Sci-Link Newsletter, Vol. 1, Issue 1 (SY 2022-23)

Today's Link to the Future

learning modality learning modality

Megan Lexia Talabucon

tudents, faculty, and staff return to campus grounds as Philippine Science High School - Western Visayas Campus (PSHS-WVC) commenced the official start of classes, last August 31, 2022

The academic year opened with a series of orientations about the new protocols and guidelines to be implemented for the entirety of the school year, as well as the newly improved school services aiming to cater to students' needs in the “ new normal”

“We are currently having physical classes for a hundred percent of our student population; thus, we are asking for everyone's cooperation I know that ace

still help each other in implementing our guidelines and ensuring safety in our campus, ” quoted Dr Shena Faith M Ganela, the campus director of PSHSWVC

Moreover, the school's Incident Command System (ICS) stressed the importance of wearing of masks within the premises of the campus, limiting large assemblies and meetings, following the one-meter social distancing policy, and using the handwashing stations and temperature scanners placed across school grounds

"We really are social persons, and so we tend to forget the COVID-19 protocols But let us remember that unique times require uniq Mr Oliver Fuentespina, th ad, reminded

The onset of face-to-face classes also paved way for the return of physical activities, including teacherstudent consultations, acquaintance events, after-class sports, Alternative Learning Activities (ALAs), and laboratory experiments

The current school year marks the first time that PSHS-WVC transitions to in-person learning modality after two years of remote learning through its online Learning Management System, the Knowledge Hub

“The first day of classes was fun! It felt great because the feeling of being in a classroom with teachers and classmates was fulfilled that once again

PSHS-WVC welcomes scholars, faculty PSHS-WVC welcomes scholars, faculty in transition to in transition to fface-to-face ace-to-face

DOROMAL TIAMPONG

Math wizards snag Math wizards snag victories in victories in statistics contests statistics contests

Jairuz Lyron Sabala

P

SHS-WVC brings home the championship title in the 2022 Division and Regional Statistics Quiz Bees held separately on October 21 and 26 Ashley Nicole Uygongco, Reysheil Anne Doromal, and Shana Camille Tiampong, scholars from Batch 2025, secured the top spot against various competing schools across Iloilo and Region VI.

In an interview, the students expressed that the most challenging part of the competition was the wide range of topics to be studied

“Even as we were approaching the venue [for the regional competition], we were still focused on rereading and memorizing the concepts and formulas,” said Uygongco, one of the winning contestants

Meanwhile, Tiampong explained that she struggled with the limited preparation, but nonetheless enjoyed the journey

“The most difficult challenge that we faced was the incredibly short preparation time We were only informed about the division contest a week prior and we had to cram years' worth of statistics It was tiring but worth it,” Tiampong stated

Col Ruperto Abellon National High School from Laua-an, Antique finished second, and Iloilo Scholastic Academy from Iloilo City placed third in the Western Visayas Junior High School Regional Statistics Quiz.

The said contests are spearheaded by the UPV Statistical Society in partnership with the Philippine Statistics Authority to commemorate the 33rd National Statistics Month

“Overall, finishing first in both contests was an exhilarating experience,” Uygongco ended

Scholars learn and play in campus-wide Scholars learn and play in campus-wide STEM Day Celebration STEM Day Celebration

unior high scholars donned their batch colors for the first time in two years to celebrate this year ’ s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Day Celebration held last November 24

With the theme “Current trends in STEM for the people,” the event featured various activities from games to career talks with distinguished alumni working in scientific careers

Dr Jeomel G Sumbing of Batch 1998, an experienced aquaculturist and civilcoastal engineering graduate, shared his school and career journey as the opening program's plenary speaker

“My career trajectory was not a straight path; I discovered a lot about myself throughout the journey,” said Dr Sumbing

Moreover, the speaker narrated the various ups and downs that scholars may undergo in the future as they search for their dream professions

After the insightful talk, scholars fired up their competitive spirits to complete minor and major challenges facilitated by SiKLAB, PSHS-WVC's premier science club, along with student volunteers

The challenges were designed to incorporate scientific principles and concepts such as tension, gravitation, and centripetal force to showcase practical applications beyond textbook definitions

Furthermore, scholars were given the chance to meet and listen to invited alumni during Panubason, a career talk conducted in the afternoon

The series of talks were divided into three categories to talk about current a to page 4

Ilonggo pupils take part in Tulong Dunong 2022 Ilonggo pupils take part in Tulong Dunong 2022

Hans Mathew Mestidio

early 200 pupils from Iloilo elementary schools participated in the onsite Tulong Dunong organized by the PSHS-WVC faculty

Tulong Dunong 2022 was composed of demonstration classes, interactive experiments, and a campus tour to introduce learners to PSHS-WVC Furthermore, the event's goal was to ignite students' passion and interests in the various fields of science, and hone students' skills in preparation for Requirements for Admission, Criteria, a

and Evaluation (RACE), the PSHS's entrance exam in the " new normal"

The event was facilitated by PSHSWVC faculty and staff, with the assistance of Student Alliance officers

Hans Mathew Mestidio, Nureen Joy Mangoang

Alumnus clinches finalist and Alumnus clinches finalist and Audience Prize in international Audience Prize in international science photo contest science photo contest

Carlos Manuel Eusoya

ABatch 2014 alumnus garnered a major award for the Concours Yugen science photography contest for his original image on "illuminating fluorophores"

Magin Ferrer, a recent graduate from Batch 2014, claimed the Prix du public (Audience Prize) for his sciencethemed photography, and ranked among the 12 finalists in the said competition

Explaining the inspiration behind his work, Ferrer said that fluorophores are "suspension of microcapsules of a fluorescent solution", which was taken as part of his collaborative project with international laboratories

For Ferrer, the fluorophores " serve as a reminder that serendipity has great value in research"

"Sometimes, the best of scientific research is done not by getting the results you expect, but by understanding why we obtain unexpected ones, " Ferrer quoted

The international Concours Yugen photography contest aims to showcase scientific collaboration between the two countries of France and Japan through works of art and aesthetics

Among the 12 finalists, an esteemed jury composed of scientists and artists selected two photos for Jury Prizes, and a Public Prize was awarded to the photo with the greatest number of online votes on the website

Ferrer's work was taken from his current research on photoreactive compounds as means of creating radiation detectors with high sensitivity

Additionally, this research work has a

Lauding their efforts to bring honor to the school and the country, five student-participants were recognized by the UNILAB Foundation at the 2022 Olympiad Night held at the Bayanihan Center, JY Campos Hall A in Mandaluyong, last October 27

FERRER

been conducted in collaboration with international agencies, such as the Laboratory of Supramolecular and Macromolecular Photophysics and Photochemistry (PPSM) at ENS ParisSaclay

The alumnus was also supported and recognized by various prestigious institutes, including the International Doctoral Action (IDEX, Université ParisSaclay) for his double-degree PhD and the International Research Project (IRP) Nanosynergetics

As a multi-talented student, Ferrer obtained two bachelor's degrees after graduating from PSHS-WVC: BS Chemistry in 2018 and BS Materials Science and Engineering in 2019, both at Ateneo de Manila University.

He later earned his master's degree in Chemistry, and Materials Science and Engineering, through the Erasmus Mundus SERP+ program in 2021, and is presently a 2nd year double-degree PhD student

To strengthen ties between the administration and the parents of PSHS-WVC scholars, the ParentTeacher Association (PTA) held their Oath-Taking Ceremony and Transfer of Duty last October 22 at Zuri Hotel, Iloilo City

The oath was administered by Dr Shena Faith Ganela, the campus director, to the PTA officers comprising of the new duly elected Board of Trustees (BOT), as well as homeroom presidents and vice presidents

“This event recognizes and honors the important contributions of parents in supporting the undertakings of PSHS-WVC in our campus' 30-year history,” quoted Dr Ganela

Atty Leo Sombiro, the preceding BOT president who has also served on the PTA for 12 years, reported on the achievements of the association from the preceding year

According to Atty Sombiro, the PTA has partnered with the administration for important projects involving students' safety and comfort, such as the placement of CCTVs, campus beautification, and improvement of the schoolwide water systems

The new set of officers, headed by the new BOT president, Mr Jose Rogie Grande, promised to continue the efforts of the PTA and to uphold the hallmark of service in this school year

Joshua Ichiro Añasco, Carlos Manuel Eusoya, Ellen Faye Yabut, Mary Khezyll Galvan, and Jared Ashton Osdaña were recognized for their participation in the International Olympiad in Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) held online last August 2022

According to UNILAB Foundation Executive Director Lilibeth Aristoranes, the event was held to formally honor the role of the different olympiad teams in promoting interest towards STEM fields

"The UNILAB Foundation celebrates the successes of the olympiad delegates in the field of physics, mathematics, a

Astronomy olympiad student-participants recognized by Astronomy olympiad student-participants recognized by UNILAB Foundation UNILAB Foundation

Althea Lorraine Servano

Nureen Joy Mangoaong

PSHS-WVC graduates top PSHS-WVC graduates top

Physician, Fishery licensure exams Physician, Fishery licensure exams

Julian Miles Panerio, Carlos Manuel Eusoya

ustin Adriel Zent ‘Jaz’ G Togonon, an alumnus of Philippine Science High School - WVC (PSHS-WVC), attained the top spot in the Ph i i Li E (PLE) held last O Togonon ac the exam, rank takers all over t He graduate the University and was also valedictorian of school years at Yet Togono aiming to expectations of alone the first s

“After day o mom really trie my classmates cheering each the four days, a accept whatev important is tha an interview wi Moreover, the challenges decided to send PLE were hard a “In the mi rest also and have a few cheat days watching Netflix, spending time with your family, and then going out then with your friends,” he stated

Results for the PLE were released by the Philippine Regulatory Commission (PRC) on November 10 at their official w e he er th

In addition, Batch 2018 alumna Cherry Dale Templonuevo ranked sixth during the FTLE with a rating of 8475

Out of the 1,966 applicants, Templonuevo was among the 716 f l f h id li

trends in STEM investigation, research, and careers

Among them, Mr Kristoffer Panes, a multimedia and UX/UI artist, and the designer behind the PSHS-WVC’s 30th foundation logo, highlighted the combination of scientific and artistic fields and how they can work symbiotically

"I finished BS Computer Science to study and to understand both the artist and the developer’s side of things Everything I do, even if it’s art, is grounded in a lot of science,” he added

TEMPLONUEVO

Astronomy...

chemistry, biology, informatics, astronomy, and astrophysics," Aristorenas added

The IOAA olympiad was held with the main goals of promoting the growing interest in Astronomy and related STEM subjects, and enhancing the development of international contacts among different countries and schools

In addition to the IOAA delegates, Yosef Alexander Segotier, PSHS-WVC Batch 2022 alumnus and Bronze Medalist in the 2022 International Biology Olympiad held in Armenia last July, was also recognized in the event

In his recognition speech, Dr Aris Larroder, the coach of the IOAA participants from PSHS-WVC, emphasized the sacrifices made by students, along with their parents or coaches, throughout their respective olympiads

Furthermore, Senior Year Program (SYP) scholars had exclusive professional consultations with the said experts for their research studies

STEM Day 2022 was spearheaded by the STEM coordinator Ma'am Virginia S Barlas, Sir Angelo Olvido, teachers and facilitator students

"Number one, you have to love learning Because if you stop learning, you will end up dreaming Number two, you have to never stop learning Always remember that,” Mr Panes concluded

The STEM Day Celebration was aligned with the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW), an event annually conducted by the Department of Science and Technology or DOST

"I believe that amidst the 'dilim' or the struggles during the olympiad, the 'araw' or the source of light are the contestants To all contestants, you deserve this recognition for the tenacity and for everything you have done to bring honor to our country," Larroder added

"We enjoin you educators and parents alike to continue supporting our young learners Let us maximize the opportunity to create an environment where these learners may thrive,"

Scholars learn... Scholars learn...

Humanities week commences Humanities week commences with talks and film showing with talks and film showing

Jairuz Lyron Sabala

PSHS-WVC held its first in-person Humanities Celebration in two years last September 19, with the theme “Soaring Higher, Exploring Further: Bringing Opportunities Closer to Scholars and Teachers”

Featuring local films and Ilonggo artists, as well as plenary talks from distinguished speakers, the event aims to provide learning opportunities to scholars, bridge the community, and expand the campus's horizons through humanities and social sciences

Moreover, Maria Bleshielda FloresRosario, an alumna of the pioneer batch of PSHS-WVC, narrated her insights as a previous student in PSHS-WVC

“One thing that I learned is the importance of gratitude to be thankful of one's blessings in his or her daily life,” Rosario emphasized in her speech about the Pisay journey

Students were also entertained by performances from Batch 2023’s GAIA and Batch 2024’s The 24-Hour Shift

“As we open the school year 2022-2023, the whole Pisay – Western Visayas Campus is very much excited to see each other and celebrate Humanidades de Pisay On your return, dear scholars, we, your teachers are excited to meet you once again, especially for the celebration of this event,” the faculty stated in a promotional teaser released for the celebration

Moreover, scholars from Grades 7-9 witnessed the creations of award-winning Negrense director Jonathan P Jurilla: Tiempo Suerte, Luisa, and De Lata, as part of the afternoon festivities

Meanwhile, Grades 10-12 students immersed themselves in the work of Ilonggo filmmaker Kevin P Piamonte, including his films, Paano Mangin Bata and Bukog

Pisay

community, but to other communities as well,” the teaser continued

As an extension of the Humanities Celebration, teachers took their National Competitive Exam (NCE) campaign caravan to Guimaras last September 24 to share their knowledge, perform outreach activities, and to hold Pagpasanyog, a quiz competition for Grade 6 students

CarlosManuelEusoya

Scholars immersed themselves in a series of mathematics lectures at the PSHS-WVC Math Coaching Camp held at the campus's Guimaras Research Station last December 7-8, 2022

Select participants from Grades 7-12 were taught about competition-level problems by various mathematics teachers

"We are glad that this camp is one of the student activities that we can do again after all the pandemic restrictions We hope that everyone will be able to enjoy while learning maths," quoted Dr Joseph Madriñan, the Mathematics Academic Unit Head

The said event was spearheaded by the Mathematics Unit in preparation for the school's participation in various local and international math contests

for Boys and Girls Week 2022 Girl duo joins Iloilo City officials for Boys and Girls Week 2022

Girl duo joins Iloilo City

Eliza Consuelo Bellones and Julia Aiko Añasco, Grade 10 students from PSHSWVC, were selected as local government officials in the awarding ceremony of the Boys and Girls Week 2022 held last November 10, 2022

Among the 69 student-participants from public and private secondary schools in Iloilo City, Bellones was chosen as City Mayor, the second time in the history of PSHS-WVC, and Añasco was likewise awarded as City Councilor

To learn first-hand insights about the duties of city mayor, Bellones joined the office of Mayor Jerry Treñas last November 14-18

"We hope that this experience help in molding the young leaders into future public servants that will promote the welfare of our fellows," quoted Mayor Treñas

Meanwhile, Añasco joined the office of City Councilor Candice Tupas, who warmly welcomed the said scholar and looked forward to develop and prepare

the young leader, along with fellow officials, "for future roles in government service"

The Boys and Girls Week event is organized by the Rotary Club of Iloilo City and the Iloilo City Government

After the awarding ceremony, a parade was conducted at November 14, which was participated by select PSHSWVC scholars, and a culminating activity was held at November 19

officials

Eena Mikhaela Luces

“We are set in making this event meaningful, not only to the

S h l b i Th O di S h l b t t i Th O t t di

Mathew Mestidio

Furthermore, Yabut explained that the TOSIA award is not the end of her journey as an aspiring advocate and a student leader

“Receiving the TOSIA award and the Top Circle recognition was truly a blessing and a humbling experience I would have never reached this far without the help of my VIPs -- my family, teacher, friends, and of course, the Almighty Nevertheless, I, for one, understand that TOSIA is not the end destination of all my hard work but a beginning milestone of what I will become,” Yabut added

hree scholar achievers received major awards in the awarding ceremony of The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards 2022 held in Robinsons Place Iloilo, last July 10, 2022

Bagging the Top Circle Award are Carlos Manuel Eusoya, Leanne Clarisse Losañes, and Ellen Faye Yabut, all batch 2024 students who took part in the Junior High School category

Aside from these, Eusoya also earned special awards, such as the TOSIA Writer for his performance in the essay writing round and the TOSIA Scholar for his excellence in the academic field

Twelve high school finalists were selected in total after a rigorous screening process, from an online portfolio screening to an essay writing round, followed by a final interview

“Being selected as one of this year's Ten Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards a

Is a rewarding experience The process of joining TOSIA was a difficult task We had to compile all of our academics, extracurriculars, leadership positions, and community service activities in our bidbooks and undergo a nerve-wrecking interview round Yet, all of these were worth it,” Eusoya stated

Moreover, Losañes described the award as a “fulfilling, humbling, and motivating experience”

“In a greater sense, this award has validated everything that I, as well as my fellow awardees have done over the years– all the hardwork we have poured in our education and in our service to the Filipino people But, more than this, the experience has also been humbling and motivating This is definitely just the beginning of so much more ahead of us, as we continue our journey of learning, leading, and serving,” she added

Last year, PSHS-WVC scholar Maulyn Murielle Dominguez also emerged victorious after going through the same journey and officially becoming a Top Circle awardee in the TOSIA 2021 series

The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards is a yearly program held by JCI Regatta – Iloilo, in partnership with the Education Schools Division of Iloilo, Schools Division of Iloilo City, and the Commission of Higher Education Region VI

The program's goal is to find students who have excelled in the four pillars of academics, leadership, and service to the community

“If other Pisay scholars are interested to join TOSIA, I would encourage them to participate in this annual event This award-giving body motivates aspirants not only to excel academically, but also serve the nation through their own advocacies, and ground themselves on faith, kindness, and youth leadership, similar to the core values expected from a Pisaynon: truth, academic excellence, and service,” Eusoya ended

Alumni reunite on campus to celebrate fellowship, achievements Alumni reunite on campus to celebrate fellowship, achievements

Mary Khezyll Galvan

he campus warmly welcomed its alumni for Alumni Day 2022, held last December 18 as part of the school’s 30th Founding Anniversary Celebration

The day began with a thanksgiving mass and an opening program in the New Auditorium, where Dr Carl Cerbo presented the Student Services Division's new initiative to the alumni the financial assistance program for students

Moreover, PSHS-WVC Alumni President Mr Florence King Erlano expressed his passion for the growth of the Pisay Foundation, with the alumni choosing “to give back by serving the Pisay community through the various projects and programs for our school”

One such project was a medical mission by medical professionals who volunteered their services to the residents of Barangay Bito-on

Meanwhile, faculty, staff, and select students faced off with the alumni in a friendly basketball game at the gymnasium, with the campus team claiming the lead

In between programs, alumni, staff, and faculty dance together to Pisay WVC's traditional community dance, la cumbia, led by Sir Roy Pacaco, which filled the venue with reconnecting laughter and bonding

To cap off the 30th founding anniversary of PSHS-WVC as well as the Alumni Day, the Gawad Dabadaba Awarding ceremony honored five a

outstanding alumni for their unwavering integrity, passion for excellence, and service to the nation who demonstrated extraordinary leadership and contributions to the country

“I feel the alumni themselves are the inspiration for having laid back to the challenges towards attaining excellence in Pisay,” Ms Evaline Gerochi, an inspirational speaker and former Social Science pioneer teacher of PSHS-WVC, ended

Hans

Gender Expression in Philippine Schools: Gender Expression in Philippine Schools:

Greater Greater Acceptance Acceptance or or Expectance Expectance? ?

ow is one supposed to express themselves in school? Does one ’ s expression of gender and sexuality affect one ’ s academic performance? Can society still call learning “education” when it hinders some of its members from talking about one ’ s gender or even pronouns?

Last August 24 of this year, a Facebook post by RR Valencia Salon for Men and Women went viral because three tearyeyed LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and more) teens had to cut off their long hair in compliance with the school’s policy for face-to-face classes But what is the correlation between physical appearance to one ’ s academic performance?

Education as a fundamental process that shapes the holistic development of every individual empowers us to face and be actively involved in the social, economic, and political affairs of the community, the country as a whole, and as well as every world’s issues Because of this, our Constitution protects the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels and takes appropriate steps to make education accessible to all, safeguarded in

Sections 1 to 5 of Article XIV of the 1987 Philippine Constitution

It would not matter whether or not what a person identifies as gender expression is crucial Gender expression is how one would like to present themselves, which encompasses aspects of behavior and outside appearance

In response to this, the Department of Education issued last June 29, 2017, DepEd Order No 32, series 20, or the “GenderResponsive Basic Education Policy” which provides inclusivity to gender and expression in basic education A reiteration is made in line with the opening of classes for School Year 2022-2023 which is DM No 309, series 2022 “Reiteration of DepEd Order No 32, series 2017 (Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy) Relative to Gender Expression of Students” to undertake gender mainstreaming to address the basic education issues and concerns on gender and sexuality Furthermore, it allows each student and teacher to fully express their gender according to their identities, orientation, and expression

If the country is equipped with these laws, why is discrimination and hate crime a

Editorial

expression still evident? If “education is for all”, why is it that most policies favor cisgender people and hinder students from expressing themselves?

This issue of gender inequality is a major issue and concern targeting the LGBTQIA+ community, as their schooling experience are blemished by lack of acceptance, bullying, discrimination, lack of access to LGBTQIA+ related information, and in some cases, physical or sexual assault The effects of gender inequality, sex discrimination, and homophobia are damaging to someone ’ s physical, mental, and emotional health Some schools do not take these matters into their own hands, thus making school a difficult environment for one to express their true selves

The good side of these policies is that it contributes to having an open-minded society; however, major changes in the school community is expected Gender expression will challenge some of society's tradional beliefs -- beliefs that have been inculcated deep in history -- saying that one must express oneself only in two choices: a man or woman Additionally, the prevailing majority of Filipinos adhere to traditional and conservative values

Still, the policy still has some loopholes which do not fully clarify the principles of gender equality it covers and the basics of a non-discrimination in the delivery of basic education Also, the policy is yet to be implemented in all public and private schools, and no action taken regarding this will result in more gender-based issues Better and more responsive a implementation of the policy in all schools, universities, and colleges to a destroy ignorance will give a acceptance to those who seek it

Cartoon by Zxyllian Baqueriza

On

he lesser acc we are to The on citize COVID-19 when the economy's recession prospects combined with the increase in pandemic prices and the large increase in demand Currently, the hike in inflation rate is still evident even with the decrease of oil and increase in basic accommodation prices Competition for access to goods and services has resulted in food shortages and interrupted supply chains, as well the need to respond to abrupt changes and adjustment to the new environment

Not only has the apparent start of a huge struggle for this year's economy affected society, but it has also thrown heavy blocks on the heads of students who have begun to resume face-to-face classes With the sudden increase of the cost of living, students are forced to recalculate their expected expenses to align them with the allowance they receive The most worrying aspect is how a student can hardly cope with the challenges of face-to-face classes alongside the effects of inflation rising in every economic sector available Forbes India claims that processing the money supply in the economy with transparency and efficiency is a crucia monetary approach to combat inflation If the money supply shrinks, demand for things falls, forcing prices to fall Citizens have entrusted our taxes and resources to politicians, who some of us though were capable Have we demanded less or have they not just done enough?

Maria Zelin Oquendo, Danise Maydelle Fible

Decreasing the supply and flow of ey is a tedious task and would take a ain amount of time for its effects to fest in the form of lesser prices, efore the government should hold mselves accountable and seek for e efficient ways to decrease the tion rates to negate the uprise of the of living in the country Additionally, way to help neutralize food prices is educe imports and increase exports he Philippines has been so dependent mports from neighboring countries it has forgotten to prioritize the orting of its own goods This lack of sufficiency is shown whenever a tage of global supply occurs; it ctly affects the country in the form food supply shortages that ficantly increases the prices of dayto-day commodities This could be fixed if the government had evened out the exports with the imports; increasing the production of local products enough to be a steady supply for other foreign importers which will be a source of income for the country, neutralizing the expenses from importing

Increasing exports will not only lessen the expenditures from the constant importing of foreign goods, but it will also raise the country’s GDP from the negatives and will most likely decrease the inflation rate which is still amongst the highest in the Southeast Asian region

It is never too late to fear inflation, but it may be too late to barely survive if inflation has become entrenched in the economy and is difficult to stop with the

Cartoon by Yannah Louise Galor

Back to the Back to the

Jherica Umali

tudents, teachers, and parents see the resumption of face-to-face classes as an indicator of returning to normal "Normal" is the opportunity to have student-teacher interaction, which is a means to address student concerns over class discussions and to enhance the teaching skills of teachers "Normal" is having the social environment of the classroom and school community, which supports the interactions among students "Normal" is what it was like before the pandemic However, because of the past two years of the pandemic, the norm has become subjective

The adaptation done by the educational system to cope with the demands in the

" "Normal Normal" "

pandemic over the past two years resulted in a high dependence on technology which affects the learning system of the students in the present Despite the seeming return of life as it was before the pandemic, the outbreak and lockdown it caused continue to leave a mark

Philippine Science High School (Pisay) has developed in the past two years It has established more facilities to cater to the students: the development of the new dormitories, the renovation of the school cafeteria, and even the establishment of disinfection sites Compared to most DepEd schools during this shift to face-to-face classes, Pisay's preparation and resources are sufficient Because the school has long been an established academic rigorous institution, its standards center on producing globally competitive learners to nurture the cream of the crops Although committed to this mission, the pandemic has caused some adjustments to the system

The curriculum has narrowed down the scope and coverage of topics and simplified them through learning guides The system implemented its leverage mechanism, and the grading system became more lenient as the workload was equated to online submissions It tried to align its standard to the new norm pandemic students A normal th hand in hand with technolog individualism, making the internet a

In True Service to the Coun In True Service to the Count

resident Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos Jr announced his support for the revival of the mandatory Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) and the National Service Training Program (NSTP) during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 25 The legislative measures for these programs are considered an administration priority in order to promote national defense preparedness for risk-related situations among senior high school students Prior to the 2022 elections, current vice president and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Duterte urged Congress to require 18-year-olds to serve in the military It was in 2001 when the mandatory ROTC was abolished and made optional for college students following the signing of the NSTP in the same year Aimed to develop, train, and mobilize college students for the foundation of military service, the ROTC was first implemented under the Marcos administration in 1922 While students received significant opportunities and benefits for a future career in the military, there have been several irregularities and anomalies that caused the mandatory

program to be abolished Now that the current president publicly announced his support for the program to be made mandatory, how can Filipinos make sure that these incidents will never happen again?

During the time when the program was still mandatory, there have been various events of injustice and complaints circulating the training corps units Students had ways of evading the program, yet still received passing remarks such as the event wherein officers had been bribed by the students to guarantee an excellent academic performance without undergoing the training In addition, there have been several occasions of falsification of legal documents including medical records to escape the rudiments of military training Aside from these, corruption among the administrators was also a suspicion due to the disreputable collection of funds and punishment of student cadets who failed to comply with these payments There have also been several complaints about the quality of lectures Lastly, atrocities a

friend "Normal" for them was teaching themselves, facing their screens most of the hours, and battling technical issues and self-issues The online set-up was a challenging course for everyone – but most importantly, for the Requirements for Admission, Criteria and Evaluation (RACE)admitted scholars The Philippine Science High School RACE is an alternative selection process to the annual National Competitive Examination (NCE) which is used to qualify applicants to be scholars Amidst the proliferating concerns pointed out by the academe, the gaps in the academic performance of those who had lacking exposure to the community poses a question on the extent of their abilities to conform to the school’s standards

Many students have been used to a tolerant grading system and individualistic style during online classes The heavy academic workload would have shocked them during this transition However, in this challenging transition and adjustment, it is best to note that communication and initiative can help, may it be in asking for a consultation or a study group session

The difficulties in this transition period, especially for new Pisay learners, are both a struggle and a responsibility To thrive in Pisay, students need to work with others and work on themselves To be ready is to accept that effort needs to be exerted

Not everyone is ready and capable of adjusting easily especially when working under the pressure of being a Pisay student.

experienced by student cadets during onthe-ground training were common When surrounded by people who choose to remain silent in a situation of witnessing brutality and injustice, know that Mark Chua is not one of them As a student cadet who exposed the atrocities of the ROTC through The Varsitian, he shed light on the issue knowing the risks which eventually resulted in his death Along with Romulo Yumul, the cadet revealed their formal complaint against military officials in the University of Santo Tomas (UST) ROTC units through the paper

VOICE OF THE VOICE OF THE VOICE OF THE STUDENT BODY STUDENT BODY STUDENT BODY

PURSUER OF THE PURSUER OF THE PURSUER OF THE UNTARNISHED TRUTH UNTARNISHED TRUTH UNTARNISHED TRUTH

Maria Isabelle Rentino

ased on Digital 2022: The Philippines by Simon Kemp, there were over 7601 million internet users in the Philippines in January, with the number expected to balloon throughout the course of the pandemic as more transactions go online The ones who were affected the most by the pandemic were the students and teachers, who switched from faceto-face classes to online learning Still, whichever mode of learning is implemented in the new norm, if the internet speed is slow, the deterioration of the performance of both students and teachers are highly envisioned

The online-assisted mode of learning is much preferable to the traditional way, which is full-on physical face-toface It takes less effort and time to use online platforms as the main method of executing educational activities, like quizzes and discussions, than to continue using the traditional pen and paper Moreover, the online-assisted mode of learning is environmentally beneficial as scholars use paper less often compared to pre-pandemic when lessons and examinations were usually printed out and distributed to the students It is also helpful in advocating the health protocols of the Pisay System as it discourages physical contact and promotes social distancing Regardless of the supposed benefits of the onlineassisted mode of learning, however, its heavy reliance on stable and powerful a

Unable to Connect: Retry Unable to Connect: Retry

Benedict Elle, Maria Zelin Oquendo

internet connection will only restrict the performance of scholars, faculty, and staff With the purpose of upholding trouble-free activities, a technologicallyassisted mode of learning that is particularly useful in handling online activities has instead hindered students to pass on time, complete their assignments with quality, study their lessons, and conduct online research

Now that learning has retransitioned back to in-person, the lack of a reliable internet connection at school still poses a challenge not only to the students (because it impacts a major percent of their final marks that still depends on online submissions and participation) but also to the faculty and staff who struggle with raging drawbacks that affect their working condition The Pisay community have voiced their complaints and stressed the need to solve the connectivity issue Unlike the blended mode of learning where scholars were provided financial assistance that goes towards their monthly internet connection expenses, during this faceto-face set up, the scholars are exhibiting a shortage of aids such as funds that can go towards the school’s facilities, especially in the field of a

internet connectivity The digital divide that complicates students and teachers alike will be eliminated with the improved assistance provided by the school

It is already established that the youth are the shapers of the future –students are more so Prioritizing their needs would result in better gains in the future of our society As helpers in the students' educational path, faculty and staff, moreover, must also be given the chance to teach with all the benefits provided by the internet Through providing assistance, and the collaboration of the student body and the administration, scholars will be able to adjust and grow in an environment that is suitable and worthy of their efforts

In True Service... In True Service...

from page 9

Why not place priorities on issues the Filipino masses have been suffering from for months, years, or decades, especially when other ways of learning these values are existing?

After publication, Chua was kidnapped and found floating in the Pasig River 21 years later, the family of Mark Chua still seeks justice for the incident It cannot be denied that those who are aware of the immediate cause of the ROTC reforms show their dislike and refusal to make the program mandatory again However, there are also a number of people who wish to restore this As a pre-commissioned officer training and education program to uplift nationalism, discipline, and national defense, the ROTC became a way to mobilize and train students to be aware of the things on how to be a good citizen of the a

country Proper handling of weapons, marching, team-building, war condition simulations, and leadership trainings are some of the things student cadets learn in the program In preparation for a career most especially in the Armed Forces of the Philippines the program has given a lot of opportunities and experience in the field of military service Scholarships and financial support were given to qualified student cadets who aspire to pursue and commit to serve the Philippines through the military

Because the program is optional and voluntary at the present, college students are given a chance to choose among the service components of the NSTP These include the ROTC, the Literacy Training Service (LTS), and the Civil Welfare Training Service (CWTS) Although the mandatory ROTC may be a suitable venue to develop values and onthe-ground training, why not place priorities on issues the Filipino masses have been suffering from for months, years, or even decades especially when a

other ways of learning these values are existing?

Now that the current administration has publicly announced its possible revival during an intersectional crisis, the news has aroused different sentiments and opinions among Filipinos most especially the senior high school students to whom the program is primarily dedicated in the event that it is restored

With the knowledge that high school students and members of the youth may undergo rigorous military training in the current state of the Philippines, a prevailing sentiment remains –misplaced priorities do not contribute to true service to the country

In the current state of the Philippines, a prevailing sentiment remains – misplaced priorities do not contribute to true service to the country.

Lance

The Pisay Journey

AnIntern'sDay

Storyby:Mary Sophia Buenavidez

Have you ever left the people you love and spent your pre-high school life with? This is a usual occurrence for dormers Moving away from loved ones before the school year starts and staying away from home for months forced to enter a completely new atmosphere with strangers it's almost like an opening scene to the typical coming-of-age movies where the main character leaves the place they once called 'home' to start a new journey ahead At the ripe age of eleven or twelve, we prepare ourselves for a great battle into the unknown

It was the middle of the school year Everyone would wake up at five o'clock to take a cold shower in the freezing weather, worrying the water might be out by six The dorm doors closed by eight, just in time for the day-long classes Then, the interns are given the freedom to enjoy the premises of the campus before curfew hits by 7 PM

At first, everything is a semblance of joy and excitement Everyday was like a sleepover Yet, weeks pass and everything felt empty, as if we lived by a mundane routine The same hallways, the same food from the Coop (a school-wide agreed upon slang for 'canteen), the same cycle of washing, ironing, and folding our own clothes on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings, and the same excitement of looking forward to commuting back home alone on Friday afternoons and returning on Sunday nights “Becoming a dormer is not all sunshine, rainbows, and butterflies You would think, independence! Away from house chores

Then, homesickness strikes you, ” Grade 9 student Ericho aptly quoted People with different stories, coming from different places both near and afar, craft their own unique memories inside the dorm walls Yet, there are some universal experiences: the longing for the homes we leave and the excitement of what lies ahead Along this "dorm life", we get to meet new people and friendships that bloom and last beyond classrooms Transitioning to the dorms for the first time, it will always be a learning experience and a formative lifechanging journey, literally and figuratively

CliquesinFocus

Chris Andrei Banares

The red ink encircles the day on the calendar, and everyone has been muttering and gossiping about this day for weeks Once a year, Philippine Science High School scholars get to choose an on-campus organization or most commonly known as an ALA The reason everyone is overflowing with excitement is that these organizations house people of specific shared interests; students across different batches can get to interact with each other and share a bond, not only as schoolmates but as friends who can relate to each other There are school papers like Sci-Link and Banaag, which are great mediums for students to express their creativity through writing For athletes, the Sports and Badminton clubs offer opportunities for engaging in physical activity If youre a creative person who's leaning more into arts, music, or dance, the Arts and Crafts, Choir, and Dance clubs are ready to welcome you

in their doors Theres also the Anime, Hallyu (K-Pop), and E-games to cater to the pop culture interests of students, while the Model United Nations is a haven for debaters If you think the list is over, there's more!

Astronomy enthusiasts can find their group in Stellar club, similar to how mathematicians can study in the Honors class The Movie club is also open for avid movie-watchers, while the Red Cross is the best place for students interested in volunteerism and first aid

Aside from ALAs, there are other organizations on campus These " orgs " , as scholars would dub them, exist beyond the scope of usual after-class activities For example, the Student Alliance is the official student government of the school The said organization is responsible for organizing events and activities, as well as taking up issues and concerns of the students

Another example would be the recentlyrevamped SiKLAB Science Club, which offers avenue for students to explore their interest in science The club plans to conduct activities and contests to help students learn more about the world of science

It is a lifetime opportunity for a scholar to be able to be a member of one of these organizations - a Pisaynon tradition perhaps One may see it as a dumping ground for workload and non-stop extra assignments for them, but for many, organizations like these stand as pillars to support the school and the students in their way toward achieving academic excellence So during the the special day where you sign your name on the dotted line in the logbook of ALA or other youth org applicants, may the ink of the pen signify the pursuit of your achievement as a Philippine

Science High School Scholar

Storyby:

Khezyll Galvan

Students in Action Students in Action Students in Action

Pursuing Pursuing Passion Passion and and Service Service through the SCALE Program through the SCALE Program

The Service, Creativity, Action, and Leadership Enhancement (SCALE) program of PSHS-WVC is an innovative program that promotes the development and growth of the students, in ways outside ordinary classes or lectures Designed to help scholars become active and productive members of the PSHS community and beyond, the program encourages students to take on leadership roles, exercise their creativity, and integrate community service in their projects It provides them with the avenues to develop their skills and knowledge in various areas, such as communication, problem solving, team collaboration, and critical thinking Through this program, the students are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to become better citizens and leaders of tomorrow

Hiraya:RhythmsandFashion

Hiraya is a SCALE organization brought forth and implemented by the scholars of Philippine Science High School - Western Visayas Campus Since its launch in October of this year, Hiraya WVC has been filling the campus with magic, music, and many more as they host a multitude of exciting events and activities

The organization exhibits its talented members every Wednesday afternoon as they hold busking sessions in the octagon

the campus ’ university break with various tunes and musical numbers

On the Faculty and Staff Day Celebration last October 12 and the STEM Day Celebration last November 24, Hiraya WVC also held the Pitik: Themed Photobooth in the campus ’ backstage, and in the Computer Laboratory 3 of the Old Academic Building The photo booth offers a wide array of props to add pops of color and fun to your photos, from multicolored wigs to quirky hats to funky sunglasses Students can avail soft copies and hard copies of their shots shortly after they have been availed the services of the photobooth

The group has also been holding biweekly garage sales, Buy n ’ Slae, within the campus In these garage sales, they sell an assortme of clips, accessories, and preloved cloth for PSHS-WVC’s scholars, teachers, a staff to spice up their wardrobe This boo is stationed in the octagon between t backstage and the New Academic Building Mondays and Wednesdays

every afternoo

All the proceeds of Hiraya WVC’s even and projects will be funneled to their chos beneficiaries

“The year might almost be over but definitely not Hiraya WVC, as we still have upcoming activities planned out, such as the art exhibit and concert for the next year We definitely look forward to it and we all hope you guys will too,” stated Rein

Palingling:StarsngPasko

As the final month ushers in the holiday season atmosphere, astronomy enthusiasts organize a year-end sky-watching event through Palingling 40, with organizers sharing their knowledge about the stellar skies last December 7 The activity provided a new experience for students through games and lectures These additions aim to level up the understanding of astronomy concepts that organizers were passionate to impart to participants

Station activities included constellation making, relativity experiments, film viewing, a laser reflection experiment, and the anticipated telescope viewing - revealing picturesque views of the full moon, the planet Mars, and other heavenly bodies

One of the head organizers, Joshua Ichiro Añasco, also conducted an advanced astronomy lecture as part of the facilitators’ goals to share interesting theories and to let participants learn through hands-on practices “My goal is to help my fellow Pisay scholars to appreciate the beautiful wonders that the vast universe has to offer while having fun and a strong sense of fellowship,” Añasco shared

Curious about the potential career opportunities waiting for aspiring biologists?

As part of the SCALE program, select scholars from the PSHS-WVC Biology Core, with their adviser Dr Angelo Olvido, organized Touch Grass: A Talk on Career Exploration for Future Biologists

The guest speaker of the talk, who is no other than the PSHS-WVC alumni J-Ann Marie Lego, shared her insights as a molecular biology and biotechnology professional

Storyby:Lyan Karylle Bergante

Margarette Sarmiento, the overall head of Hiraya WVC

Storyby:Mary Khezyll Galvan

Storyby:Zxyllian Baqueriza, Carlos Manuel Eusoya

p molecular future vis the Philipp

TulongDunong3:EssayWriting LecturesforAspiringLearners

A popular yet anonymous saying goes, "write until it becomes as natural as breathing" Indeed, writing is a difficult task for beginners, but a breeze for adept writers

To help elementary students hone their writing skills and broaden their aptitudes in the fundamentals of good essays, PSHS-WVC SCALE volunteers, in cooperation with the English Faculty, held a lecture for Grade 6 students, last November 19 PSHS-WVC teachers, including Mrs Marie Therese Ledesma, Mrs Floralie Lacuesta-Inayan, Mrs Ariane Panigbatan, and Dr Maria Carmela Blacer, introduced tips on how to write effectively and accurately, and how RACE applicants can make their essays stand out Additionally, Mrs Maria Paz Montero also shared ideas on essay writing for elementary teachers

Student-participants were also given the opportunity to participate in a mock essay writing workshop, wherein the best writers were recognized for their outstanding outputs

2022

Alexandra Jasmine J De la Peña from SPED-ISEC, Sophia Marie Danong from Solomon Integrated School de Iloilo, Alexa Jaci L Bataan from Angelicum School Iloilo, and Samantha Loraine R Octavio from Aklan Learning Center were awarded as the Most Promising Writers for the said workshop "Planning and preparing for this event was exhausting This was actually the first time I became a head organizer of a project Despite this, everything was worthwhile in the end and I enjoyed helping young learners," Zaphia Celisse Sorongon, one of the head organizers, stated "Planning the event was challenging but everything was made possible by the help of my batchmates who volunteered Being able to help a large number of aspiring scholars has converted every frustration to fulfillment and made everything worth it I am hopeful and excited to see them as freshies next school year!" Jherica Umali, another head organizer, ended

Writing surely is a difficult feat, but armed with the right knowledge and skills, even aspiring learners can become amazing writers

SINING-Skwela: Expressing OneselfthroughArtMediums

art,” expressed Gabrielle Eroa, a Grade 10 scholar and a participant of the display For Eroa, the art exhibit gave her and fellow artists the avenue and opportunity to display something they were "truly passionate about"

"I never thought that SINING-Skwela 2022 would be such a big hit to the scholars of PSHS-WVC, but with the help of our SCALE supervisor, Ma'am Eilleen, as well as the added efforts of the Arts and Crafts ALA members, we all managed to successfully l t th k h " t d Faye said

DrawingWorkshop

Kadaiya:Advocatesofthe WildernessandEnvironment

Ever dreaming of bringing out the hidden artist in you? Pisay WVC scholars have gotten closer to this dream through an artsinclined project by SCALE volunteers Harnessing their inner talents and taking on the helms of an artist, students tested their art skills and drew mesmerizing pieces during the two sessions of SINING-Skwela held last December 7 and 14

Dr Laurence Calambro, a retired ADTech teacher and one of Pisay’s definite crowd favorites, taught about the basic principles of sketching to eager learners Additionally, a separate group of learners mastered the skills of seemingly delicate yet mesmerizing watercolor painting under the guidance of Mr Joy Fernando, an arts teacher at Iloilo National High School

On the second session, Mr Fernando returned to introduce the various styles that can be made utilizing oil pastels A separate lesson for latex painting was also handled by visual art teacher Mr Vic Fario

To culminate the project, scholarparticipants of the recent SINING-Skwela workshop series displayed their masterpieces in a schoolwide exhibit held last December 16

"Let us be the one big voice of change that can stop the world from spinning and for a second, listen to what the animals are trying to say " This statement from Kadaiya aptly summarizes the organization's goal of raising awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity, especially for indigenous species in the region

From Visayan warty pigs to long-tailed macaques, Kadaiya's social media awareness posts aim to empower its audience to fight for the environment and all the fauna and flora living in these natural ecosystems

Aside from the consistent informative posts, Kadaiya has also been raising funds for its beneficiary, Mari-it Wildlife Conversation Park, which houses endemic species in the Visayas region

Classrooms were recently immersed in the Christmas spirit as carolers from the organization entertained students with holiday-themed songs and performances

"KADAIYA hopes to leave a lasting impact and message to continue the conservation of these species," quoted Eva Lopez, one of the lead organizers of SCALE project

EssayWritingLecture

BehindtheScenes

The exhibit featured artworks from four different categories sketching, watercolor painting, oil painting, and canvas painting created during the categories' respective workshops

As an artist, it was fun to both expand on skills I already had while learning new ones The mentors were lovely, giving everyone advice on how to improve their

Storyby:Merlin Cael Lujan

Storyby:Hans Mathew Mestidio, Althea Lorraine Servano

Storyby:Carlos Manuel Eusoya

FayeAngelieCartagena,JhericaUmali, LyanKarylleBergante,RafaelTamises, JuleenelSevilla,JoshuaIchiroAñasco

Caroling

Caroling

The Philippines Science High School System (PSHSS) held its system-wide Science Research Convention (SRC) last November 23-26, 2022 From plenary talks to research presentations, Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus (PSHS-WVC) was represented by its Grade 12 researchers in the following projects: Potential Percent Sorption of Sugarcane Bagasse Incorporated with Human Hair Sorbent in Diesel Oil by Veah Repospolo, Kemuel Sarrosa, and Megan Sio; Post Quality Assessment of Carica papaya L Red Lady’ Papaya coated with Rice Bran Wax by Blezanie Nobleza, Ansley Sendico, and Julia Tabanda; and The Threshold of Drought Indices in terms of Rice Yield for Drought

All

teams successfully

"With Pisay students, teachers, and experts from all over the country tuning in to our research presentations, we ensured that we were prepared for this event"

Preparation for the researchers included creating a slide deck that summarized the study, a script, and potential questions It took a lot of practice sessions with their respective research advisers, as well as consultations with other experts like the Chemistry Unit and PSHS-WVC alumni Furthermore, they advised the next potential WVC SRC representatives to continue working on their manuscript and journal research article, or JRA, the final outputs of their research as soon as possible They reasoned that by this stage, the questions and feedback of reviewers during the review process may contribute to the improvement of one's study, which is critical to ensure that all flaws are addressed before the

final defense

"A chance to present your research is a chance to better improve your science communication skills."

It is essential to know one's study like the back of one's hand by being wellversed in one's research, which goes hand in hand with science communication skills important when presenting a study When relaying the researcher's message, it must be clear, especially to readers who are not experts in one's chosen field As researchers, one of our responsibilities is to encourage science and accelerate the world's progress and development through scientific research

"We are grateful for the opportunity to experience something as fulfilling and rewarding as the SRC."

SRC participants described the experience as rewarding because their research presentation served as evidence of their hard work

Because of the opportunity, the researchers were able to obtain more feedback and perspectives on their studies, which is critical given the neverending nature of research

"Always prioritize progress over perfection. You're adding more to the knowledge of the world, and that's a great feat in itself"

Finally, the researchers seek progress rather than perfection in order to demonstrate how research can become a natural part of life They saw comments and questions as learning opportunities rather than mistakes They valued preparation because it resulted in a better understanding of feedback, which could improve their performance and thus progress All of the trials and tribulations of research await the next scholars to represent WVC, but contributing to the world's constantly expanding knowledge is a reward in and of itself

Identification in a Type III Climate Area by Jozil Cerna, Maulyn Dominguez, and Vinna Tupas

three

represented their chosen research for SRC by responding to questions about their studies posed by faculty and students from h h d ne prepare for such representation which ese

"T

hat’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind” This is a quote spoken by the famous astronaut, Neil Armstrong, as he steps on the moon for the first time in human history in 1969 through the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Apollo 11 mission Humanity has come a long way since the days the ancestors curiously pondered the heavens and the existence of celestial objects in the night sky many centuries ago This year, mankind makes another giant leap back to the moon through the launching of the NASA Artemis program

The NASA Artemis program is a series of missions that intend to bring back humanity to the Moon for the first time since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972 Furthermore, these missions also aim to "land the first woman and first person of color on the Moon" using state-of-the-art technologies that will revolutionize our understanding of the lunar surface more than ever before According to NASA, an Artemis Base Camp will be constructed on the Moon to allow astronauts and even robots to explore and conduct more experiments

The name of the NASA Artemis program originated from the mythological Greek goddess of the Moon and twin sister of Apollo; it is clear that the Artemis program is linked with the mission which first brought humanity to the Moon. Meanwhile, the crewed spacecraft is called Orion Orion is one of the 88 constellations in the night sky that could be easily identified In Greek mythology, Orion is the hunting companion of Artemis

There are four main components of the Artemis program that will help humanity go back to the moon First is the Orion Spacecraft. This is the command module that is necessary to transport astronauts through space, as it is provided with life support systems and shuttle interfaces

The third is the Moon Landing Module

These are the lunar landing vehicles that will take cargo and humans from the Lunar Gateway to the Moon's surface Collaborating with other commercial companies, NASA is developing a Human Landing System (HLS) and other vehicles for robots and other supplies The last but not the least component is the Space Launch System (SLS) This is the launcher that ties all the other elements together, as it is a super heavy-lift rocket that will carry the other elements beyond Earth’s atmosphere and into space

human crew members may experience in flight

Artemis 2 will be a ground-breaking crewed spaceflight for the Artemis program that will also take humans further than they have ever been in space This is projected to be conducted no earlier than 2024 The four-person crew will fly the Orion module 7,402 km beyond the far side of the Moon after being propelled into space by the SLS They will then complete a lunar flyby, and then come back to Earth The mission, which will last 8-10 days, will gather important flight test data

The third mission of the Artemis program, Artemis 3, is going to be the first Moon landing since the last Apollo mission in 1972 Four astronauts will ride the Orion module and dock with the Lunar Gateway to remain in space for 30 days The HLS will then take two astronauts down to a region of the Moon previously unvisited by humans: the Moon’s South Pole The astronauts are to be spending a week exploring the lunar surface and perform various scientific experiments, including sampling water ice

Currently, three proposed missions under the Artemis program are in progress, namely: Artemis 1, Artemis 2, and Artemis 3

Artemis 1 is an unmanned test flight that will orbit and fly past the Moon This is an extensive test of the SLS and the Orion Module This mission successfully launched last November 16, 2022 from the Kennedy Space Centre after its four cancelled launch attempts due to engine issues and tropical storms Artemis 1 will travel roughly 64,373 miles into deep space after traveling 450,000 km to the Moon, where it will orbit 400 km above the lunar surface The module landed in the Pacific Ocean near California, USA last December 11, 2022 after a 255-day mission Furthermore, three mannequins, also known as “moonikins”, wearing the First-Generated Orion Crew Survival System spacesuits – the real astronauts will be using these on Artemis 2 and 3 –are on board to shed light on what

Artemis missions 1 to 3 are the main attention of NASA as of the moment, but they are looking ahead to future projects and even made contracts for rocket boosters up to 13 Airbus reported in June 2022 that NASA has received that module design that will allow astronauts to live in orbit around the Moon in the fourth Artemis mission

Humanity would not settle for only taking a step on the Moon The thorough research that will be conducted on and around the lunar surface will be instrumental for completing the next great expedition: reaching for the great red planet, Mars. Exploring deeper into space through the technology used in the current and future Artemis missions will contribute to the world's understanding and appreciation of the universe Like the goddess Artemis, these advanced technologies will spearhead humanity’s future endeavors in unravelling the questions that humans seek to answer and hunt through the great unknown

The second is the Lunar Gateway It is a small space station orbiting the Moon, designed to be an all-round platform for lunar missions

Luigi Emannuel Abellar, Leanne Clarisse Losañes

Hosted by the PSHS Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) Campus after a 3-year break, the Pisay systemwide cultural and sports fest, Ugnayan, made its comeback last November 7–11 in Baguio City, with the theme "Breaking Barriers of Stereotyping in Sports, Dance, and Music "

The event officially commenced with a parade of the delegations on Baguio’s Session Road followed by an opening program at the Baguio Convention Center, with the chorale and dance sports competition concluding the opening festivities

The Pisay WVC chorale performed a radiant rendition of "Pasigin" by Eudebice Palaruan conducted by Ma'am Sharon Hope Tubida, the campus' Music teacher, while the duo of Ma'am Claudette

Bulldozing through the Bulldozing through the competition in ball sports competition in ball sports

WVC cagers Kemuel Sarrosa for the boys, Darryll Jade Elumba for the girls and Sir Elvin John Villanueva and Sir Darrel Ledesma for the faculty, claimed gold medals in their category in the basketball tournament Sarrosa also took home the MVP award after his consistent outing

Maria Petrina Aguirre and Leanne Clarisse Losañes were among the redblooded volleybelles who served up heavy aces to bring their team towards the gold They were also listed as part of the six best performers in the tournament

Ma’am Cerla Duarte and Dr Myrna Libutaque meanwhile showed that age doesn’t matter in receiving and heavily serving volleyballs, leading their team into claiming a shining bronze medal

Cormary and Sir Regine Puerto spiced up the dance sports floor, finishing as the Top 8 pair of the competition

The Benguet State University heated up in the next two days as the games of basketball, volleyball, chess, table tennis, and badminton put on a full show, and the WVC Athletes were among those that shone the brightest, claiming 11 gold, 1 silver, and 5 bronze medals, and contributing to the Overall Championship feat of their cluster, Red Abuyo

Bemedalled in racket sports Bemedalled in racket sports and board games and board games

Student paddlers Le Andre Simon and Audrey Gaile Uy also captured gold medals in the table tennis doubles division for students Ma’am Danielle Bayona and Sir Milko Panes did not disappoint as each of them also brought home Bronze medals with their duos Badminton player, Maria Antoinette Lopez, put up a good fight smashing her way towards a bronze medal WVC's chess master, Diane Joyce Esona, ruled the competition once more as she claimed her second consecutive Gold in the Ugnayan event.

Dominating the Track and Field Dominating the Track Field Competitions Competitions

Ma'am Joeylyn Terania secured 3 gold medals in the sprinting and long-jump events Sir Fritz Ortigas took home a bronze medal of his own from the Men’s 100-meter dash Student sprinter Leovic John Tamaño worked hard for a gold in the boys' 200-meter dash, while

Bien Gonzales claimed a Bronze medal in the girls category Both runners also bolted towards a silver medal in the students' 4 x 100-meter relay

On the last day of the event, the faculty and staff exhibited their athleticism in the “Laro ng Lahi” games

The WVC faculty took home 3 silver medals in the Kadang-Kadang competition, Sack Race and the Tug of war game

“The WVC Ugnayan delegates (both students and personnel) tremendously did a great job representing the school in this year ’ s edition of sports and cultural events for the Pisay community More importantly, the members of the WVC delegates have shown great sportsmanship, attitudes, and humility despite our success, ” shared Mr Elvin John Villanueva, one of PSHS - WVC’s PE Teachers, and one of the coordinators and athletes in this year ’ s Ugnayan

In line with the theme of this year's Ugnayan, the WVC delegates, along with their fellow Pisaynons, have truly broken many barriers proving that both the scholars and personnel are more than just brains

PSHS-WVC Delegation emerges victorious in the PSHS-WVC Delegation emerges victorious in the comeback of the Pisay System’s Ugnayan comeback of the Pisay System’s Ugnayan