AmplifyingVoices.UnveilingStories.
AMID LITERACY CRISES AMID LITERACY CRISES
EDCOM2reportechoesSalugNHSliteracywoes; schoolredoublesbidtobridgegaps
FAINT
ALARM
SNHS faces surge in student fainting; prompt stronger health, nutrition measures
Data
heSecond Congressional Commissionon
Education (EDCOM2)reported that24.8million Filipinosare functionallyilliterate, nearlydoublingthe numberfromthree decadesago.
EDCOM 2 defines functional illiteracy as the inability to read, write, and compute effectively in daily situations
This national concern mirrors the situation in Salug National High School, where many students remain at the frustration level in reading and comprehension.
Phil-IRI BOSY results show that 329 out of 1,232 junior high school learners are
frustration-levelreaders
Intheseniorhigh school,nearing50%or 260outof558learners wereassessedasbelow academictext comprehensionlevel basedontheLanguage AssessmentThrough ReadingEnhancement (LETRA)results
Inresponsetothe growingnumberof strugglingreaders,Salug NationalHighSchoolhas intensifieditsreading programsand interventionstobridge thegap
Theschool implementsthe AcademicRecoveryand AccessibleLearning (ARAL)Programalong withremedialreading sessionsacrossgrade levels
Teachersare conductingfocused
literacyworkshopsto helplearnersprogress fromfrustrationto independentreading levels
Wearestrengthening oureffortsinreducing thenumberof frustrationreadersand functionallyilliterate studentsbytheendof theschoolyear.
saidMrs EugemmaDela Rama,theEnglish DepartmentHeadof SalugNationalHigh School.
Teachersattribute theseresultstolimited readingexposure,lackof learningresources,and theheavyworkloadthat includesnon-teaching tasks
Teachersare burdenedwithnonteachingtaskssuchas handlingfeeding programs,disaster coordination,and administrativework, reducingtheirtimefor classroominstruction.
EducationSecretary SonnyAngarasaid DepEdwillstreamlineits functionstoconcentrate moreonfoundational skillsandliteracyreforms EDCOM2urgeda reviewofthe GovernanceofBasic EducationActtoensure equaldistributionof resourcesandteachers acrossalldivisions.
Teachersand studentsinSalug NationalHighSchool hopethesereformswill helpreducethenumber offrustrationlearnersand improveliteracyintheir community
N E W S
byEISALORYZEE BERNIDO
SalugNationalHighSchool (SNHS)hasofficially commencedtheconstruction ofitsnewschoolparkinJuly 2025,markingamajorstepin itslong-termcampus developmentplan
Theprojectaimstocreatea greenerandmorestudentfriendlyenvironmentthat promoteswellness,recreation, andlearning
WithaPhase1budgetof ₱204,675thousand,the constructionisjointly supportedbytheschooland theSchoolParent-Teacher Association(PTA)through contributionsanddonations fromparentsandcommunity stakeholders
Theinitiativeunderscores
FAINT ALARM
thespiritofbayanihanand sharedresponsibilityin improvingtheschool’s learningenvironment
“Thisparkwillbemorethan justaspaceforrelaxation it willbeasymbolofgrowth, unity,andpridefortheSalug NationalHighSchool community,”declaredDr Hechanova,theSchool Principal
Theprojectwillinclude landscapedgardens,shaded benches,andopenseating areasthatwillserveasstudy spacesandgatheringzones forstudents
Itwillalsoincorporateecofriendlyelementssuchas nativeplantsandsustainable materialstofoster
SNHS faces surge in student fainting; prompt stronger health, nutrition measures
TheadministrationofSalugNationalHighSchool(SNHS) hasexpressedconcernovertheincreasingnumberof studentslosingconsciousnesswithintheschoolpremises
Accordingtodata recordedbytheschoolclinic, nofewerthanfive(5)students fainteachweekoraround twenty(20)permonthand almosteveryday,studentsare broughttotheclinicdueto dizziness,weakness,and stomachpain
AccordingtoMrs Dianne D Guigue,theschoolnurse, basedontheirassessment, therearethreemaincauses identified:first,skipping breakfast;second,excessive heatandlackofventilation insideclassrooms;andthird, mentalstresscausedbyfamily problems
PrincipalDr EudilaR HechanovaandMrs Guigue, togetherwiththeteachersand staff,immediatelytookaction opreventthesituationfrom worsening. Amongthemeasurestobe
implementedwerethe installationofhydration stationsinsideclassrooms, conductinghealthawareness drivesonpropernutritionand theimportanceofeating breakfast,providinghealth breaks,andensuring immediatefirstaidresponse foreveryincident
AccordingtoDr Hechanova,theschool principal,thisissueisnotonly abouthealthbutalsoabout thequalityoflearning “Ifachildisweakand frequentlysick,itwillbe difficultforthemtolearn Itis ourdutytoensurethatevery studentishealthy,”the principaladded SNHSadministration believesthatthroughthe cooperationofteachers, parents,andstudents,the risingnumberoffainting incidentsintheschoolcanbe prevented
environmentalawareness amonglearners
SPTAPresidentWaymor Acasexpressedstrong supportfortheinitiative, saying,“Ourassociationis proudtotakepartinthis projectthatbenefitsour students Throughour collectiveeffort,weare helpingbuildacampusthat inspiresbothlearningand belonging”
Teachersandstudents havealsoshownenthusiasm fortheconstruction, describingitasawelcome additionthatwillenhance bothacademicand extracurricularlifeon campus
Thepark’sconstructionis
expectedtobecompleted withintheschoolyear,with additionalphasesplannedas moreresourcesbecome available.
TheSPTAandschool administrationhavepledged tocontinueworkinghandin handtoensurethepark’s completionand maintenance
Theprojectalsoalignswith DepEd’sadvocacyfor learner-centeredand environmentallysustainable schoolenvironments
Oncecompleted,the SNHSParkwillstandasa testamenttotheschool community’sunited commitmenttoeducation, nature,andsharedprogress
BREAKTHROUGH LITERACY BREAKTHROUGH
89 non-readers embark on reading recovery through ARAL Program
Eighty-ninestudentsof SalugNationalHighSchool (SNHS)havebeenidentified totakepartintheAcademic RecoveryandAccessible Learning(ARAL)Programfor thisschoolyear
Theinitiativeaimsto providefocusedreadingand academicinterventionsto learnerswhoneedadditional support
Basedonthecombined assessmentsfromthe PhilippineInformalReading Inventory(Phil-IRI)conducted inthepreviousquarterandthe BeginningofSchoolYear (BOSY)results,thesestudents werefoundtorequire improvementinbasicreading skills
Theprogramispartofthe DepartmentofEducation’s nationwideeffortto strengthenreading proficiencyandaddress learninggapsamong students.
Tocloselymonitortheir progress,atutor–tutee schemehasbeen implemented
Eachtutorisassignedto handleuptofifteenlearnersto ensurepersonalizedguidance
Tutorsincludebothteachers andcommunityvolunteers whodedicatetheirtimeto assistlearnersinneed
TheARALProgram providesadditionallearning sessionsandreadingactivities toboostreadingskills, comprehensionandacademic confidence
Italsopromotes collaborationbetween educatorsandthecommunity stakeholderstoimprove learners’outcomes
“Thisprogramisagreat helpforlearnerswhoare strugglingtokeepup,”said Ma DiofelL Tan,ARAL CoordinatorofSalugNHS SheaddedthatARALserves asanopportunityforstudents toreachtheirappropriatelevel oflearning
Throughthecontinued implementationofARAL,the schoolaimstoreducethe numberoffrustrationreaders andpromotefunctionalliteracy amongitsstudents.
byMARIACHANDRIAA COLONIA
byDANIELJOHNPMATILLA
PARKIN
Through the joint efforts of the school and the SPTA, Phase one of the school park pro ect is now complete
byKRISHAJEANNETAYONA
YOUTH FORWARD
Hindi ta’yo kabataan lang — ta’yo ay KABATAAN
SSLGPresdentEisaLoryzeE Berndo
SSLG prexy unveils 3-point agenda; pushes for learner inclusivity,well-being, community engagement
SalugNationalHigh School’s(SNHS) SupremeSecondary LearnersGovernment
(SSLG)setthetonefora transformativeacademicyear
asPresidentEisaLoryzeE BernidodeliveredtheState oftheLearnerGovernment Address(SOLGA)afterthe school’sflagceremonyon July14,2025.
SSLG fund collection commenced; org promises to strengthen programs, project
byMARIACHANDRIAA
TheSupremeSecondaryLearnerGovernment(SSLG)of SalugNationalHighSchoolhasofficiallyimplementedthe
SSLGFundcollectionstartingSeptember2025,markingthe firsttimethestudentgovernmenthasestablishedaformal financialsystemtosupportlearner-ledprogramsandprojects.
Theinitiativefollows DepEdDivision MemorandumNo 440,s 2024,whichauthorizes studentgovernmentsto collectandmanagefundsfor studentactivities,leadership training,andschool-based advocacyprojects
Thefundwasfirst introducedbySSLGAdviser StanleyB Saganduringthe GeneralParent-Teacher Association(PTA)Meetingon August9,whereparentsand teacherswereinformedabout thepurpose,collection process,andtransparency measuresofthefund
Eachclassroompresident collectscontributionsand depositsthemdailytothe SSLGTreasurerforrecording andsafekeeping
3
AsofNovember,theSSLG hascollectedatotalof ₱10,000,whichwillbeused tofinanceupcominginitiatives alignedwithitsthree-point genda:inclusivity,student well-being,andcommunity engagement
SSLGPresidentEisa
LoryzeE Bernido a acknowledgedthedelicate
natureofintroducinga monetarysystembut emphasizeditsnecessity
“Althoughthegovernment isabitguiltyforaskingfor moneytofunction,itisinthe meansthatweneedit,andwe promisetouseitforgoodand forthestudentbody”
Theimplementationserves asabreatherforthe organization,providing financialmobilitytoexecute student-centeredprograms moreefficiently,afteryearsof relyingsolelyonsponsorships andlimitedschoolresources
DepEd’sdirectiverequires thatalltransactionsunderthe SSLGFundbetransparentand properlyaccountedfor,with schoolheadsandadvisers monitoringfundmanagement toensurethatallproceeds directlybenefitlearners
Throughthisnewfunding system,theSSLGofSNHS aimstomodelresponsible studentgovernance, demonstratingthatwith accountabilityandpurpose, financialempowermentcan translateintomeaningful servicetotheschool community
Inheraddress,Bernido outlinedtheSSLG’sThreePointAgendaforSchoolYear 2025–2026:InclusiveSchool Environment,Safe,Sound, andInformed,andProactive StudentCommunity Theagendaemphasizes inclusivity,studentwell-being, andactiveparticipationin schoolprograms Bernidoexplainedthatthe SSLGservesasthe“leader, organizer,andvoiceofthe people,”functioningasthe primarystudentorganization thatcoordinatesallother clubsandgroupswithinthe school SheaddedthattheSSLG aimstoensurethatall initiativesconcerningstudent welfareareproperlyorganized andbeneficialtolearners UndertheInclusiveSchool Environment,programssuch astheISE(ISee)Program, Students’Day,andStriving withtheScribeswere introducedtopromote studentinvolvement,boost self-esteem,andhighlightthe importanceofcampus journalisminamplifying studentvoicesandrights TheSafe,Sound,and Informedagendafocuseson
bothphysicalsafetyand throughHazardMapping, MentalHealthAwareness Campaigns,andtheE-Voice Platform,whichadvocatesfor equality,gendersensitivity, andsocialawareness Meanwhile,theProactive StudentCommunityinitiative includesHelpPeers,apeer tutoringprogram;Neo-Space Checking,aweekly cleanlinessandsafety monitoringactivity;and preparationsfortheSSLG ElectionSY2026–2027to promotedemocratic leadershipandresponsible participationamongstudents Bernidoconcludedher addressbyurgingstudentsto supportoneanotherandtake partintheSSLG’sprograms.“If wedonotsupporteachother, whowill?”shesaid, emphasizingunityand collectiveresponsibility amonglearners Sheendedthespeechwith amessagethatresonatedwith thestudentbody:“Hinditayo kabataanlang,tayoay kabataan” astatementthat underscoredtheactiveroleof theyouthinbuildingamore inclusiveandempowered schoolcommunity
LearnCon PH 2025 underscores youth role in pushing education progress
Morethan2,000student leadersandyouthadvocates fromacrossthecountry gatheredinDumagueteCity fortheflagshipLearners’ ConvergencePhilippines 2025(LearnConPH)on October27,heldunderthe theme“GalingKabataan: BosesMo,BukasNatin,”a nationwideinitiativeofthe DepartmentofEducation (DepEd)toempower learnersasactivepartnersin thereformoftheeducation system. RepresentingSalug NationalHighSchool, SupremeSecondaryLearner Government(SSLG)President EisaLoryzeBernidojoinedthe gathering,highlightingthe school’scommitmentto nurturingstudentleadership andyouthparticipationatthe nationallevel
InaccordancewithDepEd MemorandumNo 096,s 2025issuedonOctober14, theconvergencebrought togethersecondary-level studentleadersforsessionson studentparticipation, leadershipdevelopment,and civicengagementwithinthe schoolcommunity
Overthecourseofthe event,participantstookpartin plenarydiscussionsand breakoutworkshopsfocusing onlearnerrights,digital citizenship,innovationin schools,andcommunitybasedinvolvement,all designedtoshiftlearnersfrom passiverecipientstococreatorsofeducationalpolicy DepEdofficialsdescribedthe
byEISALORYZEE BERNIDO
convergenceasaplatform throughwhichyoungpeople canasserttheirvoicesinthe decision-makingprocesses affectingtheirlearning environmentandnotmerely waittobeservedbythe system
AccordingtoDr RamirB Uytico,regionaldirectorof DepEd-NegrosIslandRegion, “Thelearningconvergenceis atrainingdesignedforstudent leaders,whilethecareerexpo isforcareerguidancefor students”
Henotedthattheevent hostedaround6,000student leadersfromacrossthe countrybetweenOct 27and 30,andwillalignwiththe concurrentnationalcareer expo
Regionalanddivision officesaretaskedwith deployingthosestudent leadersbacktotheirschools toanchortheirlearningsin localcontexts,thereby extendingtheconvergence’s impactbeyondtheeventsite andintoeachschool community
Beyondpolicy engagement,theeventis expectedtoleaveapersonal impactonparticipantsby helpingthembuildselfconfidence,leadership capacityandaheightened senseofcivicresponsibility Formanystudents,this servesasadefining experiencethatdeepenstheir understandingofhowtheir individualactionscan influencethefutureof education
byISOBELLEMELSHEYU BAIT-IT
COLONIA
studentnews
studentnews
news
AmplifyingVoices UnveilingStories
TheOfficialEnglishPublicationofSalugNationalHighSchool,DivisionofZamboanagdelNorte,RegionIX
EXAM DEBUT
60-40 Split: Unified SilverTek exam divide teachers,students’opinions
TTheinitiativeaimsto establishasinglestandardof testingacrossallpublic secondaryschoolsinthe division
heUnifiedSilverTekExamwasconductedatSNHSinaccordancewithDivisionMemorandumNo.391,s.2025of DepEdZamboangadelNorte,whichaimstoestablishasinglestandardoftestingacrossallschoolsinthedivision.
adaptationtoDepEd’sdigital testingstandards
TheSilverTekexam integratestechnology-based assessmenttomeasure learners’performancemore efficientlyandaccurately
Apreliminaryinterview conductedbyTheEchowith 10teachersand20students atSNHSrevealeddiffering viewsaboutthenewsystem
Sixtyofteachersexpressed positivefeedback,citingthat theunifiedexamismore systematic,organized,andfair Meanwhile,40percentof studentsadmittedfeeling anxiousaboutthetest,asit wastheirfirstexposuretoa computer-baseddivisionwideexamination
Despiteinitial apprehensions,theSilverTek Examwassuccessfully conductedatSNHS,marking theschool’s
Teachersnotedthat technicaldifficultiesandlow MeanPercentileScores(MPS) wereamongthechallenges encounteredduring implementation
Severalteachersexplained thatsometestitemscovered competenciesthathadnotyet beenfullydiscussedinclass Despitetheseconcerns, manyeducatorswelcomed the
unifiedsystemasastep towardtransparencyand fairnessinassessment
Theyaddedthattheexam couldhelpidentifyareas whereteachingandlearning needtoimproveacross schools.
“It’sabithardbecausethere arequestionsabouttopics unfamiliartous.”
Four SNHS scouts attain highest scouting honor
Theconductofthe SilverTekExamatSNHS signaledagrowingshift towardtechnology,integrated assessmentandastronger commitmenttoquality educationunderthedivision’s modernizationefforts
Fourstudentsfrom SalugNationalHighSchool wereconferredtheEagle ScoutRank,thehighest distinctionintheBoyScouts ofthePhilippines,duringthe NationalCourtofHonorheld onAugust24,inTambulig, ZamboangadelSur,in conjunctionwiththe13th WesternMindanaoRegion ScoutJamboree. ThenewlyawardedEagle ScoutsareCherlyH Paculanang,NelsanMaeB Ducoy,ArianMaeR Macatipon,andMarkki LourenceBastasa Withthisrecognition,thetotal
Hundredsofresidents fromsixbarangaysbenefited fromthefourthphaseofthe medicalanddentaloutreach missionconductedbythe LocalGovernmentUnit (LGU)ofSalugincelebration ofthe51stNutritionMonth ResidentsfromBarangays Lanawan,Calucap,Dinoan, Balakan,Danao,and Tambalangavailedoffree
numberofEagleScoutsfrom SalugNHShasnowreached six,includingAlbertRodriguez andJohnLourenzCababat, whohadpreviouslyreceived thesamehonor TheEagleScoutRankis regardedasthehighest achievementinScouting, awardedonlytoyoung individualswhohave demonstratedleadership, service,andloyaltyin accordancewiththeScout OathandLaw Duetoitsrigorous standardsandmeticulous evaluationprocess,onlyafew scoutsinthecountry
medicalcheck-ups,Readyto-UseTherapeuticFood (RUTF)forpregnantwomen, RIMO(RiceandMonggo) packsformalnourished individuals,andfree medicines
Beneficiariesalso participatedinthefeeding program,whichaimedto addressnutritionalneeds amongchildrenandadultsin
attainthisdistinction
AccordingtoDucoy,one oftheawardees,this achievementistheresultof perseveranceandsacrifice “Everytaskandprojectisa challenge,butthat’swhere thetrueessenceofbeinga scoutistested,”shesaid
TheSalugNHS administrationalsoextended itscongratulationstothe scouts,describingthefouras rolemodelsfortheyouthand aninspirationtoother membersoftheschool’s scoutingmovement
thecommunity Inpartnershipwiththe ProvincialGovernmentof ZamboangadelNorte, additionalmedicalservices suchasx-rays,ultrasounds, urinalysis,andUACRtests weremadeavailablethrougha medicalbusprovidedby GovernorDarelUy. Themissionwascarried outbytheMunicipalNutrition
“It’sokay;theexamisof high-qualitystandards. OurMPSmaybelow becausethereare competencieswehaven’t finishedinsomesections, especiallyforstudents whodon’tgraspthe topicsquickly.”
PROGRESS MOVERS
Empoweringtheyouthto lead,serve,andunite,the MunicipalityofSalug, ZamboangadelNorte successfullyheld“Linggong Kabataan2025”onOctober 29–30,2025
Thetwo-daycelebration focusedonstrengthening youthinvolvementin communitydevelopment throughfun,meaningful,and action-packedactivities
OrganizedbytheLocal YouthDevelopmentOffice (LYDO)-Saluginpartnership withtheLocalYouth DevelopmentCouncil (LYDC),theeventshowcased thetalentsandleadershipof youngSalugnons
Thecelebrationfeatured engagingactivitiessuchasthe ColorFunRun,Mangrove andTreeReplanting,Amazing Race,LarongLahi,Vlogging
OfficeofSalugunderthe leadershipofMayorRuth Brillantes,emphasizingthe LGU’scommitmentto preventivehealthcareand nutritionawareness MayorBrillantesexpressed hergratitudetoGovernorUy and3rdDistrictCongressman
Salug empowers youth to lead, serve
Contest,TorchParade, SocializationNight,andthe Oath-TakingCeremonyof LYDCmembers
Theseactivitiesaimedto fosterteamwork, environmentalawareness,and culturalappreciationamong theyouth
Theeventalsoinspired participantstobecomeactive contributorstopositive changewithintheir community “
Thiscelebrationreminds usthattheyoutharenotjust thehopeofthefuturebutthe activemoversoftoday’s progress,”saidtheLocalYouth DevelopmentOfficer
TheMunicipalityofSalug expressedprideinitsyouthfor showingunity,passion,and commitmentthroughoutthe successful“Linggong Kabataan2025”celebration
IanAmatongfortheir continuedsupportofhealth initiativesthatprioritizethe well-beingofSalugresidents SheaddedthattheLGU remainssteadfastindelivering community-basedhealth programsthatbringservices closertothepeople
byMARIACHANDRIAA COLONIA
JoyGrade10student
ManilynPizzaro Grade9adviser
byISOBELLEMELSHEYU BAIT-IT
byKRISHAJEANNETTAYONA
CLICK. TEST. SUBMIT. Students of Salug NHS c ck their way to success in the divisions un fied paperless SilveTek Exam
EAGLE SCOUTSTAKE FLIGHT. Exemplifying leadership and service four Sa ug NHS Boy Scouts earn the prestigious Eagle Scout Award
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studentnews
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GenZGov: SSLG VP Parantar joins LYD assembly; takes part in governa
SSLGVicePresident JadeParantarattendedthe LocalYouthDevelopment Council(LYDC) ReorganizationAssembly heldatthePRRDBuilding, Salug,ZamboangadelNorte, astheofficialrepresentative oftheSupremeSecondary LearnersGovernment(SSLG) onJuly30,2025. AccordingtoSection10(b) ofRepublicActNo 10742, alsoknownasthe SangguniangKabataan(SK) ReformActof 2015,the establishmentand reorganizationoftheLYDCis mandatedtoensurethatthe voicesoftheyouthareheard andintegratedinthe
directionanddecision-making processesoftheircommunity
TheSSLGexpressedits gratitudetotheLocal GovernmentUnit(LGU)of SalugandtheLocalYouth DevelopmentOffice(LYDO), undertheleadershipofthe LYDCSecretariatheadedby MarkKevinC Nugas,forthe successfulconductofthe assembly Thisgatheringofyouth leadersandyouth-serving organizationsstrengthened theongoingadvocacyfor activeyouthparticipationin localgovernanceand communitydevelopment,a keyprincipleupheld
byMARIACHANDRIAA
Filipinos win big in international competitions Filipinos win big in international competitions
Filipinosareoverflowing withprideasseveraloftheir countrymenachieved victoryinvarious internationalcompetitions thisyear.
KirkBondademergedas thechampionofMr International2025,bringing honorand inspirationtoFilipinosinthe worldofpageantry.
Hissuccesshasbeenmet withimmensejoybyhisfellow countrymen,whocelebrated histriumphacrosssocial mediaplatforms Meanwhile,Jessica Sanchezwascrowned championonAmerica’sGot Talent2025,impressing audiencesworldwidewithher exceptionalvoiceandstage presence Hervictoryonceagain
showcasedthemusicaltalent andglobalcompetitivenessof Filipinos
Nottobeoutdone,Emma MaryTiglaowonthe “Country’sPoweroftheYear” votingcategoryatMissGrand International2025
Thisrecognitionwas achievedthroughmassivefan votesonthecompetition’s onlineplatforms,provingthe unwaveringsupportof
Filipinosfortheirbeauty queens.
Asthe“Country’sPowerof theYear”winner,Tiglao automaticallyadvancedtothe Top20semifinalists,givingher asignificantadvantageinthe grandfinals Herachievement reflectednotonlyhergrace andconfidencebutalsothe unityandpassionofthe Filipinocommunity
SalugNationalHighSchool joinedthecallofthe
ZamboangadelNorte Divisionfordigitaleducation, aimingtofurtherstrengthen theimplementationoftheK–12curriculumandpromote innovativeteachingmethods
TheSalugIDistrict ProductionTeamimmediately conductedaStrategic PlanningandWorkshop ConferenceonAugust18–19, 2025,atSalugNationalHigh School
Theactivitywasheldin responsetoDivision MemorandumNo 291,s 2025,whichseekstoenhance theproductionand applicationofDigitalized LearningResourcesand Cluster-BasedLesson ExemplarsfromKindergarten toSeniorHighSchool
Thememorandumensures thatallmaterialsproducedare high-quality,curriculumaligned,andeasilyaccessible tolearners,providingthem withequalopportunitiesfor education.
worldwide
Theseinternationalvictories serveasareminderthat Filipinoexcellenceknowsno boundaries,whetherinmusic, pageantry,orperformance Theaccomplishmentsof Bondad,Sanchez,andTiglao provethatPinoyPrideisalive andcontinuestoshine brightlyontheglobalstage
Dr EudilaR Hechanova andMa.DiofelI.Tanledthe LanguageQualityAssurance (QA)toensuretheaccuracyof thematerials Ma CizeriniaAnitaM Maestreservedasthe Scriptwriterandalsoasoneof theBroadcastersalongwith Tan,MarkLesterB Banaga, andJamesStrassCayacap Inthetechnicalproduction, ElvinC Jardiolinactedasthe Videographer,whileStanleyB SaganhandledSound Operations
Theoverallprocesswas supervisedbyDr SimloA Lomarda,whoservedas ProductionManager,ensuring thattheworkshopflowed smoothlyandwaswellorganized Meanwhile,aclass arrangementplanwas implemented,designating substituteteachersand alternativelearningactivitiesto ensurethatstudents’ educationcontinued uninterruptedwhileteachers participatedintheworkshop.
COLONIA
byEISALORYZEE BERNIDO
byISOBELLEMELSHEYU BAIT-IT
HEARTSTHATBEATFORTHE FLAG. Emma, Clint and Jessica on their winning moments
SILENCED VOICES
Illusive inclusivity
Inclusivity ends when literacy fails
Thereisnotrueinclusivitywhenmanystudentsremaintrappedintheshadowsoffrustration-levelreading
Reading is the foundation of learning, yet for many students, even the simplest text remains a challenge At Salug National High School, the Philippine Informal Reading Inventory (Phil-IRI) Summary Report revealed that from Grades 7 to 10, 199 students are reading three grade levels below expectation,while 130 are two levels behind a total of 329 frustration-level readers Each one represents alearnerleftbehindbyasystemthatpreachesinclusionbut failstoensurecomprehension
According to the Philippine StatisticsAuthority,Region IX, Zamboanga Peninsula, records only 593 percent functional literacy, the lowest in the country Though 864 percent of Filipinos can read and write, fewer than twothirds truly understand what they read This exposes a truth we can no longer ignore Literacy is not merely about reading words, but grasping meaning, and without it, inclusivityisanillusion
The MATATAG Curriculum emphasizes inclusivity and learner-centered education, but these ideals fall short when learnerscannotaccessmeaningfromtext Toincludeevery learner, we must first ensure that all can read with understanding A student who cannot comprehend is a studentwhoisexcludedfromtheveryprocessoflearning
This calls for urgent reflection and decisive action from educators Reading must not remain the sole responsibility of English teachers; it must be a shared mission across all disciplines. Every subject, every teacher, every classroom can become a space where reading comprehension is strengthenedandvalued
The link between poverty and literacy deepens the divide Region IX’s 242 percent poverty incidence mirrors its low functional literacy rate, showing that limited access to books, materials, and technology restricts opportunities for reading When reading becomes a privilege, education loses its power to uplift lives Literacy is a right The first step towardequity
In SNHS, efforts such as the ARAL Program, reading corners, peer tutoring, and contextualized lessons show what’s possible when educators commit to closing the gap These programs prove that inclusivity is achievable but only whengroundedinliteracy.
To talk of inclusivity while ignoring reading struggles is to build a vision on hollow ground. Real inclusion demands understanding, empowerment, and equal access to learning
Untileverylearnercanreadwithconfidenceandcomprehension,inclusivitywillremainwhatitcurrentlyis illusiveinclusion.
EDITORIALBOARD
EISALORYZEE BERNIDO Editor-in-Chief
SASHAJ.VILLAGRACIA FeatureWriter
MA ARIANNELOUISE V LLUVIDO AssistantEditor-in-Chief
MAXINEZASHEIKAD.ESMANG ScienceWriter
ELKAJORLENEJ EVANGELISTA Photojournalist
MARIACHANDRIA A COLONIA NewsWriter
JOEMKENNF.QUIRANTE SportsWriter
CONTRIBUTORS:
JoshtinR Espedillon
HughGabrielL.Crieta
DanielJohnP Matilla
TedMarloweE Bernido
MA DIOFELL TAN
ZYRIELS MARAÑAS ColumnWriter
RASMEA A.DUGENIA Cartoonist
AndreyLaurenceM Buzon
KrishaJeanneT.Tayona
IsobelleMelsheyU Bait-it
KyraDaniaT Montallana
SchoolPaperAdviser DR.EUDILAR.HECHANOVA SchoolPrincipal
Illustrated by Rasmea A Dugenia
The hallways of Salug National High School may be filled with laughter, but behind students’ smiles are weary heartsandexhaustedminds
In today’s fast-paced academic world, a troubling reality has surfaced: students are not merely tired they are burned out While some claim that today’s youth are simply overreacting, the evidence tells a different story.The pressure to excel has become so intense that learning itself has begun to hurt
Lost in lack
byZYRIELS MARAÑAS
What happens when a school loses its library, has no laboratories and its computers barelywork?
At Salug National High School, this isn’t just a story, it’s the truth our students live with every day It makes it harder for students to learn properly with this lack of resourcesandmaterials.
Our school is struggling with a lack of learning resources The library that once inspired readers is gone, without a library students have limited access to books and study materials Science laboratories were never built, science classes are held with limited experiments and broken computers make ICT lessons difficult because other computers and laptops no longer work These missing tools make learning harder for every student who dreams of a betterfuture
Without a library, students have nowhere to read or research Science experiments turn into mere discussions and technology lessons are held without working computers Teachers continue to do their best, but how can students truly learn when the materials they need simply aren’t there?
This situation can change The school, local government, and community can work together to rebuild the library and create even a small laboratory Repairing broken computers, collecting books donations, and seeking help from alumni or sponsors cam slowly restore what has been lost Simple efforts like book drives or fundraising can already make a big difference Every small action counts
Education should open doors, not close them because ofmissing resources Salug NHS students deserves the same opportunities as others With unity compassion and support we can bring back the tools that impower learning and keep the spirit of education alive
According to a 2021 report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) titled The State of the World’s Children: Mental Health, about one in seven adolescents aged 10 to 19 lives with a mental disorder.Closer to home,a 2024 study by Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) in Zamboanga del Norte found that 136% of 13,993 college students, nearly 1,903 individuals had consideredsuicide
These numbers are not statistics to be ignored; they are silent cries for help Research points to several causes: academic pressure, financial instability, personal struggles, and post-pandemic adjustment challenges
When learning hurts
Among these, academic sure remains the most istent and dangerous en the pursuit of grades weighs the value of growth, ning becomes a burden erthanajoy
Yet society often dismisses e struggles as weakness ny still believe that burnout is a lack of discipline or otional toughness.But not all ents possess the same ntal, emotional, or financial ence For those striving to ntain excellence, every ed deadline feels like a re, every low score a mentontheirworth
The pandemic may have ed, but its emotional rmath lingers. Students are now expected to perform at pre-pandemic levels despite years of disrupted learning and instability The result? Learners who are drained, anxious, and detached, going through the motions of education without trulythrivinginit
To claim that “stress is part of life” is to trivialize their pain Stress becomes toxic when it is constant, unmanaged, and ignored Students are not machines to be measured by productivity; they are young minds and hearts in need of balance, rest, and understanding
Education is meant to build lives,not break spirits Before we push learners to excel, we must first ensure they are well Because true education is not measured by grades ormedals, but by the harmony between knowledge, character, and the strength to endure life beyond theclassroom
Students today are not merely “relaxing” or “living their best lives” They are doing their best to survive an academic system that often prioritizes achievement over well-being. If we truly want to nurture resilient, capable individuals, then we must first recognize that academic burnout is real and it demands compassion, reform,andunderstanding
Educators, parents, and institutions must share the responsibility Schools must make mental wellness a priority, not an afterthought Lessons should build confidence, not break spirits Encouragement should be louder than criticism, and compassion should always comebeforecompliance
True education uplifts It does notdrain
Before we push learners to excel, we must first help them heal Because education that causes pain is not progress; it is failure in disguise Learning hurts,butitshouldn’thaveto
They say the youth is the hope of the nation, but as classrooms overflow with subjects, projects, and expectations, one can’t help but ask: are we truly preparing students to be the future,orjusttrainingthemto survivethepresent?
Today’s learners are expected to know everything: science, math, arts, sports, and technology Yet many leave school unsure of what they are truly good at Students juggle one k f h di
byZYRIELS MARAÑAS
The solution begins with focus Education must go beyond covering content It should help students uncover who they are. Schools should give learners the space to explore their strengths early, whether in writing, science, art, or leadership,andallowthemto grow in that path Teachers, more than instructors, should be mentors who guide students toward meaning, notjustmasteryoflessons
A curriculum that values d h i ill
“ “
Whenthe promiseof strength waversinthe weightof reality
They call it the MATATAG Curriculum, a symbol of hope and progress for Philippine education Itpromisesastrongerfoundation for learning: fewer subjects, less confusion, and a more focused path for students. But beyond these promises lies a truth many hesitate to say the system may be new, butthestrugglesremainthesame
Students still bear the weight of endless lessons, requirements, and pressure Teachers continue to adjust, often without enough training, materials, or support The change, though well-intentioned, feels more like a patch than a cure for a system long cracked by neglect. For many, the MATATAG Curriculum hasn’t made education stronger; it has only given it anothername
True strength in education doesn’t come from curriculum changes alone It begins with real investment: in teachers who need guidance and respect, in classrooms that need proper facilities, and in students who deserve equal opportunities The MATATAG Curriculum can only live up to its name if it focuses not on rewriting lessons,butonrebuildinglearningitself
To make it truly effective, education leaders must listen to those inside the classrooms The teachers who teach, the students who study, and the parents who sacrifice Continuous feedback, realistic implementation, and genuine support are key to turning good intentions into real progress.
The MATATAG Curriculum may be a step forward, but it should not stop at slogans and promises Its strength will only be proven when every Filipino child learns with purpose, and every classroom becomes a place of real growth Only then can we say that our education system is not justcalledMatatag ittrulyis
byMA ARIANNELOUISEVLLUVIDO
Leadership A word that once meant courage, integrity, and service
Now? Sometimes it just means who cansmilewidestinagroupphoto.
Let’s be honest Some leaders today aren’t really leading; they’re just posing They campaign with fire in their speeches but go missing faster than Wi-Fi during submission week
The moment the victory confetti settles, they treat their position like a limited-edition title, something to showoff,nottoliveupto
And it’s not just a school thing. The grown-ups in government have been giving us “leadership lessons” too You’ve heard of their ghost projects, right? Those bridges that no one’s ever crossed? The roads that only exist on paper? The “completed” buildings that even ghosts wouldn’t dare haunt because, well, they don’t exist?
It’s honestly impressive that our officials can turn public funds into thin air One moment, the budget’s there The next, it’s more invisible than your classmate who promised to bring materials for the group project but gonethenextday
But here’s the scary part: some student leaders seem to be taking notes. They’ve mastered the art of vanishing acts too. Promised projects? “Under process” Meetings? “Rescheduled” Accountability? “To bediscussednextterm”
Meanwhile, you’ll always see them during picture-taking Clipboard in hand Big smile “Candid”shot It’s like they think leadership comes with a built-in camera crew Are you really running to lead the student or just running so that you could gain more followers?
Andwhensomethingdoeshappen, it’s usually the bare minimum, like cleaning a classroom orattending one seminar and suddenly it’s being celebrated like the Second Coming of Einstein.
But not everyone’s like that There are still the quiet ones, the real leaders who don’t need applause to keep moving, who serve even when no one’s watching, who don’t measure success in likes or mentions but in actualchange
So maybe it’s time for a little reflection Areyou climbing the ladder toliftothersorjusttomakesureyou’re the one standing tallest when the photogetsposted?
Because true leadership isn’t about looking important it’s about being responsible It’s about getting your hands dirty, standing firm when things go wrong, and remembering that servicemeansothersfirst,selfieslater Otherwise, you’re not leading the people. You’re just leading a photoshoot and trust me, ghost projectsdon’tmakegoodbackdrops
LADDERship,notLEADERship
Serving the people orjust serving looks
Government, who are you really for? “ “ DIALINGFOR ACCOUNTABILITY
enever it rains, there’s a part of our classroom where we have to e a bucket to catch the dripping water. While our teacher is ring,she has to move around so she won’t get hit by the leaks. Our W room has been abandoned because it’s constantly flooded. earethescenesweseeeverydayandIknowthereareevenworse esfromotherpublicschools.
But when you turn on the news or scroll through social media, you’ll see a completely different picture government officials walking on red carpets, riding SUVs that cost as much as a new classroom They’re Filipinos too, yet they seem to live in a completely differentworld
It’s no secret that the government earns a great deal from taxes the hardearned money of your father the driver, your mother the vendor, and every ordinary citizen That’s why it’s painful to think that when we ask where the money goes, the answer is often “confidential fund” It’s as if we, who paid for it, no longer have the right toask
Ifyou’repoorandshorton tuitionpayment,you’re
Justice. Responsibility. These are the crucial considerations in the proposed bill filed by Senator Robin Padilla, which seekstolowertheminimumage ofcriminalresponsibilityfrom15 to 10 years old for children involved in serious crimes such as murder and rape. Age should not be an excuse to evade the law; even children must face justice when they commit a wrongdoing.
In recent years, the number of ors involved in serious crimes such as theft, drug use, and violence has continued to rise These children, despite their young age, can be both victims and, at times, perpetrators Incidents like these instill fear not only in parents but also in teachers and the wider community
For example, a report by GMA Integrated News on August 5, 2025, stated that a 13-year-old boy murdered an 8-year-old girl by strangulation The victim was found unclothed in a vacant lot in Barangay Santa Lucia, Quezon City This horrifying incident proves that a child’s age should not be used as a license to commit wrongdoing without consequences
Similarly, a troubling case occurred at Salug National High School in Salug, Zamboanga del Norte,whereaminorstudentwas
punished immediately But if you’re in power and billions go missing, there’s only a press release and then silence. Justice here seems to have a speciallaneforthepowerful
Thegovernment,truthfully, should not be a ruler but a servant Not a crocodile that biteswithoutcareforwhose food it devours It should not be an obstacle but a companion If it truly exists for the people, why do we feel moreneglectthancare?
This is not merely a complaint from the youth, it is a question that demands an answer and action Government, who are you really for? Because while you continue to turn a blind eye, we are the ones who suffer from hunger, poverty, lack of classrooms, broken chairs, andshortagesof
chargedwithrapingafellowminor
This clearly demonstrates that children, despite their youth, are capable of committing serious crimes
Being a child cannot be a license to do wrong The law should not set limits based solely on age Children who commit crimes must still be held accountable and face appropriate legal action The situation becomes complex when both parties are minors, but responsibility should not be diminishedsolelybecauseofage However, some argue that such a policycouldbeharshonchildren
A10-year-old is still in the early stages of emotional and mental development They are not fully responsible for their actions,and holding them criminally liable could cause more trauma than corrective benefit Imposing criminal responsibility at such a youngagemaypushthemtoward
medicine
And if you refuse to act, do not be surprised when the youth you call “the hope of the nation” grow up to face lives of hardship lives that could turn to despair, or worse, to destruction. May Godneverallowit Government, give the people the change they are asking for so that our nation may not completely drown in decay Let the flame of our hearts burn for transformation and may the hands of the brave uphold honesty and integrity. May you never be enslaved by worldly temptation Oh, government mayyou guardourbelovedPhilippines, the Pearl of the Orient Seas, and keep her shining for generationstocome
more serious offenses and cause further psychological harm rather thanguidethemtowardreform
According to child behavior experts, correcting a child’s behavior is most effective when started early, between ages 10 and 15 If minors involved in serious crimes are not held accountable, theybecomearisktootherchildren and the community as a whole. It is therefore crucial to strike a balance between the rights of the child and thesafetyofthemajority
This is not about instilling fear; it is a step toward a safer, more disciplined, and responsible society The law is not only for adults but also for children who venture into the world of crime Combining accountability with rehabilitation can redirect wayward children onto the right path and provide them the opportunity to change We must not allow a culture of violence and negligence to be the legacy we leaveforouryouth
byKYRADANIAPMONTALLANA
bySASHA J VILLAGRACIA
Age is not innocenceby ZYRIELS MARANAS
50 students: HOW OFTEN DO YOU FEEL BURNED OUTWITHSCHOOLWORKSANDACTIVITIES?
DEAR EDITOR:
Today’s students are expected to do everything: excel in academics, join contests, lead organizations, and still smile through the stress. We juggle so many roles that we end up mastering none Education should build focus and depth, not just multitasking and exhaustion. We hope schools remember that learning isn’t about doing everything but it’s about doing something well. Thank you!
Sitti , Grade 12
It’s disappointing to see how some governmeng leaders even student leaders wear their titles like accessories , posing for pictures but missing the purpose of service Leadership isn’t about popularity or perfect smiles; it’s about action, empathy, and accountability. We hope our leaders remember that real leadership isn’t measured by how they look in the spotlight, but by what they do when no one’s watching. Jackielyn, Grade 10
Each rainfall reminds us of the cracks above our heads: water dripping from the ceiling and pooling on the floor. The lack of classroom repair isn’t just a maintenance issue; it’s a message that student welfare is being overlooked We hope our voices reach those who can fix not just the roof, but the system that allows classrooms to decay before being noticed. I hope the government will not overlook our urgent need for new classrooms Rey, Grade 11
As students, we were excited when the MATATAG Curriculum was introduced, the name itself promised strength, stability, and improvement. But as it unfolds, many of us can’t help but wonder if it truly lives up to its name. While the reduced learning competencies make lessons more focused, the sudden adjustments in modules, resources, and teaching styles have left both learners and teachers struggling to cope. We believe that for the MATATAG Curriculum to be genuinely matatag, it must stand firm not only in ideals but also in implementation , ensuring that every learner and teacher has the support, materials, and time to adapt. After all, a strong curriculum should not make its students feel weak and confused. Marie, Grade 8
A Life Changed Too Soon
In the quiet town of Salug, where stories often travel faster than the wind, one tale continues to inspire both pain and admiration. It is the story of Princess Joy Ortiz, a young girl whose life changed drastically at the tender age of fourteen. While her classmates at Salug National High School were preoccupied with classes, friendships, and youthful dreams, Princess Joy was battling a reality much heavier than her years the reality of being a mother.
“Wala ra nako gi mind ang rumors kay waman sila kabalo sa akong situation,” she said softly, her words carrying both sorrow and resilience. Behind that calm tone hides a story filled with struggle, mistakes, and lessons that turned a young girl into a woman who now walks with courage and grace.
Princess Joy’s life took a dramatic turn when she discovered she was seven months pregnant. It was her mother who first noticed the signs and urged her to confirm it. The truth broke through the walls of their home and the whispers began to spread throughout the school and community. What should have been a time of innocence became a season of judgment and gossip. But despite the pain, she stood firm. “I didn’t really mind the rumors,” she shared. “They don’t know my situation, so why should I let their words destroy me?”
Her pregnancy was not easy. She admitted that before it happened, she had been living a life of confusion and poor choices. “My journey was chaotic,” she said with regretful honesty. “I did a lot of dumb stuff and got involved in bad habits. I thought I was just enjoying life, but I was actually losing control of it.”
When the time came to give birth, the odds were stacked against her. Her baby was in a footling position, meaning the feet came out first—a risky condition that could have cost both of them their lives. With no doctor or nurse to assist her, Princess Joy gave birth at home through normal delivery, surrounded only by the trembling support of her family. After a long, painful struggle, she finally heard her baby’s first cry, a sound that melted away her fears.
Her daughter weighed 3.3 kilograms, and she named her Sofia Grace Ortiz. “Grace,” she said, smiling faintly, “because she is my blessing from God. Through her, found hope when I thought my life was over.”
The days that followed were far from easy. The father of the child did not provide support, leaving Princess Joy and her mother to raise the baby on their own. Life became a cycle of sleepless nights, tears, and sacrifices. Yet even through exhaustion, she found strength in her child’s smile. “Wala ko ga regret sa akong pagka teenage mom kay dari nako na feel tanang kalisud,” she shared proudly. “It was through this that I learned what real hardship means and how strong I can truly be.”
Strength Born from Struggle
Despite the weight of judgment from others, Princess Joy never allowed the world’s cruelty to break her spirit. Every whispered insult, every stare of pity became fuel for her determination to rise again. Now, she is preparing to return to school this coming January 2026, ready to reclaim her dreams and prove that mistakes do not define a person’s worth.
“I want to finish my studies and give my daughter a better life,” she said. “ want her to see that her mother didn’t give up—that even after everything, I still chose to fight.”
Her decision to go back to school is not merely a step toward education it is a declaration of hope, strength, and redemption. She is no longer the naive girl she once was; she is now a mother who carries within her the wisdom that only struggle can teach.
To the youth, Princess Joy has a heartfelt message: “Ayaw mug uban-uban sa inyong barkada nga kabalo mung naay bisyo. Paminaw sa ginikanan always.”
She knows how easy it is for young people to fall into the traps of peer pressure, and she hopes her story serves as a reminder that choices have consequences and that love and obedience to parents can save one from deep pain.
Rising Again with Grace
Today, Princess Joy’s world revolves around her daughter, Sofia Grace, the little miracle who gave meaning to her chaos. Every laugh, every tiny hand wrapped around her finger is a reminder that life, despite its cruelty, still offers beauty.
Her journey from confusion to clarity, from mistakes to maturity, paints a portrait of a girl who was once broken but found light through motherhood. Her story is not about shame, it’s about strength. Not about failure, but redemption.
As she prepares to walk once more through the gates of Salug National High School, Princess Joy carries more than just notebooks and pens. She carries wisdom carved by tears, courage molded by pain, and love strengthened by sacrifice.
bySASHAJ.VILLAGRACIA
Her daughter’s name, Grace, is more than just a word, it is the essence of her life. Grace is what saved her, what changed her, and what now inspires her to rise above judgment and face the world again with a smile. Princess Joy Ortiz’s journey reminds us that no matter how heavy our burdens, there is always hope for renewal. That even in the darkest corners of despair, grace can still bloom. And for her, being a teenage mother is not the end of her story, it is the beautiful beginning of a stronger, wiser, and more compassionate soul.
