BookeD
cturnaL
Foreword
When the sun dips below the horizon and the sky is swathed in velvet indigo, a different realm awakens—a world shrouded in dark and wonders.
The night is our sanctuary, a place where thoughts are unbound, and creativity flows like a midnight stream. It is a time when the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary, when the familiar streets are bathed in an otherworldly light, and when the human spirit, unshackled from the day—s demands, wanders in dreams and reverie.
As you meander through these pages, the moonlight guides you through the night tales we rarely hear, poems that whisper the secrets of the stars, and artworks that capture the profound stillness and mysteries of the dark.
Dwell within the mysteries of the shadows and discover solace when the world sleeps—for it is only by embracing the night that we can truly appreciate the beauty of the dawn. Let the night unfold.
Copyright © 2024
Booked Nocturnal
Volume 13 LXXXII
Literary Folio of Tolentine Star, the official student publication of University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos
All rights reserved. No part of this folio may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the Editor-in-Chief.
Published by the students, faculty, and alumni of the University of Negros Occidental - Recoletos at Impress Quality Printing, Talisay City, Negros Occidental.
Theme Contributor
Lance Joshua Satojito
Cover Artist
Ayesha Mikylah Mayang
Editor-in-Chief
Cristian Jay Plaza
Luces De Senderos
Midnight Song
Deep Down The Den
Midnight Serenade
Late December Night
Bilang Isa Ka Amay
Pedestrian
Early Bird
Sa Dagat Ga lakat lakat
Negrosanon Night
Moonlit Misery
Barya Lang Po Sa Gabi
Other Ways to Dream
By Ayesha Mikyllah Mayang
Dreams Amid Shadows
By Jasmine Cyrile Alave
A youthful little girl, brimming with love, danced in fields of dreams and hopes. Her laughter echoed; her eyes bright with the promise of many tomorrows. She dreamed of becoming the most beautiful princess, but as time went on, shadows crept in, revealing hidden hurts and broken dreams.
Night after night, she witnessed the harsh realities that stained the streets, echoes of lost lives haunting her sleep. Her dream of becoming a princess faded day by day as she heard the cries of people dying. She traded her imagined crown for a scalpel, becoming a princess in scrubs within the sterile halls of medicine.
Though her journey lacked the traditional trappings of a fairy-tale rescue, she may not have had a prince to save her life in a tower or fight for her against a beast. Instead, she finds herself becoming the one to save hundreds of lives, wanting to save more.
damned heavenly bodies
By Rhyza Sion
these stellar gists dispersed in the vast and the lights they elude are but faint forlorn embers of their long-gone existence. kindling an iota of hope - one seemingly wretched, a last taste of sweetness but it was spark nonetheless.
By Kent Paolo Sampiano
Midnight Hustle
117471
By Spiritus Sancti
Patient No.
117471
Patient Name
Skeletons in his closet
She walks through the night, in a man’s body. He lives his life, yet she does so merely. He walks, but she crawls, trapped deep inside, in a box she made himself.
Her cries inside resonate. All kept inside, all the tears she want to shed, hidden deep, and in darkness she dwells.
When nighttime comes, she roams the streets. As the sun rises, she hides back inside. Inside his closet, her soul rests.
Inside, out.
By Lance Joshua Satojito
Closing Shift
By Athea Grace Talanquines
Atin ang Gabi
By Maecel Joy Priolo
Nang minsa’y pumunta ako sa bahay nang aking kaibigan, palubog na ang araw nang mga panahong iyon kahit mag aalas-kwatro pa lamang noon. Hindi naman panibago iyon dahil nakatira kami sa paanan nang bundok. Hindi naman gaanong malayo ang bahay nila ngunit dadaan pa ako sa palayan at sa malubak na daan. Hindi naman ako takot dahil mula pa lamang nang mga bata pa kami ay ganito na ang ginagawa naming at ni minsan ay hindi pa naman kami napapahamak o nakakita man lang nang multo o kung aswang man yan. Pwede ko naman ngang isabukas ang pagpunta sa kanila ngunit hindi na talaga ako makapaghintay.
Matapos ang halos labing-limang minuto, natanaw ko na ang bahay nila Maria, ang aking nakababatang kaibigan. Mukhang may malaking handaan pa talagang nangyayari ngayon ah.
“Ang liwanag at mukhang marami pa talaga silang inimibitahan. Parang may nakikita pa akong putting sasakyan. Bongga talaga siguro!” sambit ko sa sarili.
“Hindi naman siguro,” isang malamig na boses ang nagsabi.
“AAAAAAH!” sigaw ko.
“Ang tinis pa rin talaga nang boses mo, Ne,” sambit nang lalake.
“KUYA!” sigaw ko at niyakap siya.
“Sandali nga… ikaw na ba talaga yan, kuya?” tanong ko sabay kawala sa yakap.
Ang tangkad na niya, ang kisig kung tignan, ang ganda na nang porma, ang laki na talaga nang pinagbago niya mula nung huli naming pagkikita, ngunit ang tibok nang puso ko’y ganon pa rin. Siyan nga talaga ito.
“Oo naman, alangan naman multo ko to,” sabi niya sabay pagtawa ngunit hindi ko makita sa kaniyang mata ang kasiyahan.
“Bakit ka pala andito, kuya?” tanong ko sa kanya.
“Pinasundo ka ni Maria, sabi ang tagal mo daw. Alam mo naman yun, hindi makapaghintay,” sagot naman niya pabalik.
“Ah, akala ko naman kagustughan mo’ng sunduin ako,” bulong ko.
“Anong akala mo?” tanong niya.
“Wala. Tara na at baka magalit na talaga si Maria,” sabi ko sabay lakad ngunit hinawakan niya ang aking kamay at sabay hila sa akin sa pamilyar na daan.
Hinayaan ko na lang na hilahin niya ako sa kung saan man niya gusto, kahit pumunta pa kaming langit. Natigilan ako nang agad siyang tumigil at pumunta sa likod ng
puno ng mangga.
“Halika rito, Ne… andito pa rin pala to,” sabi niya nang nakangiti ngunit hindi ko atalaga makita ang saya sa mata niya.Lumapit ako sa kung nasaan siya at tinignan kung saan siya nakatingin.
Maria + Manny + Ninay
“Naalala mo pa ba bakit natin inukit ito?” pagpapatuloy niya.
“Syempre naman, kuya. Simbolo kaya yan nang mga pangako natin noong mga bata pa tayo, diba?” sagot ko.
Lumubog na pala ang araw ngunit ang liwanag pa rin nang kalangitan.
“Full moon pala ngayon… ang ganda nang langit,” sambit ko.
“Oo nga, ang ganda… sobra,” sabi niya.
Dahan-dahan akong napatingin sa kanya at hindi ko inaasahang nakatingin na pala siya sa akin. Ang puso ko ay parang sasabog na. Parang iluluwa ko na ang sikmura ko nang unti-unti siyang lumapit sa akin. Pumikit ako at naghintay, dahan-dahan ko na ring ibinuka nang maliit ang aking bibig. Naramdaman ko na ang lapit na niya, ang lamig nang hiniga niya.
“ARAY KO NAMAN!” sigaw ko matapos niyang pitikin ang noo ko.
“Ayan ka na naman, Ne. Kung ano-ano na naman nasa isip mo eh,” sabi niya sabay tawa.
“Bakit? Ano ba iniisip ko ha?” sabi ko at tumingin na lang muli sa kalangitan. Naphahiya ako dun ah.
Umupo sa damuhan at sumandal si Kuya Manny sa mangga.
“Halos sampong taon na rin pala ang nakalipas no? Ang tagal na ngunit andito na muli ako. Bumalik ako, Ne. Bimalikan ko kayo. Gaya nang pangako ko, binalikan kita,” sambit niya.
Hindi ko alam ang isasagot ko. Hindi ko inaasahang sasabihin niya iyon. Sobrang lamig nang gabing ito.
“Halika dito sa tabi ko, Ne. Sandal ka dito sakin at sa ganon ay hindi ka ginawin,” sabi niya.
Isiniksik ko ang sarili ko sa kanya ngunit imbis na mainitan ay lalo akong nilamig. Ang lamig nang ni Kuya Manny parang… ngunit wala na akong pakialam, ang importante ay nasa bisig na niya ako.
“NE! NE! ASAN KA BANG BABAE KA!” naalimpungatan ako sa pamilyar na boses.
“Andito ako!” sigaw ko pabalik.
“KANINA PA KITA HINAHANAP NA BABAE KA! BA’T ANDITO KA?
ALAM MO BA KUNG ANONG ORAS NA, HA?” pasigaw na tanong ni Maria.
“Hinaan mo nga ang boses mo,” sagot ko sabay kusot nang mata.
“Hay nako! Mag aalas nuwebe na, Ne!” Lagot na ako sa magulang mo,” sabi niya sabay hila sakin papuntang bahay nila.
Wala na ang mga tao sa bahay nila ngunit ang ilaw at ang puting sasakyan ay nandoon pa rin.
“Asan na si Kuya Manny? Sinundo niya ako kanina ah ngunit iniwan ako doon sa puno mag-isa,” sabi ko kay Maria.
“Nako naman, Ninay. Ano ba yang pinagsasabi mo. Pagpahingahin mo nga ako sa kakaganyan mo, maawa ka nga sakin at sa sarili mo,” naiirita niyang sagot.
Nakarating na kami sa bahay nila at lahat nang tao sa bahay nila Maria ay nakaayos at halos nakaputi lahat, ang iba’y hindi ko pa kilala.
“Magandang gabi. Ikaw ba si Ninay? Ang dami kong naririnig tungkol sayo,” bati nang magandang babae.
“Ako si Nessy, ang fiancee ni Manny. Nagagalak akong makilala ka,” dagdag pa niya.
Nagulantang ako nang marinig ang salitang fiancée.
“Fiancee ba kamo… Ni Kuya Manny?” tanong ko.
“Oo, fiancee ko siya, Ne” sagot ni Kuya Manny na nasa tabi na ni Ate Nessy ngayon.
“Congrats po! Nga pala, uwi na ako at baka mapagalitan na ako,” mabilis kong banggit at naglakad na.
Tinawag pa ako ni Maria at Kuya Manny ngunit hinayaan ko na sila at hindi
na lumingon. Hindi naman nila ako hinabol. Dumeretso ako sa puno nang manga at nag uumiyak hanggang sa makatulog muli ako.
Naalimpungatan muli ako at tumayo na. Bago ako umuwi ay nilingon ko ang bahay nila Maria, kasabay noon ay ang pagpatak nang luha ko. Patay na ang lahat nang ilaw at halos niluma nan ang panahon ang bahay nila.
“Ne, palayain mo na ako,” sabi nang pamilyar na boses.
“Mabuti pang isipin ko na nakapangasawa ka nang ibang babae, Kuya Manny kesa tanggapin ko na wala ka na,” sagot ko sa kaniya.
“Palayain mo na kami, Ne. Hayaan mo nang makapagpahinga ako at si Maria. Ne, Pagod na pagod na kami. Sampung taon na ang nakalipas nang malunod ang barkong sinakyan namin, Ne,” sabi ni Kuya Manny kasabay nang pagpatak nang kaniyang luha.
Ora Pro Nobis
By Theresa Mae Dulman
Naglalacbay sa caquila-quilabot na dilim
Uala mang maquita na tauo sa tabi
Lupa’y yumanig, bala’y naghalinghing
Sa tabi ng apoy, manga cataua’y nagcalat, Dugó’y umagos
Sino caya ang may gaua nito?
Uala mang casalanan, paquiosap ay dili pinaquingan
Canilan pagpapasquin nang periodico’y ypinagbaual Manga alagad nang kalayaan
Mag pacatapang man, natalo din nang masama
¡Caauaan naua nang Dios ang manga bayaning dalisay na dapat ypinagbubunyi nang sangbayanan!
Santermo
By Amiel John Orciada
Ang Lihim ni Maria
By Lixie Imee Soriano
Mata’y nakadilat habang ang iba ay nakapikit na, Hinihintay na kumagat ang dilim para siya ay muling magkapera. Ngiting pinipilit sa harap ng salamin, Upang magampanan ang isang katauhan na siya’y alipin.
Suot ay maiksi habang ang labi ay kasing pula ng rosas, Hindi alintana ang lamig sa kaniyang balat na nagsilbi niyang posas. Tindig ay inayos habang papunta sa kaniyang patutunguhan, Sarili ay pinakalma para sa mga pangyayaring kaniyang hindi inaasahan.
Ang dating mahiyain ay naging masayahin pagkasapit ng gabi, Ang dating malumbay ay naging kaaya-aya para magkaroon ng salapi. Napipilitan man, wala siyang magagawa, Sapagkat ito ang trabahong pumapatay at bumubuhay sa kaniya.
Mata’y nakapikit habang ang iba ay gising na, Luha’y pumapatak habang iniisip kung hanggang saan pa ba. Kasing dilim ng gabi ang kaniyang sekretong dinadala, Dahil siya’y si Maria na mayroong dalawang katauhan na hindi mo inaasahan sa kaniya.
Night Time Beauty
By Karyl Eunice Anjao
PITCH BLACK
By Jantzen Lumanog
Standing at the old patio
With hair dancing from the cold wind
Arms crossed as the night deepened
Embracing the soothing silence throughout
Eyes fixated above
Greeted by the vastness of the universe
No single trace of stars nor moonlight
Enough to compliment the stillness of the evening
A new found solace
Not on the flickering city lights
Never on the sparkling waves of the sea
But only on the pitch black sky
Unmasking at Midnight
By Jalyn Rose
Elizan
Night time Comes
By Spiritus Sancti
Silent wings take flight, Moon's whispers guide through the night, Owl hunts in moonlight.
Su Ultimo Ego
By Baka Mitai
11:56 PM, a lone boy lies still, Desperate to find peace, reaching for a wink, Yet he won't find such luck, his thoughts in everlasting shrill, At the flick of a switch, his mind's scene changes in a blink.
11:57, the boy stands alone, In a barren wasteland, surrounded by myriad doors, He quivers at the sight, a reminder of mental sores, A reminder of his desire to atone.
11:58, the scene shifts, Darkness around him, nothing in sight, "This is too much," he woefully admits, As he curls up on the floor, tired of the fight.
11:59, "It is never too much," A whisper wakes him, back to the wasteland he fears, "You know the first step," a gentle purr in his ears, He nods, coddled by the voice's soft touch.
12 midnight, he stands up, Though shuddering, he approaches a door, Clutching its handle, enervated by the wakeup, With renewed intent, he opens it to finish a war.
Nightly Street Side Comfort
By Athea Grace Talanquines
Alas Diyes
By nightcrawler
Alas diyes na pala, ang oras ay dumaraan.
Sa dilim ng gabi, puso’t isip ay naglalaban.
Puso'y naglalakbay, sa kakaibang landas, Sa pag-ikot ng oras, ako'y naghihintay.
Sa kanyang pagdating, ako'y napatanong, “Ano kaya ang nadarama ng puso, para kayang alon?”
Pakiramdam ay nag iba nang napatingin sa orasan,
Alas diyes na pala kaya’t ako’y sabik sa iyong presensiya.
Sa gabi ng pangungulila, damdamin ay bumabalot, Ang pag-asa'y naglalakbay tulad ng bituin sa langit.
Bakit nga ba ganito, biglang damdamin ay sumiklab?
Alas diyes na pala, ako'y naghihintay ng sagot.
Ang gabi’y pilit pumupukaw sa pusong di mapakali
Kahit sa isang sulyap mo’y di ko mawari
Bawat saglit na pag-asa, sa dilim ay dumarampi.
Sa ngalab ng pag-ibig, nararapat ba maging api?
Ang tanong sa sarili, “Ako ba'y karapat-dapat?”
Pilit iwinawaglit pero puso’y labis na naghahangad.
Balutin man ng dilim, pag-ibig pa rin ang inaasam.
Alas diyes na pala, ba’t ako'y nag-iisa pa rin?
By Lesel Erexima
Orange and Lemons
Lingering Hope
By Jasmine Cyrile Alave
In the heart of the Calatrava, a woman renounces the silence of the night, filling it with laughter to mask her hidden sorrows. Her spoken words betray no hint of her misery, yet her eyes dim lowly, silently pleading for help. She wanders through the empty spaces of her soul, mourning the fragments of her former self. Within her resides a lingering hope that one day she will find the happiness she longs for. As the moon casts its gaze upon her, she prays to find a bridge to a brighter tomorrow.
Alleyway
By Kashina Ashley Gatilogo
Traces in places Faces linger in the past Memories abound
Midnight Clouds
By Danica Rose Quindap
Earth, Sky Day, Light
Hushing in the meadow As moon’s glow like there’ s no tomorrow
Starry, starry cloud When can silence be finally loud? Whispers I hear in every corner Mystery of the night that lingers forever
Elyomenados
By Lance Joshua Satojito
By Ayesha Mikyllah Mayang
Lores Before Light
Nightmares and Blues
By Theresa Mae Dulman
It is already midnight. Electricity was down, as always. Creaking sounds of protest can be heard inside my room. The wind howled an eerie tune as it swayed the tree branches that dances like a wild dothraki, adding to the sound of horrors I felt while huddling in my bed, wrapped in a blanket. No storm or nature’s lightning wrath is present yet the depressing breath of November night was beyond grief. It’s inconsolable. And suddenly… I can’t breathe.
I cannot even lift my fingers. Seconds later, I saw the culprit. The moonlit night gave him the silhouette. He locks his eyes into mine, yet, I don’ t feel any weird spark. I felt paralyzed… trapped in an abyss. He has no emotions, two red eyes starring directly at mine that is pleading for mercy. But why is it red? Is he on drugs? I am demanding myself to pushed this demon and runaway from this nightmare yet it is still unresponsive. I tried to shout for help but I am voiceless. I fear no monsters, but in that moment, I am helpless. Is he going to kill me? No, he can’t. This is just a dream!
I close my eyes trying to avoid this nightmare. Seconds after passing out, I woke up with cold sweats flooding my body. I am back to normal, and there is no trace of intruder inside my room. It’s just another episode of sleep nightmare.
The cock-a-doodle-doo is getting louder and the aroma of brewed coffee is a sign that the real nightmares are about to come.
Prose Pilgrim
By Sharlyn Grace Palotes
In the quiet of night, beneath a moon's soft glow, A reader sits alone, with stories to bestow. Pages turn gently, like whispers in the air, As words weave tales of love, amidst the darkness there.
Within the dim-lit room, where shadows dance and play, The reader finds solace, in books that pave the way. Through tragedies untold, where love meets its demise, Yet lingers in the heart, beneath starlit skies.
For in these haunting verses, where sorrows deeply lie, The essence of affection, refuses to say goodbye. Though fate may be unkind, and destinies may part, The love within those pages, etches on the heart.
In the stillness of the night, where time seems to suspend, The reader finds a refuge, where love will never end. For even amidst the sorrow, and the battles fought in vain, The love that's ever-present, leaves an enduring stain.
So let the world outside rage on, with its relentless fight, For here within these words, love glows in the darkest night. And though it may not save, or change the course of fate, Its presence in the darkness, makes life worth celebrate.
By Shannon Marie Liboon
Nightowl
Palaktakon sa Kagab-ihon
By nightcrawler
Kapoy paminsar Mabuhi ukon indi?
Bulig, tama na.
By Jennyfer Briones
Embrace of Night's Embers
By Sharlyn Grace Palotes
In the deep of night, shadows dance, Whispers weave, in a nocturnal trance. Hold me, I say, in the silent dark, As grief possesses a heart, leaving its mark.
Moonlight weaves through the veil of sorrow, Stars adorn the sky, each a hopeful tomorrow. In the depths of night, where dreams take flight, Hold me close, embrace the shroud of night.
The weight of grief, a heavy cloak, Yet in your arms, its hold bespoke.
In the quiet hours, where tears may start, Hold me, I say, the way grief possesses a heart.
Through the labyrinth of memories, we roam, Seeking solace, finding home.
In the stillness of night, we find our release, Wrapped in each other, our hearts find peace.
Hold me, I say, as the night grows old, In your embrace, the warmth unfolds. For in the darkness, love's light imparts, Hold me, like grief possesses a heart.
By Jan Daniel Binas
Candlelit Assembly
Night Yearns
By Jasmine Cyrile Alave
In Negrosanon's plight, Night whispers, shadows take flight, Moon's grace, her respite.
Big Dipper
By Shoppy Lyn Condemilicor
Endless Night
By Jalyn Rose Elizan
Silent Night
By Lance Joshua Satojito
In the hush of night, Nurses tread halls, spirits bright, Tending to each soul, Their compassion knows no bounds, Guiding through darkness profound.
By Jennyfer Briones
Sidewalk Blues
What keeps you up at night?
By Shannon Marie Libo-on
Moon surrounded by black skies, Everything you saw were all a guise, Night so eerie; people sleeping soundly, A bee in one's bonnet buzzing loudly.
Silent whispers are being heard, Eyes wide open yet sight to see is all blurred, Arms kept stinging--remained unmoving, Thoughts moved like plague and kept cruising.
What keeps you up at night?
Stifled cries and hand held tight?
Unsaid sorrows grown since fed, All sleep now lost while all is dead.
Madilim Ang Araw
By Lixie Imee Soriano
Tagaktak ang pawis habang nakatayo sa gitna ng kalsada, Kamay ay nanginginig at katawan ay balisa sa kung ano ang nakita.
Dugo ay umaapaw na para bang ito ay isang tubig mula sa hukay, Isang katawang nakahandusay- patay at wala ng buhay.
Sa katahimikan ng gabi, ang kanyang bibig ay tila nakisama,
Walang tunog ang lumalabas kahit siya'y sumigaw, umiyak, at tumawa.
Katulad ng isang kuwago na nabubuhay tuwing gabi,
Siya'y nag-aabang sa tabi para hindi siya marinig kahit ng isang tunog sa kanyang labi.
Ngunit, siya'y unti-unting humarap sa aking kinatatayuan, Ang kanyang mga labi ay para bang nakangiti na ako'y kinilabutan.
Sapagkat siya ay ako, at ako ay siya,
At ang taong nakandusay ay ako, wala ng iba.
Katulad ng araw na papalubog, ako'y unti-unti ng sumuko,
Sapagkat aking pinatay ang dating sarili na aking binuo.
Ako'y nagpakain sa gabi kahit hindi ko gustuhin,
Katulad ng isang ibon na papatayin ang sarili para lamang kainin.
Ang buwan ang nagsilbi na'king araw sa magdamag, Mata'y nakadilat para mabuhay at may maihain sa hapag.
Kadiliman at katahimikan ang aking kanlungan, Upang mabuhay sa mundong may rehas at kulungan.
Curb
Service
By Karyl Eunice Anjao
By Kristoffer Flores
L'AMOUR DE MA VIE
beneath the midnight haven
By Krisha Danielle Ronzales
and in the dead of night when the sun is out of sight while stars all align under that sweet big dipper beyond that midnight haven tier constellations after another at least we're under the same skies
Lullabies
By Sharlyn Grace Palotes
In the night's embrace, a question gleams bright, "When's a monster not a monster?" in the hushed night.
Ah, it's when you love it, hold it tight, When you used to sing it, till morning light.
In the shadows where fears often creep, Love's melody turns monsters to sleep. A beast once feared, now a lover to keep, In the quiet night, where secrets weep.
So, when's a monster not a monster? It's clear, When love whispers softly, dispelling fear. In the gentle lullabies, the answer's near, When you used to sing it, oh, so dear.
By Jantzen Lumanog
Late Bloomer
By Pring
As the sun setting off its fire, Luna arises with her stars. A thousand lights that painted the navy-blue skies, but one star that caught my gaze. With the beautiful melody that resonated through my ear, from the cold breeze of the leaves, to the dew beneath the grass that felt to my skin, your presence beside me, is one I'm yearning for.
By Kia Marie Coscolluela
Where the Dusk meets the Sea
four-eyed freak
By nightcrawler
you four-eyed freak lurking in my crib at night while you still bleed gotta sneak those piercing stares oh you ain't sleek
you four-eyed freak heavy bags under your eyes but i never saw you weep wish my words would suffice the doubts and remedy the wounds you try to keep you four-eyed freak do those stares of yours truly mean something? or was i too delusional to think it could be something? now spare me from my false hopes you four-eyed freak
you dumb four-eyed freak when will you learn the lesson to detach from one-sided romances and leave unscathed? is clinging to troubled lover a pill you always take?
you four-eyed freak always got it wrong but i hate the way you guessed it right i hope you won't ask again coz i might say otherwise but good thing you now lay your eyes on someone nice
a fake four-eyed freak can now watch you from afar and root for you to find love that is not bizarre i hope your heart heals and discovers love that is surreal a charade of joy while my true sentiments steal
Blacked Out
By Amiel John Orciada
Lucid Duty
By Jasmine Cyrile Alave
As I gaze upon the body, I feel my own shivering. Despite the night casting its shadow, I can see her pale skin, against the cold concrete where she lies.
"Nugay nada tulok, in gusto mo mag amo ni, buligi nako!" My fellow EMT's pierces my dazed state.
In that moment, clarity sweeps me. I knew my duty, and with swift, I spring into action. The next thing I knew, I found myself back to where I can be found in the morning- I am in school.
"It's only 8 am, don't doze off in my class," admonishes my professor, snapping me out of my trance.
That's when I realize the gravity of it all: this is my life, my reality.
By Pring
A Night to Unwind
luces de senderos
By Khyle Zedrick Anasta
Hating Gabi
By Arben Jeyk Da-anoy
Heto na naman...
Dumurungaw sa bintana habang pinagmamasdan
Mga salita't kilos nilang may kasabay na hiyawan
Rumaragasang tunog ng karwahe, dinig pa sa'ming bagong tahanan.
"Dumating na!" kasabay nito'y nagsilundagan, Kung iyong pagmamasdan, tila naghahabulan sa dalampasigan, At agarang inabot, pira-pirasong tanso
Sabay sabing, "Akin na 'yang sampu."
Abot na ang gantimpala
Kapalit ng magdamag na pakikibaka
Maputik man ang daan at may kadiliman, Pinili ang pangkabuhayan.
Ganito ang ganap gabi-gabi
Kapag palengke'y nasa iyong tabi
'Di palaging kuliglig ang maririnig ninyo Kundi pinaghalong kasipagan na buong-buo.
Midnight Song
By Ayesha Mikyllsh Mayang
Night's Oceanic Reverie
By Sharlyn Grace Palotes
In the middle of the night, 'neath starlit skies, I ventured into the ocean's gentle sighs. Not to drown in depths where darkness weaves, But to find solace in the sea's embrace, it perceives.
Beneath the canopy of shimmering light, I sought refuge in the waves, calm and bright. A longing to be held by the vast unknown, Where whispers of the tide echo, in twilight's zone.
The ocean, a lover, reluctant to release, Enfolds me in its arms, offering peace. Its rhythmic cadence, a soothing song, In its embrace, I feel I truly belong.
Beneath the celestial canopy's glow, I find comfort in the ebb and flow. For in the ocean's depths, I am whole, Wrapped in its embrace, soul to soul.
Though the night may fade, and stars may wane, The ocean's embrace forever will remain. In the stillness of the night, under starry art, I walk into the ocean, where love imparts.
That Late December Night
By Jantzen Lumanog
Hidden Shadows Beneath Those...
By Pring
When I see his smile, it makes my days so fine, With those earth brown eyes, skin as pale as white, With those lips of his, wanting to touch unto mine. And here is the story that I want to write.
Oh, what a beautiful mess I am right now, With chapsticks that are sweet red berries taste. As he caress her long dark sleek crown, I knew it was it, I knew that was it, oh Grace.
As the day ends, you let the stars free, But those sparkling smile, leaves question unanswered. To me, it was real, it was real to me,
Staring at the Ceiling with Scribbles of Impermanence
By Theresa Mae Dulman
I am God's Favorite Noontime Show on Earth, And I have a better plan; to go mad. But first, I need a dose of caffeine. I am not a coffee connoisseur but Caffe Americano seems good, the rich roasted flavor, and fresh strong coffee scent, will definitely awaken my senses, even the sixth. I want the diluted coffee that hits my taste bud to justify the decision that I will plot my escape again, yet, the war drums that are pounding behind my ribcage is the sign that God is watching me, and I guess he's definitely not happy.
What's coffee without a toasted bread?
I want that firm slice of golden bread warmed enough to melt the margarine I spread on top of it. While thinking of that crunchy bites, my mind suddenly shifted to this Burnt Toast Theory that everyone keeps on sharing. But I don't want a charred toast and definitely not a little historical fallacy with confirmation bias, and have a naive optimist thinking that a burnt toast is a sign that the universe revolves around me. It will make me believe that I am really in a noontime show, exclusive only on heaven or somewhere... we never knew existed.
Existed... and now we can relate to Taylor Swift's "I forgot that you existed". With all of these series of unfortunate events that we are facing right now, I literally forgot that he existed. He did nothing and I ain't gonna say no more. I all I know is that he has zero degree and his grimace, they say, is his only remarkable credential.
Now I want coke, the soda, not the powder. I stopped myself from wanting it. I don't want my pennies to fund a genocide. A small sacrifice for our brothers and sisters who have lost their love ones and have fled from their destroyed motherland, seeking safety when there is no where to stay.
Now, my mind is in chaos. The silence of the night is deafening, yet, I am not at peace. This is not the plan. At this witching hour, all I want is to sleep.
By Karyl Eunice Anjao
Hopeless Night
Deep Down the Den
By Lance Joshua Satojito and Khyle Zedrick Anasta
Tagu-Taguan
By Kashina Ashley Gatilogo
“Tagu-taguan maliwang ang buwan, pagbilang kong sampu nakatago na kayo. Isa, dalawa, tatlo…” Kumaripas ng takbo si Isabel sa isang liblib na kagubatan. Tila bumalik siya sa kaniyang kabataan. Takot na maging taya, hindi na siya lumingon pa. Sumuot si Isabel sa ka sulok-sukokan ng isang malaking puno ng balete. “Ilang minuto na ako dito ah, hindi pa rin ba ko ma hanap ni Stella?” wika niya sa kanyang sarili. “Naiinip an ako dito, ang daming na ng lamok. Napakabagal naman maghanap nitong si Stella. Sana ay ako na lang ang naging taya mas exciting pa sana ang naging laro namin,” sabi niya. Nang magsimulang lumubog ang araw, nayayamot na si Isabel. Lumabas na siya sa kaniyang tinataguan upang bumalik na sa base. Sa kaniyang pag labas, tila may nakikita siyang isang anino sa malayo. Ito ay sumasayaw sa gitna ng puno. Natakot si Isabel, ngunit unti- unti niya itong nilapitan upang mas makita ito ng malinaw. Naririnig niya na ang mga tawa na umaalingawngaw sa kakahuyan. Lumayo si Isabel sa mga nakakarinding tunog na naririnig niya.
Habang hinahanap ni Isabel ang daan patungo sa labas ng kagubatan, napadpad siya sa isang nakatagong parang. Kuryoso, nilapitan niya ang misteryosong napakalapad na espasyo na punong puno ng malalagong berdeng damo. Nadama niya ang kapayapaang bumalot sa kanya. Tila ba’y binubulongan siya ng kagubatan sa mga sekreto nito.
Biglang may lumitaw na isang pigura sa nakita niyang anino – isang matandang Espiritu na naninirahan sa puno. Ang matandang ito Espiritu na ito ay matagal nang nagbabantay kay Isabel. Ibinunyag ng matanda na ang larong tagu-taguan ay hindi lamang isang simpleng libangan sa pagkabata, kundi ito ay isang metapora ng paglalakbay natin sa buhay.
“Isabel, halika’t huwag kang matakot. Gusto mo bang balikan ang nakaraan? O maaring gusto mong makita ang buhay mo sa hinaharap? Hindi mo kailangang mangamba, Isabel. Ang pagbalik sa nakaraan at pagtingin sa hinaharap ay magbibigay sa iyo ng kaalaman at
pag- unawa sa iyong sarili at sa mundo sa paligid mo,” wika ng matanda sa natatakot na si Isabel. Hindi nag atubili, at lumapit nga si Isabel. Napuno siya ng kyuryosidad. Madaming tanong ang pumasok sa kaniyang isipan, ito ba ay isang guni guni lang?
Maaring ito ay isang panaginip lamang. Kinuha ng matanda ang kaniyang baston at tinutok nito sa malaking puno ng balete. Pinasulyap muli ng matanda ang nakaraan, kasalukuyan, at hinaharap ni Isabel. Habang pinapakita niya ito ay ginagabanyan niya si Isabel na mauunawaan ang pagkakakugnay ng mga nilalang nabubuhay sa mundo at ang kahalagahan ng pagyakap sa sa kawalan nang may tapang at determinasyon. “Mabuti ang iyong puso, Isabel. Patuloy kang magpakabait at maglingkod sa iba. Ang mundo ay puno ng mga bagay na naghihintay na iyong matuklasan.”
Ang larong tagu-taguan ay sumisimbolo sa mga pagsubok sa buhay. Napagtanto ni Isabel na tulad ng laro ng tagu-taguan, ang buhay ay puno ng mga hindi inaasahang pangyayari. Balot ng mysterio at sorpresa. Minsan naliligaw tayo ng landas, ngunit sa lakas ng loob at determinsasyon, kagaya ni Isabel, palagi nating mahahanap ang daan pabalik sa liwanag. Hinikayat ng matanda si Isabel na yakapin ang paglalakbay nang may bukas na puso, kagaya ng ginawa niya sa paglalaro ng tagu-taguan kasama ang kaniyang kaibigan.
Sa paglabas ni Isabel sa kagubatan at muling nakipagkita sa kaibigan, dinala niya ang isang bagong-tuklas na pag-unawa sa laro ng buhay. Simula sa araw na iyon, hinarap niya ang buhay na may pagkamangha at katatagan, batid na tulad sa tagu-taguan, bawat sandali ay may aral na naghihintay na matuklasan. At kaya, ang laro na ito ay naging simbolo para sa paglalakbay ni Isabel sa buhay, na puno ng pakikipagsapalaran, pag-unlad sa sarili, at walang katapusang mga posibilidad.
Winning Entries
Poetry
Tik-Tik
By Richard Caballero Jr.
Sa pag-abót sang sírum-sírum
Kaupod ang paggwâ sang mga tik-tik sa kagab-íhon
Sa tagsa ka huní sang kadulom
Ila kamot amat-amat nga nagatalúm
Sa nabagatnan man o kung nakatungdan
Sa kada huyop sang tinggog sa kahanginan
Balita sang mga patay nga tawo, gakasapwan
Daláyon nga mga pagpatay, utod nga lawas, ulo, tiil kag dalúnggan
Madamo na sila nabiktima, ugaling lawas nila lunsay may lana; madanlog kag hindi madakpan
Amo bala ini ang tik-tik nga ginasiling sang aton katigulangan?
Ang tik-tik nga ginahutik agud kita pahugon
Ugaling, sa gakahilitabo subong, pahug pa bala ini kung kabigon?
Nga sa tagsa ka patay nga ginabilin sa dalan, isa ka kinamatarong ang gintapakan.
Sa sini nga panahón ang tiktik wala nagalupad
Hilway sila nga nagalambiyong kag nagalakat
Wala man sila sang kaugalingon nga gahum
Ugaling tágò sila sa gahúm sang may mga posisyon.
Subong aton mapinsaran kag mapa ino-inohan
Mga sinang-una nga mga pagpang-ándam
Bangúd sa tik-tik nga nagalambiyong, may katalagman.
Ang tik-tik nga ginatumod nila, indi parehas sa ginatumod sining binalaybay
Kay ang matuod nga tik-tik, sila ining wala kaluoy nga gapamatay
Gapang-tapak sang mga kinamatarong sang ila isig-katawo
Sin-o bala sila? Sindikato o kung gobyerno?
The Naked Truth
By Anika Bea Pastora
In dark, shadowed alleys of the city, I wait. For someone who will be caught by my bait On the other side, my soul is in search of light. Seeking comfort amidst the darkest night
I was deprived of my liberty. I am left with no dignity. I am viewed as a poison. Do I deserve to be in prison?
But did I do something wrong? If all that I ever wanted was to move along. Tell me what I have really done, I'll tell you how they've used me just for fun.
You call me a hoe, Not seeing the road, I took long ago. I was only a victim of social circumstances, And now I use it to cover my finances.
Yes, I bank on my flesh and freely give my soul to life. For only the fittest and strongest in this game will ever survive. Prostitution prostitutes and prostrates the heart. Of a once victim whose life has slowly drifted apart.
The Owl And The Vulture
By Khrystal Faith Onate
As a kid I was told, “You shall fear nothing where there is light.” As the silhouettes will have the colours of the enemies I have to fight. Yet the world seems blind against the things laid in their eyes; As the enemies are seated so high above us all in disguise.
The weak stayed with their knees bleeding red on the ground, While the oppressor lays in white, pure feathers. Innocence is kept under the carpet of cowardice. The grieving voices were muted with unwanted apologies.
The predators flee with their hands full of gold. And the poor are forced to succumb to the cold. Their greed walk like their shadows as they sought for applause. As they are slowly killing people with their well-trimmed claws.
I was told that in the light, I shall fear nothing. As I can see the enemy, And I can fight back.
And the faint light from the broken hearts of the oppressed, Will pave our way towards our courage. The enemies will come with terror and fright. And the weak will learn how to fight in the dark.
Female Angst
By Q Cean Calamungay
Threading down the alleyway after a long tiring day.
With rustling leaves, whistling air, footsteps ringing in her ear.
Heavy breaths, tightening chest, clutching the hem of her dress.
Unnerving thoughts rushed her mind, heart just beating with pure dread.
Tried carefully looking back, nothing, just the street in black.
Courage, now nothing but shreds, was the scare just in her head?
A girl walking in the night, just about to lose her mind.
Tagu-taguan, Parak ang Taya
By Chariz Villarete
Tagu-taguan,
Si Totoy tatakbo-takbo
dala ang pitaka’ ng, di naman kanya
Maliwanag ang buwan
“Snatser! Snatser!”
Sigaw ng ginang na kakasweldo lang
Masarap magtago
Si Totoy pilit na nagsusumiksik sa eskinitang napakasikip
Sa dilim diliman
“Nasan na yun?!”
Nandyan na ang mga parak!
Pagbilang ng sampu,
Para sa ika-sampung
pagbabalik selda niya
Nakatago na kayo
Kitang-kita sa butas, ang pagkawala nila
Kaya siya’y naghanda
Isa… dalawa… tatlo…
Sa agarang pagtakbo
Tatlong kamay… Tatlong parak…
“Sabi na nga ba at nandito ka!”
Tatlong suntok na siyang nagpawala ng ulirat niya.
Little Monster
By Kazie Marie Ong
I have no memory of the past events, But I feel the chill of an eerie presence. Wherever I go it is soon to follow, A little monster with a dark halo.
Mind you this happened just once, I was swallowed in agony for months. One night, I decided to take a stroll, To enjoy the nightlife, yeah that was my goal.
I felt my soul come crashing down. Next thing I knew, I was running around. This little monster led me to a room that sparkled. I had no time to wander, I was too startled.
The little monster kept leading me to places, Sparkling, shining, and alluring spaces. Until I got to the top of an escarpment, Where I had no choice but to face judgment.
The little monster looked kind of down, It looked at me with a big frown. It opened its mouth and asked me, "All the opportunities I've given, and you just flee?"
Reminiscing, I realize it was no monster, The places it led to were opportunities to ponder. As I stroll at night with tempura and fries, I thought to myself, the little monster was wise.
Short Story
Lucky Me
By Chariz Villarete
“Baluuut! Penoy.”
“Baluuut! Penoy.”
“Baluuut! Penoy,” carrying duck eggs-filled basket, Mang Roming shouts as he roams around the busy street of Gonzaga.
“Balut!” bunch of men drinking Tanduay on the sidewalk called him, “Three balut just those with big ducks.” Using the small bulb inside his basket, Mang Roming expertly examined the eggs. They cracked the shell and poured vinegar and salt inside. 75 pesos was then handed to him.
“Sales are super low these days,” he said as he passed by his chicken joy vendor friend.
Straight. Right. Left. Mang Roming entered the dark alleyway. At the end of it, was a lamppost with flickering light. Underneath, was his neighbor Lolit in her usual sleeveless and mini-skirt. Mang Roming shook his head, "He looks like a minor," he mumbled, passing the two.
“He said he wanted to try a low-flying dove… and he got a lot of cash with him Mang Roming! Who am I to say no?” sensual laughter of Lolit filled the whole alleyway.
“Just be safe, Lolit…”
Nak. nak. nak!
Mang Roming knocked on the small trangkahan of the sari-sari store. It was already 10 in the evening. The lights were off and a signage, made of carton saying, “WHERE CLOSE!” was hanging on the small window.
“Oh, Roming? You’re going to pay already?” asked Aling Belen while puffing her cigarette.
Mang Roming shook his head, “Just 75 pesos for now Belen, I promised to pay
everything tomorrow.”
Aling Belen rolled her eyes, “You also told me that yesterday, Roming!”
Mang Roming handed the 75 pesos coins to Belen leaving him a 100 peso bill which he will remit to his supplier. He swallowed the lump in his throat, “Can I owe two lucky me again?”
“Hay naku!” Belen shook her head and unwillingly dropped the two packs of noodles infront of him. “and ofcourse, I know! You will borrow my thermos again!”
Mang Roming scratched his head, “Thank you for this, Ate,” feeling a little bit relieved, Mang Roming smiled a little.
Opening the makeshift door made of scrap metal and wood, Mang Roming entered their house. His seven children, together with his wife, Aling Nita were already seated on the floor. As if, they knew that he’ll be home at this hour.
“Tatay, finally!”
Like a routine, Bebe and Kuting stood up to get all the plates and spoons. Waiting patiently, all eyes are now fixated on the dried noodle blocks infront. The whole family watched Mang Roming as he opened the thermos and poured water on the bowl. The yellow soup of the noodles became lighter as he continuously poured some more. He only stopped with what he thought was the right amount of soup that could feed all the members.
“Let’ s eat, ” the oldest daughter, Girlie helped her mother scoop rice while Tisoy put six tablespoons of noodles on each plate.
“Shh-shh,” Bebe hushed 1-year-old Kuting who started crying feeding the baby the noodle soup.
“That’s mine!” Tado hit Butchok on the head.
“Uy-uy,” Mang Roming intervened.
“He took my noodles!” Tado spat.
Butchok angrily looked at him, “Because I can no longer taste the soup, idiot!”
“Uy-uy, Butchok, tsk, that’s your older brother. Stop that,” Mang Roming scooped one spoon for Tado and one for Butchok. Leaving him his small portion of rice and four tablespoons of noodle soup.
“We’ve been eating noodles this way all our lives and you’re complaining just now? You’re the one who’s an idiot!” Tado continued.
“Enough.” Mang Roming forcefully placed his hand on the wooden floor, causing a short thud. “We’ll have a better meal tomorrow.” “Can we have one pack of noodles for each one of us?” Butchok immediately asked. With tired eyes, Aling Nita looked at her husband worriedly.
“Ofcourse, we will,” Mang Roming assured. Glint of hope filled the eyes of the children, “I promised.”
But tomorrow was never promised… Staring at the 200 peso bill he made that night. 120 pesos will be remitted to his supplier. Leaving him, 80 pesos which will be paid to Aling Belen… Surely, another pack of lucky me will be their dinner for that evening.
“I told you, just pick me up here near China Mart. There’s no more jeep around during this hour!” said a curly-haired woman, wearing a teacher uniform, on her phone.
Mang Roming closed his eyes.
Putting leftovers on a plate in front of Kulot, some college students signaled his son to eat up. From the plate, Kulot took a piece of half-eaten chicken and merrily munched it. Coldness enveloped Mang Roming’s body but it was immediately followed by heat forming from his feet, slowly rising up to his head.
With heavy steps, Mang Roming gripped his son. “Let’ s go. ” Still holding the piece of chicken, Kulot’s mouth fell open.
“Why? Why are you eating their left-overs? We’re poor but I never raised you to beg!” voice-constrained, Mang Roming exclaimed.
The curls of Kulot fell as he bowed his head, ashamed of what his father just saw, “I was just feeling so hungry. It’s my birthday today. I just want to eat chicken.” Kulot’ s voice broke; small sobs followed.
“I told you, we’ll have a better meal today! Go home. I follow later with the chicken you want. ”
Without any second thoughts, Mang Roming pulled the woman’s bag. The woman shrieked loudly not letting go of her bag, “Help! Snatcher!”
One thing’s for sure, Mang Roming will not go home and feed his family the same noodle soup they’ve been eating their whole lives. Mang Roming forcefully grabbed the woman ’s bag. He was able to take it, but the woman continued to resist, throwing punches
and kicks.
“Snatcher! Help!”
Taking the icepick from his pocket, Mang Roming stabbed the woman’s chest. One gasped, and he knew it’s over. How can life be so unfair. Staring at the woman who slowly fell on his feet, he took the wallet and immediately ran away.
“Chooks-to-go, boss.” He cleared his throat and took deep breaths as he hailed a pedicab.
He bought a whole lechon manok. Went to the sari-sari of Aling Belen and paid using a one thousand bill.
“Wow! You must have won the lotto!” Belen exclaimed, eyeing the roasted chicken. Mang Roming wiped his hand, taking the change. “Do you need hot water?” Aling Belen added as she handed him the eight packs of lucky me.
She was about to ask more when Mang Roming thanked her and left.
“Let’s sing Happy Birthday to Kulot!” Butchok exclaimed, clapping his hands then hugged his pack of noodles.
Gathered around the lechon manok, with one bowl of lucky me for each one of them. Everyone, including Mang Roming sang Happy Birthday to Kulot.
“Happy birthday to you!” Sirens of police cars encircled the neighborhood.
“Happy birthday, happy birthday, happy birthday, Kulot!”
“Nak-nak-nak,” knocks from their makeshift door. Aling Nita stood up, opening the door, revealing three police officers.
“Is Romolu Dela Cruz here?”
Accepting his fate, Mang Roming took one last slurp from his bowl, stared at the plastic beside his plate and carefully read it, “Lucky me.”
Summer Night at Lola’s
By Andre Amar
I have always dreaded going to my lola every summer, she had always been mean to me, if I didn’t sleep early or did not finish my plate each time we ate at the table she would yell at me and tell me the reason I was scrawny was because I was a picky eater. When I snuck out at night she caught me and I was punished, I had to kneel on mung beans or salt.
The car stopped by the huge gate, I got off and my mom told me to behave since lola is old and not to escape at night like the last time.
There usually were a lot of roosters on the neighbor's lot now there were none, their feathers scattered all over the empty lot.
“Psst,” someone called before I entered and twisted the gate knob, it was Tonton.
“I found something,” he said had been my only friend there; he lives at the far end of the road in a small nipa hut. He still has his flashlight with an antenna.
“What is it this time?” I asked.
“I’ll show you later.” He replied as he left.
Tonton had been my only friend out here, I am not allowed to go outside the gate and lola never let him inside so I escape at night whenever she was in deep sleep which she never woke up from until morning.
As I open the front door the house still smells like an old wooden cabinet. A fat wrinkly woman was sitting on the couch, it was lola. It took me a while to recognize, she was slim and gawking.
“My apo, how big you've grown!” she said.
“Likewise,” I replied.
She did not feel warm at all when she hugged me.
Lola offered lunch but I refused when I saw the meal, they never ran out of vegetables to pour into their vegetable soups.
Her mood was not in a heated mess this time, I wondered if she was just not
eating too much for her to be mad all the time.
I woke up past seven and I peered out into the window then beneath the slit of the wooden door. I crept past the dark hallway, down the stairs, and into the pantry door.
The night air seeped into my sleeping clothes and the soil was cold upon my feet
Tonton was already waiting by the gate.
Follow me,” he said.
Tonton led me into the sugarcane fields, he navigated the maze-like stalks like the back of his hand. I remember we caught spiders there and then let them fight on a stick. I almost got lost if he had not kept on mumbling and humming.
We reached as wide as a small swimming pool. He fixed his flashlight on the hole, and the surrounding stalks were either burnt or flattened.
“I swear it was just here.” he said, scratching his head with disappointment.
“The what?” I asked.
“The huge Kawa but it was flipped over and very shiny, I saw it fall from the skies when I was catching spiders yesterday.”
“A Kawa?”
“It’s a really big cooking pan enough for a person to fit inside.”
“It could be dangerous, maybe it was from a plane, whatever it is someone might have already taken it and sold it.”
“I can't be, it was too heavy and I never saw anyone come this way when I saw it.”
I didn't respond.
“Ah, forget about it. Wanna catch some fireflies?”
Tonton found a beer bottle to put them inside and we used our thumbs to cover the hole. I saw them sparkle inside the dim bottle. We’ve done this a couple of times last summer, I remember it rained the day before and there were a lot of mosquitoes. I had to hide the mosquito bites for an entire summer wearing long sleeves which did not help with the heat.
Tonton handed me a strange handgun with metal coils surrounding the tip,
“Where'd you get this?”
It was heavy to carry on one hand, “I found it inside the kawa.”
“You're giving it to me?”
“Mother would take it away if she sees it.”
I thanked him and pressed the trigger, a green light shot out of the coil, burning the sugarcane stalks it hit.
“Cool, I never knew it could do that,” he said.
Suddenly, the lights from the house turned on, it was among the tall houses up here so we could still see it from afar.
“Shoot, I better sneak back in.”
We bid each other farewell as I ran back into the house.
When I entered, I saw Lola but she was thin again, how could she do that?
She was walking slowly from upstairs where my room was and down back to hers, was she looking for me?
I locked the room to avoid any suspicion in case she checked.
What was strange was she seemed to be growling, a low hum. Her back was hunched and her arms curled, must be an old woman thing.
When she closed her door, I snuck into my room with caution to make the door not creak.
I woke up late the next day.
She was fat once more which denied my memory of seeing a thin lola creeping down the stairs, I must have been very sleepy back then.
I greeted her and she turned her head, a smile was painted on her face.
“Apo, you woke up so late you missed breakfast.” she said.
I went to the table, the soup from yesterday had never been removed, it had spoiled already.
“Lola? Where's manang?“
“She went out to the market.”
Manang works in lola's house. I hadn’t seen her since yesterday and she was very prompt in cleaning and preparing food and the kitchen was filled with vegetables so it was unnecessary for her to go to the market. She was holding a blue flashlight with an antenna. It must be a rural thing to have a radio flashlight but it looked identical to Tonton's. I mustered all the courage to ask her:
“Can I go outside the gate?”
She said yes and told me to be back before dusk.What could have changed her to be so kind all of a sudden?
I couldn’t find Tonton anywhere, the entire afternoon I waited for manang to open the gate, but she never did. Then I went back to the house and lola stood there, expectant of me, I felt cold running down my spine as she began to blink sideways. and sprouted a long tail and protruded sharp claws, hunching its back it began to rip off its skin and unveiled a scaly reptilian creature, it snarled and began to crawl towards me.
I pulled out the gun aiming at the creature, it tried to evade but the light proved to be quicker as it burst through its chest and burned through the pantry door, the entire house turned green for a second as the creature dropped dead. Then, something moved from its belly, I found scissors and a knife to open its stretchy flesh, it was Tonton.
Old Lighthouse
By Andre Amar
The job was simple enough: ignite the light of the lighthouse at dusk and turn it off in the morning. It was an urgent job for the man who hired me, he had a bad fall and his age disallowed him to recover, it struck his spine and forced him to use crutches for the rest of his life. It was the end of his lighthouse-keeping days.
“No days off,” he grunted, his tone matter-of-fact. "If you're leaving, let me know beforehand.”
The lighthouse was far from the coast, so I had to row a small boat to get there. It was different from those I have seen. This one was built on with rocks withered by the tides, oysters, and moss adorn its base and there were no stairs inside, just a spiral stair to its side to the top. There were a lot of modern modifications on the top. Instead of the expected focal lens, there was a fixed position for lenses and even a mirror.
I didn't dwell on the oddity of it all. The purpose behind such an unconventional setup was beyond my understanding, and truth be told, I wasn't inclined to ask.
Back at the shore, they had hundreds of containers containing gasoline, fuel for the light. When I ignited it the light did cast out horizontally across the sea, but downwards, illuminating the waters below in a strange, almost unnatural way.
I rowed the boat back to the coast and back to my cabin. The next day I did the routine of lighting it off then back to the coast. I did this all over again for four days. There have not been any problems at all, there was just the sound of the sea birds, the waves crashing into the shore, and the salty smell of the sea breeze.
It did take too long when the nightmares began, I couldn't sleep properly since then. If I couldn't sleep, I would walk around at night watching the light illuminate the clear waters. I couldn't help but wonder about the purpose behind such an unconventional setup. I waited for something to show up, expectant of everything that moves on the surface. Each day I became wary, too wary of the things I see and hear.
Then one day I woke up late, everything was dark, and I felt cold run down on my spine. The light!
I walked out of the cabin in a rush. To be damned, the lights were not up. I trudged into the sand and pushed the boat out from the shore. My entire perception had been
distorted and some illusion of a memory convinced me that I had done my rounds with the light.
As I rowed my boat through the dark waters, something crashed that shook the boat, causing me to freeze in place. My heart pounded in my chest as I strained my eyes, searching the inky depths for any sign of what lurked below. Was it a large fish? I raised the oar preparing to hit it if it came close. It was too dark, the lantern I carried could only light much, I held the lantern in my other hand. Nothing, no one. Then I heard multiple splashes emerging and submerging back into the water, by the sound of it these were large movements swimming around the boat.
Then, emerging from the shadows of the sea, came dark, shadowy figures. They had humanoid shapes with long, sinewy limbs and glowing eyes that pierced through the darkness. The moonlight danced upon their slick, scaly skin, casting eerie reflections across the water. With a surge of terror. I could hear the sound of their wet, rasping breaths. It sent me into panic, not understanding what I was looking at now. I rowed towards the lighthouse for I was already too far from the shore. I rowed and rowed, the tide was against the direction of the boat one of them reached me, its sharp scaly webbed hands clanged into the edge. It began climbing and revealed in the dark its hideous face it had dorsal fins and gills, I rowed too hard till the wooden boat crashed into the rocky base of the lighthouse where it stood, the boat bounced and spun slowly causing the creature to lose balance and fell back to the water.
I scrambled up the winding stairs of the lighthouse, the creatures swarmed jumping out of the water. Their distance closed in and I almost fell when one of their hands grabbed my leg. Their grip was strong and I felt their cold touch seep into my leg, I kicked back losing its grip and I kept running upwards, it was difficult as the surface of the stairs was irregular.
My heart pounding in my chest, with trembling hands, I reached for the matchbox, desperately trying to scratch the match stick, the first three did not even strike a spark and the tip fell, I tried another, and one of them entered the top, as it began to creep towards me, then as it was about to lunge into me I threw the little flame into the lamp and the mirror and with a flicker of light, the flame sprang to life, casting its brilliant glow across the water.
The creature shrieked and scrambled away back to the sea. I peered from the top and I saw them below, hundreds if not thousands of the creatures squirming in the water, their grotesque forms writhing and twisting from the light.
With a sense of relief and dread, I realized the true purpose of the lighthouse. Exhausted but alive, I collapsed to the floor. And as the first light of dawn broke through the darkness, I knew that I had survived the night.
My boat was torn apart when I went down so I had to swim back to the shore. The old man was already there when I reached the sands, my mind felt cold with what I had seen. He pulled me back to the cabin and we sat.
He brought a thermos and wrapped me with a blanket.
I told him what happened, partly expecting he would not believe me but he stared distantly at the lighthouse.
“We do not know who built it but it was ancient, even before the Spaniards set foot in these lands.” he began. “All we know is that it must be ignited each night and for generations we took care of it and some nights we just slipped from our job and saw what happened next.”
He took a sip from his mug. There was silence for a while.
“There is evil beneath those tides, it must remain there.”
He did not deny what I saw but I told him after three days that I no longer wanted the job.
It has been ten years since and I could still see the lighthouse from afar each time I travel by the sea. I wonder if the old man was still alive or has he found someone to take over, perhaps permanently but one thing's for sure was the nightmares about the incident return every now and then.
Taglugar: “Istorya ni Manong Sikad Driver”
By Cire Joerouell Niyo
“Nagapati bala ikaw sa taglugar?”
Pwerti gid ang akon nga pagpaningala bangod antes ako magbalik sa akon boardinghouse halin sa amon balay, gin pamangkot ako ni lola sang amo sadto.
“Nga ah man la haw?”
Akon nga balos sa iya, agod ma klaruhan ang akon nga panghuna-huna.
“Gab-ih na bala toto, manug alas 9 na buwas na lang sa aga balik sa imo boarding house, ikaw lang to daan isa.”
Sambit ni lola samtang ginahawidan ang akon nawala nga kamot. Gilayon niya gindaho sa akon nga palad ang luy-ah kag nag siling.
“Miski ano matabo indi mo gid pag halinon sa imo lawas ining luy-a ha.”
Nag tango na lamang ako kag nag hakos sa iya, kag nag dagon-dagon lakat pakadto sa paradahan sang traysikol sa amon sa Antipolo, agod nga makaabot ako sang last trip pakadto sa ceres terminal sa La Carlota.
Takna alas diyes sang kagab-ihon nagasakay na ako sa ceres nga bus pakadto sa bacolod kag nagapungko sa bangko nga natuon sa bintana. Akon gin butong ang kurtina agod akon makita ang dalanon samtang nagadali magpuli sa boarding house. Dako ang akon nga paningala nahanungod nga daw ka indi amo ang dalan nga amon gina suroy. Miski madulom, mapahangopnupan ko gihapon nga sala ang ang amon alagyan. Ang dapya sang hangin sa gwa indi nakon mabatyagan tungod nga aircon ang akon nasakyan kag serado katama sang mga bintana kag pwertahan. Pero daw sa akon pamatyagan ang malain nga hangin galapos lamang sa kristal. Sa tuman ko nga kakulba, nagbalikid ako sa napihak nga parte sang bus agod akon lantawon kung napiyaran man bala sang mga nagasakay ang pag lain sang dalanon. Pero daw gin kumos ang akon nga dughan, nagpranindog ang akon nga balahibo, kag nag pwerte gid katugnaw ang sulod sang salakyan sang akon masaksihan nga ang mga kaupod ko sa sulod puros mga babaye nga naga manto. Nagaduko kag daw nagapangadi samtang ga pungko. Kasubong sang bulan ang ila nga kasanag. Kay may-ara sang kapawa nga nagagikan sa ila nga lawas.
Gusto ko mag singgit, pero daw nadula ang akon tingog, gusto ko mag dalagan
Akon ini gin kuom kag nangamuyo sa diyos nga kabay ako iya luwason sa sadto nga kalaot. Gulpyada na lamang ang tanan nag dulom.
“Sir, sir, bugtaw na sir, ari na kita sa terminal, wala ka man bi nag hambal kung diin ka manaog.” Siling sang kundoktor sa akon samtang ginapukaw niya ako.
Natapungawan gid ako kag nakibot, nag duaw ako sa bintana kag matuod gid, ara na ako sa terminal. Nag hawan na ang akon kasing kasing kag balatyagon kay akon na hangpan nga damgo lang gali ang mga nasaksihan ko.
“Nong pasensya gid, natulogan ako abi, pero salamat gid, manaog na ko..”
Dali dali ko naglakat para makapanaog sa bus. Nangita ako sang traysikad para mag dulog sa akon sa amon nga boarding house.
Sang nakasakay na ako. –“Gab-eh ka na to hau?”
Pamangkot ni manong drayber sa akon.
“Gani nong, indi na ko gani tani pag pabalikon kagina ni lola, apang namilit gid ako.”
Akon nga sabat sa iya.
“Tani gin pati mo na lang si lola mo, manug alas 11 na ni ho.”
Siling ni manong sa akon. Ang iya tono daw akig nga daw nagayamuhat.
“Sige lang, nong. Anhon ta na kay ari na ko di. Didto lang ko gali nong sa mejar apartment ah, sa atubang sang Bacolod City High School.” hambal nakon sa iya kay daw mga tunga man lang sa kilometro ang antad sang terminal sa akon boarding house. Wala gid siya nag tango ukon nag sabat pagkatapos satong suglanon namon.
Apang, pag hampak sang hangin sa akon nga likod, liwat nga nag hugot ang akon nga dughan. Naparanindog ang akon balahibo, nag palang-hugot ang akon nga dungandunganan. Gulpyada nag pwerte katugnaw kag sa liwat nadula ang akon nga tingog kag kusog. Nag balikid ako kay manong. Pero nakibot ako kay nagasiga na ang iya kalimutaw. Daw baga sang uling, tapos ang iya nga itsura daw kasubong na sing kanding nga may sungay. Gin kuot nakon liwat ang akon luy-ah sa bulsa. Pero balda gid ko kay ang luy-a waay na. Nagpundo ang traysikad kag nadula si manong sa iya pulungkuan . Nagpwerte na gid ang akon kulba kay nakita nga si manong ara na sa akon atubangan, nagatindog, ang iya ulo kanding, iya lawas tawo, despues ang iya tiil iya sang kabayo. Nagtiskog na lamang ako sang amat-amat nga nagapalapit ang lawas ni manong sa akon.
“GAPATI BALA IKAW SA TAGLUGAR?” pamangkot niya sa akon.
Siling ko kay manong traysikad driver nga akon ginsakyan papuli halin sa KM.
Kag nag-utoy utoy lang kami nga duwa.
Pero sa tuod-tuod lang, kulbaan ko ya eh, gahipos lang ko kay basi sunlugon ya pa gid ko. Medyo hubog ko tuod kay nag celebrate kami sang birthday sang classmate ko, pero indi na gid ko liwat mag pagab-eh puli ya, kakululbaan sang estorya ni manong.
Night That Heals Me
By Erika Louise Garlitos
The moon and the stars have always been my nepenthe, serving as a source of comfort and solace. Each night, I would clandestinely venture out with my friends to gaze at the celestial wonders above, and in those moments, I felt a sense of safety unlike any other.
It all started five years ago when I started talking to the stars with my friends rather than the people I used to do it with. Together, we would offer prayers and wishes, brimming with hope. Yet, on that fateful night of April 20th, 2024, it was different. I surreptitiously slipped into high-heeled boots, a tube top, and a pencil skirt, forsaking my usual attire of pajamas and slippers. My friend arrived in her Mercedes-Benz to whisk me away, and soon we found ourselves midst of a haze of smoke. A place where there was no lake sparkled with twinkling reflections of the stars. Instead, it pulsated with strobing lights and trays adorned with glowing drinks and shooters. It was a nightclub, a stark departure from the serene parks I was used to.
Rather than catching glimpses of the moon before it disappeared behind a veil of clouds, my eyes were captivated by a gleaming, smoky mirrorball. The scent of beer and stale air replaced the fragrance of grass and the invigorating breeze.
I observed my friends reveling on the dance floor with their martinis and vodkas. I was supposed to be having fun too, right? I had stepped out of my comfort zone, but this environment failed to ignite any sense of enjoyment within me. Instead, I felt an overwhelming urge to escape. And so, I did. I grabbed my purse and left the club.
The cacophony of noise persisted outside, leaving me feeling lost with my friends still inside. Without a clear destination in mind, I allowed my feet to guide me. Unconsciously, I found myself seated on a familiar bench in the park. Exhaustion permeated my legs, and I questioned the impulsive decision to accompany my friends. A somber mood settled upon me, and returning to my house would only exacerbate those feelings. Nevertheless, I had no other option but to make my way back.
Upon entering the house, the silence of the corridors greeted me. It seemed that I was alone once again tonight. As I made my way to the kitchen to get a glass of water, countless thoughts flooded my mind, causing me to let out a sigh. This house, which was once a home filled with laughter, love, and unity, now felt empty.
Growing older has made me realize that everyone has their own path to follow, including my family. Over the years, we have drifted apart, living in different cities instead
formed on my lips as I recalled those cherished memories, only to be interrupted by a tear that escaped my eye.
Just as I was about to drift off to sleep, my phone rang. It was my friend calling. I stared at the screen until the ringing stopped. A message appeared, inquiring about my whereabouts and well-being. Am I okay? I couldn't help but feel lost in my thoughts. The truth is, I feel adrift, lost in a sea of memories and longing.
The sun rose outside my window as I was in the midst of tying up my hair, accompanied by the cheerful chirping of birds. Suddenly, a noise from downstairs caught my attention. Assuming it was my friends paying an early visit, I couldn't help but wonder if it was too soon for them to arrive. With a slight groan, I left my bed to investigate, only to find my brother and cousins standing there.
The sight of them felt like a reunion after years of absence, bringing back the warmth and comfort that had been missing from our home. I initially thought I was imagining their presence until my cousin playfully smacked me, teasing me for being a crybaby due to missing them so much. As my brother prepared breakfast and my younger cousins settled in to watch movies, we all enjoyed a leisurely brunch together.
When I look around the corners of the house, it’s surprising how it no longer feel vacant despite the furniture that almost filled the house. My heart was dancing as I observe them frolicking together, never did I imagine that chaos would be this tranquil.
Later, my cousin invited me to join them at the night market after dinner, a proposition I eagerly accepted. Time seemed to fly by, and before I knew it, we were all dressed in matching pajamas, sharing laughs at our silly appearances. The atmosphere was reminiscent of our childhood days, filled with childlike joy and camaraderie.
The night market appears more illuminated this evening compared to its usual ambiance. It presented a vibrant array of merchandise, ranging from handcrafted jewelry to various spices. Despite having recently shared a meal together, we found ourselves drawn to the food stalls to indulge in skewered delicacies. We stocked up on ingredients for the next few days of their stay with me. It took us a lot of time to buy goods because the choice and price were decided by the games we played in different stores.
This night really add an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie to our shopping experience, turning it into a delightful adventure filled with laughter and unexpected bargains.
I couldn't help but laugh in embarrassment at how they bargained for deals, never changing their tactics. Before heading home, we took a trip down memory lane to the park where we used to play growing up. Sitting on our favorite bench by the grass, the peaceful
atmosphere was soon filled with their joyful chatter.
The soft rustling of leaves and the distant laughter of children playing brought a comforting sense of nostalgia. We savored the moment, knowing these cherished memories would stay with us forever.
As midnight approached, we shared our wishes and prayers with the moon and stars, feeling grateful for this magical night.
They are the only loud noise that I can deal with, and this is like a dream come true. For years, the world was a hopeless place. How I spend my night life may differ from others but this is how to get a ride home.
This is the kind of night that heals me.
Christmas Calls
By Q Cean Calamungay
As she walked through the downtown area, she can’t help but notice the streets that are filled with bright hanging Christmas lights in the nearby city plaza with children laughing and singing while the church bell echoes from a distance. She always wondered how the city is still bustling even at night, making it seem like the people from the city don’ t even sleep, even on Christmas eve.
People from her province would celebrate in each of their own houses, not outside, which amazed her since it is the first time she saw how they celebrate Christmas in the city. A bitter smile crept up her lips, reminiscing her own Christmas memories from when she was young. The whole family will stay at their grandparents’ house, Anna’s mom would cook them her famous sweet spaghetti, the savory taste of her favorite lumpia while her aunts scold the younger children for trying to open the gifts early.
The crisp of December night’s air blew pass her making her hug herself tightly, bringing her back to reality. With one last glance toward the plaza,
Good evening miss Anna. Merry Christmas to you.” manong Jay, the security guard, greeted as he held the door open for Anna. “You are just in time miss Anna, they are in the upstairs setting up food.” he quickly added with a consoling smile.
“Thank you manong Jay. Merry Christmas to you as well.” Anna replied with a sweet smile as she entered the warm building, brightly filled with colorful Christmas decorations while they softly played Christmas carols.
Calmly walking up the brightly lit staircase, she could now hear her friends soft chatter together the sounds of rustling of plastics and clanking of utensils. Carefully opening the glass door, she peaked in, “Merry Christmas everybody!” she grinned widely as she greeted her friends, who were all quite busy getting their own fill of food from the pantry counter.
“Anna you’re finally here! You are just in time. Come on, we still have 40 minutes before 12am. Grab yourself a plate and let’ s eat. ” Marie, a colleague and friend of hers, exclaimed excitedly when she whipped around and saw Anna by the door.
Anna, smiling widely, walked towards Marie and took a look at the feast prepared by her other colleagues. Mouth watering, she turned to see what Marie had gotten for herself
when she saw the pile of spaghetti in the middle of Marie’s plate. Remembering her mom’ s sweet spaghetti every Christmas eve, she decided to grab a plate of spaghetti for herself as well.
The two walked around the room trying to find an empty spot for them to enjoy their food. Finally noticing the empty table by the window, they both decided to sit down and started to indulge in their chosen dishes.
“So how is your first Christmas away from your family so far?” Marie asked Anna while taking a bite of the lechon skin she grabbed from the counter earlier.
Anna paused for a moment, trying to process Marie’s question. With a small smile she answered, “It’s not as bad as I thought it would be, actually. Everyone here and the people I passed by earlier seemed so happy, I think it rubbed off on me.”
Marie then responded with a nod, and they both continued eating while chattering about anything and everything.
“Hey, you two, Marie and Anna, it’s already 11:50. We have to go in now or else we ’ll be late.” Kinah, another colleague of theirs, chimed in, stopping their conversation. They both glanced at the wall clock by the doorway and rushed to clean their garbage when they confirmed the current time.
“I’ll see you later Anna.” Marie waved to Anna as they parted ways after entering the call floor. Anna waved back with a smile then proceeded to her own cubicle.
Turning on her computer, she hurriedly opened her account tools, typing in her log in credentials. She then carefully placed the headset by her ears as she waited. Finally, the clock on her computer flashed 12:00am. “Merry Christmas” she whispered to herself before logging in to her accounts.
A minute passed… then five… then ten. Tapping her fingers on the table, softly humming carols while waiting for a call to come in. 15 minutes had passed when she finally receives a call.
“Hello! Thank you for calling Unos. How can I help you?” Anna greeted cheerfully through the microphone attached to her headset.
Anna repeated the same line every time a new call comes in. This is how her nights went. Receiving calls, assisting costumers with their concerns for eight hours every night. It was always a pleasure for Anna to help sweet and understanding costumers, but that’s not always the case.
Seeing that she only has five minutes left for her shift, she enthusiastically
answered her last call for the night.
“Hello! Thank you for calling Unos. How can I help you?” she greeted chirpily.
“You useless st*p*d people lost my package again! It’s always the same issue again and again and again!” was the immediate response she received from the angry costumer on the other line.
Working as a Call Center Agent, these kinds of calls from costumer are normal and she would receive at least eight calls like this, at average, every shift. But as usual, Anna tries her best to assist her costumers the same way she would no matter what their attitude is towards her.
Feeling a tap on her shoulders, she whipped around, still listening to her ranting costumer, to see Marie mouthing “are you almost finished?” Anna just nodded in response and turned her attention back to the still raging costumer.
With a sigh, she took off her headset once the call had ended and proceeded to log out of her accounts and turning her pc off. She quickly fixed her things already wanting to go home.
“I thought you wouldn’t finish today.” Marie jokingly said.
“Just another irate costumer. What a call to end a shift.” Anna answered shaking her head in annoyance.
“The good news is we now get to go home.” Marie tried her best to cheer her friend up. Which Anna just smiled a smiled as response.
The two walked out of the office together chatting about the calls they had that night, the sun now brightly shining on their faces. Marie waved goodbye to Anna as they parted ways.
Anna turned to look at sky and thought to herself, how nice it would be if she did get to go home, to her family. With a bitter smile she whispered, “Merry Christmas” , as she walked her way back to her dormitory to rest, then repeat the same routine again later tonight at her next shift.
Photography
By Paolo Belonio
Pedestrian
By Paolo Belonio
2nd
Balut
Midnight Serenade
By John Raymundo Dumdum
By Paolo Belonio
Early Bird
By John Raymundo Dumdum
Moonlit Misery
Sa Dagat Ga lakat lakat
By Feona Eddlyn Dela Pena ~
Artwork
By Love Joy Gaborro
Bilang Isa ka Amay
Starry Negrosanon Night
By Amelia Rose Limsiaco
By Andrea Bianca Uy
Barya lang po sa Gabi
Ta, Street Food!
By Andrea Ymanuelle Cervales
By Andrea Bianca Uy
Ghost Hunting
Nyctophilic Night
By Alfred Rivera
Profiles
Alexis (morse coder). Pring is a creative who sometimes expresses her true sentiments through morse codes. She is natural leader that takes initiative with grace and confidence. She approaches each task with fierce dedication, guiding everyone towards success.
Alfred (pridyider). In the moon's quiet embrace, Alfred finds solace in the ink-stained pages of his nightly odyssey, where deadlines fade into the whispers of a sleepless realm.
Aly (negroni sbagliato). Aly, with her warm and caring nature, resonates with all who cross her path. She brings a unique perspective and flair to every piece of advice she gives. If she were to become a drink, she would be a Negroni Sbagliato with of course—prosecco in it!
Amelia (wansapanatym). Amelia, a celestial dreamweaver, paints the night sky with the colors of her boundless imagination, each star a tale waiting to be told in the symphony of her dreams.
Amiel (bumble bee). If I were you, I would swipe right for Amiel! Amiel is a talented photojournalist that captures meaningful moments with creativity and depth. He faces challenges with an open mind, seeing feedback as a chance to improve.
Andre (spooky). In the shadows of Andre's mind, where darkness whispers and fear takes flight, he crafts tales that chill the soul, his pen a conduit to realms where the line between reality and nightmare blurs with eerie perfection.
Anika (maverick). Anika stands as a beacon of dissent, her voice a thunderclap in the silent storm, challenging the status quo and igniting conversations that stir the dormant embers of change.
Arben (dalagang filipina yeah). Despite her reserved nature, Arben's radiant smile and the soft curls of her hair shine like moonbeams. Her quiet and shy demeanor adds to her mystery.
Ashraf (Khal). Ashraf is a king of his own world. He stands as the unwavering beacon of our publication. This modern Pharaoh stands as a role model for all and sustains the boundless potential of the workforce, ensuring its continual growth.
Athea (ateng grasya). Athea is truly a girl with grace. She exudes the aura of a painter's palette, blending hues of creativity with the grace of a dancer's pirouette.
Ayesha (head over headphones). Ayesha dances within the realm of silent creativity, infusing her art with the essence of her heart and soul, revealed in the seamless symphony of lines and colors. Her voice resonates through her artworks, a constant companion to her as she immerses herself in the world of sound through her headphones.
Bianca (hunter). Bianca, a tempest of daring spirit, carves her path through the untamed realms of adventure, her heart a compass guiding her towards the thrill of uncharted horizons.
Cire (jester). Cire wields his pen like a mischievous sorcerer, conjuring tales that dance on the razor's edge between terror and laughter, leaving his readers spellbound in a whirlwind of satire and delight.
Chariz (lucky one). In the labyrinth of societal discourse, Chariz emerges as a weaver of eloquence. Her words are tapestry of insight and empathy, unraveling the threads of contemporary issues with the deft touch of a master storyteller.
Cristian (sting). It's Cristian and his sting against the world. Cristian tends to observe more than speak, providing thoughtful insights when necessary but preferring to let his actions speak volumes. Despite his chill and laid-back persona, he is capable of making loud ideas that could spark change.
Dahlia (belle). Dahlia is a vision of grace and talent. Behind her quiet and shy personality lies creativity and intelligence, waiting to be unveiled by those who take time to know her.
Danica (share tea). Not only does she go to ShareTea, but she always has tea to share. Danica, with her strong mind and outspoken nature, fearlessly speaks her mind. She is always eager to exchange ideas and make strong statements that could move mountains.
Erika (homebody). Erika, a wordsmith wrapped in the warmth of nostalgia, pens tales that echo the melodies of home, each syllable a tender embrace, longing to reunite with the heartbeats that make her world a sanctuary.
Faith (night owl). Faith, a poet of empathy and insight, illuminates the intricacies of human existence with her pen, intertwining personal narrative with the vibrant threads of communal life.
Feona (dusk 'til dawn). Feona, a wanderer of light and shadow, immortalizes the ethereal dance of sunsets and sunrises upon the ever-changing canvas of the sea.
Jalyn (anti-online dating). Jalyn said it already—NO TO ONLINE DATING. Kidding aside, Jalyn embodies the epitome of beauty, brains, and artistry. As she pursues her dreams of becoming a civil engineer, she brings the same level of dedication and excellence to her academic endeavors.
Jan Daniel (black rider). With each click of his camera, Jan Daniel paints a vivid picture of the world, capturing its beauty and essence. Behind the lens, he embodies a carefree spirit and serves as an amazing friend, always ready to lend an ear—just don’t let him lose his keys or he will lose his mind.
Jantzen (silent snapper). Jantzen exudes a gentle grace from which comfort blossoms, capable of weaving a picturesque tableau and eternalizing moments with the mere click of a shutter button.
Jasmine (chicken mama). Jasmine's ability to articulate her thoughts with confidence and clarity makes her a natural leader. Her voice sounds like soft whispers but once you get to know her, her voice becomes a captivating melody. And oh, she’s also the mother of a chicken!
Jennyfer (kagawad). A proud kagawad of her barangay; Jennyfer's willingness to take risks sets her apart, as she embraces challenges with courage and determination. She captivates everyone's hearts with her beauty, intelligence, and kindness.
John (crooner). John, a maestro of the lens, captures the nocturnal crescendos of midnight serenades, painting portraits of ephemeral magic with each click of his camera's shutter.
Kashina (duck face pose). Don’t let her face the camera or she will do the pose that will end us all. Kashina, with her famous duck face pose, is a force to be reckoned with. Her spirit brims with a fervent call to lead, her words resound with crystalline clarity, and her deeds resonate with the power to sway multitudes, for she possesses the essence of commanding presence.
Karyl (kopi ta?). Karyl possesses the skills to narrate tales through the art of clicking and manipulating the lens. Guided by her distinct perspectives, she is compelled to blend her concepts into a cohesive plan of action. Also, a cup of coffee would be a great addition to make her day complete.
Kazie (night whisperer). Kazie, a wordsmith attuned to the symphony of her soul, weaves prose that resonates with the heartbeat of human experience, her pen a bridge between the depths of her being and the souls of her readers.
Kent (thirst trapper). Kent is a master of his path. He is a maestro of both striking poses and capturing moments in breathtaking photos so if you got trapped by his skills, I don't blame you. Through his artistic prowess, he illuminates the path for others with his luminous outlook on life, inspiring them with every step.
Kia (almost sistered). No, literally, she almost became a sister, but she was redirected onto a different path—a path she is yet to discover as right for her. Kia has an active social life, seeking comfort and excitement among her peers amidst her busy schedule. She is soft-spoken and spontaneous, effortlessly blending into social gatherings with her gentle demeanor.
Khrystal (alohomora). Kiki is a Potterhead with a spirited enthusiasm for motion. Her unwavering resolve illuminates the truth that talent flourishes when paired with both motivation and steadfast perseverance.
Khyle (couch snorer). The sofa is where you will see him most times. While his snores might be loud, they are not as loud as his skills in video editing. Khyle brings stories to life through his camera lens that captivate audiences. Every project he made has been infused with his signature style, leaving an indelible mark on every frame.
Krisha (night shifter). Krisha's steadfast presence in the late hour imitates the reliability of the stars in the night sky, she’s always there when you need her, whether it's for work or simply for a chat over coffee.
Kristoffer (gift giver). Kristoffer is a lax creative in this fast-paced world. His passion is so strong that it motivates the people around him. Through his artworks, he makes sure he is seen and heard. Get close to him—you might receive a gift.
Kyun (ted talker). Kyun is a trusted source of guidance and advice. She imparts wisdom with clarity and conviction that leaves a lasting impact. She is a woman who exudes a gentle spirit.
Lance (crochet hooker). Lance is a nimble-minded soul, brimming with creativity and ideas that are yet to be realized. With his over-the-top personality, one might think he’s not into the wonders of plants and crochet. Not just that, he is also into other things. What is it that he can't do? I don't know. Ask him!
Lixie (coquette). Lixie is the academic achiever we aspire to be. She demonstrates remarkable intelligence and adaptability as she balances academic with her pub responsibilities. She also possesses a girly charm that captivates those around her.
Lesel (backburner). Lesel is a capturer of stories that resonate with many people. As a future educator, Lesel exemplifies leadership and guidance, illuminating the path for others with her caring gestures and compassionate heart. Don't worry, 'Backburner' is just her favorite song and she’s not actually like that... or is she?
Love (night wanderer). In the palette of urban strife, Love is a visual poet of empathy. She paints the raw struggles of street life with strokes of compassion, her art a mirror reflecting the unspoken stories of those society often overlooks.
Maecel (espresso). Maecel finds solace in crafting stories, accompanied by the comforting embrace of coffee's warmth. She is always on the go for another coffee session. Wanna join her for the next one?
Myron (tunga sang twinpack). Myron is a lad with dualities. Like the other half of a twinpack, he shows a different side that you will equally love. He is a wordsmith that weaves tales with the elegance of a bard, his essence a symphony of ink and charm.
Nicole (tinola). Nicole's way of things is peculiar in the best way possible. She could easily befriend Wednesday Addams through her enigmatic aura and deadpan humor. But don’t be fooled, she can be a ball of sunshine, if she wants to.
Paolo (night shader). Paolo, a virtuoso behind the lens, immortalizes the city's clandestine whispers through his camera, each photograph a showcase of his expertise in manipulating light and darkness.
Peter (AI). Sure, here's a desription: Peter's skills in problem-solving helps him to navigate through complex algorithms and troubleshooting with ease. His responsible nature and willingness to help others make him a trusted friend. He also loves fixing things and sometimes—people. Love that for him.
Q Cean (realist). Q Cean, a storyteller with ink-stained fingers, pens narratives that resonate with the heartbeat of people in all walks of life. She weaves tales of resilience, love, and longing amidst the vibrant tapestry of everyday existence.
Richard (night bard). Richard, a scribe of the uncanny, infuses his tales with the whispers of folklore, intertwining the everyday struggles of Filipinos with the enchanting presence of superstitious beings, creating narratives that bridge the realms of the seen and unseen.
Rhyza (calcifer). Beneath Rhyza's unassuming façade lies a treasure trove of hidden depths. Though she may appear as the group's wallflower at first glance, a closer look reveals a reservoir overflowing with progressive ideas and captivating stories waiting to be unveiled. She also has an orange cat named Calcifer! Completely unrelated but you get it.
Shaira (luna). Sashi loves to walk at night, especially when the moon shines bright. She is a radiant social butterfly that glides through life's tapestry. Her words are a delicate yet piercing melody that resonates deep within the hearts of her readers, weaving connections that transcend time and space.
Shannon (chocolate factory). Shannon shines as the bearer of sweetness, her pockets adorned with confections. Yet, amidst her sugary charms, she wields her pen with the diligence of a tireless artisan, crafting tales that echo the resolute beat of her determined heart.
Sharlyn (thumbelina). The girl who is always in a rush. Sharlyn's hurried steps echo the urgency of her dreams and the pulse of her boundless ambition. Amid her perpetual motion, she finds solace in the tranquil whispers of the ocean's embrace, her words dancing upon the waves like poetry in motion.
Shoppy (shotty). Shoppy emerges as a beacon of defiance, her criminology studies transcending stereotypes. Her vibrant imagination, captured in whimsical strokes, weaves a colorful narrative of her journey as a cartoonist breaking barriers.
Theresa (folklore). Tere's heart beats with a deep dedication to community service and is headstrong when it comes to her beliefs. Her steadfastness in championing her beliefs serve as a testament to her mastery of her own realm.
Ymanuelle (midnight muse). Ymanuelle makes portraits that capture the essence of university existence, blending hues of camaraderie, growth, and the comforting embrace of scholarly pursuits into her masterpieces.
TOLENTINESTAR
THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NEGROS OCCIDENTAL-RECOLETOS tolentinestar@gmail.com SINCE 1947
Editorial Staff 2023-2024
EDITORIAL BOARD
CRISTIAN JAY PLAZA Editor-in-Chief
KRISHA DANIELLE RONZALES
Associate Editor
KASHINA ASHLEY GATILOGO
Managing Editor
DESK EDITORS
Maecel Joy Priolo Magazine Editor
Shannon Marie Libo-on Newspaper Editor
TECHNICAL EDITORS
Lance Joshua Satojito Kristoffer Flores Multimedia Editor Graphics Editor
Danica Rose Quindap Shaira Iwayan
Information Manager Information Associate
WRITERS
Arben Jeyk Da-anoy
Jasmine Cyrile Alave
Lixie Imee Soriano
Myron Joseph Yunsal
Nicole Bucayani
Peter Bien Lumayno
Rhyza Sion
Sharlyn Grace Palotes
Theresa Mae Dulman
Kia Marie Coscolluela
CARTOONIST
Shoppy Lynn Condemilicor
GRAPHIC ARTISTS
Ayesha Mikyllah Ayang
Princess Alexis Moraña
Jalyn Rose Elizan
VIDEOJOURNALISTS
Kent Paolo Sampiano
Khyle Zedrick Anasta
SENIOR PHOTOJOURNALISTS
Karyl Anjao
Khrystal Key Claridad
Lesel Erexima
PHOTOJOURNALISTS
Jan Daniel Biñas
Jennyfer Briones
Jantzen Lumanog
Amiel John Orciada
LAYOUT ARTISTS
Athea Grace Talanquines
Dahlia Belle Flores
CONSULTANCY BOARD
HUMAN RESOURCE CONSULTANT
Kaye Eunice Lamera, RSW
TECHNICAL CONSULTANT
Alyssa Marie Arceño
TECHNICAL ADVISER
Engr. Ashraf Khater, ChE, MEnE
Tolentine Star would like to express gratitude to the following people:
GOD ALMIGHTY for His overflowing blessings, grace, and protection that have enabled the completion of the folio despite the adjustments in coming back to the university grounds;
THE GAWAD TOLENTINO PARTICIPANTS AND CONTRIBUTORS for expressing their narratives and perspectives through their pieces and art, and making us a part of that artistic journey;
THE TEACHERS for nurturing, recognizing, and supporting the students’ skills;
ENGR. ASHRAF KHATER, ChE, MEnE for eagerly mentoring, motivating, and guiding us;
KAYE EUNICE LAMERA, RSW, for the mental well-being advice, life teas, and sound counsel;
ALYSSA MARIE ARCEÑO for her comforting presence and sincere advice;
DR. DEXTER PAUL DIOSO, CSASS, for the continuous support and trust as we keep the flow of love for art and literature alive through our outputs;
REV. FR. LEO ALARAS, OAR, for entrusting us with the holistic growth of the students through campus journalism.
Beneath the veil of night where dreams weave and shadows dance, lies the unyielding passion of humanity for artistic expression. Dear esteemed readers, and creators of varied visages, you are the celestial guides adorning our mesmerizing sky, crafting the inception of our literary masterpiece. With bravery as your pen and a thirst to capture life's essence as your ink, you embroider the fabric of existence. Your steadfast support of literature, in all its diverse forms, ignites the flame that births our nocturnal anthology. In the moonlit odyssey of your spirit, may the flame of your passion burn ceaselessly, casting its radiant glow upon the celestial pathway you tread.
- Editor-in-Chief
