AHON

VOL XVIV ISSUE 2 NOVEMBER 2020- JUNE 2021

The Perpetualite Archives The official College Publication

Cartoon by

PATRICIA RUFINA MENDOZA

The Perpetualite Archives The official College Publication

Cartoon by

PATRICIA RUFINA MENDOZA

On the trail of mountainous torment comes strength; on its peak awaits great triumph.

ABOUT THE COVER The book cover serves several purposes in terms of adversity occurrence. It showcases the struggle that man experiences in reaching the peak of the height that everyone these days are facing. Getting out of this phenomenon is such a challenging thing but surviving and surpassing the trail of afflictions is something we oath to do whatever comes our way.

AHON (ascend) is not just a word that describes what the man is doing; it suggests an upward direction; an encouragement for everyone to keep going until he/she reaches the triumph. It envisions to instill that our lives do not stay in this season; whatever darkness we encounter, a sun will definitely appear brightest as we go nearer the peak.

MESSAGE TO THE READERS To the ones who are about to give up and give in during these trying occasions, may this edition serve as a ray of sunshine to your darkest times; a hope that the huge waves will subside, and the series of agonies will come to an end. Sometimes it’s just a matter of proper diversion, turning your attention to brighter things and converting every worse scenario to better scheme.

CHAPTER 1

APPROACHing the boundaries

Cartoon by

YOSHIHIRO MILLARE

The Perpetualite Archives

The official College Publication of UPHSD Calamba

News Feature

Pandemic Academic Year: A headstrong start for SSC Annielyn Eugenio The Covid-19 pandemic made a significant impact on our educational system which led to a lot of changes highly afffecting educational processes, may it be in formal or informal learning set up.

But these challenges never stopped the Perpetualite leaders to continue serving and motivating the UPHSDCalamba community.

This academic year ceased the traditional face-to-face classes and introduced the new normal setup of learning: online and modular distance learning; because of lockdowns which forced adjustments in the educational landscape.

Despite all the challenges and barriers that this pandemic gives off, the Perpetualite student leaders best embodied by the highest governing student body — Supreme Student Council (SSC) of UPHSD exerted an effort to still go the extra mile, particularly organizing virtual events for the Perpetualite student community to join and enjoy.

from Dr. Joel S. Aguirre, a registered Psychotherapist and Certified Spiritual Care Practitioner; and Mr. Kristian Edsel S. Amarante , a Choir Master, Composer, Arranger, Retreat Facilitator and Youth Minister.

The first-ever Perpetualite Servant Leadership Program (PSLP) 2020 was also held on December 5 via Zoom. PSLP is an annual event of SSC which focuses on developing and strengthening the leadership capabilities of Perpetualite Leaders as true helpers and servants of God. With the theme “Building trust and Leadership Presence in the New Normal”, two key speakers were invited to present a timely and relevant talk: they were Dr. Marlon P Tuiza and Mr. Adrian Pugate. This event aimed to promote leadership and camaraderie as well as to help leaders prepare for challenges that the pandemic might bring.

The SSC also spearheaded the welcoming of the new School Director, Dr. Ernesto Ramirez which was held last March 6 through

Zoom. It started with a Holy Mass led by Rev. Fr. Sonny Arevalo, SDB. Afterwards, Mr. Ramirez gave his speech and was followed by Perpetualite student leaders and Mr. Salvador Balagot, Dean of Student Affairs, giving their respective congratulatory messages.

Mr. Amiel Garcia, the SSC President, stressed that they faced a lot of challenges in making these events possible. They encountered conflict with time since they had different schedules, and that internet connections had been frequently interrupted which was totally beyond control since we are in an online setup. Despite the challenges, they still managed to make their webinars productive and insightful.

The SSC 2020 - 2021 would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all administrators who guided them throughout the journey as well as to all the Perpetualites who exerted efforts to make the events possible despite the pandemic.

Three webinars were held successfully. Most recent is the 2021 Virtual Student Leadership Summit which happened last April 24 via Zoom and streamed live on Facebook. This event, with the theme “ Lead the Ship: New Paradigm” that aims to strengthen unity and collaboration among student leaders, was joined in by the student leaders not just inside the campus but also outside; inviting several student organizations which was held in partnership with the Marketing Department. went with the theme of “ Lead the Ship: New Paradigm”.

One of the key points in the webinar was the inspirational talk

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WE LEAD AS WE WRITE, WE WRITE AS WE LEAD

screenshot by Kate Christian Ravelo

The Perpetualite Archives-UPHSD Calamba

Paglingon Mula sa Pag-ahon Ruth Stephanie Quinto

Isa, dalawa, tatlo -- ang huling hakbang ng aking mga paa, Nang muli kong masilayan ang liwanag sa aking mga mata; Walang pagsidlan galak na nadarama, Isang langhap ng sariwang hanging may banayad na sipol sa aking tenga.

Isa, dalawa, tatlo -- ang biglang pag balikwas ko; Nang ako’y tapikin sa aking alaala ng marubdob na silakbo, Biglang napabalik-tanaw sa kweba ng siphayo, Ang lugar na sa wakas ay tinakbo na nang malayo.

Kadiliman ang naaaninag ng aking balintataw, Siklab sa damdaming gustong maghumiyaw, Dinggin sana ako na kahit sa labas man lamang ay makadungaw, Ngunit walang makarinig, bagsak-balikat, puso’y gusto nang bumitaw.

Panaghoy, pagkawala sa katinuan, pagka tuliro, at pagkabalisa; Ilan lamang ito sa mga kasingkahulugan ng salitang pagdurusa, Luha, pawis, dugo at sugat -- ito lahat ang mga iniwang marka ng nasabing mitsa, Hindi ninais ngunit ito ang naging tema, naging hugot ng aking malalim na paksa.

Isa, dalawa, tatlo -- ako’y nandito na nga pala, Salamat sa muling pagpapatikim ng mga bagay na di ko inakalang magiging masaya; Mula sa pagkalugmok hanggang sa pagsikat ng araw na mapula, Mula sa pag-ulan ay may bahagharing makikita.

Hindi man hinangad na mga sitwasyon ang naranasan at dumating, May mga aral naman na natutunan at ibinigay sa akin, Alam ko na sa bawat hagupit ng bagyo at hampas ng alon, Sa panibagong daan sa aking hiraya ay aral ang babaunin kada ahon.

The First of Steps Hazzel Binohlan

The first step is always the hardest The second is not the easiest Though it gets better as it goes by It is important to constantly try Fear, uncertainty, and doubt may hinder To an extent, some may surrender Courage, prudence, and belief is key To push on despite all animosity To struggle is natural and even expected To bend but not break is commended Even with knowing you will feel tension But grit and be firm with your decision

Cartoon by

PATRICIA RUFINA MENDOZA

The journey is long but someday you’ll see The price of progress and the right to be free The peak is not cheap but sought after Just keep going, brave the difficulties, and never falter

News Feature

The Perpetualite Archives

The official College Publication of UPHSD Calamba

Perpetualite Servant Leaders Press On

Ruth Stephanie Quinto

Stepping out of your comfort zone is never an easy thing to do especially when you have no idea what you are about to step on. Indeed, the past year of this pandemic was not a joke.

It challenged everyone in grave situations; turned down lives, ceased hopes, and broke dreams. But mourning can really be converted to dancing when this catastrophe can be an instrument to unleash the lion inside many people.

The Perpetualite servant leaders corroborated that the phenomenon we have been facing for the past year and seven months is not a barrier to work for their fellow students and serve their beloved campus. If some did not make it, these Perpetualites are the exception.

Undeniably, they became warriors of their generation as they proved that the basis of true leadership is about

endurance, resilience, and the willingness to stay in the course even when challenges hit hard.

They demonstrated it when they conducted a program to keep them coming.

The first-ever virtual Perpetualite Servant Leaders Program (PSLP) held on December 5, 2020, was attended by all officers of every college student organization — mandated and non-mandated. It went well as if it was not the first time to be held virtually. The event might have been limited due to the virtual restrictions, but these did not stop the students’ eagerness to learn more and step up in their position.

Just like Dr. Marlon Tuiza said, one of the guest speakers in the event, the leaders that we need right now are leaders that will leave a legacy: a mark. He said that there are three words we can hear when we speak about servant leaders.

The first word is ‘others’ because if a person wants to lead, he has to set himself aside to serve others.

Second is empowerment. A servant leader must turn others up by empowering them to reach their potential. Lastly, the word ‘life-long process’. Because in leadership, a person must not stop developing himself. Servant leadership is lifelong learning process.

During this pandemic season, most of the people need bold and selfless leaders who are willing to step out and step up for others to influence them to be better individuals — individuals who are ready to face a lot of trials where they can learn from; individuals who are resilient, who can endure more, and be somebody that can say “I did it. I survived it” —that could be a big legacy of every servant leader; and with the heart of these Perpetualites, it is never impossible to attain.

New norm: Training Ground for Student Leaders

Shiella Bordador

Did you ever wonder how student leaders manage to function in the midst of this pandemic? Although the recent two semesters were like no other, filled with stressful changes and challenges, we cannot deny the fact that it also helped student leaders to strengthen their leadership character and fundamentals such as adaptability and flexibility in a different atmosphere, as well as teamwork and resilience. They are one of many people who went through major adjustments, shifting from face-to-face to online meetings.

On April 24, 2021, the first-ever Virtual Student Leadership Summit took place via Zoom with its theme: “LEAD THE SHIP: NEW PARADIGM”. UPHSD, together with student leaders from other schools and university organizations have attended and gladly participated in the online event.

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Guest speakers were Mr. Joel S. Aguirre, a Registered Psychotherapist, and Bro. Kristian Edsel Amarante, a seminarian from UST Central Seminary. Mr. Aguirre talked about cultivating personal spiritual leadership while Bro. Amarante tackled what it takes to possess authentic leadership.

The said summit discussed how to be an effective student leader amidst the pandemic.

The attendees were guided on how to efficiently work for their respective organizations, even though it will all take place virtually.

In an online interview with one of the attendees, Amiel Ivan Garcia (Supreme Student Council President A.Y. 2020-2021) shared some of his experiences in being a student leader during this pandemic. When he was asked how important it is to be a student leader at this time; he said that being a student leader is a vital ingredient for a team or

WE LEAD AS WE WRITE, WE WRITE AS WE LEAD

organization to stay motivated and keep on going. Without them, he said that organizations will not be able to probably keep up with tasks and responsibilities just enough.

He also admitted that ‘to lead’ in this time of pandemic isn’t really easy. It is like running out of thoughts, ideas and limited manpower can always be a big hurdle. For him, realizing that you have done something valuable not just for your organization but for the whole community will leave you rethinking how the times you worked on were wisely spent.

Being in a virtual set up is an unusual thing for sure. But looking at the brighter side, these leaders will definitely be molded to people who will not be bent just easily. Having experienced ordinary classroom setup to virtual can be considered an important training ground for future leaders.

The Perpetualite Archives-UPHSD Calamba

News Feature

The Start of Something New Sir Ernie as the new SD article by Shiella Bordador

News Feature

The Perpetualite Archives

The official College Publication of UPHSD Calamba

The Start of Something New Sir Ernie as the new SD

2021, indeed, is the best time to open another chapter of a book. In this case, however, the entire Perpetualite community flips the page in our institution’s history together.

While everything changes with time, so are assured commencements to happen at the University of Perpetual Help Calamba Campus as the entire community is graced to embrace a new chapter under the helm of our newly-appointed School Director, Dr. Ernesto F. Ramirez - a promising chapter of many changes, breakthroughs, and successes for all of us.

This significant transition was celebrated through a Welcoming Party held at the Gymnasium on the 13th of January, 2021 - meant to welcome the newly-appointed School Director, Dr. Ramirez; and a send-off to the outgoing Dr. Arnaldo S. De Guzman, as he accepted his new duties of becoming the new school director of Main Campus - UPHSD Las Pinas. The event was organized and joined in by the Management Committee members and employees.

“Sir Ernie”, as he is fondly addressed by the Perpetualite community, formally accepted the duties and responsibilities as the new head of the University after “Sir Don’ bequeathed the title with hopes of a better tomorrow for UPHSD Calamba Campus — an institution so endeared by the two well-loved leaders of the community. In his acceptance speech, Sir Ernie remarked on the numerous legacies that Sir Don has done for the University, and wished for the usual support and cooperation of the Perpetualites in continuing what was started as the University strives for higher quality of service and acclamations in the educational scene — much to the 6

WE LEAD AS WE WRITE, WE WRITE AS WE LEAD

delight and affirmation of support from the Academic and Department Heads present during the event.

Following his recent appointment, a virtual welcoming program for Dr. Ramirez was held on the 6th day of March via Zoom Meeting conference by the Supreme Student Council and was joined in by student leaders of different organizations giving their congratulatory messages and warmest wishes not just to Sir Ernie but also, to the entire UPHSD Calamba community in general.

Sir Ernie, known for his wisdom, generosity, and calm demeanor, is surely a perfect fit to be the new “captain of the ship” of UPHSD Calamba Campus. Behind his formal appearance, Sir Ernie can also crack jokes and be casual; not to mention his wit and logical decisionmaking which are truly vital in piloting an institution.

Aside from his personality, his experience in serving and leading an academic institution can also speak for his capabilities in leading the University towards betterment -- as he is still as the Dean of the College of Medical Technology - position which developed him into the best Perpetualite leader he is today. He was also the Executive Dean of the sister campus University of Perpetual Help – Dr. Jose G. Tamayo Medical University in the year 1999 – 2009. It is a wonderful blessing to have such a well-decorated and inspiring leader of the pact as we continuously strive for greatness in the years to come.

Congratulations to our newly appointed school director, Dr. Ernesto Ramirez! The Perpetualite family is looking forward to your great service and we assure that you will have a hundred percent love and support as we all work together into becoming the “Helpers of God” and “Nation Builders” that the University aspires us to be.

The Perpetualite Archives-UPHSD Calamba

CHAPTER 2

CONQUERING WHAT’S BEYOND Cartoon by

KRICHA MAE RAMOS

The Perpetualite Archives

The official College Publication of UPHSD Calamba

Photo from Uphsd Lrc Calamba Facebook

LRC recognizes Best Clients, Utilizers of E-Library

While this global health crisis continues, the UPHSD Learning Resource Center (LRC) makes it possible for Perpetualites to continue their studies with the help of the university’s virtual library.

On June 28, 2020, the LRC team named their best library partners for helping them on the campaign using LRC services. The awardees were Dr. Philip Ermita (College of Engineering), Prof.

Arianne Kate Lansigan (College of Arts, Sciences and Education), Dr. Jayson Villapando and Prof. Rushiell May Oasay (College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management), Prof. Valerie Silverio and Prof. Maria Crystal Orozco (College of Computer Studies), Dr. Cielo Garcia (College of Radiologic Technology), Prof. Hannah Grace Apondar (Senior High School Department), Prof. Romar Briones (Senior High School Department), Ms. April Joy Villanueva (Junior High School Department) & Ms. Neressa Transmonte from the Grade

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School. A token and certificate of appreciation were given to awardees.

Aside from the faculty, Front Learners who showed commendable performance with the utilization of E-resources were also recognized. Awardees from college were Jewett Karl Bangsal, Bernard Lat, Jerico Garcia, Vincent Paul Bodullo, Lejine Sim, Ma. Aleczandra Mariano, Clyde Duman and Laureen Garcia.

From the Senior High department: Dannel Joy Julia, Julianna Marie Artocillo, Reyn Shaira Vivas and Renelene Enriquez were awarded. The Junior high school department’s best library users were Meisha Mielle Encardo (Grade 7), Yuri Villar (Grade 8), Christine Grace Peras & Van Victoria Miranda (Grade 9), and Princess Nivole Policarpio from Grade 10.

Lastly, the best clientele from grade school were Jovann Albert Paloma (Kinder), Ma. Lexine

WE LEAD AS WE WRITE, WE WRITE AS WE LEAD

Shiella Bordador

Jeruel Gonzales and Fritz Marion Berg Austria (Grade 1), Jean Mareighnie Ponce (Grade 3), Ashly Gonzales (Grade 4), Edward Jacob Bulaon (Grade 5) and Paveirick Pagaduan from the Grade 6 level.

Indeed, students, staff and educators are staying relevant to give and achieve quality education despite striving in the midst of a pandemic. Even at the comforts of your home, you can still access the UPHSD Library and be virtually connected with the online resources the University got for all of us!

You may visit the following academic sites: Learning Resource Center (https://calsa.perpetualdalta.edu. ph:8041/lms/) (calsa.perpetualdalta.edu.ph:8344/) EBSCOhost

(https://search.ebscohost.com/)

The Perpetualite Archives-UPHSD Calamba

Cartoon by

KRICHA MAE RAMOS

Panibago

Rian Villanueva

Mga buntong hiningang noo’y hindi maisalin sa salita Ngayon nama’y hindi mapagsidlang ginhawa at tuwa, Nalagpasan ang parehong matarik at malubak na daan Ang tatahakin naman ay panibago at kakaibang laban Natapos na ang pangalawang yugto Ayos lang din kung dadagdagan pa ng walo Nais ko pa ulit matuto, kyuryoso; Ano pa nga ba ang maituturo ng buhay at mundo?

Nais ko ulit magsimula pagkatapos ng wakas Tipong pakikipagsapalaran ang haharapin at gagawin bukas Mag-iipon at huhugot muli ng panibagong lakas Sa kalagitnaan, malalaman kung magpapatuloy ba o tatakas Panibagong simoy ng hangin ulit ay lalanghapin Bagong landas na naman ang tatahakin Panibagong pangarap na naman ang sisikaping tuparin Bagong simula ulit ang tatapusin.

COMMUNITY EXTE

adopt-an -employee program This program started series of serious quarantine categories were lifted in Laguna. Its purpose was to reach out to Perpetualite employees who were highlyaffected by the restrictions of the lockdown, not making it possible for them to report to work for the time being. Cash and gift packs were given to twenty-five employees who were beneficiaries of this program.

perpetual kalikasan collabs with CES

Perpetual Kalikasan with the CES office conducted a seminar about hydroponics for the adopted community of the Campus. The said community who were allowed to go to the Barangay hall were the ones who were able to join the seminar through Zoom Meeting.

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LEAD THRO EXAM

RUTH STEPHA

Perpetual Kalikasan are also in the process of establishing their nursery garden for food sustainability of the Perpetualites and their adopted community. Also, it was proposed to spread knowledge on growing plants which is highly essential in crisis such as pandemic.

Dr. Amelita Garcia, CES Head, encourages all the Perpetualite students and staff to maintain the spirit of volunteerism, concern, spirit of sharing and caring to everyone either in or outside the campus. She said that she is proud of what Perpetual Calamba has done during these tough times. She added that even though some people experience insufficiency, they were still able to reach out to their fellow Perpetualites.

The Perpetualite Archives-UPHSD Calamba

the ‘perpetualite community’ pantry

Ever since the pandemic began, the Community Extension Services (CES) did not stop performing and conducting outreach programs. The first semester might have been a tough journey as everyone was in the adjustment period and everything was limited, but on the second wave of this phenomenon, CES confidently attested that

ENSION SERVICES

DING OUGH MPLE

ANIE QUINTO

they have fully coped with giving services to the Perpetualite community and beneficiaries.

The Perpetual community service for the second semester is Community Pantry which was greatly inspired by the Maginhawa Community Pantry motto, “Magbigay ayon sa kakayahan; kumuha ayon sa pangangailangan”. It is an ongoing program which started in the month of May and is being supported and organized by the entire Perpetual Calamba community: Academic Support Offices, Humanities and Social Science Cluster, College Faculty, Basic Education Department Parents and Teachers Association Board (PTAB), College of Criminology, College of Engineering, College of Nursing, College of Business Administration, and College of Radiologic Technology, Alumni, and former Faculty abroad.

The beneficiaries of this program are the adopted communities of Perpetual Calamba which are the selected families from Sitio Riverside in Barangay Paciano Rizal, and the displaced employees of the Campus. They were scheduled to go to school every Tuesday and pick up their needed supplies while observing the health protocols being implemented at the University.

The CES plans to launch an Institutional Community Pantry by the month of August that will target 250 recipients.

ANNOUNCEMENT The Donation Campaign of Basic Education (BEd) is still on-going. CES is still open for donations.

Cartoon by

KRICHA MAE RAMOS

Paint of Scenery Rian Villanueva

Residing by the dark shelter of void a being with careful strokes of brushes, Once dreamt of seeing what’s beyond the limit of a dark and unending cave, A canvas of empty and spotless painting of one who has lived a life pigment-less A light shone through, beckons the painter, the void, who could’ve known, crumbled Outside is the life of colourful canvas; Full of colors and joyous vibrancy the painter’s canvas is now not empty Outside the dark shelter, the painter knew, that the world is better with colourful hues Better than the place she grew up to; better than the dark void that she once knew in this colourful place, she painted her canvas anew Capturing every beauty this world holds, the painter, appreciative of beauty, painted.

Looking back at the place where she grew, the painter could jump over the sun and moon, for she came across a scenery worth painting.

PHOTO SECTION

Peregrinating Through the Midst of Uncertainty shots by

Annielyn Eugenio, Mark John De Jesus and Ruth Stephanie Quinto color graded by

Aver Justine Parado

Traveling across boundaries and uncertainties may lead us to a different path, but whatever and wherever that path leads us to, know that we have the right to enjoy every step of that way; make sure that it takes us through a process where we can reach your dream destination.

CES Journ 14

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CES ney

Sa Aking Kama Annielyn Eugenio

Ganap na alas-onse, dahan-dahang humimlay, ang aking katawan, sa kinahihigaan may ibat-ibang pakiramdam, ngunit namumuot ang pighati, sakit at puot Kung saan natulog akong may pangamba, at sinalubong na malungkot ang bagong umaga Walang bago, sanay na Dahil sa bawat segundong lumilipas, ’di na alintana kung maliwanag man o madilim Dahil kailanman man hindi na nakararamdam ng tinatawag nilang ‘ligaya’ Salamat sa pagsalo ng panandaliang lungkot, Salamat sa paghaplos sa katawan kong matagal nang pagod, Salamat sa pagpapakalma, sa magulong mundo na tumatakbo sa utak ko Salamat sa pagsaksi sa aking mga pighati, at salamat dahil hinayaan mong humimlay ang katawan kong puno ng bigat Salamat sa mga oras na pinaramdam mo sa akin ang kakarampot na pahinga Salamat sa malaki mong tela na bumabalot sa akin kapag malamig na Salamat sa mga malalambot mong parihabang panalo ng ulo Dahil ito na rin, ang nagsisilbing pamunas ng aking mga luha Upang hindi pumatak sa sahig.

Dahil bawal makabuo ng anumang ingay kaya ako’y mahinahong hanggang ngiwi Salamat sa panibagong umaga Upang ako’y mapagod muli Dagdagan mo na lamang ng “TAYAN” ‘Saka na ako magpapasalamat sa iyo ng walang hanggan KAMA-TAYAN Oo, Kamatayan--Dahil na sa aking puso ay gumuguhit, Dahil nais ko nang ibaon ang mga karanasan sa mapapait na panahon.

Dahil nais ko nang makalaya sa bawat pasaning sa akin ay humahatak Dahil nais ko nang mabuo ang aking pagkawasak At higit sa lahat ay dahil nais ko nang, sa aking KAMA ay UMAHON.

CHAPTER 3

A Leap from Mediocrity

Cartoon by

PATRICIA RUFINA MENDOZA

NEWS FEATURE

“Art is too important not to share.”

- Romero Britto Through time, people have used art to puzzle whatever it is that life brings us: hope, joy, and even sorrow. As we fight different battles, student artists are using this moment to bring people together, inspire and give them even a glimpse of hope. It takes courage and patience to do such a thing with blinding limits hovering around, but the hardships they are willing to go through is what art reflects.

And this is where artists stand in the middle of a crisis.

Sulyap Year 4 concert brings Performing Arts Online Annielyn Eugenio

Last April 30, 2021, the fourth installment of Sulyap Grand Recital of UPHSD Calamba Performing Arts Guild (PAG) was successfully conducted through Zoom teleconference call and Facebook Live.

Sulyap Grand Recital is an annual concert of Performing Arts Guild composed of Tanghay Sining Theater Arts Guild, UPH Calamba Chorus, Altas Fusion Krew, Altas Dance Theater, Perpetual Sining Galing and Altitude Glee Club.

Student-artists exerted a huge effort to provide entertainment during these darkest times.

During the virtual concert, UPH Calamba Chorus gave an outstanding performance with their euphonious voices. Altas Fusion Krew and Altas Dance Theater set the fire with their terpsichorean swag, groove and moves; while Altitude Glee Club

serenaded the viewers and performed different genres of relaxing music.

Tanghay Sining Theater Arts Guild and Perpetual Sining Galing, together with PAG Officers, helped in the preparation and editing of the virtual concert. Tanghay Sining ended the concert with a reflection clip about where artists stand in this crisis.

Since it’s the first time that they had to perform in a concert virtually, student-artists found it difficult as they encountered different challenges during meetings, rehearsals, briefings and scheduling as they have classes. Nonetheless, those hindrances were addressed properly through the members’ initiative and with the help and guidance from their advisers: Ms. Arianne Kate Lansigan, Mr. Matteo Villena and Mr. Ricky Ibañez. And of course, to Mrs. April Violet Cubilla, PAG Coordinator who really put out elbow grease to make this concert more remarkable. (continue on Page 20)

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Ang Paglalakbay Shiella Bordador

Ramdam ko na sa aking mga paa Nakaraos na sa baku-bakong lupa Humahapay na sa alon ang aking katawan Aking mata’y humahanap ng paraan Kahit ilang bundok ang aking tawirin Kahit ilang dagat ang aking hamakin Nais ko lamang sanang makita ang yugto, Yugto ng daluyong ng buhay kong ito Magiging mapait at malayo ang paglalakbay Ito’y nagbibigay sa akin ng lakas na taglay Ang kahapon ay aking lakas at sandigan At ang bukas ay ang aking patutunguhan.

Cartoon by

KRICHA MAE RAMOS

Film Class takes center stage anew in virtual film and theater viewing Yayo Villar

AB Communication students in their courses Introduction to Film and Advertising Principles and Practices continue to break new grounds as they find a way to work on their craft and creativity during this pandemic with their first-ever Virtual Film and Theater Showing.

Third year students from the film class of both Asosasyon ng Komunikasyon at Tinig ng Makabagong Organisasyon (AKTIBO) from Calamba Campus and Communication Society (CommSoc) of UPHSD Molino made entries for each one of the film and theater, with the theme “Takilya: Talento sa Sining ng Pelikula” for film, and “Tahak at Likha: Tanghalan sa Makabagong Telon” for theater.

Katha Production from UPHSD Calamba showcased their creations entitled “The Greater Good” and “Tao Lang Din Si Teacher” which both follow an inspiring story from the point of view of teachers and learners during the pandemic. Meanwhile, Hiraya Production of Molino Campus mirrored relevant undertakings in history and current events on their film and theater entitled, “Yugto ng Hiraya”, and “Illa Simulatione”. The shows were split into different screen times which streamed exclusively via Zoom and ran from 2:00PM – 7:00PM on June 5. Over 400 audiences gathered to watch the shows for free, not only from UPHSD but also students from different universities all over Laguna.

Delos Santos (UPHSD Calamba), and Jessica Mae De Jesus from City College of Calamba (CCC).

It is for a fact no piece of cake to strategize and produce motion picture and theater performances during these times since the art requires elaborate discussion and company calls within making of the production which they mostly held online.

Second year students, on the other hand, utilized different platforms on social media to release posters and teasers for promoting the shows, while some of the 1st years were tasked to host the viewing.

Strenuous adjustments hindered the process such as limited physical interaction, script reading, preparation of props and editing, rehearsal, and meetings in between online classes.

However, all under the guidance and supervision of Prof. Arianne Kate Lansigan, the production was made successful as they all took the challenge by heart, garnering 90% positive feedback from the audience.

According to the prod team, it was a challenging yet surreal experience, seeing that all their hard work had paid off, making it possible to continue working on their craft and passion while leaving Perpetualites and all their viewers a light of hope and entertainment through the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic.

They also organized a Selfie Contest where three viewers won cash prizes by posting their selfies using the #PerpetualiteGaling on Facebook while watching the virtual shows. Winners were Rham Andrae Bagatsing (UPHSD Las Piñas), Christine Mae

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The Perpetualite Archives-UPHSD Calamba

Cartoon by

PATRICIA RUFINA MENDOZA

The Trail Hazzel Binohlan

The mountain is in sight As you aim for your plight, Rest whenever it is needed But never take back what’s decided The path may be lonely And may sometimes be merry, Just keep on following along Look forward, stay headstrong Crossroads and branches are often Yet your heart must not soften Convict yourself to your desire, Follow the torch of your inner fire Along the trail you’ll find many situations Leading to joyous times or even frustrations This is the middle of your path chosen, Success is near but the peak is still hidden.

Cartoon by

YOSHIHIRO MILLARE

LABAN

Kim Serviño

Sa muling pagsabog ng liwanag ng araw Muling haharapin ang bagong hamon ng buhay Sa muling pagmamata ng ating mga tanaw Ay muling maglalayag sa paghayag ng kulay Sa pagtatapos ng nakakapagod na kahapon Ay ngayo’y itutuloy ang pagyapak sa tamang direksyon Ikaw ay babangon sa pagkakaduyan Ng iyong pagdantay sa mapuot mong lulan Bagamat ikaw man ay nagigiyang Sa pagsubok na ngayo’y tinatahak Sa hirap na dinaranas ay ‘di ka palilinlang Pagkat sa rurok ng tinatahak ay nais mong yumapak Magkamali man sa maalon mong malalanguyan Hindi hihinto hanggang sa hinihiling na hahantungan Kada kabalinuhan ipakita’ng katatagang katangi-tangi Lumaban lang dahil liwanag mo’y lumalagablab lagi Ahon.

Lakbay Rian Villanueva Hindi na mabilang ang pagkakapatid at pagkakadapa Kada oras tinatanaw ang kalagitnaan; Minamanmanan ang simoy ng hangin Inaabangan ang mga pagsubok na paparating.

Minsan nang dumaloy ang baha sa sakayan, minsang namayagpag ang poot ng hangin Ngunit ‘di nagpadaig ang damdamin Sapagkat wala dapat katakutan sa ulang hindi magawa pati ang pagtahan.

Pagsubok ay tila hindi kinakapaguran ng tadhana Ngunit ang paglalakbay ay pinili pa rin Bakit hindi pinili ang karagatang walang galit?

At mas pinili ang peligrosong kalupaan na iyong tinatapakan?

Ang sagot ay alam ng karamihan, Dahil sinunod nila ang kanilang kagustuhan Kahit ang mga tuhod ay puno na ng gasgas Patuloy pa ring tumatayo, animo’y hindi kilala ang pagsuko.

Padayon sa pag abante Patungo sa paraisong iyong minimithi Patuloy lang sa paglalakbay Dahil sayo’y maraming nakatingin at nakaantabay Ang iilan ay nais kang tumigil at sumablay Ngunit ang karamihan ay nais kang magtagumpay.

Challenges PHOTO SECTION

Trials make life interesting, overcoming them makes everything worth living shots by

Annielyn Eugenio, Mark John De Jesus and Ruth Stephanie Quinto color graded by

Aver Justine Parado

Challenges and trials are experiences that help us to learn and grow. Trials sometimes appear to be hard but we must always remember that these, being difficult, do not mean impossible. We just have to value every lesson and chances we get from these experiences.

challenges 24

WE LEAD AS WE WRITE, WE WRITE AS WE LEAD

The Perpetualite Archives-UPHSD Calamba

Cliff

Hazzel Binohlan The mountain is unforgiving And yet, you keep climbing Choice less or with fervor Only one will be the victor Steep is the path to the peak It calls to all who wish to seek Many have tried but few have reached Thousands have attempted yet only hundreds committed Fewer and fewer are the peers you see The less reliant you are the stronger you’ll be I don’t mean to say to remain friendless, Instead even when alone remain fearless Along the path and impasse lies in wait A cliff unfathomably deep asking for a leap of faith Will you falter? Will you take the risk?

Fall back with your steps so brisk You run back to the cliff feet running wild To reach the peak or fall will be reconciled You look down and see the abyss The next thing you know, your feet did not miss.

The First Descent Shiella Bordador

What does it take for us to be alive?

What does it take for us to survive?

Life is full of ups and downs, You would have to walk until dawn Gravity will always put us down It will always take us back to the ground You will not always be in the altitude of life Sometimes, you won’t really see the light Being alive isn’t being stagnant You’ll not reach the peak in an instant The zigzags brought me in here But these too, will take me up there I may be in the dark and down today I believe tomorrow, God will lead the way The journey of our lives is not always easy Hence in the end, there’s a paradise to see.

CHAPTER 4

REFUGE

Cartoon by

YOSHIHIRO MILLARE

A CARAVAN OF PRAISE Kim Serviño

His endeavor is hard and enduring And the day was long It was stressing And full of dread He was on the brink of overflow Like a filled glass Held tightly only by The water’s surface tension Though through hurdles and stumbles Still he was thankful Of what has the one Had provided him As his will and faith kept him on the ground On his way home He was once again Able to sincerely smile.

Light in the night Hazzel Binolhan

Dawn break marks the start of your journey Dusk came and tested your foundry Peerless you find the sight at the peak The night sky along with the top you seek Darkness littered the sky unlike the abyss Littered with light and hints of bliss Toiled for so long to see the sight The stars that twinkle for your delight You look up and wonder how far is each Climbed to the top but they are out of reach Looking beyond as you wonder You see another peak just taller You’ve worked hard, yes it is true It is right to give where credit is due The stars are still waiting as their lights scatter The mountain awaits for your next answer.

balik tanaw Rian Villanueva

Kay lamig ng gabi Simoy ng kapayapaan, aking nararamdaman, Sa ilalim ng mga tala at bilog na buwan Hindi ko tuloy maiwasan balikan ang nakaraan.

Panahong hindi ko alam kung saan ang tungo at pupuntahan Walang kasing dilim ang nilalakbay at nilalakaran Walang katiyakan kung may aabutan Hindi malaman kung makakarating ba sa paroroonan Ilang beses din gustong sumuko, loob ay pinanghinaan.

Minsan nang nawalan ng pag-asa Naitanong sa sarili kung itutuloy pa ba Patuloy sa pangangapa itong bata Paghiling sa mga tala’y kulang pa yata.

Galit at pagkadismaya ang tanging naramdaman Pangarap ay pinagdududahan kung makakamtan Dapa, bangon, padayon Ideyal na sasabihin ng karamihan Suko o laban Isa lang dapat sa dalawang pamimilian.

Paa’y nasa laylayan, kamay gahiblang pisi na lang ang nakakapitan.

Ngayo’y nagka-isip at may kaunting kaalaman “Pagsubok” pala ang ngalan ng napagdaanan Walang mabilis na daan patungo sa hangganan Walang patag at madaling lakaran May aral ang bawat daan na tinatapakan Hindi sagot ang pagsuko sa kapaguran Ipahinga ang mga paa na napagod sa nilakaran Ipahinga ang mga kamay na patuloy na may pinanghahawakan.

Huwag sumuko at ituloy lang ang lakad; hanggang maabot ang nais mong puntahan

;

Success requires perseverance, lots of hardwork and unending learning which is established from catastrophe. It is a continuous fight for another journey that the Serviño world has to offer. Kim Never limit your potential ‘cause you can do more and be more; keep going.

Through breakdowns Do breakthroughs come true And on stormy nights Do trees sprout anew So give our mind a little ease And let overthought fade to bliss To let ourselves have a great release And Let us rest our bones Tired and weak For the dawn to come Will kill our moment’s bleak.

shots by

Annielyn Eugenio, Mark John De Jesus and Ruth Stephanie Quinto color graded by

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WE LEAD AS WE WRITE, WE WRITE AS WE LEAD

Aver Justine Parado

The Perpetualite Archives-UPHSD Calamba

And

Let us rest our bones Tired and weak For the dawn to come Will kill our moment’s bleak.

Kim Serviño

Success

So give our mind a little ease And let overthought fade to bliss To let ourselves have a great release

EYES CLOSED

Through breakdowns Do breakthroughs come true And on stormy nights Do trees sprout anew

FRONT PAGE

FEATURE

CES

VOICE KO ‘TO

LIT PIECES

VOICE KO ‘TO

THE TOUCHE OF HOPE

THE TOUCH OF HOPE ADMINS

STUDENTS

ALJON PHILIP ANCAYAN 4th Year BS Industrial Engineering

Ako po si Aljon Philip B. Ancayan isang 4th year BS Industrial Engineering student at kasalukuyang working student. Ako po ay isang company driver sa Manila.

Nang dahil sa aking mga munting nakamit, nagkaroon ako ng paraan upang matustusan ang aking pag aaral. At hanggang ngayon ay ginagawa ko pa rin ang sideline na ito.

Bilang working student, dumarating sa point ng buhay ko na tatanungin ko ang aking sarili, “kailangan ko pa bang ituloy ito?” Minsan naiisip ko, “kaya ko kayang pagsabayin ang pag aaral at pagtatrabaho?”

Pero lagi ko na lang sinasabi sa sarili ko na, “Kakayanin ko!

Hindi lang para sa sarili ko, kundi para rin sa mga taong nagmamahal sa akin na naniniwalang makakaya ko.”

Sa buhay ng tao walang permanente, lahat ng bagay ay panandalian lamang. Pero noong dumating ang pandemic, maraming buhay ang nabago. Maging ako na isang working student ay nagulat sa mga pagbabagong ito dahil simula noong mag-shift sa online classes, nawalan din ako ng mapagkukunan ng pambayad sa aking matrikula. Nawala ang aking student assistant scholarship at iba pang scholarships na mayroon ako, maging ang aking sideline sa catering services na talaga namang malaki ang naitulong sa aking magulang. Dalawa lang kami ng aking ama ang nagtatrabaho sa bahay na sa kasamaang palad, pansamantala ring pinatigil sa dahil sa pandemya na labis naming ikinalungkot.

Simula noon, kami ay labis na nagtipid sa lahat ng bagay, upang mabawas-bawasan man lang ang gastos, sapagkat hindi sapat ang perang hawak namin para matustusan ang iba pa naming pangangailangan.

Ngunit hindi kami sumuko ng aking pamilya sa hamong kinahaharap. Naghanap ako ng paraan upang makabwas sa gastusin. Naisipan kong

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WE LEAD AS WE WRITE, WE WRITE AS WE LEAD

subukang maging isang PasaBUY Rider. Hindi man agad napapayag ang aking mga magulang dahil sa kumakalat na epidemya, ngunit hinayaan na rin akong gawin ito.

Ang dating estudyante na nagce-catering noon, pasabuy rider na ngayon! Kaya naman lubos ang pasasalamat ko sa Laguna Angkas Pasabuy Group (LAPG) na nagbigay ng oportunidad sa akin. Hindi lang sila basta grupo na mapagkukunan ng trabaho, pamilya na rin ang turingan namin sa isa’t isa. Sa tulong ng mga admin ng grupo ko, kaming lahat ng mga kasamahan ko ay kanilang naipasok bilang isang SM Calamba Rider.

Dahil dito, natulungan ko ang aking mga magulang sa aming mga gastusin. Hindi man ganon kalaikhan ang kita ng isang pasabuy rider tulad ng inaakala ng iba, ay nakakatulong pa rin ito sa amin.

Hindi sumuko ang pamilya sa pagsubok na dala ng pandemyang ito. Sa katunayan, naging daan pa ito upang magkaroon kami ng isang sasakyan na makakatulong sa pang-hanap buhay ko. Kaya naman lubos ng aming pasasalamat sa tulong ng Puong may Kapal dahil dininig Niya ang aming panalangin at pananampalataya.

Kaya naman, sa tuwing may mga kaibigan o kakilala ako na sasabihan akong hindi nila kaya ang mga ginagawa ko, ang sinabi ko lang sa kanila, “Tiwala lang, basta mahalaga, magtiwala ka sa sarili mong kakayahan.

Importante na sabihin mo sa sarili mong importante ang lahat ng ginagawa mo at ito ay para sa iyo at sa pamilya mo.” Walang pagsubok na ibinibigay si Lord na hindi natin malalagpasan.

Alam niya na kaya natin itong magawan ng paraan!

The Perpetualite Archives-UPHSD Calamba

SHIELLA BORDADOR 4th Year AB Communication

Just like any other students, I as well have life struggles being home bounded. When this global health crisis came to us, a sudden shift from face-to-face to online classes were applied and just like all of you, I was kind of hopeless and sometimes, I even felt miserable.

Being a student and the eldest child of the family hasn’t been that easy. I am not sure if some of you can relate to this, but when you’re the oldest in an Asian family, all the heavy and major responsibilities lie on your hands just because “you are the oldest”. I find it really hard to be a student and a daughter at once. Doing the house chores and cooking in between classes has been in my daily routine since the day 1 of the pandemic. At the end of the day, I’ll come to gather my senses and realize that this sudden change is truly making most of us drained. There comes a time that me and my classmates cried all at once in our group chat messenger, because of the pressure we’re feeling. Wanting to be functional and effective students even if it’s all virtual. But we are now in our senior year and I know that this coming two new semesters will have a lot of new challenges for us to face, as a child and as a student. Thankful for the fact that I and my classmates got each other’s back and we’re more like a family.

We also cannot deny the fact that in this pandemic, we have lost so many people. I was truly disheartened when I lost one of my aunts. I regret the fact

that I didn’t even have the chance to talk to her or thank her before she left this world. Lesson learned: say something you truly mean to a person before it’s too late. We don’t fully own our lives, it is clearly borrowed and we will not last here for a long time. The sudden death of my aunt makes me more courageous to express my feelings and gratitude to my family and to my loved ones. Currently, I am also running a small online business so that I can give even just a little bit for my family and for myself as well. That’s what I am humbly proud of. This pandemic has made me more flexible, being an online seller, student and child at home. Something that I can’t see myself doing one day, but here I am.

But despite all of what I have said, I have come to a clearer realization that I am more of a lucky person. Not just me, but my family as well. We thank God every day for the fact that we’re still alive, we’re not getting sick, we’re sheltered and clothes and we have good food to eat. I’ll be honest that despite being a strong woman, I am also a crybaby. I take everything into consideration.

But then crying will not do a thing for you. One should be strong and keep everything going. All I could say is that, this pandemic has even made me stronger and fiercer despite the struggles and challenges faced. I know there’s more to come, but always remember that we have a God that is bigger than our fears and anxieties (1 Peter 5:7) (Romans 8:18)

ARJANE MAE MONTERDE 4th Year AB Psychology

Hi! I am Arjane, a Psychology student here in UPHSD. It took me a while holding this pen and not writing at all. I have been pondering on how I should make a good introduction that would make the readers finish my story.

Something like this really happens in real life. You rack your brain on how to have a good start not knowing that life is not about the introduction, body, or conclusion; it’s about the raw substance that shapes you into someone with a purpose.

I’m a scholar, and being a scholar requires certain grades that you have to maintain. Yes, I do well in quizzes and activities and even get perfect scores. No, I am not good at memorization. Yes, I was exempted from some examinations.

No, I don’t pull an all-nighter to review. Yes, I topped my class.

No, I can’t answer all the questions related to the subject. I usually study lessons for two hours and then do everything I want after that and not sacrifice my seven hours of sleep.

It was all good, not until the interplaying factors during online classes had me crying- noises outside the house, slow internet connection, and my oh-so-lag laptop. I was always irritated whenever we only had one hour to do our activities, and my laptop wouldn’t be loading for about half an hour. But, you see, hard work will not betray you. However, I am not a student all the time. I have a life other than that. My side hustles help me gain some income during this pandemic.

After my online classes, I do tutor sessions with two elementary students while I post stuff to sell at my online

shop. Next to that, I get my notebook and write the details of the plans for Psychology Society. I am the President. I make sure that our organization is keeping track of what it aims to advocate. Whereas some people wanted the position with none of the responsibility, here’s me wanting to cry a thousand times owing to the fact that I should be forbearing all the time. A good leader must respect the reality that people think differently so that the organization can act accordingly.

Apart from those, I am a fangirl. As I see it, one must come upon something they find enjoyable amidst this pandemic as it will build magic to oneself. The semester ended without me realizing it. There, I’ve come to realize that I could have been on the Dean’s List since 1st year but I was not checking my GWA and didn’t give time to read the student’s handbook at all. Finally, got the momentum to apply and tadah! I am currently a Dean’s Lister. Chances passed by as I was just enjoying my college days and forgot about that matter. The thing is, just be patient with everything, because you are more than what you think.

The sudden shift from face-to-face classes to online classes got me so worried. It was new and unexpected.

I have so many questions in my mind and I’m hoping to discover the answers and find those along the way. I was struggling to adapt to the new normal until it became bearable. What I want for every student to know is that; whenever circumstances are telling you to stop, run. And by God’s grace, you will win.

theperpetualitearchives@gmail.com

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FRONT PAGE

FEATURE

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VOICE KO ‘TO

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THE TOUCH OF HOPE STUDENTS

ADMINS

MS. EMMANUELLE DEL CIELO- GARCIA Dean, Radiologic Technology

The pandemic caused massive disruption in our way of living. Since the pandemic started, the academy was one of the badly hit sectors as it was admittedly caught off guard. Private HEIs were shaken, with no established learning management system, no communication system in place, no learning continuity plan leaving the teaching and learning guessing and banging like a pendulum.

Another pressing concern was the tuition fees due for midterm and finals affecting the university operations, all because the onset of the pandemic was in the middle of the academic year. As the Dean and part of the teaching force, I can describe the pandemic experience similar to driving in heavy rain with zero visibility. The battle for safety, health, and security were all considered simultaneously in the main processes of the university. The decisions, information dissemination, plans, and immediate interventions were crucial in the operations.

Time was also a critical measure as it forced me to create quick solutions to run the initial game plan in addressing the concerns of our students and faculty in the middle of their instruction delivery, course activities, and submissions.

Subsequently, the immediate action for our student interns in the hospital was not an easy task. The chaotic state of the hospital and the increasing number of COVID-19 patients added difficulty to the decision-making process. The initial attempt to end the semester was very challenging, yet a more

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WE LEAD AS WE WRITE, WE WRITE AS WE LEAD

dragging question was how to figure out the coming pandemic school year with only two (2) months to prepare. The birth of the Flexible Learning Options - FLOs of Commission on Higher Education served as the backbone of all the plans, directions, and strategies created for the transition period. The strong points of this transition period were the up-skilling of the faculty on the use of LMS, the creation of new sets of course materials, availability, and affordability of the gadget considering the connectivity of both faculty and students.

A year after the first implementation of FLO strategies, I can say that it was a good start considering all the areas in need of improvement.

In order to uphold the learning continuity plan, the stakeholders must commit, dedicate, and be resilient to forge a better attempt on this second pandemic year. The accelerating situation of this pandemic highlighted the importance of building relationships, humanizing technology, time management, prioritizing investments, creativity, and critical thinking. It is the best effort of the university to stretch options, opportunities, and manage conflicts while thriving in this pandemic. Following what Chairman Popoy De Vera mentioned in his speech that “online classes will stay”, we have to embrace and accept this current reality with openness and practice agility to be relevant and survive.

The Perpetualite Archives-UPHSD Calamba

MR. IAN PRADILLA College Instructor

Words can create and destroy. The human mind is so powerful that sometimes we are not aware of its strong energy both in the negative and positive aspects. When we are depressed, we always seek comfort that even one word is enough to give us inspiration and uplift ourselves.

By hearing words from others, we tend to believe it and most of the time it becomes our basis of judgment that sometimes leads us to confusion and misunderstanding which creates conflict.

Words of encouragement are very powerful but sometimes we are not aware of its effects. Some can affect us later, while for others, it is simultaneous depending on the present condition of the person. Delayed effects are sometimes stored as suppressed emotions which usually create confusion on the person and others because the bases of judgment are commonly perceived at the last moment.

Words of encouragement are powerful tools to create someone as a genius, scientist,

mathematician, and an artist. It can create a wonderful world of educators, artists, and managers. A word of encouragement is a powerful tool to achieve your career goals and aspirations.

Students behave inside the classroom when motivated by positive words of encouragement. A man of talent creates a perfect act when guided by these positive words and fulfills towards happiness and an enjoyable life. Then, successful people find balance and fulfillment at the end. Be a Perpetualite carrier of positive words of encouragement to everyone!

“A generous man will himself be blessed, For he shares his food with the poor, Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; Quarrels and insults are ended.

He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is Gracious will have the king for his friends.”

Proverbs 22:9-11

MR. JAYDEE QUERUBIN Alumni Coordinator and Publication Adviser

It feels good to finally have a platform to share this.

We know for a fact that with the sudden outburst of COVID-19 virus, our lives were changed in ways we never imagined. Suddenly, we are required to use face masks and even shields; we must limit ourselves going out and socializing with people. We were forced to stay at our homes, do regular sanitation, and be more mindful not just of our health but also of our loved ones. Suddenly, we become uncertain of what might happen as we battle unseen enemies -not just the fast-spreading virus, but something more.

I still recall a promise I made to myself when 2020 finally started: I will enjoy life out of my zone. I wanna try something new, something unforgettable, something life-changing. Little did I know that my aspirations would turn to this, but it’s here -- something new, unforgettable, life-changing. And I might not ask for more (cause it might get worse).

This pandemic introduced me to an unfamiliar battle with unforeseen adjustments, sleepless nights, and days of continuously searching for my purpose or even questioning my existence. Before, I thought I had my life going how I initially planned it. I just felt I’m so strategic and wise at that time -- I had control over my goals and I managed to pull them off. Then this pandemic happened.

Everything has changed. While some of my plans were just

delayed, most didn’t happen. I’ve had days when I open my eyes and feel like everything seems to be hard - waking up, preparing for work, and even getting rest. I’ve had days when my thoughts - those “What ifs” -- and emotional stresses get the best of me and hinder me from sleeping. My mind was just clouded with so many thoughts I don’t even know what to think! I even had nights of unexplainable loneliness, of tears falling without any unspeakable reason. Those days were sad; but they taught me so many realizations:

Our lives are not completely ours. While it’s true we are the writer of our own life story, there are so many events which are entirely beyond our control -- some are just forcing us to react. But these make the best storyline, twists we’ll never know would actually happen. This pandemic is just one of the many turns which make life unpredictable, exciting, and worth living.

Those feelings of loneliness and uncertainties are valid, and they’re showing us that life is imperfect, just as we are, but it’s wonderful. And finally, all these things happen for a reason. We are still here for a reason; and we will survive this because of a reason we yet to fathom.

We’ll never know when you will be reading this, and by that time, everything may or may not be well because tomorrow isn’t promised. But one thing’s for sure -- even at the darkest hours and toughest days, life will always be precious; we just have to live it, cherish it, get by and strive.

theperpetualitearchives@gmail.com

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The Perpetualite Archives The official college publication of UPHSD Calamba

EDITORIAL BOARD Academic Year 2020-2021

RUTH STEPHANIE QUINTO Editor-in-chief

YAYO VILLAR Associate Editor

SHIELLA MARIE BORDADOR

Managing Editor/ Social Media Manager

ANNIELYN EUGENIO

News Editor/ Head Photojournalist

JESSA MARIE BARBOSA Feature Editor

KIM BENEDICT SERVIÑO Literary Editor

KRICHA MAE RAMOS Chief Artist

HAZZEL BINOHLAN

Senior Staff - Literary Writer

RIAN VILLANUEVA

Junior Staff- Literary Writer

JHOANNA MARIE AMANTE Junior Staff- Scitech Writer

KRIZIA MAE DELANTAR Junior Staff- Feature Writer

PATRICIA RUFINA MENDOZA YOSHIHIRO MILLARE Junior Staff- Cartoonist

MARK JOHN DE JESUS

Junior Staff- Photojournalist

JOYCE ANN PAGUIO KATE CHRISTIAN RAVELO Junior Staff- Layout Artist

AVER JUSTINE PARADO Contributor

MR. JAYDEE QUERUBIN Student Publication Adviser

DR. JOSEPHINE G. MANINGAS DR. ERNESTO F. RAMIREZ Publication Consultants

We lead as we write, we write as we lead