COSMOS
ELEMENTO vol. XLII no. 3 November 2021 ELEMENTO is the literary folio of SILAK Media The Official Student Publication of the West Visayas State University College of Education La Paz, Iloilo City
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Copyright 2021
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced without the written permission of the authors, illustrators, and publishers. Published by
SILAK Media
Ground Floor, Education Academic Bldg. (033) 320-0877 local (1906) silakinc@gmail.com
ABOUT THE COVER
Cosmos
Like flowers near the sidewalk, The repeatedly seen universe disguises itself As something ordinary – The cosmos likes to pretend being harmonious Enough to be captured in flowers Meant to be given by suitors hoping for love. In reality, we can only question the sentience Of the cosmos (the flowers and the Universe) As we humanize the stars that we use While we navigate the seas of our inner selves In search for connection In search for love.
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T
he early navigators looked at the celestial bodies for guidance as they went toward the horizon. It is through looking at the skies that humans were able to travel the globe to reconnect with other humans after being separated by vast oceans. We valued the stars so much that there was a time when we viewed them as gods. They seemed powerful enough to shape us though being in the sky when we were born. Thus, we look at the sky to navigate our minds, in search for our innerselves, in hopes of discovering our purest truths. Today, with the help of various belief systems, the stars are viewed as different things. To some, they are still gods, to others, they are but balls of flame, to a few, they are goals. For Silak Media, they remain to be our navigational guide. Because stars give us hope that no matter how far we go (and even we get lost) we will one day be home again. Or perhaps, build a better home where our stars lead us. Paul Aries Valera
Literary Editor
F O R E W O R D
9 10 10 1111 12 12 15 15
Aries Written in the stars The divide Celestial entanglement Scourge awakening Ode to unsung affairs The Creation
17 17 18 18 19 19 20 20
Taurus Box of Nightmares Constellations Unfazed
23 23 24 24 25 25 26 26 27 27
Gemini Ilaw Behind Bars The Sound of Silence A Sea of Deathbeds
C O N T E N T S 06 | Cosmos
29 29 31 31 32 32 35 35
Cancer Bilog na Buwan Prayer for the Stars Cursed with the gift of life
37 37 38 38 40 40 42 42 44 44
LEO Beware The 11th Sign’s Mettle Brave Soul A Falling Star
47 47 48 48 50 50 53 53
VIRGO Dancing with the Wind Are you one with the stars Chess
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57 57 58 58 59 59 60 60
libra Dream Flying Pilipinas
63 63 64 64 66 66 68 68
SCORPIO Wise women say I am you Red
71 71 73 73 74 74 75 75 76 76
Sagittarius Like the rain Pakikipagtuligsa Pandemya kay Ina Home
79 79 80 80 81 81 82 82 83 83
Capricorn Reminisced controls Femme Fatale: Capricorn Mundane sins The Call
85 85 86 86 87 87 88 88
Aquarius Aquarius Girl’s Rebellion When would I Pamamangka
91 91 92 92 93 93 94 94
PISCES Simbang Gabi Motion Sickness The Puddle
96 96
Desiderata of a Teacher
C O N T E N T S
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ARIES
March 21-April 19 Ramming through dark skies To bravely pursue the shinning dreams Despite the endless challenges
written in the stars the stars brought us forth, to the stars we will return, this time, together.
the divide should I respect you? I paint with the hues of hope, while you paint with blood.
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celestial entanglement you are earth and I am moon, we’ll never be together as we drift apart
scourge awakening careful, my dear child for they whisper lies you will soon grow to believe COLLECTION OF SHORT POEMS - JB Ryan Babas
ode to unsung affairs Gone are the days where we share our love behind fabrics of the window curtains, between the corners where the shadows lie, to places where prying eyes bother us not. no more letters addressed to ghosts, no more clandestine rendezvous under the moonlight, in the dark no more secret languages only we understood, nor whispers only our souls could hear. the longing stares, the subtle caress of our hands, the tension, the feeling, craving to hold it proudly as you are mine. how I wish those robbed of the chances to show their love to the world would have a moment of time in our world, where we are celebrated adored, appreciated, validated, free from fear, of troubles and hate, even for just a minute, they could celebrate what they have concealed, hidden, repressed, and denied. we thank those who made the way for us to walk, to run, to fight for who we are, for who we love, for there is indeed, hope, for the brighter tomorrow, we have always dreamed of. - JB Ryan Babas
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Art by Deborah FAith Monsalud | 13
14 | Art by Paul Aries Valera
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The Creation Planet Earth. DECEMBER 2019. Clad in all-white, walking down the aisle, he whistles a subtle tune as he walks inside the room. Test tubes, microscopes, and specimens decorated the area. Hours and days and months of painstaking collecting of data paid off. THIS IS PERFECTDIABOLICALLY PERFECT, he proclaims to himself. Wicked laughter escapes from his mouth after perfecting a seemingly inhumane plan. He will become the ruler of the world. He will become the healer of the world. To the contrary, his tactics lured him. With fear and terror, he witnessed himself being devoured by the demon that he made. It was the beginning, sans lives. - Queenie Saludares
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TAURUS
April 20-May 20 Regal light slicing through the night Firmly grasping all hope – Chasing dreams on all fours
Box of Nightmares Once I fell into a deep slumber I found myself tiptoeing in an abyss of the unknown In a snap of time appears Pandora’s Box Drawing me nearer, I’m enchanted by its charm. The quietude whispered the box’s intent I’m enthralled by its bait of boundless dreams Like a tamed horse I started mouthing my heart’s desire Then one by one unfolds a vivid reverie. When I wished to take a break from the busy days It granted me a year-long vacation. When I wished to temporarily detach from the world of clamor It enclosed me in a monotony. When I asked to spend more time at home It made me stay there for good. When I asked to have some time alone It locked me up in dismal solitude. Fortunately, I’m roused from that nightmare Never wanted to fall from Pandora’s box’s spell I’d rather tread and toil in reality Than be confined in that ally of haunting dreams. - Dionessa Grace E. Galimba
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Constellations Iwas with you when you tried to discover the world, You were with me when I questioned the existence of everything, I showed you my insecurities, you showed me your fears, I taught you to be wise, you taught me to compromise. You see? we’ve created a universe entirely our own, A universe filled with our stories, our fears, and our love. But maybe we angered destiny, While we were busy trying to rewrite our own story, we may have rearranged some stars, So, she gave us chaos, the beginning of an end. I saw how destiny pulled us apart, And realigned the stars on her favor You see, When there’s chaos, there’s time. So she can have the beginning and the end, But, I will gladly love you in the in between Because my love, I will gladly lose every star in this universe, just so I could give you the moon on another one I would be okay even if I have to lose every battle in this lifetime, just so I could hold you and call you mine on our next one, - K.H.M
20 | Artwork by Deborah Faith Monsalud
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Unfazed
tolen glances, hidden gestures, uneasiness reigned the room. Almost everyone was hesitant to take an action or make a noise, perhaps they’re scared of the person at the center of the crowd. And as I continue to observe the place, my gaze landed on the thing that’s hung by the wall, and right at that moment, I found out what’s wrong. “So that’s the reason why.” I can’t help grinning with that thought, and without any hesitation, I raised my hand and uttered the words that I know everyone was dying to say for fear of the possible consequences. “MA’AM, TIME NA!” - Tres
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GEMINI
May 21-June 20 Curiously gazing at the night sky Like twin hearts longing to navigate the cosmos, And seek for the answers
Ilaw Ang kanyang pag-ibig, hindi kumukupas, Nagniningning, at hindi umaatras, Ginto'y nakatago, sanay sa dilim, Ihambing sa dagat, sobrang malalim. Lumbayin man siya, ang araw ay daratal, Anghel ay lulusong, hapis ay maiibsan, Waring puso nila, tuluyang naging bakal, Napapahikbi, kay bigat ng pinapasan. Guguho ang dampa, sakaling mawala, Titilaok ang tandang, siya'y maghahanda, Asahang sa tubig, hindi maisulat, Handa niyang mahalin, pati ang balikat.
Ang bukod-tangi, apoy na lumiliyab.
Nais ng lahat, mahawakan ang palad. Ang kanyang liwanag, hindi kumukurap, Nagmamahal, saang lupalop mapadpad. - Harmateo
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Behind Bars I lay next to an empty shell, the house’s coldness dripping in its floorboards whine pickled in the silence Bypassed melodies in the ridges of my skin music in the ballerinas in the darkness waiting for the lid to unclose Memories like a haunting playful laughter that died an aged guitar without strings air as thick as the tension between the world all are coming down in muffled grief If we remain in this chaos Only to hide, cover up I’ll fall asleep and never wake up again For mouths froze open Caged as if behind bars Voiceless and morose Is there any moment left for us? - Nickalaine Santiago
The Sound of Silence I would sit in the usual comfort or swing by in between the branches as the wind takes me to slumber I would usually stare at the ceiling with the deafening silence and calm mind or just scribble another poem, and hope to finish before the clock ticks its short hand By the time I fall asleep I can hear nothing but – the chirping of birds the rustling of leaves I can hear nothing but – the sound of silence and perhaps, I am rested. - Rosefel Iritz Maghuyop
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A Sea of Deathbeds Tragedies fell like a downpour from a grieving sky, Flooding us with pain. Then, the hospitals shrunk as the space were eaten by dead men, Killed by the unseen enemy. He crowned himself and went by many names, Corona, COVID-19, and death. In this darkness, there were men who rendered themselves as gods “Taking from those who have nothing, To give them who already have things!” But, they were not benevolent gods who sacrifice for salvation. They are immortal worms who eat even from the remains of the dying poor, Controlling prices. Their bellies expand faster than the universe. Drop after drop, and wave after wave, The sea of deathbeds took place. - Paul Aries Valera
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CANCER June 21-July 22
Dreamy lights painting the night sky – Telling sweet stories of yesterday As the wind sings tenderly
30 | ARTWORK “Bella en una Bestia” by 夜が明ける
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Bilog na Buwan Napakagandang pagmasdan ang bilog na buwan. Habang iniisip ang mga alaalang ibinaon na dapat sa nakaraan. Itong bilog na buwan ang nagsilbing takbuhan at naging kaibigan niya sa kanyang nararamdaman. Siguro, isang balde na ng luha niya ang nasayang sa taong hindi niya dapat iniiyakan. Sa katotohanang kailanman ay hindi siya kayang suklian dahil pareho sila ng kasarian. - Toonet
Prayer for the Stars My skin is a map of scars, but, in my body, they are my constellation of stars. I am the universe that rises and falls in a kaleidoscope of colors. But something of the world tried to murder the dreamer in me. Is this my destiny? I would rather choose the cosmos than this chaos, but I know that the voyage to peace is onerous, but it will be not without wonder; like the starry-night painted sky, I will never know unless I try. Do I have to be forever chained by the shackles of my past? I onced believed that everything should last. Give me hands to care for every flower, and I’ll do everything to not make it wilt and wither. I’m a Cancer not ready for the wreath of disaster. - Jay L. Delos Reyes
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Artwork by Rommelen Dema-ala | 33
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Cursed with the gift of life Dead birds singing out of tune, a child is born a month after June. Cursed with the gift of life, the child grew with the desire to die. Craving for a poison to quench his thirst, he is a bomb waiting to burst. The clock ticks as a reminder that life to him will never be kinder. Stars are painted in the blood-red sky, and he was tainted with their lies. He’s a fool for befriending the wise. now look at him, strangled with their ties. Life played him like a fiddle, and they left him stuck in the middle. He braved the storm alone, and witnessed the moon break another dawn. - Jay L. Delos Reyes
36 | Artwork by Essie
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LEO
July 23-August 22 Roaring over the cosmos Like a lion, protecting what it loves, Carefully watching at night.
Beware
In this fairytale version of my own once upon a time, my enemies combust into flames at my matte-coated smiling lips. Any prince charming who thinks he can save me is living in a daydream for I am the tamer of dragons. and a warrior princess born from the ancient witches’ magic. I am not meant to be a damsel locked in a tower for I am meant to break myself free and ride the dragon; what is there to fear when fire can tame fire? I am not meant to sit still, corset choking me lesser than stereotypes do for I am meant to lead armies with grit and grace without fear of the dark and the monsters of lore. I am not meant to stay calm and lose my voice at the sight of injustice for I am meant to shatter catastrophes with venom dripping smirks – an advocate for all the Medusas whose plea for justice were turned to stone. - Patricia Angela Gallon
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Artwork by Krizha Alaine Dela Serna | 39
The 11th Sign’s Mettle Trapped inside the four walls anguish roaming the hollows of my mind. Though I tried to sleep on it but it embraced me in my slumber until the morning light. Sighing, I sat on my desk asking: How long will this take? So combing for answers, I looked at the vast, blank page. We reside in an empty canvas. We choose what to fill. But where shall I pick up the barebones of my sketches? Flipping through the pages, I exist in a different sphere, escaping from the blue and grey I can be anyone that my heart desires. The scent of paper calms my spirit, casting my dismay and fears aside. Feeding my soul, I feel the courage I have found my sanctuary and light.
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Between fantasy and realism, I know I am alive. With wisdom, I feel found. and this, I must share. Pouring everything from within, I let my emotions flow and I allow myself to feel. So, this is how it’s like? Writing the final words, I become-As I hold my pen, I feel the power! This is my truth, my story my message to the world. To cope is to survive, and surviving is more than living, life may be uncertain but with hope, I will endure. - Erika Dela Rosa
Brave Soul The fire within burned the coward in me. Now, my soul’s all ablaze in bravery I always rise out of my ashes, out of my defeat for I know, I have the spirit of the glorious phoenix. Hope – as infinite as the sky, as bright as the sun that covers and outshines everything that hinders me from moving. I will face a hundred more battles, my quest is not yet done, as long as I am breathing, I will never stop fighting. I buried my fear deep down into oblivion. I can feel, there’s courage furiously burning inside my soul. I don’t need anyone else’s shield for my protection. I don’t need anyone else’s hand for me to hold. I am a warrior, I am the hero of my own world. - Stylo Casse
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Artwork by Deborah Faith Monsalud | 43
O
A Falling Star
thers call it hard work. She calls it fate. She is alone again lying on her warm bed—the only thing who knows all her dreams and secrets. It is time for her again to be intimate with the stars as she stares at them through her century-old broken glass window. It gives her comfort. It gives her hope. Until a luminous line was suddenly drawn in the serene sky. It was a falling star. She never wasted any moment and whispered her greatest dream to the celestial genie. “Wealth and power,” she whispered while putting her two palms together. That was the beginning of her life. She met a man who gave her everything a woman could ever wish to have— a majestic mansion, silk gowns, one-of-a-kind paintings, and elegant pieces of jewelry. The glitter on her luxurious shoe collection reminds her of the stars she used to look at when she was still 16. She cannot believe how she became the brightest star in an instant. The brightest, that her glow already blinded a lot of people, but she did not mind. She is willing to clean any bloodstain of her selfish deeds so as not to obstruct her radiance. She wanted all the loud, powerful, rebellious voices to be silenced, but the sound of an empty stomach ruled, and it was the only sound that mattered to her. Until the day she feared came. Her downfall. It is painful for her to watch her own light slowly dying when she knows she was once the brightest. She ran until no one could see her. She ran with dismay, shame, and anger. But she will be back and deceive everyone again by playing the victim. Others might call it a return, but she will call it a revenge. - Roger Sibag Jr.
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Artwork by Krizha Alaine Dela Serna | 45
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VIRGO
August 23-September 22 Mindfully watching the word While meticulously crafting tomorrow – Trying to build a perfect day.
Dancing with the Wind I used to dance with the wind what bliss when it screamed and thrashed against my face on bus rides and greenest heights; I have always danced with the wind how it flitted over my skin freeing my soul with it I was never tied down for I used to fly. But now even my breaths are trapped and my spirit with it with chains my hocks are bound, I despair and waste away in the emptiness of my room, all I could do is relish the memories when I floated and danced on the stars and climbed the highest sycamores. I twist and thirst for the taste of the wind I will never be tied down for I will breathe and fly. One day, I will dance with the wind again. - gabrielle faye
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Artwork by Paul Aries Valera | 49
Are you one with the stars? Are you one of the stars? clothed in darkness, shimmering and scarred. strong and bound lost and wounded waiting to be found Now, are you one of the stars? - tasyang
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Artwork by Deborah Faith Monsalud | 51
52 | Artwork by Krizha Alaine Dela Serna
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Chess
a tion sang doble bente nga numero, sa pagtulod sa piyesa sang chess, itom kag puti nga duag ang ga inaway. Amat-amat na nga nagakaubos ang pawn. Ilisipon nalang ang nabilin nga tore, bishop kag kabayo sang puti nga bahin, nga nagabato sa itom nga piyesa nga sa ila handa magkaon. Apang, matuman lang nga nagapahuway kag nagahulat ang reyna kag hari asta maubos sila. Wala sila may ginahimo agud matapna ang amat-amat nga pagkaubos sang ila mga piyesa. Ari na ang ginadumili nga katapusan, magalupog na gid man ang itom nga kaharian. - Queenie Saludares
54 | Artwork by Rommelen Dema-ala
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56 | Artwork by Essie
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LIBRA
September 23-October 22 Seeking to balance the chaotic cosmos – Scaling the value of peace That the world perpetually seeks.
Dream
There is a small memory that follows after the wind, a deep echo that spreads across the ears, ringing my bell. My beautiful bottomless heart, I’ll offer this to you, little by little. When the tips of our hands touch each other, put your eyes on me. If you hear my heartbeat, then holler louder! This is a drama that began in silence, spreading out the pieces you have treasured. The panoramic view of the season passes by once again, our unfinished story wondering if it’s a dream, don’t let it stop close your eyes and feel the moment. Like a star shining brightly from the depth darkness, anywhere, we will recognize each other’s face. The blinding spotlight, in your heart and mine, this brilliant moment that will forever shine. I tremble endlessly my feelings unchanging take my hand as I show you to a never-ending fantasia wind my heart up panorama. Take me to your dream, take on me. I don’t want to even miss a single tiny breath, I paint this clear on my memory: the twinkling starlight in your eyes. -
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夜が明ける
ARTWORK by 夜が明ける
Flying I would spread my arms as wide as I can and make a senseless whirring sound, Bend my body when making turn and playfully, I run around. It feels as though I am up there, above the headwinds, across the sky! I feel the cold air as it brushed on my face, and witness the sea of clouds as they passed by. I dreamed to be an air-rider and yearned to reach the zenith someday, Be a captain that travels by silver wings and explore uncharted lands so far-away. And I guess I made it come true as I have lifted my soul up in the air… Me, myself, but without my silver wings— a captain and a ship, going nowhere. - Jaya E. Elizarde
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Pilipinas Ang ningas ng pag-asa sa kanyang mga mata ay unti-unting naglaho, naging imahe ng kawalan. Pinalitan ito ng mga luhang tila ilog na walang pahinga sa patuloy na pag-agos. Ang dating alindog niya ay nawala; siya ay napagod, nanlupaypay. Boses niya ay puno ng daing nakakatakot, napapaos. Dibdib niya ay mailap sa hangin. Hindi makahinga. Naninikip. Sinupil siya ng malubhang sakit nakapanlulumo, nakamamatay. Ang dating kariktang mayroon siya, nilupig, binura, sinira ng hindi malabanang pandemya. - Queenie Saludares
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Artwork by Deborah Faith Monsalud | 61
62 | Artwork by Essie
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SCORPIO
October 23-November 21 Like a scorpion burrowing into the sand To remain hidden in mystery, Despite your charming light.
Wise Women Say I. your happy ending does not necessarily have to end with a prince charming kissing your lips. – it can be kings bending their knees in defeat.
II. “ i don’t want to be a queen, i want to be THE queen.” – why margaery tyrell is such a feminist icon
III. the prince charming isn’t always the right guy. – you should learn from the mistakes of Princess Anna of Aerendell.
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IV. everyone is fighting a battle on their own and if you choose to be a damsel in distress waiting for a knight to grab the sword for you, you might just end up as a dragon’s snack. – fiona was a different case V. you deserve a man who asks first before he takes away your first kiss. – i don’t believe in true love’s kiss. i believe in consensual kiss VI. it’s not true love if you just met and started singing in duet – fairytale’s shallow concept of love VII. all the villains were once heroes with unhealed trauma; yes, even the one who cursed aurora to her eternal slumber. – maleficent - Patricia Angela Gallon
I am you Linked by the stars together, bedecked on the universe’s infinite face swimming around in circles these flaming dusts flow through your soul’s currents and waves. you’re into listening, the sound of mystery and the unknown; obsessed with the rhythm of your own solitude oh solitude, your forever bold companion, your shield, your shining sword, and forever be the nature and atmosphere of your world. there is a voice echoing from within, leaving a footprint to each path that you take in, and with each spoor with destinations unsure, still, it is the chase that you chose to make, for you always emerge unafraid. the universe has forged you out of this unparalleled kind of courage through these flaming dusts on its infinite face you become that someone who dares to go within the realms that other souls do not ever dare embrace. - Stylo Casse
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Artwork by Marron Aerielle | 67
M
Red
y feet stepped on the coastline on a quiet afternoon. I enjoyed watching the beautiful sun slowly sink below the horizon. I closed my eyes as I heard the delicate singing of little waves as if it were a soothing lullaby. “Cyan!” As soon as I heard my name, I grinned. His lips curled as his eyes glistened. He ran towards me, waving his left hand, which was holding the most recent tabloid. “Today’s good fortune for Cyan and Red!” he said and happily unfolded that newspaper. I’m always afraid of unraveling the thread of the predictions whenever a newspaper horoscope column is published. Fortune-telling always leaves me in a state of befuddlement. It was already dark when my hair was blown around by the fierce wind, and the strands slammed my face into reality. Slowly opening my eyes, I gazed at the dazzling constellations.
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I still fancy those stars I need every dark evening during the Southern Hemisphere spring before. I raised my hand and traced the star patterns that would have provided answers to my questions concerning our fate. I always have hope for us-Aries and Aquarius make a great match. I lowered my hand and let a painful tear drop. I tossed the bottle carrying the seven-year-old tabloid inside into the unending sea. I have realized that reading our horoscope is never a smart idea. It only gives me false hopes. “Cyan!” Hearing that voice makes my heart race. When I turned around, I saw him waving a piece of paper in his right hand while his left hand was holding another hand. - liezxxx
70 | Artwork by Essie
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SAGITTARIUS
November 23 – December 21 Shooting for starry adventures – Looking towards a bright tomorrow As the arrows fly towards great dreams.
72 | Artwork by Rommelen Dema-ala
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Like the rain My dear, let go of the things you can’t control of the heaviness in your core and feel how soothing the downpour is. - Dagangkáhoy
Pakikipagtuligsa Walang mapaglagyan, Lungkot at hinagpis dulot ng mga pamamaalam Pandemyang umagaw ng maraming buhay Hindi patitinag, hindi paaawat. Bawat hakbang, kaakibat ay ligalig Bawat galaw, kalakip ay pag-iingat Sa kaisipang bukas makalawa, Sa pagamutan at hindi tahanan ang ating uuwian. Likas man sa atin ang matutong bumangon at lumaban, Hindi natin maiiwasang sa sarili ay magtanong, Kung sapat pa ba ang natitirang katatagan Sandata, sa mga susunod pang hamon at pagpupunyagi. Umiikot ang mundo sa paraang hindi kontrolado kahit nino. Bumabangon tayo upang makibaka, Gamit ang pagkataong subok na ng samu’t saring karanasan, Laban sa mapanghamong unos ng kasalukuyan. Marami man at marami pa ang daraan, Ating panindigan ang walang tigil na pag-ahon Sa trahedya ng buhay, Kailanman’y di tayo pasisiil. - Aimerine Montaño
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Pandemya kay Ina
T
ahimik ang paligid na tila nilamon ng gabi ang liwanag. Nagsimulang magkarera ang mga luhang hindi na niya napigilan ng maalala ang pinagdaanan. Nangangayat na siya noon at tila susuko na. Nitong mga buwan rin lang ay tinamaan ang kanyang mga anak nang nakapanghihinang sakit. Matamang nakipagbuno ang mga ito sa pandemya bago naputol ang kanilang huling hininga. Wala siyang magawa kundi ang magtangis. Mahina at nakakaawa. Maya-maya’y naglakbay ang kanyang paningin sa kaharap na salamin. Siya’y napatingin sa sariling pigura at nagsimula ang pagtangis ni Ina. - Queenie Saludares
I
Home
met June years before the war took the world by storm. Our daily clandestine rendezvous by the edge of the forest was my refuge. In those moments, I did not fear what the world has to say. All that mattered was the us, men celebrating our love under the moonlight away from the eyes of the world. Honestly, June was the last person I thought I’d fall for. He was reckless and stubborn. There was not a single day he would visit the clinic where I worked, without a cut on his cheeks and sores on his fists. “Your name fills our daily logs,” I remarked as I carefully cleaned his cut. “You’re a magnet for trouble.” “You’d always be there to patch me up,” he smiled for a moment before wincing in pain as I plastered his cheeks. “Careful.” “Tell that to yourself,” I pressed his nose and he winked in return. Maybe it was the way he leaned into my touch every time I tended to him. Or maybe it was the way he stared at me while I look at his stitches. There was something about his smile as he walks out the door. Before I knew it, my heart was his. “Do you always get into fights so you could see me?” I teased. He was laying on my lap, eyes closed and grinning proudly. We were under the star-studded sky on a bed of grass. “Not entirely,” he giggled. “Someone has to fight the bullies.” “Playing hero only gets you hurt.” “The pain will be worth it. I help save people in need and I get to see my love.” “Sappy, aren’t you?” “You love me anyway.” He was right. I love him so much. However, the thought that I may never see his stupid little face or hear his annoying laughter or feel his warm embrace or inhale his familiar aroma kills me. “Do you have to go?” my voice cracked into a whisper as I hold in my tears. “I promise to return,” he sat up and cupped my face. “Just stay at home for me, alright?”
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“But you are my home,” a tear fell and he was quick to rub it away. “You are my home!” June took a deep breath. “You are mine too,” he softly spoke. “You are my anchor. You are my all. You are every other reason for me to return. Because what we have is special. A love unlike the world has ever seen.” “You need not to go.” “I have to. I am doing this to protect you. I want to help make this world better for the both of us.” He said goodbye through a gentle kiss in the dark, for when the dawn breaks, he will not be able to hold me like husbands to their wives as they bid them away. For us, we have to take every chance of expressing our affection while we remain hidden because the moment we step out there, we will be nothing more than great friends. I waited. Weeks turned to months, and eventually, a year. The daily Newspapers stacked at the corner of the clinic since he went. I read every news concerning the frontlines. A couple radios gave up because I didn’t dare turn them off. “I hope your friend made it,” the clinic’s doctor mentioned. He handed me today’s paper. “War’s over! We should celebrate, we won!” I could not celebrate. Not just yet. Not until he comes home to me. The next day, when I entered the clinic, June’s father sat by the front desk. “Steven,” he stood when he saw me. “Sir, how may I help you today?” I kept a smile despite my insides collapsing on themselves. I’m afraid I will not be ready to hear what he’s here to say “I know you and June shared a friendship like you were brothers.” he swallowed and bit his lip, hesitating. “He’s gone, isn’t he?” His father’s head dropped. But he regained his composure. “The notifying officer wanted us to know something.” “And that is?” My voice almost cracked. “That in his last moments, he said he thought of his home.” - JB Ryan Babas
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CAPRICORN
December 22- January 20 Persistently swimming through darkness – Determined to face challenges Head on, with heavenly horns
Reminisced controls I thought things were in control but the shrieking sirens and muted cries furnished me a child’s greenly appetite or a fifty’s thirst for iron-tarnished juice. I thought things were in control Yet I grasped the air and choked by choice. Things before were not in tangled looms Reckless weaves were thought-of souvenirs And the steps I took brought me close to life’s regalia Today, instead, I tread an inch close to a tight-lid box’s identical faces. The life I planned intricately in details Turned to post-its on said lifeless walls. Stumbling and struggling to regain focus when the world forced you to walk in fine-hair twine now, I thought, I am no longer in control. - Marron Aerielle
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Femme Fatale: Capricorn I didn’t come here to bend the knee ‘nor shake hands after a glass of pomegranate juice. I didn’t come here to submit in peace beneath your stares, foolish to believe that my neck is safe from the edge of your sword. You can surround me with your knights and stab me all at once like the fall of Julius Caesar and dance in the pool of my blood. But oh, honey, I came here to burn your kingdom down with the fountain of ichor falling from my wounds until it’s too late for you to realize that I am made from the fires that burn the Underworld. - Patricia Angela Gallon
mundane sins Staring blankly ahead into a moving canvas, wonderstruck and mouth gaping in awe, fine edges seem untouched, edges though not mine yet I would covet and this part I would soon regret. Desire pushed me now I get it picturesque as you should not be meddled but etched hands that knew nothing soon realized why it’s not meant for something, for each spark in the near touch of you built something in this hollow soul while reaping from your abundance. A moving canvas with edges fine in details intricate as each line strokes one I yearned then soon covet a love, in vain, we regret. - Marron Aerielle
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The Call
M
y sister’s busy receiving calls. “Yes, ma’am. We can arrange it for you!” she said to the person on the other line. I let out a heavy sigh, took a sip of my morning coffee, and reached out for the phone that’s ringing in front of me. It is prom season so it is a bit hectic today. “Thank you for calling, MERC Flowers. My name is Eliya. How can I help you today?” “This is Amanda. Can I make a bouquet order?” inquired a lady. “Yes of course, you can. Have you seen the selections we offer on our website? Or do you want a custom bouquet?” “I want 16 red chrysanthemums for my daughter.” “Is there anything else you want to get?” “Uhm no, chrysanthemums will be fine.” “I’m sure your daughter will love them.” “Do you know what red chrysanthemums mean? It means love.” “Well, that’s right too.” She then added something unintelligible. “I am sorry, ma’am. Can you please repeat yourself?” “Nothing.” Puzzled, I continued. “Is this for pick-up or delivery?” “I am abroad for work, so delivery.” “That will be PHP 1,278. How would you like to pay your order?” She gave all the needed information. “What is the name and address of the recipient?” I asked to finish the transaction. I heard her take a deep breath and let out a long sigh, “Cian Galvez. Children’s Hospital of the Philippines Foundation Inc.” - Eliya
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AQUARIUS
January 21 – February 19 Creativity overflowing like water And your eccentric mind Dares to oppose the flow.
The Aquarius Girl’s Rebellion I am done serving kings inside tyrannical kingdoms trying to dominate a heart that craves to be an equal next to him. I am done comforting cold beds that will plunder all the warmth it can get without gratitude. Instead, I will visit my castle of broken glasses and dedicate my days to stitching my torn pieces back into one whole canvas. I will serve myself and strengthen my Queendom and no king can break me again. ever. and, finally, I will rule. - Patricia Angela Gallon
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When Would I? When would I? Muster up courage to tell my story uncover my mask shed light to the truth open up my darkest secrets call out someone’s wrongdoings choose myself too face my fears, expose recover heal When would I? - Janna Marie Deocampo
Pamamangka
H
indi na mabilang ang mga araw na kami ay palutang-lutang sa malawak na laot na ito. Walang tigil sa pagsasagwan si tatay para kami ay makausad kahit paunti-unti. Halos hindi na matanaw ang ibang namamangkang kasama naming lumisan sa aplaya. Araw-araw, halos magkapareho lang ang mga nangyayari. Ngunit tila naiiba ang araw na ito. Malakas ang pakiramdam ni tatay na may nakaambang panganib. “Kailangan nating ayusin ang bangka bilang paghahanda sa paparating na bagyo,” ani tatay habang tinatakpan ang mga butas sa aming bangka. “Hanggang ngayon, nagtataka pa rin ako kung dinadanas din ng iba ang hinaharap nating kalbaryo araw- araw,” pagtataka ni nanay. Napaisip ako sa kanyang sinabi. Magkapareho kaya kami ng karanasan ng mga kasama naming pumalaot noon? Marahil, iba-iba. Marahil, nakasampa na ang mga barko sa daungan. Baka ang ibang maliliit na bangka ay napasama sa mga hindi pinalad na lumubog o tumaob sa kasagsagan ng bagyo. Pwede ring ang iba ay kagaya naming sinusubukan pa ring magsagwan upang makaraos. Iyan ang walang katiyakan. Hindi pa rin mawari ninuman kung ano ang kahahantungan ng bawat isa sa pakikipagsapalarang ito. Ang tangi na lamang naming pinanghahawakan ay ang pag-asang matatapos rin itong paghihirap. Makakadaong din kami sa minimithing dalampasigan. Ngunit ang tanong, kailan? Kailan pa kaya makakarating sa pampang ang mga katulad naming ang tanging hawak ay sagwan? - Dionessa Grace E. Galimba
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PISCES
February 20 – March 20 Gently flowing towards your goal Despite being torn by your own duality. Your intuition leads to you to the right path.
Simbang Gabi
I
lang taon nang nagsisimbang gabi si Michael ngunit hindi nawawala ang sabik niya pagdating dito. Kaya naman minadali niya ang pag-ayos sa sarili. Punong puno ang simbahan nang dumating si Michael, kaya sa labas na lang siya nanatili upang makinig sa misa. Habang nakikinig kay Father, marahang ipinikit niya ang kanyang mga mata para damhin ang lamig ng simoy ng hangin. “Paskong pasko na talaga,” aniya. “Elle!” tawag sa kanya mula sa likod. Alam na alam na niya kung sino ito. Siya lang ang nag-iisang taong tumatawag sa kanya neto. “Ang tagal mo naman, kanina pa ’ko naghihintay,” sabi ni Michael. “Sorry mahal, late ako nagising. Bili na lang tayo mamaya ng maraming bibingka, okay?” sabi ni Yena, ang kasintahan niya. Napangiti na lang siya at sumang-ayon dito. Hindi naman niya ito kayang tiisin. "Ano ang hiniling mo mahal?” tanong ni Yena. “Hindi ko sasabihin, baka hindi magkatotoo eh,” pabirong sagot ni Michael. “Damot, yung sa ‘kin, sana humaba pa ang buhay ko para makasama ka pa nang matagal,” nakangiting tugon ni Yena. Nagtapos ang misa na sila ay magkahawak-kamay. Agad silang tumungo sa paborito nilang tindahan ng bibingka. “Oy, Michael, wala pa rin? Kay poging bata,” ani Aling Marites na may-ari ng tindahan. “Wala pa po, Aling Marites,” nakangiting sambit ni Michael. “Ganun pa rin ba?” tanong ni Aling Marites. Bibingka yung tinutukoy niya.
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“Oo naman po, hindi yun magbabago. Paborito namin ni Yena ‘to eh,” masayang sabi ni Michael. “Anak, miss na miss ko na ang batang ‘yon,” nakangiti ngunit malungkot na sabi ni Aling Marites. “Ako rin po, miss na miss ko na siya,” tugon ni Michael habang nakangiti at nakatingala sa langit. Napapikit siya para sana damhin ang simoy ng hangin, ngunit yakap ni Yena ang naramdaman niya. Ang imahe ni Yena habang nakangiti ang unang pumasok sa isipan niya. Ilang taon na ang nakalipas na hindi na niya kasama si Yena sa pagsisimba. Kaya ngayon, si Michael na ang humiling para sa kanilang dalawa. “Kung hindi po habambuhay.... sana sa kabilang buhay...” - Marsiell B. Francisquite
Motion Sickness A small screen signaled the end of my comfort, And all my desires are doomed from here on out. If only I could hide under the ceramics, And spend my days in simulated safety… But I never can. My head spins, and so do the wheels. The instability twists up my throat, And my fingers reach to roll down the windows. I think about our time in the terrace, When all was made clear - “yes, this is one of those endings”; Smaller scale, but similar to now. Close out all the openings, Lest the bolts hanging from the clouds sneak in. I have to admit, this was never in the plans. Never have I ever planned the world to break The meager myth of manageability That I fooled myself with. - Neil Lencio
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The puddle You offered to walk me home, but i had neither consent nor conversation. we passed by a puddle - you made it sound so deep you pushed me back, and my feet felt the concrete. beyond my silence, i wanted to ask “why not just rub your teeth against someone who truly wanted their life to be ruined?” and not hold the hand of someone who never wanted to wait by your door like a child coated in dirt? and yet there I was, wiping my face with my sleeve, waiting outside, waiting for attention, waiting for directions. and when all’s dead and done: we never should’ve met i’ll be looking from afar, observing from the outside there are tears in your window, and smoke signals from the chimney and i’ll be both happy and sorry, i left you like that. - Neil Lencio
Desiderata of a Teacher Go placidly amid the daily routine, and wait for the possibilities of the day. As far as possible without exception be on good terms with everyone. Speak your intent gently but convincingly, and listen; Even the most obscure and restless, they too have their stories. Avoid complaining and judging – they consume the spirit; If you compare yourself with others, you will never see your own worth, for each follows a path and traverses a journey; Find your voice and claim your place in the scheme of things. Keep interested in learning and new ways of thinking without counting the cost; It will keep you comfortably moving in the shifting times and seasons; Have fun, infuse joy and sincerity in dealing with students, for one act of kindness, a smile, an encouraging word may be all that they need to take on lenses with which to view themselves and the world. Be authentic, know yourself, be yourself; Know what you can and cannot do; For in the face of uncertainty and disillusionment The true and the good in you will shine through. Take kindly the counsel of your mentors, Humbly accepting the wisdom of their years; Nurture your students as you have been nurtured; Many of the young go as a wind without direction For their elders taught them lessons, not living; Be a spark, be a guide, be a companion. You are a teacher, you chose to be one You are no less than the other professions; You guide uncertain steps into strides of successes And though you may be unaware today The seeds you sow will grow abundantly. Therefore, love teaching; Love the humanity that it teaches you; You get tired, you are imperfect But it’s the Spirit that flows through you. - Fina Felisa Lavalle-Alcudia (Adapted from Desiderata by Max Ehrmann)
IN MEMORIAM
As we look up to the stars, may we remember Dr. Fina Felisa Alcudia — a mother, a teacher, a friend, and a former SILAK EIC and Adviser who now resides peacefully beyond the cosmos.
Acknowledgments
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To the people who helped us reach the stars, I am sending my gratitude to the following people for making this issue possible. First, to Marron, who connected the stars as we arranged this issue; this would have been chaos without you. To JB, for the guidance as we navigated the cosmos through each page; to Gab and Rose, for the opportunity to do so. To Ma’am Hazel and Ma’am Vanessa for being the mothers who nurtured our team along with the whole publication. To the contributors who shared pieces of their souls by contributing artworks and literary pieces. I hope that you all shine brighter than the stars in the darkness of the cold uncaring universe. Although I am unable to shake your hands nor offer an embrace, my heart yearns to travel in the speed of light and reach you. Though we can’t hear the resonating stars, I hope they shout about your great future! With a love that can hopefully reach the stars, Paul Aries Valera
SILAK Media
The Official Student Publication of the College of Education West Visayas State University COMMITTED TO DEVELOPMENT JOURNALISM
ROSEFEL IRITZ MAGHUYOP GABRIELLE FAYE TOLENTINO Editors in Chief MARIELLE ESPORTUNO DERYL SAZON RAIN JULIEN TUVILLEJA Layout Artists
JESSA DE LOS REYES JANNA MARIE DEOCAMPO Associate Editors SOPHIA ANGELA DOCENA NICKALAINE SANTIAGO Managing Editors
ROMMELEN DEMA-ALA DEBORAH FAITH MONSALUD Illustrators
MARRON AERIELLE BONOTANO News & Special Reports Editor
SHANNEN CASQUIO ERIKA NOREEN DELA ROSA RODEL PACIT ARLEEN JOY SUBONG MARK LAWRENCE ARTICUNA CHRISTINE JOY BADINAS MAY JOY OLMIDO ANGEL GRACE PALEC Junior Editorial Assistants
LORAINE CAMAGAN Features Editor RODEL PACIT Local Languages Editor QUEENIE ROSE SALUDARES Filipino Editor
PHYLLIS CLAIRE ZARRIZ DOROTHY JOY ESPIN MA. BEATRIZ NIÑA BARRANCO DIONESSA GRACE GALIMBA MA. TRISHA NICOLE VALDEZ AIMERINE MONTAÑO JOEY CAMILAO DIANNE MAE ESTOCADO PAULO BRYAN DAVID EUTHEL JHON FINLAC Senior Editorial Assistants
GIZELLE AMOUR TAGABI Sports Editor PAUL ARIES VALERA Literary Editor TONI GWYNETH BOLUSO RICHARD NEIL LENCIO MARIE PANERIO Magazine Editors
JB RYAN BABAS ORLANDO GAMILLA, JR. Senior Editorial Consultants
MARY FER BAYLEN RIZA JOYCE DELA CRUZ SHENETTE LAPE Online Editors
Contributors: Essie K.H.M Tres Harmateo Toonet Jay L. Delos Reyes Krizha Alaine Dela Serna Patricia Angela Gallon
Stylo Casse Roger Sibag Jr. Jaya Elizarde liezxxx Dagangkáhoy Eliya Marsiell B. Francisquite 夜が明ける
NEÑA VANESSA CABILES, Ph.D. HAZEL P. VILLA, Ph.D. Advisers
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E L E M E N TO
