Rheims | December 2021

2

NEWS

// THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

ASJ outreach program benefits Sitio Bukid Lance Crisostomo

“Giving smiles and hope, one gift of love at a time.”

Bounded by the spirit of gift-giving, ASJ conducted its Christmas reach-out program as a way of giving back to the community, December 18.

For the past years, ASJ has been organizing the Adopt-a-Child program (having kids from different barangays join the ASJ community for Christmas party), gift-giving for the community helpers and Handog kids; but for this year, the school organized two reach-out activities - the traditional Adopt-a-Child and a gift-giving for Sitio Bukid located at Brgy. Bacao 2 here in General Trias.

As early as November 29, the Outreach Department of the school has released the letter for both the students and the parents which asked for donations, whether in cash or kind, which will be given to the children and residents of Sitio-Bukid.

In an interview, Ms. Sheila Monares, the school’s Outreach Coordinator, said that more than 50% of the faculty, staff, students, and parents of ASJ answered the call for support of the Outreach Department.

Additionally, Monares added that the ASJ Community’s support for the drive exceeded their expectations which paved the way for all families in Sitio Bukid to receive a gift for this Christmas.

“Because of the overwhelming donations and gifts of the sponsors, we also had the chance to give 5 sacks of rice to the 141 families or 100% in Sitio Bukid

PHOTO SOURCE FILE

and the lucky 14 children who received new clothes, new shoes, and Noche Buena package,” Ms. Sheila said.

On December 18 as the gift-giving in Sitio Bukid started, the residents and volunteers from ASJ were flashing big smiles and are carrying an aura of love and care for one another.

In addition to ASJ’s gifts, Ms. Shiela Punzalan together with her “Sweet Buddies” from her business “Sweet Buddz” also contributed to the gifts given to the residents of Sitio-Bukid, particularly the kids in the area.

On the other hand, Gemma Perit, a resident from Sitio-Bukid, said that personally, she is very thankful for the gifts from the whole ASJ community, which made their Christmas season extra special.

Later that day, 14 kids from Sitio-Bukid went to the school for the Christmas party of the Adopta-Child program where they received clothes, food packs, and other gifts from the ASJ community as well.

At the end of the day, the kids from Sitio Bukid went home with the happiness and love that the ASJ community shared with them through the gifts and hope that this Christmas season will be special amidst the pandemic.

According to Ms. Sheila, this is not the end of the outreach programs of the school since they have something planned sometime in 2022 which they hope will materialize in any way possible. [R]

The Adopt-A-Child program of the Academy of Saint John with 14 kids from Sitio Bukid, Brgy. Bacao 2 in coordination with the local Barangay unit of Brgy. Bacao 2. The event happened last December 18.

PHOTO SOURCE FILE

DECEMBER 2021 //

NEWS

Majority of Grade 10 Students chooses the STEM strand

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Lance Crisostomo

As the first semester of the school year ends, the Lasallian Rheims conducted the second strand survey in the Grade 10 level, wherein 57 students participated, to know the students’ preferences for their strand and school for Senior High School.

When asked about their strand preference, 24 or 42.1% chose STEM, 8 or 14% chose ABM, 1 or 1.8% chose GAS, 7 or 12.3% chose HUMSS, 0 chose TVL, 4 or 7% chose MAD, 6 or 10.5% chose Health-Allied Strand, 1 or 1.8% chose Sports strand, 1 or 1.8% chose Information Technol-

ogy (IT) strand, and the remaining 5 or 8.8% were undecided.

When the questions shifted to the factor that influenced their strand preference, 20 or 35.1% said personal skills and traits influenced their choice, 18 or 31.6% said self-concept/personal preference, 7 or 12.3% chose family members’ influence, 6 or 10.5% said academic performance, 3 or 5.3% said financial considerations, 2 or 3.5% chose job market demand and supply, and 1 or 1.8% said parent’s choice.

Finally, when the students were asked whether they consider

taking their Senior High School study in ASJ, 11 or 19.3% said that they would consider, 23 or 40.4% said that they aren’t considering staying, and the remaining 23 or 40.4% said that they are still undecided.

With the applications for Senior High School in different schools closing their end and the pandemic situation changing from time to time, a change in some of the data is projected to be seen in the following months.

The Lasallian Rheims shall conduct the third strand survey sometime in February of the following year. [R]

HS students attend First Career Talk Ben Nivera

In order to help the students decide on their future careers, Academy of Saint John's Guidance Department hosted an Online Career Talk, December 10.

ASJ invited two speakers to share about their experiences in their career. The speakers, who were ASJ students in the past, were invited were Mr. Leo Ardina, entrepreneur; and Mr Tris Shotwell, corporate pilot.

The speakers spoke about the advantages, disadvantages, and the challenges that they encountered in the respective careers. They also provided tips for future en-

trepreneurs/pilots in the audience.

Mr. Leo Ardina, entrepreneur, stated that one of the best things about being an entrepreneur is the limitless income potential. He stated that since their business is pure commission based, there is no income ceiling and their income depends on their production.

Mr. Tris Shotwell, corporate pilot, discussed the duties, hours, and working conditions in his career. He showed the students the different licenses required and exams they need to take in order to become a pilot.

“I guess when you’re happy with what you’re doing, it’s always worth it. Kahit ano pa yung ginagawa mo, kahit anong company pa yan. It’s never about the company, it’s never about the industry, it’s always about loving what you do,” said Mr. Ardina.

Mr. Shotwell stated, “If you really don’t enjoy your job, any job, ang kalaban mo talaga dyan is stress, fatigue, mental health saka physical health.”

The speakers entertained several questions from the students before ending the talk. [R]

ASJ holds webinar on social and societal awareness Andrew Dela Plana

Academy of Saint John recently held a webinar with the topic social and societal awareness on December 10, Friday.

The webinar was sponsored by Phoenix-Sibs Publishing House, and was coordinated by Mr. Alisson Almario.

The guest speaker was Atty.

Allen Gasulas, a legal counsel of the Caraga regional office, as well as a graduate from De La Salle University, Manila.

Atty. Gasulas reminded everyone in the zoom meeting that November 25 to

December 12 is actually an 18-day campaign to end violence against women and their children, hence the meeting’s topic being about sexual abuse.

She mentioned five republic acts in the duration of the webinar, with these two being given more emphasis: Republic Act No. 11313: Safe Spaces Act (Bawal Bastos Law), and Republic Act 7877: Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995.

Atty.

Gasulas also emphasized during the webinar that a person should report any instances of sexual harassment should they witness or should it happen to them.

A question in the Open Q&A forum stuck out the most as it raises the question of what to do when the sexual perpetrator defends their actions.

“The important thing here is what you feel,” Gasulas answered.

She stressed that whatever reason they had for committing the crime is not valid because the perpetrators still did the crime either way.

She ends her discussion by saying that there should be proper regulations about sexual harassment in handbooks, to further educate the students and the staff of its consequences. [R]

4 NEWS // THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

COVID cases to surge due to holiday-related mobility – DOH Renz Bautista

Department of Health (DOH) continues to expect the increase of COVID-19 cases due to continuous holiday-mobility over the country.

In an interview with Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, she mentioned that there was an increase in the positivity rate in NCR and other areas which can be translated to the surge of COVID cases.

“Ito pong pagtaas ng kaso ay expected because sa pagtaas ng mobility natin dahil nagkaroon ng holiday season. Natural lang po iyan dahil tayo po ay may pandemya pa, nagkasamasama ang mga tao, nagkaroon ng kaunting complacency, nakakakita at nakakaobserba ng mababang pagsunod sa minimum public health standards, katulad po ng pagsusuot ng mask, at yung crowding,” Vergeire said in

an interview over G Tv’s Balitanghali.

Acting Presidential Spokesperson Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles reminded the LGUs to impose granular or localized lockdowns in areas with an upsurge of COVID-19 cases during a Palace briefing last Wednesday.

Meanwhile, the OCTA Research Group reported last Tuesday that the positivity rate in Metro Manila has increased by 5 percent, the first time since October.

OCTA Research Group also projected 2,000 new cases for January 1 and 8,000 new cases for January 7 in the whole country, in which 800 and 3,000 new cases are from Metro Manila for January 1 and 7, respectively.

Previously, it was reported that the

increase of the positivity rate, reproduction rate and average daily attack rate (testing rate) due to the holiday frenzy, and not necessarily the Omicron variant, OCTA Research fellow Dr. Guido David said last Monday.

"So, hindi natin masasabi ngayon na Omicron-driven ito dahil nakita rin naman natin ito last year. Siguro doon sa pagtitipun-tipon ng mga kababayan natin kaya kailangan doble pag-iingat lang naman din ang kinakailangan natin.”

As of December 29, DOH reported 889 new infections, more than double the 421 cases reported last Tuesday, with only four confirmed Omicron variant cases detected – the latest being a 38 year old traveler from the United States which arrived in the Philippines last December 10. [R]

DOH rolls out booster shot vaccination Renz Bautista nationwide

Philippine health officials have authorized COVID-19 booster shots to be taken by adults fully vaccinated at least three months and those who were inoculated the Janssen vaccine can take booster shots at least two months after.

A new policy implemented by the Department of Health (DOH) stating the reduction of the time frame needed to get a booster shot to just two or three months, depending on the first vaccine received.

“Following the amended Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 vaccine boosters, the Department of Health would like to inform the public that all adults (ages 18 and above) are now eligible to receive a single-dose booster of COVID-19 vaccine at least three months after the second dose of AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer, Sinovac or Sputnik vaccine or at least two months after Janssen effective 22 December 2021,” the statement reads.

DOH and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted emergency approval to Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca to be used

as an additional dose last December 2.

Dr. Kezia Lorraine Rosario of the National Vaccinations Operations Center (NVOC) announced last Thursday that 19 million fully vaccinated Filipinos are now eligible to avail their booster shots.

In addition, DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said that the Philippines has enough COVID-19 vaccine supply to push for a massive booster vaccine campaign nationwide.

"We have sufficient supply ngayon [as of now]. Enough even to do the booster administration at pagbibigay ng first dose at saka pagbibigay ng full doses [and for the provision of first doses and completion of the full doses]," Vergiere stated.

Vergiere furthered that NVOC should set aside COVID-19 vaccines for all brands to be used for the booster vaccination, both homologous and heterologous combinations.

The NVOC is studying the possible combination of booster vaccines for pediatric vaccines as only specified brands (Pfizer and Moderna) can be administered to

children and minors 12 to 17 years old.

National Task Force (NTF) against COVID-19 Medical Consultant Dr. Ma. Paz Corrales emphasized that need of vaccination as an “added protection for all the Filipinos.”

"As you all know, we already have four cases of Omicron variant now, we should urge more to get vaccinated in preparation for its possible spread in the country," Corrales said in a briefing last December 27.

As of December 28, 107.27 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered with 57 million for the first dose, 48.6 million for the second dose and single-dose vaccines, and 1.6 million for the booster dose.

The Philippines have currently achieved 63.06% of the government target (70% of population – 77.1 million Filipinos).

Below are the recommended dose combinations for an additional COVID-19 jab. [R]

Recommended dose combinations for a booster COVID-19 vaccine as prescribed by the DOH. The new policy states that people can now avail a booster shot after two (Janssen) or three months (Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer, Sputnik) after their second dose of the said vaccines.

DATA SOURCE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PHOTO SOURCE RAPPLER

DECEMBER 2021 //

NEWS

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Unemployment rate for October 2021 falls to 7.4% Andrew Dela Plana The Philippines’ number of jobless Filipinos have decreased in October this year, with the unemployment rate being the third-lowest this year at 7.4%

According to a report by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), unemployment rate eased from September’s 8.9%– the highest all year so far, down to 7.4% in October, due to the loosening of restrictions and alert level in Manila and other provinces.

This accounts at least 3.5 million jobless Filipinos, which is still an improvement to the last month’s 4.25 million unemployed Filipinos.

However, the underemployment rate went up to 16.1% from September’s 14.2%, which means that although more people got more jobs in October, these jobs are less stable and are not enough

to keep families afloat the pandemic.

Duterte’s economic managers remained positive however, further noting that more Filipinos are employed today than months before when the pandemic has struck.

“Employment creation remained positive as 234,000 more Filipinos were able to find work in October. This brings total employment to 1.3 million above pre-pandemic levels,” the team said in a joint statement.

The average weekly hours of the employed have also been reduced to 39.7 hours per week in October 2021, which is still lower than July’s 41.8 hours per week.

PSA also showed records that more Filipinos have not been engaging with job search as there have been less work for everyone.

IBON Executive Director Sonny Africa also said that the additional

DOH reiterates safe new year celebrations Renz Bautista

Department of Health (DOH) again reminded the public to celebrate the holidays safely amidst the ongoing pandemic, emphasizing having a healthy lifestyle and the usage of fireworks and pyrotechnics.

The health department recommended utilizing safer alternatives for firecrackers and pyrotechnics such as participating in community fireworks displays, and using other noise and light producing objects such as sound systems, light emitting devices, bells and tambourines.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) released a list of prohibited fireworks and explosives to be used during the new year, some of these being watusi, piccolo, poppop, five star, pla-pla, goodbye Philippines, giant whistle bomb, mother rocket, boga, and unlabelled fireworks.

As of December 29, there are already 25 firework-related injuries reported by the DOH.

Meanwhile, the City of General Trias reminded the implementation of City Ordinance No. 2066 which prohibits the sale, distribution, possession and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnics in the city.

Penalties for the violation of City Ordinance No. 2066 aside from the confiscation of the fireworks and pyrotechnics are listed as follows: 1st offense - Php. 1,000.00 and/or imprisonment of twenty (20) days but not more than one (1) month, 2nd offense - a Php. 3,000.00 fine and/or imprisonment for not more than three (3) months, Php. 5,000.00 and/or imprisonment of three (3) months but not more than six (6) months.

In the same press release, DOH also stated the importance of choosing healthier options during the holiday season as they stressed food moderation and consumption of well-balanced nutrient-rich foods, and the avoidance of alcohol intake, cigarette smoking and vaping. [R]

employed Filipino workers are more concentrated in low-income and informal jobs.

“Vaccination, which is still slow, and reopening are not enough to fix economic scarring of households losing jobs, incomes and savings, and of at least 100,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises closed by the government’s over-reliance on protracted lockdowns,” Africa said.

Union Bank of the Philippines chief economist Ruben Carlo Asuncion said that the threat of new COVID-19 variants still poses challenges to the reopening of the Philippine economy.

He added that the available jobs right now are still not desirable as some are still adjusting to the current set-up, and the looming elections in 2022. [R]

EO 156 pushes for the Philippines total electrification Lance Crisostomo

With the persistent problem of electricity stability, distribution, and reach in the Philippines, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order No.156 s. 2021 to push for the total electrification of the Philippines.

EO No. 156 aims to “institute measures to ensure consistent and reliable electricity service in inadequately served areas, improve performance of ineffective distribution utilities, and achieve total electrification of the country” as stated in the title of the EO.

In the order, Duterte said that problem of electrification mainly roots in the underperforming electric cooperatives and distribution utilities.

Additionally, Duterte emphasized that the total electrification of the Philippines would require the utilization of the advanced technologies available which can be used even on smaller scales in order to provide electricity to the “unserved and unviable areas."

"There is a need to utilize advancements in technology which have facilitated the development of integrated systems such as microgrids, distributed energy resources (DERs) and other alternative service providers, where the nature of production, delivery and consumptions of electricity can be controlled and operated on a smaller scale suitable for unserved and unviable areas," Duterte stated.

With the EO already signed and shall be in effect immediately, the national government aims for the Philippines’ total electrification by 2022 by any means. [R]

6

SCITECH

// THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

Japan develops inflatable e-scooter Ben Nivera Mercari R4D, in collaboration with Kawahara and Niiyama Labs and University of Tokyo, invented an inflatable e-scooter that fits inside a backpack.

Using an air pump, the inflatable vehicle can be inflated in a span of two minutes, making it convenient and reliable.

Weighing at around 10kg, the Poimo is primarily made of thermoplastic polyurethane, a material that is commonly used for products such as airbeds.

It can run up to 90 minutes, at about 15kph, proving its convenience for short distance trips.

The Portable and Inflatable Mobility, or Poimo, was developed by researchers in the University of Tokyo as a mobility solution.

Hikori Sato, a Japanese researcher from the University of Tokyo first thought of a device that can bridge distances with no public transport like the distance between a train station and a workplace.

"We believe that our inflatable mobility, which is different from existing mobility systems and cre-

ates new relationships with people, will be useful for the city in the future," said Ryuma Niiyama, part of the development team at the University of Tokyo.

The research team has developed a software which allows users to customize the shape of the e-scooter.

The researchers also hope that they could create different variations of Poimo. They hope that they can make it into the shape that each person wants so that they can offer the most suitable mobility device for everyone. [R]

A actual Portable and Inflatable Mobility (Poimo) developed by mercari R4D in collaboration with Kawahara and Niiyama Labs and the University of Tokyo. PHOTO SOURCE DEZEEN

Parker Solar Probe passes through the Sun’s atmosphere Ben Nivera

The Parker Solar Probe makes a historic pass through the sun’s corona - the first time a spacecraft has flown through the sun’s outer atmosphere

The occasion occurred on the 28th of April this year, but the analysis of data has only confirmed it recently.

"Just as landing on the Moon allowed scientists to understand how it was formed, touching the Sun is a gigantic stride for humanity to help us uncover critical information about our closest star and its influence on the Solar System," said Nicola Fox, the director of NASA's heliophysics science division.

Parker passed through the Alfven critical boundary, the outer edge of the corona where solar materials which are naturally bound to the sun by gravity and magnetic forces break free to roam around space.

Parker encountered the boundary at about 13 million km above the photosphere of the Sun.

It encountered immense heat and radiation but it achieved its mission which is to gather new insights on how the sun works.

According to Stuart Bale from the

University of California, Berkeley, the probe's data suggests that it actually passed above and below the boundary three separate times in the course of five hours.

"We saw the conditions change completely," he told reporters. "Inside the corona, the Sun's magnetic field grew much stronger, and it dominated the movement of the particles there. So the spacecraft was surrounded by material that was truly in contact with the Sun." Launched three years ago, the Parker Solar Probe’s main goal is to make repeated and ever closer passes of the sun.

The spacecraft moves at a speed of over 500,000km/h.

The strategy is to get in quick and leave quickly, making measurements of the solar environment with a suite of instruments deployed from behind a thick heat shield.

The Parker science team will gather more data as the probe explores even deeper into the corona on future flybys of the Sun. It should eventually get to within 7 million km of the photosphere in 2025. [R]

An artist's rendition of the Parker Solar Probe slowly approaching the solar atmosphere (corona).

The Parker Solar Probe is the first ever spacecraft to "touch" the sun.

PHOTO SOURCE NASA

DECEMBER 2021 //

SCITECH

Perfectly preserved dinosaur embryo discovered in China

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Ben Nivera

Scientists announced the discovery of a perfectly preserved dinosaur embryo in a fossilized egg in Ganzhou, China, December 21.

The embryo, nicknamed “Baby Yingliang”, was unearthed in the Late Cretaceous rocks of Ganzhou, Southern China.

Scientists say that the baby dinosaur belonged to an oviraptor and is believed to be 66-72 million years old.

“This dinosaur embryo inside its egg is one of the most beautiful fossils I have ever seen,” said Professor Steve Brusatte from the University of Edinburgh.

“This little prenatal dinosaur looks just like a baby bird curled in its egg, which is yet more evidence that many features characteristic of today’s birds first evolved in their dinosaur ancestors.”

Experts from the China University of Geosciences in Beijing and the University of Birmingham found the posture of “Baby Yingliang” interesting due to it being different among known dinosaur embryos - the baby dinosaur lies in a “tucked” position

Tucking, known as the position when the embryo bends their body and brings their head under their wing shortly before hatching so they can prepare to crack the egg, is common in modern birds and was previously unrecognised in dinosaurs.

Embryos that do not achieve this position are more likely to die because they cannot hatch properly.

After studying the egg and embryo, researchers concluded that tucking, previously considered unique to birds, may have originated among non-avian theropod dinosaurs.

“It is interesting to see this dinosaur em-

bryo and a chicken embryo pose in a similar way inside the egg, which possibly indicates similar prehatching behaviours,” said Dr. Fion Waisum Majoint first author and PhD researcher at the University of Birmingham

The embryo is currently contained in Yingliang Stone Nature History Museum and is around 27cm long from head to tail and lies inside a 17-cm-long elongatoolithid egg.

Experts say that the discovery of “Baby Yingliang” helps shed light on a key link between the behaviour of modern birds and dinosaurs. [R]

A reconstruction of a oviraptorosaur dinosaur embryo, based on the "Baby Yingliang" specimen found in Ganzhou, Southern China PHOTO SOURCE LIDA XING

2021 Best in the World

Break the Code: Blacklist International forges 2021 MLBB dominance Lance Crisostomo

Blacklist International (BLCK) continued to cement its legacy as one of the dominating teams in the world by sweeping Onic PH in an all Filipino Grand Finals in the M3 Mobile Legends Bang Bang (MLBB) World Championship in the Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre, December 19.

BLCK, led by Queen Johnmar “OhMyV33nus” Villaluna, asserted dominance and consistency in the four-game finale by utilizing their signature Ultimate Bonding Experience a.k.a UBE strategy plus the godlike performance of Kiel “OHEB” Soriano’s Beatrix in games 2, 3, and 4.

Additionally, the gameplay demonstrated by the BLCK team was a manifestation of their maturity, deep understanding of the game, and hunger for victory that came from being sent to the lower bracket by North America's BloodThristyKings (BTK) during the first round of the upper bracket

matches 2-3 in an upset turnaround.

BLCK went on to battle in the grueling lower bracket that led BLCK, sending home powerhouse teams such as MPL Indonesia Champs ONIC Esports, Brazil’s Keyd Stars, M1 Runner-Up and M2 Third placer RRQ Hoshi, and BTK who sent them to the lower brackets.

For the totality of the lower bracket bout, BLCK went on to finish with a record of 14 wins and 2 losses before facing MPL PH Season 8 second placers Onic PH who had a stellar performance in the upper bracket with 9 wins and no losses.

The BLCK-Onic PH grand finale turned to a showdown of styles and mechanics as neither team was willing to give up each tower, each objective, and each kill, leading to four close matches lasting for an average of 17 minutes each.

Onic PH, led by Allen “Baloyskie” Baloy, showed resilience and class as they trade kills,

objectives, and towers with BLCK in all the games but felt short in the late games, causing a collapse and an opening for BLCK to seal the games.

In the end, OHEB reigned as finals MVP and World Champion BLCK won $300,000 (around ₱15,000,000) while 1st Runner Up Onic PH brought home $120,000 (around ₱6,000,000) and 2nd Runner Up BTK got $80,000 (around ₱4,000,000).

With the prize money of BLCK, Coach Kristoffer “BON CHAN” Ricaplaza said that a portion of it will be donated to the Filipinos who were affected by typhoon Odette in order to help them start over again and rise up from the damages done by the typhoon.

With the M3 World title in their bags, BLCK added to their collection of championships from minor/major tournaments, MPL Season 7, MPL Season 8, and Runner Up finishes in the MSC and MPL Invitational. [R] PHOTO SOURCE MLBB ESPORTS

EDITORIAL BOARD School Year 2021-2022

Editor-in-Chief Lance Crisostomo Associate Editor-in-Chief Andrew Dela Plana Senior Managing Editor/ Layout Renz Bautista Junior Managing Editor Ben Nivera Writers Marielle Navarro, Kyzzia Paguirigan, Trisha Ilar, Benedict Yalung, Zoeline Honrado, Lemmor Lataza, James Abriza Artists Marcus Buhain, Shawn Teves, Rineai Ventoso, Sofia Malvar Cover Page Nina Dulce Contributor Mr. Lawrence Fernando Adviser Mr. Kent Bryan Colocado Vice Principal Ms. Victoria Gallardo Principal Mr. Richard Pineda School Consultant Ms. Daisy Romero

ALERE FLAMMAM VERITATIS WE ARE OPEN FOR

CONTRIBUTORS! Submit your work at official.rheims@gmail.com

@Rheims2020 facebook.com/Rheims2020 official.rheims@gmail.com issuu.com/thelasallianrheims

8

OPINION

// THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

2021: YEAR REVIEW

What was your 2021 like? Was it better than expected or was it normal? Let us simplify the questions - was there a positive thing that happened this year? - For the last week of 2021, these became the million-dollar question that people ask each other. Traditionally, it is during these times that people recollect on the whole year to move forward next year with their gained learnings and experiences. For this month’s main editorial, let me get off from the societal issues and the COVID variants that we have for the moment and let us altogether lightly recollect on OUR 2021.

ASCEND. By January, ASJ’s first online school year was reaching new heights as the online teaching-learning system becomes better every single day. Although students and teachers alike were still adjusting, the situation is far better and progressive as compared to the August to December first half of the school year.

Looking back and comparing our school year’s situation from back then, it is safe to say that we are on the right track.

ZEAL. In just the first three months of this year, ASJ, through the Lasallian Rheims and LASO, has etched two historic marks in its books. From January to March, Gawad Alab was held within and among the High School students that promoted the Philippine Contemporary Arts and Literature through various webinars and contests. More than the contests, Gawad Alab unveiled the hidden talents of students that were contained within them, waiting for the right avenue.

On the other hand, LASO held the first ever eSports tournament in the school that promoted camaraderie and sportsmanship within the highschool students. The eSports did not only aim for online games to be played but also to balance out the school year by providing an avenue for students to showcase their “gaming” capabilities and to have fun.

RECESS. Of course, every school year has its end. We have ended at around April - which is typical in the ASJ calendar over the years. AirClass had to go through a two-month recess to discover the points for improvement in-line with the school’s pursuit for quality education. For the Lasallian Rheims, the commitment continued. The newspaper releases persisted, Rheims Direct continued to improve, coverages for graduation and community pantry were done.

Sadly, the seniors needed to leave their post

and move on to the next chapter of their lives; but as we say, we shall move forward.

Armed with the new batch of staffers, artists, and editors, the Rheims batch 2021 - 2022 was formally built with a unique identity.

TAKE OFF. AirClass is back for year two, better than ever. Equipped with the learnings from the previous year, ASJ has found a way to keep the momentum up and rolling with new additions like Gizmos. The system transitioned from a shaky and experimental one to a well-defined and organized one. From June to October, the first half of the school year went like what it was during the face-to-face set-up because of the schedule and the overall vibe itself. For the Lasallian Rheims, the new layouts, designs, and styles were introduced on all divisions brought about by the diversity of styles from the members. The first Filipino publication, Hiraya, was also introduced in the scene.

LEGACY. After the first half of the school year, it was time to celebrate ASJ’s 19th Founding Anniversary. The usual things were done like the thanksgiving mass, virtual lunch, and other contests for the Grade School Department. For the High School Department, an alumni band, Sunken Cruise Ships performed live from the ASJ studio. G na G, a talk show talking about the applications of the Graduate Attributes featured five alumni from different batches talking about their lives in ASJ and after they have graduated. For the Lasallian Rheims, a magazine featuring writers from different batches, alumni and present, was published and given to the school. A fitting reunion to look back at the 19 years of excellence and service that makes up the school’s legacy.

Here we are, on the month of December with two days remaining before the year turns. Although the COVID situation made things difficult for all of us, we have clearly made strides this year. Powered by our ZEAL, we have TAKEN OFF equipped with the learnings that we have had to help each other ASCEND to greater heights, etching a LEGACY as individuals and as a group.

Today, we thank everyone who has been a part of OUR 2021. Today, it is the time to be grateful for all the memories, learnings, and blessings that 2021 gave us despite this situation. Today, we glorify the Almighty Father as we prepare ourselves for the greater things that 2022 has in store for us. [R]

CARTOON RINEAI VENTOSO

RPTD

Renz Bautista In business, the term liability is the state of indebtedness to any financial institution or intermediary, such as banks, insurance companies, credit unions, or creditors. The Philippines is just like any other partnership or company; it has a balance of liabilities and debt. Recently, the country has secured a Php. 14 billion loan from France to support disaster risk response. As of the end of October 2021, the Philippines has a debt balance of Php. 11.97 trillion (Bureau of Treasury). The annual report of the World Bank shows that for the fiscal year ending in June 30, 2021, its total commitments to the Philippines for the year is about $3.07 billion, the highest among all the country borrowers. With loans of this scale have interest rates and long payment periods used in financing infrastructure and development programs in the education, health, public and poverty alleviation sectors, do we need to worry about these piling obligations in the future?

Parameters to determine the economic performance of a country does not only lie on its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Gross National Product (GNP). The national currency exchange says a lot on how prices of normal goods in the economy performs through computing inflation and the consumer price index (CPI). Some-

Ticking timebombs times, high numbers does not guarantee a good economic condition. We need to consider the number in relation to other quantities through finding trends and ratios through conducting Horizontal and Ratio analysis. A country with a high GDP or GNP does not mean that it is economically stable. You need to consider the other side of the spectrum; how much is the debt? It is comparing the amount of Net Income or Operating Profit of a company to the total liabilities or debt it has, specifically computing leverage ratios which show the capital structure of a company.

Economic analysts heavily check on the total liability a company or an entity has. When companies are financed more by debt (more than 50% of the total assets a company owns is acquired by liability/debt), it is on a relatively high risk as the business should make enough income to pay its obligations. In the Philippines, debt grew faster than its crippled economy.

At the end of June 2021, the debt to GDP ratio, which is computed by dividing debt by the total GDP, is at 60.4%, above the 60% threshold level in which international debt watchers consider a country with an emerging market manageable. At the end of the year, it would be projected to reach 59.1%, the worst rate in 16 years. Comparing to the pre-pandemic period, debt to GDP ratio was at 39.6%.

A year ago, total debt of the Philippines was at Php. 9.37 trillion. Comparing the latest figures, the debt rate increased by 27.7% the past year, which is very alarming. Additionally, domestic debt accounted in the local currency reached 70.7% of the total debt (Php. 8.47 trillion). The Philippines is not new to debt crisis. The debt trend started during the 1970s, the time of the Marcoses, due to the availability of numerous “petro-dollar” loans, or loans oil-rich countries in the Middle East offered due to its excess income earned. Another debt crisis during the 1980s caused a domino effect caused by Latin American borrowers failing to pay their indebtedness forced the Philippines to seek moratorium on debt repayment.

The current administration should critically consider the financial condition of the country as economic activity is very limited because of the pandemic. The increasing debt should be urgently addressed since the current and succeeding generation of Filipinos will pay it in the future. We only have a limited borrowing capacity as GDP is difficult to increase unlike the piling national loans. Debt does not magically vanish, it would just incur interest if left unsupervised. This being said, one of the critical decisions to be made by our future leaders is how the national debt should be managed while making our economy stable and running. [R]

10 OPINION // THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

Here We Stand Last December 8, Jesus “Jess” Malabanan, a journalist from Pampanga was shot dead in his house in Calbayog City, Samar. According to his wife’s statement, Malabanan was peacefully watching television in their small store when men shot the journalist in the head. Although the reason behind his killing is still unclear, the fact of the matter is - Jess is the 22nd journalist who has died unjustly in the last five years. Jess is the 109th journalist who has died unjustly in the last 21 years (UNESCO observatory of killed journalist - Philippines). Now, the questions remain, “When will this end?” and “Is there a light of hope for journalists to do their duties and responsibilities freely?”

Audrey Angeles, former Senior Sports Editor of the Lasallian Rheims and current Senior Sports Editor of The Animo, has perfectly summarized the duties and responsibilities of a journalist, specifically a campus journalist. She said, “when the truth becomes indistinct and its bearers are silenced, we, as campus journalists, must remain as people of integrity. The heart of truth dissemination, which we ought to protect, emphasizes freedom of speech and expression with the unbiased representation of facts. Our duty to write and present information that we deem necessary for our community to know must be grounded on truthfulness and fairness as we are the ones they utterly rely

YUGTO

Andrew Dela Plana “Repost if you’re against rape, I can see who skipped”. Recently, these kinds of stories are being shared on social media platforms like Instagram, and Facebook. I think most of us have seen these words pop up in our friends’ Instagram stories, and some of us actually tried to repost these kinds of stories.

Although these kinds of stories may seem helpful in spreading awareness, reposting these actually do more harm than help. With that said, we should always ask ourselves whether our activism and actions in spreading awareness help the cause or hinder in the fight.

Let’s clear things up a bit first.

Performative activism is when a person supports a cause to gain clout or fame, instead of actually devoting themselves to the cause in order to make a difference. This is usually done to gain atten-

on to voice them out. With great power comes great responsibility, so never shall we fall into the deception that will break our principles as journalists nor be stopped from being the vessels of truth.” Basically, journalists are summoned to bridge the gap between what is really happening in the world and the people who need to know what is going on. Journalists are called to cover everything that will happen in society, whether positive or not, whether risky or not. Hence, 100% dedication, toughness, and loyalty to moral and ethical principles are expected from all journalists.

Sadly, the works of journalists are not accepted by all. People all over the internet are laughing at news breaks, news stories, and news features that go up against their beliefs and even their idols. The trifecta of “Like, Haha, Angry” reactions flood these news breaks and stories with matching hate and debating comments. Face the reality, let us not deny it.

The sacrifices made by journalists to bring the people what is real and what is happening are being overshone by wrong education and polarization. Now that the digital age is hitting really hard, determining what is real from what is not is becoming an impossible task. Misinformation and disinformation powered by the internet and by the people who are not even that knowledgable on societal issues and even journalists who have turned to biased reporting because of the

EURUS

Lance Crisostomo growing threats to their service have been twisting news and information that people need to know. The result - pointless debates on matters, a polarization that destroys the nation piece by piece, and the crumbling fortitude of the current and aspiring journalists and campus journalists here in the Philippines.

When will this end - it is still uncertain. This will never end unless every Filipino opens all their senses and listen to journalists’ reports. This will never end unless the administration in power will openly accept what responsible and free journalism is. This will never end unless threats to journalists and campus journalists will all be gone. If these conditions will be met, then that is only the time that we see a glimmer of hope for journalists and campus journalists to exercise their duties and responsibilities freely and faithfully.

“Here we stand” - amidst all the threats and roadblocks ahead of our journey as journalists, we must stand on our grounds for the truth to continuously exist. We must stand on our grounds to do justice to the 109 journalists who faithfully did their works in the service of the people. Here we stand with our moral and ethical principles, pens, cameras, papers, and colleagues - doing whatever it takes to keep the light of truth burning. Now the question is - Are you willing to stand your ground as a journalist/campus journalist? [R]

“Repost if”: A Closer Look at Performative Activism tion, support, and fame for being on the "same level" as people who are fighting social injustices. A person simply shows their friends and family that they are "woke" and are aware of the current issues. Usually, a lot of people stop there, and that’s when we call it "performative activism." Performative activism is harmful as it takes away attention from the issue itself. The message isn’t being focused on because the focus is on the "activist". It also discourages people from doing more, normally stopping their activism on their posts and carrying on with their day. All this while under the guise of a glorious activist—an act, if you will.

These serious topics should never be used for clout. Because of these misdirecting statements, a lot of people have been tricked into that activism is as simple as spreading awareness without putting in

any effort. In reality, activism isn’t done just by performing or spreading awareness, but by putting in the actual effort, promoting reform for the greater good. The purpose of activism isn’t to show that one is smarter than others, but for the message to be spread and promote reform.

It really is uncomfortable when we realize that all these “chain-message” stories do is guilt-trip us to repost the story so that we won’t be shamed in front of our friends. Once we share these kinds of stories, however, we become part of the problem as we are basically doing the same kind of guilt-tripping to our friends.

The thing is, the decision of a person to not repost those kinds of stories does not mean that they support those heinous acts. We must remember that we should be wary of what we post and share, especially if these are serious topics. [R]

DECEMBER 2021 //

FEATURES

11

A year filled with new normal Zoeline Honrado

“Teenagers are the most affected during this pandemic.” This sentence, from one of the webinars that I've attended, seemed to bother me. I kept wondering why this sentence was said. I agree that a lot of people have been affected by this pandemic, but why teenagers? Come to think of it... our parents have been suffering from the question “where should I get the money”, just to provide us a quality education, even in this time of pandemic, and our daily needs like food and water, so why teenagers? Why are we the ones affected the most by this pandemic?

My first year of high school was something that I’ve never expected, an online learning system. At first, I questioned myself, “How am I supposed to study now, now that this pandemic has emerged?” but that question was later on answered as my parents told me about online learning.

At first, it was hard for me to adjust to this online set up. As a person who has not much knowledge of how this online system worked, everything seemed hard for me. My teachers weren't able to teach me how to adapt to this system properly, since the only way of communication is through Zoom, and they can’t demonstrate how to do it, directly. I can still remember how dizzy I became as my teachers say every instruction there is, just to access the apps provided by the school. It may be hard at first, but this online set

up wasn’t that hard to adapt to. As I've expected, I wasn’t the only one who suffered with this new normal. I was also bothered by the way my other cousin studied through modules, it seemed like it’s even harder for them.

This pandemic also gave us new responsibilities as high school students. It was hard for us, but it was a challenge we were able to conquer. The pressure provided by the online system was indescribable; I never expected that it would be this hard to be a high school student.

It was my first-time having class online, and I can’t agree that I've been having such a great time during this system... It was also hard to stay focused on class since there are many, I say many, temptations at where I'm having my class. The noise that my family makes, the games that seem to look interesting, all of them were such a headache. But even with all these nuisances coming along our way, our determination to learn will forever burn.

We must always consider our health as main priority; may it be physically or mentally. Though we don’t know yet the moment when we’ll be able to go back to face-toface classes again, I’ll still be right here waiting for it. May we all be ready, with whatever our government decides, and may we all stay safe. Even at this time where we still can’t fully go back to normal yet, may we all stay safe and continue learning, even if the only way to it is via Zoom. [R]

Letter to the Editor: “When the Sun Rises...”

In this month forth, we welcome again the most wonderful time of the year; CHRISTMAS SEASON! This year had many ups and downs, but it was surely remarkable! My family and friends are safe, the vaccines are released, and most importantly, I am healthy and sound. Now that 2021 is waving goodbye, I wonder what happens on the next page of my life.

Sun, a source of light and hope for human beings. We cannot imagine the world without the sun. That will be the same for me. Though they say that next year will be a tough year, I hope that the gloomy skies will disappear and there enters the sun.

I hope that next year, everything will be fine, the pandemic will slowly decline, problems will be resolved, and lastly, I hope we all have a great year. Even if it will not be a one hundred percent sure, I will believe in myself and to others. When the sun rises, that is.

Without a doubt, we will also experience problems for 2022. The new COVID variant that has been discovered is more harmful than that of the COVID-19. It is called the OMICRON variant. This will be a major problem for all of the countries; therefore we must not lose hope so that a new wave of the pandemic will not occur once again.

However, all negativities aside, there is still the sun. The sun is the Lord who will help us and give us hope. So, for next year, let us hope that it may be bright and positive. May it bring us fortune and inspire to give the best in us. May it be blessed, and most importantly, may it be a wonderful year for all of us.

- Bea Calicdan

PHOTO SOURCE ANDRE MOJICA

Light Amidst Darkness Rev. Fr. Julius De Sagun

Celebrating Christmas in the middle of a crisis will never be easy. All of us right now have been battered in a way or the other by the effects of the pandemic. Along with this sad reality, we also face our own battles in our lives. When darkness envelops the world, our only hope is the coming of the savior who will be our “light”.

The story of the first Christmas is about the coming of Jesus, the light of the world. Jesus came in the middle of a dark night – the darkness of social oppressions, tyranny, poverty, and slavery to name a few. As He did before, so Jesus will do it again for us now. Many of us are confronted with darkness nowadays. We can name the different “darkness” that we face - it can be this pandemic plaguing the whole world, or the loss of someone close to us, or the fear for our life and the lives of those dear to us, or the shaking of our faith in God due to various trials, or the challenges of our work (or our studies), or our broken relationships, or our family made broken by migration, or the separation caused by parents’ working abroad, it can also be a sickness, or poverty in our pocket or in our heart, or your sins that you want to cover up. Whatever that may be, we all have our own darkness.

Be reminded, brethren, that light can be recognized only in the midst of

darkness. For instance, we all know that stars are positioned in the sky even in the morning. However, the beauty of which can only be appreciated when the sky is covered with the darkness of the night. In reality, admit it or not , we focus on the brightness of the stars and how easily do we forget about the essence of darkness that makes the stars shine brightly. The same is true in our lives – we do everything to avoid darkness. We often forget that the light of Jesus may shine forth all the more when everything is dark. Trusting in the abiding light of Jesus, let us face such darkness bravely and squarely. Let us rise above its horror and like the stars in the dark sky, relying on God’s grace, let us shine bright like a diamond.

This Christmas, the ultimate light of Jesus will come forth. Everyone who welcomes the light of Jesus is enveloped by His light and in turn, they also shine bright before other people. As Jesus would say: “Your light must shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” (Mt. 5:16) Let us share the light of Jesus instead of allowing ourselves to cause further darkness.

Let us welcome the Light – the light who is Jesus and only then that the greeting “Merry Christmas” will have a meaning! [R]

14 FEATURES // THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

Some Things Never Change Marielle Navarro

PHOTO SOURCE TWENTY20PHOTOS

Christmas has always been one of my favorite holidays. I looked forward to seeing my whole family during our Christmas reunions at the province; my aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, and parents all in the same place as each other just for the sake of being together. We had big meals where we shared stories about our own separate lives while missing each other’s company, moments where we laugh so hard over someone cracking a funny joke, and times where we visit local places and reminisce about all the times we’ve been there before.

But, last year, all of that changed when the pandemic hit.

We didn’t know that the Christmas of 2019 was going to be the last major celebration we would have as a whole, and last year, we couldn’t help but feel that a lot of things were missing during the holiday season. The meals didn’t feel the same, we cracked

jokes but the laughter felt lacking, and it felt like we were trapped in our own homes.

It made me realize just how much I took those seemingly simple moments with my family for granted, thinking that we would “always have next year” to do things. Time has gone so slow and so fast at the same time and the moment we started nearing the most awaited ber months, I began dreading the holiday season because it didn’t feel complete last time.

But, as it approached and September inevitably came, the moment I heard Jose Mari Chan’s infamous song, “Christmas in Our Hearts”, I realized that maybe it’s not bad as I thought it would be. Last year was hard because we focused so hard on the bad parts that we forgot that the holiday spirit should transcend distance and time. The more that I think about it, as much as things have turned for the worse and

traditions were broken, some things don’t really change.

The memes surrounding overplayed Christmas songs, how we haven’t even reached Halloween and we’re already putting up trees and lights in our homes, parols glowing brightly at night when we pass by the street either by vendors or other people’s houses, the popularity of Simbang Gabi staples like puto-bumbong and bibingka; all of that still encompassing the spirit of the holidays in our communities.

Traditions were broken but that does not mean that ceased to exist. It means that there are fragments left for us to find and rebuild, and perhaps reuse for newer traditions that will fit the times we live in now. Those moments of celebration have etched themselves into our memories and the best that we can do is remember them instead of convincing ourselves that the holiday spirit is lost forever. [R]

DECEMBER 2021 //

FEATURES

15

My visions for 2022?

Ben Nivera

This year sure was a crazy ride. Many events happened this year, from the long-awaited creation of an effective COVID vaccine to the discovery of a new variant (of course, there were still several events that occurred that aren’t related to the coronavirus), 2021 sure felt like a roller coaster ride (specifically, a roller coaster that’s on fire). Just like every year, this year was also filled with ups and downs, there were days when we felt like we were treading in a path with no direction and there were also days when we felt like we were the happiest people ever.

From my perspective, it seemed like 2021 passed by rapidly. One day it’s January, then I blink for a second and it’s already December. If I were to discuss my experiences in 2021, I don’t think I would be able to utter a single word since my brain can’t even process all the stuff that happened this year. I couldn’t even fathom the fact that time flies very fast.

It makes me anxious and scared but at the same time, it makes me realize how grateful I should be to be able to experience such a wonderful world. I still have fresh memories of 2020, not to mention, it felt like it was the longest year ever. With the introduction of the virus to the world and the whole world panicking on what to do, 2020 felt like a whole decade of desolation.

As usual, I hope that in 2022, I’d be able to develop into a better version of myself. A version of me who’s more experienced, more knowledgeable and someone who has conquered his fears. I admit to my flaws and wrongdoings, and I hope that 2022 will be the year when I finally get rid of them. For everyone who’s struggling in life, may 2022 be the year when you truly find meaning in your lives.

I hope that next year will be better than the current. The past two years (2020-2021) have been filled with sorrow and billions of lives around the globe have been affected by the pandemic. During the pandemic, millions of lives were lost, millions of jobs were lost, connections between friends have been cut, and the mental health of many people around the globe have been affected. May 2022 give us back the joy and freedom that we lost two years ago. Towards the end of 2021, a few improvements have

been visible like the vaccination of millions of people around the planet and some countries reopening face-to-face classes, but we’re still far from what we had before the pandemic. This slow, yet steady improvement gives us a glimmer of hope that we’d be able to rise from this pandemic by next year.

During face-to-face classes, I didn’t really mind the whole idea of going to school physically since it’s been like that for decades. I actually wished to have online classes because I wouldn’t need to leave my home. But once I had a taste of online classes, I instantly wished for face-to-face classes to return. There were just too many problems that online classes brought and those problems hugely affected the education of many children around the world. But recently, with the vaccination of millions of children, I can envision us going back to school physically next year. Some countries have already reopened the faceto-face classes and I hope that we too, the Philippines, will reopen face-to-face classes once again.

With the upcoming 2022 elections, tension has been high among the presidential candidates (well, technically, among their supporters). Several wellknown politicians have already filed for candidacy and the media has been constantly updating everyone on the current state of the elections. Despite the elections still being months away, arguments have already ignited among Filipino voters. Since I’m still not eligible for voting, I hope that people would vote for someone responsible and someone who would lead Filipinos into turning our country into a better place.

With 2022 closing in, I guess it’s safe to assume that people have expectations on what’ll happen next year. To be honest, before writing this piece, the only vision I had for 2022 was seeing the pandemic slowly ending. The pandemic has greatly affected my mentality to the point where all I want is to see it gone and I’m sure that this wish is mutual between everyone living on this planet.

All Mariah Carey wants for Christmas is “you”, but for me, all I want for Christmas is for this virus to vanish. With all that being said, I would like to greet everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year!

May 2022 be a fruitful year for everyone! [R]

PHOTO SOURCE RAWPIXEL

Paskuhan sa Heneral Trias

May Pandemya man o wala, hinding Trias. Kahit saan ka tumingin, mapas misa, nagsasama-sama para kumain

PHOTO AND LAYOUT NINA DULCE, FRANXENE BARANTES, ALIXIA CANALIN

g-hindi mawawala ang masaya at makulay na diwa ng Pasko sa Bayan ng Heneral sakaliwa man o sa kanan, makikita mo ang mga Gentriseñyong nagtitipon para sa n, at pinagmamasdan ang makulay na dekorasyon sa Plaza.

18 FEATURES // THE LASALLIAN RHEIMS

Death Date or Birth Date: Which Prevails?

Trisha Ilar

"He who would love much has also much to suffer." The 30th day of December is the death anniversary of one who loved as much as he suffered for his country, Dr. Jose P. Rizal. The spirit of heroism and nationalism is especially relevant on this day, as we commemorate his death which signifies his sacrifice out of love for the country.

As we celebrate this holiday, we remember his words that yearn for equality and patriotism we longed to achieve. In this way, we try to immortalize the spirit of Rizal in these modern times, as we raise the Philippine flag and partake in wreath laying ceremonies. With this, the 30th of December became a national non-working holiday.

There are several debates surrounding the celebration of Rizal Day on December 30, which is his death anniversary, being a joyful event, inestead of a mournful one.

His birthday was on the 19th of June 1861 in Calamba, Laguna. He grew up in a rich family who molded him into a brilliant kid who has great love for the country. At some point, he got involved with the propagandist movement promoting national reform during his time. For he was a threat to Spaniards, he was then convicted of rebellion, sedition, and forming of illegal association. At the age of 35, he was shot to death in Bagumbayan field in the morning of December 30,1896. As we recall of the debates going on the dates, both are equally important as they are both important parts of his life. However, there are more debates that tackles the appropriateness of De-

cember 30 as the Rizal Day.

The celebration of Rizal day started with Emilio Aguinaldo's decree on Dec. 20, 1898 stating that the 30th of December will be the National day of mourning for the death anniversary of Rizal and the victims of Spanish rule. It states that as a sign of mourning, the national flags will be raised lower than usual starting from 12 noon of December 29 and all of the government offices shall be closed on December 30. This decree can be found in El Heraldo de la Revolucion that was issued on December 25, 1898.

On December 30, 1898, the first and foremost celebration of Rizal day started. It begun in Manila by the Filipino Club. Coincidentally as well that the first ever statue to be erected in honor of Dr. Jose Rizal preceded to be unveiled in a town, Daet in Camarines Norte on that very same day. Also, the Americans came up with Act. No. 243 to ease with the spirit of the Filipinos by allowing them to use the Luneta Park to erect a statue there in honor of Rizal.

It states that the funds will be coming from the public. On December 30,1913, Jose Rizal's 17th anniversary welcomed the unveiling of the statue erected in Luneta. This continued with the previous presidents.

With that, Former President Elpidio Quirino enacted Republic Act 229 on June 9, 1948 wherein there will be a committee to take in charge of the proper celebration of Rizal Day. Also, former President Arroyo, enacted Administrative Order No. 44 that directed the chairman of National Historical Institute to

lead the 106th anniversary of Jose Rizal's martyrdom.

On the first of February 1902, the Philippine Commission enacted the Act No. 345 wherein December 30 became officially the day of Rizal. This year's 30th of December, we once again remember the heroic deed. We will commemorate it by raising the flag at half mast.

Then, a service will be led by the president at the Rizal Monument in Manila. Also, there will be wreath laying ceremonies that will be held at the Rizal Shrine in Calamba and the Rizal Monument in Baguio City.

In the past few years there were attempts to move the date from Dec. 30 to his birthdate which is June 19. First possible reason is that the focus of the celebration is lessened as the people focuses on the Christmas and New Year events. Also, the date of June 19 would be near the other national celebrations that promotes nationalism like the National Flag Day on May 28 and Independence Day on June 12. Another reason is that some say that it is better to celebrate his birthday than his death in which we mourn to.

Let us set aside the argument, as we know that both dates are equally important. May it be the birthdate or death anniversary, what is most important is that we make use of the celebration as a sign of gratitude for his great sacrifice. As he quoted, "He who does not know how to look back at where he came from will never get to his destination." It is now our turn to serve our country and help our fellow men especially in this trying times of pandemic. [R]

PHOTO SOURCE ARIUS1998 - WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

A Broken God does not Give Marielle Navarro

“I find it quite fascinating, really, how those you ‘bless’ with power tend to lose something in return.”

Licking his lips, the boy answered with a weirdly sweet tone lacing his words, a smile settling on his lips as he replies.

The tall man’s shadow towers over the one before him, blocking the light from reaching his figure. The man sitting down by the statue’s pedestal scoffed at the statement as he kept working his way through braiding his own hair; the front locks still glowing a luminescent blue while he expertly wove them together in place.

“Perhaps I do, but who knows? Maybe I’m the one playing a game with fate. You know well enough that we can take what we can give.”

“We haven’t spoken in so long, and yet your greetings seem to grow colder over time.

Now, dear friend,” he says, opening his eyes to reveal colors similar to his hair, gesturing to the side with them. “Take a seat, you haven’t even told me what name you go as these days.”

“Oh, dear friend, that is where you’re mistaken,”

The man standing hesitates but eventually sits down next to him, a cold stare remaining on his face as he speaks.

“Do you not find it humorous that fate continues to play this cruel joke on you?”

He asks as the man eventually finishes with his hair, placing a hat carefully on top of his head. He looks up at the man, his eyes beginning to glow the same way his braids are, an expression only the souls of long past will remember.

“So, what,” The tall man’s voice shaking a bit, a tinge of anger in his voice. “You charge them for something that you call a gift?”

He lifts a hand up gently, and the wind picks up at the motion, the originally gentle breeze turning slightly aggressive.

“Gifts are meant to be given. What I offer are not gifts, for they do not come free. What I offer is power, and you know that having such privilege has its consequences.” *

Yet Another Departure This pandemic gave you such long vacation, Which gave us more family time, and great communication.

Though we’d go back to “normal”, I’d like to appreciate the memories we’ve all spent together, Now... that we have to suffer, again, the pain of being far from each other.

I may always be silent sometimes, and didn’t get much time to talk to you...

We still had beautiful times, father and daughter times... still important! Even if it’s few.

Not so wonderful moments may also be included in my memory...

But! I’ll use them as a lesson and grow up as a good-mannered lady.

Words may not be enough to describe these experiences, But one thing’s for sure, it gave me some happiness.

Now that you’re leaving again... and taking your departure...

May you please stay safe, and have a great time, while preparing for our future.

- Zoeline Honrado

Odd Dream of Hope Strolling around an unfamiliar place There is no more step so she halted She turned around to gaze at that space She felt like it was haunted She fought off her fright with curiosity and entered Suddenly, fainted footsteps can be heard She was taken aback and got isolated She opened her eyes but her sight seem to be blurred Amidst the frightening place A soothing presence came near It became the light of the space With its help, she was able to escape It encircled her gently As if it was embracing and protecting her She felt it was done intently and carefully The sound of it further calmed her She woke up bursting into tears Her tears of hope has been shown She felt inspired to face her fears A dream that reminds that she was never alone - Trisha Ilar

Holiday Spirit Other countries leave out Milk and cookies to sit While we have bibingka And puto-bumbong to eat They keep their stars up where They’re really meant to burn Meanwhile, we have parols That we see in every turn There is a difference Between our celebrations But even the holiday spirit Transcends barriers and nations

- Marielle Navarro

Wonder of U

What is this?

What is this terror I feel?

Why is my body frozen, Speechless, and forced to kneel?

This feeling that I feel, The fear of losing U This feeling that I feel, Certainly isn’t new Here I am Down and feeling blue, On the ground and in tears, Wondering of U

- Ben Nivera

PHOTO SOURCE DE LA SALLE BROTHERS OF THE PHILIPPINES

facebook.com/Rheims2020

@Rheims2020

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