THE FREE SPEECH (7 INDEPENDENCE)

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The

Free Speech

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF GROUP THREE GRADE SEVEN INDEPENDENCE

/thefreespeech

In the early morning, Anaki Maderal takes care and waters the newly bought plant as a way to have a healthy environement and at the same time, fight boredom. (Photo by Anikka Casy Beatriz Maderal)

DepEd conducts K to 12 basic education programs

By Marywill Gabrieli Lazaro

As the summer reels in, the Department of Education announces their plan for the end-of-schoolyear rites for year 20202021. In spite of the pandemic, DepEd plans to end the school year with a bang. The fourth quarter for grades 6 to 12 shall end on July 10, Saturday. Learners who were able to comply and adjust with school requirements will get to celebrate after all the Modules and Summative

NEWS

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Vaccine Rollout in the PH rises

Tests. Within the week of July 12-16, schools will have to decide when they will hold the closing rites, with the theme “Kalidad ng Edukasyon Lalong Patatagin sa Gitna ng Pandemya”. The theme encourages students, teachers, and parents alike to feature that even among all the struggles, the students’ education and safety is always the top priority. On the day of the

FEATURE

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This is the Real Virus

rites, the Multi-Year Implementing Guidelines on the Conduct of the K-12 Basic Education Program End-of-School-Year rites, will take effect, except for the giving of awards which will be on a separate occasion on Awards and Recognition. These awards will be given to students who have excelled among all the students in their class.

TPC hands out tablets to Marikina public schools By Robert Andrei Capule On March 29, 2021, The Pokémon Company (TPC) donated 530 tablets to three Marikina public elementary schools to be used by grade one students with support from the Makati Business Club. The donation aims to help increase Filipino children’s access to quality education, especially during the pandemic.

TPC/ p2

Deped/ p2

OPINION

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The Change that No One Expected

SPORTS

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China prevails over Italy in VNL 2019, 3-2


2 NEWS

THE FREE SPEECH

The Official Publication of Group Three Grade Seven Independence

TPC hands out tablets to Marikina public schools

From p. 1 Last Tuesday, the Schools Division Office (SDO) Marikina External Partnerships team, led by Mr. Reinan Ignacio, with the assistance of two SDO personnel, collected and delivered the tablets to Malanday ES, Concepcion Integrated School Elementary Level, and Fortune ES. The said schools are currently implementing the BasaBilang project, a separate project between SDO Marikina and The Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. which

requires for its donation Pokémon

learning devices recipients. This is part of TPC GO Fest 2020.

“Following Pokémon GO Fest 2020, this program is a part of our endeavor to support nonprofit organizations around the globe to improve the lives of children with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. We sincerely hope that these tablets for distance learning can promote equal opportunity The Pokemon Company and Makati Business Club deliveres 231 units of tablets to Malanday Elementary in education for children in School for Grade 1 learners. (Photo Courtesy: Makati Business Club) Marikina,” TPC said.

DepEd conducts K to 12 basic education programs From p. 1 Due to the ongoing pandemic, face-to-face rites will be prohibited, and guidelines set by the DOH, IATF, and the President will be strictly followed. CLC’s are highly encouraged to

create a small program that will be able to play through the students’ internet strength. The school has the authority to stream the virtual rites through verified social media platforms.

QR Code for Quicker Contact Tracing By Wilyza Loraine Flores A memorandum from the Office of the City Administrator in Marikina was released last May 3, 2021, implementing the use of the Quick Response (QR) Code system to all city officials and employees using the Stay Safe Program provided by the DILG to all LGUs. The registration for city officials and employees will be handled by the Management Information System through the IT officer/s designated in each office or department

Face-to-face graduations still not allowed due to pandemic. Students end the school year facing laptops, computers and gadgets. (Photo courtesy: DepEd Philippines)

effective immediately. In using the QR Code system, the urgency in tracing and tracking persons infected with COVID-19 will be easier and safer. Most establishments use the QR Code Stay Safe app as an alternative to writing your information on a piece of paper. There is also less contact with others, especially in using the same pen which many people have touched already.


NEWS 3

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The Official Publication of Group Three Grade Seven Independence

Vaccine Rollout in the PH rises By Vito Roque

Based on the data from the Department of Health, the vaccine rollout in the Philippines is increasing with 5,180,721 total doses administered to A1, A2, A3, and A4 as of May 30, 2021.

The number of operational vaccination sites is based on the current supply of vaccines in the country. Once additional supplies arrive, the number of active sites will increase, and our vaccination pace will ramp up.

3,974,350 were given as the first dose, while 1,206,371 were second doses. Those who have received two doses are already considered fully vaccinated. The 1,403,647 of vaccinated for first dose belong to priority groups A1 (health care workers), 1,379,946 are from A2 (senior citizens), 1,179,930 are from A3 (adults with comorbidities) and 10,827 are from A4 (frontliners in essential workers).

The government is urging eligible populations belonging to priority groups A1 to A3 to register, get vaccinated and complete the required number of doses as scheduled.

1st Dose

While the 671,422 of those vaccinated for second dose or fully vaccinated belong to priority groups

2nd Dose (Fully Vaccinated)

A1, 245,244 are from A2, 286,670 are from A3, and 3,035 are from A4.

The vaccinated population are also urged to continue practicing the minimum public health standards as you may still get infected with COVID-19 and infect other people.

MariSci HS receives multiple awards in Wellness Campus of The Year Awards

By Zyroos Domingo

As the National Wellness Campus of the Year Awards occurred last March 26, 2021, the Marikina Science Highschool Nestle Wellness Council received bronze for winning the third place in the National Level. Marisci Dance Company participated on the said event through social media platforms, consequently reaching about 5,000 views, and 400 likes. It was a spectacular performance indeed as they grabbed the Gold medal in “Pinaka-best in

Dancercise” on the National Level in the said competition. Upon hearing this, the whole Marisci community celebrated this big achievement. Moreover, MariSci HS also grabbed a minor award. They received bronze for winning the “Pinaka-best in Module Integration” on National Level and lastly, for the coordinator of the MariSci Dance Company, Mr. Arvin Lark Santiago as he got the special award as one of the top 3 finalist in “Pinaka-best Wellness Guro of the Year.”

Winning a prestigious wellness award: Marikina Science Highschool wins another Wellness Award amidst the pandemic. (Photo Courtesy: MariSci Wellness Campus)


4 FEATURE By Wilyza Loraine Flores

THE FREE SPEECH

The Official Publication of Group Three Grade Seven Independence

This is the Real Virus

Asian hatred is not new; it has only grown worse since the outbreak of the well-known virus, Covid-19. Because some of us are unaware, Covid-19 originated in Wuhan, China. There have been numerous reports of hate crimes around the world and this was terrifying. I’m not saying all of this because I’m an Asian; I’m delivering this message through this article simply because none of us deserve it and discrimination is not and will never be the answer to this controversy. I will never forgive those who continue to despise Asians, especially those who have harmed Asians who have done nothing wrong. However, I know it’s not too late to educate and enlighten those who have a narrow mind. I’m rooting for them while I also pity them. If you can help, even if it’s in the smallest ways, please do so. Racism spreads faster than any viruses.

Photo Courtesy: ABC News, PBS.org, Verywell Mind

According to NBC NEWS, on February 4th of 2020, during the earliest days of the novel Coronavirus, a middle school student in Los Angeles Country was told by a classmate that he was a Covid-19 carrier and should “go back to China”. When the boy responded that he wasn’t Chinese, he allegedly received 20 punches to the head and ended up in the emergency room. And that is just one of many cases of hate crimes. This Asian Hatred has gone way too far, it affects almost every aspect of Asian life, such as in work, school, and so on. There is no place for hate and discrimination. Let us open our minds, not our mouths. Especially when you’re just going to say something bad to others. At the end of the day, we’re all just simple human beings. It makes no difference what race you are. Being of a different race than others is not enough to

justify discrimination. Take your stance, choose the right path, and think correctly. I don’t usually advocate fighting back against someone who has wronged you, but this time is different, enough is enough. Fight back when necessary, but never start a fight. Everything can be fixed without resorting to violence. An 84-year-old Thai immigrant in San Francisco, California, died in February after being violently shoved to the ground during his morning walk. In Oakland, California, a 91-year-old senior was shoved to the pavement from behind. Meanwhile, two Asian American women were stabbed at a San Francisco bus stop; eyewitness reports say the assailant “casually walked away in broad daylight”. Did you notice how old they were? This hate crime does not discriminate based on age.

The Philippine Consulate General in New York has joined the Asian community in calling an end to the increasing hate crimes against Asians across the United States, the latest of which was the brutal assault of a 65-year-old Filipina in Manhattan. “We take this opportunity to thank the New York Police District and its Asian Hate Crimes Task Force for their dedication to their work and their quick action in apprehending Elliot,” Philippine Consul General Elmer Cato said in a statement read at the rally. Again, it is not your fault that you are of whatever race you are. And you should not be embarrassed about it. Instead, let us treat everyone fairly and the way we would like to be treated. It makes no difference what race, nationality, or color you are. Being of a different race than others should never be used to discriminate against, harm, or even kill others.


THE FREE SPEECH

The Official Publication of Group Three Grade Seven Independence

FEATURE 5

Foundation of Who I Am By Vito Roque In our life, we always need someone to rely on. A family is not just a group of people related by blood or ancestry. It is also a group of people who have each other's back and are willing to go to the ends of the Earth to bring a smile to the others' faces. Our family is our first teacher and role model. Ever since we were born, they have been there to witness our very first step. They always guide us to choose the right choices and the right path whenever we feel lost. Our family is the foundation of what we are and what we have right

now. Some of them may not be showy towards their feelings to a family member, but every person has different ways of how they can show their love and affection to someone. After growing up and being with them, we cannot deny that we also have misunderstandings with each other. We have different opinions and perspectives in life that cause arguments but at the end of the day, we still forgive each other regardless of what happened. Our family gives us support and comfort in little ways

without us noticing it, whenever we feel sad or lonely even though we don't share with them what we feel. They might be overprotective to us sometimes but let's always think that it is just for our good and safety. They want to do everything within their power to safeguard their family members from harm and to help them succeed in life. Having your family is like having a human diary. They always try to listen and understand us whenever we have a problem with school, work, or anything that

has been bothering us. Having an open conversation with your family or a member of your family makes you feel safe and better. Through this, it helps you to have a stronger relationship and build trust in each other. Being grateful towards them is not all about giving them expensive gifts. You can also show your gratitude by being a good daughter/son to them, making them their favorite breakfast or lunch, and fulfilling their dreams for you. We should appreciate them for everything they have done for us and all of their sacrifices.

"Having a family is

like having a human diary."

Photo Courtesy: Bambini Photography


6 OPINION

THE FREE SPEECH

The Official Publication of Group Three Grade Seven Independence

Anikka Casy Beatriz Maderal

Editor-In-Chief

Plantitos and Plantitas Strikes N

lll ow that we are a''i s s amidst the pans s w demic, boredom and anxiety attacks for everyone due to current situations wherein a lot of workers lost their jobs, majority of the business were closed due to lockdown, no face-to-face classes for all students and limited personnel only were able to go out to buy essentials and basic needs. This affects our mental health as well as our productivity. In the middle of this outbreak, many strategies and other activities sprouted like online selling of food, clothes, appliances, and many more. Different ways and means are the daily activities of many people to address their family needs. Others spend their time planting, which they call “plantitos and plantitas”, with this undertaking they indirectly clean their surroundings and their respective backyards which helps them overcome stress, boredom, and anxiety. It also helps them to relax, concentrate, and have an additional income. We frequently see posts on

social media sites of parents planting with their children, with the caption "plantitos and plantitas". Planting has become a trend not only for women but even for men. People take advantage and take it as an opportunity to earn for a living not only in the market but through online selling. Through

"

environment in which we can concentrate and be efficient. Most people do this as a way to spend time and to bond with their families. With these planting ventures, people are unaware that they are helping the program of government to address environmental dilemmas and issues like: Tree Planting programs,

Having a healthy mindset starts with a healthy environment.

these, people will have more chances to flourish, maintain a safe mindset in the midst of the pandemic and lessen the carbon footprint produced by our industrial companies addressing global warming issues. Subconsciously, we create a safe and healthy

Greening Programs, Carbon footprint Programs, and many more. Although we are currently dealing with a health epidemic, our Mother Earth is still dealing with a slew of environmental issues. Global Warming is the most pressing issue confronting our climate today. Other

environmental issues arise as a result of this crisis, which can concern everyone. However, both plantitos and plantitas, as well as everyone who cares for our climate, are one way to help some of these environmental crises. With the weather that we are experiencing nowadays, we have to act fast and the best time is now. Though this pandemic has negative effects on us, yet, we were able to see and be aware of what is going on to our Mother Earth. We were able to create a trend wherein the plantitos and plantitas unites and starts making an action by taking care of plants. This also made us realize that having a healthy mindset starts with a healthy environment because it helps us concentrate to be able to do our task efficiently and to relax from the stress and anxiety caused by the events like the Pandemic. With these actions made, when united, will have a huge impact that could save not only our environment but also help everyone to have a healthy place to live in.


OPINION 7

THE FREE SPEECH

The Official Publication of Group Three Grade Seven Independence

Thalia Alexandra Tinio Managing Director

A Nightmare that Came to Life A

i fter more than a yearv year of the phiniaigspandemic, we already adjusted to what we do in our everyday lives. Some of you already get back to work and receiving your monthly payments. But of course, not everyone can afford to eat three times a day and some are still worried about how they can eat a meal every day. According to Medium, over 13 million Filipinos have lost their jobs or livelihoods during the COVID-19 pandemic. 10,000 of them are jeepney workers that have been displaced since March 2020 as they were no longer allowed to operate if they could not modernize their vehicles When President Duterte announced a public health emergency last March 16, 2020, all public transportation was suspended to operate to avoid the spreading of the virus. It was more than three months for public utility vehicles to

be back in operation except for those who haven't complied with the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. Due to this program, many drivers were begging and protesting on the streets. They want their voices to be heard and have a fast

"

government because they still need to pay for their bills, house rental, or buy other necessities. While everyone is having a good night’s sleep, some of them are having a hard time on how they can budget their remaining finances and survive another day. Some of them are

While everyone is having a good night’s sleep, some of them are having a hard time on how they can budget their remaining finances and survive for another day.

improvement about their situation. Many of them are not capable to do any jobs aside from driving jeepneys because they don't have diplomas that they can present to big companies. They can't just wait for financial assistance and relief goods from the

sleeping instead of eating to avoid the hunger they are feeling. For the Duterte administration, they think that this pandemic is an opportunity to urge the Modernization Program because it involves emissions reduction, cashless

transactions, and other features that are now even more necessary for the health and safety of the commuters. As for the jeepney drivers and operators, they think that the government has failed to support them and ease their suffering from poverty and hunger in the middle of one of the COVID-19 outbreaks. Some operators or jeep owners are already selling their jeepneys for a low price due to the phase-out programs and lockdowns to start a new business or to use it for their everyday expenses. With their livelihood at risk, they are starting to lose hope. Because of this, I hope our government will try to find a good way to solve this problem and restore the public transportations that we have before. This will help drivers and operators to start earning what they lost and sleep at night in peace without worrying for another tomorrow.


8 OPINION EDITORIAL

THE FREE SPEECH

The Official Publication of Group Three Grade Seven Independence

Rihanna Zairy Macalong Copy Editor

W

TheOne Change that No Expected

hat will happen in the snbssbssnzzsucceeding year if abanmiansiCOVID-19 is still existing? What will happen to us, students? How’s our social life as a teenager? These are the things that come into my mind.

Discrimination is not the Solution ONE Championship, Asia's largest global sports media property, officially announced its #StopAsianHate and #WeAreONE campaign, a series of actions to raise funds for the Stop Asian Hate movement. The campaign intends to fight the recent hate attacks on Asian Americans and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities that started ever since the COVID-19 virus began in China. The campaign's purpose is to raise public awareness about the problem. Supporting one another can help everyone to avoid experiencing hatred, violence, and discrimination. Asians are also a member of the global community and they are human beings like us. Asians may practice various cultures and beliefs, but they all deserve to be treated fairly and respected. The anti-Asian racism had been going on in the US for about 160 years. Chinese immigrants began arriving in the United States to work in the 1850s. Years later, the California Supreme Court reinforced racism against Asian immigrants, stating that Asians could not testify against a white person in court. In 1882, US President Chester Arthur signed the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 that banned the Chinese for more than 60 years. In 1900, an outbreak of a plague struck San Francisco. It began with an Australian ship, but the first victim was Chinese, and they blamed the Chinese community. The police surrounded

and searched their homes by force. Activists said that the reason behind the hate crimes is because they blame Asian people for the spread of Covid-19. More than 2,800 reports of hate incidents recorded were pointed at Asian Americans nationwide last year usually including verbal harassment, ignorance, service refusal, and even physical assaults. Hate crimes against Asians in the US have increased by 150%, mostly in Los Angeles and New York. In California, an 84-year-old Thai immigrant died after being violently shoved to the ground during his morning walk. An 89year-old Chinese, a 61-year-old FilAm, and other Asian American employees have received physical assaults and harassment in New York. They also received hateful words, violence, and even a note saying they should go back to their country. If we continue being racial to them, it will leave a deep scar and emotional trauma that may lead to depression and other conditions. We should not oppress Asians merely because they are different. Instead, we should have unity, trust and help each other despite our differences. We must take a stand to change our society and find solutions to stop this racism. Racist jokes or comments are not okay and that is why we should call out these statements. If we succeed in doing these, we can make this world a better place without racism. Every human being will feel that they are not different and they belong.

I’ve read in some articles regarding face-to-face classes amidst this pandemic and there’s a lot of different opinion regarding this. As per the articles DepEd’s renewed call to open the classes, stating that many learners want to go back to school to learn because, in that way, they can interact with their friends and teachers. Authorities explained that if faceto-face classes in low-risk areas will push through, the hours might be limited. The students will still take advantage of blended learning with modules and online classes, but they might have to physically go to school for one hour or three hours weekly. However, it was rejected. For this reason, they don’t want to put the student's and teachers’ lives in danger seeing that vaccination has not yet been fully implemented for everyone. Many parents and teachers reacted and shared their thoughts about these articles. Some parents also wanted their children to go back to a normal way of learning because they are having a hard time adjusting to online learning. Modules were not clear due to black and white print and a lot of typo errors too. Other parents want their children to stay at home and as much as possible they don’t want them to expose themselves to other people. In my opinion as a student, online classes are somehow safe for us since we are not allowed yet to go out, especially us below 15 years old due to the high risk of exposure to COVID-19. However, there are also pros and cons to this. Like having much time doing school activities, being computer literate in using different softwares, developing your skills through Youtube, learning household chores, having quality time with the family, and most especially less budget for the parents since no allowance is

needed. On the other hand, online classes sometimes quite boring especially in the afternoon classes, there were times it’s hard to focus and motivate yourself during classes due to some interruptions and temptations like watching videos, scrolling in social media, playing online games, tend to sleep and some students don't have a good study environment for homeschooling. In addition, communication is also quite difficult with the teachers and classmates, especially when doing group projects due to lag internet connection and brownouts as well. For me, face to face classes are somewhat enjoyable because you are able to meet new friends, get to know them better, learn together, play along and eat with them but safety is still the number one priority, and should not be compromised even if safety protocols are implemented. A lot of things to be considered like service of the children, classroom structures, canteen, and facilitators. Physical contact with the children can’t be limited, sanitation of the schools should be maintained, and so on. I think the government will need a high amount of budget if this will push through. This will create tension for the parents knowing that their children are at risk. As we know until now some are still violating the COVID-19 safety protocols and most authorities are having a hard time implementing the said rules due to the limitations of the enforcers as well. I agree with many parents or rather my parents that face-to-face should not be implemented until the World Health Organization declares that we are COVID-free. Learning can still be done at home and I believe that to be educated should start with us children. Education is not just the teacher's and parents' responsibility but the student itself even online or face to face. It’s my responsibility and accountability to learn and develop my knowledge and skills. Because at the end of the day the one that will benefit from it, is yourself.


SPORTS 9

THE FREE SPEECH

The Official Publication of Group Three Grade Seven Independence

Lakers dominates Heat in the NBA 2020 Championship, 106 – 93 By Jillian Shayne Argel One of the G.O.A.T.s, Lebron James of the Los Angeles Lakers, bagged his 11th NBA Finals triple-double with 28 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists, while the other half of the Lakers’ Dynamic Duo, Anthony Davis added 19 points and 15 rebounds. As Miami Heat wins for the 17th time with a score garnering of 106 – 91, it gave them one of the most storied franchise not only in the basket world, but to the whole Sports world. Lebron James is named as the Bill Russell Finals MVP for the fourth time in his career, and now sits second to Michael Jordan (6) but being the only player to win the prestigious award with 3 different teams. He won the first 2 with the Miami Heat, and another with his previous ball squad, the

Cleveland Cavaliers. “This is a historic franchise and and to be a part of this is something that I’ll be able to talk about and my grandkids and kids will be able to talk about — their Pawpaw played for the Los Angeles Lakers,” James said. “It’s like playing for the Yankees and winning or playing for the Cowboys and winning a Super Bowl, or the Patriots. It’s like playing for the Red Sox,” James added. The Lakers led throughout most of the game, and even built the second-largest halftime lead in the NBA Finals history with 64-36. On the other hand, Bam Adebayo, a first-time all-star during the 2020 season, led the Heat with 25 points, 10

rebounds and 5 assists. Jimmy Butler averaged 29.0 points, 10.2 assists, 8.6 rebounds and 2.6 steals through the first five games but failed to even come close to those numbers in Game 6, finishing with 12 points on only 10 shots. They simply had no answer for the 28-point lead the other team delivered in the first half. James played his 260th playoff game – which surpassed Derek Fisher for the most all time. He claimed that one of the greatest satisfactions of the victory was helping Davis get his first NBA title. “I know what it feels like to have seven years where you feel like you can’t get over the hump,” said James, who had his arms around Davis on the sideline as the final seconds ticked off the clock.

China prevails over Italy in VNL 2019, 3-2 By Jennica Anne Mogan

Thanks to their omnipotent strikes, supreme blocks, and incredibly outstanding teamwork, China prevailed over Italy in the Women’s Volleyball in the FIVB Volleyball Nations League 2019 with a total score of 3-2 on June 6 in Hongkong, China. Italy got off to a strong start with their dominant, potent, and tenacious defenses that skillfully blocked China’s spike, resulting in a point. Early in the first frame, Italy’s powerful kills bewildered China with a score of 18-25. With a banging rally, their sensational serves and excellent strikes soon brought the entire arena to life. Italy's dominance over the game continued in the second frame as they unveiled their superior shots, 22 - 25. China, however, retaliated with xceptionally splendid group

Roger Federer reigns supreme Rafael Nadal By Wilyza Loraine Flores Following the release of his overpowered smashes, Roger Federer defeated Rafael Nadal within four sets with a score of 7-6 (3), 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the Wimbledon 2019 semi-finals last July 12, 2019. At the start, it was a close fight with 3-3 scores. But Federer scored two points from his serve leading him at 6 -3. He ended the 1st set with a forehand giving a final score on the first set of 7-6 (3). In the second set, Nadal gained an advantage as he consecutively scored 10 points. Putting pressure on Federer who lost his composure after a backhand error, allowing Nadal to gain the momentum and win the set with a score of 6-1. However, on the third set the momentum has changed. Federer overpowered Nadal in the key moments taking the lead by breaking Nadal’s serve in the match with a backhand volley ending a 12-shot exchange leading at 3-1. It was a tough game for Nadal due to a couple mistakes he made at the beginning of the game. The third set wraps up with a score of 6-3. In the last set, Federer won. On the fifth match point, Federer scored his winning point letting him advance to the finals. He celebrates his victory by punching the air.

Changning Zhang and Ni Yan blocks Paula Egonu, bringing them one step closer to victory. (Photo Courtesy: Volleyball World) work and unwavering determination. They returned with better and stabler reception to block Italy's attacks. The succeeding frames were intense and exceptional as the two teams concentrated on unleashing intoxicatingly powerful attacks and blocks.

Each performed flabbergasting and phenomenally great, 25 - 23 then 26 - 24. Despite the blast performance of Italy, China maintained its focus and strategic execution, eventually winning the game with a score of 15 - 13.

It was a great match indeed. Their rivalry still continues ever since their first match last 2008. Both sides did their best. As per Federer “It gave me a huge boost for the final. It will be down to who’s got more energy. There are no draws in our sport. It’s brutal at times. Age kicks in. I know it’s not over yet. One more.” Looking forward to another match with Nadal.


10

SCI-TECH -19

COVID

By Marywill Gabrieli Lazaro As we all know, the world is currently in the information age, which means that we may learn new things every day thanks to our technological advancements. We can now access any information with only a click in this new age of gadgets and technology. Anyone may use the internet to upload and distribute information. On the internet, you can find almost anything, from educational videos to tutorials and life tips and almost anyone can publish anything. YouTube is one of the most famous websites where you may get various information. Doctors and other medical experts can use the platform to express their thoughts about medical procedures,

:

Claims

product effectiveness and the latest medical news. The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic has produced many claims on the internet. For example, Dr. Drew claims that the Coronavirus is way less serious than influenza, which has been proven to be wrong. This virus has already proven itself to be a thing not to be taken lightly, for it has caused a pandemic, putting the world in quarantine and following health protocols. Anyone can be affected by the virus. The Coronavirus is constantly evolving but our vaccines can not catch up with it. Meanwhile, we have been able to produce

THE FREE SPEECH

The Official Publication of Group Three Grade Seven Independence

?

False or true

many vaccines that are effective in preventing flu. According to the American Society of Microbiology, the flu has a 0.096% fatality rate while the Coronavirus has a 2.6% fatality rate. How these viruses transmit is also more different than they seem. They both travel through air, COVID-19 is more contagious in vulnerable populations and has shown worse spreading activity than the flu. Another untrue claim came from Dr. Mercola saying, “While unproven, one current theory is that electromagnetic field radiation – and the addition of 5G in general – could be having an impact on the COVID-19 pandemic.”

However, there is no concrete evidence that can prove EMF waves or 5G can worsen COVID-19. There is no technology to prove that this claim is true. Due to this claim, people burn down 5G cell towers. Scientists have confirmed that COVID-19 does not transmit through 5G radiation waves. While strong waves cause illness, the waves emitted by 5G are nowhere near strong enough to damage our immune system. As time changes, our lives change as well. Though we can easily access information through the internet, we must always check if there are any false rumors spreading around.

-19

Gasoline to fight COVID

By Zyroos Domingo In a televised address, President Duterte stated that they should use gasoline as a disinfectant for face masks.

"At the end of the day, hang [it] somewhere and spray it with Lysol if you can afford it," he stated. "For people who don't [have], drench it in gasoline or diesel... just find some gasoline, dip your hand [with the mask] in it." The president has also made a similar statement about using petrol on face masks if disinfectants are unavailable, which his spokesman said was a joke. He stated, "I can't believe

that after four years of him as a president, you still don't know [him], [It's only a] joke." Meanwhile, health official Maria Rosario Vergeire said that cloth masks should be washed, cleaned, and dried off normally, and surgical masks should be replaced after use. After this, the president quickly made another statement regarding the spokesman’s remark saying, ‘’What I said is true. Just go to the gasoline station, and then have some drops, that’s disinfectant. I am not joking."

The president made the addresses often late at night. He was criticized for always being confusing and at times steering offtopic to often threaten his enemies. When President Duterte first suggested using petrol to clean and disinfect masks, some of his opponents blasted him with what they called dangerous advice. Medical experts had also made a statement about the president’s remark on gasoline. They said that gasoline cannot be used as a disinfectant and may affect our health. They recommend using soap and water for cleaning

Photo Courtesy: CNN Philippines & Eurek Alert

reusable cloth masks, and 70% ethyl or isopropyl alcohol for proper and thorough disinfection of yourself and your surroundings.


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