The Mentor Tabloid Volume LXXII - Issue No. 1

Informs • Educates • Empowers

PINNED AND READY. Fourth-year students taking their oath during the first-ever BUCE Students Teachers’

on January 19, 2024, at the Bulwagang Bueno, OSAS Building. | Photo Courtesy:

BICOLUNIVERSITY

COLLEGE

OF

EDUCATIONHOLDSTHE FIRST-EVERSTUDENTTEACHERS’PINNINGCEREMONY

by Nina Athena L. Gracilla

The Bicol University College of Education (BUCE) marks another milestone with its first-ever Student Teacher’s Pinning Ceremony with the theme, “Igniting Hearts, Inspiring Minds: Pioneering Transformative Educators for Humanity”lastJanuary19,2024,2 pm, at the Bulwagang Bueño, OSASBuilding.

The Pinning Ceremony was attendedby382fourth-year

student teachers who are about to embarkontheirteachinginternship on the 2nd Semester, along with theBUCEteachers.

The BU SUC President, Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III, who was also present at the ceremony, led the students in their oathtaking.

The event includes the oathtaking of the student teachers, the pinning, and the candle lighting, which symbolizes welcoming the pre-service teacher into the teachingprofession—ashiftfrom

BUCECARAVAN2023TRIUMPHS OVER

CHALLENGINGWEATHER

Despite the unexpected weather condition, BUCE students, College Based Organizations (CBO), and the BUCE-CSC warmly welcome the three-day BUCE Caravan 2023 in front of the Gabaldon Building last September 27-29, 2023.

All ten College-Based Organizations enthusiastically set up their booths and prepared exciting games and gimmicks for the BUCE students.

Games spearheaded by the BUCECSC, such as The Boat is Sinking, Hanap ko ang tunog mo, and many more, were also conducted that hype the atmosphere of the event.

Different CBO representatives also showed their amazing talents by performing different dances and songs. Awards such as the Most Visited Booth, Best Booth, and Most Creative and Entertaining PACEKLAB-CBO were also given to the different CBOs.

With the collaboration of BUCECSC and the various CBOs, the event ended with enjoyment, which stands as a resounding proof of the potential of collective effort, a reminder that together, CEnians can reach heights once thought impossible.

by Arbie Miralpis

beingastudenttoateacher.

Meanwhile in the said event, the Dissemination of UNESCOAPCEIU Publication, “Striving the Ripple: GCED in Basic Education in Bicol Region” was also conducted where significant individuals such as the Unit Head of BUCEILS High School Department, Dr. Ma. Teresa M. Abainza,BicolUniversityPresident, Dr. Baby Boy Nebres III, Prof. Jefferson R. Plantilla, Senior Researcher, HURIGHTS OSAKA UNESCO-APCEIUGCEDMentor,

BUCE-CSC SPEARHEADS BUCELEAD CAMP2024

by Jan Benedict Loyola

To empower student leaders with the essential skills and knowledge to lead and manage groups efficiently, the Bicol University College of Education - College Student Council (BUCE-CSC) spearheads the two-day BUCE Lead Camp 2024: Unleash, Empower, Aspire and Discover with the theme "Leadership Unleashed: Igniting Passion, Driving Success" held last January26-27,2024attheBUCEcampus.

The first day of the camp covered three workshops in the morning as well as a bonfire lighting and a variety show in the evening, while the second day of the camp featured more physical activities like the Zumba session and team building, where the different subcamps took place in the AmazingChallenge.

Ms.PamelaG.Garcia,aVolunteer, Bicol GCED initiatives, and the Director BU- CTE, Bicol GCED InitiativeImplementer,Dr.Rebecca Rosario O. Bercasio were given a chance to talk about the Bicol GCED Initiatives and the overview as well as the highlights of the Book.

The ceremony successfully concluded at 5:30 pm, leaving all fourth-year students with newfound confidence and motivation for their upcomingteachinginternship.

In addition, subcamp Vygotsky, Erikson, Skinner, Piaget, Pavlov, and Thorndike received consolation prizes.

Meanwhile, the BUCE Lead camp event head, Ms. Aren Nicole Melano, the BUCECSC Treasurer, expressed her gratitude to the participants and the people behind the camp's success.

The two consecutive days of informative and entertaining activities successfully wrap up on January 27 at the BUCEILSElementaryDepartmentQuadrangle.

Subcamp Freud was awarded the Overall Best Subcamp, followed by Subcamp Kohlberg and Subcamp Bandura during the Closing Program. Individual awards were also presented to Cherell Mejillano for the Human Bingo, Nicole Ann Balucio for the Early Bird Camper, Divine Nuñez, and DieseryTombadofortheBestCampers.

“Your contributions have not only made the BUCE LEAD Camp 2024 possible but also created a positive and enriching experience for everyone involved. Together, we've proven that teamwork and dedication can lead to remarkable achievements.", Melano stated in her Facebook post.

The awarding ended at 3:00 PM, leaving all subcamps and participants with meaningful learning essential for future leadership endeavors.

BETTER WHEN I'M DANCING. Mark Angelo Dantes, a BCAED second year students and a part of the BUCE Dance Troup as he shows his grooves during the Caravan. | Photo by: Shena Guarnes

Pinning Ceremony

Bicol University Communication and Public Relation Office

BEAUTYQUEENINARMYGREENS:ANGEL BRAHMSWINSFIRSTMISSROTCPHILIPPINES

By Mica Mae Sedan

AngelBrahms,an18-year-old ROTC cadet, made history as she was crowned the Miss ROTC PhilippinesonOctober21,2023.

In a groundbreaking event at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City, Angel Brahms Bernaldez, an ROTC cadet hailing from the picturesque fishing town of RapuRapu in Albay province, clinched the title of Miss ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) Philippines. Among 23 cadets representing various higher education institutions and universities, Bernaldez emerged victorious, showcasing both her innerstrengthandouterbeauty.

Behind her radiant morena complexionliesastoryofresilience and courage. Having endured bullying in the past due to her skin tone,Bernaldezstoodtallonstage, proving that beauty transcends societal standards. Her journey fromvictimtovictorservesasan

inspiration to many, demonstrating that adversity can be conquered withgraceanddetermination.

"EversinceIwasachild,Iwas bullied because of my skin complexion.Thishasmotivatedme to advocate for inclusivity and diversity and become a light to children who are victims of bullying," she said to an interview published in Philippine News Agency.

During the pageant's Q&A portion, Bernaldez delivered a poignantandeloquentresponseto thequestionofwhysheshouldbe crowned the first Miss ROTC Philippines. With confidence and conviction, she articulated her commitment to service, emphasizing the importance of leadership, discipline, and patriotism instilled by the ROTC program. Her impassioned words resonatedwiththeaudience,

further solidifying her deserving victory.

Bernaldez's triumph not only celebrates her individual achievementbutalsosymbolizesa triumph over adversity and a celebration of diversity within the ROTC community. As she proudly wearshercrown,sheembodiesthe spirit of resilience, empowerment, and service that defines the ROTC program.

In a culture that idealizes fair complexion, Brahms aims to uplift womenwhoareproudoftheirskin tone. Angel Brahms Bernaldez stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, proving that with courage, determination, and unwavering faith in oneself, one can conquer any obstacle and emerge victorious. Her journey from Rapu-Rapu to the pinnacle of the Miss ROTC Philippines pageant serves as a testament to thebeautyofdiversity.

PISARELEASES2022RESULT:THEPHILIPPINES STILLLAGSINEDUCATION

By Ed Christian G. Guese and Nina Athena L. Gracilla

In two consecutive Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) results, the Philippines remains among the nations with lowest average scores in the global educationsurvey.

According to the latest PISA results released by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the Philippines scored 355 in Math, showing a slight improvement of two points from the 2018 assessment, albeit still ranking on the sixth lowest countries. In Reading, the country attained a score of 347, marking an increase of seven points from the previous evaluation, yet remains among the sixth low performing countries. However, in Science, the Philippines showed a slight decline, withascoreof356,makingitamong the three lowest scoring countries, dropping by one point from the previousassessment.

Five to Six years behind Pisa is an assessment conducted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) every three years to evaluate the academic performance of 15-year-old students in reading, mathematicsandscience.

The

students and their international counterparts. The assessment indicates that Filipino students are notably behind by five to six years in mathematics, science, and reading compared to their 15-year-old peers fromotherparticipatingcountries.

However, the Department of Education (DepEd) was not shaken and maintains an optimistic outlook, emphasizing the resilience of the country’s education system, despite showing that the Philippines ranking sixth to the last in reading and mathematics and third to the last in scienceamong81countries.

The Pisa 2022 result showed that the Philippines’ performance in the three subjects remained low and somehow the same as the previous 2018PISA,werethePhilippinesalso saw a dismal result in reading comprehension, science, and mathematicsamongothercountries.

A wake-up call

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte acknowledges the uncomfortable truth about the state of country’s education system unveiled by the PISArankings.

She emphasizes the necessity for DepEd to confront and rectify the deficiencies identified in the internationalassessment.

RUSTEBAGSTHIRDPLACE INTHEON-THE-SPOT DRAWINGCONTEST

by Jan Benedict Loyola

Princes Ann Ruste, a second-year student of Bachelor of Culture and the Arts Education (BCAEd), bagged third place in the Onthe-Spot Drawing Contest during the 45th Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) National Congress of College Students and 25th YMCA National Campus Club Adviser Workshop 2023 held at Senior Mess, Teachers' Camp Baguio City, last December2,2023.

Ruste'seye-catchingartistic abilities and creativity propelled her to secure third placeinthehighlycompetitive event, along with the 38 delegations across various regionsinthePhilippines.

The YMCA National Congress ofCollegeStudentsandCampus Club Advisers Workshop united college students and campus club advisers from various regions, allowing them to share their thoughts and display their skills.

As an integral component of the occasion, the On-the-Spot Drawing competition emerged as an engaging activity, urging participants to generate artwork spontaneously.

Ruste, a BCAEd student, not onlyachievespersonaldistinction but also draws attention to Bicol University, showcasing the university's dedication to cultivating artistic abilities and fostering the creative growth of itsstudents.

BARCENASANDBARAQUIEL ISTHEMR.ANDMS.BUCE 2023

By Nina Athena L. Gracilla and Ma. Dorothy Mae Rojo

In the display of wit and beauty, Jay Mar Barcenas and Rica Mae Baraquiel was crowned as the Mr. and Ms. Bicol University College of Education 2023 during the closed-door competition held last October 6, 2023, at the BUCE Demo Hall.

Pisa has provided us with valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of our education system. The PISA results may bear uncomfortable truth. It has shown that a significant majority of our boys and girls fall below the proficiency level required for full participation in society and contributing to nation-building.

HON.

SARA Z. DUTERTE Secretary, Department of Education

BackinNovember,Dutertedecided to have a catch-up day to allow students to improve their reading skills as she had already anticipated the low Pisa results in the same month. The implementation of initiatives for reading improvement, underscores the commitment to addressingtheseissues. Whileincrementalprogressisnoted in specific areas, the overarching messageconveyedbythePISA2022 results is clear: the Philippines' education system requires substantial enhancement to meet global standards. The overall standing of the Philippines in the PISA report indicates a continued need to enhance educational standards and outcomes on a broaderscale.

Fourteen (14) representatives from the various Department Programs took the challenge of being the MMBUCE 2023. Dressed in their blue and white motif, Barcenas and Baraquiel exhibit their graceful ramps, charming physiques, and brilliant minds which led them to the crown.

"I was able to conquer my fear when I was appointed to join this pageant. It is outside my comfort zone, and I seriously questioned myself if I'm deserving to represent the Mathematics group in the MMBUCE stage this year." Barcenas said on his Facebook post.

"Now, I'm honored and blessed to be called as Mister Bicol University College of Education. This title is not something I ever imagined holding, but it is a strong indication that life is full of surprises." he added

On the other hand, Baraquiel describe her decision in joining the said pageant as “impulsive yet bearspositiveoutcome”.

“When there is doubt, there is potential. So, follow that potential more than you doubt it.” Baraquiel inherFacebookpost.

“This day marks the outcome of one of the most impulsive decisions I had ever made in my life but fortunately it bears a positive yet pressuring outcome. Mixed emotions indeed but I want to prioritize the feeling of utmost gratitudefornow.”sheadded.

The newly hailed king and queen both expressed their gratitude to all thepeoplebehindtheirsuccess.

Truly, they are the beauty queen and king of education, where knowledge reigns supreme, and wisdomshinesbrightly.

BORN TO WEAR A TIARA. Angel Brahms, an 18-year-old student from Bicol University College of Education (BUCE) earned the title of Ms. ROTC Philippines for the first time on October 21, 2023 at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City. | Photo by: Philippine ROTC Games Facebook Page

SMILES OF TRIUMPH. Princess Ann Ruste with proud smiles bring home the noble treats in a form of trophy and medal last December 2, 2023 at Baguio City. | Photo by: Princess Ann Ruste

NEW FACES. Jay Mar Barcenas, representing BSEd Mathematics, and Rica Mae Baraquiel, from BSEd Science, were crowned as the new Mr. and Ms. BUCE 2023 on October 6, 2023, at the BUCE Demo Hall. | Photo by: John Irish Lobenia

BUHATAW'23:ACOLLECTION OFFIRSTS

by Jan Benedict Loyola

Lastyear,therewasthisone night. One night where the livelyatmosphere,jovialmood, night sky, beaming lights, and the mirthful souls wearing jubilant smiles, ecstatically danced along to the loud, upbeat music that could be heard from a mile away, all comingtogethertoproducejoy and festivity that oozed beyondtheuniversitygrounds.

On that night of October last year,BUeñosfromalloverthe regiongatheredtoconductthis renowned, annual dance performance that only lasted for a couple of minutes, but wassuretoberememberedin the years that will come – the well-renownedBUHataw.

The BU Hataw is just one of the many, but arguably the most iconic in the set of activities held in connection with the opening program to the BU Olympics, and the most anticipated annual event of the university, distinguished for its huge number of participants, the pom poms made of metallic foil, and the stylish BU PE uniforms worn by the students during the routine.The"Hataw"thisyear, asusual,washeldintheBicol UniversitySportsComplexand was mainly composed of firstyearandsecond-yearstudents coming from different colleges ofBU,andwasledbysomeof theseniorsfromtheInstituteof PhysicalEducationSportsand Recreation(BU-IPESR).

tournament managers, faculty members, and other stakeholders of BU. All of the different colleges and satellite campuses: BU Polangui, BU Guinobatan, BU Tabaco, and BU Gubat, had the said personnel present in the parade, bringing banners to represent and support their campuses.

The much-awaited dance...

After a gentle reminder to always exhibit the highest sense of sportsmanship and form friendships among fellow BUeño athletes in the opening speech, the much-awaited danceactivitybegan.

For12straightminutes,the entireBUSportsComplexwas filled with orange garters and metallicfoilsofblueandwhite, all moving in unison, jamming to the beat of the exhilarating music, leaving the audience in awe. Not everyone is a dancer, but in that moment, it did not matter, as each and everyBUeñointheareacould be seen willfully executing everydancemove.Thatnight, BUeños danced the night away, radiating good vibes amongst each other. The dance performance was concluded with a barrage of party poppers and a fireworks display.

First-times after first-times... Every "Hataw" is unique in

hailing as the highest record as of writing. This was achieved thanks to the participation of first and second year students who werejoinedforthefirsttimeby the senior high school students from BUCE Integrated Laboratory High School - Senior High School (BUCEILS-SHS) Department, along with the teaching and non-teaching staff there. This year's "Hataw" was also the first one to be joined by the teaching and non-teaching personnel from the College of Law (BUCL) and College of Medicine(BUCM).

Tomakethis"Hataw"allthe more special, the Hon. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III, has joined the performance, making it the first time a BU President joined the celebration.

Asthesecondannualon-site conduct of the event, succeeding the first one held since the start of the pandemic, this year's "Hataw" istrulyonetoberemembered. Now, for some senseless reasons, some nitpicky folks might be quick to run off their mouths and point out the unfortunate yet easily dismissiblethingsencountered before, during, and after the event, completely ignoring the feats that it achieved. Amidst this, though, BUeños should not be swayed. Unhealthily criticizing the "Hataw" and comparing each one to rank them from best to worst is not

BREAKINGTHEBARRIERSTHROUGH INCLUSIVEEDUCATION

By Apreal Ciara Morada

astheyindulgedthemselvesin the tremendous venture.

The screeching sound of chalk scraping on a chalkboard, the quiet flipping fromonepagetoanother,and the tangible marks written on our report cards serve as embodiments of the roles of a teacher.

Teachingisconsideredtobe the noblest profession. Becoming a teacher is not solely a duty to inspire students to achieve their dreams, but also a passion anddedicationtostriveharder every day, to continue expanding your proficiency in thefield,andtofearlesslyface challenges that might come alongtheway.

As part of the Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia (SEA Teacher Project), pre-service student teachers from Bicol University College of Education were auspiciously sent overseas in 2023. This endeavor that was set to last from August 28 to September 22, gives the opportunity to pre-service teacherstoexplorethefieldof teaching in different perspectives from schools in SoutheastAsiancountries.

Four students audaciously tooktheirwaytobroadentheir knowledge and polish their experiences as future student teachers. Ivan N. Palencia from BSEd Science 4-A and Shaina Marie Q. Cosa from BSEd Mathematics 4, were poised to embark on a challenging journey in Thailand. On the other hand, Divine E. Nuñez from BSEd Mathematics 4 and Cydie B. Bigtas from BSEd English 4 were granted the exceptional opportunity to represent the BicolUniversityinIndonesia.

Theaforementionedstudents enthusiastically shared their mostremarkableexperiences

THESTARTOF SOMETHINGNEW

by Francois Joshua Bajandi

As the BU College of Education celebrates the day of love, special connections are being formed anew through a unique and thrilling take on conventional notions of romance.

"CEnsightful Encounters: A Blind Date" proved to have sent the BUCE Botanical Garden into a lovebug frenzy as CEnians witnessed and gushed at the participants' attempts to draw their own romantic fates – an experience suffused withvulnerabilityandauthenticity.

The hopeful participants of the blind date hailed from different college-based organizations of BUCE. Challenging superficial notions of dating, participants had to prove themselves with only their wit, personalities, and character to win the searcher’s heart over three rounds: words of affirmation, physical touch, and questionandanswer.

In the inaugural round titled “Words ofAffirmation,”participantsembarkedon

“Duringourlunchattheschool cafeteria, I had a pupil in Primary 1 who called me eagerly by the name ‘Teacher Aewan.’Hethenshowedmea pieceofpaperandwrittenonit was the text ‘A1.’ I smiled at him and told him that he spelled my name correctly. It was the cutest thing that happened that day! Thai students have difficulty pronouncing my name. My name is Ivan and they call me ‘Aefan,’ ‘Aewan,’ and sometimes, ‘Teacher iPhone.’ This is because, in Thailand, they don’t have a ‘v’ sound,” Palenciastated.

Ontheotherhand,according to Nuñez, “Participating in the SEA Teachers Exchange Program itself was undeniably my most memorable experience, immersing me in the vibrant tapestry of Indonesia's educational and cultural landscape. Interacting with students, teachers, and families from diverse backgroundsnotonlyrevealed the universal desire for knowledge and understanding but also fostered deep connections that transcended culturalboundaries.”

Despite the convivial atmosphere that welcomed them and the exhilarating experiences they had, they admitted facing formidable challenges that rigorously tested their determination and dedication as exchange students. Financial stability, homesickness, language and communication barriers, cultural differences—you name it. But despite everything, they didn’t let theseprovocationspullthem

a journey of verbal intimacy, expressing their desires and character to the searcher. For the second round, "Physical Touch," a landscape of unspoken understanding through caresses and playful gestures emanated among the participants. And for the final round, all pretenses were cut loose as participants ventured into the terrain of intellectual and emotional discovery. Through candid dialogue, unfamiliar souls bared themselves and connected beyondthesuperficial.

As cupid aimed its bows at the end, Louise Margareth Crizaldo of BECED-1 and John Carlo Carullo Casaul of BEED2 both got the first strikes and later, April Vargas of BSED Values Education – 1 and Kenneth Parumog of BSED Math –4.

Cautious and weary of relationships due to past experiences, Crizaldo, the “searcher” of the first part of the game saw this date as an opportunity to step outside her comfort zone and meet new people. Regardless of the tension she felt throughout, it was nonetheless an enjoyableexperienceforher.

Anothersearcher,Parumog,shared

away from achieving their goals.Instead,theytookthese obstacles as an open door for personal and professional growth.Andjustlikeaphoenix rising from the ashes, they were able to overcome these challenges by manifesting resilience, flexibility, and adaptability.

In hindsight, they imparted some valuable recommendations for aspiring students who are aiming to take part in the SEA Teacher Project. “Prepare mentally because you will be teaching there.Atleastknowsomething about the system and curriculum of the school you will be deployed at. Carry the lessons you learned from your professors as they will be useful once you start teaching regardless of grade level,” Cosasaid.

“Onapersonalnote,Iwantto encourage them to uncover and explore the culture, particularlythelanguageofthe country that they might be [assigned] to, in order to mitigate the possible culture shocks. Another, embracing challenges is also beneficial for their personal growth and development,enablingthemto acquire new knowledge and experience,” Bigtas also shared.

To be part of this marvelous escapade is indeed a one-ofa-kind experience that will surely hold a special place in their hearts. New discoveries were unlocked, profound realizations were unfolded, loving friends and reliable companions were earned, and lifelong lessons were learned throughout their one-month stay in their designated countries. Their wondrous expedition proved the saying that experience is always the bestteacher.

the same sentiment as Crizaldo about the game, albeit his reasons and circumstances were different. Nevertheless, it was certainly fate pulling itsstrings.

“Unexpected siya, kasi may pupuntahan sana ako, and then pinapunta ako rito ng mga clubmates ko. Parangbiglaanlangtalaga,”heexplains.

As for the girl Cupid sets Parumog up with in the end, April Vargas shares how the blind date opened up new perspectives on love and relationships. Being “chosen” was also another surprisingmomentforher.

“Nakakapanibagoposinceeverytime nanagp-postpoakonglinksaNGL,ang mga comments po sa akin is “intimidating” daw po ako, parang hindi daw sila pasok sa standards kaya hindi daw ako nagkaka-jowa. Kaya nanibago po talaga ako na napili ako,” she explains.

Hearts acquainted and ready to see where fate leads them next. Indeed, real beauty lies in vulnerability and authenticity.

HATAW! Over 10,000 students and faculty members performing the BU Hataw as it kicked off the opening of BU Olympics 2023 on October 24th, at the Bicol University Albay Sports Complex. | Photo by John Irish Lobenia

READY, SET, EXCHANGE. BUCE pre-service teachers Shaina Marie Q. Cosa and Ivan N. Palencia (fifth and sixth from the left) head to Thailand, while Divine E. Nuñez and Cydie B. Bigtas (third and fourth from the left) journey to Indonesia as exchange students, selected by the Southeast Asian Ministry of Education Organization (SAMEO) as part of Pre-service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia. | Photo Courtesy: BU International Relations Office

WORRYING ABOUT THE WRONG THING OPIN

by Francois Joshua Bajandi

In the early 20th century, technophiles and enthusiasts marveled at the conspiracy of a technologically advanced utopian future – where man would live in an automated fashion, with an "intelligent machine" that would work for their human owners. Decades later, one could argue that they may not be too far off. Unless one is severely detached from society and the media, he may already be acquainted with the buzzwords "artificial intelligence," "ChatGPT," and "AI." What used to seem like a figment of man's imagination has become a reality –humanity and intelligent machines can now live side by side in the workforce, the home, and even the education system. While the use of AI in education has the potential to streamline and optimize the learning process, it also poses a threat of increased cheating and a decline in critical thinking skills, which calls for a reevaluation of the education system to redefine academic success and emphasize necessary thinking skills and problem-solving.

AI has made promising strides for the past couple of years, but it was only when one of its brainchildren, "ChatGPT," became available to the masses in November 2022 that it became a global phenomenon. With its friendly user interface as a chat box, one did not have to dabble in programming or coding to manipulate outputs. It was accessible and powerful. The individual using it has to tell it what it needs to do, as someone would do to a human assistant, and it will generate the requests instantly. Albeit limited in the requests that it can accomplish, it was still mind-blowing for what it was.

ChatGPT is merely a product of AI, yet the discussion about AI only puts ChatGPT at the forefront. AI is exponentially growing, and so are its children. ChatGPT, as an AI tool, specializes in a specific task, mainly text-based assistance. Over the horizon, an AI tool will generate pictures and songs, clinically assess health, and transform a traditional learning setup. The potential influence these tools could assume in society is easy to understand.

When integrated into the learning experience, AI can streamline and optimize the learning process for teachers and students. The AI's automation prowess can free teachers from the mundane administrative tasks of computing grades, assessing progress, and outlining sessions. This lightened workload will allow teachers to shift their energy and focus to their students, paving the way for more student-centered interventions.

As for the students, they will benefit from an innovative learning system that is optimal, unique, and tailored to their specific needs. While teachers will remain a central figure in their academic journeys, a system available at arm's reach and working with the student's unique characteristics will streamline the entire learning process. With the current AI tools introducing themselves in the education echelon, it is a prospect we should look at positively.

However, it would be remiss to discount the apprehensions surrounding the technology – and rightfully so. Given the ease with which a string of words from students will afford them a literature synthesis on a given topic, a new poem, and a 500-word criticism paper in minutes, many fear that a cheating epidemic may ensue. Never has plagiarism been more efficient, instant, and specific. Moreover, when students turn to their artificial ghostwriters excessively, we may enter a period in which our workforce may be unable to think critically for themselves, work for themselves, and understand what they contribute to society.

Should such fears hold us dismissive of the benefits of AI in education?

Understanding the woes and fears of AI in education is realizing that it is no different from the ills that the education system has long tried to eradicate: plagiarism What made it different from the centuries-old student hack of copying other people's words and assuming authorship? AI only made it efficient – that is the only difference.

While this shows the need for policies and stakeholders to be more aware of AI, detection alone will prove an unsustainable response to an exponentially growing technological reality. Detecting AI plagiarism is no different from the band-aid fixes we have established regarding ensuring academic integrity.

We are worrying about the wrong thing. A more profound concern beneath the AI plagiarism scare requires our attention.

We need to change not what students submit but the system that led to this behavior in the first place.

Addressing AI's role in education and its inextricable ties to plagiarism requires a reevaluation from the education system to define its clause on academic success, how it is recognized, and the nature of education students are exposed to.

Unfortunately, our educational institutions have made it an unwritten rule that mediocre comprehension and rote application of concepts can suffice for a barely passing mark – as suggested by generations of research. Students are rewarded for retrieving information from memory, albeit shallow rather than critical thought. Hence, when assigned tasks call for low-level comprehension and application, ChatGPT and other AI tools become problematic vices to resist. ChatGPT can quickly generate a six-paragraph essay on the Civil War or give students a chronological narration of the emergence of feminism – this tells us not to reprimand AI for doing its purpose but instead to change the tasks we give students at school.

Another angle that must also be considered is the nature of the education students are subjected to – an environment that the teacher actively enforces. It is a lie that we will encounter a teacher who seems oblivious about their class or maybe lazy and just slightly ahead of their class. Such a lazy teacher becomes vulnerable to receiving work from a lazy student who may have used AI to ghostwrite it.

By redefining the concept of "academic success" and changing the nature of education we provide to students, we can discourage students from resorting to AI for cheating and instead consider it a tool to complement their original thinking. When teachers act as coaches, form positive relationships with their students, and reward their ability to interpret and critically analyze facts rather than memorize them, students will be encouraged to think for themselves and view AI as a tool to help enhance their sophisticated, high-level thinking. In this sense, we allow AI to fulfill its intended use: work with humans, not for humans.

However, of course, there will always be the few students who will put their crafty minds to bear in finding the "easy way" out. We leave these crops to wither if we act on them after some time. Hence, as much as we want to put our faith in the system to encourage students to think independently, we must outpace the growing influence of AI in education through ironclad regulation from the government and administration. While these fears are nowhere as outrageous as technophobes make them out to be, they are nonetheless something that we should observe critically.

Formulating policies that draw the line in which we allow AI to operate in the academic setting while staying ahead of the trend to gain prospects in its potential benefits in education and being aware of its probable flaws is, thus, the homework of both the government and the educational institutions.

Let us desist from worrying about the wrong thing.

THEMATATAGCURRICULUM:ASTEPTOWARDSASTRONGER CURRICULUMORALEAPINTOTHEUNKNOWN?

By Mica Mae O. Sedan

The Vice President of the Philippines and Secretary of the Department of Education Sara Z. Duterte launched the MATATAG curriculum program as a revised curriculum for “Kindergarten to Grade 10” in the Philippines on August 10, 2023 to take effect on school year 2024 to 2025. MATATAG, which stands for MA–Make the curriculum relevant to produce job-ready, active and responsible citizens; TA–Take steps to accelerate delivery of basic education facilities and services; TA – Take good care of learners by promoting learner well-being, inclusive education, and a positive learning environment; and G–Give support to teachers to teach better; aims to ensure that in all schools, learners will master their literacy and numeracy skills by focusing on a learnercentered approach, improved assessments, and trainingteachers.

On the surface, MATATAG offers significant potential benefits. Its emphasis on problemsolving, critical thinking, and lifelong learning should equip Filipino students for the age of automation and digital transformation. Frequent formative evaluations help to match student needs with educational goals, and their effective implementation depends on supporting teachers. If carried out carefully, MATATAG could bring the Philippines' education system up to international standards.

However, as with any major policy change, MATATAG needs to be implemented properly to achieve its objectives. One concern is the additionaltrainingrequirementsforteachersontop of their already heavy workload. Duterte noted that the training will be school-based for teachers in the form of collaborative expertise sessions through the learning action cells (LACs). “We expect these sessions to happen in a supportive and respectful environmentwhereteacherscanaskquestionsor

share insights, thereby strengthening their knowledge of curriculum content and teaching strategies,” she stated. Nevertheless, encouragement and expectation are not the only factors that should be present in implementing a whole new curriculum; support and incentives must be provided to gain buy-in from educators andrecognizetheirefforts.

In her report on January 2024, Sara highlighted her accomplishments a year after the launch of MATATAG Agenda, including the pilot implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum, the roll-out of the National Learning Camp and CatchUp Fridays, the expansion of School-Based Feeding Program, and the strengthening of learner protection mechanisms among other, according to the DepEd Communications Division. The pilot run of the MATATAG Curriculum started on September 25, 2023 and a total of 35 public schools in seven regions were chosen by DepEd for the pilot testing. DepEd stated that the preparation for the pilot implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum will focus on “how it is going to be implemented”, that includes teacher training, and the learning resources to be used in thepilotschools.

A DepEd teacher from Albay exposited that the pilot testing of the MATATAG Curriculum is still lacking in many ways and is full of shortcomings, especially the Catch-Up Fridays. “Ang daming competencies na kailangan ituro, wala ng time para magturo dahil sa Catch-Up Friday. Tapos need ng maraming activities fun activities, senior high teacher ako. Buti ‘yong sa research period, pinabasa ko sila, kasi helpful ‘yon sa kanila.” The teacher strongly highlighted that the methods and strategies applied in the MATATAG Curriculum are rather ineffective, when it’s supposed to aim at helping students who are falling behind to catch up on their learning progress. But how can it be called “catch-up”whentheresultsweretheopposite?

Because of the Catch-up Friday, students were lagging behind the curriculum because there were so many competencies that needs to be taught as remarkedbytheDepEdteacherfromAlbay. To manage risks, MATATAG reforms should be phased in incrementally. In the pilot implementation of the DepEd to test new techniques, they should closely monitor its effectiveness, and refine approaches when gaps are identified. While change is necessary, it must be balanced with prudence. Maintaining strong foundational knowledge across disciplines should not be sacrificed for higher-order skills acquisition. There should also be alignment between MATATAG and existing programs like the Senior High School curriculum to ensure a smooth transition.

Moreover, the learner-centered approach should not diminish the teaching of foundational knowledge. Conceptual understanding and higherorder skills can only thrive if students have a solid grasp of facts, concepts and discipline-specific content knowledge. Technology integration should supplement, not replace, essential competencies likeliteracyandnumeracy.

Quality education empowers Filipino youth and spurs national development. But progress also requires prudence. The DepEd must take a judicious approach, balancing innovation with caution. The MATATAG Curriculum’s strength and competence is yet to be realized and teachers across the nation can only reckon its shortcomings withintheimplementation.

Today, the MATATAG Curriculum is still a polearm plunging towards uncertainty while the actual implementation is drawing near. The DepEd should approach it with careful planning and an openness to learning, in order for MATATAG to realize its vision of holistic and transformative education. After all, a rushed and disjointed executionmaydomoreharmthangood.

A NERVINGALLEGORY by Francois Joshua

Little by little, the Orwellian future is becoming more of a reality for the Philippines.

It came to no one's and everyone's surprise when the administration revealed last month the list of non-working holidays the country ought to observe in 2024 – the most glaring omission being the EDSA People Power Anniversary. For a son of the late tyrant who has been notorious for downplaying the horrors of their family's past to the nation and a no-commenter on the proliferation of mis and disinformation that leveraged his seat as a country executive, anyone could make sense of this shameless move.

On February 25, 1986, the world watched from their televisions the bloodless revolution that unfolded and toppled a dictator who had put the country in unspeakable horrors for two decadesunknown whereabouts of critics, stifling of the press, economic sabotage, and more. It was none like any other revolution from that point. It was a statement – peace can be the means towards peace itself.

It forever changed the trajectory of the country's history. Democracy, so long deprived of the motherland, was no longer to be fought for. Hence, its immense cultural and political significance to the Philippines has been commemorated and remembered. In the following administrations that succeeded the late President Cory Aquino, February 25 has been a special nonworking holiday for commemoration and gratitude. Until this year, the Marcos Jr. strips the EDSA 1986 of official recognition in its list of special non-working holidays for 2024. According to his office, the People Power anniversary was not included in the "special non-working days" list because February 25 next year falls on a Sunday. Moreover, the office fears "a

Bajandi

minimal socioeconomic impact" might ensue, as the anniversary coincides with the rest day for most workers/laborers.

All of these buzzwords, and yet, the feast of the immaculate conception, also falling on a Sunday, has been maintained as a special non-working holiday.

Marcos' indifference to how fake news ascended him to the presidential seat only furthers the worries of many that the family might be "whitewashing" history. True as it may be, this move might be their most outrageous and shameless one yet. When we lose sense of the past, we fail to act for the future. The EDSA Revolution is both a message of hope and a cautionary tale. If we do not acknowledge the past, no matter how difficult it is, we might find ourselves in another vicious cycle that calls for an EDSA Revolution.

Stripping EDSA 1986 of its significance is an insult, a disgrace, and a disservice to the lives that were paid, had to suffer, and are continuously living with the scars of the late Marcos' brutal worldview. It is a diminishment of a hard-fought battle of the Philippines against tyranny.

While these sentiments ring true, Marcos Jr. can dampen the voices of the ghosts from their past scot-free unless the EDSA Anniversary is signed into cold law; only then will such a nationally significant event for commemoration be protected from perverse individuals that might downplay it with dissonant logic.

May the Philippines never serve an allegory to an Orwellian dystopia for the second time, where truth is twisted, memory is erased, and the voice of the people is silenced. Defend EDSA 86’s legacy—and while memory continues to serve us, we should never forget.

KLASRUM ISYU ANG PAGBABALIK

Bago ko simulan ang lahat, uunahan ko na muna kayo –Babalaan at ihahanda. KLASRUM ISYU.

Alam kong pagdating sa mga isyu ay masigasig kayong magbasa, makinig, at makibalita. Ilang taon na rin ang nakalipas simula ng huling beses na makapaglabas ng ganitong balita ang Eduklandya, dahil na rin sa matagal na pakikibaka sa pandemya na sinabayan pa ng ilang isyung naka-apekto sa patuloy na pamamahinga ng mga papel at pag-iyak ng mga tinta. Gayunpaman, sa kabila ng mga ito ay nanatiling bukas ang mga tainga habang gumagala ang mga mata sa bawat pasilyo ng munting kaharian. At ngayon nga ay handa nang i-kuwento ang lahat ng nasaksihan sa pamamagitan ng nagliliyab na mga letra. Kaya, ang klasrum isyung ito ay tatalakayin ang ilang mga usaping dati nang pinag-usapan ngunit hanggang ngayon ay naninirahan pa rin sa 'ting munting tahanan. Linaro? Matira matibay pala ang ganap dito, kahit ang mga issue e' competitive din, ano? Pero patatalo ba ang kaklase mong pabibo? Opss! 'Wag mo nang sagutin, baka biglang mamuo ang tension. Dagdag na naman 'yan sa isyung mala-teleseryeng susundan ng mga kapuwa mo mahilig sa aksyon. So, kamusta na nga ba, mga ka-Eduk? Kamusta ang mga freshman na tuwang-tuwang sa naging resulta sa nakaraang Bicol University College Entrance Test (BUCET)? Pasado sa mga programang napili, pero pasado pa kaya kay Madam at Sir? Kamusta, nakangingiti pa ba o stress na stress na rin sa sandamakmak na mga report at activity?

E' ang mga ate at kuya kayang natutong mag-mine sa mga mangga sa kaharian ng Eduklandya? Medyo malayo ang mga sanga mula sa ikatlong palapag ng gusali at maliliit pa ang bunga pero may pangalan na. Aba! Possessive pala ang mga kuya at ate, “I don't care how complicated this gets, I still want you,” ang atake. Ngunit hanggang kailan kaya kayang panindigan ang mga bungang ito? Posible bang hindi sila makalimutan gayo'ng sa bawat paglipas ng araw ay madaming nangyayari. Hindi permanente ang mundo at lahat nagbabago. Kagaya nalang ng biglaang pagiging waterproof ng mga magaaral ng Eduklandya. Matapos sanayin na sa kaunting patak ng ulan ay may memo nang susukob upang maging payong –magaanunsyo ng pang malakasang suspensyon. Pero ngayong semestre masasabing hindi lamang mga gadgets at apps sa selpon ang nag-upgrade. Hindi lamang ang petsa sa kalendaryo ang nagbago dahil maging ang mga kolehiyo ay naging subject sa patuloy na pag-evolve ng tao na nakalimutang isama ng kahanga-hanga at kagalang-galang na tagapayo ng kaharian, Charles Darwin ang pangalan, sa kaniyang Theory of Human Evolution. Sa panahong ito, masasabing ang mga estudyante ay biglang naging waterproof, lightning proof, sleep-proof, weekendproof, holiday proof, at stress proof. Ano, kaya pa ba? Kinakaya pa ba ang 7 AM to 7 PM niyong skedyul? Isang malaking saludo sa mga humihinga pa rin at patuloy na bumabangon sa unang alarm palang ng inyong mga selpon.

Dumako naman tayo sa usaping impormasyon. Saludo sa mga taong marunong makinig at kumilala ng fake news sa hindi. Eduklandya, paano nga ba natin malalabanan at maiiwasan ang mga maling balitang nagsilipana sa panahon ngayon? Maraming isyu noong nakaraan na nadala ngayon sa kasalukuyan ang hindi nabigyang liwanag, bagay na hindi ko maitatangging nagbunga ng pagbaliktad ng aking sikmura at paglabas ng usok sa dalawang butas ng aking ilong, siyang naging sanhi upang pangarapin kong maranasan ang 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution habang may hawak na placard na nagsasabing, "Diktador! Oportunista! Ibagsak!"

OMG! Teka! Pigilan niyo 'ko. Unti-unting nakakalas ang tali na nakagapos at nakabusal sa aking mga kamay at bibig, hindi ko nako-kontrol ang pag-iyak ng aking bolpen. Sandali, hihinga lang saglit. Hooh!

Well, mapunta na nga lang tayo sa mas magaan na usapan, ang daming ganap sa semestre na 'to, ano? Dumating na rin ba kayo sa puntong kahit ang break-up ng Kathniel ay dineklara niyong holiday? Inilalaban ang kaunting pahinga na maaring matamasa, kaunting oras para makatakas sa nakakapagod at nag-uunahang patay na linya. Nasaksihan niyo na rin ba ang senaryo kung saan ang pinakamasayahing niyong kaklase na dinaig pa si Jollibee e’ biglang nadepress? Ibang klase! Iba't ibang course subject ang may sabay-sabay na reports at nagpapadamihan sa requirements. Libreng edukasyon nga ngunit kapalit ata ay altapresyon.

So, ayan! Opo. Introduction lang po 'yan. Magsisimula palang po talaga tayo, ang dami kasing hanash, ano?

Oh, heto na nga. Ang unang layon ng usapang ito.

OBJECTIVE 1: TO IDENTIFY THE PURPOSE OF BEING AN EDUK STUDENT

"Anong kurso ang kinuha mo?"

Aminin! ‘Yan ang madalas na tanong ng mga taong nakasasabay mo sa dyip. Mga taong naninirahan sa lugar niyo na hindi mo naman talaga kakilala pero ito ang mas curious, opss! Kumapit ka! Oo, kumapit ka dahil tadaaa! Kilala ka nila at gusto nila maging updated sa buhay mo. Si idol pala 'to,e. Pag sinagot mo ng, "Eduk po." susundan nila 'yan ng linyang, "Ay, Eduk lang? Bakit hindi nalang....." totohanin ang lahat? Ang kailangan ko'y paglingap, dahil habang tumatagal ay lalo kong natututunang magmahal... (baka masaktan lang.) Awtomatikong maririnig ng utak mo ang kanta ni Carol Banawa na may titulong Bakit 'Di Totohanin upang harangan ang delubyong binubuo ng ilang mga letra ngunit wawasak sa maganda mong umaga. Eduk lang?! Aba! Bilib na kami sa mga taong hindi tataas ang dugo papunta sa ulo kapag narinig ang linyang 'yan. Eduklanyars et al. (2024) found out that if you use the word lang in a sentence to belittle someone, you will end up in great danger as Benjamin Bloom will make your final exams more complicated. Aside from this, John Locke has reportedly proven that using that word will lock you forever in your problems until you learn not to mind anyone's life.

The aforementioned literatures were found related to pres–wait! Teka, hindi naman 'to research defense kaya ibaba natin ang tensyon. Pero seryoso, sinong hindi magdadamdam kung

ang pinaghihirapan mong ilaban e' minamata lang ng mga taong walang alam sa daang iyong nilalakaran? Aba! Hindi nga nila alam na halos laging walang kuryente ang Eduklandya, kaya ang mga ate at

kuya laging nagmumukhang pini-pritong maganda at guwapong understanding. Mayroon nga itong aircon pero siguradong hindi 'to gagana kung wala ang abra-kadabrang pahintulot ng nagiisang kuya ng Eduklandya house. Introducing —charot! Kapansin-pansin din ang mga saksakan sa bawat silid na may kalumaan na. Mapapa-take the risk or lose the chance ka na lang talaga lalo na kung five percent na lang ang sa selpon mo'y natitira. Dati five pesos lang ang iniiwan mong pamasahe sa bulsa, at sa pag-inog ng mundo pati battery nakigaya na. Pero teka! Makakalimutan ba natin ang madalas na kulang na upuan sa bawat silid na pinapasukan? Kung hindi kulang, madalas ay sira ang naiiwan. Kaya naman ang mga ate at kuya niyo, naguunahan sa klasrom, hindi para makapili ng puwesto, kung hindi para magkaroon ng upuan. Grabe din kasi ang satisfaction kapag mayroong arm chair tapos feeling bright habang nagsusulat ng lecture ni Madam at Sir.

Pero wait, there's more! Kung ihahambing sa icerberg, ‘yan pa lang ang surface ng pagiging parte ng Eduklandya. Nandiyan pa ang mga araw kung saan sunod-sunod ang ambagan na parang doon na lang mauubos ang allowance mo. Given na ang tambak na output every midterm and finals pero grabe namang paghihirap 'yan, parang nagpe-penitensya sa dami lagi ng pinapagawa. Dagdag pa ang mga nakakapressure na baong eyebags ng mga kaklase mo, nakakapressure na visual iads ng unang nagreport, at nakakapressure na performance ng mga kaklase mong talented.

At oo, normal lang na mawalan ng dignidad sa Eduklandya, mapapakanta ka talaga kahit sintonado ka, mapapasayaw kahit parehong kaliwa ang mga paa, mapapasabak sa aktingan kahit hindi naman artitsa. Normal 'yan. Bakit? Dahil sa Eduklandya mo lang makukuha ang holistic approach na kayang hubugin at ibigay lahat ng pangagailangan mo. Sa Eduklandya, ikaw ang bida ng sarili mong istorya, dito ay mahihiya ang mga mata mong mamahinga, kahit ang baso mo ay maninibago kapag hindi nakatikim ng mainit na tubig at kape sa gabi’t umaga.

Patikim pa lang 'yan sa kuwento na namamalagi sa munting kaharian. Mahirap maging estudyante, pero parte lang 'to ng paglalakbay patungo sa inaasam na tagumpay. Kaya kakayanin mo naman 'di ba? Kakayanin natin! Lagi nating tandaan na bilang isang guro sa hinaharap, nasa kamay natin ang kinabukasan ng mga susunod na henerasyon. Kaya ikaw, oo ikaw na nagbabasa nito. Wag kang papa-apekto sa mga naririnig mo. Ikaw pa ba? Padayon! Laban lang.

OBJECTIVE 2: TO DETERMINE THE WORD COMFORT Kadalasan, bago nagsisimula ang exam ay mag-aanunsyo ang propesor na mag C.R na ang lahat ng gustong mag C.R. Hawak ng mga ito ang kilabot ng bawat estudyante; ang makapal, maputi, at nakakapanindig balahibong test paper na binubuo ng 80 test item. Hindi man alam ng mga ito kung sumunod ba sila Madam at Sir sa Table of Specification (TOS) pero mapapa-it doesn't matter ka na lang talaga. Nasunod man o hindi, pareho pa ring mahirap na siguradong iiyakan, lalo na kapag ‘di nakasama doon ang mga pinagpuyatan mong basahin. Pero ang tanong talaga dito ay, sa bawat pagsusulit na kinaharap mo, ilang porsiyentong pag-asa ang mayroon ka upang maitawid ang mga ito? E' ang pamamalagi kaya sa komportableng C.R? Ngunit ang tanong ay... komportable ka bang mamalagi sa CR?

Oo nga naman, ilang taon na rin ngunit pilit pa ring iniintindi, ginugulo at kinikiliti ng pasaway at ayaw mapakali kong braincells ang aking utak tungkol sa mga tanong na kung bakit hindi gano'n kaayos ang mga CR sa Eduklandya? Sarado pa ang iilan, at maaari ko rin bang ireklamo na urong-sulong ang tubig dito? Kung minsan ay walang tubig at kung minsan naman ay nag-uumapaw ito. Nakakaloka 'no? Kahit ang tubig ay marunong na rin magtampo.

Ano nga ba ang problema dito o mas maigi yatang gamitin ang salitang sino? Mga ka-Eduk, hindi lang dapat exam ang ipinapasa, dapat sa kalinisan tayo rin ay kumakasa. Opps! Wag aalma, kung marunong magbuhos ng tama'y siguradong sa pahayag na 'to matatawa, ngunit kung ang kabaliktaran ang ginagawa, tiyak na kahit sinong pintor ay mahihirapang iguhit ang mukha ng may sala.

OBJECTIVE 3: TO PREDICT YOUR FUTURE SELF

Sa isang malalim at malamig na gabi, sa pagtapat ng hintuturo sa numero ng orasan kung saan ang lahat ay mahimbing nang nagpapahinga, hindi maiiwasang maglaro ng imahinasyon. Magsisimula ang pag-agos ng mga ideya mula sa pagod na isip pababa sa kaibuturan ng puso, tatarak ito na magmimitsa upang lumabas ang mabigat at pinipigilang hikbi mula sa tikom na mga labi.

Tama, ang pigil na hikbi ay magsisimulang sumabay sa pagiingay ng mga kuliglig. Ang pagod na isip at katawan ay yayakapin ng malungkot at malamig na hangin, at sa kalagitnaan ng pagkinang ng hindi mabilang na tala sa kalangitan ay ang pagragasa ng mga pinipigilan ngunit hindi maiiwasang katanungan.

Tama ba ang daang aking nilalakaran?

Ramdam kita ka-Eduk! Sa gitna ng umaatikabo at napakadaming requirements ay hindi maiiwasang dumaan sa 'yong isip ang tanong na worth it ba ang lahat ng ito? Lalo na kung ang pagiging parte ng Eduklandya ay hindi mo naman talaga ginusto. Lalo na kung ang kapalaran ang umipit, nagtulak, at nagkulong sa 'yo sa kursong hindi naman talaga tinitibok ng puso mo. Ang hirap, ano? 'Yong nag-aapoy na motibasyon na mayroon ka upang ibuhos ang lahat sa bagay na gusto mo ay unti-unting nauupos.

Sa daan-daang naninirahan sa Eduklandya, sino dito nd ataong dinala ng kuryusidad sa munting kaharian? Sino ang dinala ng mga paa at naging parte ng kaniyang programa dahil sa walang ibang pagpipilian? No choice kung sabihin ng iba. Sino naman ang may pagpipilian ngunit sa tingin ay madali lang maging Madam at Sir. Kanino niyo ba kasi ‘yan narinig? Fake news!

Shout out nga pala sa mga estudyante na umiiyak gabi-gabi

dahil sa isyung ito pero mas piniling magpatuloy sa pakikibaka kaysa huminto. Saludo sa mga ate at kuya na ilang taong tiniis at linabanan ang mga mapaglarong kuliglig sa kanilang isip. At para naman sa mga taong nagsisimula palang, ito lang ang masasabi ko - 'Yong taong nagkakagusto nga sa inyo kina-krashbak niyo, ito pa

kayang kursong hindi niyo man masyadong gusto pero pinaghihirapan at pinagpupuyatan niyo?

Alam kong sa huli, mad-develop din kayo. Yiiiee. Pero seryoso, narito kayo at may dahilan 'yan. Hindi kayo ang bida sa mga anime o kdrama na mapapanood sa TV kung saan nasa kamay ng mga ito nakasalalay ang kaligtasan ng sangkatauhan. kayo ang bida sa sarili niyong kuwento at kagaya ng lagi kong sinasabi, nasa kamay ninyo ang kinabukasan ng susunod na henerasyon –bilang isa ganap na guro sa hinaharap. Maraming bata ang nanaising matuto mula sa inyo, kaya kung sa tingin niyo ay nasa maling lugar pa rin kayo, sana'y ‘wag ang mga estudyante niyo sa hinaharap ang maging taga salo sa desisyong kayo ang gumawa.

OBJECTIVE 4: TO APPRECIATE SOMEONE'S EFFORT

"I can't meet you tomorrow. We have a meeting. Memo just sent today.' Ahhhhh!

Agad na bubungad ang kunyari ay malungkot na mga ekspresyon ng mga kaklase mo ngunit sa likod ng dismayadong mukha ng mga ito ay ang kaluluwa nilang humahalakhak na sobrang saya dahil sa balitang mabilis na namuot sa kanilang mga tainga.

Anu-ano nga ba ang mga nagpapasaya sa buhay ng mga naninirahan sa Eduklandya?

Suspension? Travel Order ni Madam at Sir? Holiday? Event na pinangungunahan ng masigasig at magigiting na opisyales ng CSC? Teka, teka... teka! Events?

Maaari ko bang itanong kung kailan ang huling events ng CSC na na-enjoy mo?

"Guys, bukas na ang event, support niyo booth natin." Madalas na anunyso ng mga best in leadership niyong kaklase. Pero hindi maipagkakaila ang agad na pagt-transform ng mga kaklase mo bilang mga bubuyog, magbubulungan ang mga ito at magtatanungan kung, "Ano, beh? Aattend ka?"

Ano? Relate ka ba sa senaryong ito?

Pasintabi lang mga ka-Eduk, ha? Ito ay opinyon ko lang naman, pero hindi mapigilan ng aking kuryusidad ang magtanong. Nangungulit kasi ang malikot kong isip tungkol sa aking mga nakikita. Oo, ang pakunti nang pagkunting estudyante na um-aattend sa mga event ng CSC.

Ang nasasaksihan ng aking magagandang mata ay kumikiliti sa aking munting braincells na nagdudulot ng ilang katanungan kagaya ng: A.) Hindi na ba natutuwa ang mga estudyante sa mga event ng CSC kaya hindi sila pumupunta? B.) Hindi ba ganoon ka-interesado ang mga events? Sa tingin ba nila ay hindi ito worth it? C.) O sadyang hindi lang nila ito priority? At D.) O baka naman pagod lang sa dami ng mga gawain at ang pagkakaroon ng event ang tanging oportunidad upang makapagpahinga.

Hindi ko na rin alam mga ka-Eduk, e. Ikaw, ano kaya sa tingin mo ang tamang sagot mula sa mga ito?

Ngunit sa kabilang banda, alam kong may kaniya-kaniya tayong rason sa likod ng bawat desisyong ginagawa. Mga rason na tayo lang ang nakakaalam. Sa madaling salita ay may kaniyakaniya tayong pinagdadaananan. Ang mga komplikasyon na nagtutulak sa atin upang gawin ang isang desisyon na hindi man natin gusto ay hindi maiiwasang maka-apekto sa mga nakapaligid sa atin - sa sitwasyong kinakaharap natin. Subalit ‘wag sana nating hayaan na masayang at mapunta sa wala ang mga pinaghirapan ng kapuwa natin estudyante? ‘Wag sana nating iparamdam sa kanila na hindi natin nakikita ang bawat pawis, puyat, at paghahanda na inilaan nila sa bawat event na gaganapin sa ating munting kahariang, Eduklandya. Pero ewan ko rin, ha. Sino ba naman ako para sabihin ang mga ito? Bago palang naman ako sa Eduklandya, at baka nagkataon lang na lahat ng event na napuntahan ko ay kakaunti na ang tao. Pero malay niyo naman ‘di ba, baka sa susunod ay marami na ulit tayong taong magkikita-kita. Stay tuned!

OBJECTIVE 5: TO DISCUSS THE BANKRUPTCY Kumusta?

Dahil umabot kayo sa huling isyung tatalakayin ng semestreng ito, hayaan niyong muling mag-iwan ang umiiyak kong bolpen ng katanungan na maaaring gumulo sa payak niyong mga isip. Siguro naman ay napansin niyong sa halip na makatanggap ng tig-iisang kopya ng diyaryong ito ay nakadikit na lamang ang nag-iisang kopya nito sa isang bahagi ng pader sa ating kaharian. Pader na kaharap mo ngayon habang binabasa ang isyung ito. At kagaya nga ng nabanggit ko kanina, ito ang unang pagkakataon na makapaglalabas ng ganitong mga balita ang Eduklandya.

Ang ganitong dagok sa isang sangay ng kaharian ay buhat ng pandemya at ng kawalan ng pondo ng mga publikasyon saan mang sulok ng kolehiyo dahil sa libreng edukasyon. Ayon sa batas na naaprubahan noong 2017 sa ilalim ng administrasyon ng nakaraang presidente Rodrigo Duterte, ang pagkolekta ng pondo para sa publikasyon ay ipinababawal na, gobyerno na ang sasagot sa mga bayarin tulad ng bayarin pampublikasyon. Ngunit katulad ng ibang taong mulat ang mga mata sa sistema ng pagsusulat, pagbabalita, at pagtataguyod ng katotohanan, agad na mapapansin ang pagdurusang pinagdadaanan ng publikasyon dahil sa kawalan ng sapat na pondo. At oo mga ka-Eduk, hindi nga napaghandaan ang ganitong uri ng pagbabago. Sa ayaw man natin o gusto, nawalan na ng tiyansang makalikom ng wastong pondo ang mga publikasyon, unti-unti nang humihina ang pag-asang maitaguyod ang naghihingalo nang ulo ng mga nagbabagang balita ngayong taon at sa mga susunod na taon.

Tama, walang pondo, salapi, at pera ang nagbabalita sa likod nito. Kung kaya naman kahit gustong magtampisaw ng nagdurugong bolpen ng mga manunulat sa malinis at malapad na papel ay hindi nila magawa. Kaya naman maswerte ka kung hanggang ngayon ay nakakatanggap ka pa rin ng libreng papel mula sa katabi mo. Payo lang ha, humingi ka araw-araw at saka mo ipunin hanggang sa mabuo mo ang isad pad paper. Charot! Pero seryoso, sa tingin mo ba’y makatarungan ang sitwasyong ito? Ano ang comment mo.

Sunulat ni Shena Guarnes Dibuho ni Alfrancis Lozano

DEARX

ByJazielJoyI. Mayor

Dear x,

‘Di naman kita gigisahin tulad ng ginawa sa’kin ni Ma’am, Subalit magsasalita ako na para bang inilalarawan ko ang Math.

Alam mo namang pareho ko kayong mahal, At alam mo ring pareho kayong sakit sa ulo minsan.

Sine over cosine ka ba?

Kasi tan Biro lang.

Sabi raw kapag Kinder na’y dapat marunong nang magbilang, Kasi kapag tumanda na ay nagagamit ito sa mga bangayan.

Habang binibilang ko ang mga rason kung bakit kita minahal, Binibilang mo naman ang mga rason kung bakit mo ako iiwan.

Alam ko na kung bakit palagi tayong nag-aaway!

‘Yung points kasi natin, hindi naman collinear.

‘Pag nagpapaliwanag ako, hindi mo naman ako pinapakinggan.

Para akong si Euclid na gustong patunayan ang parallel postulate sa mga NonEuclidean.

Mga pagtatalunan lang ang dumadagdag imbes na pagmamahal,

At respeto sa isa’t isa’y patuloy na nababawasan habang tumatagal.

Kung pwede lang i-multiply sa zero nang bumalik ang lahat sa umpisa, Matagal ko na sanang ginawa.

Alam mo bang mas mahaba pa sa ruler ‘yung mga buwan ng ating pagsasama?

Sabagay, kasalanan ko rin namang umiksi ang malameasuring tape mong pasensya.

Sa kabila ng mga araw na tayo’y hindi nagkakaintindihan, Inaalala ko pa rin ‘yung mga taong lagi kang nandyan.

Kahit na ika’y aking x, ‘di lang naman sama ng loob ang ambag mo sa’king buhay. Tandaan mong ikaw ang pinakapaborito kong variable sa dalawampu’t anim pa na letra. Sunod na siguro ang y, kasi why naman ako’y iyong iniwan?

Paalam na at mag-momove on to the next lesson na si Ma’am.

LOVEGROWSLIKEANARRATREE

Orihinalnaakdani:MarinaBelista

"Love is in the air" — gasgas na kasabihan na mula pa ata pagkabata ay naririnig ko na at tila ba'y nauulinigan na ang aking mga tainga sa tuwing naririnig ang sambitlang ito mula sa mga taong inlababo. Ayon pa nga sa kanta ni Moira, "Balang Araw," darating ang iyong tanging hinihiling. Hay, ano ba naman ito? Hindi ko pa naman ito pinagtutuunan ng pansin sapagkat hindi pa ito ang aking prayoridad sa ngayon ngunit aaminin ko na hindi ko rin naman maiwasang isipin na, "What if dumating ako sa punto na ako naman ang mapiling paglaruan ni kupido at panain itong aking puso?" Anong klaseng pag-ibig kaya ang nais ko?

Hmmm… Gusto ko ba ng pag-ibig na parang rosas? Kapag bago ay tunay na humahalimuyak ang kagustuhan at pananabik, dala-dala ang ligaya sa pang-araw-araw ngunit paglipas ng panahon ay pagsasawaan na. Tse! Hard pass sa gano'n. Hmm, what if pag-ibig na gaya ng isang tasa ng mainit na kapeng barako? Wild at strong, yung tipong may thrill talaga habang nilalasap mo ngunit paglaon ay manlalamig na.

Ay ngek, ginawa ka ba namang trial card? Saklap nun lods. O di kaya'y pag-ibig na gaya ng puno ng narra? Magsisimula sa punla na sa tulong ng palagiang pagdilig (ng kaalaman at karanasan) ay paunti-unting lalago. Aha! Gusto ko ng pag-ibig na sintatag ng narra na kahit ano mang bagyo, ulan, o kalamidad ang dumaan ay

ARIDESETASIDE

byRicaMaeMejes

For how many decades

Along with everyone's ages

Dominating routes — must be savage

Running fast like a waving rage

Wiggling hands used to be seen at the side of the road, here comes the king

It was the sight that should always be Now a rule has been made, a coping scheme

mananatiling nakatayo't matayog na puwede mong sandigan sa kalungkutan man o kasiyahan. Gusto ko ng pag-ibig na gaya ng narra, hindi pangmadalian kundi pangmatagalan.

Kung sakali mang dumating ako sa puntong makikilala ko na ang icing sa ibabaw ng cupcake ko, sana ay siya yung tipo na hindi mabilis mapagod na sa simpleng hindi pagkakaunawaan ay susuko agad. Sana siya yung tipo na kayang sumabay sa mga trip ko sa buhay. Sana kaya niyang harapin ang 99+ personalidad sa katauhan ko, mapa makulit, masayahin, hyper, academic achiever, oa, at lahat lahat. Sana gaya ko ay hindi lang mababaw ang paningin niya sa konsepto ng pagmamahal na kapag bored na ay maglelet go na at parang bang tinapos lang ang 1-month free trial sa subscription plan niya. Sana gaya ng kapitan ng barko na kahit gaano pa kalakas ang bugso ng alon ay kaya niya akong samahan sumagwan patungo sa baybayin ng kapayapaan. Sana rin gaya ng piloto ay magawa niyang paliparin ang eroplano tungo sa inaasam na paraiso.

At kapag pinalad at ang mga butas ng karayom ay magawa naming malampasan, sana'y hanggang sa huli siya pa rin ang kasama ko. Sana'y pangalan niya ang una't huling iuukit

People were brought to their destination

This old yet incredible all-time sensation Roller coaster feeling traveling through the nation They craved change, provoked elimination

A four-wheeler vehicle with a large capacity Passengers ranging less or more than twenty Affordable fairs it never issued a hasty All day and night, it made history

THEWHITE-HAIREDMAN

byNinaAthenaL.Gracilla

I saw a man with hair of white

Beneath a tree, in soft sunlight, His spectacles gleamed bright and clear

As he watched me drawing near.

Beside him stood a little girl

With sunny cheeks and hair in curl, Holding a doll, she smiled so sweet, In her playful, youthful beat.

The man spun tales of witches bold,

Who snatch up kids who aren’t cajoled, And spoke of Santa’s joyful spree, Gifting the world with glee.

He then grabbed a well-worn book, Of ABCs, where she could look, He taught her words, her tongue did twist, In fairy tales wrapped in morning mist.

Yet soon the girl, with bored dismay, Mounted her bike and sped away.

KONKRETONGKULAY

byAdrianE.Dones

Tapos na rin pala Ang mga buhangin ay tuluyan nang nahulog. Katotohanang mas malinaw pa sa salamin, Ang siyang nakaharap sa aking mga hubad na mata

Tila kulay ang 'yong pananatili Luntian sa mundo ng abo at semento, Mga lilang namumukadkad sa aking hardin, At ang pagpanaw ng araw, kahel na dapit-hapon

Ang mga nagdaan ay mananatiling nagdaan, Ngunit ang tingkad ng mga pintura ay hindi man lang sinubukan.

Kasama ng ating pagtanda ay ang pagkalimot ng mga alaala

Na siyang minsa'y nagkulay sa ating buhay na walang saysay

Turuan mo ako kung paano mag pinta Ng mga konkretong kulay sa aking mga alaala.

Dahil gusto ko na muling makita ang 'yong ngiti, sinta

Bago dumilim nang tuluyan at makasama ang mga tala

DRIVEN

ko sa puno habang sabay naming pinagmamasdan ang paglubog ng araw sa paborito naming tagpuan. Sana'y makabisado ng aking pluma ang pangalan niya sa tuwing hawak ko ang talaarawan at sa harap ng mga pahina ay ikukuwento ko ang mga sandali na siya'y aking nakasama. Hihilingin na sa pagdilat ng aking mga mata sa umaga hanggang sa pagtatapos ng araw, sa yapos niya'y mahanap ang tunay na pahinga. Ipapangako na kahit maging puti na ang aking itim na buhok, kumulubot man aking mga balat, humina man aking pandinig at hindi na marinig ang aming paboritong musika, lumabo man aking paningin dulot ng katandaan, siya at siya lamang aking iibigin.

Kaya kung ako iyong tatanungin, ano para sa akin ang pag-ibig at ano ang ideal relationship goals ko, ang isasagot ko ay pag-ibig na gaya ng puno ng narra at bilang pagtatapos ng panulat kong ito, nais ko lamang iwan ang mga katagang ito.

Sana gaya ng puno ng narra, Kahit ano mang unos ang pagdaanan, Ating pag-iibigan ay maipaglaban. Sana balang araw, kapag handa na, makilala kita, aking sinta.

Schoolers who became its everyday users

Witnessed how it fetched, dropped them over Wearing neat uniforms, holding their reviewer Making use of time, do things after another

Advanced minds decided a sudden change. These mentioned are meant to rearrange For what they call an upgrade

The "used to be" is set aside; would it fade?

In haste she rode, not seeing harm, Until she fell, met by alarm. The white-haired man, with step so light, Rushed to the scene, his smile bright. He helped her up, wiped tears she cried, Under that tree where shadows bide.

I awoke with a quiet plea, In my heart a wish to see, That white-haired man, from dreams of mine, Beneath the tree where leaves entwine.

byEarlJohnLozano

When driven by fear, you tend to doubt

When in doubt, you tend to cry it out

When you cry it out, you want your prayers to be heard like a shout.

All these three, feels like an endless pit of roundabout.

Why fear, instead of standing in your faith firm?

For your enemies know nothing and cannot discern.

Why doubt and worry so much about?

When you have God who has everything planned out.

All your worries and cries are heard.

And for that, God prepared you on a journey to travel as one like a herd.

Guard your heart, for ‘tis the devil that likes to smite.

Leaving it shattered and sunk in freight.

God is with us even if out of sight.

For it is His battle and ours to fight.

The Lord will fight for us, and we only have to stay still.

KILL WHAT?

BYJERICOFLORESCA

Its fur once warm, now stiff as stone, Its body’s cold, left all alone. Life snuffed out in darkness of the shadows,

A three-year-old—killed, no dawn to follow.

Killua, the dog, an innocent life

Wandered the streets with no one, but self to guide.

Yet lo, the fiend approached within its sight

Its blade, a bloody harbinger of night.

Three swift blade strikes, Blood run until cold bites

A cry for mercy from the golden, Yet no answers from the heavens

The fiend, finally captured in chaos' grasp,

Yet Killua's body found in a grim, tattered sack

A life extinguished, in the blink of an eye, Snatched away, with no chance to bid goodbye.

Animal protection, an urgent call we raise, Strengthen the laws, let justice ablaze. Capture the fiends, break their dark schemes, In every corner, let light redeem

BREAKING NEWS!

BYJERICOFLORESCA

Red, thick blood slithered through the bustling heart of the street. Bang! Three sharp gunshots rupture the symphony of the metropolis, each finding its mark in his body.

He’s a television reporter

Blood streams down the face of a middle-aged man. The live radio broadcast falls into stunned silence. He was shot head-on.

He’s a radio host.

The jail's chill seeps in as the woman awaits her sentence, all for daring to expose the government’s corruption.

She’s a journalist.

The news flashes on the television beside me, their faces added to the tally of victims in the wake of rampant journalist brutality. Exhaustion seeps in as the day’s work as a columnist for a tabloid takes its toll. But this news only leads me to sleepless nights.

In the midst of my anxiety, as on many nights before, my face flushed and sweaty, a middle-aged man entered the room.

He remained silent, his head ticking as he paced around. I reached for my phone on the tableside, but the man swiftly intercepted, flinging the phone with such force that the screen shattered into pieces. "You're next,” he uttered.

I opened my eyes in shock. It was a dream. Thank God it was a dream!

But the reality of journalism and brutality in this country still persists. “It’s never going to be just a dream,” I whispered as I drank a cup of water.

by Ed Christian Guese

BicolUniversityCollegeof Education’s Anjanette Miranda smashed down a neck-to-neck match in the Lawn Tennis Women’s category (Singles) against the fighter of Bicol University Polangui Campus (BUPC), a solid 8-5, during the Bicol University Olympics 2023, October 26, 2023, at BUCENG Lawn Tennis Court.

opponenttocatchupwiththe scores.

Meanwhile, Miranda lost her leading momentum; during the rallies the score was frequentlytiedupovertime.

Miranda admitted that she experienced difficulty with heropponentandshedidnot expecttoacethegame inherhands.

The game produced an 8 straight set emerging to a scorching match between theplayers.

In the early set of the game, Miranda splashes dominant attacks, leading her to gain an advantage throughouttheset.

After the tensing set progress, Miranda’s shocking offenses were blocked by the opponent; thepositionoftheballwas rigorously guarded by the BUPCleadingthe

“The match against the BUPC was difficult unlike the previous matches. My opponent for this match was also a long-time player,” she said.

Mirandafinishedthegamein favor of her foot after releasing a powerful strike, gaining her lead toward the opponent.

After clinching the bronze medal Miranda looking forward to competing again for the State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) and BU Olympics in the following year.

“Hopefully, be able to compete again in the SCUAA and BU Olympics nextyear,” shesaid.

by Ed Christian Guese

Sa larangan ng isports, hindi madali ang mga pag-eensayo at pagsasakripisyo na ilalaan rito. Matinding kondisyon ng katawan ang kailangan upang maging hinog sa mismong araw ng laban. Upang makamtan ang inaasam-asam na tagumpay, kaakibat nito ang kasangkapang sipag, determinasyon at pagpupursige sa pag-eensayo. Naririto ang mga isports na tanyag sa ating mga pinoy—basketball, volleyball, badminton, boxing, swimming, track and field, at sepak takraw. Ngunit, pamilyar ba kayo sa isport na “Karatedo”? Ano nga ba ito?

Ang karatedo, o mas kilala sa tawag na “karate” ay nagmula sa bansang Japan. Ito ay mas kilala bilang “martial arts” sa Ingles. Ito ang larong nagbigay parangal sa Pamantasan ng Bikol, Kolehiyo ng Edukasyon – ang atletang ipinamalas ang buong lakas, tapang, at galing sa paglalaro. Sa nagdaang BU Olympics 2023, na kung saan isang babae ang naguwi ng medalya at kauna-unahang atletang CEnian na makapag-uwi ng karangalan sa larangan ng Karatedo women’s flyweight category na ginanap noong Oktubre 24, 2023 sa CSB 1 Function Hall.

Ang atleta sa likod ng tagumpay na ito ay si Keith Danica Banta—first year student na kasalukuyang nag-aaral ng kursong Bachelor of Elementary Education. Hindi na bago kay Banta ang ‘martial arts’ dahil siya ay nahumaling rito noong taong 2017. Ang kaniyang ama ang nagpakilala sa kaniya ng ‘martial arts’ bago pa man ito pumanaw sa taong 2018. Dahil dito lalong binigyang pansin ni Banta ang nasabing isport. Naging kaliwa’t kanan na ang mga kapisanan na kaniyang sinalihan. Isa na rito ang arnis club sa kanilang barangay. Naging aktibong miyembro siya rito mula 2018 hanggang 2020.

Taong 2021, isang malaking dagok ng pangungulila ang sumapit sa kaniyang buhay nang sumakabilang buhay rin ang kaniyang ina. Hindi naging madali sa kaniya ang mga napagdaanang ito. Ngunit sa kabila ng matinding hamon, may isang pintuang nagbukas upang ituring siya bilang isang pamilya. Ito ay ang Lion’s Den MMA Academy—isang asosasyon na naglalayong mag-ensayo ng mga martial artist katulad ni Banta. Puspusan ang naging nag-ensayo niya at pinalawak ang kaniyang pakpak sa larangan ng martial arts. Nagpokus si Banta sa Jiu-Jitsu o Grappling at

nakapaglarosiyasaRegional Grapplingcompetitionnoong2022.

Sa panahong kailangang mamili ng sasabak at makikibaka sa larangan ng pampalakasan, si Banta ay nagdalawang-isip na sumali sa palarong Karatedo dahil sa pag-aakalang kulang pa ang kaniyang ensayo. Ngunit, dahil sa malapit ang kaniyang puso sa martial arts, pinili niyang kagatin ang prutas na pinahinog na niya ng matagal na panahon.

Hindi naging madali ang kaniyang pageensayo. Bagaman siya ay kalahok at pambato na ng Kolehiyo ng Edukasyon sa larong Karatedo, mayroon pa siyang isang kinabilangan upang irepresenta ang Kolehiyo. Ito ay ang “dance sports”. Ditonahatiangkanyangoras,perohindi ito naging dahilan upang siya’y mabigo sakaniyangtinahaknadestinasyon. Matapos ang mala-kalabaw na pageensayo, siya ay nag-ani ng matagal na niyang binhing itinanim. Siya ay nakatanggap ng parangal bilang ikalawang pwesto sa isport na Karatedo. Hindi lubos maisip ni Banta na maiuuwi niya ang makinang na tagumpay na susuklisalahatngkaniyangmalubakna pinagdaanan.

“Hindi po talaga since halos kulang po ang oras ko sa pag-eensayo, given the time na midterms din at kailangan din pongmag-aral,”saadnito.

Sa likod ng kaniyang pagsusumikap upang makamit at masungkit ang medalya, nariyan ang kaniyang kasintahan—isang MMA fighter—na nagsilbiniyangtagasanay.

“All throughout ng game and training ang naging kasangga ko at coach ay ang aking kasintahan it was an honor also to train with an MMA fighter and of coursenagingcoachsalaro,”saadnito. Matapos ang kanyang tagumpay sa nagdaang BU Olympics 2023, plano ni Banta na mas palawigin pa ang kaniyang kaalaman at kahusayan sa martial arts. Isa si Banta sa mga taong wala sa bokabularyo ang sumuko. Hangga’t maaari ay lalaban at sasabak ito kahit anong unos pa man ang dumating. Wika nga niya, “Ant inveniam viam aut facian”, na ang ibig sabihin ay Maghahanap ako ng daan o ako mismo anggagawa.

Samakatuwid, isang malaking karangalan ang kaniyang naiukit sa pangalan ng atletang CEnian. Hindi matatawaran ang pagsusumikap, pagpupursige at lakas ng loob ni Banta, na taas noong iniwagayway ang bandila ng Kolehiyo ng Edukasyon sa larangan ngpampalakasan.

WINNING MOVE. Anjanette Miranda secured

bronze medal victory against BUPC

in

Tennis with a score of

26, 2023, at the BUCENG Lawn Tennis court. | Photo by: Aljon Dela Fuerte

ATTACK! Keith Danica Banta (right) with her winning attack during the match in the BU Olympics 2023 | Photo Courtesy: BUCE CSC Official Facebook Page

FINANCIALREPORT

CONTRIBUTORS

Marina N. Belista

Adrian E. Dones

Aljon Dela Fuerte

Earl John Lozano

Jaziel Joy I. Mayor

Arbie Miralpis