotAlone deeply settled in the love of God, emphasizing the significance of implanting in the minds of students that they are, indeed, not alone Through the getaway of groups and sharing of personal stories, they spread an impactful message that echoes with students facing the challenges of academic life As they continue to foster an environment circulated by love and support, they remind us all that love has the power to unite and uplift, assuring no scholar ever feels alone on their journey
nguage Unheard Iloveyou.
languageisatestamenttothe sireforhumanconnection. itedeafnessandmuteness,we reateanotherwaytosharethe ld.Ifnotthroughourmouth, hroughourhands,westillfind awaytosay:
-of the human experience
The deaf and the hearing experience live in such different ways, but life is still experienced To share these experiences, to find a bridge between these communities, is what PiSIGN and sign language is for Language is the tool wielded by human connection It is needed to open the doors of Pisay to a larger world and to help its students communicate with what they might have previously thought was a community they could not understand
Still on the topic of PiSIGN and the goals it seeks to achieve, Ms Pellerin added later on, “Even if far from possible in the present, we hope [that] we can at least teach the Pisay community about the deaf community so that when an opportunity arises, the scholars are able to act accordingly and will have less boundaries when communicating or interacting with the deaf community ”
Sign language is a valuable tool to
morning and good night The signs of numbers and colors, emotions and endearments They were taught the signs of mother, father, sister, and brother They were taught how to sign family and friend and community It is telling those were the first words they learned Humanity thinks those things necessary Necessary enough to invent sign language, to be able to communicate these concepts amongst ourselves whether one is deaf or hearing, whether one has any number of afflictions or does not
To learn sign language is to open our hearts and minds to another community so often shunned It means to carve out a place in a society that is not shaped for them but should be It means to learn a language that cannot be heard but is louder than any other To learn sign language means to act on that selfless impulse that lives inside us all; to reach out; to create space
These are only a few of the blaring red abels stamped upon people who, even slightest, are seen to have crossed the line of psychiatric normality However, it has almost been 14 years since the term “mental retardation” was replaced by “intellectual disability,” and though the years already sweep by like a roll of film, misconceptions and prejudice still remain evident even in just the most implicit ways Thankfully, amidst the shadows casted upon these prejudiced sectors, a ray of light shone in the form of a center with a heart big enough to include them in it The Lingap Center is an organization offering residential and medical care to male disabled children all over the country who have been abandoned, neglected, and destitute Located at Durian St , Tugbok District, Davao City, it operates as a residential facility under the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO)
Although it is of a smaller scale compared to other establishments dedicated to the mentally challenged in the Philippines, the Lingap Center proves to be a safe and resilient sanctuary for those especially living near the Davao Region Headed by Ms Prenie L Taguibao, the center features 25 staff working in a 24/7 operation to accommodate all 22 residents including many with comorbidities
It has often been said that people fear what they do not understand To come faceto-face with someone who looks just like
A
them, but could never truly grasp the same coherence as the people they usually encounter, only drives many to feel uneasy In the unending stigma of associating them with “violence”, “lunacy”, and “incompetence”, they have been subjected to heartless treatment from hypocrites of the same facets
“Kaning mga special child, madiscriminate man gyud sila kay tungod sa ilahang pagkabaldado Diri pud sa among parts, sila gyud ang pinaka-luoy kay sila gyud ang walay kalaban-laban Pwede ra gyud ni silang pang-abusuhan nga dili maka-protect sa ilahang sarili,” said Ms Taguibao “Dili sila kabalo usahay mukaun, naa pa diring ginahungitan namo So, gamay siya, pero bug-at sila atimanon, kay dili jud na sila ka express sa ilahang gibati ” Think of a cup, and imagine it as the representation of every person with their own share to pour to the community For most of us, the cup is complete with all parts, serving our duty with no more than the required effort to give However, for those who do not share the same privilege of intellectual ability, they function as cups without handles as in their own way, they still can contribute in their own ways to society, but we must look after them with both hands supporting People with disabilities, regardless of type, may need to be looked after more, but that does make their place in the world worth any less
YannahFajardo
Maria Agulo
YannahFajardo
13 FEATURE
NEEDLE THROUGH THE
ThePisay Crochet Craze
FaithMalintad
It is no secret that Pisay is home to the sciences that pave innovations that grow technologies In this environment that breeds innovations from the skillful minds of the youth, Pisay culture can be perceived as a heavy cloud of constant pressure, competition, and expected excellence However, behind the seemingly nerdy facades of your local scholars are also artists who enjoy the calm and color of the repetitive In handheld hooks and spools of yarn, the resurfaced art of crochet has taken the Pisay community by storm
“Crochet has definitely helped me with being patient and persistent with the things I do For example: in research, our tests usually take a while, but I find myself calmer than usual and just generally in a better mood compared to previous times I was at the lab,” shared Yuki Padua, a crocheter and co-founder of Project PAWS, a crochet organization in PSHS-SMC that raises funds for furred pets
The repetitive and methodical art of crochet is definitely a lesson in patience, focus, and dedication– important values that STEM students and future scientists should be wellversed in
“Other than the fact that it helps me better balance acads and my personal life, I think crochet really boosts my self-esteem There’s quite a lot of freedom in crocheting and although I’ve only tried a few patterns, it really does help me in improving my creativity,”
STITCHSAVERS
Crochet,
Halcyone Mitzi De Leon, Padua’s co-founder of Project PAWS, stated in an interview
rends are often dismissed as mporary, wishy-washy in nature and shallow in being; however, for our 8 million nano businesses as reported by the Social Enterprise Development Partnerships, Inc (SEDP), such fads help them survive each passing day In essence, these nano businesses are a testament to Filipino ingenuity and a cry for national support
According to SEDP, nano businesses fall below the microenterprises category Specifically, these are selfemployed individuals with a capitalization of less than P50,000 Recently, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued a memorandum allowing students and personnel to wear the viral duck clips in school The craze started in Baguio, but it has since then proliferated in the country
Many condemn it to be a proof of the infamous bandwagon mentality of Filipinos and a proof of materialism To a point, it is After all, the mentality of keeping up with trends like the previous lato-lato is characteristic of our upbringing
Nonetheless,
Katherina
she beamed at me– so genuine and surprised– made me wish that I could have bought more from her
Like the duck clip seller who ingeniously takes advantage of the viral aspects of his products, similar retailers capitalize on what is currently popular We always complain about how one thing is just a trend, but we fail to realize the opportunity it provides to our nano business entrepreneurs
As President Marcos pointed out in his speech during the 42nd Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Filipino nano businesses must be given attention Government policies must identify them so that they can be mainstreamed into the larger economy After all, many micro businesses started out as nano ones
At the same time, we as consumers should also pay patronage to our local sellers who struggle day-to-day to keep their nano businesses afloat amid a turbulent economy Supporting them by buying their products is the most sensible way
Behind every vendor is a Filipino who envisions a better future It is only right that the limelight is cast upon these nano entrepreneurs who are present in our daily life but invisible to the economy
nthemorningofthe25thof October2023,agroupofscholars andstaffsetforthfromDavaoCity andontoManila,soaringwiththem onthatfatefulflight,weretheir dreamsandaspirationsforwhat wouldultimatelybecomeagreat victoryforPisayDavao
Aslastyear’sOctoberwasinitsfinal days,PSHSSMC’sparticipantswon firstplaceintheIndakAghamHimig Kaunlaranmusicvideocompetition, asannouncedinthe2023National Youth,Science,Technology,and InnovationFestival(NYSTIF)
MOVEDTO
musicvideocompetition Gasparand Oliveros,too,expressednervousness duetothemomentumofevents,so onecanonlyimaginetheirsurpriseat theirsuccess
GREATNESS
OverseenbyMusicteacherMiss JonaJoyPaladaandPhysical EducationteacherMissNiña HyacinthOsorno,thecollectionof Grade10-11scholarsfirstscoreda positionintheTop5Winnersofthe competition,alongwiththe participantsfromdifferentPisay campusesinthecountry
Andtheymadeshockwaves,ina celebrationthatroaredthroughthe wholecampus Theydeliveredagreat message,movingtheheartsand touchingthemindsofallwho watched Inapowerfulperformance,
theyunitedwiththeother participantstomaketheNYSTIFa nighttoremember
Ithasbeenheard,said,andspread alreadyofSMC’svictory-oftheir dazzlingdisplayandgripping presentation Yet,behindthecurtains ofsuchanimpressiveshow,what wentoninsidethemindsofthe performers?
“Exhilarating,”Paysondescribed theirperformanceonstage, recountingaswellhowrushedtheir filmingandproductionwasforthe
Toalltheparticipants,itwasan exhilaratingexperience,aunifying journeythatallowedthemtoconnect withotherPisayscholarsfarbeyond theboundariesofSMC “Thepeople fromothercampusesarentas differentasyouthink,”Oliveros expressed
IndakAghamwasaunifyingevent thatallowedthoseinvolvedtoconnect withothers,andwitheachother,to showcaseavaluablelesson-that together,theoddsoftimeso commonlyregardedasshortmaybe beaten Together,scholars-andall theyouthingeneral-canbemovedto achievesomethinggreat,touching andinspiringothersinthegrandeur oftheirsuccess
SPLITEXCELLENCE:SIBLINGS’ AFFINITYFORSUCCESS
midst the pulse of intellectual fervor, the Smart Up! 2023 event has left an indelible mark on the academic landscape One notable activity from the event, the Science Quiz Bowl, has cast a luminous spotlight on the indomitable spirit of academic excellence At the forefront of this spotlight stands Mickael Fermil S Daradar and Julianne Elysse C Simbulan, who emerged as the champions in the battle of intellect and wits
As the Science Quiz Bowl unfolded, the fervor of the participants was palpable, each round escalating in intensity and intellectual acuity The event not only showcased the depth of knowledge possessed by the competing teams but also underscored the value of critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration
“I did a lot of reading, and stayed long hours at school I tried mock quiz bees just so I could get the concepts perfectly, so I could be where I am right now,” Simbulan stated Hers and Daradar’s hard work and dedication propelled her to new heights, allowing them to harvest the fruits of their labor, and take the gold
In the same interview, Daradar expressed the significance of engaging youth in the STEM community He believes that the youth’s exposure to the STEM community will surge forth new ideas and innovations, further progressing the field of science and propelling us to a
and create for all of mankind
triumph, the resounding impact of Daradar and Simbulan’s victory reverberated far beyond the confines of the competition hall
Both their academic prowesses have recently culminated in their successful passing of the National Competitive Examination (NCE), solidifying their status as future scholars of Pisay-Davao, the esteemed institution renowned for nurturing the brightest young minds in the Philippine taking her place beside her older sister, Rudian Eve C Simbulan, a Grade 10 scholar Daradar also passed the same institution, standing beside his older sister, Mickaellah Tessa Dardar, another Grade 10 student As the academic world reflects on their achievement, their win serves as a testament o the enduring impact of scholarly dedication and the boundless potential of the human intellect
In an interview, Simbulan revealed that the path to victory was not easy
As the event culminated in a crescendo of intellectual
SamaraMatanguihan
JoaquinMatobato
YannahFajardo
BRACE FOR IMPACT
Why the Philippines is and how we can prepare
On the early morning of January 9, people from all over Mindanao were woken up by the relentless shaking of the ground beneath their feet. A Magnitude 6.7 earthquake had struck the province of Sarangani, with its seismic waves detectable by instruments from as far away as Cagayan de Oro. The week prior, on January 3, a Magnitude 5.0 earthquake struck near the coast of Surigao del Sur, and another earthquake would occur in the same area on January 17. Three earthquakes, three weeks in a row.
Due to the country’s location in the Ring of Fire, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) holds the crucial responsibility of preventing and mitigating disasters caused by geological phenomena, including earthquakes. To this end, the agency has developed various solutions and programs to educate the public and prepare them for disaster.
The NSED was developed by PHIVOLCS and NDRRMC specifically as a response to an event they call “the Big One”, a worst-case scenario involving the West Valley Fault of the aforementioned Valley Fault System. This fault does not only run through the heart of Metro Manila; it is also known for producing highly destructive Magnitude 7 earthquakes roughly every 400 years, with the last estimated instance being in the 1700s. Over 6000 buildings—a majority of them houses—are in danger of total destruction when the Big One occurs. Its projected death toll is grim, ranging from 35,000 to 60,000. Although an earthquake as utterly catastrophic as the Big One is unlikely
Timewalkers conquer in sendoff tourney
Louie Antonio
Adrienne Bautista
that we, students of the PSHS system, have eyes on our screens or papers 24/7 to comply with all of our requirements In exchange for hair-pulling and mind-numbing academics, we may have no time for relaxation, hobbies, or physical activity We might have to sacrifice some of the things we love just to avoid seeing a below 60% score
But how does one juggle both their academics and ambitions as an Isko or Iska? It is a hard feat to accomplish, albeit possible, as explained by student-athlete Dwane C Daquioag A current Grade 12 student and a master of the bow and arrow, she bagged a bronze medal in the 60m Girl’s Individual Qualifier and a gold medal in the Girl’s Team Play of last year’s Davao Region Athletic Association (DAVRAA)
KALASAG is an event where students can showcase their skills in different physical activities. An event made for fun and taking a break from acads - CARA LADEMORA, SPORTS CLUB PRESIDENT
20 SPORTS
Miguel de Luna
After everything she had been through, her passion for the sport still weighs a strong place in her heart “I love archery and I believe it can coexist with all the other things I enjoy doing I think you really just have to be careful with what you choose to take on and commit to,” she said
Indeed, as scholars, it is important that we find balance in all that we do to uphold the true definition of the core value of excellence: to be the absolute best version of oneself, regardless of what is thrown at us And being the blueprint of how one can still have the brains with an equal mix of the brawns, it is for certain that Dwane Daquioag has hit all the marks both in class and on the field
Miguel de Luna has missed
“Ding!,” echoed the 4:00 pm dismissal bell throughout the corridors of the Academic Buildings Within milliseconds, students flock out of their classrooms, eager to find their normal tambayan spots after a long day of stress-inducing academics Some seek comfort in the silence of the library, while others crave for the mouth-watering food in the canteen However, to those who find relaxation in exhilaration, sports has always been their calling
In particular, the area between dorms, covered courts, and parking lots are filled with students turning their accumulated stresses into energy for physical activity And to a school such as Pisay, one of its more common activities is volleyball, a game played everywhere on campus What could be more simple than a ball high in the air, somewhat eclipsing the sun, being exchanged back-and-forth between sweaty, reddish arms?
So much so that volleyball has been a culture to the school, being a staple sport during intramurals and a way for upperclassmen to bond with the lower years in a shared love for the sport For Jayrad Adeva, a Palarong Pambansa prodigy, he was first introduced to the volleyball community of Pisay through VAPS – the Volleyball Association of Pisay Scholars – when he was in Grade 7
VAPS is a recurring activity conducted by Grade 11 students for their SCALE (Service, Creativity, Action, and Leadership) requirement It consists of a 5-week long period in training scholars the basics of volleyball
to encourage sportsmanship and camaraderie between players
Unfortunately, this project came to a temporary halt during the pandemic
“I wanted to continue [VAPS because] a lot of students in school have talents [for volleyball] and I didn’t want their skills to go to waste,” said Mr Adeva, explaining why he wanted to bring the project back
“Since Grade 7, I have already thought about continuing VAPS as soon as we were already in Grade 11,” he added
From a former participant to a current VAPS head of operations, Mr Adeva emphasized that his passion for volleyball is not only rooted in teaching others discipline behind the ups and downs of every rally and in applying these learnings outside the court, but through also sharing his passion to those equally motivated as him in improving
“It’s amazing to see them grow as individuals and meet new people,” exclaimed Mr Adeva
Currently training students on the fundamentals of volleyball like receiving, blocking, and spiking, VAPS is eyeing for a friendly tournament between its participants at the end of the month
With Mr Adeva spreading what he learned from his upperclassmen, he is now in their position as the kuya teaching his lowerclassmen on his love for the sport Thanking his peers, fellow organizers, and participants, he ended the interview with one message, “Keep loving volleyball, thank you all for the support, and don’t stop!”
Samara Matanguihan