Congratulations! VERGEL BINAG 1st Place Editorial Cartooning 2009 Division Elementary Schools Press Conference
VOLUME XIV NO. 1
TAGUM CITY, PHILIPPINES
JUNE-OCTOBER 2009
DepEd advocates flu prevention by Ma. Lourdes Odtojan
In response to the worldwide threat brought about by the effects of Influenza A(H1N1) to the populace, the Department of Education took its cognizance to inform the students about the dreaded disease by issuing DepED Memorandum No. 238, s 2009 which is anchored on a Flu Prevention Campaign in all schools nationwide.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TIMES TWO. Health Sec. Francisco Duque demonstrates washing of hands on the tune of "Happy Birthday" song while a pupil intently looks
Tagum City gears up for 2010 NSPC
by John Bryan Garsuta All roads will lead to Tagum Schools Division SuperintenCity on February 2010 as bud- dent Nenita E. Lumaad said ding journalists and school pa- that major preparations should per advisers gather for the 2010 be given high priority since this is a national event. National Schools Press DepEd Conference Central Ofthat will be fice will alhosted by locate Php the Division 2.5 million of Tagum City pesos for the The full said event force of the city aside from schools divithe equal sion is now busy amount preparing to efthat will be ficiently host subsidized the country’s by the City largest gathGovernment of Tagum ering of the through Mayor Rey T. Uy. best writThis event is mandated by ers and t h e duel of dist i n g u i s h e d Republic Act No. 7079 or the school publications. Campus Journalism Act of 1991. During the meeting with On our part, DRBCES will be a the technical working group, billeting venue for two regions. .
Regional directors were instructed to execute immediately the following: Mobilization of Anti-Influenza A(H1N1) Campaign; Health Information Dissemination and Education; and Collaboration with other Stakeholders. All schools heads and health personnel were likewise instructed to conduct an intensive information campaign among parents and teachers on the prevention of Influenza A(H1N1), and to take the lead in the clean-
up drive to prevent diseases during the National Schools Maintenance Week (Brigada Eskwela) on May 18-25, 2009. All Regional Health and Nutrition Unit Staff and Division Schools Medical Officers shall be trained on the various aspects of the Anti-Influenza A(H1N1) campaign, more particularly on the strategies to prevent Influenza A(H1N1) and what to do in case a suspect is identified in the community.
Division Makabayan Quiz Bee
Geraldo wins gold;advances to regl tilt by Nicko Mabido Teopanes F. Geraldo put “The test was difficult. I his best foot forward as he won can’t believe I can make it.” said first place in the “Pandibisyong Geraldo during the interview. Paligsahan sa Heograpiya , KaThe said contest was parsaysayan at Sibika ng Pilipinas” ticipated by 21 schools in held at Tagum City DepED Func- Division of Tagum City. tion Hall last September 8, 2009. “I am thankful to my Geraldo is a Grade VI pu- coach Miss Jessica Lagupil section Garcia of Don Ri- ra for extending her time for cardo Briz Central Elem. School. our review” Geraldo added.
Girl Scouts relive scouting spirit through school encampment by Rachel Llanes
Keep the fire burning! Don Ricardo Briz Central Elementary School Girl Scout Troop conducted a three-day School GSP Encampment which aims to develop the scouting skills of the girl scouts of
the school. Held last October 16-18, 2009, the encampment was filled with fun activities like camp fire, jungle breakfast, body painting competition, among others. Mrs. Eutropia Q. Madulara, a retired teacher of the school and an avid scouter shared some information through a lecture about scouting and how it began.“I really enjoyed the camping and I gained new friends,” shared Alice Shane Ortiz when asked by The Perseus Publication.
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PERSEUS
VOLUME XIV NO. 1
No Spin.Just News.
MiscellaNEWS
We won’t have a society if we destroy our environment. - Margaret Mead
Digested by Rachel Llanes
Islamic ALIVE now in DRBCES
By Ma. Lourdes Odtojan In cognizant to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s dream of connecting every school to the digital age, the Department of Education through the initiative of Sec. Jesli Lapus had bared the department’s ventures related to information and communication technology. These projects are the ICT4E Initiatives, Internet Connectivity and Introduction to Learning Technologies in which the department hoped will enhance the quest for knowledge of the students. Part of the benefits of the schools out of this project is the monthly Php 5,000.00 subsidy from DepEd Central Office which will be used by the school
CONNECTED. Teachers and pupils of DRBCES discover the wonders of a laptop computer. to have all their desktop computers connected to the internet. Lapus said that this could trigger other quests for knowledge and would make the educators integrate the vast learning resources from the internet in their respective lessons. Anent to this, a briefing was held last September 10, 2009 at
Theme Park rising in Tagum By Vergel Binag
An eco-tourism park patterned after the Windows of the World theme park in China is being developed by the City Government of Tagum at San Agustin, Tagum City. Covering 48 hectares, the Windows of the World in the industrial city of Shenzhen is known for its replicas of over a hundred world landmarks Information Officer Cromwell Bonghanoy said clearing
operations have already started in at least 10 hectares of the park, which is about five kilometers from the city center. “The eco-tourism park will feature cable car rides and restaurants overlooking a vast expanse of lush trees,” he said. Considered a big project, Bonghanoy said the city government expected the San Agustin Eco-Tourism Park to be completed in three to five years.
Neo receivesbyNat’l Sandugo Award Teopanes Geraldo
Six wins in a row! Barangay Capt. Santiago Neo was conferred the Hall of Fame Sandugo National Award for his outstanding support, commitment and active involvement in the promotion of voluntary blood donation for six consecutive years toward the achievement of the vision of Republic Act 7719, otherwise known as the National Blood Services Act of 1994. No less than Senator and Phil-
ippine National Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon and Health Sec. Francisco Duque III awarded the said accolade last July 29, 2009 at Diamond Hotel, Manila. “I was very honored and thankful for supporting me in this award and this award is not for me but for the good people of Barangay Magugpo East,” quipped Neo in an exclusive interview with the Perseus Publication. He added that he will pursue doing good.
Tagum National Trade School which was attended by all ICT coordinators in the school, division and regional level and all secondary school principals. The briefing consisted of the Integration of ICT in the Curriculum and a presentation from the British Council regarding to the Introduction of Learning Technologies.
Pupils elect Odtojan new SPG Prexy
By Jesamie Guillen Ma. Lourdes Odtojan, the standard bearer of MYMP Party was hailed President during the Supreme Pupil Government Election held last February 2009. Other candidates who were elected to posts were Vice President: Ma. Synette Auman; Secretary: Derilyn S. Canada; Treasurer: Jesamie S. Guillen; Auditor: Darlene Faith Samonte;PIO: Teopanes L. Gerardo and Regine Sarco; Peace Officers: Roschelle Jemarc Medellin and Nodelyn Linambos. For Councilors: Grade IVLovely Tanguan and Jessa Donna Geraldo; Grade V- Zamantha Enjaynes and Karla Natad; Grade VI- Cris Bandao and Dorelyn Que. For Representatives: Grade IV-Lemuel Bendula and Champagne Caber; Grade V-Marah dela Cruz and Cristine Alferez; Grade VI- Faith Daclag and Joy Aleria. Meanwhile, Mr. Jose M. Aquino challenged all the officers to become role models.
After the survey made by DepED of Tagum City and found out that a lot of Muslims pupils enrolled in DRBCES, Arabic Language and Islamic Values class (ALIVE) is now offered in DRBCES which started last June 17, 2009. Muslim pupils from Grade IVVI are enrolled in ALIVE Class. Around 24 Muslim pupils are in ALIVE class which conducted every 3:00 o’clock from Monday to Thursday. “I want my students will learn something at the end of this school year” said Mrs. Samsinor S. Jaliel, the ALIVE Teacher.
2 DRBCES pupils drown in Tipaz River Two pupils of Don Ricardo Briz Central Elem. School drowned while swimming along the river in Purok Tipaz, Barangay Magugpo East last Saturday, September 12, 2009 a belated report said. The victims, who are brother and sister, reportedly went along the riverside to gather firewood and decided to go swimming in the river. Police identified the drowned victims as Erick Tantoy, 9 and Roselle Tantoy, 10 a Grade III and Grade IV pupil respectively.
Enrilla Pharmacy donates armchairs Enrilla Pharmacy donated 20 pieces armchairs to Don Ricardo Briz Central Elem. School last June 2009. The armchairs were used by Grade VI-Roxas. “I am very happy my old armchairs were replaced by new one.”said Mrs. Eusan Dela Cruz the teacher adviser of Grade VI-Roxas.
The only alternative to the politics of exploitation is the politics of ecology - Jonathan Porritt
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MiscellaNEWS
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VOLUME XIV NO. 1
No Spin.Just News.
IP studes join city’s 1st Tribal Panaghiusa Festival ‘09 47 pupils benefit city educational aid
Tagum City Vice Mayor Allan Rellon initiated “Tabang Eskwela Project” to help indigent pupils in the entire City of Tagum. In line with this “Tabang Eskwela Project”, a total of 1,455 sets of school supplies were distributed to 31 public elementary schools and 7 public secondary schools in the city of Tagum. Recipients of these supplies were pupils from all grade and year levels identified as indigent by the school administrators. Don Ricardo Briz Central Elem. School received 47 sets of school supplies and was distributed to the identified indigent pupils in every grade level.
Aquino, Ansale attend 1st Reg’l Education confab
Mr. Jose M. Aquino, Principal and Mrs. Juanita Ansale, Guidance Coordinator of Don Ricardo Briz Cenrtral Elementary School were among the Tagum City delegates in the recently concluded First Regional Summit for Stakeholders of Basic Education at Waterfront Hotel, Lanang Davao City, on October 5-7, 2009. Pursuant to Regional Memorandum No. 104, s. 2009, DepED Region XI conducted this live-in activity that aims to achieve the following specific objectives: a.) convene multi-sectoral stakeholders and discuss concerns in basic education; b.) draw up more unified set of direction in the delivery of basic education services aligned to national and regional development efforts; and c.) identify relevant strategies which are responsive to the needs of basic education in the context of the regional environment. No less than DepEd Secretary Jesli A. Lapus graced the opening ceremony n which he challenged all to become the best in their field.
WATCH gets ticking
To strengthen the value of punctuality and honesty, the Department of Education issued DepEd Memorandum Nos. 160 and 3875 encouraging schools to organize Project WATCH, otheriwise known as We Advocate Time Consciousness and Honesty. Mr. Jose M. Aquino, the school principal of Don Ricardo Briz Central Elementary School had strongly advocated the abovementioned policy in the school. Under this policy,schools are encouraged to be the centers of excellence in the renewal com-
Igcalinos elected Faculty President By Sheina Comprado
“What we hope ever to do with ease, we must learn first to do with diligence” This is the line expressed by the newly elected Faculty President of Don Ricardo Briz Central Elementary School, Mrs. Antonietta G. Igcalinos in an interview with the Perseus Publication. According to her, she can do nothing without the support and cooperation of her co-officers and members. “I am specifically grateful to the principal his being a good leader to us,” quipped Mrs. Igcalinos who sought cooperation from fellow teachers of the school. Currently, Mrs. Igcalinos is the class adviser of Grade VI Magsaysay and is one of the school paper advisers of the school. She is set to get her doctoral degree on March 2010 in the field of educational management where she enrolled at the University of Southeastern Philippines.
By Sheina Comprado
Pupils of Don Ricardo Briz Central Elem. School who belongs to the Indigenous People Community (IP) attended the “First Tribal Panaghiusa Festival 2009” at Magugpo Pilot Central Elem. School Gym last September 18, 2008. The theme of the said event was “Kultura Ko, Pagyamanin Ko” Different events were contested like Vocal Solo, Quiz Bee, Dance (IP) with IP instruments, Creative Story Telling, and Indigenize Instructional Materials with Demo-Teaching. The following are DRBCES IP pupils who garnered awards:
Redilyn Rondera, 1st Place Story Telling; and Harlyn Magbutong, 4th place in Quiz Bee; An IP Dance with IP Instrument was also performed by the following pupils and they will join the annual celebration of Kaimonan Festival this October: Kurt Niel Van Paslangan, John Relle Palmera, Cindy Grapani, and Reyna Grace Tagalicud. They were coached by Mrs. Gloria H. Morata and Mrs. Liezel Taligan, the school IP coordinators. Mr. Ariel Perote a Grade VI teacher also won 1st place in making of Indigenize Instructional Materials with Demo-Teaching.
mitment towards consciousness on punctuality and honesty. Anent to this, the school is strictly following measures in the attainment of the goals of Project Watch.
Mr. Aquino said that this is important because teachers and stuents will be time conscious and they will incorporate the value of honesty in the school that will be duplicated by the society.
DavNor remembers ‘Battle of Ising’ By Wowie Igcalinos
Less has been known about the Battle of Ising and the importance of its memorial shrine along Maharlika Highway in Carmen, Davao del Norte. But not now as the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte paid homage to the thousands of second world war veterans who fought against Japanese forces in a fitting ceremonies held at Ising Battle Memorial Shrine lastAugust 30, 2009 in line with the celebration of the National Heroes Day. Governor Rodolfo P. del Rosario cited in his speech that the Battle of Ising should remind the peo-
ple of the province of the heroism they had just to give us the freedom that we are enjoting nowadays. As part of the program, veterans were awarded with heroism medallions whom del Rosario thought as “just little thing compared to what they had done before.” The Battle of Ising took place 64 years ago in Barangay Ising in Carmen which hindered the Japanese forces from colonizing Northern Mindanao which is an undiscovered wilderness then. One university professor cited it as “one of the most decive battle won in Mindanao.”
Honesty is still the best policy for Rhod Nick Villablanca of Grade V department of Don Ricardo Briz Central Elementary School under the advisory of Mrs. Marcelina Lagumbay who found a folded money bills amounting to Php 6, 000.00 in the school campus last September 21, 2009. Villablanca returned the
money to Mrs. Luisa Solis thinking that the latter is the owner. Solis reported the incident and turned over the said amount to Mr. Jose M. Aquino, school principal of DRBCES, for safekeeping. “Yun ang dapat eh, kaya binalik ko,” said Villablanca in an interview. The money was claimed on the same day by a parent who visited her child in the school.
HonestyBystill rings in DRBCES Bryan Garsuta and Rachel Llanes
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Imagination is more important than knowledge -Albert Einstein
Opinion
VOLUME XIV NO. 1
No Spin.Just News.
Quid Pro Quo:
Responsible Journalism in reaching the MDG Targets
We are now living on the of height of information age and during these trying times, the media had become a very useful outlet in satisying our need of different information around the globe making as well as a venue for public service. Thus, the role that the media plays nowadays is very crucial, especially that it becomes a voice to those who have none and becames a source of courage for those who had been bombarded with problems. In September 2000, 189 United Nations member states signed the Millennium Declaration and committed themselves to eight specific goals aimed at ending poverty by 2015, including the Republic of the Philippines. These goals focused on eight points anchored on promoting a better world after 15 years. The goals are the following: eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, achieve universal primary education, promote gender equality and empower women, reduce child mortality, improve maternal health, combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and other diseases,ensure environmental sustainabilty and lastly, global partnership for development. While it is true that the primary burden of achieving these goals fall on the hands on the different governments around the globe, the role that the media will play would really spell the difference as it will become a good venue of people’s interaction of exposing of the truth about the failures and good practices that each government undertakes to achieve each goal stated in the pact. Moreover, it will be the voice of the people in attaining transparency in government. But this privilige comes with a great responsibility. The media should be true to its code of ethics of being fair and balanced when it comes to handling news and opinions that matter public interest. That’s the only thing that we can be sure that the success of achieving the MDGs would really be at hand. Along with the government and the people working as one, we can minimally, if not totally, achieved our universal goals.
Editorial Staff Editor-in-Chief..........................................................................................................................Ma. Lourdes Odtojan Associate Editor........................................................................................................................Teopanes F. Gerardo News Editor...................................................................................................................................John Bryan Garsuta Feature Editor......................................................................................................................Sheina Mae Comprado Sports Editor..................................................................................................................................Wowie G. Igcalinos Photojournalist............................................................................................................................Cris Angeli Bandao Cartoonist......................................................................................................................................................Vergel Binag Correspondents.......................................................... ...Nicko Mabido Rachel Llanes Jessamie Guillen Jayson Sajulga Charlemagne Caben Advisers/Moderators..............................................Miss Jessica D. Lagura, Mrs. Antonietta Igcalinos Consultant................................................................................................................Mr. Jose M. Aquino, Principal
Nicko Mabido
Wanted: Honest Leaders
Many people are excited for the upcoming 2010 Presidential Elections that will took place in May 10 next year. As of press time, many candidates had shown interest in runing for public office, especially the highest position in the land -- the presidency. Recent issues are haunting the present administration in the matters of graft and corruption, its legitimacy, among others. Many are accusing President Gloria Arroyo as being an “out-ofreach” president creding her as the “worst” president that we had since Ferdinand Marcos’ time. Politically speaking, I believe that our leaders would reflect what we are as a people.So, I urge the voting public to become responsible in choosing the leaders that will lead us in the next six years. For me, our vote could spell the big difference. Young as I am, I know that the vote of our parents and countrymen will be a voice for
genuine change and will be a big factor in determining where we are heading in the generations ahead. So what’s the best type of leader that we need nowadays? Let’s just be simple: we need leaders who are honest, not corrupt, intelligent and can inspire people to work together for our beloved country.Moreover, we need a leader who can bring back the trust of the people to the government --- someone that is exactly opposite from the current president of the country. Of course, this will not happen overnight. Change never is. But if we work together as a team and if our parents will vote for the righteous people, I know this country is going nowhere but up. This is our duty. This is our time. Let’s convince our parents to vote for good leaders and together, let’s build a better Philippines that we all long to see.
COMMENTARY
Poll Automation: Can our teachers make it? by Cris Bandao
For so many years, our beloved teachers all across the country had been put to so much pressure when Elections come into picture. They brave the tendency of being abused and they served as our nation’s vanguards against election cheating. Good thing the Commission on Elections had approved the automation of our election system, which, according
to Comelec Chair Jose Melo will cut by half the number of teachers who will serve during election day. That means only 400, 000 teachers will serve, less than the usual 750,000. This is good news but Comelec should make the necessary move to train our teachers of the process that entails the system. They must act now before the time falls short.
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To deny the freedom of the will is to make morality impossible. - James Froude
PERSEUS
Opinion
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VOLUME XIV NO. 1
No Spin.Just News.
>>>>>>> EDITOR Letters to the
Mr. Jose M. Aquino
Taking the Lead
Inasmuch as the academic performance of the school is the primary indicator to gauge succession all school endeavors, the administration of Don Ricardo Briz Central Elementary School has been implementing initiatives that geared towards the attainment of highest passing rate possible in the National Achievement Test (NAT) of the students. The school administration is regarded as one of the realizations to link theories to practice. May this issue promote a symbiotic and collaborative relationship between and among the administrator, teachers, pupils, Non-Government Organizations, Government Organizations, stakeholders and community leaders. We are standing at the thresh-
old of 2009. Most people take chances of doing well on as assigned roles, overcome bad habit, experimenting greener ventures, improving on misfortunes and developing different priorities. We are now on the middle pat of our journey for this school year but great challenges are yet to come. The road ahead will be long and our climb will be steep. On this note, it is very important to develop the culture of helping each other so that we can achieve the goals that we are longing to see. Let this be our personal battlecry -- to become a productive school without forgetting that our true asset lies not on the best facilities that we have but on the indomitable spirit that our teachers and pupils have in mind.
Correspondence from the Editor-in-Chief on the different issues circulating in the campus today
Dear Editor, Hi. I want to congratulate you and your staff for a job well done. I write you because I want to ask some question regarding the segregation of garbage in our school. What are the measures that is being adopted by our Pupil Government? I look forward for you answer. Thank you so much. Truly yours, Cristine Mae, VI-Magsaysay Cristine Mae, Thank you for your letter. Well, the PGO is actively supporting waste segregation as the school and the barangay and city people are strictly implementing this law under Republic Act 9003. I hope that you are following it, too. God bless! The Editor Dear Editor, Some students were not properly singing our country’s national anthem, especially during our flag ceremony. I am alarmed. -Miss Not Blasé Cristine Mae, Rest assured that this matter will be addressed to all our teachers, especially our MSEP Teachers. The Editor
Ma. Lourdes E. Odtojan
Bridge over Troubled Waters
All work and no play makes John a dull boy. The total development of an individual lies not only on the four corners of the classroom. Other aspects should be considered in the pursuit of gaining finisse, especially in child development. This is a universal fact and everybody knows this for sure. This leads me to the present situation that our school is facing today. The administration of the school and the parents had agreed to pay to the Parent Teachers Association in the amount of 100 pesos that will sustain projects and other programs being supported by the PTA and the school administration that benefits the pupils of this school. Had it happen and if parents just promptly pay the said amount, it will sustain the programs that aims the
development of musical skills of the interested pupils, just to mention a few. The money that will be collected would have been used to pay hired trainors for the rondalla team and the Drum and Bugle Corps of the school which ceased operation since the school had followed the “No Collection Policy” of the Department of Education. s I strongly believe that this is unfair on the part of the pupils. I was informed that less than 50 parents only had cared to pay the agreed amount. While I’m not blaming others for not doing so, I think it is their responsibility to pay for it. It’s just funny that we are raking golds when it comes to student achievement but the back of it lies the fact that we are backlogged in increasing total development of our pupils. It’s like passing a bridge over troubled waters.
Teopanes F. Geraldo
Ondoy, Pepeng and Climate Change
Super Typhoon Ondoy and Pepeng crashed all over Central Luzon and the National Capital Region and killed many individuals and billions of properties were drowned. According to PAGASA, the Philippines will experience series of typhoons again before the year ends and next year as expected. What’s next to Ondoy and Pepeng? This is one of many questions that came up that many Filipinos want to know what really is the real score behind it. During the months of March to May, the country is scorching with the heat of the sun and many are celebrating the summer season. But this could change as the world is facing Climate Change, especially here in the country. What is this all about?In the Philippines, we are enjoying two seasons in the entire year: the sum-
mer and the rainy seasons. But because of global warming, the world is suffering too much heat from the sun that made the air and water malfunctioned in their respective “duties”. That is why PAGASA declared that our climate has changed drastically and as expected we are experiencing moderate and heavy rains eventhough its not rainy season. But fortunately, many Filipinos are trying to stand again after the two storms devastated the country and now they are aware about Climate Change and the threats that it will bring to them. Here in Davao, we are so lucky that we are spared from the whip of nature but let us not wait for this to happen to us. Simple acts will do. Segregate waste is one thing that we can do. This will mean a lot in our fight against climate change.
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PERSEUS
VOLUME XIV NO. 1
No Spin.Just News.
Feat
Thank you,
Presid
“I would rather die a meaningful death than to live a meaningless life.”
It came as a surprise. It was past noon when my family sat on the pouch for our regular TV viewing habit. But that day didn’t occurred normal as news about a woman who has just died was airing in the airwaves. Her name is Corazon Cojuangco “Cory” Aquino. First, I was annoyed with the fact that we can’t pursue with our planned TV viewing but when I saw the poignant reaction of my mother and as the tears fell from her eyes, I knew that someone great has just left the country. Before this occured, I only knew about her in my history class as one of our past presidents, wife of a martyr hero, mother of Kris and Sen. Noynoy Aquino and the one who led a peaceful revolution that toppled a dictatorship and restored democracy in the Philippines. In my lifetime, I can regard Tita Cory as the greatest Filipino that ever lived. And please don’t ask me why. You know the answers. Barely two months from her death, we will miss our dearest President Cory and her strong guiding hand. But she deserves her rest, and it is time now for us to be on our own. As students there is no greater tribute we can pay her than to abide by the tenets that guided her life: honesty, integrity, courage, transparency, selflessness, morality, and love of country. I thank her for making
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ture ature
VOLUME XIV NO. 1
No Spin.Just News.
dent Cory by Jessamie Guillen
us ordinary people feel very special and for reminding us of our capacity for greatness, as a nation and as a people. I make one last wish of her: give us the courage to defend and enhance our democracy that you worked so hard to restore. I want to thank her for making me proud being a Filipino. Yes, Cory’s death made me love my country more and care for it. Furthermore, it made me very thankful for the freedom that I and you are enjoying today. More than a thousand years ago, the Greek philosopher Socrates asked a strange question: “What does it mean to live a good life?” If someone had asked me that question a few months ago before President Cory died, I would have told him to go to a spa. But with the recent deaths of popular icons like Cory Aquino, such questions don’t seem so strange. Not only are we forced to confront our own mortality, we are also inundated with tributes to lives well lived. Yet in the face of the popular rediscovery of Cory’s political significance, the questions multiply. If she was one such person who lived her life well, how do we emulate her? How exactly do we “continue the fight”? The answer lies in our hearts. It’s up for us to act and emulate just like the woman who made the color yellow the color of our country’s democracy and patriotism.President Cory haven’t left us. Good leaders and patriots never die. They just meet in heaven.
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VOLUME XIV NO. 1
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We are the one’s we’ve been waiting for. We are the change. -Barack Obama
Feature
If I could only
stop typhoons
As I gaze upon the television, I saw horrible pictures of our country’s devastation and the wrath of three consecutive typhoons that hit the Pearl of the Orient. Pictures of my fellow children braving the brownish current, parents rearing their children in the evacuation centers and ordinary Filipino’s courage to help. If Ondoy, Pepeng and Ramil had a positive impact on our society, it’s that
by Teopanes Geraldo
it had brought the best of the Filipino. We had proved once more that we can work as one and we can be a caring and sharing nation. The typhoon’s winds may be strong. But the Filipino is much stronger. As I watch these images, I could not help but to dream. If I could only stop typhoons and storms, I know this country will really be a country free from the angry waters and strong winds. If I could only stop it, I am sure my fellow
children will be free from harm and will not be braving the brownish and strong current of floodwater. And I really can’t put a halt to it, how I wish we had more boats to rescue people who are in dire need. But I still believe that what happened is a wake-up call for all of us to care for our environment. I know we learned our lesson well.
Looking forward to
Christmas in Tagum by Sheina Mae Comprado
Christmas Trees and Christmas lights, Christmas carols and carolees and mountains of foods are some of the primary expectations of many people in the whole world. Sharing gifts, giving, and receiving and singing Christmas songs and dancing on the street with companions. These are the reasons why we Tagumenos make the difference on celebrating the most important event in every town, ”the Christmas”. The very long Christmas tree, and
various of activities are the highlights of Tagum’s celebration during Christmas time and many are enjoying while some are participating as you see big smiles and smooth laughs. Tagum City is sparkling in this month of celebration because of Christmas lights accompanied by tones of songs and rhythm of dance. Everybody wants to experience a series of happiness especially during Christmas as we celebrate it and give importance on the special day of our Lord Jesus Christ and this is the true meaning of Christmas as Tagumenos never forget it. This is the reason why
Tagum City has its own aura and power to open doors and welcomes everyone to join and celebrate Christmas and make it an unforgettable moment of everyone’s life. This coming Christmas, all we have to do is to give our heart on it. Celebrate it with your love ones, make this Christmas as one of your special day that no one can steal it from you. Be positive even the situation is blasé because the most important is to make Jesus as your main goal. Just think that this is your time to open your soul and to make your life full of memories with Him during Christmas time.
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It is our attitude, not just our aptitude that will ultimately determine our altitude.
Literary Potpourri
Trees
If Only
by Ma. Lourdes Odtojan
by Nicko Mabido
If man could only act like a blade of grass That grows humbly by the railroad, Though people tread upon it, It bends to rise again unbroken, unraffled; If man were just as prudent Prudent like the “Silent water” Bragging not of his mental power Physical strengths, and other more; If man could be more tolerant, While others act without restraint Act and reach so tempered with Considerate to his reason fellow person
Trees are God gifts to us It makes our surroundings beautiful It help prevent flood It gives fresh air Their leaves protect us from heat of the sun Lumber help us to build houses and buildings It gives us food and shelter Animals and man love to eat fruits of trees Illegal logging now rampant Please do not cut trees We plant again many trees So that someday children will be happy and gay
Then man would be happy to live’ Every heart filled with compassion In the spirit of “Live and let live” Instead of cat-throat competition.
Teachers
by Teopanes Geraldo They are our light In our way Teaching us which Is the good way For you is a child The teacher is your second mother In school or anywhere
Water by Rachel Llanes
Water is a part of our natural resources It is so important in our life It helps us to cook food If there is no water we will die Water help us to clean our body It help us to wash our clothes It is also help us to dissolve the food we eat By drinking water our thirst will be satisfy Water is hard to be seen It is so important in our life So we should not waste it Maybe one day water will be gone
God by Wowie Igcalinos God is powerful He made the plants, the animals And the human beings He also made the trees, The grass and the flowers Blooming God made the world Beautiful and wonderful So we must take care of them all.
School
by Alice Shane Ortiz A place for us can learn How to read and write A second home for us To learn the right values
I miss my Mom by Christine Mae Appari
Mommy, where are you? Night and day you’re always in my mind Remembering your voice Singing for me as I could sleep Mommy, where are you? I miss your touch and hug So I can comfortably sleep and wake up with all your care
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VOLUME XIV NO. 1
No Spin.Just News.
The Sound Around Us by Vergel Binag
I love to hear many sounds, The song of the singing birds The wave of the air All of them are sweet. I also love silent sound, I can shout if I want I can sing and dance But if I am lonely, I just want to cry But for me all sounds are lovely It makes me laugh and happy All day
Our LIBRARY by Karla Natad Our school library, With all the books You can see Open for everybody For you and me To see the reality
Be humble To be humble is a virtue we should hold To be humble at all times is what God wants A humble child remains the same Even with his achievements Proud of himself But still humble to his own way
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VOLUME XIV NO. 1
No Spin.Just News.
Science
Global Warning:
Self-trust is the essence of heroism. -Anonymous
Global Warming
We unravel the Incovenient Truth and how you can be an EcoHero
Researched by Charlemagne Caber
An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure! During this trying times where the diseases is sprouting like mushrooms, we should regularly wash our hands to prevent germs and other bacteria to enter our body. So, here’s the proper procedure in washing our hands! Do it while singing Happy Birthday! Here it is: Wet hands and wrist. Apply Soap. Right palm over left, left over right
Face it: We’re now facing many trees ro produce lumber and the greatest challenge and it paper. Trees absorb carbon dioxits burdens lie on the shoulder ide but when they are cut down, of humanity. Everyone is at then more carbon dioxide is left in stake. Call it Global Warm- the atmosphere. THE CONSEQUENCE ing. As a result of global warming, The Earth is surrounded by an atmo- the air temperature on Earth insphere of gases. These creases causing the ice caps at the gases keep the Earth’s surface Northern and Southern Latiat an average temperature of 15 tudes begin to m elt. The sea degrees centigrade. “...In tropical countries like the Without this atmoPhilippines, an increase in air sphere, the Earth’s temperature would temperature would mean be 35 degrees more typhoons...” warmer. level will rise and consequently WHAT IS GLOBAL WARMING When the amount of gases in many animals and people who the atmosphere increases, then the live near the coastal areas may temperature increases, too. This is lose their homes. An increase of called global warming. The main 3.5 degrees will cause the sea gas which causes global warmin level rise by one meter. In tropical g is carbon dioxide. Since the countries like the Philippines, an 1850’s, the amount of carbon di- increase in air temperature would oxide in the atmosphere has in- mean more typhoons -- just like creased by about 25% due to the Ondoy and Pepeng and Ramil -burning of fossil fuels such as because they are formed in high coal and oil. When the vehicles temperatures. More typhoons will and factories burn fossil fuels, cause more flooding, loss of propthey release carbon dioxide into erties, farm crops, and even lives. the atmosphere.Another cause of Every year, the Philippines and increased carbon dioxide in the many countries in Southeast Asia atmosphere is the cutting down of experienced these problems.
Ardi: Link to the Missing Link? Her scientific name is Ardipi- Ethiopia. In 1994, her hand bone
thecus ramidus, and scientists call her Ardi for short. She is ancient Palm to Palm, — her bones are 4.4 million years fingers laced old — and is making scientists think about the distant past in a Back fingers to whole new way. opposing fingers Ardi is an example of an exinterlocked tinct species that may help scientists understand how human beRotational rubbing ings evolved the way we did. She is a hominid, which means she of right thumb clasped in left palm belongs to the same evolutionary family as people. It’s not clear Rotational rubbing whether Ardi was a direct ancestor of humans. Ardi first started backwards and to show up in 1992, when scienupwards tists found her fossilized teeth in
was found. For three years after that, scientists worked to remove more of her skeleton, including her arms, hands, pelvis, legs and feet. She was believed to be female because she had a relatively small skull and small canine teeth. Some scientists have believed that the common ancestor of people and apes resembled a chimpanzee, but Ardi shows that idea may not be true. Ardi’s partial skeleton that scientists have
by Vergel Binag BE AN ECO-HERO The main solution to this problem is to reduce the use of fossil fuels such as coal and oil. This means reducing the amount of gasoline used in private cars by developing efficient public transport systems such as jeepneys and buses. When we recycle bottles, plastic and paper products f o r reprocessing them into new products. This will result to reducing the amount of fossil fuels used. We can also plant trees, We all live on the same planet Earth. What we do in one place will affect us all wherever we live. We breathe the same air, drink the Earth’s water and grow our food in the Earth’s soil. We cannot escape the effects of what is happening to the Earth’s environment. We should join the whole world in protecting the “house” in which we all live. We only have one. If we do not protect it, we will risk losing it. by Rachel Llanes
found shows that she could walk upright and easily climb trees and move along branches — traits more easily identified in monkeys or apes. Owen Lovejoy, an anthropologist at Kent State University in Ohio, also thinks scientists can learn a lot from Ardi’s teeth. He says small canines — especially in the males of the species — suggest that the males rarely fought. In Ardi’s teeth, Lovejoy sees the beginning of an evolutionary process that led to human beings. “This is one of the most revealing hominid fossils that I could have imagined,” he says.
Our greatest glory consist not in every falling but in rising everytime we may fall.
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PERSEUS
Sports
By Wowie G. Igcalinos
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VOLUME XIV NO. 1
No Spin.Just News.
Wowie G. Igcalinos
Playing Takyan: Banned?
And off she sailed to the southern seas, the grand “balangay.”
An epic sea adventure began under azure skies as an intrepid group of Filipinos set sail aboard a replica of a balangay (pre-colonial boat) in a quest to retrace the seafaring routes of our ancestors. The “Diwata ng Lahi” pushed off on Manila Bay to the cheers and prayers of supporters and sponsors to begin a 120-day southward journey across Philippine waters using the olden ways of navigating the seas. This is the first phase of an ambitious three-part voyage spearheaded by the first Philippine expedition team to Mt. Everest, which now dreams of circumnavigating the globe aboard the Diwata. “We will sail the way our fore-
fathers did. We will try to be as faithful as we can to the old ways of navigating the seas,” said team leader Art Valdez, former transportation undersecretary and current head of Kaya ng Pinoy Foundation. The balangay crew will follow the migration route taken by the Austronesian-speaking people ages ago and will try to make their way around the vast oceans the way they did—by observing the direction of migrating birds, the location of the sun and stars, and cloud and wave patterns. The team will only sail during the day and at each port call spend two to five days in the nearest community to promote environmental advocacy. The first balangay was excavated in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, in 1978 and, based on carbondating, was built in 320 A.D.
Confusion comes along my mind, making me trapped to the question why the school authorities imposed rules prohibiting children to play “sipa”, popularly known here in our school as “takyan.” I believe this is one of the Larong Pinoy games which our government lately encouraged the Department of Education to revive this on the field. My misperception gives me an avenue to ponder and weigh reasons behind the im-
Tagum BSP Council celebrates scouting month
by Vergel Binag Boys Scouts of the Philip- dreds of scouts from elementary pines Tagum City Associate and secondary schools in the city. Council is celebrating “Scouting “Scouting will provide an opMonth” with the theme “Scout- portunity for every young scout ing: Creating a Better World.” to develop themselves to become This celebration is based better persons and instill in them on the Presidential Proclama- the value of patriotism, comtion 1326 declaring October of munity involvement, courage, every year as Scouting Month. self-reliance, time consciousFor the month long celebra- ness, and good moral values,” tion, an opening parade was held said BSP Council Vice Chairman at 4:30 dawn on October 1st and and Vice Mayor Allan Rellon. was well participated by hun-
Badminton 101 Researched by Teopanes Geraldo
Badminton evolved from a Chinese game of the 5th century bc called ti jian zi that involved kicking the shuttle. A later version of the sport was played in ancient Greece and India with rackets rather than with feet. A similar game called shuttlecock, or jeu de volant, appeared in Europe during the 1600s. British army officers brought a revised version of the game back to Britain from India in the mid19th century. In 1873 the duke of Beaufort introduced the game to royalty at his country estate, Bad-
know your favorite game’s history
minton House, and the sport became known as badminton. Four years later the Bath Badminton Club was founded. The version played by its members forms the basis for today’s game. Badminton soon spread beyond Britain to the rest of Europe and to countries throughout the world. It became especially popular in Asia and North America. The only major change through the years was in playing equipment, as lightweight rackets made of aluminum, boron, graphite, and titanium gradually replaced
plementation. This order from the school principal surfaced after one parent complained that she was hit by a takyan. Thus, in order to prevent any further damages and accident that could happen to anyone inside the campus, Mr. Jose M. Aquino ordered to ban the playing of takyan inside the school premises. Finally, I am convinced that this order is just fair and right to follow. Mr. Aquino just thinks of our safety and welfare.
wooden models. Badminton’s first world championships were held in 1977. Denmark’s Flemming Delfs and Lene Koppen won the men’s and women’s singles titles, respectively. Since then, East Asian nations—primarily China and Indonesia—have dominated professional badminton. In both countries, badminton is as popular as basketball is in the United States or soccer is in Britain. Spectators at matches typically sing, chant, and cheer for their favorite players or teams.
by Wowie Igcalinos
EDITORIAL
Have we done enough? Since the Philippines had joined the modern-day Olympiad where all great athletes from the four corners of the world, one dream had become so elusive and hard to achieve: to bring home an Olympic Gold. We really can’t question the winnability of our Olympians for they are really trying their hard to chase that elusive dream. Primarily, the answer why this has been so hard to get falls back on our government. Bad enough, our government is really urging our athletes to bring home that gold and make the country and the world proud. This comes to a mischievous light. Before saying this, the government must put all the financial support to our athletes form them to be equipped well before joining the competition. Data shows that in China where the government is spending much for the training of its athletes gained positive results. In fact, they came second after the United States during the conduct of the 2008 Summer Olympics held at Beijing, China. The dream to snatch a gold is once again poised as the country prepares for the 2012 Olympics in London. The result of this game will reflect how broad our government’s support is to our athletes. Whether they will win or lost, the government haven’t done enough.
All is set for the greatest duel of all time of two great boxers on both side of the world! Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao is set to brawl against Puerto Rico’s Miguel Cotto in a 145-pound weight limit-fight on November 14 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Preparing to what could have been his last bout, Manny Pacquaio started his training at the Pine City of Baguio. Pacquiao, who still has only had three of his 54 bouts above 130 pounds, preferred it to be as
low as possible and no higher than 144. Cotto’s physical trainer said he couldn’t safely fight below 145 pounds and Pacquiao ultimately agreed to the weight. “It’s definitely not going to be a boxing exhibition where two guys are running circles around each other. There are some fights that should properly be called boxing matches, but this is one where it’s totally accurate to call it a fight,”said trainer Fred Roach.
Mrs. Antonietta G. Igcalinos a Grade VI teacher of DRBCES was one of the delegates to Dance XChange: 1st Philippine International Dance Workshop and Festival which was held in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental last April 26-May 1, 2009. “I feel very privilege to be chosen delegate of the 1st International Dance XChange in the Philippines “said Igcalinos. The activity was organized by the National Committee on Dance of the National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCAA) with the theme “Cultural Exchange and Connectivity through Dance”
The festival was participated by ten countries. The aim of the said workshop were a.) Provide venue for interaction and facilitate learning between dancers, directors, dance teachers, choreographer from the other countries and the dance groups, choreographers, dancers and dance directors, teachers, tourism and cultural officers and students from the Philippines; b.) Provide new ideas and inspiration that will stimulate the creativity of the dance educators, directors choreographers; and c.) Showcase the unique dances of each country to facilitate cultural understanding.
Igcalinos attends Int’l Dance Fest by Nicko Mabido