Ignacian Press
AI-DUCATION
DepEd chief Angara says technology revolutionizes education
by Hcieh Jayson
Philippine Education Secretary, Sonny Angara recognizes the role of technology in “becoming the fuel that powers our education,” during the Social Good Summit
University on October 19, 2024, hosted by Rappler.
Various government officials, experts, analysts, and advocates were present in the summit to discuss how technology, specifically artificial intelligence, has become a major factor that affects the way humanity lives.
In Angara’s keynote speech, he expressed how innovation can revolutionize the education sector.
With this, the Department of Education Secretary unveiled approaches and strategies to facilitate the integration of AI in the realm of knowledge repository by proving a two-step tech infrastructure for every school, internet subscription and procurement of laptops, and a partnership with tech enterprises, such as Khan Academy, Canva, and Coursera, to jumpstart personalized learning.
In the same event, Save the Children Chief Executive Officer, Alberto Muyot emphasized how “AI is the way to go” and the need for educators to “redefine” their teaching methods to co-exist with the functions of AI in the learning environment. “I would think that AI is really the way to go. And the
role of the teacher now has to be redefined, and we have to bring it down to the junior high schools and the senior high schools,” responded Muyot.
Benefits of AI in Academic Pursuits
Queen Olive Ello, a Grade 12 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics student at Lourdes College, shared how AI contributed to the quality and efficiency of her academic writings as AI provides constructive feedback on grammar and structure.
Rory Jim Jagutin, on the other hand, expressed how AI is advantageous for a college student like him who’s currently taking up a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Technology, for AI has an array of functions, including concept clarifications, text proofreading, and wide learning resources.
“I find AI helpful, especially with the degree program that I am currently undertaking in college. Its ability to provide swift and real-time response to my research and queries makes it beneficial considering that our generation today has been
greatly reliant on the functions of technology,” Jagutin stated.
If asked whether or not they agree with the integration of AI into the learning process, Jean Baseo Dagno, a Senior High School teacher from Lourdes College answered “It is undeniable that AI is beneficial in various aspects. As an educator, when AI is integrated into the curriculum, it enhances learning. It provides other ideas beyond the box, although they must be verified before integrating them.”
The downsides of AI
However, compromised academic integrity and ethical concerns are some of the effects of the improper and dishonest use of AI. This enabled the hesitance to accept AI as a part of the facilitation process of learning.
Though AI has been extremely helpful to me, integrating it into our curriculum might be a bad idea, as it could lead to students relying on it and putting in less effort to research or think for themselves. One must learn the hard way, as they say,“ Ello added.
Jagutin also conveyed the same sentiments as he acknowledged the benefits AI can offer but weighed on its disadvantages, like the over-reliance of people on AI and the inaccurate response of AI to an individual’s prompt that may compromise a student’s academic output.
Additionally, academic professionals at Walden University listed five drawbacks of AI, namely: biased responses, misinformation, perpetuating plagiarism, isolation, and job insecurity.
Responsible use of AI and its tools
Meanwhile, Angara denoted how the instilled values shared by the school and nurtured by the learner’s home environment are detrimental to the proper usage of AI.
“Your values will determine how you use the AI. You can use it for a lot of destructive purposes. That’s the role of the school, but it’s also the role of the family,” he said.
51%
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Are you in favor of Integrating the use of Aritficial Intelligence in education ? Yes No
Lourdes College has officially relaunched its Tutoring Services with the student-volunteers from the Senior High School department and the Teacher Education Program on September 18, 2024, as part of the Community Involvement Program of Lourdes College, held at Macasandig Elementary School LC relaunches Community Involvement Program and write the alphabet, it made me realize how these kids are in deep-need of assistance for them to be able to learn and accelerate their skills as a student,” stated by Nalla.
by Hcieh Jayson
The goals and vision of this initiative is to enhance the reading skills of the learners and build academic competencies, and let the student-volunteers partake in the school’s mision and vision which is to “be the witness of Jesus’ loving compassion and work for social renewal and common good.”
“The goals and vision of this program are to meet the needs of the struggling learners to enhance their reading skills and help them with their academic competencies, and also to let the students who volunteered experience the school's vision and mission in doing the program, which are to witness Jesus's loving compassion and
work for social renewal for the common good,” declared by Andrew Patrick Gonzales, CIP Coordinator of Lourdes College.
SHS and TEP volunteers used modules as learning resource material, made and evaluated by the SHS faculty, which are administered to elementary students from grades two to six.
Jelyne Nalla, an SHS student-volunteer, expressed how “eye-opening” the experience is, for it dawned on her how these children need assistance in their learning pursuits.
“It is definitely an eye-opening experience. While I was teaching them how to read
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held at De La Salle
School News
Lending Hand. Senior High School students and Teacher volunteered to assist the students of Macasandig Elementary School during September 18, 2024 at Cagayan de Oro City. Photo by Kryztoff Babael
Lourdesians who are reluctant of integrating the use of AI in our learning process.
Art by Jassmyn Hope Vicilla
Art by Alanna Casiño & Beatrize Bornedor
MTB-MLE Phase-Out A Backslide from Global Competence
by Jeff Orillosa
decision to phaseout Mother TongueBased Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) in the early years of Philippine education marks a significant retreat from a lost potential.
The decision to phaseout Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) in the early years of Philippine education marks a significant retreat from a lost potential. Grounded in the recognition that students learn best when taught in their first language, this medium was aimed at pupils Grades 1-3, established in the 20122013 school year as part of the Department of Education’s Enhanced Basic Education Program. It was designed to foster language skills, cognitive growth, academic readiness, and sociocultural awareness, promoting both scholastic success and lifelong enlightenment.
This drawback not only diminishes the caliber of young learners but also raises questions about cultural literacy and identity in a setting where global trends in education prioritize multilingualism and unity amidst diversity.
Are Filipino language teachers adequately equipped to teach the language effectively? One of the purposes of MTBMLE is to encourage the ease in grasping classroom discussions,
enabling direct translation between Filipino and local dialects, notably in subjects Math, Science, and Reading, which is critical as the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) results show the Philippines ranking at the bot tom in these subjects. The lack of qualified educators and resources has already hindered its prospects, and instead of addressing this hic cup, the government has opted for a simplistic solution: Republic Act 12027 – abandoning the program. A victim of policy shifts, changes in administrative priorities has led to the focus of the country’s education reforms. As mentioned by EDCOM 2 Co-Chairperson and co-author of HB 6717 Rep. Roman Romulo on the Senate Bill No. 2457 hearing in July 2024, the removal is not only empirical but inclusive, undermining the purpose of using mother tongue in early education. Recalling Senator Gatcalian’s speech last March 2023, “Filipino pupils are learners left behind”, despite this approach’s intended support for diverse linguistic communities. What does losing mother
and love for effective, meaningful conversations. Resolving educational inequality and by learning in their slang, pupils develop a groundwork in proficiency which in turn, enables them to transition smoothly to other languages such as English.
Countries that consistently rank highly in global education standings, like China, Finland, and Norway, have long embraced education in proficient language skills through their vernaculars as a way to ground students in both self-perception and effective learning habits. They’ve shown that global competence begins at home, with a firm grasp on one’s roots, which in turn fosters adapt-
of the wider world. The Philippines is in a unique position to follow this model because of its great linguistic diversity. The phase-out of MTB-MLE, however, suggests a failure to recognize this potential and the benefits of linguistic diversity on cognitive flexibility and innovation. This retreat is a risk and a miss. Through its discontinuation, the Philippines gambles on a valuable tool needed to thrive in a globalized world. This order could lead to a decline in student perseverance and learning outcomes, particularly for marginalized and indigenous communities. It is crucial that this settlement be reevaluated, with efforts
can be ensured for children, effectively equipping them to be globally-competent and future-ready citizens.
My grandmother is a faithful catholic who also loves doing rosary so I am deeply inspired to continue her tradition. “
Ms. Pauline Gabrielle Braña
Beads of Prayers: Silent Strength of Hope
by Nikka Lou Paylaga
Amidst a world that is filled with distractions and uncertainties, a chain of prayers could profoundly shape a better understanding of ourselves and our purpose in life.
Engaging in this sacred practice allows individuals to carve out a sense of tranquility, creating a sanctuary amid the chaos. Captivating us in a moment of pause, reflection, and reconnection with our faith, anchoring us in a profound foundation of hope and clarity. With this, it heals our mind along with the embrace of serenity — enveloping a soul that is chained within woe of sorrows. A heart that was once burdened by the weight of worries begins to lighten, allowing joy and peace to seep in. As we pray, the chains of anxiety and despair slowly dissolve, replaced by a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
Each bead of the Rosary serves as a reminder of our journey, and represents an encouragement for us to reflect on the mysteries of faith and the teachings of the Lord, Jesus Christ. In a society that often glorifies relentless activity, it is crucial to embrace times of dedication for oneself's reflection and spiritual growth. The Rosary becomes more than just a series of prayers; merely an instrument of connection that transcends a human understanding. It is a guide of light amidst the darkness of visions, it nurtures our soul within the occurrence of catastrophes — seeking a light we once embraced with solitude.
In the spiritual environment of Lourdes College, where academic pursuits intertwine with the richness of faith, service, and excellence. We met Ms. Braña, Pauline Gabrielle, a dedicated student of Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM) with a pro-
found spiritual practice. Pauline's dedication of prayers began when she was still young, nurtured by her involvement in a community event known as "Flores de Mayo.”
This event is being held particularly each May, featuring late afternoon gatherings for prayers and Rosary recitations. This event merely attracts children that are eager to learn and share, fostering a sense of community and spirituality. Reflecting on her experiences, Pauline shares, “I was always amazed by the stories shared by the volunteer who administers it.”
As a result, she quickly made it a habit to pray the Rosary every afternoon during the event, finding solace in every utterance of the sacred words. “I soon made it a habit to do the rosary every afternoon in our sessions and after the May was over I still continued doing it at least once a week.” She states, clarifying her commitment through believing and praying.
Pauline's dedication is further enriched by her Grandmother, a devoted Catholic who has openly engraved in her a love for praying. “My grandmother is a faithful catholic who also loves doing rosary so I am deeply inspired to continue her tradition.” Through her commitment to the Rosary, Pauline not only honors the devotion her grandmother instilled in her, but also finds a sense of purpose and clarity amid the demands of her studies. For her, the act of prayer is more than a mere ritual; it is a source of strength and guidance that helps her steer through both academic challenges and personal growth.
The sacredness of seeking help from above encourages us to embrace ventures nevertheless the triumph or downfall, allowing us to ignite a version of ourselves that is both authentic with hints of resilience engraving our mind. As we engage in prayer and reflection, we develop a strong connection with ourselves and faith. By this, the sacred beliefs cleanse a soul that is silently grieving to be heard, seen, and validated. It is important to have a strong mind, with this, it helps us individuals to conquer any obstacles we encounter throughout our lives — our capabilities are often limited without the support of our prayers. As a reflection of this, Pauline embodies the essence of this journey. She holds the Rosary close to her beating pulses, embracing the warmth the holy spirit has given her. With every utterance, she tighten up her hold on the rosary and recite the sacredness with dignity, an essence of strength and comfort.
In this stark reality, we must confront the painful notion that faith alone cannot shield us from life’s heartaches. However, it can illuminate the path through darkness, urging us to persist even when the burden feels unbearable. The beauty of believing, intertwined with the serene essence of prayer, enlightens us how important it is to participate in rosaries. Even with this small act of practice, it solemnly creates a profound impact on our beliefs and the way we see life challenges. Fostering a mindset that challenges don't always bring us down, but it is merely a key to growth.
Opening Minds, Healing Hearts
Lourdes College recently transformed its campus into a sanctuary of support with its inspiring Mental Health Day last October 10, 2024. The event embraced the theme of connection and understanding, inviting students to partake in activities that sparked thought and dialogue. From heartfelt discussions to creative workshops, the day was filled with opportunities for reflection and sharing personal journeys.
Moniccah Bravo, an Accountancy Business and Management grade 11 student who participated in the event, shared her initial reaction when she first heard about Mental Health Day.
“Seeing the Mental Health Day initiatives at Lourdes College was an eye-opening experience,” she said. The booths offered a variety of activities like creating “rant letters” and participating in dares, which served as gentle reminders to take a breather. While these activities cannot solve all problems, Moniccah believed that “they give you that small break that you may think you don’t need, but you actually do.” Among the numerous activities, Moniccah found the spinning wheel of dares and the sticky note board particularly impactful.
The dares prompted students to perform simple yet meaningful actions, such as giving a letter to a random person.
Moniccah reflected, “I never actually thought it was a helpful activity, but the thought of giving someone a meaningful letter may help them with whatever they’re going through.” The sticky note board allowed students to express themselves creatively and freely, which Moniccah described as “healing.”
For Moniccah, participating in Mental Health Day broadened her perspective on mental well-being. She noted that it made her more sensitive to both her own needs and those of her peers. Additionally, she relearned a valuable coping strategy: the importance of venting and expressing her thoughts, whether through social media or conversations with friends.
Another student from Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Daphne Salem, came to the event with different expectations. She anticipated a symposium with talks on mental health management and was pleased to see these expectations met through the activities. “I love how they are telling us in those activities that our mental health matters,” Daphne said. She appreciated the reflective moments and the small tokens given, which served as reminders of self-care.
One significant moment
for Daphne came during an audio session in the auditorium. As she listened, she realized that she could approach her mental health challenges with more calmness instead of harshness. This realization was a turning point for her, as it prompted her to rethink how she handled her mental well-being.
On Mental Health Day, a vibrant tapestry of unity and understanding unfolded among students, as Moniccah and Daphne celebrated its profound impact on their school community. Moniccah described the experience as “healing,” highlighting how the event fostered connections and reassured students that sup port is always within reach during challenging times. In contrast, Daphne characterized the day as a “calming day,” a gentle reminder for everyone to practice self-compas sion and recognize the significance of mental health. Together, they acknowledged that the event not only built awareness and dismantled stigma but also strengthened the foundation of a healthier, more com passionate school environment. Both students recognized the vital role of Mental Health Day in reduc ing stigma. Moniccah saw it as a moment of “healing,” fostering unity and support among peers. Daphne dubbed it a “calming day,” empha
sizing self-compassion and the day’s focus on mental wellness. Together, they felt the event broke barriers and nurtured a stronger school community, reminding everyone of the importance of mental health. Lourdes College’s Mental Health Day served as a powerful reminder of the significance of mental well-being. Through engaging activities, reflective sessions, and open discussions, the event succeeded in fostering a supportive community and encouraging students to take
CHEER IT PROUD, CHANT IT LOUD: CHEER CHANT 2024
by Kylie Lindongan
With an electric buzz in the air, the Senior High School students of Lourdes College erupted into a symphony of cheers, passionately shouting the names of their teams.
Each declaration echoed through the halls of the Integrated Basic Education Department (IBED) Gymnasium, creating a vibrant tapestry of school spirit. Their eyes sparkled with determination as they rallied together, united by a common dream—to seize the trophy this October 23, 2024.
With an electric buzz in the air, the Senior High School students of Lourdes College erupted into a symphony of cheers, passionately shouting the names of their teams. Each declaration echoed through the halls of the Integrated Basic Education Department (IBED) Gymnasium, creating a vibrant tapestry of school spirit. Their eyes sparkled with determination as they rallied together, united by a common dream—to seize the trophy this October 23, 2024. The competition was fueled by the uproars from the three teams of the Science, Technology, Engi neering, and Mathematics (STEM) The Red Panthers, White Tigers and Blue Jaguars as they unleashed their raw strength and unity as they each individually
represented their advocacies towards societal issues. With wrists raised high and voices passionately calling for Equal Rights
Ranking of winners
Eagles, unleashed their passion to win and spread their wings as they presented their chant with power.
From the color of their props, the gymnasium reflected
Sciences (HUMSS) with their
INTRAMURALS
cheers, perfectly capturing their passion to win the trophy. They radiated a faint glow in the darkness, embodying the essence of a phoenix. They honored their team banner with proud smiles and impeccable poise.
The Cheer Chanting Competition encapsulated the hard work and eagerness of senior high school students of Lourdes College to overcome all obstacles on the road to victory. They immaculately embodied the animals they represented and the goals they planned to fulfill. The Cheer Chant Competition started and concluded with the colors of sportsmanship and teamwork, that will forever echo the screams and cheers that made Intramurals 2024 complete.
STEM Red Panthers Shaded out HUMSS Phoenix in Women’s Badminton Double
by Chelsy Nicole Eduria
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Red Panthers Edged out Humanities and Social Science (HUMSS) Scorching Phoenix in a tight match as they scored 41-39 in Badmintons women category double at the Integrated Basic Education Department (IBED) Gymnasium of Lourdes College on October 23, 2024.
In an intense and closely contested match, the STEM Red Panthers clinched a victory over the HUMSS Phoenix in the Women’s Badminton Doubles event. This thrilling face-off kept spectators on the edge of their seats, showcasing the exceptional skills and competitive spirit of both teams.The Red Panthers, known for their strategic play and teamwork, came into the match with determination. Their opponents, the HUMSS Phoenix, had previously made a strong impression with a series of well-coordinated wins, making the competition fierce from the outset.
In the first set, both teams displayed agility and precision. The HUMSS Phoenix took the lead, capitalizing on their powerful smashes and clever net play. However, the Red Panthers fought back with resilience, leveraging their defensive tactics and sharp reflexes to even out the score. It became a back-andforth struggle as neither team could establish a decisive lead.
The second set saw the Phoenix adjusting their game plan, taking control of the pace and keeping the Panthers on their toes. Their new approach initially worked well, putting pressure
on the STEM players and briefly giving the Phoenix a lead. However, the Red Panthers maintained their composure, staying focused under pressure and regaining momentum.
In the deciding set, the Panthers exhibited remarkable synergy, with every shot calculated to exploit gaps in the Phoenix’s defense. Despite the Phoenix’s valiant efforts to respond with quick returns and precise shots, the Panthers ultimately sealed their victory as the HUMSS phoenix made a service error gaining the panthers their final point in the score of 41-38.
After the STEM Red Panthers secures their spot to the semi finals one of the player of STEM Red Panthers Chelsy Eduria gave acknowledgement saying “Firstly I would like to thank my number 1 supporter Claire Garcia for trusting me to win and her endless support during the game and to my coach Japeth Galagnara for giving us clear instructions and strategies in order to win. With the help of these people ,we secured our spot for the semi-finals and gave our full best”.