DepEd S t i l l To ps i n 2 01 4 Nat i o na l Bud g et Under House Bill 2630, the Department of Education (DepEd) remains and will get the chief share of the proposed 2014 national budget according to Budget Secretary Butch Abad in press time. There are top 10 agencies that will get greater part of the 2014 national budget. The agencies and its appropriation are: Department of Education, 336.9 billion; Department of Public Works and Highways, P219.91 billion; Depart-
ment of the Interior and Local Government, P136.14 billion; Department of National Defense, P123.19; Department of Health, P90.77 billion; Department of Social Welfare and Development, P83.40 billion; Department of Agriculture, P80.03 billion; Department of Transportation and Communications, P48.89 billion; Department of Environment and Natural Resources, P23.92 billion and Department of Agrarian Reform, P20.38 billion.
As government’s biggest bureaucracy, the budget will be utilized for basic educational facilities, classroom building and repair, sanitation and water facilities, new chairs,
learning hubs, learning materials such new textbooks, science equipment. The government will also see additional teachers and principals. (Mary Jane Daabay)
The Official publication of Visayan Village Central Elemementary School Tagum City, Davao del Norte, REGION xi, PHILIPPINES VOL. vii ISSUE NO. 1 | JUNE 2013 - JANUARY 2014
VVCES reigns in NAT Result;
Administration toughens NAT review Through intensive review, schoolyear 2012-2013 became a portal of success when Visayan Village Central Elementary School (VVCES) topped in the National Achievement Test (NAT) result in division level. Meanwhile, Principal I Cecilia M. Esnardo is intensifying the review of the
grade three and grade six pupils. All teachers are pushed to produce copies of reviewer from 2009 to 2013 and extend hours for the review. Pencils and folders were disseminated to make up the produced reviewer. Mrs. Esnardo wanted to have trained pupils. She declared an intensive mock test to cater the self-preparation of
LABOR OF SUCCESS. Mrs. Virgencita Balungay, grade three adviser urges pupils to focus on their review.
the National Achievement Test (NAT) examinees. “These children must be prepared for the incoming NAT examination. To equip them we must intensify
our review and order some activities,” thus spoke Principal Cecilia M. Esnardo. (John Brylle Amores)
City Mayor Gives 425 New Chairs; VVCES Pupils Applauded Painted with green, 349 pie-ces of arm chairs were hauled in Visayan Village ground last December 2013. School Principal Cecilia M. Esnardo accepted the new school furniture as one of the Care for School Chair (CFCS) Program’s latest beneficiary. The school received 349 new green chairs and will expect another 76 chairs to come. City Mayor Allan L. Rellon personally turned-over the new green chairs. He also announced the fast delivery of the remaining chairs locallyfabricated inside the motor pool. Upon the hauling of the MAKING A DIFFERENCE. Pupils show big smiles upon receiving the new chairs.
furniture, Hon Allan L. Rellon was very much honoured to give the school chairs to the expectant pupils. The mayor also assured his commitment to give full support to the fulfilment of the school’s vision and mission during his conversation to the school principal. The 349 arm chairs were distributed to different grade levels. The chairs were given to grade two (41), grade three (98), grade four (50), grade five (110) and grade six (50). The expected 76 chairs will also be given to the grade levels that are in need of new chairs. (Jedidiah Porras)
2
NEWS
The Official School Paper of Visayan Village Central Elemementary School Tagum City, Davao del Norte, region xi, philippines | vol. vii ISSUE NO. 1 | june 2013 - january 2014
ON CAMPUS BULLETIN
7 Journalists get ready for RSPC Nervousness turns to excitement when seven of the fourteen writers of Visayan Village Central Elementary School ( VVCES) ranked in the Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC) last October 18-20, 2013 at Tagum Comprehensive High School On their position, the seven writers of VVCES bagged medals: 1 gold, 1 silver and 5 bronze. Floyd Bandalan, Editorial writing in Filipino category hit the gold medal. Tristan J. Malanguis, Photojounalism (English) garnered silver medal. The bronze medals were given to Charlene Delima, Copy Reading and Headline Writing (Filipino); Leslie Gatab, Pho-
Mary Jane Daabay Child Protection Policy, toughens
POWERED BY DETERMINATION. FOCUS journalists qualified to RSPC
tojournalism (Filipino); Alyssa Labor, Sports writing (Filipino); Summer Jane Tumulac Editorial writing (English) and Mary Jane Daabay, News writing (English). The seven journalists will compete in the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) to be held at Nabunturan Central Elementary School on February 13-15, 2014. The incoming three- day conference widen the journalist’s perspective in ma-
king it to the next level not losing hope to deliver themselves to the National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) 2014. “I am very positive that we could make it to the next level. We just need to practice regularly and do our best,” said Tumulac during the pronouncement of winners in the Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC). (Mary Jane Daabay)
No compelling reason to shift classes to Sept. – Luistro DepEd Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro, according to Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. of the Presidential Communications Operations Office at a press briefing cited there is no immediate reason to change the current academic calendar.
Sec. Armin Luistro
Mrs. Custodio, awarded as best teacher Mrs. Ma. Linda Custodio recognized as an outstanding teacher during the LGU-organized Educators Appreciation Night held at Big 8 Corporal Hotel last December 13, 2013. Mayor Allan L. Rellon, who sits as chairman of the Local School Board, recognized and personally handed the plaque of recognition as one of the best teacher in the elementary level to Mrs. Custodio. Mrs. Custodio was awarded in the 2013 Search for Most Outstanding Teachers (SMOT) because of her dedication and effort in educating children and expressed her gratefulness of the award. “I am very thankful that the LGU of Tagum had recognized my sincere commitment to the young learners of this generation,” Mrs. Custodio said. (Summer Jane Tumulac)
DepEd Assistant Secretary TonisitoUmali elaborated in an interview on GMA News that there must be a compelling reason to move the classes from june to September.
Malacañang posted its interest to study this shift of classes’ proposal. The palace awaits the Department of Education (DepEd) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) with theirstudies of this plan to validate the need of this proposal in the Philippines. Moreover, Department of Education stressed that parents and students from elementary and high school will still have their time to bond in summer monthsApril and May. (John Brylle Amores)
Tagum City Musikahan Festival excites Tagumeños Because Tagum City is the Music Capital of Mindanao and the South, Tagumeños are expecting the grand opening of the 13th Musikahan Festival on February 28- March 7, 2014 at the New City Hall. Tagum City Tourism Council invited different group and individuals to join the celebration of music in various categories- rock bands, symphony orchestras, street drum, bugle & lyre corps and so much more. It is expected that the participation of barangay will be the same as
before. With the festival’s prizes and recognition, participants of the competitions are almost finish with their concept and serious on their practices. According to Tagum City Tourism Office, City’s banner festival will also feature the “Tagumenyo Bisag’g Asa”. This is to welcome the grand homecoming of Tagumeños worldwide. Under the cue “Tagum, Tagumpay”, the Tourism biggest activity is very much expected. (Raymond Cajes)
Pursuant to the implementation of the Anti-Bullying Act 2013(Republic Act No. 10627) which protects students from mistreatment, the school toughens the adoption of the policies. Under the Principal’s view of the Child Protection Policy guidelines, Master teachers spearheaded the grouping of the pupils for the conduct of film viewing or symposium on the Anti- Bullying Act of 2013 last 2013. Values Education/ESP Organization Officers give gifts to least fortunate “Children, don’t be sad because it’s Christmas time. You deserve to be happy. We prepared something for you,” thus spoke Values Education Coordinator Ma. Melinda T. Custodio to 46 least fortunate pupils to the Christmas partyheld on December 19, 2013 at Visayan Village Central Elementary School (VVCES) gymnasium. Under the Values Education Coordinator’s initiative, the PTA officials headed by PTA President Gennish B. Celo , the EdukasyonsaPagpapakatao (ESP) Organization Officers and the School principal Cecilia M. Esnardo headed the PamaskongHandog Alay saAkingKapwaKamag-aral Program to give happy Christmas party to the 46 least fortunate pupils pupils. SPG, PTA projects school cleanliness Supreme Pupil Government (SPG) officers through SPG Coordinator Mary Ann B. Agra and Parentsteachers Association (PTA) provided six trash cans inside the school aimed to eliminate and control junks. The painted with green containers in labelled plastic, paper and cellophanes, which are common wastes in the school, are positioned in the canteen and beside the gymnasium. School Science tools, improved After the positive fund raising activity on science and technology, the PTA officials headed by President Gennish B. Celo pushed the request of the Science Coordinator Editha S. Verallo and all science teachers to have laboratory apparatuses. The school made sure that the science exploration will be made easy in promoting quality education. Science teachers finally equipped with science tools like 4 pcs. peti dish, 2 pcs. alcohol lamp and other science utensils.
ON CAMPUS BULLETIN
3
NEWS
The Official School Paper of Visayan Village Central Elemementary School Tagum City, Davao del Norte, region xi, philippines | vol. vii ISSUE NO. 1 | june 2013 - january 2014
SPTA Establishes School Project
Jedidiah Porras Stakeholders, students honor heroic teachers Parents and pupils show their support to the teachers in celebration of the World Teacher’s Day, held annually on October 5, 2013 to express truthful appreciation for the positive influence of teachers on Filipino learners. Barangay Captain Ronald S. Eliot, PTA President Gennish B. Celo and SPG President LlomarAguanta paid tribute to the teachers. They offered flowers, cards and tokens to each teacher. DPWH functions 2 new comfort rooms Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Tagum City constructed two new comfort rooms in Visayan Village Central Elementary School. The said project was financed from the national funds to cater the needs of every public school in Tagum City in terms of comfort rooms. The project was composed of two buildings with six-door toilets and a hand washing area. The new building was painted with bright green color and as well as its roof. Nutrition Coordinator oversees 129 undernourished Nutrition Coordinator Lyn B. Apoya with the help of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tagum through the empowerment of Mayor Allan L. Rellon stood firm in overseeing the 129 identified underweight children for S.Y. 2013-2014. With Tagum City supplemental feeding program, the 129 identified undernourished pupils last July 2013 of Visayan Village Central Elementary School (VVCES) are fed for 120 days. The LGU provide 5 kilos of pork and 9 kilos of chicken per week.. VVCES welcomes new administration After the reshuffling of principals, Visayan Village Central Elementary School (VVCES) paid tribute to the new principal Mrs. Cecilia M. Esnardo during the World Teachers Day Celebration on October 4, 2013. Supreme Pupils Government (SPG) officers and Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) officais joined hands in accepting the new principal. They offered tokens and flowers. In such, Mrs. Esnardo was delighted.
The PURSUIT. SPTA Project Citizens’ Charter promotes information to all stakeholders especially to pupils.
To show leadership, the new set of School Parents-Teachers Association (SPTA) officers through President Gennish B. Celo implemented right away the planned project for this school year- Citizens charter and beautification assistance. Aimed to develop the school,
the SPTA officers sourced out funds for the projects through stakeholders. They spearhead the fund raising activities. After the fruitful initiative activities, they produce materials for the citizen’s charter- paints, welding rod, angle bar, crews and tarpaulin. SPTA President Celo assured
School Support System, intensified; Dropout rate drops to 2.7 % To encourage pupils in their schooling, the 50 Pupils at Risk of Dropping Out (PARDOs) are fed by their principal and master teachers. In cognizant to the study of school support system and dropping rate of Visayan Village Central Elementary School, School Principal Cecilia M. Esnardo together with Mrs. Wilma De Gala, Master Teacher and Mrs. Ma. Melinda T. Custodio, Master Teacher initiated a Feeding Program. The 50 selected PARDOs were invited to attend the feeding program at Home Economics Room last January 8, 2014. Strengthening the drive, the searched pupils were also given school supplies and remediation classes as the school year opened. The administration targeted the initiative to reduce and eradicate dropout problem. “I am positive that with this continuous activity, next
to extend his hands in helping the school with all his strength during the oath taking ceremony last August 31, 2013 in VVCES gymnasium. “This is what genuine service is all about, the privilege to help the school by all possible means. If given a chance again, I will do my greatest effort to improve our school,” SPTA President Celoadded. (Jocelyn Baguio)
DROPOUT RATE
2000 1500 1000 500 0 No. of Dropouts
2010 - 2011 100
2011 - 2012 74
2012 - 2013 50
No. of Enrollees
1452
1587
1806
Rate (%)
6.89
4.66
2.77
year we will gain a zero drop-out rate,” School Principal Cecilia M. Esnardo claimed though find difficulty in eradicating the issue. Under the thrust of the study, the dropout rate was declined from 6.89 % of SY 2010-2011 with 100 drop outs to 2.77 % of SY 2012-2013 with 50 dropout.The graph presented shows that the school support system is firm in its purpose. (Mary Jane Daabay)
Barangay Turnover: Labastida accepts the key
Functional E-Classroom, embraced
“Using E-classroom is a very effective place in teaching and learning process where the monotony of the traditional strategies is broken.This innovative way of teaching provides fun, interactive and helps students visually comprehend concept,” It really helped a lot, thus spoke Science teacher Rhegelyn Cadenas after her demonstration teaching last December 12, 2013. The teachers are very eager to conduct their classes in the Eclassroom because they wanted to use computers as a primary tool in
learning of the pupils wherein each can manipulate it as they have the interactive learning. The pupils are interactive and enjoying during the session. They actively participated in every activity and more focused in their learning. “With the E-Classroom, it truly strengthens the teaching strategies. In this way learning can be now an interactive process wherein pupils can use and manipulate the computers to lean while interacting with each other,”Rhegelyn stressed. (Summer Jane Tumulac)
A NEW VIEW OF CHANGE. E- Classroom activated the teachers and pupils in learning process.
Newly elected Barangay Captain Dionisio P. Labastida accepted the key of responsibility from outgoing barangay captain Ronald S. Eliot during the turnover and induction of barangay officials last December 3, 2013 at Barangay Visayan Village gymnasium. Result from 2013 election made the turnover possible. Hon. Labastida honed by political views is ready to impart his development plan for the said barangay. With great leadership, Hon. Labastida is starting to search out solutions of community and school problems and involvement as well. He is personally supervising the practice for 13thMusikahansaTagum entry. (Raymond Cajes)
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EDITORIAL
The Official School Paper of Visayan Village Central Elemementary School Tagum City, Davao del Norte, region xi, philippines | vol. vii ISSUE NO. 1 | june 2013 - january 2014
EDITORIAL
Jailed for comfort;
Broiled
for
knowledge
Where does one specifically learn? Wherever we are, we learn. But specifically, education is given in schools; in the classroom. A conducive and comfortable classroom equipped with all the materials necessary for the teaching and learning process. But what is the real picture of educating school children as of today? As years passes by, the quality of education decreases due tomany reasons; lack of textbooks and other learning materials, inefficacy of some teachers and teaching strategies, and of course, lack of classrooms. Some students are deprived of the comfort that they need as they learn every day. As enrolment increases, the need for classrooms arises. The available classroom definitely cannot cater the increasing number of students that is why the schools try to find immediate solution to this issue. Despite the claims of the Department of Education that there are excess in the classrooms in the entire Philippine schools, why were there classes done in places which are not desirable to spend classes hours with? Since when did a gymnasium or a covered court considered a classroom? Since the government cannot provide immediate and permanent action to solve this issue, temporary steps are provided. To avoid mixing and fewer disturbances to the adjacent class, walls are built. Walls made of plywood covered one classroom which seems to be a huge box with the students like tiny dolls inside, or chickens being exposed to direct heat brought by the tin roof of the gymnasium. These students are jailed for security just to become intact in one place during classes hours, but they have broiled brains parched with the knowledge that they need. They stay inside this box for almost eight hours in a day. Listening and doing activities so they can learn. Where is the justice in this kind of situation? How can one justify the quality education in this picture? Certainly, learning must come in comfortable and pretty boxes. Education must be presented and offered in a palatable and enticing manner so that the students can grab a bite to his full satisfaction. Learning in a classroom must not be like a torture; it must offer comfortable environment beneficial to sound learning. It is indeed a concern of many but only few provided resolution. The DepEd and the government must see to it that the “Quality Education” will be offered in the truest sense of the word “Quality” not by “Quantity. But will this ever become an answered prayer? May time come when all students are studying inside an ideal classroom, a classroom that each of us have pictured in our minds.
Official Publication of Visayan Village Central Elementary School Editor in Chief: JOHN BRYLLE AMORES Associate Editor: SUMMER JANE TUMULAC News Editor: MARY JANE DAABAY Feature Editor: JEDIDIAH PORRAS Sports Editor: JOCELYN BAGUIO Editorial Editor: SUMMER JANE TUMULAC Photojournalist: TRISTAN JAY MALANGUIS Editorial Cartoonist: RAYMOND T. CAJES Advisers: RYNN JOY G. DURANGO
MARY GRACE MALAQUE ConsultantS: MRS. CECILIA M. ESNARDO MR. JOSE ISRAEL L. REYLA
SUMMER JANE TUMULAC
OPEN FORUM
Education for All: Quantity or Quality? Education is struggling for perfection. It cannot be denied that access to education is getting easier nowadays as the Department of Education claims. But why is it that many people keep questioning the capacity and capability of the services of the Department of Education? As the K+12 Curriculum been implemented, doubts and queries have been raised to question its credibility. DepEd pronounced that this new curriculum emphasizes to strengthen Kindergarten to become available to all public and private elementary schools to prepare young children to formal school. All schools are mandated to accept all school-age children and not to reject those who want to enroll to formal schools as what Education for All is all about. This is now where the issue arises. The number of students is increasing every year and the available classrooms are decreasing. That is why every school faces a difficult time in finding ways just to cater these children. If schools were to accept all these children, is the Department of Education after for the quantity?
How about the quality education everyone is after of? How can a teacher provide the children the quality education when their large number is placed in a small room? Picture this: children are like sardines in a small can. The can is the classroom where the children stay for the day, a very minimal space for a large group. How can one even move around in this setting? Can they even perform and study well despite the hard tries and untiring efforts of the teacher to make them learn anything at all? This is an issue of all schools throughout the Philippines and needs immediate action. If the government will allocate additional budget for classrooms and buildings, there will be better and adequate rooms for everyone. Don’t you think it will be better if the Department of Education will review its program for enhancement? Programs that is adequate and suited to the needs of every school as well as to the students. Now, which is far better, quantity or quality education?
The Official School Paper of Visayan Village Central Elemementary School Tagum City, Davao del Norte, region xi, philippines | vol. vii ISSUE NO. 1 | june 2013 - january 2014
JOHN BRYLLE AMORES
APERTURE
A Battle for Survival It cannot be denied that we are facing global crisis as of today wherein our lives are at stake. Inevitable events come and only in a matter of a split-second, our lives can be greatly affected. It will be twisted and directed either towards a negative or positive end. We are faced with the greatest economic challenge of our time. The global financial system has been turned on its head: there is an ongoing “fundamental reassessment of the value of every asset everywhere in the world.” US, Japan, the 15-member Euro zone, the United Kingdom and Russia- considered as rich world countries are already in recession. In our own neighborhood, South Korea, Taiwan and Singapore are in recession. China and India, two of the fastest-growing emerging markets, are in economic slowdown. It is pandemic and the countries are asking themselves, if the mighty economies can capitulate, who is safe? Is Philippines safe? No one is. Unfortunately, this news, while persistent and constantly disseminated doesn’t seem to concern most of our countrymen, perhaps because the words “recession” and “austerity” seem intangible. Facts point to one truth. We are not ready to face this global recession. It is a negative spiral of consumers not spending and deflating consumer prices, which will ultimately lead to production cuts, worker layoffs and to a sharper slack in demand. The problem is worsened by our being self-righteous. Politicians and economists are being too timid with their warnings. This is stupidity. Turning the other cheek and closing our eyes to the new reality
facing us is pointless. In a globalized world, there is no safe refuge. The Philippines, the poor up to the wealthiest man in our country will be affected. The answer is one that is rooted in fundamental economic principles. The economic history of nations tells us that economic growth without a human face is short-lived. Destitution will, sooner or later, weigh down growth. Further, focusing on growth alone is incomplete and will only exacerbate inequities. The poor must be allowed to participate in the growth process. Redistributive reforms are needed. Put simply, poverty reduction is essential for sustained growth. But whatever step will be taken, the issue will not be answered in such a way that every problem will be solved. Reformation cannot be done by one person alone. Pointing fingers will not help. Exposing the dirty laundry of a person to be blamed cannot help either. We must begin with the first step. Start the change of reformation within ourselves. Good governance is the beginning of a new era when this global crisis about the economic challenge will be solved. Innovations in the government like fair and just budgeting to maintain the momentum for growth and sustained development in the economy and prioritize massive and coordinated infrastructure and anticipation of the recovery of the projects. We must learn how to spend our precious little resources and put it into good use to provide a safety net for our people. Today is the perfect moment to clean up our economic house and reform our institution. Because if not now, when?
j ON SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT “Be the change you want to see in the world” Visayan Village Central Elementary School is now getting out of its old shell. Noticeable changes mark the image of the school. Aside from the improvement in its physical facilities, school rules, regulations and policies are revisited. Academic performance is also one of the highlighted improvements of the school and not to mention its active participation in non-academic activities in the society.
Speaking of physical facilities, the school buildings were renovated through the aid of the school funds, PTA and LGU’s. Academic performances are remarkably high when it comes to rating. The best example for this is the National Achievement Test results. The school is ranked as first in the NAT performance in the entire Tagum City Division. Teachers and pupils are more inspired in attending inter –school competitions. VVCES also intensifies the spirit of scouting
OPINION SUMMER JANE TUMULAC
5
CONTACT LENS
Act Now! The world is getting hotter every day. The weather patterns and conditions change abruptly. This brought negative and bad effects globally. Due to climate change, a lot of things happened in the world today. People are the main reason why this occurs and why it worsens. But somehow, there are some people who don’t even care about what’s going on. Why not care even just a bit? Why not show concern since we are all inhabitant of this planet? Every single thing that we do contributes much to this climate change. Our vanity, our way of living, our practices affects the climate. This is a cycle that will never end; wherein its connecting chain must be broken. The pollutions contribute much
to the thinning of ozone layer, and traps harmful gases that makes the world hotter a scale every day. Since the world’s temperature becomes hotter, the ice caps are melting and sooner, the water level rises and drown areas that are below sea level. Tsunamis, Rains, floods, typhoons are some of the negative effects that brought great destruction to mankind. It is time for us to act accordingly. We must not wait for tomorrow what can be done today. Though we cannot totally heal the world, let us bring hands together in preventing further damage to mother earth. Be concern to the mankind. Care for Mother Earth. Involve yourself in the environmental activities. Act towards a common goal: Save mother earth. Do it. Now!
Views and Opi nio ns Proposed shifting of the school season to September “This is our countries’ response to calls for ASEAN mobility or the freedom of citizens of ASEAN member-countries to study in schools with international orientation, and to use their skills and talents in various professions.” - Communications Sec. Herminio Coloma Jr.
“This might affect school attendance of the school children since April and May are considered summer months. The public schools in the Philippines have no air conditioning systems. It won’t even solve the problem of flooding during the typhoon season as weather patterns keep changing.” - DepEd Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro
“It will lessen the interruption or suspension of classes due to weather conditions, thus we can function fully and perform well in giving quality education to our children.” - Mrs. Wilma B. Degala; Grade V teacher
“We find it very difficult to adjust since we are used to have the school opening on June and end of classes on March.” - Quennie Sayon; Grade VI pupil
“This is good for us because we can avoid the negative and bad effects of the rainy season like having suspension of classes due to flashfloods, etc.” - Winbel E. Amante; Grade V pupil
FEATURE In the Arms of the
Rebels Zamboanga crisis was an armed conflict in Zamboanga City, Philippines, between the forces of Republic of the Philippines and a faction of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The military said hundreds of MNLF rebels entered Zamboanga, taking over several coastal villages, burning thousands of homes and taking dozens of civilian hostage, in a bid to derail peace talks with a rival rebel group. The Muslim rebels held nearly 200 people as their hostages. The situation was described as a worsening humanitarian crisis that scarred the vulnerable people of Zamboanga especially the women and children. It has become a very alarming situation as the growing needs
of the people caught up in violence. The exigency brought emotional, psychological and health outbreaks in the residence of Zamboanga. The government of the Philippines and UNhighlighted particular concerns for 70,000 people sheltering in the city's main sports complex and calls for donations, not only food but also for medicine was escalated. The deadly three-week standoff between government troops and Muslim rebels has ended with all of the captives safe. More than 200 people were killed in the clashes, including 183 rebels and 23 soldiers and police, in one of the bloodiest and longest-running attacks by a Muslim group in Mindanao, scene of decades-long Muslim rebellion for self-rule in the
Memoirs of an It is not easy to face and accept the truth. Mayet, roam around the streets where dead bodies lay unattended. The air smells death, but she never mind the smell of the air she is breathing. Her worn out clothes, wounded body, dripping wet and disheveled hair, bare feet, and a shock-look in her face unveils the suffering she had from the cruel experience brought by nature. Mayet found a haven in a corner of an abandoned convenience store across the ruined church. Tears fall from her eyes as she watches people passes by, looking for their families. Crying.Hurting.Grieving. She silently weeps in agony as she looks as she recollects the details of her misfortune. She tried hard to save her little brother and sister, but to no avail. They were taken from here in a harsh way. It all happened in a blink of an eye. The storm surge washed away their house together with Junjun and Inday, as well as their neighbors and friends. As well as her dream of growing up with her whole family. But now, everything is gone. And she is lost. She is wanderingin a world that has become a different from the one that she knew. It was supposed to be beautiful,
largely Roman Catholic country. The siege caused airports, seaports and businesses to shut down for a week. Classes only resumed after a week in areas not directly affected by the crisis. About P5 billion were reportedly lost in trade and commerce in the last three weeks. Nearly 200 were killed, with 166 of them rebels and 23 from combined security forces. Hardest hit were the civilians, with at least
100,000 of them housed in more than 50 shelters. A portion of these will not have homes to go back home to as thousands of homes were burned and destroyed to gun fires and fire incidents. Even though the gun firing and hostage taking has ended, the threat of humanitarian crisis is still around, just waiting for the time to attack like a thief in the night, unnoticed, and taking everyone by surprise.
Apocalypse
clean and peaceful. But that was before Yolanda landed in. While she weeps and shivers with cold, she felt a warm hand on her shoulder. As she raises her head up, she sees a teary yet smiling face. The woman takes Mayet to the place where the survivors are taken care of. She is given warn and clean clothes, food, and her wounds are treated. She saw Manang Maria, the owner of the store where her parents are working, strides painfully towards her. Mayet recognizes the sorry look in Manang Maria’s face. She weeps silently for the death of her parents, little brother and sister. She is now an orphan. Just like some of the other kids in the evacuation area. The place is now full of anguish and sorrow. Even if she is still breathing, she feels like she’s a dead tree lying on the ground. She is in great pain after losing everything and everyone she loves. As she feels her chest to check if her heart is still beating, a cold cross pendant is hanging on her neck. She stands in silence for a moment, and then she hurriedly runs as fast as she could to the bay walk. She fac-
es the setting sun and made the sign of the cross. “Nanay, Tatay, Junjun, Inday, thank you for reminding me that I am still blessed. Even if you are not here with me, I will be strong to face any hardship that will come my way. I will live the life that God have given m e to do good things to others. I will live for you. I will live for myself. And I will live for God. Don’t worry about me, we will be together again in God’s time.” She wipes the tears that fell down on her cheeks. Then with arms wide open she says,” Lord, I surrender to your will. Amen.” With a light heart and a smile on her pale face, she heads b a c k to the center where her future awaits.
Honesto, Promise!
A new drama series aired in the Philippine television on October 28 and it became viral. Dreamscape Entertainment Television and ABS-CBN's newest primetime drama series "Honesto" aims to highlight the importance of honesty among their viewers. Dreamscape Entertainment explained that "Honesto" follows one of their traditions of producing shows that advocate positive values. They started four years ago with "May Bukas Pa," which gave importance to faith. It was also a show that gave rise to the words "Amen" and "Bro" (in reference to God or Jesus) among its viewers.Next was "100 Days to Heaven," which advocated the importance of forgiveness. Both shows also launched the careers of child actors ZaijanJaranilla and XyrielManabat, respectively. "'Honesto� comes in pushing and highlighting Honesty.� Honest 'to, promise!� is the famous line of the character in the story and its messageis to encourage and inspire Filipinos in the Philippines and abroad the value and importance of honesty. "Honesto" tackles the life of its titular character, played by Raikko, and his mother Fina played by Maricar Reyes. Fina left her family from the boondocks to look for the father of her child (Diego played by Paulo Avelino). What's magical about Fina's family is that they live and breathe honesty and are all trustworthy. Unfortunately for Fina, she fell in love with Diego, whose intention was to con her into revealing more of the mysteries her family possesses. In the process she learned to lie. Director Jerry Sineneng, who has directed a number of ABS-CBN's child actors before and who is now part of the network's cremedelacreme directors, is confident that Raikko is a rising star in the making. His passion in acting is already exemplified at work. He said that after every take, Raikko would run to him and watch the playback of his scene. The other main stars on "Honesto," like Philippine Cinema's legendary Eddie Garcia and Janice de Belen, an icon in Philippine soap opera, have only honest and positive things to say about Raikko. "Honesto" also stars Angel Aquino, Joel Torre, Nonie Buencamino, Melissa Ricks and Joseph Marco among others. It airs every night after "TV Patrol."Completing the powerhouse cast are MalouCrisologo, MelaiCantiveros, Jason Francisco, Michael Conan, Josh Ivan Morales, Janna Agoncillo, with the special participation of Reyes and SpankyManikan. How will the truth separate and reunite the families and hearts that were broken because of the many lies? Will purity and kindness be enough to erase all the selfishness in the world?
The Shaking Truth Bohol, an island province in the Philippines located in the Central Visayas was hit by an earthquake with a 7.2 magnitude. Earthquake is either a volcanic or tectonic shaking or trembling of the earth. The severity of its damage depends on the magnitude of the quake. The quake that hit Bohol was felt in the whole Visayas area and as far as Masbate in the North and South Cotabato provinces in Southern Mindanao. It was the deadliest earthquake in the Philippines in 23 years. The energy of the quake released was equivalent to 32 Hiroshima Bombs. The main shock and succeeding aftershocks were located in the vicinity of Bohol. These recorded events were shallow, with a depth of at most 32 kilometers. Based on spatial dis-
tribution of succeeding events and characteristics of the earthquake, the event is tectonic in origin. The strong ground shaking caused extensive damage to or even the collapsed of houses, buildings, bridges, and other infrastructures. Collapsed structures usually account for most of the casualties during the strong earthquake. After experiencing the tremor, the government and the affected people hold hands together in restoring their harmed province and lives. As days go by, each and every one prays to be strong and be safe always under the guidance of the Creator.
8
LITERARY
The Official School Paper of Visayan Village Central Elemementary School Tagum City, Davao del Norte, region xi, philippines | vol. vii ISSUE NO. 1 | june 2013 - january 2014
Contentment by: Nyronjy
It doesn’t matter what you are, What matters is who you are. It doesn’t matter what you don’t have, What matters is what you have. Being your self makes you real Afar better than wearing a mask with plastic seal Others might get whatever they will But not everyone finds true happiness that they should feel Life’s not about pretending That is why I am wondering Why do people ask for more? When all they have was so much more. They have more than what they need There’s still even left evenif they’d give It’s better to give than to receive A philosophy that’s hard to perceive. But if we only learn how to be thankful For all the blessings that are bountiful We will realize that life is so wonderful To be content, life will be whole.
Y o l a n d a Dear Teacher by: Cyra Mae
by: Bembitz Rubie
A night I could still remember It was one cold November When you cried so hard And howled so bad. You made us feel terrified As if we will no longer be alive You took something aback That can never be brought back. Millions of lives are taken As we are all ascertain We can never have them back For power is what we lack. Power to bring the dead again And power to heal the pain
But with God around No one can beat the crowd. Yolanda, you are so cruel Yet, you can never fool The people who are united Together, can’t be defeated Together we will stand And fight with faith, With love, care and strength We find haven in God’s hand.
Since Mama died I was terrified Didn’t know where to go Didn’t know what to do. When summer ended My heart was mended I found a love in you A heart so pure and true. Patience was your virtue You were never untrue You lighted my life and resolved my strife. My dear teacher What can I offer? To give back what you have given Things that can never be stolen? I can just pray For you to be happy May you continue to inspire And live life with godly fire.
If Only by: Ryna
You, with skin as white as a snow, Came to me with a blow With kissable lips red as rose, You bear the mannequin’s pose. Your presence makes me shiver, Astounded as you linger, Your name makes me quiver, Like a fallen timber. I float on a cloud nine. Oh! I wish you were mine. Isn’t it so great? When it wasn’t so late? If only I have known you before Way back when he was not yet born Life would not be a bore Happiness would be so much more!
The Official School Paper of Visayan Village Central Elemementary School Tagum City, Davao del Norte, region xi, philippines | vol. vii ISSUE NO. 1 | june 2013 - january 2014
S C I E N C E A N D T E C H N O L O G Y
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A TECHNOLOGY THAT WORKS If there is one disease that has greatly affected Filipinos, then it must be dengue fever. Its high death toll, for one, has put health professionals on a constant alert. Dengue can strike anyone- no matter the economic status, age, and gender. Dengue fever is also known as break bone fever, an infectious tropical disease caused by the dengue virus. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash that is similar to measles. In a small proportion of cases the disease develops into the life-threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever, resulting in bleeding, low levels of blood platelets and blood plasma leakage, or into dengue shock syndrome, where dangerously low blood pressure occurs. Dengue is transmitted by several species of mosquito within the genus Aedes, principally A. aegypti. The virus has five different types; infection with one type usually gives lifelong immunity to that type, but only short-term immunity to the others. Subsequent infection with a different type increases the risk of severe complications. As there is no commercially available vaccine, prevention is sought by reducing the habitat and the number of mosqui-
toes and limiting exposure to bites. The call to prevent dengue is like a mosquito buzzing over the ears- its noise should not be ignored. Beating the cause right from the start may be the best way to address the disease. The Department of Science and Technology’s Industrial Technology Development Institute researchers perceive that going down to the source of vector could effectively decrease the number of dengue-carrying mosquitoes. After several laboratory studies have been conducted, the researchers were able to prove the study. The number of Aegis aegypti mosquitoes reduced down after the breeding places was treated, indicating the decrease of dengue cases too. The mosquito OL Trap, short for Ovicidal-Larvicidal Trap is used in the experiments developed by the ITDIDOST researchers. It is made of ordinary tin can (regular-sized evaporated milk) painted black and a strip of lawanit board measuring 1 X 6.5 X ½ inches. An all-natural mosquito attractant solution poured in the can moistens the lawanit through capillary action. The moist lawanit becomes an attractive nest for the mosquito. The black color of the container attracts the mosquitoes and the fumes of the solution kill the eggs and larvae. Laboratory tests showed that the OL Trap is 100 percent effective. That is why the Depart-
ment of Education binds hand with the DOST in implementing the strengthening of the reduction of the causes of dengue fever in schools. School children according to studies have greater percentage in acquiring the disease; hence, they are exposed outdoors during their free time. Schools all throughout the Philippines used the OL Trap in their classrooms and offices, following the right procedure in doing so. The OL Trap may last up to two months, outliving a generation of mosquitoes which has a lifespan of only one month. A female mosquito can lay as many as 400 eggs four times in its life, 80 percent of which will turn out to be female. But through the OL Trap, the next generation of mosquitoes in an area will certainly be wiped out. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) expects a stepby-step deduction in the population of mosquitos in communities under the program. With the findings of the study, it can be clearly seen that the OL Trap is oneof t h e many local technology that works.
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S C I E N C E A N D T E C H N O L O G Y
Aside from giving computers to all secondary schools, the Department of Education Computerization Program “Transforming Education through Technology� is now expanding its scope which includes elementary schools which passed the minimum requirement set by the department. The DepEd Computerization Program (DCP) aims to provide schools with appropriate technologies that would enhance the teaching-learning processes and meet the challenges of the 21st century. This responds to the computer backlog of public schools by providing hardware and software to raise the ICT literacy of the students, teachers a n d school heads. D C P g i v e s M u l t i m e d i a Equip-
The Official School Paper of Visayan Village Central Elemementary School Tagum City, Davao del Norte, region xi, philippines | vol. vii ISSUE NO. 1 | june 2013 - january 2014
ment for Public Elementary Schools Nationwide complete with the computer package and other accessories, printer, and the elite panaboard which serves as the interactive board during classes. This program of the DepEd and its partners shows positive responses from the recipient schools. The teachers find it effective and fun holding classes in the E-classroom using the computers. The pupils are very eager to use the interactive board because they have the opportunity to manipulate the computers and have an interactive learning using the technology. DCP is considered a new step in achieving the global aim of Philippine Education to be technically advanced and equipped when it comes to educating learners throughout the use of technology. Nonetheless, this calls for a ceaseless support from the government and other agencies so that all the elementary school in the Philippines can have this opportunity, where there is no single Filipino learner will become ignorant and left behind of the fastchanging pace of the technological world.
The Official School Paper of Visayan Village Central Elemementary School Tagum City, Davao del Norte, region xi, philippines | vol. vii ISSUE NO. 1 | june 2013 - january 2014
SPORTS 11
EDITORIAL
PAT R I O T I S M beyond
Sport
“Right now I’m inspired to fight for the honour of my country.” This is true message of Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao who is the greatest and ferocious boxing fighter in the last decades after his victorious fight against Brandon Rios in their World Boxing Organization (WBO) International 12-round welterweight boxing title fight for his countrymen. Filipino sports enthusiasts always find ways to excel in any worldwide event thinking that winning the game make their country proud of. Athletes who are competing in any sports race local or international competition bannered the country they are belong. Let us admit thatafter the loss and sleep of Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao in year 2012, the punch broke the hearts of many Filipino worldwide. Some are angry at him and make different controversies because of his defeat. But the devastating loss in his career made him tougher in the next battle for the Filipino supporters. And today, will the greatest fight of the present age of boxing will really be happened? And if it to happen will “Pacman” defeat the “O” downfall Mayweather? But, even if not, let us therefore conclude that as long as Pacman do the right thing we are in support and proud of him. Because sportsmanship and integrity measured in how you started and ended the game for the hope of your countrymen.
SPORTS TRIVIA
“pacman” “MONEY” “flash” “Dynamite” G U ESS WH O ! Juan Manuel Marquez Floyd Mayweather
Manny Pacquiao Nonito Donaire
SPORTS FEATURE
Marble in a Hole! Marble is commonly known as “Holen” in the Philippines. It is considered as a real sport.It is one of the many interesting and challenging “Larong Pinoy” or “Filipino games” that is played usually by boys who are fond of marbles. This has been one of their regular and popular pastimes, as well as the favourite games of their parents and grandparents until new and modern forms of entertainment has taken over the interests of young kids of today. Marbles used during those days were not like those of today. They used stones, clay balls, bones, polished nuts and fruit pits. In modern times, marbles evolved into marbles made of glass, china and real chips of marble.
through a hoop or into a hole by rolling, throwing or knuckling the marble. The player should hold the holen in his hand then throw it to hit the other player’s ball out of the playing area. Holen or marble is played a more precise way by tucking the marble with the 3rd finger, the thumb under the marble, the fourth finger used as to stable the marble. The player aims at grouped marbles inside a circle. He then will flick the marble from his fingers and anything he hits out of the circle is his already. Who ever got the most marbles wins the game. Players can also win the game by eliminating the opponent by aiming and hitting his marble. A skill of being These are various types of games a sharp shooter is an advantage to the using marbles. Two of the most com- winner. mon variants of these games are: Good luck and • first, the type in which the players try enjoy the to knock their opponents’ marbles out game! of a circle with their own marble (and (Jocelyn Baguio) so win them) • second, the type in which the players try to hit a target and roll their marble
The Official publication of Visayan Village Central Elemementary School Tagum City, Davao del Norte, REGION xi, PHILIPPINES VOL. vii ISSUE NO. 1 | JUNE 2013 - JANUARY 2014
sports
PH Southeast Asian (SEA) Game Medal Tally Gold: 29 Silver : 34 Bronze: 38 Rank: 7th place
Pacquaio, Bradley settles for a rematch on April Filipino boxer Manny Pacquaio and American Timothy Bradley agreed for a rematch for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title this coming April 12, 2014. According to news reports and papers, Pacquiao after its controversial twits with Floyd Mayweather decided to challenge Bradley, who first battled in a debateable bout in June 2012. Top Rank’s Bob Arum, according to the Philippine Star has pressed out the facts of the said World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title fight. The promotion is expected to deliver the concrete information about the rematch of the two fighters in weeks soon.
Pound-for_pound king stretched his interest to fight Bradley again. Pacman is determined to get back the title after the striking split decision at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. "Yes, I want to fight Bradley," Pacquiao said according to the news. “Simply because I want to win back the title he took from me by a questionable decision,” he added. Pacquiao expressed his strong objection of the controversial decision of his lose fight with Bradley. Nevertheless, he believed that he was the one controlled the match and now is the right time to get the belt back. “Almost everyone in the world thought I won the fight, so it’s fitting to get back the title for people like me who got robbed of a victory,” he said. (Jocelyn Baguio)
Firing enthusiasts flock in Mayor Rellon's Cup Funshoot To develop marksmanship in shooting and responsible gun handling, the first invitational Mayor Rellon’s Cup funshoot congregated firing enthusiasts at the PNP firing range in Magdum last November 17, 2013. Local Government of Tagum and Team Tagum launched the funshoot to nurture camaraderie among the fanatics of the game. Mayor Allan L. Rellon with his supporters was thrilled to play with the gun. With the series of activities, specta-
tors were very pleased in launching the first invitational Mayor Rellon’s Cup funshoot. The game was undeniably outstanding performance of the gun shoot players. Meanwhile, radio commentators had shown their interest in the game. They also flight in the firing range to watch over the play. The awarding was personally handed by Mayor Allan L. Rellon during LGU Tagum’s Monday flag raising ceremony last November 18, 2013. (Tristan Jay Malanguis)
BULLS EYE. Firing enthusiasts getting ready for a test of defense.
KAB-Team Pulahan loss grips over KAB-Team Dilawan, 35-40
BUILDING UP STAMINA. KAB TeamDilawan leader firm in his instructions to win.
Team Dilawan fighters crushed the pride of Team Pulahan units during the School BSP Jamborette last October 2013. Through an intense strength of mind, Team pulahan beaten the aggressive troupe of the team Dilawan that capture the score 35 for Pulahan and 40 for Team Dilawan at the Visayan Village Central Elementary School (VVCES) ground. As the games started, both teams struggled to sling the advantage points.
At some point, in the first two games, screams deafened the spectators when Team Pulahan won the sack race and planting rice. But later in the race, Team Dilawan advanced its place when they triumph in marble relay, cone blowing and. Team Pulahan cannot pick up any longer when Team Dilawan kicked them out for the last game skinning the snake. (Raymond Cajes)