THE RADIANCE E-NEWSLETTER OCTOBER 2019

“TREES REPRESENT LIFE.”

“LUTO SANG AKON KABUDLAY.”

-Capiz Supt. Bermejo

-Berlita Falcis

NEWS | PAGE 2

FEATURE | PAGE 6

OCTOBER 2019 | OFFICIAL STUDENT PRESS CORPS OF MAYOR RAMON A. BENJAMIN SR. NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL | VOLUME 9 NO. 1 SIGHTS OF HOPE

Joshua Mistas, 3, is one of the IP children in Mt. Tag-ao who hopes to have a better future through education.

And the young age, he reckons all the difficulties that may hit and surround him.

But with hope he facesa brighter future ahead of him free of discrimination and open for acceptance.

(PHOTO BY: MARK ANTHONY BAJADA)

2,593,555 39,994 PUBLIC SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE BELONG TO

FILIPINO LEARNERS WHO ARE ENROLED IN

INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES

SPECIAL FEATURE ON PAGE 10

POVERTY NO MORE Tag-ao community: We need more acceptance

BY PRINCESS NICOLE ALIVAR

Launching its second year of valuing the Indigenous People’s community in Dumarao, The Radiance staged its outreach activity by visiting the uphill community of Mt. Tag-ao in Tamulalud on Oct. 29.

With 20 volunteer journalists who hiked the 947-meter concrete road up to the Aeta community, 10 lucky kids became the publication’s lucky beneficiaries of early Christmas relief goods.

On. Oct. 14, the publication in partnership with the Senior High School students organized an advocacy photo exhibit which earned Php. 3,040.00 and used to fund for #TakladTag-ao.

According to Philip Jayson Falcis, publication adviser, over the years poverty is no longer the main battle for IP communities but rather they long to be fully valued by the society.

“Poverty no more. It’s full acceptance from the society that they long for regardless of their color and race,” said Falcis expressing that it’s not about making them richer, it’s about recognizing them after going out of the dark shadows of discrimination.

The concrete road which connects the Tag-ao community to the base of the mountain is a joint project by the LGU-Dumarao and Kalahi amounting to 2.5 million pesos.

On helping out Capizeños in ‘laylayan’

Pure public service - VP Robredo

REACHING OUT THE ‘LAYLAYAN’ | Vice President Leni Robredo has been true to her promise of reaching out and empowering communities including the fishermen in Roxas City which then signals hope and inclusivity to the poor and needy. (PHOTO COURTESY: Roxas City Communications)

BY JEFF HASIGAN

Vice President Leni Robredo emphasized that her latest visit in Roxas City, Capiz is purely intended for some series of interventions which include the ‘Angat Buhay’ program.

In a press conference launched at Island Hotel in Pueblo de Panay, Robredo discussed about her ‘Laylayan’ program and

her advocacy to help especially the less fortunate and forgotten municipalities in the country.

“It’s pure public service,”

said Robredo adding that she is willing to extend help despite any political affiliation.

On Oct. 29, Robredo joined a group of physicians for a surgical mission at Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital and met with VP ROBREDO | PAGE 2

2 news

THE RADIANCE

OFFICIAL STUDENT PRESS CORPS OF MRABSNHS NOVEMBER 2019 VOL. 9 | NO. 1

Trees represent life - Bermejo

BY ARIES BANGCOYO Embarking on sustainability than just awareness, Capiz Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Roel F. Bermejo championed on June 25 a tree planting activity launched at Gibato, Dumarao, Capiz.

“Trees represent life and we are here because we care for life,” said the superintendent while stressing that climate change is a serious concern that mankind needs to combat the unfavorable effects of climate change.

Leading the 346 division personnel and volunteers, Bermejo said tree planting activity is a great way to increase student’s interest to the local environment and achieve academic goals.

“We are joining hands and I would say not just hands but hearts together just to have these Arbor Day in the whole province of Capiz,” he said adding “it connects students to the benefits of trees and faster environmental stewardship”.

With the theme “One Million Trees in One Day,” the said project aims to raise awareness to the society of the importance of planting and saving trees and express concern to the environment.

As long as human beings exist, we should all plant trees in order for all of us to survive or else we will all be vanishing because we cannot survive without trees,” he added.

Some 3,000 planted trees were turned over to the community barangay officials, the superintendent confirmed.

EXCLUSIVE NEWS

PNP: Ramonians spared from drug list on minors

BY PRINCESS NICOLE ALIVAR

Nobody from the Ramonian community plays with drugs, a police officer from Dumarao is certain.

Police Staff Surgeant Rhezel S. Jinon from the Police Community Affair Division of the municipality said active cooperation and responsible action on the revitalization of campaigns against illegal drugs in the municipality must be heighted to attain a fully drug free community.

In an exclusive interview with The Radiance on Aug. 22, Jinon identified 27 out of 33 barangays in Dumarao are affected in drug clearing operations with the total of 236 drug surrenderers in which 4 of them are in their minor ages while the remaining 6 barangays were unaffected, as of August.

“The complete status of the said municipality when it comes to drug surrenderers is still on the move. Thirteen barangays were officially cleared, 1 pending paper, and 19 barangays are subject and still on the process of drug clearing operation,” said Jinon, noting that the first 5 barangays were cleared on December 13, 2018 while the VP ROBREDO | FROM PAGE 1

BERMEJO

some fisher folks in some coastal areas of the city.

Meanwhile, the vice president also led the turnover of 5.98 million financial assistance from her office to the municipal government to help improve the livelihood of farmers in the area.

remaining eight were cleared on June 4, 2019.

Moreover, on September 19, 2016, the Dangerous Drugs Board passed Board Regulation No. 4, Series of 2016, entitled “OPLAN SAGIP - Guidelines on Voluntarily Surrender of Drug Users and Dependents and Monitoring Mechanisms of Barangay AntiDrug Abuse Campaigns”.

Aiming to help Local Government Unit and other organization in the establishment of Community - Based Treatment and Rehabilitation network of Services in their localities, Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse council with chairman Mayor Edgardo M. Arancillo, PNP, DILG“Through this, the federation will purchase equipment that its members can use including a tractor, a rice harvester and a ricetransplanter,” added Robredo.

Prior to her appointment in Capiz, Robredo also went to Iloilo where she took part in the launch of 10 million Mingo Meals feeding program in Badiangan and Concepcion.

MLGOO, RHV-DOH, DepEd, DSWD conduct after-care with surrenders through Community Based Rehabilitation Program.

The regulation also mandated Local Government Units (LGUs) through their AntiDrug Abuse Councils (ADACs) to facilitate the establishment of community-based treatment and rehabilitation services and intervention to surrenderers found to be of low-risk or having mild substance use disorder.

“We are about to start with 3rd Batch of CBRP. Out of 236, 86 has graduated and the rest are still subject for the rehabilitation program,” stated Police Staff Surgeant.

Dumarao PNP further said, members of Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council members should entirely give their full support for the rehabilitation of drug users and dependents in the communities.

The program aims to help the towns in their fight against malnutrition among children through a six-month supplementary feeding program with 470 stunted and wasted kids.

‘Angat Buhay’ is the flagship program of the OVP committed to addressing the most pressing needs of the poor and marginalized under the key advocacies of the program.

news 3

THE RADIANCE

OFFICIAL STUDENT PRESS CORPS OF MRABSNHS NOVEMBER 2019 VOL. 9 | NO. 1

SPECIAL REPORT

Dumarao holds special day for farmers

BY ARIES BANGCOYO

DUMARAO, Capiz - Farmers of the town may forget their suffering on rice crisis at least for a day as local government slated Oct. 22 in recognition ‘their role’ as nation’s backbone.

Agriculture advocates reminded the farmers representing the 33 barangays of Dumarao in the town civic center to be proud despite the challenges on farming.

“The farmers are the backbone of the nation. Don’t look yourself down – be proud and loud,” said Martina Felistina, officer-in-charge of Dumarao Research Institute.

Felistina delivered the message of Dir. Remelyn Recoter, Regional Executive Director of Department of Agriculture, Western Visayas.

In a statement, Recoter noted farmers are the country’s pride and they must be proud of themselves because they are the ones who ‘feed’ not just the Filipinos but even the whole world in general adding “farmers are giving life to everyone.”

Furthermore, Dumarao

Mayor Edgardo Arancillo lauded the presence of the officials and representatives of farmer’s associations within the municipality.

“We are trying our best to help you with our facilities and personnel who can assist your agriculture needs,” said the town executive. “We will strengthen our partnership with cooperatives and other agencies to provide the needed attention to support your ‘market outlets’.”

The celebration, which is first of its kind in the town, is aimed to inspire and to recognize the efforts of every farmer in the municipality.

‘FARMER’S LOAN’ Representative of the Presidential Consultant for the Visayas also noted road development as one of the government programs to provide

easier access for farm to market roads.

However, among the timely issues named is the Republic Act No. 11203, also known as Rice Tarrification Law, which was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on Feb. 14.

A National Food Authority representative who also graced the said event announced the agency no longer adds tariff on buying rice as prices lower down due to open importation.

Under the RTL, the NFA is limited only to maintaining buffer stocks for emergencies and disaster relief.

“Deliver your palay, preferably dry and clean, to NFA so we can buy,” said the representative after understanding the burden of most farmers who suffer for the aftermath of RTL. As palay farmgate prices reportedly drop to as low as P7 per kilo in some areas on September, small farmers hurt by the said law will not be receiving conditional cash transfers from the government however they may avail of zero-interest loans,

according to DA. The increase of the rice imported is the reason behind the lowering prices of local rice products, as cited by the NFA personnel.

AFFECTED RAMONIANS With its location on an agricultural school site, the Ramonian community is not exempted with the current rice crisis.

At most 80 percent of the students of the school, 671 out of 835 officially enrolled, confirmed that farming is the primary

occupation of their parents, a concerted exclusive survey of The Radiance shows.

According to Novie Faith Escamilla, an agriculture advocate and teacher, most of the Dumaraonons rely on farming and it is a sad reality that local farmers have to face problems with selling their crops despite their hardwork.

“The price of rice is not well compensated to the cost of seedlings, fertilizers and insecticides used in farming,” concluded Escamilla.

Agri advocates to farmers: ‘You are nation’s backbone’

FARMING IS LIVING | For the last five decades, Wilson Gole, 68, considers farming as his way of living making him endure the rain or shine. (PHOTO BY: MARK ANTHONY BAJADA)

4 editorial

THE RADIANCE

OFFICIAL STUDENT PRESS CORPS OF MRABSNHS NOVEMBER 2019 VOL. 9 | NO. 1

EMPTY BASKETS

Farmers – the plowers of hope and sowers of a great nation. Yet, nothing is more lamentable than our farmers being neglected by the government; left to shackles of poverty and drudgery. Nowadays, the plight of Filipino rice farmer is totally worst with the signing of Rice Tariffication Act or RA 11203 by President Rodrigo Duterte. This has raised fears over its adverse effects not just to the farmers but to the whole nation.

The fear is not unfounded. Rice prices nowadays are endangering the income and livelihood of more than two million Filipino rice farmers nationwide.

The new law aims to protect the rice industry from volatile prices and consumers from rising inflation by liberalizing rice importation even to small players.

In fact, recent reports show that the Philippines has become the number 1 rice importer, overtaking China.

But at the receiving end of this measure are the hapless farmers. Data confirm farm gate prices plummeted to as low as P9 per kilo in Pampanga and P7 per kilo in Nueva Ecija and Bataan. Worse, the buying price of locally-grown and -produced rice continue to hit record lows. At this juncture, we firmly believe that the law which replaced the old import quotas and tariffs so that anyone can import rice which aims to lessen the burden of Filipino farmers is to be blamed.

The rice tariffication law not only directly affected the rice industry, other businesses which make use by products from rice are also inevitably hit by the onslaught of rice imports from countries such as Vietnam and Thailand. According to Deutsche Bank, liberalizing rice imports “will help, but will not solve the Philippines’ inflation problem.”

As an agricultural country, the government still does not invest heavily on modernizing agriculture and educating farmers. In fact, Senator Cynthia Villar even criticized the Department of Agriculture’s allocation for research saying that what the farmer needs is immediate help. This of course is a fallacy because we are yet to see long-term investments in sustainable production. During the latest El Nino phenomenon, 247,610 farmers and fisherfolks were affected.

The National Economic and Development Authority contends that the law was created to fulfill the country’s obligation to the World Trade Organization, which the Philippines has been a member since 1995. While the law stipulates loans to farmers of up to P15,000 at zero interest, payable in 8 years, we strongly believe that this law is a total burden to our poor cultivators who are now on the brink of selling their lands. Our farmers simply could not compete with cheaper rice imported from ASEAN countries. The high cost of tilling the land to grow rice is not a lucrative effort for farmers anymore, seeing that the buying price is only five pesos.

As student journalists, we have to continue educating our communities and stakeholders of the negative impacts of the new rice tariffication bill. It is part of our duty to empower communities, being the vigilant watchdogs and fearless mouthpieces of the poor and marginalized. It is our duty to provide enlightenment and voice to those who are deprived of their power to fight for their right. Writing about the plight of our farmers is one step toward unshackling them from poverty, ignorance, and oppression.

It is therefore crucial for our government to invest heavily on agriculture. Widening the reach of irrigation through building more infrastructures is imperative.

The government also needs to expedite and continue to provide access to farmers and their produce through more farm-to-market roads. Most of all, scrapping the rice tariffication law is essential to ensuring the future of our farmers and this country.

Rice is a Filipino staple, be it the rich or the poor, and a pivotal political commodity in the Philippines. If the farmers are demotivated to grow and produce rice because of the prevailing low prices per kilo, we cannot achieve sustainable production and supply of rice now and in the years to come. It is said that if the farmer is poor then so is the whole country. The government must do everything in its power to make sure that the rice granary of our nation are not empty by protecting the hands that feed us. Or else, the future generation will starve, not empty basket.

THE RADIANCE

OFFICIAL STUDENT PRESS CORPS OF MRABSNHS NOVEMBER 2019 VOL. 9 | NO. 1

Doing what is good for our country is exceptional. It is important to help so these rebels, drug addicts, and law violators will stop to play a role in our community. In accordance to this, the House of Representatives passed on final reading the bill reviving the mandatory military training program for senior high school students. A law under the National Service Training Program (NSTP) signed by President Gloria M. Arroyo in 2002.

Corruption, hazing, and violence. These will instill throughout the nation if ROTC will be revived. If not stopped, this will ruin students specifically the senior high school.

It is perilous to students for violence will come in abruptly. So I strongly disagree to impose again this program.

Remember the death of Mark Chua, a student of the University of Santo Tomas who exposed the alleged irregularities in his unit. The revival of this program mentioned, will kill more innocent students in the future.

Do we need to die just for our country? No. Our life is precious so why do we need to do something violent?

Well, this will test our patriotism and love for our homeland. But for me, this is a spy simply taking chance to take lives. However, according to Anakbayan National Chairman Vencer Crisostomo, ROTC is ‘abusive and Postponement is real again not just for the first nor second, but for the third time. Under Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, the holdback of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections is not that surprising anymore. Lately this year, the Congress moved to postpone the next year’s BSKE to May 2023 in a unanimous decision.

Many Filipino citizens, belonging to the young or old age bracket, gets ballistic and infuriated without even hearing further explanations why this has happened again. Yes, barangay and SK elections were already postponed twice under the Duterte administration. The polls were first postponed from October 2016 to October 2017, then pushed back once more to May 2018 after Duterte signed Republic Act No. 10952. But we can’t just go and protest to allow the May 2020 BSKE to happen if the President and the senate have finally decided to move it.

Variables. Many variables are part of the reason why it has to be postponed. In our advanced world today, where everything is developing and progressing, we also need leaders who can make our nation prosperous and ready to perform their duties as ‘leaders’. And by means of being ready, that doesn’t just stop physically but with mental, emotional, social and spiritual readiness.

Thus, in line with Pres. Duterte’s wish during his fourth State of the Nation Address, the tentative schedule of local polls would have

EDITORIAL BOARD PRINCESS NICOLE ALIVAR Editor-in-chief MARK ANTHONY BAJADA JOANNA GRACE BERINGUEL Associate Editor LHEM SEJADE ABORDE Managing Editor

column 5

CRIPPLED SOCIETY “The revival of this program mentioned, will kill more innocent students in the future. Do we need to die just for our country? No. Our life is precious so why do we need to do something violent?”

CANTUS FIRMUS JEFF HASIGAN

burdensome’. This should be abolished not made mandatory, which is a great idea to lessen crime all throughout the nation.

More issues and grafts will rise and this country would sink through the deepest void of violence. Students would know the rules and techniques in using dreadful been May 11, 2020 but with the proposed postponement, it will be held three years later.

The said postponement is only one of the ways that our leaders can totally prove theirselves to those who are hopeful for them. The long three years could be enough for them to let their proposals, platforms, and projects flourish so our fellowmen could really take benefit from it.

Moreover, according to the data by Philippine Statistics Authority, there are 42,045 barangays in the Philippines. In

UNFINISHED MOVING RACE “Many variables are part of the reason why it has to be postponed.

In our advanced world today, we also need leaders who can make our nation prosperous and ready to perform their duties as ‘leaders’. ”

JEFF HASIGAN AXEL PAUL ATAZA Asst. Managing Editor ARIES BANGCOYO FLORIE JANE SIMEROS News CAMELLE FROPONGA Feature

CRESCENDO

JOANNA GRACE BERINGUEL

BENJIE HALLARDA Sports RAQUESHA ERA PARDILLA MAYLEN SUMAGPAO KRISTINE ALFUENTE Junior Editorial Staff

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS JOSEPH LASAP

weapons which may cause to quarrels and misunderstanding.

Department of Education Secretary Leonor M. Briones, said that the program would provide the Philippines a source of defense and would help to instill discipline and patriotism among students. Well, she’s having a different perspective but I have this part that ROTC will ruin and will continue to downcast the future of Senior High School students.

As a journalist and marked as the ‘mouthpiece’ and ‘watchdog’ of the society, I have this role to spread true, accurate, and non-biased news that my fellowmen will know. We’re the light-bearer to give brightness to the darkened world.

In response to this issue, why won’t the government critically brainstorm for some programs to do the project and save our country? Why shouldn’t they make plans and critique each one so that no one will spare his or herlife again. Government have good leaders but such a foul activity covers this homeland.

I hope the government together with those people concerned about our country will do something to stop ROTC, so that this activity won’t ruin us. If it gives good image to the government, then it’s better. But I have this simplest wish that ROTC will give our country a blissful future, not a crippled society.

the May 2019 elections, data from the Commission on Elections confirm that there are about 61 million voters in the Philippines. Of there 31% or more than 18 million comprise the young people, known as ‘millennials’ who were born from mid-90s and early 2000s. This data doesn’t just show how many citizens will be affected by the elections and take part to it but it also shows the importance and impact of choosing the most prepared ones for the future of our nation is at stake and they must perform well to save our tomorrow.

Despite the advancement of technology that made the people in today’s age more skilled and honed to become the product of the future, I still believe that our town and village leaders have not yet shown the full growth they had and have not yet reached their full potential. It hasn’t been just my eye who have seen and noticed this but also our government did.

Not all the time, our government could be selfish and evil. There would always be times wherein they’re considerate of things that could lead to the betterment of our fellowmen and country. Just like the postponement of the BSKE, this simply implies to our town and village leaders to make a more remarkable move and continue in moving as it is part of their responsibility to make our lifestyle easier and our nation prosperous. They’re like runners inside the oval who cannot reach their finish line yet, for it is their unfinished moving race.

Creative Artist J-ZIARRA VIENZ ALADA Layout & Graphic Artist KEITH BRYAN MINGUILLO Editorial Cartoonist ALLYZA ATAZA KURT SIANDEL PEDROSA BRYAN PEREZ

BRITNEY KYLE LAURON SHANEL ASHLEY VALDEZ JASHMINE ANDREA VENTAR Editorial Staff PHILIP JAYSON FALCIS Adviser JOCILYN GIALOGO Principal

Sweet success from

From local kitchen to international scene : The w

BY PRINCESS N

go.

Ingredients? Check. Unfaltering hands? Ready. Steadfast heart and skill? Fit to

In a small kitchen room, there waves a legendary hand which not just strains the fine from coarse ones but also the negativities from the gratifying boons, not just mixes some various ingredients to cook but also blends different pieces of positivity to accomplish goals, and does not only produce mouth-watering delicacies but also paramount beings whom she has molded with her own magic and tools.

Continuing her steps to the muddy road and her not-so straight path which blockades her smooth journey to greater heights, 49-yearold Berlita Falcis has impressively dominated and proved a lot after many years of her establishment as a small kakanin vendor who continues to dream big not just for herself but for her beloved family. More trials and errors have come along her way which showed that her ability to conquer challenges from the start of her journey made her the being she has become.

From the heart of Capiz, Roxas City, it takes 45 kilometers to reach and locate Barangay Putian, Cuartero, Capiz where the home of their “kakanins with love” are found. Standing tall and firm, even not in literal manner, their only home has sheltered them enough to create outstanding humans and build a stronger relationship with each and every one in their family.

HANDMADE IS HEARTMADE Wife to 51-year-old Henry Falcis, Mama Berlita has shown the true essence of being a mother. Waking up early to get ready for another productive day ahead, doing her everyday routine as both a mother and a sprightful vendor, and staying up late at night to prepare anew for tomorrow’s sunshine, made her become the parent a child would always want to have.

Pushing them to work harder and earn higher are their three children who brought out the best of their parenthood. Raising all three gentlemen, feeding them 3-times a day, sending them to descent schools, and wishing nothing but the best for all of them gave her the determination and perseverance to make use of her skill in cooking and selling her specialties

CASSAVA ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

in order to provide the necessities of her loved ones.

“Mayad na lang nga maghimo ko sini kesa mangutang,” said Berlita. No matter how tiring it is, no matter how physically or mentally adverse it is, or no matter how it causes a severe pain in the back, it will never stop her to do the things that helped her family conquer life’s challenges and made them the better beings they are today.

MAGIC HAND. MIXING WAND. Like a fairy with a magic wand in her hand, Berlita also holds a wand-like cooking tool in order to produce her specialties and one of these is her special Puto Lanson or locally known as “aripahol”. This Filipino delicacy is a type of steamed cake from the Visayas region made with grated cassava, coconut, and brown sugar, perfect for a snack or dessert. Aside from aripahol, Mama Berlita also produces other kakanins such as Cassava Suman or “Alupi”, Inday-Inday, Banana Fritter or “Combo”, “Ibos” and more.

Selling for almost 26 years, Mama Berlita’s kakanins have reached not just within their community or locally but also set foot across the world particularly in Hong Kong and Canada.

Berlita’s delicacies became a hit not just to their community members but also to Overseas Filipino Workers, professionals, and others who made the product reached other places.

Starting from 50 centavos, to 2-3 pesos, to 5 pesos, until it costs 10 pesos, the kakanins did not ever fail her customers or “suki”. They always welcome the awesomeness in their taste buds and in fact, she never experienced not selling everything out.

FAST FACTS Cassava is a root vegetable with Latin name Manihot esculente

Cassava is a rich, affordable source of carbohydrates and key vitamins and minerals.

Cassava is a source of resistant starch that can boost a person’s gut health.

m legendary hands

winning recipe of a mother’s blockbuster ‘kakanin’

NICOLE ALIVAR PERSISTENCE AT ITS FINEST The difference between impossible and possible lies in a person’s determination. To achieve success in any venture, one need to take cognizance of some essentials that are pivotal in bagging any form of success if correctly applied.

Being just a kakanin vendor or should we say, being a noble kakanin vendor who strives hard to provide what her family needs and wants is a job worthy to be acknowledged.

Aside from giving enough provision which always satisfies her loved ones, Mama Berlita and her business also paved way to a more sustainable living. For how many years of sending her kids to school, at last, the time where she could somehow taste the fruit of her labor has finally arrive.

Entering in a Christian school, Philip Jayson Falcis, Mama Berlita’s first born, has made his parents more than prouder as he did not just finished college, he also graduated with flying colors and became an amazing summa cum laude. He did that! A child of a kakanin vendor did that!

Life consists of experiences; all of which are building blocks that essentially creates ones path to success. In one’s lifetime they can experience tough and difficult challenges. Sometimes these challenges become unbearable, especially when the odds are against you. However, going against all odds is something everyone is capable of doing, and to overcome these challenges everyone needs to have a “never quit” attitude in life.

As life challenges continue to come to their way, their motivation still remained down-the-line which brought significant attainments to them. Sweats, scars and bruises

are normal to a person who really aims for the best.

No one could ever make it to the other side of the road without showing signs of hardships or initial failures. Just like sugar, spice, or anything nice, the ingredients needed for everyone who wanted to have improvement in their lives are dedication and persistence.

And Mama Berlita just showed to us how this works and how it helps a person achieve the things they always wanted.

IN FIGURES 80 COUNTRIES

throughout the tropics grow cassava

800 MILLION

around the world uses cassava for diet

HEALTHY TIPS WHEN COOKING CASSAVA:

25 PERCENT

amount of protein contained in cassava leaves

Source: MedicalNewsToday.Com

1. CHOOSE FRESH TOPIOCA OR CASSAVE WHICH HAS NO BLUISH COLOR ON ITS SURFACE. 2. BOIL THEM AND DO NOT COVER THE PAN DURING COOKING TO HELP EVAPORATE THE EXCESS MIDROSIANIC ACID. 3. DURING EATING TOPIOCA, DO NOT EAT GINGER FOODS SUCH AS GINGER BISCUITS, BEER, AND GIN AT THE SAME TIME.

DATA FROM UNAIDS

BREAKING THE STIGMA Evolution doesn’t just happen to humans but to the world itself. Fascinating it is when you come to think of how inevitable humans are when they undergo metamorphosis. Not how beautiful compared to the butterfly, but rather how alarming and forbidding. Transformation doesn’t just mean you are changing or transforming as transformation comes with a bigger sense of responsibility for when you transform, you also bury down your old self.

Not only implied to yourself but to the whole society who got bolder and fiercer, only after undergoing through a drastic change.

These days, we also face formidable rampant issues circulating around our country and one of it has made Philippines top in the list as the country with the fastest growing number of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases in the world as the Joint United Nations Program on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) have stated. And regarding to this, 80 percent of them are from younger age groups. More than 19,000 people aged to 15 to 24 tested positive for HIV, while there are more than 34,500 aged 25 to 34 who tested positive. And if combined, they would

compromise 80 percent of those Filipinos who are living with HIV and therefore, the epidemic demographics is getting younger and younger.

As part of the Filipino youth, I can’t help but to feel pity over my fellow teenagers who felt neglected and lost that have paved way for them to walk in such dim and filthy pathways.

But to see the bigger picture here, it isn’t my pity

PH IS COUNTRY WITH FASTEST GROWING HIV CASES - UNAIDS or your pity that can save them or can undo their immoral actions. Some would even say that it wasn’t their decision to make or that they were forced to be atrocious, but I strongly believe that life’s a matter of choice. They can’t just blame other people for their own doings as it was their choice, it is what they chose to be. And yes, regret will come last. After all of their irresponsible actions, the burdensome and unavoidable consequences will come and knock on their doors.

As what we can see, not all sexual desires

AN ESSAY BY JOANNA GRACE BERINGUEL can provide great feeling of satisfaction as too much of this can lead you in front of the grim reaper, waiting to take you away from the living world. A helpful response to this major ‘call for help’ kind of dilemma our country faces is to not be influenced by the immorality and cruelty of the world. You must keep in mind that wherever you are, you shall remain moral and decent and if can’t be prevented, never engage in unprotected sex. But never allow immorality up rise and rule over you.

Everything changes, so does your actions ad even yourself. Don’t let your inner peace be eaten by cruelty and don’t let your real self be shattered by atrociousness.

Self-discipline. Self-love. Self-worth. Selfcare. Self-awareness. Self-assurance. These are just some of what you have to possess in order for you to live a happy, positive, and peaceful life.

If all of the nations have these quality, we can even achieve a prosperous and tolerable world where we can relive humanity. You don’t have to go with flow but rather, break the stigma not just to save yourself, but also your fellowmen.

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feature 9

HERO IN NO CAPE The legendary tale of Mayor Ramon A. Benjamin Sr. and his legacy to the people of Dumarao

BY JOANNA GRACE BERINGUEL

“To be doing good deeds is a man’s most glorious task.”

These are the intellectual words by one of the most famous and celebrated writers of tragedy plays in ancient Greece, the great Sophocles. These utterances he had can be reflected to the life of the late Mayor Ramon Arancillo Benjamin Sr., who had his name engraved in the history of Dumarao as the longest serving mayor to hold office for four terms.

At Nov. 13, 1908 in the town of sadness that’s now known as town of Dumarao in Capiz, the ‘one of a kind’ public servant was born to spouses Heracleo Benjamin and Carolina Arancillo. Since then, Ramon Sr. had a bestowing heart. He’s like the Cinderella boy version of having a kind heart and courageous personality.

For him, doing good deed is not just a task to fulfill as a public servant. He considers this just like a dharma, something that is part of his lifestyle. And a particular spot in his life is filled with complete joyance whenever he helps and does good work.

In line with these, some of his achievements were being the president of Dumarao Parish Council & Director General of the 4th Centennial Executive Committee for the 4th Centennial Celebration. And even before running for Mayor, he was first elected as Vice Mayor of the town in November of the 1940 local

elections. There after the war (Post Liberation period), he finally ran for two successive terms as Municipal Mayor without any opposition. During his third term, he had an opponent during the election but he again won. Still unstoppable, he ran for a fourth term when his third term was expired but this time, he lost. But still hopeful to continue serving his people, he grabbed the chance of an another election that came.

Finally, he regained his spot and this was his fourth yet last term.

Though his regime have ended a long time ago, he still emerged in the history of Dumarao as the only mayor elected four times by his constituents.

The well-known town leader was captivated by the lovely Estefenia Montemayor, a native of Alaminos, Pangasinan whom he got married with. They were blessed with four prosperous and professional children—Reynaldo, Nida, Ramon Jr., and Heracleo.

“He is a pious, staunch, and man of strong character. He is also a supporter of the church and a generous benefactor to many deserving less privileged,” says Hon. Leslie Warren Benjamin, the Vice Mayor of Dumarao and grandson of Ramon Sr. as he described how was his late grandfather as a person.

Ramon Sr. didn’t just focused on the political views and strings but also appraised education and became instrumental to the establishment of the first private catholic school - Our Lady of the Snows Institute in 1966. He prioritized education by donating lots of his own to Dacuton Barangay High School now MRABSNHS and this philanthropic spirit influenced his scions to do the same.

He also helped in uplifting livelihood by opening the Dacuton Public Market during his term and he even opened lots for Dacuton Public Plaza.

“He was a strong willed Mayor, respectable leader to Dumaraonons but with a kind heart. He was also a family man who looked up to a brighter future of his children. He was a stern disciplinarian to ensure his

children to become successful in their career,” Hon. Leslie adds as to describe his grandpa on how inspiring Ramon Sr. was not just to him or to his family, but to the whole Dumaraonon community.

The legacy of Ramon Sr. will forevermore live not just in the present generation, but also for the future ones to witness. Though he came from a background where he didn’t show off the good things he did to honor modesty, still his good works and veridical deeds left a trail that’s imprinted on the hearts of the Dumaraonon people.

Just like to the longest school name in Capiz, the Mayor Ramon A. Benjamin Sr. National High School (MRABSNHS), it is just a simple way to honor the living legacy of Ramon Sr. who remains as a role model in the world of public service. He who never got tired of doing little things for others, made those little things occupy a big spot in the community’s hearts.

He will forever be acknowledged as a hero for saving the lives of many in terms of education, livelihood and even political dynasties. Ramon Sr. may have passed away but his patrimony remains and will forever be a hero, but not just in cape.

10 feature Aiming to assure the Indigenous People communities and learners that their right to basic education is upheld and protected, the Department of Education reaffirmed its commitment in protecting the rights of IPs to basic education with more than two and a half million indigenous people learners in the public school system.

Known as a culturally diverse country with an estimated 14-17 million Indigenous Peoples (IPs) belonging to 110 ethnolinguistic groups, Philippines is a wholesome nation to all which provides peaceful shelter that is free from any spiteful discrimination.

Anticipation to fairness never leaves the heartening minds of these people, hoping that someday they could freely and safely walk around the park.

“We care about the 2.6 million IP learners all over the country spread in 31,000 schools. We care about them and we care about what are taught, who their teachers are, what their activities are and what they do after, before or after schooling,” Briones said in a press conference which heighten the hopes of IP students for a brighter future.

In Dumarao town, in Capiz, a 50-kilometer distance

municipality from the heart of Roxas City, there stood a mountain which serves as a safe haven to the 10-15 IP households found at the mountaintop. Staying at Mount Tag-ao for several years, IP families felt the freedom there to unveil their true colors without the discriminating eyes of other people and achieve quality education they equally deserve.

TWEAK OF TIME Another timid morning came to greet Jelyn Valencia Juntado, 13, of Bungsuan National High School. Going down from the steep mountain where their not-so-firm shelter is located, lots of obstacle points were ready to impede her journey going to education.

Along with her great desire to learn something new in school is her fear to be differently noticed again by others. Fear that they endure as they breathe and continue to exist.

Fear that they always want to conquer.

But that was long ago.

That was long ago when people couldn’t see the beauty and the beat of goodness inside their hearts. That was years ago when they still hardly seek for empowerment they always want to receive from their fellowmen. That was in the

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past when discrimination was very rampant and frightening for people like them.

Jelyn finally overcame the uneasiness every time she would enter the gate of socialization through education. Living in Mount Tag-ao in Tamulalod during her younger years, bullying was still one of the problems she can do nothing but to face as an IP student but as years passed, she became free from the deafening voices of discrimination.

Education is as precious as gold for Jelyn. Not only it is the key for her success but it is also the only way to make their community more empowered and secured. Hoping for the day of their prosperity to come, Jelyn, who also dreams to be a news reporter someday, is one of those IP students who need more support and value from the society they are staying with.

Just like any other IP youth, Jelyn does not only want to be free from poverty or any other life adversities that is somehow normal as we live here on Earth.

She also craves for the freedom to act and speak as a normal youth and be visible to the eyes of other people without the gaze of disgust.

“Palareho man lang kita nga tawu. Palareho man lang

kita nga gakasakitan.” There are words that were spoken and stories that were told that will shoot you deep in your heart, finding the vessels where the blood flows, aiming to destroy the clots that hinder you to live, grow, and bloom.

IP VALUED Staying steadfast to their passion to give appreciation to the IP communities, The Radiance never falters to acknowledge the value and presence of these people in our society. Not only that, the Department of Education also continues to provide protection and help to cope with matters such as access to jobs, livelihood support, and quality education.

DepEd strengthens the enabling conditions for culture-based education while promoting the value of indigenous identity, knowledge, competencies, and other aspects of their cultural heritage.

Reaching out is indeed a noble action. Indigenous people have gone out of their shells and what they truly need is acceptance and love from the society. Just like what Mother Theresa taught us, “If you judge people, you have no time to love them.” If no one will care for them, then who else would?

‘IT’S A CLIMB’ The plight of IP communities for accessible education

BY PRINCESS NICOLE ALIVAR

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OFFICIAL STUDENT PRESS CORPS OF MRABSNHS NOVEMBER 2019 VOL. 9 | NO. 1

sports 11 CARLOS YULO

FAST FACTS

GRACEFUL CURVE A Filipino gymnast’s inspiring journey toward world recognition

BY JOANNA GRACE BERINGUEL

1. He is the first Southeast Asian male world champion.

2. He has been training in Tokyo, Japan for 3 years.

3. He surprised the world in his senior debut.

4. He is the 2nd Filipino to qualify in 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

5. He is set to compete in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

SOURCE: RAPPLER.COM

Entering the wide squared-shape blue floor, he gave a calming sigh and showcased his captivating deep dimples. He aesthetically flexed his arms just like an eagle who’s ready to soar, ready to fly high. Thereafter, a kinetic and ferocious awing performance was shown.

With his every bend, every twirl, and every split, his determination, perseverance, and burning passion also comes out.

He, who only dreamt of reaching the world stage, has become a living legend as he have not just reached out nationally, but have dominated the world.

The 19-year old young gymnast Carlos Edriel Yulo have raised our flag high in the field of artistic gymnastics after qualifying in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, reaching the top 10 of the men’s individual allaround final and becoming the first Filipino world champion by ruling the men’s floor exercise.

All of his endless pivots and leaps haven’t just gave him a spot in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics

but also paved his way at the top in the 2019 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships where he clinched the men’s floor exercise title in thrilling fashion at Hans Schleyer Halle, Stuttgart, Germany.

The 4-foot-9 astonishing athlete won the event by a hairline - edging Artem Dolgopyat by 0.1 point - as the erstwhile Israeli front runner seemingly had an untouchable tally of 15.200 points but Yulo came through with an awe-inspiring and an aesthetically display of grace, artistry, and athleticism as he secured the gold with a score of 15.300 points.

A dynamic and exquisite double straight with a full twist and a clean triple twist were

PINOY PRIDE | Yulo brings pride to the country for winning in gymnastics (PHOTO CREDIT: Rappler)

part of his winning routine that merited him a score of 15.300, surpassing Dolgopyat's 15.200 score.

"I am speechless because I did not expect to win because I thought the Israeli's score was far too high," admitted Yulo. "But I wanted to show everyone what I could do, so I just wanted to do my best. Talagang napakasaya ko po (That's why I'm really happy)," he added.

He could never imagine reaching all of these—being able to flaunt his well-built body specially made for the blue floor, to carry the pride and honor of representing the country, and to not just share his love for gymnastics but to inspire the youth to never stop in conquering their dreams and fears.

According to Rappler.com, the Filipino world champion Carlos Yulo started back when he was 12 years old, wherein the

gymnastics prodigy was still training at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex with the National Capital Region (NCR) team.

When Rappler covered him in 2012, he was the Palarong Pambansa individual all-around defending champion. He started at the age of 7, was then focused on clinching another Palarong Pambansa gold. A student of Doña Aurora Quezon Elementary School,the bubbly kid had just a dream of winning the Southeast Asian gold.

And seven years later, Yulo have not dominated the local scene but have vanquished the global platform as he became a latest icon himself in artistic gymnastics.

One more high leap. One more firm bend. One more elastic twirl.

These are just some of his spectacular and graceful moves accompanied with self-discipline, self-confidence, and oozing dedication for him to totally prove who he really is. For Carlos Edriel Yulo is not just a Filipino teenage gymnast who put the spotlight on the country, but is a loving son, a respectful young citizen, and became part of the Filipino pride and legacy. He is a one in a million, he is our one in a million that our country must be proud of. For his every twirl and pivot values his hard work and effort just to be where he is now.

He is a young talented boy gifted with a graceful incurvation.

FLAWLESS BLOCK. Blue Barons’ powerful blocks and outstanding attacks stunned the CARAGA-filled crown at UP Mindanao stadium as they secured their first win in the Volleyball tournament April 29 to qualify in the next round. (Photo by LHEM SEJADE L. ABORDE)

SPORTS

WV retains 3rd spot in Palaro overall ranking

BY LHEM SEJADE ABORDE

DAVAO City – Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Blue Barons harvested a total of 147 medals – 49 gold, 40 silver and 58 bronze – for a third place finish at the close of the 62nd Palarong Pambansa.

WVRAA IN PALARONG PAMBANSA ‘19

49 GOLD 40 SILVER 58 BRONZE

The National Capital Region regained the overall championship with a 86-71-56 medal haul, followed by Region 4-A (Calabarzon) with 66-49-73.

Finishing behind WV were Region 3 (23-29-23) and Region 5 (23-22-30).

Despite its early lead, the Blue Barons added up to its medal haul with gold medals in relay events, gymnastics, table tennis and splash of silvers and bronze medals in swimming and tennis.

The harpy Visayas relay of the volleyball boys and girls secondary reached the finals but fell short behind the unstoppable blocks and attacks of NCR. Meanwhile, Department of Education Region VI Regional Director Gemma Ledesma said she is elated of the region’s dominance especially in athletic which harvested dozens of medals.

During the Palaro Opening on April 28, President Rodrigo Duterte personally welcomed all the delegates and sports enthuasiasts to his home city. In his speech, Duterte encouraged the youth to be engaged in sports activities rather than be involved in drugs.

It’s the second time for Davao region to host Palarong Pambansa which was slated on April 28-May 5 this year.

‘HOME OF SMASHERS’

Ramonians solidify back-to-back badminton leads

BY JEFF HASIGAN AND CLAIRE ARSENAL

Unbowed and unbent.

Ramonian smashers undeniably ruled as this year’s badminton kings and queens after amassing seven out of eight golds in the Dumarao Secondary and Integrated Schools Athletic Association Meet staged at Manuel F. Onato National High School.

Beating other seven competing unstoppable, remarkable smashes, schools on Aug. 23-25, Team Lady Ramonians coup the golden Smashers kept the momentum as crown in Badminton Girls category. the leader of the tally board for Sharp-eyed Kristel Magdamit the past four years, coach Philip of Ramon showcased thunderJayson Falcis asserted. like attacks against Lorraine Ann Seasoned Single A contender Hachuela of Estefania Montemayor Mackev Tenegra penetrated his National High School which first gold after defeating French prevailed her to notch the crown in James Hapitan of Manuel F. the game.

Onato NHS in two straight sets; Hachuela managed to rely in 21-10, 21-15. the winning peak in the first set as With their unstoppable she emerged series of swift attacks kills and defenseless attack, the and ended the game with a 3- point powerhouse duo of Erjie Olmido lead. and Kent Ryan Bayatan emerged However, with courage to win undefeated for three years the match, Magdamit fueled a big after demolishing the pair from run on the next set and come up Estefania Montemayor NHS; 21-8, with a hair- like difference against 21-10.

Hachuela with 5- point lead.

Meanwhile, neophyte Single B “Mabudlay gid siya kontrahon player Cris Niño Navarro clutched kay man sagad sagad sa. Pero himua hair-like victory versus Ralph on ko gid ang tanan para makabawi Edil of Estefania Montemayor sa last,” stated Hachuela after a NHS in a match which reached a break. deciding set; 21-19;22-20;21-16.

Despite a rookie, Magdamit Furthermore, the badminton fired series of smashes in the last boys swept an overall set which rattled Hachuela leading championship anew. to the getting in- and- out of the “It was a victory out of passion court powered defense resulting to and labor,” said Navarro who a failure. gets emotional in a post-game “It’s the first time para sakon. interview.

Muna nga grabe gid kulba ko sa On the other hand, emerging ana. Pero I did my best amo na nga

nakaya koman,” stated Magdamit after the game.

Meanwhile in a gritty vie for doubles, the duo of Aizyl Joy doministo and Merllie Castilla launched a total eclipse dominating two straight sets against the contenders of Presentacion Diez Gregorio National High School; 21-11 and 21-14.

Castilla released powerful smashes together with Doministo’s strong defense and ended the first set with 21- 11.

“Malakas talaga sila, pero mananatili pa rin kaming kalmado sa laro,” said the PDGNHS contender.

Both team rallied in the next set, but the stronghold of Ramon still prevailed as the duo did a great flash unleashing strong attacks that lead them to take the crown as champions in the last set, 21-14.

“The determination and cooperation of the both of us has been the reason for us to play well and win the match,” said Doministo after the match.

It is for the first time in history of Ramon that both teams made a huge wave in Badminton tournament.

ROOKIE SHINES. Magdamit proved age is not the limit after clluctching gold in Badminton.