THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH PUBLICATION OF QUEZON CITY SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
beacon of truth ∙ bastion of integrity VOLUME LIII ∙ ISSUE 1
MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
QCSHS Alumni Association Donates Computers Through Concentrix BY MARY GRACE ESPIEL
BRAND NEW TOOLS. QCSHS Principal Remedios Danao is speaking about the turnover of new equipment from Concentrix. PHOTO BY MARY GRACE ESPIEL
AS PART of its Security Connectivity and Inclusive Education Through Internet Access (SCIENTIA) 2020, the Quezon City Science High School Alumni Association, Inc. (QCSHSAAI) donated monitors and CPUs to Quesci, through its partnership with Concentrix.
their appreciation of the opportunity the company was given to help students, through its Concentrix Cares project. “Technology has been a good tool and has also been a saving grace, so we hope to continue this partnership and help more students,” Sharukh said.
The pieces of equipment were formally turned over to QCSHS Accepting the donations, DanPrincipal Remedios P. Danao by ao explained how the computers QCSHSAAI President Benja- would be used this new normal min A. Moraleda, Jr. and Con- school year. centrix representatives. “We are grateful for choosing “We hope the computers will us as a beneficiary of this projhelp our students this new nor- ect. This would be helpful if we mal school year,” Moraleda said. will chosen to be one of those piloting face-to-face classes,” He again expressed the associ- Danao said. ation and its members’ dedication, particularly Johnny Ramos She further assured that the do(Batch 1977) who served as the nations will be taken care of with link between the QCSHSAAI the help of Physical Facilities Coand Concentrix, to help the ordinator and Math Department school in its effort to make remote head Christopher M. Pabona. teaching and learning successful. The alumni association was also Concentrix Service Delivery represented by its secretary Mary Director Shazli Sharukh and Site Grace R. Espiel and treasurer Director Elwin Jorge expressed Helena Fe A. Tayag.
EDITORIAL A Year of Incompetence
FEATURE
Strong: Kenneth Balagtas’ Story of Hope
NEWS BITS
QC LGU launches unified ID system BY MARCEEN MOLINA
online website or using the QCitizen App, and on-site registration is yet to be applied in barangays all THE QUEZON City Local over the city. Government Unit (QC LGU) presented on January 7 QCitizen Those who will be applying for ID that aims to unify the local res- the card virtually will need to upidents under identity cards issued load a government-issued ID, phoexclusively by the city. to ID with white background, and an e-signature upon registration. This ID may be used for availing local services such as QCity bus, After registration, the applicant education assistance, and health will receive an email after a few days services, including COVID-19 vac- confirming the issuance of their cine distribution of the QC LGU. ID which can be accessed using the QCitizen App. Residents with internet connection may apply for the QCitScientians aged 15 years old and izen ID using the QC E-services up may apply for a QCitizen ID.
SCIENCE
A Scientian Scientist’s Taste of Success
SPORTS The Climb
PHOTO FROM PHILSTAR
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2 • NEWS GRAPHIC BY LUISA SORIANO
KALINAW 2021
Kalinaw 2021: From School Authorities to Student Leaders BY BEATRICE ACORDA AND MARCEEN MOLINA
THE ANNUAL Quezon City Science High School (QCSHS) Supreme Student Government (SSG) and Curriculum Grade Level (CGL) elections were announced by the QCSHS Commission on Elections under Kalinaw 2021 on February 24, .
Issues regarding mental health, child online safety, and cyberbullying are topics that should be addressed and thought of all the time, added the SSG Adviser.
munity - to have an open communication and open mind, with so much understanding on the implementations to be made, to perform their functions as officers of the SSG as to the position they were elected, (and) to protect the name of the school and its administration against any criticism and to uphold the QueSci Values: Scientia et Virtus,” said Danao.
Relator advised the officers to adhere to the Constitution and By-Laws of SSG, implement the mandated programs, projects, and activities aligned with the Department of Education Core Values (Maka-Diyos, Makatao, In regards to issues, Danao Given a new set of officers, Makakalikasan and Makabansa). wants the student council and QCSHS SSG Adviser Arnold school administration to coordiRelator and QCSHS Principal BRIDGE THE SCHOOL’S nate on these matters and to alRemedios Danao laid out their DIRECTIONS WITH THE ways consult with their adviser or expectations and addressed which STUDENT COMMUNITY any authority in the school before issues the new leaders should With the current pandemic af- making any implementations. tackle during their time of service. fecting education and learning modalities, Danao expects next Finally, she encouraged the reCREATE A BETTER LEARNING school year to be a great challenge cently appointed SSG-CGL offiCOMMUNITY TOGETHER for the newly elected officers along cers to uphold the QCSHS values “Elected SSG Officers are ex- with the school system as Quezon in all their undertakings. pected to perform their duties City in general will be transitionand functions as stipulated in Ar- ing to Modified General Commuticles VII and IX of the Revised nity Quarantine (MGCQ). “Scientia et Virtus: Constitution and By-Laws of the Supreme Student Government,” The principal anticipates the Empowering stated Relator. new set of officers to partner with Minds, Strengththe school, be capable of handling Article VII, Sector 2 indicates school affairs with great consider- ening Character!” that the SSG officers are required ation, and uphold their integrity Remedios P. Danao to implement equality and equity as student leaders. QCSHS Principal while acting as the voices of the students, and be capable of communi“I just expect that the new set The complete list of SSG-CGL ofcating properly with the school au- of officers will partner with the ficers set for school year 2021 to 2022 thorities in order to create a better school in bridging the school’s can be found on The QCSHS Comlearning community together. directions with the student com- mission on Elections Facebook page.
Kalinaw 2021
approved for release by:
SSG Election Results
HUMPHREY SORIANO SIBOL PARTY PRESIDENT
46%
JERSEY BLANCO HALIYA PARTY PRESIDENT
35%
19% of the student population opted to abstain
AEIMAREE DE LA CRUZ (SIBOL) SSG VICE PRESIDENT COLE SANCHEZ (SIBOL) SSG SECRETARY YCEA SOSA (SIBOL) SSG AUDITOR PATRICIA JUTIE (SIBOL) SSG TREASURER WYNDON GUEVARRA (SIBOL) SSG PRO JANINA MATUBIS (SIBOL) SSG PEACE OFFICER
SIBOL won the elections by a large margin, although there were some close battles against the opposing party, HALIYA.
QCSHS Alumni Association Gives Pocket Wi-Fi Devices to Scientians BY STEPHANIE BASCO
PHOTO BY SMART COMMS.
Association which aimed to aid by giving pocket Wi-Fis to financially SHOWING THEIR usual sup- challenged students to help them port to the school, theQuezonCity Sci- cope with the struggles they may enceHigh School Alumni Association, face during online classes, such as Inc. (QCSHSAAI) distributed pocket unstable signals for mobile data. Wi-Fi devices to students in need of them on September 30 and October 9. The handing out of the first batch of pocket Wi-Fis was faThis is part of the association’s cilitated by QCSHSAAI TreaProject Securing Connectivity and surer Helena Fe Arlegui-Tayag, Inclusive Education Through In- QCSHSAAI board members ternet Access (SCIENTIA) which Mcrey Banderlipe II and Rey was launched on September 29. John Simbulan, and were joined by QCSHSAAI Secretary Mary Project SCIENTIA was concep- Grace R. Espiel on the second tualized by the QCSHS Alumni day of distribution.
Tayag expressed how she felt as she gives thanks to the alumni overwhelmed with the love and for organizing this project. eagerness of the different batches to help the school when the donaAsked what makes the alumni astions were starting to come up. sociation always come up with activities for the school, Tayag replied, “This is another manifestation “The Quesci Alumni Association of how much the alumni love will always be there for the school, Quesci,” said Tayag. and we hope the future alumni will also be there for Quesci.” “I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to the sponOther initiatives under Project SCIsors who are very willing to help ENTIA include donating printing students like me to be able to cope materials, such as bond papers and up with the new normal way of printers, to all subject departments learning,” said Jaydine Gwyneth and distributing alcohols and face Gloria, a student from 10-Darwin masks to non-teaching personnel.
NEWS • 3
The Electron MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
Kalinaw 2021 places new set of SSG-CGL officers BY STEPHANIE BASCO
AFTER A six-hour voting period, the Quezon City Science High School (QCSHS) Supreme Student Government (SSG) Commission on Elections (Comelec) released the winning candidates of the student government positions for school year 2021 to 2022 under “#Kalinaw2021” on February 24, 2021.
GRAPHIC BY LUISA SORIANO
Having the majority of the student body’s votes, Humphrey Soriano, has earned the position of SSG President alongside Aeimaree De La Cruz as SSG Vice President, Cole Sanchez as SSG Secretary, Patricia Jutie as SSG Treasurer, Wyndon Guevarra as SSG Public Informations Officer (PIO), and Janina Matubis as the SSG Peace Officer for the next academic year.
FUTURE LEADERS. SSG Candidates discussing their platforms and goals in the Kalinaw 2021 Miting de Avance, conducted in Zoom and streamed live on Facebook.
Followed by this is the list of winning Curriculum Grade Level (CGL) candidates for each grade level.
DIFFERING APPROACHES. SSG Candidates from opposing parties answering topical questions from the Scientian community. PHOTOS BY JED GOCATEK
Hannah Dominique E. Belarmino won the position of CGL 8 Chairperson with Samantha Izra R. De Guzman as her vice chairperson, Jonagelle Beatrice T. Baccay as secretary, Angela Dominique S. Jumadiao as auditor, Addie Gabrielle T. Tayone as treasurer, Hannah Patrize V. Balmaceda
as PIO, and Bianca Ysabella O. Auditor, John Benidick S. Flores Lazo as peace Officer. as Peace Officer, and Nicole R. Placido as PIO. Batch 2025’s new set of CGL Officers is composed of Kiara The state of abstention has won Cheska D. David, Gwyneth Anne for the position of CGL 11Treasurer. B. Abenoja, Trish Audrey M. Bautista, Phoebe Ymari A. Urieta, Finishing the list of winning candiMiko Rey Z. Opinion, Julia Gen- dates are the CGL Officers for Batch evie C. Viloria, and Yaleina Andrei 2022 with Rinoa Somel B. Sanchez A. Ferrer being their CGL 9 Chair- as their CGL 12 Chairperson, Reperson, Vice Chairperson, Secre- beccah D. Guieb as vice chairpertary, Treasurer, Auditor, Peace Of- son, Rachelle D. Guieb as secretary, ficer, and PIO respectively. Judeah V. Basmayor as treasurer, Johannah Audrey B. Advincula as Garnering 56% of Batch 2024’s Auditor, Angela Faye A. Asuncion votes is Ma. Cassandra P. Austria, as PIO, and Ivy Ruth E. Hugo for making her the new CGL 10 the position CGL 12 Peace Officer. Chairperson for the following school year and along with her is “Sana pagtapos ng eleksyon na Natasha Marie E. Galibut as the ito, wala nang Sibol, wala nang Vice Chairperson, Michaella R. Haliya. Sana hindi matatapos Astronomo as Secretary, Teres sa eleksyon ang inyong pagsisilbi Ymanuelle Q. Balugo as Auditor, [After this election, there’s no Sheryne Lorraine N. Dela Cruz more Sibol and Haliya. I hope as Treasurer, Therese Eleanor A. that all of you will still continue Malonzo as as PIO, and complet- to do acts of service to the coming the new batch of CGL 10 munity],” as said by Sir Jasper officers is Eliza Karel C. Gruta as Quejadas, SSG Comelec Adviser, Peace Officer. for the opening remarks of the Miting De Avance held in the For the CGL 11 Officers, Ani- morning of February 24. sha Zwi C. Matanguihan won the position of Chairperson having Scientians hope that all the the 65.50% of her batchmates’ winning candidates of the Kalivotes and with Zwi was her twin naw 2021 elections abide by the sister, Sophia Ain C. Matangui- responsibilities that come with han as the CGL 11 Vice Chair- their position and strive to give person, Amaya Rae T. Avelino the Scientians the quality of seras Secretary, Elisha V. Umali as vice they expect and deserve.
QCSHS scribes win several awards at various online press confabs BY MARCEEN MOLINA
THE QCSHS English publication, the Electron staffers garnered several awards at an online Science press conference “PHotosynthesis” presented by The ScientiPHic Process, a youth-led organization, last December 19, 2020.
PRESSCON WINNERS
The competition consisted of individual science writing categories, group science broadcast journalism, and science magazine-making challenge.
3rd Place
A total of 30 certificates of recognition were awarded to Scientians after the competition. Electron staffer Leanne Louise Isip was hailed as the overall best performing campus journalist during the competition. The Electron continues to stay active and participate in different online presscons during the pandemic.
SCIENCE EDITORIAL Ysabella Dominguez 2nd Place
Carl Jendreik Naval Marceen Molina 4th Place
Theresa Baradi 5th Place
SCIENCE FEATURE Leanne Isip 1st Place
SCIENCE NEWS Charissa Espina 1st Place
Marianne Mary and Carl Jendreik Naval 2nd Place
Rianna May Kwan, Theresa Baradi, and Leanne Isip 3rd Place
Gabrielle Gacutan and Gabbie Torre 4th Place
Emerson Lina 5th Place
SCIENCE NEWS FEATURE Marceen Molina
SCIENCE BROADCASTING (ENGLISH) Gabrielle Gacutan
1st Best News Presenter
Marceen Molina 2nd Best Anchor
SCIENCE BROADCASTING (FILIPINO) Ysabella Domiguez
1st Best News Presenter
Raymond Tugadi
2nd Best News Presenter
Emerson Lina
3rd Best News Presenter
1st Place
CHALLENGE FINALE
4th Place
Ysabella Dominguez
Raymond Tugadi
Marceen Molina, Raymond Tugadi, and Ysabella Dominguez
Leanne Isip
Gabrielle Gacutan
Miko Opinion and Emerson Lina
5th Place
4th Place
5th Place
1st Place
2nd Place
4 • NEWS
PRETTY OKAY. 10 Darwin smiles at the camera in one of their online classes with their English teacher and class adviser Mary Grace R. Espiel. PHOTO BY MARY GRACE ESPIEL
More Than Half of Scientians Say Remote Learning is “Okay” BY STEPHANIE BASCO AN ONLINE survey conducted by The Electron revealed that 63.5% of Quezon City Science High School (QCSHS) students find their experience with remote learning to be “okay.
When asked about how they were coping with the current form of remote learning, 62.5% responded that they are doing “okay,” 29.8% said “not okay,” while the 7.7% believed that they are doing great with this new learning set-up.
The survey, posted on March 16 was done to know students’ thoughts about the school’s way The capability to learn and of handling remote learning and to work at their preferred time, how they manage with it. accessibility to more learning resources, and the convenience Of the 104 respondents, 26% of having classes at the comfort answered “not okay,” while the of their own beds are what Sciremaining 10.6% perceived it as a entians think as the best things great one. about remote learning.
Scientians also shared their thoughts and opinions about what actions the school can do to improve its implementation of remote learning with the majority recommending to reduce the workload to a reasonable amount and extend their weekly deadlines.
classes for the teachers to able to give more in-depth discussions of the lessons; and for the teachers to communicate with each other so that the giving out of asynchronous activities would not overlap.
“The facilities have properly distanced faucets one meter apart to facilitate physical distancing during group handwashing. Each is equipped with a soap dish to promote handwashing with soap and with signage on steps to proper handwashing, tooth brushing, and COVID-19 precautionary measures,” said MWF partnerships manager Nix Hipolito on the donated facilities.
AS A member of the League Corporate Foundations (LCF), the Metrobank Foundation Inc. has virtually turned over handwashing facilitates as a sponsor of the “League of Corporate Foundations Wash in School (LCFWinS): Lingap Eskwela sa Pandemya” project in support of the Department of Education (DepEd) Water Access, SanitaLCF chairperson Maribeth tion, and Hygiene (WASH) in Marasigan says the project aims to Schools program. promote WASH in schools given the current pandemic situation, Project implementer Manila despite having no face-to-face Water Foundation (MWF) stat- classes LCF continued the project ed during yesterday's virtual with the future in mind. turnover ceremony that out of a total 20 recipients, Quezon City “Hand washing needs to be the Science High School (QCSHS) new normal—and if you want to is one among five Metro Ma- encourage and drive this behavnila-based project recipients that ior, we need to provide the needs received 10 faucet foot pedal-op- to make this happen,” mentioned erated handwashing facilities. the chairperson.
Online academic year 2020 to 2021 officially started last October 5, 2020.
Student respondents appealed to the school administration to listen to their suggestions and for them to have a voice in making Having classes in the decisions about class schedules comfort of their own beds are among the and formulation of activities.
Aside from this, the students also asked to lessen activities involving group work as the pandemic causes communication benefits of remote constraints to one another and also due to the students’ different Distance learning approach, or learning, according to study habits and schedule; length- remote learning, was implement- Scientians. ening the time for synchronous ed by the Department of Edu-
LCF, Metrobank Foundation, MWF Donate Handwashing Facilities To QCSHS BY MARCEEN MOLINA
cation (DepEd) to continue the education of Filipino students despite the hindrances the coronavirus pandemic has caused.
PHOTO FROM MARY GRACE ESPIEL
Metrobank Foundation, Inc. President Aniceto M. Sobrepeña, who personally proposed the project, stated investing in hand washing facilities is a valuable intervention for increasing pandemic preparedness for the safe return of the students, school personnel, and parents. As project recipient of LCFWinS: Lingap Eskwela sa Pandemya, QCSHS Principal Reme dios P. Danao humbly accepts the donation and sends her gratitude to donors after the physical turnover of facilities. “On behalf of the Quezon City Science High School Administration and Staff, Supreme Student Government, General Parent Teachers Association and the Schools Division Office with our Schools Division Superintendent, Dr. Jenilyn Rose B. Corpuz, I humbly accept the Handwash-
ing Facility donated by the Metro Bank Foundation in Partnership with the League of Corporate Foundations and Manila Water Foundation,” Mrs. Danao stated.
“In case of face-to-face modality, when students and teachers have to come to school, handwashing practice will be properly implemented having this added hygiene Mrs. Danao shared her op- facility in the school, making timism on the facilities, saying sure that students and teachparents who come to school and ers will be protected by the pick-up the printed modules for spread of COVID-19,” Mrs. their children, and even school Danao added. personnel who report to school may utilize the facilities by washThe donated hand washing faciling their hands before entering ities comply with the DepEd 3-star and leaving the school premises. approach for WASH in school.
NEWS • 5
The Electron MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021 PHOTO FROM RAPPLER PHOTO FROM QCSHS SSG
QCSHS, UN Women celebrate Int’l Women’s Month in Virtual Forum
Flexible learning will be the norm – CHED BY BEATRICE ACORDA THE ONLINE classes implementation, otherwise known as flexible learning, will continue in the school year 2021 and onwards, said the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) chair, Prospero de Vera III, on May 21.
In addition to this, the reason they adopted the new policy was to avoid the risks for the students if another pandemic strikes, according to the CHED chair.
The CHED chair also mentioned that if face-to-face classes are to be implemented De Vera announced during again, the faculty and teachers his presentation at the Center will be at a great disadvantage, for Strategy, Enterprise, and as it would waste the developIntelligence's "Educating our ment of technology and capaChildren in the New Normal" bilities of teachers. webinarthere will no longer be face-to-face classes. “Flexible learning does not necessarily require internet "From now on, flexible learn- connectivity since it is a combiing will be the norm. There's no nation of modules and digital going back to the traditional full- technology,” he added. packed face-to-face classrooms. The commission has adopted Academic year 2021 to 2022 the policy that flexible learn- will mark the second year of ing will continue in school year flexible learning due to the 2021 and thereafter," he said. COVID-19 pandemic.
BY MARCEEN MOLINA
to overcome her life and work-related hardships while highlightIN CELEBRATION of Inter ing a number of career shifts she national Women’s month, the had to take that have led her to Quezon City Science High the corporate position she is in toSchool (QCSHS) Supreme Stu- day as well as her post as member dent Government (SSG) coordi- of the Filipina Chief Executive nated with United Nations (UN) Officer Circle (FCC). Women for an online seminar: “Breakthrough Conversations: “I firmly believe gender has Leadership, Women’s Empower- nothing to do with building a ment, and Generation Equality” career. It’s all about the drive and that was hosted via Zoom last the mindset,” said Mrs. Campos. March 20, 2021. Ferrari President Ginia R. DoThe webinar moderated by UN mingo who talked about her early Women Philippines Country Pro- childhood life, financial decisions gramme Manager Rosalyn Mesi- at a young age, and the role of edna was joined by notable speakers ucation in her success story. namely Infosys Business Process Management (BPM) Country “I would tell myself, ‘Study Director Ayhee Campos, Ferrari hard, Ginia. Finish school because Philippines President Ginia R. this will be your salvation. Ito ang Domingo, and UC38 Limited Li- hahango sa’yo sa kahirapan [this ability Company (LLC) Technical will lift you out of hardship]’,” Manager Emy Barcelon Minguez shared Domingo on her story sesfor the program. sion about her school days.
eing male-dominated industry, b it is competency in her position that makes her thrive and stand out in the sales force. The last speaker was a fellow QCSHS alumna, chemical engineer by background, Emy Minguez talked about being one of the few women engineers in her workplace, facing dismissive remarks in her job, and decision making regarding career shift for personal life changes. “You always have to think out of the box, how to get most of the things and don’t ever think there is a limitation,” mentioned Minquez. She added it is best to find people who value them and their work rather than being surrounded by people who doubt and underestimate their abilities.
The forum ended with an openCompany BPM director Ayhee Domingo also noted that de- ended question and answer portion Campos shared how she was able spite the automobile business to the speakers from Scientians. WORK HARD, PLAY HARD. QC LGU erects a new laboratory and gym area for QCSHS to replace the covered court. PHOTOS BY MARY GRACE ESPIEL
QCSHS Upgrades with New Gym BY DAYANARA MARCOS
IMPROVEMENT DESPITE the pandemic. This is what the new two-storey multi-purpose gym Quezon City Science High School (QCSHS) represents.
that was a collaborative project of the Music, Arts, Physical Education and Health (MAPEH) department and the QCSHS Alumni Association.
ment. Previously, we had no dedicated area for practicing sports, especially basketball because the covered court was used for everything. The new building has a spacious, dedicated area for practicing various sports. It also has a wellness gym that can help promote physical fitness and improve a student’s well-being,” he stated.
Although the school’s new building is substantially finished, MAPEH teacher Mr. Simbulan clarified that the gym has not The said gym provides addi been officially turned over yet by tional facilities for Scientian stu- the Quezon City Local GovernThis building was a project g iven dents, replacing the covered court. ment Unit (QC LGU). and handled by the QC LGU. Completed mid-2020, the first floor features science laboratories while the second floor consists of the basketball court with a possible provision for volleyball and badminton courts, designated rooms for school clubs namely Indak and Himig, a sports equipment room, and a wellness gym
Students have shown their enthusiasm for the new building, such as QCSHS basketball varsity player, Zachary Callejo, mentioned he is thrilled about the facilities that the building has to offer.
“As a varsity member, I’m looking forward to the new establishment."
“As a varsity member, I’m look- Zachary Callejo ing forward to the new establish- QCSHS Men's Basketball Team
6 • NEWS
neer because we are the first group of people that started CIC in the school so it can be an official club],” she stated.
GRAPHICS BY JED GOCATEK
A New Club in Town: CIC-QCSHS LISR Pi-oneer BY KYLIE GASPAR
THE CAMPUS Integrity Crusaders - Quezon City Science High School Leadership, Integrity and Social Responsibility (CIC-QCSHS LISR Pi-oneer) club made its official launch in the QCSHS community last March 14, 2021. The club is a branch of Campus Integrity Crusaders under the Ombudsman office with the mission to empower the youth in their involvement in corruption prevention initiatives by developing their leadership skills and instilling values of integrity and social responsibility.
CIC-QCSHS LISR Pi-oneer club plans to hold seminars, contests, etc. as part of their activities which will be incorporating values of honesty and integrity, and letting students become aware that they can make a difference in our community on a larger scale within the society. ORIGIN OF THE CLUB
CIC-QCSHS LISR Pi-oneer club adviser Ms. Jessen P. Mendoza along with club President Rinoa Somel Sanchez formed and led this new club. “One day, Ma’am Jessen P. Mendoza, our club adviser, messaged me if I want to be the President of the club and that’s when
we started it,” Sanchez said when asked about how the club started. “Yung name ng club is quite long, it’s ‘Campus Integrity Crusaders- Quezon City Science High School Leadership, Integrity and Social Responsibility Pioneer (CIC-QCSHS LISR Pioneer)’ , naisip namin gamitin yung pioneer kasi kami yung unang group of people na nag start ng CIC sa school para maging official na club siya [The club’s name is quite long, ‘Campus Integrity Crusaders- Quezon City Science High School Leadership, Integrity and Social Responsibility Pioneer (CIC-QCSHS LISR Pi-oneer)’ we used the word pio-
AN ONLINE LEGACY: Victa 2021 set to graduate July amid pandemic BY GABRIELLE GACUTAN
NOT EVEN a pandemic can stop a dreamer on their journey towards the future. Quezon City Science High School’s (QCSHS) Batch 2021 is set to hold their commencement exercises virtually on July in consideration of community quarantine restrictions. Batch 2021, also known asVicta, is the second batch of graduates from QCSHS to graduate virtually after Invictus 2020. After almost a year of online learning, Victa is now undergoing graduation preparations despite the unorthodox situation. "[Right now], focused kami sa yearbook [with] the QCSHS admins and PTA officers [and] kung paano pa namin mapapaganda and magiging special yung graduation kahit na online lang," said Joyce Austria, the Grade 12 curriculum grade level (CGL) chairman.
(Right now, we are focused on the yearbook along with the QCSHS admins and PTA officers-- as well as on how we can improve and make the graduation special despite it being held online) Amid circumstances, the CGL 2021 officers continue to push for a complete graduation experience– which includes a graduation pictorial and a yearbook. "It was challenging because [lahat kami], ineexpect na di kami magw-work sa ganitong set-up. We've been meeting online para magplan and maghanap ng alternative ways on how we can celebrate [our] graduation," Austria shares, noting that they are working hard behind the scenes in preparation for the graduation. (It was challenging because we did not expect that we would work in this set-up. Now, we are meeting online to plan and find alternatives on the graduation celebration.)
While the CGL chairman is looking forward to the commencement exercises, she admits that she is quite disheartened that it would be most likely held virtually.
that are local, meaning within the school, shall be the responsibility of the internal committee the creative committee will be in charge of programs and projects that are She added that the “Pi (π)” informative, innovative yet fun,” in pioneer was given emphasis Ms. Mendoza elaborated on the as the school is remarkable for functions of the different comtheir performances in science mittees. and mathematics. The members expect the club to Club Officer Aeimaree Dela fulfill its pledged mission, which Cruz also cited that just as the is to instill the values of integrity Pi (π) represents, the CIC will and social responsibility within be constant in promoting leader- the Scientian community, an orship, integrity, and social respon- ganization that also continuously sibility, the core values of the team advocates for a positive change in within the community. their society. WHO CAN JOIN THE CLUB?
The club is open for anyone who wants to join, those who want to do so may contact Sanchez or the club’s o ther off icers. Club members can choose from three committees present in the club, which are the creative, external and i nternal committees.
"We used the word Pioneer because we are the first group of people that started CIC in the school so it can be an official club"
“The functions outside the school will be handled by the ex- Jessen Mendoza ternal committee, while activities CIC-QCSHS Pi-oneer Club Adviser
GRAD-WAITING. Scientian Ruby Logatoc smiles as she takes her graduation photos. PHOTO BY RUBY LOGATOC
we deserve... For the remaining days, sana patuloy nating gawin ang ating makakaya at mag-enjoy sa pagtatapos ng ating high school journey," the CGL chairman says, congratulating Victa for their "'Di ito 'yong inimagine ko na ma- continuous success. giging last year [ko] sa Kisay kaya I'm still hoping na sana mas maging (I know that everyone is exerting okay 'yong situation [para] we can immense effort to get the award push through face-to-face gradua- that we deserve. So, for the remaintion kahit by section lang," Austria ing days, let's keep doing our best expresses, revealing that the CGL and enjoy as we end our high officers have already filed a proposal school journey.) for a limited face-to-face graduation. Victa, named after (This is not the [senior] year that the Latin translation I have imagined in QueSci, that's of 'to conquer', is why I'm still hoping that the situ- the current Grade ation would get better so we could 12 batch from push through face-to-face gradua- QCSHS braving tion even if it's only by section.) their final semester in the instituMeanwhile, Austria acknowl- tion. They are exedged her batchmates' efforts as pected to march they count a few more days to through the culgraduate from high school. mination of their hard work on July, "Alam kong todo ang pagbibigay as preparations are natin ng effort to get the award that now underway.
PAINS OF LEARNING ∙ PAGE 9 Education must continue, even in times of calamity. With the Filipino education sector continuing classes through distance learning, talks of implementing pilot limited face-to-face classes started to surface.
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL
A Year of Incompetence ONE YEAR of isolation. One year of adaptation. One year of new normal. It has been a year, on March 15, since a lockdown was implemented in Metro Manila. Days later, on March 17, the entire Luzon region was placed under Enhanced Community Quarantine. A year has passed, yet the same situations from last year are still happening today. The number of COVID-19 cases is still increasing rapidly, uniform curfew hours are imposed, businesses are closed. It is not only the anniversary of the lockdown, but also the anniversary of the incompetence of the Duterte Administration. DELAYED RESPONSE
In January 2020, several countries implemented travel bans and prepared for the impacts of the COVID-19 virus. President Duterte, on the other hand, was not keen on banning travels to China and other countries. He also encouraged Filipinos to travel around the world, ignoring the gravity of the COVID-19 situation. “There is nothing to be scared of,” he said. Months later, the cases surpassed a hundred. Now, the number of cases is approximately at 626,000. Moreover, the Philippines also missed a chance in receiving Pfizer vaccines by January, because of Duque’s failure to work on the required documents. The government had no sense of urgency at all. “PRIORITIES"
Lawyers, journalists, and activists were killed; ABSCBN, the biggest TV
PHOTOS FROM CNN PHILIPPINES
network, was shut down; the Anti-terror Bill was implement ed; Joseph Pemberton, a American soldier convicted of killing a Filipino transgender woman, was released; and P389-million rehabilitation of Manila Bay was pursued. These happened amidst the pandemic wherein frontliners are underpaid, breadwinners are unemployed, and several families do not meet their basic needs. Instead of mass testing and efficient responses to the impact of the pandemic, these actions were made. “We were excellent,” said Harry Roque regarding how they handled the COVID-19 pandemic. Is it truly an excellent job having the Philippines as Top 2 in Southeast Asia in terms of the number of cases? The Philippines is one of the countries in the world that is under the longest lockdown. It is also the last Southeast Asian country to receive a COVID-19 vaccine supply. The number of deaths from COVID-19 are almost at 13,000. And the economy is drastically going down. Did the government do an “excellent” job? The COVID-19 pandemic is a test to the competence of the Philippine government. Many were disappointed and distressed, not only because of the pandemic but also because of the sloppy and slow response of the government. The government should set their priorities straight; COVID-19 virus is the enemy here. The lockdown anniversary is not only a reminder of the start of the new normal, but also a reminder to vote wisely for the next election.
Community Pantries: A Modern Bayanihan BY CYRUS BAUTISTA
“TAYO-TAYO rin sa finals.” This must have been a major thought of community pantry organizers like Ana Patricia Non in Quezon City. She started the first community pantry along Maginhawa Street as a way to help people in need of food during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing people to freely donate or take food from it. It started as a small cart filled with supplies replenished by people daily, to let people give what they can and take what they need, as a humble way for her to do what she can to help the country and its people. The pantry was a quick success, with people being inspired by it to make their own community pantries all around the Philippines, as well as drawing the attention of people who suspected an ulterior motive for the pantry. Peace Philippines, an anti-communist Facebook group found some of the pantries inspired by Maginhawa were using the goodwill of Filipinos to promote communism and gain funds for a possible revolution to remove President Rodrigo Duterte from office.
EDITORIAL CARTOON BY KIANNA EBALIN
These community pantries show the innate goodwill and desire of the Filipinos to treat each other like family
and help each other in times of need that has helped us time and time again, from when our ancestors helped each other by lifting and moving their houses when needed. The things we do now are not unlike the things we used to do to help others - but we are not lifting houses. This time, we are lifting each other’s spirits. Many community pantries, originally made as a way to help people during the pandemic like the many other pantries and food banks set up by people all over the world, are allegedly being turned by people from a way to show goodwill and compassion to a vehicle to spread communist ideologies to Filipinos. However, not all community pantries are being used as such, like Non’s Maginhawa Community Pantry that started this trend. They started as, and is still, a symbol of hope to help keep ourselves optimistic during the hardest challenges that life throws at us. If anything, the “red” in these community pantries is not from communist or even political ideas. The “red” in these community pantries symbolizes the love the organizers have for the country and its people. With how things are going, it seems we are still far from reaching the finish line of this pandemic marathon. May these community pantries as forms of encouragement and not as threat to the government. May we applaud those who help than tag them red the wrong way for this bayanihan to continue in this bayan ni Juan.
8 • EDITORIAL ties, and the students would not provide quality output.
PT: Problematic Tasks THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH PUBLICATION OF QUEZON CITY SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME LIII ∙ ISSUE 1 MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
ELECTRON STAFFERS '20 – '21 Gabrielle Gacutan Editor-in-Chief Carl Jendreik Naval Circulation Manager Leanne Isip Managing Editor
Marceen Molina News Editor Stephanie Basco Associate News Editor Theresa Baradi Feature Editor Ysabella Dominguez Associate Feature Editor Rianna Kwan Science Editor Patricia Jutie Associate Science Editor Gabriel de Leon Sports Editor Janina Matubis Associate Sports Editor Cyrus Bautista Marceen Molina Miko Opinion Zachary Panabi Amanda Quiambao Jhoanne Rayel Kianna Torrefiel Sherwin Vizcaya Copyreaders
BY COLE SANCHEZ ILLUSTRATIONS BY KIANNA EBALIN
WHAT'S EFFECTIVE and what's not? Quezon City Science High School (QCSHS) implemented its first online Integrative Performance Assessment for the second quarter. The freshmen developed an edible cell model. The grade 8 students produced an educational vlog while the Grade 9 students made a picture storybook suited for all audiences. Students from Grade 10 had four different integrative performance assessments, while the senior high school students had one performance task. According to K. Michael Hibbar, an integrative performance assessment is a learning system that allows students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a learning environment that embraces their higher-order thinking skills and relates them to real-world situations. This allows the students to learn through application and provide a different learning experience. Both the faculty and the students will benefit from this learning system because this will decrease the students' workload by including all subject concepts in one project. This will also allow the students to learn in a meaningful and engaging manner. An integrative performance task will only work if the
roject is engaging. The p challenge was to incorporate all of the concepts of various subjects in one project, but that made the project meaningless because the Scientians were merely completing a task on cue. They might have had other learning experiences due to the project, but the main goal was not met—to learn by execution. Most Scientians felt like they were anchoring various concepts just for the sake of accomplishing the project. The competencies were forced on the project, and they failed to convey the lesson’s value as intended. Another apprehension about why the teachers decided to conduct an integrative performance task is to decrease everyone's workload. Some teachers still gave separate performance tasks for their subject even if the competencies were already in the integrative assessment. Therefore, the project-based assessment was ineffective in terms of reducing the tasks on hand of the students.
Jed Gocatek Ysabela Padilla Strawberry Romano Luisa Soriano Layout Artists Carl Naval Jhoanne Rayel Photojournalists
Mary Grace Espiel School Paper Adviser Lorna Mendoza English Department Head Teacher Remedios Danao Principal
In every group project, there will always be those people who do not participate for various reasons. Some students had a fair excuse, primarily due to the digital divide, but some were also considered freeloaders. It is not appropriate for the students who work hard and try to look for the project's meaning if there are still freeloaders who would not contribute. The integrative performance task will only be practical if the teachers will provide concrete guidelines to the students. Lawlessness will occur if people in authority will guide the students to do something without essential policies.
Suppose the students cannot integrate the competencies of the subject with other competencies. In that case, it is better Most of the time, integra- not to conduct an integrative tive performance tasks work project at all because forcing because people were just at these competencies will only school, they could plan and make the project insignificant. resolve things collectively at once. Another reason why Conducting an integrative the performance task was in- performance assessment is a effective was because of this hefty workload. If other subjects distance learning setup. The ask students to do additional digital divide affected the com- performance tasks together munication of the Scientian with an integrative assessment, community. It made the whole it will just burn out both par-
OXYMORON
Kianna Ebalin Charissa Espina Yesha Rodriguez Cartoonists
integrative performance assessment more difficult because the students had a hard time communicating with their group members, which led to slow agenda accomplishment.
The second quarter's integrative performance assessment did not work at all. It might have provided additional learning experiences for the students, such as graphic design and video editing. However, Scientians did not feel engaged, and they had a hard time forcing all of the competencies to work together. This integrative performance assessment will only work if done correctly. The key is open communication which is a problem due to this distance learning setup. Mistakes done during the second quarter should not affect the Scientian community. It should be an opportunity to improve. No one is perfect, but everyone should strive to do better. The bottom line question is: Is it the right time to conduct integrative performance assessments?
The integrative performance task will only be practical if the teachers will provide concrete guidelines to the students. Lawlessness will occur if people in authority will guide the students to do something without essential policies.
stantial evidence”, and among those are two homicide cases in 2019. To have numerous cases dropped, and to remain in service after that is enough to show impunity within BY ALEJA TALAUE the PNP, and Nuezca is just one out of two hundred thousand. Without THE PHILIPPINE National Po- they do it, and it will not suffice. mass media, he would have gotten lice (PNP) is no longer a workforce They must build workout regi- away with murder— again. that strives for dependability, but a mens for their body types, followfaçade protected by the current ad- ing a strict diet until they achieve Each officer’s administrative ministration— tolerating its incapa- a physique fit for a cop. case must undergo careful invesbility to serve and protect the country. tigation. They must also undergo HONOR physiological assessments; to assess SERVICE According to Harry Roque in any mental health issues and emoPNP’s “obesity epidemic” is an a recent press briefing, “Impunity tions that would cause them to do insensible irony, given that the has no place in the Duterte admin- immoral acts beyond their control. unpredictability of working in istration.” The PNP dishonors this, the frontlines as a police officer being an embodiment of that lie. JUSTICE would require physical exertion. Debold Sinas, for example, is an offiThe police’s “nanlaban” narMost officers have been practicing cer who had his birthday party with rative. The PNP had invoked a sedentary lifestyle, neglecting dozens of other cops amid ECQ “self-defense” as the reason why proper physical exercise, all the last May 2020. What did he get for they kill suspects of anti-illegal while consuming food excessively. that? The President appointing him drug operations, with gunshot How capable will they be when as PNP chief. Another example is wounds showing an intent to kill duty calls? Not much. Jonel Nuezca, the officer who shot rather than to immobilize. Secrecy an unarmed mother and her son over these “nanlaban” records also Officers must undergo inten- over “boga” in a video that circulated proves PNP’s ignorance of justice. sive workouts; walking in place the internet. He had past cases that Just like what CHR Commissioner and a few arm raises is the way were “dismissed due to lack of sub- Gana said, “Invoking ‘nanlaban’ as
To Serve and Protect?
a justifying circumstance must be determined by a competent court and cannot be asserted without trial of facts”. The real question here is where did the police get the confidence to perform such merciless acts? It is simple. They get to abuse their power with the impunity the government has given them, with orders from the president himself to “forget about human rights” and to “shoot them [suspects] dead”. To address this, any case by the PNP, isolated or not, must fall under the court’s jurisdiction, for no one is above the law. This wicked culture of impunity must stop. So, who will you call when the police kill? The people of this country no longer need protection brought by the PNP. The people need to be protected from them. The agency's motto, “To Serve and Protect. Service, Honor, Justice,” is a disgrace to the Filipino people because, in reality, they have done nothing but the opposite.
EDITORIAL • 9
The Electron MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
Pains of Learning BY LEANNE ISIP ILLUSTRATION BY KIANNA EBALIN
AS DEPARTMENT of Education (DepEd) Secretary Leonor Briones said, “Education must continue even in times of crisis whether it may be a calamity, disaster, emergency, quarantine, or even war.” With the Filipino education sector continuing classes through distance learning, talks of implementing pilot limited faceto-face classes started to surface. While the postponement of the pilot classes has been extended due to the decision of President Rodrigo Duterte last February 24, 2021 many senators namely Sherwin Gatchalian, Nancy Binay, Francis Pangilinan, Grace Poe, Pia Cayetano, Joel Villaueva, and Sonny Angara filed Senate Resolution No. 668 last March 1, 2021 to allow DepEd to "gather evidence on the ground and design its framework for the safe reopening of schools." The resolution recommends the immediate launch of pilot testing of limited face-to-face classes in select public schools. Senators stated that the “prolonged pandemic school closures have adversely affected the learners' education," and have impacted the most vulnerable and
poor students "more severely." Gatchalian added that the resolution seeks to empower DepEd to begin a process of gathering evidence to guide the framework for the safe reopening of schools using a risk-based assessment to identify, analyze, and reduce risks affecting each school. However, unless the COVID-19 situation has been dealt with, the pilot implementation of limited face-to-face classes should not be launched. Sure, data gathered will be used as a basis for the safe reopening of classes, but with the threat of COVID-19 ever present, risking the health of students, teachers, and personnel is out of the equation. Issue of the pandemic and the state of the educational sector are not exclusive from each other. With that, issues can be tackled one at a time. With the number of covid cases hitting 5,000, the country is not yet in the clear. Flattening the curve comes first, along with the roll-out of vaccines. Next, the system of d i s t a n ce
learning could be improved, to ensure that the quality of education is not compromised and that learning remains as inclusive as possible since there is no certainty when the lockdowns or pandemic will end. Afterwards, the pilot implementation of limited face-to-face classes can be launched. This way, there will be less risks for anyone involved. To call for the immediate launch of pilot limited face-toface classes while there is still risk of contracting COVID-19 seems irresponsible. We have to keep in mind that while sanitation techniques may be used along the way, vaccines are not yet available in the country and that it is better to be safe than sorry. To continue pushing for the safe reopening of classes when the homes of the students are at risk, to continue pushing for face-to-face learning when students may not be mentally prepared, is insensitive. The health of the community must be ensured, and then the pilot implementation can then be launched. It is said that education must continue even in times of crisis, but will education actually teach when it is done against a backdrop of rushed decisions?
10 • EDITORIAL COVID-19
No Choice BY ALEJA TALAUE
WHAT WOULD it take to the Philippines, as they can be defeat COVID-19? stored in a normal fridge, making it easier to distribute. Nearly 50% of adult Filipinos are unwilling to take the Clinical trials have been done COVID-19 vaccine, with only by several countries, most of 19% willing, according to the them proving its effectiveness. survey findings conducted by Side effects after taking these OCTA Research, a team of ex- vaccines similar to COVID-19 perts studying the coronavirus symptoms are completely norpandemic. This is an alarming mal, and people must be refigure for the country, consid- ceptive to taking them because ering its dire need to put an it is the only way to end the end to this pandemic. pandemic completely. Herd immunity will be helpful in Most of those unwilling are avoiding the virus’ spread, as worried for the safety of the it has nowhere to go, with no vaccines, doubting their effica- people to infect. cy. Some actually believe that the vaccine is unnecessary in Along with the governthe fight against COVID-19, ment’s efforts in procuring and a few are concerned with the vaccines, it must also priits financial expense. oritize proper dissemination of information on it. Lack of The government has been in knowledge about these vactalks with several companies in cines will cause people uncersecuring vaccines, with Sinovac tainty in its inoculation. The and Oxford-AstraZeneca in the government must come up lead. Sinovac is a Beijing-based with communication chanbiopharmaceutical compa- nels accessible for everyone ny that has been working on who have concerns regarding an inactivated vaccine for these vaccines, assuring their COVID-19. The vaccine works safety and efficacy. Taking the by exposing the body to killed vaccines must also be free of particles of the virus, allowing charge to stop people from the immune system to respond worrying about it financially. to it. Inactivated vaccines had been tried and tested as it was The fear people developed in used in many well-known vac- taking these vaccines, worried cines such as rabies, unlike the that these may further deter new mRNA vaccines devel- their health is understandable, oped in the west that use more but what difference would modern technologies. it make in not acknowledging the science behind these Oxford-AstraZeneca is an vaccines? Ignorance to these adenovirus vaccine that works would just prolong the counby modifying a version of try’s ordeal with COVID-19, a common cold virus from and it cannot go on for much chimpanzees to resemble the longer. Staying inside your coronavirus. The body’s im- homes and strict compliance mune system then learns how to health protocols will just to fight it, as it may do so with help control the virus, but it the real virus. Both Sinovac will never let you or the counand AstraZeneca are ideal for try move forward in this fight developing countries such as with COVID-19.
GRAPHIC BY LUISA SORIANO
A Threat to Academic Freedom BY GRACIELLE DAGUIMOL
DEFEND ACADEMIC Freedom as a Human Right. Despite most students studying through online classes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the House of Representatives has approved the House Bill 8737 or the proposed Off-Campus Education Act. The House Bill states that no off-campus educational activities shall be undertaken unless they are relevant and aligned with the curriculum. The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) are mandated to identify and to accredit venues where educational organizations may hold off-campus activities. The House Bill 8737 suppresses students' democratic spaces to learn through alternative forms. It limits the rights of the students to learn in the real world outside of his or her school's walls. According to ManilaTimes.net, academic freedom is the freedom of teachers and students to teach, study, and pursue knowledge and research without unreasonable interference or restriction from law, institutional regulations, or public pressure. The Off-campus Education Act violates academic freedom as well as human rights principles that protect it. Also, it is stated in Article XIV, Section 5 in The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines that "Academic freedom shall be enjoyed in all institutions of higher learning". In democracy, it is a key element to have human rights protected.
ILLUSTRATION BY YESHA RODRIGUEZ
The House Bill 8737 will prevent experiential learning for the students when off-campus activities such as immersions and practicums are banned. It will also prevent the students from enhancing their knowledge and skills and engaging their emotions. Experience plays an active role in the learning process.
The Philippines has been s everely challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic since the March of 2020. It was irrational for the government to prioritize and to approve House Bill 8737 since it is irrelevant from the pandemic. In these difficult times, the government should focus on solving widespread issues like the increasing number of COVID-19 active cases, poverty, high unemployment rate, and the inaccessible healthcare system in the Philippines. Some Filipinos argue that the Off-campus Education Act was implemented to ensure the safety of the students. Although House Bill 8737 has the affirmative intention of ensuring safety, it was not executed properly because academic freedom was disregarded. It is not reasonable for students and teachers to get imprisoned or pe-
nalized because of participating in off-campus activities that are crucial to some organizations and institutions. The approval of House Bill 8737 shows the government's abuse of power in neglecting academic freedom. Traditionally, it would be better if the students are responsible for their own safety. The Off-campus Education Act neglects academic freedom, therefore it neglects some human rights principles as well. Academic freedom is important especially to the broader society. Because of it, creation of new knowledge and innovations, and achievement of social, political, economic, and technological progress were made possible. Instead of suppressing the rights and limiting scholarly experiences of the students and teachers, the government should be focusing more on the recovery of the Philippines from the pandemic.
Academic freedom is important especially to the broader society. Because of it, [...] achievement of social, political, economic, and technological progress was made possible.
EDITORIAL • 11
The Electron MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
No Chance
Misogyny in the 21st Century
BY DOMINIC PAGAY
BY ALDRIN GARCIA
EVIL AND ignorance is a common sight to behold for many. See it once one would be afraid, see it twice one would wish they were blind.
specific occurrence always plagued the archipelago. Different families seize control of every position humanly possible, all in order to supposedly keep their area of governance on track and in good hands for a long time. Spoiler alert, all it did was the opposite. People seem to never learn from the Ampatuans and Marcoses of the past, and I am very much sick of it. If the Duterte family seized the two highest positions in the country, with one doing it for the second time, history might uncontrollably repeat itself not for the worse – possibly for the worst.
Recently, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo stated the possibility of having Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte run with his father President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as his running mate for the upcoming 2022 Presidential Elections. And having heard of the news, people have started to ponder on themselves what despicable event is happening again in this chaotic country. Unsurprisingly, officials have taken the ride too - with Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson stating Number two, the recent the country is not ready for a mishaps of the current adminhypothetical Duterte-Duterte istration. Unless one is living Davao City-like leadership. under a rock, it is very much noticeable for every rational And in more ways than person the havoc P resident one, I do not beg to differ. I Duterte has brought upon. really think he is absolutely All the extrajudicial killings, correct. Having the “great” all the hate speech, and all the Rodrigo Duterte, along failed projects – all a testament with family member Sara, of his failures as the chief execleading the country is not utive is enough for him not desirable nor enticing by to be considered as a candiany means. Various circum- date for vice president. Sure, stances in the past and pres- let us not forget Sarah might ent have continuously told be better and much refined the Filipinos what’s wrong than her father in terms of with such a decision and governance. She might bring why that decision before- a better overall governance, hand should not even be as proven of her success in made – circumstances that Davao City. Alas, that would one day might be possibly not be the case. As one might impossible to be counted. have seen with his father, the things that he did as a mayor Number one of these back in the successful Davao circumstances would be did not translate to the whole the broken record dynasty. of the Philippines. And I Time and time again, this would expect the same for her
All This for Nothing BY STRAWBERRY CRUEL
IT WAS March 15, 2020 when the government imposed the first community quarantine over the National Capital Region in order to help control the spread of COVID-19 infections. However, although quarantine was implemented to protect people from the virus, it is obvious that it has done more harm than good to them.
made people resort to using online media to continue education and livelihood. Students were given the choice to take either online classes or modular classes while employed people were forced to work from home. This added more burden to them, especially to those who live in an unsuitable environment and have to juggle both their personal and professional lives.
Over the year, the pandemic Poor people also suffer situation only worsened which more as the situation remains
Where Your Rights Do Not Protect You BY ALDRIN GARCIA
WHEN PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte was campaigning for presidency, one of his main platforms was to put a stop to drugs in the Philippines. It was a fight anticipated and an idea admired by all. However, the inefficient and human rights-violating
daughter. Furthermore, her abilities as a politician does not change nor erase the fact this father of hers has done bad things for the country. In fact, I believe if she only were not the daughter, she would raise an eye about his father’s wrongdoings just as critics do. Lastly, the words of Rodrigo Duterte himself. If one is keen to his boring and sleepy press conferences, he would say every time that he would not allow her daughter run for president in the first place. Dare me not, as he repeatedly says such thing over and over again, especially with his misogynistic nature. Two Dutertes in the Malacanang. A sight truly marvelous to behold. It may be marvelously good for his hind sighted followers, but in reality, it is marvelously bad for our country on the receiving end. The past told us so. The present told us so. And if we don’t do a thing, the future would tell us so. Thus, as long as one can possibly act, every Filipino should continue to oppose and to reject this far-fetched mind- boggling presidency idea of Salvador. The saying that everybody deserves a second, a third, and so on chance ends here. Only one chance is deserving for this preposition – none. unsolved because they have to tirelessly look for ways to survive in times like this where getting a job is harder than losing one. Everyday they live in uncertainty, not knowing where to get food to eat or if they can even survive another day. Homeless people expose themselves to the risk of acquiring the virus on a daily basis because they have no house to shelter them. Because of the pandemic, people’s mental health has also been severely affected. According to a study conducted to examine the psychological impact of the pandemic on Filipinos where 1879 surveys were completed from March to April 2020, one-fourth of fixed, sadly, did not match his actions. He is four years in his term, yet only injustices of his human rights violations have been reaped.
Even I believed in the reforms programs implemented have for the war on drugs. But conreceived various criticisms. sidering the factors, such as how many innocent were killed, how These initiatives are what he power was abused, and how the became known for and gave percentage of decrease in drugs him charisma during the elec- in the country does not even tions, with drug issues ram- equate to what the nation lost, I pant. His promise that in six am no longer a Duterte believer. months the nation would be This personal decision is sup-
SOCIETY HATES and sometimes they are even empowered and strong half-meant. Common people women – an ugly truth. get offended with jokes that are below the belt, and yet when it Fighting for women’s is their “Tatay Digong” doing it, right movements has been it is “just a joke”, these supportquite rampant in this age, ers have been so blinded that and feminism has been a they no longer make any sense. common idea. These were Please keep up, I know Filipino the results of all the instanc- citizens could do better. es that showed discrimination and gender bias - movePresident Duterte also once ments that tend to finally mentioned that the presidency make women’s voices heard is not a job suited for a woman. and to make them equal to On the other hand, countries men. Despite these, women like Norway, Finland, New are still not there. Men and Zealand, and Taiwan are all women are still not equal, performing outstandingly especially if the source of and are perfectly thriving in oppression comes from this time of pandemic. These some authoritative ruling countries have one thing in and abuse of power. common - they are led by women, a testament that President Rodrigo Dute- proves the President’s wrongrte blatantly looks down on ful accusations and guesses on women on various aspects. women leadership skills. The This is starting from his rape Philippines too, has been exjokes and colloquial languag- cellent in maintaining a high es in describing women, his number of infected cases and misogynistic acts, his belief extended lockdown that is. that women are not suited for leadership roles, and his Aside from these public acplain disrespect for them. All tions, it is a common belief by actions he does somehow men that feminism fights for show prejudice against the gender superiority when in said gender, and these are ob- fact it simply aims for gender vious with the fact that most equality. They tend to associof the public notices these ate feminism to misandry and and are even angered. voices out that men are starting to get oppressed in ways “They are called jokes for a more than one. For example, I reason” is the most common stumbled upon an argument argument his supporters that questions why it is okay would give. Of course, what for women to say men are do we expect? The thought trash, but it is not alright for processes of these people are men to say women are all the stuck in the old ages and show same. These logics are probnothing but clownery and lematic as they equates ideas bigotry. Even I, as a kid, know with very different contexts. for a fact that jokes have limits, Behind one is the fight for respondents reported moderate-to-severe anxiety and one-sixth reported moderate-to-severe depression and psychological impact. Common reasons of this are loneliness and isolation, stress from distance learning, job losses, financial issues, as well as personal and family problems. As the virus continues to take the lives of many, people who are stuck inside their houses also battle for their sanity and mental stability. On March 15, the Philippines logged 5,404 new cases which is already the fourth biggest single-day tally. It seems as though the situation is getting to nothing but worse and if this continues, more and ported by his infamous, threatening line “Shoot them dead,” and tolerant, encouraging words such as “I got your back,” to policemen telling stories about the current regime’s bloody nature. With authority given to abusive people, 61.5% of the children victims of the war on drugs were done by unknown assailants who were believed to have direct links to policemen. These cases were not given resolutions except for the common police alibi, “They are drug addicts.” The
more people will die not only because of the virus, but also out of starvation, fatigue, and different mental illnesses. Despite everything wrong that is happening in the country, the government seems to not listen to the people’s cries. People are starting to feel hopeless about the condition of the country. The government should work harder to get rid of the virus as soon as possible. Since they already have P10.33 trillion loaned from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, then they might as well use that huge amount of money to come up with services that can help curb COVID-19 infections and treat those who are already infected. They should fund more to the mental health sector of the counline, “Adik ako, huwag tularan” has been exhaustively used in the campaign. Who could forget the victims? A 20-month old girl and Kian Delos Santos with his last words, “May exam pa po ako bukas.”
human lives and criminality, while the other whines for ego and personal pride. President Duterte’s misogynistic words against women tell a lot more about himself. Trying to degrade women as leaders maybe because he, as a man, is superior in his belief, could not do any better than women leaders. His rape jokes also impose an image that boosts victim blaming in different scenarios. Not only are his words vulgar. In some cases, he even specifies names and interacts with the women of his likings with his actions and conversations that are plain disrespectful. It is already the 21st century, and yet most people are stuck with 1950’s mindset. Stop discriminating and oppressing, and do not act as if you are oppressed as misandry is far from occurring. It is almost unbelievable when there are instances where people do not support or go against women’s rights and women empowerment. The President should be a model to everyone, and yet he relegates women with his unidealistic mindset and beliefs. All of these are a matter of having respect and basic human decency. Perhaps those in power should try to do more work and less talk, as their barking tells more about themselves. Limiting women simply because they have the balls to do the things you cannot even as a man is not a mentality that we welcome in 2021. try so as to help those who are suffering from mental illnesses and provide help to the people who are living in poverty. The government should also come up with a better distance learning system to lessen the unnecessary stress and pressure thrusted upon the students. It is the government’s responsibility to serve their people especiallyintimeslikethisandnot solely rely on community quarantines and lockdowns. A year of letting go of plans, forgoing opportunities, living in fear, and believing in the administration when it said it can handle the pandemic. All this for nothing if the government would not act on the pandemic the way it should. poor, powerless, and innocent people, but also ineffective. I personally think people went for the iron hand in the belief that the Philippines lacks discipline and that strict governance is needed. As vividly seen at present, we should be more responsible and be wiser in voting. There is a clear difference between strict, just governance and vindictive ruling.
The drug war addresses surface-level conflicts but does not go for the root causes. It is mostly the poor who are affected while the powerful continue their drug trading businesses. I find To vote is a basic right, and this drug war not only violent to vote for who will protect and inhumane, only hurting the our rights is a moral act.
FEATURE
STRONG: KENNETH BALAGTAS' STORY OF HOPE ∙ PAGE 14 Kenneth Emmanuel Balagtas, with his heart condition, has led him to build his resolve early on and stay strong despite the challenges that life has thrown his way.
STUDENT AND SCREEN. With the pandemic requiring the shift to distance learning, many students feel alone, unused to not being in the company of classmates. PHOTO BY JED GOCATEK
Ease BY YSABELLA DOMINGUEZ
THE LOUD chatter inside classrooms used to fill the deafening silence that plagued my thoughts. It always felt like there was something to keep the anxiety at bay; whether it be the gentle hum of the person beside me, or the continuous click of a pen somewhere in the room. No matter what it was, it always felt like an indication that, no matter what I did, I was never alone. Because of the pandemic, it feels as though everything we have ever gotten used to flipped upside down. Gone are the muffled laughter shared between classes, only to be replaced by the longing of reaching past the confines of a screen. It is difficult to pinpoint when exactly I started to feel like I needed to take the first step towards striving for a better state of mind, but I have found that the little things I do in my daily routine greatly contribute to this initiative.
REACH
With the difficulties presented by the mere thought of being alone, I have found myself reaching out to more of my friends. Although communication through online means does not even begin to compare with the interactions we have face to face, it still proves to be a good way to continue building relationships despite the current circumstances. My friends and I found ourselves exploring different platforms to communicate with one another; Discord being one of our favorites. These weekly calls serve as a constant reassurance that the distance between us will never be a hindrance to our friendship.
things when I constantly felt like everything was limited to the four corners of my room. However, as time passed by, I started to discover new things about myself; things I might never have known had I not given myself some time alone. I started spending more time in the kitchen and now, I can safely say that I know a thing or two about baking. I also rekindled my love for reading, and I realized how many genres I have yet to discover. Having the privilege to push myself out of my comfort zone during such dire times has made me feel less stagnant and has made me realize that my constant pursuit for self-improvement should never be put to an end.
ENGAGE
BREATHE
At the start of the pandemic, I became quite pessimistic in regards to exploring new interests and immersing myself in new hobbies. I thought about how hard it was to experience new
overwhelmed. It hits you all at once and most of the time, you only realize that you should have taken a break when you start to feel like everything is falling apart. I firmly believe that taking the time to take care of yourself should be of utmost importance. Personally, I do this by giving myself a whole day to rest and to focus on things I enjoy. It can be something as small as getting into a hot shower, or picking up the book I have been looking forward to reading all week. It does not matter how you initiate self care, what matters is that you are doing it for yourself. PLAN
Online classes have definitely taken a toll on my mental health. If there is anything I have In regards to this, I have found learned from this quarantine that taking the time to establish period, it is that we must take a a schedule can greatly improve breather to avoid getting burnt one’s work ethic. At the start of out. One more than a few occa- every week, I lay out what I need sions, I have found myself feeling to do and set realistic goals I wish
to achieve by the end of it. This keeps me well-organized, and it also helps reduce my anxiety regarding school. It is always fulfilling to cross something out of the list and it always feels like a victory, no matter how miniscule it may be. It gives me a sense of purpose and accomplishment; a feeling that I believe is quite difficult to find during these times. This pandemic has made me realize how important it is to keep my mental health in check. I may not have access to the comforting sound of laughter in the classroom or the continuous click of a pen somewhere in my vicinity, but I have found that there are so many other ways to stay connected and avoid the feeling of being alone, because we never truly are. Self-care varies from person to person, but what matters most is that at the end of the day, we take a step back and find ourselves at ease, complete with the rest that we deserve.
When It Rains BY JHOANNE RAYEL
THE WEATHER is constantly changing. Sometimes it is sunny; sometimes it is rainy. Experiencing each type of weather is normal. I can be happy, sad, angry, and feel any other emotions. Usually, people consider the rainy weather as bad. This may be because of the threats it implements to people like flash floods and landslides. But is it entirely the fault of the weather that we experience these threats whenever it happens or is it because of the lack of response of the people? ILLUSTRATION BY YESHA RODRIGUEZ
many years. The care for mental health has not been prioritized compared to physical health. The knowledge on how to take care of my mental health is rarely seen in books and taught in classrooms. Because of this, I sometimes become oblivious to the things around us, making me hopeless and lost. But, there are ways that I do to burst the bubble enclosing me. APPRECIATE SMALL PROGRESS
I have always been aware of my weakness in public speaking. Mental health disorders have Expressing my thoughts and been considered as a stigma for ideas has always been a struggle
for me since I was young. I practice and challenge myself to recite in class discussions, which may be easy or simple to others. These are my baby steps. These steps may be small, but they keeps me forward. As I continue my baby steps, growth will come naturally. We usually desire big changes that would happen in a few minutes or days. But, big changes are results of accumulated small progresses.
else I would suffocate; I have to be open. Having trusted friends who always open their ears and lend their shoulders to cry on has really helped me in taking care of my mental health. Because of them, the heavy feeling that I’ve been carrying is lifted, making me continue to fly.
Rainy weather will not threaten us if we implement preventive measures. This weather also benefits us in BE OPEN many aspects. It’s okay to be The bubble that is enclosing sad; it’s okay to not be okay. me is sometimes filled with neg- We should let the rain fall. We ative thoughts and concerns. should let the tears fall. There is This bubble must be popped or always a rainbow after the rain.
FEATURE • 13
The Electron MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
Wanting To Fly Again BY JHOANNE RAYEL FILE PHOTOS BY JED GOCATEK AND CARL NAVAL
IT HAS been a year since we became birds held in captivity inside our homes. It has also been a year since we have not stepped on the premises of our alma mater, wearing the uniforms that represent us as Scientians. Because of the struggles we face in online learning, my longing for the old normal gradually increases as time goes on. CLASS
also be students preparing for future performances or reporting. Now, everything is done behind screens. With this current set-up that we face, we struggle in setting the boundaries between rest and work. AFTER SCHOOL
After a long and tiring day, my friends and I plan on what to do or where to eat. As usual, KFC would be filled with Scientians as it is the nearest and one of the most available food places that students can go to. Instead of waiting until the clock strikes 5 p.m., some change into casual clothes, hoping that they can easily enter malls. Despite our current situation where we are confined to the four corners of our computer screens, we still find ways to not let distance be a hindrance to our friendships. Watching parties, online video gaming, and communicating through social media platforms are some examples.
My one-hour travel to school is now only a click to attend. Because of this, waking up early and being stuck in traffic seems to be impossible nowadays. Although online learning lessens these kinds of inconveniences, I still find myself missing face-toface classes. Witnessing the chaos early in the morning as I step inside the classroom now turns into a quiet waiting room, all microphones and cameras off. The noises made by my classmates are replaced with deafening silence. The sound produced by chalk gliding against blackboards are Trying out new hobbies and skills is one of replaced with mouse clicks and the ways I spend time during quarantine. Since keyboard keys. my family stays together in one home, there is more time for family bonding. I also get to atBREAK tend webinars and educational discussions to Loud chatters, the smell of sautéed onions educate myself and be aware of the current isand garlic, and the sound of balls bouncing sues. Appreciating the things I have and countare signs that the break has come. My friends ing the blessings I receive are what I learned and I would usually has- throughout this pandemic; no matter how ten to go down to the small, repeating, or mundane. These should canteen to buy fries not be taken for granted for when they are before it runs out. Peo- gone, reminiscing is all we can do. ple from various sections join together to Despite being locked in the four corners of play volleyball, making my home, I always try to look at the bright side sure to avoid any risks and work on how to fly again. Once the doors of having the ball con- of our cages are lifted, I believe that we can fly fiscated. There would higher than ever before.
STRO
Kenneth Balagta
BY YSABELLA GRAPHICS BY LU
For most people, braving the uncertainties of work or school are what they consider to be condition has led him to build his resolve early on and stay
SACRIFICE
Having to deal with a heart condition at such an early age, Kenneth was not allowed to do what most kids typically enjoyed doing. Running around, playing sports, and even dancing with his friends were completely out of the question. He could not join in strenuous activities, which led him to miss out on a few opportunities to build closer relationships with his peers. Growing up, he considered this to be the biggest hurdle he needed to overcome. However, as time went on and as he grew older, he found himself in the company of people that made sure he was always enjoying himself and never failed to make him feel included. TRUST
Over the course of his fouryear stay in QueSci, Kenneth touched the hearts of many. His friends describe him as a joyful and inspiring figure, one that they can share lighthearted conversations with about common interests, such as anime or video games, while also being someone that they can lean on during times of need. His bright personality gives people a sense of comfort, and he never fails to make those around him feel loved. He has proven time and time again that no matter what he is going through, he will always be there for his loved ones, ready and waiting to listen. RESOLVE
One would think that having to deal with the stresses of
school while going through such obstacles would cause a person to simply give up. But Kenneth continues to prove to the world that despite what he is going through, he is def initely still a force to be reckoned with. The resolve that he possesses is truly admirable and one that people often commend him for. As he continues to move forward, not once has he let his condition hinder his potential to grow as a student, and more importantly, as an individual. He says that he is constantly inspired by his family and friends, as well as those who continue to believe and support him during his journey through life. The words of encouragement that people give spur him on during his moments of self-doubt, and he grows stronger as he strives to recover and experience the things he has yet to discover.
If there is one thing that Kenneth has taught those around him, it is that light can be found ev person to grow despite the limitations that life sets. With this in mind, he wishes to im
“There may be strong challenges, but so are you. With the right mindset
Kenneth Emma
ONG:
as’ Story of Hope
DOMINGUEZ UISA SORIANO
the biggest obstacle in their lives, but for Kenneth Emmanuel Balagtas, living with a heart y strong despite the challenges that life has thrown his way.
OPTIMISM
When asked about a memory with Kenneth that particularly stuck with them, his friends immediately answered moments wherein they remember laughing the hardest with him. Whether it be singing loudly in karaoke rooms or sharing quiet conversations while walking to their classrooms in the wee hours of the morning, his optimism always seems to shine through. His positivity is contagious and there never seems to be a dull moment with him in the room. Kenneth says that his condition is not a reason for him to stop enjoying his everyday life. With hobbies such as reading, playing online games, and binging his favorite series, he opts to pass the time doing the things he loves. Above all of these though, he says that his favorite thing to do is to reach out and to communicate with his friends, expressing how happy and relieved it makes him feel to find that he does not have to deal with his struggles alone. He finds solace in the fact
that he has an amazing support system and a great group of people that are there for him every step of the way. NEW BEGINNINGS
As Kenneth continues to undergo treatments that aim to rid him of his disease, he cannot help but have a newfound sense of hope and the need to strive for a chance at new beginnings. Once he recovers, he wishes to experience a happiness void of the anxiety brought about by the thought of falling back into sickness whenever he does anything that pushes him past his limits. He looks forward to a future where he finally loses the shackles that his condition previously had on him: living life to the fullest without the fear of burnout looming over his shoulders. GOALS
Giving back has always been Kenneth’s top priority. When asked about his aspirations, he immediately goes on about what he wishes to become when he grows up, and how he wants to live his life in the future. He says that he wants to give his parents and guardians the lives that they deserve as a form of giving back for all their efforts to keep him high-spirited and hopeful. His dreams consist of becoming a Certified Public Accountant as well as opening up a business that aims to give people more opportunities to improve the state of their lives. Despite all of the challenges he has faced and have yet to face, the need to help people still remains to be one of the most important things he wants to achieve in his life.
even in the darkest of places. He serves as a constant reminder that there is always hope for a mpart the message to remain strong and take the first step towards a better tomorrow.
t and strong determination, you’ll easily accomplish your dreams in life.”
anuel Balagtas
16 • FEATURE
Flower Power BY THERESA BARADI
I MAY not have a green They always complimented thumb, but I do have my me on my great use of “flowown kind of flower power. ery” words, saying that my writing painted beautiful Flowers are a magnificent pictures and landscapes in part of nature. To humans, their heart. And because of they have become a symbol that, they directed me to feaof beauty, affection, hope, ture writing. and happiness. Flowers have also become a symbol of It has become a big part life, blossoming and grow- of my life since then. My ing, always changing. It is first competition outside of no wonder that during the school was in feature writpandemic, many Filipinos ing. I joined the journalism have turned to flowers and club in high school and met plants to cope, even adopting so many people of different “Plantito” and “Plantita” to backgrounds, with so many give name to their passion. different stories I would love to write about. Feature writNo matter how much I tried ing made me grow as a person in the past however, I never too, and helped me reflect on seemed to get the hang of gar- my life, my own story that I dening. Even though I plant- am always writing. And as I ed the seeds properly, watered practice my writing, I realize them when needed, and made every time that my “flowery” sure they had enough sun- words have their own kind of light, the “growing” part never power—the power to make seemed to come. To plants that people feel, whether it’s hapcame to me pre-grown, they al- piness, hope, sadness, or nosways de-grow under my care. talgia. It never bothered me nor did it make me feel bad, because Maybe I do not have a green I knew I had my own kind of thumb. Maybe I am not a power. “plantita” the way we Filipinos know it. But in feature My power came in the writing, I would call myself form of a pen. When I was one, always writing and growyounger, many of my teach- ing my flowery words to bring ers recognized that I had a happiness, hope, and light to talent for writing. I especially those who wish to read my thrived when writing about garden of words. And I bemy views, experiences, and lieve that that is my own kind stories that I loved to share. of flower power.
Blooming Bud-dy BY YSABELLA DOMINGUEZ ILLUSTRATION BY LUISA SORIANO
IT IS common to pick up new interests as we spend more time in quarantine. This lockdown period has really given us the time to rediscover ourselves and to take on new hobbies that encourage us to keep moving forward and hold onto the promise that sunshine will soon peak through the clouds and that tomorrow will treat us better.
nothing but the light above their heads, the gentle hum of what lies outside their windows, and the plants that seem to cheer them on as the night grows deeper. Seeing their seedlings grow and develop have taken their minds off of their anxiety in regards to living alone. As they incorporate this newfound interest into their daily routines, they find themselves having a happier state of mind and feeling calmer as they take in their surroundings. Some people even argue that this hobby is somehow therapeutic for them and they speak about how it helped them develop a clearer way of thinking. Perhaps these plants wordlessly ward off the feeling of lonesomeness and bring forth a brand new sense of hope in its stead.
Most recently, people have started picking up the hobby of taking care of plants, with self-proclaimed “Plantitos and Plantitas” constantly on the lookout for new ones to take home. More and more people are starting to like the idea of entertaining themselves with various pots scattered all throughout their apartments or living spaces. They argue that seeing even the smallest hints of green at the start of each morning serve as comforting pops They find solace in the gentle of color in contrast to their mun- droop of the plants that hang dane routines. from their ceilings, or in the way their homes always seemed to On the other hand, some peo- smell like how they would in ple who live alone during this spring. Just like any other hobtime in quarantine have said that by, successfully keeping a plant the plants that they take into their alive has given these people a homes have kept them company sense of accomplishment. This as they work on their respective activity gives them something to tasks; referring to them as their look forward to, and it provides buddies or friends. Various forms an outlet for them to focus their of flowering plants and succu- energy on. Somewhere along the lents sit atop their desks as they way of picking up this interest, it continue to work late into the became something more. It motinight. They are accompanied by vated them as it provided a sense
of newfound energy that helped them tackle their responsibilities head on. After all, everyone works better when they get a little encouragement and a push in the right direction. With everything that has been happening, oftentimes, it is difficult to see the sunshine that peaks between the clouds. For most of us, we tend to find it in hobbies like baking in the kitchen or finally learning how to play whatever musical instrument sat at the corner of our rooms. But for Plantitos and Plantitas, they found it in the silent encouragement and reassurance that they continue to receive from their blooming bud-dies.
Somewhere along the way of picking up this interest, it became something more. It motivated them as it provided a sense of newfound energy that helped them tackle their responsibilities head on.
Growing with You BY RAYMOND TUGADI
HAVING A lot of extra time on our hands due to the pandemic led us to find many new hobbies to enjoy when we have nothing else to do. After taking care of all our daily tasks, a lot of us have grown fond of taking care of plants as well.
ILLUSTRATION BY YESHA RODRIGUEZ
or plantita’s needs. Aside from plants being aesthetic in general, they can also act as a safer and easier to manage alternative for people who have trouble taking care of pets. Being a responsible caretaker of plants also helps us hone various skills that are essential to our everyday lives. Taking care of a plant that blooms a bright and beautiful flower annually, we must be patient and take care of that plant throughout the whole year until it is finally time for it to bloom. Low maintenance plants such as cacti that need only a bit of water help us appreciate how even a little effort goes a long way. Plants that can be used as food or seasonings literally give us a taste of our success in taking care of it while it grows.
There’s always something about having our own plant that makes it so enjoyable. Whether it’s watching it grow, the way it looks under the warm daylight, how it can complement any room they’re thrown into, or maybe because they are just as alive as we are. With the vast amount of plant species available to the public, there’s always going to be something for everyone. Different colors, shapes, and sizes, every plant has its own unique quirks The satisfaction of sucto satisfy an average plantito cessfully keeping a plant alive
and well doesn’t stop at just being able to water it when needed. We can get creative in our methods of keeping our plants, putting them in special containers, giving them more space to grow, sometimes we even give them their own names. Pairing them up with other plants to keep your collection diverse is also a great way to spruce things up. A dish garden is a wonderful example of pairing up plants with one another. Plants and gardening as a hobby during the quarantine is an overall great way for us to take a piece of the outside that we’re so used to, with us inside in our homes. Taking care of them not only helps them grow but also helps us grow as people in these trying times. We owe it to ourselves to become a little bit of a plantito or plantita once in a while.
FEATURE • 17
The Electron MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
If we like finishing the hard stuff first then go ahead! Feel like doing the easy ones last for a quick finish? No problem! This way we have a feeling of control over the work we do with great confidence. DISTRACTING OURSELVES FROM DISTRACTION
We are finishing up a project when suddenly our favorite show releases a new season for us to watch, a friend messages us a funny video, and there goes a few hours that could have been spent on getting the job done. The temptation of doing something other than work never ceases to entice. This is another scenario where something that sounds good is not what we need BY RAYMOND TUGADI at the moment. Although avoidILLUSTRATION BY JED GOCATEK ing distractions can be very challenging, having the right mindset and environment can help. Go somewhere where there will be DO PHRASES like, “maybe keep on coming back without valuable time that could be used nothing to distract you, keep our later”, “I have something else to do even noticing it. Getting off pro- to finish an essay or assignment, phone on silent and only check in real quick”, and “I will finish it after crastinating can be very difficult, the cons outweigh the pros, if this small intervals if necessary. a quick nap”, sound familiar? We so here are four ways to make sure is still a recurring concern we face, all have that feeling when we have we spend more time getting work it is better to just take a good long something to do but would rather done and less time pondering on sleep during the night to have the do anything else. There are times when we are going to do it. energy to last the next day. when we find an excuse, no matter how important or urgent a task may COUNTING SHEEP OR TOO BITING OFF MORE THAN WE be. All of those traits are commonly MUCH SLEEP? CAN CHEW associated with procrastination. If we ever catch ourselves preIt is common to have multiferring to doze off instead of get- ple tasks thrown at us in a certain Procrastination is something ting the job done, we often wake timeframe. This can ultimately that we see and do all the time. It up stressfully looking at what lead us to feel overwhelmed and provides us with a brief sense of time it is instead of being calm quickly lose interest in completing relief from everyday troubles but after a good rest. It is important them. A great way to overcome gives us fewer benefits in the long to note that even though in most this is by ranking them based on run. We always promise to break circumstances being well-rested difficulty and urgency. This stratefree from this insidious habit but is a good thing, when it sacrifices gy can be fine-tuned to our liking.
Stall for Time
BEING MORE THAN OUR EXCUSES
The greatest obstacle we must overcome is ourselves. Even if we apply all the tips previously stated, it can still all come crumbling down if we end up convincing ourselves with an excuse or two. What may sound logical to us might not be when compared to other given facts. “I still have a whole week to do this, I’ll just do it tomorrow” are common excuses we use when in fact, it would be better for us to finish as early as possible and have the whole week to do other tasks that might be thrown our way. It is always a good idea to convince ourselves to be ready rather than sit around and wait. We have finally reached the end of this article, congratulations to those who read it continuously throughout! For those taking long breaks in between, keep in mind what this article is all about. Procrastination can never truly go away, but we can take the necessary steps to overcome it, and hopefully turn that “soon” into a “now!”
What may sound logical to us might not be when compared to other given facts.
Validi-tine BY ALDRIN GARCIA ILLUSTRATION BY KIANNA EBALIN
FOR EVERYONE struggling feel, people invalidate them. As out there, remember, you are and they receive less assistance from always will be valid. people, one of the ways they can do to aid their own mental health Mental health has always been is helping themselves. a relevant issue that is given less spotlight than what it truly de- YOURSELF serves. Traditional mindset conSelf-acceptance and self-love is siders it as drama while some re- a main and top priority for peoligious people claim it is due to ple who struggle with depression their lack of faith, not acknowl- or anxiety. It is one way to disedging the fact that m ental tract yourself from all negativities illnesses exist. around you. It also goes with the adage “Love yourself before othDuring this time of quarantine, ers” as this is the only way for you in a forced-to-be-at-home set-up, to give that same affection to peoreported cases of people strug- ple you truly value. Your well-begling with depression and anxiety ing is first in line. You are equally, are at extremes. At worst, these if not more important than the victims most of the time feel iso- rest of everyone in your life. In lated and alone, as every time they your own life and body, you are tend to open up about how they the main character of the story.
PEERS
Knowing the people you bond with well can also help the stability of your mental health, as they are one of the great influencing factors in your daily life and your being in general. Negative peer pressure causes a decrease in self-confidence which can lead to self-loathing. The impact of having the right kind of people around you can significantly boost your mindset while having the opposite and when left untreated, can lead to self-harm or even suicidal thoughts. EDUCATION
Getting knowledgeable about the topics that affect your daily life would be a great help. Knowing such information can help
you with proper responses, suggestions, and recommendations. It will also provide various ideas on important things such as possible causes, symptoms, proper addressal, and prevention. Studies suggest that getting proper mental health education improves people’s attitudes toward treatment, increases their willingness to undergo counseling, and overall boosts their mental literacy. ENVIRONMENT
Aside from peers, the environment also plays a big role in your daily life. Make sure to surround yourself with the ideas of places you love, keep up your routines and maintain a stress and pressure-free area. Always make a room for your benefit where you
can have peace of mind, relaxation, enjoyment, and most of all, the opportunity to get to know yourself better. Mental health awareness matters and even though some people may not be fully educated, soon it will be more public and prevalent. Everyone encounters downsides of life every now and then and that includes mental health challenges. Maintaining a good mental health may be challenging during the pandemic, but you can do it one step at a time. Open up to safe people, and you can conquer mental health challenges. Because at the end of the day, remember, you are valid.
18 • FEATURE
quarantine things. EDITED BY THERESA BARADI ∙ ILLUSTRATION BY KIANNA EBALIN
Fool's Gold BY YSABELLA DOMINGUEZ
WE HAVE all had our fair share of expectations regarding how we wanted to spend 2020. People said it would be the start of a new beginning and referred to it as a “golden year”. But with the sudden rise of the COVID-19 pandemic, we were forced to take a step back and ultimately scrap our bucket lists to make way for new ones.
was traveling. The late nights spent hauling suitcases through an airport were suddenly replaced by Zoom calls with backgrounds of sunny beaches, beautiful mountains, and various other places -- anywhere but home.
I suppose the reason why I kept myself busy reading about different cultures online is that I miss traveling so much. During this GAINING KNOWLEDGE quarantine period, I have come I am not going to lie. When I to develop a newfound apprecifirst heard about the one-week ation for the different cultures suspension during the start of found all over the world, one March, I was nothing short of that I would never have found thrilled. It was the week before had I not taken the time to scroll the periodical exams, and I was through the information providmore than happy to find out that ed by people online. we had additional time to review and to prepare for the upcoming DOING MORE tests looming over our shoulders. At the very top of my bucket list last year was to volunteer and But as time went on, and the to join more programs that aim to quarantine period grew longer, help people in need. It was always that proved to be a short-lived cel- present in my lists, no matter how ebration. I didn't really expect to many times I crossed it out. But bemiss school this much, but here ing forced to stay at home made me I am. As I recall the quiet morn- feel stagnant and unproductive. I ings that my friends and I would continued to live my life comfortspend exchanging notes and re- ably as inequality and injustice conlaying information to one other, I tinued to run rampant outside the cannot help but miss school and four walls of my bedroom. the subtle comfort that the presence of my peers brought. As I scrolled through my timeline, past news articles of OPENING UP discrimination and dishonesty, The lockdown period has defi- I decided that I would remain nitely taken a toll on my mental stagnant no more. I looked up health, making me more reserved youth organizations to join or and selective regarding what I donate to and I started writing opened up about. Truth be told, about my experiences during during the first few months of quarantine. During such harquarantine, I was quite distant rowing times, I found solace in and I found it difficult to reach developing my skills in journalout to my friends for help. How- ism and reaching out to peoever, as our time in the pandemic ple in need through the means progressed, we collectively came made available to me. I have to the realization that our lives do come to realize that no matter not have to end here. My friends how miniscule it may be, any act and I started to explore different of service is a step closer towards mediums to connect with each a brighter tomorrow. other, and our friendship has only grown stronger since then, provOur past year may have proving that distance cannot hinder en to be fool’s gold instead of the the bond formed between people. golden year we anticipated it to be, but we still have control over LEARNING ABOUT NEW what we choose to make of it. As CULTURES we stand firm and push forward, One of the things I was partic- may we see the value of what is ularly excited about doing more left in store for all of us.
FEATURE • 19
The Electron MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
Pandemic Protector BY THERESA BARADI
BECAUSE OF the pandemic, I have heard “protect yourself to protect others” thrown around often -- but I did not realize just how much that saying would apply to me now.
left by the piercing sword. But in all of that, I realized that for now, while she is vulnerable, hurting, and healing, I wanted to be strong so that I can assist her, until she can stand on her own.
Lockdown life and the changes it came with gave me a hard beating. It took a hold over my hopes, dreams, and optimism for a while, dangling them on a sliver of thread just out of my arms’ reach. Each day felt like a sword was piercing my heart, my heart that craved for everything to just go back to what I was used to.
Despite all the “training” and upgrading I underwent with myself, I still feared that I was unprepared and ill-equipped to handle the first great challenge that came my way. But amidst my sister’s first panic attack and major meltdown, I found myself intact, sitting calmly by her side, preventing her from harm, helping her recover as she shivered and cried. I thought nothing of it as I felt it was natural for me to do so, until the next day, when my efforts were seen and thanked for by my sister’s psycho-therapist. She made me realize that in time, as I upgraded myself, I had strengthened my very own shield, in order to help both me and my sister.
But one day, as I looked towards my sister feeling and acting the same way I was, I realized with a start that I wanted to change. I had become a far cry from the role model I aspired to be as her older sister. And on the night she was officially diagnosed with ADHD with anxiety and depression, it solidified for me that the current version of myself For me, caring about my menneeded an upgrade. tal health came in the form of wanting to care for my sister’s, Upgrading myself was no easy because if I wanted to help her task, however. It took a lot of get back on her feet, I had to help meditation, a lot of thinking, a lot myself stand up first. After all, it of self-reflection, and... honestly a would be difficult to deal with lot of sniffles plus rolls of tissues. I someone in need if I too, was in came to recognize, to realize, and need. A good mental health esto acknowledge the parts of me I pecially during the time of a pandid not like and wanted to change demic can be the sword and the not just for my sister, but for me as shield in order for us to not only well. Along with these hard tasks protect ourselves, but as well as came rests and treats for myself, help those in need around us. taking it easy and sparing some time to breathe. I took little baby steps so that I could stand up and run. As I did these little things For me, caring each day, it felt like the sword that pierced me was slowly but surely about my mental removing itself. health came Alongside upgrading myself I helped my sister in her own battles, the changes and realizations brought by her diagnosis and medication. I pushed her to keep a healthy lifestyle by doing yoga, breathing exercises, dancing, and meditation together. I consoled her during the nights she was crippling in fear and self-doubt. It crushed my heart to see her this way, reminding me of the pain
in the form of wanting to care for my sister’s, because if I wanted to help her get back on her feet, I had to help myself stand up first.
20 • FEATURE
quarantine things. EDITED BY THERESA BARADI ∙ GRAPHICS BY LUISA SORIANO
Baya-WE-han BY THERESA BARADI
“NO MAN is an island.” In the Boyong,” who chose to give away Filipino culture, this is personi- the taho he sells so that more peofied by our bayanihan. ple can eat. They and many more have been recognized in a video The spread of the COVID-19 presentation by ABS-CBN called brought struggles all across the ‘Choose Philippines.’ Philippines, wrecking families, homes, and jobs in its wake. It was There are also Filipinos who and is especially hard for Filipinos do not get recognition but still barely making ends meet even pri- choose to continue their chosen or to the pandemic. But in times role as helpers in the pandemic. of hardship of doubt is when the There are the people who cook true Filipino spirit of bayanihan and deliver food to frontliners comes out. and those in poverty. There are those who sew face masks and Bayanihan originated from the give them out to those lacking act of uniting community mem- one. There are those who work in bers to carry and to transfer some- delivery and the drivers who bring one’s wooden house to another orders place-to-place even during place. These people, placed on the lockdown. There are those each side of the house, would lift who give clothes and money the heavy house onto their shoul- through donation drives, whethders and walk all the way to where er in kind/in person, or online. the house would be relocated. There are also Filipinos who may In the same way, many Filipi- not be as widely known, but pronos in the pandemic have walked vide information, entertainment, the extra mile just to give aid and and hope to those they can reach assistance to fellow Filipinos in online. These people are the eduneed. There is the beloved “Kuya cators, the experts, the advocates, Fil,” who literally traveled door- the gamers, the bloggers (or vlogto-door to list the medicine and gers), the students, the writers, the necessities needed by those in his artists, the singers and musicians, barangay. There was also “Mang and more. These people utilize the
platforms available to them so that they can use their voices to bring hope and reassurance to Filiipinos who want to listen. And through that, they walk their own path in this bayanihan, but on a different terrain. Lastly, one can of course never forget the frontliners and healthcare providers. They have faced many sleepless nights, many deaths, and many backlashes from people left and right. But still, they continue to walk further, to take care of the sick and dying Filipinos until their limit is reached. And because of this, many Filipinos have risen in support of them, their work, and their efforts. It is true that no man is an island. No Filipino is an island because we after all have 7,641 islands in our archipelago! And so despite the numerous difficulties the country faces now, one can be sure that there will always be Filipinos with their hands already outstretched, shoulders ready to bear the weight, and feet ready to walk the distance – because that is the Filipino spirit of bayanihan, the spirit of baya-we-can-do-it.
Unknown Seas BY LEANNE ISIP
“IT TAKES courage to sail in un- ALL ABOARD! charted waters.” - Charles Schulz Excitement and agitation fill up the beginning of new experiences, It is difficult getting caught and the onset of a new school year between an ongoing pandemic in a different set-up was no excepand adjusting to a new mode of tion. The start of the school year education. In this sink or swim included meeting new teachers situation, how am I faring so and classmates as well as adjusting far in the unknown waters of to the schedule. It was a pleasant distance learning? surprise when I learned that we had some days off and that only 30 SETTING SAIL minutes per subject were allotted. For any trip, being prepared helps in tackling possible plights along SMOOTH SAILING the way—whether getting a pit The first few months were in the stomach or facing a surge manageable, thanks to cooperaof homeworks. Getting ready for tive classmates, a majority of undistance learning does not only en- derstanding teachers, a reasonable tail the required materials such as workload, and a flexible schedule. gadgets, notebooks, and the usual Having all hands on deck and beneeds for every school year, but ing considerate played a large role, now more than ever is preparing since learning in the backdrop of the mental state important. I en- a pandemic was a challenge on its countered apprehension about the own. Communication between new set-up, disorientation due to everyone also proved crucial, esthe continuing pandemic, and rest- pecially now that most commulessness brought upon by being a nication avenues were online. new senior high school student. Finally, the flexible schedule gave way to more time to be managed Thankfully, support came in and used well. many ways – from family and friends, to students from the in- CRASHING WAVES ternet sharing their sentiment and Every journey has its own chalgiving tips. The unpleasant feel- lenges. Now in an online-oriented ings did not disappear completely, environment, power outages, inbut they became manageable. ternet disconnections, and more
technical difficulties get in the way of learning and a comfortable experience. Unfortunately, all of these cannot be avoided. What can be done is to minimize the damage and compensate accordingly. CONTINUATION
A whole semester has passed, but the feelings of excitement and agitation remained. Testing the waters in a new set-up is the norm, as well as being prepared for last minute announcements. The past semester has proved that even if enjoyment in a journey with no known destination is difficult to find, the perseverance and determination to continue sailing will pay off. As Charles Schulz once said, it takes courage to sail in uncharted waters, and this can be applied to many students who continue forward in distance learning despite the difficult circumstances while not knowing what lies beyond. In faring the unknown waters of distance learning, there is strength in continuing to swim and in recovering from sinking.
SCIENCE
A SCIENTIAN SCIENTIST'S TASTE OF SUCCESS ∙ PAGE 23 To Distant Lands We May Go: This remarkable line in QueSci's Hymn reflects another Scientian’s journey – a journey that led to a breakthrough in this pandemic.
The Vaccine Conspiracy
“Microchips are embedded in vaccines”, “COVID is a ploy by big pharmacies”, “The virus created as a biological weapon”– the list goes on and on. With copious people peddling misinformation, more are bound to get misled. BY ELIZA GRUTA
VACCINE-HESITANT people clamor on social media with clickbait titles to entice the public and eventually persuade them to believe that vaccines are unreal and ineffective. Vaccines are now associated with fear and distrust, however there is nothing to be afraid of. Beneath the conspiracies, the truth remains. BODY VERSUS PATHOGEN
A dose of vaccine can conquer even the strongest pathogens. However, it is essential to know the type of pathogen and its unique subparts first. Each subpart of the pathogen has antigens and generates an immune response. Each antigen forms antibodies which are the soldiers defending the body. A person has thousands of different antibodies where each antigen is able to recognize one specific antigen. Once the antigen-specific antibodies are formed, they work with the rest of the immune system to destroy the pathogen and stop the disease. As the amount of exposure to the pathogen increases, so does the speed and strength of the antibody.
ticular antigen that triggers an immune response within the body. Newer vaccines contain a blueprint for producing antigens instead of having the antigen itself. This will prompt the body’s immune system to respond to the actual pathogen at a similar pace to the actual antigen’s response. The person may be required to receive the vaccine in multiple doses, given weeks or months apart, for the body to produce long-lived antibodies and develop memory cells so that it can rapidly fight against a specific pathogen in the future. THE PERFECT CONCOCTION
Aside from the antigen, the vaccine contains other ingredients to keep it safe and effective. First are the preservatives. These prevent it from becoming contaminated when used for vaccinating more than one person, 2-phenoxyethanol is the most commonly used. Next are the stabilizers, such as lactose, sucrose, and proteins. They prevent chemical reactions from occurring within the vaccine.
There are also surfactants, to keep all ingredients blended THE VACCINE together and diluents, a liquid The vaccine contains weak- used to achieve the correct conened or inactive parts of a par- centration. In addition to this,
GRAPHIC BY LUISA SORIANO
residuals are tiny amounts of various substances used during manufacturing of vaccines that are not active. These vary depending on the manufacturing process used. Lastly, adjuvants are used to improve immune response to the vaccine. VACCINE TAKING SHAPE
Each vaccine must first undergo screenings and evaluations to determine which antigen should be used. The first stage is the Preclinical phase wherein scientists test the vaccine on animals to evaluate its
safety and potential to prevent the disease. Then they move on to Phase 1 wherein the vaccine is given to young, healthy, adult volunteers to assess its safety, to conf irm the generation of the immune response, and to determine the right dosage. Next is Phase 2 wherein hundreds of volunteers participate. It is usually done in multiple trials to further evaluate its effects on similar characteristics. The last stage is Phase 3 wherein the vaccine is given to thousands of volunteers and is conducted across
multiple sites to conf irm the vaccine performance. Vaccine production is done with careful research and detailed experiments. Pharmacists and scientists conduct this procedure sincerely and precisely. Instead of sharing thoughts that conspire against the efficacy of vaccines, one should further their understanding of it. After all, vaccines should not be linked with fear and distrust. They should rather shed hope and light upon this dreadful pandemic.
Technology’s Three New Roles BY PATRICIA JUTIE
GREETINGS, MA’AM/Sir! ogies in distance education are cost I would like to excuse my child effectiveness, independence of time because of… and place, quality of education access resulting from the mass production Excuse letter is a formal permis- of course materials, teaching a lot of sion signed by a legal guardian writ- students simultaneously, and finding ten or printed on a bond paper. It is a lot of educational resources. a requirement in order to be excused with the missed activities if a stu- A CLASSROOM dent is planning to be absent on a Different E-learning platforms, particular date. But with the fast ad- which serve as a classroom, are vancement in communication tech- used for the online learning setnology, education has become more flexible and considerate. Television broadcast, video cassettes, video compact disc, video text, CD, computer and other gadgets are some of the advancements with the modern technology. Using these, effective transmission of knowledge to the learners at a distance and open learning system is now possible. The distance learning set-up became a second chance for students who are unable to attend a traditional classroom-based course. By definition, distance education denotes an educational experience where the teacher and the learner are not face- to- face during the teaching and learning process. According to the online journal about distance education of Professor and Doctor Habibur Rahman, the main advantages of using technol-
GRAPHIC BY LUISA SORIANO
up. Google Classroom is one of the best platforms which could be accessed for free by an institution or an individual faculty member. Edmodo and Schoology are two other platforms that work like Google Classroom. Another platform is Zoom – a free video call meeting where discussions are held. Google has also created a platform called Google Meet to function like Zoom.
A TEACHER
Using the mentioned E-learning platforms, teachers could create a class, post assignments, assign tasks, announce reminders, upload materials, or chat withstudents. Teachers could also set due dates for the activities. They can discuss and share slide presentations, which everyone could see, using the video call platforms invented.
Students can learn the lessons and topics discussed in the materials posted with gadgets. Hence, making technology the student’s new teacher. A CLASSMATE; A STUDENT
With the use of applications like Messenger, Google Meet, Zoom, Discord, and Telegram for video or voice calls, students could interact and raise questions to their professors. They could also see each other online and ask questions during the lecture. For those who have slow connections, the professor could even write the important messages on chat boards. Therefore, technology can be considered as a new student. Gadgets are also a new classmate for students. Using also the mentioned applications, they can work synchronously, converse and chat with their classmates who are also staying at home. In this way, the feeling of loneliness can be reduced. “You could watch our discussion later whenever you are available,” a teacher replied. Thanks to modern technology education is still possible even with the ongoing crisis that affects the whole world. The society must continue striving to be flexible and resilient. After all, learning must not stop.
22 • SCIENCE
A Treacherous Journey: Climbing the Mountain that is COVID-19 BY PATRICIA JUTIE INFOGRAPHIC BY JED GOCATEK AND LUISA SORIANO
CORONA VIRUS Disease, nicknamed as COVID, has started climbing up a mountain since last year. It met a lot of people along the way. But the thrill is they know nothing about the mountain they have been climbing except for the fact that it is located in the Philippines. So, as they hike further, thoughts about the peak of the mountain, which indicates their turning point, rush in. This infographic covers the events that involved COVID in the Philippines from March 2020 to March 2021.
MARCH 13
WHEN WILL COVID REACH THE PEAK? Ever since the first time Covid started its hike in the Philippines, the cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are actively increasing with today’s total of 640,984 cases in which 561,530 recovered and 12,887 died. The peak of the mountain seems unreachable anytime soon. With this, COVID and its relatives seem to continue climbing higher. If the peak is still not visible, then when will the COVID-19 cases start to decline?
2021 COVID IS STILL ON TRACK
By March 13, another variant, the Brazilian or P.1 variant, was detected from a Filipino who recently came back from Brazil.
MARCH 2
On March 2, DOH announced the first six cases of the South African variant, also known as B.1.351, in the country.
JANUARY 22
By only January 22, the B117 had been found to infect a total of 17 patients in the country in which 12 were from Bontoc, Mountain Province.
DECEMBER 16
On December 16 with a series of tweets, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said that it was Health Secretary Francisco Duque who failed to submit documents for the procurement of Pfizer vaccines which was about to secure 10 million doses. Duque denied the accusations.
A YEAR OF COVID’S HIKE Last four months of the year yet the peak is still unclear, President Duterte decided to extend the state of calamity through Proclamation No. 1021 “for a period of one year, effective 13 September 2020 to 12 September 2021, unless earlier lifted or extended as circumstances may warrant.”
COVID started its 2021 hike along with its relatives. On January 6, Hong Kong officials detected the presence of the new variant in a passenger who was from the Philippines. In the same month, the national government reported that they have secured vaccines from AstraZeneca, Sinovac and the COVAX Facility of the World Health Organization. The government is still in negotiations for the Pfizer, Moderna and Gamaleya vaccines.
According to the DOH, the carrier of the UK variant detected last January 13 was a 29-year-old male living in Quezon City who left for Dubai last December 27 and returned to the country last January 7. The UK variant was named B117 and believed to be 70 percent more contagious.
NOVEMBER 18
On November 18, China temporarily restricted entry of Filipinos to their country due to the high number of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines. On the following day, Duterte approved allowing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to grant emergency use authorization (EUA) to coronavirus vaccines that will enter the country, allowing the vaccines to be legally rolled out and administered.
OCTOBER 2
On October 2, two months after the country reached a hundred thousand cases, Johns Hopkins University’s virus tracker identified the Philippines as one of the top 20 countries with the most COVID-19 cases having 314,079 total infections. Also on this day, the Philippines was recorded as the country with the longest lockdown in the world.
OCTOBER 27
Duterte ordered the Department of Health (DOH) to first seek government-to-government transactions regarding the procurement of coronavirus diseases, rejecting the vaccine procurement arrangement where the government directly buys from pharmaceutical companies, last October 27 to avoid any anomalies.
ON TO THE TWO-THIRDS OF COVID’S HIKE AUGUST 6
By August 6, the Philippines was entitled to be the country in Southeast Asia with the most COVID-19 cases having 119,460 total infections.
JULY 31
In his taped speech last July 31, President Duterte said, “I promise you, by the grace of God, I hope by December, we would be back to normal,” assuring the Filipinos.
JULY 24
The Philippines joined the COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access Facility (COVAX Facility) on July 24. It is a global mechanism designed to guarantee rapid, fair, and equitable access to coronavirus vaccines worldwide which is also co-led by Gavi, an international organization created to improve access to new and underused vaccines.
2020
JUNE 10
By June 10, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) reported that they have released 355.1 billion pesos for COVID-19 response.
Getting used to COVID’s hike, ECQ in Metro Manila, Laguna and Cebu City was lifted to modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) from May 16 until the end of the month. Under MECQ, most people are allowed to go out only to buy food and for emergency purposes but movement to and from the mentioned places are still restricted. Some industries are also allowed to reopen following a limited capacity. In the same month, Social Weather Stations (SWS) released the results of a survey revealing that at least 16.7 percent, comprising of 3.9 million families, experienced involuntary hunger for the past three months making the highest hunger rate registered under President Duterte’s term.
MARCH 25
START HERE
FIRST ONE-THIRD OF COVID’S HIKE MARCH 8
COVID first met a person last January 2020. By March 8, it met a total of 24 people which led President Rodrigo Duterte to sign Proclamation No. 922 declaring the country as a state of public health emergency.
MARCH 12
Metro Manila was the first one to put in community quarantine on March 12. A few days after, President Duterte decided to implement an enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) for the entire island of Luzon which was dated on March 16. Under ECQ, “strict home quarantine shall be implemented in all households; transportation shall be suspended; provision for food and essential services shall be regulated, and heightened presence of uniformed personnel to enforce quarantine procedures will be implemented.”
MARCH 17
March 17, only a day after the implementation of ECQ, President Duterte signed Proclamation No. 929 declaring the entire country as a state of calamity for a period of six months unless earlier lifted or extended as circumstances may warrant.
Bayanihan To Heal As One Act was signed by the President on March 25 giving him special powers as the country underwent a health crisis due to COVID-19. Under the Act, health workers who pledged to work despite the disease will be given financial aid. Emergency subsidies amounting to 5,000 to 8,000 pesos will be given to 18 million low-income families for two months. By April 3, wearing of masks in public areas became mandatory especially in Luzon which was put into a monthlong lockdown.
SCIENCE • 23
The Electron MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
TASTE OF SUCCESS. QCSHS Batch '99 Diana Ranoa, hard at work in producing saliva test kits in her office at the University of Illinois. PHOTO BY DIANA RANOA
SCIENCE FEATURE
Diana Ranoa’s COVID-19 Saliva Testing: A Scientian Scientist’s Taste Of Success BY GABRIEL DE LEON
“TO DISTANT lands we may (MBB) at UP Diliman to fol- away, but I became more mogo, searching for truth and the low her dream of becoming a tivated to apply my knowledge unknown...” molecular biologist. on immunology to fight off cancer,” Ranoa said. This is a remarkable line “My parents wanted me to be from QueSci’s alma mater a doctor, so they wanted me to DEVELOPING THE COVID-19 song. The same line reflects do some pre-med when I applied SALIVA TESTING another Scientian’s journey – for college. But upon entering When the pandemic hit howa journey that led to a break- fourth year, Ma’am Obligar was ever, much of Ms. Ranoa and her through in this pandemic. our adviser, and I really, really colleagues’ research was put to a enjoyed the Advanced Biology stop for a time due to measures Quezon City Science High class. So when I tried to apply at that aimed to prevent the spread School (QCSHS) Batch 99 UP, I checked Molecular Biol- of the virus in the campus. The alumna and scientist, Diana Ra- ogy as my first choice and then pandemic also affected the opnoa, and her team at the Univer- Bio as my second choice,” Ms. erations of the whole university, sity of Illinois recently made it Ranoa said regarding her choice leading to financial concerns. to the headlines because of their to take MBB. saliva testing for COVID-19. In With this, Ranoa was tasked an exclusive interview with The Upon completing her degree by her superior to help find a Electron, Ranoa shared how she at UP, much of Ranoa’s scope of way to track the virus as well as was able to get a taste of victory study focused on cancer research test students within the camin the middle of the pandemic, and the body’s immune system. pus due to her background in through saliva. During that time she was looking molecular biology. into the cancer cell’s response to Ranoa was once an accredit- radiation treatment over time. “My boss is a believer of tested student at QCSHS. It was in ing everyone on campus. And QueSci where she discovered her “After I finished my PHD, he wanted to test everyone frelove for the sciences. She shared around that time I was finish- quently, so it’s not just a one how she found her love for mo- ing, my dad was suffering from time, big-time COVID-19 test lecular biology as a fourth-year lung cancer, he already passed and then you’re done. It has to be student under their adviser and Advanced Biology teacher Ma'am Obligar's tutelage, Ms. Ranoa's interest in microbiology sparked during her Advanced Biology lessons. "[There were] advances in science back then. When you hear about DNA, in the year 1999, they were talking about mapping the human genome. So back then, it was a really big deal - learning more about ourselves in a molecular way. That's just so fascinating for me," Ranoa shared. With this, she took up a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
on a regular basis so we can really RNA together, essentially exposmonitor,” Ranoa said regarding ing the RNA without requiring the challenge on creating a way to the RNA extraction process. track COVID-19. Because of this breakthrough, Despite the hurdles they had to the University of Illinois was face, Ranoa and her team found able to reopen in August and a way to frequently test students everyone there, including Raand make the test much faster and noa was back to what they were more efficient by utilizing the sali- doing before the pandemic. va of the testee. “I supervised the COVID test“We worked around a test us- ing for three months at the start in ing saliva, because one if you want order to train everyone and build to test everyone you won’t be able that testing lab and get it ready for to convince everyone to get tested large-scale testing,” Ranoa said. if it’s through a nasal-pharyngal swab, so we’ll use saliva because There were almost 10,000 tests already there were studies back done per day during that period, then that the virus is detectable in and by the time she was finished saliva,” Ranoa said. training everyone, she was able to resume her cancer research, The discovery was ground- where she is now focusing on breaking, because at the time it testing the chemical compounds was known that combining saliva in her mice studies to see if they and RNA broke the latter down were effective against cancer cells. due to the enzymes present in sali- It is an extraordinary task and va. Ranoa’s team managed to find when asked how she was able to a way to turn off those enzymes do something like that, Ranoa during the test and keep the said, “It’s the pandemic, it calls for the extraordinary.”
"'Chance favors the prepared mind', Louis Pasteur once said that, and I would like to say the same to Scientians everywhere: keep studying and always be prepared" Diana Ranoa Microbiologist at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign QCSHS Batch '99
When asked what message she could give to Scientians this new normal school year, Ranoa said: “‘Chance favors the prepared mind’, Louis Pasteur once said that, and I would like to say the same to Scientians everywhere: keep studying and always be prepared”. Ranoa’s great discovery, just like any situation requiring Scientians to search for truth and the unknown, seem like a game of chance. Her story has once again proven that constant studying and preparedness of the mind are the keys to be favored by chances.
24 • SCIENCE
Dosage of Doubt BY LEANNE ISIP
VACCINE SHOTS are not (DOH), do not successfully equip regular Filipinos with the only matters in shortage. information regarding the With the Philippines con- vaccines, their efficacies, their tinuing to combat the coro- types, among other concerns navirus disease (COVID-19), about them. vaccine rollouts of brands President Rodrigo Duterte’s namely Sinovac’s CoronaVac administration campaigning and Oxford-Astrazeneca startand pushing for the CoronaVac ed last March in hopes of imdespite its higher price and lowmunizing Filipinos, curbing er efficacy compared to other the pandemic, and returning vaccines, the past memory of the country back to normal. the Dengvaxia vaccine, as well However, this seems like a tall order, with the available sup- as the proposed “brand agnosplies only enough for almost tic” policy in vaccination, ageight percent of the total pop- gravate the already dire state of ulation and the citizens them- immunization in the country. selves being hesitant about acMore work should be done quiring vaccine shots. on curating easy to understand While vaccine shots are available, information regarding vacthe lack of vaccine literacy, along cines, effectiveness, their effects with the present mistrust and hes- on the people, as well as their itancy of people towards the gov- advantages, and in spreading ernment and the vaccines, does not the said information effectively to raise awareness and convince help the situation. citizens to take the vaccine. SciIn a report by Pulse Asia in entific basis on information to March, approximately six in be spread, and not politicizing ten Filipinos do not want to get the vaccine choices as well need vaccinated, with 16% wanting to be prioritized. to, and 23% undecided. Those The Filipinos have the right who do not want to get vaccito make informed choices, as nated said it was due to safety well as accessible and digestible reasons, concerns about the data from reputable sources. effectiveness, and uneasiness of With the COVID-19 pandemgetting a shot to fight against ic continuing its rounds, dosthe virus. The information ages of doubt in the veins of from supposedly trustworthy citizens can be fatal—but it can government agencies, such be prevented by vaccine literacy. as the Department of Health
ILLUSTRATION BY KIANNA EBALIN
DISEASE: Both an Enemy and an Ally BY PATRICIA JUTIE
THERE IS no greater success as ically. It produces stress horwhen you turn your enemy into mones which suppress the imyour ally. – Jeffrey Fry mune system. You can manage your stress by connecting with Disease is a seven-letter word your friends and loved ones, dothat made itself the enemy ing mindful exercise and medof every single person in the itation, taking breaks, doing entire world. It changed the things you enjoy, and seeing a lives of many people – most licensed counselor or therapist. are pulled down, but some are pushed upwards. However, EAT HEALTHY FOOD did you know that this short Poor nutrition can deteriorate word could be your ally in one’s immune system. To have fighting coronavirus disease a quality nutrition that gives 2019 (COVID-19)? strength, people should maintain a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, COVID-19 is a disease caused whole grains, heart healthy fats, by a virus named SARS-CoV-2 and lean proteins. which is a novel pathogen. A pathogen is a microbe that infects AVOID ALCOHOL the body and causes illness. Its CONSUMPTION surface is covered with proteins As often said, too much is called antigens. To fight these harmful. Drinking alcohol at an pathogens, a human’s body has appropriate amount gives peoa lot of antibodies which binds ple benefits, but adverse effects itself to a pathogen and signals might show when alcohols are the other antibodies to attack the consumed with larger quantities. invader. All this works under a Experts advise to stop drinking human’s immune system which alcohol or limit it to one to two when strengthened might save drinks per day. you from COVID-19. STOP SMOKING
Here are seven ways, having an Smoking lowers immunity as acronym of DISEASE, to strength- chemicals released by cigarette en your immune system: smoke affects the growth and function of immune cells. The DRINK PLENTY OF WATER best solution is to totally quit Hydrating is a key to maintain- smoking, if not do not make it ing overall health. Dehydration a habit entirely. might cause headaches, affect physical performance, digestion, EXERCISE REGULARLY heart, and kidney function that Staying active is medically might lead to sickness and weak- proven to enhance the overall en our immune system. Women health of a person. It boosts and men should follow the rec- the immune system by allowommended water intake of 2.7 ing antibodies and white blood liters per day and 3.7 liters per cells to circulate more rapidly. day, respectively. It also helps in reducing stress hormones. Staying active is IMPROVE YOUR SLEEPING basically keeping on moving. SCHEDULE While moderate exercises can Sleep directly affects one’s im- be done in or out of your house mune system. The CDC and like jogging, brisk walking, American Academy of Sleep climbing up and down of your Medicine (AASM) recommends stairs, swimming, and biking. seven or more hours of sleep for You could also try yoga. Experts adults, eight to ten hours for advise to have at least 150 minteens, nine to 12 hours for school utes of active time per week. age children, 10 to 13 hours for preschoolers and 11 to 14 hours COVID-19 has been a burden for toddlers in a 24-hour period. ever since. In fact, it is so heavy Getting enough sleep could get that many were not able to lift higher levels of T cells, which are it. But if we try to strengthen responsible for destroying com- our body, we might be able to promised cells, than those who grab it even with a single arm. have lesser hours of sleep. Hating the disease and making it your enemy would not lightSUBSIDE STRESS en up the situation. Instead, Stress affects a person’s make it your ally and follow the health, both mentally and phys- acronym DISEASE.
SCIENCE • 25
The Electron MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
GRAPHIC BY LUISA SORIANO
S&T Education Persevering BY RIANNA KWAN
OUR COUNTRY has produced some 20,000 scientists since 2019 and although this number seems impressive, it is barely half of the recommended number for a population as big as ours. A viable reason that anyone could think of for this shortage is the lack of interest in the sciences among Filipinos. However, this could not be any further from the truth. To truly understand why there is a lack of scientists being produced, the root cause must be identified. Science and technology education in the Philippines is improving but still has a long way to go. Receiving a good education in the sciences as early as in the primary level can spark the interest of the masses, giv-
en that they are provided with reliable learning materials and good facilities. Our country has been on its way to prioritizing S&T education… until recently, when the COVID-19 pandemic started. TO MAKE DO ONLINE
In March 2020, classes in all levels were suspended across the country and major cities were placed under lockdown to control the spread of the virus. Several months later, the pandemic showed no signs of ending anytime soon and the Department of Education (DepEd) decided that the school year 2020-2021 shall push through by means of distance learning. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
also recommended to both public tentimes compromising the quality devices to use for distance learnand private higher institutions to of education they are receiving. ing. The same DepEd Learner Enconduct their classes remotely. rollment survey reported that 6.8 A FLAWED SYSTEM million students do not have the Schools in the Philippines were A national survey conducted by gadgets and equipment needed left with no choice but to adapt to Agham Youth reported that almost for online classes such as mobile this change, and our very own alma 50% of students have average inter- phones, laptops, and computers. mater, Quezon City Science High net stability, but 83% of them still exSchool, is no exception. Classes, perience internet interruptions that In these trying times, millions foundation month festivities, and affect their studies. A DepEd Learn- of Filipinos are still struggling to even admission into the school have er Enrollment survey form in 2020 make ends meet, more so to receive been done remotely. Other public showed that 6.9 million respondents an education. The importance of and private primary and secondary have unstable mobile and internet S&T education perseveres, now schools provide printed modules for connections, and 690,000 have to more than ever as we are faced with students to navigate through at their find a place outside of their homes in a crisis that calls for scientists to be own pace. Though the abundance order to connect to the internet. in the forefront. The government, of time and the comfort of staying at professionals, and the general pubhome while studying are observed in Aside from internet connectiv- lic should wield science literacy in online classes, there are many prob- ity problems, most students have the battle against COVID-19, and lems and inconveniences that the their education compromised by this weapon can only be attained majority of students encounter, of- the lack of appropriate electronic through S&T education.
GRAPHIC BY LUISA SORIANO
weather events caused by the strengthened seasons, which, in turn, is caused by the rise in temperature in our atmosphere. LOCALIZED EFFORTS
A New Frontier: Climate Action Amid the Pandemic BY RIANNA KWAN
THE WHOLE world has been battling COVID-19 for more than a year now, plagued by a myriad of problems ranging from public health concerns to economic difficulties as a result of the spread of the virus. With all the commotion caused by COVID-19, it is easy to forget about a plight that we are also and still facing, long before the pandemic started: global warming, climate change, and mass extinction.
fects of climate change is called a climate change hotspot. Despite having one of the lowest carbon emissions count in the entire world, a natural hazard score by the Global Risk Index reported our country to be the most at risk from the climate crisis.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA), the WHAT’S THE SITUATION? Philippines has seen a drastic An area in the world such as increase in temperature since a country or region that is most the mid-1900s. Approximately vulnerable to the devastating ef- 20 typhoons hit us every year,
and their frequency and wind speeds are only increasing with time. Some recent examples of the alarming strengthening of typhoons are Typhoon Rolly and Ulysses, disasters that have misplaced about 30,000 people.
The numerous lockdowns have slowed our pace, both socially and economically, due to the health protocols that have been put in place. In spite of this, the urgency for a call to action against the climate crisis perseveres. The Youth Advocates for Climate Action in the Philippines (YACAP) is one of the many local non-government organizations that continue to clamor for policy change and accountability even in the middle of a pandemic. YACAP and its partner organizations participated in local and global climate strikes in 2020 that were held online. When typhoons Rolly and Ulysses struck the Philippines in November 2020, these organizations instigated cash and in-kind donation drives to provide relief to the affected communities. These efforts were effectively communicated through social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Thousands of people were reached, and it led to the accumulation of about one million pesos for relief.
Some of the other adverse effects that we are experiencing due to climate change are as follows: water shortages, increased flood and landslide risks, crop loss, and a decrease in marine The climate action orgalife populations, habitats, and nizations also spearheaded biodiversity. These problems climate-related information are brought about by extreme campaigns across social media.
Aside from webinars that are open to all, infographics played an important role in spreading awareness and making scientific information digestible and accessible to the masses. YOUR CALL TO ACTION
It can be concluded that many have devoted their time to clamor for their advocacies despite the ongoing surge of COVID-19. Though the efforts of climate action organizations are commendable, it is important to note that their efforts alone will not solve the crisis. All of us reside on the same planet: regardless of age or social status, it is never too late to participate in the fight to protect the place we call home.
Though the efforts of climate action organizations are commendable, it is important to note that their efforts alone will not solve the [climate] crisis.
26 • SPORTS
DISC ALMOST IN HAND. Kyle Balanay playing frisbee in the school field. FILE PHOTO BY FAITH SANTIAGO
SPORTS FEATURE
The Climb BY GABRIEL DE LEON
TO RISE above one’s station, is As of writing, the Lakers are the fight of all sportsmen. currently battling the Bucks in Florida, while here in the I can say with enough confi- Philippines, the Philippine dence that I have played a good Basketball Association (PBA) number of sports since I was in is currently gearing towards a kindergarten. From football, to May opening. Just a few days taekwondo, to basketball, and ago, Jaja Santiago made history now Frisbee, there’s something by becoming the first Filipina special about these games that volleyball player to clinch an keep me coming back for more. overseas title, from the Japan That is actually saying a lot, V-Cup championship. since by nature I would rather be reading a good book, covered in The thought of seeing these blankets with the AC at full blast people playing despite the risks basking in my lethargic state. posed by the COVID-19 pandemic – really makes you think Yet when the opportunity as to why they would go through comes to play frisbee for in- such lengths to play. stance, I find myself lacing up my shoes and heading out with Aside from this being their a disc in hand. way of life and form of livelihood, I believe there’s an explaSince the quarantine has start- nation to all this. ed however, those instances are much harder to come by. Let me first talk about my days training to become a basketball In the sports world, many player. Come morning I was jogsporting events that should have ging and shooting hoops, and already happened at this time of by noon I would be drenched the year have virtually stopped, in sweat, my body aching all for fear of increasing the spread over. After every training session of the virus. Such an abrupt mea- I always thought to myself, “I sure may make others think that can’t take this anymore, I need a COVID-19 has spelled an end to break,” and resolved I would not sports, but fortunately it has not. be doing anything the next day.
Yet every day after that saw me doing the same thing over and over. Deep down, I had this feeling that I wanted, better yet I needed to do more. I was completely unsatisfied with my position as a novice, all I saw before me was a mountain top that needed climbing.
By the time players enter the game and accomplish their training, gone is their past self – what is present is the hardened host of one who has gone past their breaking point.
ach. But, I must admit I have not grown tired of it. For one to rise, they must climb jagged spikes to reach the mountain top. A menacing climb, but one that rewards all who brave it.
It has been quite some time since I have last trained in such a way, with sweat drenching my Some may call me a masochist jersey and nausea threatening to for doing such a grueling task liberate the contents of my stomevery day, but I disagree. I think many athletes, and anyone else who plays sports, would agree with me when I say that the reason why we train, the reason why we play, is to rise.
I believe that playing sports is not just a simple game. It is a path towards self-betterment, and rising past one’s own limitations. A just path, if I have seen any.
I do not exaggerate when I use the word “rise”, personally I think it captures the experience of every athlete. The feeling of shooting the game-winning shot, of throwing the perfect forehand, or even receiving a spike that should have been the end for your team, it is a high like no other. It is such a strong feeling, that athletes give it their all in every game just to get to that moment. To make sure that moment is achieved athletes go beyond what is normally expected of them and train until they sweat even blood.
Playing sports is not just a simple game. It is a path towards self-betterment, and rising past one’s own limitations.
SPORTS • 27
The Electron MARCH 2020 – MAY 2021
PHOTO FROM MELVIN ANTIMANO
Philippine Volleyball Uniting as One: More teams transfer from PSL to PVL BY JANINA MATUBIS
F2 Logistics gave thanks to the PSL and its management staff for 5 years since it f irst WITH MORE teams transfer- joined the league in 2016, ring from the Philippine Superliga “We will not be champions (PSL) to the Premier Volleyball without you,” said the team League (PVL) since the beginning in their announcement. of the year, Filipino fans are thrilled to witness their dream finally comThey expressed their grating true: professional volleyball itude to their fans for their teams fighting in one league. continuous support and ended their statement by thanking Recently, F2 Logistics, a power- the PVL for their invitation to house team formed by De La Salle join the league. University alumni and headed by notable coach Ramil de Jesus, have “May this new partnership be released a statement regarding their fruitful not just for the league contract shift from PSL to PVL but moreover, to Philippine last Thursday, March 11. Volleyball,” F2 Logistics added.
Previously, Sta. Lucia and Chery Tiggo, both veteran teams from the PSL have also declared their transfer to PVL last Wednesday, March 10.
With big names like Eya Laure, EJ Laure, Jaja Santiago, who is currently participating in a Japanese volleyball league and other remarkable players moving from PSL to PVL, Sta. Lucia Lady Realtors, ban- volleyball fans are definitely nered by national team players like gifted with more exciting and Mika Reyes and Aiza Maizo-Pon- competitive matches. tillas, have expressed their gratitude for the PSL as they “had the With teams such as PLDT time of their lives working on be- and Cignal HD announcing coming better” with the league. their transfer prior to the other teams, PSL is left without Chery Tiggo, formerly known any active teams in its associaas Foton, stated that it was now tion as Generika-Ayala, Petron, the time to reach new heights for and Marinerang Pilipina also the volleyball industry, followed released a statement regarding by their transfer to PVL. their leave of absence.
BY GABRIEL DE LEON
FILIPINA IMPORT Jaja Santiago made history last Sunday when she helped the Saitama Ageo Medics outlast the NEC Red Rockets in a four-set thriller, 26-24, 20-25, 25-21, 25-17, and take home the Japan V League V Cup title at the Ota City General gym in Tokyo, making her the first Filipina to nab a title in the international scene. Santiago contributed 11-points for the team, nine being successful spikes with the remaining two being blocks, while Mami Uchiseto and Yuka Sato led Saitama with 15 points apiece.
the board, followed by Canadian import Shainah Joseph who contributed 14-points. The Medics swept the competition in their championship run, clearing out Group B in the preliminaries 5-0 and edging off power house JT Marvelous in an upset in the semifinals, 25-21, 25-22, 1825, 18-25, 15-13 for a spot in the finals. The finals saw another showdown between Saitama and NEC, as the latter lost to the Medics in the preliminaries.
Santiago managed to improve on last year's run with Saitama, as they were only Ayumi Yoshida paced the able to take third place in the Red Rockets with 21 marks on 2020 V League Cup.
PVL is now studded with 12 competing teams: BaliPure, Choco Mucho, Creamline, Perlas, PetroGaz, Philippine Army, the Unlimited Athletes Club, Cignal HD, PLDT, Sta. Lucia, Chery Tiggo, and F2 Logistics as they continue to prepare for PVL’s tentative start on May 8 at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna. PHOTO FROM MANILA BULLETIN
PHOTO FROM INQUIRER
Jaja Santiago brings down the Red Rockets, takes first overseas title
Volleyball fans and PVL team players have conveyed their joy in different social media platforms as their longtime wish comes true with professional teams joining forces in one competition.
Arthur Mamon, Dante Alinsunurin named as PH Volleyball Coaches BY ROSELYN LOPEZ
Serving as Mamon's assistant coaches are Elegance Antigua and THE PHILIPPINE Nation- previous Ateneo de Manila College al Volleyball Alliance (PNVF) women's volleyball coach Tai Bundit. appointed Arthur “Odjie” Mamon and Dante Alinsunurin to Meantime, Alinsunurin will lead the national women’s and have Ariel dela Cruz and Sherwin men’s team, separately, Accord- Meneses as his deputies. ing to its President Tats Suzara on Thursday, March 11. Alinsunurin, who coached the nation to that silver medal within “After careful and stringent the Philippine SEA Games two deliberation and evaluation, the years back, has Ariel dela Cruz and federation selected coaches Odjie Sherwin Meneses as assistants. and Dante, both [bringing] with them impressive and credible cre“Everybody is affected by the dentials,” Suzara said. pandemic, but we are hoping to maintain our finish in the last SEA Also set to lead the national Games,” said Alinsunurin, who beach volleyball coaches Rhovyl also coaches the National UniverVerayo and Paul John Doloi- sity men’s team. “We have to work ras for the men's and women's really, really hard if we want to win groups, respectively. a gold medal.” The coaches will focus to lead the Philippine volleyball team in the 2021 SEA Games in Hanoi, Vietnam planned to run from Nov. 21 to Dec. 2.
Mamon, differently, looks to bring the Philippine women’s volleyball group back to the platform as he drove the squad to a bronze within the 2001 Kuala Lumpur Games.
“It’s a call to duty for the national colors and you can’t decline once the country asks for your service,” said the former University of Santo Tomas head mentor. Also, Verayo communicated certainty over the beach volleyball players’ mindset and physical condition in spite of the widespread. “We’ll do everything to get a gold because our program is improving,” Verayo said, who will be joined on the bench with Jason Gabales and Reycarl Dimaculangan. In the meantime, Dolairas said they are looking past the bronze medal that Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons clinched within the last SEA Games. “We are all affected by the pandemic so we’re focusing on the conditioning of the players,” Dolairas said. “We will do our best to improve slowly every game until the SEA Games.”
SPORTS
THE CLIMB ∙ PAGE 26 To rise above one’s station, is the fight of all sportsmen. The thought of seeing people playing despite the risks posed by the pandemic makes you think why they would go through such lengths to play.
JEAN MARC PINGRIS THE PINOY SAKURAGI
GRAPHIC BY JED GOCATEK
Sakuragi, signing off BY GABRIEL DE LEON IN FRONT of a cheering crowd, Marc Pingris gathered his team mates and rallied them all to face the FIBA championship with words that will stay with me for many years to come:
So when I first met Pingris in one of his televised basketball matches, I saw a man who’s heart burned bright. I saw that day a man who could not only push himself, but others as well to great heights. After a few more “Puso! Puso! Puso! Laban Pilipinas!” months of following his journey, I honestly thought that he was One of the first things I the heart of Filipino Basketball. learned while I was still playing basketball, was that as long as From the streets, the nine-time your heart was strong, any game PBA champion grew to become could go either way. Even if the one of the greatest players in Philguys on the enemy team were ippine Basketball, going so far as seven feet tall, drove down the to make history by bringing the lanes like madmen, or had all country a silver medal in the 2013 their shots go in from beyond FIBA Asia Championship, lining the arc, one of the biggest fac- up the country’s return to the tors that contributed to a win in World Cup after 40 years. basketball was how hungry the team was for the win. “I remember my name being called during the 2004 If the team in question had a PBA Draft. Doon nagsimheart as tough as stone, then I ulang matupad ang pangarap daresay a team filled with Jordans ng isang batang palengke. 16 and Yao Mings would be hard years na din ako sa PBA pero pressed to beat them. alam ko na ngayon na din
ang tamang panahon para umpisahan ang bagong chapter ng buhay ko,” the Pinoy S akuragi said. Among his accolades, Pingris became a two-time Finals MVP, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, an eight-time All-Defensive Team, a three-time Second Mythical Team, a Most Improved Player, a 15-time All Star, and also a member of the 40 Greatest PBA Players of all time. Now, with his retirement, another pillar in the basketball community has disappeared. It is with a great many thanks that I give to Marc Pingris, for being one of my biggest inspirations in playing basketball, and one of the many reasons I decided to play sports. Mr. Sakuragi, thank you for your service.
MARC PINGRIS THE PINOY SAKURAGI
NINE – TIME PBA CHAMPION
658
7.9
GAMES PLAYED AVERAGE POINTS PER GAME
*data retrieved from PBA-Online.net