Hardwork exerted for Ligao City mainstreet competition paid off
The School-Community Publication of Bicol Regional Science High School Division of Ligao City Region V - Bicol
After winning in the Ibalong Street Presentation last August 20, 2011, the Bicol Regional Science High School dancers, in cooperation with the Ligao East Central School, again proved their skills as they danced in the Mainstreet Parade 2011 of Ligao City on December 25. ...turn to page 6
June - December 2012 Vol. IX No. 1
BRSHS adopts K+12 Basic Education Program
June 4, 2012 marks the commencement of the full implementation of the K+12 Basic Education Program across all public and private schools including the seventeen (17) Regional Science High Schools nationwide, adding two years to the ten-year education system and a precondition of finishing kindergarten for those entering Grade 1. According to studies, the additional year of schooling increases earnings by 7.5. Studies validate that improvement in the quality of education will increase Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth by 2% to 2.2%. But the implementation of the basic education program gone through a lot of challenges, especially in terms of infrastruc-
ture and the number of teachers needed to accommodate the extra load of students entering Grade 7 this year. This was mentioned by DepEd Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro during interviews. In fact, the Department of Education (DepEd) said it still needs an additional 50,000 classrooms and about 1.3 million chairs for the school year and additional 74000 teachers to accommodate the new education program. Nevertheless, the Department of Education is still confident that the K+12 basic education program will be successfully implemented in all schools to include Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) for Region V, though deemed faced with big changes and modifications in its curriculum.
The Matrix goes for e-paper
A Level to Beat
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Copla joins Phil team to Asian Int’l Math Olympiad in Hongkong A third year student of BRSHS, Elijah Copla, together with her coach Mrs. Cherryl Lita was out to Hongkong last July 27, 2012 to August 4, 2012 for the Asian Mathematics Olympiad via the Mathematics Trainers’ Guild trainings. Before she made it to the Philippine team as an alternate qualifier for the competition, Copla qualified to undergo an in-house intensive training for a month, from April 17 to May 18, 2012, the last of a series of rounds of training where she vied with other trainees to represent the country to Hongkong. According to Mrs. Lita, she has raised the flag of the Philippines and proved that our country is never poor when it comes to brain and that we have the strength to compete with other nations. “Elijah is the pride of Bicol Regional Science High School. May she serve as an example and
The DepEd improved the quality of education in secondary level by adding new life-skill subjects including Electronics, Edukasyong Pagpapakatao, and Independent Cooperative Learning (ITC). “One advantage of the new system is that it is not congested compared to the previous education program,” a group of BRSHS Grade 7 students commented. Furthermore, a national mass training for Grade 7 teachers was held last May 14-18, 2012 in preparation for the full implementation of the K+12 education program. They were oriented about the features of the enhanced 21st CENTURY CAMPUS PAPER AT HAND. The four editorial curriculum program in all sub- board representatives of The Matrix with their adviser are all eager to ject areas covered for Grade 7. finish the layout of their paperless campus publication. -Amiel Van Llaneta
role model to young students to continue achieving their goals. That when we strive more, we earn more. Who knows, maybe one day you will be the one who will compete with other people from different parts of the world,” Mrs. Lita concluded.
Anatomy of a Science Encampment
INSIDE
Veggie gardening caps 2012 Nutrition Month fest p.6
Grade 7 Reading Profile
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Independent (90-100) Above Average (85-89)
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Gr. 7- Earth
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Gr. 7- Mercury
Gr. 7- Venus
Fruits for a Good Heart p.7
Based on the reading assessment conducted, sixty-one percent (61%) or 53 out of 87 Grade 7 students of Bicol Regional Science High School are independent or advanced readers.while the remaining 39% or 34 of them are above average readers. Source: Reading Program, BRSHS English Dept.
DepEd V sponsors reg’l training on digital campus journalism
Guinobatan, Albay. Corollary to Campus Journalism Act of 1991, a showcase of talents and concentration on electronic newspapering was exhibited during the two-wave Regional Training of Secondary Paper Advisers and Campus Writers (August 20-24 for English and August 2731 for Filipino) spearheaded by the Department of Education, Region V in support to the expansion of global digital literacy in the 21st Century core skill. As stated in the Regional Memorandum No. 86, s. 2012, the training aspires to build up Campus Journalism in the region; enhance the skills of the editorial staff in producing a quality school publication; provide an avenue for the simulation on collaborative publishing event; and manifest competence in digital literacy as 21st Century core skill through the utilization of advanced technology. In consonance with this, The Matrix, the BRSHS publication, manifests its support to digi-
tal campus paper production by sending four of its editorial staff Amiel Van E. Llaneta, Kimbhert M. Prollamante, Jasmine A. Pajarin and Jacqueleen N. Oli together with their adviser Mrs. Diana L. Desuyo to attend the training at Charisma Function Hall, Guinobatan, Albay. They were among the other editorial staff of the top 5 school papers of each division in Bicol who were required to bring a laptop (with Adobe Indesign program), printer, extension wire, digital camera, and articles/data for inclusion in the first issue of the paper, photographs, latest newspapers and USB. All the 13 divisions were represented in the training, totaling to 220 campus journalists and school paper advisers. Having credible speakers who shared their expertise in the field and having participants who produced an e-copy of their respective school paper, the intensive training ended successfully. -Jasmin Pajarin
Opinion
2 Vol. IX No. 1 Editorial
A level to beat
Despite the predicaments we are always encountering in the government, there is a need for an advocacy in the system of our education which will not ruin the endowment but will strengthen it. The Department of Education headed by Secretary Brother Armin A. Luistro FSC, introduce K to 12 Basic Education Program as the answer to this rising predicament in the system of education in our country and for the deteriorating bedrock of our country’s education. It aspires to repair the basic education curriculum by adding two more years to the system. The people proposing the K to 12 Basic Education Program face an extremely difficult task. This is actually one of the most severe changes being pushed by our government and if this proposal is successful, it will surely mark the legacy of the Aquino’s Administration. Even though this amendment has been met with many criticisms from different sectors, DepEd assures that this K to 12 program is the best solution to the declining quality of education. Why is there a great need to support this new system of education in our country? Enhancing the quality of basic education in the Philippines is urgent and critical. The poor quality of basic education in our country is reflected in the low achievement test scores of the Filipino students. International test results consistently show Filipino students lagging way behind practically everybody else in the world. In the 2008 mathematics exam, for example, we came in dead last. One main reason for that is the inadequate instructional time or time of tasks in schools. The K to 12 focuses not only on the theories or concepts that the students can learn on the four corners of the classroom but also the application of the different concepts to the real world. The new system focuses on the enhancement of the curriculum and the expansion of the basic education cycle. There are lots of standpoints in any system. More so, there is a vast array of unidentified loopholes. But what supports the growth of a foundation is always positivity. If we have found a solution to our problem, the task is not to forever look at it and analyze where it might take us. The task is to properly implement each step to ensure its success. Preparing to Fly: K to 12 Basic Education Program. According to studies, we are behind our nation counterparts in Asia. We are very far from what they have achieved in different aspects and if we will not look at the problem deeply, we will never make a change. The K to 12 Basic Education Program focuses on the development of the old curriculum and of course, the expansion of the of the basic education cycle. An example for that is that the current system does not have trainings for agriculture and commerce. The current system is only to theories and lacks the elements of “application”. The K to 12 Basic Education Program has a very high goal: To enhance human development in terms of understanding the world and zest for lifelong learning. aK to 12 foundation would address the basic learning needs: learning to learn, acquisition of numeracy, literacies and scientific and technological life. But the Philippines is already ready for this kind of reform? Think about it!
Editorial Board S.Y 2012-2013
Contributors
Nińo Boy Dacer Circulation Manager Kimbhert Prollamante Copy Editor
Diana L. Desuyo Adviser, The Matrix
John Frederick Imperial News Editor
Cynthia B. Llacer Adviser, Ang Hulmahan
Shielo Pasahol Feature Editor
Engr. Gerard O.Aberin GPTCA President
Joshua Patrick Siapno Literary Editor
Eduardo L. Nañoz Principal I
Angel Mae Alsua Sports Editor
Alicia O. Retona EPS I, English
John Paul Notario Photojournalist
Evangeline P. Palencia Schools Division Superintendent
Bernadette Cabaccang Associate Editor Marie Adrienne Eugenio Managing Editor
Reuben Matthieu S. Hermio Cartoonists
‘I must have the patience and determination to face all the things without losing my cool; to be able to tolerate things that do not go as planned and to carry on as if nothing wrong happened.’
“Patience is not just the ability to wait, but the ability to keep a good attitude while waiting.” One thing that I have learned in 2011 was that, things just don’t happen instantly. There are indeed times that we need to wait to get good results. Rushing things does not always accomplish everything, and sometimes the outcome may be too haphazard that we will have to do it all over again. This wastes not only our time but also our effort. This year, I know, that once again, there are a lot of things that I will have to endure. I will have to bear with many people who ironically inspire me , working with all of the late night projects, and the like. As such, I must have the patience and determination to face all
the things without losing my cool; to be able to tolerate things that do not go as planned and to carry on as if nothing wrong happened. A bad temper and the inability to wait surely won’t let me accomplish anything; it will just give me a colossal mountain of complaints not only from myself but also from my constituents. I have to keep in mind, however, that I should not only endure but must also have the will to be continue despite hardships, to be more persistent and persevering when confronted with obstacles. And since I’m going to start this year with persistence and perseverance, I was somewhat curious as to how other people will start theirs. I conducted a short interview to
some of the people from school and asked them how they will face this New Year. Ms. Cyrille Chavez said, she wants to live with the present and she will do her best in everything. The president of the SSG. Mr. Joriz Nace shared his plan as well. ‘I want to start the new year with a bang. As everyone knows, the lead training is yet to come. We are to make it a reality this coming February. With all of these things, giving up in all of the hindrances and hardships that this new year will offer is no longer a choice. Our preparations made us all geared to success, and our every endeavor will become more imminent.
Structuring the Ladder: A vision of the Future Jacqueleen Oli Jasmin Pajarin Thea Alysa Martinez Nińa Angela Alano Jae Vie David Michael Tanay Marlou Princesa April Atoli Bernadette Cedeno Precious Mella Michaelah Reinee Convocar
Amiel Van Llaneta Editor in Chief
2012 = Patience and Determination
Ligao City Divsion
In the ordinary business of life, whatever good things we build end up building us. High aims form high characters, and great objects bring out great yields. The idea is that the future is purchased by the present. At this moment therefore, it is a necessity rather than obligation to embark on creating our best plans for our dreams of the future. Conversely we quote, “Failure to plan is planning to fail.” People and organizations, to all intents and purposes, ought to establish a deliberate framework consisting of: a vision of the future, a mission that defines their existence, great goals into which efforts are directed, and clear-cut objectives that describe intentions for performance improvements and personal growth. Indeed, there are so much literature and studies attesting how clear statements of
vision, mission, goals, and objectives set the stage for individual and organizational advancement. With great attempts, we are directed towards a sense of direction characterizing the certainty of our future. Managerial as well as personal successes depend on how well we define and live by each of the vital phase of our organizational and/ or personal strategic framework. High aims form high characters, and great objects bring out great yields. The idea is that the future is purchased by the present. At this moment therefore, it is a necessity rather than obligation to embark on creating our best plans for our dreams of the future. Conversely we quote, “Failure to plan is planning to fail.” The future, logically, is not predetermined. It is indefinite. It seems to us that every individual has more than one future available
to him. But, let’s take a whole new way to look at the future. It is possible to ascertain an ideal tomorrow through the actions we make today. Certainly, constructing a systematic and solid plan can be a useful tool for discovering potential trends and possible patterns. Designing this can help us anticipate opportunities and obstacles. Nevertheless, these tools do not possess any magical power to shape what will happen. No matter how exquisite it may become, it is still our passion for creating better tomorrows, and our hard work to grow and develop, which will make the future ours. The future is not the start of something done before. It is just a continuation of the what you’ve done in the past. Structuring the ladder, a vision of the future. If you have a vision in life, you’re future will be a ladder to success.
Opinion
`Going to an alien world somewhere in Goa, Camarines Sur is somewhat atypical for a teacher who is a first timer in such a place. I was a bit excited to go to Philippine Science High School but with less enthusiasm to be part of a flock of eagles soaring high for another strenuous and challenging two-week long training. Having the thought of… Oh my! What will happen to my planned vacation with my family if I’ll be out of Ligao City for such a long time?
imperfections.” Behold my second week in Pisay! It was more of an intensive review and enhancement exercises of the different features of the English language, encompassing grammar and the macro-skills of language learning and teaching: listening, speaking, reading, writing and viewing. Grammar Enrichment for Teachers, Teaching ESL through Collaborative Approach and Cooperative Learning, Teaching Reading for Academic Purposes, Reading for Academic Purposes with Madam Maricor: “Let us accept the fact that we teachers of ESL commit errors…” This is indeed true, especially when teaching grammar. Those intensive review of the language structures and functions of English exposed my sometimes hidden or ignored weaknesses as a teacher. How shameful yet challenging it is to see the truth that nobody is perfect! But at least we had a wonder-
Uplift an ESL Classroom Well, what a relief! Just like how the first day started right, my first week stay was such an exciting yet challenging one though there were lots of murmurs and feedback, both the plusses and the minuses about the K+12 Basic Education Program of the Department of Education. How come I have grown and expanded my territory when I attended the Upgrading Program: Learn-
‘That this curriculum change in the Philippine educational system is indeed gearing toward globalization and made me accept the challenge of molding our 21st century Filipino students to become competitive and productive members of the country .....” ing Institute for Teachers (UPLIFT) focusing on the implementation of DepEd’s K+12 Basic Education system in a science-oriented high school? Let me share you these… Getting Started: Getting to Know Activities, House Rules and Leveling Expectations Championing Change, General Competencies in Grade 7 English and Weekly Competencies in Grade 7 English in the K-12 Curriculum, Language Trend: World Englishes, Speech Clinic with Sir Jerry Noveno: “We are facing an educationalchange…” I, as a teacher, was motivated to learn and accept new learning from the training, and refreshed myself that I am indeed a social being… and not a weird island. My cloudy mind was cleared out by the comprehensive sessions and interactive discussions on K-12 English 7 Curriculum we had. Those mind-boggling activities on World Englishes and Speech made me more ready to face my students this school year. I am now ready to face my students… I am now a champion of change, ready to make another big difference in their lives. ”Nature of English as a Second Language in the Philippine Setting, Multilingual Education (MLE) Framework, Domains and Strands in Grade 7 English and Assessment of Learner’s Performance in the K-12 Curriculum with Mrs. Joy Melga B. Olazo: “Being happy doesn’t mean everything is perfect. It means you have decided to look beyond the
ful time curing and mending those waterloos we committed. “Love reading as teachers, so we won’t have hard time to encourage our students to read and widen their vocabulary.” With all those insights and knowledge I gained from the lecture-workshops, the more I am attracted to reading books and texts, making me a genius bookworm, thus influencing my students to also become one. “You only ever grow as a human being if you’re outside your comfort zone.” Those fun-filled games we have witnessed and experienced from one group to another advanced my wit as to how these teaching tools will have a meaningful, lasting impact in the lives of my students as they enjoy learning English. “God gave us two ears and one mouth so that we can hear twice as much as we say.” I really nodded with a dim smile when the discussant repeatedly said that listening in an ESL class, listening is an integral skill to learning the language yet the much neglected one. It was indeed a splendid experience being with a ponkan as we wrote short paragraphs about it. tening to those funny yet witty short descriptive paragraphs and in letter forms amazed each of us. See how powerful our pens are! And see how thankful to God we should be for giving us talents and skills to express ourselves through effective writing!
The Matrix is on the lookout for more writers. Students, parents and members of the faculty may share articles, subject to the approval of the editorial board. If interested, submit articles to the Matrix staff or to the school paper adviser, Mrs. Diana L. Desuyo.
Vol. IX No. 1 3
Teenagers in the 21st Century There is always a turning point in a person’s life as years go by. As we continue to know and use the ends of modernization, we put in ourselves new society and civilization. This is a reality for us teenagers and not a fantasy to rely on. As of now, we are now in the age of computers and electronic devices. We now have new interests in games, gadgets, fashion, music and artists. In gadgets, we are very familiar with the “in” things today like the Android Tablets, the IPods, and the Iphone 4S. These things will surely help us in our studies if we will use it in a proper way and it is very helpful in communicating to other people. In games, we always play the Literacy? There has always been a need for such thing. Education is said to be one of the most vital and irrevocable possessions of a person in his entire lifetime. It is said to conquer most adversities and prevent a great deal of misunderstandings and not to mention, hostilities…but it
is also said to change its standards along with the changing of time. Over the years, the once simple class sessions held besides huge mango trees or the meeker home teaching from parents and guardians has evolved towards entirely computerized class rooms with high-end facilities and dizzyingly high stacks of floors and stairs. And though there are still huge populations of Filipinos who are not as fortunate as those in the urban areas, it is still undeniable that the standard for quality education has stepped-up with the passage of time; along with this absurdly fast progression though, lies the inevitable ordeal that comes with being a country of a lower IT standards: Lack of proper digital literacy. Filipinos lacking such literacy come not only from those secluded areas in highlands and farms,but even from those already living in the most advanced areas in the Philippines. Such fact represents the utter
Angry Birds, Tetris Battle, Backyard Monsters and the new game Temple Run. Researches show that games or video games make us smarter but these things must not hinder our studies. In fashion, we are very familiar with these trending fashions because of our favorite celebrities especially in Hollywood. But in the end, we must not forget to preserve and maintain our own traditions, our own personal views and our utmost priorities in life. In fashion, the things that are widely used are the cropped tops, plaid tops, the loose tops, statement tops, high-waisted skirts and sleeveless dresses with cardigans for girls. Plaid tops, skinny jeans and high cut sneakers for boys. In addition to that, customized varsity jackets are quite popular among boys and girls. Fashion can be a way to express yourself and to let others know that you are born this way.
deficiency in the Filipino education despite its attempts at catching up with the modern-day advancements of other foreign countries. But despite the struggles with reaching the quota for complete digital literacy, it is rather admirable that our government has an unwavering patience and time in edu-
Let us also not forget the latest trends in music. K-Pop artists like Super Junior, Big Bang, 2NE1 and K-Pop songs have been more famous especially in the international scene. We also admire many artists from the Hollywood like Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Adele, Christina Perri and One Direction. Music inspires people to express themselves. Music also brings people to unity and to be with each other. In the local entertainment industry, we admire Julia Montes, Daniel Padilla, Kathryn Bernardo and Sam Concepcion. We admire the way they look and the way they act and sometimes, we imitate them. We may welcome all these things in this natural world. These are interests that become a trademark of every generation. But in the end, we must not forget to preserve and maintain our own traditions, our own personal views and our utmost priorities in life. touch, let alone handle or manipulate a computer properly. For despite the constant attempts towards the achievement of literacy, we cannot deny yet again another resurfacing problem: Meager facilities. It is a fact, and not only an opinion that before one achieves
cating and equipping us with the proper knowledge needed for a life
‘We continuously search for the comfort of having knowledge in advanced technology and trying to enforce such knowledge to others as well, that we forget to first meet the needed requirements.’ that does not exactly aim to lead in the world of IT, but at least receive a respectable degree or education in such field. But is mere patience really enough? Throughout the Philippines lies the abundant number of youth who, despite receiving a proper education, still remains ignorant to the world of IT. Most public school students are deprived of the benefit of government provided computers. Out of hundreds or even thousands of students in a single learning institution, only several tens could
complete mastery of a certain undertaking, one must first be supported with the proper facilities and that’s what is lacking in our constitution. We continuously search for the comfort of having knowledge in advanced technology and trying to enforce such knowledge to others as well, that we forget to first meet the needed requirements. Necessitating a computer before one could even own one is a lot like drinking scorching hot soup in one gulp and forgetting to cool it down beforehand. The result would be wasting the experience and flavor of the food and harming your mouth as well. Such problem is quite obvious, but how come nobody notices this? The answer? Well it leads to the former problem: lack of proper digital literacy.
THE EARTH’S CONDITION TODAY As stewards of God’s creation, we are tasks or assigned to preserve, love and care our Mother Nature, our Mother dear. But because of abuse and misuse, we are slowly degrading our environment. And now, here comes the effect-Climate Change and Global Warming! If someone doesn’t know about this worldwide phenomenon, the answer lies in our environment
today. The sudden changes of temperature from very hot to rainy, plus the flash floods, landslides and earthquakes that are happening here and abroad are the many few but We should ask ourselves: “Would there be any hope for our dear Mother Earth?”
terrible effects of global warming. It is very important for all of us to know that this phenomenal condition is very alarming. We should ask ourselves: “Would there be any hope for our dear Mother Earth?” Your answers may depend on your faith. If you answered “Yes”,
it means you still believe that there’s still a chance people would change their attitudes towards the environment. On the other hand, if you answered “no”, it’s better that you dig your grave right now and prepare to die because you believe the Earth’s condition would last forever. Always remember that there’s still a hope to change our Earth. How? You may ask. We can begin it in ourselves by being responsible stewards of God’s creations. Let’s do our share in making the environment clean and green. Stand up and make a change!
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Vol. IX No. 1 “Science is the most reliable guide for civilization, for life, for success in the world. Searching a guide other than the science is meaning carelessness, ignorance and heresy”. Science has contributed a lot to the society. It is the soul of all knowledge that makes all phenomena go round and to be known to human kind. It is said that learning is useless without fun. In fact, you cannot learn something without the essence of enjoying it to the fullest. So, the Bicol Regional Science High School con-
ducted activities that make science clubbing more fun. Youth Science Technology and Environment Camp (YSTEC) is an annual activity of the three science clubs in BRSHS namely, The Equilibrium Club, Youth for Environment Schools Organization (YES-O), and, Chemistry Unified Brisayan Students Organization (CUBS-O). These three science organizations plan activities to make science clubbing more fun in BRSHS. Every year, the activities of the YSTEC are patterned to the activities during the National Youth Science Technology and Environment Camp (NYSTESC). The NY-
ANATOMY OF SCIEN READY? 3,2,1… say CHEESE! FLASH!!! Like the blinding flashes of light originating from a camera, forever capturing moments that could be taken by no other way, the Youth Science Technology and Environment Camp (YSTEC), with its great ideals, seizing and showing what cannot easily be exposed during any other camp, has truly captured great moments. May the moments be good, or may they be bad… they all have a single destination, a single goal: To provide experience that would otherwise be unreachable in any other occasion. Like the lens of a camera, YSTEC has eyes t h a t s e e s a n d captures the action. The lens, which perceives and creates photos
that despite its stillness, could say a thousand words in a single glimpse, are the YSTEC student staff. Having experienced the wonders of the National Youth Science Technology and Environment Camp (NYSTEC) and being reliable student leaders in-training, the staff has taken it into their hands to observe and “echo” the teachings of the national camp. The staff observes, focuses and zooms into the on-going action. But YSTEC, so much like a camera, cannot operate with one mere lens. For you see, the lens would be useless bereft of an important part which functions to instruct the such part on which amongst the thousands or even millions of angles to effectively capture and store. This important part is the ever vital shutter… the ever vital teachers. The teachers, with their wisdom, carefully instructs the lens to perceive and store photos of not only those perfect moments or wonderful poses, but also of those hardships and falls, reminding us not only of the glorious triumphs, but
also of the difficulties that served as a passage way towards success… towards learning. But even the shutter would be useless if placed under the dark oblivion of ignorance. Light… probably the most important physical concept in cameras, common, yes, but it is the only sensible weapon in conquering darkness, and this weapon is held by the flash. Lighting up the once dark and lost minds, the flash is knowledge. It is the knowledge imparted upon us by the ever patient lecturers, spending a valuable amount of their time on educating the youth on the information that they would surely use in further undertakings. The lens, the shutter, and the flash… All these function together towards the accomplishment of their roles and the achievement of a single goal… All these function because of the unwavering student energy… All these function because of the battery. Like how a camera functions only when a fully charged battery is present, YSTEC functions properly
Features 5 STESC were attended by students all over the country and conducted by the Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs (PSYSC). Activities done every year are all about knowing the importance of Science as a subject and caring for the environment. Almost all themes every year are all about Adaptation in the 21st Century. YSTEC includes lectures, workshops, community immersions and Search for the Environment. The search highlights the camp activities and gave color to the activity. The YSTEC activities like tree planting helps in the
community. Each and every tree that grows helps in reducing pollution, protecting the land against erosion and wearing a way of topsoil. As every tree they plant, they produce the security of everybody in the community. In having such activities, students cannot just only treasure the benefits of knowledge but also the feeling of enjoyment because of the fulfillment of their aid that they have done. Indeed, the Science Camp makes an
impact to the students and make science clubbing really more fun because of these activities conducted by these three science organizations.
NCE ENCAMPMENT exercise, the needed willpower, discipline and resilience can only be supplied by the bat tery. The battery, which, as the cycle seems to demonstrate, may be able to capture moments, but can never really store it. For this, we need the so called “memory card.” As the name itself implies, the memory card is responsible for the storage of the moments captured by the camera. In YSTEC, the memory card contains our memories. As good or as bad as these memories may be, they will all be stored and compiled within the card. It could be a memory that could make us smile whenever we look back and reminisce the events, or one that could make you shudder even with the simplest reminder, it will barely matter. The fact that they existed would still remain, forever molding you into the person that you will turn out to be. There are moments in the process of taking these
notable photos though, that due to fear, nervousness or even excitement, the photographer’s hand would shake uncontrollably. It would distort the images and get in the way of documenting those important moments containing such pronounced emotional impact that it actually got in the way of a professional. In moments like these, the best weapon that would add to the make-up of a perfect camera is the tripod. The tripod for an actual camera provides support and stability. It allows the photographer some breathing space… some time to rest his tired arms. For YSTEC, the tripod is our parents, unwaveringly supporting us with unconditional care and love… giving us a place to rest, a place we know that we could always come back to and depend upon. The tripods could do all these but only one part could offer protection: The camera case. The camera case provides the protection and
the preservation like how our Lord gives us the protection that guides us in all our endeavors. A protection that, if one is unfortunate enough to lose, would endanger every experience, every memory one has acquired. It is therefore only sensible to treat it with care and appreciation. YSTEC in many ways is like a camera. It captures and brings out both the worst and the best in you while at the same time teaching and giving memories that one would cherish for his lifetime. YSTEC is like a camera, it captures the photos that 40, 60 years from now would still be preserved. So, once you see those familiar flashes and hear those familiar words, be ready to smile and strike your best pose… be ready to preserve your knowledge… to preserve your YSTEC experience. -Amiel Van Llaneta -Kimbhert Prollamante -Jasmin Pajarin -Jacqueleen Oli -Diana Desuyo
News
6 Vol. IX No. 1
17 studes join NYSTESC 2012; Llaneta, 2nd in PSYSC Science Olympiad
Seventeen (17) students of Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) together with two science teachers attended the 2012 National Youth Scienace, Technology and Environment Camp (NYSTESC 2012) at Malagos Garden Resort, Davao City. With its theme, “Operation AQUILA: Illuminating the Code, Linking the Chains, Decrypting
the Patterns”, the students from all over the country learned about optics, material science, complex systems and solar energy from the different lectures and workshops given in the four-day camp. There were also contests in essay writing, slogan making, black light presentation, pasalubong festival, and the Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs
(PSYSC) Science Olympiad where Amiel Van E. Llaneta, a IV-Einstein student won 2nd over-all. The PSYSC and volunteers from the University of the Philippines (U.P.) spearheaded the national summer camp with the help of the Department of Science and Technology and the City Government of Davao. -Kimbhert Prollamante
Veggie gardening caps 2012 Nutrition Month fest
SCIENCE WHIZ. Amiel Van Llaneta with the other contestants from other regions is on his strategic momentum of grabbing the PSYSC Science Olympiad Championship, Davao City, April 2.
SSG holds 1st Brisayan Day
Showcasing the Brisayan spirit with harmony and teamwork, the Supreme Student Government, along with the school’s clubs and organizations, spearheaded the 1st Brisayan Day and Induction Night last July 20, 2012. The whole event revolved around its theme, “Treading Life’s Journey through Nurturing Young Leaders of Today “and kicked off with an opening Induction Ceremony where the members of each club swore and bound to their respective duties and organizations. A lecture on Human Rights was conducted for the students at the school gymnasium. A series of intermission numbers from the first year and second year students also added color to the event. After the opening program, the clubs were arranged in their pre-determined clusters, MESH
(M-atrix, E-nglish Club, S-amafil, and H-ulmahan), the Sci Cluster (YES-O, CUBS-O, The Equilibrium), the AP Club, Dance TheaterDLC Cluster, and the Math Club. The groups of each cluster prepared games and exhibits which represent their respective clubs. Other students were invited to visit each cluster to witness each exhibit and know about the different organizations in the school. They also played games set up by each group. The whole-day activity ended with an Awarding Ceremony. Videos about each section were also shown to the audience. The DTDLC Pair emerged Overall Champion; Sci Cluster, 1st Runner Up and AP Club, 2nd Runner Up. The funds earned by the groups will serve as their initial standing funds for the current school year. --Frederick Imperial
Brigada Eskwela sets schools ready for June opening
May 20-26, 2012-- To ensure that all public elementary and high schools are ready for the school opening, the National Schools Maintenance Week also known as Brigada Eskwela was conducted across the country. This school maintenance program engaged all stakeholders to contribute their time, effort and resources in ensuring that all public school facilities are set in time for the new school year. Brigada Eskwela, a week-long clean-up and repair activity was spearheaded by the Department of Education with the cooperation of non-government organizations, parents, students, teachers, the business community and civic organizations. Instead of cash donations, the
participants who were touched by the bayanihan spirit donated construction and cleaning materials and served as volunteers to prepare the schools two weeks before the opening of classes. Meanwhile, Bicol Regional Science High School is very much grateful for the overwhelming support of the donors, GPTA officers and parents, teaching and non-teaching staff, Supreme Student Government and the students. At the end of the program, souvenirs were given to the Brisayans who gave their time and full effort during the week-long event. - Glenette Broma
Eating vegetables, a healthy diet. Aware of the importance of eating vegetables to have a healthy lifestyle and to support the National Greening Program (Executive Order No. 26) promoting vegetable consumption
and production in schools, the administrators, faculty and student of Bicol Regional Science High School joined the launching of vegetable gardening last July 2, 2012. Focusing on the theme “Pagkain ng gulay ugaliin, araw-araw itong ihain,” this simultaneous
CARE FOR HEALTH. Preparing the land to plant some vegetables, the Brisayan students manisfest love for their health last July 2, 2012.
conduct of the launching event in all public elementary and secondary schools nationwide was spearheaded by the National Nutrition Council. Furthermore, the month-long celebration of BRSHS also featured other activities to emphasize the value of good health. The different sections showed off their skills in preparing delicious and nutritious foods during the Cook Fest, where the teachers also served as judges. The Cooking Demo by Mr. Alfons Jayson O. Pelgone, a faculty member also gave the representatives of each section an opportunity to show their talents in cooking. Two participants from each section also competed in the vegetable planting contest held near the BRSHS Gym. New media is also used in celebrating Nutrition Month through the Digital Poster Making, held at the Computer Laboratory where students have shown their skills and knowledge in using Adobe Photoshop. The event was indeed a great success in promoting the spirit and importance of proper nutrition in every student and in every Filipino. - Frederick Imperial
Hardwork exerted...
from front page
Despite the rainy weather BRSHS and LECS still presented with high energy and managed to grab 1st runner –up, outshining ten other contingents in the Street Parade. They also received a consolation prize as Best in Float garnering a total of Php 75,000. The Brisayano family and friends showed their support by wearing red shirts. Spectators cheered and shouted as they saw the BR-LECS in their dazzling Mulan outfits. Mr. Alfons Jayson Pelgone, contingent head for BRSHS and LECS shared, “We know that we did our best and all our hard works had paid off. Thank God and all of those who supported us to the end. ” It is really a great Christmas gift for the BRSHS to attain such an achievement. Everyone went home with satisfaction in WINNING MOVES. The Bicol Regional Science HighSchool their eyes and eager for what they with Ligao East Central School fascinate the Ligao City conwould showcase next year. stituents with their dazzling Mulan outfits and rhythmic moves.
Literary
Vol. IX No. 1 7
Words could shatter the Soul by Marie Adrienne Eugenio
Words are powerful. If used wisely, they could revolutionize the world; treated without care, they could destroy the very foundation of a person. They can scar deeply and leave marks that can never be erased no matter how hard one tries. God gave us the ability to express what we think and what we feel. He gave us the means of conveyance, but what we convey is up to us. He gave us the right to articulate and with it came the responsibility to hold back some words that are simply too rude to utter. I write this while painfully looking back to the time when I felt
most vulnerable, a time when I felt most deeply scarred, so deeply crestfallen. I have always known that in whatever thing you do, there would always be a critic. I have always known this and though I never took comfort in such knowledge… I was still caught off guard. I still recoil at the memory when harsh words and painful criticism lashed though me like wild fire, when misused words and deteriorating thoughts made me weak and fragile. I have barely had troubles in holding back my tears in the past, but at that unbearable moment when I felt so insubstantial, no matter what
strength I had gave way. For you see, during that moment, I experienced yet again the potency of words uttered lacking so much care that it sniped at almost every single bit of me it could reach. When I say some words are not meant to be stated, I say it with deep emotion. Because no matter how much an opinion may count, its still a matter of having the ethics to control your words. To be rejected no matter how much you try, to have all your hard work be treated like trash, to hear people say that what you did merits not even their attention is so excruciating, it feels like you’ve just
Of Fashion and Lack of It by Jasmin Pajarin
SPLASH By Marlou Princesa Splash! a small little voice I hear Coming from the hydrosphere No one listens,To the voice loud and clear, "please, don't throw trash at me dear" Splash! Trash is being thrown To the ocean floor again I can hear the ocean moan "You will suffer, you evil men" Splash!, As the days pass by Nobody hears the ocean cry "This is too much I can't take it " "I won't let my fishes die" Splash! A big roaring thunder With rain as it passes by The drainages clogged under It's Flooding! My oh my! "Haha!" a big chuckle I hear coming form the ocean's bay "That's what you get for messing with me!" "What have you got to say?" "May this serve as a lesson to you" "To not throw garbage at me" "Cause you won't like what I'll do" "Maybe I'll flood you too!"
been sawed in half. So, once your opinion is asked on any particular subject, consider first what it took to reach that line. Consider the time, the effort, and the intentions, because time will truly come when you would find yourself in that very same position and asking for this same courtesy. I ask not for people to speak lies and say the opposite of what they truly feel just for the benefit of obscuring the facts… but simply the manners to hold back their tongues, because sticks and stones will only break your bones but words could shatter the soul.
Best of Friends By Vincent Abo
The world is a catwalk where fashion has been long lording over. Fashion, in the past, has been a determiner of your social status. This has been embedded in the rich Filipino culture, particularly on how our ancestors would adorn their bodies with colorful cloth and ink to mirror what part of the society they play the role of. For instance, the body tattoos of the Cordillera tribes would identify their level in the tribe caste. The feathers of male warriors would usually determine how many warriors they have killed in the bloodbaths of tribe versus tribe, one feather for every life cut short by their bows and arrows or spears. Down south, jewelry of gold and gems and extravagant headdresses were your maharlika identification. The more of those accessories that you have and the more colorful and intricately designed your clothes are, the more you are looked upon in the society. That is how much fashion affected people back then. It identifies who you are in the societal ecosystem of lords and slaves. It gives you your identity. It emphasizes where you rightfully belong. With the world revolving and with the changing of times, ways, and means, which comes along, fashion has still been the same. Of course, the members of our society are given much more freedom that they have stepped away from being the slaves of those who are in power and those who happen to be more financially stable, but still, the rudiments of how fashion has branded people has never been erased. Fashion has been accessible to those who have the money to spend for things that go beyond
the physiological need of clothing. Indeed, people have been suggesting ways to be hippy and cool without having to spend a lot, but there will still be something that should be bought. And then, there’s high fashion that has yet raised the comparison notches higher. Talk about celebrities talking about how their dresses are made by this and that designer who has conquered the world of fashion. Talk about those elite who talk about jargons and brands that only they know because only they could afford. The thing is, we are taken over by fashion when, in fact, we should be taking over it. Fashion has been a societal lord when, in fact, it should not be like that. The tendency is that, for the sake of fashion, we sacrifice comfort. Girls wear those stilettos that they see models wear because it is the trend, even if they actually find it hard to walk and despite the bruises that they get after a day of walking around and feeling fashionable with them. They would even match it with really short skirts that they adjust from time to time because more than what should be seen in them is seen. Guys would wear pants really low to show their boxers or briefs because cool celebrities are like that, not minding if it is not comfortable anymore. I respect that people tend to showcase the type of fashion that they want, but isn’t it too much that your comfort has been sacrificed for it? It is fine to be fashionable. The society has made us believe that fashion actually matters that we cannot get away from that fact anymore. However, if you are venturing into a makeover where
you make yourself more pleasing to the eye, you have to make sure that you are comfortable in what you wear and that people around you would not be bothered with how you look. You have to battle out within yourself if you are going fashionable for yourself or for other people. If the former would apply, wear something that will not get in the way of your daily tasks. If the latter, make it a point that you wear the right outfit for the right occasion. Most likely, you have to comply with both. I am not fashionable. For a fashion-themed issue, I have been obviously wrongly placed. Thus, what I could only tell is that you should not be identified just because of what you wear. You are more than what people would think of you just because you are wearing shorts and a T-shirt or even a Kalinga g-string. It takes more than mere fashion for you to be judged as a person. Choose something that you are comfortable with. Choose something that will not violate your character. Choose something that you wear because you feel like wearing it. Consider the rules of where you are going before deciding what to wear, but never fear what people might think if you are not wearing something fashionable, as long as you are complying with what should be worn. Whatever you are wearing, wear it proud. Stand tall and promote a positive aura that is way beyond the outfit. Be identified by who you actually are. You might be wearing clothes from an expensive line, but if you don’t have the attitude, you might as well be naked.
Why do we need fruits for a good heart? Hearts don’t literally need fruits, they need good virtues to become healthy. If you don’t have any of the common virtues, you don’t have a heart so you are considered futile from the society. Idiomatically speaking, you ate rotten fruits in that
by Michael Salvador Tanay situation. is never Do you know of some Virtues? as easy as to mention them Some of these are obedience, orally, and we may have a good diligence, honesty, patience, brain instead of a good heart. cleanliness of the mind, heart No matter how smart and words, and many more. If or good-looking you are, if you you take an enumeration test don’t have a good heart, you will about these virtues, it would be never be good enough to live a easy to perfect it. But having worthwhile life. Let’s ponder these virtues applied to our life about it.
Fruits for a Good Heart
You've been with me through thick and thin,a You've never let me down, You're always there to lend a hand when there's no one else's around, You had the faith, When no one else believed you gave me strength, Cause you saw the good in me. I can't imagine me without you or you without me, we've always been twobest friends naturally, And if I'm ever afraid you'll help me pull through, Forever best friends me and you. You need to know you're not alone I'll be back real soon, There's not a day when I'm away when I won't think of you, Don't give up hope, we'll be a team again and in your heart you've got to know I'll always be you friend. I can't imagine me without you or you without me, we've always been twobest friends naturally, And if I'm ever afraid you'll help me pull through-, forever best friends me and you.
8
Vol. IX No. 1
April Atoli, a second year student of Bicol Regional Science High School garnered 5th place for the pre-juniors category (age group 13-14) individual all-round and in rope apparatus in the 9th
International Singapore Open for Gymnastics Championships (ISOGC) held at the Bishan Sports Hall, Singapore last June 4-13, 2012. Atoli performed her floor routine with rope, hoop, ball, ribbon
and clubs. Her coach and trainor were Marian Vivan Alejandre and Mariel Velarde respectively, both teachers of Ligao West Central Elementary School (Binatagan). The contestants in the pre-juniors category were from different Asian countries specifically Indonesia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Philippines. The Singapore Team ranked the 1st to 4th place in the individual all-around
category while Atoli ranked 5th place in both individual allaround and in rope apparatus. The Urban Dance Center (UDC) of Ligao City represented the Philippine team as the UDCPhilippines. Not only contestants from Ligao,City competed in Singapore but also gymnasts from Cebu City. Representing the PhilippinesUDC Team, Atoli was also with
Genemy Joice Diaz from St. Mary’s Academy of Ligao who competed in Junior’s category, Frances Mae Ramirez from Ligao East Central School and Mary Jo Frances Alejandre from Ligao West Central Elementary School (Binatagan) who both competed for the pre-junior (age group 1012) category. -Kimbhert Prollamante
BRSHS Dance Theater bags 3rd place Best Exhibition in Magayon Festival 2012
While it is important for students to focus on schooling and make it the top priority in their lives, they must branch out and focus on some other significant things to be truly well-rounded. And one of which is engaging in sports development programs in schools. The conduct of school sports
he runs into some problems like injuries and little playing time. It is also significant for one to learn about hard work and to add that characteristic to all aspects of his life. Every student will learn about hardwork as he strives to excel at the sport he loves. This dedication and determination towards a goal or task will continue in him to the classroom and, eventually, to his work office. Sports do more than giving people a way to express themselves and a way to be athletic. They provide students with the various life skills that they need to be upright individuals in school and in their future career. With these implications of how sports help complete the individuality of every learner, the conduct of intramurals and interschool sports activities in and among schools still plays a crucial role. Definitely after more than five years of not holding such event in BRSHS, students are not just intensely looking forward to but desperately longing to have BRSHS Intramurals 2012.
Craving for a break is one great way for students to learn life lessons that will pay off for the rest of their lives. When on a sports team, they learn how to interact with teammates and realize the importance of relying on one another. These skills will eventually be applied to the classroom and to their career and workplaces in the future. Everyone runs into tough times and must make tough decisions. One is constantly knocked down and has to deal with life’s setbacks. It is important for one to learn how to pick him up and press on, even in the face of adversity. School sports indeed give a sense of perseverance as he continuously plays his sport even when
After winning in the Ibalong Festival Street Presentation last August 20, 2011, the Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) dance theater , again proved their skills as they competed in thea Magayon Festival Street Presentation on April 31, 2012. The contingents from different places presented with high energy and managed to grab 2nd RunnerUp , outshining twelve other con-
tingents in the Street Presentation. The Brisayano family and friends showed their support by wearing red shirts. Spectators cheered and shouted as they saw the contingents from BRSHS in their dazzling outfits. Mr. Alfons Jayson Pelgone, contingent head for BRSHS shared, “We know that we did our best and all our hard works had paid off. Thank God and all of
those who support us to the end making us more competitive and eager to do our best which results to what we have received now.” It is really a great achievement for the BRSHS to attain such success. Everyone went home with satisfaction in their eyes and eager for what they would showcase next year,
-Amiel Van Llaneta
BRSHS conducts mini intrams 2012 Expressing talents, skills, and Aside from physical games though, love for the Filipino language, the the Laro ng Lahi also hosted events BRSHS students engage in the vig- such as “Sungka” that mainly requires orous Laro ng Lahi in the Buwan ng and expands a student’s logical prowess Wika celebration last August 17, 2012. and capacity to think under pressure. Embracing the opportunity to The Laro ng Lahi ended temporarily free themselves of the once all the games were finished and hectic school works and deadlines, once the champions were identified. the students made sure to make their The students, having been time count by energetically participat- freshly reminded of the joys of traing in the spirited events organized by ditional Filipino activities, headthe ever attentive Sama-Fil Officers. ed home with exhilarated smiles The event involved traditional Fili- of triumph and good memories. pino games such as “Kadang- Kadang” At the end of the day, the Laro ng and “Patintero” and other popular games Lahi proved to be a great success. It allike “Sack Race” and the “Hoola Hoop lowed the students to see not only the Contest.” These games promoted the past in the world of modern-day comstudent’s teamwork and cooperation. It puter games but also the past of the also boosted their confidence through frantic world of exams and shouting non-stop cheers for the partici- deadlines. It did not only pants representing their class. In these refresh the students’ events, the students’ physical fitness mind but also molded and ability to maintain vitality despite their character through the simultaneous AIM HIGH, JUMP HIGH. Dave Lobigan activities of II - Hyacinth grabs the crown in a sack were adm i r a b l e . race competition during the Buwan ng Wika.
accepting defeat with good grace and receiving wins with utmost humility. With this year’s Buwan ng Wika being a great success, the students cross their fingers for another great event next school year.
-Jacqueleen Oli