Volume I Number I
August 2016 - April 2017
Dance N‘ Beats wins the crowd as they are hailed as the champion of the Dancing Competition during Patriots Got Talent 2017, the culminating activity of Lasallian Festival. The winning duo of the singing competition are Edrea Ramacula (HPS11, seated center) and Marla Pedrosa (HPS11, seated second from right). Photo by Mark Fernan Ignacio.
DLSU-D SHS celebrates Lasallian P.R.I.D.E Jason Ybarrita DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS) held its first Lasallian Festival (LSF) on February 28-March 4 with diverse activities that cater to the varied interests of senior high school students.
This year’s theme, Celebrate P.R.I.D.E (Patriots Rise in Pursuit of Dedicated Excellence), encapsulates the festival’s aim to have a deeper appreciation and understanding of the Lasallian identity. LSF Chair Joy Parohinog saw LSF as the perfect venue to introduce the newest
members of the DLSU-D community to the Lasallian values and identity and to celebrate each one’s uniqueness, strengths, talents, and gifts. LSF held various flagship, institutional, and pocket events throughout the week. Its flagship events include Creative
Construction of SHS bldg to start late 2017
Pontanilla stated that the construction of the building will start when a budget is disclosed by the administrative office. “Hopefully the batch 2018 of SHS can use the building because it means that the construction is fast and efficient.” He added that the building would be multi-storey, with about four to six floors, and it will be
Editorial
located at the West Campus near the Junior High School complex. He also said that there would be a laboratory, audiovisual room, administration office, gymnasium, and additional facilities from the ones SHS students currently use at the CIH and COS buildings. SHS students will still be using the COS and CIH buildings until the construction is completed.
Spilling blood for peace and justice page 4
Mini pocket events held during LSF include Magnum Opus, Career Talks by Marriott Hotel, and Museo De La Salle tour and Zumba for parents. The Honors’ Assembly for the first semester was also held during the week. LSF, to page 15
Opisyal na logo ng DLSU-D SHS, hinirang na Geordette Capistrano Mula sa orihinal na disenyong nilikha ng mga estudyante, inanunsiyo na ang opisyal na logo na dadalhin ng buong DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS) sa mga susunod pang taon.
Arjielene Javier The construction of the DLSU-D Senior High School building is slated to get underway late this year, with hopes of making it available for use before the pioneer batch of SHS graduates, Buildings and Facilities Maintenance Director Arch. Dennis Pontanilla said.
Alternative Programs for Seniors’ Unique Learning Experience Series (CAPSULES), Film Festival, #RealTalk, Student Leaders Interaction, Community Service, Patriots Got Talent (PGT), and the Parent-Teen Encounter.
Napili ang konsepto ng logo ni Reine Joshua Cruz (EDU11), na magrerepresenta ng komunidad ng DLSU-D SHS, mula sa sampung likhang napabilang sa pinal na listahan ng mga pagpipilian. “Ang binatayan ng pasya sa pagpili ng sampung mapabibilang sa pinal na listahan ay ang konsepto ng logo, na kung saan dapat nitong maipakita ang tatlong pangunahing pamantayan ng paaralan: diwa ng pananampalataya, paglilingkod, at nina Vice Chancellor for Academics and Research Dr. Olivia Legaspi at SHS pagkakaisa sa gawa; pagka-orihinal Pinakita Director Dr. Necitas Sayoto ang opisyal na logo ng DLSU-D SHS. Photo by Maeca Louisse ng disenyo; kasinangan at kabuuang Camus dating ng logo,” ayon sa anunsiyo. Kabilang sa sampung pinalad na makaabot Beatriz Abesamis (SAR11), Jerome Antonio sa huling pagdedesisyon, sa walang partikular (SBI13), Reine Joshua Cruz (EDU11), na pagkakasunod-sunod, ay sina Martha Ann Logo, to page 3
Literary
Labyrinth page 8
Art and Comics page 11
Features
Bittersweet goodbye page 13
NEWS
2
August 2016 - April 2017
New faculty members attend Lasallian Module Lance Angelo Mejico and Beatrice Aguilar As part of the celebration of DLSU-D Senior High School’s Lasallian Festival, the new SHS faculty members attended their first Lasallian Module on February 28 at the Severino De Las Alas Hall.
According to one of the module facilitators Dr. Rowel San Sebastian, the said activity aims to teach the minds of the new teachers of DLSU-D SHS about the life of St. La Salle to embrace his vision and legacy. “The purpose of the activity is to unite and intensify the Lasallians,” he added.
This is the first among the series of Lasallian modules for all faculty and staff of DLSU-D conducted by the University Lasallian Family Office (ULFO). The modules are aimed to inspire all DLSU-D faculty and staff in embracing and enriching the Lasallian values.
The elected presidents and vice presidents of the Track Student Councils. Not in photo: TVL/Sports/Arts Track Council President Sophia Balagtas. Photo by Klensch Guevarra
DLSU-D SHS holds SC Elections Andrea Oesmer DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS) held its Track Student Council Elections on Aug. 19 at the Luis Aguado Viewing Room. The said event hopes to determine the people who would lead the whole SHS student body for A.Y. 2016-2017.
Newly elected class presidents and vice presidents from each section attended the election of track officers together with the track coordinators Phyllis Rianne Cañete (HUMSS/ABM/GAS), Cecilia Cajandab (TVL/Sports/Arts), and Jovele Baccay (STEM); Prefect of Discipline Albert John Puchero; and SHS faculty member Noimie Maraan. Puchero opened the elections with a runthrough of the rules and regulations of the process, which was followed by the aspiring student-leaders’ personal expectations. The students were then asked to evaluate themselves and choose what positions they would like to run for. They introduced themselves to their fellow leaders thereafter. According to STEM Business Manager Sat Gian Carlos Manuel Montes, “for each position, nominated students had to speak about themselves. We ‘endorsed’ ourselves with our achievements from our junior high years, and the last part of our ‘speeches’ were for our promises if we would be elected.” After due process and strict evaluation, the following students were elected as officers of HUMSS/ABM/GAS Track Council for A.Y. 2016-2017: President: Kristian Saflor Vice President: Charliemagne Asuncion Executive Secretary: Jennifer Santos Treasurer: Mervin Garcia Auditor: Joshua Miguel Bartolata Business Manager: Zia Asuncion
Public Information Officer: Eric Yancy Estrabo As of the second semester, the business manager position is considered vacant after Asuncion shifted to TVL. The elected officers of TVL/Sports/Arts Track Council for A.Y. 2016-2017 are as follows: President: Sophia Marie Balagtas Vice President: Shawn Gonzales Executive Secretary: Claire Inigo Treasurer: Janica Dungca Auditor: Lynn Jasmine Tatoy Business Manager: Godwin Samonte Public Information Officer: Athena Paola Alforte The elected officers of STEM Track Council for A.Y. 2016-2017 are as follows: President: Ryan James Arcigal Bawasanta Vice President: Shaney Goyena Executive Secretary: Abbee Sarto Treasurer: Christine Myles Pamintuan Auditor: Kristian Daniel Paule Business Manager: Sat Gian Carlos Manuel Montes Public Information Officer: Jason Menard Vasallo “For me, even if the students don’t know our names, or if they don’t know that the council does exist, we’ll still be here as your representatives, and we’ll still show the Lasallians community what our generation is really capable of,” Montes said.
VCF 12 students win CTHM’s napkin folding tilt Celine Aguillon
Students from VCF12 emerged as victors of the Napkin Folding competition held by the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management’s HRM Society on March 7 at Alvarez Hall. Venus San Juan claimed the top prize while Joselle Ricio and David Payumo placed second and third, respectively. The competition is part of HRM
From left: Payumo, San Juan, and Ricio. File photo.
Society’s Gourmet Challenge 2017. The senior high school students from the TVL track attended the program to enhance their trade-specific knowledge and skills.
Students say no to death penalty during the noise barrage. Photo by Maeca Louisse Camus
DLSU-D SHS community says ‘No’ to death penalty Gayle Esquida
The DLSU-D Senior High School community cried out its allegiance to the call of the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and De La Salle Philippines (DLSP) to actively protest against the passing of the death penalty bill.
On March 8, the SHS community took part in a 10-minute noise barrage highlighted by the chant “Sigaw ng Lasalyano, no to death penalty.” At exactly 12:00 in the afternoon, students stepped out of their respective classrooms to join the protest and declare their stand.
The Lasallian community was also encouraged to wear white shirts to signify the pro-life stance of DLSP. Participation, however, was not compulsory; students who did not share the same views were allowed to remain inside their respective classrooms.
DLSU-D makes it to the Math Olympiad-Area Stage Beatrice Katherine Aguilar DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS) took pride of its three students who qualified for the Area Stage of the 19th Philippine Mathematical Olympiad (PMO), sealing its competitiveness in the nationwide arena of math wits.
“It is really my honor to present to you Sean Patrick Dela Cruz (MAT11), our champion,” STEM Coordinator Jovele Baccay said in a statement, adding that there were two other qualifiers from junior high. Dela Cruz, the only student who stayed in the competition for DLSU-D’s first SHS outing in the math tilt, said that the greatest challenge he encountered is not knowing how to answer a lot of questions despite the rigorous review and training he underwent. “I didn’t know what to expect for the Area Stage. I only know that as preparation, I reviewed together with Sir Aron Umali (STEM faculty member) and a fellow Lasallian,” he said. Dela Cruz competed against 51 other high school student-participants from Luzon except the National Capital Region. Twenty three out of 51 delegates came from Region IV-A CALABARZON.
For the privilege to compete in the PMO, several Lasallians took a schoolbased qualifying exam. After the eliminations, nine others, besides dela Cruz, were chosen to represent the school for the PMO. These are Elise Rae Ayop (SBI13), Stefano Valera (ENG11), Kriztil Nina Isabella Montesclaros (ENG11), Jason Ybarrita (ENG11), Jennica Basnillo (ENG11), Von Andrei Medina (ABM15), Maria Cassandra Vitug (ABM15), Jan Josef Domingo (ABM16), and Warren David Saga (ABM16). The PMO, as its official website states, is the oldest and most prestigious nationwide mathematics competition among secondary schools. It is the breeding ground for the country’s representative to the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO).
August 2016 - April 2017
Patimpalak sa aklatan
NEWS
Kahalagahan ng pagbabasa, muling ipinaalala
Logo, from page 1
Domini Sancti Dalmacio (ADV11), Demee Arjay Flores (ADV12), John Daemarl Flores (ABM13), Ginzy Javier (ENG12), Nianne Frances Nabor (ADV11), Ryma Sophia Olarte (ABM13), at Kristian Saflor (ABM16).
Leiddy Hazel Penamora
Isang patimpalak ang ginanap noong ika-16 ng Nobyembre sa loob ng Aklatang Emilio Aguinaldo-Information Resource Center na pinamagatang “Unahan sa Aklatan & Chance Poetry: On the Spot Book Spine Poetry Contest.” Ito ay may hangaring isulong ang muling pagkahumaling ng mga estudyante sa paggamit ng aklatan at para na rin turuan sila kung paano hanapin ang mga libro dito.
Ika-1 ng tanghali nagsimula ang naturang patimpalak. Nauna muna ang Unahan sa Aklatan kung saan ang mga estudyante ay binigyan ng mga pangalan ng mga manunulat na kailangan nilang hanapin kung saang parte ng aklatan ito naroroon. Sa ganoong paraan, matututo ang mga estudyanteng maghanap ng mga librong kailangan nila. Nagwagi sa patimpalak na ito ang mga kalahok mula sa TVL (VCF12, ADV11, at VTS12) habang ikalawa naman ang mga kalahok mula sa La Estrella Verde (LEV). Agad namang sinundan ito ng Chance Poetry: On the Spot Book Spine Poetry Contest kung saan ang mga kalahok ay kinakailangang gumawa ng sarili nilang tula gamit lamang ang mga pamagat ng libro. Ang mahigit sa 20 grupong sumali ay binubuo ng dalawa hanggang sa tatlong miyembrong pinili pa ng kanilang mga guro sa Filipino at 21st Century Literature. Nagwagi ang mga kumatawan sa LEV na sina Micah Juliana Montano, Jayson Ybarrita, at RiAnne Dielle Servidad. Habang pumangalawa naman sina Elaissa Bautista, Katherine Anne Del Rosario, at Kim Nicole Toledo na Literary editor at writers ng LEV. Hindi man nanalo, gusto pa raw ulitin ng mga estudyanteng nakasali dito ang ganitong klase ng
3 Gayunpaman, may mga detalyeng binago sa orihinal na konsepto na nilikha ni Cruz. Ang opisyal na logo ay inilahad nang pasimulang ganapin ang kaunaunahang Intramurals ng DLSU-D SHS noong ika-4 ng Abril.
About the logo
patimpalak. “I guess it was fun participating in the contest even if we didn’t win. That day made we want to go to the library more. I hope they’d do more of the Chance Poetry Contest.” Ito ay ang katagang nabanggit ng isa sa mga nakasali sa naturang patimpalak. Kung mabibigyan nga daw siya ng pagkakataong ulitin ito, sasali ulit siya. Ang ilan naman ay hindi naitago ang kaba na kanilang nadama noong sila ay sumali.“Para sa akin, sobrang nakakakaba dala na din siguro ng pag-iisip ko ng ‘First time mo lang sumali sa ganito kaya di kayo mananalo’. Noong nagsimula na ang contest, ginawa ko na ang mga dapat gawin kasama mga kakampi ko. Noong natapos kami ay sobrang gaan ng pakiramdam ko kasi hindi ko inakala na ganun pala kasaya pag nakagawa ka ng isang tula gamit ang mga pamagat ng libro,” pagkukwento ni Winryll Banaag (HCO11), isa sa mga kalahok sa patimpalak. “Kung tatanungin ako kung gusto ko pa maranasan ulit iyon, ang sagot ko ay oo. Tinuruan ako ng contest na iyon kung paano maging confident sa mga alam ko at sa sarili ko. At sobrang gaganda ang gawa niyo pag may teamwork, iisang activity or contest lang pero sobrang dami kong nalaman at natutunan,” dagdag niya.
The five-pointed star is the Signum Fidei, the sign of faith and the symbol of the De La Salle Brothers (Fraternum Scholarum). The shield in the middle means protection against evil and falsities. Inside the shield are three core values of De La Salle University (Faith, Service, and Communion) and the broken chevrons which are part of the De La Salle coat of arms. The Philippine eagle symbolizes that the Senior High School exemplifies these characteristics of the Philippine Eagle: uniqueness, strength, power, and love for freedom. The seedling stands for being maka-kalikasan and as a symbol of environmental programs and advocacy of DLSU-D as one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly universities in the country and in the world. The church stands for being maka-Diyos,our love and faith to God. This also symbolizes that the whole Senior High School community are Christian achievers and servants to God. The logo is a perfect circle which means that it is whole, complete, and ideal. A circle has no ending and no beginning, that once a Lasallian will always be a Lasallian.
Preventive measures: preparing for the inevitable Nathan Kristoffer Manikan and Jean Geibrielle Romero The month of April was met not with showers, but with tremors that incited fear and a sense of terror among the Filipino people.
On April 4, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck 5 km west of Batangas at 8:58 pm. People in neighboring provinces and cities felt the shaking, and immediately expressed concern and distress. Then, on April 8, twin earthquakes with magnitudes of 5.7 and 5.9 hit Mabini, Batangas and Talaga, Tanauan respectively, at 3:08 and 3:09 pm. These earthquakes have caused numerous damages on various infrastructures, and have created a feeling of dread and panic on many people. An earthquake is not something to be
taken lightly; it is an unpredictable and devastating force that could cause not only immense damage, but death as well. DLSU-D Senior High School has been fortunate enough to have wise individuals that could further help shed a light on what one needs to do in anticipation of an earthquake and give a broader explanation of what it is and why one needs to prepare for it. La Estrella Verde interviewed Jose Apollo Mabini, one of the Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction professors. According to Mabini, “It is essential [to
Here are some of the things one needs to keep in mind and do when an earthquake strikes as stated by Mabini. Before: The key to an effective disaster prevention is to have a proper plan. • Have an earthquake readiness plan. The majority of injuries from an earthquake result from falling debris and failure of infrastructure. Safety precautions that can prevent injury and provide emergency supplies should be put into place prior to an earthquake • We need to determine the sites which is in the fault line. • Have a proper structural design (for the house or building) • Familiarize yourself with your place (work, house, school) • Secure yourself from the materials like hanging objects which may break during earthquakes. • Store emergency supplies such as: water, food, emergency kit, and first aid kit. During: Knowing how to stay safe during strong shaking can prevent injury. We practiced “drop, cover, and hold on” in class. Protecting yourself from falling debris is important. • First, stay calm. • Drop, cover, and hold • If you’re inside a building or structure, protect yourself from falling debris by bracing yourself in a doorway or getting under a sturdy desk or table. • If you’re outside, move to an open area. • If you’re inside the vehicle, pull to the side of the road and stop. Safety is your primary concern.
prepare for an earthquake] because we are talking about lives here. Every people has the right to live. But if an earthquake will or may occur, given enough knowledge regarding the phenomenon, we can and we will survive. If we can survive, less casualties will be recorded.” Albeit the time when an earthquake strikes is unpredictable, preparation still needs to be done as it is vital for survival. By preparing for the worst, we can prevent the worst from happening to us. It is wise to be aware of what one needs to do before,
•
during, and after an earthquake. “It is important to educate people especially the youth because the youth composes mostly of our population, and is not experienced when it comes to natural disasters. Surviving an earthquake is not just luck. A little planning and preparation now can go a long way towards helping you and your family. Remember that cooperation and calm thinking can turn an emergency situation into a manageable one,” Mabini said.
If you’re along the shore line and you feel a very strong earthquake and assuming that there will be a tsunami. Run away from the shore and move to a higher ground.
After: When the earthquake is over, there are important safety checks to complete. An emergency kit will ensure access to safe food and water if utilities are damaged during an earthquake. • If you’re inside an old structure, take the fastest and safest way out. • Check your surroundings
Know your emerency exit routes. Floor plan of CTHM Building.
OPINION
4
EDITORIAL
E
August 2016 - April 2017
Spilling blood for peace and justice
ven before his presidency, Rodrigo Duterte has already been known for his strong will and eagerness to get rid of drug users and drug traffickers during his term as the Davao City mayor. When Duterte was elected as the president of the Philippines, he pledged to finally put an end to the heinous crimes and corruption nationwide within six months of his presidency. However, many Filipinos were unconvinced with his oath. Even when he should be celebrating his victory in June, he directly ordered the vigilantes to shoot drug dealers who will resist arrest. He also urged people to go and kill the drug addicts, saying, “If you know of any addicts, go ahead and kill them yourself as getting their parents to do it would be too painful,” during one of his speeches in a Manila slum in July last year. Since then, thousands of pushers and users surrendered to the authorities because of the fear that they might be killed in the administration’s campaign. Despite this, thousands of suspected drug users and dealers were reported to have been killed after gunfights with policemen during the Oplan Tokhang and drug-related operations. While the government is continuously receiving momentum in its bloody campaign against drugs, some senators have questioned its potency and raised concerns over the rising number of extrajudicial killings. Reports show that majority of those killed in this war against drugs were part of the marginalized sector. It was always said that there was an encounter that happened where gunfights occurred, leaving our policemen no option but to shoot them. Contradicting with these reports were the statements of the relatives of the deceased seeking justice for their loved ones, saying that not all who were slain really fought or fired guns against the police. On July 8, Edward Sentorias, 34, a father of three boys, was jobless after getting injured in a welding accident. He and his wife were confirmed to be shabu users by their relatives in his in-law’s house, and were then arrested for illegal drug trade. Their relatives pleaded and asked him to surrender after the launch of the war on drugs began, but he refused, saying that their local officials were addicted to drugs long before he became one. His relatives disproved
the statement of the police asserting that Sentorias pointed out a gun on them, and they also claimed that the evidence of drugs found inside their house were fabricated by the police after a relative witnessed what had happened. Due to some of the abusive law enforcers who were involved in the kidnap for ransom and murder of South Korean businessman Jee Ick-joo in the Tokhang for Ransom scheme, the Oplan Tokhang was suspended early this year. During the suspension, reports indicate that drug pushers were back in business and sales of illegal drugs in the black market are increasing. PNP Director General Ronald dela Rosa said, “There has been a hike in drug activities during the period when we suspended our anti-drug operations, particularly against, street and middle-level drug traffickers, and high-value targets.” Early March of this year, the Philippine National Police (PNP) announced that they are set to resume the war on drugs. If we were to look back on the day that the government launched Oplan Tokhang, the number of people killed has already risen to more than 6,000, and the number continues to grow as more have surrendered and are in the process of rehabilitation. How did it become this high? Despite the aggressiveness exerted by the PNP, some illegal drug users just won’t stop doing their business. The illicit drug trade continues in different cities and municipalities in our country. Also, for some reason, in this so-called war on drugs, why does it seem that only the poor die? Do we always have to associate drugs with them? The people who have been “killed” in these operations are all from the marginalized sector. The only instance that we have a welloff individual caught up in this war on drugs is Jee. And that’s precisely why they hit the pause button. Now that it is back, we regularly hear news of dead people. Still the poor. In the end, one can only hope, hope that peace will prevail and justice will be given to the poor, to the ones who are innocent but are mistakenly blamed, and to the ones who have suffered dearly in this brutal and chaotic war, a war that has only brought about more evil than good.
EDITORIAL BOARD A.Y. 2016-2017
Editor in Chief Associate Editor Managing Editor Copy Editor News Editor Features Editor Sports Editor Literary Editors Art Editor Layout Editor Photo Editor
Micah Juliana Montano Nathan Kristoffer Manikan Jean Geibrielle Romero Warren David Saga Jason Ybarrita Ri-Anne Dielle Servidad Wynona Raechel Magnaye Leigh Anne Darlene Dispo, Elaissa Bautista Cris Matthew Canada Leerick Bautista Maeca Louisse Camus
NEWS Beatrice Katherine Aguilar, Celine Isabel Aguillon, Charliemagne Asuncion, Reaiah Jerahmeel Bartolome, Alexis Kiel Baybay, Geordette Eve Capistrano, Gayle Josrel Esquida, Arjielene Javier, Lance Angelo Mejico, Andrea Oesmer, Leiddy Hazel Penamora FEATURES Leila Marie Gomez, Jelo Ritzhie Mantaring, Glenielle Geraldo Nanglihan, Edrea Mae Ramacula, Jennifer Santos SPORTS Angelica Alcaraz, Ingrid Claire Del Rosario LITERARY Bea Therese Bacit, Katherine Anne Del Rosario, Edison Jared Serato, Kim Nicole Toledo ART Viva RK Ignacio, James Ryan Lapera, Sarah Jessica Muñoz LAYOUT Jerry Mae Detic, Carl Jayson Logenio PHOTO Martha Ann Beatriz Abesamis, Mark Fernan Ignacio, Klensch Guevarra, Miguel Martin Saligumba
Obiter Dicta Micah Juliana Montano
Millennial Mask
I
f you search for the definition of the term “millennial”, in the web, you’ll probably come up with the results referring to the year it covers, from the ‘80s (1980-1984), until early 2000s (2000-2005). However, if it were some of the Baby Boomers and the Generation X talking, they will define us as the gadget generation, the digital natives, the generation with artificial intelligence or anything under the sun as long as they can associate us with today’s technology and the social media. But hey, did they forget that we are also the generation who’ve experienced playing outside our houses with the other children in the neighborhood? We were those kids that used to go home with our clothes so dirty because of the countless running and pushing and tumbling on the ground with our playmates, and after changing in our favorite pajamas we will wait for a short episode of Blue’s Clues and Teletubbies. We were those kids that will go in front of the electrical fan as we sing our favorite songs at the top of our lungs, enjoying the echo that the fan gives us. We were those kids who loved playing that brick game in the battery operated toy and the “Snakes” game in the old analog Nokia mobile of our parents. And who could forget the way we hold a piece of Stik-O and pretend that it’s a cigarette before we would munch on the goodness of that wafer stick. And of course, we will never set aside the feelings that the F4 boys, Dao Ming Si (Jerry Yan), Hua Ze Lei (Vic Zhou), Mei Zuo (Vanness Wu) and Xi Men (Ken Chu), have brought to all their young fangirls. Well the thing is, we have grown up. We are not those same kids anymore. Although we are a little bit wiser now, there are still things that we find confusing. We cannot hide the fact that it is tough to be part of this generation. Most of the time, we are
being criticized and misunderstood for our actions, by the things we like, want, and choose. And so it is up to us to change those perspectives. It’s ironic how they want us to act like adults yet they treat us as if we are toddlers who cannot make our own decision and differentiate right from wrong. We need to make them understand that as the years passed by, we have adapted to the changes happening to our environment including all the technological advancements that make us proficient. It is not in human nature to be stagnant and constant. Change is inevitable. We shouldn’t be blamed for the rapid growth of today’s technology.It is no one’s fault that every single day, people are continuously trying to find ways to make human tasks easier, more efficient and less time consuming to accomplish using different innovation brought to us by the tech world. And even if we want to, we couldn’t do anything about the progression in the digital age. But nevertheless, we should never neglect the fact that we aren’t here in our present stand, if it weren’t for the contributions of the past generations. It is just that the rigid dichotomy between the past generation and ours must be stopped right away. And nobody can cease these happenings. As part of this new millennium, we are not asking for anyone’s judgment and bias, but rather for their support and guidance as we move along with our lives. Still, it is on our very own hands to prove to everyone that we aren’t just spoiled brats and la-di-da who would do everything by swiping the screen of our devices, but we are the youth that is globally competitive. Let us remove the mask and show everyone that we are ready to face the challenges that the reality of life will be throwing on us and that we are still the hope of the future.
We shouldn’t be blamed for the rapid growth of today’s technology.
Adviser Robbie Ann Jesser Eullo La Estrella Verde has its editorial office at Room 312 Hotel de Oriente (College of Tourism and Hospitality Management) De La Salle University - Dasmariñas DBB-B City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4115 Telephone: +63-2-7795180, +63-46-4811900 to 1930 local 3402 Email: laestrellaverde.dlsud@gmail.com Facebook: facebook.com/DLSUDLaEstrellaVerde Contribution, comments, and suggestions should be addressed to the Editor in Chief and should bear the writer’s full name. Articles may be edited for clarity and space.
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OPINION
August 2016 - April 2017
Between those Words
Method to the Madness
Jean Geibrielle Romero
Nathan Kristoffer Manikan
A
Standing beyond your “limitations” The track and strand situation
h, it’s the first year of senior high, not only for us Lasallians, but for the entire country as well, as the A.Y. 2016-2017 marks the start of the implementation of the additional two years of basic education of the K-12 Program. This year hasn’t exactly been a smooth one, as students, teachers and schools alike all had to adjust to the newness of the concept of senior high school. Among the things that come along with senior high school are the concepts of “tracks” and “strands”, which can be likened to the programs that a student may opt for in tertiary education or college. The tracks and strands were brought into existence to help students to attain a better understanding of what profession they wish to have in the future, and one can assume that it’s serving its purpose, indeed. The tracks and strands in which we belong to are truly instrumental in setting the cornerstone for our careers once we finish all the years of our studies. However, there are some students that may feel as if their capabilities are confined and restricted to the track or strand that they belong in at the present. There’s been a lot of talk online, and offline, about how just because you’re in a certain track or strand, it means that your skills and talents are only limited to that which you belong in, and that you do not possess other abilities that are highlighted in other tracks and strands. This is a huge case of discrimination towards
students due to their choice of track or strand. But unfortunately, some people truly look at tracks and strands as the defining categories of what we are good at, or to be more precise, what we are only good at. Is it truly that way, though? Does our track or strand define our abilities, and our limits? Does your track or strand automatically confine you and the success you can attain in the future? I don’t think so. I want you to know, yes, you, my dear reader, that you are more than just the track or strand you are in right now. You can do more than what it entails, and you can pursue more ventures and passions that aren’t necessarily in line with your track or strand. You’re in ABM but you also love writing? You can be an accountant and a writer. You’re in STEM but you also love performing arts? You can be a doctor and a thespian. You’re in HUMSS but you also love cooking? You can be a lawyer and a chef. Your track or strand isn’t there to serve as a fence or a wall restraining you from nurturing other talents and aptitudes. No, it’s only there to amplify the abilities and skills you need for your profession, but it doesn’t limit you to it alone. Your track or strand does not define what you can and cannot do. Your strand does not define your limitations. So, chin up, pursue what your heart desires, and see yourself go above and beyond the expectations of others. Rise up, and stand above your strand.
Your strand does not define your limitations.
T
Y
that has a great amount of value to him/ her, therefore only doing it when it is really necessary and critical. The claim, however, is not compelling you to make something a priority. Instead, it tells you why it is obligatory for you to do a particular job It is asking you to figure out how to make your task, according to Thomas, meaningful and purposeful, and how to put value in your endeavor. And after you do, you will now feel uplifted, and will do everything in your power in order to “make that goal a reality”. Let’s recall the example above on reviewing for a test. Ask yourself, “Why should I review in the first place? Will reviewing be in my best interests?” After determining the purpose of your task, you will now make sure that you perform it effectively and appropriately for you to acquire it with distinction. So, let’s do this again, shall we? You pick up your textbook and flip through the pages. You read a few lines. You do not understand what you are reading. You give up and decide to just continue it later. You set your textbook aside and you pick up your mobile device. You realize that if you prioritize reading your Twitter feed over your test, you may not be able to pass the latter. You contemplate. You decide that studying for your test is more important than tweeting about how stressed you are because of it. You pick up the book again and you begin to read. You immerse yourself in what you are reading. You focus. You concentrate. You finish studying. You are now ready for your test. Procrastination defeated.
If you prioritize your tasks, then you will feel motivated to do them...
your family who were your inspiration all throughout your work. Some would probably take it negatively, as those words put them down. Others would take it as a challenge and as positive criticism. But how can we deal with those painful words said to us regarding our hard-earned work? Never be jealous of others and their achievements. Never belittle yourself just because someone has better than what you have or does better than what you did, and never compare someone with other people. If he is wiser, accept it, for he may be wiser, but there will always be something that you do better than that person, because God didn’t make a perfect person. We all have our different areas of expertise in life. We have our own journeys taken, we have our own experiences, things we have been through, we have different stories; comparison doesn’t define our growth, the story of one doesn’t tell the story of the other; their stories don’t define your story; differences must not hinder us from pursuing things in life, because at the end of the day, we all have our own stories to share, we all have our own lives to live. Someone will always be better, someone will always be greater, but no will ever be the same like you. Accept your differences and your imperfections, and never be jealous of others, because at the end of the day, no one will ever be you.
Someone will always be better, someone will always be greater, but no one will ever be the same like you.
Expensive Error Jason N. Ybarrita
Warren David Saga
ou pick up your textbook and flip through the pages. You read a few lines. You do not understand what you are reading. You give up and decide to just continue it later. You set your book aside and you pick up your mobile device. You open the app with a blue bird on the logo and begin typing, saying how distressed and worried you are regarding the test you will be taking in your least favorite subject, which you have not yet reviewed about. You post about the test and reply on similar posts instead of actually reviewing. Most, if not, all, students go through this process, or a similar one, which many refer to as procrastination, or the art of delaying things and doing them later. This leads to cramming, which leads to being unprepared for something, like in the aforementioned example, a test or an exam. But what if you were told that there is no such thing as procrastination? One expert who supports this claim is Eric Thomas, an American author and motivational speaker. According to him, it’s all about priority. If you prioritize your tasks, then you will feel motivated to do them and exert as much effort as you need to in order to finish them. On the other hand, if you do not prioritize, you will lack the energy and motivation to do them. Thus, you won’t strive to have them done and will only do them at the last minute. In an interview in the Steve Harvey Show, Thomas mentioned that, “When something is not urgent, you put it off.” For example, a student choosing to review a subject at a later time is not really procrastinating. What the student is really doing is postponing the task and putting it off because it’s not something
Those comparisons: Reflection of our differences
he time has come when school works are piling up; assignments here, projects and requirements there. Then extra-curricular activities will add burden to your piled up works to do, leaving you to think, if only you could tear yourself apart to be able to comply and work on them all at the same time. There are times when we attend our classes with less than two hours, or even no sleep at all, just to accomplish our works on time. There were also those so-called sabaw and lutang moments when your mind is not cooperating and you’re mixing things up. We then start saying “ayoko na,” “suko na ako,” “hindi ko na kaya” – phrases that we exclaim as we lose motivation to work due to tasks that keep piling up. Despite all our efforts, there will still be times when heartbreaking moments come— failures, low grades, and the most painful of them all, the feeling of not being enough after being compared to others. “Buti pa si ganito, mas magaling kesa sa’yo. Buti pa si ganyan nag-aaral, ‘di tulad mo. Buti pa siya masipag, ‘di gaya mo. Dapat gayahin mo ate mo, consistent honor student.” These are just few of the words that we, students, often hear from our parents, and from those around us. It would be the worst and most painful of them all, hearing it not from your teachers, or your friends, but from
Devoir versus Delight
Procrastination is not real
5
Y
The Flickering
ou’ve noticed it happening, not just right when it has kicked in, but you still know it has begun. This is how it goes down: every day seemed to be just another bad entry to what you blatantly claim as a bleak book starring the you who struggles to keep up with the melancholic tide you are in. The world kept spinning, people kept talking, money kept rolling, but on the other side of everything, you were just standing as the pitchblack roots under you take a hold of your consciousness. You feel the fire of those shadows consume you as the fire inside you flickers out. When this point of unescapable indecisiveness whether to pursue living or to just stop caring at all finally dawned on you, there’s an instant ticket for breaking down. This is what experts call burnout. Well, I tried to look for that magical word that could explain and support what I envision in my mind and the aforementioned term is what came close. Burnout, which is defined as an excessive stress-induced exhaustion hitting the mental, physical emotional aspects, takes a toll on the daily functioning of an individual. It turns you into someone screaming “what a drag” in everything you try to do, you actually do, and what you think you should do. We could have already been victims of it. We could have felt greatly exhausted, emotionally drained, overly hopeless and helpless, cynical and disillusioned. The thought of going to school just because we are enrolled students may have crossed our minds. Being swayed side to side by the strong academic currents, being yanked all
around by social interactions, and being swept away by the spontaneity of the world suddenly do not sound bad at all. And what could be worse is that to do nothing to appease the emotional turmoil boiling deep within you suddenly echo a fantastic idea. We know the problem, but idiotically, we deviate from forging a solution or ways to address it. Even the thought of releasing all the build-up emotions sounds as dragging as it could be. We don’t try to retaliate. That’s just serious. It could be treated as sensitive and dramatic, but it is realistic in every possible way. Burnout happens. Burnout is experienced. And for those who are going through this rough path, remember that you are not alone. You may be munching on the lows of your life, but have faith that you could return to someone full of positive energy and hopeful outlooks. Surround yourself with a stalwart support system that would aid you in reviving the will to live. Always take good care of your health from your eating lifestyle to your sleeping habits. Be inspired by others who have persevered and came out victorious. Appreciate the little things and be happy. Seek for help and pray to God. It might be a laborious task or a tall order, but it is what you need. The more you sink deeper into that chaining void, the more you are demanded to be strong. What you need is a spark to light up that fire in you. Don’t let it wither away; wake up from the flickering.
Burnout happens. Burnout is experienced.
OPINION
6 Wabi-Sabi
What’s the Sitch?
Ri-Anne Dielle Servidad
A
Stop, look, and listen
s part of our lesson in Oral using this term to refer to themselves when Communication last semester, our they criticize about something they have little teacher showed us an important quote to no knowledge in using their emotions and about miscommunication by Stephen R. beliefs as basis—especially in politics and Covey, “The biggest communication problem government. is we do not listen to understand. We listen to Talking about these matters is okay as reply.” And that quote struck a chord in me it shows that you are concerned with the because it’s true; miscommunication is one of progress and growth of the country and as the biggest issues in the society nowadays— long as you make sure to listen to other sides failing to listen. Listening means being open to of the story, to scrutinize them and make different perspectives a decision or opinion and finding your own, Listening means being open after weighing both depending on what sides through careful you believe is to be to different perspectives and judgment. People who right. have their own stands finding your own We get too caught often don’t try to learn up in our own worlds that we cannot venture the other side of the story, instead, they are outside and see new perspectives from others. insistently defending their bias and opinion. For example: the internet and social media— As teenagers who are nearing the legal age, while they are platforms where anything and we should be aware of the happenings in everything is easily accessible, they can also our country and we are encouraged to join serve as a limiter to self-growth. If you browse discussions and debates about these matters. the comments section, you can easily spot that So you can be a Dutertetard or Dilawan or majority of the comments are full of nonsense neither as long you can justify why. Follow and unjustified hate or misinformed ideas. the news about the current events, look at both Rarely will you see a comment that actually sides of the story, and research if you have has a point (but easily spotted because of to—just to satisfy your curious mind. Just the number of likes from that particular be mindful of the sources where we get our comment). information, as mentioned above, the internet People are becoming narrow-minded and is a place where everything is available, and contributing their own opinions without an that includes biased news or fake information. afterthought and proper information. Most of Enrich your mind and hone your critical the time we are just affected by the bandwagon reasoning; engage in debates and discussions. effect; you keep up with what is currently Also, be open to criticisms, as long as they popular or the latest trend, only because a lot are constructive and have concrete basis and of people are into that thing. they can broaden your perspectives on things. This is linked with the emergence of the so- Don’t forget that knowledge is ever evolving, called “Keyboard Warriors.” While some say and new ideas are being added to previous sensible statements to the posts, others started information as time passes.
Wynona Raechel Magnaye
D
I
parents for food and shelter. We don’t have a quota on how much we are supposed to give or how much we should help. It is understandable that we can’t contribute much to solving the world’s problems. But that doesn’t mean that we are exempted from doing anything. Stephen Hawking once said, “Don’t talk about what you are going to do. Just do it and let your actions speak for you.” This from a man who can’t move, yet still does so many things for humanity. He has already inherited this world and yet, he still looks for ways to improve it. We can’t just rely on people like him to act while we rant about how bad the world is. We need to put our devices down and start doing something. One like is not enough. One share won’t make a change. But one action can ignite the spark. We can’t rely on social media forever. We need to start doing something in order for things to start changing. As a student, I might be optimistic and idealistic. I still believe that actions speak louder than words. But if a whole generation believes that too, then maybe something can get done. I’m not sure how I feel about what’s happening in the world when I see news saying that it is already falling apart. But I am certain that if I just sit around reacting to it, nothing’s going to happen. Click. Like. Then Do.
One like is not enough. One share won’t make a change. But one action can ignite the spark.
Beyond the Norm
Leigh Anne Darlene Dispo
Elaissa Bautista
remember creating a documentary for a losing originality and authenticity. Our class project when I was in 8th grade. own personalities get a little blurry because It was entitled “#PilipinUSO” and of everything that surrounds our circle. it tackled how Filipinos have chosen to Society sets this unspoken rule that if you follow pop culture trends, in fashion, music, don’t follow the top trends, then you must movies, and even language. That 17-minute be “too old for that,” a “killjoy,” an “epal,” documentary contained the trends that used or a “caveman.” Pop culture is an invisible to be the talk of the town in 2013-2014, string that connects us to the world, so it such as the “Gangnam is undeniably Style” dance craze, the We have a habit of embracing tough not to join in the crowd. “Wrecking Ball” music what’s in front of us, just There are eyes video of controversial everywhere that singer Miley Cyrus because everyone else might judge and even the coldest is embracing it us for being a Ice Bucket Challenges. But looking back at it now, those trends complete outcast, just because we don’t that used to dominate the whole country, know the lyrics to the songs topping the don’t matter that much anymore. They charts. It’s sad that we can get judged for may have basked in the golden spotlight of being our unique selves. Although there are times that we get entertainment four years ago, but it seems like no one remembers about them now. completely drawn to the mainstream, it is The thing about trends isn’t just about still important to find our own views on life. being temporary, but it also cages people It is true that trends can be entertaining, but into something that’s possibly way how long will we be entertained? No one different from their personalities. We knows how long something will stay. If don’t want to fall behind on our friends’ we get caught in something so much, we conversations whenever they talk about might be the only one left caring about the funniest meme on Facebook or the it soon. That is why we need to balance most heart-thumping Korean dramas. We our freedom to follow the trends and the speak all kinds of modernized language, freedom to become ourselves. even though the newly-invented words The thing is, the hashtag that is trending arising today are still non-existent in the today may not be as legendary tomorrow. dictionary, like “pak ganern”, “shookt” and Every hashtag that we create now will all “bes”. We desire the fanciest shoes in the just be forgotten in time and another will mall, because we see this as a way to walk take its place. It’s good to have our own through our peers’ acceptance. Bottomline, names so that if the trend fades, then we’ll we don’t want to be called “old school”. still have something to remember. We We have a habit of embracing what’s in will be remembered. After all, it is front of us, just because everyone else is more endearing to hear that we are more embracing it. We want to fit in and to be than just followers of trend, but we can also like them, even if sometimes we end up be trendsetters.
One Like, One Action
oesn’t it just break your heart to see news about the extinction of a species or the suicide of a teenage girl due to excessive bullying? When I see posts like these on social media, all I can do is to react with a sad emoji, then share the posts to several of my friends to glance over. As they say, one like is one prayer. But is this really all we can do? Does our “Like” really make a difference? We can contribute so much more if only we put down our devices and actually do something. Don’t get me wrong; social media is a revolutionary tool that connects us to everyone, everywhere at any time. We can communicate, share and connect. But lately, we rely too much on the services of social media. Instead of interacting with people, we choose to do video chat. And instead of consoling someone for a relative’s death, we react to his or her post and send our “condolences” through a comment. Social media itself isn’t a bad thing, but our dependence on it has made us lazy. We sit around all day liking, clicking, commenting on issues of the world, but we don’t really do anything. We talk big but do little. We are satisfied with knowing the problem but we aren’t actually doing anything. Our actions speak louder than words. It may sound cliché, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t true. And no matter how little that action is, it’s still better than nothing. We’re students, teenagers still depending on our
Big Deeper
The Theory of Broken Hashtags
August 2016 - April 2017
I
On Catcalling
t is an ordinary scene to a viewer to see a woman walk across the street and be momentarily stopped by a nearby sound—perhaps a shrill whistle or a slurring sneer from a sari-sari store. An encounter like this can be inside a formal setting—which is presumably unusual— say, inside a classroom or during a meeting. Yet the act itself, as we all have accustomed to, is nowhere near new. Popular culture tells us that catcalling is a form of compliment—whether or not it is from a smirking face or piercing glares. Perhaps due to this that a new problem sprung up—that because between a compliment and catcall there is a diluted barrier, we find validation in the latter. In other words, catcalling, to some, has become like a concrete invitation to the party or a glaring banner of a welcoming club. But a compliment is supposedly polite and respectful. Meanwhile, catcalling, by nature, is just another form of harassment. It calls out on you and treats you like a piece of meat—not as a human being with experiences. It does not see you as a writer, a teacher, or a student. Additionally, catcalling should not be in any way an ordinary thing. It should not be part of somebody’s life on a daily basis. The worst thing, furthermore, is that it has become a plague sugarcoated as a traditional response. When we watch what is up on TV, it is apparent that talent has long been degraded to how beautiful enough one appears. Who cares about your academic pursuits if you cannot pull off those short skirts with ‘decency’? In fact,
to save everybody the time, do not bother. Get out of this industry. You are no Liza Soberano. See, what happens to a recipient of catcalling is oftentimes irrelevant to the catcaller. The latter does not know how the former would respond. Maybe this is why many do it with such an ease: we have no idea how people react to harassments. But then, we were not brought up to know what to do in a situation where you are being called at for how you look. After all, why should anybody have anything against your own body? And so, when we are most likely not expecting it, we stand frozen and appalled afterwards. We feel less of who we are. Truth be told, we often have no idea what to do. We simply do what our instincts tell us when we are on the radar: we retreat. But pulling back should not be the answer. This culture does not own us; therefore, we must control it. A person’s appearance, whether it conforms to stereotypes (and it should not, as one should not be bothered to feeling unwelcome by how he looks) or not, is that person’s alone. He can choose to ask people’s opinion, but a choice of clothing is not solely from others’ preferences. This is the threat of catcalling. It spreads the illusion that beauty conforms to a single identity. It becomes an accomplished right of passage. And here’s the truth: you are worth than how you choose to look like. And whether we look pleasing to others or disagreeable to many, there is no one but you to decide.
The worst thing...is that it has become a plague sugarcoated as a traditional response.
NEWS FEATURE
August 2016 - April 2017
7 Photo by Micah Juliana Montano
One on one with the Student Council Micah Juliana Montano and Warren David Saga Each student has his/her own distinctive competence. Some are good in academics, others in sports, arts, music, while some are gifted with the prowess of leadership. And in DLSU-D, we have students who are not only capable of said prowess, but are brave enough to step forward and use it to serve the University and the students. These are no other than the first batch of the DLSU-D Senior High School Student Council Officers: STEM Track SC President James Bawasanta and Vice President Shaney Goyena, HUMSS/ABM/GAS Track SC President Kristian Saflor and Vice President Charliemagne Asuncion, and TVL/Sports/Arts Track President Sophia Marie Balagtas and Vice President Shawn Gonzales.
La Estrella Verde (LEV) sat down with the SC officers and asked a few questions to gain insight into their duties as student leaders of the University. LEV: What is the most difficult and challenging thing that comes with being part of the Student Council? Bawasanta: For me, difficulty is not a thing nor a word found in my dictionary as the Student Council president, [I would] rather [call it] a challenging role for me. The most challenging part for me was when the presidency was handed to me which means that it is the start of my office and I should render my best to serve my fellow students. Goyena: The inconveniences we usually encounter is whenever we’re about to set a meeting because we have different class schedules and whenever we’re planning an event because we should bear in mind that students would love it. Saflor: One of the things that challenge us with being part of the student council is [having a] balance between ourselves and other people. Remember that we should never be afraid to fall apart because it is the opportunity to rebuild ourselves and show other people that we can overcome any circumstances we encounter. Asuncion: The most challenging and intriguing part could be the expectations coming from the Lasallian community. Unfortunately, we tried to overthink if what we serve them are enough to satisfy their needs; [hunting] for the answers eventually just results to the tiredness of our soul and body and failure to comply [with] our jobs. Yet, [by] standing [together through these] challenging situations, we are able to conquer catastrophes and let these be one of our inspirations to continue working on and developing our sense of leadership. Balagtas: The most challenging thing that I encountered as a student council president is having limited [influence as representatives of] the [senior high] students; [we may have the best intention but we weren’t able to function we would have wished]. Not having [our own] funds [for the organization] is [also] really challenging…because we intend to [initiate our own] projects or events, but it’s really hard to have an event or any kind of projects if we do not have any funds… But in every challenge and difficulty we [encountered, we] experienced…and learned things like [trusting other] people. It was really nice (to) put my trust in my fellow students and getting that same amount of trust back…, and we accomplished things that we did not think we could (do) and it also (taught) us how to be responsible…. Gonzales: Well, for me the most difficult thing with being part of the first SHS Student Council is the pressure. Pressure in which we need to come up with activities and programs that will not only help our schoolmates develop [their] Lasallian values but for them to also enjoy the events. The pressure also comes with disappointment; in which we feel the lack of support from (some people). The most difficult challenge that we have encountered, throughout this school year, is that every time
we are given a task to hold or facilitate an event, we are only given [less than] a month… to prepare. LEV: What is the main goal of the Student Council as a whole? Bawasanta: The main goal of our council is not just…organizing events that would give enjoyment and pleasure to my fellow senior high Lasallian students, but rather gain something from it because we assume that a good program doesn’t only give entertainment.... We want them to learn various lessons, values, and morals that we could use in everyday life. Goyena: Our main goal isn’t just to organize approved activities well, but to utilize those activities where each student would learn, enjoy, and benefit something from (the events). We value most of the students’ concerns (and) suggestions that we make sure we’ll (organize) remarkable [events] for everyone. Saflor: One of the most important aspects in an effective management [of an] organization is communication. Think of it as [the] fuel that keeps the fire burning, without it, we will not be able to create the burning passion in establishing good relationship among the three branches of student councils and with our fellow senior high students. Not only communication itself (is) important, but also responding proactively in attaining the common good of the student body. Asuncion: More than giving justice to the title “student leaders,” it is the student council’s sole purpose to unite students in diverse school activities despite of our [different] tracks and personalities. The best part of our goal is to be a real Lasallian who is living and serving the DLSU-D Senior High School community with the burning passion in our hearts to be the light of people around us. Balagtas: Student council is a voice for students, our main goal is to represent the views of the students on matters of general concern (for) them, to promote and support the management and staff in the development of the school, and to build leadership capacity. Gonzales: The main goal of our council, I must say, is that we wanted the best for our schoolmates. We also want them to feel like we are not superior to them, that we are approachable, that is why we acknowledge every request our schoolmates give us and do everything we can to make their requests possible.
Goyena: Each time I witness students who appreciate the outcome of our work inspires me to do better service. I find their appreciation motivating because it just means that our previous event was indeed successful and so our next projects should be. Saflor: Being able to put smile on the faces of my fellow students is what inspires me to work hard and do my responsibilities. With the help of our SHS faculty members, delivering them the services they deserve and being able to create new possibilities to harness their potential to overcome challenges is a motivation for us to continue the support. Asuncion: “Teaching minds, touching hearts and transforming lives,” this is a phrase that seals our school’s purpose which greatly contributes as one of my inspiration to continue serving as a council officer. [Like] St. La Salle’s dedication to help for the people in need, I never became discouraged to…do my duties just like what he did. Knowing that I am serving the school in the name of our God is just the ultimate inspiration we can all have, especially for me. Balagtas: There is a saying that inspires me, it says, “Do not let the pressure get a hold of you stand strong with focus and calmness you are certain to succeed.” Gonzales: For me, it really is because of Miss Joy Parohinog, the guidance counselor of [SHS]. She really inspires me on how I do my work, how I talk to people, how I entertain people, how I face a hard situation during preparing for an event, and also she taught me how to do things positively. My schoolmates also inspire me to work hard and do my part responsibly, for they are the reason why I want do all my things as perfect as possible. Lastly, I am inspired to work because of our God almighty, he is the reason why I can do all things given to me, why I have the strength and courage to do everything accordingly.
“...It is the student council’s sole purpose to unite students in diverse school activities despite of our [different] tracks and personalities.”
LEV: What/Who inspires you to work hard and do your responsibilities as a Student Council officer? Bawasanta: Seeing my fellow students… satisfied with the events we had come up as a whole council makes me more motivated to do my job. It fuels up my energy to… wholeheartedly serve, inspire, and move many lives as I do my responsibility [as SC president].
LEV: What legacy would you want to leave to the school as part of its first Student Council? Bawasanta: The only mark I want to leave is to instill to my fellow Lasallians’ minds the word uniqueness. I want to be an inspiration to them. I have served this institution for almost eight months now and I can say that I have done my part; I have shared my time, talent, and treasure, I have given my very best in doing my responsibility and most of all have rendered my whole self in serving my second home. I cannot [take all the] credit [for] all the achievements that our council had achieved. Goyena: It is an honor to be one of the pioneers of this council, and as a student leader for almost four years, the usual legacy I want most of the student to leave is for them to realize the importance of followership. By being obedient we can learn team spirit, and by this ability a student can achieve the true meaning of being a Lasallian, a God-fearing leader.
Saflor: Some smartphones already have fingerprint scanners to unlock it. Even laptops possess this kind of advanced technology, but for me, it is not about leaving my fingerprints or a legacy. It is more important to be part of a process wherein we build something ambitious by feeling the sweat flow down our faces, rolling up our sleeves and getting dirty hands, being on the ground, initiating projects and activities, providing interest for our fellow students—I think (these) things alone is already etched into the minds of others. We should not look for the personalities of other people. Instead, we should look for their intentions, or the meaning behind their actions and words. I think change needs to be egoless in creating our own perspectives. Asuncion: To the next batch of Senior High School (students), what I want to be imprinted in their minds is that being part of the Student Council wasn’t just a title or work as what most people say. I want them to look upon us, as the first batch of Senior High Lasallians who is different among the others, probably like the moon that shines so bright beneath the land of stars. This just means that despite of the darkness or odds that we’ve encountered we always had the time to shine through the help of our co-students or our stars. Balagtas: The legacy that I wanted to leave is the logo of the TVL/ADV/Sports Track Student Council (which is on the process now hope we can submit it sooner) we want to show to our logo the hard work, the unity of the students, the creativity, and the leadership. Gonzales: I would really like to leave all the events that I have led as a legacy. Events such as SHINE (SHared Interactive Neoconcept Expo) during the first Students’ Week (celebration), wherein a lot of sections have wholeheartedly participated. I believe SHINE is a very helpful project because it made the whole section think, brainstorm, (and) it also showed them what teamwork really means. I also want to leave C.A.P.S.U.L.E.S. (Creative Alternative Program for Seniors’ Unique Learning Experience Series) as a legacy, not only by me but also by Ms. Joy Parohinog, Ms. Jesser Eullo, and Sir Nazer Salcedo, (because) we helped each other to create the said project. Without them we would never have enjoyed the very first SHS Lasallian Festival (LSF). I want (C.A.P.S.U.L.E.S.) to be [held] yearly during LSF for it does not only bring out our passion, but it also helps us discover what we really want! Lastly, I would like to create specific organizations for culinary, tourism, and ADV students (if I will be given a chance to make them). Because I know that this is what they needs: a specific organization would help every student grow as an individual that will really turn them into the person they really want to be in the near future. Leadership is not merely a cinch; it takes courage and strength. Yet, these students have manifested their excellence in being leaders, and that they are truly dedicated and committed in their service. They inspire their fellow SHS students to find the courage within themselves to become virtuous leaders in their own ways in life.
8
LITERARY
August 2016 - April 2017
Labyrinth
Debacle
She heard a voice through the gusts of the wind It was his hovering heart, finding where to rightfully land. He looked above to see Virgo shining at the heavens On her lonely throne, finding an inamorato at its quintessence.
She looked at him as if he’s the one
Edison Jared Serato
Bea Bacit
The sun and moon said that they can see them but they can’t see each other, Behind their ribcages are galaxies—formless like water. They were once lost and tried to find their way home without a single hint; So they feared walking the extra mile, inside the mystifying labyrinth.
He looked at her as if she’s the only one But then they forgot That the world is so cruel Enough to separate their worlds That was only the beginning
She found him for the second time He saw her as if it was no crime
For fate has dictated the universe To give them the worst verse This is the ending Of the latter years of their meaning They forgot that the world is so cruel Enough to make them realize They now belong in the presence of different eyes
Tonights and Tomorrows Katherine Anne del Rosario
9:30 PM – I pick up the phone. Hello? He chuckles and asks me about my day. 10:00 PM – I love his voice. I love how it’s thick in most places and cracks when he whispers. I love how it booms when he laughs, how it firms when he’s mad. How it softens when he’s sleepy and keeps me warm at night. I love how I could actually hear him smile through the phone. 10:45 PM – When’s the Stat quiz on Schoolbook due? – Tomorrow, I think? 11:30 PM – We talk about anything and everything, and I make the whole world go quiet so I could listen to him. I hang onto every word, every beat of silence, every question mark. The night is alive with our whispers. 12:00 AM – He says he found a funny video and tags me on Facebook. It’s a dad making his little son dance to “Beat It” by Michael Jackson.
1:10 AM – He asks me: What are you most afraid of? You, I want to say. The sheer spontaneity and mystery that is you. I hold my tongue. Instead, I say, impermanence. That will have to do. 1:25 AM – What superpower do you want to have? – Invisibility. – Perv. 2:20 AM – He tells me I am beautiful. I laugh it off. No, you don’t understand, he says. I see you every day, but I still can’t get used to you. It always takes me by surprise. Knocks the breath right out of me. I cover my mouth so he won’t hear the sigh escaping my lips and close my eyes. 2:30 AM – Are you sleepy? – Not yet you? – A little bit. – Shall we go to sleep? – Stay a little while longer. 3:20 AM – He falls asleep, and I listen to the sound of his breathing.
Sa pagitan
Kim Nicole Toledo Ang daming nagtatanong sa akin ng mga tanong na mahirap sagutin, mga tanong na di ko nais marinig, mga tanong na nagpapaalala ng sakit na kung paanong ang tayo ay naging ako. Magsisimula ako sa simula, sa simula kung saan tayo unang nagkita. Sa lugar na kung saan akala ko pwede na, okay na. Sa lugar na naging tahanan ko sa matagal na panahon; Sa pagitan. Akala ko hindi na ako makakatakas pa sa pagitan na kinasasadlakan ko. Sa pagitan kung saan niya ako iniwan, ang pagitan na kung saan araw-araw kong iniisip kung dapat ba akong kumapit o bumitiw, sa pagitan na kung saan inaantay siyang muli. Sa pagitan kung saan niya ako huling minihal, at huling sinulyapan. Andun ako sa pagitan ng pagmamahal naming dalawa kung saan nagtungo na lamang sa pagmamahal ko sa kanya. Andun ako sa pagitan na kung saan inaantay siyang bumalik ngunit nais na ding umalis. Andun ako sa pagitan na kung saan ayoko na din, gusto na ring sumuko pero napagtanto ng puso ko na, hindi. Aantayin ko siyang muli. Pero talagang mapaglaro ang tandhana, natagpuan kita sa mga rehas ng pagitan. Anduon ka sa kabilang banda, tumatangis at tinatawag ang pangalan niya. Hawak ang mga rosas na para sa kanya, mga tunaw na tsokolateng tinapon niya,
kasama ang puso mong dinurog niya. Nakita kita, kasama ko sa pagitan kung saan nila tayo iniwan. Lumapit ako sayo’t binigkis sa akin mga yakap at sinabi ko ang mga katagang, “babalikan ka niya, mag-aantay ka lang.” Babalikan ka niya, mag-antay ka lang. Bakit ko nga ba sinabi ang mga katagang iyon? Mga katagang tinupad ng mga langit at bituin, mga katagang lubos na magpapasakit saakin. Sa mahabang panahon na ginugol kong mag-isa sa rehas ng pagitan, naging masaya ako dahil nakita kita, nakilala kita, at nakasama kita. Tila yata ang rehas ng pagitan ay naging hardin ng bulaklak sa aking paningin. Marahil ay anduon ka, kasama ko. Sa mga panahong tayong dalawa’y magkasama tila lahat iyon ay tatawagin kong maganda. Maaaring malungkot ang mga alala, ngunit tatawagin kong maganda. Maganda dahil kasama kita. Sa mga panahong tayong dalawa’y magkasama tila yata ako’y nasanay na. Nasanay sa mga mata mong dinaig ang kintab ng mga bituin sa langit, mga ngiting mas matamis sa tsokolateng kaniyang sinayang, mga kamay na mas mainit kesa sa apoy ng aking pag-ibig para sa iyo na inakala kong para sa kanya. Pero talagang mapaglaro ang tadhana. Kasi isang araw dumating siya, at sa pagdating niya binaggit niya ang mga katagang ayokong marinig sa lahat.
“Binalikan kita, salamat sa pag-aantay.” At duon, sa pagitan na ating kinasadlakan, ikaw ay lumiban bitbit ang mga nalantang rosas para sa kanya at hawak ng mahigpit ang mga kamay niya. Duon sa pagitan, muli akong iniwan. Masakit kasi sa iyong pag-alis ay aking nalaman na sa ating dalawa, ako lang pala yung umasa. Umasa na magiging tayong dalawa. Pero sino nga ba ako para humusga? Marahil ay umasa ka din! Pero hindi para sa ating dalawa. Kundi para sa inyong dalawa. Hindi ko lubos na maiisip na ang mga katagang binanggit ko sayo para manatili sa pagitan ay siya din ang magiging huling kataga na maririnig ko bago ka umalis. Sinabi mong “salamat sa pinagsamahan natin. Babalikan ka niya, mag-antay ka lang.” Pero babalikan nga ba niya ako kung nakita kong masaya na silang dalawa? Pero babalikan mo ba ako kung nakita kong mahal na mahal mo parin siya? Pero babalik ka ba kung masaya ka na sa kanya? Pero babalik ka ba kung hindi mo naman alam na ikaw na pala ang minimahal ko? Pero babalik ka ba kung hindi na ang unang tao na umiwan saakin dito sa pagitan ang inaantay ko? Pero babalik ka ba dito sa ATING pagitan kung hindi naman ako ang mahal mo?
LITERARY
August 2016 - April 2017
A guide to loneliness*
The Irony in the Parentheses
Leigh Dispo
Elaissa Bautista
Felicia’s Last Letter Before the Investigators Came There was never a time (I) ever doubted our love—not even when you gave me daisies when you knew sunflowers were my favorite; not even when you just stared at me when I (drank) all the pills from my sister’s pharmacy; not even when I cut my hair short and you didn’t tell me I was pretty; not even when you straight-up told me to wait for you in the snow but you came back to me on the summer; not even when you accidentally gave me (poison) instead of a medicine; not even after all of those unwanted stupidity and irrelevant ignorance of yours. Not in a million times I ever
doubted our love—despite all the times I ran looking after you when there were thunders and spikes on the road; despite all the nights I cried and the tears I shed (because) you slammed our bedroom’s door shut with your baggage on hand; despite all the questions our children asked when you weren’t present on mandatory Wednesday family dinners; despite all the voices of my drunk friends screaming through my ears, forcing me to cut strings with you and annul the heck out of you. Not once in my life (I) ever (doubted) our love—not even when I was labeled a stinky masochist by all the women in the neighborhood; despite all the nightmares I had of
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you not coming back to our home; despite all the kitchen plates and champagne glasses you threw on the floor when you came home drunk. Why? Because everyone, including the Lord God above all heavens and skies, witnessed the enchanted exchange of (our) vows. They say all you have to do is to sign the papers. No. They’re wrong. All you have to do is stay. Because even until now, even after you pained me so hard, I still—will never, doubt our (love).
Honor these ceremonial defeats. Let the passenger in; when you do, the floorboards shall finally creak under your streaming breaths and crumbling cheeks. Collective battlegrounds make a delicate comfort zone. The empty-handed will make noise, and you will not scream nor cry. Instead, you will turn the lights off and leave your heart on guard. After all, he only wanted a cup of coffee. Or better yet: a graveyard, a pocketful of madness, a foreign language. This is how parties turn out—in flames, against the neon lights, across a hollow ribcage. And you will not jump up out of bed and move along the alarm when the cupboards start a brawl. You will not cover your ears when the doors turn telltale; instead, you will hold your breath, grip the corners, and think of purple eyes, enveloped blinds, and lightweight rituals. *for G
Art by Carl Jasyon Logenio
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La Estrella Verde
FOCUS Photos by: Maeca Louisse Camus and Miguel Saligumba
RESILIENCE Resilience is key in life. When the ball doesn't end up in the goal, when that spike doesn't quite make it, when your best isn't good enough, when life is determined to bring you down, resilience is the anchor one depends on. It will hold you up, it wakes you up in the morning and tells you to try again and try harder. It reminds you that no matter how many failures and setbacks come your way, you will make it through all of them.
August 2016 - April 2017
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La Estrella Verde
August 2016 - April 2017
Countdown by Viva RK Ignacio
SHS Space Extinction by Sarah Jessica Muñoz
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LSF by Viva RK Ignacio
CENTRUM by Viva RK Ignacio U
SHS Logo Making by Matthew Canada
FEATURES
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August 2016 - April 2017
Old dogs, new dogs, one playground: What college students think of SHS students Glenielle Geraldo Nanglihan Everyone has seen that National Geographic Wild documentary: a golden lion, bristling and proud, waiting with calculating eyes in the far edge of a savannah as another apex predator struts into view. Both animals, measuring each other, poised to either fight or take flight. In a similar scenario last August, college students entered the gates of DLSU-D, ready to swarm in their familiar nooks and crannies, only to find out that the senior high students beat them there, and were there to stay.
The senior high students were the new kids on the block, encroaching on the stomping grounds of the college students. Esther Comising said, “Na-bother lang [kami] when you first came since para kayong mushroom that sprouted everywhere overnight.” With the huge population of senior high students, of course, they’re in for quite a shock. Yuki, another college student, commented, “Medyo nanibago kasi kami sa senior high. ‘Di siya yung usually na nakaugalian namin na college. Medyo… medyo maingay, ganun, minsan magulo.” Mark, on the other hand, raised concerns about space.
“Sa library, napupuno ng senior high and nawawalan ng slots for the college students.” Josephine Perez also voiced out, “Siyempre feel namin kami yung ates at kuyas, pinaka-naiinis ako kasi nung freshmen kami, ‘di kami grabe mag-ingay sa library. Sa events hindi ako nasanay na may mga bata sa amin na kasali.” Then her words turned hopeful. “Pero siyempre natututo na lang din kami mag-adjust tapos untiunti nang nasasanay kaya so far okay na lang naman, normal na lang, ‘di na siya big deal.” After the initial phase where everything was weird and the campus seemed too big and too
small at the same time, both senior high and college students found monotony. Routines were established and change was welcomed. Perfunctory smiles and polite nods were exchanged while seeing each other in the Food Square; space was given. Rianna Gatus remarked, “I think that you guys are mature, na parang college students din naman kayo.” That was definitely a good thing to hear after all the negative comments. Senior high students may be rowdy kids, but they’ve all got good heads screwed on their shoulders. Patrick, another college student, even extended an olive
The art of being first in line: Enrollment edition Jelo Ritzhie Mantaring
Since the first day of enrollment up to the latest enrollment period for the second semester, senior high school Lasallians have expressed various feelings and emotions—especially disappointment—on their social media accounts. It is not unknown to us because all of us have had the same experiences when it comes to enrollment and of course, waiting in lines.
But to be honest, it is not only during the enrollment period where we experience stress and fatigue. All the events which involve falling in line have been massively taxing to all people. From entering the ERS up to the buying of food in the Food Square, there is no exception. Yet it is vital to know some useful pieces of advice so that the next time you enroll, it will be less of a hassle.
Art by Leerick Bautista
Before anything else, what should be your goal for this specific affair? Well, you should be the first in line. Achieving it will be hard, but the results will be worth it. 1. Set an alarm and save yourself. One of the most crucial things in events like enrollment is waking up early. The moment you wake up is the game-changer of all things. It will set your pace for the whole process. That is why it is advised to
branch. “…na mas maging close ang college at senior high, minsan nagkakagulo kasi.” Judy Ferrer stated, “Medyo high school pa talaga yung attitude, parang easy-go-lucky. And then nakita ko after a few months, na mas studious na sila.” “Makikita mo yung eagerness nila to learn, kahit na ayun, may additional two years, hindi nila tina-take as a disadvantage. Iniisip nila magkakaroon sila ng opportunity at mas ma-hone yung knowledge nila,” says Celestine Zamulde. The additional two years will give them more time; more time to learn, more time to really think about what they
wake up hours early before the start of the enrollment period—emphasis on hours and not just an hour—because you should not sacrifice your prepping and travel time. As millennials, it is hard for us to wake up early in the morning because we tend to stay up all night. But for this situation, getting enough sleep is important, and getting up at 4:30-ish in the morning is even more important. 2. A bag full of things is better than a bag full of air. In occasions like this, it is best to bring all necessities. You don’t know what will happen within the day and you should be prepared. Speaking of preparedness, to save up time, prepare all of the things you will need such as water, snacks, a book to read, your documents—extra copies too!—pens, your tuition fee and some extra money, identification cards, etc., the day or the night before. Your bag should be ready for pick up so that it will be less of a struggle on the day itself. 3. Walk faster for a faster transaction. Well, don’t run, just walk faster than usual. Remember that your goal is to be the first in line. If you are walking like you are in a park, snap out of it! Liven up and take those steps with enthusiasm. It is a bit demanding to walk faster, but it will save up a couple of minutes for you to grab the opportunity to have a faster transaction. Think of it as a cardio-exercise instead. 4. Look for the correct line. Before you fall in line, accomplish the little things first like using the restroom. Then check the line if it’s the right one. Sometimes, people make lines even though they are not the correct ones, then when the time comes that the enrollment process will be starting, there will be a big commotion and a huge misunderstanding. Others will defend that they are the early ones and that
Art by James Lapera
want and what directions they want their lives to head into; time to breathe, and just take things as they come; to discover zeal and passion before making lifedefining choices. Senior high school students are eager. They were supposed to go to college but they took a little backwoods detour, and are now in a place where nobody in the Philippines ever was before. Everything feels flimsy and tentative, every step exploratory. They yearn for things, they burn for their desires. They are aflame with the joy of the present and the hope of tomorrow.
their line is the right line, but in reality, it isn’t. Luckily, it never happened here in the University. But still, consider the line you will be taking in other events like book signing events, music festivals, and concerts. And if you are the first in line, make sure that your line is correct. 5. Make use of that book or your fully charged phone. In case you are not early and you arrive witnessing a long line in front of you, accept the fact that you will be waiting longer than expected. Since you are prepared, read the book that you have brought. You can also play some games or apps on your phone if you want, unless you don’t want to drain your phone’s battery. In this case, it is advisable that you have a friend to talk with or better yet, make a new friend! If you’re not that kind of person, do something to kill time. Anyway, it will come to pass and you will be enrolled in no time—or in hours. 6. Ready yourself for the finish line. After all of these steps, you will be just waiting for what you have been preparing for. Ready that cash that you will need for your enrollment and wait patiently until it is your turn. And when it is your turn, smile to the cashier until the process ends because you do not want them to see your stressed face. Just smile even if the enrollment only lasted for a couple of minutes because you can now go home and sleep, or do whatever you want or have to do. Maximize the hours left in that day because you have finished early and you will not suffer in that long line. These steps may seem small at first but when you widen your perspective, following these may help you complete your whole task with ease. Preparedness will always be your weapon to fight in this war of enrollment.
FEATURES
August 2016 - April 2017
Bittersweet goodbye Micah Juliana Montano and Warren David Saga The Lasallian community is truly fortunate to have hardworking and diligent housekeeping personnel, who strive to do their best to accomplish their jobs. They have served DLSU-D for almost 18 years, sadly, our ates and kuyas from Almer Manpower Corporation (AMC) left on April 8 after the agency lost the bid to continue providing the housekeeping services for DLSU-D.
La Estrella Verde (LEV) was fortunate enough to have a short chat with one of the industrious maintenance staff assigned to the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM) building, Ate Marilyn Candido. LEV: What was your most memorable experience working at DLSU-D? Marilyn Candido (MC): Siyempre, ‘yong mga bonding namin ng mga kasama ko, ng boss namin, kasi hindi naman iba ‘yung trato sa’min dito nila Ma’am Teody (Housekeeping Head for East Campus Teodocia Beltran). LEV: How do you feel now that you will no longer be working here in DLSU-D? MC: Unang-una, siyempre, nalulungkot, kasi wala na kaming
hindi ko naman masyadong kilala, ‘yung iba lang namumukhaan ko…At marami (rin) namang estudyante na nitong huli ko lang din nakilala na nalulungkot din. Siyempre, kumbaga, nasanay na sila sa Almer’s kasi matagal na (raw) kami…Ayun, mag-aral nang mabuti, maging mabait pa
trabaho. Malaking bagay kasi talaga ‘yung trabaho ko. LEV: What are your thoughts regarding the people here at CTHM? MC: Napamahal na sa akin ang La Salle, ‘yung mga kasama ko, lalo na ‘yung samahan, at ‘yung mga boss dito sa CTHM. Kahapon nga eh (April 5), nagkaroon kami ng kaunting salusalo …’Di ko in-expect na ganon sila kabait. LEV: Do you have any plans for the future? MC: Wala pa nga eh…Sabi nila (AMC), ihahanap daw kami, hanggang six months… so bale, anim na buwan kaming matetengga. LEV: What is your message to the students of DLSU-D? MC: Parang goodbye na. Mga estudyante, actually, ‘yung iba
rin sila sa ibang papalit.” Despite all the struggles, the housekeepers still served us with a smile on their faces on their last week here at DLSU-D. We may bid them good bye, and despite knowing them for less than a year, we would all remember their warm smiles, their passionate
service, and kindness, and keep them in our hearts, forever. Editor’s Note: LEV has found out that Ate Marilyn Candido has re-applied as a housekeeper with the new agency. Luckily, she was hired and is still serving the Lasallian community.
Housekeeper Marilyn Candido. Photo by Micah Juliana Montano
Museo De La Salle: Amidst the arrays of everyday Leila Marie Gomez and Ri-anne Dielle Servidad
K-12: Patriots Pioneering for a Better Future Edrea Mae Ramacula “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” - Nelson Mandela
Historical, beguiling, breathtaking — In the midst of the modern pace, DLSU-D remains to be a place that is yet to be discovered. With its pathways littered by trees and its fresh breeze making the place suitable for learning. The beauty and vicinity of the place projects a positive atmosphere that would definitely help one’s self-development whether it may be physically, emotionally, or even spiritually.
But amidst the green sceneries a particular building stands tall, its structure different than the others. Students pass through Museo De La Salle almost every day without a second glance unless they’re considering to eat lunch in its adjacent Café Museo, which of course offers affordable but sophisticated meals. When senior high students first laid eyes on Museo De La Salle, we all experienced that reminiscent, curious feeling of what could really be the life of a Filipino back then. But it remains just like that: a fleeting thought. Of course, we have conjured imaginations based from what we have read and studied from Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo back in junior high school or see illustrations or pictures, but the curious feeling never pushed us to pay this place a visit. But now those visualizations and illustrations are made real: Museo De La Salle is patterned from the 19th century way of living here in the Philippines. Its structure is four times the usual size of a bahay na bato, and it showcases interior design, furniture and heirlooms found in an Ilustrado’s house during the 19th century. Clarissa Sarmiento (HPS11) shares her experience when she visited Museo De La Salle. “When I first entered [Museo,] I felt honored [kasi] the house is so old, yet they were able to maintain the structures and the things inside,” she said. First step through the massive doors and you’re immediately hit with the feeling of nostalgia. The hallway is dim, lights low, and floors garnished with tools and equipment of workers like farmers and fishermen. The giant image of the Virgin
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Mary is attention grabbing, normally used for processions and festivals – hence the large doors at the entrance. More than that, there are other spaces inside the bahay na bato like the zaguan, caida, sala mayor, comedor, cocina, azotea, jardin, and much more to explore. “Structure permits function,” Adrian Aguilar (SBI12) commented, noting the large structure of the house that is used for holding parties for guests and the gigantic image of religious figures that is taken out at processions. It doesn’t just show that they are wealthy, but the structure provides for complex functions. The pieces inside Museo De La Salle are parts of a collection of antique pieces from different collectors, lenders and donors: Jose Panlilio; Panlilio family of Bacolor, Pampanga; Br. Andrew Gonzales, FSC; Marie Theresa Lammoglia-Virata of the Arnedo-Gonzales family of Sulipan Apalit, Pampanga; Victorina Vizcarra Amaliñgan; the D.M. Guevara Foundation Inc.; Paulino and Hetty Que; Jaime Laya, former chair of National Commission for Culture and the Arts; and the late international jeweler Fe Sarmiento-Panlilion. There are tours available for people— especially the students who want to discover and understand the diversity behind the historical Museo De La Salle. And although it might seem to be information overload, it will give you a general idea—or if you remember all the details, of how people used to live in that era. “It’s about being a Filipino and embracing your history and culture,” Tricia Mabini (ABM13) said, emphasizing that despite being in different fields of
The project of the Philippine government, in collaboration with the Department of Education, has already been implemented this year. The K-12 program adds two academic years for high school level. It aims to strengthen and improve the quality of education of the country which has been left out for so many years compared to the other countries. DLSU-D is one of the many schools offering Grade 11. With different students from the different parts of the country, even foreign students, have enrolled in the University with much expectation in their ability to support this pioneering batch of grade 11 students. The A.Y. 2016-2017 started with a threeday orientation on August 2-4. During the first three days, the students were informed of the campus rules and regulations, the Do’s and Don’ts, and were introduced to the faculty members of the SHS. The new students were also oriented about the various University facilities and activities. Though the new batch of students came to the university with excitement
to meet new friends to learn and explore new things, the tension and uneasiness are clearly seen in everyone’s faces. However, this uneasiness is blinded with delight as one by one, the students get to know their classmates, teachers, and even meeting familiar faces. They were brought together to survive the new academic year in the new world given to them. It may seem like they were grade school students, but the respective advisers of different classes let their students introduce themselves one by one in any way they want to. From stating your name and short information about yourself, some students have also shown their amazing talents like singing and dancing. These different talents and skills will soon come to shine as the year opens itself and presents the students with different opportunities to let them excel in their own means. Despite the big adjustments from the University to the curriculum itself, at the end of the day, education remains as the priority which would help us contribute to the change in the society leading us to the brighter future.
study, learning about our own heritage is something that we should give importance to. Museo de La Salle is something that students from DLSU-D should take pride
on, for it enriches and nourishes our patriotic hearts to preserve and appreciate our own culture.
Museo De La Salle. Photo by Leerick Bautista
La Estrella Verde
EVENTS
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August 2016 - April 2017
Student’s Week 2016
DLSU-D SHS kicks off with first Students’ Week celebration Charliemagne Asuncion
DLSU-D Senior High School celebrated its first Students’ Week on October 10-13. With the theme “Embark: Taking the leap towards Lasallian excellence,” the Students’ Week was organized by the SHS Student Council.
Approximately 1,300 senior high school students gathered at the University Chapel as the event started with a celebration by the Holy Mass. The Mass was followed by a parade where all 33 sections marched up to the MTH Court to witness the opening of the Students’ Week. Hosts Warren David Saga and Mhexianne Pollante opened the program with a short prayer and was proceeded with numerous performance highlighting students’ talents and skills. Later in the afternoon, students competed for Tugsayawit and Sabayang Pagbigkas. The event also included a Science Fair exhibit in which the students’ best outputs
on Earth and Life Science were displayed and shown. Other contests include the Infographics competition for Oral Communication, logo making contest, and slogan making contest. The Senior High SHared Interactive Neo-concept Expo (S.H.I.N.E.), spearheaded by SHS Counselor Joy Parohinog, featured trade fair and booths from senior high school classes. The activity engaged the students in working as a class and present their best booths to the senior high school community. A cyberwellness seminar headed was also conducted for selected classes at Alumni Building. The talk discussed ways on how to improve the students’ capacity to learn and be responsible Lasallian netizens in the virtual world. Other activities during the Students’ Week include Campus Brain Power Challenge, the Amazing Math Race, Palarong Pinoy, and Lasallian S.H.O.E.S. (Senior High Outreach to Empower and Serve), in which student volunteers replaced housekeepers in their respected job for a day, while they attended classes. The celebration ended with an Acquaintance Party where the students in their white and black semi-formal attire watched Lasallians showcase their different talents. The 2016 host, STEM Track Coordinator Jovele Baccay, also turned over the reins to HUMSS/ABM/GAS Track Coordinator Phyllis Canete, the next chair of the Senior High Students’ Week.
Photos by the LEV Photo team
La Estrella Verde
EVENTS
August 2016 - April 2017
Lasallian Festival 2017
Students attend alternative classes for non-academic enrichment
One of the major events during LSF is the Creative Alternative Programs for Seniors’ Unique Learning Experience Series (CAPSULES), which aims to cater to the varied and diverse interests of the students and teach or enhance their skills in a specific field. The activity was held from Feb. 28 to March 3.
LSF Committee Head Joy Parohinog stated that they invited experts from different fields to be the resource persons for the classes. The students chose classes based on their skills, interest, and hobbies. Parahinog added that there are over 70 classes on different skill-based, hobbiesbased, or track-related topics. Some of the CAPSULES classes are on acrylic painting, calligraphy, anime and manga, cosplay, foreign languages
like Japanese, Mandarin, and Spanish, brush calligraphy, collaborative board game, spoken word poetry, Harry Potter, and Korean culture. Others tackled environmental sustainability, financial literacy, millennial farming, and veganism and animal rights For the more active students, classes on Frisbee, mountaineering, dance and movement, and Shidokan karate were offered.
DLSU-D SHS conducts #RealTalk As a part of the Lasallian Festival (LSF), DLSU-D SHS held a series of seminars called “#RealTalk: Passion. Purpose. Prevail.” which aims to inform students about the topics that affect their generation and their own lives.
According to HUMSS faculty member and activity-in-charge, Jemilyn Mamayson, #RealTalk is a series of information sessions on topics that impact the millennial generation. “It’s not enough to simply attain academic knowledge, it’s also important to have better understanding of yourself and the issues you’re most concerned about,”
Mamayson added. Mamayson also said that the #RealTalk is conducted for the students to be inspired, empowered, and have to great aspirations for their futures. #RealTalk was held at the Salrial Hall on March 1 and at Tanghalang Julian Felipe on March 2 and 3.
Magnum Opus unveils ADV students’ visual deftness The ‘Magnum Opus’ art exhibit during the Lasallian Festival 2017 proved the extents of the visual-spatial knacks of the ADV 11 and ADV 12 students through their drawings, sketches, and paintings.
Under the guidance of TVL faculty member and Magnum Opus activity-incharge Nazer Salcedo and with the help of the Visual and Performing Arts Production Unit (VPAPU), the exhibit of the artworks the ADV students have made during the second semester became possible. The VPAPU is a student organization from DLSU-D specializing in set designs and stage management in events and productions. Melissa Sta. Cruz, VPAPU executive secretary for internal affairs, said that she served as the guide of the ADV sections in
creating the rubrics for the art exhibit, and she and other the members of VPAPU had a hand in putting up the gallery. “I think the artworks were wonderful. Some of the artworks even looked like they were created by a pro,” Sta. Cruz said. She challenged the ADV11 and ADV12 students to make Magnum Opus as their annual art exhibit to help them enhance their skills and expose their talents at the same time.
Epektibong pamumuno, itinuro sa ‘Lasallian leaders’ Upang mas maging mabisa at epektibo ang kakayahan ng mga Lasalyanong lider , nagkaroon ng isang pagtitipon noong Lasallian Festival (LSF) na nilahukan ng mga delegado mula sa iba’t ibang seksiyon ng DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS).
Sa ginanap na pagpupulong, naging pinakapunto ang mensahe na ang pagpapakahulugan ng isang Lasalyanong lider ay ang pagsasabuhay ng misyon na naaayon sa core values ng DLSU-D. Binahagi ng mga kasapi ng University Student Council at ng Council of Student Organizations ang kanilang karanasan bilang Lasallian leaders ng Pamantasan sa mga kalahok na estudyante ng senior high school. Ayon sa mga ibang nakilahok sa nasabing programa, mas lalong yumabong
ang kaalaman ng bawat isa sa aspeto ng pamumuno, at mas naging determinado pa sila upang maging mas epektibong tagapagpasunod sa kanilang kapwang magaaral. Nagkaroon din ng isang brainstorming ang mga kalahok upang makaisip ng sariling mga organisasyon na makakatulong sa mga mag-aaral ng SHS. Ginanap ito sa Museo De La Salle Pavilion noong ika-3 ng Marso.
ABM, GAS students attend Career Talk Students from Accountancy and Business Management (ABM) and General Academics (GAS) attended career talks given by the representatives from Mariott Hotel on March 1 and 2. The talk aimed to develop the students’ social graces and responsibility.
“The seminar of Marriot Hotel was [a] great…opportunity for us to learn basic techniques when we are going to apply for work,” ABM/GAS/HUMSS Student Council President Kristian Saflor said. “This seminar taught us how to act properly in our working area, and properly dress formal attire for both men and women.” Saflor also added that “the videos
presented gave us enough background knowledge of the history and various branches of the company as well as the differences among different types of hotel.” The students were also asked to dress as business entrepreneurs which intended to help them get used to dressing as professional workers in the said event.
15
Volunteers serve Lasallian community for Environmental Sustainability As part of the activities of the Lasallian Festival, student volunteers from DLSU-D Senior High School participated in a community service activity for environmental sustainability held on March 3 at Environmental Resource Management Center (ERMAC). Students were required to bring plastic bottles for the said event.
With the help of the ERMAC staff, the students cut the plastic bottles they brought to serve as pots for the plants. They planted a Vietnam Rose using compost soil in the recycled pot. ERMAC Director Marlon Pareja toured the
volunteers around the place wherein they saw ERMAC’s different sections like hydroponic and aquaponic in which the students gained knowledge about plants that only needs water and not soil for growing.
Talento sa pag-arte, video editing ng SHS naipamalas sa LSF Film Fest Pinatunayan ng mga estudyante ng DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS) na hindi lamang pag-aaral ang kanilang kayang gawin nang masaksihan ang kanilang kakayahang umarte at mag-edit ng mga video sa ginanap na Film Fest bilang kabahagi ng Lasallian Festival 2017.
Itinampok sa Film Fest ang mga maiikling pelikula, film trailer, at infomercial na ginawa ng mga mag-aaral ng senior high bilang parte ng kanilang mga requirement sa piling mga asignatura tulad ng Oral Communication, 21st Century Literature, at Earth Science. Ginanap ang Film Festival noong Peb. 28 hanggang Marso 3 at nakapagtampok ng mahigit 20 na maiikling pelikula at ng ilang trailer at infomercial. Ang mga tampok na maiikling pelikula ay ang mga sumusunod: The Fault in Our Stars (CSC11), Seven Reasons Why (HPS12), The Forgotten (ABM13), P.S. I Love You (SOC11), The Perks Of Being A Wallflower (SOC11), Dear John (ENG14), Another (SAR12), Anohana (SAR12), He’s Just Not That Into You (SBI13), It’s A Boygirl Thing (SBI13), Everyday (ABM12), Ruby Sparks (ABM16), Saudade (SBI14/MAT11), The Beginning of Everything (ABM14), To All the
Boys I Loved (ABM15), Unwanted (SBI14/ MAT11), 100 Dollars is Too Cheap (ADV11), All the Bright Places (ABM12), The Shadow of the Wind (CSC11), Th1rteen R3asons Why (ABM14), Family Abuse (SAR13), Ethnicity (SAR13), at Der Marchenclub (ADV11). Pinaliwanag ni Geraldine Gile, isa sa mga professor sa senior high at ang activityin-charge sa naturang Film Festival, na ito ay magandang paraan upang ipakita at ilabas ang mga talentong natatago ng mga Lasalyanong senior high school. [This festival] is about showcasing the talents of students in movie making and acting,” paglilinaw niya. Sa kabilang banda, halos hindi naman makapaniwala ang ilan sa mga napabilang sa naturang festival dahil ginawa lang naman nila ito para sa proyekto, at aminado ang iba na hindi sila mga propesyonal.
Patriots show off their talents The senior high school students showcased their talents on Patriots got Talent (PGT), the culminating activity of the Lasallian Festival, on March 3. PGT had two competitions: the vocal duet and dancing competition. Both were highly anticipated by a lot of thrilled senior high students.
Five pairs of contestants joined the vocal duet. They are Jethro Padilla and Gannah Selerio, Katorin Ota and Jose Apollo Mabini, Edrea Ramacula and Marla Pedrosa, Hannah Onda and Noreen Attrillano, and Jazzyn Ogarte and Jose Apollo Mabini. Each of the contestants was judged by theater and vocal coaches Jenny Samalah, Mayen Estañero, and Nazer Salcedo. The pair of Edrea Ramacula and Marla Pedrosa
won the contest. The celebrity dance groups Clickers and the G-Force kicked off the dance competition. Five dance groups competed for the title. They are Mutiny, OT’s, Aces, Royal Rebels, and Dance N’ Beats. Dance N’Beats was crowned as the winner by three professional dancers who served as judges Mark Ignacio, Romalc Clamor, and Salcedo.
Generation gap, teenage concerns discussed in LSF talk with parents, students An activity that focuses on strengthening the relationship of parents and their adolescent children was held as part of the celebration of Lasallian Festival on March 4 at the Severino De Las Alas Auditorium. The activity, the Parent-Teen Encounter, was held to lessen the misunderstandings of parents and their children because of generation gap.
It was attended by selected students from the different sections of DLSU-D Senior High School and their parents. Invited speakers discussed several topics regarding sexuality, anxiety, depression and generation gap. The event’s speakers include Neruca Fe Canlas, Kathleen Ross Marayag, John Gerard Medina, Ivan Bilugan, and Kyla Elyse Saura.
Senior High School Counselor and activity head Seigfred Gamueda sought to inform the parents and especially the students that the Counseling Office is open to every students’ concerns. In addition, the Counseling Office wants to reach out to parents and their children in solving the issues the students cannot deal with at home.
Student achievers recognized
By nailing their first semester academic performance and excellence, the senior high school student achievers of De La Salle University-Dasmariñas have received recognition during the Honors’ Assembly on March 1.
Of the total student population, 104 have been credited with high honors, while 729 have honors. For the first semester, none of the SHS student body achieved the “with highest honors” recognition. Students with highest honors have
attained an average of 98-100, while students with high honors achieved an average of 95-97. Students with honors recorded an average of 90-94. These students should not have a failing grade. The 833 honor students were recognized by their respective section adviser.
Beatrice Katherine Aguilar, Celine Isabel Aguillon, Reaiah Jerahmeel Bartolome, Geordette Eve Capistrano, Arjielene Javier, Andrea Oesmer, Leiddy Hazel Penamora
La Estrella Verde
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1st SHS Intramurals
Photos by the LEV Photo team
EVENTS
August 2016 - April 2017
August 2016 - April 2017 Sport/Competition Mr. & Ms. Intrams Mr. Intrams Ms. Intrams Cheer Dance Contest Badminton Single Men Women Doubles Men Women Mixed Darts Single Men Women Doubles Men Women Table Tennis Single Men Women Doubles Men Women Mixed Basketball Men Women Volleyball Men Women Kickball Men Women Chess Men Women Pinoy Games Culliot Men Women Juego de anillo Men Women Obstacle relay Men Women Patintero Men Women Tiyakad Men Women Duathlon Men Women Swimming 100m Freestyle Men Women 50m Backstroke Men Women 100m Breaststroke Men Women 25m Butteyfly Men Women 25m Breaststroke Men Women 25m Freestyle Men Women
La Estrella Verde
INTRAMURALS GENERAL TALLY SHEET
Poseidon Knights
Panthera Leo
Uproaring Jaguars
Jade Dragons
25 50 300
50 25 50
5 15 200
15 5 200
50 15
25 50
25
15 -
25 50
15 50 15
50 15 25
25 -
25 40
-
50
50 -
50 25
25 15
50
-
25 15
5 50
50 30
15 -
50 15 50
50 5
25 25 15
15 25
75 25
150 150
25 50
50 75
75 150
150 25
50 75
25 50
25 50
150 25
150 75
50 25
20 40
-
25 55
50 -
75 75
100 25
50 100
25 50
75 100
25
50
100 75
25
75 75
-
50
75 25
25 100
100 75
50 50
-
-
-
100 100
-
50 -
-
75 -
25
-
50
75 20
5
50
25
50 15
25
-
50
50 -
-
50
25 25
50 -
15
50
25
5
50 25
25 65
15
5
Continues to page 18
17
SPORTS
18 Sport/Competition
50m Backstroke Men Women 50m Butterfly Men Women 4x50m Freestyle Mixed Field Events Long Jump Men Women Shot-put Men Women Track Events 1500 Sprint Men Women 100m Sprint Men Women 800m Sprint Men Women 200m Sprint Men Women 400m Sprint Men Women 4x100 Sprint Relay Men Women
August 2016 - April 2017
Continuation of Intrams general tally sheet
Poseidon Knights
Panthera Leo
Uproaring Jaguars
Jade Dragons
50 25
15
50
25 -
50 -
50
15
50 25
50 50
5 -
15 -
25 -
50 30
65
-
25
5 25
25 50
15
65 5
-
20 15
75 5
75
75
55 -
40 -
-
5 55
50 25
25 -
15 15
20 40
50 50
-
25 -
5 50
25 25
50 -
15 15
Raw scores, deductions and final scores, to page 20
DLSU-D gears up for athletic season Wynona Raechel Magnaye
As the new K-12 curriculum kicks-off, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) continues to show its athletic side as the DLSU-D Senior High School recruited aspiring athletes on Sept. 1.
SHS Basketball Team. Art by Leerick Bautista
Developing their roster, the DLSU-D Patriots held several try-outs for the senior high school students in various events such as volleyball,
Volley belles, from page 20
The DLSU-D Lady Patriots fought hard to keep the game going by getting a deuce, 24-24, but were overpowered by the Red Lions who ended the game with a service ace, 24-26. DLSU-D vs. LDC Coming from a first-game loss, the DLSU-D lady spikers were determined to win the game against Liceo De Calamba. With fast spikes and strategic plays, the Lady Patriots gained an early advantage which helped them end the set with 7-point deficit, 25-18. The DLSU-D volley belles showed their prowess and dominated in the second set, showing no mercy, they ended the game with a 17-point advantage over LDC, 25-8. According to Ramirez, their loss in the first game pushed the players to do better in the second game to prove themselves and make a name for their school. DLSU-D vs. DLSU-C The battle continued for the DLSU-D Spikers as they faced two more opponents in the
elimination round of the ISVL. Continuing the momentum, the ladies in green easily took the match against their counterparts, De La Salle UniversityCanlubang (DLSU-C), in straight sets, 25-18, 25-16, on Dec. 4. Not showing any signs of stopping, the DLSU-D netters wiped the floor with REE after winning straight sets with at least a 14-point advantage per set, 2510, 25-11, on Dec. 11. Amassing a total of 3 wins and 1 loss, the Lady Patriots were able to rank first in their pool and move up to the quarter-finals. Quarter finals: DLSU-D vs. IIST Reaching this far, the rookie DLSU-D team showed no fear against the Imus Institute of Science and Technology (IIST) Lady Tigresses in the quarter final match up in the ISVL on Feb. 5. Even with their newfound confidence and improved skills, the Lady Patriots were still overpowered by the veteran Lady Tigresses in a seesaw battle, 1-2,
for a spot in the semi-finals. Having more experience and exposure, the IIST spikers secured the first set of the game, 25-22, after gaining an early 8-point advantage at the start of the match. The Lady Patriots refused to give up and displayed quick spikes and fast plays to steal the second set from the Lady tigresses with a slim 2-point advantage, 26-24. The battle continued as the IIST spikers fought hard to regain position in the third set while the DLSU-D netters continued to display the result of their training which helped them even out the score at 16-16. However, after a timeout the Lady Tigresses took back their momentum to leave the ladies in green in the dust and take the set, 25-17. After losing the game, the Lady Patriots bid farewell to their first league but continue to train in preparation for more leagues.
basketball, and badminton and competed with their fellow junior high Patriots to represent the University in different leagues throughout the region.
DLSU-D quenches losing streak with win against Olivarez College, 55-46 Angelica Alcaraz
Pressed by the two straight loses, the De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) Patriots showed no fear against the Olivarez College, clinching their second win in the National Capital Region-University and Colleges of Luzon Athletic Association (NCRUCLAA) Junior Basketball Division on Feb. 18 at the Olivarez College in Parañaque.
Against the tight defense of Olivarez College, the Patriots’ fast plays and practiced strategies were not enough to claim the first half of the game, loosing with only a 1-point deficit. Hungry for victory, one of the palyers from Junior High carried the team to their biggest lead by scoring consecutive 3-point shots to gain a lead at 36-32.
Blazing through the game, the Patriots’ continued the momentum, executing flawless plays and scoring off from every free throw shot. Patriots’ Team Captain Dexter Stephenson shut all hopes of Olivarez with a coordinated lay-up that sealed the team’s victory, 55-46. Winning against Olivarez College gave the Patriots a standing of 2-2, pushing up their ranking in the league.
La Estrella Verde
SPORTS
August 2016 - April 2017
19
Close Up: Captain Ball and MVP Ri-Anne Dielle Servidad
Belonging in the pioneering batch of DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS) athletes, Dexter Stephenson is the first team captain of DLSU-D’s High School Basketball Team. In their initial year, he has already led the team in multiple games and victories such as CDAPS (in Junior High), CISAA, ISBL, NCR-UCLAA, and SM-NBTC, where they were hailed as Northwest Cavite champions. Not just that, but he was also awarded as the Most Valuable Player (MVP), a feat that not most can easily accomplish, proving his worth not just as a leader, but also his performance as player. Being the Captain When asked about what he would like to accomplish as the first team captain of the SHS Basketball team, he humbles himself in wanting to be able to lead the team properly not just inside the court, but even outside of it. He also adds that, “We look forward to bringing pride and honor to our school.” He establishes himself as a good leader and connects with his team during trainings and through bonding outside the school. “Most of the time, we eat outside or chill at [some] one’s home or go to church together,” he says, and here one can see how Stephenson tries to instill unity and virtue among his team. Stephenson also mentions one
of the challenges in being the team caption. “It’ll be difficult to discipline ourselves as a team and to improve our team physically, mentally, and keeping ourselves motivated.” Playing as a Patriot Stephenson first began playing for DLSU-D when he was in Grade 9 in school year 20142015. Back then, he was already designated the team captain for the Junior High Basketball Boys, and because of his continued good leadership, he remained as captain for this year’s SHS basketball team. Aside from that, he can play between shooting guard, small forward, and power forward. Despite having a busy career in sports, he doesn’t neglect his
studies. In fact, he is an honor student in his class, and was recently awarded with High Distinction this first semester for his outstanding academic performance. According to him, time management is the key in balancing athletics with academics. “I am able to allot my time, so that I can study and at same time improve in basketball,” he says. Staying in top form As part of his training regimen, Stephenson usually trains with his team alongside their individual conditioning. “I even set aside [some] time for recovery [and rest], which is also a huge part of getting better [in your sports],” Stephenson stresses that taking a break is important and that players shouldn’t overwork themselves. The captain ball and MVP gets most of his support from many people, especially his friends and his teammates, but his primary inspiration and motivation in playing basketball are his mother and his brother. Message to Aspiring Players Stephenson encourages all aspiring players to keep working hard because, “[It] will help you in the long run.” He advises all players to not lose sight of their dreams and goals, “Discipline and consistency is also very important, and always believe in what you’re capable of,” he says. He has worked hard to be where he is right now, beginning from starting to pick up the basketball when he was young, up to becoming the captain ball of a basketball team. The Lasallian community could expect that, with leaders like Stephenson, all SHS athletes will be keeping the Animo fire burning!
Ingrid Claire del Rosario De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) Patriots introduced themselves as the “team to beat” after stomping the University of Makati (UMAK) Herons, 56-46, in the opening game of the National Capital RegionUniversity and Colleges of Luzon Athletic Association (NCR-UCLAA) Junior Basketball Division on Feb. 1 at the Rizal Technological University in Mandaluyong City.
In an interview before the game, Team Captain Dexter Stephenson was asked on how they planned to execute their season, and he promised, “We´ll make a statement. Siyempre as a Lasallian team ayaw namin na mapapahiya yung school kasi nire-represent namin siya.” With a game-high of 12 points and 1 steal, Stephenson was able to show off his skills while commanding his team to form solid defenses and quick plays, which pushed the team to victory. DLSU-D had a rocky start as the UMAK players took an early control of the game, delaying the Patriots’ offense and securing the first quarter with a score of 9-13. A long two-point shot from Ian Suasba in the first minute of the second quarter kick-started the Patriots comeback which led them to their first advantage over the Herons, 16-15. A hard foul planted on Allan Vendiola became a surprising advantage for the Patriots as Suasba and James Quimpo stepped up, adding 11 points to leave the Herons in the dust at the
end of the first half, 29-18. The onslaught continued as the Patriots Quimpo and Ren Claustro provided 5 points and 4 rebounds together, helping the team end the third quarter with a 10-point advantage of 46-36. UMAK gained momentum in the last quarter, rallying 6 points, which alarmed the DLSU-D Coach Arnold Oliveros, who called a time-out midway through the quarter. The trio Balomaga, Stephenson, and Quimpo ended the Herons’ momentum, contributing 9 points to the team’s already solid defense that produced 5 rebounds, 3 steals and a solid block all in the last quarter. With seconds on the clock, Quimpo blocked the Herons’ comeback attempts with a rebound that ended the game with a 10-point deficit, 56-46. After the game, Oliveros congratulated the team in their first victory, but also told the team, “Manalo, matalo okay lang. Ang aim ko (rito) yung experience.”
DLSU-D falls short to SJC, 56-101 Ingrid Claire del Rosario
Stephenson. Photo by Miguel Saligumba
DLSUD-SHS joined forces for Intramurals 2017 Lance Angelo Mejico
Striving to aim camaraderie and victory, DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS) faculty members, staff, and students were given one month preparation for the first SHS Intramurals.
SHS students were equally divided into four teams: Jade Dragons, Poseidon Knights, Panthera Leo, and Uproaring Jaguars. To determine the best players on each respective team, the SHS students faced intense tryouts and trainings for various sports such as basketball, volleyball, swimming, chess, badminton, table tennis, different track and field events, and different Philippine games. All games
Stephenson: We will make a statement
are open for male and female players. Whole day rehearsals for cheerdancers were also held two weeks before the celebration for them to come up with flawless and breathtaking routines. Meanwhile, selections of candidates for Mr. And Miss Intramurals 2017 were also conducted by each team on March 15 and 16 to identify their representatives on the said event.
All students will have their roles in the Intramurals week as non-players were chosen to be the members of the student-led steering committee who served as game runners, tabulators, parade marshals, and scorers who assisted the teachers in facilitating each game. With the theme “Forging camaraderie, Gearing for Victory”, the SHS Intramurals 2017 kicked off on the first week of April.
Even after amassing a streak of 5 wins and 0 loss, Northwest champions De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) Patriots buckled in the semi-final game against St. Jude College Dasmariñas (SJC) Thaddean Knights, 56-101, at the SM-National Basketball Training Center (SM-NBTC) Cavite Region at Riviera Golf and Country Club on Feb. 26.
In a crucial semi-final knockout game, the Patriots struggled to overthrow the Thaddean Knights who executed perfect plays and fast movements on the court, which gained them a whopping 45-point advantage against the athletes in green. Losing the league did not deter the confidence of the Patriots as explained by Ace Golez in an interview where he said, “After po ng game na ‘yun even though natalo po kami kailangan po pa rin namin na heads up po kasi hindi pa (roon) nagtatapos ‘yung laban and never ‘yan matatapos, mas na-challenge po kami na mas ibuhos namin lahat sa training para po nag-improve kami everyday.”
Golez added that the team needed to give their best during trainings and make every training worth it in order to compensate for the lack of exposure of the team. Team Captain Dexter Stephenson added that their eagerness to claim the championship in the higher level had collapsed, feeling easily contented with the championship they already had in their district. When asked on their comeback, Stephenson simply said, “We’re planning to correct our errors. Kasi kapag na lessen namin ‘yun, we have a higher chance of winning. And need namin magimprove everyday, every training. We need to grow as a team and also individually.”
Volume I Number I
August 2016 - April 2017
Blue Poseidon Knights. Photo by Maeca Louisse Camus
Blue Poseidon Knights make history as champions of 1st SHS Intramurals Wynona Raechel Magnaye
The Blue Poseidon Knights dominated the first ever DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS) Intramurals held on April 4-7 at Ugnayang La Salle. Amassing a total of 2,300 points, the Poseidon Knights were able to overpower the Green Jade Dragons (1,720 points), the Yellow Uproaring Jaguars (1,915 points), and the runner-up Red Panthera Leo, who came close with 2,270 points. Victories in events such as Women’s Volleyball, Women’s Juego de Anillo, Men’s Badminton Singles, Badminton Mixed Doubles, Darts Men’s Doubles, Table Tennis Men’s Doubles, Table Tennis Mixed Doubles, Swimming, Field and Track events and Philippine Games, and the Cheerdance Competition helped the Poseidon Knights claim the victory.
A parade of players kicked off the SHS Intramurals 2017, followed by an opening ceremony where SHS Director Dr. Necitas Sayoto officially opened the event. The Mr. and Miss Intramurals Competition was also conducted during the opening ceremonies, wherein four male and female students took to the stage to represent their teams and compete for the title. The competition consisted of a dance production, casual wear, sports attire, and question and answer portions. Several minor awards were given including Mr. and Ms. Photogenic (Robert Brent Villena of Panthera Leo and Gwyneth Jardiniano of Poseidon Knights),
Best Sports Attire ( Ellien Beltran of Panthera Leo and Samuel JRick Cupcupin of Jade Dragons), Best Posture (Kurt Lenchico of Poseidon Knights and Maria Cassandra Vitug of Uproaring Jaguars), and Best in Production Number (Alfonso Miguel Francisco of Uproaring Jaguars and Ciana Mae Calseña of Jade Dragon). Title of Mr. and Ms. Intramurals 2017 was claimed by Robert Brent Villena of the Red Panthera Leo and Gwyneth Jardiniano of the Blue Poseidon Knights. Named first runners up are Kurt Lenchico of Blue Poseidon Knights and Ellien Beltran of Red Panthera Leo.
Official tally of scores: General tally sheet on pages 17-18
Raw Score: 2450 Deductions: 150 Final Score: 2300
RANK: 1st
Raw Score: 1965 Deductions: 50 Final Score: 1915
RANK: 3rd
Following the Mr. and Ms. Intramurals competition were numerous intermission numbers from talented Lasallians, including the college Cheerdance Competition champions College of Tourism and Hospitality Management Sparks, which hyped up the energy for the most anticipated event of the day, the Cheerdance Competition. The Blue Poseidon Knights triumphed in the Cheerdance Competition with their royalthemed costumes, mesmerizing choreography, and well-executed stunts that wowed both the judges and the audience. The Yellow Uproaring Jaguars, with their high energy and dazzling tumbles and
twirls, claimed second place in the Cheerdance Competition. Succeeding the opening ceremony were the long-awaited games and competitions. Headed by SHS Sports Coordinator Alex Balbio, the four-day festival ended with an awarding ceremony where the winners were presented their medals. Special awards were also given including the Most Punctual Team (Yellow Uproaring Jaguars), the Most Disciplined Team (Blue Poseidon Knights), Best Student Team Manager (Maverick Pasco of Red Panthera Leo), and the Best Faculty Team Manager (Jairus Colendres of Red Panthera Leo).
DLSU-D volley belles reaches ISVL quarter finals Ingrid del Rosario Testing out their new roster, De La Salle University (DLSU-D) Lady Patriots compete in the Interschool Volleyball League (ISVL) held at the Imus Institute of Science and Technology from November 2016 to February 2017.
Raw Score: 2370 Deductions: 100 Final Score: 2270
RANK: 2nd
Raw Score: 1920 Deductions: 200 Final Score: 1720
RANK: 4th
Prepping for the games After recruitment on Sept. 1, the new Lady Patriots immediately took to the court and trained with the Junior High School Varsity team under the management of Coach Raymond Ramirez. With barely a month of preparation and added requirements from their academics, the lady netters were pressed for training time and were still testing the waters when it came to playing as a team. Past experience came in handy as many of the recruits were able to keep pace with the training regimen and were at the same level of their junior high counterparts. When asked about the team’s preparedness, Ramirez said, “Tingin ko naman po naging maayos [ang training], dahil siyempre nagsisimula lahat sa
ensayo yung pagbuo ng isang team. Then samahan pa sa league. Dun nabubuo yung team.” DLSU-D vs JCVHS The ladies in green had a rocky start to their first season after losing a seesaw battle against Josiah Christian Values High School (JCVHS) Red Lions, 1-2, on Nov. 27. Still testing the waters, the Patriots lost the first set to the experienced Red Lions who took an early lead to end the first set with a 4-point deficit, 21-25. Not giving up, the DLSU-D volley belles fought back and took the second set from under the Red Lions’ noses with a score of 25-21. Turning the tide, the JCVHS lady netters took an early advantage and were the first to reach set-point. Volley belles, to page 18