Growing up, I used to see students and teachers hanging out with no issues at all. I seldom see them riding together, for they had to buy school materials to beautify their classroom. I see them in a group during endof-year parties for a celebration. In our class, we do have a group chat with our teachers.
│ SPORTS 15-16
It's not too late
We often hear students complain about their grades to their subject teachers. Worse, they attempt suicide, just like what happened to a ninth-grade student of our school because he obtained the lowest grade in one of his subjects during the second quarter of this school year.
10 feature
Sinulog Festival in Sirawai: A Highlight Waited For
Dancing to the beat of drums and trumpets with participants dressed in colorful costumes has made this year’s Sinulog Festival memorable for the spectators coming from the different barangays of the municipality of Sirawai.
Paragons of a true athlete
“Thewaterisyourfriend…you don’thavetofightwithwater,justsharethe samespiritasthewater,anditwillhelpyou move”.
This uplifting quotation by a former Russian swimmer, Alexander Popov, inspires the three junior high school swimmers of SirNaHigh, namely Reygi Panalas, Abdurahman Calas, and Aryana Ontong.
day scenario is risky,they set aside their fear just to reach the school to teach their learners./
Despite the distance, teachers of Tibalos Elementary School (TES) in Sirawai District have to cross the sea in order to reach their station to teach. They have to ride in a rented pumpboat during classes from Monday to Friday.
1,141 junior high 639 senior high 68 teachers
data gathered from admin office
2 SirNaHigh studs qualify in Int’l Math tilt
ASBALI ASOL
G12 News Writer
competition. Felizarta received an international merit certificate as she ranked 15th of over thousands of contenders in Asia.
Teachers who are assigned in the said school, which is situated in a farflung barangay from the town, traveled under the sea for approximately an hour and are expected to get wet, especially when inclement weather happens.
"Honestly, what makes us afraid at times is the risk of the distance that we have to take. We really
14 sci tech
are wet when we arrive at our school. We usually bring with us extra clothing then so that we have something to change with the wet ones", Radzmalyn Sarail said on behalf of her co-teachers.
"Seldom, we really have to trudge mountains as our other choice of way when we are not able to travel by sea because
See full story on page 2
Sirawai District Supervisor, Susan M. Felizarta, bagged ‘Division Outstanding Award’ under District Supervisor category during the recently concluded 2022 Norte PRAISED Awarding Ceremony held at the Top Plaza Hotel, Dipolog City, December 22.
Stress is not a bad thing
The latest statistics from the Department of Education (DepEd) reveal that 404 students committed suicide, and 2,147 attempted suicide last school year because of stress.
see full data on page 12
33.67 % Wasted
cation that helped her clinch the prestigious award. She also extended her profound thanks to the teachers and school heads of the district, who, in any way, have sup ported her programs in the workplace.
Two students of Sirawai National High School (SirNaHigh) qualified for the CREST International Mathematics Olympiad competition. They were Jean Sharleth Felizarta, G9, and Shameer Manangca, G7 who were awarded honorable mentions during the semi-final of the said See full story on page 2
The first level of the examination commenced on October 4, the second level on December 9, and the semi-final happened on February 20, 2022. The said contest
Felizarta was among the awarded school district supervisors in Zamboanga del Norte who were recognized by the ZN division because of their exemplary performances as SDS in their respective districts.
In an interview, she said that it was all because of her hard work and dedi-
"It was not easy to be one because we also needed to present documents for reliability. The division was also looking for our Mode of Verification (MOV), which contains all the training and recognitions we have. It was not only being dedicat ed and passionate towards our work alone", added the awarded PSDS.
Felizarta further ex plained that the activity was anchored on
See full story on page 2
first week of classes.
G12 News Contributor late because the tire of the bus where I was riding flattened. We really waited for almost two hours before we were able to travel home, going to Sirawai," said Charisa L. Suan, a resident of Dipolog City and a teacher assigned in SirNaHigh.
Teachers of Sirawai National High School continuously strenghtened students' group working in their respective classes after the school's principal, Mr. Loester M. Bercasio, reiterated its significance to students’ learning during the faculty meeting in the
continuation from page 1
...Sail of Hope
of big waves. Our efforts are doubled during tough times, but we cannot say ‘no’ to the call of duty. We have to teach our learners no matter what. We need to be strong and patient, added Radzmalyn. Tibalos ES is one of the far-flung schools in Sirawai District that has only five teachers, headed by its teacher-incharge, Ms. Marissa L. Baroro.
According to Ai- leen Cena, a student of SirNaHigh, she has been a consistent witness of the Tibalos teachers who arrived early at the sea- shore for departure.
"I want to be like them in the future, as I also want to become a teacher. Their struggles are priceless, yet they still continue to take the risk for their learners. My salute to all of them", shared Aileen.
...PSDS Felizarta
the division memorandum that seeks for various needed requirements to be able to be awarded.
Every year, the ZN division conducts the said event to give honor and recognition to all employees of Zamboanga del Norte. The activity is categorized for teachers, master teachers, school heads, and district supervisors.
‘’Because of this recognition, I am now challenged to do better than what others expect of me. We will continue to work harder through providing outstanding accomplishments’’, she ended.
"Let us continue to provide quality education to our students, especially now that we have returned to the new normal. It has been more than two years since our learners were left behind", highlighted Bercasio. Collaborative grouping benefits learners when working on difficult tasks in the learning process because it allows them to express
freely what they want if they are ashamed and afraid to share ideas when alone.
In an interview, a ninth grader, Amin Shokri, said that he is comfortable explaining in front of the class when he is part of a group task. He also said that he is now a little shy to express his thoughts in the class discussion because group work helped him overcome his stage fright.
Zamboanga del Norte currently experienced budget cuts that result in unfinished construction roads. For the past two years, motorists complained about the 173.78-kilometer highway from Dipolog City to the village of Talinga in Sindangan town, Zamboanga del Norte, due to its numerous potholes according to engineer Aminodin Maniri. Maniri had already requested more funds from Public Works and Highways Secretary,Manuel Bonoan in response to criticism regarding the poorly maintained highway. "I find it time-consuming when I pass by the said road going to Dipolog City because the bus can’t really run fast. I remember a time when I went to school
Teacher Charisa hope that the problem will already be solved so that she will no longer be experiencing the same scenario, especially when she is in a hurry.
Further, in a report posted by Rappler, Maniri further explained why there is really a cutting down of budget when, in fact, the department’s collection has already been increased. He also emphasized that revitalizing the maintenance budget of the engineering offices in the different provinces plays a pivotal role in mending our local roads.
To promote professionalism in the delivery of basic education programs, the Department of Education (DepEd) banned the student-teacher relationship through Order 49 series of 2022, dated November 2. The said order rebuked employees and officials to exercise caution, such as refraining from interactions with the students outside of school and not following learners on social media except if they are relatives.
"I am truly saddened by this mandate, however, it really is a must to follow whether we like it or not", teacher Nestor Cutib said during an interview.
The new DO emphasized the need to never par-
MARGARRETTE ANN GAPO G12 News Writer
The scribes of SirNaHigh publications (The Suara-English and Og Lilingan-Filipino) took home six gold, three silver, and four bronze medals in individual category and group contests during the triple SB journalism tilt conducted by the ZN Press Club Inc.
The said event was attended by the different high schools in the triple SB last January 28–29. Informative lectures and a time-restricted workshop on different categories were facilitated. The lectures covered News
Writing, Editorial Writing, Feature Writing, Sports Writing, Layouting, Photojournalism, Cartooning, Online Publication, Radio Broadcasting, including the two newly added categories such as Mobile Journalism and Vlogging. Here are the winners of this year’s campus journalism tilt in the English category: Jay-Rald Yague, (1st), Feature Writing, also awarded as good reporter in radio broadcasting; Julamrie Unding (1st), journalism vlogging; Mark Adrian Rada (2nd), photojournalism; Czhekh Ahmeyr Ismael (3rd), cartooning; and Kristel May Montimor (3rd), mobile
journalism.
Meanwhile, in Filipino, the winners are: Amraiza Julkanain, (1st), in Pagsulat ng Editoryal; John Arnel Deliquena, (1st), in Paglalarawang Tudling; Thirmizi Wahi , (1st), in Pagkuha ng Larawan; Sharmia Dullah, (2nd), in Mobile Journalism; Rhea Mae Salvilla, (2nd), in Journalism Vlogging; and Og Lilingan, (3rd), in Online Publication.
"With this feat, I become even more eager to try harder so that I will win again in Moblie Journalism Vlogging", shared Julamrie Unding, MJV champion.
A total of 346 new Alternative Learning System (ALS) enrollees are expected to add next school year to the 364 enrolled this year.
According to the report from the ALS coordinator, Janodi Dapii, a huge number of enrollees
are coming from barangays Culasian, which has 27 enrollees; Sirawai Proper, with 25 enrollees; and San Vicente at Lubok, with 24 enrollees.
“As an ALS graduate and now a graduating student in senior high, many are encouraged to continue schooling. My classmates said that their siblings are enrolling now
take in partisan activity, such as "seeking endorsements, recommendations, contributions, support, consideration, political accommodation, or any other form of involvement from other government workers or similar entities outside DepEd."
According to DepEd Secretary, Sarah Duterte, teachers should always observe boundaries between students because the tendency is that it will fall under bias consideration.
continuation from page 1
...2 SirNaHigh Studs
was participated by India, Korea, Malaysia, and other participating countries in Asia.
Among the proud members of SirNaHigh who took part and showcased their brilliance in solving were Jeremiah Josh D. Gumata, G8, and Kadisa Aban, G10, who, though they were not able to qualify, were congratulated for taking the challenge.
"My warmest congratulations, our dear students, for bringing such another victory to the school. My felicitations also go to the empowered coaches of these victors, who gave their best in training them even during weekends", expressed Mr. Loester M. Bercasio, the school principal.
The mathematics teaching force, headed by their department head, Mr. Nonie Dapii, were the coaches of the students during the events held virtually.
to be part of the next batch”, said Sabturiya Dais.
Currently, the school is preparing the needed documents to be submitted during the approval stage.
"Because of ALS, my dream to take college is now slowly making its way", Sabturiya added.
ROMELYN GOZANES
G12 News Contributor
To be able to save the education system in the Philippines from worsening due to the pandemic, the DepEd, through the leadership of its secretary Sarah Duterte, launched the MATATAG: Bansang Makabata, Bansang Makabansa program to resolve the county's basic education woes.
"As a student, I would honestly say that this program is a good call for our ailing education. With its promising downfall, I hope that we students could really benefit from it because we want to graduate ready enough", said grade eleven student, Christian Macaso.
G12 News Writer
A barangay chairman of Balubuan, Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte was shot dead during the abrupt ambush on January 26.
The Brgy captain was with his siblings, Ani and Alfahad, and his relatives, namely Anisa Jaji Manangca and Shilben Musaddin Basa who were also reported dead. The victims were all in a black Toyota Hilux service when ambushers mercilessly shot them at an opened-fire highway.
The two others onboard the vehicle who were able to run were wounded and rushed to the municipality's rural health unit. They were identified as Alwaf Basa Manangca and Norman Darus Tulino.
According to the report of provincial police director Col. Glen Dulawan, the target of the assailants, was Captain Manangca. He further said that the other two victims sustained gunshot wounds in various areas of their bodies before escaping in safe directions from where the incident occurred.
"What we can do now as students is to remain vigilant. We will go home directly after classes so that no one will get harmed", Norhan Karil, a grade eleven student, shared.
It was the first brutal one in the municipality of Sirawai that made its residents feel unsafe and frightened, said Janihim.
In line with the program, the curriculum will also be revised to produce competent, jobready, and responsible citizens. Furthermore, the said program also aims to prioritize the learners' well-being through inclusive education and the fastest acceleration of the delivery of quality education, including providing teachers with assistance and enough support from the government.
Secretary Sarah further emphasized that if the government, specifically the authorities in the education sector would continuously practice their 'bahala na' mantra habit, Filipino learners would struggle even more.
"We are with VP Sarah in SirNaHigh on being hopeful that with the MATATAG program, the system in education will be resolved little by little”, Macaso shared.
CZHEKH AHMEYR ISMAEL G12 News Contributor orderly town and fulfilling the needs of his people are among his priorities to accomplish during his administration.
After winning landslide in the 2022 elections, Aljazar A. Janihim took his seat as the newly elected mayor of the municipality of Sirawai, May 9, 2022. Janihim, under the Philippine Democratic Party-People’s Power (PDP-Laban), earned 11, 066 total votes from Sirawainons, while his opponent Ontong Amador, who was under the National Party, garnered 3, 064 votes.
"Alhamdullah! I am beyond grateful for the full support given to me by my constituents during the election", Janihim shared. During the interview, he said that progressing Sirawai towards becoming an
"I am also envisioning a peaceful hometown to live in," he added.
Mayor Janihim is a graduate of a BS in Criminology, and he is the son of the former mayor of the said municipality, Gamar A. Janihim.
On the other hand, Darquez Pahambong, the re-elected vice mayor, won with a total vote of 10,083 beating Nolidia Inding, who had only 3,544 votes.
The new mayor, along with his members who won, took the oath of office at the municipality of Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte, last May 19.
To empower women and to promote gender equality, Sirawai celebrated this year’s National Women’s Day with the theme, "We for Gender Equality and an Inclusive Society", March 14.
The event kicked off with a colorful parade around the town. The municipal mayor, Hon. Aljazar Janihim, led the participation in the event along with the heads of the different schools of Sirawai District and other agencies such as the Sirawai MPS, headed by the Chief of Police, Maj. Ronald Alan Tingas, and the BFP Fire Marshals, led by SPO4 John Dominic Gregorio. Also, barangay captains took part in the event.
The search for Mrs. Sirawai was the highlight
of the celebration won by Sheila Mae L. Espejo from barangay Proper. She competed against six lovely candidates from the six metro barangays of the municipality.
"As a woman, it was such an amazing experience for me to be able to participate again in this event after pandemic. I have seen all the participating agencies very enthusiastic, from the parade up to the presentation of their respective performances", said Mrs. Vilma Silvestre, a resident of brgy. San Vicente.
Bannering the theme that focuses on gender equality and inclusivity, women all over the world had what it took to be weighed equally as to men and thus, never again victims of understatement and violence.
JULAMRIE UNDING G12 News WriterA total of over 150 Sirawainon families were rescued and ordered to evacuate at the municipality gymnasium during the surge of the typhoon on January 11.
According to LGU, the evacuees were safe, and there were no reported cases of injured or dead residents.
Moreover, the Administrative Aide III, Jun B. Padduman, said during the interview that with the help of the MDRRMO and BFP, they were able to continue rescuing the affected residents. They started the rescue at around 10:00 a.m. and stopped at exactly 7:00 p.m.
On the other hand, the said calamity brought
massive destruction to the Sirawai National High School and to the different schools in the municipality.
Through the Rapid Assessment of Damage Report (RADAR) of the DRRM Coordinator, Mr. Ronald Montiomor, the SirNaHigh had estimated damages of P120, 000, which included chairs, tables, textbooks, modules, electronic devices, and printers.
"It was exactly 11:30 in the morning when the flood came while I was at home." "Unexpectedly, the water abruptly increased in height, which made us panic with my children," said a 36-yearold vendor named Mrs. Toma Adelaida.
She also added that she suffered from being empty after her store was devastated.
NEWS BITS
ZN welcomes new SDS
The Division of Zamboanga del Norte welcomed new Schools Division Superintendent, Roy C. Tuballa, April 3. Tuballa was a former SDS of Zamboanga City Division.
With his vision for ZN, he urged division employees to follow his empowering mantra, "Sobrang galing: Norte! MATATAG: sa katawan, puso at isipan-posible na ang imposible!"
4 SirNaHigh teacher-researchers join Div. Research Congress
Four teachers from SirNaHigh joined the 6th Division Research Congress last December 3–4 at the Mibang Hotel in Dipolog City.
Presenters were Ms. Dea Novieann T. Oliveros, Mr. Alpen A. Caoile, Mr. Joseph M. Fernandez, and Mr. Jemson B. Revelo.
The said event was attended by researchers from the different schools from the Division of Zamboanga del Norte with the aim of upgrading the teachers’ competence in research work.
The team members were grateful to the school for allowing them to present their studies.
A total of fifty-five thousand pesos was allotted for the completion of the first ever teen center in SirNaHigh last September 9.
This was made possible with the help of stakeholders and the mayor of Sirawai. The said project is multipurpose and can be used for film viewing. It also accessed support for at-risk students and helped them meet their health needs through consultations.
The center was recently evaluated by division personnel and passed the set criteria.
School Educational Fund (SEF) from LGU Sirawai was alloted for the students and teachers of SirNaHigh. This was realized through the project-oriented mayor of the municipality, Hon. Aljazar P. Janihim.
The entire SirNaHigh family was beyond words with the said huge amount, which was heartily donated by Janihim.
The number of studparents of SirNaHigh has increased by 2.36% from the total population of 1,698 this academic year.
According to the survey conducted by Suara’s student-journalists, the students in senior high got a bigger record on studparents, or students who became parents at a young age, by recording a total of 24 out of 40.
In line with the sur-
vey, it was known that the root cause of the problem was the loss of education during the pandemic two years ago. Some of them were married at an early age but have still continued schooling this year to fulfill their dreams.
"It is really true that our parent learners find it difficult to attend classes, especially those who have complications with their pregnancy and have little ones to take good care of", said
Dea Novieann T. Oli-veros, a G12 class adviser. Apparently, the school had its own plan offered to help them continue their education and aid them balance their tasks as parents and learners themselves as well.
Pursuant to the DepEd’s implemented policy of "No Child Left Behind", the SirNaHigh continuously practice modular learning. This was to allow students to continue learning by giving them learning materials such as modules.
The teachers were also encouraged to not stop providing them with the said materials. "If you have goals you want to realize, just don’t stop. As long as you have the initiative and energy to go to school, never quit. I believe that all the efforts I have put in since day one will eventually find success in the end", said Mrs. Sittilasa C. Karil, 39, who has five kids. She also shared that she was very thankful
total number of Grade 12 immersants deployed in the field. They are to be trained with different skills to become ready graduates of SirNaHigh
total number of newly hired teachers of Sirawai NHS from school year 20212023.
that the school, headed by its principal, Loester M. Bercasio, extended the learning modality because it is a big help for them to continue studying. "We will not use it as an excuse to achieve success. Although I admit that being a parent is not an easy responsibility, it is still not an obstacle to doing good. As long as we have the willingness to learn, we will fight for it for the sake of our family", Mrs. Karil, G12, added.
JAY-RALD YAGUE
G12 News Writer
Obtaining a 4. 623 rating in OPCRF, Mr. Loester M. Bercasio, Principal II of SirNaHigh, was hailed 'Outstanding Principal' in Cluster 5 during the revalidation event at Siocon Central School (SCS) last July. The said activity was spearheaded by Ma.
KADISA A. & ASBALI A.
G10 & 12 News Writers
Through the leadership of Mayor Janihim, Sirawai welcomed this year’s Ramadan for all its Muslim people, initiating a booth contest. The said celebration started on March 22 and will end on April 21.
The event was opened with a grand switchon ceremony in the town plaza, displaying the colorful and mesmerizing mosqueshaped light decorations. Booths were also decorated with different light colors.
For Muslims, Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months of the year. This is the time when they do ‘fasting’ (no food or sexual relations) from sunup to sundown.
"The first time I fasted was when I was in elementary. I was around ten at that time, and I found it an unusual thing to do at first because I needed to not eat from the time we woke up with my family during dawn and eat at around 6:05 p.m.", shared Radzmina Pathing, G11.
Further, the winner of
the competition will receive a cash prize of P40, 000, while non-winners will also receive a consolation prize of P10, 000.
According to Mr. Alkama A. Janihim, tourist officer, the competition was participated by both Muslims and Christians for equality. The month of Ramadan is the month where Muslims believe that it is the time in which God revealed the first verses of the Quran (the Muslim Bible), who is regarded as Islam’s final prophet.
Judelyn J. Ramos, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent of Zamboanga del Norte, and was participated by the school heads of Cluster 5.
In an interview, Bercasio highlighted some of his accomplishments during his entire leadership, which started in 2018. Dubbed the "Rising Achiever’, SirNaHigh productively produced learners who topped entrance examinations in college.
One of his biggest projects was named "Project LEAD," which aims to provide every classroom with a smart TV so that the school would not be left behind in utilizing technology-based instruction during classes.
He further stated that the Regional Mobile Force Batallion (RMFB), the Local Government Unit (LGU), stakeholders, and the school’s various organizations were also in open arms to extend help in maintaining peace and order by promoting Child
in Conflict (CIC). "I am a competitive leader, and it will remain in me wherever I am assigned at. For me, being competitive is a good trait in order to become successful. But it is not about being competitive in a negative way. I salute all my teachers for sticking with it and being dedicated to teaching. I hope they will continue inspiring our learners even if I am no longer their principal", stated Bercasio.
"Our principal is a good example of a great leader. I see how he handles trouble in school. He even talks personally to students who misbehave in school. Truly, he deserves the award for his excellent performance in ruling SirNaHigh", said Donald Paul Marfil, a graduating student.
Mr. Bercasio was grateful for the chance to be named Most Outstanding Leader. He promised to continuously perform with excellence while in service.
This has recently become a ringing bell to the parents of Sirawai because of their children who are affected by the sudden loss of education.
In the Philippines, the number of out-of-school youth mounted at the onset of the pandemic from 16.9 percent in January 2020 to 25.2 percent this year based on a study released by the US Agency for International Development. This is alarming in the core of education, which is why it is really a must to go back to the four corners of our classrooms for a proper education.
Here in Sirawai National High School, a whopping 1,780 total number of students are back to in-person classes compared to previous years, which is 3% less than this school year, thus, it is evident that the on-campus classes have been imperatively welcomed for a strong bounce back in learning.
Moreover, we students had experienced great inconvenience during modular learning. We often complained of the almost consecutive learning materials given by our teachers. We even experienced uneven access to technology because of the internet issue we endured in our municipality two years ago. We may not say it directly and honestly to our teachers, but our source for some of our answers in modules is Google.
Having said this, it is really a good call now to return to in-person classes so that we students will not be
even more tolerated, and worse, become dominantly reliant on the internet just to cope with the lacking modules we failed to answer. If this tendency is continued, we might end up getting promoted to another grade level, but nothing has been learned at all.
Further, parents had also faced extreme challenges that modular modality brought to them. These are those who are illiterate in education. These parents expressed their sentiments because they cannot afford to tutor their kids. On the other hand, some parents tend to spoil their children by doing the modules all by themselves. Where is now the essence of modeling by parents who are supposed to be inculcating the value of patience and honesty in their children?
These were just some of the tough times we encountered during the crises in education. Now that we are back to normal classes, we must not waste our time trying to redeem ourselves while learning because we cannot presume that the resumption of on-campus classes immediately eliminates our toil to learning.
It takes two to dance a tango, as the saying goes. We must not be a burden to our teachers. We should avoid absenteeism and stop escaping. Let us help our teachers’ teaching become productive in all aspects. With this, as disenfranchised learners, we will be able to fill in the education gap we need as hopes of tomorrow.
The Suara asked the studentry about their level of preparedness on the restoration of 'back to normal' classes.
3%2%
Growing up, I used to see students and teachers hanging out with no issues at all. I seldom see them riding together, for they have to buy school materials to beautify their class room. I see them in a group during end-of-year parties for a celebration. In our class, we do have a group chat with our teachers. With just a tip of our fingers, our teachers are our instant online advisors when we feel so down. They are our second parents.
Reality like this is hard to break. I am saddened when the new DepEd memorandum was promulgated. This is the Department of Education order 49, which the department signed for teachers that states: "Avoid relationships, interactions, and communication, including following social media with learners outside of the school setting, except if they are relatives."
The said order strictly ordains the teachers to promote professionalism—forbidding them not to talk with students outside of school or even following the latter on social media.
As a student who is a friend to my teachers, I find it not an intrusion in honing our teachers’ practice of professionalism. I firmly believe that exercising professionalism can be done in various ways, not even by putting a stout wall between teachers and us. It is too much. I say so because this is one way of disallowing us to learn from them.
I do agree that fostering a student-teacher relationship inside and outside the classroom promotes positivity. It is one way of gaining trust and respect from each other aside from absorbing academic knowledge.
Little do they know, our parents appreciate when our teachers know us well. Our parents feel safe when
of the students are completely prepared because they believed learning is more effective when done with teachers.
our teachers give them feedback about our setbacks in school. More than them, they entrusted us to our class advisers from Monday to Friday. Our parents still hold on to the notion that our teachers are catalysts for change. They are supposed to be the ones with whom we can trust and communicate freely.
Often, we students look up to our teachers as mentors. With this in mind, we will likely feel proud when our teachers motivate us in learning and social interaction. We even go home together with a wave of thoughts shared about our lessons in their subjects. Interestingly, academic learning is extended even if outside of school.
With this being said, the department is simply preventing us from exercising our right to free speech and expression.
Where is now the emotional inclusion in learning?
If this order continues to practice, we will have a poor student-teacher relationship in the academe because there is already an absence of empathy expected from teachers. Better or worse, quality learning will be affected.
"WHERE IS NOW THE EMOTIONAL INCLUSION IN LEARNING?
To further improve the quality education of the Filipino learners after two years of hiatus, the government mandates the Department of Education (DepEd) to restore "back to normal" education. This is pursuant to DepEd Order No. 034 Series of 2022.survey gathered by Czhekh Ahmeyr Ismael
Despite the fact that we have water tanks on campus, I have consistently noticed that our school does not have enough water. It is really hard for us girls to pee without water stocked in our CRs. This problem has still never been solved. I am also saddened for our Muslim girl classmates, because they really need water when they pee because that is a really strict commandment in their religion. May this concern be heard already and be given solutions by the school administration.
Faujia L. Pioh, G11 studentOn behalf of the teachers of Sirawai NHS, I would like to suggest that the school must have a faculty room because we really find it difficult to look for a corner, especially during our vacant time. Also, it is awkward to see teachers and teacher volunteers staying in the library given the fact that a library should be a solemn place for students’ study time and not a ‘tambayan’ room. I hope that by next school year, we will already have a faculty room.
Mohammad H. Aban, Faculty PresidentMy rant goes to students who are too hardheaded to be instructed by our school guards! Please don't treat our guards in a disrespectful way. They are just doing what’s best for us students. Never again a headache for our school’s protector.
Justine C. Lamis, G10, student
I am very thankful that normal classes are back! My fellow students, let us do well in our studies. We will not engage in absenteeism and escape as much as possible. We will help our teachers fill in the learning gap we missed a few years ago. We will save ourselves as best we can. God bless everyone!
Faizal S. Wahab, SSG President
We often hear students complain about their grades to their subject teachers. Worse, they attempt to stop schooling if they receive low grades. In fact, during the second quarter of this school year, there were students who were called in for office advice because of complaining behavior they displayed towards their teachers. Moreover, some even post on their social media accounts their sentiments, letting unknown people interact without giving an exact reason.
Such incidents are difficult to contemplate because our teachers are providing us with the quality education we all need. The grades written on our cards are a reflection of our performances in school. The only responsibility that our teachers have is to teach us every day and record our quizzes, exams, and performances. If we fail to submit and perform what is being asked of us, then it will reflect back on us.
As the saying goes, grades are just numbers. They do not necessarily equate to intelligence. They are not like a Facebook free data that we can avail anytime. We must
@arah_bhea_gapo
Justrecently, my savings in my GCash account were stolen, which outraged me so hard. It was when I logged in to an online transaction by clicking the link provided by the scammer, knowing that it was really from a reliable GCash company because it had its logo attached. I never knew it was the cybercrime called phishing that has been spreading like wildfire nowadays. In all likelihood, many are scammed and victimized.
Further, the Ayala-led Globe Telecom Inc. has recently blocked a total of 1.3 billion text scams, exceeding by 13 percent its 2021 total of 1.15 billion.
These incidents are overwhelming that create a gigantic tremor among us because these scammers might be emulated by the tech-savvy young ones. This needs a solution.
dules, or SIM Cards, that was finally signed into law by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.
The SIM Card Registration Act, or Republic Act 11934, requires all SIM card users to register their personal information, which triggers a legion of users. The law aims to aid the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other law enforcement authorities in curbing the escalating use of electronic communication by criminals in the country.
But, will this be a solution for scammers to stop spreading or an added burden?
that there has no evidence that SIM card registration can ward off crimes. While the mandate addresses crime and terrorism, this will not work either. Other countries had already discouraged from adopting this system. With what happened in Pakistan, criminals were able to circumvent the law. It was when recovered sim cards were allegedly used by militants involved in a terrorist attack, according to the global nonprofit Foundation for Media Alternatives (FMA) in 2018.
work hard on it. We must put in effort if we want to be recognized, especially since we aim for an academic honor. The grades that we receive from our teachers are based on an established rubric or grading system.
Our attitude towards performing academic tasks must exceed our teachers' expectations. We will abolish our lazy habit of not studying at home just because we have seatmates who give us answers during quizzes and exams.
However, the freedom to express is still our access to a peaceful understanding. If we think that our rights as students are compromised, then we will speak up. If there is something wrong we know our teachers mistakenly did, we will tap them with respect. They are still humans after all.
Above all, we are still students learning from our teachers. It is not our grades that will define us personally. If we are given low grades according to what we performed in class, it is still not too late to redeem ourselves.
I support the 120day free registration of Subscriber Identity Mo-
According to Mirandilla-Santos, an ICT policy researcher who spoke on behalf of secure connections, sim registration can protect the privacy and security of the users. She based it on other countries like Mexico, Canada, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, and Ireland, which found its ineffectiveness after all.
Moreover, multiple cybersecurity experts said
@margarrette_ann_gapo
Nevertheless, it is still mandatory for us to follow what is being mandated by the government. As students, we should follow the protocol. If there is a need to assist those who don’t know the manipulation of registration, then we can lend a hand.
Considering that our country is still exercising the law, we cannot help but hope for its grand slam. Unless it is proven effective, then say “goodbye, scammers’’.
Amix
of sarcastic comments circulated on social media after the Department of Education (DepEd) amended the Panatang Makabayan, or patriotic oath, through the Office of the Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching (OUCT). That is, to change ‘nagdarasal’ to ‘nananalangin,’ because the latter sounds far more appropriate, yet it is an inherent and integral part of our identity as Filipinos. Moreover, the department finds it more inclusive and does not channel religious specifications. Also, it encompasses indigenous belief systems.
Partly yes, if there is one thing that makes us proud of our heritage as Filipinos, it could be the retaining of what has been composed by the one who carries the responsibility, but the change made to our patriotic oath is something not to be judged about.
Indeed, I am crestfallen when a lot of netizens throw negative feedback about the issue when, in fact, what the department has done is not
a big thing to cope with. Sadly, these netizens have questioned the DepEd, citing a variety of other issues in the education sector that deserve attention. The department was criticized for doing so just to be commended for having done something new. Not just that, bitter words have arisen directing the department to put a stop to such stupidity because the country’s education system is still dealing with a multitude of issues such as a learning crisis, a lack of classrooms, a lack of support for our teachers, and even problems with malnutrition.
As a student, though seeing all these crises in the system is evident, we still do not need to give constructive judgments to the department. Remember that our teachers are the ones who are teaching us in school. They are imparting good discipline, which uplifts our morale. Somehow, we have the voice to defend the Department of Education because we are its children learning in the four corners of our classrooms. As much as we
can, we will not be an addition to those who belittle our mother department. We will serve as equalizers of untruth when on the right track. After all, it is just a one-word problem, and thus, it is easy to follow. Imperatively, as long as the Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag in schools is mandated pursuant to Republic Act No. 849, we must live up to it and recite it by heart regardless of its changes.
"IT IS STILL MANDATORY FOR US TO FOLLOW WHAT IS BEING MANDATED BY THE GOVERNMENT
"WE WILL SERVE AS EQUALIZERS OF UNTRUTH WHEN ON THE RIGHT TRACKMARK ADRIAN RADA PHOTO TAKEN BY Photojournalist
@kristelmay_montimor
Wayback when, I could still remember how my mother scoffed at me whenever I mistakenly pronounced even a single word from a text when she tutored me in reading. When I did, I often received a series of pinches from her. Never did I know, it was only a part of my learning-toread journey that helped me become an independent reader with comprehension.
Now, as the reading problem continues to haunt us in the department, those pinches are slowly hurting me again, but not in the same manner as when they physically hurt me, but through the reality that there are still struggling readers who cannot comprehend even a simple text. In our school, there are promoted dependent readers in another grade level; some really cannot read at all. Such existent begs for attention.
We, the Suara staff, conducted a survey after the conduct of the reading activity this month, and we found out that a total of 323 readers from grades seven to twelve were marked as frustrated. This means that these learners can recognize words but lack comprehension.
According to the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), the Philippines scored the lowest in reading comprehension in the 2018 survey with a mean of 340 points, below the
What's with the new "The Suara"?
We rebrand, continuing the legacy that the former school paper has served our school and the community for the past few years.
The "In Pahati" had served our school by successfully bringing student-journalists to the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) in the past few years; thus, we, the editorial board and staff of the former school paper, have so much in our hearts and minds to be thanked for.
Indeed, there will be no way of even a little alteration to what we ought to do as journalists in terms of delivering truthful and reliable facts to our readers both in school and in the community.
In the same way that our previous publication was, we will be the voice that speaks the volume of truth. We shall write with honesty and sincerity.
What is "The Suara"?
survey average of 487 points. Clearly, this result is a manifestation of our slow performance in reading with comprehension. However, it is not too late for us to help our country overcome this old and undying crisis in reading. We are fortunate that our division took initiatives to resolve this setback.
The SirNaHigh administration, through the mandate of the Schools Division of Zamboanga del Norte, has been on the move to solve this dilemma. The school has been adopting Com-
reduced, if not eliminated entirely. It takes a village to educate a child, as they say, thus, we have to actively participate in the reading activities our teachers ask of us. We, as independent readers, could do a good deed by encouraging our classmates and schoolmates who are struggling read-
Suara is a Kolibugan word that means voice. Hence, we firmly believe that through our voice as journalists, we will be able to inform students about events and occurrences inside and outside of the campus.
Apparently, we believed that the continuous service that we give around us is a hopeful anchor that may serve and entertain our readers wherever they are.
Here, we don’t just inform, but influence. Still and all, we will continue to uphold our ideals and principles built through "In Pahati" by bridging information and expressing truth.
This is your publication, The Suara. for, by, and on behalf of the students. We shall forever be the vehicle of truth and freedom.
The Editors
letter to the editors
Dear Editors,
I am writing to express my excitement to join journalism again after failing my first try this year. Never had I thought that it was an easy game. Nevertheless, I learned from my mistakes in writing in all
prehensive Activities
Attaining Reading Progress (CAARP), which includes the integration of PROPEL, or Providing Reading Opportunities for Proactive and Engaged Learning, where our teachers could incorporate reading in our classes regardless of the subject areas.
As a student, I believe this program is indeed beneficial because I have seen the progress of struggling readers in our school. Some of my classmates who are slow readers are now also improving little by little.
If this practice continues, struggling readers' fear of reading will be
ers to be patient when sent to reading tutorials. At home, we will tutor our younger siblings to read and comprehend. We will tell them stories of how imperative reading is. If they have nothing to work on, we will let them get a book to read.
Let us not think that this is an additional bundle of responsibilities. Sooner or later, with our persistence behind us, this effort will pay off. Just like when we started knowing a single sound of each word while learning to read, we will then be able to know how successful all our exerted effort will be in the long run.
categories in which I participated. I learned that writing an article was not a piece of cake to consider. We really have to read and read so that we will be fueled with a lot of thoughts in our minds. Also, I salute our school publication’s SPAs and student-writers for being so passionate about what they are doing. I have seen all your hard work since the training days. I promise to be even better at the next screening to get the chance I long for.
Sincerely,
Jasmin Marie E. Akib, G10
Dear Jasmine,
Your letter surprised us. We never thought that thereisstillsomeoneinthecornerwhofindsjournalisma cup of tea despite the many tasks we students must face. We are pleased to know that we are being appreciated for doing our best. It’s true that writing is not an easy task, especially if you are writing to be credible. Nevertheless, we also appreciate your courageous move in participating in journalism, which it seems you enjoyed doing. Just don’t quit. Continue that desire. Don’t forget to read, as it is the source of all the thoughts we write. We hope to see you next school year, and we hope that you will be an additional asset on our team for a good cause. God bless!
SHOUT OUT to the students who ditch classes and just jump into the fences of our campus. When is the time that you will hear our school guards’ concern about you all? Fences are made to safeguard our school from intruders, not for you to become one of them.
SHOUT OUT to the students of SirNaHigh who are caught stealing and wrecking the school’s properties, such as the CCTV that was found damaged because it was thrown with a stone! I think your parents have forgotten the power of discipline at home.
SHOUT OUT to our teachers who teach us every day even though they are busy minding paperwork in school. Thank you so much for not compromising our rights to learn from you!
SHOUT OUT to the school admin who doesn’t give attention to the renovation of our covered court. When can we have a stage and a bleacher? We students are already tired of carrying chairs with us every time there’s an event happening in the court.
SHOUT OUT to the generous mayor of Sirawai who supports our activities in school. You have been so supportive in a variety of ways. You are the best leader worth emulating! Shukran po!
SHOUT OUT to the students who are consistently punching each other on campus. When can we stop this unsettling problem? I think the SSG organization should take action on this.
"IF THIS PRACTICE CONTINUES, STRUGGLING READERS' FEAR OF READING WILL BE REDUCED, IF NOT ELIMINATED ENTIRELY
"Goout of your way to make an outstanding impression”—an American motivational speaker once said, makes sense to me every time I hear people say that my beloved municipality Sirawai is being criticized for its existence.
When something out of control occurs, people outside our hometown would gradually claim that we are being ambushed, terrorized, or that we, Sirawainons, have mercilessly killed each other. This pains every Sirawainon, especially because we live in the safest way possible.
On my way home one afternoon, I noticed a group of children happily playing in front of our municipal building. There were creatures who seemed to think nothing but about the game they were playing. I stopped until I found myself caught and mesmerized by their actions—this made me realize that we are not what they thought we were. These
children were unable to leave their homes or attend school if our place is sailing close to the wind. What outsiders think of us is not something other people should believe.
Let me take you on a quick tour of our town. Known as Zamboanga del Norte's fruit basket municipality, Sirawai is one of the municipalities in Zamboanga that deserves to be recognized for the beautiful tourist attractions it offers. We have breathtaking green mountains and nearly perfect beaches. Our municipality, like other municipalities, has breathtaking views of the sea if you happen to visit our boulevard, where vendors sell balot match with a delicious and spicy sauce that people from our neighboring municipality used to like to eat during weekends, if not every afternoon after work.
The Sirawai Boulevard is also suitable for families. People frequently come here during the day to picnic with their fam-
ilies. The cool ocean breezes instill a sense of calm and peace. Our boulevard has everything you need for a memorable and wonderful experience, whether you want to have an undisturbed date with a loved one. In addition, its stunning sunset is something you should see. Every afternoon, people would gather and take photos to upload on social media.
Recently, former Sirawai Mayor Hon. Gamar Janihim was named "Asia's Outstanding Public Servant and Elected Tribal Chieftain of the Year" by Asia's Royalty. Sirawai was also recognized for its exemplary efforts in carrying out its duties in support of the national government's anti-illegal drug campaign during the ADAC Performance Audit conducted by the DILG regional team. These truly demonstrate that our municipality is a secure place to live. We Sirawainons are also friendly and helpful. Our smiles on our faces are the greatest
treasure we could offer in illuminating positivity around us. Composed of various tribes such as Kolibugan, Tausog, and Bisaya, we never underestimate the importance of fostering camaraderie and upholding the tradition of fostering respect despite our differences. We may have different points of view and beliefs, but we are still people who value the fear of God in everything we do. All of these can be found in the heart of a single chaotic municipality, but the reality is no.
Sirawai is meaningful to me because this is where I grew up and it is part of my childhood. That is to say, if given the chance to trade my dear municipality for other wonderful places, I would never sacrifice the memories I built here, which have lingered in my mind and soul until now.
Forever in my heart, I will withstand the reality that behind painful hearsay deviates a peace-loving municipality.
Ialways believe that teaching is a noble profession and a vocation. A teacher, in teaching, shall touch hearts, build characters, and inspire students to be the best versions of themselves.
Now that I had already bid goodbye to my beloved vocation after 38 years, the teachings and experiences will remain with me forever. However, for the last time, let me first reiterate in your ears what I experienced during my first years in the fields of teaching and journalism.
I am an English teacher, but I have also taught other subjects besides Math. This I found challenging, but because I was called to teach, I had to do it with a pure heart. I never doubted myself enough to take it as a learning experience for me to grow, despite my mind’s thoughts of not being able to do it after all.
To reminisce, journalism has also become one of the thorns in my career as a teacher, especially since I was still a newbie in the said field. But because no one had to dare, I did take the risks. For me, it became an additional puzzle, though quite stressful, and I was beyond grateful because I somehow contributed knowledge in writing aside from teaching it in the four corners of a classroom.
In my journey in competing, which started in school-based conferences, time had never become a chilly factor in me until one of my writers qualified for the National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) not so long ago. It was Amina Maing, a sports writer on our team. Amina is now a teach- er in our school and was also one of my colleagues in the academe before I retired early last month.
Life is indeed not about being afraid to try new heights but rather about being positive and dedicated to reaching greater heights. I really was unaware of what was in store for me in the future, but I believed in myself and made my dreams come true. Truly, everything I learned from my col- leagues, leaders, and students as well is what actually made my teaching experience even more memorable and fun.
I will forever cherish those times of hardship that made me cry, stumble, and fall in so many aspects of my life. Now at the age of 63 and finally landing on my retirement after the long and winding 38 years, remember to always be friendly and kind to others—a mantra that once upon a time made me live a stress-free life amidst a chaotic world.
Typically, most people would say success is something they accomplished on every single thing based on their goals. But for Najib M. Hassan, it means a lot. Of all the experiences he underwent all throughout his education, success simply connotes a different thing from others—that is, giving pride to his parents after having nabbed the tenth place in the 2019 Respiratory Therapist board examination held in Manila. Here is Najib’s success story that for sure will inspire a lot of dreamers to not stop believing in themselves against all odds.
Living in a life scarce of all necessities, Mr. Najib Maing Hassan is a 30-year-old eager beaver alumnus of SirNaHigh who hit books so hard even during his elementary school days. He is a living testament that hardships in education are not an obstacle to success. He experienced ups and downs while battling in life but managed to rise up all the way with flying colors. He learned his ABC’s and 123’s at Sirawai Central School and finished his high school days at Sirawai National High School. He began his war for his dreams at St. Jude College Manila from 2016–2019. During his college days, he experienced being stormed by financial matters—one thing he considered a major challenge while achieving what he has now. His parents remain his inspiration and the reason he needs to sail in the direction of his dreams. He is forever thankful for his family because they stood up for him amidst inevitable circumstances.
Sweet breakthrough
September 17 and 18, 2019, when he took the nerve-wracking board exam and received the result the day after tomorrow. When the result was out, he was shocked because he did not just pass it but topped the board examination for Respiratory Therapists with a general weighted average of 85.5%. He ranked 10th! Tears trickled down his face upon knowing about it. For him, it was one of the laudable recognitions he had ever received, considering he was the first ever Kolibugan to be named top notcher in his town, Sirawai.
According to him, he started studying early and gave himself enough time to review. He bought books he could use during his review days. With a joyful ballad, at present, he is working at the Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center. He shared that he is planning to go abroad and take a medicine course or Ph.D.
Najib’s words to dreamers
"Just set things aligned and balanced to succeed. Never doubt yourself in everything you do", shares Hassan. He also leaves an inspiring message to the youth by not being afraid of failures because those are part of the process in reaching skies of life’s victory.
We may be tossed around by waves on our sails to our dreams, fall on the ground while running to reach them, but we shall not forget to have faith and keep on fighting so that everything we work hard for will be paid off, ‘Inshaallah’, he further said with teary eyes.
Siquijor is actually one of the places that tourists often visit.
Known as the center of mystic power, adventure, and magic that includes "gayuma and agimat", it made me hesitant to dare a travel with my friends, but because of their conviction, I was then motivated with no amount of reasons why, maybe because I was really destined to explore such a place being known as horrible despite my uncertainties of daring to.
with a heavy heart, I must affirm the invitation.
beyond expression can’t surmount the fear that I was owning at that very moment. The thought of ex ploring the place of the mystic was so eerie. I regained my confidence after all, realizing I was with people who, I knew, would not put me in danger. And there, we finally arrived at Siquijor!
believe that 'promises are meant to be broken?', my brain asked, for I had promised myself not to even take a footstep in the exact place where I was now.
panions chit-chatting with our tour guide, but I don’t have the zest to converse because of the nervousness I was feeling alone. Nevertheless, our journey had to begin.
Paliton Beach wherein swim ming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping in its
famous falls are the common activities its people would enjoy doing. Dubbed as the "Little Boracay" of the Philippines, I was beginning to fall in love with the place because it had a calming effect on my mind, my nerve, and my body that I couldn’t explain. Our next destination had allowed us to walk for almost a
Labrador Parish Church', known as the 'Lazy Church' and one of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines. Big smiles on my face began to become obvious while capturing its amazing views.
Our last destination was at "Salagdoong Beach" where white pebbles and crystal-clear waters could be found. Its main attraction is cliff diving, which offers an astounding view. However, our courage and bravery will be tested because we had to jump on 20-foot and 35-foot platforms. We had so much fun until we finally arrived at Bermuda Triangle Bungalows, where we stayed. At 3:00 a.m., within my deepest slumber, the cold melodious singing of the wind, the roaring sound of splashing ocean, and the deafening silence of the dawn awakened me with a fang in my heart. That so-called self-realization made me crawl to a beach
chair, relinquishing the thoughts competing inside my mind. Exactly, my nerve cells told me I was totally wrong. How can I have such huge negative thoughts in my mind? I forgot the mantra that states: "A positive mindset gives a positive outlook, and a positive outlook can have a positive result”.
Certainly, it is never really good to have a judgmental mind and be quick to believe ideas from other people because it will set limitations and boundaries that prevent us from experiencing life's wonders.
I suddenly felt warm water rolling in my face.I shed tears because I realized that Siquijor had given me something to live for, cherish, and share—the unforgettable experience of my lifetime.
Hence, a positive outlook of self-realization that the ticket to becoming a traveler is to conquer one’s self from the doom of negativities to the sizzling positivity of what the journey and a place could offer.
Most often than not, traveling is not about looking for comfort but about searching for your inner self and your inner strength.
Conquering one’s fear might sound as cliche' as it is, but believe me, it isn't. Once you do, it can be the most self-rewarding gift that you can give yourself.
I quote, "The best view comes after the hardest climb".
Many of us strive hard to impress the people that surrounds us especially our crushes in school. If you are having a hard time to at least impress them, consider some of these ways:
1. Get your brain and body ready to learn
If you want your brain to work at its best, sleep on time, probably 8 hours of sleep is most advisable. Eat healthy foods like vegetables and fruits that are rich in protein to enrich and prepare your brain.
2. Learn in a way that works for you
We all have different learning strategies, so try to learn in a way where you can easily cope with your studies. You could also talk to your teacher about the upcoming lessons to learn it in advance.
3. Pay attention
Try to sit in front so you can pay attention and can be stay focused on what your teacher is saying. Participate more in the class, in that way, your teacher could easily recognize that you are really paying attention.
4. Learn how to take notes. To be the best student, you should also excel in class and have better grades, so taking notes can effectively help
you improve your grades. Jot down only the most important details and the things you think you’ll have a hard time remembering.
5. Attend class regularly
Attending the class regularly and being present all the time is very helpful, for it helps you train your brain while listening to the discussion attentively. Attending
regular classes makes your learning even deeper and wider, and it will help you understand the lessons being engaged in.
6. Use your cellphone as educational purposes
Instead of wasting time scrolling on Facebook, use your cellphone as a means for educational purposes to expand your knowledge. Your cellphones can be a great source of additional information to use when you have not understood the lesson well. Perhaps you can search it online and look for more means so you can be able to understand the lesson well.
Dancing to the beat of drums and trumpets with participants dressed in colorful costumes has made this year’s Sinulog Festival memorable for the spectators coming from the different barangays of the municipality of Sirawai.
The town’s streets were filled with bystanders, as could vividly seen during the grand parade of the said festival, which happened on January 21, 2022. This year’s festivity indeed surprised audiences as it showcased new performances performed by the metro barangays such as San Nicholas, San Vicente, Saint Mary,
Sirawai Proper, and Guban.
Mr. Jason Villaflor, the active organizer of the said event, was the one who decided and was able to come up with its new face compared to the previous ones.
According to him, before the celebration came near, he wanted to surprise everyone with astonishing performances that were not new to them all. He also promised to make it the grandest festivity after a long time of not having it revived because of the pandemic. Just like in any other competition, only one must sit on the throne and enjoy the moment of a genuine success. This was demonstrated when the barangay of Guban won the street dancing competition against five other groups of strong contenders. Moreover, Sinulog sa Sirawai, with its own style and conceptualization, looked unique since it was required of every group of dancers to integrate the song written by Fr. Victorio Ace Eksir during their performance. The song is entitled "Sirawai, Bulahan Ka," and it is sung by a Sirawainon herself, Arianne Jasmine Tandoy. The Sinulog dance is held annually on the third Sunday of January. It is classified into two categories: the Sinulog base and free interpretation.
To my son's future teachers:
If you catch him cheating and you want to throw his examination paper in the waste basket, go ahead and do it. I don't want him to grow up thinking it's okay to lie and cheat. If he deserves to fail, then go ahead and fail him. I do not want him to progress in school with fake grades. Challenge him with the reality that he needs to do better. You no longer want to accept projects because they are three days late? Then reject it. I want my son to value time and deadlines. You feel like confiscating his phone because you caught him playing online games in class? Confiscate that phone. I want my son to know the right place and time for gadgets. You found out that my son was cutting classes? Go ahead and reprimand him. Tell him what he needs to hear, and let him pay the consequences. He needs to value your worth as a teacher and as a second parent.
A letter posted by a concern Si- rawainon parent on Facebook.
in my opinion NOT for my opinion will be going NOT will going in spite of NOT inspite despite NOT despite of cope with NOT cope up with you’re welcome NOT your welcome anyway NOT anyways
“Meow… meow…meow…”
Yes, you heard it right. That is exactly the sound of a cat looking for attention, or perhaps feeling hungry and thus wanting to eat. Here on our campus, we seldom see cats going in and out of our classrooms during classes. Some of my classmates and schoolmates may find their presence disturbing, but for me, as a cat lover, I don’t.
Samantha is the name of a girl cat that I have as a pet. She's in no way a disturbance nor a troublemaker, just as everyone thought of her. She is one of the most charming cats I’ve had and probably the clingiest of all. Whenever I hit the books, she is always there—not to distract but to inspire me in her own cute furry ways.
Let me share a few moments with her. It was at the crack of dawn when I happened to wake up to study my notes because we had an upcoming examination in one of my subjects. And there she is, lying beside me not to seek attention but to accompany me along the remaining time of dawn. She just sat with me all throughout an hour of reading my notes and left when I had already stopped and fallen asleep.
Seldom have I brought Samantha with me to school. Despite the
different cats she meets, she never goes everywhere to get along with them. She remains with me at a certain corner and just plays herself alone. Her presence amazed my classmates and teachers, as she also seemed to listen during discussion. Samantha inspires me a lot, and she is the reason why I’m always pleased to get home every day.
Indeed, she has always been there through my ups and downs. She is a pet that I could really count on at any time. Rubbing her soft fur into my skin really makes me feel like someone is hugging me comfortably. She gives me comfort and relaxation whenever I am having a tough day. She is my stress reliever, my best buddy, and my ultimate sup-
porter. We’ve known cats for being restless and spiteful, but my fur pet named Samantha is unusual. Isn’t she? She is impressive in everything she does. Truly, cats, regardless of their physical appearance, are friends and an inspiration to take good care of. They are a fresh breath of air to those who
breathe in notes and books all the time. They are sweet candies to the eyes of those who are hypnotized by gadget screens all day. They brighten up our dim views of learning. Never think of them as inconvenient creatures capable of pulverizing our happy days at school and at home. Little do we know, their fur is a shelter to live by.
A mother is like a burning torch who throws away darkness in our respective homes. Like a father, she carries heavy responsibilities for a living. Practically, a woman can be a man too.
"Happy Father’s Day, Mang!"
Alexis once greeted her 58-year-old fisherwoman mother, Lina R. Gozanes. Lina has been both a mother and a father to her children. She was married to a first husband, with whom she has four children, who, later, left them because of stroke. A few years later, she was married again to another man, with whom she has three kids, but she left them sooner because he cheated on her. He met another woman to marry.
All these episodes in Lina’s life became her motivation to live stronger than before. She was left alone with her children, struggling to survive in Malaysia for almost eighteen years. There, she worked in a factory of plywood and she was also a part timer in cleaning various houses.
Time flew out of control. Lina shared her experience when she suffered from an unexpected miscarriage and collapsed while heading home from a tiring job. Fortunately, she was found and saved by a stranger, who brought her to the nearest hospital. That happened, making her life even more miserable. For her, that moment was as dark as slate. She suffered from too much pain—physically and emotionally. Lina couldn’t help but weep out whenever she remembers her
past but needs to continue sailing amidst the wavy test of life.
Six years had passed. Everything she experienced is now a lesson for her and a motivation that made her stronger against all odds. She remained as strong as an ox, realizing that her life as a woman and as a mother is not as sweet as a candy to live for. She always finds herself in the doldrums.
According to her, she could do nothing against God’s plan. Maybe she really is destined to live in such a knotty world.
to her as a woman of all wom en. Raymond, one of his sons, proudly said that Lina, her moth er, is extraordinary. She is the kind of woman who never ceases to give her all. She is a lionhearted woman who doesn’t let the waves of life devour her.
going to the sea to catch fish, she also works as one of the LGU’s public sweepers. Sometimes, she works as a laundry woman, too. She works non-stop to feed her children.
working hard for the sake of my children. I promised them many times that as long as I am alive, they will be taken good care of because I want to see them grow into successful adults. I don’t want them to be like me, who started a miserable life. I am a mother and not just a mother myself", shared Lina in a sad tone.
the battle of financial struggles,
balancing her work and parenting responsibilities. As she said, she will do everything, regardless of the job, as long as it is decent yet beneficial.
As a fisherwoman, the cold breeze in the ocean has nothing to do with her determination to brave what she does. The scorching of the sun when she goes fishing has nothing to do with her aspiration to become a good mother, despite her source of living inconsistency. Her battle
with the forces of nature when she goes to the sea is nothing against her ability as an unsung woman.
Raymond, her eldest son by her second husband, is now a graduating college student. He promised that he would do well in his studies so that he could graduate and hopefully find a job so that he would be able to help her mother support them and his other siblings. For him, he believed that the kind of life
they have now is only temporary. Sooner or later, his family will rise against the toughness of life. He is optimistic that opportunities are just around the corner; all that is required is the right timing. Lina’s unfortunate role in society is one that the whole world needs to hear. She is unbelievable! See, our world needs more of her. Some may live a life with just a snap of their fingers, but Lina could live a life by becoming a woman and a man too.
57 %
agree on banning softdrinks and junk foods in the canteen
43 % disagree on banning softdrinks and junk foods in the canteen
1,454 total number of new HIV cases for the month of January 2023 according to World Health Organization (WHO).
They say it is really hard to live a life if we are not as fit as a fiddle. For children, if they are not in good health, they are bullied; if not, don’t gain friends around. In school, they are prone to bullying. They escape classes to feel better.
In an interview we conducted on the first day
ficance of consistent research in Mindanao known as the center of Philippine mammalian diversity.
of April, we were saddened and felt a literal empathy towards one of the kids in Sirawai who seemed so pale and skinny to look at. She was as if out of shape and seemed to be on the mend. She was in poor nutritional health. She is Jeza Mae F. Malmis. An unhealthy-looking girl, who has very thin hair and eyes that look black and blue, was born 'ngo-ngo'. She is currently studying at Sirawai Central School and belongs to Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN).
But who would have thought that this young girl, who is in a tight corner, would be as playful as the waves?
At a glance, you
would really assume that she is struggling with a certain condition. Indeed, she belongs to those specialized persons, but here lies the reality—a story that could really make your heart ache for an unknown reason.
It was the year 2016 when her mother died. This bitter reality made her demeanor worse. She could still remember and feel what had all happened. According to her Lola, the said incident is an added agony that Jeza Mae still holds on to as a remarkable memory. Lola Roseminda also shared that her father, even though he is with them, doesn’t seem to care for her daughter. He is inclined to liquors. For her, growing
Science researchers discovered two new species known as gymnures in Eastern Mindanao early this year.
These species are soft-furred hedgehogs that were discovered at the peaks of Mt. Hamiguitan in Davao Oriental and Mt. Kampalli in Davao de Oro.
The DENR Davao described the said species as shrew-like due to its golden-brown streaks in its fur and pointed nose.
According to DENR Davao via Inquirer.net. scientists said that our country is considered highly distinct because of its mountains, which seemed to have unique and even endemic species. The discovery showed the signi-
Further, with the ongoing efforts of researchers to exhume the planet's species, which are thought to be limitless, five of them were introduced as newcomers to science.
Danilo S. Balet, Lawrence R. Heaney, Eric A. Rickart, Roselyn S. Quidlar, Dakota M. Rowsey, and Link E. Elson discovered the species.
The new species were found through a combination of mitochondrial genetic, qualitative, and quantitative morphological data based on a research article titled, "A Re-assessment of Diversity among Philippine Gymnures (Mammalia, Erinaceidae: Podogymnura).
1.67 %
33.67 %
up without a mother is like living in a cave. A room filled with darkness. She finds it a lightless candle in her entire life. But despite it all, that candle has started to rekindle as she still has a caring grandmother who never left her no matter what adversities life has thrown at her. Her Lola, Roseminda Malmis, became her torch in her gloomy life. Roseminda confidently said that although her apo may appear to be undernourished, the love and care she strives to provide for her is insurmountable. In school, she is bullied, yet she remains strong and composed. The loss of her parents and all the venomous words she heard around her didn’t drag her down into melancholy. In spite of all the unfortunate incidents she has experienced up to this very moment, she still keeps on existing worry-free and just continues making her life full of the joys of spring. And just like other normal kids, playing is one of her greatest pleasures.
3.55 % Overweight
"
SHE MAY APPEAR TO BE UNDERNOURISHED, BUT THE LOVE AND CARE I STRIVE TO PROVIDE FOR HER ARE INSURMOUNTABLE IN NUMBERSMARK ADRIAN RADA PHOTO TAKEN BY Photojournalist Photo credit: google.com
Earlythis month, the Philippines accounted for the largest portion of the pie with 356,371 metric tons annually, surpassing India with 126,513 metric tons, according to a pie graph published by Visual Capitalist that pollutes the oceans the most with plastic debris.
It is indeed disturbing that we contribute 35% of the plastic in the ocean.
This, however, comes as no surprise. Our country, which has 4,820 plastic-emitting rivers, has a dismal waste management record.
This means that the real reason we could blame is ourselves, Filipinos who are still as if novices at sanitation. We live irresponsive to the need for change we all aim for, but we turn a blind eye instead.
If we do not act as early as now, then who will? Would we let our motherland be buried in tons and tons of garbage until the time came that we could not move freely at all because we are already surrounded by garbage? If we still cannot take action, we may reach a point of no return in ten years or less.
@jay_rald_yague
Tiktok users were unnerved when the news on the banning of the popular app circulated on social media. It happened when the Tiktok application, owned by ByteDance, a Chinese company, underwent a great deal of scrutiny due to its provocative content and privacy issues.
However, our government finds no reason to shut down Tiktok despite moves by other countries. Filipinos can still enjoy using it.
As a tiktokerist myself, I support our government’s decision not to ban this app because of the huge entertainment factor it offers. It gives me a new view of the world through the eyes of new people. Just like any other app, it offers me great potential for meeting new friends and even creating new connections. In school, I use it whenever I am bored, if not stressed, with an elephant of academic tasks. Tiktok hones both my creativity skills and sense of expressiveness.
Moreover, teachers find this app helpful since it helps them engage their learners in deeper and more meaningful learning approaches. They have made Tiktok a great learning tool for engaging class discussions.
Tiktok app can
arouse everyone’s interest because of its superiority. Many were addicted with this app due to its amazing features where we can create, edit, share, discover, and watch short videos—from just a few seconds long all the way up to ten minutes. Not just that, but we can also customize videos with filters and stickers. Tiktok has what it takes for us to live with its existence.
Obviously, its power doesn’t just revolve around entertainment. It is so powerful that it opens the door to more opportunities for earning money and becoming well known.
Here in Sirawai, Ann Princess Codoy, known as Cody, is earning from Tiktok for having three million followers on the platform. According to her, she never expected that her love of dancing would pave the way to her popularity in the Tiktok world.
We, the members of the publication, did a tour on our campus to check if the students are still not practicing the proper segregation of garbage, and we found out that there are still students who are hardheaded to follow. Anywhere we go
63 out of
SirNaHigh teachers who use Tiktok as educational tool "
in each school building, trashes are visible. Our attitude is an upsetting addition to the embarrassing dilemma our country faces regarding debris.
Nevertheless, there is still time to contribute our little ways to help our country rise from this problem. Adopting a drastic change plays a pivotal role since waste is a function of the population. We must apply the reduction of consumption because the more we consume, the more waste and trash we produce. We must cut back on everything we use.
Our school must strictly continue the adoption of DepEd Memorandum No. 01 Series of 2015, known as Zero Waste Month, where every school could participate in a clean-up drive activity. We, as students, must also seriously take part in this event, for we are not ourselves affected but our families. We should restart recalibrating our ways of throwing our waste properly and be models worth emulating. After all, we are not only saving the country but our mother earth as well.
SURVEY GATHERED BY JAY-RALD YAGUE AND ASBALI ASOL Image taken from google.com
If someone tells you that his or her entire journey with braces is fun, would you nod to agree? When braces started to become one of the most popular fads in the country, it was also the moment when we became obsessed with being granted the option to get braces as well. Many believe that having braces on one's teeth will cause them to gradually become the center of attention. Either way, he or she would be known for being rich or for being a ‘fashionis-
And I am one.
I am one of those who really wanted to have braces to display when I open my mouth to talk and smile. Not to be known for being rich, but I feel it has something to do with my teeth as well. With braces, I know I could
@kristelmay_montimor
The latest statistics from the Department of Education (DepEd) reveal that 404 students committed suicide, and 2,147 attempted suicide last school year because of stress. The figure is alarmingly high. But what’s even more concerning is that these young students have their lives ahead of them and are seen as strong, carefree, and resilient.
Moreover, given that the students are involved, and some incidents even took place in schools, it is easy to assume that it has something to do with their studies.
However, I am here to prove that stress is not an enemy in some considerations.
In one of my readings, I read one particular science book that contained research on stress. Don’t you know it helps strengthen our immune system, enhance our memory and learning, and even
offer a sweet and healthy smile.
Indeed, many of you regarded dental braces as only a form of fashion without knowing its embedded scientific treatment which can solve one’s oral problems.
Braces really work! These could actually prevent issues with your gum disease especially if you have overlapping or crowded teeth which dampen your confidence to smile. Not only that but braces could aid digestion. These aid in proper chewing until your food is completely and easily digested. One key point I need to inform you regarding braces is that these then help one alleviates speech impairment.
If your teeth are misaligned, the tendency is that your speaking pattern is affected. Your misaligned teeth will eventually be properly aligned with braces, allowing you to speak more clearly.
But, as much as you wish to wear braces, is an inevitable obstacle you have to undergo. If you have braces, you have to surrender your ego in
eating random foods. You have to be picky about your food to eat. You have to start not eating hard and crunchy foods because this will lead to loosing of the bracket and wires of your braces.
Foods like sweets, soda, and chips have also to be avoided due to the fact that they can generate acid and plaques that can result to tooth decay. To add, you have to deal with adjustments on your diet and meal.
Furthermore, with braces, you must clean your teeth after eating because food particles may become trapped between each small space. And most importantly, you have to undergo regular dental appointments for your teeth adjustment.
Wearing braces is everyone’s unsettling battle of desire, but not everyone is fortunate to be one. It may be heavy on one’s pocket, but it’s definitely worth it.
improve our decision-making skills? Not only that, but stress could also enhance performance and well-being—this is called eustress, also known as good stress.
You may initially disagree since we are all experiencing this health
in our classroom and even preparing our reports in time to meet a deadline was also beneficial. I mean, it doesn’t bring cause stress to us. Because of these responsibilities, we are fueled of a motivation that leads to improving our academic endeavors.
100% 98% total number of vaccinated students total number of vaccinated teachers
concern now and then, especially us students. We often complain about our school requirements and the pressing academic expectations from our parents and teachers since these tasks stress us more.
It was so safe to know that playing a game
Having said all this, it is still inevitable to worry about things, especially since sometimes we overlook them, feeling that they could be self-induced. For instance, we worry too much about an approaching deadline. But we don’t consider the fact that it is our procrastination that puts us in that stressful situation. We should know how to manage our time well and not let things build up. Because who knows, this good stress will unconsciously turn into bad stress.
The Science and Mathematics departments of SirNaHigh conducted a successful science fair on the covered court, October 18–19.
The two-day event highlighted various competitions such as the Math and Science Jingle, a booth contest, an oral research defense, and the Eco Fashion Show that was held on the second day of the said activity.
The G10 team dominated the jingle contest, while the booth category champ was nabbed by G9. On the other hand,
G12 STEM researchers claimed the best research award. Further, the G9 representative, Zahrah S. Ahmed, who amazed the judges with her well-decorated recycled gown, clinched the Eco Fashion Show title.
The continuous promotion of mathematics, science, and technology to the students at Sir Na High allowed them to have an avenue to showcase their innovation and invention skills.
Both course departments were grateful for the success of the culmination. With everyone’s fair and just participation, it was done commendably.
Stress is not a bad thing
BECAUSE WHO KNOWS, THIS GOOD STRESS WILL UNCONSCIOUSLY TURN INTO BAD STRESSMARGARRETTE ANN GAPO G12 SciTech Writer
The SirNaHigh teachers dubbed the senior squad danced its way to the cheerdance victory as they nabbed the champion title against elementary teacher cheerdancers during the 2023 District Meet held at the municipality gymnasium, September 29.
Donning a light green outfit paired with a green-white pompom and executing leech-like moves, they stunned the judges and spectators, which led them to dominate the competition.
Mr.Alkhadz Uddin, a MAPEH teacher, and the team leader said that they had a hard time training his team because the majority of them were first-timers. However, it all worth the efforts put in after all.
The contest was one of the highlights of this year’s district meet in accordance with Teachers’ Month. It was attended by teachers and school heads from the different schools in the district, headed by Mrs. Susan M. Felizarta, the Schools District Supervisor.
The team received medals and a trophy.
To be e-ncluded?
@czhekh_ahmeyr_ismael the COMMENTARY
Our government, particularly the Philippines Sports Committee (SPC), has recently been bombarded with criticism after our own Filipino athletes thrived in their respective sports participation in different sports fields. Given the fact that these athletes were not sufficiently supported with enough funds from the government, they still managed to bring home a surprising bacon with medals on their necks.
A breakthrough like this is worth celebrating. But still, the government doesn’t seem to have elated eyes for our sports enthusiasts.
Just recently, our own Filipino pole vaulter, Ej Obiena, took to his social media accounts to share a lengthy post about his withdrawal from the Asian Indoor Athletics Championship in Kazakhstan because of financial woes. His team has not been paid in over a year. Payments are caught up in red tape.
Jasmine Mojdeh is also among the victorious athletes who were not given the opportunity to advance in the world swimming championship because Malacañang Palace doesn’t have sufficient funds to keep up.
Moreover, weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz also experienced this crisis behind her success last 2020 at the Tokyo Olympics. Diaz took initiative by asking for support from private companies to sponsor her allowance and expenses during her training. She was about to quit, as she was never backed up financially by the government.
Truly, our athletes’ recent successes have been strained with a huge disappointment, as behind their burning determination
Just like them, student-athletes in Sirawai, when interviewed, expressed the same sentiments as they could personally relate themselves to this undying dilemma that our government has once again failed to resolve. We hope but expect that this missing fork in the table will soon be over.
It is indeed demotivating when our athletes face such an obstacle despite their goal to bring our country to the pinnacle of victory in sports, be it local, national, or international.
The systemic failure is abundantly clear, yet alarming. If the government will continue to turn deaf ears to the agony of our skilled and abled athletes, then it is quite certain to say that our future young generation athletes will not be motivated to participate in sports anymore.
Our country must invest in sports because Filipinos are known to be competitive in various sports events. If the government would have been in full support of them, then it leaves no doubt that we were able to harvest gold medals in the Olympics.
Nevertheless, the amazing victories our athletes have nabbed remain worthy despite our government’s lapses in provid-
Manyargue whether e-sports such as ML (mobile legends) should be included in school sporting events. Hence, equating the difference between traditional and electronic sports has now become a challenge that would give us the condition to break down the two as to which one weighs more significantly when it comes to the real essence of sports.
As a student and a sports enthusiast, I favor its inclusion in our sports events in school because e-sports is now officially considered a gold medal event, even way back at the 2019 SEA Games. This was according to the International Olympics Committee. Moreover, Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) chair Alan Peter Cayetano said that those who play e-sports are athletes to consider.
If we try to delve deeper, sports are not just about moving and running but also about our mental abilities. Thus, playing such an online game is about being wise, and the presence of mind is needed. However, this kind of sport should also be given regulation. Discipline in ourselves must still be a wall against overuse. Moreover, allowing it to include in every school’s events is like eliminating the stigma of e-gaming being wrong to play nowadays.
It has no doubt, then, that after our professional kababayans gamers dominated the World Champion Indonesia in the ML Bang Bang in the SEA GAMES, pinoy athletes looked them up, making
it to the highest-level degree.
Further, we cannot deny that it has already become part of the culture of the young ones today because of technology. It has been an arena for them to enjoy exposing themselves to e-games. Apart from this, by incorporating it into our sporting activities in school, we will become more honed in it, and who knows, we will finally be able to clinch elusive gold medals in the Olympics. Likewise, our government will no longer make it a headache for them to fund enormous amounts for the training and the production of equipment to be used during trainings.
Engaging in sports, regardless of their category, boosts our success as students. Yet, the inclusion of e-sports is not a problem at all.
According to American Psychological Association researchers, social rejection increases anger, anxiety, jealousy, and depression. It also reduces performance on challenging tasks.
Most importantly, by participating in any sports we have—be it traditional or e-sports—what matters is the discipline and tactics we learn from our coaches and the sport itself.
With his clever moves, Sirawai district's Althanie S. Ontong, effortlelessly aced the chess tournament against his opponent in the Provincial Meet held at Sindangan,Zam-
boanga del Norte, February 9.
During the start of the match, Ontong intelligently used the annihilation of defense strategy in exchange for a safe position-
ing of the pieces that made him win the game.
"My training was not an easy one. I did serious practice during the time when the game drew nearer", said the provincial champion.
He further shared that his inspiration to win the game was his parents, who motivated him all throughout his battle, from school-based up to provincials. Meanwhile,his coach, Nurisa Gumba, was elated to share the triumph they were able to bring to Sirawai.
Coach Nurisa said that Ontong had shown a predictable victory because of his dedication to his training at school.
"THE INCLUSION OF E-SPORTS IS NOT A PROBLEM AT ALLASBALI ASOL G12 Sports News Writer THIRMIZI WAHI PHOTO TAKEN BY Photojournalist LIFT OF VICTORY. Team's flyer, Antonette Austria, waves the flag to the top leading to victory during the cheerdance tilt held at Sirawai Gymnasium, September 29. / Jean May Labial MVLIS FB PAGE PHOTO FROM WISE MOVE. Althanie Ontong (right) heedfully watches over his opponent's moves to secure win. / Kadisa Aban
LEVY PRINCESS EMBUDO
G12 Sports News Contributor
Echo Philippines took home the international champion title after dethroning fellow Filipinos Blacklist International in the M4 final event with a 4-0 score in the best-of-7 match in the MLBB World Championship held in Jakarta, January 15.
With this feat, Moonton, the MLBB developer, named the Philippines as the M5 World Championship host country that will happen later this year.
Moreover, both teams maintained the country's streak in e-sports International competition being the champions for three consecutive world championships since M2.
On the other hand, Blacklist International, who landed second this year made history as the first team to secure final wins twice in the MLBB World Championship.
Echo is now the tiptop Mobile Legends warriors team in the world after being named triumphant in the recently concluded WC grand final.
Echo received a cash prize of $300,000.
“The water is your friend… you don’t have to fight with water, just share the same spirit as the water, and it will help you move”.
This uplifting quotation by a former Russian swimmer, Alexander Popov, inspires the three junior high school swimmers of SirNaHigh, namely Reygi Pañalas, Abdurahman Calas, and Aryana Ontong. This has proven true after they were able to bring pride to their school as provincial qualifiers in the recently concluded provincial meet held at the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Sports Center, Dipolog City, last February 9–11.
swimmers in school, they were able to secure wins in the competition, making their coaches proud and happy with what they achieved despite the short period of training. However, like life’s elusiveness, not all the time are we fortunate enough to win a game, as they were not able to advance to the next level of the competition. But this never dampens their desire to continue believing that there is always a next time to do better. As they say, they find swimming something they cannot live without.
At some point in their lives, a breakthrough like this made them realize that success could not only be found in the classroom. Their way of taking part in such an event gives them a sense of
dence. Through this involvement, they were able to meet new friends from the different schools.
"My heart was not at peace until the game was over. I was literally feeling hesitated at first because it was my first time competing outside of school. But it was then replaced with eagerness because our coaches were so supportive", shared Reygi.
As athletes, their coaches, Ms. Sherrilyn Saldua and Ms. Monissa Esmawel, regarded them as dedicated and passionate ones. They were complimented for making it that far to have represented the school despite facing obstacles before the competition. In fact, given the short time for training, they still managed to thrive with pride and
honor.
As young as they are, they have already gone a long way. For them, it is not about qualifying at the highest level of the competition but about being a paragon of true athletes who never think of winning or becoming popular enough to be envied by many. They shared, their experiences are what shaped them to be better themselves as young athlete dreamers who once dreamed to be one. Like a water itself, we should not be afraid to slither in the waves of life in order to succeed. Let us share the same spirit as the water in order to move forward.
Like these athletes have shown and contended, we have to swim without fear, swim without hunger, and swim to win life’s battle.
Mark Adrian A. Rada (G12) and Jean Sharleth S. Felizarta (G9), students of SirNaHigh triumphed in the recently concluded dancesports competition, cluster level held at Siocon Cultural and Exhibition Center, Feb-
The winning pair was named champion in the standard and modern categories, besting other participating school districts namely Siocon and LabaSiocon placed second, while Labason landed third. On the other hand, the victorious pair trained by
their coaches, Mr. Alkhadz Uddin and Ms. Antonette Austria, made their way to advance in the provincial meet last February 10 but failed to secure a win at the said level of the contest.
Further, Romelyn Gozanes and Al-Hashim Wahab, the school’s representatives in the Latin category, clinched the third spot.
According to their coaches, the abrupt announcement of the contest was one of the obstacles they faced. They had a short span of time to practice before the contest. But despite it all, they were grateful for the experience they had gained.
" SWIM WITHOUT FEAR, SWIM WITHOUT HUNGER, AND SWIM TO WIN LIFE'S BATTLE
