MONOLOGUE: Next Chapter

16 6 N O W A N D O N C E M O R E

14 8 10 N o

T o

r e m o r s e

e a c h

w h y I r e m a i n

h i s o w n

N o

L i m i t s

I

C O U L D ’ V E G I V E N Y O U E V E R Y T H I N G

18 A M O R P R O P I O

30 22 P U R S U I N G P A S S I O N

T o

24 R i s e n

Q u e e n

26 Y O U A R E Y O U

T h o s e W h o W e r e F o o l s I n L o v e

36 32 S u r v i v o r

H a n g g a n g s a

M u l i n g P a g l a l a y a g

JANUARY

4

lit

A new chapter unfolds As a new beginning awaits; But I continue to walk the path

With goals of the same.

5

NOW AND ONCE MORE

by Karen Shyne Silva

It was in the seven lettered month of January when dreams are again about to start, when yesterday’s history becomes an edge to move forward, and when all seem to be hopeful to survive the reality-lived time—now.

Everyone commences to await another unchanged but better 365 days with countless bucket and wish lists that yearns to make it through. To see another sunrise, to be a voyager of the sea, to travel the world’s perimeter, to find one’s own missing part, to pursue something, or to take courage on—are just a few of millions of aspirations that’s on its way of coming true. Then there came February, an episode of butterflies and fantasies.

A moment of attached strings and feelings; sweetened with scented words and irresistible sensations. Where handwritten letters are the best way of expressing love to escape the anxiety of being unwanted; but at least confessions come with the audacity of being brave.

Everything goes well. The clear azure sky and rainbows come with colors of moving-up ceremonies, employment preparations, tours and a lot more not until mid-March wind up and whooshed cities with specks of uncertainty and fragments of fear. Next was queries in April, the irony of June and conundrums in chapters of July. August too was a puzzle, a chase for October doubts and skeptical November.

Days were reckless. One flicker of eyelid and there goes the 12th month. Where pages in our calendars are no longer about time but realizations that it was mid-March when our feet could no longer step outside. Yet we answered the queries of April, figured out the irony of June and transcended chapters of July. We surpassed the puzzles of August, we flew away from doubts and In November, we are no longer skeptical but sure. The entire 744 hours of December comes with echoes of overcoming the year.

Thereafter we came back to the seven-lettered month January where dreams are again about to start, where yesterday’s history becomes an edge to move forward, and where all seem to be hopeful to survive the reality-lived time—now and once more.

6

lit

Artwork by Gabriel Delima

7

Artwork by Abrielle Kaye Barayoga

8

lit

No remorse why I remain

by Jee Fritz Michael Panton

Every year we celebrate Preparing ourselves to create The anticipated moment has finally reached A new beginning; a new pilgrimage.

One cold weather seems to be perfect For a man who shall intersect In a battle between his past When each memory never lasts.

The place where I feel safe Is also the place that renders Unfathomable area of darkness on my face Strongly eradicate the sweetened tender grace.

Never did I think to be sworn By such hypocritical oath, I was scorn On the first day when I set my foot on earth I felt gruesome and shady and needed a rebirth.

Never was it true I perceive The attraction of exultancy and forlornness It was never true, will I be deceived?

By temptation; but think that was merely a delusion.

Everyone’s talking about modification But why cannot I feel arranged?

Neither on the other side to be rearranged Puzzlingly, this was strange.

I blow the rocks of the mountains I kiss trees to pay respect to our ancestors I duly obliged of what is best to abstain The unchangeable fluctuating situation.

I see no remorse for myself In this darkness I devour to extend That someday a girl like Elizabeth Cooper Will not disagree and shall remain with me forever.

9

To each his own

by Lovernne An Montales

You ask me, “Darling, what do you wish for the most?”

I say, “Nothing, but your whole wide world.”

We took the risk and dreamed freely, Chased sleepless fantasies, till we sensed reality.

Now, you took the dessert; I took the coast, Parted our ways across two horizons, Set to circle, this world like Magellan, ‘Til we meet in the middle, that was the plan.

So you ran, with your heart on your sleeve, While I sailed, from dawn till eve; Bled and cried, as sweat fell down your face, A desperate attempt, not to fall from grace.

Rowing this ship through stormy seas, Praying to God, these winds will cease, If my days are flowing, changing, and drifting, Why is everything the same old scene?

I was there waiting for a miracle, Staring at my reflection beneath the waters; Who am I? A question without an answer, Maybe I’m just a ghost in a shell that wanders.

At the end of the road, you meet the deadly cliff, And for a moment, everything seems so clear; The world stretches, as it opens up to the sea, But no figures or shapes in sizes resembled me.

Birds, clouds, rain, and snow, they all passed by, You wait in contentment as the years go by; On top of the world, you were satisfied, While I gazed up as you danced through the night.

I was down below, beneath your sight, Enjoying your beauty, while you sang for the stars, I caught them all as they fall, my guiding light, Keeping them close, next to my beating heart.

A sudden boulder of blue creeps closer from afar, And something purple shines inside Without any warning, I was flying hvigh, With the whale who was floating in the sky.

Photo by Clint Elbe de Guzman

I saw you first, before your eyes told mine, “Finally,” while your mouth forms a smile, My tears fell for the first time in a while, A new journey begins, with your hands in mine.

10

lit

11

The sparkle in his eyes, Warmth in his touch, Sweetness in his ways, And truth without bluff; One could not ask for more With a love no words can justify.

12

lit

FEBRUARY

13

Photo by Sam Patrick Villena

14

lit

No Limits

by Jane Marie Sarmiento

During the first month of the year, I could already see the flowery environment as the month of February approached. Chocolates, roses, and mystery boxes were all over the streets, shops, and even on social media platforms. I smiled as I remembered my first Valentine’s day with a special someone. It wasn’t perfect at all, but it was one of a kind. But this smile turned upside down as I remembered how unlucky I was on that day.

I slipped on my dress when I got ready, scraped my elbow while at it, and ruined my hair as I chased time with sweat all over my face. I’ll never forget the embarrassment, but there he still went with his cute smile as he laughed off the fact that I even accidentally slammed my order on his favorite shirt. Despite all that, he was all smiles, guiding the flow of the day that went smoothly. “I’m sorry if I looked impatient and high maintenance today. I slept at like 4 am,” I blurted out of the blue with which he replied with a “Nah. You’re perfect.” My clumsiness and restlessness was as if something he wasn’t bothered at all.

Strangely, after ten years of our relationship as boyfriend and girlfriend, it ended in just one night. A night of tears to remember. I don’t know about him, but that relationship wasn’t perfect at all. Full of jealousy, fights, miscommunications, and insecurities. Yes, at first it was all fun and exciting as it usually is during the first year. Unfortunately, it could be too good to be true which starts the rise of everything I’ve been trying to avoid... heartbreaks.

I passed by the restaurant we dined in that day and unconsciously, my feet took a few steps backward. Before I knew it, I was already inside. My smile couldn’t be more visible as I saw him while he talked to a lady in uniform, intently describing his desires. That same lady who effortlessly caught his attention up until now was right there in front of him, waiting for his answer. With him finally recognizing me, I averted my gaze as I felt him trying to catch mine.

From my swollen eye, a tear escaped along with my heart pounding rigorously.

I can never be more proud and happy for him. “Can you believe it? My dream franchise has finally been approved, all thanks to her — now, our franchise which wouldn’t be of existence without you,” he said as he kissed my forehead, making me close my eyes for a second. Another tear fell from my eye as I smiled and glanced at the gold jewelry on our fingers complementing each other.

We faced different kinds of problems, big and small, and we continue to do so as it is part of the process. An essential everyday thing that makes us grow and stronger together and as individuals. Jealousy, fights, miscommunications, and insecurities have become doors for improvement, trust, understanding, and comfort. If there is a reminder that I’ve learned all throughout, it is to never take a single thing for granted and never wait for an explosion. The relationship wasn’t perfect at all, but it was worth it. Truly a deserving one to continue to the next level: building the future we’ve always dreamed of, a family.

After all, a love worth keeping is a love worth fighting for.

15

I Could’ve Given You Everything

by Melody Joy Lumauag

I could’ve given you everything.

The stars in the sky, the moon on a cloudless night. The snowfall’s little drops, the sunrays kissing your skin. Zephyr’s gentle breeze, Hecate’s warm hearth.

I could’ve given you everything.

The farmer’s grain, the pouring rain. The grass beneath our feet, the syllables I speak.

The thunder’s loud claps, the calm before the storm.

I could’ve given you everything.

The moon’s phases, these dainty laces—in which I tangle myself to your embrace. The skyscrapers—all the greater heights I refused to take.

I could’ve given you everything.

My friendship, my love, my sweat and blood. My promises—all I meant to keep. My time, my faces, my kindness, my secrets— I’ll untangle, one by one.

I could’ve given you everything. Just say the words.

But you didn’t.

I could’ve given you everything, but instead you gave yourself to me.

16

lit

Artwork by Xavier Romeo Emnace

17

Graphics by Benz Christian Minanga

18

lit

Amor Propio ni Aliah Abayon

Saan ko ba matatagpuan ang pag-ibig na tatanggap sa aking pagkatao?

Na mamahalin ako kahit na ganito ang wasak at gulo ng aking mundo?

Matatagpuan ko ba talaga ‘to?

O baka natagpuan ko na pero kinalimutan ko?

Nasuyod ko na yata ang kalawakan, Nasisid ang kailalimam ng karagatan, Umuuwi ako na may pag-aakalanf ako’y talunan Dahil hindi ko mahanap kung saan ang pag-ibig naninirahan.

Lumutang ang katanungan na nagmulat sa aking mata, Sino ang palagi kong kasama sa lungkot at saya?

Ang pumapahid ‘pag tumutulo ang aking mga luha, Sariling ko lang pala.

Hinahanap ko ang pag-ibig sa iba Na sa sarili ko lang pala makikita Panandalian akong nabulag sa maling akala, Inakalang ang pag-ibig na magpapasaya ay sa iba magmumula.

Sarili ko pala ang dapat kong mahanap At matutunang mahalin kahit mahirap Puno man ng pagkakamali pero doon ko nabubuo ang aking pangarap, Pag-ibig sa sarili ang napakagandang regalo na aking natanggap.

19

MARCH

20

lit

Women; A powerful word consisting of different personalities, Possessing strengths doubtful people can’t comprehend, While others continue to underestimate their abilities, Chins are still up, smiles are flashed, and hairs are flipped; Women are the change of today.

21

Pursuing Passion

by Melody Joy Lumauag

It’s by no means easy for us to chase our own dreams, in every step of the way there are thousands of possibilities of failure. The roads may be bumpy or the once burning flame loses its glow. Moreover, the things we thought we wanted may not be the right fit for us, so our resolve wavers.

However, just as hurdles seem endless, there are a million ways to find the fuel to spark that fire in our hearts.

People will criticize you for being a dreamer, it’s just how it goes. It’s easier said than done but surrounding yourself with the kind of people who values your desires and supports you in achieving it would offer a great motivation and a rigid foundation to lean on in times of self-doubt.

Hone your God-given skills to the fullest. There are times when we feel incompetent and question our own capabilities. It’s often hard to continue but as they say practice leads to excellence. Even the greatest had to start somewhere, but with enough confidence and diligence they rose towards the top. If you haven’t found your own skill set to work on however, it is always good to try and expose yourself to different mediums and activities to get that passion pumping!

Always, always have faith in what you can do and learn from what you cannot do or not good at doing. Pursuing one’s passion is a journey full of ups and downs. Sometimes you fail on the first or the hundredth try, but the world doesn’t run out of numbers and so should your persevering spirit!

Rest and contemplate your day. We are not machines nor invincible to exhaustion. We are humans and therefore we get tired. It is valid to take a step back and lay on the ground for a while. Recuperate and start the next day or another day however long until you ignite that spark again.

It is okay to be exhausted. It is okay to feel lost. It is okay to take care of yourself first.

Photo by Ashlyn Villarias

The world is full of critics and prying eyes in every corner.

But the first one you should listen to would be your own heart. Be brave and cunning, let your passion ignite!

22

lit

23

Graphics by Breia Lizada

24

lit

Risen Queen

by Geryne Velasco

They may shut her down in history; Conjured their embittered mendacity, Yet still like a soaring wave on the sea She will rise up and fly free.

They may have her caged in a deep well; Drowned by their twisted lies, But like a powerful eagle, She will fight back and rise.

They want her all broken, Bowed head and lowered eyes, Tears falling like rain from heaven, But never will she hope to die.

Tear her with your words, Judge her by your eyes, Do what pleases you, She’ll just return it with a smile.

25

You Are You

by Abrielle Kaye Barayoga

You’re pretty just like a flower That blooms in a vast green plain.

The crown of beauty, you’re the bearer.

A beauty that even mud can’t stain.

Flying freely like a bird in the sky Do all the things you want to do No one can stop you, even time just pass by Because of your strength and courage too.

Standing still and strong as a tree Amidst all challenges that comes into your life.

Deciding on something, you stand firmly Never budging, even during a strife Very unique, different from the rest.

You’re perfect, most worthy of the best.

Graphics by Benz Christian Minanga

26

lit

27

APRIL

28

lit

Jokes of 2016 live up until now As lies are spit and truth is hushed, “The world is ending, but don’t be sad,” For the land’s chaos be sprinkled with sand.

29

To Those Who Were Fools In Love

by Karen Shyne Silva

How does it feel to be able to wish and daydream, When you are only reciprocated with nightmares?

Does it feel the same way when you are attached, To someone with strings no longer tied to you?

To feel the feeling of being stared unreservedly, Or be held and maybe embraced without doubts.

You cling on to the little details of this nostalgia, And every bit of such visions is heaven in you.

But the trails of sweet caresses you marveled on, Are just your make-believe rainbows and butterflies.

More of a hoax and a false hope you printed— With letters of so much lies you dared to believe.

Love, is not like meddling around the darkness, When you haven’t met the sunshine of your days.

It is not invalidating your presence for someone Who treats you with due dates and warranty.

To those who were nearly and full fools in love, It is yourself that makes you feel half-witted.

When you settle on the things that haunts you And blame love when it’s you to be blamed.

To those who were nearly and full fools in love, Cut off the strings because love is something else.

Something that will not make you forge excuses, When you chose to seek and save your sanity.

Though it is a cycle of what it is and what it was, It is also living with the thought of what it should be.

Something like being able to still wish and daydream, After all the times sleeping with nightmares.

30

Graphics by Abrielle Kaye Barayog

lit

ga

31

Photo by Jemeah Libo-on

32

lit

Survivor

by Alexandra Dean

In a life in which chaos and pain reigns, a lone girl remains Upon a vast cruel domain, serving as the wicked’s prey, Where pain and suffering was all that ever were Left with only the choice to accept what is thrown unto her.

Cruelty, injustice, and never-ending prejudice, The complications rained by her worst nemeses She braved them all, until she could bear no longer And start to fall under the storm of hail and thunder.

It’s always the same cycle everyday A battle she fights for but ends up losing anyways, Yet still she finds herself standing once again, Braving the rapture from the start to the end.

Until one day, she started questioning herself “Is everything even worth fighting for myself?”

When she ends up losing every time she tries, Left under a field of dark grey skies.

Exhausted and physically strained, Crouched in an alleyway as it rained, She got a glimpse of her reflection in the water And saw the result of the battles right before her.

Even with all the battles she’s braved, All the pain and agony she has faced, Her figure still retained its composure Despite being bruised and scarred all over.

Suddenly a thought had dawned over her Even with all she’s been through, She was able to regain her character Even with the defeat, she managed to survive her predators.

And in that moment she finally realized That after every battle fought, she survived, After all this time she was bent but not broken Her spirit never shattered, only swollen.

From that moment forward, she decided That as long as she’s still standing She could never be completely defeated And that she keeps on advancing.

Tomorrow shall be another battle she would face, But even then, she would still fight for her grace And remain her head held high And be ready for what may pass by.

33

MAY

34

lit

Mother; Such a powerful word entitled to you, A strong being truly incomparable, Overflowing with love of no limitations; I wish to wash your worries away, As it’s time to be the one taking care of you.

35

Hanggang sa Muling Paglalayag ni Nherwyne Jude Yusoya

Sa pagtilaok ng mga manok sa umaga, Bubukas ang mga mata, sabay hilamos ng mukha, Uupo sa lamesa, iinom ng mainit na tsaa, Samahan ng pandesal at pagbati ng “Magandang umaga.”

Nakasanayan na natin ang pagharap sa teknolohiya, Sa ating mga klase, dito tayo kumukuha ng ideya, At matututo ng mga aral na itatatak sa ating mga diwa, Ngunit habang patagal, natatapos na rin ang ating istorya.

Hindi man naging madali; tayo’y napaiyak, nadapa, Pero natuto tayong tumayo sa mga sariling mga paa, Ngumiti at magpursige kahit mapait at nasasaktan na, Dahil ang tanging sandigan ay ang pangarap at diploma.

At higit sa lahat, nakilala natin ang mga taong maaasahan, Sa panahon ng lungkot, sila ating naging kandungan, Na kahit sa kaunting oras na sila’y namataan at nakasama, Sila’y espesyal, kahit sila’y nakilala lang sa teknolohiya.

Taos-puso ring pasasalamat sa ating mga dakilang guro, Nang dahil sa kanilang kaalaman, tayo’y natututo, Kahit iba na sa ngayon ang paraan ng pagtuturo, Sila’y ating naging kaibigan at kanlungan sa lahat ng delubyo.

Walang madali sa ngayon, lahat pinaghihirapan, Kaya habang may pangarap, ito’y patuloy na hawakan; Dito na nagtatapos ang mahirap ngunit ang masayang yugto, Tayo’y magkikita ulit hanggang sa muling paglayag ng ating kuwento.

36

lit

Graphics by Abrielle Kaye Barayoga

37

Editorial Board Hazel Lorraine G. Herida Editor-in-Chief John Lester T. Trafiero Associate Editor

Esther Joyce M. Limbaña Managing Editor

Desk Editors Abbey Gale D. Cordero News Editor Josh Aldrich B. Diola Sports Editor Melody Joy D. Lumauag Feature Editor Jane Marie P. Sarmiento Literary Editor Abrielle Kaye S. Barayoga Graphics and Layout Editor Jan Faith S. Ramos Multimedia Editor

Joy Q. Borcelas, MAEd Cluster Head, Research (With Publication)

38

lit

Cartoonists

Staff Writers

Mary Kate Carmona Jopay Dante Keziah Patrice Jocson Hannah Lavadia Kristen Thea Lozada Nathalie Ortillo Thea Jonieben Salvador Ariane Diane Tagulalap

Breia Ysabel Lizada Xavier Romeo Emnace Gabriel Delima Graphics Artists J Eugene Christian Jolito Krisha Lei Cordova Patricia Ayessa Fuentebella Princess Alexis Moraña

Layout Artists

Feature Writers

Lance Joshua Satojito Vanessa Tortal

Krystel Felicisimo Pauline Mae Jurisprudencia Jaira Panaguiton Karen Shyne Silva

Literary Writers

Alexandra Dean Beya Catrine Garbanzos Lovernne An Montales Geryne Velasco Nherwyne Jude Yusoya

Photojournalists

Clint Elbe De Guzman Jemeah Libo-on Ashlyn Villarias Sam Patrick Villena

Videographers

Janus Esportuno Larie Shem Natal Justin John Velez

Contributors

Aliah Abayon Benz Christian Minanga Jee Fritz Michael Panton

39