The Matrix-BRSHS-Ligao City Division

The School-Community Publication of Bicol Regional Science High School Division of Ligao City

Region V-Bicol

June-December 2012 Vol. IX No. 1

PASTORES COLORS. The Bicol Regional Science High School Dance Theater bagged 2nd place as they sing and dance the “Pastores a Belen” during the 2012 Gayon Bicol Pastores in Peńaranda Park, December 12. turn to page 18

RSHSs adopt K to 12 basic education program

June 4, 2012 marks the start of the full implementation of the K to12 Basic Education Program across all public and private schools including the seventeen (17) Regional Science High Schools (RSHSs) 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 has gone through a lot of challenges, especially in terms of infrastructure and the number

of teachers needed to accommodate the extra load of students entering Grade 7 this year. This was mentioned by Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro during interviews.

In fact, the DepEd said it still needs an additional 50,000 classrooms and about 1.3 million chairs for the school year and extra 74000 teachers to accommodate the new education program.

However, 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.

Vil amor, among top teachers in Albay

Another hardship was commended as Ted O. Villamor of Bicol Regional Science High School was proclaimed as one of the Ten Outstanding Teachers of Albay (TOTAL) Awardee in the 2012 Gawad ALBAY sa Edukasyon

By Glenette Broma Search.

The Gawad ALBAY sa Edukasyon is an awards search which recognizes the students, teachers and local government units of Albay who significantly contribute to the betterment and promotion of quality of educa-

Grade 7 Reading Profile

14 12 10

9 8 8 6

6

5

5 3

1

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.

The DepEd improved the quality of education in the Regional Science Hisg School curriculum by adding new life-skill subjects including Electronics, Edukasyong Pagpapakatao, and Independent Cooperative Learning (ICL).

“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 curriculum program in all subject areas covered for Grade 7.

-Amiel Van Llaneta

OverDramatic

‘Operation Aquila’ brings out YSTET 2012

INSIDE p.2

p.5

Fruits for a Good Heart

One Dance, One Family p.8

Robotics Flying through the Future p.16

p.14

Atoli bags 5th place in Singapore Gymnastics Open

p.18

tion in the province. It was initiated in 2008 by the Provincial Education Department (PED) of Albay.

Among all the teachers in Albay who joined the search, Mr. Ted Villamor qualified to one of those who best exemplify the teaching profession and efficiency inside the classroom and commendable service in the community.

Villamor, a Computer Education and Microbiology teacher of BRSHS, received P100,000 cash, and giveaways from program sponsors, aside from plaques of recognition which Turn to page 4

21st CENTURY CAMPUS PAPER AT HAND. The four editorial board representatives of The Matrix with their adviser are all eager to finish the layout of their paperless campus publication.

The Matrix goes for e-paper DepEd V sponsors reg’l training on digital campus journalism

Corollary to Campus Journalism Act of 1991 and in support to the expansion of global digital literacy in the 21st Century core skill, the Department of Education, Region V spearheaded a showcase of talents and concentration on electronic newspapering displayed during the two-wave Regional Training of Secondary Paper Advisers and Campus Writers (August 20-24 for English and August 27-31 for Filipino) at Charisma Function Hall, Guinobatan, Albay. .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 and manifest competence in digital literacy as 21st Century core skill through the utilization of advanced technology.

By Kimbhert Prollamante

In consonance with this, The Matrix and Ang Hulmahan, the BRSHS publications reveal their support to digital campus paper production by sending nine editorial staffers: Amiel Van E. Llaneta, Kimbhert M. Prollamante, Jasmine A. Pajarin and Jacqueleen N. Oli for The Matrix, Rojee M. Peninoy, Louise Guab, Cristine Raynes, Benedict Benosa and Don Karl Calla for Ang Hulmahan together with their advisers Mrs. Diana L. Desuyo and Mrs. Cynthia B. Llacer.

Having credible speakers who shared their expertise in the field, the participants produced an e-copy of their respective school papers.

The intensive training ended successfully with both the BRSHS school papers included in the top 5 best output.

Opinion

2 June-December 2012 Editorial

Editorial Board S.Y 2012-2013 Amiel Van Llaneta Editor in Chief Bernadette Cabaccang Associate Editor Marie Adrienne Eugenio Managing Editor Nińo Boy Dacer Circulation Manager Kimbhert Prollamante Copy Editor John Frederick Imperial News Editor Shielo Pasahol Feature Editor Joshua Patrick Siapno Literary Editor Flora Mae Lubag Sports Editor John Paul Notario Photojournalist Reuben Matthieu S. Hemio Cartoonists

Contributors

Paul Higinio Rinon Jacqueleen Oli Jasmin Pajarin Glenette Broma Nińa Angela Alano Ana Mariella Morada Michael Tanay Marlou Princesa April Atoli Vincent Abo Precious Mella Ma. Connie Prianes Diana L. Desuyo Adviser, The Matrix Cynthia B. Llacer Adviser, Ang Hulmahan

emerging as the victor in dance competitions. And by that, we mean of the BRSHS Dance Theater, having their biggest breaks in some of Bicol’s most prestigious dance competitions.

This year’s YSTET was great, though it might have been better if it was made into a camp.

But aside from the good news that we have for 2012, it’s a bit disappointing that there are some aspects of Bri-

the rumors on the “end of the world”, we finished 2012 with a bang. As they say, there’s a lot more to Doomsday that we should thank for. Here are some of the things pointed out by the pen: First off, the year 2012 was indeed a great year. Brisay has been taking center stage---winning in academic competitions such as in Science and in Mathematics. As a matter of fact, we sent III-Krypton student Elijah T. Copla off to Hongkong last July for the Asia International Math Olympiad where she represented BRSHS and of the Philippines.

Aside from academic competitions, Brisay has also been

Also, following the implementation of the K+12 Curriculum in the Philippines, Brisay said hello to its newest members, the Grade 7 Students.

Apart from welcoming our new Brisayanos, some subjects are also added to the Curriculum. In the case of Grade 7 students, Values Education was added. It’s a good thing that Values Education is added since it will be a good start for molding the future pillars of our country.

Our activities for 2012 were a great help. We started it off with Brigada Eskwela which was made possible with the help of our parents, students, teachers and our stakeholders. Another is the 1st Brisayan Day which brought together all the organizations.

say that haven’t changed. The number of latecomers is still on the rise. Maybe it’s not the clock , the gate or even the guard that has the problem; maybe it’s just us. We can get up early so that we won’t have our names in the Log Book.

Also, some of the rules in the Student Code of Conduct and Discipline are starting to get ignored. Remember, we are old enough and we must be more responsible our actions.

Yet, we all come down to one thing. We must look forward to a greater Brisay this 2013.

All of our shortcomings from 2012 must serve as our sources of wisdom.

Wish you all the best for 2013! Aim high, Brisay!

Human civilizations have greatly relied on science and technology. It is true that computers have been of help to people in many ways but also caused trouble because of abusive use.

ly in the developing countries such as ours. We gain knowledge through World Wide Web and at the same time, communication has been easier nowadays. Just one click and you’re already there. Technology has been our aide in learning the

masters of computers. Whatever we input in it, it will surely come out on the screen. Like, posting pornographic pictures and unethical descriptions that may cause misunderstandings between parties. Cyber issues keep on coming until the law

We survived 2012.

Thank God we all did.

Even though we were bombarded (and annoyed) with

Alicia O. Retona EPS I, English Evangeline P. Palencia Schools Division Superintendent Ligao City Division

T h e Cyber Crime Law gave rise to many doubts and queries. Filipino people all over the country were divided in their opinions.

Some agree to the new system while others don’t. The evolution of computers leads to many advancements especial-

Technology has been our aide in learning the world and discovering things beyond our reach. But it also became a disadvantage in the society.

world and discovering things beyond our reach. But it also became a disadvantage in the society. Humans are still the

has been established.

Before I end this, I leave these questions to you.

We live in a democratic country. However, is it right to question the law or just leave it be? Could we say that we still have “the freedom of speech” or is it the other way around?

This is for you to decide.

Letter to the Editor

“Being happy doesn’t mean everything is perfect. It means you have decided to look beyond the imperfections.”

Dear Editor, Behold my second week in It has been observed that students are so busy with their requirements and projects as part of the Pisay! It was more of an inten- exercises and applications they have known in the classroom. But if there is an exercise or an output needed to be accomplished by the students in a certain subject, we must give them ample time to do it so that there will be no overlapping of time schedule for other tasks they have in other subjects.

It is also observed that students have to be absent from their classes in order to finish what is due for that day. May I suggest that one assignment notebook be required for every student so that every time teachers will give assignments, projects and other requirements, it is being kept on track by the students and the teachers. Teachers will have to check when they are going to have a project that needs much time to have a good and quality output of the projects and in order to meet the deadlines and to a bit ex- sive review and enhancement evade cramming sessions on the part of the students. cited to go to Philippine Sci- exercises of the different feaThere is no reason for the students that they will not sleep because they have to meet for the deadence High School but with less tures of the English language, lines. Students are still human beings and they are not machines to be programmed that even if they do enthusiasm to be part of a flock encompassing grammar and not sleep they will stop working if overused. Just like students, they will get sick. of eagles soaring high for an- the macro-skills of language Another suggestion is that a school calendar of activities for the whole school year be given to every parent for information. We can coordinate the reproduction of this through the GPTA Funds.

‘That this curriculum change in the Philippine educational system is I, as a concerned parent, would like to request for a human consideration on the part of the teachindeed gearing toward globalization and made me accept the challenge ers. of molding our 21st century Filipino students to become competitive We all know that the success of the school is through its students on what they will be in the future. and productive members of the country .....”

We better develop a healthy cooperation and consideration among us in this institution for the good of other strenuous and challenging learning and teaching: listening, our children. two-week long training. Having speaking, reading, writing and (SGD) EMMA P. CABACCANG the thought of… Oh my! What viewing.

Dear Mrs. Emma P. Cabaccang, Grammar Enrichment for will happen to my planned vaWe are really grateful about the observations and suggestions you have mentioned in your letter. We cation with my family if I’ll be Teachers, Teaching ESL through out of Ligao City for such a long Collaborative Approach and hope that publishing your letter in this issue would reach the attention of the concerned teachers. We Cooperative Learning, Teach- appreciate your concern as a parent. time?

The Editorial Board agrees with you that the success of the institution is reflected on how productive Well, what a relief! Just like ing Reading for Academic Purposes, Reading for Academic and fulfilled its graduates are ten years from now. how the first day started right, Purposes with Madam Maricor: Let us all help build a better nation and better world through the students of Bicol Regional Science my first week stay was such an “Let us accept the fact that High School with no regret in the end. exciting yet challenging one though there were lots of mur- we teachers of ESL commit erYours truly, murs and feedback, both the rors…”

THE EDITOR This is indeed true, espeplusses and the minuses about With continuing disputes Indeed, the casual use social media: Campus Jourthe K+12 Basic Education Pro- cially when teaching grammar. on various ethical concerns of the so-called internet nalists. gram of the Department of Edu- Those intensive review of the both in actual life and in so- and the popular social meCampus journalists repcation. How come I have grown language structures and func- cial media, it has been quite dia has strengthened the resent the great population and expanded my territory tions of English exposed my voice of civilians, but at the of the internet users: Youth. when I attended the Upgrading sometimes hidden or ignored same time it has also made Being both influential and Program: Learning Institute for weaknesses as a teacher. How Teachers (UPLIFT) focusing on shameful yet challenging it is to the implementation of DepEd’s see the truth that nobody is perK+12 Basic Education system in fect! But at least we had a wona science-oriented high school? derful time curing and mending them weaker. It has made easily influenced gives those waterloos we committed.

Let me share you these… them susceptible to harsh them the power to either With all those insights and Getting Started: Getting to attacks by people who be- revolutionize or destroy the Know Activities, House Rules knowledge I gained from the clear that people have never lieve themselves to be un- social network. But they are lecture-workshops, the more I and Leveling Expectations been true masters at capturgoverned by things as basic faced with a troublesome Championing Change, Gen- am attracted to reading books ing the essence of the word as ethics. This problem has dilemma. eral Competencies in Grade 7 and texts, making me a genius become so widespread that, For even after years of English and Weekly Competen- bookworm, thus influencing my “ethics.”

The widespread use of eventually, people have using the social network, cies in Grade 7 English in the students to also become one. the World Wide Web has ingone to the extent of seekstandard ethics have never “You only ever grow as a K-12 Curriculum, Language deed been greatly beneficial ing legal protection.

In the actually been established.

Trend: World Englishes, Speech human being if you’re outside in various ways. Its great Philippines alone, President Thus, campus journalists, your comfort zone.”

Clinic with Sir Jerry Noveno: importance in modern-day Aquino has tried to enforce probably the most avid usThose fun-filled games we “We are facing an educationliving cannot be stressed a law that affects internet- ers of both the network and have witnessed and experienced alchange…”

I, as a teacher, was motivated from one group to another ad- enough. From making com- use on a nationwide scale. the media, try to blindly to learn and accept new learning vanced my wit as to how these munication from across dif- This, however, has obvi- grasp its true concept.

At present, both the web from the training, and refreshed teaching tools will have a mean- ferent continents possible in ously caused quite an upmyself that I am indeed a social ingful, lasting impact in the a span of a single second to roar and was eventually and the media are held only by one glue, one reminder, being… and not a weird island. lives of my students as they en- being able to acquire huge Indeed, the casual use of the joy learning English. amounts of information so-called internet and the popu- one guideline: Respect. ReMy cloudy mind was cleared out “God gave us two ears and with a single click is nothing by the comprehensive sessions spect for both ours and othlar social media has strengthand interactive discussions on one mouth so that we can hear short of a technological mirened the voice of civilians, but er people’s space. But with K-12 English 7 Curriculum we twice as much as we say.” acle. People have stretched at the same time it has also made the way things are going, I really nodded with a dim their limits. The boundaries had. Those mind-boggling aceven that may no longer be them weaker. tivities on World Englishes and smile when the discussant re- that existed years ago have enough. Worst case scenario Speech made me more ready peatedly said that listening in been pushed farther away discontinued. is it may even cease to exist. to face my students this school an ESL class, listening is an in- till media freedom has beLike a pre-school student What’s the best course of year. I am now ready to face my tegral skill to learning the lan- come as casual as walking. learning the alphabet before action? The answer is defistudents… I am now a cham- guage yet the much neglected People have pushed bound- reading, “ethics” must also nition. Definitions are impion of change, ready to make one. aries, yes… but they must start at the very basic part portant. We have to define It was indeed a splendid exanother big difference in their never forget them. of what we know today as “media ethics.” perience being with a ponkan as lives. ”Nature of English as a Sec- we wrote short paragraphs about ond Language in the Philippine it,tening to those funny yet witSetting, Multilingual Education ty descriptive paragraphs and in (MLE) Framework, Domains letter forms amazed each of us.

The Matrix is on the lookout for more writers. and Strands in Grade 7 English See how powerful our pens are!

Students, parents and members of the faculty may and Assessment of Learner’s And see how thankful to God we share articles, subject to the approval of the editorial board. should be for giving us talents Performance in the K-12 CurIf interested, submit articles to the Matrix staff or and skills to express ourselves riculum with Mrs. Joy Melga B. to the school paper adviser, Mrs. Diana L. Desuyo. through effective writing!

Olazo:

Uplift an ESL Classroom

Engr. Gerard O.Aberin GPTCA President Eduardo L. Nañoz Principal I

June-December 2012 3

`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

Overdramatic

With so many stories about bullying showing up lately, we cannot really deny the fact that it has become a very serious threat even in our seemingly-peaceful institution.

Bullying takes on various forms but what commonly begins with harmless teasing ends with devastating results. New bullying statistics revealed about one in seven students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade is either bully or has been a victim of bullying. Teenagers at their age are so sensitive to cope up with these emotive actions that they need much guidance for the acts.

It is heartbreaking to see other children’s lives ruined by the behavior of other people, whose parents and teachers seem not to care. According to National Crime Prevention Center, even teachers, in their own way, bully some of their students due to some reasons by failing him/ her on his/her subject that intensified in meanness and manipulation.

And the worst of all, some kids forfeit their lives just to put a stop to the never-ending rain of insults. One happy family, one dream, one life, gone in a split second, all because someone showed a person how bad his life has become.

Are we being overdramatic about this, or should we learn to accept it as a fact of life? After all, who wasn’t bullied in school?

Bullying does not only roam around the campus, it can go to faraway places through the social media. Facebook and Twitter were created to bridge the gap between people. However, they have been an ideal, virtual, invincible playground for cyber bullies. The National Crime Prevention Center stated that over 60% of the teenagers with internet access have reported being bullied online on 2011.

Bullying, either physical or cyber bullying does not get much attention here in our institution as there are no official reported cases about it. But, just because it remains unreported doesn’t mean that it is not really happening. The Department of Education interviewed high school students and showed that youth are aware that bullying is a serious issue.

Artists like Demi Lovato are standing up against bullying. According to her, bullying has brought great effect in her life, and brought many bad memories, were it comes to the point that she never wanted to go back at school. She experienced bullying in her young age. So now she is putting up charities that can help those people who are experiencing bullying. She said in an interview that the biggest thing that she can do to help the world is to be someone who can inspire the teenagers or any person who have been bullied by giving them advices, and by fighting for them.

The road-show is still going on for anti-bullying. At the end, we are not overdramatic and it is still not the end of everything. There is always a space for people to change and to spread the love to everyone.

Opinion

4 June-December 2012

News

BRSHS snags awards at Regional STF

News

June-December 2012 5

SSG holds 1st Brisayan Day

By Joshua Patrick Siapno

TRIAL COURT. John Frederick Imperial defends his research “Combination of Lemongrass [Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf.] and Oregano {Origanum vulgare L.) Leaves Extracts as a Fungicide for Mature, Green Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum M. var. Apollo) Fruit” in Charisma,

12 Matrix, Hulmahan scribes clinch awards in DSSPC Twelve campus writers of Bicol Regional Science High School made it to the Regional level after winning in the Division Secondary Schools Press Conference (DSSPC) at Barayong National High School last October 30, 2012.

Kimbhert Prollamante garnered 1st place in Copyreading and Headline Writing (E), Nino Boy Dacer won 1st place in Editorial Cartooning (E), Amiel Van Llaneta bagged 2nd place in Editorial Writing(E), Marie Eugenio placed 2nd in Feature

By Amiel Van Llaneta

Writing (E), John Frederick Imperial prevailed 3rd in News Writing (E), Shielo Pasahol emerged 3rd in Photojournalism (E) and Flora Mae Lubag clinched 3rd in Sports Writing (E). The English Radio Broadcasting Team of BRSHS also garnered 3rd place.

In addition, scribes of Ang Hulmahan won 1st place in News Writing (F), 2nd place in Copyreading and Headline Writing (F), 3rd place in Editorial Cartooning (F) ,4th place in Editorial Writing (F) and 2nd in

Radio Broadcasting and Scriptwriting (F).

Corollary to Regional Memorandum No. 146, s. 2012, the top four winners in the individual contests and the champion for the radio broadcasting and scriptwriting represented Ligao City Division to the RSSPC held at the Camarines Sur National High School, December 8, 2012.

The BRSHS delegates were coached by Mrs. Diana Desuyo (The Matrix) and Mrs. Cynthia Llacer (Ang Hul-

improvement of public schools’ sanitation facilities.

According to Secretary of Education Armin A. Luistro on a press conference, it is where personal hygiene can be developed among the students, which in turn may help boost their self-esteem.

Instead of donating cash, the participants contributed construction and cleaning materials, to make certain that the school is ready to receive its students in

the next school year, which will be opened one week later.

Meanwhile, the school is gratified by the support and assistance given to the school by the students, faculty and staff, the GPTA officers, parents and the Local Government unit of Ligao and Tuburan.

The efforts made by the participants during the week-long event were not wasted as they were rewarded with a bright, new outlook for the next school year, as well as souvenirs for the taking.

Brigada Eskwela sets schools ready for June opening

By Glenette Broma

Aiming to have a better learning environment, the Supreme Student Organization (SSG) of Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) conducted the annual Brigada Eskwela last May 21-26, 2012.

In accordance to the Department of Education (DepEd) Memorandum n. 56 s. 2012, the Brigada Eskwela, also known as the National Schools Maintenance Week, focused on the

were granted to him during the Awarding Ceremony at the La Piazza Covention Hall, Legazpi City on October 19, 2012.

Other award categories in Gawad ALBAY sa Edukasyon include: StuBEST AMONG THE REST. Ted Villamor bagged his award for being Ten dent Excellence in AcaOutstanding Teachers in Albay (TOTAL) last October 19, 2012. demics and Leadership

The Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) once again displayed its research prowess during the 2012 Regional Science and Technology Fair (STF), with its research team bringing home second- and third-place awards.

The second place for the Cluster 2 – Life Science (Individual) Category was taken

by John Frederick Imperial’s ‘Combination of Lemongrass [Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf.] and Oregano {Origanum vulgare L.) Leaves Extracts as a Fungicide for Mature, Green Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum M. var.

Apollo) Fruit.’

Meanwhile, Amiel Van Llaneta, Louise Guab and Andre Borromeo’s ‘Saba Banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) Fruit Peel Extracts as an Effective Medical Anticoagulant Tested on Laboratory Mice’ bagged the third place for the Cluster 2 – Life Science (Team) Category.

Out of all the research proposals made by the seniors of the school, four were selected to represent the school. The two other researches which participated in the science fair

were the ‘Antibacterial Property of Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) and Lagundi (Vitex negundo) on Klebsiella pneumoniae causing Pneumonia’ by Dave Despabiladeras, Gemarie Reforsado and Jessica VIbal for the Cluster 2 – Life Science (Team) Category and Vera Placides, Naomi Arboleda and Ariza Rabelas’s ‘Soybean (Glycine max) Whey as an Alternative Ingredient in Making an Effective Organic Fertilizer for Enhancing the Growth of String Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris)’ for the Cluster 2 - Physical Science (Team) Category.

Coached by Mrs. Ester L. Maligaya, the research team defended at the Charsima Convention Hall at San Rafael, Guinobatan, Albay last October 12 – 14, 2012.

Consistent with the DepEd Memorandum no. 149 s. 2012 and the DepEd Region V Regional Memorandum n. 111 s.

2012, the Science and Technology Fair aims to promote Science consciousness among the Bicolano students and to recognize the most innovative researchers who will represent the Region in the upcoming National Science and Technology Fair.

THE CONCRETE. League 9 together with their facilitators: Janelle Irish Papica and Bryan Joshua Moral does the workshop entitled Concrete Barge during the YSTET 2012 held in BRSHS Gymnasium on September 11-14, 2012.

‘Operation Aquila’ brings out YSTET 2012

With a futuristic concept in mind, The Equilibrium headed the Youth for Science, Technology and Environment Training (YSTET) 2012, along with the Chemistry for Unified Brisayan Students Organization (CUBS-O) and the Youth for Environment Schools Organization (YES-O), last September 11 – 14, 2012.

Held at the Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) grounds, the event was centered at the theme ‘Operation Aquila: Illuminating the Code, Linking the Chains, Decrypting the Patterns.’

Featured on the training were the learnings from the National Youth Science, Technolgy and Environment Sum-

mer Camp 2012 at Davao City, about Optics, Material Science and Complex Systems.

Lectures on Optics and Complex Systems were given

by Jenny Lyn Nebres, while for Material Science was tackled by Henry Francisco.

As part of the yearly tradition, the members of the organizing club, along with the three major officers of the other two science clubs and the participants of the NYSTESC 2012, served as the staff.

Nine students, who were unanimously selected by the staff, became the facilitators of the leagues.

The whole student body was sorted into nine divisions, namely: 1 Detective, Deux Ultimatum, 3D, Illumina 4, Go-

healthy diet.

Aware of the importance

Villamor,among...

of eating vegetables to have a

from page 1

In 2010, another teacher from BRSHS, Mrs. Diana L. Desuyo, the English Department Head and the Adviser of the English Club and the Matrix, the school’s publication in English, also made it the top of the same search.

This activity was sponsored

by EQUAL, Albay Rising, the Provincial Government of Albay, the Department of Education, Bicol University, the Gawad ALBAY sa Education Organization and JCI Legazpi.

BRISAYAN TIME. The freshmen students present their dance number during the Brisayan Day Celebration,July 20, 2012.

By Kimbhert M. Prollamante

elementary and secondary

an opportunity to show their

schools nationwide was spear-

talents in cooking.

headed by the National Nutrition Council.

Two participants from each section also competed in the

healthy lifestyle and to support

Furthermore, the month-

the National Greening Program

long celebration of BRSHS

(Executive Order No. 26) pro-

also featured other activities to

moting vegetable consumption

emphasize the value of good

celebrating Nutrition Month

and production in schools, the

health.

through the Digital Poster

vegetable planting contest held near the BRSHS Gym. New media is also used in

administrators, faculty and stu-

The different sections

dent of Bicol Regional Science

showed off their skills in pre-

Laboratory where students have

High School joined the launch-

paring delicious and nutritious

shown their skills and knowl-

ing of vegetable gardening last

foods during the Cook Fest,

edge in using Adobe Photo-

July 2, 2012.

where the teachers also served

shop.

Focusing on the theme “Pagkain ng gulay ugaliin, CARE FOR HEALTH. Preparing the land to plant some vegetables, the Brisayan students manisfest love for their health last July 2, 2012.

By John Frederick Imperial

ors of the organization.

Meanwhile, a lecture about human rights was being conducted for the students at the school gymnasium.

After the opening program, the clubs were arranged to their pre-determined clusters, MESH (M-atrix, E-nglish Club, S-amafil, H-ulmahan), the Sci Cluster (YES-O, CUBS-O, The Equilibrium), the AP Club, Dance TheaterDLC Cluster, and the Math Club.

Videos about each section were also shown to the audience.

The whole-day activity ended with an Awarding Ceremony with the DT-DLC Pair as the Overall Champion, Sci Cluster, 1st Runner Up and the AP Club, 2nd Runner Up. The funds earned by the groups will serve as their initial standing funds for the current school year.

Nutrition Month fest highlights veggie gardening Eating vegetables, a

WISH BROOM! WISH BROOM! Officers of the SSG cleaning their office in acc ordance to the start of the Brigada Eskwela on May 21-26, 2012.

(SEAL) to those students who, at a young age show noteworthy contributions to the school and community.The Three Outstanding Principals in the Countryside of Albay (TROPICAL) for the school heads whose leadership led the school to become true pillars of learning and excellence; and, the Kadunong LGU with Best Practices in Education, to the town/local government unit who made significant impacts on the lives of their people through educationrelated programs.

By Joshua Patrick Siapno tensai, Seupai Sais, Kataskopos Septem, Spyroctus and Ourea Pontus: The Enigma Revealers.

Several contests were held at the start of the training.

Poster-making, Slogan-making, Essay-writing, Science Olympiad and Quiz Bee were examples, each of them featuring an aspect of the training’s theme.

Awards for the winners of the workshops were given at the closing ceremonies. Division 4 (Illumina 4) emerged as the Champion of the event.

Indeed, the whole event was a success despite the restricted resources and changes due to last year’s science camp.

The Supreme Student Government (SSG) under the leadership of Bryan Joshua Moral, along with the school’s clubs and organizations, held its first Brisayan Day and Induction Night last July 20, 2012.

With the theme, “Treading Life’s Journey through Nurturing Young Leaders of Today,” this activity aims to initiate cooperation among the school’s various organizations and to familiarize the younger students with each.

With an Induction Ceremony, the members of each club were bound to their respective duties and organizations.

Extending its connections to the community, the Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) created the SchoolCommunity Support Council (SCSC) with Andre Borromeo, Frederick Imperial, Bryan Joshua Moral, Rojee Peninoy, and Naomi Arboleda as the newly-elected student counsel-

as judges.

The Cooking Demo by Mr.

Making, held at the Computer

The event was indeed a great success in promoting the

araw-araw itong ihain,” this

Alfons Jayson O. Pelgone, a

spirit and importance of proper

simultaneous conduct of the

faculty member also gave the

nutrition in every student and in

launching event in all public

representatives of each section

every Filipino.

6 June-December 2012

Photo taken by https://www.facebook.com/ped.equal OUTSTANDING STUDENT. Amiel Van Llaneta of IV-Einstein receives the SEAL awards for being one of the outstanding students finalists in ALBAY held in La Piazza Covention Center on October 19, 2012.

News

Albay welcomes Queen Sofia of Spain

Queen Sofia of Spain visited Albay as part of the evaluation of the establishments funded by the Agencia Española de Cooperacion para el Desarullo (AECID).

The Queen visited the Josefina Belmonte Duran Memorial District Hospital (JBDMDH) in Ligao City, the Camalig Emergency and Education Center in Camalig North Central School and the Camalig Evacuation Center for Natural Disasters.The students of Bicol Regional Science High School partici-

By John Frederick Imperial

pated in the welcoming of the queen to Ligao City. Select students went to the Legazpi City Airport, to perform the traditional Magayon dance as part of the Spanish convoy’s welcoming committee.

Meanwile, the students who were left in Ligao waved

the Essay Round, namely: Andre Borromeo, Amiel Llaneta, Gemarie Reforsado, Jessica Vibal, and Louise Guab. Reforsado, Llaneta, Guab and Vibal qualified for the Compilation round, and Llaneta passed up to the Final Defense round, which was held at the LCC Events Center at September 11, 2012.

In 2010, Bridgette Pecundo, a Senior student and Mrs. Diana L. Desuyo, an English teacher of the school made it to the top fifteen of their respective Gawad ALBAY sa Edukasyon Awards, with Mrs. Desuyo reaching up to the top ten

Nuñez qualifies for PMO Luzon Area Stage

Once again, the school’s excellence in Mathematics is proven as Kathleen Nunez, a third year student of Bicol Regional Science High School, made it to the 15th Philippine Mathematics Olympiad (PMO) Area Stage “DO THE MATH: COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS.” Kathleen in Luzon Nuñez as she compete with the other qualifiers from different after their schools in the National Level in the Philippine Mathematical qualifying Olympiad held in Ateneo De Naga University on October 13, examina-

tion last October 13, 2012 at the Ateneo de Naga University, in accordance with the Deparment of Education Memorandum no. 164 s.

2012.

The students who succeed to the Area Stage will compete in the National Stage together with the passers in the Visayas, Mindanao and National Capital Region Area stages, wherein the winners will represent the country in the 2013 International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO).

The Philippine Mathematics Olympiad is the oldest nationwide mathematics competition for secondary students which aims to stimulate the improvement of mathematics education in the country by awakening greater interest in and appreciation of math-

BRSHS celebrates Albay Literacy Week, 2nd in Speech Choir

Bicol Regional Science High School earns 2nd place at the Speech Choir contest category held last September 10, 2012 at Embarcadero de Legazpi.

The contest was in accordance with the Albay Literacy Week Celebration

Photo taken by https://www.facebook.com/ped.equal THEY BROUGHT HOME THE BACON. The selected foruth year students bag 2nd place in speech choir competition during the Albay Literacy Week held in Embarcadero De Legazpi on September 12, 2012.

NEWS BRIEFS

By Frederick Imperial

category of the search, dedicated to students who, at a young age, already display notable involvement in the society.

Of all those who qualified up to the final stages, Amiel Van made it to the final fifteen students of the search. He received P 5 000.00 in cash, accolades, a plaque and a medal from the sponsors.

The SEAL Awards consisted of five stages: Nomination, Essay-Writing, Compilationmaking, Interview and Final Defense. Students are filtered out through these stages in order to achieve the ten topperforming students of the province.

Five students made it up to

June-December 2012 7

flags of the two nations as the royal dignitary made her way to the JBDMDH in Barangay Tuburan, Ligao City.

According to the current Albay Governor Jose Salceda in a press conference, the queen was “very happy and quite impressed with Albay.”

Llaneta, Gawad ALBAY sa Edukasyon finalist

Exemplifying the qualities of an ideal model student, Amiel Van E. Llaneta, a Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) student was recently given a Gawad ALBAY sa Edukasyon distinction as finalist during the Search’s Awarding Ceremonies last October 19, 2012.

Held at the La Piazza Convention Center, Legaspi City, Albay, the Awards Ceremony acknowledged those who have made significant achievements in the field of academic development and community welfare.

Llaneta belonged to the Student’s Excellence in Academics and Leadership (SEAL) Awards

News

MY TEACHER. MY HERO. Selected fourth year students singing the song they wrote as a tribute to the teacher for the World Teacher;s Day Celebration on BRSHS Gymnasium on October 4, 2012.

Chem-in-a-1, MadSci Symposium bared

by John Frederick Imperial

The fourth year students with the Senior Chemistry for Unified Brisayan Students Organization (CUBS-O) held the annual Chem-in-a-1 and MadScience Symposium at the newly-erected Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) Trillanes Building.

Held last July 11-13, 2012, the symposium involves the methods of separating mixtures. The officers of the club, as well as the seniors, demonstrated these methods to the younger students.

On the first day the IV-Newton class held a symposium on Terrarium-making with Mrs. Madeline Protacio. It was then followed by a series of workshops.

The first year students, who served as the audience, were grouped into nine, with two senior students as the facilitators for each group.

After that, the IV-Einstein

students performed throughout the Chem-in-a-1. The event was separated into two parts, one, held in the morning of July 12, for the freshmen, and the second, held on the morning of the next day, for the Juniors.

In addition, the MadScience Symposium was conducted after the Chem-in-a-1. It is a demonstration of science magic tricks and projects and the secrets behind it.

The IV – Einstein students were divided into seven groups.

The MadSci, like the Chemin-a-1, was first held on the afternoon of July 12, for the first years and the II-Daffodil class, and on the next day at the same time for the third year and the rest of the second year students.

The Chem-in-a-1 and the MadScience Symposium was first held last 2008, spearheaded by Mrs. Emalyn G. Rempis.

ematics among students and teachers and gaining insights into the levels of mathematics learning.

Joining Kathleen Nunez in the Area Stage Qualifying Exam were seven other students from BRSHS namely Andre Borromeo, Christian Lucila, Paul Higinio Rinon, Ma. Patrichia Oliva, Elijah Copla, Janelle Irish Papica and Ana Mika Aberin. The repre-

sentatives were coached by Mrs. Dianne Requiza and Mrs. Cherryl Lita of the Mathematics Department.

The school is annually participating in the Philippine Mathematics Olympiad.

In 2009 and 2010, Eloiza Fay Bataller and Paul Simoune Pagulayan, respectively, were also qualifiers in the Area Stage -Paul Higinio Rinon

17 studes join NYSTESC 2012

Seventeen students of the Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) and two science teachers attended the 2012 National Youth Science, Technology and Environment Camp (NYSTESC) last April 1-4, 2012 at Malagos Garden Resort, Davao City.

With its theme, “Operation AQUILA: Illuminating the Code, Linking the Chains, Decrypting the Patterns”, students from all over the country studied about optics, material science, complex systems and solar energy from different lectures and workshops.

Moreover, there are also

essay-writing contests, sloganmaking, black light presentations, “Pasalubong Festival.”

Meanwhile, Amiel Van Llaneta, a senior student of the school won second place overall in the Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs (PSYSC) Science Olympiad.

The PSYSC and volunteers from the University of the Philippines (U.P.) spearheaded the summer camp together with the help of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the government of Davao City.

was used for the said contest.

Using their powerful voices and persuasive facial expressions, BRSHS outdid 2 other competitors that came from two of Albay’s other divisions. The BRSHS group received a cash price of P3,000.00 for their feat.

-Marie Adrienne Eugenio

Math Club, CUBS – O set off SciMath Fest

‘Science and Mathematics key for Survival: Restoration rather than Destruction, Derivation rather than Manipulation.’

This theme served as the centerpiece of this year’s School-Based Science and Mathematics Festival (SciMath Fest), kicked off by the school’s Mathematics club and the Chemistry for Unified Brisayan Students Organization (CUBS-O) last October 11 – 12, 2012.

Originally, the event was only a Mathematics Festival, but last year, the CUBS-O joined forces with the Math Club to form the activity, which aims to emphasize the impor-

tance of science and math in helping us cope with all the changes happening in the environment and in the community.

The student body was divided into 9 leagues which will compete with each other in order to be the champion.

Congregations of the leagues started on October 6, 2012.

The whole event consisted of several simultaneous activities: Essay Writing, Poster Making, Slogan, Jingle Making, Quiz Bee, Science Olympiad, Human Chess and Mathira Mathibay, to name a few. The showcases for the Puzzle, Game and device, from which the school will select the contestants for the Division

SciMathFest, was the highlight of the event.

At the awarding ceremonies, Ennea Metanoia, (League 9) was proclaimed the champion. The winners of the simultaneous events will also represent the school for the Division – level.

According to the Math Club President, Janelle Papica, “this year’s SciMath Fest is really different, to think that it was held in two days.” And “I am so glad that after all our hardwork, the fest was a success.”

This year’s SciMath was the first ever Science and Mathematics Festival to be held in two days.

Glenette Broma

By Kimbhert Prollamante

Imperial bags 2nd in RSSPC, qualifies for NSSPC in Leyte Frederick Imperial, a Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) student has recently bagged second place for the News Writing - English Category during the 2nd Bicol Patiribayan cum Regional Secondary Schools Press Conference held at Camarines Sur National High School last December 8 – 10, 2012.

Consistent with the Department of Education Regional Memorandum n. 146 s.

2012 and the Campus Journalism Act of 1991, this year’s press conference revolved around the theme ‘Campus

organized and held by the Provincial Government, in cooperation with the Reading Association of the Philippines.

The BRSHS choir consisted of 30 students, coached by Mrs. Diana L. Desuyo. A required and prepared piece (Earth keeper by Gary Granada)

Journalists: Championing Ethics in Social Media.’

The top three winners of the individual events (News Writing, Editorial Writing, Feature Writing, Photojournalism, Sports Writing Editorial Cartooning and Copyreading and Headline Writing), as well as the champion in Radio Broadcasting, in both English and Filipino will represent the region in the upcoming 2013 National Schools Press Conference that will be held at Ormoc City, Leyte this April 7-12, 2013.

HAND IN HAND. The first year students of BRSHS as they help each other to go to the first station in BRSHS Gym during the Sci-Math Festival while the III-Krypton students defending

SSG launches 2012 World

Teacher’s Day Celebration

As part of a worldwide tradition, the Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS)’s Supreme Student Government (SSG) took part on the annual celebration of the National Teacher’s Month (NTM), which started on September 5, 2012 and ended last October 4, 2012.

Consistent with the Department of Education (DepEd) National Memorandum no.

112 s. 2012 and Regional Memorandum no. 109 s. 2012, the event aims to underscore the unique role, service and

commitment teachers play in guiding families, strengthening communities, and building the nation.

With the theme, ‘My Teacher, My Hero’, it focuses on the nobility of the profession itself and promotes international standards for the teaching profession.

The celebration was highlighted with games, workshops, jingles made by students, and the dance presented by the teachers themselves. The students also performed short skits, song numbers poems and

tributes to pay homage for their mentors.

At the end, the sophomores were hailed the Champion, followed by the juniors, seniors, and the freshmen. But the part where the teachers’ efforts were recognized was the most significant part, since it was their moment after all.

The World Teacher’s Day has been celebrated every October 5 as declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1994.

-Glenette Broma

8 June-December 2012

The BRSHS Dance Theater --- a group promoting the Filipino traditions, values and culture through the medium of dance. DT has amazed Brisayanos and Filipinos by their stunning performances. The group even got Albay Gov. Joey Salceda and Ligao City Mayor Linda Gonzalez asking for more. DT wowed netizens all over the country by the pictures and videos of their dance routines. DT has also been winning in various street dance competitions that people tend to conclude that DT has it all. But the BRSHS Dance Theater still got us wondering, how did they become the premier dance group that they are today?

THE MEN BEHIND THE DT

The BRSHS Dance Theater has been known for its amazing performances. It’s just time for us to know the great minds behind each and every work of art.

The group’s Technical Director, Mr. Alfons Jayson Pelgone has been behind every dance move that the Dance Theater has been grooving to. He shared that his main reason on forming DT is to share his talents in dancing; considering that he is a dancer himself. Mr. Pelgone has been putting a lot of his time and effort in order to create well-thought productions that will leave spectators in amazement.

Aside from Mr. Pelgone, there’s another man behind the DT’s success. DT’s Musical Director Mr. Randy Briz puts the beat in DT, as it is the music that gives life to the performances. He has been behind all the catchy music that the Dance Theater has been dancing to.

DT ON PROMOTING PHILIPPINE CULTURE

As it was stated earlier, The BRSHS Dance Theater had its goal of promoting the Philippine culture. And from that sole aim has sprung elegant and graceful performances. DT has been noted for its well executed folkdances. Also, DT has been creating dance renditions on legends here in the Province of Albay.

DT ON PROMOTING VALUES The BRSHS Dance Theater does not only aim to educate the audience through the art and science of dance. It also aims to instill values in each and every one of them.

First is nationalism, which is quite evident with DT’s performances. The Philippine Folkdances, OPM renditions and many more--- this only shows that the Dance Theater is here to showcase the diversity of our culture and to instill in each person the love for country.

Next is creativity. Dancers have been using it to craft amazing dance moves that will lead to spectacular productions. The musicians have been using their musical prowess in order to give the “beat” in DT. And the propsmen have been using it to showcase the well-defined lines and colors that put emphasis on the different presentations.

Third is discipline. Each and every member must have discipline---in terms of time and attitude.

Even in small matters such as coming to practices at the given time or performing the task properly, it has been evident that discipline is within DT. Finally, we have trust in the Lord. Before, during and after performances, DT never fails to ask guidance from the Almighty Father. Their constant trust in the Lord has been leading them to victory.

“...Educating the people through the art and science of dance... ...showcasing their cultural tapestry

and colorful heritage..”

- BRSHS DT

Features

Features

June-December 2012 9

One Dance

One Family

The Ultimate Dance Master:

up-close and personal

1.Why is it that you formed the BRSHS Dance Theater?

I made the BRSHS Dance Theater because I believe that dance is not an art for mediocre people, it is an intellectual expression, and maybe, I, being a dancer ever since felt the obligation to share my gifts in the field of science.

3..What makes DT different from other dance troupes here in Ligao and in the Bicol Region?

This is difficult to answer since all of the Bicolano dance groups that I know are really good but I know for a fact that if the DT is in question, I always make sure that performances are well thought of, that we put the context into the production, that 2.Throughout DT's 5 relevance and authenticity years, what do you think is is seen and as I always say, the biggest challenge that we should dance as one the group encountered? from the heart and from The biggest challenge, one culture base.

I cannot remember a challenge though. I think in the start we had difficulty 4. DT had its own ups and since we had more good downs. To whom does DT female dancers than male draw inspiration to conbut we surely made it. tinue in performing?

DT is always dedi-

cated to the source of all wisdom and talent, the Almighty Father. In every performance, we always pray and offer our talents and thank him for such.

We even offer the results, win or lose. The bottom line is we dance because we are a living proof of God’s providence.

5. The BRSHS Dance Theater has been made more famous through your "Piliin mo ang Pilipinas" video. As a matter fact, the 2 videos have 16,145 and 8,860 YouTube hits respectively.

How are you feeling that DT is made known to Filipinos?

Being popular is one thing, and, it is not the goal of DT. The main

goal of DT is to educate audiences of the art and science of dance and, to showcase our cultural tapestry and colorful heritage. Well, about the Youtube hits, of course, I am very happy that people can appreciate our work as well as thankful for having time to view such and I hope that our videos may inspire them to dance as well 6. What's next for BRSHS Dance Theater?

I really don’t know but, I wanted to create an onstage dance rendition of a Ligaoeno legend. I just hope that the DT will still be a source of pride for all of us.

Features

10 June-December 2012

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 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.

There is much more to the new system than the big two years added to the basic education curriculum. It is not empty. It is with substance.

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 level of education on our country needs the first move. The quality is poor because of insufficient instructional time.

The curriculum is very compressed or congested that the substance is very insufficient. To add to the disadvantages, there is a significant mismatch in the labour and educational market. Many graduates are unemployed or their works do not match their expertise.

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 this 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. K 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!

Features

June-December 2012 11

The Grade 6 students will have their next step in life with the K+12 Basic Education Curriculum such as Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao, Independent Cooperative Learning and Electronics.

Flying Through K+12 What is K+12 for a ROBOTICS in the RSHS plus K+12

GRADE 7 Student?

By Ma. Connie Prianes, Ana Mariella Morada, Precious Mella

After I’ve graduated from elementary, what first came to mind is what I will do to start my new beginning better. Many people ask me if what school I will go when I’m in high school. But the thing that I always say is “I don’t know”. But that’s not what I’m bothering about. It’s about more work you must exert. Since k+12 curriculum is approved, I must do what needs to be done for they added two more years in secondary education. And now, that I’ve started to begin my new journey in life; we need to grow up mentally and show maturity in our minds. And when I’m listening to our teacher, I’ve just thought of how many years will I spend to achieve my own goals in life and how much will I spend to achieve it?

Junior High School. The first four years of our lives in high school. The years we thought we could enjoy for we knowingly could already go to college afterwards. But no! We still have two more years. Now that’s a shame for us, the students. First year in our high school life was already a haggard. Know why?

More subjects. Meaning, more work, work, work. More work. What more for the higher years we take? What will happen? That is no longer a mystery for us because as it goes higher, it gets even harder. Hard as ever!

But how hard it is, the students like us must pass through that obstacle. And even you didn’t pass that challenge the work will be harder than you’ve ever thought it would be. As a student, everything is possible as long as you want to pass. Let’s not get discouraged. No more playing games. There are other ways to have fun but you only live once. We need to make it useful, not just for fun and games.

Senior High School. Now this seems kind of confusing. We could already have jobs after these two years. This is like having two years of education in college. Let’s not keep thinking about the bad sides, let’s now go to the good sides and effects. Because education is not measured on how much money you spend during your studies but the lessons you’ve learned every time you go to school.

Some not so good things also have a great prize in return. And that is Education. We have to strive hard to achieve our goals in life, to be successful someday. Some parents’ pockets might have grown holes. They support us, so we should be thankful that we still have something to eat, something to dress, and all of the things that we have that others don’t. We should study first. That’s all they’re asking, that’s the least thing we could do for them. We should be proud of what we’ve become every step we take in our lives.

By Michael Tanay

The Grade 7 students of Bicol Regional Science High School are having their classes following the K+12 Curriculum plus the RSHS Curriculum of the institution.

Following the implementation of the K+12 Curriculum to the schools in the Philippines, Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) also added subjects that will boost the students’ knowledge and will certainly adapt to the changing world in the 21st century: Robotics, to formally follow the guidelines of memorandums released by the Department of Education (DepEd).

In the combination of computer and science technology, a study of theory, a study of devices controlled by processed information was built.

Robotics, according to Wikipedia, is the branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation and application of robots and computer systems for their control, sensory feedback, and information processing. It is the design and technology in related with artificial intelligence controlled by computer systems. Robotics involve mechanical automated robots used for assembly lining purposes. These technologies deal with automated machines that can take the place of humans, in hazardous or manufacturing processes, or simply just resemble humans. Many of today’s robots are inspired by nature contributing to the field of bio-inspired robotics.

Since students are now much involved with modern technology, educators have made it a point that Robotics must be incorporated with the K to12 Regional Science High School curriculum that is timely being implemented and yet suitable for our new generation of students.

12 June-December 2012

Features

Life at BRSHS - Marie Adrienne Eugenio

June-December 2012 13

Literary “A book is the only place in which you can examine a fragile thought without breaking it, or explore an explosive idea without fear it will go off in your face. It is one of the few havens remaining where a man’s mind can get both provocation and privacy. ”~Edward P. Morgan I was in my 5th grade

I was brought to it to the different world. Through books, I was able to explore things though I haven’t visited it yet. I was able to taste foods that I haven’ttried it yet. I was able to feel what the characters felt in the story; how they cry, how they laugh, how they felt mourn and sadness.

My love affair with Books..

- Shielo Pasahol

I could no longer count the number of times that I walked down this familiar dirt road.

After spending two years in this institution, I’ve grown used to calling it my home.

This was the place where I met the people I’m positive and would always call my friends.

In this place I laughed, cried, complained, failed, tried, and repeatedly embarrassed myself. Here I was able to break down the wall that once trapped me to my own little world.

As I continued to tread the dirt path that lead to my second home, I took some time to look around my surroundings.

As was usual in early morning sceneries, students moving about the campus were apparent. Some of them were laughing while others looked firm and business-like. The contradiction between them was great, yet they somehow

managed to both blend perfectly with their surroundings while shining as well. This, I realize was something that all Brisayanos have in common. I looked more closely at the students scattered about and spotted another common ground, something that probably defined most of Brisayan life. This was the obvious fact that almost each student present were carrying heavy books and overflowing backpacks, conversing about the coming exams and school work for the day. Stress was inevitable in this school… something that we’ve grown used to. Despite this fact, it’s clear as a bright summer day that each and every student here enjoyed their stay.

Life at BRSHS is a roller coaster of activities. Unlike in other school where teachers alone organize most activities, BRSHS allows a more

hands-on approach on almost all occasions. Students are trained to effectively handle situations and lead their fellow students towards the achievement of the same goal; we learn to lead and have fun at the same time.

There are activities here such as the ever popular Leadership and Science camps. These are probably the most known stress reliever for most students. Here we are able to experience a week of camping and rigorous activities. Another activity, the annual Reading Marathon promotes great literary awareness. It’s main event—the speech choir— challenges the creativity and unity of all students. But like all things, it can’t always be all fun. All students who leave this school depart with pride and knowledgebut not without first undergoing the rough process of education.

Life at BRSHS could be compared to the process of the forma-

tion of diamonds. As all people know, diamonds are the hardest, rarest mineral there is. It has this subtle beauty that somehow radiates great splendor in every possible way. Like all Brisayan students, diamonds do not only have their astonishing beauty to be proud of, but also their unwavering strength and their uncanny ability to cut through almost any obstacle. Truly Brisayanos have both the skill and demeanor. Brisayanos though, like diamonds, are first made under pressure.

Projects, exams, quizzes, deadlines and not to mention the difficult classes, these are the things that we Brisayanos experience at a day to day basis.

We are constantly challenged to perform to the best of our abilities. We are subjected to a great amount of pressure; we are molded into disciplined and respectable beings.

At most times, as was in-

evitable, people would complain. They would question the need for such measures, but deep down, years from now, when they’ve been turned into wonderful diamond that all would surely admire, they would look back to the days where they worked late evenings, crammed to finish requirements and even the times when they’ve failed some exams. They would look back to those times and feel a sense of longing. Despite the pressure, the scolding and the hardships, Brisayanos will never forget the wonderful things they found here. They would never forget the friends, the trips, the activities, the passion and the pride.

As I finally reach our classroom, I looked back again to the students around me; the buildings, the benches, the teachers.

I smiled; I will never forget this.

It was getting nearer and nearer, with each passing time, each ticking of the clock, it only got undeniably closer. Hands sweating and heart hammering from the adrenaline-filled effort I was exerting to outrun the deadline that was steadily closing in, I allow my hand to soar through the initially blank paper. A few more seconds later, the bell rang and with a great sigh of relief, I finish my written report.

It was only after that, that I was able to take in my surroundings. I looked around and saw that almost everyone had just barely finished their own reports. With the exception of those who were fortunate enough to have finished their narratives before the actual day of submission, it was undeniable that most of our classmates crammed in this particular activity.

Cramming… it’s definitely not a foreign word

for Brisayanos. It’s rather amusing in fact, if not quite irksome, that cramming has become a significant part of high school life.

Brisayanos are not strangers to the late-night journal entries and the spur of the moment RAS designs and lyrics.

Ironically enough, despite being trained under pressure and under a strict deadline, we have still failed to eradicate our habit of leaving our school work undone until a few hours before submission.

Indeed, this has become so rampant that almost anyone can honestly say that one is not a Brisayano until they’ve crammed something overnight or in the span of a few minutes. And as a result, Brisayanos have become quite used to its stirring effects.

But though the thrill felt after surviving another round of cramming is exhilarating, one can never deny the fact that it has its unflattering effects.

A grand-scale project could be reduced to meager and rushed outputs, exams scores would crawl to barely passing grades and a well-rested and relaxed mind would not be present due to sleepless nights and a stressed- out lifestyle… these are some results of rushing things that were meant to be done with the proper precision and time. For you see, though it is undeniably a lot more challenging and exciting to cram than doing things quietly beforehand, it doesn’t hide the fact that at most times, you downgrade your ability and chance to create phenomenal masterpieces. Indeed, instead of having your skimpy output, you could’ve made something that would not only make you proud, but would also definitely impress your teachers and classmates.

But it does not do well to dwell on these regrets… In

the end, it would all come down to wanting to do better the soonest possible time.

To give cramming its due, it’s still also quite true that there are a lot of times when crammed outputs are even better than those you prepare ahead of time. Of course, if one is coursing with adrenaline and a single minded goal whilst trying to accomplish a task, it would only seem fit that one will also produce great quality outputs despite not having much time to do it. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that a person has to result to cramming in order to gain good results. If one could channel the proper amount of passion and concentration while working, he would need not to result to purposefully cramming for projects or exams.

Being a student myself who has gone through a lot of cramming—probably even a

lot more than most— I’m not implying that one must never cram. I find it impossible not to do so once in a while, but it’s advisable that if possible, do some things ahead of time to save you from the nerveracking pressure of deadlines.

Funnily enough, like so many, many things, cramming also has both good and bad sides. It’s more of a matter of having a strong enough will to summon when you’re tempted to leave something undone until the submission date.And it’s also a matter of balance.

Now, our teacher, having finished today’s lesson, was asking one student to distribute photocopied formats for some school work to be passed by tomorrow afternoon. As I receive and stare at my copy, I realize something with building dread: Now, I don’t really feel like I’m up to doing this tonight…

To cram or not to cram

- Marie Adrienne Eugenio

when I fell in love with books.

At first, I just started with the short novels like “Fifteen”, “The princess and the Dragon” but as I grow older, my affection with books grew deeper and deeper. The simple books that I read turn into more complicated one. At the age of 11, I was able to finish already the series of Chronicles of Narnia and many hardbound books.

When I read the book written

by C. S Lewis, I had a dream to become a reliable source of imagination, not just an imagination but also information that will teach children and also the young adults in situations written in my books.

When I stepped in high school, the affection grew deeper and deeper that every time we visit malls, I always drag my parents to a bookstore to buy some books.

My parents always try their best to buy all that I wanted. According to them, it is only my great addiction, at least I am habituated to books not to some illegal drugs.

Every time I read books,

One time, I was reading a book in the corner of my room and my mom caught me crying.

She asked me why, I told her that I was hooked by the story.

When I encounter sad endings, I’ve always asked myself if why did it happen, why does it had to be that way, how does it happen. Some time again, I was laughing alone in our dining table and I was caught not by my mom but this time by my dad. Actually I was so embarrassed for I’ve realized that we have visitors that time. But I told myself, at least I was able to be happy though I know that I was embarrassed in front of our visitor, I know in myself that I’ve enjoyed reading books.

Books always bring me in serenity, peace and extraordinary experience that in ordinary and natural life, you know you would never experience.

Books are like DOTA, you become addicted to it the only difference was, I’m gaining knowledge and acquiring experiences and you will never spend money for nothing.

Have you heard the saying “Time is Gold”? Does it remember you of something?

Do you know what it means?

Actually, time here is not the literal meaning of gold, a precious metal but time here is compared to gold which is a precious thing that we should give importance in our lives.

Time management is something that each one of us must possess in order to be more productive and progressive.

We should know how to allot our time in every activity that we will be doing. We can’t spend twelve hours in front of our computers just to browse the internet or play computer games and we can’t only spend five minutes just to study our lessons. Time management is challenging most especially to the students because they need to manage their time in doing their chores as well as in studying their lessons.

Time managing is also very difficult if you have many activities to attend to for the day.

It is just managing yourself.

Another point that we have to remember is we should not waste time. Wasting time is just like wasting your money. Of course, you don’t want to waste your money.

We should also learn to make most of our time with our loved ones. They also need our time, you can spend a day going to mall or playing something that interests you and your loved ones.

One last thing to remember is that “Time flies when you’re having fun”. So you better check the time right now, because I’m sure you had fun reading this. Always remember manage time, don’t waste time and spend time with your loved ones.

A break from REALITY

-Marie Adrienne Eugenio

May it be J.K. Rowling’s enchanting Harry Potter series, or Stephenie Meyer’s hypnotic Saga, there would be no denying that you would find a common ground in both equally dashing novels. This similarity is the fact that both are fictional.

Fiction is not a very unfamiliar word, as a matter of fact; it could be considered as a dominant part of our daily lives. Like all things, Fiction has both pros and cons.

One of its disadvantages, which has been so numerously pointed out by various readers is the verity that it distracts people from reality’s more pressing concerns involving poverty and the like.

Some people would say that by reading fiction, you deprive yourself of the “‘important’” knowledge that involves our community. Others may state that Fiction denies the nation a chance of receiving anoth-

er helping hand that would aid in solving of our world’s various anxieties. But despite knowing this very vital fact,

School life becomes more difficult as time passes by, more difficulties to overcome. In the fifteen years of challenges in school, how would it be if that fifteen years will be added by more years?

people to have an additional knowledge and to enhance more their skills. There are lots of benefits that we can get in K+12 but K+12 has also its disadvantages.

K+12 can give people benefits. But there are also

what is it about fiction that compels millions of readers worldwide to ask for more?

That question is quite simple if one would choose to disregard its disadvantages for a while and reflect. Think of it this way: Wouldn’t it be nice to have a good fictional book after realizing the depressing state of one’s country? Fiction

K to 12: Friend or Foe TIme is to Gold

-Amiel Van Llaneta

We notice nowadays that life is getting difficult because of people's daily needs.

Some people are suffering from poverty because of lack of education in their lives.

Because of lack of education, they do not have their proper jobs. The Republic of the Philippines is now trying to solve this problem and they will apply K+12 to enable the young generations to have a job or a profession right after they graduated from high school.

K+12 or K to 12 means Kindergarten and the 12 Years of Elementary and Secondary Education. K+12 is applied to enhance the quality of education in the Philippines and also to enable the Filipino citizens to have a noble profession. Having these good features of K+12, it also has advantages or disadvantages.

K+12 helps the young generations and also the country to produce productive citizens. It also helps the young

disadvantages. Some people do not like the K+12 program.

It is because of poverty. They cannot afford the bills of having additional years in high school. Some people do not like it because they want to have an early occupation and because of it, they will spend more years of education in school instead of having a job.

Even though there are disadvantages, there will always be benefits that will help people and the community lead the way to progress and success.

K+12 can be a friend or foe depending on the perspective of each individual.

It can be a friend for people who believe that it can help them to have an occupation earlier in time. It can also be a foe for those people who are find it difficult to finance their school needs. Now, let me leave this question to you: K+12 is a friend or a foe?

may distract us from reality, but that is its purpose: To provide a blissful escape for the troubled minds. Fiction allows you to explore beyond reality’s unnerving boundaries.

We are given the chance to find a temporary getaway from our predicaments and as well as serve as our dose of happiness in times of great trouble and fear. It may not always be the best choice to run from you troubles, but it is constantly better to value your sanity by avoiding too many unnecessarily stressful facts that we certainly have no control over.

It is not a sin to lie back once in a while with a good fictional book at hand rather than a stack of up to date newspapers. After all, what better way to prepare your brain for upcoming worries than to have a well-earned rest from reality?

Playing with my Imagination -Amiel Van Llaneta

One day while I was walking in the street I felt something on my feet The feeling that’s really disturbing And I wonder what it will bring The cold wind that blew to my direction The frozen reaction in my imagination It gave me chills My heart is ready to fill As I pursue walking I heard somebody talking Goosebumps run over my body I wonder if it is just a fancy I heard it was getting nearer So I continue to walk faster Now I was sure that someone’s following me Something I want to see I started to run I’m not really having so much fun.

I’m shocked with my reaction All this time, it was just my imagination.

Literary

14 June-December 2012

Words could shatter the Soul

by Marie Adrienne Eugenio Words are powerful.

sawed in half.

when I felt most vulnerable, a

strength I had gave way. For

If used wisely, they could

time when I felt most deeply

you see, during that moment, I

revolutionize the world;

scarred, so deeply crestfallen.

experienced yet again the po-

asked on any particular sub-

treated without care, they

I have always known that in

tency of words uttered lacking

ject, consider first what it took

could destroy the very

whatever thing you do, there

so much care that it sniped at

to reach that line. Consider

foundation of a person.

would always be a critic. I have

almost every single bit of me it

the time, the effort, and the

They can scar deeply and leave

always known this and though

could reach.

intentions, because time will

So, once your opinion is

truly come when you would

marks that can never be erased

I never took comfort in such

no matter how hard one tries.

knowledge… I was still caught

not meant to be stated, I say

find yourself in that very same

God gave us the ability to

off guard. I still recoil at the

it with deep emotion. Because

position and asking for this

express what we think and what

memory when harsh words

no matter how much an opinion

same courtesy. I ask not for

we feel. He gave us the means

and painful criticism lashed

may count, its still a matter of

people to speak lies and say the

of conveyance, but what we

though me like wild fire, when

convey is up to us. He gave us

misused words and deteriorat-

having the ethics to control your opposite of what they truly feel words. To be rejected no matter just for the benefit of obscuring

the right to articulate and with

ing thoughts made me weak

how much you try, to have all

the facts… but simply the

it came the responsibility to

and fragile. I have barely had

your hard work be treated like

manners to hold back their

hold back some words that are

troubles in holding back my

trash, to hear people say that

tongues, because sticks

simply too rude to utter.

tears in the past, but at that

what you did merits not even

and stones will only break

I write this while pain-

unbearable moment when I felt

their attention is so excruciat-

your bones but words could

SPLASH

fully looking back to the time

so insubstantial, no matter what

ing, it feels like you’ve just been shatter the soul.

By Marlou Princesa

Which do you prefer,

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"

When I say some words are

Mind Vs. Heart not know if it can hurt

-Jasmine Pajarin your heart knows nothing

knowing how to love or

other people or contradict

more but to be depressed;

loving how to know? Hard

to them. The mind might

the mind will tell your

choices, right? Many peo-

be smart enough to learn

heart to be open-minded

ple agree that without our

everything about life, but

about the things you are

mind, we cannot do any-

it is not smart enough to

depressed about. If you are

thing at all. There will be

know how to perceive some

doing many things: projects

Splash! Trash is being thrown To the ocean floor again I can hear the ocean moan "You will suffer, you evil men"

no technology, agriculture

abstract objects, especially

and other tasks at school

and we wouldn’t even think

love. The heart is loving. It

and at work, your mind

about life, therefore the

knows how to love greatly

only knows how to do them,

mind is much more prefer-

and to hate greatly. It may

it doesn’t know how to do

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"

able. However, we were

know the things it should

those things with passion

created by our God to love

possess but it does not

and appreciation.

one another, that’s why we

know that, especially at our

have various feelings for

generation, many people

posites and contradicting

each other. We may not pre-

are plastic in attitude and

things, but we must not

vent some people to argue

you may not know that

dare remove one to help the

Splash! A big roaring thunder With rain as it passes by The drainages clogged under It's Flooding! My oh my!

which is better but we can

someone is backstabbing

other because in this world,

show them the two:mind

you unless you are smart

we are not perfect, but what

and heart, should always

enough to.

keeps our world perfect are

"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?"

The mind knows ev-

should work together for a

gives balance:the sun and

erything when it is taught

life anyone would ever ask

moon, the water and fire,

about it. But the mind will

for. If you are depressed,

the mind and the heart.

"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!"

be working together.

Both the mind and heart

Everything has op-

the pairs of opposites which

Fruits for a Good Heart

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 Tanay

situation.

Do you know of some Virtues?

Some of these are obedience, diligence, honesty, patience, cleanliness of the mind, heart and words, and many more. If you take an enumeration test about these virtues, it would be easy to perfect it. But having these virtues applied to our life

Best of Friends

By Vincent Abo

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 two- best 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 two- best friends naturally, And if I'm ever afraid you'll help me pull through-, forever best friends me and you.

is never as easy as to mention them orally, and we may have a good brain instead of a good heart.

No matter how smart or good-looking you are, if you don’t have a good heart, you will never be good enough to live a worthwhile life. Let’s ponder about it.

June-December 2012 15

Literary

How It’s Like To Be ME

By Nina Angela Alano

No matter how I live my life with glee, No matter how many smiles I give daily.

I just want to tell you honestly, It’s really hard to be me.

Feeling the everyday hustle and bustle of the city, It always makes me feel that I live in prosperity.

But knowing that people do watch my actions daily, I know that I cannot move freely.

I feel a sense of comfort and protection, When I get to school and be with my companions.

But still I get scared to be with other people, For I know that comments about me would multiply up to a quadruple.

A Teacher Like You

By Michaelah Convocar Will I find a new teacher like you?

A teacher who cares when we are blue

What Am I

By Diana Desuyo I am not daylight like a sun

Nor a candle nor a bulb in a lantern But I set alight every human soul and spirit And brighten up even the darkest tunnels of the heart.

Someone who makes us see

I am not a school like a learning center

our mistakes

Nor any ordinary stuff in a minster

And teaches us the right

But I teach about life in heaven and on earth

thing to do

And what I am inspires mortal with wisdom and breath.

We want to join through

Each time I go home, I somehow get this feeling that I’m inside a dome.

My mind’s drifting and thoughts are flown into another dimension, And once again, I know that I’m alone.

The endless journey with

I am not a place like a library

you

Nor a shelf, nor a cabinet in a chalet

You help us find the way

But I contain several tomes anyway

But in these times where I am in a trance, I only ask for God’s guidance.

For I know that he will guide me everyday, Whatever problems may come my way.

say:

We’ll make you proud to These children that met

And own six tens and six ones in an array.

Seek me therefore from within

success

And you’ll find life amidst misfortune

And now, as I lay down to get a good night’s sleep, I pray once more that I will have a good dream and not in the bed I’ll flip.

I’ll thank him for that he has given me, Though it’s really quite hard to be me.

The ones I guided through

And if you welcome me at home,

They finished the endless

You’ll surely enjoy eternal mansion.

“Life is not a fairy tail sequel of happy ever after, but a novel of infinitegenres and possibilities.”

Every person has their own perspective of what life is.

Others say it’s a compilation of darling thoughts and memories. Others say it is just merely breathing: the essence of waking up everyday and living life without limits. But with all those definitions and perspectives of what life is, there’s one thing they need to eliminate in their minds--- that life is a fairytale. Life alone, has many trials and challenges to encounter. Life is not a fairytale, and no one is the princess or the prince.

But the quality of one’s life depends upon three things: goals, choices, and love. How do these things affect the quality of life?

How do these things colors up a person’s universe?

Why do people need to have a goal in life? Is that life’s requirement?

Is that important? Goals--the first and primary matter of life. A person’s goal or aim reflects his/her personality and disposition in life. The goal of a person

a part of this mighty life.

Choices and chances---they go on together. A choice can never be done without that certain chance. Choices in life is very important. In this life of survival and competition, a person needs to choose only the best of them all. Without choices and chances, the whole world will be dangled into misconceptions, fallacies, misunderstandings, nettlesome environment, and many more. The world today is the world dominated by choices and chances. Right choices were the quintessence of life here on earth. It’s the tool for a better and more progressive future. Right choices are the wisest ideas in life: they brought out the best in the future. “ Love is not best defined in infinite, dramatic, sensuous, words; it’s the action that means a lot.

Don’t let the tongue speak, let the heart do it.” Back when someone is still a child, he/she is born in the blankets of love and care of a mother. Inexplicably, this love; a mother’s love is a person’s first love of all. And within this first love,

journey With smiles that make peo-

What am I by the way?

ple bloom

The Majestic Piece occupies a great part of the whole being. From the eyes of a child full of innocence, up to the outline of a man full of hopes and dreams, goals never stop to roll over the minds of the one’s who continue to dream. Into the great spirit of hopes of reaching a goal, is keeping up to persevere and have a positive trait of optimism. A dream blooms when butterflies of desire touched an innocent heart of a child. And that starts the goal until that child grows up. It is very important to have a goal in life. Over the years of growing up, a person must have that path to where he/she must go.

Plus, that eagerness of reaching a goal in life must reign in a person’s heart. And it is a great feeling of happiness to be able to reach it.

“The choices we made today affects much of what will happen tomorrow.” A person’s choice or decision is very powerful. It is the intellect to decide and stand out for a certain thought or something. The choices made, the chances taken, is just

blooms the love a person can share to someone or to everybody. No one can define love--- it’s just a great and intense feeling even from the first glance of his/her picture in the board, the first conversation with him/her, or even in undefined times, there goes love.

The feeling of oneness to other person and comfort.

The feeling like falling into a distinct dimension, and into that one heart-stopping moment he/she is the light: the light that will shine up the universe. It is important to love, and be able to experience the magic of love. Because to love brings out the best in a person, and gives inspiration to overcome challenges and surpass all those trials that comes to life. Love binds two hearts of nowhere, and without their notice, they’re falling to each other.

W h a t e v e r charisma,enchantness, or magic, love had to have that lifetime effect, the important thing is that everyone has their own opportunity to love and be loved. “ Love your life, live with love.

By Joshua Patrick Siapno The quality of one’s life depends on three things: goals, choices, and love.” These things, are the most quintessence of living. Without the balance of this three, life is somewhat dull and nettlesome; just like a plain, old, rocky shore. Life’s highest quality is when a person reached the peak of his/her goals, right and wise choices, and the magic of true love. These things colors up one’s universe by adding different series of moments and genres in life. These give a person the balance of faces of life: frustrations, success, satisfaction, and many more. That’s what living is ought to be. But before a person reach the entity of success, there goes first hardships and challenges to encounter and overcome.

All through this, life is a great gift from God. It must be respected and must gave importance. Behold this gift of love from God. “Life is wonderful and splendid as it is--- the way the Creator created this majestic p i e c e . ”

Science

16 June-December 2012

Robotics: Flying through the Future “Asimo”, the most recognized Japanese-made humanactiuve robot stunned the whole world for its incredible features of accesory and competency, The robot is equipped to perform human activities. Its movements were highly innovated compared to ours. Indeed, this is the most fascinating thing that has even invented in the field of technology, specifically in robotics.

Looking backwards to centuries, we cannot note prob-

ably even ordinary people can resemble the differences in inventions of the past to the recent ones. Due to modernization, we can now conceive and bring forth vision to reality. It is now getting more challenging.

Technology is further getting nearer in imploding the toy of making impossible things, real and possible. With the help of science, building up a new machine or a device is not a deal anymore. It slowly reveals the truth

Science

June-December 2012 17

RESEARCH CORNER

SABA BANANA (Musa paradisiaca Linn) PEELING EXTRACTS AS AN EFFECTIVE MEDICAL ANTI-COAGULANT TESTED Proponents: Amiel Van Llaneta, Louise Angelica Guab, Andre Borromeo ON LABORATORY MICE 3rd place, Cluster 2, Team Category, 2012 Regional Science and Technology Fair

that it is in the rapid innovation.

Robotics is a branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operator and application of robots and computer systems for their control, sensory, feedbacks and information processing.

It is the design and technology with artificial intelligence controlled by computer systems. Robotics involve mechanical automated robots used for assembly living purposes.

The abnormal clotting of the blood can cause death particularly in dangerous instances such as stroke and heart attack caused by the obstruction of the blood vessel leading to the brain and the coronary artery correspondingly. Hypertension on the other hand is another case that causes a lot of complications in the health of the humans. It is also caused by an abnormal blood clot. The commercialized anticoagulants such as heparin have lethal side effects. Researchers recognized specific phytochemicals that are plants substances preventing disease, having the tendency to

Tech Reviews:

Looking Back at 2012’s Life-changing breakthroughs

Innovation has been the talk of the trade since the start of the 21st century. A Wall Street Journal article published earlier this year regretted the more recent overuse of the word.

Such pervasive usage may be diluting the very meaning of innovation. But as the global economy searches for ways out of its current quagmire, the

word is again fresh on many lips—innovation economy, innovation strategies, innovation officers, and the foreboding-sounding innovation gap.

From a 3-D system for culturing cells and tissues and a synthetic gene service to a laboratory organization Web and iPad app and products that showcase the latest in rapid,

cheap genome sequencing, this year’s winners exemplify true innovation. And to celebrate that spirit of inventive creativity, in which researchers and product developers push the technological envelope in order to propel science and our exploration of life, we present The Matrix’s Top 10 Innovations of 2012.

BioFab GEN9 Modern pharmaceutical, chemical, and fuel companies increasingly depend on synthetic biology to produce DNA tailor-made to suit their production needs.

Making synthetic genes to program microorganisms used to require a lot of time, in addition to expensive robots and other equipment, but Gen9 has developed BioFab, a new system that can quickly and cheaply produce tens of thousands of double-stranded DNA fragments of between 500 and 1,000 base pairs in length.

The company’s system for “biological fabrication” couples inexpensively made small DNA fragments with chemical processes that accurately assemble them into larger DNA strands, which the platform can do in bulk.

Though pricing varies with the amount of synthetic DNA and the modifications a customer needs, the cost can be less than 10 cents per base pair, which is as little as 1/5 of what some competitors charge, according to Gen9 President and CEO

Kevin Munnelly. “The ability to synthesize large numbers of genes in parallel at low cost could transform the field of computational protein design,” says molecular engineer David Baker of the University of Washington, who is a customer and a member of the Gen9 advisory board.

2. Ion Proton System Life Technologies Human-scale genome sequencing just got a whole lot more accessible. Twelve years ago, it cost $1 billion to sequence a single human genome. By next year, using Life Technologies’ Ion Proton machine, it will take less than a day and cost $1,000 (not including analysis costs, of course).

Launched in September, Ion Proton is driven by the same semiconductor technology—which converts chemical information directly into digital data— that powers the successful Personal Genome Machine (PGM). For now, the Proton I chip sequences a human exome in a few hours. But in early 2013, Life Technologies will release the Proton

II chip, designed to handle an entire human genome, from sample prep to full sequence, in 8 hours. The Ion Proton costs $244,000, and each disposable one-run chip goes for $1,000.

3. MyCell Services Cellular Dynamics International This October, Shinya Yamanaka shared the 2012 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discovery that injecting a few transcription factors into a differentiated adult cell can render that cell pluripotent once again. The technology revolutionized biomedical research, allowing scientists to create induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models for a variety of diseases. Now, Cellular Dynamics International (CDI) is utilizing that technology to offer, via the company’s MyCell Services, iPSC lines from any patient of interest, as well as differentiated cell lines derived from the iPSCs. 4.Labguru BioData Vanishing are the days when grad students and postdocs scribble their ex-

1.

slow down blood coagulation.

Due to this, the proponents conducted an experimental research using Saba Banana (Musa paradisiaca Linn) Fruit Peelings Extracts as an effective medical anti-coagulant tested on laboratory mice to be used as a potential treatment for hypertension and stroke.

The prepared extract and water were used. These two ingredients were mixed to prepare different concentrations.

The concentrations were 2575%, 50-50%, and 75-25% extracts. The extracts were put in a calibrated dropper and orally administered to the laboratory

mice. The standards for the mechanism were based on the standard operating procedures done by the veterinarians. Clotting time of the blood samples was observed using slide test.

In Slide Testing, a blood sample was observed until a fibrin thread forms. Results were recorded based on a seven and ten minute observation periods.

The Means of the varying treatments showed significantly different results showing that the 75%:25% of Saba Banana Extracts and water is the most effective among the treatments.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

perimental setups and data in splotched black-and-white notebooks. Labs across the world are going digital, and Labguru is a new product that could change the way that labs chart their progress.

Labguru (coincidentally featured in this month’s Careers article “Lab 2.0”) is a digital platform, accessible via an Internet browser or as an iPad app, that stores data from different investigators in a lab, tracks reference materials, logs logistical information such as reagent inventory, and can be used to share experimental protocols and other useful tidbits. “Our biggest concern is to get labs to run more efficiently and to be more productive,” says Jonathan Gross, founder of BioData Ltd., the Israel-based company that created Labguru.

5. MiSeq Illumina Illumina has incorporated its ubiquitous sequencing by synthesis (SBS) technology into a stripped down “personal sequencer” called MiSeq—a faster, cheaper, and simpler benchtop ma-

chine that aims to bring next-gen sequencing into the mainstream.

For a 2-square-foot device it packs a lot of throughput, supporting 2x250 base pair runs. And MiSeq’s intuitive interface makes it very user-friendly. Just prepare the DNA, load the cartridge, and press “Go.” It’s fast, too: users can prepare samples in 90 minutes and sequence an entire microbial genome in a day or less. And at $125,000 per machine—with individual runs costing from $400 to $750—MiSeq is affordable enough to use in clinical settings.

Based on the afformentioned gadgets, we can really say that we have done so many things in the name of technology. From the discovery of the uses of fire, to the birth of genetic engineering, we have really invented so much in order to make our life easier. No one knows the future of our discoveries, but one thing’s for sure, there is many more to come, for the minds that God gave us are endless.

The study is expected to have some significance to the following: Hematology. The results of the study can lead to a breakthrough in medicine that can hold back unwanted embolus occurrence in the blood vessels that do not inhibit blood flow all through the human body so that the cells can receive their needed oxygen requirements.

Nephrology. The study can lead to the discovery of a new anticoagulant source that can be used to inhibit clotting of the blood during dialysis operations and to replace Heparin that causes Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia to dialysis patients.

Surgery. The polyphenol content of the Saba Banana Fruit Peel extract that is responsible for the anticoagula-

tion can be used during surgery to inhibit clots or lumps from forming so supplying the cells of the human body with oxygen for faster cellular metabolism then for easy recovery of the patient.

Neurology. The study can give rise to a new source of anticoagulant that reduce the risk of stroke by preventing platelet aggregation or accumulation in the blood vessels providing blood to the brain. Thus, not preventing the distribution of oxygen required by the astrocytes or neurons in the brain for cellular function.

Cardiology. The study can be utilized to lessen the risk of occurrence of embolus in the coronary artery that can lead to heart attack or pulmonary embolism.

Pharmaceutical Compa-

The Means of the varying treatments showed significantly different results showing that the 75%:25% of Saba Banana Extracts and water is the most effective among the treatments.

nies. The study can give drug manufacturers a new source of chemicals with an anticoagulant property they can use in the manufacture of anticoagulant drug.

Department of Agriculture. The study will give ideas for the Department to conduct more researches on Saba Banana and other plants readily available in the Philippines.

Research Community. The study will give other researchers to conduct further researches on plants common or endemic to the Philippines. It can also serve as foundation for other researches with concern to information which shows commonality with the studies.

The table shows that the Saba Banana Fruit Peels extract significantly affect the coagulation rate of the laboratory mice. The orally administered extract prolonged the coagulation rate of the animal subjects compared to the untreated or controlled group of albino rats.

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, RECOMMENDATION The study proved the significance of the Saba Banana Fruit Peels extract in the coagulation rate of the organism.

The researchers answered the following specific questions: 1.Is there a significant difference between the treated group of albino rats given the Saba banana fruit peel extracts and the controlled group in terms of clotting time?

Given the statistical treatment of Analysis of Variance the results showed that the decision is to reject the null hypothesis since 21.52 is evidently higher than 3.49. The researchers can therefore accept the operational hypothesis that at least one mean is different from others and therefore conclude that there is a significant difference between the treated group of albino rats given the

banana fruit peel extracts and the controlled group in terms of time of clotting.

2.Are there significant differences among the effects of the different concentrations of banana fruit peel extracts on blood coagulation in terms of clotting time?

Finding the means of the different treatments, the results showed that there is enough evidence to reject the claim and conclude that at least one mean is different from the others. It therefore implies that the orally administered banana fruit peel extracts prolong the coagulation rate of the albino rats.

3.What concentration of banana fruit peel extracts is the most effective in inhibiting blood clotting? `a. 25%:75% b 50%:50%

c.75%:25% The results showed that the 75% concentration of banana fruit peel extract to the 25% of water is the most effective in inhibiting blood clotting.

Based on the foregoing results, the researcher concludes that the Saba Banana fruit peels extract notably affect the coagulation rate of the organism. It is hereby suggested that the distinctive mechanism for anti-coagulation action be investigated. Analysis of the phytochemicals from Saba Banana fruit peels extract should be directed to verify what particular polyphenol is present in the extracts at certain proportion. In determining the total polyphenol content (TPC), producers can conclude which concentration will result to highest blood clot inhibition.

Sports

18 June-December 2012

Sports

June-December 2012 19

SPORTS EDITORIAL

Sports in a Trend

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-ju-

BRSHS conducts mini intrams 2012

Expressing talents, skills, and love for the Filipino language, the BRSHS students engage in the vigorous Laro ng Lahi in the Buwan ng Wika celebration last August 17, 2012.

Embracing the opportunity to temporarily free themselves of the hectic school works and deadlines, the students made sure to make their time count by energetically participating in the spirited events organized by the ever attentive Sama-Fil Officers.

The event involved traditional Filipino games such as “Kadang- Kadang” and “Patintero” and other popular games like “Sack Race” and the “Hoola Hoop Contest.” These games promoted the student’s teamwork and cooperation. It also boosted their confidence through shouting non-stop cheers for the participants represent-

-Marie Adrienne Eugenio ing their class. In these events, the students’ physical fitness and ability to maintain vitality despite the simultaneous activities were admirable.

Aside from physical games though, the Laro ng Lahi also hosted events such as “Sungka” that mainly requires and expands a student’s logical prowess and capacity to think under pressure.

The students, having been freshly reminded of the joys of traditional Filipino activities, headed home with exhilarated smiles of triumph and good memories.

At the end of the day, the Laro ng Lahi proved to be a great success. It allowed the students to see not only the past in the world of modern-day computer games but also the past of the frantic world of exams and deadlines. It did not only refresh the students’ mind but also molded their character through 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.

AIM HIGH, JUMP HIGH. The Grade 7 students gshoots the ball during a basketball game with Mr. Ted O. Villamor as their coach.

niors 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

COLORS OF PASTORES. The selected students in the Dance Theater as they compete in the annual pastores competition held in Legazpi City on December 12, 2012.

DT clinches 2nd place in Gayon Bicol Pastores 2012 Competing for

Php 75,

ing the panel of judges a hard

Festival 2012 in Albay.It is a

000, nine determined contin-

time in choosing the perfor-

yearly activity wherein the Al-

gents joined the Gayon Bicol

mance that outstands the rest.

bayanos share their inner and

Pastores 2012 last December

In the end, the Sorsogon prov-

outside talents to other people

12, 2012 at Penaranda Park,

ince brought home the bacon;

through dancing, singing and

Legazpi City. The contin-

placing third was the Bicol Uni-

even competing academically.

gents coming from different

versity. And joining for the first

The event was sponsored

provinces in the Bicol Re-

time, Bicol Regional Science

by GMA, PED Equal for the

gion; each with 12 talented

High School garnered 2nd place,

Dunong and of course, the

dancers excluding the prop-

bringing home Php 50, 000.

Provincial

smen

and

the

Government

of

musicians.

The activity is in connec-

Albay headed by its gover-

Each compertitor displayed

tion with the 2012 Gayon Bicol

a spectacular performance, giv-

Pastores and the Karangahan

nor, Hon. Joey Sarte Salceda.

- Bernadette Cabaccang

Educational life is said to be the most memorable part of an individual’s life. In this level, they become mature, and find ways to live their life in their own way. Students can attend different parties, trainings, contests just to fulfill the desire of making their school life completely polished. But whatever they do, they can never reach their goal if there are no sports.

Everyone in this world knows about sports. Not only because it is a part of the curriculum in school but because, when you go beyond your thoughts, you can realize that it is a teacher that can teach you worthwhile values in life. Like a teacher it helps you survive the curriculum, train you and at the same time lets you experience real e, and stand by your side whenever you need comfort.

When you are an athlete and a part of a team, different lessons are being taught. Whenever you play a game along with your teammates, you try to be cooperative; you become productive by shooting balls, making a goal, or even when you make a pointjust like what your teachers want you to do.

When you play, of course, you undergo trainings. These trainings include some do’s and don’tsespecially when it comes to an athletes diet. The diet consists of the right foods you have to eat to maintain your body. But, the hardest part of this step is that the things you want to eat are the things being prohibited. However, if you are really dedicated to your sport, you will pursue to fight against temptations. With this, you develop self-discipline. Discipline is one main ingredient to win a game, well not just a game but also real life situation. Without discipline, everything will not be in order.

When you are a sportsperson, you try to play a game your way.

But just like the wheel of faith, not all the times you are on top, it doesn’t mean that when you are the star player, you can only be the one to kick goals, to shoot balls, or mark the game, because sometimes, even the weakest player can. Another lesson, being taught to every team member is to respect each and everyone.

Either it is the opponent, the water boy, the towel girl, or even the smallest person in the team. Respecting others is another way of showing that you are a great athlete inside and out.

It doesn’t necessary means that you have to be a sportsperson, just to deal with sports. Even by watching, cheering, having a bet, idolizing, and many other ways, you can show your love for sports. Sports can really help us a lot, sometimes we don’t know it, but, by just watching a simple basketball game, we have bonding moments in our family. Love is another factor that sports teach us. We can love the persons around us, the way we show our love for sports. That you are always there to support your favorite athlete or team, even if there are some hindrances, we can always show them that we never give up.

Sports can teach us many things. Sometimes, we are not expecting it, but it just comes. Like what Lebron James said on one of his interviews “ I want the world to know a lesson I have learned through basketball; I have failed over and over again, but I never gave up to try, and that’s why I succeed.”

game or meet. Another, is it can measure your skills in telling a story, in the form of writing.

Who says sports writing is hard to do? Sports writing is a specialized field of writing which combines news reporting, editorial writing, and feature writing, the content of which is sports and athletics,, and sometimes physical education.

Its not just asking, inquiring, or questioning, not just watching, more importantly, its not just merely writing, because in sports writing you try to tell a story. You retell, and you share what happened on a particular game. You let your readers visualize what occurred on that game, that you’ve seen.

Sports writing talks about the ability of a person to write a sports story. It’s about how the writer appreciate the player’s ability to jump, run, shoot, toss, drive, to score and to win the

Because the most important ingredient in this field is that you write truthfully, and honestly, and of course from your heart, every highlight of the game.

The outcome should be a good sports story where it will let your readers envisage the real score of the game.

The only sad thing about The only sad thing about being a sportswriter is that you have to sacrifice being a cheerer being a sportswriter is that you have to sacrifice being a cheerer; instead, you have to sit down on the part of the bleacher where your eyes can actually see everything, from the court, to the last names of the players written on the back of their uniform, and to their movements, and take down the highlights of the game. Because it is said that a good sportswriter attend a

game or meet as a reporter, not as spectator or a cheerer.

On the other side, it is a sportswriter’s privilege to be inside a court or any place where there is a sports event, officially.

It is common practice to allow properly accredited sports reporters into locker rooms for interviews with players and coaching staff after games, while the sports teams provide extensive information support.

Official sports writers always get the chance to meet their favorite players; athletes, by just doing their job.

It takes a specially good writer who is interested in sports to write a good sports story. For sports stories, make the reader see, feel and experience, and savor the agony and the ecstasy of the minute-by-minute account game. The sports writer has to capture the spirit of the game so that the newspaper reader feels as if he were physically watching the entire spectacle. This is an advice to all the aspiring sports writer, of Benilda A. Villenas.

SPORTS FEATURE CHAMPION FOR ALL SEASONS

After all the things that have said, after all the predictions, expectations, and accusations, Pacquiao-Marquez IV has finally come into an end. Eight years ago when this pair first met, after just three minutes nobody would have thought that the rivalry will go as far as a Quadrilogy.

Pacquiao leads the series 2-0, with one draw,when Marquez was knocked down three times in 90 seconds, in their first fight. He recovered, and

asked for another match, which resulted to a competition, in 2008, and in 2011.

With Marquez’s belief that he won all three previous meetings, he again, complained and asked for another chance, for him to be in the ring with Pacquiao. Even though, there is no belt for them to fight for, because Pacquiao has already lost his belt to Timothy Bradley in June. Still, It was granted, and another clash of the boxers: Pacqiao-Marquez IV came into

a reality.

Pacquiao, wearing green trunks, started the match aggressively. Both fighters throwing punches, that seems like, they’re measuring each ability.

In round 3, a straight right hand from Marquez sent Pacquiao in the canvas. But, Pacquiao wobbled Marquez in the 5th round which sets him into a standing eight count from the

referee.

Marquez, still being cautious, in the start of round 6, threw a right hand to the filipino’s chin, when he saw an opening. And, suddenly, he has knocked out Manny Pacquiao.!

What a win by Marquez!

The whole world was shocked, in Pacquiao’s sudden defeat.! Many opinions, and conclusions were made, and

was stated. Like he shoul’dve quit boxing, when he was still the champion. Some lost their faith for the Filipino boxer.

But for the Filipino people, Pacquiao, no matter what, will always be the champion in their heart.For them, he will surely serve as a big inspiration for the next generation. That, he is a “Champion for All Seasons”.

-Flora Mae Lubag

News 20

June-December 2012

Ligao City supports “No Plastic Policy”

LESS PLASTIC, LESS WORRIES. LCC Ligao adapting and implementing the “NO PLASTIC POLICY“ signed by Gov. Joey Salceda.

BRSHS grabs 1st place in 2012 Main Street Parade

For the past year, the people of Ligao City have been heading downtown to watch and be part of the SunFlower Festival during the Christmas season. The annual street dance is one of the most popular events of the month.

Crowds filled the streets. Lots of kids enjoyed seeing different types of floats with Disney characters and dancers.

Last December 24,2012 mark the Main Street Parade, bringing up Disney and the sunflower festival in Ligao as its theme.

Different schools joined the said event and one of the contingents was Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) in cooperation with Infotech Development System College, Inc. (IDS) featuring Aladdin and the Magic Lamp.

Despite the challenges of having very short time to practice, the students were able to show their sincerity and devotion to what they were doing.

Their trainer, Mr. Alfons Jayson Pelgone, a teacher of BRSHS gave his full time and effort to teach and finish the street and exhibition routine.

The trainer did not only taught the students the conventions of dancing but also camaraderie and friendship among them .

As they performed the street routine, they let the people see their synchronized movements.

They have shown how they have grown not only of beinggood dancers or performers but also having cooperation and unity as a team. .

Their exhibition showed the people of Ligao their grace,

The School Community Support Council (SCSC) strengthen its campaign against dengue by conducting a massive fumigation last August 4, 2012 at Bicol Regional Science High School.

According to National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, there are 181 cases of dengue in Albay

from January 2012 to June 2012 wherein two of its victims died.

With the alarming cases of dengue not only in our local but also in the whole country, the Department of Education (DepEd) has directed all schools nationwide to conduct the massive fumigation due to dengue outbreak.

Advocating the Ordinance 2011-3, or the ‘No Plastic Policy of Albay’ signed by Governor Joey S. Salceda last February 21, 2011, Ligao City implemented a ban on the use of plastic bags, polystyrene, and other forms of synthetic fabric as packaging used in groceries, stores and businesses in the city.

Taking effect last June 1, 2012, the policy was part of the Climate Change Adaptation Program of Governor Salceda, which aims to prepare the citizens of Albay for the possible dangers and destruction brought about by climate change.

The ordinance was pub-

ongs,’ or native bags made of abaca, buri, paper, or any other environment-friendly materials.

According to Arnold Embestro, chairman of the Provincial Environment Council, the ordinance stipulated that violators will give a fine ranging from PHP 1000 to PHP 5000, and their business permits will be cancelled.

“It has been more than a half century now since plastics were invented and became very part of our daily existence, and everywhere you go today, you see plastic litter the scenery. It is only now that we’re realizing the devastating residual effect of our dependence on plastic products,” Embestro told Ma-

ALADDIN AND THE MAGIC LAMP. Students of BRSHS and IDS Colleges combine forces in the annual street presentation sponsored by the City Government of Ligao, December 24, 2012. passion and love for dancing.

Resulting from their hard work, and perseverance, their splendid interpretation of Aladdin and the Magic Lamp brough them to the pedestal of being the champion in the 2012 Main Street Parade.

“Maraming salamat sa lahat ng sumuporta sa amin----the parents, the faculty and the BRSHS and IDS family. Mabuhay DT!” Stated Mr. Alfons Jayson Pelgone, the choreographer of the winning contingent.

- April Atoli

Campaign against dengue, all set in BRSHS

licized by the store- and business-owners of Ligao, encouraging the use of ‘bay-

nila Times.

He declared that they have lifted the exemption on the ban

Aiming to endorse good familial bonds and student companionship ,the Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) with the General Parent-Teacher Association (GPTA) and Supreme Student Government (SSG) conducted the 2012 Family Day and Raffle Bonanza last December 19, 2012.

Aside from the raffle draw, the event was also consisted of several games, contests and workshops such as: Pig Ko! Hulihin Mo!; Sack Race; Apple-Eating; Stop Dance; Paper Dance; Trip to Jerusalem; Pasa Food; Palo Sebo; and Gaano DepEd started its campaign againts dengue before the start of classes last June 4, 2012 and started it in Zamboanga City where all schools conducted the

Kahalaga ang Piso.

A basketball game of the parents versus the faculty was also held, with the parents emerging as victors.

The whole-day event began with a Grand Parade of the BRSHS Drum and Lyre Corps, faculty, students and the parents from the Ligao City Pavilion to the school in Barangay Tuburan.

A Thanksgiving Mass also graced the occasion before the opening ceremonies.

Each section also presented various intermission numbers.

During the closing program, the Family Day Bonanza Raffle simultaneous fumigation.

The said school-wide fumigation had not been possible without the unending efforts of the school’s administration

in the 15 towns and 3 cities of the province, allowing them to fully pave the way for the enforcement of the ordinance.

Environmentalists said that the use of plastics, which usually end up as litter and find their way into waterways, river channels, parks, beaches and streets, causes pollution and results in environmental degradation.

They said that once burned, plastic bags contaminate the air with toxic fumes and would take at least 400 years for the material to decompose as it was nonbiodegradable. Plastic bags also kill animals that ingest them.

Last February 24, 2012, the Sanguniang Panlalawigan, together with the business owners and enforcement agencies, including the Ligao City Local Government officials conducted a meeting to discuss the prominent features of the ordinance.

Albay will be the first province in the region to implement this kind of policy.

Other cities in the Philippines, such as the city of Las Pinas, have passed plastic bag bans and Philippine lawmakers are considering a ban covering the entire country.

The Plastic Bag Regulation Act of 2011 was approved by the House of Representatives of the 15th Congress last September. A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate but has not moved out of committee.

Meanwhile, the Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) supported the policy by using recyclable materials instead of plastics and other synthetic materials for drinking straws, packaging and storing.

-Amiel Van Llaneta

Raffle bonanza colors family fest

Draw was held. Ten entries were drawn for the consolation prizes. The grand prizes for the third, second and first were the Samsung Galaxy Y, Canon Digital Camera and the iPad 2 32GB, respectively.

The administration and the GPTA Executive Board headed

by Mr. Eduardo L. Nanoz, the school principal and Engr.

Gerard O. Aberin, the president thanked the students, teachers faculty and the LGU and the baranggay officials for their cooperation and support making the 2012 Family Festival was a success.

including the teaching and nonteaching personnel, the GPTA, the students and the local government unit of Ligao City.

-Bernadette Cabaccang