Educators' Gazette Newsletter Volume 16 Issue No. 1

2

NEWS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

Mr. Jhayvi Dizon (top left) leads the general orientation of the Tarlac State University - Laboratory School (TSU-LS) for incoming senior high school STEM enrollees/students.

TSU-LS Takes Off, Accommodates SHS STEM Studes \

LESLY F. MAREGMEN

Five years after the phase-down of Tarlac State University- Laboratory School (TSU-LS), TSU reestablished the said institution accepting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Senior High School (SHS) grade 11 students.

The official start of classes of TSU-LS was on September 20, 2021, with 70 enrolled grade 11 students under the supervision of the College of Teacher Education (CTEd).

Before the official opening of classes took place, it could be remembered that the university held a public hearing last year as an onset of the then-proposed reinstitution.

After the Board of Regents approved the proposed admission pol-

icy, TSU-LS finally took its full flight once again.

GEARING UP FIRST BATCH

THE

To equip the students with the basic knowledge of the university and online classes, Mr. Jhayvi C. Dizon, CTEd faculty, administered an online virtual campus tour to students through an acquaintance assembly held on September 20.

Dizon also introduced Microsoft Teams to the chosen students of TSU-LS as the learning management system (LMS) during online learning.

The manipulation of the LMS, focusing on its different features important for both synchronous and asynchronous classes, and as well as classroom netiquette, was part of the discussion.

“As a new student of TSU-LS, the orientation made me realize that the school has so much to offer. It helped me learn and to know more about

the TSU,” Shahanna Angel Paduit, a TSU-LS student, said in an interview.

According to Paduit, the SHS students who have benefited from the reopening of TSU-LS will always be thankful for the opportunity provided by the institution.

“It is a big help for me and for my fellow students to reach or achieve our dreams,” she added.

FINALLY IN FULL FLIGHT

In the General Orientation of TSU-LS on September 22, Doctor Erwin Lacanlale, TSU Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), emphasized to students that they will face exciting and rewarding challenges along the way.

“Here in laboratory school, you will learn to work hardest, celebrate achievements, but also face defeat magnanimously,” he added.

As part of the orientation, students were introduced to TSU-LS faculty, TSU-LS schedule, TSU student portal, and office 365, as well as the different programs and support given by the Student Affairs and Services.

Professor Paulo Xavier Samson instills the continuous revision and editing of the goals and objectives of the institution to students, which will be heavily based on the needs of the program and students. which will be heavily based on the needs of the program and students.

TSU Commemorates Teachers’ Resilience amidst COVID-19 ERIKA D. RAMILO Pandemic \

To give tribute and recognition to the frontliners of the teaching profession, the Tarlac State University-Supreme Student Council (TSUSSC) organized a Teachers’ Day celebration program for university professors bearing the theme, “Teachers at the

Heart of Education Recovery,” via zoom and Facebook live on October 5, 2021.

“This years’ World Teachers’ Day focuses on the support teachers need to fully contribute to the recovery process,” stated Dr. Erwin P. Lacanlale, Vice President for Academ

ic Affairs, as he formally opened the program.

Dr. Lacanlale stressed the importance of maintaining a strong educational capacity and capability in the continuous delivery of quality and efficient education by the teachers at a time when

students are geographically displaced and technologically marginalized as a result of the pandemic.

He also honored his colleagues who died in service and those who continued to teach despite the economic and health crisis. ... continue in pg. 5 August - October 2021

NEWS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

3

Interns, to Deploy in Private Schools; STO Ready for Online Internship

\

EMILY D. MARTIREZ

Pre-service teachers at the College of Teacher Education (CTEd) will be deployed in private schools to develop their teaching skills in an online classroom, according to Dr. Jasper Jay N. Mendoza, CTEd dean, during the Student-Teacher Organization (STO) assembly on September 11.

Despite that, Dr. Mendoza did not provide specific details and dates yet, for according to him, the college and the Alliance of Private Schools in the Province of Tarlac (APSTAP) are still in the talking process.

Aside from the deployment plan for pre-service teachers in private schools, the STO also pre

pared programs and webinars to help the pre-service teachers in the new setup of field study and practice teaching.

“Sa paparating na makabagong pamamaraan ng internship dulot ng pandemya, ay lubusang naghanda ang Student-Teachers Organization ng mga aktibidad na ibinase sa pangangailangan ng mga pre-service teachers sa kasalukuyang panahon,” said STO President, Neil Harvey Sembrano. mga pre-se vice teachers sa kasalukuyang panahon,” said STO President, Neil Harvey Sembrano.

Activities men ntioned during the General Assembly are workshops inwriting a lesson plan, onli-

ne classroom management, instructional materials making, and Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) coaching.

“Kami po ay naghanda ng hindi lamang po mga webinars na may mga paksang mahahalagang impormasyon mga mahahalagang impormasyon na dapat matutunan ng mga 4th year students bago ang paparating na internship, ngunit pati na rin po mga fun activities kagaya po ng acadelympics at yearend

Sembrano also stated that STO had planned campaigns and aigns and services to assist pre-service teachers, such as online LET review, STO help

desk, video and presentation making tutorials, free online references, and many other free services.references, and many other free services. references, and many other free services.

Furthermore, during the forum part of the General Assembly, the questions of the students regarding the uniform in the internship, preparation for the candle lighting, and pinning, considering the current situation, were emphasized.

An estimated 1,371 interns will be deployed in the school year which is the highest number of graduates in the history of CTEd.

CHED Launches PADYAK; TSU Hosts Tertiary Vaxx Program \

RAINE C. AGANON

As the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) started preparing for limited face-to-face classes to other degree programs, Tarlac State University (TSU) held the Padyak Para Sa Flexible Learning: Sama-Samang Vaccination Program for Tertiary Students spearheaded by CHED Chairperson, Hon. J. Prospero E. De Vera at TSU Gymnasium.

Around 2,500 college students received their first dose of the Moderna vaccine on October 23.

It catered to students from TSU, Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU), and other college students living in Tarlac province.

The said program is the first province-wide COVID 19 vaccination program for state universities and colleges (SUCs) in Central Luzon.

The TSU Gymnasium is available within two weeks for the second batch of 15,000 TSU students and 7,000 TAU students who are willing to get vaccinated, said TSU President Dr. Myrna Q. Mallari.

The program kicked off in Pampanga on October 13, August - October 2021

which accommodated Mabalacat City College students and Our Lady of Fatima University students.

According to De Vera, the vaccination rate of students, faculty, and other Higher Education Institutions’ employees should be high for the safe resumption of limited face-to-face classes for all degree programs to be possible early next year in low risks areas.

During his speech at TSU, he revealed that with 84% students and 92% faculty members who got vaccinated for the opening of limited face to face classes under the Medicine and Allied Health Sciences programs, only 0.2% and 0.65% infection rates were recorded consecutively with no hospitalization and deaths reported as of October 22.

“If there’s [a] high level of vaccination, an additional layer of safety is there to start reopening our schools. What’s important is everybody’s vaccinated. We are not vaccinating because we want limited F2F, but it is the goal to vaccinate everyone,” De Vera stated in a press briefing.

press briefing.

Chairperson De Vera also thanked Dr. Mallari, Hon. Maria Cristina C. Angeles, Tarlac City mayor, and Hon. Susan A. Yap, Tarlac Province Governor, for their cooperation with t h e s a i d program.

He emphasized that their assistance is important for the said program to be successful.

TSU Medical Services also posted reminders on theirFacebook page for all students who were vaccinated on October 23.

CHED Chairperson Hon. Jay Prospero E. de Vera spearheads PADYAK Para Sa Flexible Learning.

4

NEWS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

POLL: CTEd Studes Oppose CHED Exclusion of Educ Program on Limited F2f \

JERICHO S. VITA

In the poll conducted by the Educators’ Gazette on October 2, the majority of the College of Teacher Education (CTEd) did not favor the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) decision to exclude education courses in the expanded limited face-to-face classes.

Out of 112 responses, 56.3% of the population ‘disagree,’ and 43.8% of the population ‘agree’ with the CHED’s announcement about expanding degree programs permitted to attend face-to-face, wherein education courses were not included.

After President Rodrigo Duterte approved the request of CHED, the department announced on September 28 that they are expanding degree programs that are allowed to attend face-to-face classes. According to CHED, the programs included are the programs that require hands-on experience in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) under the Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ), which are as follows: Engineering and Technology Programs, Hospitality/ Hote and Restaurant Management, Tourism/ Travel Management, Marine Engineering and Marine Transportation.

According to the re

sponses of CTEd students, education courses should be prioritized as well, rers. for the current setup of learning may risk the quality of the future teachers.

“It is unfair. Since CHED, DepEd wants us, teachers, to be quality competitive teachers.

How can we achieve that goal if you excluded us, right? Online classes are just draining and not helpful in

according to her, preservice teachers should be allowed to attend limited face-to-face classes to acquire the skills and knowledge they need.

“Well, to be honest, I’m disappointed. It takes a lot of hard works and effort to teach, especially to young children. We, the future educators, shape the mind, personalities, and skills of our future students. So, that they can be

our teaching careers. Maybe, some part it is applicable, but the majority needs to be prioritized. Like, practice teaching, how can a teacher be confident enough to teach students if it’s via electronic devices? We don’t even know if the students are really listening,” said Krissha Nicole Abrejal, a 3rd-year student.

Furthermore, Ara Bea Dasalla, a 2nd-year student, expressed her disappointment with CHED, claiming that the future is in the hands of the teachers. Hence,

a better version of themselves, so their lives and futures lie between our hands.

“But we cannot give what we do not have if we will not be also in a limited face-to-face program to acquire more skills and knowledge to teach on,” Dasalla stated.

On the one hand, several students sided CHED and believe the current modes of learning for preservice teachers are sufficient.

“I think the main reason why education students should not be prioritized in the programs of limited face-to-face classes, is to ensure the safety of the majority since the alternative way of learning since the alternative way of learning for this course is still reliable,” Mark Joseph Domingo, a 4th-year student said.

Moreover, Danille Ann Manuel, a 4th-year student, asserted that education students are not part of the expanded faceto-face for teachers must learn to be flexible in every unexpected change that might happen in the education system.

“Students who are taking education courses can manage things online, they can teach online, can make instructional materials using digital tools, etc.,” she added.

Meanwhile, De Vera, in his statement, assured the safety of the students, parents, and faculty that allowed in face-to-face classes.

“We assure our students, parents, and faculty that holding in-person classes is safe.

Our guidelines are strict,” he said.

On October 11, CHED reported that a total of 181 universities and colleges nationwide catering to 21,000 students began holding limited face-to-face classes.

Young Filipino Farmers Land in Taiwan for 11-Month Agri Internship \

RAYMART G. CANLAS

As a step to extend and modernize farming agriculture of the Philippines, the Department of Agriculture (DA) selected 29 young Filipino farmers who were sent to Taiwan for an 11-month agricultural internship training program.

Philippines Secretary of Agriculture William Dar recognized that the agricultural program in Taiwan is an opportunity to create a new breed of farmers and inspire them to raise their agribusinesses to help the country’s agri culture to be-

more modernized and dynamic.

“This program gives the young generation of Filipinos the chance to appreciate why Taiwan is one of the leading countries in the world, particularly in agriculture, agribusiness, food processing, and manufacturing, among others,” said Dar. “Once you have imbibed the best strategies in Taiwan, you will be given opportunities back home in many ways,” he added.

The young farmers were sent overseas for the Filipino Young Farmers Internship

Program (FYFIP) in Taiwan.

It is a collaborative effort of the DA with the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) and Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines (TECO), with the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) as the head operating agency.

The MECO Chairman Angelito Banayo expressed his hope that the program will generate interest and open the minds of younger Filipinos to see agriculture from a new perspective.

Banayo also stated that once the interns have completed their internship and returned to their communities, they should ignite new agricultural avenues so that, one day, all Filipinos will have access to better and cheaper food.

Moreover, the head of MECO, Wilfredo Hernandez, mentioned that arable land in the Philippines has decreased, but the population continues to increase and compared agri’s productivity and long term viability to rising food demand.

August - October 2021

NEWS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

5

(From left to right) (Prof. Paulo Xavier V. Samson, TED Dept. Chair, Dr. Jasper Jay N. Mendoza, CTEd Dean, Dr. Jeanette M. Baquing, CTEd Extension Chair-Undergraduate Program, Dr. Eliza C. Patdo, Maruglo Elementary School Teachers) presenting face shields and printing supplies to be sent as academic donations to Agta Maruglo School.

EDUKagape: CTEd Extends Hands to Agta Maruglo \

CHRISTIAN S. NARDO

With daylight that embraces the soothing breeze in a sweet-tender humming of the birds, the people who are called “Maharlika” are wide awake to employ aids to help foster the societal ‘John Does’ – who are themselves less fortunate.

In the Province of Tarlac, a school called Maruglo Elementary School or ‘Mababang Paaralan ng Maruglo’ is located in Barangay Maruglu, Capas – a school taking care of the native or ethnic groups within the province.

Due to the seemingly invincible unseen enemy that procures battle of life and death because of health risks, the mode of teaching and learning are affected, causing fast-paced changes to adapt in the ‘New Normal’. The sudden shift in the modality of learning caused difficulties for both students and

teachers. This crisis resulted in the far-off dilemma on the lack of gadgets and equipment to be used during online classes.

To help the people in need in terms of the lack of materials, the Tarlac State University – College of Teacher Education (TSU-CTEd) lent its helping hands to those citizens who face the adversities with the new normal mode of learning.

CTEd has been able to reach, especially, the native learners from Maruglo elementary School.

“Isa sa mga hangarin ng ating Kolehiyo ay tulungan ang Maruglo Elementary School sa pamamagitan ng Community Development Services. Ninais ng ating minamahal na College of Teachers Education na iabot ang kanilang pagmamahal at malasakit sa ating mga katutubong Agta,” Dr. Jeanette Baquing, College of Undergraduate Extension

Program Chairperson, said.

She also said that more than 90% of the Agta learners could be reached and given assistance through the project. Through this step, numerous Agta students can study efficiently and effectively withlighten the arduous tasks and baggage they carry on their shoulders.

Moreover, last September 8, 2021, CTEd continued to provide assistance and love to Agta natives through EDUKagape Program.

Maruglo Elementary School once again received tools, materials, and equipment to help them in their studies and reach their goals.

“Ang ikalawang yugto ng ating proyekto dahil sa donasyon ng Kolehiyo ng CTEd, natanggap ng mga guro ng Maruglo ang dalawang printers, dalawang reams ng bond paper

at 100 na pirasong Faceshields,” Dr. Baquing stated.

Not only material assistance was provided by the college, but also orientations and webinars, which help the teachers to acquire skills in a more effective way of teaching.

The pandemic will never be a hindrance for us Filipinos if we work together to get everyone to pay attention to the society’s long-suffering natives and groups – which, of course, will only be possible through sacrifices and respect for our society.

A program like this should be supported and run continuously to nurture every student who lacks materials and devices to make their goals and aspirations attainable. Our society requires education – but it is love and devotion that will propel the progress of the nation.

-minded the students to think of their teachers who have molded them to be the person they have become and remember the skills, knowledge, values, and attitude they have had imparted.

As they always

say, teaching “is a noble profession, it comes with so much responsibility and duty towards students. Teachers do not only teach and impart knowledge but more so inspire, motivate students for life,” stated Dr. Gamido as he formally closed the program.

from TSU Commemorates...

Meanwhile, in her inspirational message, Dr. Myrna Q. Mallari emphasized her gratitude and appreciation for teachers’ compassion and persistence in this “now” normal.

“Today, we celebrate the dedication, the August - October 2021

love, and the life that are being shared (by teachers) to our students. We salute and congratulate you for being at the Heart of Education Recovery,” she stated.

Dr. Marion V. Gamido, Vice President for Admin and Finance, re

6

NEWS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

TSU-LS Partakes University’s 115th Founding Anniversary Celebration \

CHASTENE M. PARAZO

The newly reinstated

Tarlac State University - Laboratory School (TSU-LS) conducted a one-day celebration in line with the 115th Founding Anniversary of TSU with the theme “Lighting the Fire: A Virtual Education Day Celebration” via Microsoft Teams and Google meet on October 14, 2021.

TSU-LSians showcased their skills and abilities through various activities facilitated by their fellow students.

The two sections were combined and divided into five groups of 10 to 13 members, who faced challenges that tested their intellect, analytical thinking, and camaraderie,

such as “Guess the Emoji”, “Read me to Understand me”, “Lights, Camera, Action”, and “You Fix Me”.

The Blazing Cavaliers was hailed as the champion for the team event, besting the four other teams with a score of 151, followed by the Gleaming Tritons at 2nd place with a twopoint difference.

Other than the team competition, Queen’s Gambit, a chess tournament, was also held, where Aaron Alvaran from STEM A stood victorious over seven other contestants.

In an interview, Alvaran stated that he was nervous during the competition.

“Ngayon lang po ako

naka laro ulit. Noong elementary, lumalaban po ako pero nung junior high school, laro-laro na lang.

Wala pong practice kaya kinabahan ako, lalo na magagaling din po yung mga nakalaban ko,” he said.

He also said that he was elated when the results came out, especially since he bagged a small prize.

Debbie Avery Duque, a representative from the Blazing Cavaliers, expressed her emotions regarding the result of the events. She said that having the two sections merge and be divided into groups incited a sense of unity amongst the LSians.

She also said that

it was an unexpected win for them since they were still trying to get along with one another during the competition, and it was the first time most of them interacted with the other section.

Revely Trinidad Meneses, a student-facilitator of the event, said that she was very proud of her fellow students and co-facilitators as not only were they able to overcome technical difficulties, but they were a lso able to exercise unity and cooperation as they planned the events even without personally meeting.

She also said that it was hard to juggle responsibilities, but it was worth it.

posted on The Blackboard Facebook page.

More so, the coronation night was hosted via Facebook live on October 16.

“Being committed and focus, kahit sobrang busy natin sa academic career na tinatahak natin, kahit sobrang busy sa work, nagbibigay talaga ako ng time and effort, for planning for this pageant, magreresearch at nanunuod ng mga issues about our country, especially our government and about CHED and HEI’s, kahit madaling araw na abutin, self-discipline and time management din para unahin yung mga bagay na una sa deadline, para maga

wa yung responsibility ko sa school as student and duty and obligation ko sa work,” said Pagaduan.

Meanwhile, Castañeda, expressed her happiness about her victory.

“It still feels surreal. The process of getting the crown was tough.

There were people who didn’t believe that I could bring home the title, but the support system that I have doesn’t know the words ‘backing down’. And I want to give back the support that they have given me. So, I really tried my best last night in the competition po, and it definite

ly paid off,” she said.

Next to the throne were Mr. Antonio Miguel Santos (Physical Educators Association) and Ms. Angelica Mae Lacayanga Mathematical Society) as first runners-up; Mr. Hiyle Pineda (Mathematical Society) and Ms. Czarina Jean Guting (Mathematical Society) as second runners-up; Mr. Paulo Balboa (The Generalists) and Ms. Joy Echevarri (The Generalists) as third runners-up; and Mr. Rovel Emmanuel Quesada (MAHARLIKA) and Ms. Rosalinda Carbonel (Buklod-Diwa).

TG, MAHARLIKA Hailed as Mr. & Ms. Educ ’21 \

ZY S. DAQUIGAN

Showcasing their beauties, wits, talents, advocacies, and personalities, The Generalist’s (TG) Brian Pagaduan and Mag-aaral ng Heograpiya, Antropolohiya, Relihiyon, Lipunan, at Kasaysayan organization’s (MAKAHRLIKA) Nicole Andrea Castañeda transcended fifteen candidates as they secured the crown for Mister and Miss Teacher Education 2021 as part of the Educational Week celebration.

The other portions of the pageant, including the candidates’ introduction and presentation of advocacies, were done via short videos

August - October 2021

NEWS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

7

CTEd Not Closing Doors for F2F Pinning, Candle Lighting Ceremony \ JERICHO S. VITA

Dr. Jasper Jay Mendoza, dean of the College of Teacher Education (CTEd), answered a student intern’s question during the 4th-year orientation that a face-to-face Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony is possible if the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) approve a limited face-to-face program, in which the 4th-year students will be allowed to attend a physical ceremony divided into four or six batches.

“With the number of students that we have, 1000 plus, definitely, no. Unless we will have limited face-to-face [that is] approved by the Commission on Higher Education and IATF to have it four batches or even six batches,” replied Mendoza.

Furthermore, Dr. Mendoza said that he enjoys the face-to-face Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony, for according to him, it is one of the programs that he misses happening in the college.

Ako nga lahat ng balahibo ko tumatayo kapag ganun eh. Lalong lalo na kapag kumakanta na yung mga students. Yan yung mga talagang namimiss ko na mga activities natin,” he said.

However, if the ceremony will not be allowed to happen face-to-face, Student-Teacher Organization (STO) President Neil Harvey C. Sembrano said that the STO is prepared and has a plan in place.

“Ang balak po namin ay ivivideo po ng bawat magaaral ang pag-pipin sa kanila ng

(From top to bottom) (Dr. Jasper Jay Mendoza, Patrick Castillo, Dr. Mellany Masangkay, Arifah Bashier and Neil Harvey Sembrano) Dr. Mendoza answers queries from graduating students regarding the possibility of the face-to-face setting for pinning and candle lighting ceremony.

kanilang magulang o guardian sa kanilang tahanan at ipeplay po ang mga ito sa live broadcast ng virtual pinning and candle lighting,” he said.

According to Sembrano, the STO’s plan to conduct the Pinning and Lighting Ceremony virtually is also based on the suggestions of Mendoza and some CTEd students and teachers.

“Even the ceremony happens face-to-face or virtual, I believe that all 4th-year students are delighted, for we are only one step closer to our dreams,” Mark Jay Mejia, 4th year student said.

The 4th-year orientation program organized by the CTEd-Student Council (CSC) was held on October 30 via Microsoft Teams.

Filipino Youth Surpass 50% of Total Registered Voters \

THERESA E. GALULU

A total of 52% young Filipino voters comprised the total of 63,678,418 registered voters as of September 30.

Commission on Election (COMELEC) Director Divine Blas-Perez told a subcommittee chaired by Senator Risa Hontiveros that the figure represents 1.45 million young registered voters in the Sangguniang Kabataan who are now 18 years old or older.

According to Comelec Spokesperson, James Jimenez in an interview with CNN Philippines, the young Filipino voters may make a upcoming national elections August - October 2021

as they comprise most of the voters.

Along with this, Comelec continues to engage with the young Filipino voters to remind them that they

have a vital role to play in the 2022 national and local elections.

“If I don’t vote, someone else will decide for me,” said firsttime voter, Prences Jhewen Albis during an open mic episode of Radyo Comelec headed by Jimenez, held via Zoom App on April 2021.

The voting population for the upcoming national elections in 2022 hass

grown to more than 63 million as of September 2021, with the Comelec anticipating an increase of at least 64 million by the end of October.

Before the registration period was extended to October 31, 6.1 million new voters already registered between August 2019 and September 2021.

Furthermore, 700, 690 have reactivated their accounts to exercise their right to vote in the 2022 national election.

In the present, the number of registered voters has already exceeded COMELEC’s prediction of 59 million registered vot-

of 63,678,418 registered voters are from Filipino Youth ters to exercise their rights to vote on the upcoming May 2022 national election.

8

NEWS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

SPECIAL COVERAGE

TSU Braved Pandemic; Celebrates Courage, Unity, Resiliency \

SSC virtual campus tour simulates a Minecraft TSU environment as a virtual event setting.

BRINGING UNIVERSITY TO STUDENTS’ FINGERTIPS...

SSC Tours TSUsians to Minecraft Campus \

JERICHO S. VITA

To give students the chance to see and wander around the university despite the distance learning setup, the Tarlac State University-Supreme Student Council (TSU-SSC) prepared a virtual campus tour Minecraft edition as part of the celebration of the Tarlac State University 115th Founding Anniversary via Discord, Minecraft, and Facebook Live on October 11.

In the virtual tour, the students were able to view the university and visit the facilities and colleges from different campuses of the university which are: TSU Main campus, TSU Lucinda campus, TSU San Isidro campus, and TSU Capas campus using their Minecraft avatars.

“In conducting the Campus Trip: Minecraft Edition, the council aims to bring TSUians to Tarlac State University and let them roam around - virtually, in this case. We want you to see the beauty of our university. We want you to experience all the best things in your college years that quarantine cannot hamper,” Hosannah Grace Quiambao, TSU-SSC Incumbent Senator in Finance, stated in an interview.

The TSU Gymnasium, Mini forest, College of Teacher Education, College of Science, College of Fine Arts, and College of Computer Studies buildings were among the highlights of the said minecraft-virtual campus tour.

“Ang TSU-SSC ay pinunan ang aming kawilihan at kagustuhan na makita ang Tarlac State University Campus. Maraming salamat sa napakahusay at detelyadong campus tour kahit na ito ay virtual tour lamang. Dahil dito, mas lalong umigting ang aming kagustuhan na kami mismo ang makasilay sa ganda ng Tarlac State University, maitapak ang aming mga sariling paa sa loob ng TSU Campus at busugin ang aming mga mata sa mga TSUians at sa ganda ng Unibersidad,” stated Myron Tamayo, a 2nd year student of CTE.

According to Dexter Ivan Fernandez, Vice President of TSU-SSC, the idea behind the Virtual Campus Trip: Minecraft Edition was to be creative and innovative to provide TSU students with a real-time and interactive virtual campus tour.

“It is an excellent idea that the Tarlac State University decided to have a virtual tour through Minecraft where I can view and explore numerous campuses via facebook live, specifically the Lucinda campus. It gives me the real feeling of walking inside the campus again at the same time enjoys the cozy ambiance,” expressed Rollyn Yvonne Valdoz, a 4th-year student of CTEd.

RAINE C. AGANON

As Tarlac State University (TSU) braved the heat of the pandemic last year, this year’s celebration of the 115th Founding and 32nd Charter Anniversary is on the University’s maintained courage, heightened unity, and eventually its resiliency.

“I have realized that what this pandemic is presenting to us is to reflect at the very reason why we celebrate our founding day and charter anniversary, which is to mark not the 19 months of being in the pandemic but the time we have stood in our ground. Rise above the occasion and collectively summon our indomitable human spirit to support one another. This is a time to ark our collective courage and resilience as a TSU Community,” Dr. Erwin P. Lacanlale, Vice President of the Academic Affairs, stated

in his opening remarks.

As TSU celebrated its founding and charter anniversary, various personalities delivered messages of appreciation and motivation in the opening program.

Dr. Myrna Q. Mallari, in her special message, acknowledged and appreciated the contributors behind the university’s success – former TSU presidents, former TSU vice presidents, current vice presidents, and incumbent vice presidents, faculty, non-teaching personnel, parents, and as well as the students.

“For without you, we cannot see the future clearly,” Dr. Mallari claimed.

She also congratulated TSU – Supreme Student Council led by President Mikaela Laxamana on their efforts ... continue in pg. 10

CTEd Math Soc Tops in Org Olympics, Places 2nd Overall Champion \

HAROLD LEE R. SARMIENTO

College of Teacher Education (CTEd) Mathematical Society (MathSoc) bested 52 competing organizations in Tarlac State University (TSU) as they tallied 39 overall points and were declared second place in the Organizational Olympic 2021.

MathSoc established their name in the standings after taking first place in TSUFLIX and Chill, which awarded them 25 points and helped them climb the standings.

In the TSUFlix and Chill, Allysa Marimla, Diana Mesa, Michael Jerome Palmes, Ronnel Luna, and Philip Deleon, led by their artist, showcased their acting skills in their winning piece titled “Nakadenang Gold.”

Mag-aaral ng Heograpiya, Antropolohiya, Relihiyon, Lipunan at Kasaysayan (MAHARLIKA) on the one hand shined in the contest as they ranked 10th respectively after capturing spot in BringGo. August - October 2021

NEWS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

9

TSU 115th FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY

Host from CASS Department announcing the GAWAD TSU-Service Awards 2021 that is awarded to TSU faculty enacted

by Dr. Myrna Q. Mallari and received by Dr. Jasper Jay N. Mendoza.

CTEd Facul ty Receives Recognition in GAWAD \ TSU ate Professor I (10 years of service),

Staff from the ColJERICHO S. VITA

lege of Teacher Education (CTEd) accepted awards as part of the celebration of Tarlac State University (TSU) 115th Founding and 32nd Charter Anniversary during the GAWAD TSU - Service Awards 2021.

The awardees from CTEd were the CTEd dean Dr. Jasper Jay N. Mendoza, Associate Professor II, CTEd dean and Office of International Affairs Director (10 years of service), Dr. Arlyn C. Cura, Associ

Dr. Jefferson R. Herrera, Assistant Professor II (10 years of service), Dr. Zuriel Ross C. Tablan, Assistant Professor III (15 years), and Dr. Norbina Genever M. Castro, Associate Professor V (30 years of service).

The awardees included in GAWAD TSU - Service Award 2021 were grouped based on their years of service to the university.

From 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 years of service in TSU.

TSU honored a total of 42 teaching and non-teaching personnel for the long years of loyalty and service they rendered in the university on October 14, streamed via Facebook Live.

“The TSU special award is a special affair organized by the TSU to show appreciation and gratitude to each person for the years of service rendered to the university through awarding of tokens of appreciation, such as plaque of appreciation with Tarlac State University, gold plated medallion, gold Tarlac State University pin, ring, bracelet, necklace, and pendant,” said Dr. Armee N. Rosel, Vice President of TSU

Research and Extension Services, on her opening remarks.

She also emphasized that the tokens of appreciation that the awardees received and will receivedo not only symbolize the number of years they have contributed to the university. The tokens also symbolized the character of how they served TSU.

Meanwhile, Dr. Myrna Q. Mallari, TSU President, revealed that she wanted theservice award program to be conducted face-toface and not solely virtual, for according to her, she was sentimental about her nearly ending presidential term.

“Actually pinilit ko po honestly na magkaroon ng konting face-to-face ngayon, for this service award, kasi, nagiging sentimental ako because sooner my term as the president of Tarlac State University will be ending by March 31, 2022.

So, sabi ko ito ang last service award.

So, I don’t want to miss this affair because I will always remember that this part of the celebration of the founding and the charter anniversary of Tarlac State University is not complete without recognizing the dedication the courage, the unity, and the resiliency of the people or the stakeholders of TSU,” she said.

CTEd Dominates Inter-College Culture and Arts Competition \

RONALENE V. GAERLAN

The College of Teacher Education (CTEd) fired up in the Virtual Cultural Program, Inter-College Culture and Arts Competition in line with the week-long celebration of the 115th Founding anniversary of Tarlac State University (TSU), on October 13.

In the said program, the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE), College of Computer Studies (CCS), College of Art and Social Sciences (CASS), College of Teacher Education (CTEd), College of Engineering and Technology (CET), and College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) competed for the title in each category namely, Cha Cha Cha, Jive, Hip-Hop, and Contemporary.

“This program is a kind of a nurturing process when it comes to the ability of the students even though it has happened virtually, we can still see the talents of the students,” said Aisen Pierre Bulanadi of CTEd.

CTEd ruled the list of winners in the event; Gm Kirk B. Tulbanos, Cha Cha Cha - male category, and Jive - male category champion, Dyan Sheena Riza C. Galang, Cha Cha Cha - female category champion, Franz Anjelah Razon, Jive - female category champion and 1st runner- up in the contemporary female August - October 2021

champion, Jade Lanmar M. Timbang, Hip-Hop male category 2nd runner up, and Tracy Mae Manalili, Hip-Hop female category 3rd Runner up.

“CTEd is actually striving forward; it is proof that CTEd students are rising when it comes to talents and excellence,” said Aisen Pierre Bulanadi of CTEd in an interview with Educators’ Gazette.

“To be one of the representatives of College of Teacher Education was indeed a great achievement, and it is truly [something] to be proud of. All I have to say towards the CTEd is the fact that it was intense, [but] you guys hung on and focused on your desired goals. A [job] well done to all of us, let your feet stay on the ground and let yourself fly high, future educators,” said Dyan Sheena Riza C. Galang of CTEd.

“Representing our college in the Inter-College Culture and Arts Competition is already a privilege for me, in a thousand number of students in CTEd I was chosen, and it is my responsibility to raise our flag,” said Gm Kirk B. Tulbanos of CTEd.

The said champions will represent TSU in the Culture and the Arts Association of State Universities and Colleges (CCASUC) of Region III.

10

NEWS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

SPECIAL COVERAGE HAYAG: CTEd Studes Claim 2 Golds, Gain spots in Int’l Festival \

CRISJOSEF B. CORPUZ

College of Teacher Education (CTEd) representatives in Online Drama and Virtual Speech Choir declared winners in the Tarlac State University - 1st HAYAG: Inter-Collegiate Literary Festival, and given a chance in representing the university in TETHER: International Literary Festival.

The literary competition was held via Zoom and Facebook Live from October 12 to 13, 2021.

The Online Drama Group were represented by selected 4th-year students from English 4F; Jireh Canlas, Tintin Baldemos, Marie Joyce Balot, Erika Pascual, Jolina Bansil, Christine Joy E Gonzales, Shane Delos Santos, Tonie Joy Aguas, Erica Joy Navaro, and Roilyn Yvonne Valdos. While the representatives in the Virtual Speech Choir were from English 3B; Kaye Angeli Alaan, Karen Jane Candelaria, Ravee Laurenco Castro, Rica Joy Corpuz, Charles Gil Espinosa, Joyce Evora, Jordan Icban, Aicel Madera, Rizel Mallari, Princess Diane Mandal, Marianne Ruth Marcos, Windelyn Tuvera, and Shunna Faith Villarico.

The online drama group made a shot in their

self-made drama entitled “The Seven Canceled,” which tackled the topic of cancel culture.

“We are immensely grateful, not just for the prize but for the opportunity that Tarlac State University had given us. Actually, we have decided to join the 1st HAYAG: Inter-Collegiate Literary Festival 2019 - Online Drama a day before the submission of the recorded video, because at first, we [were] doubting ourselves to join, but with the help of a saying that always bring up our motivation, “It is better late than never,” we joined the competition,” Jireh Canlas, 4th-year CTEd student stated.

Meanwhile, the virtual speech choir group performed the poem “Peace, Not War” by Patricia Lithuanian.

“It’s quite challenging for us having the fact that we did that speech choir online.

At first, we really [didn’t] know what to do. We asked everyone to meet and have some practice personally, but some of my classmates disagreed with the plan, so we decided to do the speech choir online. We are all required to record ourselves completing all the lines in the

(From top left to bottom right) (Marianne Ruth Marcos, Jordan Icban, Aizel Madera, Charles Gil Espinosa and Carl Justin Celis) performing Online Drama category with winning piece ‘’Peace, Not War’ in International Literary Festival held as an online event by TSU - Office of International Affairs.

given piece, we asked everyone what emotions should we put on the said piece and how to deliver it during the meeting, but then as days pass by, we begin to find solutions as well on how to do it. Although there are some videos of mine that I’m not satisfied with, it surprises me that it [turned] out so well and blended so well with others’ videos,” expressed Carl Justin Celis, a third-year CTEd student.

More so, Windelyn Tuvera, an English 3B student, stated that they did not expect to win the speech choir because the editing was challenging due to their individualized and unsynchronized video recordings.

However, she said that she became speechless with the results when she saw the final edited video. “But then, when I saw the final video, I was speechless, as in, [I had] goosebumps, I did not expect na magagawa pala namin yung virtual speech choir na sobrang hirap gawin noong una.”

Due to the win of CTEd students in the HAYAG online drama and speech choir, the two groups of performers will have the chance to represent TSU in TETHER: International Literary Festival.

“Aside from winning the online drama internationally, learning new things and getting new abilities are still important. Since our skills are sharpened through the previous competition in school, we’ll do everything to represent TSU undoubtedly with the full strength and latent quality we have. However, support and motivation are greatly needed from our fellow students, teachers, and other TSU personnel,” Erica Joy T. Navarro, a student from English 4F, said in an interview.

from TSU Braved... ...in preparing the activities for foundation week.

Moreover, she also emphasized the theme of this year’s foundation celebration.

“Through the years, courage, unity, and resiliency have been our touchstones. Ang mga challenges po sa ating mga dinadaanan ay hindi dumating lang noong 2020, through the years, challenges come our way, but what is more important [ay] hindi yung pagkakataong tayo ay nadapa kundi yung mga pagkakataong tayo ay tumayo sa pagkakadapa, at ngayon tayo ay nakatayo upang harapin ang mga hamon ng buhay at mabuhay nang [nagsisilbi] ayon sa tinatawag po ng ating mga opisina,” she stated.

Hon. Susan Yap Governor, Province Government of Tarlac and Hon. Maria Cristina “Cristy” Angeles, Tarlac city Mayor, also commended Tarlac State University’s courage, unity, and resiliency not just during the pandemic but throughout the years since it was established.

“Now more than ever, we should not be disheartened, despite the challenge has brought about by COVID 19,” said Hon. Mayor Cristy Angeles.

Meanwhile, Senator Joel “TESDAman” Villanueva, Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education chairman, also extended his warm greetings and congratulations to TSU. August - October 2021

NEWS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

11

TSU 115th FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY

Marvin “Akimoto” Canlas, TSU’s first Drag King or Queen 2021 titleholder, receives the photogenic award.

Kings and Queens Take Pride on First-Ever TSU Drag Fest \

ERIKA D. RAMILO

Equality was uplifted as colors united on the first Drag Fest competition on Tarlac State University (TSU), organized by TSU – Supreme Student Council (TSU-SSC), streamed via Facebook Live on October 13.

“We are continuing to create a safe space for everyone, including the LGBTQ people, as we fight for our rights. Bahaghari

ple, as we fight for our rights.

Bahaghari is going stronger in widening the knowledge and spreading awareness to people regarding the LGBTQ community and the latest national news and issues,” said Faith Selah Atendido, President of Bahaghari-TSU Chapter, in her inspirational message.

Empowered queens

showcased their captivating transformations in their costumes and make-ups. Royalties from four different colleges have exhibited talent in ramping, lip sinking, and dancing skills in their transition videos that impressed the judges.

College of Engineering and Technology (CET), Marvin “Akimoto” Canlas dragged the title Drag King or Queen 2021.

“On this first ever Drag Fest competition, sobrang thankful ako dahil nabigyan kami ng opportunity na kahit ano pa ang gender mo, whether you are LGBTQ member, everyone can showcase their talents,” Akimoto said.

Beauties Ma. Rowiella “Maria Vee Latte” Fausto from the College of Architecture and Fine Arts (CAFA) placed as 3rd runner up, Xairhen “Luzviminda” Santos of College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) as 2nd Runner Up, and Austin “Draguna Pana” Torio of College of Science (COS) as the 1st runner up.

People’s Choice Award was given to Draguna

Pana, after having the highest number of heart reactions, while Akimoto received the Photogenic Award, and Maria Vee Latte was hailed as Ms. Hey Brew, with a gift certificate and 1000 pesos from the sponsor of the said event, Hey Brew Café.

Meanwhile, TSUians showed support to their candidates through virtual cheers on FB live’s comment section.

Prizes were also given to the first five viewers who correctly answered the questions of the hosts.

The event was sponsored by Hey Brew Café, Le Frenz, Nyx Art Shop, Piqato Studio, Poly.Co, Saka Resort, The King’s Graze, Verza Cosmetics, and Knots in Ropes.

“Hindi po mangyayari ang lahat ng ito kung wala po ang ating mga generous sponsors and of course ang ating partner na walang iba kundi ang Gender and Development Unit at Art of Benj.

Maraming salamat din sa ating mga judges na nasa iba’t ibang panig ng probinsiya,” said Mikaella Laxamana, TSU-SSC President.

CASSmates, and friends,” Cirineo added.

Following the King and Queen are John Mark S. Cariaga (CBA) and Remedios M. Dayrit (CCJE) as first runners-up; Chustine Mitchel A. Loyaga (CCJE) and Zyra G. Basilio (CASS) as second run-

ners-up; Cromwell R. Ingreso (CCS) and Joei Marie C. Maglanoc (CET) as third runners-up; Ignacio M. Quilon I I I (CET) and Christ ier Dinnese F. Flores (CCS) a s fourth runners-up.

CASS, CBA Studes Claim TSU Festival King and Queen Crowns \

LESLY F. MAREGMEN

Flaunting their dazzling festival costumes online, College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS)’s Marco Paulo M. Cirineo and College of Business and Accountancy (CBA)’s Kae Zvetlana L. Lizarondo outshined fourteen candidates after bringing home the Festival King and Queen title this year’s Tarlac State University (TSU)115th Founding and 32nd Charter Anniversary.

To satisfy the university’s safety protocol, the said celebration utilized a new system of pageantry, unveiling their beauties and intelligence through Facebook teaser video August - October 2021

and intelligence through Facebook teaser video and Facebook live on the 15th of October as part of the university’s founding celebration.

Cirineo said that the most challenging part of this year’s online pageant is going from one place to another for pre-recorded videos for the said pageant as well as the time that preparation consumed, given the fact that he is a working student.

“…I guess it was not tiring for me at all because of the undying support of my Professors, CASSmates, and friends from the time I joined Mr. TSU

SSC virtual campus tour simulates a Minecraft TSU environment as a virtual event setting.

12

EDITORIAL

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

Unsolicited Responsibility A

s the , filing of candidacy started, early

campaigns kick-off and in filtrat ed the

conversations from the internet to a small group of friends who are casually having small chitchats. The most important is not the ones who are most talked about but to choose the one who would walk the talk.

With Filipinos about to face a national election amidst pandemic chaos, Commission on Election (Comelec) successfully outdone its 59 million targets of registered voters for the 2022 election. There are 6.1 million newly registered voters, while 700,690 reactivated their rights to vote, leading to more than 63 million registered voters. This record shows Filipinos longing for change, clearly pushing them to their limits—to act and voice their bet.

Some of the factors leading to a huge number of voters are the issues the country is battling in the present. The catastrophic pandemic, undying corruption, and other old yet unresolved societal problems urged every single voter to choose their new hero— through the power of indel-

ible ink, hoping they will be saved from the mess of the outgoing administration.

As soon as the candidates started filing their candidacies, news companies and social media applications are being flooded with their public and personal identities, like flying character sketches defining each candidate from end to end. Every single detail that can be used to lift or drag them down is recorded in any digital platform that any individual blessed with a smartphone can easily access.

As normal as it seems, every single person owns their bet in the upcoming 2022 election, especially among the rivalries in the presidential bid. Each choice the Filipino voters have is precisely coming with a reason behind it—be it shallow or coming from a long list of qualifications and triumphs achieved. There is only a oneway package ticket for the candidates; how they invested in the past, what they are doing in the present, and what they will do in the future as reflected in what they promise to do are critical factors in deciding to whom we will gamble the country’s future in the next six years.

„

In this season of choice and bet, the most important thing to look at doesn’t lie on what the trend echoes,

rather, it lies on what the can

didate has done for the past years and will do in the next years.

Their previous performance, platforms, and plans for the country play a crucial role in who the voters chose to lay their bet because the Philippines has a volume of problems that need to address one by one.

For the past years, Filipinos have been more actively engaging in using the internet, especially now that we are facing a pandemic and literally doing almost everything online. In 2020, 73 percent of the Philippine p o p ulation are using the internet, which probably means that 73 percent of our total population have access to social media and other digital platforms where we August - October 2021

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

EDITORIAL

13

commonly see different kinds of in formation.

Having this reasonable percentage, the presence to access information is instinctive to use cleverly, particularly now that the 2022 election is confronting—waiting for us to decide.

Internet is an open book, ready to review and keep track of what the candidates did and are doing in line with their position or campaign, but confirming sources and verifying information, far from lies and distortion doesn’t cost so much.

Bickering and arguing on social media, which ends up in insulting the person involved, doesn’t help in the enlightenment of an individual.

Properly providing factual answers will be of great help to everyone who is clueless, uninformed, and misinformed. Their refusal to believe doesn’t end the story. It is also nice to see where their reasons are coming from, for we have done our part—to enlighten the person through the information we are holding.

In line with this, people already know what kind of leader they wanted for a particular position. The survey conducted by Pulse Asia in June 2021 disclosed the most important traits that the national candidates should possess that Filipinos are looking for. The top picks nationwide were, “has concer’.n for the poor, pro-poor” (48 percent), “not corrupt” (47 percent), and “trustworthy and honest” (37 percent). Other top characteristics are “has a good platform and can give solutions to the problems of the country” (32 percent), “fights anomalies in government” (25 percent), “untarnished name and reputation” (22 percent), “has good leadership skills” (22 percent) and “fulfills promises” (21 percent).

Clearly, Filipinos already have made their mind to the kind of leader they want to flutter.

Arguing on social media and painting it “political debate” doesn’t make the country’s situation any good—it only widens the division between our differences.

With this, instead of attracting and game-tagging arguments on social media, why not further educate ourselves first through researching for us to get to know who we wanted to lead our country? Too quick to decide just based on what we feel about the candidate is a blatant irresponsible characteristic of a registered voter.

Who to vote for is not like a trend that we blindly wear, it is a decision strengthened by a series of research and proof that will decide what our next six years will look like.

August - October 2021

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE EDITORIAL BOARD AND STAFF A.Y. 2021 TO 2022

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:

Raine C. Aganon

ASSOCIATE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:

Erika D. Ramilo

MANAGING EDITOR:

Lesly Joy F. Maregmen

ASSOCIATE MANAGING EDITOR:

Zy S. Daquigan

NEWS EDITOR:

Jericho S. Vita

FEATURES EDITOR:

Cathy Mae C. Rivera

SPORTS EDITOR:

Harold Lee R. Sarmiento

DEV. COM. EDITOR:

Crisjosef B. Corpuz

LITERARY EDITOR:

Julie Ann C. Natividad

LAYOUT EDITOR :

Roberto C. Jovenal Jr.

SENIOR CARTOONIST:

Clarenz B. Narciso

SENIOR PHOTOJOURNALIST:

Melvin M. Corpuz

CORRESPONDENTS: Raymart G. Canlas

Theresa Nichole E. Galulu

Chastene M. Parazo

Emily D. Martirez

Ronalene V. Gaerlan

Christian Jay S. Nardo

Photojournalists:

Jayson C. Balatbat

Grace T. Tubera

Jewel A. Garsuta

LAYOUT ARTISTS: Marvin Bryan N. Valencia Arnel S. Tacusalme

Donnalyn H. Cruz

CARTOONIST:

John Gabriel Capitulo

TECHNICAL ADVISERS:

Prof. Elizabeth P. Balanquit

Mr. Jhayvi C. Dizon -

14

OPINION

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

August - October 2021

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

August - October 2021

OPINION

15

16

OPINION

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

s

tudents losing their momentum and com petence for learning are highly noticeable for the past one and a half school year of remote and blended learning. Futile educational system amid pandemic brings forth an education crisis – compromising the aptness of our country’s hope to keep pace with international proficiency.

Education on these trying times appears to be just submission of requirements and not the apprehension of the lesson; it turned to be passing of activities instead of acquiring ,knowledge.It had impacted students’ response and eagerness to flourish and excel in their chosen fields.

The boredom of attending classes or answering modules and passive participation in online meetings became contagious as the number of students dropping their enrollment keeps growing, which is very alarming. Students are immensely yearning for physical classes and reopening schools, where genuine and quality education lies – where learning actually and effectively happens.

After three refusals, the students’ intense desire to reopen the school was answered. In September 2021, the Department of Education (DepEd) announced the approval of President Rodrigo Duterte to DepEd’s proposal of limited face-to-face classes on 120 schools across the country while considering the quality of education, mental health, and economic issues of the country in the context of the pandemic.

PHOTO: WEB

“Ang face-to-face na konsepto ngayon iba sa face-to-face na kilala natin, na everyday nagface-to-face ang teacher, ang kabataan. Sa lahat na bansa, walang daily continuous face-to-face.

Talagang ini-schedule ito nang husto at strictly monitored pati yung kilos ng mga bata,” Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones explained.

Despite the safety assurance that DepEd gives and the willingness of the students to undergo pilot face-to-face classes, some individuals, especially the parents, have doubts about the reopening of classrooms amid the still untamed pandemic and dangerous physical interactions. Inadequate healthcare facilities such as school clinics and handwashing facilities, enormous shortages in classrooms and teachers, insuff icient water in the schools, and the blatant lack of school nurses are the prim a r y c o n ce rns people h a v e about the welfare of students in the current classroom.

OPINION

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16 In the meantime,

the Department of Health (DOH) said it would support face-to-face classes in low-risk areas, where the pandemic is under control, and health facilities and routines are made available in accordance with minimal health standards, including frequent hand washing and physical distancing.

Further, the DepEd and DOH have signed a Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) for the Pilot Implementation of Faceto-Face classes in Basic Education, indicating the health and safety of the 100 public and 20 private schools with minimal-risk COVID-19. The JMC has four key pillars that include safe operations, instruction, and learning, the inclusion of the most marginalized, and the welfare and protection of students and school staff. They provide advice on the safe management of school traffic, safety measures and procedures, psychological support, and contingency planning, among other things.

We cannot blame the mass for questioning our government’s plans regarding the re-opening of classes, as they have already broken the trust of the

Filipino people with their erroneous implementation of blended learning. However, it is never too late for our departments to compensate Filipino citizens for regaining their trust through concrete pilot implementation strategies.

Teachers, the frontliners of the teaching profession, should be prioritized for COVID-19 vaccines after health workers and those most at risk to protect them from community transmission. Students that will undergo the pilot testing should also be vaccinated to avoid easy transmission of the virus.

The remaining months of the school year can be used to strategize for the safe return of students to school; the government should first fill gaps in health infrastructure and teachers in schools before going back to face-to-face classes.

“The education crisis is still here, and with each passing day that classrooms remain dark, the devastation worsens,” said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore.

Students may be safer at home, but the availability of computers, mobile phones, the Internet, nd the unequal quality of education, are some of the challenges that online learning continues to face— they are not safe from learning gaps brought by ineffective distance education.

Learners on the modular learning mode develop procrastination and loss of interest in responding to activities and passing modules. Parents do good grades, and cheating has become commonplace to some. The learner-centered approach to education has gone too far in this pandemic period—leaving them with poor facilitation or guidance.

There’s no time to delay face-to-face classes and compromise education in the fight against COVID-19.

Education is as essential as the health and economy on which our country places its priority. We have lost a year in education, and we are continually losing the battle because the future of this country is forbidden, as the youth are slowly mistrusting the Philippines’ mode of learning.

„

Education on these trying times appears to be just submission of requirements and not the apprehension of the lesson; it turned to be passing of activities instead of acquiring knowledge.

The last academic year has become a lost year of education as blended learning has proven ineffective.

The underlying progress and vague plans to reopen the school make it difficult for people to allow and accept the reopening of the school, even though students desperately need it, or else the Philippines will remain at the bottom of global competence.

17

18

OPINION

We definitely heard the comparison of an empty can to an empty mind from our grade-school teachers. It is a sugar-coated caution to noisy and naughty students to stop talking amidst discussion hours.

I honestly never understood where the logic behind that analogy came from until I actually witnessed the meltdown of Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.

This barefaced lash out from Roque to medical frontliners that gains public outbursts is emblematic of how this regime looks down at the soldiers of this war. Despite the exhaustion to save lives and flatten the surge of COVID-19 cases, our heroes’ appeal remains unheard and now received sour, instead of savory words, from the government.

“No one in the government wants a single life lost! No one! How dare you think that we are not considering steps to prevent the loss of lives!” Roque exploded in a Zoom meeting last September 7 to medical health workers after Dr. Maricar Limpin, president of the Philippine College of Physicians, pleaded to the government not to ease up lockdown to Metro Manila as healthcare workers are already overwhelmed by COVID-19 cases driven by Delta Variant.

The way Roque responded to professional rating doctors exemplifies an ill-mannered and unprofessional person enjoying his seat while frontliners are close to collapsing. Clearly, his meltdown echoes himself not understanding loads of baggage and situations of exhausted yet neglected nurses and doctors forced to recuperate dying patients.

In like manner, Roque mentioned the government’s concerns about economic complications and people who will suffer from going back to strict community lockdowns. He also quoted the need to listen to unheard voices of Inter-Agency Task Forces (IATF) on his public apology after his tantrums went viral.

While it is true that the economy and the people affected by strict lockdowns must also be given consideration, the neglect of the medical health workers’ proposals may also cause an economic rupture in the long run, as data suggests that we are obviously overrun by the virus. Looking at a bigger picture, these frontliners, berated by the palace’s spokesman himself, are not just saving COVID victims but reviving the economy as well by preventing the spread of the virus.

Medical health workers’ plea to strict community quarantine is only a single number among many neglected appeals of medical health experts.

In fact, according to Dr. Leni Jara, co-convenor of Solidarity of Health Advocates and Personnel with a Unified Plan to Defeat COVID-19, doctors and nurses are pleading for digitized contract tracing, free mass testing, improvement of monitoring of a patient, right aid to affected families and many more suggestions to shape up the government’s response to this pandemic and to prevent the healthcare from collapsing.

Added to this burden is the behind-the-scene situation of most workers, such as resigning, infected by COVID-19, and depleted Filipino health workers brought by overwork yet under-apprecia-

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

tion shown by this government.

Taking everything into account it is without any scratch of doubt that this government is really failing to listen to our heroes. Enjoying his throne as the pawn of the President, Roque also failed to do his simplest job—to be the spokesperson and “communicate” to people. If what Roque said in his outbursts is indeed, then it is long been overdue to give the frontliners what they plead; they know better, as they witness themselves, after all.

„

We can’t call medical health workers “heroes” then not reimburse them for what they are sacrificing.

After dissecting the scold of Roque against health workers, my grade school teacher was right; cans with no volume are indeed clanking with noise, just like a mouth that talks a lot without thinking.

August - October 2021

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

In a world where stigma and stereotypes rule society, showing off the color that resides inside you is like pilling off your own skin—aching and excruciating—containing every bit of pain to oneself is the dangerous last option of people that leads to ruining mental health. While this mental adversity is a silent murderer that betrays most students, it turns out to be one of the most neglected issues.

Expecting it to be solved easily in one snap, people do not often look into it. This is a long and painful healing process that cannot be done overnight. More importantly, it can be compared to pieces of trash that are ignored on the sidewalk, and as typhoon comes, these cause more erosion and destruction to the whole community.

People’s emotions reveal their colors and personalities; being criticized for what one is feeling dims the light and hope that these spectrums should be allowed to shine and be expressed.

Years before the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health awareness is never tolling to any casual conversation as being the plague of the 21st century. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 20% of the world’s children and adolescents suffer from a mental health condition, and suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15 to 19 years old that about one takes their own life every 11 minutes.

These numbers were screaming for help, but society blocked its ears with the thought that mentally struggling is something to be ashamed of—isolating patients like disgusting monsters. Wearing a tight suit and mask of the

August - October 2021

OPINION

impostor everyone lovesimprisons the thoughts of individuals.

In the country, there are an estimated 154 million Filipinos who suffer from depression, 15.3 million from substance abuse, a million from schizophrenia, and about 877,000 committed suicides in the year 2018. The pandemic has caused isolation and deprivation that triggers mental health conditions.

Sleeping soundly, alerting statistics did not fully wake up the government. More than ever now is the time to prioritize awareness in this issue, especially that students are still confused with distance learning, exposing them more to social media and environmental issues. Students are raising their cases and asking for an academic break that would help prepare them practically and mentally ready.

Philippine Mental Health Act or RA 11036 was established for enhancing the delivery of mental health services, and the Department of Health (DOH) created a Mental Health program for the well-being of the Filipinos.

Half-baked passed, this law and programs remain pieces of paper without measures taken. Yet, these papers are not sufficient to plaster the hellhole. Belittling the issue, only 3-5% of the total health budget was allocated for mental health, and there is also a huge shortage of mental health workers and services— one doctor for every 80,000 Filipinos.

Filipino workers plump to migrate and work in other countries. This is not a new issue, as the average salary for community mental health workers in the Philippines is 183 pesos per hour, far below the 15 dollars or 757 pesos offered by other countries.

19

To sum it, there are programs that attempt to solve the mental health issues in the Philippines but still not enough to break the stigma. The government is still incompetent in cracking and accepting such large issues.

Lack of effort cannot take off the blades and ropes in the minds of teens and for their shoes to be left unfound.

By widening our horizons in different colors and perspectives of the world, we can still flatten the curve. Step by step, little by little, we can get over this, begin with meditation, exercise, and the help of professionals.

„

It may take time and will hurt, but it will be worth it when freedom comes along with happiness, and the harness of stereotypes that ties us from anxieties will be gone.

Most importantly, if one cannot be part of the solution, do not add salt to the wounds. This is the start of a new battle, but this time no one is alone in fighting words sharper than a knife and faster than bullets.

Now that we are aware of this situation, we do not need to wait for the sun to rise; instead, we can be the moon at midnight.

For nighttime, let people rest and find peace, so when dawn comes, we have gained strength to live another one.

Remember that it is okay not to be okay. If you need someone to talk to, call 09663514518 (Globe and TM), 09086392672 (Smart, Sun, and TNT), National Mental Health Crisis.

FEATURES

20 20

FEATURES

21

PHOTOS: WEB SIR DEYO CARLOS DELA LAYOUT/MARVIN VALENCIA

22

FEATURES

LAYOUT│MARVIN VALENCIA PHOTO: SIR EZRA LAGMAN’ FACEBOOK

FEATURES

23

24

FEATURES

FEATURES

PHOTO: RAVEN E. ESCANO LAYOUT│MARVIN VALENCIA

25

26

FEATURES

FEATURES

27

28

FEATURES

PHOTOS: WEB,MELVIN MINA, AND ROBERT JOVENAL

FEA

29

LAYOUT│ROBERT JOVENAL

30

FEATURES

PHOTOS: WEB

FEATURES

31

LAYOUT│MARVIN VALENCIA

32

DEVCOM

PHOTO: MELVIN MINA

DEVCOM

33

LAYOUT│ROBERT JOVENAL

34 10

DEVCOM DEVCOM

PHOTOS: WEB AND GRACE TUBERA PHOTOS: GRACE TUBERA, WEB

DEVCOM

35 11

LAYOUT│ROBERT JOVENAL

36

DEVCOM

PHOTOS: WEB

DEVCOM

37

LAYOUT│ROBERT JOVENAL

38

LITERARY

ILLUSTRATION BY: CLARENZ NARCISO

LITERARY

39

LAYOUT│ROBERT JOVENAL

40

LITERARY

ILLUSTRATION BY CLARENZ B. NARCISO

ILLUSTRATION BY: CLARENZ NARCISO

LITERARY

41

LAYOUT│WWWROBERT JOVENAL

42

COMIC

GOAL OF THE COLLEGE OF TEACHER EDUCATION To develop the College as Center of Excellence in Teach er Education, the College of Education commits to: Offer relevant undergraduate and graduate programs in the development of mentors and leaders in the aca deme; Produce highly motivated, skilled, globally competitive and research –oriented graduates imbued with positive values; and Strengthen networking and linkages with partner edu cational institutions for community services.

ILLUSTRATION: CLARENZ NARCISO

August - October 2021

SPORTS

the PBA, the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), Korea Basketball League (KBL), and the Japan B-League reap the benefit of two imports format, propelling them to establish world-class and to conquer Asian basketball.

The development of the program lies in the hand of the PBA commissioner and Samahan ng Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP The decision of the board to maximize the import program in the Philippine basketball program is considered a barrier in developing world-class ballers.

E DITORIAL

BRAIN

BO(A)RDER LINE

welve Filipino bal lers serving as stars and assets in the Philippine Basketball Association’s (PBA) decided to leave local basketball. They inked a contract with the Japan B-League, seeing it as an investment opportunity while shining in a world-class basketball.

The Philippine basketball league is on the verge of extinction, while other sports analysts and experts see basketball migration as a threat to the development of Philippine basketball.

According to Spin. Ph analyst Snow Badua, the growing number of Filipinos leaving their contracts in the PBA may pose a threat to the Philippine Basketball Association.

“Japan B. League should get [higher] caliber Pinoy players, then work on having a local coveror here in the

T

August - October 2021

Philippines. Presto, they have Asia’s biggest basketball country.

If this happens, then sayonara PBA even in the Philippines, where it will be reduced to a class B league,” tweeted by Badua on Twitter.

Filipino young guns decided to leave their PBA contracts hanging, while others opted out in the PBA draft, this proves a particular problem with the Philippine Basketball system.

BIASES IN THE ORGANIZATION

Players are worried about the politics in the PBA, where sister companies are given precedence because they can always acquire the best players, resulting in losses for the league’s developing clubs.

As Ginebra, Magnolia, and San Miguel Beermen have consistently dominated the league, the biases in the or-

43

pionship routine. Meanwhile, the home-based first lottery draft has always finished last.-

THE PROBLEM THE PROGRAM

WITH

One of the main reasons Japan rose to their Basketball program is that they are executing the foreign type of basketball, where they are mixing their local players to the caliber team in the world.

Gilas Head Coach Tab Baldwin suggested another format, but it was declined, and as a result, he has been fined by the PBA commissioner for his comment about the organization.

“We have one big regulatory problem in the Philippine basketball landscape as an industry, which is that the PBA has three conferences, two of which are single-import conferences; this is a grave oversight, “ Baldwin said.

In striking comparison to the

NOT

HEART

The “puso mentality” has always been served as the motivation of the Filipino team.

Playing with the mind and strategy and not just heart is far better than a team always playing with the heart only.

PBA must establish a program that will allow players to experience world-class training and strategy.

Height is not the problem of the Filipino, but definitely the basketbal l system. Philippine Basketball Association must take the initiative to reformat this program can unleash world-class basketball.

The continuous migration of local players will always prevail if there are no changes in the system. It is time to welcome new strategies and a new system in strengthening the Philippine team because, as time progresses, the old system, while good, is no longer keeping up with the current state of the PBA, particularly in terms of international standing.

If PBA does not take time to revamp its system, then PBA will go down to history.

ILLUSTRATION: GABRIEL CAPITULO

44

SPORTS FEATURE

RIVALRY OF THE DECADE \

JERICHO S. VITA

In the history of Tarlac State University (TSU) Intramurals, one of the known rivalries in sports is between the College of Teacher Education (CTEd) Golden Eagles and the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) Green Tigers.

Whenever summertime approaches, each college and campus are actively occupied. There are students who are intensely practicing their dance steps; some are enhancing their sports skills under the sun or indoor, while few are rehearsing how they walk and talk on the stage in front of the sea of a crowd.

When the most awaited week has come, chants of students in yellow and green are thrown at one another every time the athletes from their opposing colleges battle inside the TSU gymnasium.

Together with the loud shouts, the deafening sounds of the banging of the undying plastic bottles of yellows and greens, and the banners that will surely catch your attention for their wittiness bring back the memories of thrilling and

colorful intramurals.

After four years of trying to hook the overall champion title in TSU Intramurals, the Golden Eagles finally clawed the championship from the wild fangs of the Green Tigers during the Intramurals “Optimus” 2019.

The Golden Eagles were able to steal the crown and shattered the hope of the Green Tigers for a hall of fame record.

According to CTEd Bachelor of Physical Education (BPE) faculty member Mr. George De Vera, the Eagles could defeat the CBA powerhouse through careful strategizing, intense training, and determination of the student-teachers.

“Nandun parin yung pagiging proud kasi talagang lahat nag effort.

Mula sa College Student Council, mga Organization Presidents naglaan ng oras. Tapos, ang mga kapwa students todo ang suporta sa aming mga athletes, talagang nagkaisa ang lahat kaya nakuha natin ang championship,” said Patricia Mae Gilhang, CTEd women’s dart player.

After the historic clash between the two col leges, everyone was waiting to see if the Golden Eagles could ... continue in pg. 47 August - October 2021

SPORTS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

45

TSU MLBB Launches End-Sem Giveaway, Tallied 40 Student Achievers \

HAROLD R. LEE SARMIENTO

Student-gamers who excelled in the second semester of the academic year 20192020 received end-of-semester diamond rewards from Tarlac State University’s (TSU) Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Student Leaders Organization.

After fulfilling the requirements of the journey, a total of 40 students from different colleges on the campus received diamond rewards from the TSU-MLBB Student Leaders.

TSU MLBB organization tallied two student scholars who had a 1.25 weighted average, 15 scholars who gained 1.5, and the rest who got 1.75

and 2.0.

The impact of online games like Mobile Legends may seem harmful to the academic excellence of student gamers, but the TSU MLBB Student Leaders seek to change this perspective and utilize the group as a platform for motivation and success.

As evidence of students’ academic success despite being ML players, an estimated 90,000 diamonds were pulled out by the organization during the end-semester project.

Nathaniel Sabat, one of the student gamers from the College of Teacher Education (CTEd), sees this program as an

opportunity and motivation to perform better in academics.

“As students, we are putting in extra effort to finish the semester and obtain higher grades. This program is also vital in helping us to attain greater success in the realm of academics,” Sabat said.

To be qualified for the reward, the students must

40

students received diamond rewards

be enrolled in at least four subjects, be an active member of the group, and show proof of participation in at least three group tournaments or other group-related events.

Under the guidance of MLBB community heroes, the organization that handles the MLBB community, the program continues to launch in the first semester of the academic year 2020-2021.

As part of the official debut of the first-semester program, the TSU MLBB group officially started the weekly tournaments, games, and trivia to revitalize and relieve students on their weekdays.

2nd Year Omega Juts Ruled Out COD, Seniors Ashwoles Reign Back-to-Back ML Champ \

HAROLD LEE R. SARMIENTO

Bachelor of Physical Education 2A’s OMEGA Juts reigned supreme in the Call of Duty (COD) Tournament after a dominating cusion against 3rd Year Skyline 69, 2-1, to be declared COD 2k21 Champion, while Seniors Ashwoles swept the Third year Tres dos, 2-0, in the championship round to win Mobile Legends (ML) back-to-back championships.

August - October 2021

In the game of 1 of the series, OMEGA Juts manage to escape their opponent after posting 6-2, led by their sharpshooter TATS.

Skyline 69 held their position in the second round as they tied the series with a 6-4 performance.

Defending champion Omega Juts put the nail in the coffin in the do-or-die domination, 100-48, to clinch the final

round and secure a back-toback title.

Omega Juts Sherwin De Jesus, Dale Christian, Piolo Canlas, Duke Christian Pinuela, Justin Carl Calica, and Sherwin Lee Santiago will be receiving cash incentives from the college.

Skyline 69 John Gabriel Capitulo, Joyce Evora, Carl Justin Celis, Lionelle Joi Rayo, Rovee Laurence Castro

will also receive rewards from the College Student Council.

Ashwoles, led by former CTEd ML MVP Nikoqt was able to hand it to the Third year Tres Dos with her signature Lancelot, 2-0 in the best of three finals.

“Siguro ang naging main advantage namin sa kanila ay yung paggamit nila ng ibang hero,” Niko John Esqueta said in an interview.

PHOTOS: WEB, THE WORK, AND THE BLACKBOARD

46

SPORTS FEATURE

Physical Education Through the Web \

CHASTENE M. PARAZO

Who would have thought that the used to be fun-filled physical activities would burst like bubbles due to this unprecedented pandemic? Who would not feel the nostalgic vibe whenever they reminisce the barrel of laughs in their PE classes?

Thirty counts of stretching, 30 minutes of working out, and an hour of video editing - this is an example of a routine that a student in the new normal learning experience in their Physical Education class might be going through. It has become time-consuming and dead-tiring than it used to be.

Indeed, the COVID 19 restrictions have taken a toll on the educational sector.

There have been many struggles in keeping up with classes, especially with the added variables concerning online learning; this is especially true in Physical Education, where each lesson includes theoretical discussions and hands-on application. Interconnecting a type of learning that involves the human body in more ways than one with the PHOTO/MELVIN MINA

current situation is seemingly hard to accomplish.“Physical Education in an online he students’ experiences in the online class have proven to be an obstacle, as freshmen PE major narrate.

“Physical Education in an online class is a serious barrier for us. There are times when you’re required to undertake routines online but are unable to do it properly due to an internet connection issue,” BPE’s Jeny Tuvera said.

It has been more than a year since learning modalities were modified to suit the learners, but it’s still hard to fulfill the needs of PE as a subject. One reason is that there are different conditions that the students are in and therefore may find it hard to accomplish similar physical activities, especially those that need a more expansive space for movement.

During face-to-face

classes, the condition of the students is properly observed before engaging in practicum, unlike in online learning.

Most of the time, video presen

tations are sent to show the students’ performance. Still, even then, one cannot fully consider it the optimumteaching and learning method for physical education.

As a result, this kind of approach had been significantl y viewed problem to the classroom adaptation.

PE class is also a means of forming connections amongst the students and their peers; without having the opportunities for communications, the connections will be severed, but building them is out of the question. Dancing, individual and group sports, basic workout methods are some of the few lessons encountered in the curriculum, yet studying them through first-hand experiences has become a great effort. These are the things most effective to do when one is with their peers.

It is a collective agreement among the students that Physical Education during the pandemic cannot be compared to how it was before. Still, learning and teaching is a continuous

and evolving process that adapts to different situations

In light of their challenges, there is also room for enjoyment and adjustment.

The teachers have also applied the various system to cope up with the challenges of the system.

“May mga oras na kami ay nahihirapan pero kami rin naman ay nasisiyahan kapag nakikita mo yung mga kaklase mo na nagsasagawa ng performance. Mahirap man pero malaki ang tulong ng mga estratehiya ng mga guro sa aming pagkatuto.

Mahirap man pero nakakaya naman dahil parte ito ng aming obligasyon sa bagong normal na pag-aaral,” BPE Freshmen Mikko Sicat said.

There may be unfortunate events now that hinder the ideal method of studying Physical Education, but there is always hope. Innovations, such as using learning materials that are applicable through online learning, such as YouTube videos and step-by-step handouts, make it possible for teachers to provide models for their learners without exposing them to the dangers of the virus.

August - October 2021

SPORTS

EDUCATORS’ GAZETTE VOLUME 16

from Rivalry of the... fly above the Green Tigers once again or the tigers would come back fiercer to reclaim the title. However, the COVID-19 appeared, abruptly silencing the loud banging and students’ excitement and cheers for the most anticipated event— TSU intramurals.

Because of the pandemic, the Intramurals “Mythic” 2020 never happened, and the Optimus remained to Golden Eagles.

“Though the championship title is still in our college, I am still sad because I won’t be able to experience the TSU Intramurals again. So, I hope that the pandemic ends soon, for the CTEd to fight again for the championship,” said Mariel Maristela, CTEd’s last Miss Intramurals representative.

The CTEd athletes cannot wait for everything to go back to normal and the COVID-19 to be gone, so they can face theGreenTigersagainand continue the postponed rivalry.

Intramurals is one of the most exciting events held at TSU; students, not just athletes, are excited to see another intense game and hear the roaring cheers, especially freshmen and sophomores who have yet to witness this epic rivalry.

August - October 2021

Fil Athlete Legacy Marks Olympic History \

RAYMART G. CANLAS

With a historic gold, two silvers, and one bronze, the Philippines celebrated as it wrapped up the Tokyo Olympics with its biggest medal haul and best performance in Olympic history.

Hidilyn Diaz set the tone for the Philippines’ excellent performance when she won the country’s first gold medal in the 55kg division with a dramatic final lift. The boxers; Carlo Paalam, Nesthy Petecio, and Eumir Marcial won silver and bronze, respectively, marking the Philippines’ highest runner-up finishes in the Olympics.

The Philippines has waited for this elusive gold medal for 97 years. Hidilyn Diaz shed tears of pride and joy as she fulfilled that dream. Interestingly, Filipino boxers continue to excel, and silver medalist Petecio has made history as the first Filipino woman to win a boxing medal.

Filipino athletes had only won three silvers and seven bronzes since the 1924 Paris Games, but this year’s performance is the best in the country’s history, breaking the three-bronze mark set in the 1932 Los Angeles Games.

Diaz was awarded the first Congressional Medal o

Excellence, which is only given to Filipino athletes who have earned gold medals at the Olympic Games.

Meanwhile, Petecio, Paalam, and Marcial received the Congressional Medal of Distinction, given to Filipino achievers in sports, business, science,

and other disciplin es.

The four Filipino athletes also received the first Philf ippine Senate Medal of Excellence and cash incentives from the senators for their exemplary service, outstanding achievements, and immeasurable contributions to nation-building.

“This is truly a historic day because the first-ever Filipinos who will be conferred the Philippine Senate Medal of Excellence are our young athletes who have displayed discipline, determination, diligence, fear of God, and love of country,” Senator Joel Villanueva said.

Due to the pride and glory she gave to the country, Diaz is expected to receive a total of 56.5 million pesos cash incentives from the government and private companies along with other pledges such as house and lot, lifetime free flights, and free groceries.

“So malaking bagay po ‘yun sa akin na ngayon, maraming tumutulong, pero sana,

kung may mga atleta pong nakita mong maganda ‘yung chance, lapitan po natin at tulungan sila, hindi dahil m a y chance silang mana-

47

lo, hindi dahil sa nanalo na, kundi may potential na maging world champion, may potential maging Olympic gold medalist,” Diaz said.

Petecio and Paalam have been promised to receive P24.5 million in cash and other rewards like residential properties and free flights from the government and business tycoons; Marcial is said to receive P10.8 million in cash incentives from the government and businessmen and other rewards such as free flights.

Diaz cemented her place among the country’s sporting icons and earned a spot on the list of Philippine sports heroes, along with Efren “Bata” Reyes, Manny Pacquiao, Eugene Torre, and Paeng Nepomuceno.

“Nakaya natin! Akala natin imposible, akala ko [rin] impossible kasi nasa pandemic tayo, (akala natin) imposible ang Olympics, pero nakaya natin. Huwag kayong sumuko kahit anong challenges and trials, manalangin tayo kay God, mag ga-guide siya sa atin. I’m proud to be Pinoy!” said Diaz Filipino athletes have won a total of 14 medals (one gold, five silver, and eight bronze) at the Olympics. Four of which were from Tokyo in the country’s best performance at the Summer Games.

ILLUSTRATION: CLARENZ NARCISO