The Synchronizer The Official Publication of Catanduanes National High School | Newsletter Issue—Volume 1 No. 1 | June-December 2016
Synchro 2 CNHS
Power Of TWOgether
editorial
We SEE We HEAR We NOTICE
9 > features
DIVERGED PATHS Stepping off the Crossroads of Senior High JONA
MAE
CAMACHO
Changes have fast approached, opening more opportunities to awaken and nurture this generation’s future. This new progress not only entails taking up physical space- it implies a takeover, a demand not only for those in power to listen to us, but to reclaim the power to change the system for ourselves. For the past years, the Philippines has been depending on the basics, but now, the time has come for us to step-up into a higher stage. The implementation of the K-12 curriculum is set not only for the country to be at par with other countries, but also to access for more productive Filipinos who will continue the unyielding legacy of our ancestors. Step by step, new buildings are being constructed, new teachers are harnessed in preparation for the upcoming race. The decision is a victory, however there are few points yet to be resolved. The youth of today, are tomorrow’s leaders- the reason we should not let fortune remain as a wonder. As harbingers of change, they are the ones to provide the outcome. And as it unfolds, the message will ring true and clear.
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news
New Principal intends to make change
Artwork by Anjhelica Magbanua
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features
Camera Roll
news
15
The image that defines us
Kulturang Nasyonal
Unit IV reigns supreme in Intrams 2016 sports 38 students swelter, faint due to hyperventilation
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STEM student crowned ‘Mutya ng Virac 2016’
sci-tech news
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2 Editorial
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
Power of TWOgether
CHANGE HAS REALLY COME. After the famous Duterte tagline wafted like epidemic in the nationwide campaign to clear the clogged path of progress, our school immediately jumped into the bandwagon with no less than our Principal as the prime mover leading the sails toward a charted purpose. Principal Amelia R. Eusebio has been all set to adopt the continuous improvement program of the Department of Education (DepEd). The new administration of Catanduanes National High School (CNHS) has made changes in such a way that they are making good into better, and still aiming for the best. The environment, the students, the teachers, and the policies have made a great contribution into stepping up into higher heights. She said that when she was assigned at CNHS, she embraced it wholeheartedly with a goal to make a change. Eight months is not too long for the administration to turn those words into actions. CNHS’ aim to produce students who are morally upright still continues with the new admin implementing more strict rules and policies. Just before classes start, the school
The
Synchronizer SY 2016-2017
CNHS
The school administration holds the future of CNHS but the power that it holds lies in the hands of the students and teachers.
conducted an orientation stating some changes that will be made throughout the whole school year. Checking the attendance is now more organized aided by biometrics for teachers and awarding students who have perfect attendance. This will help them to be more responsible in going to school earlier and valuing the importance of time. On the other hand, the school environment is already under remodelling. Improving waste management, landscaping, and furnishing facilities are just examples of the enhancement made by the school. These improvements will not just reflect the actions made by the school admin but also by the students. CNHS will continue to stand its label as one of the role model schools in Catanduanes. Meanwhile, as the school opens for Senior High School, a better facility and more teachers are needed. This a pit of darkness where getting back up is no use at all. Despite buckles in our persistence to propel, the school admin is still positive that it will be smooth after some complications. The good thing about our school’s coping mechanism is that it starts first with the smallest things which can be
considered as a beginning of a big action like the senior high implementation. Moreover, as the school proposes new plans it must be coupled with a consultation where all sides will be looked into. It would be better if the school admin still weigh things off before implementing plans. This would enable the constituents to fully understand things and get along with the plan smoothly. But if we are going to look through things clearly, the school could have done things like what it has accomplished right now if students and teachers possessed the same behavior towards the policies and rules of the school back then. The accomplishment that we hold right now does not just depend on the school admin. The behavior, discipline, and cooperation of every member of the school dictates the progress of CNHS. We do not actually have to wait for someone to do things for us. The school administration holds the future of CNHS but the power that it holds lies in the hands of the students and teachers. With that, we can continue to hear these words: Diyan ka na mag-adal sa National, magayon diyan.
Editor-in-Chief: Danielle Ann G. Abundo | Associate Editor: Jona Mae F. Camacho | Managing Editor: Marielle T. Tabo | Finance Officer: Nathaniel Hannycel A. Nuyda | News Editor: Zaccharine A. Vargas | Features Editor: Ma. Roxette M. Rojas | Sports Editor: Christian H. Abrina | Online and Media Editor: Ralph Lawrence M. Perez | Art Editor: Anjhelica P. Magbanua | Graphics Artist: John Christian V. Donato | Lay-out Artist: Christian Kenneth C. Tejada | Circulation Manager: Nathalie Joy P. Delantar Senior Staff: Neil Arman G. Abundo, Erwin James Gianan, Jancis Rey Templonuevo, Leah Francesca Muñoz, Mikhaela Nicole Toyado, Tiffany Templonuevo, Renzo Zafe, Jethro Jed Turado Junior Staff: Oliver Enrico Aldave, Hazel Talan, Jeri Aliyah Tumala, Stephanie Andrea Vargas, Mark Nobe Jr., Pamela Marie Vega, Mary Franz Bien, Joey Romero, Bianca Bohayo, Aizo Añes Caña, Alexie Rose Ebon, Ma. Kristina Molina, Daniel Tabo, Lyra Kassandra Borja, Eva Alessandra Subion, Arian Leigh Ygusguiza, Jan Mari Tiocson Adviser: Ruel C. Fernandez | Consultants: Mrs. Loraine T. Chiong and Ms. Amelia R. Eusebio
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
News 3
New Principal intends to make change Policies on student discipline, teacher monitoring implemented Danielle Ann Abundo Change has come. The school’s new principal has ridden on the nationwide’s bandwagon of change as she assumed the highest seat in the biggest secondary school in the division eight months ago. School Principal III Amelia R. Eusebio said that the school is now on its way in adopting the continuous improvement program of the Department of Education (DepEd) while issues on student discipline and teacher monitoring never missed priority. “When I was assigned here, I embraced CNHS at sinabi ko sa sarili ko na I will see to it that the students will change,” she said. According to Principal Eusebio, despite the DepEd order on ‘not wearing uniform’, students of CNHS are still required to wear such following also the prescribed haircut. She also added that the school should devise another way in catching the attention of late students. “Hopefully, they will be motivated to go to school earlier because students with perfect attendance will be awarded,” she stated. Moreover, a Discipline Committee was created by Ms. Eusebio headed by Mr. Ernesto Buena which will also assist the Guidance Counselor in solving cases of mischief, abhorrent behaviors and violation of school rules. On the other hand, the use of biometrics in checking in and out has been implemented to manage
FOR THE GREATER GOOD. Erwin James Gianan the attendance of teaching and nonteaching staff. “With the 161 employees, I don’t think I can manage them all – I cannot check what time they log in or out. Besides, this is part of the mandate of the Civil Service Commission,” Eusebio said. Meanwhile, as CNHS got 2nd place in the Regional Level Search for Brigada Eskwela Best Implementing Schools (Exceptional Category), Ms. Eusebio is still aiming to get 1st place by next school year and be qualified in the National level.
School Principal III Amelia R. Eusebio delivers her opening speech, discussing about how the show will contribute to the SPA students’ growth in the Variety Show at Virac Sports Center on November 19, 2016. “Through the help of the alumni, I hope the school can raise funds so that we can construct a drainage as one requirement to get high in the evaluation,” she added. The principal will also be awarding the top three major prizes for the landscaping of assigned lots in the ‘Adopt-a-Tree’ program. She is also planning to add the number of prizes depending on the landscape being made. Consolation prizes may be given to improve the landscape of the school. Furthermore, a 4-storey building
with 20 classrooms will be constructed for the Senior High School which will be built in front of JICA Bldg. With regard teachers who have overloaded class schedules, Miss Eusebio said that she is hoping for the Division Office to send new teachers for the next school year. The principal also expressed hopes for everyone’s cooperation in initiating plans for the continuous improvement of the school.
Mini-canteens generate funds to support projects Daniel Tabo They only serve at first to address the growing number of consumers in the lone canteen in the campus, now they are giving birth to more projects for the benefits of the students and teachers.
NOT A MINI HELP Arian Leigh Ygusguiza
This school year marked the rise of three mini-canteens from the initiatives of the Science, Mathematics and MAPEH departments. These are apart from the existing canteen and mini-store in the campus
The mushrooming canteens in the campus do not only provide service to students; they support school projects for better development and provide instructional materials for teacher-members.
which cater food and school supplies to campus consumers. According to the Canteen Manager Allan Villegas (Math Dept.), each teacher in their department was tasked to contribute P1000 to accumulate the seed capital for the initial operation. The teachers of the Science Dept. contributed P500 each. Meanwhile, the canteen buys products and other supplies which are in demand to the consumers. They also accept consignment where dealers from ‘outside’ sell goods and 10% of the total income goes to the canteen owner. “So far, kumikita naman ang canteen. In our inventory, we profit an average of two to three thousand a day,” Villegas said. Part of the canteen’s profit goes to the purchase of school supplies such as manila paper, printer ink and bond paper for use of each teacher-member. Villegas revealed that the canteen was a great help as expenses in school
events like Teachers’ Day are charged to its fund. “At the end of the school year, we are planning to buy an overhead projector. We also plan to get a share from its fund some of the expenses for the construction of ‘I CNHS’, he added. Science and MAPEH Dept have yet to ponder on the projects they plan to materialize out of their mini-canteen profits. According to School Principal Amelia R. Eusebio the said canteens had become the income-generating projects of each department after project proposals have been presented. She said that these would help teachers in increasing their IPCRF points as these are considered plus factor to the key indicators in the said assessment. “I also encourage other departments to come up with IGPs to support their own projects,” Eusebio said.
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Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
From 5th to 2nd
CNHS beats last year’s spot in reg’l Brigada Eskwela evaluation Pamela Marie Vega Surpassing last year’s notch by two places in the Regional Level Search for Brigada Eskwela Implementer (Exceptional Category), Catanduanes National High School placed 2nd in this year’s evaluation. Brigada Eskwela Coordinator Teresa T. Camu revealed that unlike last year, they started the pre-planning stage as early as possible which gave them more focus on criteria set for the evaluation. In addition to this, she also confirmed that more parents joined this year’s Brigada Eskwela. “More than 100% taxable parents ang sumali sa ngayon.” Only 800 parents are said to be obliged to join the Brigada Eskwela but more than 145 of them participated and some of these were sent as proxies for the parents who could not attend the said activity. Donations were also contributed
for the improvement of school facilities such as mono bloc chairs donated by the PTA S.Y. 2015-2016 and Engr. Hector Sanchez, biometrics by the CNHS Batch 1991, dental chairs by the CNHS Batch 2005, summing up to Php 535,163.25. There were also donations for miscellaneous needs such as snacks for the volunteers, school supplies and additional cash, adding up to Php 27,282.00. All donations have summed up to a total of Php 562,445.25 which is half of last year’s total value. The said school was evaluated last October for the national level.
MAGICAL PAINTBRUSH Ralph Lawrence Perez
With his paintbrush, Janus Melgar, a Grade-10 student, helps in the makeover of the school in preparation for the National Brigada Eskwela Evaluation.
Time biometrics to ease monitoring of employees’ attendance Stephanie Andrea Vargas Catanduanes National High School administration will not have to find difficulty in monitoring teachers and employees checking in and out as the time biometrics was implemented, Aug 1.
PRINTS OF TIME Ralph Lawrence Perez
Despite reverse reactions on this project, Principal Amelia R. Eusebio said openness to changes like this will eradicate contradictions to this ‘breakthrough in the monitoring system.’ Eusebio explained that in a big school like CNHS, it would be hard
As part of DepEd’s improvement plan, the biometrics has made it easier for teachers like Mrs. Marilyn Faustino to record their attendance without hassle in just a tap of their finger.
SHS mentors on K-12: We’re still positive Jancis Rey Templonuevo Senior High School teachers said they are still positive about the program implementation despite lack of facilities, conducive classrooms, and modules. In an interview with some SHS teachers, they stressed how challenged they are to implement the program even if they suffer a lot. “This is a challenge to us, kasi nand’yan na ‘yan eh. Instead of seeing it as a burden, we should take it as challenge,” Tech-Voc Teacher Noemi Xoyen Tablizo said. “And then s’yempre ang iniisip namin ay ang kapakanan ng mga estudyante,” she emphasized. Asked what the program forgot to oversee, Tablizo said that it did not consider the situation in the areas like ours.
“Maganda sana ang aim kasi tinataas ‘yung standard ng education pero ang ipinapakita lang ‘yung mga well-developed schools…tingnan ‘yung realidad ng K to 12, tingnan ‘yung tunay na situation ng mga estudyante,” she said. Another teacher shared his story of perseverance just to meet expectations in the program. Mr. Romeo O. Vargas said he had to research lessons in advance just to feed students with the knowledge and information expected from them. “’Yung module na binigay ‘di naman gaano nakatutulong. ‘Yung gamit na parallel dun sa module, ‘yun ang mahirap hanapin,” Vargas said. “Dapat talaga matugunan na ang problemang ito. Students can’t wait. Mahalaga ang oras. Malulugi ang mga estudyante n’yan,” he added.
to monitor the attendance of 161 teaching and non-teaching staff. “This time biometrics can, without doubt, tell exactly what time an employee checks in or checks out, thus no adjustment in the time when he/she arrives or leaves.” Eusebio said. But according to her, she has observed that the teachers have already adapted to using the biometrics. “I am happy to see teachers lining up already at 5pm exactly to time out,” she added. Meanwhile, Mr. Donald Sorral, coordinator of this project, stated that based on the observations, teachers may have changed their past attitude of changing their actual time of arrival for attendance since its implementation. He also added, “Hindi na rin sila umuuwi nang hindi pa sa oras.” However some teachers who live far from the school would repeatedly complain about the early closing of the school gates for the flag ceremony, hence not using the biometrics in time.
Other teachers who have problem in mobility like Mrs. Bella T. Rima complained about some mechanics in the use of biometrics. She said that the biometrics would mean her going to the office to check-out in the morning before 12:00 and go back after lunch when she doesn’t even leave the campus. This for her meant a burden. “Kung pwede lang sana, lagyan rin nila ng biometrics sa may gate para maka-time in rin naman kami sa tamang oras (in the morning),” she pleaded. In addition to this, signing the biometrics after the gate closes for the flag ceremony would rather declare a teacher as ‘not patriotic’. “Maski ga-Bicolandia pa malakaw na kami palaog school maski nahihiling ning mga estudyante ta kaipu maghabol sa oras,” one teacher said. But despite these complications, teachers still find biometrics as an effective way to amend discipline as role models of the school.
NEWSBITS
New personnel take seat at CNHS Fifteen staff members have been added to the working force of Catanduanes National High School to serve as Senior High School personnel this year. Math Department Head Teacher Ludy M. Avila was designated as the Senior High School Coordinator while Mrs. Carol P. Gil as group head of academic subjects and Mr. Freddie M. Tria Jr. for Technical Vocational subjects. Although already implemented, the committee remains to have no Assistant Principal because of not reaching the required number of senior high enrollees which is 800.
Scouting bats for safety, preparedness Catanduanes National High School held its first river-crossing activity during the three-day Boy Scout of the Philippines (BSP) Venture at Sto. Domingo River aided by Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO), September 9-11, 2016 To boost their safety awareness and rescue operation applications, PDRRRMO demonstrated the correct way of knot tying, first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and marine rescue operation.
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
News 5
Number of Students per strand (Second Semester, SY 16-17) As of December 2016
130
Accountancy Business Management 116
Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics 79
Humanities & Social Sciences 45
General Academic Strand Arts & Design
6 56
Food & Beverages
50
Electrical Institution & Maintainance
46
Shielded Metal Arc Welding 41
Cookery/ Bread & Pastry 28
Technical Drafting Horticulture
24
Computer Hardware Servicing
23
Hair Pressing/ Beauty Care
Legend Academic
14
TVL
Source: CNHS-SHS Admin *Sports has zero enrollees
Infographics by Christian Kenneth Tejada
Unreadiness prods shift in SHS choice of track Nathalie Joy Delentar Unreadiness reflected in the lack of resources for Senior High at Catanduanes National High School set students in push or pull in choosing their career track, a survey revealed. “First, I wanted to enroll in Electrical Maintenance but due to the fact that CNHS lacks materials, I enrolled in HUMMS. I don’t think the school is ready,” Karla Talan, a Grade-11 student said. The same comment was stressed by a Tech-Voc teacher regarding the lack of materials during their practicum.
“The pressure is put unto us teachers in finding resources, or fail in delivering the expected competencies,” she said. Other students were hesitant to enroll in tracks which utilize more of their language and mathematical skills leading them to Technical – Vocational (Tech-Voc) track. A survey regarding SHS Choice of Track conducted last year shows that out of 648 students, 45.37% chose Technical-Vocational as their choice of SHS Track, dropping by 2.29% to 43.08% of 701 student enrollees this year. Accountancy, Business, and
Management (ABM) came at second, rising from 17.75% in survey to 19.26% student enrollees; Science & Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) from 12.65% to 17.55% of student enrollees; Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMMS) dropping from 13.73% to 11.84% of student enrollees; General Academic Strand (GAS) from 5.09% to 6.99% of student enrollees; Arts and Design from 2.16% to 1.28% of student enrollees and Sports from 2.16% to 0%. Sports track had 0 enrollee because students think it will offer less job opportunities and less salary.
But on the good side, students can shift on their preferred specializations. “There is no transfer within the semester but they can move after they finished the first semester since CNHS offers the core subjects only and the core subjects are the same in every track,” School Principal Amelia R. Eusebio said. Deficit amount of educational resources are provided to CNHS but despite the shortage, the school administration is still positive that the SHS will be smooth and successful.
DepEd adopts Australia’s Continuous Improvement Plan CNHS team seeks to improve teaching process, reduce rate of non-readers Bianca Bohayo Get into the process to improve the entire system. This has been the guiding mantra for the Department of Education as it anchored its goal of progress to Australia’s CI or Continuous Improvement program. The CI methodology seeks to continually assess, analyze and act on the performance improvement of key processes focusing on both customer needs and the desired performance. It seeks to address problems along any process such as teaching reading and mathematics, getting step increments, and others. In the Philippines, the CI program was launched in 2013 to five implementing regions, nine divisions, and 34 schools. The five regions which
the program was pilot tested were Regions III, IV-A, VII, VIII, and NCR. It was only on September 5-9, 2016 that the Schools Division of Catanduanes started its pilot implementation through a Basic Training on CI to three elementary and three secondary schools. The six implementing schools were Cabcab Central Elementary School, Cabugao Intergrated School, and Virac Pilot Elementary School; and Bato Rural Development High School, Catanduanes National High School, and Panganiban National High School. In Catanduanes National High School, the CI team is seeking to look into the teaching-learning process of teachers handling the remedial reading classes in Grade 7. “We believe that teaching affects learning, so it is where we should start our assessment to address the problem,”
Team Leader Angelee R. Sarmiento said. Following the 3A’s namely Assess, Analyze, and Act, the CI team of CNHS already conducted interviews to teachers and students involved in the said project. This will be followed by series of observations to their classes focusing on the way of teaching. “In the two Grade 7 sections, 47 students were identified to have reading problems: 29 (Frustration Level), 18 (Non-readers),” Sarmiento added. She said that they were given six months to complete the program which is expected to end by March since they have started last September. “Almost everyday we have to meet to talk about the steps to be undertaken. This does not yet include the institutionalized CI through weekly coaching by the Division Team,” Sarmiento said.
Despite the intricate steps and procedures they have to do, the team is still positive to achieve 50% or 24 readers out of the total non-readers identified. “We hate to entertain negativities. By hook or by crook, we have to achieve that,” Member Salve P. Asanza said. The CNHS CI team is composed of Ms. Angelee R. Sarmiento (Team Leader), Ms. Arlene V. Borja (Scribe), Mr. John Edgar P. Maca (Communications), Ms. Immaculate T. Latorre (Documentation), and Ms. Salve P. Asanza (Process Observer). Other members are the reading teachers Ms. Catherine A. Lopez and Ms. Aileen T. Bajaro, and Grade 7 teachers and advisers and all English teachers.
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Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
KAREN’S AFTERMATH
Suggestion to construct drainage system stressed Ralph Lawrence Perez
DRENCH FEELS Laurice Laynes (Kampilan)
Typhoons and excessive rain always soak the CNHS grounds in flood due to the absence of drainage system which the administration, through the PTA, considers its top priority project.
After the fallout of Typhoon Karen last October, all classrooms were still intact but the typhoon left trees uprooted, rooms and hallways flooded and some books damaged, according to the report by School Disaster Risk Reduction Management (SDRRM) Coordinator, Josie Austero. In an interview with Austero, she the school already requested funds explained that there was no costly from the Division Office for the damage but the biggest problem construction of a drainage system. “Makakatulong ‘to dahil hindi na was the flooded rooms, hallways and the ankle high flood on the pathway kailangan mag-tulay sa mga bato para outside the lobby that made it lang maka punta sa kabila,” Villegas impassable. said. According to the school nurse, “Every time na umuulan ng malakas, bumabaha sa labas ng lobby these floods may cause leptospirosis. kaya hindi nakakadaan yung ibang Also, if the water becomes stagnant, estudyante at guro,” she said. it may bring about mosquito breeding She explained that this was caused and cause dengue. The students are advised to clean by the lack of a drainage system inside their feet with disinfecting soap when the campus. On the other hand, Co-SDRRM they reach home if they ever step in Coordinator, Allan Villegas said that these flooded areas in the school.
OralCom students perform play on waging freedom Joey Romero Oral Communication students of Grade 11-Realibility proved that in order to achieve the inalienable rights of freedom, people should learn to engage in active transfer of messages. In the theatrical play “Pandesal” performed by the said students, stage director and playwright Ralph Lawrence M. Perez said that it is a representation of how today’s world should uphold freedom at all time to avoid oppression. It was somehow coincidental with what The Synchronizer today is trying to promote.
“The publication shares the same ideology as the play. Both send the same message of untangling oneself from the shackles of complete control,” Perez said. Perez shared that the play was set during the Martial Law, but unlike any other plays, it focused on the life of ordinary citizens (orphans) whom history itself forgot to account. It was entitled “Pandesal” to depict the means of sending message of rebellion through paper bags where these salt breads are placed when bought at the ‘panaderia’. The play further gave the impression of the great role that communication plays in any societal
concern that will push people into action. “Furthermore, it says that the voice of the oppressed can never be silent, thus, it will find ways even in the most stealth means,” Perez revealed. The said performers said that it was more than just a requirement in a subject. “It is a celebration of the freedom that youth of today enjoy, thus the need to protect it.” “Pandesal” was performed on Oct. 21, 2016 at the school Auditorium with relative focus on the different communicative genres like speech choir, debate, drama, song, dramatic monologue, and extemporaneous speaking.
4-storey SHS building up for construction Ma. Kristina Molina Within nine months, a fourstorey building funded by the DepED central office will be accomplished to accommodate the upcoming senior high school students of Catanduanes National High School (CNHS). According to Miss Amelia R. Eusebio, school principal III, each floor will have five rooms and one separate comfort room for males and females. When asked if she expected a new building to be constructed other than the Senior High School (SHS) buildings occupied by the ABM and HUMMS
students, she said that even before her term, it was already proposed that the school will receive a high-rise building “As to budget, we don’t have information,” Miss Eusebio stated. Despite the benefits that will be given in the future by the building, different problems were and will be encountered by the school. “I think school grounds is necessary, but since we don’t have a buildable space anymore, it will be sacrificed,” Miss Eusebio shared. Eusebio said that the original plan was to build the said building in front of the Home Economics room, while
another two-storey construction will be built in front of the JICA building. Furthermore, the principal admitted that the flag ceremony is affected. “That’s our problem, so we decided to provide speakers in all areas.” Students will be staying in their respective rooms under the supervisory of their advisers while the non-teaching staff will stay outside. In addition to this, school activities like the joint BSP and GSP encampment are likely to be affected by the building construction. The school’s emergency escape plans and annual safety practices like
Graphics by Ralph Perez
earthquake drill will be affected. Mrs. Mari-Ann Maguerra, a Grade 9 adviser who happened to have her classroom near the construction location, addressed her opinion on the on-going project. “Okay naman maggibo ning building d’yan kasi mabebenepisyuhan ‘yung students na makagamit kaito,” said Mrs. Manguerra despite the light and ventilation obstruction caused by the corrugated metal sheets fringing the area. She also added that the fuss of the on-going construction is only temporary which needs just a little sprinkle of patience.
Synchro ColPub team shares experience winning in NSPC ‘16 Leah Francesca Munoz Rigorous series of trainings from an expert coach has brought The Synchronizer’s Collaborative Publishing team to the crowning glory of the National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) as it snatched the third place in the said contest event, February the Editor-in-Chief said in an interview. According to Joy Antoinette Ordoña winning in a national level contest was a 50/50 situation for
islanders like them. “Looking back to every contest our school has joined, only few had the chance to experience a once-in-a lifetime event,” Ordoña said. “I thought that we had no chance of winning because we are overshadowed by the spotlight of other big cities,” she continued. The team shared the struggles they faced since the division level which made them proud after winning. “Financial problems, lack of support, and time allotment constantly
blocked our way to success, but we didn’t let these problems break us down. The team members also attributed their victory to God, saying that it would have been impossible to win but He paved the way. “What gets measured get done. We’ve exerted huge amounts of effort in our craft, and surely it paid off,” Layout Artist Hannah Eden Santos said. “Undoubtedly in every contest you feel the nerve-wracking anxiety slowly eating your confidence but you must
use it as your motivation to do your best and make the most of it,” Ordoña said. The team believed that the school could also win in the national level contests, not only in journalism but also in Math, Science or any subject. “With the support of bright coaches, you just have to live your dream,” she revealed. The publication’s ColPub team will again compete in the RSPC at Tabaco National High School, Tabaco City, Albay after winning in the DSPC.
Sci-Tech News 7 Science Head cites STE program’s ‘satisfactory’ performance Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
Zaccharine Vargas STEPPING THE MARK Arian Leigh Ygusguiza
Mrs. Fe Hayne R. Aguilar explains how the Science Department maps out ways to continue achieving higher performance rate of the STE curriculum.
“So far, so good.” This was the statement of Science Department Head Teacher VI Fe Hayne Aguilar as she highlighted the status of Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) Evaluation during an interview, Oct. 4, 2016. According to Aguilar, the STE program has been doing satisfactorily in performances, achievements, and participation in Patiribayan, Science Investigatory projects, and other contests. “We closely monitor the activities and the implementation of the STE Program in order for the students to excel in Science and Math and for them to take up courses related to Science, Math, Technology and Engineering because this is the mission and vision of the government,” she added.
However, even with their satisfactory performance, Aguilar also cited that there were students who have been removed from the said program. “Although we’re doing well, we still urge the students to study harder in the field of Science and Mathematics and other subjects to maintain the target grade which is not lower than 85 in Math, Science, and English and not lower than 80 in other subjects,” she added. Moreover, she also said that the teachers should give interventions to students at risk of dropping out from the program and have a dialogue with their parents. The STE program caters education to students who excel in academics after passing the two screening tests given by the school and the Regional Office.
EARTHQUAKE DRILL
38 students swelter, faint due to hyperventilation Ma. Kristina Molina Twenty-nine students collapsed and nine were brought to the hospital due to hyperventilation and supposed hunger during the conduct of the earthquake drill at Catanduanes National High School, 10:00 a.m. June 24, 2016. According to School Nurse Michelle del Rosario, the committee in-charge of the said event never failed to remind the students of the precautionary measures to take in order to be safe. “If there will be an earthquake drill, they are prepared first. It is somehow ironic that the activity which is supposed to promote safety and awareness turned out to be a disaster,’ she said. In an interview to a Grade 8 student who refused to be named, he said that as students they had to do their part. “But they should also bear in mind the well-being and safety of us,
especially because of the extreme warmth the sun gives off,” he added. Moreover, he also said that the time when the drill was scheduled was not quite tolerable because of the different unhealthy chances it could give to students’ health. On the other hand, del Rosario stated that in order to lessen these instances, everyone should be prepared and aware in terms of school drills. She also encouraged the students not to skip breakfast so that they could participate well in school activities. Asked if there should be considerations for those who complain not to enjoin in the activity, Del Rosario said that nobody should be exempted. “All students are encouraged to participate for them to apply what they have learned in symposia or trainings conducted by the school,” she explained. “Nobody is excused just because of his own liking,” she emphasized.
CNHS bags awards in Division Sci-Math tilt
#SynchroSURVEY
Should condoms be introduced to students?
Alexie Ebon & Bianca Bohayo With students and teachers raising the banner of Catanduanes National High School (CNHS), the school grabbed places on the first ever Division Sci-Math Training Camp Cum Patiribayan held at Amenia Beach Resort, Palawig, San Andres, on November 7-9, 2016. Basic Education Curiculum (BEC) Joined by over 279 participants and Jezreel Torres garnered first place in from various secondary schools in Math Device with Mrs. Elizabeth Tabuzo representives in Grade 7 and Grade 8 Mario Satairapan, Kehan Edward the province, CNHS got six first as their coach. Ginoong Mathinik Ralph Tammy Tabirara, Zaccharine Vargas and Kristine places both in Science and Math Eresco and Binibining Mathinik Laarni Vergara were in fourth place and Grades categories. In the individual contests, Ghaislain Molod were both first runner 9 and 10 Jinky Lero, Ken Tabuena, Josh John Russel T. Beo ranked first ups in the said pageant with Mr. Allan Guerrero and Maricon Abundo got second place. in Modulo Arts (Standard) Villegas as their trainor. On the other hand, CNHS also For the Teacher’s Strategic and Dolly Mae T. Bautista at second place in Modulo Arts got places in Science Quiz Team Instructional Material (SIM), Mrs. Carol (Kaleidoscopic) with Mr. Roberto Sta. Category with Science and Technology P. Gil ranked first with Mrs. Ludy Avila as Engineering (STE) representatives from her coach. Rosa as their coach. Mr. Ferdinand Diano, Mr. John Vince Charlton Gil and Alycel Go , Grade 7 and 8 Selina Sorra, Johari Aez and Shaina Mae Vargas and Jhommane Sarmiento, Neumann Manila, and Ariel Serwin Santelices, Mrs. Kathlene Mae Trinidad and Ms. Ena Sarmiento got Vargas ranked first and fifth, respectively Ray Louise Tabirara getting first place. STE’s Grades 9 and 10 members first place in Teacher’s category team in Math Game with Ms. Javine Magtangob and Ms. Gherlyn Rebuya as Airro King Robles, Lady Ericka Marintes, Science quiz. Participants have joined the regional Christian Abrina, and Erica Tenoria also their coaches. level on December 8-9, 2016. Moreover, Justine Charles Ubalde made it to the top.
60% 40% The CNHS Synchronizer interviewed 90 students in this survey. Infographics by Hazel Talan
AMIDST THE BURNING HEAT Arian Leigh Ygusguiza
Students of Catanduanes National High School bear with the hot temperature as the school conducts an earthquake drill, June 24, 2016, in connection with the Disaster Consciousness Month Celebration.
8 Features
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
WorthTheClimb Marielle Tabo
S
he may not be the smartest person in class, still, she managed to get up on stage and enjoy the feeling of being on top. Dark winding roads are not the best place for her after a very tiring day. The lights from a few lamp posts are the only things that keep her from freaking out. When she reached home, she ate dinner and started to study. “Nika,” her mom started, “Hindi ka pa ba napapagod? Bakit nag-aaral ka pa? Pahinga ka muna.” With a deep sigh, she said, “Ma, ‘di ba gusto niyo akong makasali sa top ten para naman makaakyat ako sa stage ‘pag awarding? Hayaan niyo na po muna ako.” Her mother smiled apologetically. “Nakakatuwang isipin na makakasali ka sa top ten,” her mother said, leaning on the door. “Pero kung na-iistress ka para lang makuha mo yung gusto namin, parang hindi naman maganda yun.” When she remained silent, her mom walked towards her. “Makakaakyat ka rin sa stage,” her mother said while smiling.
CHANGE HAS COME Nika is one of the many students of Catanduanes National High School who hopes to be part of the top ten in class. When she was still an elementary student, she hoped to be part of the awarding ceremonies in high school.
“Ngayon kasing high school, top ten lang ang nakakaakyat sa stage at nabibigyan ng award,” Nika stated. Furthermore, according to the Republic Act No. 10648, public school students who belong to the top ten of the graduating class will be entitled to a scholarship in any state university or college of choice with compliance to certain conditions. When the Department of Education issued DepEd Order No. 36, s. 2016, changes were made on the guidelines on awards and recognition. This order supports students’ holistic development. Moreover, classroom awards, grade-level awards and special recognition will be given to learners. These may be given per quarter, semester or at the end of the school year. The Academic Excellence Award which falls under the classroom awards will be given to learners from grades 1 to 12 who had an average of at least 90 in all learning areas. Those students who gained an average grade of 90-94 in each quarter will be awarded ‘With Honors’ followed by ‘With High Honors’ which will be given to students who had an average of 95-97 and those who garnered an average of 98-100 will be given ‘With Highest Honors’. “At least, kapag ganito ang style, mare-recognize kaming mga estudyante na hindi naman kasali sa top ten,” she said.
LOOKING BACK Way back in seventh grade, the top ten in the class ranking was the basis for those students who will be awarded in the recognition rites. “Kapag nakita kong hindi ako kasali sa top ten, medyo nadidisappoint ako kasi kahit papano naman ay ginawa ko ang best ko,” Nika disclosed. As a matter of fact, there are students who will cry or get into a bad mood when they saw that their ranks have gotten lower or when they realized that a certain person was actually better than them. “Ang ranking nagche-check siya ng progress ng students pero minsan, dahil dito, nagkakaroon ng hindi magandang kompetensiya sa room,” she shared. “Instead na mag-aral ang students to gain learning, nag-aaral sila to beat someone,” she added.
‘EARS’ OF JOY It was after the periodical tests when Nika’s adviser told them of the new guidelines on awards and recognition. “Sabi ko sa sarili ko, kahit papano siguro ay makakakuha ako ng award dahil diyan,” she said hopefully. According to her, when her parents heard about it, they were very happy. “Noong sinabi kong nakakuha nga ako ng award, proud na proud sila sa akin,” she said happily.
POSITIVE VS. NEGATIVE Just like people, the DepEd order also gained negative opinions. In a survey conducted in forty people, eleven people wanted the ranking system back. According to them, the ranking system motivates them better. “Nasasayangan ako sa chance na kapag top ten ka, makakakuha ka ng scholarship,” Cristine, a grade 10
student, said. On the other hand, there are also those who expressed joy towards the new system. “I am in favor of the new system because those who are not included in the top ten will also be given recognition,” Miss Ena Sarmiento, a Science teacher, said. Rene, a Grade-10 student, said that it is embarrassing if other people were to see his rank in class.
LITTLE THINGS For Ms. Amelia R. Eusebio, the principal of Catanduanes National High School, DepEd Order No. 36 motivated students and inspired parents. “When they went up the stage during the quarterly recognition, I can see in their faces that they are very happy and I like it,” she said. According to her, one has to work for something to attain a certain thing. “The success is all yours, nobody can get that from you,” she ended with a smile.
THE CLIMB The day of the awarding came and Nika’s father was much more excited than her. Even though the vehicle they were riding on collapsed, that did not change the mood of the two. “With Honors!” the emcee announced. When Nika was finally called, her father proudly accompanied her on stage and relished the moment. Afterwards, her father said happily while hugging her, “Very good ang anak ko. In her high school life, nagkaroon siya ng award.” “Thank you, Pa,” Nika said. Because life is a mountain to be climbed, someone should enjoy the feeling of reaching its peak.
WORTH THE CLIMB Arian Leigh Ygusguiza
Nika can now enjoy studying because of DepEd’s new guidelines on awarding.
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016 AS DIFFERENT FEET STEP ON separate roads, in split of seconds, they find themselves both stuck in the middle of a crossroad. Breathe out sighs, shadows of darkness cover the light. Cart of choices are brought rumbling the minds. The question that lingers is - will the hidden future be harder to find? Nevertheless, another side unfolds, streaming the hopes of success in line - a promise of all that’s yet to come, the reason they should stick around.
Brimming First Steps
“New experience, new learnings, I guess that’s what makes Senior High exciting”, as Franco (not his true name), a Grade 11 student of Catanduanes National High School, began to state. In the onset of SHS full implementation, a high percentage of students chose CNHS to be the avenue of their new journey in learning. But comes with the new race, are different shout outs of the pioneers. “One thing I was fond of in Senior High are the activities in different curriculum that we haven’t experienced when in Junior High,” Franco said. “There are offered subjects that can be related to your future course in college, and can surely be adopted when you start working”, he detailed.
Touchdown Choices
“One of the pressures I’ve experienced is decision-making. It was a burden choosing what track to take,” Franco said as his eyes were teemed with confusion. Senior High School has 31 total Subjects, 15 of which are Core Subjects and 16 of which are Track Subjects, the latter broken down into 7 Contextualized subjects and 9 Specialization subjects. Now this is a total rumble. With this, Franco and the other many students got crammed up of what to choose. Just like in quizzes, sometimes multiple choices aren’t good options, there will be distractions, and full of maybes. “Actually I really want to take HUMMS but in the end I still chose to go to ABM, because thinking about my future, Accountancy can give me more opportunities and it will be an easier access for jobs,” Franco strutted. And getting near to realizations, the future and the passion can be a contradictory at times. And Senior High is not just about for learning, it also takes the right decision-making.
Tossing Side
On the other side, another student has another chapter of story. Cheska (not her true name), another Grade
The Synchronizer
Features 9
Diverged
11 student, spoke up her insights. “Yes, it can help us for our future but the promise of the government gave us burdens - the lack of facilities, lack of learning tools and perhaps, less learning because teachers don’t have sufficient teaching tools,” she began to exclaim as disappointment colored up her face. The unavailability of learning materials is just one of the problems still hounding the K-12. According to Elvin Uy, K to 12 Program Coordinator of the Department of Education, there have been delays in the past in the delivery of learning materials such as activity sheets and modules for the students. “Our expectations when we were in Grade 10 disappeared, because what happened now, is far from the promise of the government, the school has nothing to do with the lack of facilities, I guess it’s all in the government,” she added. Cheska is one of the SHS students who experience the nightmare of the ‘multi’ multi-purpose hall. The discomfort they experience daily is one thing to feel disappointed. However, she believes that the government should do the action, and the school can apply the solution.
Paths Stepping off the Crossroads of Senior High
Jona Mae Camacho
Stating phases
”Of course, putting together curricular requirements for the K-12 reform is one thing. Teaching them is quite another,” Mr. Ronnie Tolledo, Math Teacher in Catanduanes National High School, stated. Beyond the cargo of the students, teachers also have a say. This school year, some teachers were given additional teaching loads other than their usual subjects. Some subjects are even new to them and this situation gave them another struggle. “I am a teacher in Mathematics then I was assigned to teach Media Information & Literacy and Research this school year. We’re only given a short time for training that’s why it was really a challenge for us,” Mr. Tolledo said. Many teachers have experienced the hardship but they managed to carry on and get along with the new curriculum.
Less may be more
It surely is a challenge for some, and an advantage for many. K-12 is like a wish list, but all the components need real dreams. “Once you’ve chosen your track, make sure that you’ll stick with it,” Mam Amelia Eusebio, CNHS School Principal, persuaded. This is where reality will demolish the conceptual castles some may be taking
satisfaction in the formulation of this curriculum. “Nobody is perfect, so I guess the students should adjust, just understand the shortcomings of the school because they also want to give what’s best for us,” Franco imparted a message for the students. It may not be a perfect reform, but it is on the right track with proper support of the principal and the whole school administration. As for Cheska’s part, encouragement is a big thing to aspire. “ Yes, we may lack facilities, there may be too many burdens, many circumstances, but all we need is perseverance, we may have many ‘less’, but this step can bring us into something more,” as she slipped the words with a smile on her face. In this sense, less may be truly more. Stepping off “It's a new world and we can't sit back and be complacent and just crank
out,” Franco stated. The reality is we are in tough times and we need to prepare. It’s a new dimension for more opportunities. There’s no room for too much complaints, it has already begun. “We need to make sure that our students will someday be able to live independent adult lives and not simply have heads filled with 'education' for the sake of 'knowing stuff,” Cheska noted.
Artwork by Anjhelica Magbanua | Edited by John Christian Donato
10 Features
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
Kulturang Nasyonal THE IMAGE THAT DEFINES ‘US’ ALL Ma. Roxette Rojas
P
erfection is just an illusion. The world we live is not perfectly round; roads diverge in unknown directions, and even the colors of God’s creations fade through time. Blemishes – they abound; but although they create negative impression, they still define what we are and who we are. And we don’t have to fake the whole world just to fit in. We just have to laugh about these crazy stuff. LOL!
NEW ROMANTICS Waiting is never new to CNHS. It’s been one of the most done things in school; waiting in line, waiting to connect, waiting for the site to load, waiting for the results, waiting for the time to be noticed, and, waiting and hoping for something impossible to happen. “Ganyan naman talaga tayo eh. Patuloy paring umaasa kahit alam naman nating wala na,” Rene Talaran II would answer anybody in this love-related ‘out of the blue’ punchline. This would bring the house down. Almost all would jump into this bandwagon called ‘HUGOT’. Even the teachers would make the class go wild as they throw heartbreaking lines.
“When you write your sentences in your paper, please leave one space. Alam n’yu ang feeling nang nakikisiksik? Masakit…” TIME TO SHARE IT Every class is unique. “Paggaexam? Dai kaming ‘cheating arrangement’ alog sa iba. Ang igwa kami ‘sharing arrangement,” with a smile on his face, Nathaniel Sarmiento proudly said. Who doesn’t copy answers from a seatmate or friend, anyway? This is school, heck. A very serious classroom situation just makes students get old than expected. This is the spice of high school life. A sneak from a strict teacher should be done with flying honors. There is always reason to succeed in this mischief. “The problem with exam results is its validity. We grow our head dizzy in preparing that and yet, they won’t take that seriously,” a teacher expressed his exasperation.
Weird as it may seem, students get happy with that somehow. THE AFTER FIVE’S Afternoons start from a peaceful haven of classes going smoothly to a startling stampede of students racing to the gates to go home. According to a survey, seven out of 10 students go home right after their teachers dismiss them or after cleaning their lot assignments. But for some students, dismissals don’t mean directly going home to their comfort zones for a nice slumber or a comfy post in front of the TV. For them, it’s a chance to do the things they couldn’t do at home or anywhere else. “After class, I don’t go home immediately, rather, I play volleyball with my friends and my boyfriend (don’t question it). Because it helps improve my physical health and of course, it’s fun,” Kent Aguilar, a Grade 10-Liberality student said. “I mean, after a long day learning and understanding and memorizing and listening to what seems like unending lessons, we all need to clear our minds from the stresses of school and have fun, right?”, pausing from his game, Kent exhaustedly explained. A game of volleyball isn’t the only thing one would witness in the grounds of CNHS after class. Various students who still don’t feel the need to go would be found either in groups or solo with phones or tablets on their hands, just letting the time fly by. Or when feel like it, some would prepare their assignments in school making sure they have the same answers so as not to cram answering it on the due date. There are also ones playing other sports like badminton, baseball and basketball. On some other parts, teen couples would be spotted spending time alone together. “PDA! PDA!”, some would tease. But ‘nothing lasts forever’, a ‘bitter’ student would say. THE SPOOKS AND HISTORY Before the clock strikes six in the evening, the guards of the school have already roamed around the campus with their flashlight and whistle as they strictly tell
Artworks by Anjhelica Magbanua | Edited by John Christian Donato
the students that it’s already time to go home. And with this, there are still some who stay a little longer than expected. “It was about 6pm. I was the only person inside our room. I just got out from the CR and when I was about a meter away from the door to leave, I heard the teacher’s table in front move. As a reflex, I stopped and looked at where the sound was made and there, beside the blackboard, was a long-haired girl wearing a white dress with blood all over. Her hands were covering her face and it seems like she was crying for help.” Still feeling the goose bumps, Kyla Zamora shared. Catanduanes National High School was said to be a cemetery before it became a school. Many folks also believed that there were hundreds of people who died in this very location; some committed suicide, some got caught on accidents and others, murdered. “I also work and guard the school from 11pm to seven in the morning. I roam around the entire school for inspection for about four to five times. And sometimes, especially on critical hours, I get nervous and scared. It sometimes feel like someone’s following me or watching me as I walk and check around,” Sir Abrasaldo stated smilingly. MAKE-UP SESSION Ang gayun na sa CNHS! It’s a story of improvement. In the past years, the school campus is a picture of withered flower amidst the desert with its grounds seldom trimmed and vacant lots unattended. The school crosses the borders of it transformation. Landscaping is the name of the new game. Each section is busy tendering its respective lot assignment with focus on the ‘tree’ it tends to care for. Each has turned into horticulturist, trying his very best to beautify the place. It’s no surprise why variety of plants sprouted like mushrooms after a thunderstorm. This does not include yet the recycling techniques of using empty bottles of soda drinks in fencing the plants. The main building transformed into an Encantadia where green plants abound the lobby and origamis flutter in the
windowsills of the Office. It is as if one is enchanted to indulge in that very place. Welcome, feel at home! As the Principal stressed, the routine of tendering the gardens should be sustained. It should not only be during Brigada Eskwela Evaluation. This call dissipates ningas-cogon, a very Filipino trait. The challenge is for everyone. We would never entertain mockery on this issue of faltering dedication toward work at hand. RUNDOWN Our dear school never runs out of stories. In every corner lies untold tales of laughter, pain, struggle and dreams. From t h e
students who would dare jump the wall hampered with barbed wire to the students who would knot stories just to rationalize abhorrent behaviors; from the nagging reminders of teachers to ‘study, study, and study’ to the seemingly deaf response of students to comply their requirements; from the school activities that bug, bore, and annoy you to the nondescript happiness of fun-filled experiences – the story is never-ending. But whatever stories that linger here, CNHS still continues to excel and bring out the most out of the students and teachers. Moreover, these things that most people would call ‘flaws’ and ‘imperfections’ aren’t actually blemishes that flaunt the bad side of the school, rather a boost that wisely teach and mold the students and create CNHS as it is. This is our world where our own stories revolve. This is our infinite journey; and wherever it leads us, we take with us the image of our true identity as one unique entity in this world of diversity. All hail Nationalistas!
#FreedomOfInformation June-December 2016
Features 11
Freedom of Information The Synchronizer
The Perfect Harmony of Pulling Strings Si deways “You never know what you hav
e until it’s gone,” they say. But for countless times, it’s bee frankly speaking, you knew n lost; for many years, it’s bee what you had, you just didn’t n forcefully taken away from think you would lose it. Free now that we attained the one us; for millions of people, it’s dom – thing we’ve been wanting for been lived for, fought for and so long, we slowly become around us. Truly, a thing’s valu died for. But an uns toppable force destroying not e only becomes visibly imp ortant when one does not hav just ourselves, rather everyth e it. But once it’s been own ing through time; either simply ed, its significance and valu forgotten or horribly abused e slowly fade until we find ourselves wishing for it again.
NO Holding Back Zaccharine Vargas
GOOD MORNING PHILIPPINES! Good morning Bicolandia!” her seemingly angelic voice resonate s through the speakers and to the ears of the drowsy audiences, waking them up from their stupor. For Tiffany Templonuevo, 16, and a radio broadcaster by choice, nothing seems better than delivering information through her powerful and influential voice. “I like to take Freedom of Information as an opportunity to express, because it enforces the media to be unbiased,” she said. The Freedom of Information Act, which was passed March 10, 2016, aims to mandate the disclosure of public documents. The proposed bill also outlines the exceptions for public disclosure and the procedures for accessing public documents. According to former President Aquino’s message on the National Budget For Fiscal Year 2016, greater transparency offers up a more responsible government. The FOI Bill is an integral element of the Aquino Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Plan of 2012-2016. The role of journalists become very relative to this issue. Considered as the Fourth State, they have the perfect platform to be the channel of information.
They can even maximize their freedom of expression without fear of intimidation provided the legal basis which consequently will offer them safety in times of trouble. Putting in the context of campus journalism, studentwriters can easily access information for use of publication. “We hope that this FOI bill can not only give us a license to
We’re lucky we did not live during the times of oppression. It’s good to know that we’re free and we shouldn’t let others hold us back.
enter impassable doors, but also a right to protect us from whatever danger is inside,” The Synchronizer adviser said in an interview. This bill will no less leash aspiring student-journalists from doing what they want to. “We shouldn’t let others stop us from doing what we love to do because it’s our stress reliever. Dai man sindang karapatan para harion ang samung karapatan,” Tiffany added. We’re lucky we did not live during the times of oppression. It’s good to know that we’re free and we shouldn’t let others hold us back. This is the freedom we must protect. Slowly moving her eyes to look at the crowd, she saw some faces grimacing at her. Trying to get her out of the stage for a moment, time stopped, leaving her the feeling of fear; as if anytime, those eyes would throw daggers at her. Then she suddenly remembers; she is free, she can do whatever she wants. And there’s no holding back.
M
ies emor of the Dark Days
Aizo Añes Caña
W
ith military cars scarily ranging and armed people strictly wandering, curfews and abusive curtailments of freedom – it was a nightmare no one had ever imagined. In their own homeland provinces, Mr. Santiago and Mr. Zosimo could still
WORTH THE CLIMB Ma. Roxette Rojas
Santiago’s life is shadowed by the past, putting his childhood memories in shattered turmoil.
Martial Law Stats Source: chrights.com.ph
30,000 opposition figures including Senator Benigno Aquino, journalists, students and labor activists were detained at Private Military Compounds.
4,000
workers and religious supporters held an open mass in protest to the Marcos Administration.
P6.3B
Philippine foreign debt rose from P0.7 billion in 1972 to Php 6.3 billion in 1975.
1,028
armed “regulars” were under Marcos’s control during the Martial Law Period.
3,000
were summarily executed during the Martial Law with 1000 still missing as of now.
remember their unfortunate experience of the dreadful harshness of Martial law. At their young age, they’d watched as how their fellow people were forced to follow the rules against their own will and how they were mercilessly tortured whenever they go against these rules. “During that time, here in Catanduanes, it felt like we were living in a cage for no reason,” Mr. Santiago said. “Knowing the fact that we were still kids, we were carefree. Until we were restrained by the implemented rules like curfew,” he added, saying that even the rights of a child have been stolen by the injustice law. On the other hand, Mr. Zosimo faced horrendous tragedy that inflicted a great impact to his mind until now. “I was still in Talangnan (Negros
Occidental) when it all happened.” Mr. Zosimo started. “I can still remember the accused member of NPA (New People’s Army) who died in the hands of the armed people. It was such a horrible scene,” he continued. According to him, the tortures his friend experienced were terrifyingly too much. They opened up his mouth so wide, stretching it until of too much pain, he died. Scared for what might happen to them, Mr. Zosimo and his family were left with no choice but to turn into a blind eye locked in the cage of miseries. Same with Mr. Santiago, Mr. Zosimo also lost his time to enjoy his childhood life. At an early age, they were obliged to act mature in no time; their freedom forcedly taken away.
12 Features
Science and Technology June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
CHALK DUST C
halk has been used for drawing since prehistoric times. Archeologists say it helped to create some of the earliest cave art and later on, artists from different countries and eras. According to Deepanjan Majumdar in his research “Assessment of Airborne Fine Particulate Matter and Particle Size Distribution in Settled Chalk Dust during Writing and Dusting Exercises in a Classroom”, chalk is composed of calcium carbonate, minor amounts of silt and clay that are accumulated during physical and chemical changes in rocks. Basically, chalk is made up of compressed dust. Majumdar noted that when the chalk is scraped across the board, some of these dusts are suspended into air. Teachers and students can breathe in dust that can be trapped in the mucus layers of the throat and lungs. Small amount of inhaled dust is not considered harmful to those who have healthy respiratory system because they can release it through coughing, but for those who have respiratory issues, it may trigger a reaction from them.
Photo by Arian Leigh Ygusguiza
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Torn between Job and Health Nathalie Joy Delantar
According to the journal ‘Indoor and Built Environment’, there are links between chalk dust and asthma problems. It may cause lachrymation (tearing of the eyes) and breathing troubles. In an interview with 10th grader Eunice dela Cruz, she stressed the ill effects of chalk inhalation to her health. “I always get choked when dust is being inhaled, sometimes I feel like coughing,” asthmatic Dela Cruz said. There are also potential electronic hazards. Devices such as computers, and projectors, inside the classrooms can suffer damage from dust. Some may clog the devices’ inner system. Another 10th grader Kent Aguilar narrated a peculiar experience of drinking chalk-infected water. “It tasted weird, the dispenser was placed near the chalk-board so we assumed it was the chalk dust that gave the taste, “Aguilar said.
In an interview with English Teacher Dave S. Tolentino, he noted how frequent he coughs everytime he inhales chalk dust. “So in order not to compromise my health and my instruction, I now use powerpoint presentation in all my lessons,” said the techy teacher. In a post at wisegeek.org, almost all chalks are produced today are ‘dustless’, to address the chalk dust issue. But still ‘dustless’ chalk produces dust, it’s just that its particles are heavier and it tends to fall directly to the floor and do not float on air. Exposure to respiratory disease has been reducing, but the built up dust is still problematic. Toxicologists advise to purchase classroom chalks with the CP (Certified Product) non-toxic seal, which indicates that the product meets the standards of quality and performance and the materials used are non-toxic.
S T H G I N SLEEPLESS Z Z
BEING AWAKE AT TIMES OF darkness, when everyone’s asleep, some are still up to cradle the risks of getting through the night perturbed. “If talking about hours of sleep, maybe I only spend 2 hours and somehow that suits it,” Christian Kenneth Tejada, a Grade 9 student from Catanduanes National High School started. Mostly, students nowadays begin to lessen their sleeps just to fit their school works and other activities in their night homeworks. School preparations, projects, social media, television—these things are of a big percentage in a student’s life which they have to sacrifice their rest just to accomplish everything to be able to pass it for the next day. “Reading and coffee keep me awake. Both have an effect on my body I guess,” he added. Due to pressure, students also learn the arts of bounded sleeps and explore more ways to keep them roused. Coffee, known to be a stimulant, can wake our body when we’re about to shut down, is one of the most effective ways to do what should be done. In other cases, some treat coffee as softdrinks just to stir them up for their homeworks in the hours left for the nighttime. On the other side, the sleepless nights affect the performance of the students in the school. It affects them mentally and even on the outer look. “Nag-re’red na yung mata ko kakapuyat, pati eyebags, pimples, tapos hindi na ako nakakapag-
Jona Mae Camacho
isip nang maayos pagdating sa school, tapos kulang na sa energy,” Kenneth explained remorsefully, though his night is considered productive considering the loads of work accomplished. “Kina mama, ‘pag minsan pinagagalitan na rin nila ako kasi nga kailangan ko rin magpahinga, kaso marami pa talagang kailangang gawin,” Kenneth stated. In these times, we cannot deny that aside from the students
I may feel the need of a twenty-fifth hour, but I know it’s for the good. Still, the discipline is up to me.
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themselves, who can be affected of these pressures of works, the school has also made its way to replace the parent’s situation. According to the Telegraph website, when teenagers have parents who are physically and emotionally present, they tend to have better behavior. But because of excessive school works, and extra activities, which give a stressing impact on the student, even the parents are being pretentious. In some situations, this can cause walls to build up between a student and his family, and may lead to a child’s depression. Instead of producing a good outcome, it may turn out the other way around. Amid all the drawbacks, the only solution is their discipline and management. Their grades may rely on them, but so as their health. “I may feel the need of a twenty-fifth hour, but I know it’s for the good. Still, the discipline is up to me.”
SLEEPYHEAD Ralph Lawrence Perez
Sleeping during class is inevitable for this student who spends most of his time awake at night.
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ADING
he ever frustrating long wait for a page to load on your laptop, phone, computer or tablet due to slow internet. But what infuriates you most is when the page doesn’t load after minutes of waiting and what faces you are the words, “Page not loading. Try again.” This is the problem most Filipinos deal with today, leading some to shout aggravated cusses and oftentimes the smacking of the gadget. As the internet in the country was ranked and only to show that it is at the tail end of the list just ahead of Afghanistan, it also reflects how progress moves in the Philippines: slow and infuriating. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC) - Philippines one of the factors that sets back the country from getting faster internet services is its archipelagic nature. “As the country is composed of 7,101 islands, it is more challenging for internet service providers to build infrastructures and provide customers with unfailing internet connection”, states the IDC. As an island in the eastern part of the Philippines, Catanduanes
T
is facing the same problems. The students of Catanduanes National High School rely on internet as a source of information especially for assignments and projects. Since time isn’t a luxury for some of the students of CNHS, they depend on the internet for research instead of going to the school library which is a tiring climb of two flights of stairs to get there, not to mention if you’re from the far corners of the school. The internet has a major role in providing students with information about school topics and new ideas that may have been just discovered. “The country’s geographic makeup impedes the expansion of telecom networks to rural areas,” IDC Philippines add. In America, Google has launched Google Fiber which can offer up to 1000 Mbps, a sonic speed compared to the turtle speed of 2.5 Mbps of our country. This means that with Google Fiber you can download movies of 750 Mb in a matter of milliseconds whereas our country’s internet does not even have the word “instant” in its vocabulary. It is time for our government to give notice to this problem. Most of its agencies depend on internet to transmit data. For example, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is a matter of life and death in giving fast weather forecasts especially when a typhoon is going to hit the country. The need for a higher budget to increase internet speed is a must for a growing population focused on better education and the safety of its people.
Ralph Lawrence Perez
The Tragedy of Low Internet Connectivity
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Science and Technology June-December 2016
oice is the sound that you make with your mouth and throat when you’re speaking. This is one’s ability to talk and sing. A human’s voice may be one of the most precious things for those whose profession is speaking and teachers are no exception. Nowadays, people who love to talk and overuse their voice suffer a lot of various voice problems. According to the National Institute or Deafness and Communication Disorders (NICD), more than 7.5 million people have diseases or disorders of the voice. A NICD study found out that 11 percent of teachers reported a current voice problem which only means that this condition is so common among teachers.
According to Dr. Joseph Spiegel, the co-director of The Voice and swallowing center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, teachers who stress their voice can lead to problems such as vocal fold swelling, vocal fold nodules, and excessive muscle strain with voice use. These conditions can severely limit voice quality and stamina which can not only alter quality of life but also lead to occupational disability for a classroom teacher. If left untreated, these problems can cause permanent vocal damage. He also said that the largest patient at the Jefferson Voice and swallowing center are teachers. The usual cause will be a combination of small problems related to the way the person uses
Raising Volumes
Photo by Eva Alessandra Subion
“Another is measuring the root growth of 24 plants by using a ruler and measuring in millimetre, it sure is a long task and we have to do it daily until the end of the experiment,” Jeremiah said. As the experiment progresses, the plants’ height is also changing. This would entail adding the amount of water to be supplemented. They still need to moisten the plant everyday at around two to three o’clock in the afternoon right before ‘shocking’. Nonetheless, all these long lugs will not hinder Christoper and Jeremiah to strive for their goal of victory. The paper may be judged only at the tip of the iceberg, but the dedicated process will unveil the hard work.
The Synchronizer
Photo by Arian Leigh Ygusguiza
Features
his or her voice. The physical environment in which the voice is used and increased levels of stress and tension. Sometimes an unhealthy lifestyle or illnesses such as hay fever, reflux, and sinus problems can also contribute to the problem. Because most voice problems are caused by a combination of factors which are not serious or difficult to eliminate, most can easily be prevented or remedied of detected early. To prevent this kind of disorder, drink water, do not smoke, do not abuse or misuse your voice and minimize throat clearing. As the saying goes, “Prevention is better than cure.” One should always take care and give attention to our voice for it is a delicate instrument.
Ma. Kathlene Carla B. Benavidez
Pot by Pot It takes various of methods, one step cannot create the whole research.
Christoper Richard R. Alcantara and Jeremiah S. Turiano, Grade-10 students of Catanduanes National High School, are the chosen contestants for the Division Science and Technology Fair 2016. But before stepping into the triumph are the sequence of processes they need to overcome in able to generate a productive research. “One of the first steps of our struggles within our research is getting the soil, aside from measuring it in kilo, we still have to strain the soil so that we can get the better particles,” Christoper explained.
Jona Mae Camacho
The Researchers’ Arduous Toil through the Unknown
A Teacher’s Unfaltering Voice to Serve
Straining the loam “Mainly, I scanned the proposed research problems, and I found out that their research has a connection on electrical works so I suggested to replicate their problem in a more efficient way. We, then came up with our present research topic: Germination and Growth Stimulation of Native Beans through Low-Voltage DC Current,” Research Adviser Maria Claudette C. Borrega began stating.
TO HONE THE VICTORY IS EQUAL to unrevealed process as the tip of the iceberg. What you don’t see is the long haul, and all the unknown endless auditing.
g r e b e c I e h t Tip of
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Photo by Ralph Lawrence Perez
14 Camera Roll
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 Variety Show 2016
The Synchronizer
CNHS Variety Show #CAPTURED:
IT’S SHOWTIME! Synchro Coverage Team
Clad in their various attires, teachers and students alike show off their prowess in performing on stage in the Variety Show at Virac Sports Center, Nov. 19, 2016.
Photos by Christian Kenneth Tejada, John Christian Donato, Erwin James Gianan, and Jancis Rey Templonuevo
d n o y Be ses n e L Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
s Image d n a s f Word School o g n i t ee led The M Horizon cal Subion in a a Alessandra Ev
Camera Roll 15
Thy humb le abod spirit who e awaits for the com has gone a e stray in th back of a forlorn e wastelan d.
e n in th e t t i r ts w secre e h t e ulg oul. ot div of one’s s n n a c s r depth Mirro
NEWS
STEM student crow ned
The heart’s purest inte nts shall pu rchase
trust long d esired.
‘Mutya ng Virac’ ‘16
Tourism, anti-bullyin g, freedom of expressi on to get focus in her Ralph Lawrence reign Perez
Elegance can come fro m anyone. Grade 11 STEM studen t, Debbie Rose T. Dela Rosa was cro wned as the Mutya ng Virac 2016 last De c. 3 at the Virac Plaza Rizal. Dela Rosa, 17, is the daughter of Henry T. Dela Rosa and Dela Rosa, both teache Ma. Gracia T. rs from Calatagan High School and Juan M. Alberto Memorial Elementary School (JMAMES) respectively. Dela Rosa graced the stage garnering Best in Production Nu mber. On the other hand, other winners were: Camille Orillo , Pearl of Virac; Wency Vargas, Flowe r of Virac; Judy
Ann D. Taño, First Runn er-Up and; Kaitlyn Pestaño Tabuzo, Secon d Runner-Up. “Never niyong ibago ang sadili niyo para sa iba, maski kai nano ka ka-simple – just be true to yourse lf,” said Dela Rosa in an interview with The Synchronizer. She explained that her journey to being crowned as Mu tya has not been easy because of hea vy criticisms from different people.
A MissU Story Who says it’s only Pia Wurtzbach worthy of a third tim e? Before Dela Rosa ear ned the title of Mutya ng Virac, she lost two pageants consecutively in Viga. However, it was the losses that made her keep reaching for the crown, she explain s. “Parang kwento lang ni Pia sa Miss Universe. What a bea utiful coincidence it was na nakuha ko siy a as my hashtag,” she recalled. She quoted the reigning Miss Universe saying, “Neve r settle when you can dream bigger.” Pia was crowned Mi ss Universe after failing to repres ent the country in the pageant twice. “There is nothing wrong with failing – actually, yun nga ang dapat nating makamit para matuto tayo,” Dela Rosa said.
col avidez O rdie Ben e F y b Photo
Education is key Dela Rosa along wit h the organizers of Mutya ng Virac will focus on promoting tourism in
the province. However , she promised to value her studies more. “Nagdakula ako sa puder ning duwang teacher – na adal muna; kaya I can’t take my studies as a second priority lang,” she explained. On a bigger note, advocate Anti-Bullying she plans to in schools and promote the Republic Act 10627 or the Anti-Bullying Ac t of 2013 with its mandate to pro tect students from physical and emotion al harm from other students. “It’s just a lack of under standing from students. Kung piga-e ducate ang bawat salo then we can les sen this crisis in our
Photo by Erwin Jame s Gianan
schools,” she said. Also, she added tha t advocating freedom of expres sion is a must explaining that the lack of this causes some students to be iso lated from society while they could hav e contributed in nation-building. She explained that she grew up barely being noticed bu t aft pageant it has given her er winning the more confidence to be herself and sha re her uniqueness to others. “Your uniqueness can contribute in building the nation; never be afraid to showcase who you tru ly are,” she added.
16 SPORTS
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 Intramurals 2016
The Synchronizer
FOR THE WIN! Ralph Lawrence Perez
Demonstrating their battle cry, Grade 10 students are in full speed to show their pride in an attempt to boost their unit’s morale during the CNHS Intramurals Parade on August 26, 2016.
Unit IV reigns supreme in Intrams 2016 Mikhaela Nicole Toyado Unit IV once again dominated the Catanduanes National High School Intramurals after bagging 13 gold, 10 silver, and seven bronze medals in the different sport events both in the male and female category, Aug. 26-27, 2016. As they fought their way to victory, Unit IV conquered their opponents by winning 1st place in the field of volleyball, chess, athletics, gymnastics, archery, softball, and cheerdancing competition. Moreover, Unit V was hailed as the 1st Runner-Up with 8 gold, 1 silver,
and 2 bronze medals followed by Unit III winning 6 gold medals. Unit II and Unit I occupied the 4th and 5th spot, respectively. According to seven-year Palarong Bicol Softball champion coach Richard Valeza, the strategy to win is discipline and dedication. “A player should love the sport he or she plays and should have an aim and target,” he stated. He also added that their team right now still got an edge for Palarong Panlalawigan since they still have the previous players from last year. Furthermore, he also said that some students sometimes hesitate to
join because of academic priorities. On the other hand, Palarong Panlalawigan 2015 Archery Champion Franz Cedric Tabirao of Grade 10- Majesty said that he would still practice every day to maintain the consistency of his target. Moreover, Archery coach Roberto Sta. Rosa added that they still lack number of bows that would be used for the training having only three of them for his six trainees. MAPEH Head Teacher Tessie T. Breta furthered that the school will conduct a two-week transitional training before the 2016 Provincial Meet.
No Shoes? No Problem
Barefoot shuttler shames foe, claims badminton crown Marielle Tabo With no shoes to support his feet, Unit 6’s Gianne Carlo Mendoza won the Championship Badminton Boys Single Category on August 26, 2016, Friday. Mendoza scored two points higher than Unit 5’s Bill Jasper Guste’s score of 28. When asked about why he did not wear his shoes, he jokingly said, “it was too slippery.” “I did not expect myself to win,” Mendoza said. “I am very proud because
this is my last time to join the Intramurals and I was able to become a champion.” Mendoza’s first game against Jamil Teves, a Grade 9 student, was quite an easy round for him. Meanwhile, Teves said that even before the game had started, he felt that he would lose. “Magaling siya mag-smash kaya natalo ako,” Teves said. According to Jamil, Gianne is one of the greatest badminton players he met. Mendoza has reached higher levels
of the competition ever since he was in 4th grade. “I participated in the Provincial Meet twice. The first one was in fourth grade while the other one was last year,” he proudly said. Mendoza will be competing in this year’s Provincial Meet representing CNHS. Meanwhile, Unit 3 won the Badminton Girls Single Category while Unit 2 won the Doubles Category. On the other hand, Unit 5 won the Badminton Boys Doubles Category.
Red aqualad dives for gold Joey Romero No waves are too strong for Jacques Marasigan, a grade nine student as he took every stroke with ease finishing over 14 seconds ahead of the field (posting a winning time of 30.49 seconds) during the Intramurals Swimming Competition (Men’s Category) held at Virac Boulevard, Aug. 26, 2016. Representing Unit III, Marasigan, a former Palarong Panlalawigan athlete, posted a winning time of 30.49 seconds with King Arcilla from the same unit who finished second in a time of 44.36 seconds, followed by Michael Angelo Zafe (Unit I) and Ejay Reyes (Unit II) with 45.57 seconds. Moreover, Lyca Mae De Luna of Unit II topped the swimming competition (women’s category) with a speed of 52.35 seconds followed by Franz Ella Zafe finishing at a speed of 54.41 seconds and Unit IV’s Franz Zean Quintal who posted a speed of 59.80 seconds.
Ang Synchro igwang TIME para saimo. May SPACE ka sa buhay mi. Kaya Bes,
JOIN SYNCHRO 2017 JUNIOR STAFF SCREENING, JUNE RM 8, Verceles Bldg. (Ground Floor)
YOU ARE WORTH MORE THAN YOU THINK YOU ARE.
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 Intramurals 2016
The Synchronizer
SPORTS 17
Prov’l Meet veterans hit championship in archery Joey Romero
BULL’S EYE Arian Leigh Ygusguiza Lemuel Aldea of Grade 9- Kindness tries his best to hit the target as his team hones up to secure championship in the upcoming Panlarong Panlalawigan archery tournament.
Ping-pong champ shares advice on winning Leah Francesca Munoz “Strive hard and hit the mark.” This was the statement of Unit II’s Nathan Tabuzo, a tennis player, when asked about his advice for those who want to try the said sport. Tabuzo was hailed the champion after defeating Ian Lin Sarmiento of Unit V, 11-7,11-6,11-3, during the Catanduanes National High School (CNHS) Intramurals 2016. Furthermore, Tabuzo revealed that he started playing table tennis when he was in 4th grade. Meanwhile, Lineth Mae Sarmiento, Grade 10 student of Loyalty dominated in clean slate the three matches against Unit-mate Cherice May Lumbao, scoring 11-3, 11-5, 11-6. Meanwhile, the facilitator of the event, Mrs. Cheryl Turalde said that students who want to participate in the game must be interested and persistent. “Maski anong kapot ning raketa daing mangyayari kung bako mong gusto ang pigagibo mo.” [No matter how hard you try to hold that racket if you don’t feel like doing it, nothing good will happen] In addition to that, Turalde hoped that all units would have their respective participants next year.
After claiming the championship in Palarong Panlalawigan 2015, the same students of Catanduanes National High School proved their mastery in Archery during the 2016 Intramurals, Aug. 26. Winning four gold and two silver medals, Unit IV archers were named as the
On the other hand, Erica Avila of Unit IV got the championship title after earning 10 more points than Judith Magtangob from the same unit who shot 92 points. Meanwhile, Unit III garnered two silver medals and one bronze medal making them the first runner-up in the event. The said winners are looking forward to compete in the upcoming Provincial Meet and claim the championship title again.
Unit V netters dominate lawn tennis tourney Lyra Cassandra Borja Unit V’s Ryester Villarete and Joanna Marie Villegas never lost intensity against contenders from Unit 8, 7 and 10 after leading the board in the lawn tennis competition final match, Aug. 27 at the Virac Sports Center. Villarete, an eight-year tennis player since third grade, smashed all hopes from Unit IV’s Cyril Alberto in the semi-final match, before finally stealing the championship from Unit II’s Jhommane Vargas by a clean
slate, 6-0. Villarete said Vargas gave him a very challenging game despite the latter being an amateur in the game. “Frustrated ako at first, feeling ko hindi ako mananalo. Kinabahan nga ako sa finals eh,” he confided. He added that he still managed to win the game saying that tennis is his sport and no one can defeat him no matter what. Meanwhile, Villegas proved her prowess and strategic moves when she dumped Unit I’s Ma. Leizle Gonzales in a close match
semi-finals, 6-5, catapulting her to effortless victory after Unit IV’s Nica De Luna failed to show-up during the final game. “Nakipag-date ang aking kalaban sa finals kaya I won the game by default,” Villegas said, not quite happy to relish victory. Moreover, Tournament Manager Jessielito Bautista said that discipline is the real name of the game. “These winners need more training for a tougher competition ahead,” he said.
Neophytesshine,grabawardsinjumping,throwingevents Hazel Talan First-time athletes showed no initial hesitation and surprisingly excelled the athletic events as they grabbed awards in discus throw and long jump tourneys. “Most of them are first-timers, so they don’t have a formal athletic training,” Tournament Manager Alfonso Grienzo said. Rey Socito Jr. of Unit II got first place in the shot put event covering 5.80- 5.90 m followed by Rusty Abrera (Unit II) with 4.94-5.07 m, and Danmark Teves (Unit III) with 4.38-4.55 m. The same contenders from the shot-put event competed again for the Discus Throw event (Boys Category).
Blue bets top cheerdancing tilt Tiffany Templonuevo Contenders representing Unit IV bagged the first place during the first ever Cheer Dance Competition last August 27 at the CNHS field, ending the 2016 Intramurals. Wearing blue shirts and black skirts paired with blue and white pompoms, Unit IV gave the hundred-strong crowd a clean performance. The routine of Unit IV which drew a score of 93%, was by far the most synchronized among all the other teams, thus leading their supporters- mainly fellow 10th graders, to hoisted hurrahs. “Nabawi yung pagod namin, kasi during the practice talaga, kadakol ning challenges, igwang garereklamong magulang ta late na gapararibod,” Angelo Piolo M. Laynes, a member of the squad exclaimed when asked about the feeling after besting the other four units.
overall champion in the said sports event. In the men’s division of the SingleFita round, Franz Cedric Tabirao of Unit IV scored a total of 113 points edging out Unit III’s Patrick Avila’s 105 points and Lemuel Aldea’s 99 points. During men’s division of the Olympic round, first placer Tabirao garnered a sum of 86 points against Patrick Avila’s score of 82.
Composed of mostly SPA (Special Program in the Arts) students and 12 from the Regular Program of the Basic Curriculum Education (BEC), Unit IV’s victory only took them four days to practice for the performance. “Wednesday lang kami nagsimulang magpractice,” Laynes added. Unit III, meanwhile, wowed the crowd as they showed their red uniforms especially made for the competititon, emerging to first runner up with an average score of 90%. Garnering 89% on the other hand, Unit II ended as the second runner up with Unit I and Unit V on the next spots.
Abrera ranked 1st place covering 17.25-17.10 m with Teves coming in second with 15.35-15.10 m, and Socito with 15.95 at 3rd place. Meanwhile, in the Girls Category, Rosemarie Tabios of Unit III covered 5.70- 7.0 m placing first followed by Maribel Reyes (Unit III) with 5.22-5.50 m coming at 2nd and Francine De Guzman (Unit IV) with 3.20-3.50 at 3rd place. In the Long Jump event (Boys Category), Franz Cedric Tabirao of Unit IV ranked first for covering 4.28 m while James Zafe came in 2nd with 4.14 m, followed by Yan Elcid Ibayan of Unit V with 3.71 m. On the other hand, Jaena Louise Gianan of Unit IV came in 1st place in the Long Jump event (Girls Category) for covering 3.34 m, followed by Rosemarie Tabios and Stephanie Zafe (Unit III) with 2.32 m.
POWER IN THE LEAGUE Nathaniel Hannycel Nuyda Unit IV put on a fascinating show in their blueuniform shirts and pompoms as the different Units competed for the Cheer dance competition during the intramurals bagging the title as the new cheer dance power in the league.
18 Opinion
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
Jona Mae Camacho
The Reason We Exist
Truth Unbound
IN THIS CHOICE WE MADE, there is no safe side. But to be the messenger of truth, we choose the different path. In vicious times, to oppose is close to peril. To do battle against people who hide truths, is now chanced with rain of negativity and deficit. For every time our purpose mislead, so pours the true treads of our words and our minds, and that’s where our existence begin to synchronize. Since year 1992, The Synchronizer has been the tool of serving the school and community in pondering the unrevealed. In times of acclaim, we never missed to be the one to acknowledge every victory. To let the students and the school administration know and be aware of the happenings, to express one’s opinion, and to picture out every step of progress. We’ve never been impervious. But match of forbidding grits
stains the publication. In this turbulent times, we are living in the state of the danger zone and being exposed to the limitations of writing. Clearly, we are now reckoned as the adversary of the campus. Moreover, for in the context of the rule brashly upheld, it’s an option and the only decision is to impart more of what we’re writing for. The impact of The Synchronizer is in a varied scope. It does not only circulate with the results in the field of academe, but also gives focus on the whole community and for other events that give bearing on the school and other sectors. Therefore, it is vital to say that we can never be oblivious of the condition of the campus which we necessarily serve, even if it demands risk. And this provides the organization of The Synchronizer. The term ‘Synchronize’ sets itself for its own purpose. We do not just print
“We do not just print and publish papers, but we bring into line all that’s needed to be known and acknowledged.”
and publish papers, but we bring into line all that’s needed to be known and acknowledged. Change cannot be attained over the printed page alone. Aside from being the messenger, we apprentice young journalists to be great writers and to step out more of what they can do. We do not act against their academe but we let them be one of the journalists who can have the freedom to express through the battles of the ink. The Synchronizer has never been an impartial organization. We stand by the advocacies, yet we do not go beyond our claims. We provide the blueprint of insolence. But ultimately, it is the readers who will prove pivotal. In justice as fairness, this publication condemns the path of those who stand firm for their advocacy and to stand by the truth; and if being here means taking a stand, then this is the side we choose.
Danielle Ann Abundo
The Need to be Informed Sic Transit Gloria
STUDENTS STAND FOR TRUTH but blinded by the true essence of information. The question remains as itself: Are they really blinded or the students themselves block their own rights to information? Just as the school year starts, a fourth of the board is already full of list of fees for some subjects but the purpose and proceeds of them remained as a question for some students. ‘We’re not informed enough’ as they complain about their right to information. At some point, it reflects the school organization as they have the responsibility to disseminate the
“The blame should not be pinned all the time to the school organization as the responsibility to be informed is in the hands of every student.”
information. Before the school year starts, an orientation was held for the students to be informed about these fees. It is every student’s responsibility to attend the orientation to be informed enough. The blame should not be pinned all the time to the school organization as the responsibility to be informed is in the hands of every student. The whole body of student organization with homeroom class presidents of each section are the ones who attend the meetings to discuss about these fees which is voluntary. In times like these, it would
test the strength of the student government on how to properly execute the circulation of information. Not all the students are equipped with the knowledge to understand these things and it would be better if the student leaders are honed enough to explain the management of these fees. Some students are also struggling to pay the miscellaneous fees because of their financial status. Meanwhile, the Parent and Teachers Association should also strengthen their relationship with the parents for them also to be clearly updated.
Neil Arman Abundo
Salute to ‘The Ceremony’ Fearless Rants
GONE WERE THE DAYS OF gunshots and bloody encounters with foreign invaders just to reclaim independence long stolen. We must admit it is nice to wake up each day without fear of getting into trouble, without the threat to security and safety. Our heroes are dead, long buried in deep secrecy of history; but the living legacy of their struggles are written in the very thing which symbolizes freedom – the Philippine flag. It is sad to note that some
students of Catanduanes National High School lack the decency of honoring our country during flag ceremonies. In most cases, they can be seen in frisk while singing the National Anthem, or worse, not singing at all. The security guard even has to mingle among the crowds, equipped with his megaphone, to try and get everyone to join in. Even the bell that signals everyone to assemble in the school grounds for the said ceremonies hardly pushes students to get on their feet very quickly. This may even be
better that those students who would opt to stay in the nearby stores or intentionally go to school late just to evade from the heat of the sun during such activity. A simple act of respect is no hard task at all. A moment of silence and seriousness is a big deal to this effect. These flag ceremonies symbolize a nation built as one, and those who disrespect this daily activity will only undermine their nationalism. That’s why it is advisable for these students to start taking part in the daily flag ceremonies to make sure
that their love for the country is real and true. The time you spent for these cannot be parallel to the efforts of our heroes in regaining independence. This is our way of honoring them. Moreover, this is a constant reminder that we are free men with the inalienable rights of freedom in our own native land. Together let us sing ‘Lupang Hinirang’ with grateful hearts, honor and pride.
Newsletter Volume 1 No. 1 June-December 2016
The Synchronizer
Opinion 19
Marielle Tabo
No More Worries
Figments
KARL MARX ONCE SAID THAT the writer must earn money in order to be able to live and to write, but he must by no means, live and write for the purpose of making money. Same with the teachers, they earn money to be able to live and to teach, but they don’t teach just to make money. They teach to shape the future of the youth. But what happens when they worked well but in return, did not get compensated well? A few months ago, the salary of Senior High School teachers was delayed for the months of June and July. It was in mid-August when they received their first salary from June to August. Because of this, teachers complained over and over to Principal Amelia R. Eusebio who in turn followed-up their salaries in the Division Office.
“Teachers did not deserve what happened because they did their work well. Work needs compensation although we do not work by that reason at all.”
As one teacher said it, “Teachers did not deserve what happened because they did their work well. Work needs compensation although we do not work by that reason at all.” Since Senior High School in the Philippines is still new, we expect it to be unstable. But anyway, teachers should be paid in time because they don’t just work for themselves. What about their family’s needs? One of the reasons why the salary of SH teachers is delayed is they have not submitted all of the requirements to earn the salary. In this case, processing of their salary will also be delayed. Another reason is that their salaries are not found in school but in the Division Office. One more thing, when a teacher is not included in the regular payroll of DepEd which will
be given in the Regional Office, they will not receive their monthly salary. Instead, they will be given a check. Fortunately, according to the principal, salaries of teachers will directly be transferred into their accounts so they don’t have to worry anymore. In fact, even before a person is hired, a budget for that person’s salary is already being prepared. This is included in the annual budget of the government of the Philippines. It’s like for a thousand teachers, each of them has a prepared salary of thirty thousand pesos each. In cases when teachers are put in the hemline, they deserve utmost attention. Upholding their interests uplifts their morale. This, apart from salary, motivates them to work unselfishly for the students’ sake.
Erwin James Gianan
Of Less and More
Black-Pointed
THE ENTIRE POPULATION OF the Senior High School at Catanduanes National High School had a startling boost chalking at 703 students. And with only a twostorey building to accommodate them, only the tracks Accountancy and Business Management (ABM) and Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) were able to fit, leaving the remainder to take shelter in other school facilities, like the MultiPurpose Building, Auditorium and the Chemistry Laboratory. The start of classes last June 6 put Tech-Voc in literal topsy-turvy as students were stuck in congested makeshift classrooms at the MultiPurpose Hall; and teachers who were utterly disturbed of the scenario got confused how to control such crowd
of 80-100 students per section. Not only were the classrooms uncomfortable, they also lacked chairs. During the orientation for Grade 11 students, they were advised to bring their own chairs because the admin could not provide those. As usual, students who did not heed admin’s appeal for help just went to school as if they were visitors to be given special service and accommodation. Says one Grade-11 student, lacking classrooms can have a big impact on a student’s educational career. The Multi-Purpose Hall is subdivided into four cubicles with a sound-penetrable plywood. Classrooms that are hot, tight, and noisy surely affect students’ behavior inside the classroom.
B.F. Skinner theory of Behaviorism states that a person’s attitude is affected by stimuli triggered by the environment. A child who feels warm in a classroom would definitely fidget over his seatwork because he needs to satisfy first his desire to feel comfortable than attend to other things. Physiological things first. In this institution where the first superficial aim is to teach and learn, we fear that we are failing. We can never be successful in this kind of learning environment where the need to soothe ourselves of trouble is more important than feeding our mind with the day’s lesson. It’s time we address the problem before time runs out sacrificing the quality of our children’s education.
According to Ms. Amelia Eusebio, they are already taking measures to accommodate the extras. Even the library and the faculty room were divided into two to give space for more students. At this level, only students who yearn to finish school can only struggle with the claustrophobia and heat. In light of these new complications, Ms. Eusebio added that a four-storey, 20 classroom building will be constructed alongside the Home Economics room. We are waiting. We are hoping. Every day we hope that we can get decent learning environment from the Department which sees better future for us, yet gives less investment in return.
Elmers Glue-tathione
Blowing up bubbles of negativity Criti-[SIZE]
COMPLAINTS SHOULD ALWAYS come with solutions. In an electronic society where typed words of criticism are accepted as a freedom of speech, we forget that to speak freely does not mean closing the ears and not accepting the other side of the argument. At the start of the school year, parents and teachers meet to discuss projects (e.g., electric fans and projectors) which will be utilized by the students to ease work. Recenly, a parent posted in social media criticizing the CNHS
administration and the PTA’s inability to inculcate the collection policy of DepEd stating that the PTA contributions were ‘too much’. The parent expressed her outburst asking where the projects went as they again start from scratch in the following year. It is quite ironic, though, that these type of people still complain if the situation was reversed. They would complain on the agreed amount of contribution. But if they don’t pay and their child now suffers from not having a chair or the
heat of the room, again, they complain. In the social media post, she quoted the provision in DepEd Order 41 s. 2012 stating that, “the PTAs are enjoined to refrain from setting exorbitant amounts for voluntary school contributions.” Perhaps selective reading took its course on the lady as the provision’s first statement says that the amount of contributions by the PTA must be agreed upon by the parents during their meeting. It is no longer the teacher’s nor the school’s fault if the parent: a) did not attend the PTA meeting or; b) did not
participate in discussing the projects. Before the school year started, the principal explained the importance of attending PTA meetings stating that ‘it is for the benefit of the students’. This becomes of us Filipinos and our collection of fallacies. We complain, yet we don’t give a solution or suggestion to solve these problems. We always tend to blow up negativity whereas our goal should be to pop it.
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When this music stops, I know I have to let go
of the hands that embrace tightly like some lingering memory of the first time we met when we rode a tricycle back home while the harsh wind plummeted in exact haste of the wind washing away the coldness of that unknown distance In this stage our eyes speak so much that we never understand a single hint of courage
in every grasp, in every sway, in every tune that glides its way to our toes and fingers creating music only our hearts can hear
When this music stops, I am ready to face the fear
of lights out to cast only faint shadows and audience tracing the outlines of our lousy bodies, tired hearts, as we skidded towards our own
exits
gauging that infinite space of hoping to come back.
When this music stops, so is our hearts’ desire to dance.
Download this issue online via: Photo by Erwin James Gianan Synchro Newsletter Issue Volume I No. 1 (20 pages)
#SynchroNewsletter2016 The layout/page design of this issue is inspired by Philippine Collegian (UPDiliman)
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