EDITOR’S NOTE
Life goes round, round, and round. Once upon a time, you will see yourself at the starting point. Perhaps, you will call it the exposition of everything, just like the elements of the plot that were taught to you long ago.
You were taught that every story is never a smooth-sailing linear ride with defined twists and turns. There will surely be ripples of dilemma orbiting around you, creating domino repercussions on how you will embark toward the next chapter. To
reach the climax means to overcome the humps of your existence. It will always be a clashing havoc between you and yourself.
But beyond that, you will reach the peak, as you feel how the stars usher you towards their kind. In that moment, you’ll definitely feel like you have surmounted the extremes of the extremes.
However, one day, your unparalleled dreams may stay as mere dreams–placing you into the bottomless chasm. This may shatter and scatter the perennial pieces of you. Regressing may never feel like progressing. Amidst these adversities, gaze upon the pieces that made you withstand the strident growth.
To trek towards the peak means to fathom that to fall is not to fail. With a steady and fortified spirit, we shall be ready to confront any entanglements, despite all the despites– as life goes round, round, and round.
ELNIE ANJELIE D. FLORES EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
ABOUT THE COVER
Full Circle highlights the intriguing capacity of life to revolve around certain events, whereas a human can experience both the highest of highs and lowest of lows in a single lifetime.
This academic year’s magazine cover of Starlight SHS features a basketball hoop encircling three women of passion and perseverance.
Dressed in varying hues, they embody the wide array of experiences people encounter throughout the course of life.
Bounded with the hoop, these women resonate an image of tranquillity — that despite life’s bumpy ride, this firm circle holds and defines our very being, steadily keeping us together for the journey ahead.
Models:
Mara Khleia Ortega, & Mayzel Tribujenia
Photographer: Khyle Zedrick Anasta
To peak means to understand the nuances of life.
As you sifted your dreams to achieve that goal, you fastened a heroic voice whose reverberating words echoed the idea of perseverance; an image etched across your mind to help you step into the limelight of success. You have defied all odds and succeeded in your mission – to fulfill the hollow void accentuated in your heart that longed for a subtle mending.
There’s no way left, but up; yet what does one do when they grasp the being of success? To peak means that there is a thorough understanding of free falling as the bridge connecting bliss to man, and when we’ve caught ourselves in the web of rock-bottom, we traverse the way of life once more, where there exists a meadow of bats and butterflies, before we reach the top.
And when you step beyond the threshold of joy, you walk across the room and fall back down before you can knock on its wooden frame, again.
A Filmmaker Unfolding Behind the Spotlight
words | John Patrick Serut & Jazmine Trafiero
Everything was once just a dream; but through perseverance and determination, it has become a reality beyond what I could have imagined.
Films traverse the boundaries of fiction and reality to bridge the gaps of human nature and sculpt a depiction of the intricacies of our surroundings. Its craftsmanship is rooted from the creativity of its production, as it weaves a story to caress the emotions of its audience as a multimedia scenery for the people. Rcynize Leesayne Portugal, a Grade 11 student of the University of Negros Occidental - Recoletos Integrated School Senior High School Humanities and Social Sciences strand, bloomed with an interest in filmmaking, and despite her doubts on her capabilities, she armored herself with valor to carry the role of the director of Duagan Productions with passion and determination. She courageously leaped from her comfort zone to express multitudes of emotions to depict a story through a rectangular box of innovation, and challenge the horizon of the film industry with her knowledge. Her vicious techniques partnered with the skills of her team brought a transformative film for the production, which sought to embrace the landscape of mundane themes.
Rcynize’s first step into the world of filmmaking first bloomed during a film trailer project during her Junior High School years, embarking as the director of an El Filibusterismo remake. This first flap of an opportunity to enact the iconic Filipino literature piece would soon extend into a timeline of developing the love for cinema. The lights are on and the cameras are rolling, a platform shined like no other as the young and aspiring filmmaker nabbed the festival podium. Sine Recoleto, a film festival presented by the UNO-R Supreme Student Government, opened
its doors towards a stage for UNO-Rian filmmakers in the university. Although doubt and hesitation clouded the budding director’s eyes, a hopeful gleam awaited amidst the fog. With the vast opportunity for knowledge and experience in filmmaking awaited in Sine Recoleto, Rcynize proved to be up to the challenge, completing what would become Duagan Productions.
Rcynize traversed her boundaries and soared across the film industry with the inspiration rooted from local filmmakers. She believes in the power their talent holds and has a vision of them as the centerpiece of the future of filmmaking. Albeit the wide range of themes these local artists tackle, she grew to appreciate its diverse beauty which evokes emotions as it highlights the wonders of life to perceptualize change within our society. This inspiration became apparent in the film she directed, as it mirrored themes of social realities that could attract the wider population with its mundane affairs.
“To bring colors to untold stories through film,” with Rcynize in the lead, Duagan Productions ventured the ambiguous tunnel of filmmaking despite the production being composed of inexperienced individuals such as the director herself. However, this set-back proved to never have been a burden as dedication and commitment to the art traversed throughout the filmmaking process. With their heart set ablaze by the fervent passion for this project, ‘Bantayan’ delves deeply into themes of responsibility and the unforeseen twists of life. Initially formulated to what would be a contingency plan, the film idea
was born to be a focal story that Duagan Productions would emerge with as their success. With a goal to guide audiences through this transformative journey, igniting a sense of wonder and offering profound insights into the unpredictable landscapes that shape our existence. ‘Bantayan' exalts the enchanting beauty that emerges when one dares to gaze beyond the surface of reality, uncovering the extraordinary within the ordinary.
“Kaya ta pa?” Pressures and challenges that surrounded upon joining the film festival as newbies of the industry, yet the entire production was committed to creating a story that demonstrates the profound emotional and societal impact of cinema. Driven by inspiration from local filmmakers with the use of social and cultural narratives through media, the film was influenced by highlighting these influences through its production. In order to face Sine Recoleto as a first-time director, Rcynize embraced determination, blending leadership and creativity throughout the production process. Her passion for filmmaking fueled her drive, fervently working on the intricate elements of the film to deliver a masterpiece that intertwined to deepen the audience’s connection and emotional resonance towards ‘Bantayan’. Reflecting on the journey of the film, the unwavering support and collective efforts of the entire Duagan Productions team were the key reason as the why her mere dream transformed into a celebrated reality.
"‘Bantayan’ celebrates the enchanting beauty that unfolds when one dares to peer beyond the surface of reality and discovers the extraordinary within the ordinary.” Despite the challenges posed by the clash of education, social, and familial life, she juggled alongside directing a transformative film for Duagan Productions, Rcynize made sure to lead the Recollect-Augustinian values deeply etched with her every word. She empowered the set in times of doubt, affirmed her fellow film enthusiasts, and pulled her team towards accomplishing a goal for the department. As representatives of the school, instead of focusing on the trophy, they valued the vision of bringing a heartfelt story to life – a true artists’ desire to further create an impact towards changing this rusted world. Rcynize is a testament that filmmakers with passion and perseverance can undoubtedly break barriers and become a part of the solution as the new media evolve to soar beyond greater heights.
Student:
Success is a temporal paradox as how Don Ramel, a 17-year old Senior High School student, defined it in an interview regarding his understanding of the concept of success. It is naturally impossible to strip off a student's thirst for success for they are usually innately idealistic. However, with more than half of their life yet unexplored, it is common for children their age to question their fulfillment amidst their journey—which often closes to a negative conclusion.
"I used to let one failure define how successful I am, fully disregarding the triumphs I have achieved in the past, and panic about the loads of tasks on queue in my future endeavors," Don Ramel said, proving the common notion of how psychological boulders negatively affect an adolescent's perception of oneself.
But be that as it may, youngsters have to realize that the night is still young. In fact, children still have lots of time to allot for the lots of achievements to accomplish. Hence, putting pressure on oneself for the sake of progressing into fulfillment does nothing but fester one's road to success.
As Don Ramel stressed on the aforementioned discussion, "feeling unfulfilled is inevitable and the only way to feel fulfilled and successful is to recognize progress."
Adult:
As intriguing as it may seem, most adults we encounter often still strive for empowerment similar to the academic validation deeply prevalent within students’ ecosystem; however, many of them lack the willpower to implement action for their goals. This statement was reflected in the answers of an adult hidden in the alias of Mercia, a 38-year-old woman, in an interview regarding her perception of success. Although many of us seem to crave for it, her vision for her life dialed down as she grew older, and now that she has her family to cover, she realized that success, as flashy as it may sound for others, is simply achieving a glimpse of the smile plastered in her children’s faces. Mercia believes in the power of happiness to achieve great things, and even
Adults are not as complex as they seem; they, too, share similar emotions to children and seniors; therefore, the happiness they reflect is just as pure as the other age groups. In Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, self-actualization defined as the desire to become the most one can be is placed on the tip of the pyramid, a factor of life not many adults instantly acquire, yet all of them strive to snag. This fundamental need of life is nestled at the top as it is difficult to achieve; however, once granted with this psychological core, we as individuals meet a complete and authentic version of ourselves. It complements the other basic needs at the bottom of the pyramid and helps us understand the actual value of life in this society.
Mercia encountered numerous challenges in her life, and although
Understanding
words | Angelica Cariño, Miel Czarene
Understanding Perspectives of Various Age Groups
Czarene Dezoller, & John Patrick Serut
constantly embedded in her heart. It could be different for others, she said, but for her, this life beats being an astronaut and seeing the universe, as she could admire the beauty of God’s creation at the comfort of her family’s laughter.
Old Adult:
“I see that true success is about the lives you touch and the differences you make, no matter how small.”
The conventional notion of success often revolves around wealth, influence, and similar achievements. However, for many older individuals, it holds a deeply personal significance that prompts profound introspection. In a compelling conversation, Mary Ann, a retired teacher with 38 years of distinguished service, delves into her evolved
countless students over the years. In the early morning glow, she imparts the wisdom gleaned from a lifetime of nurturing young minds and instilling a passion for learning.
“It was seeing those lightbulb moments, when a kid finally understood something new, or when they felt proud about doing good—that was a success to me,”
Mary Ann said, thinking back to her days of being a teacher.
As humans journey through the various stages of life, each phase contributes to a rich and intricate tapestry shaped by Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. In the twilight years of older adults, the foundational blocks of physiological needs take center stage, encompassing the management of health and the adaptation to changes in mobility.
maintaining connections and nurturing a sense of belonging, serves as the essential fabric that weaves through the intricacies of daily life.
The concept of success changes over time and with our experiences, as seen in these stories. For older adults, success becomes less about material gains and more about finding purpose, nurturing relationships, maintaining good health, contributing to the community, and achieving personal fulfillment. Their insights teach us that genuine success is derived from living in harmony with our core values and bringing happiness to ourselves and those around us.
Many students tend to undervalue their achievements. They often believe that unless they have attained their ultimate objective, they cannot consider themselves successful. Considering the collective mindset of our community, addressing the prevailing sense of inadequacy can commence by shifting our focus toward the future.
Adopting a perspective akin to that of the older generation enables us to recognize achievements in the minutiae of
SERVICE EXTRA MILES OF
words | Elnie Anjelie Flores
Sleep, eat, study, eat, sleep, and repeat– the cycle recurs for most students– well, not everyone. Some students take a deep breath and enclose themselves with the warm breeze to keep them sane from lengthy lessons to backbreaking performance tasks; while others prefer to walk and serve extra miles for service and kindness after a long tedious day.
The academe does not only gather individuals for their academic endeavors but also nurtures growth through ambitions and initiatives. Joli Gaile Alcosaba of St. Ezekiel Moreno 01 and Kyle Paolo Cezar of St. Ezekiel Moreno 04 are some of those who responded to the call of service, making sure that their footprints embossed difference in the hearts of the people.
The Walk of Leadership
Deciding and taking up a role in a student organization is not something one thinks of overnight. It takes the spirit of competence, grit, and heart to be able to speak up and undertake concerns for the students. For Joli, the current Senior High School Student Affairs Organization (SHSSAO) Secretary and a Negrosanon Young Leaders Institute (NYLI) fellow, deciding to enter and master the art of external organizations is a huge leap. She has known the organization through her cousin, Johanna de la Cruz, who is also a woman who’s ready to lend a hand to anyone who needs it at any time of the day. Her leadership-driven journey with NYLI started in December 2022, where she highlighted her desire to explore and hone her capabilities and meet new people, and the growth propelled her to take on the voyage of transformation– of her own and of the people she serves. Harvesting the fruits of joy wasn’t as hard as everyone thought, for she does something she gives her heart to wholeheartedly.
Joining organizations rooted in social action molds its members to be catalysts of change in their communities. Despite her blazing soul toward leadership, there were still adversities encountered by her. At first, it was difficult for her to find an organization aligned with her beliefs and goals– and when she did, she was fueled with doubts about herself and her capabilities. However, it was then washed away as their mentor, whom she addressed as Sir Chill, told her that they were picked not because of their achievements but because of their passion. “We were all our own person. We were all different but our love for the community was the same,” she underscored.
If there’s one word that could encapsulate her
experience, it would be fulfilling. NYLI has widened her vision into the realities of the communities and her experience is something she can never trade for. Their help may not be something big or grand, but she can fathom that “a small act of kindness ripples the long way.” Balancing everything is not a problem– from her academics, and internal and external organizations, to her familial and social life, for she loves what she does. Sometimes, the plate overflows, but she tries to settle matters in the best way possible.
The Way of Serving
Bringing the idea of social action requires the right amount of persistence and dedication from the person. For Kyle, joining organizations is a way for him to explore what he considers unexplored and bridge connections with new people. Kyle does not hold any position in school, however, this does not hinder him to stop in developing visions and fulfilling missions for social action. He is currently joining two organizations– an art-related one with his sister, and DeMolay International, to which he was invited. These organizations stand as an avenue for his passion to flourish– from his love of crafts and arts to his fervent vigor toward leadership.
Adversities never restrict him from serving the organization, whether from the memorization of lines or strict policies. These policies are not just mere policies, they serve as guiding paths for the members to be efficient leaders in the making. DeMolay is an international youth organization centered on ‘leadership skills, civic awareness, responsibility, and character development learned through a variety of self-directed, real-world applications and activities.’ Moreover, building a new world anchored in service does not only build better individuals by shaping their qualities and hands-on experiences– it also synthesizes more communities to flourish to experience life and regain it.
Fostering growth is one of the main influences of joining external organizations, introducing one to a bigger view of life– the life one never imagined. In switching to the wider lens, members discover brotherhoods. Joining these organizations is more than just joining groups, it’s about aggrandizing fun whilst preparing individuals to be able to adapt to the societal landscape. “Aspire to inspire, before you expire,” stated Kyle as he highlighted that one should explore the world to make more connections. A person only lives once, so he or she should be able to immerse themselves in society and look at life from different perspectives.
For students like Joli and Kyle, walking extra miles in the name of service does not bother them at all. While the institution encourages joining different clubs per student inside the four walls of the school, it would grant favorable circumstances for students to be vitalized in taking part in organizations where social action is at their core. This not only gives them opportunities to be able to see how the world revolves for individuals from different economic spheres but also gives them an outlet for the values they have clinched from the center of learning. May the world not see these organizations as an additional burden to their academic plate, but a rest. In these kinds of involvement, having rest doesn’t mean taking rest from everything at all– it’s resting by doing, especially doing what you love the most.
Redefining Women’s Myth on Trad Customs
I“I’d be a fearless leader, I’d be an alpha type. When everyone believes ya, what’s that like?”
The Man, Taylor Swift
n the relentless pursuit of equality, women of today are boldly challenging the shackles of patriarchal norms and traditional societal standards– refusing to be confined to predefined roles and expectations, and refusing to be silenced or sidelined, demanding the same recognition a man gets for their talents, contributions, and inherent worth. For ages, women have struggled yet thrived in a world where patriarchy prevailed, and being a good woman almost only meant being a wife and a mother. However, today, women are progressively standing up to become their own man their own woman– refusing to be confined by such narrow definitions of femininity. In today’s day and age, many have become advocates of women’s empowerment–a movement not solely dedicated to empowering women but one that echoes equality for all genders. No longer content to play second fiddle in a male-dominated world, women are
reclaiming power, rewriting narratives, and reshaping not only their future but also the future of every other individual struggling to be seen worthy in a society where one’s gender and sexuality predetermine their capabilities.
Amidst the resounding pressures of social patriarchy, women of today are not merely surviving; they are thriving. Not only paving the path for their career, they also stand as beacons of empowerment for others, reshaping the narrative of gender roles and inspiring others to embrace their paths with courage and conviction. Women of today strive for thriving and extravagant lifestyles and careers– breaking the stigma that women should be at home, and that the epitome of being a woman is to only be a mother. Navigating her journey in a society where most constantly question those who choose to only pursue
words | Azrinaz Azil De La Cruz, Elnie Anjelie Flores, & Aizelle Marie Makilan artwork | Carl Marie Castañeda
a life-balancing career ambitions without giving in to societal expectations around marriage and motherhood is Charlene Grace Gelotin, a Civil Engineer who peaked 2nd in the 2021 Licensure Examination for Civil Engineers, who will also soon open doors to High Rize Review Center.
“Though yes, women have made great strides in earning their place in STEM, the fight is still far from over.” Charlene recognizes the hard-earned, sweat-soaked platform that earlier feminists built, providing a solid foundation for today’s women in STEM to stand on. Taking the less-traveled and unknown route, she embraced unfamiliarity to create a guide for women to trek on in the future, seeking the comfort of being stuck in the cycle but enamored with vision. Following this route, she welcomed the serendipitous discovery —as being lost is exactly how you know you’re on the right path— and intended to capitalize on her prime in her 20s to focus on growing her business and staying true to her mission which is to aid engineering students ace the board exam, as this is only the beginning of a milestone she still has to venture on. Proving indeed, how women’s power is not measured with their authority over men; but over themselves.
This, with her vision of success, enables her to be free from the burden of adhering to norms associated with building a family, however, she doesn’t completely reject the concept of starting a family. Her idea of “family” is not the stereotypical married couple with children, rather it is more of a childless twoperson family. Despite the instilled constant pressure of the possibility of “changing her mind” about having children, Charlene kept her ground. She shed light on the fact that not all women desire children and that this shall not cast doubt on the decision-making of childfree women. She then stresses that every woman has a choice and that every choice is valid, and that this is not a war of perspectives. Feminism, after all, is all about giving women the power to make their own decisions and “not forcing them to become girl bosses”
when they would prefer to stay as housewives. Whether having the presence of children or not, women can still excel regardless of situations, if given the chance.
Years after years, women continuously strive to debunk the daily narratives of ‘you should be this’ and ‘you should be that’, ensuring to live the life they want–not what society urges them to do. All individuals, especially women, are entitled to their decisions, not owing anyone an explanation for the choices they opt for. For her, choosing to start a business or choosing to start a family is an equally heavy decision to make, and regardless of what a woman chooses, it is still her decision anchored on what she envisions
Choosing something over anything is completely normal. Some may prefer building families rather than careers, while some prefer the latter. Every woman’s choice, as long as it is freely chosen with consent and full knowledge, is valid. Being in a society dominated by unsolicited opinions is quite a challenge, and standing on the ground of what one believes in is a hard fight to conquer. But women like Charlene don’t let the opinions– despite how heavy they weigh and how harrowing they sting– swamp over her as a childfree feminist.
Progress seems to envelop the world in its arms, resonating its inner development through the exhibitions of fairness, especially
herself to be. It still requires the right amount of self-awareness, dedication, and sacrifice to carry out the perfect formula in expanding the horizons in each one’s field or decision. Despite the shifts and turns, women shall be the ones traversing life in pursuit of their happiness, even if that means transcending the norms of the population. “Whichever you choose, at the end of the day, you are the captain at the helm of the wheel,” she underscores as she bestows to recognize that: the authors, the captains, the bosses, and the voices behind every woman’s life should be themselves– and only themselves.
While one’s choice may predetermine his or her fate in life, it shouldn’t be the baseline on how society shall view him or her a little less or a little more. The definition of womanhood is not limited to clasping affection towards children and filling homes with indelible warmth.
for women. Years ago, women labored twice or even thrice as much to be valued and heard. It is still a lengthy way to go, however, women of today can dismantle the boundaries that the population had built them without any apologies, and it continues to go on and on. Redefining what other people consider as a ‘norm’ may be envisioned as an impenetrable arena to battle when people are accustomed to seeing that women were only built to be mothers and only mothers. This ardent battle towards equality widens the scope of what every woman can do– that they are not permanently fixed to grow life in the sole journey of motherhood, but also in the different fields of career, advocacies, and ambitions. Despite the gazes from the patriarchal ‘standard’, Charlene and countless women in the present society continue to challenge and rewrite the definition of what a woman should be, could be, and would be.
To free fall means to trust the process.
After the hero has scaled the towering mountains—braved the challenges upon every stop—the sight that awaits is a sheer drop to the ground; an absolute defiance from the solid surface, a liberating leap of faith. As every individual reaches the summit of an arduous journey, slipping back to ground zero—by accident—deters them from slacking off. In the end, however, to fall back to where you started becomes part of it.
To fall means to reach one’s peak, to embrace the uncertainty of falling, and to accept the ground one may land on, however rough. As gravity pulls us to an inevitable demise, it is in accepting this truth that one finds strength. Failure doesn’t have to be final. It could become the very fuel that propels us to reach one’s peak—time and time again.
And when you have found the courage to stand back up after a fall, the only way out is to rise again.
words
Ever since the end of World War II in 1950, jeepneys have ignited the roads of the Philipines, making an icon in Filipino culture. From bustling military usage to vibrant canvases of expression, these iconic vehicles are the heartbeat of Filipino ingenuity and spirit.
The Jeepney Phaseout issue has caused widespread protests and rallies in the Philippines, with jeepney drivers and their traditional
vehicles flooding the streets. The government has stated that traditional jeepneys are not being phased but replaced with new units due to their deterioration. The damage caused by the phaseout has shown a significant impact on the people, including jeepney drivers, their families, and their children.
At a young age, Elen Mae, a student of the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos,
faces a significant problem with her father’s livelihood. Beyond the emotional support and fight through social media for her father, she assures him that they will find a way if the phaseout occurs. She faced the situation with a deeper understanding and reflection on how it affected her and her family.
Riding Through Change
Jeepneys have been the heartbeat of transportation, a looming change threatens
| John Ansley Chan, Lianne Raeven Minor, & Precious Aumela Tanaleon artwork | Joshua Anthony Caña & Ma. Yzabdiela Peñaranda
to alter the life of a student.
Elen Mae, whose father is a seasoned jeepney driver, the news of the phaseout strikes a deeply personal chord, “It has been his job for nearly 18 years, and it has become his passion not only to send passengers to their various destinations, but also to provide Mama and me with a better life.“ The sudden change raises concerns about the accessibility and affordability of alternative forms of transportation, especially for her, as a student and commuter who tries to save as much as possible on her daily allowances.
Elen’s determination to fight against the phaseout is motivated by her father’s hard work and the lessons he imparted through his job.
Jeepneys have served as a lifeline for many households, providing a steady income amidst economic uncertainties.
In the face of suffering losses, the families of these jeepney drivers depend on their vehicles for a living.“
“Through his job, he not only provided for my material needs but also imparted valuable moral lessons.” She saw how much of a sacrifice her father gave and the attachment that comes along from his job made it harder for Elen to watch as the worry of her father grows.
“I just bring happiness to them and provide assurance that we can overcome this challenge, to alleviate the fear, pain, and sadness we feel,” despite being scared, Elen remains strong and continues to fight for her family. Albeit the fear of the uncertainty, she prays that the Lord will not forsake them and give strength and hope to those affected by this situation. Just like the thriving traditional jeepneys in Filipino highways, Elen Mae displayed unwavering resilience
in this bumpy time of their lives.
Elen knows that they will conquer the challenges they face with faith, as with God, nothing is impossible. With His guidance, they will learn how to conquer the rough ride of change, even as the roads may change from asphalt highways to muddy terrains.
Jeepneys have served as a lifeline for many households, providing a steady income amidst economic uncertainties. In the face of suffering losses, the families of these jeepney drivers depend on their vehicles for a living. Elen Mae remained steadfast, finding hope as she trusted in God’s guidance amidst adversity. Every trip becomes more critical, every penny more precious.
The Tale of Two Mothers in Their Journey during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Since the dawn of time, humanity has only had one instinct. From mass extinctions that spanned eons to a global pandemic that claimed more lives than it saved, humanity only had one goal: to survive.
To date, the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic and its indelible mark on the world is considered unprecedented. From its humble origins as a viral particle, it has morphed into a mass killer, claiming lives indiscriminately. The virus was death’s pawn. While people from various walks of life saw the pandemic as an invisible force that stealthily took its prey, some individuals faced such predator head-on, with nothing but masks to keep them covered. For nurses, frequenting
the battleground between life and death is their daily routine.
Serving in the Bago City Health Office during the height of the pandemic and at present, nurses Elizabeth E. Nala-onan and Doanne M. Hiponia read the implications of their line of work and did not flinch an inch. Amid the crisis’ peak, when Bago City tallied 376 pandemicrelated deaths as of June 2023, their commitments to their profession were nary put to the test as it was, according to them, their “duty” and “obligation” to serve the people. So when both Nala-onan and Hiponia fell prey to the hands of the virus, it perhaps was not foreign knowledge that they faced it with hearts hard as stone.
words | Christian Gelotin photos | Rcynize Leesayne Portugal
Giving and Receiving
As a means to combat the cases of infection and mortality rate of the pandemic, the local government unit (LGU) of Bago City gave birth to the Incident Management Team (IMT) for COVID-19, which focused on government response and rendering service to the community through the help of healthcare front liners. Heading the Logistics section as its head was Nala-onan whose primary goal was managing locally stranded individuals (LSI) and facilitating their movement through the quarantine protocols. Her occupation which involved direct interaction with individuals proved to be detrimental to her as she contracted the virus last September 2021. Nala-onan emotionally recalls her journey amid the pandemic as a front liner, wearing multiple hats as a mother and a survivor.
“When you’re quarantined for a long period, you will always think of your family,” Nala-onan said. “After I discovered that I was positive for COVID-19, the first instinct I had was knowing if my family members had it too.” Her well-being was the last thing that came to Nala-onan’s mind. From her maternal role to her family to the mother-like figure she exudes at work, Nala-onan always places the needs of others before her own.
Throughout her quarantine which lasted for 42 days, it was the realization that she was never truly alone that accompanied Nala-onan, guiding her through the tumultuous period and illuminating a path out of the tunnel of isolation. She asserts that there were “positive sides” to the pandemic. “The bonding of the family was strengthened during the wake of the lockdown,” she said. “It brought back and patched up our relationship with others.”
“You will know the people who will stay right beside you when you are at your lowest,” Nala-onan added. Although it is in her job’s description to care for others without expecting reciprocation, she was pleasantly surprised by the support that she received during her time of need. She attributes this to the work of ‘karma’, highlighting, “If you do good, people around will do good for you.”
Life Within
Surviving the pandemic alone is already a significant challenge, but navigating through it while carrying life within your body requires resilience reserved only for champions. Hiponia, undoubtedly, would be the first to assume such a role. When Hiponia contracted the virus, she was six months pregnant with her now 2-year-old son. It was the “fear” of the baby inside her that drove her to continue despite the physical challenges, the mental load, and the risks. There came a crucial point when she and her husband delved into discussing matters as profound as life and death. “If anything happens to me, save the baby,” she recalls telling her husband.
Nevertheless, Hiponia’s “strong emotional quotient” smoothed the tides to her journey back into the workforce. She sees her family and her colleagues as both her “weakness” and “strength”, which nurtures her “reason to live.” It is in her loved ones that she finds “inspiration”, fueling her “purpose” in life as both a server to the community and a devoted mother. Now, her triumph against the virus may well just be a bedtime story for her son, one she’ll lovingly narrate, reveling in the tale of how she overcame such a formidable force with nothing but a mother’s love as her weapon.
Currently, Nala-onan and
Hiponia continue their work in the healthcare industry, holding positions of Nurse I and Nurse II, respectively, in the aforementioned office. Never did the pandemic silence the call for service to the people; rather, it heightened their heed. At a time when everyone sought refuge inside their homes, these two nurses did not fear going outside as early as 1 in the morning to go to work.
Having been on the giving end of service, Nala-onan desires a “stable” healthcare system in the Philippines—one that caters to the needs of patients despite their status in life. She aspires for “change” within the government to ensure that the provided service meets the needs of the community. Regardless, she and Hiponia both believe that the government is doing its part during the onslaught of the pandemic.
It is in the notion that “life is too short” that Nala-onan’s and Hiponia’s experiences drew an intersecting line. At a time when everyone’s lives were disrupted due to the pandemic, Nala-onan and Hiponia yielded new meanings in theirs. For the former, doing good for the sake of it means selflessly helping the community with no return. Whereas for the latter, caring for those you love means putting yourself at risk for their wellbeing.
Death moves in a cycle with life. Even after recovering from the virus, death has not been completely eradicated; it may stealthily return unnoticed in just a snap. One thing is guaranteed, however: what you cannot control, you can embrace. It was knowing that death exists that made survival meaningful for both Nala-onan and Hiponia. Life is only then precious if we find value in each breath we take and strength in every step we make.
Break the Cycle, Main Character
In a film, your difference makes you the main character. n real life, it could be a curse.
Movies have taken quite a progressive step in shedding light on stories that reflect mankind at its ugliest. Stories of star-crossed lovers only touch the hearts of those lucky enough to relate to them. But imagine a plot where you’re a kid against the world or an adult carrying the weight of it — perhaps you can relate to that. Generational trauma has been a recurring theme in recent movies, shining a spotlight on experiences shared by many, much like in films such as Encanto. The theme of the movie moved its viewers as it highlights Mirabel’s journey navigating her family problems.
Jenierose P. Arevalo, an active parent to the Rekoleto community, testifies, however, that these deeprooted generational ideologies are not meant to outlast generations. Like Mirabel, she grew up in an environment where being different is often met with bounded norms. Being the lone female in a household with four male siblings, she shared how “sheltered” her upbringing was.
Similarly, in the 2017 Pixar movie Coco, protagonist Miguel lived a life sheltered away from music due to a painful family history. A mere strum of a guitar would have Miguel kicked out of his home. For Arevalo, however, it’s not the sound of a string that would let a thousand guards come looking for her. Rather, it is when she attempts to deviate from societal stereotypes often placed on “unica hijas.” She shared how heavily protective her guardians were of her.
It takes confidence, perseverance, and determination to break through generational barriers. The movie Moana exemplifies this as Moana steps out of her comfort zone to answer the call of the ocean, sailing through vast seas
despite the potential consequences. Now a mother of three, Arevalo shared that she wants to raise her children with as much love and care as she received growing up. However, she resolves to move away from the island of preconceived notions of what a girl or a guy should be and guides her children on the journey. She fully supports her children in their self-expression.
Seeing a heroine break free from a cycle in a movie, whether it’s finding the gemstone that would heal Te Fiti or the special knob for Mirabel, is quite difficult yet rare in real life. Arevalo appreciates her upbringing
“More often than not, it is in the cycle of misery that one has found the key to break free from it all. “
as she was honed to become an “open-minded” parent. But this sense of liberation does not equate to the complete absence of basic parental guidance. She still believes that parents must serve as the guiding light for their young as they navigate their path. What has changed, however, is the way she will guide them. She believes in guiding her children with an open heart, offering support and encouragement rather than strict control.
More often than not, it is in the cycle of misery that one has found the key to break free from it all. Literature is reflective of our nature and it has gone as far as to say that our hands hold the pen of what our stories should be.
words | Christian Gelotin & Loise Atasha Toledano
artwork | Denniree Faith Mojeno
CROWNING GLORY: Cielo Omboy’s Journey to Triumph
words | Jamea Khey & Mara Khleia Ortega
In the blinding embrace of the spotlight, the journey of beauty queens to glory is often overlooked. In the shadows that creep into the backstage of every daunting main event, there are stories and losses that have led these queens to their stardom.
Recently crowned Ms. Teen NOPSSCEA 2023 and Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) student Cielo Marie Omboy is familiar with the difficult terrain of these beauty pageants.
Cielo’s journey began when she was encouraged to represent the House of Stallions in the University of Negros Occidental–Recoletos Senior High School Department’s Mr. and Ms. Sportsfest 2023. “At first, I was hesitant, but with the support, I made it to represent the whole team,” she said. Ms. Omboy then went on to take home the Ms. Sportsfest crown, garnering proud and victorious cheers from her fellow UNO-Rians. This victory sparked a sense of passion within her to continue pursuing pageantry.
However, the road to pursuing this passion has not been smooth and steady. Cielo experienced plenty of losses, such as failing to enter the Top 3 in Ms. Teen Masskara 2023. However, as queens do, she used this loss to make room for improvements. “[These losses were] not a hindrance to stopping what I love to do,” Cielo said, expressing the importance of always waiting for God’s perfect timing.
Cielo mentioned the numerous losses she’s faced in her journey, seeing as success does not simply come to one’s doorstep. In spite of those losses, she emphasized the importance of accepting them, to learn and grow from them. Of course, with any loss requires a time of reflection and assessment of goals one has set out. Cielo learned to move forward through accepting those obstacles as unavoidable scenes of her journey. This gave her an opportunity to become more resilient and use the lows to plan out her path moving forward.
Her determination was truly what made Cielo a queen, as in her words, “[My experiences] inspired me in such a way that I am able to bring out the better version of myself next time.” Indeed, this value of bringing out her best was worthwhile when she made history with a Ms. Teen NOPSSCEA back-to-back win for UNO-R in January 2024, taking the reins after previous winner and fellow schoolmate Zoe Clarisse Limson. For Cielo, the coveted title is her proudest accomplishment in the world of pageantry and personal life.
In the midst of the spotlight, this pageant titleholder and Grade 12–St. Nicholas of Tolentine 02 student has also won over many hearts. Her triumph in NOPSSCEA was overwhelming, as it made not only her friends and family proud but also the Senior High School Department, who supported her and fellow Mr. Teen NOPSSCEA candidate Kenshin Laurico. With this chance, she said, she made not only herself proud but her UNO-R family as well.
“All aspects of your life are not just in the highs; there’s always a downfall; you could not always win, you could lose,” Cielo stated in her winning answer during Ms. Teen NOPSSCEA 2023. Gently reminding those with dreams like her, she said, “All you have to do is know how to move forward and always be courageous. As Ms. Universe 2018 Catriona Gray stated, ‘You are never denied, but only redirected.’” Truly, Cielo Omboy knows how it is to put oneself out in the world—and with the grace of a beauty queen, we may all learn from her the value of always striving for your crowning glory in life.
How to Make Millions before Grandma Dies
words | Rcynize Leesayne Portugal
Pat Boonnitipat, the director of the film How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies, shares a story about family dynamics, especially in a typical Asian household. It tells the story of the relationships between the members of the family and how they give importance to each other’s lives. The movie centers on M’s effort to make millions, taking him on a mission to be on his grandmother’s good side, willingly taking care of and living with her to gain the fortune she has before she passes away. The struggles of the grandmother’s children are also shown, illustrating the complexities of family dynamics and their pursuit of financial stability, adding depth to the story. As the film moves forward, M’s relationship with his grandmother evolves as they spend their everydays together. Throughout the movie, M’s journey takes a turn as he changes his priorities from personal gain to a heartfelt dedication to her grandmother’s wellbeing, coming to a realization of what wealth really is for him.
The film’s charm lies in its ability to connect the story to the audience through its relatable characters and their relationships with each other. With its impressive cinematography and sound design, it adds a deeper sense of visual
storytelling and emotional resonance, making the whole movie worth a watch. The whole story was straightforward, but nonetheless, its slow-paced way of bringing the movie forward makes it more interesting and emotional, as the audience gets to feel every emotion in every scene. The ending was predictable, but it ended with a lot of realizations and added a sense of closure that resonates deeply, leaving the audience with a heartfelt feeling of appreciation and gratitude for the people in their lives, especially their loved ones.
I give this film a rating of five stars as it resonated with me so much, and as a film enthusiast myself, I am a huge fan of these kinds of heartwarming films. Finishing the movie made me realize the things that we have been taking for granted. This movie serves as a reminder for me to appreciate our families more and to express the love that we have within us before time runs out, as tomorrow is never guaranteed. It helps you see the significance in the simplest of things—the small interactions, conversations, and actions that can mean so much. The wealth we are able to accumulate is in time itself, as it holds more value than money ever can.
MOVIE
Pink Pony Club
TV SERIES
Alice in Borderland
words | Loise Atasha Toledano
It is a cliché to say that life is a cycle. We were born, we then grow up, and lastly, face the inevitable which is death. Alice in Borderland is a show that highlights the journey of the main characters, Arisu, Usagi, Chisiya, and Kuina, fight for their lives together with their other comrades. The show follows the characters on their journey, showcasing the never-ending series of games they need to win in order to live, the devastation in each round to survive, and the desperate hope to reach victory as they accomplish the obstacles.
In this spiralling concept of the show, it leaves the audience on the edge of their seats, anticipating the fight for survival of the characters as they take on different stages of the game. The show features the changes we also see in reality. It exhibits the strong bond of their friendship as they stayed longer with each other, the growth of their relationship. This endless cycle they face will only stop because of one thing, which is death.
Renewal and new beginnings. These words can perfectly describe one of Chappell Roan’s tracks entitled Pink Pony Club from her 2023 album ‘The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess’. The song is told from the point of view of a young woman who’s about to depart her hometown, Tennessee, where she grew up to move to Los Angeles. From navigating one’s relationship with her family, finding one’s space in a new environment, and leaving behind the memories of the past, the song perfectly encapsulates the real circle of life and the nuances that come alongside it. Accompanied by upbeat rhythms and synths that reflect the main character’s new journey, the song is sure to give you an exhilarating four minutes and eighteen seconds.
All in all, I give the song a solid four out of five. As someone who’s going to college in another city, the song reflects my feelings and the upcoming changes in my life. At the same time, while scary, it made me grateful for the new journey I’m about to embark on. Roan celebrates the beauty of finding one’s place in the world, a new one even, creating a timeless and deeply resonant theme with the natural cycles of life.
SONG words | Devean Paul Benedict Gonzales
