The Scroll

by MAOWIE GRAZIE TAN

The Department of Education (DepEd) has launched "Catch-Up Fridays," starting on January 12 at San Francisco High School. This initiative is part of DepEd's efforts to address the Philippines' poor performance in the latest Program for International Student Assessment (PISA)

In the 2022 PISA, Filipino students aged 15 and below scored significantly lower than the global average with an average reading score of 347 points compared to the global average of 476, placing the country among the lowest performers out of 81 countries

To combat this trend DepEd issued a memorandum on January 10, mandating the implementation of the National Reading Program in all schools, which includes the "Drop Everything and Read" (DEAR) program

English teacher Damaso Pauig, Jr expressed support for the DEAR program stating "This DEAR program that the DepEd is now implementing is one good way of encouraging our students to start and engage them to read " Pauig emphasized the importance of reading comprehension, noting that students often read without fully understanding the material

As long as we can breathe and our eyes can see, we will read, and we will grow because we read.

LORCA JR

ILLUSTRATIONbyRUBEN

Despite DepEd's directive, some teachers have reportedly not fully embraced the DEAR program, opting to prioritize traditional lessons and activities over reading sessions One student lamented, "Some teachers just take pictures for documentation After the picture-taking, we don't do anything They don't ask us to read "

Catch-Up Fridays aims to improve students' reading abilities and address the declining reading skills among Filipino youth, as highlighted by the 2022 PISA scores DepEd hopes that through these initiatives, students will develop stronger reading habits and improve their comprehension skills

BREAK NE

PARENTS,FACULTYOFFICERSTAKEOATH ATSANFRANCISCOHIGHSCHOOL

byNICOLESALAZAR

Newly elected members of the Homeroom Parent-Teacher Association (HPTA), School ParentTeacher Association (SPTA), and Faculty Employees Association (FEA) of San Francisco High School were sworn in on December 1st at the school’s covered court

Counselors from the first district including Alex Bernard Herrera Charm Ferrer and Tani Joe “TJ” Calalay led the oath-taking for the HPTA Congressman Juan Carlos Arjo Atayde and Ollie Belmonte, representing Mayor Joy Belmonte presided over the inauguration of the SPTA and FEA, respectively

Addressing the faculty, Congr essman Atayde emphasized the importance of their compassion and advocacy for the next generation "You build leaders, children, and the generation, he stressed, adding that teachers must love their students as if they were their own

In closing, Renato Luanzon, SPTA president pledged to improve campus security for the students "We will work closely with the barangay and city council to ensure there are no more stabbings fights or bomb threats outside the school premises We will make it happen " Luanzon affirmed

SFHS TEACHERS EXCEL WITH INSET

by KHAYEZELPILOTO

San Francisco High School's INSET 2024, themed "KIKONIANS:

Malasakit at Katatagan sa Hamon ng Buhay," took place from January 24 to 26, 29, and 30 Teachers attended daily 8-hour sessions from 8 a m to 5 p m Dr Roland D Montes discussed Inclusive Education, followed by Joycelyn G Sy on Catch-up Friday and DEAR implementation Fernan L Gutierrez led crisis management and safety sessions, and Amelia Pagdanganan covered personality development

The second day focused on students in conflict with the law, including talks on the Safe Space –Anti Bastos Law and the Quezon City Anti-Drug Abuse Advisory Council Atty Matthew B Domingono discussed legal responsibilities and Cristina P David talked about Wellness

The third day included research discussions by Ana Jamila A Restubog and changes for public school teachers by QCPSTA representatives

Dr Carlo Magno emphasized reading comprehension and Content-Based Language Instruction (CBLI), with a workshop on CBLI lesson planning The final day covered Constitutional Amendments and Financial Literacy

INSET 2024 refreshed teachers' knowledge providing tools to enhance teaching methods and benefit student learning

to enhance teaching methods and benefit student learning

SFHS JOINS NATIONAL TREE-PLANTING

San Francisco High School (SFHS) made a significant contribution to environmental conservation on Wednesday, December 6 2023 by participating in the Department of Education’s (DepEd) nationwide tree-planting activity The initiative known as DepEd Memorandum No 69 series 2023 titled “DepEd’s 236 000 Trees - A Christmas Gift for the Children, remarked that a total of 47 678 public schools across the country come together to plant trees

SSLG ATTEN BIDA KA

and SFHS Principal Dr Florito J Gereña the activity involved 29 participants from various sectors including the Supreme Secondary Learner Government (SSLG) Officers Girls and Boys Scouts of the Philippines (GSP and BSP) and teaching and non-teaching staff

The tree-planting activity not only contributed to the school's environmental efforts but also provided a hands-on learning experience for students As classes were held asynchronously the the he

PHOTOFROM SSLGFBPAGE

PHOTO BY JEMIMACAMILA

PHOTO BY SAMANTHAARGONZA

PHOTOFROM

PHOTOFROMSAMANTHAARGONZA

byAARONJECKOMALLARI

The San Francisco High School Quezon City Alumni Association Inc (SFHSQCAAI) has initiated a scholarship program aimed at providing financial assistance to students facing economic challenges Through this program, students will receive a monthly allowance to help alleviate their financial burdens

According to Renato Vicente a member of the Alumni Board of Trustees the program is more of an assistance than a scholarship He explained, It is only an assistance because we cannot purely determine the amount that would suffice for the means of the students Though it is only merely a helping [hand] giving allowance to the students "

SFHS ENROLLMENT: TRENDS AND SHIFTS

To be eligible for the scholarship students must maintain a general average of at least 85 and pass an interview The scholarship aims to support students like Jodel Obligar a graduate of SFHS who is now pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Criminology at Bestlink College of the Philippines Obligar shared "The scholarship means a lot to me because I can buy my daily school needs It also helps me because I have a daily allowance "

The scholarship application process is open through the SFHSQCAAI s Facebook page Interested students are encouraged to message the page for more information on how to apply and meet the necessary qualifications

SFHS STUDES COLLABORATE FOR BRIGADA ESKWELA 2023

Led by the Supreme Secondary Learners Government (SSLG) officers teachers and other school staff along with volunteer students the theme of this year s Brigada Eskwela was "Bayanihan Para sa Matatag na Paaralan "

Activities during the week included repairing usable items with minor damage cleaning classrooms and painting rooms to prepare the school for the upcoming school year

The collaborative efforts of SSLG officers and students ensured that Brigada Eskwela 2023 was successfully conducted, resulting in a clean and conducive environment for learning at SFHS San Francisco High School (SFHS) students joined forces with the school staff in a week-long initiative, Brigada Eskwela, from August 14 to 19, 2023, aimed at beautifying the campus

Earl James Salondaguit, the SSLG auditor, emphasized the importance of the event stating "During Brigada Eskwela we planned activities like cleaning and beautifying the school The goal is to make our school better so students and teachers have a more comfortable and conducive place for learning

The initiative received a strong response from students, with many volunteering to help prepare the school for the new academic year John Fernandez, the SSLG Grade 9 representative, highlighted the ecological aspect of the activities stating that Brigada Eskwela 2023 aimed to attract volunteers to ecologically improve the school Fernandez added "Brigada Eskwela is aimed at maintaining cleanliness and monitoring each building for the upcoming school year Clean-up drives were the activities that the organizations did inside the school premises with each tasked with monitoring different buildings It had a huge impact especially with the amount of effort the students and staff put in including teachers "

Enrollment for the school year 2023-2024 at San Francisco High School (SFHS) has concluded, revealing interesting trends in student program preferences From July 25 to 31, 2023, students, including those in the Alternative Learning System (ALS), registered for classes, indicating diverse interests and academic paths

Junior High School (JHS) Programs

SFHS offers the Special Program in the Arts (SPA) in Visual Arts, Creative Writing Dance Music and Media Arts Among these Music attracted the highest number of enrollees, with 63 students, while Creative Writing had the lowest, with only 20 students

Visual Arts: 55 students

Creative Writing: 20 students

Dance: 39 students

Music: 63 students

Media Arts: 30 students

The Special Program in Foreign Languages (SPFL) offers Mandarin and Deutsch Mandarin garnered a higher enrollment, with 98 students, compared to Deutsch s 64 students

Deutsch Program: 64 students

Mandarin Program: 98 students

SFHS also offers the Special Program in Journalism (SPJ) with 159 enrollees In its fourth year, the Science and Technology and Engineering (STE) program attracted 279 students indicating sustained interest in STEM fields

The regular JHS program had 4407 enrollees demonstrating a significant number of students opting for the traditional academic track

Senior High School (SHS) Programs For SHS, SFHS offers Academic Tracks in Accounting and Business Management (ABM) Science and Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), General Academic Strand (GAS) and Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) Additionally there is a Technical-VocationalLivelihood Track (TVL) with strands in Animation and Computer Programming

Grade 11: ABM (298) STEM (137) GAS (201), HUMSS (326), TVL (294) - Total: 1256

Grade 12: ABM (334) STEM (590) GAS (160) HUMSS (340) TVL (294) - Total: 1718

The enrollment numbers for Grade 11 and Grade 12 show interesting contrasts While Grade 11 has a total enrollment of 1256 students, Grade 12 has a higher enrollment of 1718 students indicating a significant increase in the number of students progressing to Grade 12 This increase could be attributed to various factors including student retention and the attractiveness of senior high school tracks offered by SFHS

The distribution of students across academic tracks also differs between Grade 11 and Grade 12

In Grade 11 the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) track has the highest enrollment with 326 students In contrast in Grade 12 the Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) track has the highest enrollment with 590 students This shift in track preferences between grades suggests that student interests and career aspirations may evolve as they progress through senior high school

Overall, the enrollment data for Grade 11 and Grade 12 reflect the diverse academic offerings at SFHS and the dynamic nature of student preferences as they advance in their academic journey

byLhiaEllhiseTabrillaandAlecxeneEowynBanzagales

CUP

byBEATRICEMAEBARGUIO

Dr Florito J Gerena and other San Francisco High School (SFHS) heads visited Germany from July 9-15, 2023, strengthening the school's global ties with the Quezon City Division

During the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 organized by the Goethe-Institut, SFHS students honed their language skills and football prowess known as Doppelpass while competing internationally

Mark Earnest Reyes and the Deutsch Family SFHS students, trained by Coach Reyes were selected to represent the Philippines

Students like Aliyah Falqueza trained alongside the German team expressing gratitude for the invaluable guidance of coaches Oliver and Ali

SFHS X-ED: THE AIM FOR TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

byASHLYSOFIAPALMITOS

San Francisco High School (SFHS) and the Supreme Secondary Learners Government (SSLG), led by President Masaki Enomoto, participated in the Multiply-Ed (X-Ed) event in Quezon City on October 21, 2023

X-Ed, themed #Malayang Edukasyon PH brought together twelve additional school governing councils from Quezon City SFHS was represented by members of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) head teachers and SSLG President Masaki Enomoto

X-Ed an initiative focusing on education accountability led by youth collaborates with various sectors and levels, including the Bukluran UP System (BUPS) Government Watch (G-Watch) Student Council Alliance of the Philippines (SCAP), and Center for Youth Advocacy and Networking (CYAN)

The event featured workshops and brainstorming sessions with public leaders and other school council governments to enhance school governance councils role in promoting accountability Speakers emphasized the constructive responsibility of school governance councils (SGCs) Humphrey Soriano and Stephen Raotraot served as the event's masters of ceremonies

X-Ed has given the school council a solid platform to promote accountability and transparency specifically in monitoring the conduct of both students and public officials

Auf Ballhöhe conducted a two-day German football training session with SFHS students enhancing their football knowledge and skills

SFHS hosted the German National Football Team on July 27 and 28, 2023, thanks to SFHS Football coach

KIKONIANS SHOWCASE MATH PROWESS WITH CREATIVE FLAIR

Breaking the mold of traditional Math Education, students at San Francisco High School recently turned their Social Hall into a stage for creativity and calculation during Mathematics Month 2024 With a theme of "Playing with Math," the event showcased not only mathematical prowess but also a fusion of art and numbers, captivating audiences, and participants alike

The celebration held on January 19, 2024, featured a variety of competitions and activities aimed at sparking interest in mathematics among students in Grades 7 through 10 The culminating event, which included competitions such as Poster Making Sudoku Challenge Rubik's Cube Challenge Math Spoken Poetry, Sipnayan TikTok, DaMath, and the Math Quiz Bee (both group and individual categories) served as the main attraction of Mathematics Month

SFHS emerged victorious in the Goethe-World Cup 2023 defeating Chu Van An High School Hanoi (Vietnam), Oberon High School Geelong (Australia) and Mana College Purirua (New Zealand)

The visit to Germany and participation in the Goethe-World Cup strengthened SFHS's global connections These connections give students valuable cultural and educational experiences that shape their future endeavors

byNOAHESCULTURA

One of the most unique competitions was the Polynomial Dancing Challenge, where students integrated mathematical concepts into their performances Shirley A Buenrostro, Master Teacher – II and a Mathematics teacher expressed before the event "All participants will be considered winners, as we will be awarding them trophies, highlighting the inclusive nature of the competition and its focus on celebrating mathematical creativity

Ryan Joseph A Aduna and Rhea Jane T Tangalin, Mathematics teachers served as the Masters of Ceremonies guiding the audience through the various events Tangalin remarked "This event is a witness of the dedication of our students to the world of mathematics " recognizing the learners’ commitment to the subject

The award ceremony was a culmination of the day's events, where winners received medals, trophies, and certificates The judges including Ron Ebrada Emanuel Rodriguez and Simone Aspa were instrumental in selecting the winners The occasion was elevated by the presence of Dr Babylyn Castillo Head Teacher –VI of the Araling Panlipunan Department and Dr Frailen S Perez Head Teacher – VI of the Mathematics Department

The San Francisco High School Mathematics Month celebration not only provided students with an opportunity to showcase their mathematical skills but also fostered camaraderie and enthusiasm for the subject making it a memorable and rewarding experience for all involved

SFHS CENTREX SCHOLARS SPEARHEAD YOUTH ADVOCACY IN SPECIAL KKK EVENT

byURAINEASHLEYBAGTAS

The San Francisco High School Covered Court was abuzz with activity on December 1, 2023, as the 25th Batch of SFHS Center for Excellence (CentrEx) scholars organized a special edition of Kapakanan ng Kabataang Kiko (KKK), focusing on critical issues affecting the youth

Assistant Principal Cristina P David set the tone with an inspiring address, emphasizing the crucial role of engaging young minds for societal change

The event featured four thoughtfully curated booths each addressing pressing concerns InTep Success took the lead, offering insights into teenage pregnancy tailored for Grade 7 students The booth aimed not only to educate but also to empower youth with knowledge to prevent such situations Meanwhile San Plantsisco led efforts to promote a greener SFHS by encouraging environmentally conscious practices at home, encapsulated in their slogan Para maging greener ang SFHS "

Let It Gew focused on promoting mental health awareness and well-being addressing the growing need to destigmatize mental health issues and provide valuable resources for students Simultaneously, Le Treatment addressed the sensitive issue of child abuse prevention aiming to educate students to recognize and prevent such incidents creating a safer environment for all children

The scholars dedication was evident as they seamlessly blended informative booths with engaging discussions showcasing their commitment to making a tangible impact on the school community and beyond The success of the KKK: Kapakanan ng Kabataang Kiko event not only disseminated crucial information but also fostered open dialogue among students nurturing a sense of responsibility and awareness SFHS through initiatives like these, solidifies its position as a hub for nurturing informed, empathetic and socially conscious individuals among its student body

PHOTOFROM SSLGFBPAGE

PHOTOFROM SSLGFBPAGE

It's time to catch up! The implementation of Catch-Up Fridays and the Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) initiative since January 12 this year was a response to the disappointing results of the Program for International Students Assessment (PISA) 2022 evaluation, which highlighted a learning crisis in the country

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte acknowledged the students' reading, writing, comprehension and computation deficiencies as evidenced by the Philippines' ranking of 77th out of 81 countries This prompted the introduction of the long-overdue learning program in November 2023 Finally Duterte has shifted her focus to improving the education system rather than other less urgent matters

Alexander Sucalit, the officer-in-charge of the DepEd's Bureau of Education AssessmentEducation Research Division emphasized that if we consider the

Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development's (OECD) 20point average deficit as a year lag then our education system is five to six years behind

DepEd's crucial strategy is to allocate time every Friday; the first half of the day is dedicated to reading while the second half focuses on peace, values, and health education, aiming to bridge the learning gap The DEAR sessions include the ReadA-Thon, which allows students to orally retell or interpret the text they read encouraging active use of their comprehension, impromptu speaking and critical thinking skills

However, let's face reality Our education system is like an old dartboard that needs replacing, yet DepEd throws wet darts at it Will implementing new programs like Catch-Up Fridays help fix outdated and lagging systems?

Despite the helpful programs, some teachers fail to implement them into their schedules Others take photos of their students reading for documentation purposes and some students intentionally absent themselves during Fridays, missing the essence of Catch-Up Fridays

This pressure on students to complete activities quickly leads to a need for more time for thorough research Meanwhile the school staff is also affected, as teachers are forced to neglect their Friday lesson plans in favor of reading comprehension and values or to neglect the initiative altogether especially with the return of the June-toMarch academic calendar

Indeed our education system needs development and innovation We should take things one step at a time to achieve our long-term goal of producing competent Filipinos Rushing into shortterm solutions will only steer us further away from our aspirations Editor-in-Chief Aaron

With each dart thrown, consequences emerge schedules converge, and concerns pile up Despite their haphazard approach, they somehow hit the mark

Moreover programs like Catch-Up Fridays should be planned alongside other potential programs that could aid our educational crisis, such as Workshop Wednesdays, where students can engage with the real world rather than passively listening to a presentation

Reworking the system may be a lengthy process, but if the goal is to truly improve the progress of our country's education planning and implementing changes slowly would be the wiser choice It s worth noting that the orientation for this program began after its implementation This sudden change will affect students teachers and other school staff

LGBT+ and Autism: Navigating the Intersection of Identities

byNOAHESCULTURA

As someone who doesn't identify as a member of either the LGBT+ or autism communities, exploring the intersectionality of these two identities is a learning experience filled with empathy and understanding Through conversations with my peers and acquaintances who identify with these communities, I've realized their challenges and the strength they embody in managing their intersecting identities

Imagine feeling that due to who you love or how you identify your gender, you don t quite fit up to society s expectations of you Now combine that with the experience of managing the world for someone on the autistic spectrum where communication can be a little more challenging and social cues may not come as naturally Finding the right balance between selfacceptance and self-discovery is complex, and it takes time and tolerance from you and everyone around you

79.1% The Philippines continues to lead as the most gender-equal country in Asia gender parity bythenumbers

Source : Center for Disease Control and Prevention

As I ve learned further I ve also realized how important it is to develop spaces that value intersectionality This involves advocating regulations and processes that cater to the unique needs of people juggling their identities as LGBT+ people and autistic people It entails promoting compassion and empathy inside and outside these communities and acknowledging that every person's journey is unique and worthy of respect ve realized that the overwhelming number of discrimination and misconception is one of the most significant difficulties people at this crossroads must overcome Narrow opinions of what it means to be LGBT+ or autistic are sometimes imposed by society, ignoring the variety of experiences that exist within these groups of people It s essential to clear up these myths and respect each person's distinct identity and success

Should we give Cha-Cha a Chance?

By MINDING OUR BUSINESS

The 1987 Philippine Constitution is almost four decades old The debate on Charter Change, also known as Cha-Cha, has been going on and off for the past few administrations as they attempted to amend it Currently, the Marcos administration is giving its shot at trying to change the Constitution, which initiated yet another discourse, especially in the Marcos-dominated chambers of Congress Through the People’s Initiative, a signature campaign controversially took place as some people were allegedly bribed into signing the petition Amidst the ongoing dynastical family feud and bribery, we must step back and consider giving Cha-Cha a chance

The Constitution states that Filipinos must own at least 60% of corporations

The seemingly main intention of Cha-Cha is to lessen the restrictions on foreign ownership

In this way, our country would attract more foreign investors

However the Duterte a dministration has already liberalized foreign ownership by amending the Public Service Act, allowing 100% foreign ownership in public service sectors Due to national security preservation, public utilities were excluded from full foreign ownership What’s there to further liberate?

I don’t think the Constitution is a giant red flag for foreign investors Other factors collectively make a pole full of red flags, which turns off foreign investors One is that electricity rates in this country are soaring so high that theyre higher than our Southeast Asian neighbors Not to mention, there are even power supply shortages Aside from electricity rates, tax rates are also high as the current corporate income tax rate is 25% Also, the country is currently surfing through a wild economy and corrupt governance Last time I checked we were embarrassingly ranked 115th out of 180 countries in the 2023 Corruption Perception Index Given the unattractive business environment in our country could we attract foreign investments?

byNICOLESALAZAR

If the Marcos administration wants to make the Philippines an attractive place to invest in they should solve the fundamental business problems here Taking the Cha-Cha train route will not lead us to a prosperous destination Strengthening the implementation of our current Constitution sounds more sensible than changing it We already have policies It’s just a matter of properly executing them

Now is just not the right time to amend the charter, given the present state of our country, which is faced with hunger, poverty and inflation We have these other pressing issues that need to be prioritized What is the sudden rush with Cha-Cha, anyway? Are we going to pull off another Maharlika without critically dissecting the implications and consequences that might come with Cha-Cha? I dont think Cha-Cha is ultimately necessary to feed us foreign investments Itll only feed the power-hungry beasts in the government

Why do students often find themselves buried under a mountain of schoolwork? It's a familiar scenario for many, feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasks and deadlines looming overhead This perpetual cycle of heavy workloads is a critical aspect of the academic experience, significantly influencing learning outcomes, academic achievement, and overall wellbeing However, it remains a persistent challenge for students everywhere

The impact of this workload on students mental health cannot be understated While some may feel they have excessive work, others may view it as manageable Regardless, the pressure is felt and can take a toll on one s mental well-being

One major factor contributing to this workload burden is the need for more effective time management skills Without proper time management, tasks can pile up quickly, leaving students overwhelmed and stressed Distractions, such as social media, only exacerbate the issue, consuming valuable time that could be spent on schoolwork

In my view, developing strong time management skills is crucial for students to lighten their load Making schoolwork a priority and minimizing distractions can significantly reduce stress and improve mental health While being a student is undoubtedly challenging I speak from experience it's essential to remember that this period of hard work and dedication is an investment in our future success

Moreover, the education system itself plays a role in this dilemma The increasing emphasis on standardized testing and academic performance has led to a curriculum that often prioritizes quantity over quality

My role as a non-member of these communities is to hear understand and raise the voices of people who straddle the LGBT+ and autism spectrum It's about acknowledging and using my privilege to push for increased inclusivity and acceptance We may get closer to a society where all people, regardless of their identities, feel appreciated, heard, and seen for who they are by showing support

StuDIES!

byMAOWIEGRAZIETAN

This focus on covering a broad range of topics can leave students overwhelmed and struggling to keep up

Additionally the pressure to excel academically can come from various sources, including parents, teachers, and peers This external pressure can further increase students stress levels as they must meet or exceed expectations

It s also important to recognize the impact of extracurricular activities on students workload While these activities can be valuable for personal growth and development, they can also add to a heavy workload Finding a balance between academics and extracurriculars is vital to managing workload effectively

In conclusion, the issue of heavy workloads among students is complex, with various factors at play However by developing strong time management skills, setting priorities, and balancing academics and other activities, students can lighten their load and reduce stress Remember, being a student is challenging but also an opportunity for growth and learning

Is the new DepEd 'MATATAG' Curriculum the Solution to our Educational Crisis?

byLIANNIELZTOMATE

The MATATAG Curriculum is one of the latest frameworks by the Department of Education (DepEd) that is expected to take effect by the school year 20242025 It aims to enhance the fundamental skills Filipinos learn by 'decluttering' the subjects of each grade level

"MAke the curriculum relevant to produce job-ready, active, and responsible citizens TAke steps to accelerate the delivery of basic education services and provision facilities, TAke good care of learners by promoting learner well-being, inclusiveness learning and positive learning environment, and Give support for teachers to teach better" or MATATAG as DepEd puts it, serves as the sole purpose of the program that will enhance language, reading and literacy, mathematics, nationalism and good manners and right conduct The curriculum will initially span from kindergarten to grades 1, 4, and 7 but will eventually cover the entirety of K-10 by the end of Marcos administration in 2028

Additionally, DepEd expects to lessen students' stress from the overloaded curriculum by the end of the implementation as subjects outside the primary objectives are expected to either be omitted or covered by existing subjects So, is this curriculum the remedy for the education crisis such as low reading proficiency and terrible mathematical skills in the Philippines?

As a student who experiences work overload from moment to moment, this rise in concern over the learners from DepEd is a massive leap to behold Not only will this curriculum be an excellent relief for the students, but it will also elevate their learning as their attention is only divided into fewer subjects

Additionally, the diversity of learners is being considered, as everyone has the fields they want to pursue Focusing on the fundamentals will exponentially increase productivity as students can study what they want to learn instead of getting hindered by the subjects they don t care about Although problems regarding the implementations, such as the adaptation to change and the materials to use will inevitably appear these problems will be fixed sooner or later for having a planned project

To summarize the DepEd MATATAG curriculum aims to 'declutter' the existing curriculum to enhance learning I doubt this will be the complete remedy for the entire education crisis of the country However, this has a more positive impact than it'll ever have negatively, an excellent change to the country s education It is a good one to look forward to, helping the whole picture to resolve the problems in our education Whether the implementation is successful depends entirely on the future Still, as straightforward as it is, the country shall expect a crowd of happier and better-developed students if it goes the right path

Calendar’s Regress, Students’ Stress

byWARDAMANDO

Due to the lockdown and remote learning mode in schools brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the government initially postponed the start of the online distance learning school year to August It later extended to October, with some schools opting to start distance learning by August of the same year Since then, school year calendars have been adjusted from August to May Reverting to the old timeline will only cause various alterations to the calendar the students and teachers have been accustomed to June from August, as the pre-pandemic school calendar is a more favorable option because it corresponds with the student’s typical learning styles

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian called on the Department of Education (DepEd) to prepare a plan to revert to the old school calendar and start classes in June With this, the DepEd is urged to move the class opening to June from August, as the prepandemic school calendar is a more favorable option because it corresponds with the student’s typical learning styles

Implementing the abrupt change will mean a 2- to 3-week break for the students and teachers of the school year 2023-2024 Within the adjustment period the school calendar of teachers will also be shortened, considering the end of the school year would be at the end of May This will result in rushed classes and discussions caused by hurrying the prepared lesson plans of teachers and school facilitators

Typhoons are also highly prevalent during June, which could lead to frequent class disruptions and safety concerns for students The country is prone to typhoons during the rainy season with June typically marking the beginning of increased storm activity These weather disturbances may result in the suspension of classes school closures or infrastructure damage, hindering learning

There’s no point in fixing something that isn’t broken.

Meanwhile, the June–March calendar proponents argue that it aligns better with the countrys climate According to a survey conducted by Social Weather Stations (SWS), about nine in every 10 Filipinos prefer the old school calendar, citing the scorching heat experienced by students last March and April calling to allot the months instead for the traditional summer break

Theres no point in fixing something that isnt broken Reverting to the old-school calendar will disturb the school timeline we’ve become used to The government should weigh the potential benefits and consequences of altering the calendar before reverting to the old timeline

bythenumbers

Closetooneinfive Filipinoyouthaged15-24 haveeverconsidered endingtheirlife

Source : 2021 Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFS5)

The Silent Crisis: Unhygienic Environment is Everybody's Concern!

byNOAHESCULTURA

IllustrationbyAARONJECKO

One crucial aspect of maintaining a clean and safe environment at SFHS is a combined and collaborative effort of the school officials, teaching, and non-teaching personnel with the cooperation of the stakeholders and students The role of the school administrators, especially during the leadership of Dr Gereña, is evident that this concern is being given action and concern

Just like the phenomenon issue in other schools, the state of the facilities at our school is one of the most prominent examples of this problem There is no need to point fingers, but some students need to be more mannered when using the comfort rooms, which frequently harbor bacteria and germs, which is appalling Broken taps, clogged drains, and a lack of proper sanitation measures contribute to an environment far from conducive to personal hygiene

Another urgent issue is the improper handling of waste on school property Trash piling up in corners and overflowing bins are all regular sights It detracts from the school s aesthetic appeal and draws pests, endangering the health of anyone around

Furthermore, learning is hampered by unclean surroundings Untidy and unclean environments make it difficult for students to focus Studies have shown that organized and clean surroundings improve academic performance and cognitive function Refrain from discarding the upkeep of our school, undermining the fundamental goal of education

We have to tackle this problem head-on and with determination Every school community member bears responsibility in addition to the administration Together, teachers and students must promote clean and hygienic surroundings The assumption that a school is a secure place for learning and development is at risk due to the pervasiveness of an unclean environment It s time to give the basic needs of hygiene and cleanliness within school grounds top priority Doing this safeguards the meaning of education and everyone s health and well-being It's time to set up and restore the integrity of the school s educational environment

I grew up reading stories online I read whatever stories I encountered whi in my ears Angst? Fluff? About Hanahaki disease? I will read it regardless I love to say, I love reading and by that I mean I love reading fanfictions in Archive of Our Own (Ao3) It is one of my routines to read at least one fanfiction of my favorite ships Shi QingXuan and He Xuan from my favorite novel named Tian Guan Ci Fu popularly known as Heaven Official's Blessing is one of my favorite ships, their ship name is BeefLeaf, for a reason, Beef because He Xuan likes to eat a lot and Leaf for Shi QingXuan because he associates with wind and they re free as the wind On some days I even become sleep-deprived due to me prioritizing reading over my beauty sleep

I read almost all the time, so when the Department of Education (DepEd) announced that there would be a program called Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) I was ecstatic for obvious reasons We get an opportunity to read whatever we want and no need to have regular classes – meaning no studies and more leisure time while reading

But how come DepEd only made this activity now when back then there were already students struggling at reading? With the PISA results of reading literacy science and mathematics released back in 2022 it is evident that students are trailing way behind other countries While reading literacy went up by 7 points, from 340 points to 347 points, it remained below the global average reading score of 476 points This might be the final push that made DepEd decide that it was time to make a move

The move may be about the DEAR activity, as it revolves around reading and writing It is in DepEd memorandum No 001, s 2024 that DEAR or Catch-up Fridays is a learning mechanism intended to strengthen the foundational social and other relevant skills necessary to actualize the intent of the basic education curriculum ” Since January 12 2024 it has become a practice to students and teachers that every Friday everyone drops everything and reads as to assist those who are non-readers

Some might say that they do not need to read during the DEAR activity because they can already read so why bother? This is the students' most common misconception of DEAR that it was only structured for students who are non-readers, but DepEd's target audience is all students Even if you consider that you ve already mastered reading, by comprehending complex contexts and having a wide vocabulary However by that point you ll learn that reading is not merely as simple as mastering it pondering about the mysteries in books and even more words awaiting your arrival

However is reading really that important? Is actively participating in DEAR significant? Reading is important and if you do not know how to read or comprehend how will you grow? How will you function? How will you contribute \to society? See, reading is not merely for education, it helps us find ourselves, our purpose and our passion; it allows us to shape ourselves into what we want to be

It can also go the same with communicating with other people, it was never enough if you knew how to speak words If you do not read, you will never expand your vocabulary Imagine a scenario where you only speak to another individual with a limited range of words that would be embarrassing awkward and plain

By reading, you can also learn about other people During the DEAR activity, you will notice your classmates bring romance books that probably contain a cliché and a corny title such as "The Mafia Boss Falls in Love with a Nerd" Even a book with a corny title and an overused plot helps the readers understand one's feelings and thoughts However some books mischaracterize or portray characters in inaccurate ways Being careful and skeptical of what we read is also part of being a reader

The DEAR activity made me giddy and delighted whenever I looked forward to it It was all fun and games with this activity until our teachers gave us materials to read No offense to them, but I get bored reading those materials To add salt to the injury, they gave us activities to answer We are forced to answer those activities and have nothing else to do I was quite upset while reading My brain has no room for understanding the context maybe because I couldn’t read what I wanted Even so I came to realize that dwelling on these thoughts and whining is no use since I still have to comply with our activities

byNICOLESALAZAR by

IllustrationbyRUBENLORCAJR

DR. GEREÑA MARKS A YEAR IN SFHS

San Francisco High School (SFHS) is known for its large area and population Over 8,000 students navigate through the 15 buildings of the school Surely, it would be a headache to manage everything from head to toe But as Dr Florito J Gereña marks his first year at SFHS, let’s get a trip down memory lane to his journey so far as the principal of SFHS

In an exclusive interview Dr Gereña revealed his main objective – to make the campus a conducive learning environment for students His focus is on the rehabilitation and beautification of the campus, starting from rooms to buildings He took concerns about the connectivity on the campus as he installed WiFi routers on buildings Noticeably trees were trimmed especially around the DepEd B and C buildings Meanwhile the TLE laboratories, including ICT, electricity, cookery, wellness, and beauty care rooms can now be utilized

Since SFHS is a frequent host of events and seminars 1 500 monoblock chairs were purchased, tables were constructed, and the lights and sound system in the covered court were improved to better accommodate guests as well as students for events The DAO Social Hall was also rehabilitated as it now has tables and additional chairs for events Additionally, electrical and water systems were upgraded, while comfort rooms were also rehabilitated

Being the principal is not an easy job, as Dr Gereña said Given the ballooning population of SFHS, there is a demand for more teaching and non-teaching staff especially in the Senior High School Department The principal mentioned the school needs more learning facilities Despite that,

SDr Gereña finds the silver lining in his experiences in managing one of the mega schools in Quezon City He was able to visit Germany last year He also takes pride in the achievements brought by the students of SFHS

Speaking of which he advised students and teachers to continue aiming for excellence while maintaining the cleanliness of their environment It takes compassion and a sense of belongingness to sustain the functionality of their alma mater

From Culiat High School to San Francisco High School, Dr Gereña took a step into one of the city’s most populous schools to accept the challenge of fulfilling the duty of a principal He believes that service must be above all else It takes passion and pure intentions to become a great leader

The day ended along with the DEAR activity, but I could not pick who I found more ridiculous at handling the DEAR event: the teachers who gave us reading materials most of my classmates seemed uninterested in or those whose hands were too full to care if students even read just one paragraph or not Truly I can see the good intentions of DepEd especially to the non-readers; but if it is not implemented well the full essence of DEAR will vanish into thin air

The day following the DEAR activity was the day of our competition at the District School Press Conference at the Philippine Science High School During the lecture our judge mentioned the DEAR and began to ask some of us questions She asked what we read during the DEAR activity and the students from the other school answered that they read about HIV, which made the judge a bit astonished by the fact that the topic is serious Then the judge noticed that the students seemed to have read the same topic and so the students finally revealed the truth that they didn t pick the topic for DEAR That revelation made the judge much more confused She questioned how and why our teachers gave us reading materials when DepEd said that we should read whatever we desire I was no stranger to this, but DepEd also suggested that teachers provide reading materials and activities to answer Either way I wish it stayed the way students could pick any reading material they wanted to read

Supposedly that indeed happened, you will find almost half of my classmates holding Wattpad books I could name at least five of my classmates who are obsessed with reading Wattpad stories As expected the same people were also the ones who brought Wattpad books with them during the DEAR event but not all of them carried their books, which could mean either they do not want to bring their books to school, or they are too broke to afford Wattpad books However, they were having fun and were actively engaged throughout the DEAR activity On the other hand if you educate them in context some of them will have frowns on their faces

On February 16, 2024, another Friday, another DEAR event, something was bugging me I had headaches and I couldn t function properly I didn t have the energy to do anything not even read the things I loved the most No matter how many headaches I had at that time that didn’t deter my teacher from giving out activities I normally can t stand when students hate on DEAR activity When I scroll through social media and see slander about DEAR activity I cannot help but roll my eyes I would comment in my mind how ungrateful they are But on that day I considered if I could get a daybreak from the DEAR activity I heard my seatmate groan, complaining about DEAR, and this time I couldn t help but agree

Students prefer reading fictional books over educational books Looking back at what our judge said, if students always get to read what they wish to, they will be more engaged than they are right now They might just not slump down and frown but genuinely enjoy the context of what they read

However it seems that even if the DEAR event is ongoing the teachers want students to learn each subject s components I can t blame them since we only have less than three months before the school year ends due to the recent adjustments of DepEd But not every student seems to enjoy those boring academic papers Teachers need to think outside the box and spice things up! Hence I think it will be a great idea to create a fictional story that is still teaching them about each subject's components, which is what our math teacher did Their story is about a girl named Emma living in Mathlandia Emma loves to explore and get to know different mathematical equations However one day she encountered a strange mathematical equation a radical equation to be exact but that did not discourage her Instead it encourages her to solve it In the end, she got a complex solution with imaginary numbers, and she got even more excited thinking about all the other mathematical equations that held a solution, and it was only a matter of time before someone would finally discover it That brilliant simple story was entertaining and educational Our teacher hit two birds with one stone Teachers should do the same and activate their creative minds

Envisioning the future, with the DEAR activity still implemented, the students may grow more and more by reading alone The students will probably become smarter as they will become more adaptable to acquiring newly discovered knowledge It is all thanks to DepEd for creating the DEAR activity one of the few good things they did Keep in mind that our vocabulary may just be wider than our solar system As long as we can breathe and our eyes can see, we will read, and we will grow because we read

byLIANNIELZTOMATE

Elmer "Mer" Ariate, Jr , the new assistant principal of San Francisco High School, came from Commonwealth High School in the same position Within a week of his arrival, he shared his skillful observations and the challenges he faced

But

49

"During my application time, I prioritized San Francisco as my top school, kaso di ko

The Scroll? This is most likely the first time Kikonians will ever hear our publication s name I roamed around ca one day to ask rand students if they wer with The Scroll As e they all shook their some looked at me c was hit with the rea journalism was prac chool If not dead, t abandoned It truly Journalism class for

IllustrationbyBRYCETYLERTOLENTINO

For the longest time, we were only in action during the press conference season; we bagged awards in the district and won a few in the division press conference After that, we were back in our classrooms, listening to lectures unrelated to campus journalists Sometimes, I wondered if we were even worth bragging to people, knowing that we were not even functional Our awards proved that we had

byMARIAETHRICIAJANE BRIONES

proficient skills in our respective categories, but we needed to be able to showcase them due to uncontrollable matters We had potential, but it was all wasted

Fast forward to this school year We re on a fresh start given a new team and a new light of hope for the publication s future

Although most of them are beginners, while some are experienced campus journalists, we help each other out to get us closer to publishing We also received several awards in the recent district and division press conference Even though we re a minor team now compared to the previous staffers, we still managed to fulfill our duties as members of the publication

After years of hiatus, campus journalism finally returns to San Francisco High School Our publication staff still has a long way to go in refining our craft We strive to overcome challenges and limitations with our collective efforts and discipline What truly matters to us is our combined passion, dedication, and determination to become the instruments of truth in our school For years The Scroll was dead, left in the dust, but now is the time to rise and shine

In today s fast-paced and competitive environment academic pressure has become a silent battle ground for many students

The desire for excellence, the weight of high expectations and the fear of failure can have a significant impact on students' mental and emotional well-being

Many students face immense pressure from their families to excel academically

This continuous academic pressure harms learners mental health Children are encouraged to start thinking ahead and preparing academically for the next steps in their education at a young age

The constant desire for perfection, along with the fear of failure, can cause increased anxiety, stress, and exhaustion Students may endure sleep difficulties, loss of appetite, and difficulty focusing s a result of the enormous pressure they confront Academic pressure can sometimes influence the development of mental health conditions including sadness and anxiety

The number of students experiencing brain drain is increasing Behind high grades, having medals and certificates hides the intense pressure felt by the student Higher expectations from family, higher standards from those around them, and the people who have high expectations from them These expectations create a lot of pressure on students especially for those who believe they have to fulfill these standards to succeed

In our achievement-driven society, academic success is frequently associated with personal value and future potential This achievement culture puts a tremendous amount of pressure on students to flourish academically resulting in a continual dread of failure and an unwavering desire to exceed their peers

The high stakes of standardized testing, college admissions, and future career prospects create an environment of intense competition, leaving little room for personal growth and exploration

Peer pressure, competition among students, and academic pressure on students are critical issues that must be addressed immediately Educators, parents, and society as a whole must recognize the negative consequences of this pressure and create a more equitable and supportive educational environment

We can reduce the load of academic pressure on students and enable them to thrive intellectually and emotionally by cultivating a culture that prioritizes personal growth well-being and holistic development It is time to redefine success and prioritize our students' well-being, ensuring that they have the resources and guidance they require to handle the challenges of education and life

byLHIAELLHISETABRILLAAND ALECXENEEOWYNBANZAGALES

Students in the Philippines have long faced challenges in reading, a problem that predates the pandemic and was highlighted by the country's performance in the PISA 2018 results, where it ranked last out of 79 countries.

This issue is particularly disheartening, considering that reading is a fundamental skill taught in kindergarten Despite being classified as a 'developing country,' progress in education, especially in reading proficiency still needs to be made idespread problem, al role in providing City Public Library serves as a vital a wide range ok materials e city s al, ial, and ming of all er you icial a es, a -ofudent utilize s g to the least 102 872 8 e-books ogued by the g the community ation for research

Mariza G Chico, Officer-in-Charge of the QCPL, stated The QCPL envisions itself to be a premier and world-class public library, responsive to the community's information and research needs "

Reading comprehension is a vital skill for individuals in all walks of life Effective communication, research abilities, information analysis, and literacy are essential components of personal development

Public libraries play a crucial role in nurturing these skills They serve as invaluable resources for those seeking to improve their reading abilities ultimately helping them become more productive members of society

In conclusion public libraries are essential institutions that play a crucial role in addressing the reading comprehension crisis in the Philippines By providing access to a wide range of materials and resources, these libraries help individuals improve their reading skills and contribute meaningfully to society

e a school pet? Perhaps fish, hamsters, and even lizards? Like in the animated as a school pet that every student in the ry week A school pet is an animal living in a classroom, or a school managed by the students and teachers It is usually minor and low maintenance

School pets help build positive relationships within students, sparking discussions and allowing each student to work together to name, feed, and care for their little critters These pets entertain students, building on their self-esteem and empathy, reducing screen time, and encouraging their lifelong learning needs, especially in research, communication, observation, and speaking, all of which can be used in their future lives

Overseas teachers say that their class pets help their young students cope Th ey can also use these fur babies to teach students about responsibilities pet care and

Furthermore, they can apply their school pets in different subjects in Science, their pet s anatomy, and how their species applies to biodiversity; in Mathematics, their pet's weight, shape, and other formulas

However, having a school pet can still have disadvantages Health-wise, students can develop or trigger allergies, have asthma attacks, or get harmful bacteria Some pets are often neglected or played with – lack of food and unknowingly causing physical harm Researching school pets before acquiring one is recommended because they are still living beings that need proper care and attention, not just playthings If they are not taken care of enough they might suffer and die

Schools in the Philippin have school pets but chance to pick a take care of with your what animal would

SMETRO MANILA'S TRAFFIC CONGESTION ON THE COUNTRY'S IMAGE

byLIANNIELZTOMATE

Manila, Philippines According to the TomTom Traffic Index, Metro Manila, the nation's capital region, was ranked the world's worst metro area for traffic in 2023

Among 387 cities across the world across 55 countries of the population, Metro Manila topped as the most trafficcongested area From the same source, the average time it takes to travel 10km is 25 minutes and 30 seconds during rush hours In comparison our neighboring nation's capital region of Hanoi – Vietnam, Beijing – China, and Jakarta –Indonesia only takes 5 to 6 minutes to travel the same distance at the same speed On the worst-case scenario –December 15, 2023, has marked the worst traffic day of the year, with an average of 31 minutes and 50 seconds to travel a 10km distance So, does this reflect any value to the country?

This shouts the poor road management of the country, as we've been lacking the infrastructure needed to maintain the growth of vehicles being utilized on the road Analysts have even concluded that it would require Metro Manila to double its 4,755km road system to keep up We can trace back the problem to the drivers who cause congestion; the illegal parking of vehicles at the side of the roads is a significant problem that disrupts cars in the area Additionally, the unmanaged loading and unloading areas of Public Utility Jeepneys disrupt the traffic flow

On the other side, I see the brighter side of the nation's industrial and economic factors The increase in traffic congestion suggests the immediate growth in vehicle utility as Filipinos get to afford one for themselves, suggesting the growth in Filipino's economic status This ranking also enabled the government to focus more on the traffic crisis; the DOTr began plans for better road structures to ease the congestion, such as extending trainways and other highways and additional subways along public areas

SCI-TECH CLASH: BRAINIAC CHAMPIONS

byNICOLECUSTODIOANDMAOWIEGRAZIETAN

The "Brainiac: Clash of the Sci-Tech Champions" event will take place at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital from February 3 to March 16, 2024

Rea Guevarra, Sales and Marketing Director sent a letter to participants informing them about the start of the competition The initiative aims to promote inter-school Quiz Bowl and Robotics competitions among National Capital Region (NCR) schools

Participating schools include Valenzuela Mathematics High School Science High School Makati Science High School Mandaluyong College of Science and Technology, Pasay City East High School, and Philippine Science High School

Some participants expressed varying satisfaction levels during the February 10, 2024, Quiz Bowl Iza Barcelona said, I think the competition went well naman; our team did our best to compete We didn't expect such tough competition especially with many participating schools " Jared Cansino, another Quiz Bowl competitor, mentioned "The competition was not as we expected It had unusual questions felt trivial and was intense Despite that our school tied for 5th place in the elimination round It's disappointing, but it was a great experience The competition continues until March 16 2024 providing students with fun and excitement

The news of Metro Manila's ranking has shamed the country's road syst for the country's innovation over th our economy grows, the country wi along with its infrastructural fields, w traffic will slow down and ease dow ceases channel describes El Niño as a climate pattern that involves the unusual warming of surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean

bySTEPHANIERYVHENCATALIG

San Francisco High School is currently striving to end the school year earlier than expected According to the Department of Education (DepEd) calendar, the anticipated end date for the 2023-2024 school year has been moved from June 14 to May 31

PAGASA reports that the weather condition in the Philippines is expected to peak this year due to El Niño leading to adjustments in the school year's end date

El Niño has been a persistent challenge for our country, with its adverse effects on the environment National Geographic

While SFHS is fully complying with DepEd's directive some students are expressing dissent due to the added burden

Despite the changes this school year, let us appreciate the time we have to spend with those who have been part of our journey as students and let us prioritize our mental and physical health above all else

81.6%

digital marketers think content writers’ jobs are at risk because of AI. businesses are concerned about technology dependence.

43%

Source : Comptia Community

AI IN THE MODERN AGE: ENHANCING OR REPLACING HUMAN INGENUITY?

by KHAYEZEL PILOTO

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) stands as a testament to humanity's innovation and progress From simplifying everyday tasks to revolutionizing entire industries, AI has become integral to our lives However, as its capabilities expand, so do questions about its role in society: Is AI becoming a substitute for human creativity and ingenuity?

While AI undoubtedly offers numerous advantages, it also raises significant controversies One of the most pressing debates centers around whether AI is gradually supplanting human involvement across various domains including academia the arts and ideation

n academic settings, AI tools like ChatGPT have gained popularity among learners seeking

Iassistance with various tasks from writing essays to conducting research While these tools can alleviate the burden of writing, they often need a more nuanced perspective and creativity that only humans can provide Despite their utility AI tools differ in the depth of insight and originality inherent in human thought

Similarly, AI-powered art generators have sparked controversy by blurring the lines between creativity and imitation While these tools can produce visually stunning artworks they often rely on existing works as source material, leading some to question their authenticity Rather than true artists, these AI systems are sometimes viewed as mere replicators lacking the unique vision and emotion that define human-created art

In the realm of ideation AI's ability to generate ideas and solutions is undeniably impressive AI can deliver whether you need a recipe, a character name for your story, or a code snippet However, this convenience comes at the cost of originality, as AI-generated ideas often need more depth and innovation that characterize human creativity

As AI continues to evolve and integrate into our lives, it is a powerful tool that complements human intellect and creativity While AI can enhance efficiency and offer innovative solutions, the human touch imbues our creations with meaning and significance Our ability to think critically, empathize, and innovate remains unparalleled, highlighting the irreplaceable essence of human ingenuity in a world increasingly shaped by technology

SFHS SCIENCE FAIR INSPIRES INNOVATION

by MAOWIE GRAZIE TAN

San Francisco High School students excelled in the Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) field during the recent Science Fair Exhibit from September 20th to 22nd The event featured robotics and biology projects and highlighted the students' creativity and dedication to scientific exploration.

The Science Fair, a platform for students to display their innovative projects, caused a temporary disruption to the regular class schedule, with participants excused from their usual lessons for three days This led to students needing to catch up on missed work from other subjects after the event

Kevin Matthew Peralta, an STE student, expressed the challenges faced by participants, stating, "We were excused from our classes the whole day as the exhibit went on, but we missed many lessons and activities When the exhibit was over, we had to catch up on several schoolwork from our other subject teachers and do it fast "

Despite these challenges, the Science Fair showcased the students' talent and commitment to scientific inquiry It inspired future generations of science enthusiasts and highlighted the importance of innovation and dedication in science

RAZON, VALDEZ SHINE AT TAEKWONDO!

byRUFFA JEANLUBGUBAN

San Francisco High School (SFHS) decisively defeated Carlos L Albert High School (CLAHS) in an exhilarating exhibition basketball game, ending with a score of 71-33 The match, held at the Philippines Science High School's covered court on January 13, 2024, drew a large crowd eager to witness the clash of these titans

Despite high hopes, CLAHS fell short In a postgame interview Coach Bellen recognized their deficiencies, attributing their loss to mistakes and a lack of cohesive teamwork

SFHS maintained momentum throughout the game leading with a commanding scoreline in both halves The final whistle blew and SFHS emerged victorious with a score of 71-33 They had also dominated the first half with a score of 36-14 and replicated their performance in the second half

SFHS's standout player, Geonard Tilad, showcased impressive skills He contributed 12 points to his team's victory and earned the title of Most Valuable Player for his outstanding performance

From the opening tipoff SFHS dominated setting the tone for the game Coach Mark Greg Talagtag of SFHS expressed confidence in his team before the game stating “Both teams naman gusto manalo Kaya ini-expect ko na magiging maganda yung laro dahil parehong praktisado ”

Coach Talagtog's sentiments were echoed by CLAHS Coach Jeric Bellen, who commented, "As the other team mentioned it will be a great game to watch "

Both teams showed sportsmanship and a desire to improve even in the face of defeat The exhibition match provided a forum for friendly competition and insightful learning

As the final buzzer rang out, SFHS celebrated their well-deserved victory At the same time, CLAHS reflected on their performance and resolved to return more robust in future games The exhibition match showcased both teams' talent and dedication and highlighted the enduring spirit of sportsmanship within the PSHS

byNOAHESCULTURA

GRIT UNLEASHED BITTERSWEET

Quizan'sValiantEffortFallsShortAgainst JJLHSinMen'sBadmintonDistrictMeet,18-21

byNOAHESCULTURA

In a thrilling 1v1 showdown, San Francisco High School's NJ Quizan faced off against Judge Juan Luna High School's representative in the District Meet Single Men's Badminton, held at Belarmino Sports Complex on February 13, 2024 Despite a valiant effort, Quizan endured a close defeat with a score of 18-21

Both players demonstrated exceptional ability and agility on the court, creating an electrifying atmosphere for spectators However, JJL emerged victorious, showcasing precision and strategic prowess throughout the match

Reflecting on the loss, Quizan commented, "More training lang, and dapat consistent Ako kasi, sumabak ako nang walang training ngayon " He admitted to feeling nervous and attributed his defeat to his lack of readiness in handling aggressive plays and drop shots

Despite the setback the SFHS coaching staff remains committed to learning from this experience They plan to improve their physical conditioning and mental strength to prepare for future games

SFHS Eagles Shine in Division Meet,

byNOAHESCULTURA

In an exhilarating series of matches at the Division Meet, the San Francisco High School Men's Football Team emerged victorious in their first two games However, their journey concluded with a fierce battle against the Far Eastern University Men's Football Team in the Finals, held at FEU Diliman Field on February 15 and 16, 2024, where they were defeated despite their heroic efforts

The SFHS Eagles demonstrated their strength throughout the competition, led by Raven Bernal as the right back, Gavin Puertollano on the left wing, and Emmanuel Madara and Ryleigh Puertollano dominating the midfield Ahron Muyrong and Lhander Cordero spearheaded the attack as strikers, with Alex Sabandal, Jayden Argales, and Cyrus Baniqued providing relentless support on the wings

PHOTOFROMSAMANTHAARGONZA

to achieve the first degree black belt in taekwondo

Source:MasterSH YuMartialArts

3 5

HESS!

eirwaytovictory Men'sVolleyball,2-0

the SFHS team demonstrated th teamwork throu intense match

byARKINFLORIDA

FINALE

FEU Triumphs 2-0 in Finals

Mark Espejo and Clark Sanchez guarded the net as goalkeepers, while Christopher Mercado, Ian Martinez and Ajiben Jaruni anchored the defense as center backs

" I'm expecting that we win for the two games today, so we can have a chance to fight against FEU " said Kikonians Coach Mark Anthony Salibio in a pre-game interview, expressing confidence in his team's abilities

The second set intensified as SFHS maintained dominance, taking an early 8-5 lead While Juan Sumulong High School fought back, Verona and Balana's impeccable net defense helped SFHS maintain their lead The match peaked when Aspiras executed a powerful smash, securing a narrow 25–20 victory for SFHS Facing tough competition,

In their first game on February 15, 2024, SFHS faced Quezon City Science High School Despite a strong showing from their opponent, SFHS took the lead early and secured a 3-1 victory in the first half, ultimately winning 51 In their second game against Bagong Silangan High School, SFHS emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 score The Eagles showcased their defensive prowess, holding off their opponents and securing the win with a goal in the second half

OAre you ready to discov and humorous impact on our physical well-being?

Join me on a thrilling journey into the world of sports, where we'll debunk myths, uncover truths, and share a few laughs.

Often hailed as the pinnacle sports serve a greater purpose than hitting home runs They are the ultim our bodies, enhancing everything fro cardiovascular health It s like our bo ending boot camp but with a touch humor

Coach Jow expressed confid team s abilities, a their victory to proper communication and teamwork He emphasized the importance of minimizing errors and noted that cohesive play was key to their success

The SFHS lineup, featuring standout players such as Rain Joseph Saplan, John Paul Verona, Kurt Portillo, Carl Balana, Jumar Leones, Dela Cruz, Rommel Tabbad, John Paul Aspiras, John Tangan, Eddrian Taduan, and Eugene Natarte, showcase athleticism the court

Wit victory, th Spikers ar continue t as they prepare for the next challenge in the 2nd Round of the QC Division Meet on February 11

e than just throwing o navigate life s eamwork skills And accepting defeat we re all in this participation contributes to a healthier lifestyle beyond simply sweating it out on the field Athletes are more inclined to eat healthily, avoid performance-diminishing drugs, and get a good night's sleep Who knew a balanced diet and ball-chasing could go hand in hand?

Let s talk about fair play, where the journey is just as important as the destination Through sports, we learn resilience and see every setback as a temporary hurdle to success Sports serve as a great equalizer, reminding us that no matter how tough things get, there's always tomorrow to rise and conquer

In the larger scheme of things, sports are more than just entertainment; they foster social growth, personal development, and good humor Who joyable? So lace up mmates, and let's dive acky world of sports

Advancing to the finals against FEU, the Annex-based Eagles fought bravely but were ultimately overcome by FEU s unrelenting offense With a goal in each half, FEU secured a 2-0 victory over SFHS

Despite their defeat in the finals, the SFHS Eagles' impressive performance throughout the Division Meet showcased their determination, camaraderie, and commitment to the sport The Eagles remain steadfast in pursuing excellence as they prepare for future contests