The Estoile Elementary Volume 6 by St. Edward School Publications

CELESTIAL GOODNESS AND NOBILITY The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School––Grade School

Division of Imus City • Region IV-A Calabarzon Vol. 6 No. 1 | School Year 2020-2021 August 2020––April 2021

4-Time Best School Paper in the Philippines (NSPC 2017-2020) 3-Time Finalist, Best Student Organ Grade School (Catholic Mass Media Awards)

Celebrating 500 Years of Christianity

‘gifted to give’

Edwardians respond to Pope Francis’ call, boost volunteerism amid pandemic FELICITY SULIT

s a response to Pope Francis’ call to recognize “the power of love” that “shatters the shell of our selfishness,” St. Edward School (SES) continues to conduct various donation drives and participate in different causes in the time of Covid-19 pandemic.

The Student Affairs Council (SAC) of SES together with the Galing LNC organization joins the nation in setting up a community pantry in the neighborhood encouraging the school community and Lancaster New City (LNC) to share food and items that they can as a form of “caring for one another.” Community pantries are replicated across the nation after the Catholic bishops call on people “to support the effort in the capital Manila to help the needy” during the pandemic and after Ana Patricia Non set up her stall named “Maginhawa Community Pantry.”

Meanwhile, the campus journalists of SES have been active in participating in various workshops for-a-cause led by the Department of Education (DepEd) Calabarzon. “Latag Dyornalismo,” a campus journalism workshop held in March where Mr. Paul Penaflor, school paper adviser of The Estoile, served as a speaker with some Edwardian campus journalists who served as facilitators, was able to raise P 97,000 for the benefit of Covid-19 stricken teachers in Calabarzon and Bicol region. It can be recalled that the • Continue on Page 3

“...the more we love, the more we become capable of giving.” • Pope Francis on the Filipinos’ Joy in self-giving Photo by: Vaticannews.va

Unity against educational catastrophe • EDITORIAL

Edwardian recollection: A time for Jesus • OPINION

05 06

Shine for Jesus:

How the students, parents, and teachers use their talent to glorify the Lord • FEATURES

Restoring Earth through Community Clean up •SCIENCE

Vol. 6 • No. 1

news

August 2020 - April 2021

The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School–Grade School

Portraying book characters inculcates love for reading

THINK OF THE ONE THING THAT YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED. NOW FIND IT IN YOUR MIND’S EYE AND FEEL IT IN YOUR HEART.

SYDNEY RAMIREZ

he tradition of wearing of book character costumes has continued at St. Edward School (SES), but this year given the pandemic situation, it was done virtually. SES concluded the National Reading Month last November 27 with students and teachers wearing their chosen book character aiming to inculcate love for reading. Every celebration of the reading month, students are asked to wear costume of their chosen book character or create a costume out of available resources at home. According to the English department, this helps teachers identify whether students are reading books or not and is another strategy for the teachers to teach the positive trait that the character possesses.

“’I don’t read books’ is no longer accepted when we give this activity because we provide students a lot of reading materials where they can choose a book character,” said Paul Penaflor, English teacher. “Even when learning goes online now, we give all students an e-book to read and there are a lot of books available in World Book Online (WBO) and Epic,” he added. WBO and Epic! are the online

• Beast, from the “Beauty and the Beast”

libraries that SES is subscribed to. Edwardians have an unlimited access to these sites for free. Aside from wearing the costume, students are also asked to research a quote and a trivia of the chosen book character and share it in class. While the reading month has concluded, the Filipino and English teachers remind students to continue reading books.

Josiah Miguel Dilinila of Grade 6E enjoys portraying as the Beast from the story “Beauty and the Beast.” Edwardians wear the costume of their chosen book character and share on the online class the things they learn from the book.

Edwardian 6th to 4th Graders are Potterheads: Favorite book survey MHIEL OLAES

any readers in Grades 4 to 6 level of St. Edward School (SES) are Potterheads as they consume more Harry Potter books than any novels or other reading texts, English Department revealed.

Photo by: Dianna Reyes

Infographic: Edwardians hit 1.7M reading views via online library; PH ranks 4th in ‘countries that read most’ DIANNA REYES Covid-19 pandemic seems to be the best time for reading as St. Edward School (SES) logs 1.7 million reading hits on World Book Online (WBO) since August, school’s Learning Resource Center (LRC) disclosed based on WBO utilization report last November. WBO is one of the online libraries that SES is subscribed to as part of the Edwardian EDGE.

Meanwhile, the Philippines ranks fourth as a country that reads the most based on the 2020 World Reading Habits conducted by Global English Editing. SES through the LRC and the English and Filipino department continues to advocate love for reading among Edwardians. The school celebrated the National Book Month with the theme, “Pagbasa at Pag-asa sa Gitna ng Pandemya.”

According to the “Vote for your favorite book” survey conducted in November, Harry Potter, a series of fantasy novels written by J.K. Rowling, topped the list of the most consumed book among the middle school readers with 107 votes. In a discussion forum, Mickyla Torres of Grade 6-D who is also an aspiring author expressed her fondness for reading the book, and that the book she is currently writing is inspired by the said novel. “I love Harry Potter not only because of its fantasy and magical aspects but also because of the lessons of courage and friendship that I learned from it as a reader,” Torres said. “What I like about the book is the fact that that they make the characters enjoyable to anticipate, and the storyline is great,” the 6th grader added. Coming off second on the list is Elisabetta Dami’s Geronimo Stilton with 60 votes, followed by Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid with 56 votes. Complete series of Harry Potter, Geronimo Stilton, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid had been available in the school’s Learning Resource Center during the face-to-face setup of classes. English and Filipino teachers of SES continue to promote love for reading among students even in the time of the pandemic.

news

August 2020 - April 2021

The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School–Grade School

Fr. Mark Reyes highlights teachers’ PAUL PEÑAFLOR hard work amid pandemic

‘GIFTED TO GIVE’ From Page 1

Edwardian community partnered with the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Galing LNC through the “Edwardian Cares: Salbar Catanduanes.” SAC was able to collect 345 food packs, 7 sacks of rice, 200 packs of toiletries, 56 boxes of face masks, and a box of medicines from the families of SES. In addition, the Outreach Program Committee of SES together with the Galing LNC conducted an outreach activity to 120 families of La Preza B in Barangay Navarro, General Trias City, Cavite in December 2020. The organization donated grocery supplies and Covid- 19 essentials with the aid of the faculty members and staff of SES. On the other hand, the campus journalists participated in “Project Ripple 2.0” and “Ma-Linao na Bukas,” two donation drives conducted by the volunteers from the DepEd for the benefit of typhoon victims in Tuguegarao City. RECOGNIZING THE GIFT OF GIVING “We have to realize the fact that we were the first ones who received. We have been gifted first.” These are the words of Father Mark Reyes to the Edwardian community during a recollection reiterating what Pope Francis has said when he joined the Philippines in celebrating the 500 years of Christianity. In his message March 29, Father Reyes underscored the “core of spirituality” which is the idea that “we are gifted.” “Work very hard not because we are obsessed of money, but because we have given much,” Father Reyes said. “I will work, so when I receive from the work that I do, I will give much,” he added. Meanwhile, Pope Francis conducted the Holy Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica last March 14 which was also attended by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, formerly the Archbishop of Manila. The Edwardian Community was enjoined to attend the mass via Facebook livestream.

Vol. 6 • No. 1

eachers take a different level of hard work in the time of Covid-19 pandemic when schools shift to online distance learning, St. Edward School’s (SES) chaplain, Fr. Mark Anthony Reyes, underscored in his homily October 13.

We (teachers) are called to work hard, to double the hard work,” Father Reyes said during the Holy Eucharist in celebration of the Feast of St. Edward the Confessor. The chaplain also shared his own struggles as a teacher who handles four classes four days a week. He also revisited the other core values of SES such as servanthood (stewardship), integrity, and faith. As a servant leader, he reminded the teachers to “work hard because you are called to serve.” “Saint Edward’s kingship is patterned according to Christ which is to serve and not to Father Mark Reyes underscores the hard be served,” Fr. Reyes said. work and sacrifices of the teachers in The holy eucharist is followed by the time of pandemic during the Convocation convocation dedicated for teachers with the for Edwardian Teachers October 13. theme, “Teachers: Leading in crisis reimagining Photo by: Paul Peñaflor the future.”

The Estoile enters as finalist in CMMA, to tell more value-laden stories JELANZE MAGALLANES

or the third time, The Estoile, official school and community publication of St. Edward School - Grade School, entered the roster of finalist of the Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) Best Student Organ - Grade School category.

In an interview, Paul Jeffrey Peñaflor, school paper adviser (SPA), said that the editorial board will continue to publish “value-laden stories that depict Christian lives of the Edwardian community.” As a publication of a Catholic institution, Peñaflor said the editorial staff “shall continue to tell stories that uphold love for God, love for truth, care for the natural

environment, and positive Filipino values. “This serves as an inspiration for us to become even better story-tellers like how Jesus wants His disciples to preach the gospel to all people,” the SPA said in an interview. 42nd CMMA was held last December 19, 2020 via CNN Philippines. CMMA is the most prestigious Catholic awardgiving body in print, radio and

television. Even in the time of Covid-19 pandemic, the publication continues to hold workshops done virtually to hone students’ interest and skills in writing. The school’s campus journalism program still caters students from elementary to high school and opens the workshops to Non-SES students as part of its community service program.

Virtual recollection leads Edwardians toward holiness JELANZE MAGALLANES

oliness is a Christian identity, a state of being, and a constant calling for everyone; it is a decision to live life in God’s light.

This is the message of Brother Junel Roxas, Youth For Christ (YFC) Cavite Fulltime Pastoral Worker, as he guided the Edwardians on their way to holiness during the Edwardian Recollection held last March. Helping students to reflect on themselves and live a life of sanctity, the recollection taught students about living a holy life or sainthood that is “not only reserved to certain individuals, but it is open to all.” “Much like the moon reflects the light of the sun, we are also asked and called to reflect God’s light to the world where we live in,” said Brother Junel Roxas.

“The way we live our lives will be a reflection of how God works in us,” he added. The recollection also highlighted the challenge “not only to be a saint when we are together with our brothers and sisters in YFC, but to bloom where we have been planted, to create ‘God-enlightened Spaces’ in places we go.” Bro. Junel also mentioned that to live this life of sanctity, “we must pray HARDER” which stands for Hours, Adoration, Rosary, Devotions, Eucharist, and Reconciliation. Edwardians learned that these are words that may simply help

everyone “live a life of sanctity, not to mention, our journey to holiness will be made possible by God’s grace, grace that will allow ourselves to be open to every time we call upon Him in prayer.” St. Edward School held a virtual recollection for students last March titled “Onward to Holiness” with the help of the Christian Living Department and YFC Cavite to challenge the students to “be God’s lights to the world by doing ordinary things extraordinarily in these difficult times.”

Gem Calvin Dale, Grade 6 students, follows a prayer led by Bro. Junel Roxas, a pastoral worker from Youth For Christ, during the Edwardian Recollection on March 9 via Zoom. Students revisit the Edwardian Core Values - Faith, Integrity, Stewardship, and Hardwork, and learn how these will strengthen their prayer life and devotion. Screengrab from the Virtual Recollection

Vol. 6 • No. 1

news The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School–Grade School

In-Depth Paul Jeffrey Peñaflor

‘I CAN DO IT!’

August 2020 - April 2021

Edwardian preschoolers step up through hands-on, minds-on learning

ary Grace Villarta, a pre-school teacher at St. Edward School (SES), engages her Kindergarten students to learn the movements of animals, a topic in Social Studies and Sciences, through a story. Not only Teacher Mary Grace is the narrator, but students are also part of the story.

“I can do it!” preschoolers respond energetically while imitating what a picture of an animal is doing as presented by Teacher Mary Grace. Kindergarten students confidently and happily bend their necks like a giraffe or turn their heads like a penguin. They do all these while independently unmuting their microphones so that their replies would be heard in which Teacher Mary Grace generously gives affirmations. On the other hand, Teacher Janine Bachoco instructs her students to follow a dance choreography while learning the days of the week; Teacher Sherry Loyola encourages her students to write the things they want to achieve in the future through a cloud mobile graphic organizer as they learn about events and outcomes; Teacher Jeddah Oida encourages some of her students to lead in singing a song before they learn the body coverings of the animals. This is how the Kindergarten teachers of SES facilitate their classes in the new normal. Though different from the face-to-face setup of classes, the teachers are still able to provide hands-on, minds-on kind of learning. Preschoolers now have already coped with the online learning modality because they are engaged both mentally and physically in all the tasks involved. GUIDED INDEPENDENT LEARNING Based on the recent observations, students easily follow the rules of the teacher; they can navigate important tools of the Google Meet such as raising a hand and unmuting

Teacher Mary Grace Villarta begins the day’s class with a dance to energize the Kindergarten students. Preschool teachers of St. Edward School promote hands-on, mindson kinds of learning even in the online modality. Screengrab from Ms. Villarta’s class.

Teacher Sherry Loyola asks her students to draw happy or sad face based on the possible outcome as they learn about outcomes and events. Kindergarten students know now how to make inferences based on their observations about the things around them. Screengrab from Ms. Loyola’s class. themselves when they want to speak with little guidance from the parents or guardians, far from how they were when the school was just beginning with the online modality. In an interview, Teacher Mary Grace shared the progress of the Kindergarten students when it comes to expressing themselves in the online class. “When I first handled them, some were very timid and were quite hesitant to give responses whenever called during class time,” Teacher Mary Grace shared.

“Now, I’ve noticed that they’re able to express their answers confidently and they are not afraid to ask questions anymore. We encourage our kids to be inquisitive and be able to discover things around them,” the teacher said. Meanwhile, Teacher Janine said the guidance coming from the parents or guardians “is still important in the PreKindergarten level.” “With kids who can easily adapt and adjust in the new educational platform,

parents or guardians are still needed in guiding the Pre-Kinder students because they have a short span of attention,” the Pre-Kindergarten teacher added. POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS, FEEDBACK Preschoolers are engaged in sharing their experiences in relation to the topic being facilitated. In one of the sessions with Teacher Mary Grace, a student shared why she chose to become a snail as a response to the activity, “If I were to be an animal.” Meanwhile, another student shared how he wanted to become a colorful butterfly. Facilitating the how’s and why’s from the students, Teacher Mary Grace gives feedback immediately explaining why it is a “great and interesting example.” “Giving positive and meaningful feedback is important for preschoolers because it builds their confidence and gives them a motivation to learn more,” Teacher Mary Grace, Subject Unit Head in the Kindergarten, said in an interview. “Positive affirmation is really important for the emotional and mental well-being of the kids. As teachers, we really want the kids to feel comfortable and gain confidence that will contribute to their growth mindset,” said Teacher Janine. “We want them to feel that they are loved and special for us just like how their parents and siblings love them also,” the PreKindergarten teacher added. The activities enable the preschoolers to make meanings and inferences about the things around them while the teachers provide necessary comments to process the information that the students are giving. The Preschool Department of SES will open the “Pre-Kinder and Kindergarten Summer Class Program” which is open to all LNC and non-LNC community for free as part of the Edwardian EDGE (Edwardian Excellence in Digital Global Education) program.

Labrador, Tamanu snatch gold, highest distinction in PH Int’l Math Olympiad MHIEL OLAES

dwardian Mathletes, Jerard Ponz Labrador of Grade 6E and Jan Francis Tamanu of Grade 6B, do not stop in winning in various Mathematics competitions, and they recently bagged the Gold Award with Highest Distinction in the recently conducted Philippine International Mathematical Olympiad (PhIMO) 2021.

In an interview, Labrador shared that he reads a lot of books and answers questions to master the lessons in Math further. He added that the competitions help and motivate him to enhance his skills in Mathematics. “As an Edwardian, love for learning is important. Never give up on reaching your goals,” Labrador said. Meanwhile, Tamanu said that the lessons in their Grade 6 Math helped him in winning the award. In addition, he encourages his

schoolmates to “always study Math and never forget the lessons taught by the teachers.” PhIMO is “designed to honor the best learners in the world in mathematical problem-solving through friendly competition and foster cultural exchange among countries that participate therein.” The two Mathletes have been winning in different virtual Mathematics competitions on the national and international level even when workshops and classes shifted online. Some of the competitions where they won are the

AS AN EDWARDIAN, LOVE FOR LEARNING IS IMPORTANT. NEVER GIVE UP ON REACHING YOUR GOALS. • Jerard Ponz Labrador, Edwardian Mathlete International Kangaroo Mathematics Olympiad, Thailand International Mathematical Olympiad, and International Singapore Maths Competition.

JAN FRANCIS TAMANU JERARD PONZ LABRADOR

opinion

August 2020 - April 2021

The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School–Grade School

Vol. 6 • No. 1

Prioritize reopening of schools

TAKE THE ADVICE OF POPE FRANCIS: “GENEROUS COLLABORATION BETWEEN ALL COUNTRIES.” Cartoon by: Denstle John Vargas

Unity Against Educational Catastrophe

EDITORIAL

chools shutting down and the increasing number of students who cannot keep up with the new modalities of learning are some of the detriments brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic which Pope Francis called as “educational catastrophe.” During his annual meeting with the world ambassadors last February 2021, Pope Francis called on the leaders to act against the educational catastrophe “for the sake of generations to come and for society as a whole.” Even with online learning becoming the norm, students without access to the internet and who cannot afford to buy their own materials for learning must be given attention. Pope Francis noted that there have been serious consequences for students coming from the poor family and unemployed parents or guardians. The pope also emphasized the dangers of internet nowadays that children become “easier prey for cybercrime in its most dehumanizing aspects, including fraud, trafficking in persons, the exploitation of prostitution, including child prostitution, and child.” Meanwhile, in a press conference, United Nations Children’s Fund has called on country leaders to boost efforts in giving solutions against Covid-19 pandemic and prioritize reopening of schools because “214 million children globally

the

estoile Celestial Goodness • Nobility

The Official School and Community Publication of St. Edward School––Grade School Lancaster New City Division of Imus City • Region IV-A Calabarzon Vol. 5 No. 1 | August 2020––April 2021

– or 1 in 7 – have missed more than three-quarters of their inperson learning.” Closing schools, according to UNICEF, has also increased the risks for children to die of hunger since most children rely upon school meals. Children who are not in schools have also been abused and sexually exploited. UNICEF also noted that students under the online and remote modality of learning have been vulnerable to physical and mental distress due to not having daily interactions with peers. In the Philippines, there is a drop of 10% in the enrolment this school year according to the Department of Education (DepEd). These are 2,732,467 learners who did not enroll this school year. In addition, private schools reported a drop in enrolment of 48% which tolls to 2,080,233 learners. As a whole, world leaders have to prioritize the reopening of schools by ensuring parents and children that it is already

safe to go out of their homes. Learners who are in the school for many months have been experiencing problems affecting physically and mentally. Take the advice of Pope Francis: “generous collaboration between all countries.” St. Edward School in its own way has been in unity with the local government and Lancaster New City, its neighborhood. The school makes sure that even in the online modality of learning, teachers get to communicate with the students and parents in ensuring healthy and proactive learning. The school-home partnership is strengthened through all means of online communication. Feedbacking and reporting of teachers to parents and vice versa regarding the progress and wellness of the children have been done to make sure that students are thinking well, feeling well, and doing well both online and offline.

EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORS: Mhiel Julianne Olaes • Jerard Ponz Labrador • Maxene Hayden Jarin • Julianne Mariz Mendoza • Dianna Joice Reyes • Jelanze Magallanes • Felicity Bernadeth Sulit • Mickyla Torres • CARTOONISTS: Denstle John Vargas • Josiah Miguel Dilinila • Nathan Philip Reyes • WRITERS: Lixia Zanae Venetenilla • Sydney Ramirez • Yniarhella Mendoza • Wendy Aishi Sarcilla • Lance Miguel Austria • BROADCASTERS: Dianna Joice Reyes • Jelanze Magallanes • Felicity Bernadeth Sulit • Julianne Mariz Mendoza • Alpha Khristi Clavido • Aiko Mizukami SCHOOL PAPER ADVISER: Mr. Paul Jeffrey R. Peñaflor PRINCIPAL: Dr. John T. Cabalo • VICE-PRINCIPAL: Ms. Karen R. Nogra • VICE-PRINCIPAL FOR ACADEMICS: Ms. Sherwin S. Logto • ACADEMIC COORDINATOR (Imus Campus): Ms. Regina M. Negapatan • ACADEMIC COORDINATOR (Faith Campus): Mr. Edgar Nueva The Estoile is the official school publication of St. Edward Integrated School situated at Lancaster New City, Cavite. The Estoile /es-twah/ is a six wavy pointed star taken from the school’s logo which signifies celestial goodness and nobility. The school’s patron saint, St. Edward the Confessor, is well-known for his graciousness and love towards poor.

hen will face-to-face classes come back?

Parents and various educational institutions have urged the government to start working on the safe and gradual holding of face-to-face classes in schools because students “are losing interest in their studies because of the difficulties of distance learning.” According to the report of ABS-CBN News, Mr. Franz Beltran, president of the De La Salle University Senior High School Student Council, said “a number of students have stopped attending online classes FELICITY BERNADETH after finding that their SULIT learning environment was not conducive.” Students who find the new modality of learning exhausting is understandable, and that is why #AcademicBreak is always trending. The adjustment is very difficult. Not seeing your classmates everyday to tell stories personally is an added burden. Our parents have been struggling, too. According to the report, many parents cannot support the needs of their children in online classes. Many do not have the finances to buy laptop or tablet which is essential in online class. Thanks to our teachers at St. Edward School (SES). They have been holding activities that are not only educational but also enjoyable. Some examples are the reading programs that the English and Filipino department have been conducting. Clubs and organizations also still exist even in the time of pandemic, and it feels like we are still in the normal setup of classes. To help the teacher the SAC officers also made a program called ‘study buddy program’ wherein students act as tutors for those who find difficulties in learning some lessons in any subject. Aside from these activities the teachers also assist the students by giving them feedback to improve their grades and scores, however if talking to the students does not work, the teachers are quick to alert the parents about the problem by messaging them. In a survey, parents are satisfied with teachers being quick to respond to their queries through different communication channels such as e-mails, Google Chat and even Facebook messenger. Additionally, teachers hold consultations with the students to guide them more after classes end. I love that my teachers make funny jokes and make the lessons as entertaining as possible. To tell you the truth, I would start most classes thinking that I feel exhausted. I hope the class doesn’t take that long.’ But after a few minutes, I would look at the time and realize that the class is almost ending. Still, I am hoping for the face-to-face classes to happen again. I may be having a comfortable learning setup in my online classes, but there are a lot of students who are suffering now because of lack of access to internet and gadgets. No one should be left behind.

workout NO ONE SHOULD BE LEFT BEHIND.

Vol. 6 • No. 1

opinion St. Edward School–Grade School

Edwardian Recollection: A time for Jesus

August 2020 - April 2021

The Official School and Community Publication of

s the Recollection held in the time of Lent, we engage our holiness to God.

The current pandemic situation did not hinder us Edwardians to attend the recollection this year. Thanks to the initiative of our school’s Christian Living department together with the Youth For Christ (YFC); the recollection was held virtually in March. Bro. Junel Roxas, a full-time pastoral worker, talked about how we can strengthen our holiness to God. He also explained the ways and what we need to establish as Catholics so that we can use it to make our holiness more remarkable to God. This recollection elucidates MHIEL JULIANNE the reflection and our time OLAES for God. I learned that God sees us, and we should do all things that glorify Him. “Jesus is our source of strength,” said Bro. Junel. Jesus is our protector when it comes to our difficulties or problems that we cannot accomplish. Our faith in Him is our guide, so we can solve our problems no matter how small or big the problem they are. It is also said that we should purify our hearts because it makes our relationship with God more righteous and holy. Bro. Junel asserted that “if we have the time for everything like for school, social media, watching YouTube, doing homework, we should also have time for a prayer.” We should not only pray for our needs or our desires, but we should always pray as we thank Him for his blessings being given to us. During the activity, I was able to find meaning from the reflections of my schoolmates. Most of them shared faith and integrity which we value as Edwardians. When Bro. Junel said “We must pray harder,” it struck me because I felt that I am not as prayerful as God wants us to be. I learned that the word “HARDER” stands for Hour, Adoration, Rosary, Devotion, Eucharist, and Reconciliation. These words are connected because they are all focused on our relationship with God. He also explained that the “Greatest Love of Jesus” is His sacrifice for us to be free from our sins as God gave his only son Jesus Christ to save all of us because He loves us, and He cares for us. The Recollection is just not about rest, fun, and bonding; it is also a reflection of what we have been through especially in the season of Lent which should be all about reminiscing the journey of Jesus. Sir Junel left us a challenge, “our mission is to become the Saints next door.” We need to share God’s love with everyone. This season of Lent reminds the journey of Jesus Christ and for us people to share the love and creation of God. We need to strive like the Saints to have time for God.

liveup

WE NEED TO STRIVE LIKE THE SAINTS TO HAVE TIME FOR GOD.

No more divisions

t is encouraged for nations to unite most especially in these difficult times. Pope Francis made it possible as he took the chance to visit parts of northern Iraq that were once held by the Islamic States (IS) in March this year. The pope prayed among ruined churches located in Mosul, the former IS stronghold, before meeting Christians. He said that Iraq would remain in his heart as he conducted holy mass at a stadium in Irbil, the final major event of his visit. A lot of people attended this service despite the concerns about the pandemic. “Today, however, we reaffirm our conviction that fraternity is more durable than fratricide, that hope is more powerful than hatred, that peace more powerful than war,” said Pope Francis. This taught me that loving each other means a lot more than hating each other. I could also remember our lesson about unity in the Christian Living subject. I learned that unity is strength, whenever we work with each other, we are able to achieve

wonderful things. With this, I think that unity is a very beautiful thing with the people helping each other through thick or thin and building trust with each other. 1 Corinthians 1:10 says, “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.” It can be learned from this verse that in these difficult times, there shall be no divisions, and we all agree that we can all live happily and harmoniously by helping each other. During this pandemic, we have experienced unity - with scientists and doctors helping each other

seek the cure and with people donating to those in need. Helping each other will help our country get through this obstacle together, let us lend a hand to people who are going through tough times. Community pantries have also been notable. People bring in what they can freely give to help other people who are in tight times. The Christian Living lesson also taught me that as we face challenges, it is a must to remember that not all challenges may be solved by only one. It requires unity to get through with people by your side to support you at your worst and people to lead you in the right direction, offering help every now and then.

What are the suggestions of the Edwardians to improve some things and services in the school and the community? Here are some of them.

I hope the local government could provide all the teachers an allowance for internet subscription, so we could allot the money for basic needs like food. It will be a big help for us who work at home. • Ms. Jenny Sarno, Mathematics Teacher

JELANZE MAGALLANES

… IT IS A MUST TO REMEMBER THAT NOT ALL CHALLENGES MAY BE SOLVED BY ONLY ONE.

EDWARDIANS

SUGGEST

I suggest we could have an event at some point in the school year where we can show our classmates and teachers our talents/hobbies. Or we could have more activities that make us active physically and not just mentally since I know most people nowadays just don’t see the fun in doing physical activities more often. • Mickylla Torres, Grade 6D

teamup

I wish we have much time for watching movies, and we’ll make movie reviews. I suggest we could watch Marvel movies and learn from the values of the superheroes. • John Sheandrey Dimaano, Grade 6C

opinion

August 2020 - April 2021

The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School–Grade School

Ensuring academic honesty

hese are very strange times, indeed. A year has passed and still, the world is suffering from the Covid-19 Pandemic. A catastrophe that no one here now has ever experienced before. The unexpected virus turned out too strong that the World Health Organization labelled it as ‘pandemic,’ a term that they avoided using until now.

Fortunately, in this threatening event, humanity has greatly advanced in technology. And so, we can navigate slowly and carefully, through future issues. The pandemic has also forced us to make new ways in order to cope and survive day by day. One of many problems that all countries face at this time is education. How can students continue to learn while staying safe from the deadly virus? And we all resorted to online learning. In my own musings, I asked myself, “how can schools make sure that students are answering the online tasks honestly given that they have guardians and Google search at home?” Online learning is the current answer for students and teachers to continue their path and career. But students always unlock new methods to make learning easier. Some are called cheating, a word so familiar in schools. The others are just songs, games, tips. Cheating is a way without effort or creativity. It is a way that makes students lazier than the other ways that make students better. Even before the pandemic, academic dishonesty has always been there. It evolves alongside our

advancement in technology. The internet is one of the stages. Plagiarism, Misrepresentation, Deception are just a few examples of how students could cheat. Honesty nowadays becomes lesser, for we can just search for the answers on the internet. In traditional classes, teachers see what we do, but in online classes, students can turn off their camera whenever they want. What could they be doing? What if they are not listening to us? Why can’t I see them? These are questions that teachers ask themselves. In an interview, Franchesca Parfan in her 5th year as BS Industrial Pharmacy student said that she feels fine about her camera on during online class. But when the camera is off, she still follows the rules to understand the lessons and apply them in practice. Meanwhile, Freidrich Parfan in Grade 8 says he feels nervous when his face is seen on Google Meet. Just like Franchesca, he participates in class since he wants to learn more about the lesson. Both prefer their camera turned off. When we turn off our camera, we could do whatever we want since the teacher could not see us. I have

Practice politeness online and offline

Given the struggles and hardships we face today, there are questions we need to ponder: Is Christ still reigning in our hearts? As Edwardians valuing faith, how do we keep our deep connection with God? Through prayers, we can always talk to God anytime and everywhere. • Rohan Zeus Padit, Grade 6D Yes, by trying our best to make a deep connection with God and also being nice to others because Jesus/ God is inside all of us. • Kenjie Magdula, Grade 6B We can keep our connection to God by having our hearts pure. We shall always clear our minds and make God first because He will never leave us alone especially in dark times or when we are sad, but don’t worry because God will provide. • Francis Benedict Ebreo, Grade 6B

Letter

ED TOR

speakon

witnessed that one family LIXIA ZANAE member VENTENILLA plays while in class. Follow the rules of your teacher as soon as they say it. Act as if the teacher sees you even if your camera is turned off. Students have different opinions on this current way of learning, but don’t let your opinions lead you to the wrong choices or actions. In St. Edward School, teachers keep reminding the students of some ways to be honest before, during, and after taking a quiz or assessment. Integrity as our core value is always communicated to us, students. I can no longer think of the answer to my question about whether my schoolmates do the tasks honestly or not, but as for myself, I will always do the right thing even when no one is looking.

… DON’T LET YOUR OPINIONS LEAD YOU TO THE WRONG CHOICES OR ACTIONS.

EDWARDIANS SPEAK

Solemnity of Christ the King

Vol. 6 • No. 1

Honesty is Still the Best Policy

How do you show honesty while acing the examinations online? Having a low score is much better than cheating because even when you have high grades, but it is done through cheating, it means that you care more about your grades than learning. It is okay to fail if you put effort into it. With failures, you can learn. • Andrei Jasfer Dusal, Grade 6D When my teacher said not to use dictionary, I didn’t use it while taking the exam. Integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is looking. • Prince Kobe Cells, Grade 6B It’s okay to fail as long as you don’t cheat because when you cheat, that means you don’t care about the learnings. You only want to pass. In knowing what your errors, you will know more. • Samuel Allen Villaflor, Grade 6D

Dear Editor, Good day! We can improve our school by removing the idea of using letters as a section name. Students might think that if they belong to Section A, they are super smart and they won’t have to work anymore since they are from A. And students from other sections might envy the students from Section A since it seems like their class is incredibly smart. I would really like to return to the old section names such as country names or city names. We can also improve our school by creating programs or activities that would encourage all the students to participate, not just a few. If only a few students are interested what’s the fun in that? If the whole school were to work together in a program it could change the way we all look at each other. Not just fellow classmates or schoolmates, but friends. Angela Robi Mingo, Grade 6D Student

ith all the safety rules to prevent the spread of Covid-19, a lot has changed in the way we live. This includes the shifting from face-to-face setup of classes to online modality of learning in our school.

Filipino culture may have changed as well due to limitations of people to make physical contact with each other. The government has made a new way of greeting or the “Bating Filipino” which is performed by placing one’s palm at the center of their chest with a slight nod. It was filed by Marikina Representative Bayani Fernando in July 2019 and was officially approved in 2020 since they thought it was perfect as we do not make JULIANNE MARIZ physical contact when doing it. MENDOZA This is the proposed alternative for pagmamano, a Filipino honoring gesture as a sign of respect to elders. I still am not practicing this new way of showing respect to elders, but I believe some old ways of showing respect as Filipinos must be shown even in the time of virtual meetings and in the age of internet and social media. We Filipinos are respectful and considerate behavior towards others. We show politeness in various ways, such as following the instructions of elders, respecting the opinions of others, and even helping each other. A video has gone viral about a professor asking to turn the microphone off while their online class discussion is ongoing. The student seemed to be playing a computer game without knowing that his trash talks, and bad words are heard on the class. I feel pity for the professor for having such disrespectful student and for not recognizing his efforts by listening. The teachers have had sacrifices to make learning enjoyable, so we must pay them back by listening and participating; it is for our own good. My class adviser once taught us of the netiquettes. Sending of e-mails to our teachers shall be done with proper greeting. Polite words and phrases such as “May I,” “Please,” and “Thank you” have to always be there. Through this, we can also show humility. How I missed pagmamano to my teachers every morning after the flag ceremony and whenever I meet them. It is followed by a greeting that lightens up their mood. But even without this, we can always show politeness not only to our teachers but to anyone. Our words shall be filled with kindness and respect.

pointout

OUR WORDS SHALL BE FILLED WITH KINDNESS AND RESPECT.

Dear Angela, Thank you for your voicing out your concerns. We may not be able to bring the sections’ names back to countries, we hope that your letter would serve as a reflection for everyone that sections do not denote levels of intellect. Thank you also for suggesting that programs and activities should encourage all students. Maybe the teachers find it hard to involve all students because of our new learning setup, but we will coordinate your concern to our Student Affairs Council – Elementary. Thank you very much, Angela! Editors

Generosity amid the pandemic From ‘Reverse Santa’ to Community Pantries

ALPHA KHRISTI CLAVIDO

few months ago, our family experienced generosity from other people. We were stuck in Australia because of Covid-19; our flights got cancelled, and we were having a difficult time. Without even asking for help, people we know offered us help in whatever way they can. We still remember their kindness, and we remain to be grateful about it until now. Amazingly, the challenges caused by the pandemic have not stopped people to be generous. I have been a witness of how people, from Australia to the Philippines, lend their hands. I remember back in December 2020, “Santa Claus” visited our community, but no one in the neighborhood was expecting to receive gifts, rather we gave gifts to Santa. I saw how people merrily handed grocery items to Santa who was riding on a sleigh. The activity called “reverse Santa” which is part of the Galing LNC Christmasaya, was able to donate the gifts collected to our dear frontliners in our barangay and surrounding communities that need help. Close to 900 bags donated and P5700 raised. The spirit of giving amid the pandemic did not stop there. Today, people began to set up Community

Pantries to help people in need of food sense of being of noble lineage or high and to give others the opportunity birth. Generosity also means doing a noble act. So, nobody needs to be a to give whatever they can share. In our community in Lancaster New king or a queen to be noble, one just needs to be generous. City (LNC), people are also starting Donate to your local community to make Community PAW-tries and Community Pan-TREES to help pets pantries, or even start your own! One does not need to be a king or a queen and environment in various ways. I’ve personally started on making one for to be noble. Generosity begins with the my campaign called “Food 4 Good” that hopes to provide basic needs for overflowing love of God. the homeless. Generosity is showing kindness towards others. It is an act of sharing blessings to others. The modern English word 'generosity' derives from the Latin word 'generosus', which means 'noble ' Most Give what you can. Scan recorded English uses the code to donate to of the word 'generous' LNC-Faith Community up to and during the Pantries organized by Sixteenth Century St. Edward School and reflect an aristocratic Galing LNC.

Responding to the Calling

MHIEL JULIANNE OLAES

Francis Benedict’s journey as a church servant

e was just brought by his grandmother, a church servant, to Parish of the Holy Family church one Sunday, and he realized that it is the place where he wants to live out his calling.

Francis Benedict Ebreo, a Grade 6 student who has also been serving as one of the lay ministers in the church carries his faith to God with heart and piety. In an interview, he recounted his first service at the church; it was difficult, but he considered it as a “blessing.” He said that every time he serves at the church feels “a great time to become closer to God.” “When God calls you, answer that call,” Francis said. Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, he still has ways to continue working at the church while following the safety protocols such us wearing of masks and face shield and bringing alcohol. At the same time, he is also praying that one day when the pandemic is over, Catholic would come back to the church because he said he loves to serve the church together with the community. Whenever he serves at the church, he loves it, and he shared that there was one event that made him decide to never stop serving - the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. According to Francis, it is “all about Jesus being remembered and making the people be with him.” Francis continues to teach his classmates about having strong relationship with God. He said it can be achieved by being “true to yourself.” He said, “Our actions can be the better if we put our trust in God.

We must obey his commands. God’s love is for everyone and we should share it.” During recollections, he always shares his insights about the Word of God. He also volunteers to compose prayers for his classmates. Through this, Francis said that he is able to communicate the importance of appreciating our Lord’s blessings and gifts to us. “Always pray and give Glory to God,” said Francis. “God will always guide us no matter where we are or how hard the situation is.” In the time of pandemic, Francis encourages his schoolmates to attend the mass even online. “I learned from our priest that the more we attend the mass, the more we feel happy,” said the lay minister. Francis showed that there are a lot of ways to become closer to our Lord. That Sunday when he was brought by his grandmother to the church led him to a great form of glory which is serving Jesus. And he will continue to serve Him joyfully as one of the youngest lay ministers of the Parish of the Holy Family.

Attend online holy mass. Scan the code to follow and subscribe to Parish of the Holy Family, Lancaster New City.

features

the estoile

Covid-19 Pandemic may have limited people to interact with each other, but a community inspired by God have always been and will always be seeking ways to serve Jesus and His people. In celebration of the 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines, The Estoile features three stories in the community which prove that nothing can hinder the people of God to share their talents, time and resources. In response to Pope Francis’ message to Filipinos, we say that we are all ‘missionary disciples,’ we have Jesus as our ‘source of joy,’ and we are ‘gifted to give.’

YNIARHELLA MENDOZA

Shine for Jesus

How the students, parents, and teachers in Parish Performing Arts Club use their talents to glorify the Lord

hen Jamie Rivera said in her song, “To your mission, Lord, We give our yes,” students, parents and teachers who are members of the Parish Performing Arts Club of St. Edward School say also “Yes” in keeping up in to glorify Jesus through their talents in dancing and singing.

For these community artists, it is a work of the Lord on how they are able to virtually “move as one” when they do choreographies for the Church and other performance arts tasks, for they know that they are gifted the talents to give. DANCING AS A FORM OF PRAISE Mr. Aries Aguirre, the club moderator, said that these talents are all for the purpose of “spreading the gospel through sing and dance interpretation.” He sees the club as an opportunity for students, parents and teachers to be united in “the mission of giving all the glory to Jesus Christ, and the vision to inspire the community with the words and messages of the Lord through song, music and interpretative dance.” In an interview, Teacher Aries said it is Psalm 95:1 saying, “Oh come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!” that gives him and the community artists the inspiration to be “united to praise and worship the Lord.” Teacher Aries has been in the service for the Lord as a moderator to young students in singing and dancing since 2017. “Parish performing arts club is created to perform such activities like singing and dancing to glorify the Lord. I used to serve the Lord by being a devotee and participating in every church activity.” “These are my inspirations to continue my passion by Watch the dance performance of the Parish Performing accepting and handling the Arts in celebration of 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines. Scan the QR code or go to bit.ly/PPADance Parish Performing Arts which is the combination of my faith and Everyone is gifted a talent to give. Be an artist for the Lord! Join the Parish Performing Arts Club. Send a the things that I love to do,” he message to Teacher Aries at aries_aguirre@ses.edu.ph. added.

DANCING WITH MOM TO HONOR JESUS Lucienne Eunice Garcia, Grade 4 student and one of the artists, said that through the Parish Performing Arts, she gets to enjoy “dancing to praise Jesus” with her mother. “I enjoy dancing with my mom because I see that she really supports me in everything that I do,” said Lucienne. “I am so grateful to have a mom that is very caring and supportive to her daughter.” Lucienne has been dancing since her Kindergarten years, and now uses the talent for the Church. She recognizes that Jesus gifted her the talent, so she now uses it to glorify Him. “My mom taught me some dances,” said the young artist. “I am proud po that the Lord gave me the talent of dancing po, so I use this to give Him praise.” She also said that before dancing, Teacher Aries would share about the Word of God, for it is the way for every artist to realize that the talents they have come from Him. “Be grateful for the talents that the Lord has given. Use these talents to honor God by letting them practice it if they are still not good. It is okay for them to make mistakes because I know that they could still do better than that,” Lucienne concluded. With “some members of our community who are being hopeless, losing faith and courage in their lives because of the trials that they are experiencing during this time of the pandemic,” Teacher Aries said that Parish Performing Arts has become an inspiration to everyone that “we can serve the Lord in different ways.” Teacher Aries said that they will continue to “sing and dance to the grace of the Lord” as their way of “spreading the Word of God virtually.” “We encourage other members of the community to serve Jesus in different and safe ways amid the pandemic,” Teacher Aries concluded.

10 features Vol. 6 • No. 1

August 2020 - April 2021

The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School–Grade School

Our Teachers, Our Vloggers Edwardian teachers’ quest to impart knowledge through EducVlogs

ovid-19 has changed a lot of ways in our living including the way we learn. Our homes now serve as our classrooms, that is why three Edwardian teachers, Sir Aries Aguirre, Ms. Mary Grace Villarta, and Sir John Emmanuel Pascua, thought of easiest access for students to learn even at their own homes through EducVlogs.

SPEAK IN FILIPINO WITH CHER ARIES VLOGS Sir Aries Aguirre began his vlogging by uploading typical entertainment vlogs such as song cover, dance cover, Mukbang and other adventures with his colleagues and friends. When the pandemic happened, His channel on YouTube changed and transformed into a classroom with his EducVlogs teaching Filipino subject. Students now learn about Panguri, Pangngalan, and Mga Bahagi ng Pangungusap through his vlog. Vibal, a publishing company, even used one of his videos for their #TeachTogether, an online advocacy in reaching out students who just stay at

home. The video now has over 70,000 views which help students and teacher learn about adjectives (pang-uri). Recently, Sir Aries received his Google AdSence which enables him to earn money from his vlogs. But more than earning the money, Sir Aries is always after the learning of the students as he advocates Filipino language and literature. BEGINNING READING WITH FANTASTIC TINY READER Edwardian Kindergarten teacher Mary Grace Villarta is recently extending her classroom in teaching Kindergarten students through her Youtube channel – ‘Fantastic Tiny Reader.’

Through her videos, a Kindergarten student will learn phonics reading that helps children in speculating sounds of the letters in the alphabet with the words they read. She published her first video on January 3, 2021 that teaches ‘CVC words with short A – sound.’ Ms. Villarta established in her vlog to “help your little one become a fantastic reader," enjoy the benefits of reading, improve language skills, and cultivate imagination. Watching and Discovering her videos will enhance learners in this way of learning during this pandemic with Teacher Grace's pleasant and soothing voice as if you are in a real classroom.

LEARNING HISTORY WITH JOHN DOMINGO VLOGS Sir John Emmanuel Pascua, an Araling Panlipunan teacher is recently teaching students Social Studies through his EducVlog

DIANNA REYES MAXENE HAYDEN JARIN Channel, “John Domingo.” The Philippine – American war and the Mock Battle of Manila, his first EducVlog, apprises about Filipinos’ loss to Spanish afterward is the war between Americans and Filipinos. He clearly explains various topics in social studies. Watching and learning from his videos will both help you and Sir Pascua in this alternative way of learning. Recently, some students from different schools expressed their gratefulness to Sir John for his EducVlogs because in a way, his videos served as their reviewers in their upcoming examinations. Subscribe to his Youtube channel – John Domingo, like his videos and ring the notification bell to notify you with updates. The new normal of school may take place now outside the classrooms, but teacher never lose their passion and creativity in educating young minds.

TikTok’s Talented Hokage SYDNEY RAMIREZ

How Teacher Marlon a.k.a Naruto Uzumaki ranked as TikTok’s rising star in the country

hile it cannot be denied that this year has been disastrous for many Filipinos – the Taal eruption, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the string of typhoons, there is the online platform TikTok to spread happiness and inspiration during the trying times. More than that, TikTok has been of help to many communities as it becomes a platform to raise funds for donation drives and many are using it to raise awareness on certain social issues. As TikTok looked back on the year 2020, it recognized Filipino creators who have used their creativity and talents into enjoyment as well as learning. Edwardian MAPEH teacher Marlon Rodriguez, known as Naruto Uzumaki on TikTok, is one of the app’s

TIKTOK HELPS ME IMPROVE MY SKILLS AS I GROW AS WELL IN MY PROFESSION.

Follow Naruto Uzumaki on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@naruto0919. Photos courtesy of @naruto0919

ten Top Rising Stars as he ranked sixth on the list. Teacher Marlon started making videos in September 2019 as his past time after the day’s work as a teacher. However, not only to unleash his talents which are dancing and

fingerdance, was he also inspired by a TikTok star to make videos. Moreover, he never dreamt of being famous, he only continues to make videos as to inspire people in every country. In an interview, he said, “The reason why I have mask is because I want everyone

to recognize my talent, and not my physical appearance.” He has now 4.9 million followers. He said, “It’s an unexpected journey of me as a Naruto in TikTok. I didn’t know that my followers will grow so fast.” “I’m so happy and feel blessed. TikTok helps me improve my skills as I grow as well in my profession. And I am definitely happy and contented,” the TikTok star added. Among the list are Andrea Brillantes, Vice Ganda, Maja Salvador, and other rising stars such as Sili Queen, Audrey Despues and Criselda Alvarez.

features

August 2020 - April 2021

St. Edward School–Grade School

JERARD PONZ LABRADOR • Cartoon by: JOSIAH MIGUEL DILINILA

ou might be asking yourself. Is studying online hard? Does it need the same amount of dedication as the face-to-face class? What are the best tactics for studying in online learning? If so, you’re in luck! In this article, I’ll share five useful study tips for online learners that will improve your learning. Create a clean and organized study space. The first step to better learning is to make a dedicated workspace. Wherever your study space might be, what matters is that you are comfortable and there are no distractions. Also, make sure that you are in an area with a fast internet connection. Having a slow internet connection may be the cause of lagging. Setting up a learning environment will also help you become organized. Knowing where your notes, books, and notebooks will keep you on track to reach success.

Eliminate all distractions. During the online class, you

will face many distractions that can hinder your studying. Social media can distract students and make learning harder. The best thing to do is to lessen these distractions and to put aside time to focus. Distractions can also take form physically. Loud sounds from your neighbors can distract you as much as social media. The best thing to do is to tune out the noise or to stop the noise directly.

Discover how you learn best. Each person has different ways to accomplish work. Some students learn best in the morning while others are night owls. There is no right or wrong way to study or accomplish work. It’s up to you to find out which you prefer best. Not everyone learns the same way too, so find out what type of

Seeing reality in the fictional worlds A book review of

“The Little Prince” TIFFANY MOON BARCEBAL

Vol. 6 • No. 1

Five Hacks The Official School and Community Publication of

for a successful online learning

information works best for you. If you’re a visual learner, for example, you may learn best with graphs and charts. An auditory learner? Sound recordings may help you study better.

Practice time management. The freedom to do tasks at your own pace is a good aspect of online schooling. But without good time management skills, that appeal can become detrimental. Without it, you might find yourself procrastinating and cramming assignments at the last minute. Though how you manage your time will depend on you and your learning style. You just need to set goals.

prioritize wisely, set a time limit, take breaks between tasks, and plan ahead.

Taking breaks is important. If you run out of ideas or get stuck on a project, take a break. Walking outside, taking a short nap, and talking to a friend can all help you re-energize and even give you new ideas. The Covid-19 pandemic has made online classes more popular than ever. Online classes might have their own unique challenges, but following these 5 tips will ensure success, even in the most stressful times.

any adults are very busy with their jobs, and they always have so many responsibilities. Some of them don’t even have time to do other things and to enjoy life to its fullest. They might have also forgotten how to find happiness through things in life since they have no time to do so.

While reading The Little Prince, by Antoine de SaintExupéry, I discovered characters who are very alike with people in the real world. Some of them are the little prince who’s very curious and the very busy businessman. The lamplighter whose job never ends, and the tippler who spends all his time drinking to forget his problems. When the little prince visited the other planets, he met different kinds of grown-ups. They were all different, but they had something in common. They focus too much on their jobs, and they only have an interest in figures. They are always busy with matters of consequence. They don’t have the chance to do other things and have fun, for they are always busy with those things. Their lives are dull and monotonous. Everything doesn’t need to be always about figures or work. If we’re too serious about our job, we won’t have time for ourselves. Like the lamplighter

and the businessman, they had no time to dream or rest because they took their jobs too seriously. Even if our work never ends, we should still take a break. It’s important to have time to appreciate other things in life once in a while. When the little prince told the pilot about the catastrophe of the baobabs, I was also reminded that we must be disciplined, and we must do our tasks early. The baobabs start by being little. But when you don’t get rid of them as early as possible, they will grow into big trees, and they will split the planet into pieces. It is very dangerous and will cause you a lot of problems if you are lazy. If you attend to it too late, you’ll never be able to get rid of it. Another thing the book taught me is love. The prince said that he would rather choose his rose than the other roses, even if the roses were just the same and as beautiful as his rose. His rose is just like our parents. There might be hundreds of parents that are just like my parents, and

they might even be better than mine. But I would still choose my parents over them, for they are the ones who took care of me, and whom I spent my time with. They are my parents, and they will always be more special than the hundreds of parents out there. “It’s the time you spent on your rose that makes your rose so important.” After reading the book, I learned that it’s okay to enjoy life and laugh for a while. We must see the value and beauty of things in life, just like how children see them. Just like when the little prince told the pilot about the stars. For others, stars are guides, while for others they can just be no more than little lights in the sky. But we don’t always have to see it like that. The prince told the pilot that he, only he, will have stars that can laugh. We have to look through our hearts for us to truly see. “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.”

Share your poems or stories with us. Be published! Visit our official website: https://sites.google.com/ses.edu.ph/ sespublications/home

literary Bye-rus soon MHIEL JULIANNE OLAES

ALPHA CLAVIDO AND LIXIA VENTENILLA

A place so good and so bright, A person who finds the shining light; Having fun with your loved ones oh so fine, But stuck in the house for a little while.

2020 wasn’t great, People started to hate. When we tried to make things better, It all spices up like pepper.

Our families and friends are still connected, But it feels like we were in a place that is separated; Every problem has a time and right solution, But this time Covid-19 has made an enormous evolution.

The bushfires in Australia started it all off, And Tasmania started to cough. The people are tired, bored and depressed Then a virus showed up, and it kept to press. Our lives are at stake, 2020 is a poisonous lake.

A mankind’s actions are sometimes reflected, But why are some people getting rejected? Our love for many is filled with kindness, Our lives want to have the same happiness.

This year is dark, it will give us a bad mark. But we will shine this place up with hope while we stay here, trying to cope.

Online Class WENDY AISHI A. SARCILLA

In technology students cling today, We have to endure while there is no solution; This is just the way to learn now, It is important to continue education. Is online learning the new way? Mandatory or not, it’s a good way; Make it as an excuse that will be an obstacle for our future, Let’s study together in a new process. It’s hard to be true, Even teachers are struggling too; But I know we can do it, We need to keep up and face it. Let us trust in the Lord Almighty, That it will pass and will not last long; Someday we’ll go to school physically, In the meantime, let’s study at home happily. Oh how I miss our school festivals back then, Hope that we can do these next year again; Let us always pray to the Lord; He is our refuge and stronghold.

We want our frontliners, doctors and other health professionals to be safe and happy, But they need to help the ones who are unhappy and unhealthy; Covid-19 has made a giant impact in our lives, It’s already separating all of us when the virus arrives. We have a purpose in this world, So virus, don’t make us waste it; Our lives are made with love and joy, But your infections made it sad and destroyed. We are facing this with unity, As we will rise for eternity; This may be the biggest challenge yet, But in us, we believe that we are going to be okay in this planet. Students are facing their new way of school, Some students think that online class is cool; But it’s actually pretty hard to encounter, Since we are not used to this kind of platform. This might be hard for us to understand, But this world is the reality that expands; This world is the place we ought to live happily, But the virus is already spreading rapidly. We are strong and brave, Knowing that we can be saved; We will rise again just like our heroes, We will be free again from this destroying virus.

literary

August 2020 - April 2021

The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School–Grade School

Vol. 6 • No. 1

DropYourEdwardian SuperpowerChallenge The logo of St. Edward School shows how every Edwardian as a servant leader. If given a chance to be a leader in a community, which of the following superpowers would you use, and why? I would use the power of FISH because we can teach others how to share the word of God and teach them to be closer to God. I want everyone to have a great relationship with God. We can show integrity and stewardship by the help of God. With His help, we can also be a hardworking person, that’s why I pick FISH. • Timothy John Macaballug, Grade 6A

I’d rather be honest than being impressive, therefore I choose the crown that symbolizes integrity because overcoming challenges are not something we just boast rather it is how we behave when no one’s looking. Committing to do the right thing is the biggest flex of all. • Dianna Joice Reyes, Grade 6A

I choose leaf to become a steward because I am inspired by God who gives us blessings. He helps us when we are in need and helps us to pass through the hard times and many more. Wherever you are, He is always there for us. He never leaves us and will never abandon us. Just like Him, I want to become a steward for other people. • Sydney Ramirez, Grade 6C

I choose the feather quill because I show hard work and diligence in studying. I also do my best to make my classmates behave, and I help them with their problems whenever they have one. If they need something, I’m always happy to help my classmates and the Edwardian community. • Jon Rei Aguinaldo, Grade 6D

Bible and His Teachings FRANCESCA MARGAUX TULAO

I The Bible has big teachings, About God and his people. Flip through your Bible and start reading, As it can help you do no evil. II By reading the Bible you grow spiritually, You grow closer to God as you read faithfully; If you don’t do any bad, Then God won’t be sad.

Photo by Francesca Margaux Tulao

III The Bible heroes can inspire you With the faithful things they do; You can learn to be humble and God fearing, And can help open your eyes on the Sins we are doing. IV With the Bible, you can learn to be good, And you act how God’s people should. By reading the Bible you can learn How to be the good person God yearns.

14 science Vol. 6 • No. 1

August 2020 - April 2021

The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School–Grade School

Combatting the virus: Ways to keep safe from Covid-19 MICKYLA TORRES

he Coronavirus disease has taken a toll on all of us. It took a lot of lives and negatively affected people’s source of living. Scientists said that the virus can be brought to other people when one does not even know that he has it. The virus can enter through our eyes, mouth, and nose before running through our body. Since then, the countries have been on lockdown and people are not permitted to go outside without a quarantine pass, especially children.

But what can we do to protect ourselves from the virus? There are many ways to do so, and some of which are the things that I learned from my parents and from the recently held “ALLIES” Webinar sponsored by our school’s Student Affairs Council with our school nurse, Rhitz Antonio, as the speaker. 1. WASH YOUR HANDS. This method is very much simple. All you have to do is wash your hands properly with soap and water for twenty (20) seconds before rinsing. Some people prefer

to sing the “Happy Birthday” song two (2) times instead, but that can also work as well.

protected from exposure of the virus. Think of it as a barrier that shields you no matter where you go. By staying home, we can avoid meeting other people who might carry the virus.

2. WEAR A MASK AND FACE SHIELD. A mask and face shield must be worn every time someone goes out of their home. They are to protect their nose and mouth from droplets that bring the virus into the body. There are some people who disobey this rule, but they are the ones who are most likely to be infected.

4. ALWAYS DISINFECT. Most people think that disinfecting is only when you have an open wound, but this can also be done in another situation. Imagine you went outside your home and just came back after a long day. Before entering, you must apply alcohol or other disinfectants to your hands. This is also a rule to follow before touching someone or something.

3. STAY AT HOME. Being inside your own home means that you are

5. CHANGE YOUR CLOTHES UPON RETURNING HOME. This rule is not

Doc Willie Ong on aortic aneurysm: If left untreated, it will cause sudden death MAXENE HAYDEN JARIN

he tragic death of Christine Dacera, 23-year-old flight attendant at Philippine Airlines, happened at Grand Hotel Makati City recently headlined while many were welcoming 2021.

The initial autopsy says that it was ruptured aortic aneurysm that caused her death. Cardiologist Willie Ong in his Facebook live video explained the causes and risks of having ruptured aortic aneurysm. “’Pag aneurysm, ibig sabihin, lumolobo [aorta], so ‘pag lumolobo hindi maganda, baka mapunit ‘to,” Dr. Ong said. Aortic aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge in the aorta, the large artery that transports blood from the heart through the chest and torso. “‘Pag pumutok ang aortic aneurysm, ‘pag hindi ginamot, 100% mamamatay,” warns the cardiologist. Therefore, its treatments are either surgery or stent-graft, a synthetic tube-like device to replace a part of an artery that has weakened and swell. Through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or CT scan you would be able to find whether you have this illness. Might as well, if a person feels or experiencing any of the symptoms, it is best to see a doctor for proper examination. Dr. Ong furthers that the pressure of blood pumping can split the layers of the artery wall which will eventually make the blood leak in between them. This process is called dissection. While ‘ruptured’ is a sudden burst that causes the internal part of the body to bleed. Other causes of ruptured aortic aneurysm are hypertension, trauma, genetic factors, infection in the aorta, cocaine use, atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. Some of its symptoms are shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweaty, pale clammy skin, and fainting or passing out. Dr. Ong said that there are ways that can help reduce risks of aortic aneurysm. Treat and control high blood pressure, treat other heart conditions such as high cholesterol, stop smoking, exercise Photo courtesy: UNTV daily, and eat a heart-healthy diet.

only supposed to be followed by frontliners; it must also be followed by other people. It is suggested to take a bath once you come home and change your clothes immediately. This assures you that when you were unknowingly exposed to anyone with the virus outside, you will not spread the virus inside your home. 6. EAT HEALTHY. Our immune system must be strong in order to have a lower chance of getting the virus. Eating healthy food and even exercising daily can help with this. It can strengthen our body in different ways and you might even start to notice it in your daily living.

Love your life, avoid the virus

here are more ways to prevent exposure from the Covid-19, but it is all determined on how you take care of yourself, the people around you, and your home. Life can be very risky nowadays and it is important that we hold it with us every chance we get. In CALABARZON, there are 132k cases of Covid-19, 101k cases of recovery, and 1,665 deaths as of March 2021. One of the fewer cases happened to a good friend of mine; his is name Carter Cortes, a survivor and a current honor student from his school. We can describe him as very reckless and carefree most of the time. This is what led him to the exposure of the virus because he did not follow the protocols. He was admitted on September 19, 2020, but he is now a healthy student with high grades and is about to graduate from Grade 6. The virus does not negotiate like a game; it is very fatal to our lives and many people suffer with it everyday. Most would survive, but others sadly pass. Therefore we should always follow the rules given to us, because if not, we have a higher chance of leaving our loved ones early. Think about life as the symbol of Yin and Yang. Both are equal and without each other, there is no balance. Life is the beautiful lie, while death is the painful truth. Think of life as a game that as we keep going forward, we succeed in new levels until we reach the finish line. Most people get to this end very early, but it is mostly because of their own reasons. Think of death as the finish line,

your ending piece and the last level to your journey. No matter what you do, it is still going to end the MICKYLA TORRES same way. People who died due to the Coronavirus find their ending very early. That is why we must follow all the protocols to ensure our safety with others. And maybe soon enough, we can free our world from this tragic episode. Who knows? Maybe someday it is only a story in our history books, it is a story told to those who were not here with us at the time; it is a story that shows that we survived. But the only way we can be able to tell this story in the future, is if we keep ourselves safe. Life is not something we should waste, it is short and we must make the best of it no matter what.

holdon

LIFE IS NOT SOMETHING WE SHOULD WASTE, IT IS SHORT AND WE MUST MAKE THE BEST OF IT NO MATTER WHAT.

science

August 2020 - April 2021

The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School–Grade School

Vol. 6 • No. 1

Earth hour must be every hour

n March 27, 2021, we all took part in the Earth Hour with all individuals encouraged to turn off all lights from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm and as encouraged in our school and community. It brings awareness and unites everyone to take action on energy conservation and environmental protection. It is also important that we utilize energy wisely and refrain from putting it to waste. Not only can we preserve energy through Earth hour, but there are numerous yet simple ways we can do it.

keepup MAXENE HAYDEN JARIN

IF WE DON’T TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION, THE WORLD’S SITUATION MAY WORSEN EVEN FURTHER.

There are times we may find our electricity bills increasing. It might be caused by the overuse of appliances. Therefore, to avoid this difficulty, we can minimize the usage of appliances to prevent unnecessary use of them. Moreover, turn off or unplug appliances when it is not in use. Not only can you save energy, but you can also save money in reducing the cost of your electricity bills. Energy is utilized in various activities therefore it is important to our daily life. Being energy-smart or knowing how to use energy responsibly is important. If you were to travel somewhere near, avoid using fuel-consuming vehicles. Walk or ride a bicycle instead. In this way, you can save the environment and maintain good health. Additionally, instead of using lights in the daytime, why not use natural sunlight. As an Edwardian, I will show stewardship for the environment by recycling old materials into a new reusable product. Recycling also conserves energy by reducing the need to create new materials. Making products from scratch could be expensive and time-consuming due to the need to gather, transport, and refine natural resources such as paper, aluminum, plastic, and so on. Manufacturers can produce the same products with less energy and expenses by using recyclable materials instead of new natural resources. The environment provides us countless advantages and benefits. We can survive because of food, air, water, and other things given by our environment. However, some people are still being careless of their actions that may harm our surroundings. As time goes by, environmental issues arise. If we don’t take immediate action, the world’s situation may worsen even further. It is not too late to act, and if we work together in protecting the environment, we may be able to make a big difference. Whether it might be a small or big act, this will help for the earth’s well-being.

The neighborhood of Kensington 17 in Lancaster New City Cavite teams up to conduct cleanup in the community as part of the World Cleanup Day in September 2020. Photo by: Galing LNC

Restoring Earth through Community Cleanup: Kensington 17 neighborhood on the go! MA. ERICH CHARLENE BARNES, SYDNEY RAMIREZ

s we go through this pandemic, organizers have postponed mass gatherings that include National Mountain Cleanup where Larga Vista Mountaineering group belongs. However, in KS17, people assured that no time should be wasted. Since the task did not continue, Jennifer Isidro Hallig, homeowner and member of Larga Vista, thought that Kensington (KS) 17 neighborhood should join the World Cleanup Day. Together with the help of the lead hiker, they were able to set the new mission in the KS17 annex park. This activity was done on September 19, 2020. “Because of the World Cleanup Day, we were able to do a significant amount of work using

our strength and effort to help our community,” Jennifer said. Jennifer, along with the people who also helped clean, was filled with joy when they saw the kids playing around, elderly people relaxing at the park. They felt that their hard work was well worth it. Moreover, the reason why they were overjoyed is because Philippines was acknowledged by the World Cleanup Day International. Though for Jennifer,

it cannot be compared from the happiness she and her colleagues feel upon seeing their neighbors relaxing on the mission they have done knowing that they have used their time and skills in saving Mother Earth. Jennifer also invites everyone to start cleaning their own respective yards in such a way that we can see them neat. This habit shows that unity can help the environment even in the time Covid-19.

NEWFOUND ECOFRIENDLY HOBBY

rs. Marry Ann Austria, an Edwardian parent, did not waste scrap wood at home, and she turns it into a shoe stand. It took four days for her to finish the project. Mrs. Austria who wants to make their home more organized and minimalist was delighted upon seeing her family’s shoes placed on her DIY stand. Photos by: Lance Miguel Austria, Grade 6A

What are the suggestions of the Edwardians to save energy? Here are some of them.

EDWARDIANS

SUGGEST

We can save electricity by turning off unused lights and appliances, minimizing our use of electricity consumption, or even just turning off the faucet. These little actions can affect our world a lot, and by affect our world I mean help it a lot.

It is simple by just turning off the light, appliances, faucet, and many more that you don’t need or if no one is using it. Energy and water conservation are indeed needed. If we don’t conserve, we might suffer from climate change.

Spreading awareness is very important. I hope that by next year, more people will get to know about the advocacies of Earth Hour. I also hope that many people will use this as a motivation to do better and to save Earth.

• Johann Sebastien Villamarin, Grade 6D

• Emanuelle Nathan Argueza, Grade 6A

• Annika Kaira Sarinas, Grade 6C

CELESTIAL GOODNESS AND NOBILITY The Official School and Community Publication of

St. Edward School––Grade School Vol. 5 No. 1 | School Year 2020-2021 August 2020––April 2021

For latest updates on the Edwardian community, scan the QR code or go to Facebook.com/SESPublications.

Prayer for the school and community By Francis Benedict Ebreo Grade 6 Student and Altar Server of the Church of the Holy Family, Lancaster New City Merciful and Compassionate Father, we come to you in our need to be safe from any danger, especially from the COVID Pandemic that has taken many lives. Guide the students and the children to become one with You and be with You. May they not lose their faith and not to give up. Lord, please guide the teachers, parents, frontliners that work hard for their family and the community. Guide all of us your people who are suffering right now because of the pandemic. May all of us find peace and unity with one another. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with You, in the unity with the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Illustration by: Denstle John Vargas