Issuu

Official Newsletter of Singapore School Manila

MERLI

THE MERLION TIMES

Brought to you by the Merlion Times Editorial Board

V O L U M E 1 5 I S S U E 2

WHAT'S 3

Reopening of Classes!

5 SSM's Christmas Joy of Giving!

7 Welcoming the New Year in Motion at SSM!

Journey: 9 The Adapting to the business World

10 Meet Willow’s Table: A Conversation with the CEO

11 Staff Secrets 13 Tales of Talent

15 SSM in Action 19 Penny for Your Thoughts

23 Merlion Media 24 Merlion Film Festival

25 Dear SSM, 27 When Opportunity Knocks

28 Test Your Wits

INSIDE

NEWS

ATTENTION STUDENTS!

SSM

IS NOW OPEN FOR FACE-TO-FACE CLASSES!

By: Kyle Bayron, Christiana Reyes, & Massi Chua

Computer screens, late mornings, and social isolation sum up the reality faced by students around the world for the past few years. Just when all hope seemed to be lost, the SSM community was thrilled to have the school doors finally open wide, welcoming batches of Preschool to Pre-University students last February 14, 2021. Muddled by a mixture of both familiarity and unfamiliarity, the first day back at school was indeed a culture shock for many. However, it was not long until the halls were overflowing with much needed laughter, nostalgia, and joy, as students from all levels began meeting their teachers and classmates beyond a screen. With its huge success, there is no doubt that the reopening of face-to-face classes came not without extensive planning, preparation, and practice – born from the collective efforts of SSM’s administration, level heads, teachers, and non-teaching staff. From the moment classes were forced onto the digital domain, the SSM Admin and heads began to deliberate on ways of modifying the school to ensure the safety of all its students upon their eventual return. From major changes like the conversion of the pool area into an open-air canteen, and the construction of the isolation tent, to small adjustments like the addition of alcohol dispensers in every classroom and canteen table, the school has been officially revamped and readied for the journey back to life before home-mandated learning. The ates and kuyas of SSM played a major part in transforming the school, dedicating much of their time to reorganising the layout of classrooms and canteens to be more student-safe while facilitating daily disinfection routines as well.

While most levels have split into 2 sections, 1 for the in-school students and 1 for the athome students, the highly individualised nature of the Pre-University curriculum meant that this method would not be the most suitable. As such, SSM responded by adopting the “HyFlex” learning model – a learning experience curated to accommodate both the needs of the online and offline students simultaneously. With the power of motion sensor “Gimbal” cameras, HD TVs, and lapel microphones in every Pre-University classroom, the SSM teachers were now equipped to handle their students, whether they were in Google Meets or in physical seats. While having to adapt to such high technological demands for each class was no easy feat, the addition of technical wizard Sir Chevy Recasas to the staff team alongside all the SSM teachers’ dedication ensured that learning was fair and enjoyable for everyone. Despite all the changes within the school, the feeling of learning face-to-face has become somewhat of a natural instinct again for most, if not all students, and teachers. With children in the turf practising play-karate, the familiar noises of students enjoying a game of Kahoot spilling into the hallway, and seniors utilising the newly furbished laboratories, life in SSM is in many ways exactly what it was 2 years ago. The only difference being that both students and staff alike are more grateful for every moment spent together.

Packed lunches and classroom chitchat – once a distant memory, now an exciting reality. With previously empty classrooms rejuvenated with the sound of laughter and learning, the Merlion Times conducted early morning check-ins with the SSM students and staff as they uncovered how it feels to be back in school after more than two years stuck online.

NEWS

SSM’S CHRISTMAS JOY OF

By: Kyle Bayron

GIVING!

Christmas has always been one of the most wonderful times of the year for spreading cheer, love, and joy with those around us; Within the SSM community, this is no exception! Last December, a festive party was thrown for the SSM students, marking the end of another school year. From competitive Christmas games to enthralling magic shows, the jubilation was endless! Though in true SSM fashion, Christmas would have been incomplete without genuine acts of service. Tied to the Christmas celebration was a fundraising event wherein the school raised ₱149,200 worth of donations for last December's partnered organisations: Kythe with their aim of improving the treatment of hospitalized children, Smile Train and their objective of creating sustainable cleft-care for all, Kwentuhan Series and their desire of inspiring a love for literature in young Filipinos, and Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation and their plan of developing accessible education in remote communities. There is no doubt that this school year's Christmas celebration was filled with highlights and successes to remember. On the morning of December 17th, classes paired up to play Christmas-themed games and share quality time with one another. There was a highly competitive game of Bingo, a surprisingly difficult Spot the Difference question set, a family-favourite Name that Tune, a magic show for our Preschool to Primary 2, and even an online Salu-salo – a Filipino word referring to the act of getting together with friends and family to eat. Classes managed to reconnect over the course of the programme, which is something that many students missed dearly. It was with that feeling of unity that the program crescendoed and reached its highlight — the “SSM Joy of Giving 2021” Youtube livestream!

10, 9, 8 , 7….. The clock counted down the final moments before the grand reveal: a fundraising video where students, teachers and non-teaching staff all performed. Catchy Christmas tunes like “Give Love on Christmas Day” and “Shake up Christmas” were sung and danced by students and teachers alike. Newer songs were shown as well such as “Thank you for the Love” and “Heart of Christmas”, which were impressively composed by the school’s very own primary music teacher, Teacher Kiefer Hernandez. Upbeat and full of holiday cheer, these specially made Christmas melodies were such hits that the school bell was replaced with snippets from the song all throughout December.

Interwoven throughout the whole video was a meaningful animated story, directed by the Bayanihan Student Council and skillfully drawn by SC officers, Erin Teng and Althea Baluyut. The story revolved around a selfish boy who learned the wonders of giving through his time with a magical Christmas ghost. It was riveting and helped instil, in many of the younger SSM students, the reasons and importance behind charity during the Christmas season.

THAN KY

,000 0 6 ₱

ROF

!DESIAR O U

And with that story moving countess hearts, many families came together to donate to the school’s beneficiaries. The total donations more than doubled the intended goal of ₱60,000 — ‘Tis truly was the season of giving!

TEACHERS' RETRO PARTY! Even our teachers need time to unwind and let loose! On December 13th, the SSM staff held their own retro-style Christmas Jubilation. It was the biggest celebration of the year as not only was it face-to-face, but even staff from SSM Green Campus, SSM Clark, and SSM Cebu had joined in on the fun. It was an afternoon of laughter as the staff competed in each of the games. They played Tic-Tac-Bingo (Bingo but on a Tic-Tac-Toe board.) There was a general trivia game but all the questions were read aloud by SSM students. They even played “The Price is Right” and the winner got to keep the prizes that they were guessing for! Finally, the games ended with the fiercest competition of all — the commercial spoof. The staff had been given a few weeks to prepare and record a parody of their favourite TV commercials. It was a treat to see teachers acting, with the first place and second place winner both having made a spoof of the “Pag 3 Pataas” Bonakid commercial!

新年快乐

NEWS

WELCOMING

CHINESE NEW YEAR By Abi Co

IN MOTION AT SSM!

Chinese New Year is the most awaited holiday in China where families and friends gather to welcome a new beginning as one! This day is filled with an abundance of firecrackers, red lanterns, and the aromatic smell of Chinese food. Every family follows their own tradition when celebrating Chinese New Year, and in SSM, teachers and staff work endlessly to give the students a taste of various regional customs across China. On January 28th, numerous activities were held to commemorate the new year. The Preschool students had an array of games to enjoy such as scavenger hunts, paper dances, and memory games. Primary students tested their knowledge on Chinese culture through exciting trivia games, while the Secondary to Pre-university levels were given the chance to virtually explore several Chinese provinces - Hunan, Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Inner Mongolia. The teachers from these said provinces shared valuable insight into each of their culture’s own uniqueness, providing authentic anecdotes and fun tidbits of information about their hometowns.

Finally, all levels were able to relax with a refreshing class of Qigong – an ancient Chinese exercise that helps rejuvenate the mind and body. It was the perfect way to encourage students to get on their feet and start moving, especially after spending hours in front of their computer screens. Indeed, the day was spent appreciating the beauty of Chinese culture, expanding the students’ knowledge on a number of Chinese traditions through various activities. However, how exactly did these exciting activities come to life? Who was incharge of conducting this year’s celebration and what was it like behind the scenes?

In terms of the overall brainstorming process, Teacher Char, the head of this event, revealed that all activities revolved around a specific theme: “On the Move, Welcoming the New Year in Motion”. She explained how the main goal in mind was to broaden the perspectives of students on Chinese culture. In her words, “China is not one generic country, it’s not just about the pandas, the Xiaolongbao and Beijing and Shanghai…it is a multi-dimensional country where every region has a different dialect, has a different way of singing and dancing, and clothes.” When asked about the planning and execution of each activity, she revealed that the current pandemic has definitely had a significant impact. Given the two years working online, teachers found it difficult to formulate a set of activities that garner the interests of SSM students. According to Teacher Char, there were multiple factors they needed to consider: the students’ interest, ages, and how they could make this year’s celebration a newer experience for all levels.

Additionally, she mentioned that her team – composed of Teacher Syra, Teacher Jessica, Teacher Sylvia, Teacher Annie, and Teacher Jim – resided in various provinces across their home country, making it difficult for them to come up with an appropriate meeting time to practice and rehearse for their presentations. The constant overlap between each other’s schedules made it rather frustrating to settle on final dates, thus making the overall planning process occasionally complicated. However, she ended by saying that the key to a successful event is great communication. Communication fueled their brainstorming sessions as each teacher involved pitched in their own ideas to improve the entire celebration. It also enabled them to easily raise concerns regarding schedules, leading them to then settle on ideal practice times and dates to ensure that all teachers were equally prepared for their respective presentations. Despite the difficulties of formulating ideas to the issue of coordination across regions, the celebration of Chinese New Year was a success nonetheless. SSM students had a chance to laugh and play given the variety of games, relax their bodies and minds with Qigong, and delve deeper into the beauty of Chinese culture. It was certainly a day filled with a plethora of activities, a day that allowed students to garner a newfound appreciation for this one of a kind country.

NEWS

THE JOURNEY

By: Massi Chua

Adapting to the Business World

Last February 26, 2022, “The Journey'' — SSM’s second-ever business conference — was organised and led by this school year’s student-led business venture, Willow’s Table. The Journey told the story of both upcoming and accomplished entrepreneurs in the business world. Students from different schools, all aspiring to one day become entrepreneurs themselves, were invited to come and learn from the conference’s illustrious guest speakers. Students listened to the struggles each speaker faced in the industry and how they adapted to succeed against stacked odds.

The Journey’s first guest was Mr. Johansen Aguilar — Cofounder of The Travel Insiders and Chief Operating Officer of Eastern Visayas Land Realty Inc. Mr. Aguilar talked about how his passion for travel — helping friends and family plan unique travel itineraries with hidden destinations — catalysed the conception of his tourism business. Although nerve-wracking at first, it was because of his entrepreneurial spirit that led Mr. Aguilar to identify an underserved portion of the market, allowing his business to carve out a niche for itself.

The second guest was Ms. Jocelyn See, the Chief Executive Officer of Landlite Philippines Corporation (LPC). Ms. See spoke about her struggles in the first years of LPC’s operations before becoming one of the most welltrusted lighting companies in the Philippines — conveying that perseverance is the key to success. With the success of LPC, Ms. See also discussed the need to adapt to the business world while emphasising as well the importance of corporate social responsibility. When the pandemic started, LPC ventured into creating air purifiers to help combat COVID-19, even donating numerous units to the government.

Each speaker’s presentation followed an insightful question and answer session, giving students the opportunity to further delve into each of the guests’ experiences. To conclude, each speaker was given a certificate to thank them for their time before a quick picture-taking session to culminate a fruitful conference.

Meet

WILLOW’S TABLE: A Conversation with the

Business-driven from a young age, Lea has spent her 11 years in SSM inspired to take on the high-esteemed role of CEO for the Pre-University student business venture.

CEO

By: Christiana Reyes

On October 9, 2021, Lea along with the rest of the Pre-University business students launched Willow’s Table — a business that aims to sell a range of carefully selected products that “promote wellness and self-care in the SSM community, especially given the online setting”, as said by Lea. As CEO, Lea has been seeking to build on past business ventures by developing a stronger brand identity for Willow’s Table. With innovation and creativity in mind, her goal is to solidify the foundations for improved communication between the four functional areas of Willow’s Table — Marketing, Sales, Production, and Finance — and to reach their objectives as a unified business organization. From Term 1 to Term 2 alone, Willow’s Table has created quite the buzz within the SSM community. In addition to Lea’s leadership practices, the success of Willow’s Table is testament to the collaborative corporate culture fostered within the whole organization. Interestingly, the executive team is a blend of A-level and IB students: COO Erica Cai, Finance VP Saira Saundh, Marketing VP Massi Chua, Production VP Lauren Co, Sales VP Gaby Laogan, and Executive Assistant Shana Lim. In this interview, Lea walks us through the role of team synergy amidst the pandemic and keeping her team motivated.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE OF WILLOW’S TABLE?

“The environment at Willow’s Table is a supportive and motivating one. We strive to ensure that our members are actively contributing and learning from one another. As executives we do our best to listen to the suggestions of the members to better understand how our customers might be responding to our business. At Willow’s Table, we believe that a productive team is essential in creating a good foundation for any business. Fostering good morale through different incentives, certificates, and recognitions are just a few of the ways in which we hope to reinforce a good corporate environment”

HOW DO YOU KEEP YOUR TEAM MOTIVATED THROUGH CERTAIN OBSTACLES YOU FACE?

RUNNING A BUSINESS REQUIRES EXCELLENT COLLABORATION. HOW IMPORTANT IS COLLABORATION AND ANY SIGNIFICANT MEMORY FROM THE BUSINESS VENTURE?

“From the brainstorming phases to even logo design, I ensure that everyone in the business venture has a say in our operations which is why excellent collaboration is highly important for me as the CEO. A specific memory that I feel most gratified by in terms of collaboration was when we did our business venture pitch. When it went successfully, there was a feeling of relief that you're able to share with everyone because it was a collective effort. It wasn't just me and one other person that did everything. It was really the whole team.”

“What I've tried to personally instill in our team would be the mindset of acknowledging the challenge at hand, but never dwelling on it. We always ask ourselves, “What are the possible ways of solving the issue?”. While it is good to acknowledge difficulties, it's also important to start conceptualizing solutions as soon as possible. Motivation, in this case, can simply be done through acts of encouragement. One thing about being a leader is that you can't dismiss the feelings of your team members. If certain members are having a difficult time with complex situations, I let them know that it's okay and that there is time to calm down. Then, we restructure."

SPECIAL FEATURES

STAFF SECRETS

THE SECRETS BEHIND SSM’S STAFF…SHH!

COACH MEA Football is Coach Mea’s middle name, proving time and time again that her outstanding talent and skill are forces to be reckoned with. SSM’s resident National Team Player has scored yet again another feat in her Football career as she played alongside Team Fenaka in the Maldives just last November. While simultaneously juggling the responsibility of being a PE teacher, we are left to wonder: what exactly has been Coach Mea’s secret to adapting to new teams and pursuing football as both a competing athlete and PE teacher?

Score! Another Goal for Coach Mea!

By Gabby Rosales

From bonding over new food to exchanging new words with Team Fenaka, she formed what she would call a second home. “We are more like a family, not a team, actually. It's a family already.” While connecting with one another culturally was important to cultivating a strong sense of team spirit, being open and adapting to new training strategies and approaches allowed Coach Mea to be a better team player. She says: “You have to be open to receive criticism and also accept that you can be wrong. That's it — be a very openminded person.” Indeed, open-mindedness more than anything truly grants a team not only synergy, but also, success.

Alongside competing all over the world for the past years, a significant part of who Coach Mea resonates with is being a PE teacher. Her desire to impart wisdom to the younger generation has given her a fulfillment unlike any other. Though the code-switch between a competing athlete and a PE teacher clashed, Coach Mea now strikes the balance by envisioning herself as teaching while playing more for leisure, following the footsteps of her main inspiration, SSM’s Coach Richard. Coach Mea has demonstrated that the mark of a true team player rests both in the ability to open yourself to learning from others, and to see the bigger, better picture. To future football players who want to go pro, take it from her: “Learn from different people, different cultures, and different coaches. Learn as much as you can while you are still young — it will really help you when you want to pursue a professional career.” So remember: Achieve your goals and shoot for the stars!

11 1

STAFF SECRETS

MISS ANNA

By Elle Sy

For 13 years, Miss Anna has served as SSM’s beloved librarian, though is considered by students as more of a treasured friend. She is not your average librarian — the sound of the students’ chatter is actually music to her ears, especially after 2 long years of silence and disconnection. Indeed, Miss Anna’s tight-knit relationships with students ensure she knows everyone, but do you really know her within and beyond the library? What is Miss Anna’s secret to becoming SSM’s Jack-of-all-trades? True to her commitment as a librarian, no pandemic could stop Miss Anna from keeping students in touch with their love for literature. The launch of the online book borrowing system — or known as the “virtual library” — was an excellent demonstration of her librarianship under unconventional circumstances. Though she says that the library collection is manageable enough, she depends on a schedule to ensure things from the start to the end of the day are done accordingly. Not only does Miss Anna check emails to see which books are being borrowed or returned, but she also prepares and delivers the books to the lobby to be picked up and eventually delivered to the students. Beyond the library, you can catch Miss Annaruth assisting distribution teams for students’ materials or taking photos of the school on her camera. However, a “responsibility” she never overlooks is the one she seems to cherish most — forming connections with students. Her favorite part of being a librarian is chatting and sharing stories with everyone, even the little ones: “With every little detail that they tell you, you will learn a little something. When you talk to the little ones, you're reminded of what you've been forgetting as you become an adult.” By witnessing the students grow up before her very eyes, she can not help but feel like she, too, is growing up alongside them. From silly banter over the “Book of Answers” — a favorite among the students — to sincere conversations about life after graduating from SSM, many count on Miss Annaruth to give the best advice. Within and beyond the library, Miss Anna is indeed an active member of the community — “one big happy family” as she would call it. Though the pandemic has created distance, she remains hopeful and excited to welcome even more students as normalcy starts easing in.

SPECIAL FEATURES

TALES OF TALENT

Featuring some of SSM's best talents — athlete edition!

THE ACE UP

JET HERNANDEZ'S SLEEVE

By: Elle Sy

Fore! Look Out for Jet's Tee-rific Talent! Jet Hernandez is one of SSM’s student athletes who has been playing golf for nearly 12 commendable years. Despite the pandemic’s challenges, he has consistently been competing and winning tournaments. From finishing first in the IMG Junior World Golf Championship to earning 1st place in the SEA games qualifier, Jet has proven to have an ace up his sleeve. As both a talented golfer and hardworking student, how does Jet balance all his responsibilities in the midst of the pandemic? For Jet, the pandemic has not stopped him from training for golf as he believes that the sport’s outdoor nature has left little to no impact on his regular routine. Along with this, Jet marvels at the emergence of new players aspiring to “take up the game of golf” amidst the pandemic. He is thrilled that people are changing their perspective on the sport, as the long-held reputation of golf as an “old man’s sport” is slowly becoming redefined. “There are a lot of my friends who now want to play with me. I didn't even know they played golf.” Given Jet’s continued love and appreciation for the sport, he added that the pandemic imparted a greater sense of gratitude within him, as he cherishes every waking moment on the golf course. This has ultimately provided Jet a more positive mindset, no matter what challenges swing his way.

Beyond the golf course, Jet is currently an AS-Level student working towards mastering the skill of balancing training and academics. By cultivating a disciplined and systematic approach to work over the years, he has come up with a daily routine that is repeatable and tolerable enough to use. According to Jet, “strict scheduling” at the start of the school year is key to striking a balance between golf and meeting his academic requirements. Beneath all of Jet’s remarkable achievements, he gives notable credit to his constant support system consisting of his family members and coaches. Jet believes that they have always brought out the best in him, inspiring him to reach his greatest potential. “Because I know how much love and support I get from them, I don't want to let them down after all that they've done for me.” As the ultimate cup of tee, Jet is set to play golf for the University of Denver in college and represent the Philippines in the upcoming 31st SEA Games in Hanoi, Vietnam this May 2022. With his great discipline, sportsmanship, and ambition, he is indeed on his way to strike even more holes in one. Go for gold, Jet!

TALES OF TALENT

TALENT TRIVIA Want to know a bit more about SSM's Football-brother duo? As members of the Makati Football Club, you just might get a kick out of their athletic favorites!

ATHLETE EDITION! By: Chesca Lauchengco

RAPHAEL LI CALVIN LI S1B || Soccer Player

S2B || Soccer Player

FAVOU RITES TRAINING EQUIPMENT:

TRAINING EQUIPMENT:

SOCCER TEAM:

TRAINING EXERCISE:

ATHLETIC CLOTHING:

ENERGY DRINK FLAVOUR:

WAY TO COOL DOWN:

Treadmill

Dumbbells and Jump Ropes

PSG or FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona

Running exercises

Ladder exercises & Dumbbell Exercises

Any Nike or Adidas Products

Compression Shorts Grape or Blueberry

Gatorade Orange

Putting a damp towel around my neck and taking long naps after games

An ice bath!

INSPIRATIONS ROLE MODEL

ROLE MODEL

TRAINING SONGS

Cristiano Ronaldo The Weeknd Songs

Lionel Messi

The Rock's Rap Segment in the song Face Off by Tech N9ne

SPECIAL FEATURES

SSM IN ACTION

HERE, THERE, AND EVERYWHERE!

Catch special members of the SSM community all over the world performing their absolute best, never once missing in action!

DUTIES OF A DELEGATE:

J O A Q U I N HMCA HONORABLE G U Z M A N ’ S MENTION By: Gabby Rosales Playing the role of Politician and Supreme Court Judge, Joaquin Guzman or ‘Javi’ lived out his Political Science dreams during the annual Harvard Model Congress. “Exciting, refreshing, and fun,” is how he described it, drawing from the rigor and thrill of his delegate duties. Well-equipped with natural debating skills, Javi carried out government processes with a certain finesse, receiving a token of his good work in the form of an Honorable Mention! “Fun” was a word he never felt left the conference as his genuine love for debate shone through any setback: “It’s stressful, but it’s important to just have a lot of fun.” Despite the heightened tension of an online conference, Javi stayed true to his goal of asserting himself as a delegate with valuable opinions. Indeed, Javi’s sharp judgment molded him into a candidate who readily makes his stance with conviction. The key to his success, however, did not stop just with a dash of confidence. His advice: “You cannot be silent, you have to be assertive, and you must make sure you are always there to make a point.” Participation seemed to have played a substantial role in commanding attention to himself as someone to be listened to. “If you want to make a name for yourself in HMCA, you need to break out of your shell.” Earning an Honorable Mention is indeed testament to his outspoken and compelling spirit. We can surely expect to hear more of his views in a university classroom or a buzzing courtroom.

FINDING THE ROOT TO PAIGE GARCIA'S SUCCESS By: Gabby Rosales Paige Garcia of Secondary 1 has been solving for x, plotting the points, and finding the root beyond the classroom walls since joining Math Olympiads at a young age. A math wizard at heart, Paige’s experience with competing has given her an edge not many 12 or 13 year olds can relate to. Her most recent mathematical feat was the Thailand International Mathematical Olympiad (TIMO) where she earned a bronze award — surely for her, easy as pi! Describing the experience as both challenging and nerve-wracking but still fun, Paige believes that the key to success is having the ability to maintain focus and think outside the box. She says, “everyone has their own preferences on how they’d like to solve a problem,” so being able to approach problems from different angles was crucial to her increasing mathematical ability. Additionally, competitions like TIMO do not deduct points for mistakes, so her advice to future participants is: “try and estimate even if you don’t know the answer.” After all, taking a chance is always better than leaving something blank! Indeed, Paige’s knack for math is both special and highly impressive for a young student. As she participates in future competitions, may she continue to successfully reach the other side of the equals sign!

Draw For A Cause

By: Gabby Rosales

Draw Epilepsy Art Competition

“Art imitates life” — a statement true for SSM’s young artists who participated in this year’s Draw Epilepsy Competition. Kate Del Mundo of S4, Cydney Soco of AS Level, and Althea Baluyut of A Level have proudly brought home awards for their exceptional artworks, which centered on the theme of “Celebrating Life”. Read on to know more about their experience!

KATE

Winning overall champion of the competition is quite an art in itself, and Kate was more than up for the challenge. Passionate about the arts since a young age, Kate readily joined the competition with the champion award in mind: “I truly wanted to win”. According to her, “skills play a big role as well, but I think the mindset is what guarantees success.” With a colorful display of different hobbies, achievements, and memories, it was Kate’s goal to convey that even the littlest and simplest things are worth celebrating. Though, Kate’s personal connection to her artwork’s message was perhaps exactly what the judges were looking for — a unique edge. Taking inspiration from her best friend who was diagnosed with Epilepsy, Kate had the unique chance to put herself in their shoes, turning their friendship into a powerful message — Epilepsy patients are not alone.

Kate’s strong sense and source of passion are indeed what makes her a perfect fit for champion. Certainly, this will not be the last of Kate’s brush strokes to success!

CYDNEY

As a Draw Epilepsy competition constant, Cydney has demonstrated a strong passion for creating artworks with a powerful message. This year, Cydney’s take on “celebrating life” was about living life to the fullest and not feeling limited by what we can or can’t do despite having Epilepsy.

Joining this competition numerous times has brought out different sides to Cydney’s artistry, and her honorable mention is indeed testament to her expanding creativity. Though she admits that branching out of her usual style was an initial challenge, she says, “you just need to try something new. You’ll never know what you’ll get out of it.” We certainly cannot wait for Cyndey to try even more new things as she continues to widen her creative pursuits in the future!

ALTHEA

Another artist with outstanding skill, Althea’s vision for this year’s Draw Epilepsy competition was about displaying a “diverse set of people in celebratory poses” in order to uplift Epilepsy awareness. The purple ribbon she drew was meant to unite everyone in celebration. With a creative sskill and vision like hers, it is only expected that she earned an honorable mention!

Althea is not one to waste an opportunity, so she actively took this experience to learn more about Epilepsy. Through her artwork, she wanted to share the message that “people with epilepsy are not less capable than people without epilepsy.” It is indeed a rightfully deserved commendation for Althea to earn her outstanding honorable mention! Congratulations!

SPECIAL FEATURES

ALUMNI ADVENTURES:

T H E J O U R N E Y OF

By: Chesca Lauchengco

STUDYING ABROAD It is often said that college life brings about new challenges for us to grow and discover ourselves through our newfound independence. Studying in a completely foreign environment away from home while juggling academics and our personal lives is quite the adventure in itself. To enlighten future University students on the ups and downs of studying abroad as a college freshman, let us hear from Lance Tan, Isa Lauchengco, and Chloe Ng, students of NTU, NYU, and UNSW respectively. It is inevitable that being a senior in high school means making major life decisions. In this interview, Isa, Lance, and Chloe further expound on their decision-making process as they answer the question:

WHAT FACTORS DID YOU CONSIDER IN DECIDING TO STUDY ABROAD?

LANCE TAN

“Through SSM’s guidance during the IB programme, I was able to discover my interest in the field of Biology. I then was able to narrow down my options for my intended course of study. Security and a good community were what I looked for in my ideal University. By choosing Singapore, I knew I was going to not only be safe but also be provided the opportunity to surround myself with goal-oriented and academically driven people. Lastly, studying abroad would help sharpen my life skills for my future career.”

ISA LAUCHENGCO

“My decision to study abroad was influenced by the idea of exploring a new culture and pursuing top-tier programmes that countries abroad provided. I essentially chose majors based on what I enjoyed in high school, which were reading and writing. This ultimately led to my choice of studying Liberal Studies and International Relations.”

CHLOE NG

"Distance, opportunities, and close relatives were the main factors I considered when deciding to study abroad. To be honest, I only had a broad idea of what I wanted to study when I was in S4. After having taken a liking to business, I chose to pursue a Commerce course that explores the various aspects of running a business, like finance, marketing, and accounting. "

SSM in ACTION

SPECIAL FEATURES

Indeed, a new environment can provide students with a refreshing start for their academic careers. Lance, Isa, and Chloe express their gratitude towards the trials and tribulations they have been facing thus far into their journey with the question:

LANCE TAN

“A highlight for me is definitely the ability to be exposed to a huge lifestyle change. However, this lifestyle change has likewise been accompanied by many challenges; one of which being the limited access to a constant support system.”

CHLOE NG

WHAT HAVE BEEN THE HIGHLIGHTS AND CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED THUS FAR?

ISA LAUCHENGCO

“So far, I have been able to thoroughly enjoy sightseeing alongside exploring the city. Though it does come with challenges as I have to continuously remain cautious given my situation.”

“To be honest, I didn’t expect to be so overwhelmed, but I ultimately enjoyed meeting my classmates for the first time. It was exciting to finally experience attending face-to-face classes.”

The trio then went on to share

WHAT IT TOOK TO EASE THAT TRANSITION,

providing advice for those who may be longing for home and navigating new environments. To this, they express:

LANCE TAN

“Give yourself a time limit when considering which college you would like to go for. If it takes you too much time to think about a University, especially if you feel unsure afterward, it might not be the right choice. Nobody knows what the future holds so do something you won’t regret.”

ISA LAUCHENGCO

“In high school, I was that ambitious student who ran as Student Council President, joined the debate club, and pursued high grades. However, once I entered college, I realized that my grades were just numbers and that everyone was on the same playing field. It doesn’t matter where you come from because everyone possesses the same motivation to learn and succeed."

CHLOE NG

“See it through. Homesickness is just a temporary feeling so don’t give up just yet and prepare yourself for what’s to come in the future. The transition may be disheartening but once you overcome it, you’ll be able to enjoy your college life from here on out!” No one said that college was going to be easy for this trio. It is because of their drive and willingness to unfold a new chapter of their lives that they fearlessly face the journey of studying abroad. As they continue to explore the many highlights and lowlights that college life throws at them, Lance, Isa, and Chloe are most definitely on the right track to success.

SPECIAL FEATURES

PENNY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS?

WAR

THROUGH THE LENS OF A STUDENT

Hear SSM's writers' two cents on their favorite topics! A safe space for SSM’s talented writers, “Penny For Your Thoughts” is a platform where we shine a light on the many ways with words SSM’s students have! Read their pieces and get inspired!

Interested in writing for PFYT? Head over to When Opportunity Knocks to find out how!

BY: LONGFEI JU War. A word that many of us have heard but not really thought about. After all, why should we? It’s the 21st century, and human civilization has become much more well…civilized. Unlike the barbaric teachings of the past, we, the new generation, humanity’s bright future, have become welleducated against the primitive practices of violence. Tomorrow looks promising; all is well. It’s not like some madman would use last century propaganda to declare war on another nation overnight and snowball the situation into something uncontrollable. Surely not. Yet, here we are. Welcome to 2022 folks, where everything that could have gone wrong went wrong. Here’s the deal: Putin, the big man of Russia, recently declared war on Ukraine, which has currently damaged the lives of countless innocent civilians. It’s an oversimplification of events, but should you really be relying on a teenager getting his facts from Instagram? Probably not. Actually, the internet has had a rather significant impact on warfare today — the most practical example being how fast information is spread around the web. Long gone are the days of newspapers and radios as we now have adolescent kids wearing makeup and doing silly dances on our screens to inform us about the war. Ah, how far we’ve come.

PENNY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS Disregarding these…“influencers”, social media platforms such as TikTok and YouTube have given us an insight into the lives of those entrapped in the war. Ukrainian content creators have begun to showcase their daily lives in bunkers and shelters. These videos have gained tremendous amounts of attention on social media, bringing greater awareness to the situation for younger generations than most news channels have. However, it is important to note that in this day and age, information can very easily be faked, and we are advised to fact-check information before believing and sharing it.

While the war is currently contained within Eastern Europe, its effects have begun seeping into the global economy. Many have been informed of the increasing gas prices due to the war, and it has been quite amusing to see my father fuss over the ever-increasing bill. More worrying, however, is the thought that the war could develop into something large — something with a much greater impact. Though experts say it is quite unlikely, little closure is brought to my mind. As a bystander, a reader, and a resident from the other side of the world, it is easy for me to write about the war from the lens of a spectator as if an invisible fourth wall was there to separate me from the scene. Yet slowly and slowly, the wall is starting to waver as the scene progresses. This is not fiction. It is the waking reality. Until when does the reader become a character?

On the topic of spreading information, one particular genre of communication has dominated the social media landscape — memes. They seem to be everywhere and everyone seems to love them, including the Ukrainian PR team on Twitter who apparently have been using them to mock Putin. These images that are often captioned with satirical text have also skyrocketed in popularity, especially among younger generations. While some have expressed their dissatisfaction with using these humorous images during wartime, I believe that it is merely a refurbished way of spreading propaganda that appeals to the youth.

MEET THE WRITER Longfei "Bruce" Ju is an S4 student who writes occasionally. Other than that, he procrastinates by reading light novels and playing video games. He wishes to polish his writing skills and eventually write a seller novel, retiring at the early age of 25.

SPECIAL FEATURES

THE PRESSURES OF PERFECTION: A STUDENT’S REVIEW ON

ENCANTO

BY: JAELYN SOLIMAN

We don’t talk about…familial pressures for perfection enough. Since the new hit movie Encanto released in November 2021, people old and young all over the world have been viewing it. The main story is about a 15-year-old Colombian girl named Mirabel Madrigal who, unlike the rest of her family, does not have unique magical powers — also known as their “gift”. When a child turns 5, they touch a magical candle, the source of the family’s power, and receive their gift by turning magic door knobs. However, when Mirabel touches hers…she doesn’t get one. After her cousin’s gift ceremony 10 years later, Mirabel finds cracks in their magical casita, warning the family of their powers. To save the day, Mirabel and her outcast uncle Bruno protect the candle that houses the family’s magic.

More than anything, Encanto is not all about magic and candles alone. It can also be viewed as a story of intergenerational trauma, familial pressure, and societal expectation. What we know about Mirabel is that she’s the youngest of 3 sisters and the self-proclaimed therapist of the Madrigal family. Her older sisters, Isabela and Luisa pour out their struggles to gain Abuela’s validation through the songs, “What Else Can I Do?” and “Surface Pressure” respectively. Luisa expresses her worthlessness if she “can’t be of service”, and Isabela hides her smile behind “perfect, practised poses”. Luisa is burdened with the obligation to lift up her family, Isabella feels the need to put on a perfect, happy facade for everyone to see, and Mirabel is simply just there. From this, Abuela seemingly equates their gifts to their worth, explaining the sisters’ unwavering desire to prove themselves based on something that appears so superficial yet in their eyes is everything. Then there was Bruno, whose story of rejection was revealed in the crowd-favourite hit “We Don’t Talk About Bruno”. From foreseeing the death of Señora Pezmuerto’s fish, to the growing of Osvaldo Ortiz’s gut, Bruno’s gift to see the future had alienated him from not only his community, but his own family as well. With this, the consequences that his gift entailed pushed the rest of the Madrigals to shun him and use his story as a cautionary tale, further enforcing the pressures of perfection.

PENNY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS

Indeed, not only the sisters but the entire family want only to please the Madrigal matriarch. Abuela Alma micro-manages the whole family and the way they use their gifts, and it’s only natural that they want to meet her standards. But, there is more to Alma’s story than what meets the eye: she lost her husband, her village, and her entire support system to the terrors of the Thousand Days’ War. She didn’t ask for any of this, let alone lead an entire village. Because she didn’t want to appear weak, she began inflicting her expectations onto the family to be perfect — faultless like Isabela, strong like Luisa, and helpful like Camilo. If we were to explore the trauma realistically, then Abuela wouldn’t have apologised, Bruno would still be in the walls, and Mirabel would still be neglected. Thankfully, this is Disney, and it always turns out well in the end. In real life, however, apologies are not always given and emotions would remain repressed in fear of rejection. What we can learn from Encanto is to find someone we can really trust to unpack our emotions with. We can choose to be Mirabel and find strength in our vulnerabilities, dismantling the pressure to be perfect.

MEET THE WRITER Jaelyn is a Grade 9 student who loves to make art. She writes to express her opinions and aspires to take an art-related course. If you want to catch her, she usually spends her free time drawing, occasionally gaming, doing homework, or spending time with her loved ones.

SPECIAL FEATURES

MERLION MEDIA An ANTIDOTE ANTIDOTE For Your Reading Slump!

By: Gabby Rosales

It is a truth universally acknowledged…that books start where reality ends. The world of the written word is an escape from reality for many. However, losing touch can happen to the best of us. In need of an antidote to your reading slump? Maybe a place to start? Perhaps this article can help! It is easy to say that you should never be without a book, but how exactly can you find the perfect one to start with? Well, the keywords are to reflect and explore. Think about the topics that interest you and how you would like to see that on paper. No matter how basic you think they are, there are several genres and writers to choose from, and within them are cult-favorites — Sally Rooney’s “Normal People” or Madeline Miller’s “The Song of Achilles", to name a few. It is also important to start easy. There’s no need to rush into the Dickens or Brontës just yet, and there is absolutely no shame in delving first into the simple reads.

Remember: not all who wander are lost, so consider exploring for the perfect book as your personal reading quest! It also helps to condition yourself to love reading by making your environment reader-friendly. You can drown the rest of the world out by listening to your reading playlist or maybe you can have a snack that you only eat when you are reading. The point is to do something you enjoy while reading, so by association, you will learn to love reading too. Think Pavlov! Assembling a reading list is important to any future bibliophile. A reading list will spark excitement for your next read, and you will soon find yourself in a loop of adding what to read next. Below are some of your beloved English teachers’ recommendations. Need an imagination-sparker? A compelling classic? Perhaps a gripping dystopian? You can definitely find your pick there!

So, to read or not to read is the question — only you can answer. The world of the written word is awaiting YOU, its next biggest Bibliophile!

MERLION MEDIA

INTERESTED IN MORE RECOMMENDATIONS? The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

"The novel is beyond an adventure story; it's about the search for truth." - T. Gael

Chinese Cinderella by Adeline Yen Mah

Here are more from your teachers! The Bad Beginning by Daniel Handler

"A memoir of the author's difficult "It's not just about 3 orphans – there's childhood where she proved her espionage, there a secret organization, grit to her family." - T. Audrey and a lot of dark humor." - T. Lean

Michael Keaton once said, “Filmmaking is the ultimate team sport.” — and teamwork is what the Merlion Film Festival is all about! This annual event serves as the opportunity for budding filmmakers to showcase their talents on the big screen. From writing, directing, and editing their own short films, students work together to combat the very real challenges that every cast and crew member face in this multimillion dollar industry.

SO, YOU’RE A

FILM JUNKIE? INTRODUCING THE MERLION FILM FESTIVAL! BY CHARLY LAM

And of course, the Merlion Film Festival would be incomplete without its prestigious awarding ceremony – the Merlion Awards! Honouring the exemplary in each of their fields, from the most unforgettable of acting performances to the most visually stunning production designs, to of course, the highly coveted Best Picture accolade, be prepared to be on the edge of your seats for this highly anticipated event later this year.

So to all our film buffs and cinephiles, stay tuned for June 3, for the movie screening, and June 10, for awarding, and be prepared to have an unforgettable experience!

DEAR SSM, WRITTEN BY: VANESSA WONG

Feeling lost? Stuck? Simply searching for some answers Welcome to the safest space for helpful school and life advice from our dearest SSM life coaches and seniors!

Q: A:

DEAR SSM, HOW CAN WE START THINKING ABOUT UNIVERSITY APPLICATIONS? WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO NAVIGATE THEM?

LIFE COACHES We most definitely can help you with your University Applications! Reach out to the Life Coaches through email or the school website via the “Life Coaching” tab. Bring a list of courses that you want to take and we can work on it together. We’re just a message away! SENIORS Great question! We are definitely in the same boat. Start by thinking about which countries you want to study in, then select which schools best fit you. Do you like the school’s culture? How about the country’s traditions? Another great way is to start exploring University websites and registering in online information sessions or virtual tours to further inspire and give you a sense of direction. Don’t be afraid to seek guidance from alumni and schedule consultations with the Life Coaches or your programme coordinators.

Q: A:

DEAR SENIORS, COULD YOU TELL US AN IDEAL WAY TO ACHIEVE WORK-LIFE BALANCE?

Achieving work-life balance is a challenge but it’s actually just about knowing and managing your limits. To be honest, this might be one of our constant struggles — the ability to know when enough is enough. It's essential to realize that rest is just as important a factor as doing your work. While you can always work all-night, it doesn’t mean you should. An ideal way to achieve work life balance is to stick to your working hours and prioritize your time more. Schedule your work to be done on a given time frame, whether it be from a brief 30 minutes to 1 hour. Try following this as much as possible, and don’t forget to plot free time on your calendar for family time and calling with friends. Remember that just because you’re a student, this does not mean you should revolve your life around academics. That is not your whole identity and, rather just a small aspect of it.

Q: A:

DEAR SSM, DO YOU EVER FEEL DOWN OR OVERWHELMED SOMETIMES? HOW CAN I EFFECTIVELY PRACTICE SELF-CARE?

SENIORS Definitely. As Grade 12 students, we are no strangers to the feeling of being overwhelmed or down sometimes. One of the best ways to deal with stress and practice self-care is to make time for hobbies we enjoy . Oftentimes, all we need is that boost of serotonin from the things we love! Remember that self-care comes in many forms. Whether it be indulging in your comfort TV show, listening to our favorite music, or journaling what you’re most grateful for, take time to do what makes your soul happy! Selfcare is all about realizing that your relationship with yourself is valuable. The best person that can really look after you is YOU!

LIFE COACHES Big yes. We feel overwhelmed and down too. But in times of stress, we have discovered many ways to practice self care. We, the Life Coaches, often take a minute to think of what we’re grateful for . We also unwind by doing comforting hobbies! Our best advice nowadays is to try to stay away from the screen. Try to develop a regular sleeping habit. Regular exercise and healthy diets are important too. Self-care is different for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find an effective method that works for you . Keep experimenting and one day, you’ll find the best self-care method that truly puts your mind at ease.

DEAR SSM, WHEN WOULD YOU SAY IS THE BEST TIME TO BE THINKING ABOUT THE FUTURE? I’VE BEEN FEELING PRESSURED LATELY. HOW CAN I DETERMINE THE “RIGHT” PATH FOR ME?

SENIORS We think that the earlier you think about the future, the better. While it may seem extremely daunting, the first step is to get comfortable with the thought of your future. One thing we would suggest is to map out your personal areas of interest and find the path where you can truly thrive. Whether it be business, humanities, STEM, or visual arts, if you love it, DO IT! The world is your oyster! Try not to think about the expectations society holds for a certain career path because in any field of interest, there will always be an opportunity that awaits you. Your future is what YOU make of it–so make sure it’s rooted in what you truly love! LIFE COACHES Determining the right path for you is not a linear process, and it is okay to feel pressure. Sometimes, you’ll question the very path you thought was “right”–and that’s totally normal! As we grow older, our passions and interests change with us. Let change run its course, and you’ll soon find your way! Reflect on (i) what you truly excel at, (ii) what you are interested in, and (iii) if there is an intersection. Try asking yourself questions like, “What can I talk about for hours on end? ”, “What do I wake up excited to learn?” and simply, “What can I not give up?” .

BY: ELLE SY WHEN WHEN OPPORTUNITY OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS... KNOCKS...LET LET IT IT IN! IN!

MERLION TIMES EDITION!

PENNY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS WRITERS: “Penny for Your Thoughts?” is a student-led section of the Merlion Times newsletter that primarily aims to amplify the voices of SSM’s talented and aspiring writers. Within this section, SSM students are given the opportunity to express themselves by writing on a topic of their interest with hands-on guidance from the MT Editorial Board’s Special Features Department. PFYT is truly a chance for YOU to step out of your comfort zone and share your ideas on a safe, school-wide publication.

HEAR FROM A PAST PFYT WRITER! “It was my first time writing for any newsletter, but I found it fun nonetheless! I was really happy to have my work featured in the MT and contribute to the SSM community. One lesson I took away from the experience was time management, so that I could both write for the newsletter and do other schoolwork. This activity was one of my first extracurricular activities in Secondary, and it was really good with my schedule! I think almost anyone can write for the newsletter without having to worry much.”

Renee Lim, S3

MERLION TIMES CONTRIBUTORS: Wondering what goes on behind-thescenes of the Merlion Times? Sign up to become an official MT Contributor for the third and FINAL issue of the Merlion Times! Want to write creative pieces for the Special Features team? Or maybe experience on-the-go news gathering and reporting for the News team? As a contributor, you will be given the opportunity to work as a part-time writer. From pitching your one-of-a-kind ideas, challenging your writing, to publishing your work on a school-wide platform, you can see your vision come to life on the Merlion Times. Join us now and you are only one step away from innovating the MT!

HOW TO APPLY? *All Secondary and Pre-University students are eligible for these MT opportunities! To sign up as either a PFYT writer and MT Contributor, send an email to the MT Editorial Board (merliontimes@singaporeschoolmanila.com.ph) to demonstrate your interest. Await for further instructions and an official application form for the role!

TEST YOUR WITS! Are you ready to test your wits? Challenge yourself here in the Merlion Times' fun and games section where the winners can have the chance to win a prize!**

CROSSWORD PUZZLE: SSM COVID SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ACROSS [1] Each student needs to have their temperature __ when they come in. [5] Each __ has designated school days to maintain student population. [6] Each table has its own __ capacity. [9] Dispensers stationed around the school contains __. [10] __ dispensers are removed to maintain less contact.

DOWN [2] __ Learning allows students present and online to attend classes together. [3] Social __ requires students to be at least 1 meter apart [4] Classroom __ are left slightly opened to ensure a well-ventilated space. [7] __ such as playgrounds are closed off to maintain less contacts [8] Everyone needs to wear and bring extra __ to school

are 3 **WANT TO WIN PRIZES? There simple steps!

STEP 1:

LAST EDITION'S WINNERS!

Answer the the CROSSWORD COMPLETELY.

JEDRICK ANG & CODY LUCHANGCO

STEP 2:

Send a clear photo of your answers to merliontimes@singaporeschoolmanila.com.ph.

STEP 3:

The FIRST to send the CORRECT answers win PRIZES! Prizes are first-come-first-serve, so be sure to send them quickly! **Please use your school Gmail account. Otherwise, your photo/s will not be accepted.

THE EDITORIAL BOARD Meet the Editors behind the Merlion Times Newsletter

OUR MISSION

CHRISTIANA REYES Editor-in-chief

ALEXI MANZANO Managing Editor

VANESSA WONG

Junior E.I.C and M.Editor

To reinvent and elevate the Merlion Times publication to engage readers of all backgrounds and interests. As a team, we strive to promote SSM school spirit and togetherness in times of uncertainty and separation.

GET IN TOUCH Any feedback or questions? Looking for ways YOU can contribute? KYLE BAYRON

Senior News Editor

CHARLY LAM

ABIGAIL CO

Junior News Editor

EMAIL merliontimes@singaporeschoolmanila.com.ph

INSTAGRAM @merliontimes

GABBY ROSALES

ELLE SY

CHESCA LAUCHENGCO

Senior Special Features Editor

Junior Special Features Editor

CHARINA ANGGALA SIMYUNG SIOW

ERIN TENG

Junior Layout Editor

Photo Editor

Senior Layout Editor

CONTRIBUTORS PENNY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS CONTRIBUTORS: Longfei "Bruce" Ju, Secondary 4 "History Through the Lens of a Student: Holodomor "

VIDEO EDITORS: Kaemon Bayron, Secondary 2 "Reopening of Classes" Video

Jaelyn Soliman, Secondary 3 "The Pressures of Perfection: A Student's Review on Encanto "

COVER ARTIST FEATURE: ERIN TENG ''SO NEAR, YET SO FAR.'' After two long years, returning to normalcy is so near, yet so far, but finally seeing our friends and teachers again is a welcome, refreshing taste of hope.