La Estrella Verde September - November 2021 by La Estrella Verde

UPHOLDER OF TRUTH. HERALD OF CHANGE. September - November 2021

Volume 6 Issue 1

The Old Days. I would trade all of my tomorrows for just one yesterday. Art by Maria Sophia Emelda Initorio

DLSU-D SHS initiates students’ vaccination drive as onset plan SHS Admin discloses preparations for face-to-face classes Hannah Sophia Perez and Aya Ahmad

DLSU-D Senior High School (SHS) Principal Marlon Pareja declared the advancement of the University to a next phase that includes a transition plan for the opening of onsite classes following its vaccination program for the SHS students.

In accordance with the easing of quarantine alert levels and the ongoing vaccination of the students, Pareja stated that DLSU-D will follow the guidelines released by the Department of Education (DepEd) for the said transition. “[T]he [University] is considering [the pilot testing of gradual face-to-face classes before the academic year ends], but we take the guidance from (the) DepEd,” he stressed. Consequently, the University will follow the mandate of the DepEd

and the Department of Health Joint Memorandum that contains the operational guidelines for the limited face-to-face learning modality. “This policy shall (guide) the mechanisms and standards on the resumption of face-toface classes...(to ensure an) effective, efficient, and safe implementation,” Vice Principal for Academics and Research Ma. Luisa Cuaresma remarked. DLSU-D SHS, see page 2

CHV curriculum undergoes revision Kristina Angela Sobrino and Naevien Riley Valenzuela By the second semester of the Academic Year 2021-2022, Christian Values (CHV) will present a newly revised curriculum for Grade 11 students as declared by CHV Curriculum Enrichment Program Focal Person Br. Marvin Sipin FSC.

Overload. Less motivation, higher deprivation. Art by Rania Marie Pucan

4 Editorial Among short-lived delusions

In an interview, Br. Marvin shared that the CHV teachers organized a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) last Sept. 16-17 to collect and consult the evaluation of the students in accordance with their plan to modify the curriculum. “[W]e would like for our CHV class to be...relevant...[I]t is really necessary to... constantly renew our curriculum...kasi...ibaiba ang needs...ng mga students...(and) every year...iba-iba ang realities,” he explained. Consequently, he reiterated that the data gathered from the FGD and surveys would

serve as a basis for the CHV teachers to develop new lessons and activities. “[B]ased (on) the results, regardless (of whether) the student answered (it) wholeheartedly or kahit niloko niya lang, we (will) take all of (it)...seriously,” Br. Marvin stated. Moreover, Br. Marvin said that the Grade 12 students are excluded from encountering this new curriculum as the revision will be established on the integrated data of CHV2-4’s contents.

8 Green Ink

9 Literary Wari ng Paslit

CHV curriculum, see page 2

NEWS

La Estrella Verde

September - November 2021

DLSU-D SHS, see page 1

In addition, Cuaresma shared that DLSU-D already conducted a COVID-19 Vaccination Survey for Grades 11 and 12 students last Sept. 27 as an initial preparation for the possibility of gradual face-to-face classes. “(DLSU-D) Office of Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academics Services... coordinated with the Office of the Mayor of Dasmariñas to enlist...around 1087 students who are willing to [be] vaccinated with (their) parents’ consent,” she stated. However, Pareja asserted that the University is still currently in the process of discussing various strategies and procedures they have to enforce in order to guarantee the safety of the students.

“[P]inag-aaralan natin kung ano ‘yong mga naging practices sa ibang bansa (tulad ng) pa’no nila ginawa [ang resumption of classes] (at kung ano ang) mga preventive measures nila... [L]ahat ‘yon kino-consider natin,” he said. Students’ Feedback As news regarding face-to-face classes circulates, Peter Mharl Fred Cañero (ABM11) stated that implementing face-to-face classes based on the provided regulations is necessary to reduce its threat. “Nandoon pa rin (‘yong) risk (na) magkakaroon ng [COVID-19] pero kaya nga tayo may safety measures and...guidelines... para ma-lessen ‘yong risk na dala (nito),” he explained.

On the other hand, Selina Lim (HMS15) expressed her enthusiasm in reunifying with the feeling of having physical interactions after encountering several changes during the pandemic. “Bringing (face-to-face) classes back will surely help a lot of students, especially those na h[i]ndi (gano’n) ka-confident to talk and present in front of their cameras,” she remarked. Meanwhile, Ynna Gabrielle Hilado (STM23) shared that prolonged online classes due to the pandemic could result in negative consequences in the long run. “[K]ung tatagal talaga (ang pandemic)... baka (bumaba) ang kalidad ng magiging future workers sa [Pilipinas],” she highlighted. CHV curriculum, see page 1

“(We are) continuing with the current curriculum (for Grade 12 students) kasi... [k]ung bigla natin (iibahin ‘yong curriculum)... may (mami-miss out) sila,” he emphasized. Furthermore, he mentioned the objective that the CHV Department envisions to accomplish through this curriculum revision. “[S]ana talaga ‘yong magagawa namin is something that...would meet all (the needs) of the students (wherever) they are right now,” he remarked.

COMELEC Election Code, nirebisa Pagbitiw ng isang SC representative, inaksyonan Tiffany Geluz at Saira Vanessa Varon Nagdulot ng pagbabago sa DLSU-D Senior High School Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Election Code ang pagkabakante ng posisyon ni ICT Representative Myth Milk Blyzent Sinangote ayon sa apirmasyon ni Student Council (SC) President Hadriel Ramos.

Inilahad ni Ramos na ang pagbitiw ni Sinangote matapos ang tatlong buwan lamang nitong panunungkulan ay sanhi ng pagkabigo nitong makapag-enroll ngayong akademikong taon. “(The) [p]revious ICT (representative) served (in) full terms. [T]his is the only time we had someone who failed to assume his office,” aniya. Kaugnay nito, ibinahagi niya na ang hindi pagkakaroon ng kalaban ng dating representante ang naging dahilan ng agarang aksyon mula sa SC at COMELEC upang makahanap ng ipapalit dito. “[T]he COMELEC...[was] silent about it until recently when it was revised...(because) [t]hey had to add a section...regarding vacant positions,” paliwanag ni Ramos. Dahil dito, kinumpirma ng COMELEC ang ginawang pagrepaso kung saan dating nakasaad na ang kandidatong may pangalawang pinakamataas na boto ang iproproklamang kapalit sa bakanteng posisyon.

“[Section 61 of the COMELEC Election Code] was only added after the ICT representative’s resignation,” saad ni COMELEC Communications Head Mikylla Jed Garcia. Samantala, mas madaling proseso ang pinagdaanan ng mga aplikante na nais pumalit sa nasabing posisyon kumpara sa mga kandidatong dumaan sa eleksyon ayon sa presidente ng SC. “(Ang mga aplikante ay sumailalim sa proseso ng pag-a-accomplish ng) declaration form, (at kinailangan lamang nila ng) [one] recommendation form from faculty...(kumpara sa mga nakaraang eleksyon kung saan) needed to have [five] recommendation letters,” pahayag niya. Gayunpaman, dumaan sa masinsinang deliberasyon sa pamamagitan ng board voting ang pagpili sa bagong hihiranging kinatawan ng ICT. “(The new ICT representative cannot be) disclosed to the media and student body until approval,” sabi ni Ramos.

Students’ Feedback In correspondence with the impending curriculum revision, Kristina Cassandra Salazar (STM13) anticipated that learning the virtues of St. John Baptist De La Salle and aligning them with the current situation will be highly valued by the students. “[T]oday’s generation...[is] more open to criticizing what’s wrong (and) welcoming opinions regarding [particular] social issues. [I]t is...fitting to tackle (social education) issues and...(connect) [them] to St. John Baptist De La Salle’s virtues,” Salazar stressed. Meanwhile, Rizz John Paul Gopez (HMS14) cited that his expectation for the new curriculum is for it to foster a connection among students during the pandemic. “We are really craving (for) that connection...kasi...kahit may online class, ang layo pa rin natin sa (isa’t) isa, so I am hoping that this subject can be a (source of comfort) for everyone,” Gopez stated. Additionally, Ellesandra Shamelee Peralta (ABM22) indicated the benefits of conducting this approach in assessing the situation and improving the fields that the students suggested. “(In) collaboration...(with the) ideas... (from) the students...they would be able to come up with a new curriculum that...would be able to maximize the knowledge...they will acquire from this course,” she said.

September - November 2021

NEWS FEATURES

La Estrella Verde

“Doing things hopefully better” -DLSU-D Chancellor sa kanyang pamamahala Alexa Nice Soriano at Jane Llana Cordova Photo by Angienette Laurza

Bilang kauna-unahang DLSU-D Chancellor, ibinahagi ni Br. Francisco ‘Sockie’ de la Rosa VI FSC na kanyang gagamitin ang mga karanasan mula sa pamumuno ng ibang sangay ng DLSU upang maging maayos ang kanyang pangangasiwa.

Ayon kay Br. Sockie, ang kanyang mga pinagdaanan sa mga ito ay nakapagbigay sa kanya ng bagong pananaw sa proseso ng paghahanda para sa kanyang posisyon. “We’ve had to go through difficulties...so coming to DLSU-D and having experiences (from) another university...(gave) me a... different perspective,” aniya. Dagdag pa rito, itinuturing ng Chancellor na ang pagiging isang Lasallian brother ay makatutulong sa kanya sapagkat sila ay nadedestino sa mga lugar kung saan marami silang nararanasan at natutuhan. “[W]e make mistakes in other places, (and) when we come to a new place...(we) make sure... (that it will) not happen (again)...I think (‘yon) ‘yong advantage...‘di ko na uulitin ‘yong mali,” giit niya. Kaugnay nito, binanggit niya na ang mga bagay na kanyang napagtatanto mula sa kanyang mga nakakasalamuha ay naging daan upang siya ay mas maging bukas sa iba’t ibang paraang maaari niyang tahakin. “(I learned) from those mistakes...whether (it was) mine or others...(and with this) I’ve seen better ways of doing things,” pagpapaliwanag ni Br. Sockie. Inaasam para sa Unibersidad Inilahad ng Chancellor ang mga paraan kung paano niya matutulungan ang Unibersidad sa paghihilom nito sa mga naiwan na pinsala ng pandemya. “[I]t’s been almost two years...and we are doing our best to survive (but)...[w]e cannot be (stuck) in survival mode forever. I think one of

my roles here is to push us out of survival into (thriving),” saad niya. Kasabay nito, pinanghahawakan niya ang kahalagahan ng suporta mula sa kanyang mga kasamahan sa institusyon para sa kaniyang adhikain.

“

(I learned) from those mistakes... whether (it was) mine or others... (and with this) I’ve seen better ways of doing things.”

“[W]e (should) continue to be a family... (and) a caring community to one another, but at the same time, we should...strive to give excellent quality Christian education,” dagdag nito. Bukod pa rito, kanyang ipinaliwanag ang layuning ihanda ang Unibersidad para sa kasunod ni DLSU-D President Br. Augustine ‘Gus’ Boquer FSC, EdD sa posisyon.

“I would like—as much as possible—that (the legacy of Br. Gus) will be preserved, that he will be remembered for the good...he has done to this [U]niversity. We will not be where we are, if not for Br. Gus,” ani ng Chancellor. Pagpapahalaga sa Lasalyanong komunidad Binanggit ni Br. Sockie ang malaking pakinabang ng pagtitipon sa mga staff, administrators, at faculty ng Senior High School at kolehiyo upang malaman ang kanilang mga sentimento para sa ikabubuti ng institusyon. “(It’s) very fulfilling because we got to hear each other’s stories. We got to see each other’s perspectives...I think it’s making an effort in using (the) tools (that) we have—limited as they are—to engage...(with) different stakeholders,” aniya. Ipinabatid din niyang malaki ang kanyang tiwala sa kakayahan ng mga guro ngayong online setup sapagkat mayroong patakaran at pagsasanay ang Unibersidad na sinisiguradong bihasa ang mga ito. “[C]onfident ako na our teachers are well-trained...(because) they are (constantly) monitored, evaluated, and supported by the administration,” saad ni Br. Sockie. Sa kabilang banda, ibinahagi niya ang kanyang pagkabahala sa naging epekto ng pandemya sa mental health ng mga estudyante at guro. “[H]opefully, (sa) second year (natin na) nag-o-online classes...we’ve (learned how) to deal with that...(and) to step back and take care of ourselves,” binigyang-diin ng Chancellor.

OPINION

La Estrella Verde

September - November 2021

La Estrella Verde The Official High School Student Publication of De La Salle University-Dasmariñas

EDITORIAL BOARD A.Y. 2021-2022 EDITOR IN CHIEF Franchez Cassandra Escander ASSOCIATE EDITOR Marymar Caya MANAGING EDITOR Ma. Ladeevie Tamonan COPY EDITOR Guen Marie Sapinit NEWS EDITOR Ayeesha Kimberly Cellona SPORTS EDITOR Guen Marie Sapinit FEATURES EDITOR Ma. Ladeevie Tamonan IN CHARGE, LITERARY Ara Janine Palecpec ART EDITOR Denise Preclaro LAYOUT EDITOR Jan Anthony Murillo IN CHARGE, PHOTO AND VIDEO Elisha Jezreel Ang WEB EDITOR Joanna Elaine Desiderio RADIO PROGRAM MANAGER Marymar Caya NEWS Zoe Arabelle Aguinaldo, Aya Ahmad, Jane Llana Cordova, Tiffany Geluz, Hannah Sophia Perez, Princess Pravika Rai, Mikaela Angela Reyes, Kristina Angela Sobrino, Alexa Nice Soriano, Saira Vanessa Varon, Naevien Riley Valenzuela SPORTS Alyssa Ashley Anacay, Jane Llana Cordova, Mandy Allyson Rafael FEATURES Jedd Rudolf Caldo, Francine Angela Dela Fuente, Brendan Kester Gamban, Kenan Christian Geda, Jelaigne Szanel Liong, Alexie Jeanne Masangkay, Anielle Mendoza, Jose Miguel Octavo, Hannah Sophia Perez LITERARY Marcea Alcala, Wrenzhie Arroyo, Brendan Kester Gamban, Pia Heart Lambuson, Paulyn Dianne Laude, Jelaigne Szanel Liong, Anina Jiliana Manuel, Aqeena Reyes, Phoebe Denise Santos, Bianca Jan Sibayan, Gabriel Dale Tejido, Frances Nicole Umbao ART Sean Jacob Altoveros, Jannbeau Amadeus Rain Astrero, Cecilia Nazarine Bicol, Zoe Olivia Cavinta, Jasmin Delos Reyes, Aiser Levi Duque, Masia Sophia Emelda Intorio, Klaire Niña Llarena, Rianne Nicole Ocampo, Rania Marie Pucan, Reanne Roguel, Liam Nico Sullivan PHOTO AND VIDEO Jethro Dela Cerna, John Froilan Gacasa, Nicole Infante, Angienette Laurza, Bianca Jan Sibayan, Tricia Faye Velasco WEB Nikki Alexis Antonio, John Froilan Gacasa, Anina Jiliana Manuel, Jaymar Matanguihan Jr., Jeremy Ray Milca, Reanne Roguel LAYOUT Nikki Alexis Antonio, Angienette Laurza, Jaymar Matanguihan Jr. RADIO Alyssa Ashley Anacay, Kenn Benedict Ballesteros, Denice Gabrielle Calingasan, Kristina Rose Eramiz, Einjela Esguerra, Lyvinah Kate Andrei Kaimo, Lexter Nico Mahusay, Ezekiel Ben Meneses, Serge Angelo Quiambao, Brizza Felicity Reyes, Yzabelle Mei Robillo, Jasmine Marie Soriano La Estrella Verde has its editorial office at Room JHS241, High School Complex, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, DBB-B, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4115 Telephone: +63-2-7795180, +32-46-4811900 to 1930 local 3302 Email: laestrellaverde-shs@dlsud.edu.ph Facebook: /DLSUDLaEstrellaVerde Twitter: @LeviofLEV Contributions, 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.

EDITORIAL

Among short-lived delusions Due to the immense pressure brought by the succeeding resumption of face-to-face classes in Asia, the Philippine government became compelled that this is something they should also enforce despite the surmounting evidence of possible complications that may hinder them to do so. Last Sept. 20, President Rodrigo Duterte officially permitted limited face-to-face classes. According to Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, 120 schools are expected to participate in the said implementation. However, considering how risky this plan is, this proposal was contrived under the possibility of intense compulsion. In the current state of the nation, it is evident that the government has misplaced its priorities in addressing problems that require immediate measures. This became more apparent when casinos, malls, and amusement parks were authorized to reopen at a much earlier date than schools. Even though they noted that this could bridge the funding gap, it seemed to be just another facade to conceal the continuous rise of COVID-19 cases and the scarcity of supplies needed in various healthcare settings. Additionally, their integrity with spending was deemed unsatisfactory as reports released by the Commission on Audit ended up flagging their sectors. The Department of Education, in particular, drew flak for the delays in the release of funds to the regional and division offices as well as in the delivery of printed modules to almost 22 million students under the modular learning modality. These lapses, however, should not be excused as the billions of mismanaged money could have been used to support the crippled education system. Moreover, just like the typically complicated guidelines such as the vaccination requirement for teachers and school personnel, the proposed half-day classes every other week seem to offer little to no relief to the burden of online learning. It would just serve as a nuisance, especially to those who live far away from their schools. So as the struggle continues, we could see how these band-aid solutions became the branding of the current administration. From the back and forth changes of quarantine classifications to the infamous face shields and motorcycle passenger barriers, their track record speaks for itself. Do you really trust this kind of government to carry out such tasks without making it a debacle? Therefore, the reopening of classes must be planned carefully to guarantee the safety of the students and school staff. Education sectors should start by identifying those students with comorbidities and those who live far away from their campus. Furthermore, the movement of students should also be restricted once they are inside school premises to ensure that they will not have unnecessary interactions with other people. With this, the plan to implement the limited face-to-face classes is nothing but a decision made under pressure. There are heaps of factors that the government has overlooked such as their incompetence in handling the pandemic. After all, working towards the safe resumption of classes would require more than a forced initiative. Judging from what we are seeing today, it is safe to assume that a post-pandemic country is still in the distant future.

OPINION

September - November 2021

La Estrella Verde

Gamification = Segregation Sapientia

Franchez Cassandra Escander

choolbook has become one of the constants in my life ever since we started attending our classes in an online setup. It is a great modality in managing school works, as it enables students to view lesson materials and answer assessments in one place. Yet there’s this one flaw that seems to be the dealbreaker—the leaderboards. This feature seems to be fun and games but it has unconsciously forced students into groups of those who are lucky enough to be on top and those who are stuck at the bottom. Whenever I open my subjects, my eyes always go to the leaderboards. That small tab is enough for anyone to feel pressured, especially when they’re placed at the very end of the class. The class rankings were already scrapped from the curriculum after being replaced with the Academic Excellence Awards. So why pit the students against each other if the said system was removed to avoid stiff competition?

Another thing that I also find very questionable is the benefits that students get after reaching a certain rank in the leaderboards. For instance, students who get perfect scores on their Gateway Assessments receive points that can boost their position in the leaderboards. And if you’re able to collect a good amount of points, you will be given extra incentives that can be added to your grade. Again, it seems like this system favors those at the top by giving additional rewards to those who already have high scores. Even so, I am not turning a blind eye to our subject teachers’ efforts to make our classes as interesting as possible. Almost all of my subject teachers customized their class in their style—some even created video teasers to encourage participation. Yet there’s not much of a difference in receiving a customized badge if the system itself is flawed, and will just continue to produce the same feelings of anxiety and exhaustion. Being able to hide or disable the leaderboards seems to be the most practical solution right now, but true change will only happen once this system is removed completely. Yes, gamification has its charm, but it’s time for one to realize that it does

more harm than good. By removing this feature, students will have fewer things to worry about.

“

Yet there’s not much of a difference in receiving a customized badge if the system itself is flawed.” Indeed, it is true that online classes should be made fun and engaging. However, introducing this gamification system has brought the opposite of enjoyment. And while some might say that competition is healthy, if the way of competing encourages separation and indifference among students, maybe it is time to think of a better approach.

Palete sa Politika Alik-mata Ma. Ladeevie Tamonan

untian, dilaw, asul, at rosas. Madalas na makita natin ang mga kulay na yan sa sining—ngunit ngayon tila nadepina ito sa isang panibagong paraan; nagkaroon ito ng panibagong kahulugan sa ispero ng politika. Sa totoo lang, hindi ito katanggaptanggap lalo pa at tila pinapawalang bisa nito ang kahalagahan ng lohikal na pagsusuri, at ang paniniwalang ang politika ay isang kulay lamang. Paparating na naman ang eleksyon— ang araw kung saan maririnig ang boses ng mamamayan. Noong nakaraang Oktubre 8 nga ay natapos na ang pagsusumite ng mga Certificates of Candidacy, at nagsulputan na ang samu’t saring mga pangalan na naghahangad na manungkulan sa susunod na termino. Dahil dito, hindi maiwasang sumiklab ang apoy ng debate patungkol sa mundo ng politika. Ngunit sa tuwi-tuwina, mayroong mga taong ginagamit ang kulay upang atakihin

ang mga taong kasalungat nila. Halimbawa na lamang, kapag nagpapahayag ako ng aking pagsuporta sa isang tanyag na human rights lawyer na si Chel Diokno ay palagi akong sinasabihang ‘dilawan’ kahit pa ang tunay na dahilan ng aking paghanga sa naturang abogado ay ang kanyang husay at kredibilidad bilang isang tagapagtanggol ng karapatang pantao—bagay na pinapasawalang bahala ng ilang partido.

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Mayroong espasyong nakalaan para sa mga taong nagnanais ng maayos na pamamalakad.” Bukod pa rito, lumalabas din ang argumentong ito kapag binabatikos ang

plataporma at pamumuno noong panahon ni Marcos at ng rehimeng Duterte. Dahil lamang hindi humahanay ang aking opinyon sa opinyon nila ay nagkakaroon na agad ng hinuhang ako ay panig sa kabilang partido. Kaugnay nito, bilang isang kabataang nananatiling aktibo sa mga diskurso sa politika ay nakalulungkot isipin na ang pagbibigay ng kritisismo sa gobyerno ay hindi na binibigyang halaga. Lubha itong hindi katanggap-tanggap dahil pumupuna ang mamamayan, hindi dahil mayroon silang inklinasyon sa partikular na kulay—ngunit dahil mayroong mali sa pamamaraan ng kanilang pagpapatakbo, at dapat itong masolusyunan. Bilang paglalahat, umiikot ang politika sa kung papaano marapat na patakbuhin ang bansa, hindi lamang sa mga kulay at partido. Sa aking palagay, maganda kung tayo’y magsasaliksik pa tungkol sa mga tatakbo sa eleksyon, at huwag lamang tumingin sa kanilang kulay. Mas mabuti kung ating mapagtanto na hindi palaging kailangang mamili sa pagitan ng itim at puti o ng dilaw at pula, dahil sa pagitan ng mga kulay na ito ay mayroong espasyong nakalaan para sa mga taong nagnanais ng maayos na pamamalakad.

OPINION

La Estrella Verde

September - November 2021

If you know, you know abide, regardless of any reason. While there’s a push for objectivity being placed, behind them are hidden personal agendas for more control or abuse for one’s benefit.

From the Fossils John Ethan Casela

ver heard of the phrase, “It’s not about what you know, but who you know”? Growing up, I used to admire those who quickly excelled in their ranks throughout life. While I pondered how much continuous effort it took for them, I soon found out that some of those efforts were not what I thought it was. Cronyism—a clear preference to an individual or group of people in the workplace, not because of work performance but for reasons outside it. Much like favoritism, it’s when a person’s potential and capabilities are discredited over someone who’s generally favored by the superior management. Personally, I find it discriminatory when it provides an unfair advantage to those that don’t necessarily earn such merit. A notable example is the Duterte administration’s appointment of former military officials in core government agencies right from the beginning of his term. This was to supposedly promote and maintain protocols while punishing those who don’t

“

It may be natural to have preferences, but it becomes a moral choice when one favors connections and mutual agendas rather than concrete credentials.”

As of present, the Philippines had the longest quarantine implementation amid COVID-19 for almost two years with total cases nearing three million victims. Even so, we are still seeing almost the same faces holding key roles in health organizations and national task forces rather than the healthcare professionals themselves. When cronyism undermines those who are most qualified and deserving, it results in a decline in performing responsibilities.

Mirage

Elisha Jezreel Ang Joanna Elaine Desiderio Jan Anthony Murillo

These victims are restricted from the opportunities and recognition that limit them to perform up to their potential. Some had to increase workloads twice as much, even having to explicitly impose rights on their position just to be equally heard and acknowledged. Ultimately, this negatively impacts work performance, creating resentment and distrust between associates in exchange for promotions through blind loyalty. Such practices became a race on who can quickly earn the higher-ups’ favor to the point of agreeing to every single decision of theirs, regardless of being morally right or wrong. Here’s a reality check—are those who make these actions stand for the people they serve, or for the sole approval of their superiors? It may be natural to have preferences, but it becomes a moral choice when one favors connections and mutual agendas rather than concrete credentials. True leaders, administrators or not, acknowledge those who actually give and take credit when rightfully just to do better and be better. Always remember that the fight is standing up for a whole organization and its community, not for their own or someone else’s gain. Because it might be what you want, but not what the people need.

Figments of Tomorrow

September - November 2021

FEATURES

La Estrella Verde

Along the path of stars Anielle Mendoza and Brendan Kester Gamban Photo by Nicole Infante The calling of the stars is one to which people have been drawn to, much like a moth to a flame. Some walk their own path, claiming they write their own story, while others follow the beacon of light guiding them towards where they should go, curious about what lies in store for their future.

Delving Deeper Looking up at the twinkling lights filling the night sky, one might wonder what the significance behind those stars could entail. Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty Geordan Carungcong said, “Based on my own understanding, astrology is how we make sense of what is happening with the use of the stars and other celestial bodies.” Staring up into the skies, one might catch a glimpse of the stars that show their pertinence to the people. “[Astrology] can be easily ascribed,” Carungcong mentioned when asked about its relevance in these dark times. “In this case, generalized statements are easy to relate to and (be) applied (to) specific situations,” he added for more clarity. With this, the ideas and concepts became common among people, making them latch onto it. Moreover, he added the reason why the youth today became so immersed into topics such as this—explaining that astrology helps believers justify their personalities and actions. “It provides a handbook on understanding who they are or (what) they can be at the moment.” In fact, one might say it truly leaves an impact on their beliefs. Astounding Discovery Upon having grasped the idea of astrology, some have been hooked onto the thought that the stars above guide their path and aid them in finding out who they truly are. Some have recently discovered it, while, for

others, it is all they’ve known. “Actually, sa newspaper ko siya nakilala,” Jhoanna Dumangon (ABM22) shared. Stating her own experience, Daphne Obligacion (STM16) recalled how she stumbled upon it herself. “I discovered astrology when I was in elementary school,” she said. “I learned (about) it because my friends always ask (for) my zodiac sign.” With the influence of her peers being the main reason of discovery, Obligacion had fallen into the world of astrology.

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[Astrology] helped me express myself better and (made me realize) what I should work on about myself.” Having similar experiences, both have eventually come to believe in the influence of the stars in their lives. “When I calculated my birth chart, everything just made sense (noong) in-interpret ko siya,” Atria Cortes (HMS23) added. “[T]ugma siya sa personality ko, and also, by observing other people,

mapapaisip ka na lang talaga, ‘Ay, totoo nga talaga (ang) astrology.’” Life-Changing Experiences After finding what they have been seeking, a number of possibilities lie in waiting. Although others might oppose this notion, there are those whose lives have been changed by the stars. “I feel like I know myself better na,” Cortes mentioned. “[Astrology] helped me express myself better and (made me realize) what I should work on about myself.” Dumangon shared her thoughts about the matter when asked if her life had changed. “Yes naman,” she answered. “[N]aging confident ako about myself,” she further stated. Astrology may really become a key factor in honing one’s personality, and shaping the life paths of many. *** The curiosity that sets people off on their journey guided by astrology will go on to have its fair share of ups and downs. Darkness might sustain, but the stars don’t stop lighting up as the day turns to night. “Astrology changed my life,” Cortes declared, further proving the influence it holds on her journey through life. There may be incredulity along the path, however, the magnificence of the gleaming heavenly bodies will always have their influence on one’s life.

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COMIC STRIP

TAKAS by Sean Jacob Altoveros

A DAY IN FACE TO FACE CLASSES by Rianne Nicole Ocampo

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SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

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TRICKED OR TREATS!

SCHOOL LIFE OUTSIDE OUR COMPUTER SCREENS

by Aiser Levi Duque

A wild Levi appeared at your doorstep! They might be at the tail end, but it’s never too late to go trick or treating. So, find 5 differences to help them collect candies to share with their friends.

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

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ART SECTION

REMINISCING by Liam Nico Sullivan

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A PEEK TO THE PAST by Jannbeau Rain Astrero

Answers: 1) Color of pen, 2) Ribbon, 3) Shadow inside the window, 3) Fallen candy, 4) Blue candy in the basket.

September - November 2021

LITERARY

La Estrella Verde

Wari ng Paslit Ara Janine Palecpec

Art by Cecilia Nazarine Bicol

Ni minsan ba, sumagi rin sa isipan mong isa kang teddy bear na nasa tabi ng puting unan sa higaan? Dahil kung ako ang tatanungin, para nga akong tinutusok ng karayom nang dahan-dahan, at tila pinaglalaruan sa tuwing nakikita ko na niyayapos niya ang lambot ng unan kaysa sa akin. Hindi na tulad ng dati kung saan ako pa ang itinuturing niyang tagapagligtas laban sa mga halimaw sa ilalim ng kanyang kama na nagdudulot ng pagtangis niya nang tumiklop ang liwanag sa langit. Kabilang ako sa mga taong labis na pinagpala ng kadamutan sa pagbibigay ng tiwala sa ibang tao, lalo na kung makakatagpo mo sila sa hindi pangkaraniwang pagkakataon na darating sa puntong tatalon ang iyong puso sa galak. Kasing linaw ng bagong linis na bintana sa aking kwarto ang alaala noong ika-anim ng Hulyo 2006. Bago ako magpahinga sa gabing iyon, marahan kong ipinikit ang aking mga mata at lumuhod nang nakatungo sa itaas. Yakap-yakap ang paborito kong teddy bear, sabay bumulong ako sa langit. “Sana magkaroon ako ng kapatid.” Sa dulo ng aking panalangin, isang malambot na daliri ang kumalabit sa balikat ko. “Ako ba ang hinahanap mo?” Nagdulot ito ng pagtayo ng aking balahibo na tila isang masaganang kaparangan at sandaling pagtigil ng tibok ng puso ko. Ngunit agad niya akong niyakap sa aking paglingon. Napahagikgik siya nang kinumutan ko rin siya ng aking bisig. Pareho kami ng tangkad at malaporselanang kulay ng balat. Kung tutuusin,

halos nakaharap lang ako sa salamin dahil hindi malayo ang aming hitsura, dagdag pa ang kambal naming suot na pulang bestida. Hindi ako nagkaroon ng lakas ng loob na tanungin ang aking mga magulang kung bakit biglaan ang pagdating ng aking kapatid at sabihing isa siyang hulog ng langit dahil sa isang iglap pagkatapos kong manalangin, bigla siyang sumipot. Ni hindi ko nasubaybayan ang kanyang paglaki o narinig man lang ang pag-iyak ng isang bagong silang na sanggol. Isang malaking pagkakamali. Nasilayan ko ang kislap ng mata pati na rin ang tamis ng ngiti niya sa pagbitaw naming dalawa sa mahigpit na pagkakayakap. Parang ilang taon na kaming hindi nagkita, ngunit noong mga sandaling iyon lang talaga kami nabigyan ng pagkakataong magkatagpo. Sa kabila ng lahat, wala na akong ibang mahihiling dahil natupad ng isang kisap-mata ang inaasam ko. “Ano pala ang pangalan mo?” tanong ko ng ubod na galak. “Ako si Anwir! Sobrang saya ko na makita ka,” kumurba ang labi at sumingkit ang mga mata niya. Sa labis na tuwa ko, ipinakilala ko siya sa aking mga manika pati sa paborito kong kulay-kapeng teddy bear. Nahalina rin siya roon kaya hinablot niya ito ng walang pag-aalinlangan. Sinamantala naming maglaro at magtawanan habang mas lumiliwanag ang buwan, hanggang ang pagod naming dalawa ang nagpatulog sa amin.

Ngunit kinabukasan ng araw na iyon, alingawngaw ng aking pangalan mula sa mga magulang ko ang pumutol sa mahimbing kong pagkakatulog. Napalitan na ng posisyon ng araw ang buwan, at sumisilip na rin ang sinag sa bintana. Nanirahan sa memorya ko ang matinding nerbyos sa pagtawag ng aking mga magulang sa pari para basbasan ang aming bahay, lalo na ang aking kwarto. Wala akong kaalam-alam sa mga nagaganap sa pinagkaitang matiwasay na umaga bilang paslit sa mga panahong iyon. Kinuha ko ang teddy bear at hinanap ng paningin si Anwir mula sa apat na sulok ng aking silid ngunit agad akong binuhat ng aking tatay palabas sa kwarto. Sabay namang dumating ang pari na may bitbit na holy water at Bibliya. Sa mga sandaling iyon, umuulit na tila awitin sa radyo ang mga alulong na parang sa mga naririnig kong nakakatakot na palabas—isang pagtaghoy ng demonyo. Paglipas ng ilang sandali, natapos din ang pari sa pagbabasbas. Hindi ang mga halimaw sa ilalim ng kama o mga mata ng buwitreng nanlilisik ang nagbibigay sa akin ng dahilan upang manginig sa takot sa mga demonyo. Sa halip, ang kaisipang salungat si Anwir sa lahat ng tipikal na hitsura ng halimaw ang mas nagdudulot sa akin ng matinding karuwagan lalo na kapag sasapit na ang gabi. Buti na lang at lumisan agad siya na parang bula na kasing bilis din ng kanyang pagbulabog. Kung nananaig ang akalang lumisan akong tuluyan, nagkakamali ka.

Sports La Estrella Verde

September - November 2021

Volume 6 Issue 1

The Indecency of a Blinded World. The grounds where integrity can never be seen nor heard. Photo by Jethro Dela Cerna

Resetting the battlefield dilemmas Guen Marie Sapinit and Alyssa Ashley Anacay

Manifesting through imaginary realms in which imaginary enemies are pulverized were glitches that are waiting to deal the killing blow. With its gritty attack against the other side of virtuality, it began contriving its combatants to build their own characters, only to end up bursting damage upon themselves as the plight of its aftermath.

Feeding off deception As gladiators and swordsmen strategize a scheme to overpower their rivals in an intensified terrain, the inevitability that one might charge towards victory with distortion ascended. “[B]ecause of the accusations about our team, the sponsors withdrew from giving us the grand prize and the (championship) title,” E-Sports Player Myvon Carl Simbajon recalled. “Among the other clans, we were considered (as) the underdogs who were trying to make our name in the (professional) scene,” he added. Yet clinching to the hope of thriving is in the ability to look past the affairs of deceit. “I think what causes (this) is not (knowing how to accept) loss... My recommendation is...to be happy with others’ success [b]ecause everyone has (their) own season.” On the other hand, E-Sports Player Neo Tristan Fornias shared, “[G]ames are not perfect. (They) have bugs in (them).” With the vigor of back and forth steady-aim resolve, pulling off a staggering sweep may not entirely resonate with what appears on the screen. “[B]ut taking advantage of [these bugs] just to win represents toxicity and cheating,” he remarked. Respawning in a bloodshed While there are those who had a stunning execution of defense during the brawl, some still struggle in establishing an offensive rhythm that may have triggered the disruption

of their odds to prevail. “Gaming crosses (the) line when a player...prioritizes the game above anything else, including (oneself ),” Simbajon said. “(Underperforming), pressure, (and) anxiety are the most experienced ones,” E-Sports Player Rovic Rodriguez stated when asked regarding the negative consequences that one may confront within the combat zone. “[I]t can negatively affect a (player’s) impression of a game and (their) mindset depending on how they will encounter it,” he continued. However, not every contender was suppressed in the wrath of its resurgence. “[G]aming was the one that helped me when I was alone. It was the one that made me happy. It helped me (escape) stress and sadness,” Fornias noted. Amid the chaotic battlegrounds with vengeful spirits of the opposing adversaries, some may still find themselves surrendering to their ultimate solace—a cooldown from the burden of reality. Conquering pixelated horizons “(E-Sports) is (going places),” Simbajon cited. Steadily imposing a sterling stint of removing its barricades, a yearning for progress suddenly became unvarnished. “I hope (that) the (E-Sports) [i]ndustry (in the Philippines) would bloom and provide opportunities for the (Filipinos),” he added. Somehow, the urge of its awakening fueled an expedition to stave off these glitches that inflict havoc. “[T]here is hope for (E-Sports

players) to continue playing without experiencing (its) disadvantages,” Rodriguez assured. “[I]f (E-Sports) develop awareness programs that focus on (the preparations of its upcoming) athletes...it may potentially change the (gaming) community.”

“

Amid the chaotic battlegrounds, some may still find themselves surrendering to their ultimate solace—a cooldown from the burden of reality.” *** Armed with valor are those with the avidity to reform their virtual sanctuary away from the onslaught of its destructive remnants. While venturing through this exploration of quandary, a profound anticipation may dwell in one’s reverie. “Even though [E-Sports] does not guarantee the future of a person, it is still something big,” Fornias declared. “(It) can change somebody’s life.” As they deploy towards resetting this battlefield, the repercussions that it has lagged behind will embroider a mark on their armors, which will grant them vigilance for their next conquest.