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InAction InAction Teamwork Teamwork

By: Kate Siaco

As vital as understanding daily lessons are, developing fruitful relationships with classmates and teachers remains equally as important With the aim of building rapport between batchmates, Class Night was reintroduced for all Secondary levels this school year

The campus’ turf bustled with excitement as Secondary 1 students hurried to accomplish a range of tasks from collecting fruits to constructing a floating boat in the swimming pool with the given materials After a day of team bonding, the night was capped off tucked away in their respective classrooms to reset for the next day

Secondary 2 reconnected with earth’s beautiful nature in the Quest Adventure Camp in Rizal from December 1 to 2, 2023 “There was an activity where we had to climb the rope’s top,” says Venice So She continues by emphasizing the importance of camaraderie throughout the trip, saying:

“It was quite hard and time consuming but some of us were at least able to achieve it through each other’s help.”

Excited for the day, Secondary 3 students boarded a bus bound for the Mount Purro’s Nature Reserve before the sunrise on January 11, 2024. Alongside team building activities, their trip entailed a peaceful hike along one of its trails Reflecting back , Drake Lim who had served as the leader during tasks, shared how such experiences helped him further understand his teammates

“I learned about what my classmates like and do not like, what their habits are, what living with them feels like, and more "

Secondary 4 students checked into their rooms at Alvin and Angie Bognot Guesthouse, proceeding to pay a meaningful visit to the Aeta community, one of the Philippines’ indigenous tribes After a day of immersing with the locals, students gifted meaningful donations as a gift of gratitude to the community From riding on a mini truck through the canyons, to trekking in Mt Pinatubo’s crater lake it was truly an unforgettable stay

Beyond teamwork and camaraderie, valuable life skills were embedded in students along the way. “I had to take some time to think about my next move because if I made the wrong choice, it would put others at risk.” says Anamika Budhrani of Secondary 2-A

“This helped me understand that when I take time, I can think clearly and make better decisions.”

Class night was nothing short of adventurous as students arrived at their respective homes with memories to cherish and moments to reflect on. More than just the fun, the essence of this year’s Class Nights thrivingly captured the spirit of belongingness in the SSM community

Echoesof

Hope & Compassion Hope & Compassion

By: Aanvi Bagga

Service is not merely about what one does, but rather how each action sparks change within oneself and those around Throughout the year, SSM organised outreach programmes to improve children’s welfare and keep students connected to their communities

Secondary 1 paid a meaningful visit to “A Home for the Angels”, an orphanage where hope blooms amidst adversity. For many, including Siddhi Hastir, interacting with these children truly deepened their understanding of how important it is to make an impact on those around them

“The outreach surprised me in a way that despite their past, the children were happy and enjoying themselves, so it made me happy too.”

Meanwhile, at Pineda Elementary School, Secondary 2 students joined the Giving Hope Foundation to organise a feeding programme, serving nutritious meals and bright smiles all around

Secondary 3 students embarked on a coastal clean-up along the waters of Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach, armed with gloves and cleaning bags. Despite the blazing heat, many found value in the impact their efforts had on the community and ultimately their perspective “At first, I thought the clean-up would not be fun,” says Chelsea Woolcott, “but now I realised that I had a really fun time with my classmates and spotting interesting pieces of trash.”

Assuming the roles of t with young learners in interactive activities ex leave an indelible mark on the students journey Isaiah Ou expressed his desire to become a teacher, sharing how the program served as an outlet to further explore his dream “I feel like I was able to reaffirm to myself that I do like teaching and that I am capable of it.”

Students brought back the satisfaction of making a difference, the joy of giving, and the motivation to continue serving others Looking ahead, these lessons will permeate the fabric of everyday life, influencing the students to sustain simple, yet impactful actions that extend beyond meaning

HOW WILL THESE LEARNINGS IMPACT YOU?

SIDDHI, S1-B

“I have more appreciation for people who make it through difficult circumstances ”

CHELSEA, S3-B ISAIAH, S4-A

“I’d make sure to keep my surroundings clean, no matter where I am.”

By: Luna Cai

“I feel more grateful and respectful towards our teachers, who take the time to plan lessons for us ”

SEEDS OF SEEDS OF Understanding Understanding

achieved by interacting with the world around. Commencing on January 22, 2024, Singapore School Manila’s Upper Primary students ventured into the lives of unsung heroes

As the school bell chimed, the Primary 4 and 5 students eagerly embraced new responsibilities stepping into the shoes of SSM’s maintenance staff Each task from assisting in meal service to hallwa deeper connection with the community

Teacher Jim, the Head of SSM’s Life Coach Department, emphasised the importance of learning such skills at a young age

The earlier you’re exposed to those things, the better chance you retain them.

The remarkable growth of the students has only served as motivation for the life coaches to refine future programs. “It was heartwarming to see the students develop a newfound appreciation for the hard work of the school staff,” says fellow Life Coach, Teacher Casey

Moreover, it is also essential to spotlight SSM's dedicated teaching faculty Primary 6 undertook the roles of their mentors, imparting their knowledge and enthusiasm on fellow students Tasks such as leading Opening Activity, teaching lessons, and maintaining classroom organization served as much needed preparation for their transition to the Secondary level

Teacher Beverly, advisor to this year’s Primary 6, expressed profound pride in her students’ transformation, stating that: “They’ve become more attentive and participative in classes, and more expressive of their thoughts and feelings. Even those who weren’t that participative have blossomed into helpful leaders.”

Like scattered seeds in soil, the WISES Program has nurtured a garden of appreciation and compassion may these students continue to flourish, sowing kindness wherever they tread.

To many students, education consists of nothing more than a lecture However, true learning extends outside the four walls of a classroom:

with the Walk In Someone Else’s Shoes (WISES) programme

A Beginner’S A Beginner’S

Bravery Bravery

By: Rafa Li

Take notes, revise, take an assessment and repeat Students nowadays tend to go through their academic endeavors with the notion that growth is merely achieved through a specific routine However, Singapore School Manila students went on to defy that narrative, going on to join SSM’s 2024 Academic Quiz Bee, proving that utmost growth is only truly achieved by stepping outside one’s comfort zone

Last March 8, SSM held its annual Academic Quiz Bee alongside the students of Singapore School Manila Green Campus (SSGC) and Singapore School Clark (SSCL), commencing the event in high spirits Participants were tested on the three major subjects: Mathematics, English, and Science With an average and difficult round consisting of nine questions each, students were awarded a specific number of points for every correct answer.

This year’s competition featured some fresh faces, including Secondary 4 student: Cayenne Chong. Having no prior experience, she openly expressed her conflicted feelings in the days leading up to the big event “I felt nervous because this is my first time joining the competition, and I felt I had to prove myself ”

Ralph Dela Cruz of Secondary 3 once found himself in a similar situation However, upon joining several competitions over the years, he has now found his secret to success “Mentality is the most important thing to consider You need to make sure that you aren't too nervous as that can cause many mistakes.”

Secrets

LUKEDIONG

Relax and don't be too nervous. 1.

Refresh your mind with current topics. 2.

Eat something light to not be distracted with hunger. 3.

RALPHDELACRUZ

Don't worry too much about the competition; anxiety doesn't help 1 Qualifying for the academic quiz bee is already a good accomplishment 2 Write quickly; the time can be very limited 3

But despite the said whirlwind of nervousness and anxiety, the competition quickly flew by, concluding with an award ceremony involving endless photos with loved ones to showcase the students’ achievements Reflecting back on her experience, Cayenne goes on to say:

“I would be happy no matter what place I won. It is not about the destination but the process.”

The Spark The Spark

ofPoetry ofPoetry

Words, emotions, and creativity – the essential triad of poetic artistry

The morning of April 18, 2024, was filled with nothing but a myriad of vibrant artistic performances of Slam Poetry took centre stage, serving as the main highlight of Singapore School Manila’s 2024 Literature Week

The event served as a unique platform that encouraged many to further or potentially foster a newfound love for these literary pieces The Slam Poetry performances specifically enabled students to bring their favourite or even their own original poems to life Whether it be individually or alongside friends, students explored various themes to reflect their diverse experiences and interests

By: Aanvi Bagga

Their inspirational performance featured the story of a person who once struggled through life, only to find solace in a pet

The showcase entailed an array of creative elements from poems inspired by academic experience to parodies of famous hits Drake Lim from Secondary 3-B, alongside pair Trinley Edwards, created a piece about their difficulties creating a poem The piece then took a turn, talking about living in this generation and the experience of growing up with the internet

Isabel Guillermo from Secondary 2-A delivered an original group piece entitled “The Cold Winter Ground”, accompanied by classmates Srishti Amin and Jenzine Tan

“We chose this piece because we admired the meaning and effort our friend put into writing it,” Isabel shares, revealing the significant role emotion and connection to one’s piece plays in allowing these performers to deliver such passionate performances.

Congratulations to all students who participated in the Academic Quiz Bee

As the curtains closed and performers bid farewell to the audience, Literature Week concluded, serving as a reminder of the beauty of such pieces and the importance of platforms that allow young voices to be heard and appreciated

Hesitant to showcase your Hesitant to showcase your creative side? creative side?

Think about the aftermath, the things you will get back from it, and everyone’s outcome and joy Don’t be afraid to show off your personality and talent to the world

When you have a skill, do not hide it It is important to display your skills even on a large platform, that is how you give yourself value in the world

With Time With Time ADance ADance

By: Abi Co

“Time is ever fleeting.” a saying told often but rarely fully understood. From a very young age, many could only dream of a royal party filled with elegant dresses, a delicious buffet, and sparkling crowns; a scene seemingly so far out of reach However, for the IBDP 1 students, childhood dreams turned into reality upon receiving cordial invitations to Singapore School Manila’s Prom held in The Sofitel Philippine Plaza

As the clock struck 6 PM on March 2, 2024, the night of royal festivities officially commenced Sat amongst their peers, students happily conversed with one another over delicious food and drinks

This event not only served as an opportunity to create newfound memories but as a chance to reminisce on the eventful school year thus far A special video was compiled by fellow students beautifully capturing the memories created along the way

“It was quite challenging compiling all the photos and making sure everyone could be seen,” says Ruthie Morales upon having played a big role in the creation of the said video “but I think the output was really worth it because we were able to see the memories and just look back on everything.”

Excitement filled the air as people sat in anticipation for the crowning of the prom king, queen, prince and princess Jeremy Shi and Akimi Acuesta were officially declared Prom King and Queen respectively with Cody Luchangco and Ruthie Morales emerging as Prom Prince and Princess The “Best Dressed” awards were also given to Timothy Lo and Chesca Lauchengco for their spectacular royal outfits

“Becoming prom king was a whirlwind of emotions. It wasn't just about the title; it was about sharing that unforgettable moment with people so dear to me. It made the whole experience even more magical.” shared Jeremy before his coronation.

The night was still young for these royals To formally commence the fun, “The Stand-Ins”composed of IBDP1 students Azriel Valdepeñas, Hannah Syquia and Sophia Castro - performed a tracklist of classic romance hits such as “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You” by Frankie Valli

Hannah, the band’s pianist and drummer, revealed the sheer amount of preparations required in the days leading up to the big event “For me, it was more than just band practices. I had to listen to the songs on repeat for hours, make arrangements, make the tracks etc It was challenging but paid off in the end.”

Timeless Timeless Tips Tips

“Don’t be your own limit.”Hannah Syquia, Band Pianist/Drummer

“Spend

your time wisely and finish your tasks on time ” - Jeremy Shi, Prom King

“Try

to savour every moment as much as you can.” - Ruthie Morales, Prom Princess

The music was truly one of the event's biggest highlights with students conquering the dance floor. They danced the night away from one song to the next, forgetting about any stress or future woes, surrounded by flashing lights and their closest friends

Beyond all the fun and treasured memories created, the night also sparked new realisations am

“It was a good feeling, but it was also quite scary seeing how we’ve all grown from little kids to now.” says Ruthie. “It was also a wake-up call to the fact that we’ll be graduating soon.”

Similarly, Hannah notes the swarm of emotions as the party came to an end “There were a lot of thoughts in my head. A part of me was sad because this is the second to the last year we have together But also, with everyone’s outfit, you could really see how they have grown and their true personalities, they were all so positive towards each other ”

Filled with nothing but love and positivity, the memories created from this night alone shall remain tucked away in the hearts of these students as they continue to walk towards the end of their rigorous academic journey together

The ThePower Powerof of Parenting Parenting

By: Charly Lam

From day one, parents have been the utmost role models to their children With their endless support, it becomes easy to overlook their collective efforts and sacrifices Thus, Mother’s and Father’s Day serve as days to finally celebrate and showcase gratitude for all the selflessness, hard work, and sacrifices over the years.

Held from May 10 - 14, 2024, the Mother’s Day celebration bloomed into fruition with the Preschool’s mini tea party This included a variety of sweet surprises including the crafting of paper flowers and a special dance number entitled ‘I Love My Mommy’ And of course, the party would not be complete without some delicious snacks

Sometimes, one does not need to spend thousands on a gift, more often than not, the best gifts are those that are simply made with love Taking time to reflect on all the contributions and sacrifices their mothers have made, Primary to Pre-University levels created handmade gifts ranging from paper flowers engraved with short messages, matching bracelets, custom tote bags and heartfelt letters

Lastly, SSM mothers were pleasantly surprised with flower-shaped cookies gifted by Bayanihan, the school’s Student Council

Alongside these dedicated mothers fly the superhero fathers.

A special “superhero training camp” was held for preschool students, allowing fathers to complete several fun activities with their children, teaching them the ways of a hero

Creativity flowed through the hearts of each student as they too created additional gifts. From DIY superhero masks to keychains, they returned home with small but meaningful gifts to honour their number one hero.

Despite the evolution of generations, parents’ commitment to providing the best for their children remains unwavering. However, in a world with increasing use of technology, approaches towards doing so across the years have varied With this, parents from the SSM community alongside the Editorial Board take this time to share their take on the effect of the digital world on parenting

“The Internet provides a wealth of parenting resources,” Says Teacher Syra, being a mother of two “It helps me make informed decisions about my children's development and well-being.”

Mrs. Go shares a similar testimony, emphasising the role of technology on bridging a gap between parent and child.

“Technology makes it easier to connect with loved ones, regardless of distance It allows us to share photos and videos, helping us express our appreciation publicly ”

Teacher

Syra

“We can now create personalised digital cards, share heartfelt messages instantly, and even have virtual celebrations if we’re not physically together However, I also cherish the traditional ways of celebrating –which technology can complement, but not replace ”

“I have easier access to vast amounts of knowledge on parenting I’m able to stay connected with my kids whilst having a balance between professional and personal responsibilities more effectively.”

However, with its vastness, parents also encounter various challenges when it comes to staying updated with activity on social media Mr Siow explains that it is something he still struggles to figure out being in a different generation from his child, specifically managing the content they post and are exposed to

Mr Co acknowledges that, while it lends parents useful tools for time management and communication, it also has the ability to interfere with daily life. “It is easy for both children and parents to get too attached to their gadgets We get too caught up in social media we forget to treasure the small moments we have together such as our family dinners ”

While Mother’s and Father’s Day may only be celebrated once a year, the irreplaceable role that parents play undoubtedly deserve endless recognition and gratitude Let us continue to express our sincerest love and appreciation, whether it be through small or big acts, with each passing day.

Nadine Templonuevo

THE Curtains Curtains Behind Behind

By: Kate

Gracing the stage last June 6, 2024, students from various levels gathered in the MPR1 to participate in the annual After School Activity (ASA) Culminating Programme

Harmonious tunes filled the air as the showcase commenced with musical performances With every strum of the guitar and press of a piano key, students conveyed a diverse array of emotions that captivated the audience.

And while some found joy in playing instruments, others enjoyed dancing to its gentle melody Twirling their way through classic Disney soundtracks, SSM’s young ballerinas weaved together a spellbinding narrative that captured the essence of these timeless stories

Before the programme had come to an end, the spotlights flashed and speakers boomed to life Actors had taken the stage to perform a live action play. While the play itself was mostly originally written by members of Make Believe Productions, it was heavily inspired by the famous book "The Velveteen Rabbit” by Margery Williams. However, it introduced various twists and turns including surprise characters

Footprints Footprints

ofa Journey Journey

By: Aanvi Bagga

kayaking to paddle boarding the vast activities available were a perfect escape from the stress of examination season

Students were in for more surprises, finding themselves emotional at the sight of all their beloved teachers present to make the night even more memorable After a delicious meal overlooking the sunset, emotions began to overflow from heartfelt letters written by their parents. The night ended with a blast as students and teachers united to sing their hearts out with a few rounds of karaoke

Co-actor, Renee Lim who represented Morticia Addams, echoed a similar thought saying: “Since I am the oldest within the group, I have become more used to communicating with people now ”

From playing instruments, dancing to even acting live on stage this culminating activity truly showcased the vast talents the SSM community has to offer This not merely put on a great show but most importantly, it provided students with the opportunity to share their love for these activities on a bigger scale

To everyone including Kenzo Ng, this celebration was a moment to reflect on the paths taken by each student surrounded by the people who matter the most

“The party gave me a sense of closure for my high school journey as we were there to celebrate its end.”

Behind every successful journey are those who have persistently illuminated the students’ paths – parents and teachers “Having people who genuinely care about your academic and character growth is a genuine blessing”, shares Juana Tiaoqui Similarly, Bruce Ju expresses his appreciation to those who have granted him opportunities along the way “I’m grateful to my parents for giving me the opportunity to take the IB diploma and all the support my teachers have given me ”

As the night drew to a close with hearts full of cherished memories, the graduates were ready to enter the dawn of their new adventures.

JuanaTiaoqui

For my friends, I want you guys to stay swag, open your mind to the world, and take everything as a learning experience To my teachers, there were times when we did not give you the appreciation you should have gotten, but I hope you know that we love you and widen my knowledge about drama plays.

To my friends and teachers, thank you for your tireless support and guidance throughout the years

To all the teachers who never gave up on me, you rock You are the real heroes

For Bianca Co, the actor of newly introduced Weird Barbie, the club has gifted her with several opportunities.

Mitch Albom once said, “All endings are also beginnings ”

Primary Primary ONTO Fluttering Fluttering

By: Luna Cai

The conclusion of the school year at Singapore School Manila brings a special kind of excitement as Kindergarten 2 students prepare to take their big step into Primary education The “Moving Up” ceremony held last June 18, 2024 celebrated the growth of these young children and their first major milestone in their academic journey.

The ceremony, revolving around the book “Oh The Places You’ll Go” by D Seus, cordially began with a march down the red carpet Soon, students we called on stage to proudly receive their hard earned diplomas The day, was n quite over as teachers presented a special video that compiled photos students’ best moments throughout the year, sparking joy amongst graduate To cap off the celebration, students charmed parents and teachers alike with one-of-a-kind performance to the song “My Own Superhero”.

With bright futures awaiting these young children, fellow K2A advisor Teacher Mikee, emphasizes the importance of building a positive mindset at a young age “I had to go to each one of them to let them know and encourage them that they can do it, and by facilitating them as they navigate that new skill.” She compares the changes of her students to the transformation of caterpillars into butterflies, with teachers meant to instil the wings of self-reliance

Fellow advisor, Teacher Hazel believes in preparing her students with values and skills essential to their self-independence and social development

“In preschool, the teacher will always be there to, at the very least, look after you. However, being in Primary 1 is different. They have to be independent. ”

As these young learners develop into self-sufficient Primary students, their teachers send their most heartfelt wishes, tinged with both sorrowness and anticipation “My hope is that they continue to be lifelong learners who continue to channel their inner curiosity” shares Teacher Marian “It is also my hope that they won’t be afraid to make mistakes but to use them as an opportunity to improve themselves ”

The teachers' passion and dedication have laid a strong foundation for the students, preparing them for the more structured and academically focused environment of primary school As the Kindergarten 2 students spread their wings, they carry with them not only the knowledge they have acquired, but also the confidence to confront the new challenges that lie ahead

ASplashingEnd ASplashingEnd Exams Exams to to

By: Vanessa Wong

On June 21, 2024, collective screams of Primary students filled the hallways as they raced to prepare for the most anticipated end-of-the-year celebration, Wet Day.

Festivities began and soon, the school turf was transformed into a vibrant splash zone for all The new water slide quickly became a favorite, with a long line of eager students waiting for their turn to zoom alongside peers Many also prepared swimwear and water guns to blast away in a friendly competition against fellow classmates and even their beloved teachers

The continuous success of this event is credited to the preparations of the school community, especially its devoted staff They tirelessly worked all morning to set up kiddy pools, music and an allnew water slide to ensure the day was nothing short of fun

This year’s Wet Day was especially significant, concluding SSM’s final year in its Parañaque campus and the memories created What a splashing end to the nine years of memories in this campus

Beat the Heat Beat the Heat withPRIMARY withPRIMARY

“Drink lots of cool water to stay cool, and hydrated” KaiaLim

“Drink cold water” StellaZoeUy

“Use a pamaypay” AndrewChua

“Put ice in your mouth” RionHong

“Wash face is cooler” RomeoJu

Flipping FlippingTHE

By: Luna Cai

Before officially capping off the year, graduates reminisced treasured memories and achievements made along the way through the touching speeches of IBDP2 and Primary 6 students Edward Cabangon and Dublyn Ty respectively To raise the mood, Grade 12 student Juana Tiaoqui delivered a resounding performance of “For Good” from the hit musical “Wicked” as a surprise video played, created by the teachers to capture the lives of the graduates over the years

Despite the bidding farewell to their years in Primary, these students continue to express their excitement for the magnitude of opportunities ahead. Primary 6 student Lianne Pulig believes Primary has created a solid foundation that will enable them to continue thriving.

I am proud to say that I have learnt to manage my time independently and better than before because in Secondary, I expect more difficult lessons

Passing the Torch Torch Pages

As the final bell rings to signify the end of a school year, the air in Singapore School Manila buzzes with a blend of emotions. On June 20, 2024, the Primary 6 and IBDP 2 students gathered to celebrate the beginning of their next academic journey with a grand celebration at the East Ocean Palace

The lights shone bright on the graduates as the ceremony began with an opening walk down the center carpet Following a special message from guest speaker Pascale Jimenez, several awards were presented to formally acknowledge the hard work of students and staff alike

And at last, the moment everyone had been waiting for had finally arrived Upon being called, each student dutifully made their way onto the stage to receive their hard earned diploma, with Grade 12 students receiving medals for service, academics, conduct, and loyalty.

While graduation is a time of celebration, it is also a bittersweet moment for both the graduates and those who have watched them grow into the people they are today Reflecting on the year of growth, Teacher Giselle, an advisor of IBDP2, expresses her pride upon seeing the development of her students “I see them improve and become comfortable with the roles they have in the school or classroom ”

Looking ahead, she shares her deepest wishes of success for students’ success and happiness beyond academic achievements Teacher Giselle enthusiastically shares a powerful quote from a letter Mohit Moorjani wrote to himself at the beginning of IBDP1, saying :

The future that I see is the one that I want all to live in At the end of the day, your happiness is the most important thing It’s not anything that is pushed by your parents or by others. Rather, you just want to be happy at the end of the day

Education is an endless journey where each chapter of life builds upon the last that leads to greater adventures May each graduate continue to possess the courage and determination to reach greater heights in the next stages of their lives

Whataresomenotestofuturegraduates?

ChristianKawsek

Icansayfrompersonalexperiencethatthepathswe take as students and young leaders are filled with adversity and setbacks Instead of seeing them negatively,viewthemasopportunitiestolearnand grow Embrace the challenges, try new things, give yourbesteffort,andenjoythejourney

KylieChua

Coffee will be your best friend, late nights your constantcompanion,andprocrastination well,let’s just say it’s like playing hide and seek with your deadlines Spoiler:thedeadlinesalwayswin So,chug that cappuccino, embrace the nocturnal grind, and tackleyourtasksbeforetheytackleyou

ZejinChen

Graduationisthemomenttimewillreallystarttofeel different, the emotions you feel are all natural whether it is happiness or anxiety I have already begunseeingtheworldalittledifferentlyfromhere knowingthatitisthelasttimeIwillbetogetherwith my batch, remembering to always cherish and live throughthemoment Everythingwillbealright

COMMUNITY CHRONICLES COMMUNITY CHRONICLES

Rootingforthe Rootingforthe

By: Yvie Go

Our world’s global challenges are not black and white; they are morally ambiguous, cloaked in shades of grey. To devise truly effective solutions against these pressing matters, it is crucial to grasp nuanced concepts

Through its theme, Anti-Hero, Singapore Schools’ Model United Nations and Congress (SSMUNC) 2024 provides delegates with the opportunity to debate unconventional issues all the way from Walt Disney’s evil henchmen to modern slavery practices

“The villains of this world aren’t always going to be the one dimensional television characters, they’re as real and awake as we are,” says SSMUNC Secretary-General Martina Isidro in the conference’s opening address

Setting the tone, her speech serves a reminder of what MUN strives to achieve: social justice by first realising different perspectives

This perseverance of the Secretariat allowed the conference to be set in motion, successfully reestablishing the event post-pandemic. Deputy Secretary-General Hans Liu tirelessly set-up each committee room alongside student volunteers; whilst Under-Secretary Generals (USG) of Delegate Relations Nishita Moorjani and Beyonce Acuesta aptly handled registrations and dozens upon dozens of food orders without a hitch

USG of Conference Affairs, Chesca Lauchengco, ensured all lost items were found and rightfully received. Lastly, USG of Logistics, Visuals, and Social Media Yvie Go captured each pivotal committee moment from opening speeches up until the celebratory moment when a resolution passes

Suited up with their placards ready, delegates were off to their respective committees: the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC); the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ); and an SSMUNC original creative committee where delegates acted as Disney Villains

COMMITTEE

JOSHUA COELHO, UNHRC A

The headchair steering the debate by acting as a shadow delegate, followedup by karaoke Thedelegateof

DRAKELIM, CCPCJ

TIMOTHYLO, UNHRCB

AUDREY ANG, DISNEY VILLAINS

Joiningforceswith theenemy,Chernabog, buteventuallybeing betrayedbyhim

The two UNHRC committees delved into the humanitarian issues of modern slavery practices Delegates in UNHRC A debated multifaceted topics, including human trafficking and the complexities of child marriage. Though discussing the same topic, no committee room is ever the same UNHRC B navigated discussions on foreign policies and economic repercussions These delegates cultivated short-term and long-term measures, fostering their roles as global citizens through the meticulous crafting of mock UN resolutions

Meanwhile, at CCPCJ SSMUNC’s most advanced committee delegates worked to resolve several ramifications that arose in areas facing violence against children Modifying international law and implementing safe zones allowed the committee to develop frameworks aimed at protecting these vulnerable children Such ideas raised became subject to scrutiny and debate, pushing delegates to play their part in mimicking international politics

Entering the world of fiction, delegates undertook the roles of villains from the Disney universe With the challenging task of finding a peaceful resolution to Chernabog’s heinous acts, they carefully crafted their battle plan Despite initially having conflicting perspectives, the villains rallied together to ambush and ultimately put an end to the creature’s declared war

The clock struck, signalling the end of committee session Rivalries retired as delegates went on to enjoy socials activities. Students participated in karaoke until their voices were stolen, played Mario Kart on a doughnut-induced sugar rush, and reveled new alliances at the friendship bracelet station.

In the twilight hours of SSMUNC 2024, all gathered for its closing ceremony The conference’s legacy loomed, ensnaring the hearts and minds of delegates as they left awakened to society’s contemporary complexities As the twelve victorious delegates were awarded certificates and decorative Best Delegate sunglasses, the two days of quelling debate, conflict resolution and immersion into the world of international politics comes to a close

The dedication of the SSMUNC delegates and Secretariat have demonstrated the capacity of today’s youth to become the essential leaders of tomorrow Best put by Teacher Advisor Mico Siplon: “SSMUNC encourages creative problem-solving, which allows students to think outside the box and approach problems with fresh perspectives Looking forward, I hope this [culture] permeates to the rest of the student body to encourage them to take on these roles ”

Grassroots to

By: Shayla Aguilar, Jing Yan Hong & Cherry Sy

“What do you want to become when you grow up?” Many tend to go through childhood shifting between different dreams, unsure of what road they want to follow However from a young age, Francine Rast and Andes Diaz already had their hearts and minds set on a specific goal: achieving success in the world of football.

Francine Rast, one of Singapore School Manila’s proud alumnus, fostered her love for the sport at just three years old when her dad gifted her her very first football Since then for the past 15 years, it has become her comfort amidst busy academic schedules

Although Francine had been proudly born and raised in the Philippines, her burning desire to continuously improve led her to seek new opportunities Since September 2023, she has taken her passion internationally, representing the Black Rock FC at High Mowing High School in New Hampshire, USA.

“The first few months of being there were hard ” Francine reveals, noting the various challenges that came with the shift abroad. Despite her outgoing personality, finding her set of friends in a new environment wasn’t the easiest of tasks “I was new so I didn’t know anyone aside from my teammates, but even then I didn’t know them very well ”

“Training in the Philippines and in the US was different In the US training is really intense and you really have to be disciplined.” Francine shares, recalling the early morning gym sessions and two hour training periods in the afternoon “There were times when I really felt burnout or didn’t really have the motivation to play but I pushed through because I wanted to become better ”

However, Francine does not view these hurdles as mere challenges but rather as stepping stones. She views her sport as a test, pushing and challenging her both mentally and physically to stay committed throughout the journey The profound improvements in her performance was all thanks to the rigorous training she has endured thus far

All the experiences have led to who I am today I’ve met so many people, coaches, and teams and that allowed me to learn from them and make me better. Playing abroad led me to become more independent, a better athlete and individual.

Throughout it all, Francine remains determined to reach her ultimate goal of becoming a professional athlete Her sheer unwavering mindset will surely enable her to soar to greater heights and leave her mark in the world of Football

athletes

athletes tell all! tell all!

Francine’s Tips on Playing Abroad

NEVER GIVE UP. NO MATTER HOW HARD THINGS GET OR WHATEVER CHALLENGES YOU MAY FACE, NEVER GIVE UP AND CHASE YOUR DREAMS

Football has taught me to always be consistent Hard work always beats talent when it comes to football.

Andes Diaz, a current representative of the Makati Football Club in the Philippines, shares a similar love for football and has won several awards of the years despite still being in his youth

STOP RELYING ON MOTIVATION BE DISCIPLINED ENOUGH TO WAKE UP EARLY OR DO YOUR WORKOUTS.

HAVE FUN AND DREAM BIG TAKE FOOTBALL SERIOUSLY BUT REMEMBER TO HAVE FUN TO MAKE IT ENJOYABLE 1 2 3

As he reminisces on his journey thus far, he finds three key pieces of advice for aspiring athletes: consistency, passion and hard work. These principles continue to serve as the guide that continues to help him overcome any challenges and achieve milestones.

Beyond athletic prowess, the sport has instilled in him discipline, resilience, and the ability to thrive under pressure Each match, each practice session, moulds not just his athletic development but also his well-being which transcends beyond football.

As he continues to compete and strive for utmost excellence, he remains a noble inspiration and a reminder that anything is possible with true passion.

By: Ashank Sundaram

The The Death Death of of Moore’sLaw Moore’sLaw

In the realm of technology, only few concepts have been as influential and widely discussed as Moore's Law Coined by Gordon Moore, one of the co-founders of Intel Corporation in 1965, this principle served as a guiding light for the exponential growth of computing power over the decades. But what exactly is Moore's Law, and why does it matter in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape?

What is Moore's Law?

Moore's Law states that “the number of transistors on computer chips doubles approximately every two years” In simpler terms, it suggests that, while its computing power doubles, its overall production cost is cut in half every two years

Let’s take Apple’s iPad as an example In 2014, the company’s gadget had around 3 billion transistors and was as powerful as the fastest supercomputer back in 1995. This is a supreme example of Moore’s law working its magic. As the number of years increased, an exponential growth in transistor density was observed This made it much easier for companies to compress highly specialized machines such as supercomputers into more tangible consumer products, one with high processing speeds and performance

This is just one of the many examples that show how Moore’s Law has been the driving force behind the remarkable progress of technology over the years

What Can You Do About It?

s the current issue?

ears, murmurs have surfaced of Moore’s Law potentially reaching its limits. Signs of strain the reduction of advancement in the industry begin to surface around 2020, sparking mong technologists and industry experts alike But how does this issue impact us as young d consumers?

1. Expect slower performance improvements in smartphones.

We are used to significant performance boosts with each new smartphone model including faster processing speeds and better graphics. However, as Moore’s Law slows, the pace of these advancements may also plateau, leading to fewer exciting new products and features being released.

For starters, perhaps working to become an engineer and booking a job at a fabrication plant would do the trick. But on a more realistic note, while we may not be able to exactly fix the issue ourselves, it is important to continue engaging and bringing attention to the engineering that facilitates our daily lives Explore the world of coding and technology, participate in innovation programmes, support and advocate for research though these may appear to have a miniscule impact on the issue, it is no doubt that our collective efforts will one day pay off as needed

2. Understand the impact of resource-intensive software.

Modern software is becoming more sophisticated and resource-intensive, demanding more computing power. This can drive up the cost of new technology, making it less affordable for young consumers

MEETTHEWRITER!

Ashank is a Year 1 IBDP student with a keen interest in modern technology and computer engineering. In his free time, he loves to code and play games. He also enjoy playing basketball and volleyball, which allow him to stay active and balanced

IINKING NKING

OUR OUR

FinalLines FinalLines

By: Martina Isidro

As the SSM community packs its bags and bids farewell to its beloved campus, the Merlion Times Editorial Board also bids its last farewell to several members of the organization With this, we would like to take this opportunity to reflect on and conclude the year with a few words from our members as they take their next steps toward success

What advice would you have given yourself when you first joined The Merlion Times?

“When I joined, I wanted to be the one to lead our student organization Then, I did not realise how much thought and care it had to take to run an editorial board. Due to this I would often make countless mistakes, so I would tell my past self to observe and learn from the best leaders I could ever ask for: the past Editor-in-Chiefs and Managing Editors of MT ”

- VANESSA WONG, MANAGING EDITOR

“Don’t overthink it Trust It’s a new opportunity for growth and it may

What is your favourite memory from being in the editorial board?

“I’d say just meeting the people from my department For context, I didn’t have friends outside my batch but The Merlion Times helped me meet Abi, Aanvi, and my wonderful juniors and I’m grateful as I’ve found true bonds from this three year experience and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Knowing I got this chance leaves me with a lack of regret as I move onto the next chapter of my life ”

- CHARLY LAM, SENIOR NEWS EDITOR

How has working in your department enhanced your skills?

- SIM YUNG SIOW, SENIOR LAYOUT EDITOR

Have a passion for creating poetry? Poet2Poet is as a platform to share artistic perspectives Send in your pieces to connect with other aspiring poets.

ASchoolYearIn ASchoolYearIn

PICTURES PICTURES anArtExhibit

“INK-SPLATTERED CHRONICLES”

By:AnneHuang

By:ReneeLim

“SHIMMERING

As yet another successful school year comes to an end, countless treasured memories come with it Take a glimpse into each students’ school year through their unique pieces of art below, inspired by some of their most memorable times.