The Ridge - School Year 2015-2016 Issue 1

SY 2015-2016

3 Campus News 10 Features 12 News 14 Reviews

DANCING FOR THE POPE

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www.southridge.ph

The Presidentiables

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CLUB ANNOUNCEMENTS

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We foster an awareness of social problems and encourage fraternity in keeping with the school’s family spirit. We love the truth thus we report with facts, without judging intentions, upholding the legitimate diversity of opinions in a calm way, without resorting to personal attacks. We seek the truth, love it, and humbly tell it.

Editor-in-Chief Javi Gruenberg Vilchez Assistant Editor Migo Buenafe Contributors Joaquin Santos Mito Hizon Onch Adizon Matthew Banaag Matthew Mendiola Sammy Ang Diego Ipapo Raphael Lustre Raphael Morallo Rolo Pena Angelo Villanueva Jau Galope Lorenzo Prieto Joaquin Ermitano Alec Concejero Christopher Prats Jake Consing Peppi Escasa

Photographers Ed Valmorida Migs Victorino Dennis Holgado Adrian Bagayaua Chock Encabo Marvin Tamandao Ira Ocfemia Raphael Lustre Moderator Benjie Torralba Design & Printing Inkwell Publishing Co., Inc. ISSN 0118-0452 The Ridge is the official student publication of Southridge. It is published with the assistance of the school’s Institutional Information Office. The opinions expressed herein are the views of the respective authors.

They cannot be taken as the position of Southridge as such.

SOUTHRIDGE Private School for Boys Hillsborough Subdivision, West Service Road City of Muntinlupa, Metro Manila Telephone 807-80-80 Fax 842-1542

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BANSAG: The Last Ride

The Ridge We, the editors and staff of The Ridge, commit ourselves to the highest level of professional journalistic ethics. We promote among our fellow students a love for noble ideals and a desire to overcome personal egoism.

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An Editorial Reflection by the Current Editor-In-Chief, Javi Vilchez

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here was always something sacred about BanSag. I remember when I first got to Southridge, I asked one of my classmates, “Why aren’t you coming to the seminar this year?”

After giving his reasons, he finished with, “I’m going to BanSag anyway. That’s the important one.”

The BanSag Seminar. Banaue and Sagada.

That was Grade 7. Four whirlwind years and I found myself in awe of a view which 14 batches of Southridge graduates had gazed upon before: Banaue’s rice terraces.

Shrouded in enigmatic mists that brought about a cool breeze, I remember the batch clamoring on the veranda of Sanafe Lodge—jockeying for pictures—on that first fateful day of our last seminar in Southridge. Every now and then the clouds would break and rays of sunlight would pierce the eerie atmosphere like lasers, lighting up the terraces like a mini Macchu Piccu.

After a few seconds, however, the wonder wore off.

People began to criticize and downsize.

“I thought the terraces would be bigger”.

“Why are they so brown and dry?”

“We drove sixteen hours for this?”

Just as years’ worth of precipitation had eroded the untouched beauty of Banaue’s rice terraces, so had our awe diminished as well. Time, not just water, is a universal solvent.

Nevertheless, the entire batch was brimming with optimism as we began the legendary BanSag hikes. Day One was a breathtaking (in every sense of the word) hike through Batad’s terraces to the refreshing waterfalls.

Day Two was a treacherous spelunk into Sagada’s darkest caves. With bats screeching overhead—their manure caked onto our bare feet—the caves were no trifle to deal with. Cold water numbed your skin as you traversed the

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natural caverns and alleyways this pitch-black labyrinth had to offer. The challenge it imposed was not half as daunting as the sense of victorious relief that followed getting out. The rest of the days were a blur of hikes, outreaches, and explorations through the towns of Banaue and Sagada—food-tripping and souveneir shopping.

One of the highlights of the seminar was a basketball game pitting our batch’s finest players against the best ballers Banaue had to offer. The intensity of the game was palpable as the Southridge crowd cheered for every shot—climaxing at the sight of a three pointer from our very own Hobi Javier. While the game ended in a draw, it had achieved its purpose of spreading goodwill and strengthening ties with the local community.

On our last day, we were tasked to come up with group performances in order to entertain our hosts at Sanafe Lodge. The evening that followed would snowball into something more than the night we intended it to be.

We performed on the veranda with a backdrop of misty rice terraces and a starry night. Each group performance brought something new to the program— and it was great how every group clearly prepared for their turn. The first group featured acoustic covers of our batch’s pop anthems, the second group gave a reenactment of BanSag’s activities (with a special appearance from Gollum), the third group gave a solemn goodbye melody—the first of many heartfelt exchanges, the fourth group gave an uplifting cheer dance to 70s Disco, the fifth group gave a humorous dance routine, and the sixth group gave a witty poem—with each group member delivering a sentimental goodbye message to their batchmates. This was where the tears began.

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have to look far to say that one is successful. Just strive to accomplish these points every day, and you are well on your way to success.

First, be the best that you can be.

Don’t let anyone make you think less of yourselves. Strive for excellence in everything you do, not only in academics, but in your personal lives as well. This is what God expects of us – to live fruitful lives and to use our talents and resources well.

Second, keep an open mind. It is a Photo courtesy of Vinnie Tan Gana blessing that you enjoy the company of by former Editor-In-Chief Matthew Mendiola your friends today, but don’t limit your friends to the people you know now.

Another school year has begun, and with the new Open your doors. Welcome others as you would want school year comes new challenges to face, new people them to welcome you. Never judge a book by its cover.

Third, try something new. We all have a long way to meet, and new memories to forge, both in and out of Southridge. As the saying goes, “Yesterday was history, to go. In life, learning will never end. Enjoy it. Push the tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is boundaries and don’t stop until you can say that you’re a called present.” Many people have lofty ideas of success better man today than you were yesterday.

And finally, love. Everything we do must be done – attaining future goals that one achieves after working for a long time. This is good, but one simply needs to look at with passion. At the root of every success is love. Just the present to say that one has achieved success. Today love what you do, and the work is already halfway done.

No matter where you are and what you have is a gift. What matters most is that we make the most of today, by being good students, sons, brothers, and children achieved, there is always room for improvement. Striving of God. This is enough reason to say that we have achieved for success should become a daily task, but this also does not mean that a few shortcomings are bad. No one success today.

I am now an alumnus of Southridge, and I would is perfect, after all. Learning from our mistakes will only like to leave all of you with a message I gave to my batch make us stronger at the end of the day.

Let us all strive to be living testimonies of the ideal mates. I challenge each and every one of you to do these tips for success this school year. Remember, one doesn’t Southridge gentleman. Viriliter Agite!

“Success Every Day”

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Fathers’ Day 2016: Dads of the Round Table

by Joaquin

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When we think of Southridge, many things immediately come to mind.

The words “Opus Dei” and “gentlemen” are just a few of the thoughts we associate with our school. Maybe other schools can operate under the same core philosophy and instill similar virtues in their students, but what sets Southrdige apart in my opinion is the theme or leitmotif of family.

In Southridge, we call our friends and batchmates brothers. We are molded to look out for others and to strive for sainthood in every little or big responsibility. In Southridge, home-school collaboration plays a big role in our education and formation. Our teachers and staff are our second fathers; they smile with us when we are happy, they correct us when we need guidance, and make sacrifices to make sure we graduate as strong gentlemen who are ready for life outside the brick walls. When we look back long after we’ve left, we wont remember Southridge for being Vinta vs. Helm or for any other sort of division. We will remember our Southridge family.

The Southridge family is best seen in Father’s Day. The festive, annual event is a celebration of the school and the family with a special emphasis on our fathers. Our parents, siblings, friends, and teachers spend an entire day together enjoying with music, performances, food and games. That is why Father’s Day will always be an event the school to take pride in.

Every Father’s Day tries to focus on a specific characteristic of the family or the father, and this year will be no different. Prepare to be transported back into the Middle Ages!

The Middle Ages are probably best identified with knighthood, castles and quests. Stories of those noble knights are ones of courage, valor, and justice and have lived on throughout history. One of the core values in the code of a knight is in line with Southridge’s mission of producing gentlemen who serve others.

The knights were symbols of hope and justice and they carried themselves with dignity. It is precisely that type of man that we can make as an example out of.

Virtues like responsibility, fortitude, and charity are especially important to instill in people our age, and we students could take a page or two off the stories of the noble heroes of the Middle Ages.

Another relevant characteristic of the Middle Ages was pride in one’s family or clan. At that time, families as a unit were very powerful institutions that held influence over politics, religion, and the economy. The honor of the family name was to be protected and defended at all times. A person’s performance in all aspects of life was crucial to maintaining and increasing the standing of the family.

In Southrdge, the family is a very important institution too.

It is where we are first educated and raised to be the people we are today, so it is important that we act in a way that honors our family. Putting family pride at the forefront through the example of the Middle Ages will remind all of us of the power one’s family has in our formation and education and empower us to act in a way that makes our families proud.

Finally, the concept of apprenticeship also makes this Father’s Day theme important. In the Middle Ages, young men would learn a particular trade under a master. He would start from the basics of the trade and progressed to handling more responsibilities and enhancing his skill. The master was to be treated with respect and obedience was very important in an apprentice’s life. Seeing our fathers as our masters will help us remember to always give them the respect they deserve.

They teach us by example and act as our mentor especially when we are faced with difficult choices. They correct us and form us into real men and masters in our own right.

The Middle Ages was not simply a historical period marked by knights and battles. It carries significance in our lives today especially when virtue, valor, and the family are involved. For this year’s Father’s Day, the Middle Ages helps us rediscover the roles of personal responsibility, appreciation of the family, and regard for our fathers in our journey towards becoming Southridge gentlemen.

Student Council 2015–16:

The ‘Positive’ Intitiative

By Student Council Chairman Mito Hizon, V-A

Chairman – Mito Hizon

Vice Chairman – Joaquin Santos

Secretary – Teo Eugenio

INITIATIVE. To do something without being told to do so.

In today’s society, many things are expected to be by different people – yet no one tells people that these must be done. In short, people expect results. Whether the issue be with traffic in the streets or finding the cure to a certain disease, no one will tell us how to solve these problems, but they expect them to be solved.

This is the essence of the platform of Y.O.U.R Party – the Student Council Party that wound up to win a large majority of last year’s elections – which is to promote Student Welfare & Development. The Student Council is expected to bring about the right mind set of students in following school rules and regulations, promote equality among batches, bring about school pride, and help produce a fun and fruitful year for the students. This year, they made it a point to better the outlook of students with their role in the school as well as the atmosphere the students create around the campus. Over the summer, the Council had brainstormed and planned many projects and initiatives that are to be launched throughout the year. To set the tone for the year, the Student Council had a compelling start with an advocacy called, Project Smile!

Project Smile is a collaborative effort between the Student Councils of various schools across Metro Manila.

Treasurer – Andy Concejero

Public Relations Officer – Paul Raagas

This campaign aims to boost the confidence of students and spread positivity around the campus through visual means – posters, videos, commitment boards, photo boards, etc. – as well as through more active means, for interactive activities we’re made available to the students.

Project Smile branched out from the need for awareness that bullying and discrimination happens and hounds students not just in Southridge but in other schools as well. Instead of conducting another Anti-Bullying Campaign which seems to have made some students immuned, we identified another pressing issue that hounds students these days – insecurity.

Whether it be how many likes a person has on his facebook post or should a student follow rules because his peers might find him corny to do so, it is apparent in schools. We believe that spreading a positive atmosphere around Southridge would help that student be true to himself and fight these insecurities.

The idea of bringing in other schools arose to show the unity among each other especially as the current generation of Filipino youth. We aim to promote that we are united in a cause to undertake actions towards making a better society.

At exactly 8:00 PM on that Saturday, Seniors and Student Councils of the different participating schools changed their profile pictures on Facebook with the official logo of the project. Everyone shared the hashtag, #WhatMakesMeSmile

Members-at-Large – Don Ligones

Members-at-Large – Miggy Reyes

and the hashtag of their respective school which was #SouthridgexProjectSmile for us. What made it amazing to see was seeing other schools we’re do it as well, for everyone’s picture included them wearing their own school uniform along with logo. With the tweets and posts spreading online, the project was slowly taking shape.

In school, posters were put up, videos were shown, and activities were held. The morning assemblies had the mascots hyping up the kids, and it truly brought a smile to their faces. More people were high-fiving each other, and more smiles were worn. The students were also encouraged to post their #BarkadaPics and write down their commitments for the year in a freedom board made available to the students.

Shirts we’re also sold in school which are the same shirts being sold in the other schools. The proceeds of these shirts go to a foundation called Jeremiah 33. The week culminated in a video that comprised of the Student Council Presidents of the schools involved.

Though the week had ended, this was a campaign meant to be year-round. The positivity shouldn’t end there, but it should rather be an atmosphere brought about by the students of the school. This was just the start of the year, and we should expect more projects and initiatives that will be fun and beneficial to the students and the school!

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Our Interschool Science, Math, IT Competition Experience

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Onch Adizon

Photos courtesy of Ira Ocfemia

Last February 6, 2015, Laguna BelAir Science School (LBASS) held their 9th annual Interschool Science, Math, and IT competition. It is an annual event in commemoration of their Science, Math, and IT week. Two teams from Southridge competed in this competition; each team consisted of 3 students each namely Raphael Morallo, Rocco De Castro, and myself in Team A, while it was Joseph Marasigan, Miggy Llamas, and Teddy Peralta in Team B. The competition consisted of an elimination round in the form of a written test, and, if your team passes the elimination round, you get to go to the final round which comprises of unique challenges that tests your skills in Science, Math, and IT. These challenges were fun and interesting, but, at the same time, really difficult. The challenges included topics ranging from Algebra to Chemistry, and even included IT-related topics such as MIDI. All the knowledge we have learned in our math, science, and ICT subjects were applied in this competition.

Both teams from Southridge were able to get past the elimination round and make to the final round. The race for first place against the other schools in the competition was tough, but in the end Southridge Team A was able to win 1st place among the other 10 schools.

(Editorial from page 2) Hugs were thrown around. Tears flowed like Batad’s waterfall.

Apologies and compliments were seen at every hug and handshake.

Then we transferred inside to the mess hall. A podium was erected at the center of the room. With the whole batch gathered around— listening intently and respectfully—one-by-one we each went to the podium and spoke our pieces. Some prepared for their speeches, for others it was spontaneous. Some apologized for the way they had acted these past four years, while others confessed some of their darkest secrets. It became very clear after just the first hour of sharing that even after 12 years of being batchmates most of us hardly knew each other.

While the confessions bared in that sacred gathering have been sworn to an oath of confidentiality, one lesson we should have all taken home—not just from BanSag, but from all these years in Southridge—is that every man faces his own demons. Different men have different thresholds for these trials, and some demons are more painful than others.

Some men prepare every morning to face these demons as they walk up the stony staircases of Southridge—bracing themselves for the harsh and heartless teases, the ignorant jokes, and the bullying they have come to expect in school. While I’m sure no one of us has ever intended to hurt another with words, this happens everyday even if we don’t notice.

Others have to brace themselves for the problems they face at home.

Yet others still face the demons inside them: the insecurity that creeps up on them when they are alone in their rooms facing a mirror or an unsatisfactory report card.

If there’s one thing many people let out during that gathering, it was that some of them never really fit in. They struggle to find a barkada that’s just right for them in this batch. Some claim to have few friends. While others expressed how they never felt “good enough”. As sad as this reality may be, sadder still is the fact that this is an inevitable part of every school in every nation on this planet. This sharing time in itself is a miracle already.

One thing we all agreed upon in that woody lodge nested in the hills of northern Luzon was that we would put an end to teasing and name-calling, be less segregated and more inclusive as a batch, and we would try our best to understand each other more.

From the teary and swollen eyes of nearly every man in that room, I would have sworn right then and there that this event would trigger a permanent change in the batch and the way we treated each other.

I write this a mere two weeks later. So far, so good. I see people from different barkadas with different personalities and interests hanging out and enjoying each others’ company. My only regret was that this transformation in the batch psyche had happened sooner. And my only hope is that this resolve towards each other remains beyond March 31st next year.

Time, not just water, is a universal solvent. It causes things as big as the mighty Banaue Rice Terraces to crumble, dry up, and lose their pizzazz. The Bible says that this world will pass away and so will everything in it—that this world is a place where things like moths and rust destroy and thieves can break in and steal whatever we hold dear to us. It is a temporary existence we dwell in now—and as strange as it may sound, this world is not our home. Eventually, we will all die and move on to whatever lies beyond. And while nothing may seem permanent from that grim perspective, some things can be if we invest in them.

That emotional last night, Southridge Batch 2016 resolved to invest in friendships, in kindness, in consideration, in sympathy, in lasting relationships, in mending b broken bonds, and most importantly in each other.

Only time can test the quality of that promise—as well as the quality of the people who swore it. We will all inevitably and unavoidably go our separate ways—our time together has passed. But as early as know—if I had to bet on anyone—I’d bet on the 71 brothers I’m graduating with. Long live Southridge Batch 2016!

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You Only Have One Dance Photos courtesy of Ed Valmorida, Luis Sumulong, Dennis Holgado, and Chock Encabo

By Matthew Banaag

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old weather, the smell of pine cones, and more than enough food to keep you satisfied for weeks—that was latter part of my Christmas break, so coming back to sitting in a classroom for at least eight hours a day took some getting used to again. Before I was able to settle back Mr. Ganar knocks on the door of my classroom and requests to speak to me. “You have dance practice this Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, okay ha?” he says. I then recall that I was part of the students who were selected to dance for Pope Francis when he arrives at Villamor Air Base. “Okay sir,” I reply. But we can’t dance. I say for the nth time in my head. It’s not that my fellow dancers and I don’t want to dance for the Pope, it’s just that we can’t. But then Wednesday comes and we all gather in the basketball court of San Beda college Alabang. Many from Southridge were absent in the previous dance practices and kept asking if the dance was difficult or not. The person they were asking would simply say, “Yeah, it’s kinda hard, but we’re in the back, so you’ll be fine. Just follow the guys in the front.” Everyone was content with just skipping classes and having a chance to see the Pope. The dance instructor arrives and begins to bark orders. He calls Southridge first and tells us to line up, followed

by Zobel, then San Beda. Woodrose lined up on the side with Manresa and a couple other public schools. After everyone settled I began to notice something odd. This isn’t right, this means we’re in front now? The music starts playing and all the Southridge students are just looking at each other, surprise and embarrassment clearly seen on our faces. Then we began dancing. It wasn’t as bad as you think, or maybe because you’re asking the wrong person. To everyone else, we were horrible. As a contingent we were always two counts delayed, some would turn left when we should turn right, some would spin when everyone else was doing something else, some just gave up and just faced the general direction of everyone and moved their arms. After five minutes of humiliating ourselves, the dance instructor shouts for the music to stop and begins scolding us. It was bit difficult to take his reprimands seriously because of his dyed hair and made-up face, but in front of a thousand other people, including Woodrose, no one was laughing. Well, maybe Woodrose. Southridge then had to switch places with Woodrose and dance practice continued. Putting us on the side, though, did not make any improvement to our dancing skills; in fact it made things worse. On the side it was so cramped that people would step on your feet or hit you in the face. It came to the point that Mr. Holgado and Mr. Gonzales had to ask Woodrose to help teach us the dance. What a day, all this on our second dance practice, ever. Thursday was slightly better. We already knew the dance, more or less, and were confident about ourselves. Of course we felt bad that we lost our spot, though, but our position in

the formation, which was a sort of letter “L”, was at the vertical tip of the “L”. That meant, in a sense, we were still in front. We then began practicing in the field. On the bright side it was wider than the court, so we had space to really move around.

On the down side it was really bright and hot. In a matter of minutes we were all sweating. But, hey, it was all for the Pope. Saturday practice took the whole day, this time at Villamor Air Base. All the security checks took around two hours, we weren’t fed, and our phones and other gadgets were taken. That leaves 1,000 bored and annoyed students all stuck in a plane hangar just waiting for something to happen, yet it wasn’t that bad. People were talking with each other; people would play games like “Bang Sack” or “Ninja”. We found a way to amuse ourselves. This came in handy because when the real day came, the same thing happened all over again, with a twist.

January 15, 2015. The Pope would be arriving in a few hours and we were all excited.

We all just took lunch, which we had to bring ourselves, and we’re eagerly waiting to position ourselves when the choreographer calls us out onto the runway for a couple of run-throughs. What was good about our formation, being the tip of the “L”, was that we’d be the first dancers Pope Francis would see when he gets down the plane.

The bad news was that there was one part when we would switch with Woodrose so that we’d get a chance to be in the front, but the choreographer decides to keep them in front and let us take the backseat. In fact, in one part of the dance we are literally placed in the very back! But, hey, it’s all for the Pope, we told ourselves. Finally when the Pope arrived we couldn’t believe it! We saw his plane from the distance and the music started playing. We were so excited we almost lost our cue to start dancing.

When the plane landed it took a while for him to exit, but when he finally came out we couldn’t stop jumping and smiling. “HE’S HERE!!!” They replayed the music and we began dancing again. The Pope looked tired and didn’t look at us that much. He was busy being greeted by all these officials and politicians. To make matters worse, the staff of Villamor began crowding in front of us, effectively blocking our view of the Pope and vice-versa. But we didn’t care, the Pope was here! We were content with that. After Pope Francis left Villamor and people began leaving, Diego and I had this crazy idea, what if we ran to the carpet the Pope walked on? We then jumped the barriers and sprinted towards the red carpet. I dove into it and started rolling over and over. This made up for not being able to see him the whole time. This made up for the boredom, the heat, the irritating voice of the choreographer, and more. To see the Pope was more than anything we could’ve asked for, what more to dance for him (despite not knowing how). It was truly an amazing experience, and beats just seeing the Pope from a screen any day.

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OUR GYLC EXPERIENCE

By Sammy Ang, Raphael Lustre, & Raphael Morallo

BACKGROUND: Last June 2015, PAREF Southridge School sent 9 delegates to this year’s Global Youth Leadership Conference held in Washington D.C. and New York City. The delegates sent included Sammy Ang, David Dimagiba, Mateo Gonzalez, Diego Ipapo, Don Ligones, Raphael Lustre, Raphael Morallo, and Javi Vilchez.

This article will be told from the personal accounts and experiences of delegates Sammy Ang, Raphael Morallo, and Raphael Lustre.

SAMMY ANG My GYLC Experience

On the 8th of June in the year 2015, I, along with seven of my Southridge friends, attended an event that would change our perception of the world around us.

This event was the Global Young Leaders Conference that took place in Washington D.C. and New York.

Words cannot even explain how blessed I feel to have taken part in this wonderful, life-changing event.

The biggest takeaway from this conference was all of the different cultures that I encountered.

I met people from all over the world – people from El Salvador, Argentina, Germany, the U.S., India, Panama, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, and the list goes on and on. The feeling of knowing people outside Manila is indescribable. We became so close to these unique and culturally-different people during our 10 short days together. We learned so much about their cultures – for example, did you know that in Bulgaria, nodding your head means ‘no’ and shaking it means ‘yes’? Or that Egypt is located in Africa? Yeah, neither did I, until I attended this conference and got to meet these amazing people from around the world.

On the first day of GYLC, we got assigned to a country from the United Nations Security Council. I got assigned to South Africa. The other countries included the U.K., the U.S.A., France, Russia, China, and Turkey. There were about 160 delegates participating in the conference, so about 25 per country. We had Leadership Group Meetings with our respective countries, where we’d discuss events happening in the world today. We would represent our countries as foreign ministers or ambassadors in simulations of Security Council and United Nations meetings. We would work with the foreign ministers and ambassadors of the other countries to try to agree upon amendments and resolutions to many of the world’s problems today.

We would also go sightseeing during our 10 days in D.C. and New York. We visited places like the Lincoln Memorial, the Holocaust Museum, the Air and Space Museum, and we had to experience walking around Times Square, of course.

On the second to last night of GYLC, there was a rally wherein each country had to perform, whether it be a dance or song or skit, relating to what they learned about

their country during GYLC. South Africa performed a dance of course, because South Africa is a lively country, to the song of Shakira “Waka Waka”. Obviously, we won 1st prize.

On the last night of GYLC, we took a farewell cruise around the Hudson River, where we would socialize with the other delegates, dance, get senti with, and lastly say our goodbyes.

There was a lot of crying. What makes leaving GYLC sad is that there’s almost no chance of seeing many of these people, i.e. the people from Chile or Zimbabwe or Oman, ever again. After a crazy night of 30 of us getting caught in one dorm room fit for two people, GYLC was coming to an end.

To this day, I still keep in touch with some people from South Africa, and I’ll try to stay in touch for as long as possible. Now, I’m a young leader by title. I’ve learned so much in just 10 days, and now it’s my job to put what I learned to good use, to teach and inspire others who did not have the privilege I had of joining this amazing program.

RAPHAEL LUSTRE My GYLC Experience

Last June, a few of my friends and I travelled to Washington DC and New York to participate in the Global Young Leaders’ Conference (GYLC). The trip was exhilarating. We were able to go to the US, unaccompanied by any adults, and have the experience on our own terms. The conference was composed of about 150 scholars from around the world. Although many nationalities were present, none were more evident than the Filipinos!

What I got to learn from the conference was how the United Nations works. We were all split into ‘leadership groups’ represented by country members in the UN, and I was part of Turkey. From then on we discussed economic statuses, political affairs, and foreign interests of our assigned country. The two main programs of the conference were the Security Council and General Assembly simulations. By judging from our pictures it all looked like fun and games, but we really did have to vigorously prepare for these simulations.

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At times we would be extremely exhausted, but we all realized the great opportunity we had to right at that moment. Although I finally learned about diplomacy and the UN business, this was not the best part.

What the GYLC shapes is an environment of no nationalities. No matter how many Filipinos, Indians, or South Americans there were, we were all one and the same. The program allowed people from all nationalities and personalities to come together and work together. What this proved to me was that we can all unite and agree, no matter what cultural background we come from. My best friends were Middle Eastern. I have never made acquaintances with an Arab before this. Never in my widest dreams would I have thought that these people would mean so much to me. We all had the same kind of humor, we watched LeBron face Curry in our dorm rooms, and we all became brothers. I started learning about their religions and countries, and now so many more global events are becoming more relevant to me! As the saying goes, all good things come to an end. All the scholars, especially me, cried so hard while Wiz Khalifa’s song “See You Again” was played. Being from so many different countries, most if not all of us will never end up seeing each other again.

Although what they can never take away from us is the experiences we’ve shared, and the bond we created for those 10 days. In that short span, I spoke a bit of spanish, learned to respect the islamic religion, formed alliances, but most of all, I became a citizen of the world. This was further proof that experience is the best teacher.

RAPHAEL MORALLO My GYLC Experience

They say many of the best memories a person makes in their lifetime are made in high school. My experience in the Global Young Leaders’ Conference certainly is one of them.

From June 6 to June 20, 2015, eight Southridge students from Batch 2016 joined the 2015 Global Young Leaders’ Conference in Washington D.C. and New York City. This event, participated by over 170 high school students from around the world, aims to foster leadership skills through learning diplomatic relations and issues. At the end of each leg of the conference, the participants simulate the United Nations Security Council in Washington D.C. and the United Nations General Assembly in the United Nations Headquarters. There was a lot of work

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put into preparing for these events, but everybody had a sense of fulfillment being able to imagine themselves in such an influential position.

Outside the lectures, discussions, and workload of the conference was time spent building new and lasting friendships, learning about the cultures of other nations, and simply enjoying a glimpse of life in the United States.

Each participant in grouped into a Leadership Group Meeting that represented one country. I was designated to the United Kingdom LGM, and I wouldn’t regret each moment we had together as a team. We come from 10 different countries, but for two weeks, we felt like family to each other. We valued those moments when we brought success to the team and supported each other through any challenge.

I was able to meet some great people, all from different backgrounds with very interesting lives, and each one of them wanted to spend those two weeks well. Coming into this conference, I already knew that there would be many different personalities that will be mixing together. True enough, there were people who were great athletes in their home schools, people with great ideas for technology, some of the most amazing singers and dancers, and those who simply wanted to become better leaders. Getting to know these people, what they have accomplished, and what they aspire to become was a sign that all of us were built for greatness.

The conference was also spent going around the cities of Washington D.C. and New York, two easily recognizable and influential cities in the United States and in the world.

Touring around Washington D.C. felt like a blast to the past, passing by historical museums, witnessing marks of history through the stone buildings, and walking where great American heroes have passed. This city still remains to be a symbol of the United States, and we were able to learn a lot from our exposure. New York City was completely different. The city never stopped, and through day and night, there would be people in the streets walking to work or shopping at outlets. There was so much to see in every streets and every corner, that everyday, there was a new adventure. At the same time, being at a city where history has also taken shape makes the New York leg a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

After the conference, I still feel that the conference has impacted me greatly.

Until this day, I am in contact with my United Kingdom group, and I continue to look back at memories immortalized in picture and video. Looking back at them not only wants me to experience the conference again but also urges me to take what I have learned over those two weeks and become a global leader.

The SHOW Season 4

Known not just for their Sporting Spirit, Academic Stature, and Norms of Conduct, Southridge students are also very much graced with talents in the field of Music & Arts! This is manifested in the annual school-wide program, The SHOW. After a year of rigorous studying, test-taking, and hard work, The SHOW serves as an opportunity for students to have a break and put their performing skills up on that stage.

Celebrating the 35th year anniversary of the school, Southridge highlighted and incorporated many of the fondest memories to the show (old compilations of videos and pictures were continually being flashed on screen). Many of the former parents, alumni (some of which are now parents), and former faculty were invited to the event, and it was a throwback performance. The beauty of how they highlighted the school throughout the night was by pointing out the different aspects of the school (traditions, teachers, religion, etc.) through spiels given by different families from the school such as the Sandejas Family, the de Lange Family, and the Katigbak Family.

It was a testament to “Home-School Collaboration” because the participation of the mothers, fathers, and older alumni brothers were shown.

It was good to see that there was a performance that featured not just students, but teachers and a parent as well. The organizers made it a point to set the throwback mood to the event by kick-starting the event with the song, “Times of Your Life” by Paul Anka. An aspect that was highlighted during the show was Southridge’s spiritual formation and Catholic direction. For this part, a song called, “Pag-aalay” was sung by the Teachers’ Choir followed by a song number by one of the Show directors, Mr. Nick Lazaro. The song was called, “The Glory of Love”. This part was concluded by the singing of “We are all God’s Children” (the theme song of the Papal Visit of Pope Francis) by the Grade 2 students.

After this, one of the matriarchs of the school, Mrs. Ditas da Silva (a former Parent Coordinator) performed a very soulful piano piece which truly set a tone. It

was pleasant to see that the student who gave her the flowers after her performance is her grandson. Southridge has become a home not just to students themselves, but to families as a whole.

Many dance numbers were performed by Grade School students and you can’t help but smile at the enjoyable numbers that they prepared. They danced to song such as “Celebration”, “Counting Stars”, Heroes, and the crowd-favorite, “Uptown Funk” which was joined by teachers led by Mr. Jude Mayol. They also charmed the crowd with song numbers by RJ Paderayon, G Ruiz, Ethan Villanueva, and Julian Urrutia who sang the songs, “Titanium” and “Story of My Life”.

For High School’s part, the members of the Southridge Vocal Ensemble sang two pieces namely, “One” and “Thank You Once Again”. The pieces were very fitting as it was a thanksgiving and farewell to the end of another long year. This was followed by the guitar prodigy, Matthew Mendiola. He shredded and sang to the tune of “Stairway to Heaven”. After his performance he performed alongside the Admirals’ Music Ensemble. They performed their rendition of “I Believe I Can Fly” with Mr. Nick Lazaro on the drums and the superb voice of Mr. Mico Siplon who awed the crowd with the performance. The wonderful voices of Mr. Chock Encabo and Andrei Figueroa, who sang “Lean On Me” brought the audience to another round of applause with their singing.

The night ended with the Southridge Community singing “One Team, One Body, One Family” which was composed by Mr. Mann Rentoy, an alumnus of Southridge and also a former teacher. This was such a good display of the whole school as one, and it sent a message for Southridge that it has succeeded 35 years, and it is looking onto another 35 more glorious years for the school.

The creative team behind last year’s The Show is composed of Mr. Benjie Torralba, Mr. Dennis Holgado and Mr. Pjay Gonzales from the High School and Mr. Ricky Garcia and Mr. Nick Lazaro from the Grade School.

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A Student’s Perspective

The Upcoming Elections by

Migo Buenafe

PHILIPPINES 2016

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F E A T U R E

On May 9, 2016,

The Philippines will be choosing a new head of the state, bringing current President Benigno Aquino III’s six year term to a close. It is under the current constitution that due to being in desperate need of reform, every Philippine president can only hold 6 years of service in Malacanang Palace, the so called “white house” of The Philippines where the President stays.

As of today, three have come forward to declare their intention to run for President – these are: Jejomar Binay, the man President Aquino beat and became Vice President, Mar Roxas, and Grace Poe. A possible 4th candidate is Rodrigo Duterte, however, he is hounded his family and not to run.

After firmly dominating the surveys for months, Binay’s popularity is now beginning to wane, putting him currently in second position with a rating of 34% just after Grace Poe’s 42 %, while Mar Roxas’s campaign has shown no improvement as his 21% is still on the outside looking in. We have but take though that whoever the winner will be, he or she will face expectations from the public to sustain the economic momentum instituted by the Aquino Administration which revolves around it’s inclusive growth policies and the anti-corruption drive.

But before we take a look at the profiles of the contenders for the presidential race, we must first analyze what exactly is the ideal president?

An ideal president, in my eyes is an individual who should be strong-willed, not someone who shoots from the hip and has preconceived ideas with no room for discussion. He should have the ability to have his mind changed when given new information concerning a subject. He should be loved by the people, in turn he shouldn’t be feared because if your followers fear you then they will follow you as long as they are fearful, but if you can get them to believe in you then they will follow you until the end. He should have no taint of scandal or graft, he should understand the values of “excellence” and the proper intellect to know that they shouldn’t resort to cheating. Lastly, he should be willing to take the hard way, in order to achieve his/her’s goals or goals for the country, someone who believes in the Constitution and that by themselves can start a revolution.

Now that we have the knowledge on the ideal president, we can now pop the question on how much we really know these candidates and what exactly would the Republic of the Philippines look like under their leadership?

Jejomar Binay Jejomar Binay has a reputation of being a distinguished statesmen, having been the longest standing mayor in the history of Makati City; yet, even after all the marvelous things he’s done in his tenure, he is still notable for being accused of corruption, as the amount of controversy he receives is absurd. He has groomed an offspring of politicians, his daughter, Nancy Binay , is in the senate, another daughter Abigail Binay is a member of Congress, and his son, Junjun Binay is the current mayor of Makati City. Even before The Binay Family becomes a potent force in upcoming elections, VP Binay must first unshackle himself from corruption cases thrown at him, as there is no way one can expect to win in the elections when one is facing graft and plunder charges.

Binay’s platform Binay has stated his aspirations to keep in line with the inclusive developmental economic policies created by the Aquino Administration, but Binay also hopes to begin to address such “policy and infrastructure misalignments” which he says can continue to stifle the development of tourism and energy infrastructure, among other sectors.

Grace Poe Daughter of Susan Roces and Fernando Poe, Jr., Grace was educated in the Philippines and the US, where she would remain for most of her adulthood, becoming a teacher and later a product manager after graduating Boston College with a degree in Political Science. In 2013, Poe won a first-time seat in the senate, running as an independent affiliated with Aquino’s Liberal Party, ending up obtaining the most votes than any other candidate. Her swift rise to prominence with relatively little experience, has made her a target among conservative opponents, busting out the claim that because she has no document of proof of her biological

parents, she cannot be a Filipino. This claim has haunted her to this day.

Poe’s Platform Liker her father, her political platform builds on the core areas: poverty alleviation, opportunities for all especially the children, and, most pertinent for her family’s historical legacy, electoral reform.

Mar Roxas II Grandson of Manuel Roxas, the first president of the Third Philippine Republic, he was a Wharton University graduate, in which he then established himself as an intuitive investment banker with a gift for luring venture capital to fund small and medium companies.

This profile led him to be the Secretary of Trade and Industry for two former presidents – Joseph “Erap” Estrada and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. In 2004 however, he resigned from this occupation to try and pursue a seat in the Senate. During this time he had no mention of presidential ambitions. This only came in 2010 when he decided to step down from running President to just running for Vice President so that then Senator Benigno Aquino III can run in his place, with both of them belonging to the Liberal Party (LP). He ended up losing to Binay for Vice President which explains the odd relationship they share up to this date, which at times inclined toward voicing vociferous distaste for one another, while also continuously exchanging barbed words.

Roxas’s platform Belonging to the same political party as President Aquino, Roxas promises to carry his legacy if elected.

Roxas would also bring together the status quo of economic inclusiveness and clean governance; a visible, long-term politician, he is known as one of the “cleanest” politicians in the country with barely any allegations to his name.

Rodrigo Duterte Duterte was born into a family of political prestige. His father was a former Governer of Davao, a role that would then be given to Duterte later in the future. A lawyer by profession, Duterte’s name has become synonymous in the country with the fight against crime and drugs. The “Davao Death Squad” as the media dubbed them has allegedly conducted extrajudicial killings of criminals, drug dealers and anti-government insurgents for over a decade; their activities were supported by Duterte, a mindset he would then bring to Davao. He has then received the reputation for having maintained a coveted sense of peace and order in an otherwise raucous nation, with an enforced citywide speed limit of 30kph, public smoking ban and omnipresent rule of law. All these deeds have given him the distinction of controversially creating the “ninth safest city in the world.

Duterte’s Platform Duterte has been consistently rejecting the idea of running for President due to age, financial status, and family disapproval, all of these hinder him from announcing his bid for the highest office of the land, but the Mayor “for the sake of argument” then explained the changes he would make if he were to lead beyond the confines of Davao. Duterte’s platform revolves around boosting the Economy, promoting advances on the Business side, keeping Law and Order, shifting to Federalism and one’s own leadership. Duterte also said that he was very passionate in adopting a “very strict” policy against corruption stating that he would “throw to the waste basket” the documents of businessmen who would attempt to give gifts to Government officials.

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves as other possible candidates may be joining the fray as well, but if the elections were today, and you had to make a decision, who would you vote? Yes, im looking at you Batch 2016, remember that we are already eligible to vote next year.

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SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS SOUTHRIDGE CLUBS

by

The Ridge Staff

With a new year comes a litany of new clubs and organizations that Southridge students have the opportunity to join. Clubs, teams and organizations are here in the school so that students can learn more about their respective fields of interest and can continue to hone and develop their particular skill sets from this early age. The following are just some of the interactive and formative clubs students can join. Contact and audition details are placed in every article. We hope you find this section helpful.

The Southridge Vocal Ensemble

By Club Head Rolo Peña For the past three years, I joined a club I never expected to join once I entered my high school life.

This club was called the S.V.E or what we all know as the high school choir of PAREF Southridge School.

S.V.E. stands for the Southridge Vocal Ensemble, and this is a club devoted to singing and harmonizing to the songs we love and learn. We also sing during school events such as first Friday Masses, Linggo ng Wika, the Living Rosary, and Southridge’s annual talent show: “The Show”.

Not only do we sing in school events, but we also compete against other schools in region wide competitions such as Musikapella and Voices in Harmony. Last year, we were able to get 4th place out of ten schools competing in the Musikapella competition. The great mind behind the blending and harmonizing of our voices is also our club moderator, who is the high school music and arts teacher, Mr. Adrian Bagayaua.

If you want to join the club and help the S.V.E reach greater heights with your voice in harmonizing and achieving our goal for the best high school choir, Mr. Bagayaua may give you some incentives for your hard work. If ever anyone is interested in joining this club, please contact me, Rolo Peña of Year V-A, or the club moderator, Mr. Bagayaua, for more details. Our constant drive to a greater choir comes from our motto – “We don’t stop when we’re tired, but we stop when we’re done.”

SVE practices every lunch break from 12:00-1:00 PM. See you there!

The Southridge Fishing Club

By Club Heads Joaquin Ermitano and Lorenzo Prieto

We in the SR fishing club are determined to allow our fellow admirals to experience a skill that is practiced throughout history, fishing. We aim to teach our admirals the virtues, and life skills that come with fishing, as well as giving them an enjoyable and different club to participate in. Our organization is not simply a club that was put up solely for educational purposes, we here believe that true education comes from not just what is taught but what is experienced through oneself. We learn as much as we teach here, we enjoy ourselves, we learn through safe fun and experience. We here aim to bring students outside the walls of Southridge and nearer the waterways of our nation. The Southridge fishing club is the club for the gentlemen. Fish on lads!

(Fishing trips will be planned quarterly by the Club and members who have signed up will be notified of upcoming outings.

If you are still interested in signing up, feel free to approach Lorenzo Prieto, Joaquin Ermitano, or any member of the Fishing Company).

The Admirals’ Music Ensemble

By Club Head Angelo Villanueva In our rapidly changing and dynamic world today, the youth are beginning to acquire all sorts of diverse skills. The emergence of what modern thinkers call the “Age of Creativity” has ushered in a reformation in the way people look at music. From classical instruments to modern instruments, from archaic styles to electronic beats—music has never been as diverse as it is today. In Paref Southridge School, there are many students that have that skill, potential of having one, or have kept that skill away from society. From what I have learned about playing a musical instrument, it is an extension of the person playing it. In Southridge, the Admirals’ Music Ensemble proposes a way to share that skill to others and to grow to become a better musician. AME proposes means of learning musical instruments such as the violin, guitar, and the piano for anyone who is interested in playing such a musical instrument. AME would give you a chance to experience how to play a musical instruments with other, and no kidding, music can be just as addictive as video games. Our practice times are every Tuesday and Thursday during lunch break at 12:20, and every Wednesday after classes!

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The Trading Card Guild

By Club Head Jau Galope, V-A The trading card games (TCG) our guild focuses on have been around for many years, under many different names: Vanguard, Buddy Fight, Weiss Schwartz and most notably in the form of Magic: The Gathering. When one thinks of these types of games they imagine people who lack social lives or are incapable of human interaction, but this is a common misconception. TCG Players are required to be social in these types of games, as it requires to interact with others to make looking for the cards you need a much simpler task.

In TCG, there are multiple ways to enjoy the game, one of which is deck building. To play TCG, A player must have a deck—and the best part about building a deck is that a deck can be changed to suit its user. Say the current user is patient and calculated, a deck of tactics and strategy can be made in order to accommodate the player’s style. A deck can be anything you need it to be granted you have the right cards—which is what makes TCG intriguing.

There is no one way to play TCG, a joy that is made all the more fun when you see two clashing styles of play similar or not.

The very heart of TCG is the game itself. Even if there are dozens of games under the TCG, category, they all share one constant: to find a way to best your opponent’s deck. It’s not only brawn that wins the day here; your strategy is important as well, and it’s this that makes TCG exciting. Again, there is no one-way path to win this game and as such multiple options are always open to you to create your own unique style of play.

This year, the TCG or Trading Cards Guild has been launched in Southridge and is open for participation for anyone interested! We practice on Wednesdays from 2:40-3:30, and this time slot is moved up a period on FDS Wednesdays. So if you’re interested, don’t hesitate to join us!

Southridge Merchandise For Sale by the

Marketing Committee

Southridge Run: The Medieval March by the

Marketing Committee

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Go Set a Watchman A Trip Down Memory Lane (Also: SPOILERS AHEAD! … Obviously) A BOOK REVIEW BY DIEGO IPAPO The last time I opened my To Kill a Mockingbird book was four years ago. It was first released on the eleventh of July 1960 and fast forward to fifty-five years and three days later a surprise sequel was made! I did not even think this woman would still be alive let alone write another book.

Go Set a Watchman gives us the perspective of twenty-six year old Scout, now called Jean Louise as she returns home to Maycomb after taking a leave off her job in the illustrious New York. As she returns home, she notices significant changes happened to her childhood home and that it was not, along with the people, what she thought it would be.

Yes, if you have read TKAM before, you WILL get nostalgic (and if you’re as old or older than I am, you’ll start feeling yourself age as well). HOWEVER, I cannot promise you 100% you will enjoy the book as much as you enjoyed its prequel (if ever you did). In fact, Harper Lee turned into the Peter van Houten to my Hazel Grace.

When I lay my hands on the book, tons of questions filled up my mind as I skimmed through the first pages.

Just reading the back of the book, which said “Every man’s island, Jean Louise, every man’s watchman, is his conscience” already gave it away that Atticus and Scout were going to appear. How about the others like Boo Radley, Cal, Jem, Dill and the Ewells? Well, as I mentioned earlier, Ms. Lee turned into the Peter van Houten of my life and cold-bloodedly murdered my childhood, and she did so by announcing on The Guardian’s Guardian Books podcast four days prior to the book’s release.

In this podcast, she reveals that we will not be seeing Jem Finch grow more than an adolescent – he died of a heart attack during his teen years (and sadly, that’s all you’ll hear about him in the book). Atticus Finch – only THE best character from TKAM and the one everybody in class looked up to – is actually a white-collared racist and even reveals him joining a local branch of the infamous Ku Klux Klan. I’ll leave you to read what happens to everyone else if ever you want to find out what does happen to the other characters.

Go Set a Watchman is a book full of eye opening, humanizing realizations not only for Scout, but also to a reader like me who felt nothing for the prequel before opening it and loving it deeply once I closed it. It was so different from To Kill a Mockingbird that it could have been written by Gregory Maguire, the author of Wicked, a re-telling of The Wizard of Oz in the eyes of Elphaba the Wicked Witch of the West. The book to date set the record for the highest adult novel one-day sales at Barnes & Noble and stated by Amazon as “their most pre-ordered book” since Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2007).

Despite its unexpected and controversial discovery, Go Set a Watchman holds a set of lessons one could take and live by; it is about a person’s journey to discover oneself and to live by what they know is right.

It captures the attention of the reader considering that a sequel of a best-selling novel made 55 years ago just came out now and because of all the contrasts of characters from To Kill a Mockingbird. However, there were questions I asked myself that I hoped were going to be answered by the book; but were either barely or not even touched on. If you have read To Kill a Mockingbird, it would be extremely bothering to read about Jean Louise Finch rediscovering herself and looking back to her childhood and yet still missing out the most emphasized details that had happened to her in the prequel, which just so happened to take place and be told to us by her six-year old self.

Go Set a Watchman (2015; topmost) and its prequel, To Kill a Mockingbird (1960 edition cover; above)

COMICS

Overall Rating: 6/10

Just Southridge Probs By Peppi Escasa

Poems

by Jake

You, Me; We We are one.

Rich, poor; Woman, man We are one.

Gatsby need not look upon the green light On the other side Alone.

Nor Forefathers dream Of peace and unity In times of war and strife Alone.

We search, We fight, We stand Together.

United under The blood of our heroes And the seas of our dreams, We stand together.

Consing

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S ta r s Wa r s : B at t l e f r o n t I I I — A R e v i e w

By Christopher Prats, V-B Video Game Review by Kyle Ting

Renowned game company Electronic Arts (EA) has recently revealed the upcoming release of the third installment in the popular Star Wars: Battlefront series. A third edition of the popular series was announced to be in production in 2004—however this development remained stagnant until EA’s 2013 E3 conference. The re-launching of Star Wars: Battlefront III came as a huge relief to fans of the successful game series. Many EA fans questioned the organization’s decision to halt the continuation of their successful Dead Space series to focus on Battlefront III, but the trailers certainly overshadow any doubts that were made.

The game looks amazing, bolstering the best possible graphics its’ respective consoles can handle, and the mechanics have greatly improved. The game once again allows the user to participate in both land and airborne conflicts. This gives the unique experience of allowing the player to either play the role of an infantry soldier, or that of a starship pilot. EA has neither confirmed or denied if they will be reintroducing the ability to participate in both land and air battles as they go on at the same time, as they did in some of the smaller Battlefront titles. Given how massive the project has become, it’s a huge possibility.

Plot-wise, the game will center on the aftermath of the clone wars—taking off much where Battlefront II ended. It will use the same untraditional, narrative campaign style of play that its series’ predecessors were known for.

The game will once again cater to large multiplayer battles. The exact player cap has been announced at 20, allowing for some pretty huge conflicts to take place. The game will also once again allow the players to control iconic Star Wars heroes and villains from time to time—like Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker. The company also stressed that they spent a lot of time on the dog fighting mechanics in Battlefront, allowing for larger player versus player fights on EA servers. While we’re unsure of who exactly will be narrating the story this time, it will most likely be told from the same 501st Legion clone trooper who narrated the events of the first two stories through his experiences living through them.

While much of the game is still a mystery, it’s a certainly a good refresher to the gaming industry. It’s been months since the last great multiplayer title came out—and given that battlefront focused on the multiplayer aspect of the game more so than the single player aspect, players can certainly expect a thrilling experience that only the Battlefront series has to offer. Even now, months before its release, the game has already made a massive profit from pre-orders alone. With talk about the game possibly become a competitive e-sport, there’s no doubt the game will be extremely popular. Star Wars Battlefront III is currently available for pre-order on EA’s website for $89.90 to all those who are interested.

MAD MAX: FURY ROAD A MOVIE REVIEW

By Alec Concejero

BOOM. BANG. CRASH. SLAM. Mad Max: Fury Road cuts straight to the point. While there’s barely any introduction in the start of the film, each action sequence shunts into the next at breakneck speed. In all honesty, I have never seen an action movie quite like this. The film begins with Max, who’s now played by Tom Hardy, becoming mixed up in a jailbreak from a desert citadel. Its ruler, Immortan Joe (played by Hugh Keays-Byrne), has five “wives” locked in a tower with whom he hopes to conceive, by force, a healthy son and heir.

Evidently, the wives aren’t keen, so they escape in the belly of a petrol tanker on a routine supply run. Enraged, Immortan leads the charge to bring them back and mad ol’ Max finds himself in the middle of this mess. And that’s all there is to it.

The. Action. Does. Not. Stop.

Scene after scene the unlikely group of heroes finds themselves in new problem – what a rush!

Dwarves are hoisted on palanquins, explosions riddle the desert, and men as pale and gaunt as aliens are knocked out, gnawed on, and catapulted through explosions.

All the characters in the movie put the movie together. Nicholas Hoult is spectacularly unhinged as Nux, a twitchy stowaway on the trip. Fury Road’s “alpha male” character is, in fact, a woman: the rogue soldier Imperator Furiosa, played by Charlize Theron, who masterminds the escape while Max rides shotgun. Furiosa is one of the toughest, most resilient action heroes in years, with a metal prosthetic arm that hints at past trauma and a steely gaze that sees more on the way.

Few people, surely, were expecting vigorous feminism from the new Mad Max film – yet here we are, and Theron’s character is far from the only instance of it; Immortan’s escaping wives, who may be young and innocent, are the opposite of damsels in distress and play an instrumental part in their own dash for freedom.

This is unusually progressive stuff, but it all stirs into the cocktail nicely – just as the outstanding computer graphics, which provide the film’s backdrop of whirlwinds and dust-storms, couple surprisingly well with the skilled stunt work. The world of Mad Max has always been welded together from bits of whatever metal was lying around, and the films’ brilliance has always been in their welding – the ingenious ways in which their scrap-metal parts were combined to create something unthinkable.

Amidst all the gun-toting, shooting, mad driving, and crazy-sand-tornado-blizzard things, we can pick up some valuable lessons in Mad Max: Fury Road. One of the most prominent and implicit one is that we must optimally allocate our resources because sooner or later it’s going to run out. The depletion of our natural resources is what caused the world to go on a full-scale nuclear war for what little resources were left. If you haven’t seen Mad Max: Fury Road yet, find a way to watch it right now!

My MOST Experience by

Matthew Mendiola

Muntinlupa’s Outstanding Students (MOST) is a project of the City Government of Muntinlupa through the Muntinlupa Scholarship Foundation and the Youth and Sports Development Office of the City. It is the most prestigious competition for the Muntinlupa youth.

The criteria for the competition included academic achievements, the results of a standardized IQ test, the students’ community service activities, the talent portion, and an interview by a panel of judges.

When the school selected me as the candidate for MOST, I was filled with both excitement and anxiety. A total of 22 schools participated this year, which added to the pressure I felt. I knew that Southridge had a great track record in MOST, and this made winning truly a daunting task. I had a choice whether to push through as the school’s candidate or to ask the school to select another candidate. While giving up may have seemed like the easier decision, I knew that there was no way I was going to let an opportunity as great as this to pass. Indeed, going through the MOST experience was something I would never forget, and it was worth everything.

As soon as I agreed to be the school’s candidate for MOST, I had to fulfill all the requirements. The first thing I had to submit was a portfolio which contained all my academic and extra-curricular achievements. My mom helped me make the portfolio, and although it entailed weeks of sleepless nights, it was definitely worth it. I felt proud of my achievements, and looking at my portfolios made me realize just how far I’ve come as a student and as a person. I couldn’t help but smile, looking at the pictures I included, as they brought back a lot of good memories, like my experiences in KAABAY, the contests I joined, the gigs I had, and many of the memories I had both in and out the school.

After Mr. Peralta submitted the portfolios, it was time to prepare for the IQ test.

Alabang Elementary School Principal, Dr. Antonio Rocha, was the one who administered the exam. Before taking the exam, Dr. Rocha made us answer a really strange mock test, entitled “Follow Instructions.” It was designed to fool us into doing all sorts of weird things like doodling and shouting out loud (which almost everyone did), only to make us realize that the last item stated not to answer the test. We thought that the mock test was strange, but when the actual exam came, the other participating students and I just stared at each other in shock, seeing how odd the real exam was, as it was mostly abstract reasoning.

The next thing I had to prepare for was the talent performance. The judges for the talent performance were Counselor Stephanie Teves, Olympian Mrs. Christine JacobSandejas, musician Mr. Edwin Marollano, UP Pep Squad captain Mr. Christian Gorgonia, and Counselor Dhes Arevalo. It was really interesting to see the other contestants on performance day. Many girls were dressed in glittery gowns, one contestant brought an entire rack of shoes, and others kept throwing lines everywhere in preparation for their talent show. For my performance, I played an original composition on guitar. I was happy to have my guitar with me, as this took the nerves out of performing in front of adept professionals and performers. It made me happier when Mr. Marollano, who had won ABS-CBN’s Himig Handog contest, commended me for my performance.

The final criterion for determining the ten most outstanding students was the panel interview. The panel consisted of DepEd Muntinlupa English Supervisor Dr. Nerissa Lomeda, Center for Good Governance Head Atty. Jo Jayson Alcaraz, Vivere General Manager and PCCI President Elvie Sanchez-Quiazon, City Competitiveness Office Head James Arriola, and Minority Floor Leader Atty. Raul Corro. Waiting for my turn was the hardest part on interview day. I felt nervous, as some contestants stayed long with the judges, while others only stayed for a short while. I can’t remember how long I stayed when it was my turn to be interviewed, but I wasn’t so nervous anymore, once I saw how candid the panelists were (one judge even told me I talk in Tagalog like Derek Ramsay).

The announcement of the ten MOST finalists came on the same day as the panel interview. When it was time to reveal the winners, the candidates and their coaches were

asked to sit on chairs assigned to each participating school. Supporters were asked to stand at the back of the room. On the candidates’ chairs were envelopes, which either contained a certificate of participation or the “golden ticket”. We were only allowed to open the envelopes once we were told to do so. Before the announcement came, Mayor Jaime R. Fresnedi gave a short speech, talking about Muntinlupa’s programs for the youth and the incentives the ten most outstanding students will win. Kuya Marvin Tomandao, former MOST winner and official host, led the countdown. There was an uneasy silence in the room, and everyone held their breath in anticipation. Three… Two… One! Finally, the moment came. I gingerly opened my envelope. As I took out the piece of paper inside, I was able to make out the word “Congratulations!” At first, I thought I had only gotten the certificate of participation, but as I pulled out the paper, I felt so happy to see in black and white that I have made it, ranking second in this year’s search for the most outstanding students. I could only give a sigh of relief, and I gave my mom a big hug before going with Mr. Peralta for a candid picture with the mayor.

What came next after the big announcement was what made my MOST journey a truly magical one.

The next activity we had was the photoshoot in Vivere. The other MOST winners and I spent one whole day feeling like VIPs, but what I enjoyed more than the glamour of the photoshoot was getting to know the other MOST winners, whom I am now proud to call my friends. We also had two extra competitions that day, both interviews – one from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and one from the Rotary Club.

All of us felt that we didn’t do so well in the PCCI individual marketing challenge, so we surprised the PCCI president with a group commercial (which turned out pretty funny).

The MOST winners were also invited as guests of honor during the 20th cityhood anniversary of Muntinlupa, where we were given special mention by the Mayor in his State of the City Address. We enjoyed special performances from talented members of the city, and a wonderful display of fireworks.

The activity that came next was one that I looked forward to, since I was chosen as the school’s representative – the MOST Inspired. The MOST Inspired allowed the MOST winners to give inspirational talks to public school students around the city. I gave my talk in Pedro E. Diaz High School. This experience was one that I will never forget. At first, I was scared because all MOST winners were required to talk in Tagalog, a language that gives me a nosebleed whenever I speak it. However, I realized that my funny accent didn’t matter in the end. It was the message that I wanted to leave that mattered most.

What really touched me was how my audience reacted at the end of my speech. Many students approached me to take selfies with me (as if I were some kind of rockstar), and the most touching thing that happened to me was when a teacher approached me, leading two blind students to me. The teacher explained to me that the two students wanted to feel me to know what I must look like, and to know that I was real. The teacher explained to me how much I moved the two boys. I teared up when the two students held my arm and touched my face, smiling as they did so. I too held them tightly, and whispered in their ears, “Thank you. Study well.” It was at this moment that I truly understood how powerful words can be.

The awarding was held on March 13 at the Expo Trade Hall in Festival Mall. The venue looked grand, and the ceremony was even grander. The MOST performed with the UP Pep Squad for a “Shake it Off ” dance number (don’t ask how I danced). We also had our opportunity to speak as we received our awards. It felt so surreal when I got my awards, and when I gave my speech, I had nothing to say but my thanks to my parents and all the people who have helped me throughout the competition. The MOST journey is something I would never forget, and looking back, all I could say is that more than the awards, what I will always remember from my journey are the memories I gained and the friendships I made.