The Hilltop SY 2023-2024 Tabloid (Volume 48, Issue 1)

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top-tier stories

BAGONG PILIPINAS Marcos Jr.

highlights scouts' role in society

“A good Scout makes a good contributor to our goal of building a Bagong Pilipinas.”

This was emphasized by His Excellency President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in his speech during the opening program of the 18th National Scout Jamboree at Camp Pintados de Passi, Barangay Sablogon, Passi City, Iloilo.

The President highlighted the importance of Scouts in promoting leadership among the youth and in nation-building.

“With its unique blend of education, adventure, and fun.

PBBM SWEARS AS NAT'L SCOUT CHIEF

Before his official declaration of the opening of the 18th NSJ, the President was sworn in a formal investiture ceremony as the new National Scout Chief.

The investiture was under Section four of Republic Act 7278 which says that “The President of the Philippines shall be the Chief Scout of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines.”

Marcos’ presence marked the

SCOUTS JOIN MAIN MODULES, SPECIAL ACTIVITIES

During the eight-day Jamboree, Scouts participated in eight main modules and special activities wherein the application of real-life skills and knowledge was put to the test.

Among the main modules were the Crossroad of Culture where Passinhon culture and heritage through Pinta Lawas and dance demonstrations of the Pintados de

SWEET PEOPLE, SWEETEST VILLAGE OPINION | PAGE 2

Borrowed Eden FEATURE | PAGE 9

STEPHEN boosts agri produce SCIENCE | PAGE 12

Pangasinan's Pride rule race tracks, sweeps two MX events SPORTS | PAGE 16

SWEET HOMES PARADISE: 2K families benefit from PPP project

EMMANUEL S. AGUILAR

PASSI CITY – Nearly two thousand Passinhon families were awarded housing lots from a public-private partnership project in

Talongonan. The establishment of the Sweet Homes Paradise had started in 2016 during former City Mayor Jesry T. Palmares’ administration with Property Company of Friends, Inc. (Profriends) and Gawad Kalinga (GK) Community Development Foundation.

Hilltop

YANCY EMMANUEL S. AGUILAR

Barangay

YANCY

Photo Credit LGU Passi

MYLZ MARIE

OPINION

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor,

Good day!

I am writing to you today to suggest what's the best thing to do in the publication's online posting of articles.

Journalism is a platform where individuals have the power to voice their opinions and provide information worldwide. In line with this, The Hilltop has a job to provide factual information and write for the truth. With this, I suggest that the publication will post the latest articles or stories monthly that

SWEET PEOPLE, SWEETEST VILLAGE

I

Thank you and God bless.

Sincerely yours, Jira Trimnessa G. Dalipe STE 10 - Schrodinger

P.S. Thank you for inviting your readers to suggest for your next publication

Eown family and their own dreams and aspirations in life. It will serve as a foundation where they can start something new and do meaningful things. What more if that home is given to you for free with already a concrete structure, roof, septic tank, and basin —almost complete! All you have to do is live your life the way you want it to be. This place is none other than Gawad Kalinga Village: Sweet Homes Paradise, the sweetest village in the sweet city in the heart of Panay.

Famously known as GK Village Sweet Home Paradise, it is located in Barangay Talongonan, Passi City, Iloilo.

The GK Village was made possible by a tri-partite agreement between Gawad Kalinga, Pro-Friends, and the Local Government Unit of Passi City.

It is a housing project wherein the village provides a "free pabahay" with a structure to the "poorest of the poor" and individuals with no real property. They have requirements that you need to comply with, and you can avail of them even if you are single, given that you have completed all the requirements.

It is the biggest GK Village among the three here in Passi City and in the whole Philippines, with approximately 60 hectares of land. This Sweet Homes paradise village officially opened on February 5, 2017, with 2,220 houses, 1,988 families, and a total population of 2,714 as of April 2024. On March 7, 2022, the LGU turned over the village.

Mrs. Jean Alayon, one of the first residents in the village who lived before Brgy. Alimono shared her hardships before living and acquiring a house through the said project. "Hanggod gid nga blessing kanamon nga maka avail ka dya." She added that even though they had to sacrifice at first because of the lack of facilities, they sacrificed as they thought of the future of their kids and the once-in-a-lifetime offer. She also highlighted the big difference it made in their lives when they started living in the village, and she feels secure and happy with the village.

With a total of four phases, the wide area of the village could not stop the residents from showcasing their cooperation and unity in bringing

their village to greater heights. They highlighted the significance of "bayanihan" in their community in whatever activity they do. They also showcase volunteerism by doing community initiatives and projects, such as a clean-up drive in their homes and the whole village as well. They have a schedule that they follow to achieve this, and their spirit of unity flourishes, ensuring that not only their homes are well maintained and clean but the whole village as well.

The GK village ensures that the whole community is safe from harm and that peace and order are maintained inside the community. They have their own Bantay Kalinga, who are also residents who served as their patrolmen and remitted their service without pay to ensure the safety of their co-residents. They also plan to start implementing curfews and a checkpoint for added security. This is the kind of village that prioritizes the well-being and safety of its residents above all else.

The village also fosters positivity and improvement. Different programs, such as the Gawad Kalinga Anniversary, sports activities, medical missions from the private sector, feeding programs, and values formation, are conducted by Gawad Kalinga offices.

In this way, they provide for the needs of the community, maintaining their unity as a whole while still valuing the individuality of the residents.”

They are free to do what they want, but without harming others or disrupting the peace in the community. Residents of GK Village Sweet Homes Paradise have distinct background, coming from different places and in different

conditions. They are the real reason that makes the village the sweetest village. Coming from the darkest place, they have found sanctuary in the Sweet Homes Paradise. They found not just a house, but a home that they can officially and proudly say is their own.

But we all know the reality that not everything is in its best condition at first. The residents of Sweet Home Paradise have also seen how the village flourished into what it is today. Without even electricity, a water supply, a rough road, and limited facilities, the very first group of residents experienced it all and persisted in witnessing how the simple village turned out into what it is today. With different facilities, such as a school, a covered gym, a concrete road, and even a power supply, the village transformed with the help of the LGU and other sectors to cater to the needs of its people.

Sweet Homes Paradise GK Village residents see each other as a family, a thriving community that wants nothing but to bring their village to greater heights. Something has sparked within their hearts, and it is their commitment and love for the village that keeps it alive. It is not all about the material things—the building, the recognition, and the praise—that made the village a real paradise; it was the people who lived there and made the community successful. It is their sweetest smiles, dedication, bayanihan, perseverance, and heartwarming stories that make the village the sweetest.

CLOAKED EFFORT

"What is important is that, I passed it." A common mindset for those learners who are fixated on reaching the finish line not the journey itself. Once or even a million times in my life, just like others I have used this phrase just to reassure myself that I am on the right track. However, does this mindset retain its moral integrity when the process it accompanies strays into the realm of immorality" West Visayas State University (WVSU) disclosed the discovery of a potential “leakage” during the WVSU College Admission Test (WVSUCAT) last March 10, 2024.

Dr. Hazel Villa, Head of University Public Affairs and Marketing Communication, stated that the certain questions in the leaked test questionnaire resembled those given to more than 20,000 aspiring WVSU students during the examination. It is truly devastating that one of the prestigious universities in Western Visayas is tarnished by the stain of academic deceit and malpractice. This issue not only shattered the faith of the aspiring students but it also sundered the very fabric of the school's illustrious heritage, leaving its legacy blemished and its name whispered with disdain. Even if we turn the situation upside down, they still bear the weight of responsibility, for the betrayer who divulged the

examination secrets resides within the sacred confines of the school's walls. In light of this transgression, I must say that implementing a retake of the WVSUCAT would be the most fitting remedy to uphold the institution’s integrity.

Primarily, the retake shall not bury the issue, but rather, redeem the authenticity of the test outcomes and reveal the true aspiring WVSU students. West Visayas State University emerges as a beacon of academic excellence known for producing topperforming graduates and offering high-quality education. It's no surprise that everyone dreams of attending such a distinguished university. But the expectation vested on them impelled aspiring students to gamble their integrity, willing to transgress moral boundaries for the sake of gaining entry into their coveted alma mater, the West Visayas State University.

In this scenario, both the perpetrator who leaked the questions and the recipient who used them, stoop so low just to make themselves higher than others. There’s this belief that at some point, people might compromise their principles to maintain appearances. In life's complexities, the temptation of convenience often clouds the path of righteousness, offering an easier way out. In this matter they used the notion that the means justify the ends, valuing the outcome over the integrity of the process. They believed

PASSI CITY: A CHRONICLE OF URBAN EVOLUTION AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT

On April 22, 2024, amidst scorching temperatures, I found myself strolling towards Plaza Paloma in Passi City, where an exquisite arena caught my eye, piquing my curiosity about its presence in this locale. The announcement made by Mayor Atty. Stephen A. Palmares during a press conference, revealing that 85% of the underground construction in Passi City has been completed, led me to ponder on the evident urbanization taking root in the city.

Before delving deeper into this topic, it is worth noting that Passi City underwent significant changes in its classification over the years. Initially classified as a 4th Class Municipality in 1993, it swiftly progressed to become a 3rd Class Municipality in 1995, and then a 2nd Class Municipality in 1996. Finally, on January 30, 1998, Passi City was designated as the first Component City of Iloilo, following the signing of R.A. No. 8469 by then President Fidel V. Ramos.

Reflecting on the remarkable metamorphosis of Passi City, highlighted by the city's Creative Team on their Facebook page, one cannot help but marvel at the elegance emanating from various tourist destinations and bridges that seamlessly connect to the heart of Passi, showcasing the city's economic vibrancy and forwardthinking urban landscape.

As a member of the present generation, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to witness and partake in the evolution of Passi City, as it ascends to new heights. The city's progress does not merely

enhance its reputation but also benefits its residents, particularly in terms of fostering business exchanges that significantly impact the local community, known affectionately as Passihons. The burgeoning urbanization of Passi City signifies not only its growing population but also the progressive development that defines the city's essence.

An intriguing post on the Passi City Facebook page shed light on the Sports Complex in Barangay Bacuranan, a pivotal development supporting the urbanization of uptown Passi. The Passi City Sports Complex serves as a dynamic hub for interaction and competition, offering invaluable resources for studentathletes lacking adequate training facilities, as emphasized on the city's Facebook page.

According to firsthand accounts from my classmates, who are student-athletes at Passi National High School, the Sports Complex has proven to be a vital asset for honing their skills and fostering a spirit of competitiveness, ultimately nurturing champions. Mayor Palmares, along with 10 sports centers, ensures that these training grounds are accessible to everyone, irrespective of their financial status, promoting a bright future for the sports enthusiasts of Passi.

In a recent interview, Mayor Atty. Stephen Palmares underscored the pivotal role of Passi City as the central hub of Panay Island, emphasizing the strategic importance of urbanizing uptown Passi to attract investors. The mayor's focus on economic

Do primary school students still engage with adolescent literature? I am not referring to mere entertainment, but reading for comprehension. During my fourth-grade years, these novels served as my refuge. I pondered over the characters, their deeds, and the significance behind each action. Even in the television shows I watched, like "Adventure Time,"I would speculate on potential outcomes. This show prompted me to connect the dots and delve into the symbolism it presented. Many individuals lament the current trend where shows explicitly state concepts through lengthy monologues by a single character.

An article from Philstar dated January 11, 2024, reports

that nearly 90% of 10-year-old children in our country face academic challenges. This is indeed alarming. A study by the United Nations Children’s Fund in April 2022 revealed that 85% of Filipino students struggle with basic reading. The results of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) in 2018 and 2022 do not offer much solace. My upbringing in the suburbs, where a 10-year-old unable to read proficiently was a source of shame, might explain my concern for our current national predicament, reminiscent of the dystopian novels I peruse. Particularly distressing is the proliferation of misinformation presented as factual data. One initiative by the Department

that even if they cheat their way in, the important thing is they will pass the exam. When I was in 10th grade I also dreamed of becoming one of the students of the above-mentioned university. Because I believed that I would be able to assess how competent and smart I am if I am able to pass their entrance exam. But sometimes, I would look at those students and put an expectation that they are smart and competent enough, thinking that expectation would be passed to me. Sadly, not all, but learners nowadays are driven by the expectations of society, not by their own desire and passion.

The choice made by West Visayas State University to hold a retake for their college admission exam does not just impact the students who will be taking it. It also affects the proctors responsible for creating and administering the test questions, because if there's no one behind it, would a mouse even have a temptation to take the bait? Regardless of whether students chose to use the leaked test questions or not, the fact remains that they were provided with the option to cheat for their convenience. This incident serves as a reminder to the institution to prioritize the confidentiality of school matters.

Overall, it is not bad to make ends meet, but don't let it consume you to the point where you compromise

growth holds promising prospects for the Pasinhons, offering a multitude of job opportunities and economic prosperity.

The emphasis on promoting economic opportunities and job creation in the urban areas of Passi signifies a significant step forward, particularly in light of the completion of 85% of the concrete roads across 51 barangays in Passi. These concrete roads play a crucial role in providing job opportunities for the Pasinhons, evident in the emergence of businesses such as water refilling stations, gasoline stations, and convenience stores lining the roadsides in various barangays of Passi City. The urbanization of Passi has truly elevated both the city and its residents to new heights.

It is evident that urbanization transcends mere population growth, encapsulating a broader vision of economic development and progress. Mayor Stephen Palmares' unwavering commitment to steering Passi City towards greater heights is a testament to the city's promising future.

As a student and proud resident of Passi City, I am immensely grateful for the opportunities that urbanization has presented us, not only in terms of heightened visibility but, more importantly, in terms of economic empowerment. While we appreciate the efforts of our government in this transformation, it is crucial to recognize that collective collaboration is essential in realizing our shared aspirations. Together, we can turn our dreams into reality.

An exam can be retaken in a break of dawn, but reclaiming trust demands a lifetime.

your values or do things out of pure greed. It's a matter of acceptance and understanding what you stand to gain and lose. Passion and perseverance enables us to accept things without suppressing our true selves, because sacrificing one’s principles to please others may seem to be rewarding but can ultimately lead to feelings of guilt and self-doubt. In the narrative of life, the pursuit of one's dreams, whether getting it or not, it does not diminish the essence of the effort exerted, because at the end of the day, would you prefer a cloaked effort?

OPINION POLL

It must have been hard for the retakers considering they had to go through the whole process again. Some even came as far as Mindanao just to take the exam.

I commend the WVSU for making prompt solutions to that problem and

The leaker must be caught and this should never happen again because some students really studied hard for that exam.

of Education (DepEd) that has garnered attention is Catch-up Friday, designed to enhance overall academic performance among children. The program aims to assist elementary students who are non-readers or struggling readers to catch up with their peers. Half of the day is devoted to reading, while the remaining portion focuses on physical education, values, and health. This represents a positive step forward for our education system, benefiting students not only in elementary levels but also in secondary education. However, recent complaints from teacher groups have surfaced regarding the flawed implementation of the Catch-up Friday project in schools. Alliance of Concerned

Teachers (ACT) Chairperson Vladimer Quetua has emphasized that teachers bear the brunt of the increased workload associated with planning and execution. While the poverty rate in our country has declined, a significant portion of the population still grapples with financial challenges. Many parents lack the resources to afford extracurricular studies. I am utterly fatigued, a sentiment shared by my classmates. Apart from extracurricular activities that offer minimal benefit to advanced readers, we are burdened with additional responsibilities. This has led to a growing dissatisfaction among teachers and students. A considerable number of students no longer see the value in attending

KC P. ALTAS

KYRA VIEN B. AGUILAR “

GENECINTH ELIZABETH T. AGNES

WVSU is an institution of quality education, strong-willed people, professionals who are risk takers, and home of greatness. Retake of WVSU CAT is a bold choice of the administration since they are taking a stand for their beliefs and what’s right; regardless of the background and stories of the aspiring students. Personally, the retake is

ROOTED WITHIN EXPERIENCE:

PBBM in 18th NSJ

KATATAGAN MODULES: THE SILENT WOES AMIDST RESILIENCE

“The desire to learn never ceases if one is resilient enough to aim for it”. A never ending reminder for learners to move forward despite exhaustion. As I grew up I was injected by the fact that Education is a hope to have a better future and avoid failure. Unfortunately, how can learners view education as a “hope” not as a “duty” if they are not resilient enough? The Department of Education commits to address concerns on educational gaps by establishing the current Matatag Curriculum to promote higher quality education and solve education woes. With this, KATATAGAN Modules were also given to learners for them to tell, assess and communicate their educational journey to promote Resiliency among the learners.

The education gaps we face in our education system was also like the COVID-19 Pandemic that we barely survive. Just like the virus entered the Philippines, the gaps were developed by an invisible virus that did not just spread overnight or during the daylight. Now, DepEd seeks to bandage the scars of the learners and teachers by these KATATAGAN Modules to promote resiliency, once again. Although I must say that the modules can help but it won’t be effective for all learners. In this case, these pieces of papers and questions in the given modules will not be enough for learners to be resilient.

The modules given to learners are “printed materials” that would not be enough to catch the attention of the learners, in this generation. I can say that preference matters. In a 2018 study, a survey was conducted that showed that people with the age 14 to 23, 57 percent preferred Youtube as a learning platform, 57 percent utilizing in-person group activities, 47 percent using apps and games as learning tools and 47 percent chose printed learning materials. Even though our elders say that things are now based on “the generation” negatively, It is no doubt that yes it is. Education in today’s society is based on the preference of today’s generation. The institution should not teach learners to use typewriters if

reminiscing about his experiences as a young scout. With a profound movement with the influence of his father-- the late President Ferdinand Marcos, the son Marcos expressed participant of the historic 18th NSJ.

In his address, the President highlighted that the youth must learn the essence of camaraderie and leadership, especially for scouts as it

Scouting continues to inspire our young people to become active and productive members of society,” he said. He emphasized that scouting about outdoor adventures but also about instilling values and fulfilling

duties and responsibilities; particularly duties to God and country as stated on the Scout’s Oath and Law.

President Marcos Jr. underlined the significance of upholding the principle of Scout law and honoring the call of duty to our country. He reminded the scouts of steadfast health, as they take part in a national event, with over ten outdoor activities and underlying temperatures in the said area.

computers are available. They could, but why would they do that?

Resiliency is the aim of these KATATAGAN Modules, but in my experience of it, it is not so called “resilient”. The modules given to us were only explained once. The class sessions using these modules was even barely understandable. After that, we were tasked to answer it like we were obliged to do it, like an assignment. The reason why it was not effective in our class was due to the fact that during the time we should be answering those modules, the Clubs and Organizations, and the Catch-up Fridays through the Drop Everything And Read (DEAR) were established respectively leaving no space for us to prioritize the said modules. It is crystal clear that they want to upgrade the education system by having programs in order to solve the gaps; however, it will never be effective if the programs themselves are not resilient.

Nevertheless, DepEd’s action to promote resiliency among the learners is actually good, but as expected the implementation sucks. Learners are loaded with assignments, performance tasks and extracurricular activities that could make effective learning happen, while teachers are also required to submit records, requirements and especially teach their learners, giving room for backlogs and workloads to occur. Because of the workloads carried both by the learners and teachers, the tendency of viewing the KATATAGAN Modules as a duty rather than a program for resiliency might be reasonable. After all, resiliency comes within the heart of every Filipino. The resilience that we have helped us to have a positive outlook for our country’s future despite the disasters and challenges that prisoned us in hopelessness. Resiliency is not something that can be measured just by books and papers but it is indeed something that can be a living testament that the world can have. As true blooded citizens of our country let our silent woes of duty be the loudest wows of resiliency of every filipino.

During my childhood, I recall inquiring about Eid al-Fitr to my Muslim acquaintance. He explained that Eid al-Fitr signifies the conclusion of the month-long fasting period of Ramadan, observed from dawn to sunset. Recognized as one of the two major festivals in the Islamic calendar, Eid al-Fitr marks the conclusion of the sacred month of Ramadan, making it a significant celebration for our Muslim brethren.

The Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines recently shared a post on Facebook regarding a purported document entitled "Proclamation No. 729", which designates March 11, 2024, as the nationwide public holiday in honor of Eid al-Fitr. I firmly believe that verifying such information is essential, not only to expose its falsity but also to demonstrate respect for the Muslim community. Eid al-Fitr holds great spiritual significance as it signifies the culmination of the holy month of Ramadan.

However, disseminating false information regarding the scheduling of a national holiday for Eid al-Fitr is entirely unacceptable, as it reflects a blatant disregard for the beliefs and practices of Muslims. Under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code (Punishment for unlawful use of publication and false statements),

Behind every accomplished professional, there are unseen actions and efforts of teachers serving as the cornerstone of their journey that cannot be undervalued, as their importance shines and is reflected in every achievement. Teachers demonstrate an unwavering commitment to their students, often going above and beyond their call of duty. They spend countless hours preparing lessons and instructional materials, grading outputs, and providing individual attention to ensure that each student receives the support they need. Their dedication extends far beyond the classroom walls, as they become mentors, counselors, and role models, offering guidance and support to students facing personal challenges. The dignity of teachers shines through their selfless commitment to the growth and wellbeing of their students.

Teachers hold the keys to unlocking the potential of every student. They possess the remarkable ability to inspire, motivate, and ignite a passion for the learning of young minds. By fostering an environment that encourages curiosity and critical thinking, teachers empower students to become lifelong learners and agents of change. They sow the seeds of knowledge, nurturing them into a powerful force that can shape the course of society. The dignity of teaching lies in the transformative power it holds, both for individuals and communities.

Behind every successful individual, there is often a teacher

He underlined that the commitment to joining this event is a good starting foundation for being a good citizen, foreseeing a good future for the youth, and a progressive Philippines. President Marcos Jr. concluded his speech by wishing the young scouts “Godspeed!” as they embarked on the event. As it ended, may the values they learn in scouting guide them in becoming exemplary citizens, fulfilling the duties for the Bagong Pilipinas.

who believes in his or her potential, nurtures the dreams, and provides unwavering support. Teachers have the extraordinary privilege of witnessing the growth and development of their students, celebrating their achievements, and guiding them through setbacks. They possess the rare ability to recognize and cultivate the unique talents and passions of each student, helping them discover their true potential. The dignity of teachers lies in their ability to empower students to dream big and reach for the stars.

While we celebrate Teachers' Day and acknowledge the profound dignity of teaching, it is equally important to address the challenges faced by educators. Society must ensure that teachers receive the respect, recognition, and support they deserve. Adequate compensation, professional development opportunities, and a nurturing work environment are essential to preserve the dignity of teaching and attract the best and brightest minds to this noble profession.

Teachers' Day serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit, unwavering commitment, and transformative power of teachers. As we celebrate this day, let us honor the dignity of teaching by recognizing the tremendous impact teachers have on shaping our society's future. Let us express our gratitude, provide them with the support they need, and work towards a world where every teacher is valued, respected, and empowered. Only then can we fully appreciate the immeasurable contributions of teachers and the profound dignity teaching bears.

any individual who spreads false information that may incite public disorder or harm the reputation of the state can be held accountable under this provision. Therefore, it is imperative that individuals refrain from disseminating fake news.

The circulation of a counterfeit document regarding Eid al-Fitr has the potential to create confusion and misinterpretation among readers, particularly concerning the purported celebration on March 11, 2024.

Upon encountering such misinformation, I am convinced that vigilance is paramount in today's digital age, where the internet is inundated with a plethora of information, not all of which can be deemed reliable. Misleading content and fabricated narratives designed to deceive readers are prevalent on the internet.

In conclusion, exercising caution when confronted with false information, particularly pertaining to significant cultural or religious observances like Eid al-Fitr, is of utmost importance. False information spreads rapidly and can lead to confusion and harm. Therefore, it is crucial to verify information from credible sources to ensure accuracy, safety, and prevent the dissemination of misinformation.

Dear Jira,

We express out gratitude for the time and effort you dedicated to sharing your concerns. Your insights into the role of journalism and the responsibilities of the school publication, The Hilltop, are greatly appreciated.

Your recommendation to post the latest articles monthly is a valuable insight that can enhance our public reach. We will try to keep up with your suggestions in the upcoming months. Currently we are exploring other avenues, such as our website, The Hilltop Online, to improve content delivery and enhance reader engagement.

Thank you once again for your feedback. Rest assured that it will play a key role in our ongoing efforts to improve. We remain committed to fulfilling our promise to provide top-tier stories to the world

Yours truly, The Editors

YUAN GABRIEL P. DURAN

FAITH AMIDST MISINFORMATION

HANS RAYMOND P. LANDAR

2 PNHS learners qualify to NSTF ‘24

EMMANUEL S. AGUILAR

Two student-researchers from Passi National High School were hailed as finalists of the 2024 National Science and Technology Fair on April 1-5, 2024, at Sequoia Hotel, Paranaque City, National Capital

Calinog National Comprehensive High School Scout Jona Rose Castroverde said, "we have experienced hardships, but we overcame the challenges. No matter how difficult, tiring, and having injured Scouts, we helped them to reach the finish line.”

HOST CITY PREPS CAMP

PINTADOS DE PASSI

The host city prepared an 80-hectares Jamboree camp with five-kilometer waterline and 1,000 comfort-bathrooms with water supply and 300 water tanks.

Electric lines and over 300 streetlights were installed in the vicinity.

Moreover, telecommunications service providers sponsored WiFi for free internet connection around the subcamps.

Three infirmaries were stationed in strategic places.

Meanwhile, at least 1,200 troops from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guards (PCG) and Philippine Army (PA) were deployed to ensure the safety of the participants.

Passi City PNP Officerin-Charge (OIC) Chief Police Lieutenant Colonel (PLTCOL) Atty. Benjo E. Clarite said that these security personnel were deployed to different sea ports, airports, convoys, re-routings, traffic securities, event venues and sub-camps.

Region (NCR). Science, Technology and Engineering (STE) 10 Schrodinger’s Mij P. Pornel and Accountancy,

together with their coaches Maryful Grace C. Pabiona and Christian Errol P. Alarba represented Western Visayas in the fair. Prior to the conduct of the nationals, the qualifiers’ research papers undergone screening under

the Scientific Review Committee (SRC) to secure spots in the finals.

“It was my first-time ranking first in a regional level competition, and I was exhilarated after knowing that I was qualified to the national level after three months of anxiously waiting since the competition,” said Palma.

Moreover, Palma further expressed her delightedness in representing the region and the division and highlighted learnings earned from the competition.

“The thing I look up to is the preparation of the learners because of the full-blown research that they already have, and the expertise and dedication of the coaches and teachers most specifically in the field Science and Mathematics,” said Division Science Education Program Supervisor Noreme Palomillo.

EPS Palomillo also said that during the preparation stage, the qualifiers attended virtual meets wherein they pitched their studies to regional officials and experts.

During the Regional SciMathlympics held on November 24-26, 2023 at Iloilo City National High School, Palma and Pornel secured spots after winning first place in Science Innovation Expo (SIE) and Mathematical and Computational Science categories, respectively.

Passi NHS' Principal retires after 2 decades; reminders remain indelible

“Indi magdali kun indi mo gusto maghibi.”

This line is instilled in the minds of Passi National High School learners when asked about Dr. Rey P. Deatras.

According to Dr. Deatras, “I treated my learners as my children. Every time I see them, in whatever endeavors they have in or outside the school, I always remind them to be wise in their decision-making so that they will not regret it.”

PNHS Alumnus John Angelo A. Arroyo said, “the line “Indi magdali kun indi mo gusto maghibi” was Sir Deatras’ reminder for us that all things have their right time and place, especially in having intimate relationships that could lead to regrets.”

For more than two decades, Dr. Rey P. Deatras, the principal IV of the school, retired on December 31, 2023.

Dr. Deatras began his term as a school head on June 1, 2000, as an officer-in-charge of PNHS until December 19 of the same year and he was assigned as Principal I of Mulapula NHS until March 9, 2003.

After two years and three months, he returned to PNHS as Principal III from March 10, 2003 to September 15, 2005.

He then served as Principal IV from September 16, 2005, to December 31, 2023, which made him the longest-serving school principal in the school's history.

“In my 21 long years as a school principal, we have developed culturalisms and have molded

PNHS radiates Taylor Swift vibes Learners unite for The Eras Tour

YANCY EMMANUEL S. AGUILAR

With the sun rays hitting and the Taylor Swift atmosphere covering the fields, nearly 6,000 learners of Passi National High School convene for the Taga-Passi High’s Version of The Eras Tour, a school-wide students’ day celebration, November 17, within the school grounds.

Spearheaded by the school’s Supreme Secondary Learner Government (SSLG), activities were patterned to concepts relating to American Pop and Country Music Singer Taylor Swift’s ongoing, recordbreaking stadium tour, The Eras Tour.

In the morning, learners witnessed performances prepared by the dance club, preceding the soldout The Eras Tour Concert at the schools’ amphitheater.

Taylor Shwoosh, a studentimpersonator graced the concert offering performances imitating Swift’s performance in the said stadium tour.

Learners who were not able to secure tickets for the concert had their classroom-based celebrations wherein they had the freedom to organize simple but memorable gatherings.

Moreover, fund raising booths

like the Lover, PNHS traditional student’s day Handcuff Booth, and Speak Now Shoutout Booth where anyone can anonymously have their confessions or shouts were set up by the SSLG.

Invited food and coffee merchants like 39ers and 48 Coffee Co. convened at the school grounds offering services in the Student’s Day Food Marketplace. Meanwhile, Larong Noypi, a series of games featuring traditional Filipino childhood games like Jackstone, Sack Race, Piko, Patintero, and Tug of War, were done in the afternoon.

The celebration concluded with Musikantahan 2023 with dedicated performances from Hexad Band and Biglang Banda in the flag raising grounds.

On the other hand, the SSLG highlighted in a Facebook post that outsiders are not allowed in the premises to maintain the security and the exclusivity of the event.

This year’s celebration is pursuant to the Schools Division of Passi City Memorandum No. 350, s. 2023, reiterating Department of Education-Operations.

Memorandum OUOPS N. 2023-0 and the DepEd Western Visayas Memorandum No. 863, s. 2023

high regard toward ethics both in academics and community endeavors of the institution. I entered 2003 and I exit 2023 plus my 1 year as officer in charge is 21 years,” Deatras said.

During his time as the school principal, PNHS was hailed as the Hall of Famer in Brigada Eskwela Implementation - National Level from 2008-2010.

Moreover, the school also got awards such as Division Champion 2022 Brigada Eskwela - Best Implementing School, Mega School Category, Secondary School, SY 2021-2022, and 1st Palcer in the 2022 Circle Awards Most Learning Focused Secondary School Key Stage 3-Very Large Category, SY 2021-2022.

The retired principal said that he always gave his 100 percent in whatever he did except for when he served God. Hard work always pays off.

Meanwhile, Dr. Deatras was superseded by Nelson P. Palma PhD following the effectivity of his appointment in February 15. Palma took his oath as the promoted school principal IV after his installation program on February 19 at the PNHS Amphitheater.

Dr. Palma was a former principal II of Agdahon Farm School before assuming the office of Principal IV of PNHS.

stating the celebration of the national students’ day with the theme, “Pilipinong Mag-aaral: Huwaran

ng

Kagitingan, may MATATAG na Paninindigan.”

YANCY

Photo by LEXINE SIAN PALMA

YOUNG INNOVATORS. Researchers Lexine Sian Palma and Mij Pornel, students from Passi National High School competes in 2024 National Science and Technology fair in Sequoia Hotel, Paranaque City, National Capital Region on April 1-5, 2024.

MYLZ MARIE D. PACLIBAR

SWOOSH’S VERSION. STE 8 Darwin Jude Pastrana, a student-impersonator graced the concert, offering performances in Passi National High School, Amphitheater.

DECOMMISSIONED EDUCATOR. After almost 21 years of dedicated service, Rey P. Deatras PhD retires from his position as Principal IV of Passi National High School on December 31, 2023.

Photo by RENEE RAFAELA FERNANDEZ

Photo by KYRA VIEN AGUILAR

According to City Mayor Atty.

Stephen A. Palmares who was also the former city administrator during the GK village establishment, “it is a tripartite agreement between the Profriends represented by Gerry Chua, the Gawad Kalinga represented by Tony Meloto and the City of Passi as the host city.”

With 64.8 hectares, it is the largest GK village in the country.

“Amo daya ya pinakahanggod nga Gawad Kalinga sa bilog nga Pilipinas,” City Mayor Palmares further said.

Initially, the village was managed by the GK for five years before it was turned over to the Passi City LGU on March 7, 2022.

Prior to the awarding of houses to the homeowners, Passinhon applicants from the poorest of the poor who have no real property were prioritized for the housing lots.

“Hanggud gid daya nga pagbulig kanamon hay pareho kanamon, waay kami’t mga lupa. Tuod nga may amon nga balay, pero nagaskwat lang kami. Any time kung gusto nga bulon dang lupa, mahalin kami. Bisan singko waay kami’t bul-on,” said Jean Alayon, a mother of three and one of the first recipients of the housing lots.

Prior to their relocation, Alayon’s family already owned a glass-aluminum shop however it is unstable as it relied mainly on contracts.

"Halin kami sa Alimono, daw payag-payag lang balay namon.

[Pay diya] naka-pamundar kami ka mga gamit. Kita ko dun itsura ka balay ko, indi’t payag,” she added.

In Talongonan, each family acquired a 70-square meter lot with cemented columns, galvanized iron roofs, and a septic tank, unlike in Quinagaringan Pequeno with 120-square meter lot with only a septic tank.

“Ang kada lote bale 70 square meter ang ginatao halin sang una asta subong per household,” said Engr. Jose Rosme Gonzales, village homeowners’ association president.

The village was inaugurated on February 7, 2017.

Meanwhile, it was the second established village in the city after Barrio Kaabyanan at Brgy. Quinagaringan Pequeño with a total of 10 hectares land area and the third was a five-heactare River View Village at Brgy. Agdahon land area.

localnews LGU Passi reiterates Helmet Act 2009

PASSI CITY – The Local Government Unit of Passi City strengthened the implementation of its Ordinance No. 2017-065 also known as the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009 on February 1, 2024. This ordinance localized the Republic Act (RA) No. 10054 entitled as “an act mandating all motorcycle riders to wear a standard protective motorcycle helmet while driving and providing penalties therefor.”

City Mayor Atty. Stephen A. Palmares, CPA, said, "this ordinance

was implemented even long ago but this time, we have to be strict on its operation due to the prevailing motorcycle accidents in our City.”

In the said ordinance, all motorcycle drivers and back riders shall at all times wear standard protective motorcycle helmets which is prescribed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) while driving whether long or short drives in any type of local road and national highways.

Since January, more than 40

Voting commences for BSKE 2023

GLENN C. PANABE, NIÑA GRACE S. PANIZA

Registered voters line up to their respective precincts as the polls for the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) officially kick off earlier this morning, October 30.

Casting of votes started at 7 AM, ending later by 3 PM, as stated in the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution No. 10902 entitled, "Calendar Of Activities and Periods of Certain Prohibited Acts in Connection with the October 30, 2023, Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE)."

Following the official closing of the voting period would be the counting and canvassing of votes, as well as the proclamation of winning candidates.

Along with Comelec, the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Department of Education (DepEd) take part in the conduct of the 2023 BSKE.

DepEd sets on deploying 494,662 teachers to serve during the election voting period, including 382,793 as Electoral Boards, 25,196 as Department of Education Supervisor Officials (DESOs), 68,873 as Barangay Board of Canvassers (BBOCs) with 17,800 teachers as substitutes, support staff, and poll clerks.

motorcycle accidents happened in the city according to the report by the Passi City Police Station.

Florante John Mabalot III, a Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) student said that he agreed with the act about wearing a helmet because somehow it assures him of his safety going to school and home vice-versa.

Meanwhile, drivers who breached the rule will be fined 1,500, 3,000, and 5,000 pesos for the first, second, and third offenses respectively, and confiscation of the driver's license for the fourth and subsequent offenses.

A tenth-grade Kim John Pama said, “I had experienced being caught by police officers because my passenger had no helmet therefore, I was fined a hefty sum of money.”

On the other hand, three task force groups coming from the Traffic Management Office of the City composed of seven persons for each group were mandated to ensure the effective and fair implementation of this ordinance.

According to the City Mayor, "I believe, that if in a community, all of the citizens of a certain community or a resident of a community are disciplined people, progress would be there and development will follow."

The City Government of Passi through the City Information Office (CIO) disseminated the implementation and tricycle drivers are exempted from complying with the mandatory provided in the ordinance.

In line with the election protocols, Comelec prohibits any candidate, political party, organization, or any person from giving or accepting, free of charge, directly or indirectly, transportation, food or drinks, or things of value.

The election commission has heightened the security and restrictions during the voting period as vote-buying allegations unfold, further announcing the possible suspension of the proclamation of winning candidates with pending cases related to illegal election practices. Moreover, gun and liquor

bans are enforced for the safety of candidates and voters from possible violent incidents, and to take into consideration the somberness of All Saints’ Day and All Souls' Day.

Furthermore, the liquor ban is effective until November 2, 2023, with the gun ban until November 29 of the same year.

Prior to the October 30 polls, BSKE has undergone three postponements since 2018, allowing incumbent officials to hold public office for five years.

437 OUT OF 1894

Source: The Hilltop School-wide Survey for learners and teachers

Passi City cites 2028 goals

LEXINE SIAN C. PALMA

In service for the Passinhons, City Mayor Atty. Stephen A. Palmares CPA outlined three main goals for the city in 2028.

According to City Mayor Palmares, he aimed to establish Passi City as the Tiger Economy in Central Panay, to become the Sporting Capital, and to be a Premiere Component City of Western Visayas.

Additionally, Mayor Palmares shared groundwork plans and preparations for these objectives.

"We have already started concreting roads to all 51 barangays of the city. If the is concreted, there will be many job opportunities, and businesses will rise. This is where the economic growth starts," Palmares said.

Moreover, he highlighted the city's strategic location at the center of Panay Island, positioning it ideally to host regional government offices and attain premier component city status in Western Visayas.

“Sooner, the new Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) Headquarters will operate in Brgy. Sablogon after the Local Government Unit of Passi City donated a two-hectare lot for them,” he said.

The city mayor also emphasized the city’s continued social services to its people like free hospitalization in its local hospital, financial assistance, burial assistance, scholarship grants to high school and college students, city allowances for teachers, PNP and BFP personnel, and many more.

Furthermore, Passi City Sports Complex and other sports centers are undergoing improvements in anticipation of hosting the Palarong Pambansa 2027, signaling its emergence as the Sporting Capital of Western Visayas. These goals reinforced his public appearance, reminding Passinhons of the targets to be achieved by 2028.

Donna Jane Palma, a resident of Brgy. Poblacion Ilawod said, “mayad gid ang mga plano nga daya para sa pumuluyo ka Passi. I don't think it is an ambitious plan, because very attainable siya since plans are already laid kag gina umpisahan na ka tigayon. Once ma reach na daya nga goals, all Passinhons will surely benefit.”

PRECIOUS NICOLE P. FERNANDEZ-

MARRIONE

Photo by ROUVIEN JY S. PARREÑO From left to Right: Nice Alayon, Joseph Alayon, Jean Alayon, Mark Joseph Alayon, and Christian Alayon

LOFTY ABODE. Alayon family, a beneficiary of sweet homes, plans for their brighter future in Gawad Kalinga Village Talongonan.

Photo by Julianna Paulette Ligasan RISK-FREE RIDERS. Students of Passi National High School imply the wearing of helmets when riding a motorcycle to school in Passi National High School grounds on May 13, 2024

PATH DEVELOPMENT. Road Workers from Dumangas install foundation for the making of roads in Sitio Barasan, Passi City on May 13, 2024

Photo by ROUVIEN JY S. PARREÑO

HONEST ELECTOR. Barangay SK election takes place at the Building B of Passi National High School

PHOTO by ALLAIAH JALLEAN P. PALMARES

RAM bares poor results in SDO

Passi' SHS learners

Grade 11 learners from the Schools Division of Passi City are ‘not proficient, low proficient, and nearly proficient’ across all learning areas, the results of the 2023-2024 Regional Achievement Measure (RAM) revealed.

As reported by the Curriculum Implementation Division (CID) during the 1st Division Convergence of Education Leaders (DCEL) for this school year on March 5, the learners were noted to “have very poor level of

mastery of skills and competencies across the SHS strands.”

CID Chief Dr. Nescel P. Panes said, “in March of this year, we had our first DCEL and we have presented to the leaders of the 45 schools the result of the RAM. Each supervisor presented the results in their designated learning area, and they were given different types of intervention wherein the school heads could choose which among the interventions is appropriate to the learning area to address the very low

performance of learners in the RAM.”

Moreover, CID Chief Panes revealed that the initial results of the Philippine Informal Reading Inventory (PHIL-IRI) and the Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment (CRLA) were very low but observed improvements in the conduct of the mid-test.

“The notable increase can be associated with the different interventions and innovation particularly this DREAM Project of SDO Passi City to address numeracy

The Hilltop holds Journ Workshop to IPs

Resonating the 2023 National Schools Press Conference theme, The Hilltop conducted a Responsible Journalism, Media Literacy Workshop, and Gift Giving Program to the Indigenous People (IPs) of Sitio Maoy, Brgy. Salngan, Passi City on April 5.

With the theme "From Campus Journalism to Real-World Journalism: Shaping Minds from Schools to Societies," the activity was initiated by The Hilltop Adviser Rexcel E. Agnes, with co-adviser John Edsel G. Cerbas, alongside student journalists.

“During this workshop, the children gained awareness about basic concepts of being delivering accurate information. I hope that they can apply this knowledge in their community as they grow older,” Cerbas said.

Moreover, Cerbas added that the children learned different mass media platforms especially the proper used of social media as the most common news platform today.

The Hilltop Editor-in-chief Mylz Marie D. Paclibar said, “My campus journalist heart feels happy with the outcome of this outreach program, especially the media literacy and responsible journalism workshop for the IP children, even though we had to walk for at least 30 minutes.”

The staff then differentiated fake

from factual news and presented appropriate to the level of their understanding.

Before the sessions ended, the IP children received coloring materials which used during their workshop.

According to Brgy. Captain Jose Roy Laxa, "this IPs migated from Nagpana Barotac Viejo and later on stayed here for good. Ang anda everyday nga pangabuhian is pangampo, pananom ka mga kamote, gulay, pagsagod ka mga sapat. Kag tungod sa pagpaintindi kananda ka importance ka pag-eskwela, they have produce professionals kag seaferers.”

Furthermore, Brgy. Captain said,“I encouraged them nga mag eskwela gid. I wanted them to be included, gusto ko nga makatupong man sanda kanaton .

Meanwhile, tribe President John Valencia Eno said, "ako ya una nga nkagraduate sa four-year course amon tribu. Naka-experienced man ako maging seaman sa isa ka fishing vessel kag gusto ko tani mageskwela liwat, galing ang edad ko bala haw."

Other than the privileges that these IPs received from Brgy. Salngan Councils, the Local Government Unit of Passi City also provided them with various privileges like free

hospitalization in Don Valerio Palmares Sr. Memorial District Hospital, free dental services every Wednesday in the City’s Health Center, and many more.

Currently, a total of 11 families or 43 members of IPs or Tribu Ati live in the said place that is

and literacy issues in the field,” Panes added. Familiarly known as DREAM+, “Dedicated for Reading Enhancement and Acuity in Mathematics” is the division’s banner learning program focused on addressing and reducing the number of non-literates and nonnumerates in the schools division.

The project encompassed all learning areas with their respective projects aligned to the “DREAM,” including Sweet Reading Instruction for Peak Performance of Learners in Elementary and Secondary (Sweet RIPPLES) project of the English area.

Sweet RIPPLES is the enhanced division reading program aiming to see continuous improvements in learners’ performance across learning areas other than English.

In Passi National High School –Senior High School English teachers in collaboration with the BUTLAK Club, a Balay Puktuyan ka Kinaaram was launched and implemented to venue reading activities.

BUTLAK Club Adviser Ferlie Joy M. Lanaria said, “Diya sa SHS, nagfacilitate kita ka Bee Hive naton nga naga-cater sa aton mga learners nga gusto magbasa. Diyan man naton kada-a gina-cater ya mga identified learners who have difficulty in reading and comprehension.”

Lanaria further said that the BUTLAK Club held and joined character interpretations to promote love for reading.

Meanwhile, other subject areas have their banner programs that are aligned with the objectives of DREAM+.

PASSI CITY-After a devastating fire incident, Passi National High School's (PNHS) Supreme Secondary Leader Government (SSLG) initiated a donation turnover for fire victims on Sara Road, on January 27. Their action entitled "Rebuilding Hope”, an act that served as an assistance that the school together with the student organization had initiated to the casualties.

According to Lexine Sian C. Palma, SSLG President, “Their call for plea at a social media page was what pushed them to help the fire victims.”

Moreover, she said that it brought happiness to them even if what they did was just a small act of kindness.

Furthermore, SSLG aimed to create a community of resilience to prove that empathy has the power to transcend borders and ignite a brighter tomorrow.

"In times of adversity, our collective strength shines brightest, as we strive to make a meaningful impact and bring relief to those who are facing the aftermath of this unfortunate event," SSLG said in their social media page post. Meanwhile, various donations were gathered to provide immediate support and solace to the fire victims.

Liezel Cases, owner of the burnt house, said, "Nasunog gid tanan sa balay namon, waay gid it bilin. Hanggod gid daya nga bulig kanamon. Madamo gid nga salamat sa Passi NHS students and sa SSLG."

Council.

Sitio Maoy is a 30-minute walk from Brgy. Salngan Hall. Write to SilHoy Agnes more. Currently, a total of 11 families or 43 members of IPs or Tribu Ati live in the said place that is

Essential food packs such as canned goods, rice, and noodles, a few beddings such as pillows and blankets, and cash were given by the SSLG.

Farm School tops MoRProGRes Garden tilt

Agdahon Farm School (AFS) emerged as champion and received P200,000 in the recently concluded Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally and Resilient (MoRProGRes) Garden Contest held at the Capitol Grounds from April 8

As part of the 123rd Semana sang Iloilo, AFS was also selected to be among the exhibitors for this

year’s MoRProGRes Bazaar since the “AFS Garden of Progress” was qualified in the contest.

Students and teachers were given a chance to attend seminars and orientations about business and agricultural entrepreneurship.

Meanwhile, the AFS also received a P3 million donation from Vice President Sara Duterte for the improvement of their school last October 2023.

As part of the P3 million, the

school purchased 300 mono-block chairs, kitchen and cooking utensils and they also constructed flower boxes and a 100-meter trellis, fixed chalkboards and gutters, renovated the school office, rehabilitated the water system and other school equipment and materials.

Also, about two hectares of school lot were converted into garden plots with rotating overhead sprinklers.

Slate's Youngest: SHS student joins Bb. Pintados de Pasí

Among eight binibinis vying for the crown, a senior high school student was recognized as the youngest candidate of the Binibining Pintados de Pasí 2024.

Arian C. Gavin, 17, is a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) 12 Inquisitive student who represented Tribu Buay-Buay during the said pageant. Before competing for the Bb. Pintados de Pasí 2024, she joined the search for Mr. and Ms. Hinampang 2024 of Passi National High School and bagged the 2nd runner-up spot and other special awards.

“Through my journey with Mr. and Ms. Hinampang, the compliments and positive feedback of people were my motivation, as were all the people who supported and

encouraged me to try the audition for BB. Pintados de Pasí 2024, and luckily I was one of the chosen candidates for the BB. Pintados 2024”. Gavin said.

Moreover, she added that throughout her pageant journey, the PNHS community had been incredibly supportive and extended help in their ways.

“I hope my participation in the Bb. Pintados 2024 will be an inspiration to them; that age does not define who you are, especially to the young aspiring women out there who dream of being at that stage like I did at a young age,” Arian said.

PNHS English paper launches first innovation

Passi National High School’s official English publication, The Hilltop, presented their first innovation during the Launching of The Hilltop Innovation, Staff Orientation and Induction Program, October 18 at the school’s amphitheater.

The Hilltop Innovation, which is entitled, The Hilltop Online: Strengthening Campus Journalism’s Reach and Impact in Communities through Digital Media Censorship.

“I have seen the improvement in The Hilltop staffing this school year and that shows that the publication staff never stop thinking on how to improve the trainings and the activities of the students in this organization,” said Rey P. Deatras PhD., school principal.

This innovation aimed to disseminate accurate and newsworthy information fast, around the campus and even in larger scopes like society through social media. It will use social media applications as platform in informing the students, and the public of school-related activities, controversies, and school updates.

Sir Deatras emphasized that joining the school publication can

build students’ self-confidence, improve communication and intrapersonal skills.

One hundred one students-staff and eight school paper advisers of the said publication for the school year 2023-2024 spearheaded the event.

Ma’am Ma. Nilma E. Casamayor, a retired chief of the Curriculum Implementation Division of the Schools Division of Passi City said, “Once you are a journalist, you will stay as a journalist forever even until retiring. Even if you are through with your profession. Even if you’re already in your old age, you will remain to love journalism.”

Sir Deatras inducted the staff and the advisers which then followed by the recitation of the journalists’ creed led by Marie Alekza Xyrus Layese, 2023 Regional Schools Press Conference third place winner in Photojournalism-English. After the program, an orientation of the staff’s duties and responsibilities was conducted.]

MICA MAY D. PAGAYON

NINA GRACE S. PANIZA

PRECIOUS NICOLE P. FERNANDEZ & KARA MIKAELA S. CALIMPONG

AVID STUDENTS. Passi National High School Learners listen to the orientation before taking the Regional Achievement Measure Test.

PHOTO by HANNAH NICOLE PACHES

COURTEOUS VISIT. Indigenous children of Sitio Maoy join the Journalism and Media Literacy Workshop led by Sir Rexcel Agnes and John Edsel Cerbas together with The Hilltop staff in Barangay Salngan, Passi City.

Photo by JOHN PATRICK B. MENDOZA

MARRIONE GLENN C. PANABE

MYLZ MARIE D. PACLIBAR

feet. His comrades wave the flag of the country and of the beloved city.

Passi has risen to greater heights. Passi has made a name for its people as the city that held the 18th National Scout Jamboree (NSJ) from December 11-17, 2023. It has not only marked history in the world of scouting but has also helped in making memories worth remembering.

As the scouts keep their heads up and strongly move their feet along, continuing the march, they finally come to a stop. With steady and firm stances, the eagle steps out of the rank and salutes to the dear people as they pass by.

“Scouts salute! Scout Christian John Barredo and my companions, welcome you all to our beloved city. Ready front!”

Christian John Barredo, a name many scouts in Passi honor, is not only an Eagle scout but also a musician and a leader, thus, rendering him a household name.

The eagle has earned his scars. Through the sacrifices he endured, he earned many rewards for his loyalty, bravery, and consistency, which made him a welldefined and courageous leader. Believing that everyone should be civil about conflicts, he goes by the motto, “An eagle doesn’t stay on the ground, but flies higher to see everything that not everyone can see or understand.”

Boyscouting is founded by Lord Robert Stephenson Smyth Bayden Powell in the year 1907 at Brownsea Island in England. It was an experimental camp which aims to teach boys about basic survival lessons outdoors.

Back then, Eagle Scouts used to be called “Rizal Scouts” but later shifted back to "Eagle." It is the highest rank you can ever achieve as a scout, followed by venturer, outdoorsman, pathfinder, and explorer.

Scouting has really changed Christian, as he was able to hone his talents and physical, mental, and emotional abilities. Of course, talents are also upgraded since to earn the “music badge” you have to master three instruments. He has decided to learn the flute, guitar, and keyboard.

He graduated in the school year 2022-2023. But the eagle never fails to leave its mark as Christian has without a doubt, earned his talon by facing the strong currents of responsibilities head-on which granted him the Eagle rank. Seeing the scouts he once trained to be better versions of themselves are now representing Passi National High School Outfit 501 in the NSJ. Through his eyes, the events that happened during the Jamboree have been phenomenal. There have been fancy drill competitions, campfire presentations, and the PassiKlaban, which has showcased other cultures. But the main highlight for him is the trading, which only happens every four years where scouts, 34,000 strong, get to trade their neckers and souvenirs.

His feathered soul echoes resilience as scouts, both new and old, tremble and bow down to this humble leader. Though Christian may not be the Senior Crew leader anymore, he is still proud to be an eagle who once led an army of wolves who carry the pride of Passi City. The talon’s bearer leading the howl of the fanged hunters.

Painted Stories that Last

KAYLE ASPI A. ABBAS

On the month of March, what events come into mind? Is it one’s birth month? Women’s month? Or just a normal one? But here in Passi City, it is the most awaited time of the year. It is where all streets are filled with banderitas that have the colors of the rainbow. The air vibrates with thundering beats of the drum, and Passinhons wear their brightest smiles. It is the time to celebrate their rich culture through a festivity—the anticipated Pintados de Pasi. Pintados de Pasi is a celebration of Passi City’s long history and tradition. It is said to represent the bravery, passion, and colorful personalities of Passinhons. It has different events that all Passinhons are excited to celebrate every year.

Karosa Parada

In this event, the carabaos are the stars of the show. These beasts of burden dressed in traditional costumes, pull floats with designs depicting the culture, landmarks, and history of the city. Instead of using commercial products for the design of the floats, community members from different barangays utilize agricultural crops and sustainable waste like monggo, rice husk, and anahaw leaves.

Salute toForever

In the midst of the crowd, two people looked at each other. Though their eyes were filled with their endless dedication to scouting, a hint of their eternal love bloomed

As they traipsed the muddy fields of various scouting camps, their fateful encounters began, and their love bloomed like stirrings in the magic of their flowing melody.

“A little love, that slowly grows and grows, not one that comes and goes, that’s all I ask of you.”

From that day on, their love for each other blossomed, flourished, and endured. Their vows became a salute to forever, the foundation upon which they would weave their love story.

“We were married because of scouting,” Geronimo said as he reminisces the romantic past when he first saw Teresita. He saw her sitting near the monument of the Cebu Council while waiting for her companions bound for Leyte. “That was the first time I laid eyes on her.”

Geronimo took a liking to Ma’am Chita especially after their bond was strengthened by the series of scout trainings that they underwent together. They started off as friends with a mutual commitment to the Scouting Movement.

“I didn’t know how to court.” He believed that “action speaks louder than words”. During their training courses, they were tasked to make their own visual aids. He did Ma’am Chita’s visual aids as an act of courtship.

Then, on one of the training courses they had, Sir Jun finally had the courage to express his feelings to Ma’am Chita. He

The next time they met was when Teresita was taking summer classes at Cebu Normal University. “We were still only friends and would meet, but there was no formal label for us (in the relationship),” shared Teresita.

They exchanged “I dos” in 1972, the same year they got their Wood Badge Beads. Their marriage sealed their hearts together, not just as a married couple but a couple committed to the Scouting Movement.

Geronimo and Teresita celebrated their 50th Golden Wedding Anniversary with their guests dressed in Scouting Uniforms last February 20, 2022.

Known to most as Sir Jun, Geronimo C. Laburada, Jr. is a retired college professor at Cebu Technical University. Ma’am Chita, Teresita B. Laburada, is also a retired Master Teacher II at Bulacao Community School, Cebu City. They both became Outstanding Scout Masters of the Philippines in 1997 and 1998 respectively.

Geronimo and Teresita have been married for 51 years now. In that length of time, they still long for each other’s warmth. Their love for each other has remained constant as well as their dedication to Scouting.

Once upon a time in the world where many mysteries are yet to be found, many superstitions were born and some were believed to be true without looking behind the curtains. Mischiefs, deities and traditions were a product of these wonders, and it’s no wonder that most of our lives revolved around these stories.

When myths and epics transpire, there is always a great story there, inspired by these nostalgic tales. But feast your eyes on freshest story of the year coming from the greatest minds in the city of Passi. A story born from the tribe of an educational ground situated on the hillls. The story of Pina and Tado and how the tribe the mother school of Passi city turned its name into “Tribu Baklud. Tado, a fearless and goal-oriented warrior from the faraway lands, urged by his father to marry in order to fully inherit his throne. Due to his wishes, he searched for his wife everywhere. As the gods favored, Tado Pina, a girl who resembles a flower because of her beauty. Enter the journey that is about to unfold and was choreographed with open hearts by the maestro Robert Lapating and his students—the tribesmen and women.

“Baklud” means hill and tribe means “Tribu,” thus making the name Baklud. Lapating revealed in an interview that this tribe has had many other names before this one. Ranging from “Tribu Engkantado” to “Tribu Tawili” now Tribu Baklud since the school was built on the hills of Dorillo. Bewitched by her beauty, Tado decided to marry her. But Pina’s father wanted more assurance so he set a test for the young warrior. Back then, would often need to show off their masculinity by doing a certain task. He needed to find gold from a land where otherworldly beings reside. To prepare for this journey, Tado marked his skin with tattoos that honored both his tribe and contributed for his safety and strength. Filled with lines and curves around his skin tinted black, he was ready for the challenge.

As he walked towards the forest, at the very beginning, he encountered the ‘Aswangs’ (The most well-known creature of the dark here in the Philippines, specifically, in the beautiful and grim land of Panay) who owned one of the golden necklaces. With a goal in mind and a woman’s heart to he dashed right to it to earn his maiden.

The battle started, with clash of their metal spades, screams of pain, and blows of sand. Tado gained his first ever victory, delighted to check one of his desired treasures. With no room for rest, he continued his path the Kings of that land. There he met a wrinkly, old lady who warned him his safety. “Don't go inside, or the engkantos will bury you alive! Everything you see is forbidden to be eaten. The moment you sink your teeth into their food, you’ll be banished for good,” she said with a terrified face. he shrugged it all off.

For Lapating, the idea of this was inspired by the well-known superstition that if you eat something from an unknown person in a sketchy place, you’d be teleported to an unknown far-away area. Tado continued his search, due to the longevity, he heard his stomach grumble. “I need to eat something,” he thought. That's when he saw a plump watermelon field. He forgot the warnings, so this retribution.

Tado started hallucinating. As soon as his eyes laid on something, it started to distort, morphing into a delectable dessert.

Pretty ladies were everywhere, but the girl who caught his attention the most was by the lake. He slowly made his way, seemingly posing himself as a mighty and handsome man. Not dawning on him, that this is his greatest mistake. The girl was an engkanto, ready to plunge him to his death. It was the King himself. They fought bloody battle, the king started to feel that he's going to lose, that's why he played dirty. He drowned Tado to the depths of the lake. He felt his lungs constrict, not being able to inhale oxygen that supports his life. His vision was blurry, black dots covered his

Unnoticed, his father ordered his brothers to follow his tracks. Seeing their brother at a disadvantage, they avenged him. They called a ‘babaylan’ to tattoo back his brother's strength that was depleted earlier in his battle. Waking up full of strength, he finally received his last bit of treasure. He succeeded in defeating his sworn enemy. He emerged and triumphed. Returning with glory, Tado married the love of life, Pina. Symbolizing his bravery and wisdom, ending the story of the famous winning performance by the Tribu Baklud.

LYKA JERRYEL B. SENADOR

FAYE NICOLE P. CABANGISAN

CLARENCE MATTHEW P. PUNZALAN & KARA MIKAELA S. CALIMPOMG

Behind a gorgeous face lies a mission. Binibining Pintados is a pageant that showcases the confidently beautiful young women of Passi City with their advocacy to bring about change and place the city’s name on the map of the Philippines. It is not only a pageant, but it is also an avenue for women to speaking out their truth.

Pinta Lawas

The art of tattooing, especially body tattoos, play a vital role in the history of Passi City. In the bygone days, during the precolonial times, our ancestors in Central Panay tattoo their bodies with black ink, with each design having a meaningful symbol. Pinta Lawas exhibits this legacy as well as the talents of Passinhon artists through geometrical designs painted all over a warrior’s body.

Tribe Competition

. It is storytelling through choreography, displaying the culture, history, and ancestral heritage of Passi City. It is presented through dancing against the loud beats of the drum, where warriors wear traditional costumes while their bodies are filled with intricately-designed tattoo. If ever you are planning to witness the vibrant, the happiest, and the most memorable festivity in the heart of Panay, let your feet guide you to the sweet city of Passi, where Passinhons honor their past, their voices a united chorus chanting, “ABANSE PASSI”.

are were Mischiefs, it’s stories. out the the ground tribe of Baklud. lands, was his Tado met journey the women. name Tribu other Tawili” and father then, men He prepare curves encountered owned to find, pain, check off path to him for Everything into face. Yet, a when is his dessert. attention posing ready fought a that's lake. that his avenged He and his the Baklud.

Worn-thin boots tread the enduring soil of the borrowed Eden. Moisture lost on the land, brittle cracks that form pentagons on earth, and a half-dried up river, now all stones. Echo be the memory of the washerwomen and the scent of detergent. John Valencio Eno, age 41, surveys the young boys of Tribu Ati, helping each other on a higher plain, as they haul the last of tubo to the trucks to be sent off to sugar mills. He smiles, a brief thing, and returns to his companions. Leftover crops in view. He gives a signal, and all lit fires on the dry foliage, painting it ablaze. This is summer in her crowned glory; ashes tail her wake.

The family. They are all blood-related in a way or another. All gather in a wide hut with metal roof and kawayan for chairs. The breeze carried towards the hill is their AC, and the drone of mundane talk, their radio. John has a persistent spirit, much like the earth baked in sun, that pushed him to finish college in Capiz State University in Pontevedra with a major in marketing. That pushed him to work overseas in a fishing vessel. That pushed him to continue being a president for his Ati community here in Salngan, Passi City for three years now. That pushes him still in worrying for the future of his child.

Click, click. Shutter. John returns to his seat, his bread already given to his child. It is only yesterday that they burned their fields and now, the usual spacious shack is filled with student-journalists of the outreach program they are conducting.

They interview him and the Ati’s elder, Ramon Valencia, age 77, about their history and culture. And share they did. They migrated from Barotac Viejo in 1971, with the help of one Mrs. Amandre, who owns the land they’ve built a home and a livelihood upon. Currently with 10 households with 38 individuals, the atis planted tubo, bananas, and root crops. They attended to carabaos, chickens and goats. They were to be its caretakers, like shepherds for another’s flock. But it was honest and simple living.

John, however, wants to look beyond tilling, and the crops, and the ashes, and the dirt under their nails. The Atis find stability in their farm, brought by generations of working in the same fields, come the two seasons in years. Stability in relationships, in job, in home. They were content

He is happy for his people, of course. But ambition should also be on their minds, not complacency. Stability means little to no change, and John wants change. He could see today’s children in the same farming clothes as their parents, tanned skin and calloused hands. Harvesting the same crops on the same field, coming to the same home to their spouses, their own children playing outside.

John was the only college graduate in their village, the closest to ever be the second

would be his cousin, who only attended two years of college. The rest are undergraduates. Young mothers and men who turned to farming early. And it’s always two things that’s holding them back, lack of enthusiasm in education or lack of financial aid. More latter than the former.

John had only been able to afford college back in the day by running errands for a wealthy family. He wants to study again, even a different major perhaps, for a different job. But all his savings would go to his child first, in their education and well-being. He knows first-hand that literacy is sharper and more resilient of a weapon than all the sickles they have combined. He wouldn’t want his child to be stuck in an old cycle. His child, proudly being an Ati while still having the knowledge of a learned person, would have a different path, one that isn’t brittle, rocky, and harsh. Click, click. Shutter.

All of them posed for the last pic. Before trekking downhill, the studentjournalist thanked him for his time, and wishes him luck in his endeavor to encourage the parents of his community to instill the need for higher education than high school in their children. They would still be saddled with insufficient funding, but the children would get an idea that could propel their future farther from the greens and browns of their borrowed Eden.

John wants the vision of his child, from a respectable job, in clean clothing; visiting his old father, who had only come home after the burning of the fields. Ashes cling to the tail of his shirt.

“

The Atis find stability in their farm, brought by generations of working in the same fields, come the two seasons in years. Stability in relationships, in job, in home.

REANNE V. APELIDO & JULIANNA GRACE P. GAYOSO

Photos by: HANNAH NICOLE P. PACHES, ROUVIEN JY S. PARRENO

Illustrations by: REANNE V. APELIDO, ASHLIE VALLERIE P. HOMDOS

“Philippines!”

He cried in delight as he heard the name of his country being called. Miss Universe 2018 was the time when Catriona Gray won the title and brought the crown back to the Philippines after Pia Wurtzbach clinched it in 2015. It was also the time Lyxes became very hooked with pageants and binge-watching various beauty competitions in past years.

“

The eloquence with which Alexie advocates for her cause, amplifying her voice to reach all Filipinos, is nothing short of inspiring.

blooded Ilongga with roots from the municipality of Leon, ultimately became Miss Iloilo and currently representing Iloilo City on the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 stage.

When Lyxes first saw Alexie in 2021, he thought of seeing a supermodel in her. He stated that he met Alexie

“I can say that she’s in her game,” Lyxes added with Abanse Babaye

#AbanseBabae is Alexie Brooks’ banner advocacy that talks about modern Filipina women. Lyxes believed that her advocacy is a great transition to women empowerment since she was an athlete. For him, he admired Alexie for her genuine love for the elderly as she was raised by her grandmother.

“The eloquence with which she advocates

should fly freely as flags wave.”

Encountering women with different perspectives about their personality and embracing their true selves, especially as somebody different, her name radiates beauty for she is not a “he” though her identity used to be “him”. Rocky G. Polancos of Grade 10 Pearl is a trans woman trapped in the body of a boy. He goes by the name “Shantal Laine,” and she is proud to go by that identity despite what others think.

Many people like Shantal nowadays have risen from their shadows and broken out of their shells. They used their voices to make others around the globe exist. According to the World Population Review in 2024, only two percent of the world’s population in considered to be a part of the transgender community. Knowing that not even a fraction of the total number of people living in today’s world are trans surprises Shantal, but that does not hinder her from being strong enough to carry the name she wasn’t born with but the name she made out of love for her true self. It rather makes her unique and stand-out, being the only one in her class.

Inside the school premises of Passi National High School, Shantal is required to wear the classic male attire (polo with slacks). Though this displeases her, she’s got no choice as she is “supposed” to.

“I just follow the required attire since I can’t

Empowered women, united ones. They pass through an army of people where the heat is unbearable. Roaring loudly for a purpose that they fight for. But there stood a great example among others. Climbing on top of a wrecked car, gripping the megaphone in her hand, she caws and all eyes were on her. She used her opportunity wisely for she is not only one of the women but also a part of a community consisting of people who bleed different colors. As hard as a gem and fierce as fuchsia fire, she catches attention like the tears of a sapphire. The lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgenders, queers, intersex people, asexuals and many more who go by other different terms are all part of one community. The LGBTQIA+ community.

might change once the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE) Bill is fully realized.

On the words of journalist Vivian Melsa on the KAMI website, SOGIE Bill is a law that protects the people of the LGBTQIA+ community from discrimination and other actions that may hurt or offend them. The other name for it is AntiDiscriminatory Bill (ADB), and it was first tabled in Congress by former House of Representatives member Etta Rosales and the late Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago in the year 2000. It aims to make people of different genders feel free from all negative actions against them.

Shantal is a flower that blooms among the bush of plain green leaves. To be a model for those who are the same as her would be a dream of hers, yet she already lives in it. To be a voice for those who are afraid to speak up, she stays strong on her ground by not minding “them” and focusing on something more important such as her friends and education. By “them”, it means those who strongly oppose the fact that people like her exist and begin to discriminate her and others. In America, sixtyfive percent strongly favor trans-people being a part of the community. How much more if the same goes for the rest of the world?

Shantal may be complex but she is still part of the community and claims to be identified as a dear celebrator of "Women’s Month,” a yearly tradition where women are recognized for their

This annual celebration was recognized in the year 1986 by fourteen states in the United States, and by 1988, the Philippines followed along. One of the most memorable things to celebrate is by giving notice to the mistreatment of women back in the past. That these grim practices should have no place in the grounds of Mother Earth. The women couldn’t also vote back then but now, many of the world leaders today are women. The times have truly replenished.

The same can go for the people of the LGBTQIA+ since most are still being recognized but fully accepted. For years, they kept being discriminated and even now, they still are. However, Shantal’s people will prevail and soon, society will see them as one with everyone just as the men and women. She will one day wave the flag of her kind and claim victory against all odds.

Waving the blue and pink flag, fierce and true, tears of pride run through her hazel and fuchsia eyes. Underneath bubblegum sky, lies woman of sapphire-style, confident in her own form and more than any gemstone. “I don’t really care about what others think of me. All that matters is that I want become a fashion designer and showcase my art. Their words don’t matter as long as I stay true to myself. I am a woman. I wasn't born as one, but I was born to be one.”

LYKA JERRYEL B. SENADOR

ANGEL CYRA G. SOTACIO

Illustrations by: ALEA FAYE P. CUBAR, REANNE V. APELIDO

"Althea Mae Paclibar, Summa Cum Laude!"

The speakers' announcement on the dais, the round of applause, seemed far away in her ears. It was gently drowned by her sense of self-fulfillment, playing a whole orchestra in her chest. Percussion beating at the same pace as her heartbeat, she slowly walked up the stage. The dean approached her with a proud smile as they held each others' hand giving silent respects and appreciation. Approaching the front of the stage under the glowing rays of the spotlight, she held a gleaming smile while holding her greatest achievement and her diploma, signifying the end of her greatest hardship.

A memory flashed in her mind. “My GPA in third semester is 1.25,” she said the day her card was given. That time when her 1.25 GPA shook her to the core, she knew 1.24 as GPA would qualify her as summa cum laude.

She contemplated within herself, “this is my last shot. If I could do it then it’s great but if not then it let go.”

That Summa Cum Laude title was an apple of her eye. The moment she feared the most came unexpectedly. Days full of pressure and adversities led her to the point that she was hanging by a thread. Those deadlines and online were swallowing her whole through sleepless and exhausting nights.

Slowly, she felt like she’s drowning in a pool of workload.

But that didn’t stop her from doing what her heart beats for. Althea, an aspiring teacher, aimed for the highest victory of all time. Whenever adversities try to tumble her down, she countered and strike back harder, not allowing the mere obstacle to defeat her.

Studying smart. Working hard lingers on her mind. She will earn a magnificent triumph against catastrophes. Conquering through teaching demonstrations, examinations, and tasks with enthusiasm and success.

Before the Summa Cum Laude title, she started out small. Back to square one. Just like a normal grade school kid. But what sets Althea different from her peers

was that she had been an achiever, from graduating as class valedictorian in Academia de San Guillermo, completing her Junior High School years with honors in the Science Technology and Engineering Program at Passi National High School, and graduated with high honors in Senior High School at West Visayas State University. The evolution culminated with great victory, graduating as Summa Cum Laude with the Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education Major in Social Studies.

The sweet city in the heart of Panay was thrilled as she was a city scholar who graduated clinging to the last string.

“Don’t pressure yourself. If you feel exhausted or drained, unwind and take a rest. Do your best and give God the rest.” These are Althea’s words of wisdom to aspiring young minds. On the brink of acceptance, Althea realized that she could exert more than her limits. The greatest clime grows the fairest flower.

“ Before the Summa Cum Laude title, she started out small. Back to square one. Just like a normal grade school kid.

Climbing the ladder of aspirations, through the storm of uncertainties, a young girl tightly grips the metal bars beneath her numb hands, hesitant to continue in fear of the slide rolls of the ladder giving out. The wailing sirens of denunciation goes unhear for her. As she sees a man doing the job flawlessly, going in with no fear or signs of struggle. Resisting gravity’s hold pulling her down, she looks back up, eyes set on the ledge of a tall building as she slowly gets back her rhythm. Accelerando gains. She climbs again. A spark in her heart lights a flame, a guiding light not only her, but also to those in need of it, too. That is why she is the queen of the field, dominating the power that warriors wish to yield. Though knights easily narrow through gaps, in an open area, the victory is what she grasps.

Having the ability to sense matter and raise awareness for what fate has in store is a gift all of us have. Yet, with Fire Marshall Elvira B. Alvero, CPA, it is a gift she honed as she blossomed into the epitome of resilience. Climbing up to the top of her ladder was a victorious breakthrough in her field of work and her life.

“I am in a man’s world, yes. But you don’t necessarily need to be a man to serve the community. 5%, if not, half of our applicants who pass our standards here are women. If one believes they are physically fit and have the ability, willingness, and awareness needed to serve, then one is welcome here in the Bureau of Fire Protection,” says the Fire Marshall. With this said, discrimination and gender stereotypes did not bother her, for in the face of all unheard judgement, her flame outshined all and led her forward.

“Everything will be okay, if one can handle it,” she quotes. Entering the Bureau of Fire Protection, Passi City in September 2022, Alvero

steps up and wore her badge, bearing the name of the first female Fire Marshall, ready to serve and empower the community.

Yet, this wasn’t always the flow of her trek. Before her current profession, she was once an accountant in the regional office of Region VI. As admirable as it sounds, her transition to her current field of work is an endeavor to her trek up the ladder.

Whatever may be common knowledge to other firefighters were her big baby steps in service. Going around and about to ask and learn things to hone hidden abilities were what made herself and others believe she was capable. And she was. “If one has to crawl, then crawl. If one has to jump, then jump. In pursuing your ambitions, one must be brave and ready for the challenges they have to face.”

Firewoman. A name she wears everywhere she goes. Together with the duties of being a public servant, Alvero also advocates the advancement of women empowerment. Promoting outreach programs such as awareness activities for children, feeding programs, and establishing campaigns in barangays for safety awareness. These approaches are conducted in March 2024, where the month holds the celebration for both Fire Prevention Awareness and Women Empowerment. And all of these can vouch for her, and her crew’s will for change.

Now, as she and her team move forward, she also focuses on conducting campaigns for women about safety. “So that we, women, can do more to better our community,” she quotes.

The wind rises, hitting the first female Fire Marshall’s cheeks as she sat in peace on top of the world, on the building’s ledge. Finally reaching what’s beyond the top of the ladder, she can’t help but look down and see how far she came. She

can see everything in the world, from the bustling streets to the children running about at the park. Turning her head up, she sees her reflection on another building’s tinted windows, only that this time, it is her younger self, the one who took the first step on the ladder.

“Congratulations. You never had a doubt in choosing your field. Our field. Our dream,” she said to the young girl in the mirrored surface.

The young girl smiled back, and Alvero tastes the freedom and relief in her lungs as she goes on her mission, to bring change and resilience amid this hectic, yet lively of a world. A place where she once thought was black and white, is colored with the radiating bloom of the fire she faces every day. Of course, the queen never bows down to the challenge. And as she emerges from Hephaestus’ forges, she declares checkmate on the god’s pieces.

MARTHEENA MARIE A. PANES

MA. ANGELA CANDELARIA H. GALVEZ & ALEEZA FRANCES B. ALARO

Photo by: LGU PASSI CITY

SCI-TECH

STEPHEN boosts agri produce

Be Responsible with No Reminders

During the flag-raising ceremony on March 8, our principal, Sir Nelson P. Palma, reminded the students and the school’s faculty to be responsible enough to throw their trash properly. It has been included in the Monday routine of reminders since then.

I believe that it is understandable that colored trashcans for segregating garbage play a vital role in keeping our school clean and green, protecting everyone and the environment. Improper waste management is a serious problem. Although waste segregation has been a practice, there are still others who fails to do so.

This has been a long and unsettled issue in most large secondary schools.

Meanwhile, classes are over. While walking, I felt relieved when I saw a group of colored trash cans that were different from the previous ones. The wastes were segregated. Until a group of students came to pick up all the garbage from all the trash cans and put them all inside a big sack creating a salad of unsegregated waste materials.

The problem is seen. We put up colored trash bins for segregation yet mixed them for retrieval for them to be sent to the garbage center to be collected by the city waste management.

According to school janitor Edgar Padernal, it is one of their major problems and the school itself. Additionally, the smell of the mixed waste produced a foul smell for learners whose classrooms are near the garbage center. For an eighth grader Reyziah Kholein Garcia, learning is affected due to waste's horrible smell.

It is difficult to combat since not everyone is cooperating in solving the issue. And if this goes on, it might result in tremendous effects on public health. The research of Pengzhong Li, reveals that it may increase infections, and it generates methane, which adds to the greenhouse effect, plastic waste, and respiratory diseases.

Reminders are still not enough. I firmly believe that the school should create a clearer positive penalty system for those who are not practicing waste segregation, not just in classrooms and around the school but also in the garbage center. It will be a great way to learn their lessons, to discipline them, and to let them make up for their mistakes.

It is indeed true that a simple mistake can lead to larger consequences. Simply throwing the smallest candy wrap will contribute to the problems that our school, community, and the whole world are facing.

As a responsible student of Passi National High School, we should not rely on reminders; being disciplined is top tier. Let’s work together to create a healthier and fresher learning environment.

Despite the price increase of local commodities, Passi City was able to secure food supplies by utilizing its agricultural landscapes with the assistance of STEPHEN.

STEPHEN Program, likely known as, the "Sustainable Technology on Ecological Preservation and Horticultural Engagement" Program, provides technical assistance to farmers to address the issues in the agricultural sector.

Passi City Agriculturist I, Ricky J. Sulpico, the pioneer of the STEPHEN Program, said, "it's a holistic approach that engages the farmer... Here in the

STEPHEN program, until marketing, we assist them."

According to Sulpico, the program was formed after joining Bloomberg International back in 2021 to conduct their research in the local market.

This program aimed to boost the city's self-reliance in terms of food supply and eliminate the middlemen issue in the farming business.

"Agriculture is everything, especially in food. In 2021, 80% of the vegetables are being sold in the market coming from other localities. So, because of the STEPHEN program, halos nag baliskad na. Almost 20%

The program has attracted several local government units (LGUs) such as Iloilo City Caluya and Semirara Islands in Antique, and Bago City in Negros Occidental due to its large demonstration area.

Recently, the STEPHEN Program garnered four awards in the "Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally and Resilient” (MoRProGRes) Garden Contest, under the LGU, high school, and barangay categories.

WHEN HOT AND COLD MEET: Study reveals energy yield in temperature difference; biowastes put to use

Following frequent unscheduled power interruptions experienced in the region, a study by a Grade 11 studentresearcher from Passi National High School created a cost-effective, powergenerating machine utilizing agricultural biowastes as heat source.

Alab, a thermoelectric generator device innovated by ABM 11 Reliability Lexine Sian C. Palma, is powered by the burning of biowastes such as rice husk, sugarcane bagasse, coconut, and corn husks.

The study was one of the national finalists during the 2024 National Science and Technology Fair under the Science Innovation Expo (SIE) category.

STUDY RESULTS

Study results showed that rice husks recorded the highest amount of electricity producing a mean of 19.6554 Watts with “its heating value and moisture content generating a high temperature.”

Meanwhile, sugarcane bagasse, coconut, and corn husks followed the ranking with a mean of 18.1154 W, 16.6746 W, and 13.8862 W, respectively.

Moreover, rice husks still recorded the longest running time for a 5W fan, 10W LED light, and a 15W mobile phone.

TEMPERATURE DIFFERENCE

Alab observed the Seebeck effect wherein an electromotive force is created “due to the difference in temperature across junctions of two different materials.

The device used thermoelectric coolers (TECs) in between a cooling plate for water and the furnace where the biomass is burned.

The study revealed that greater differences produced higher electricity yield.

UNITED NATIONS GOAL-ALIGNED

Palma’s study was aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs), particularly Goal 7 for Affordable and Clean Energy. According to the United Nations Development Program, SDG 7 aimed to “ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services by 2030.”

The study was set to

BUSTLE NOT TO GET BURNED

Looming presence of El Nino heats the already heated Philippines.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration

Passi jabs over 13K dogs, cats vs rabies

NIÑA GRACE S. PANIZA

Passi City has completed the 3-month long free anti-rabies vaccination on April 26. Together with the city's Chief Administrative Office (CAO) Livestock and Veterinary Services Section, Passi City managed to vaccinate 13, 423 dogs and cats in 51 barangays.

"The battle against this deadly virus will never be over, despite the challenges it brought with it. It will continue until the final dose of vaccine," Dr. Lib P. Uyaco of the Livestock and Veterinary Services Section said on a social media post.

After the free vaccination, the CAO Livestock and Veterinary Services Section embarked on their next schedule for the Veterinary Medical Mission, Livestock Barangay Seminar, and Spay and Neuter.

Survey says...

Which of the new emotions from Inside Out 2 have you experienced during your teenage years?

cool and dry season characterized by the Northeast Monsoon or Amihan, which prevailed from October 2023 to March this year.

In light of these developments, it is necessary for both the government and citizens to take a unified

reducing crop yields. Farmers face delays, smaller planting areas, and increased crop failures. The recent disclosure by the Department of Agriculture reveals 50 percent surge in crop and livestock losses to a staggering P3.94 billion, which calls the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the impacts

These disruptions extend beyond farms, affecting market stability and consumer welfare. Decreased harvests lead to supply shortages which also causes inflation due to the lack of supply but huge demand over the yields. Strengthening modern agricultural practices rooted and increasing awareness of climate-related risks are crucial to reduce the negative impacts brough by El Nino.

In the Philippines, Malacañang has taken an action, together with the local government units focusing on strict water conservation by 10 percent to

While some may argue the potential positive effects of El Niño, such as increased fish yields, it is essential to prioritize its negative effects as well. The devastating consequences of drought outweigh any term benefits. Thus, the call to action be done to mitigate its underlying Surviving El Niño requires collective action and resilience. As we navigate through these challenging times, let us bustle the call to action, recognizing the importance of what we might lose. Together, we weather we avoid to burn.

nga ginabaligya ang halin sa gwa na," Sulpico said.

YANCY EMMANUEL AGUILAR

SHERYL ANNE B. PADRONES

Source: The Hilltop School-Wide

PLANTATION. Agriculturist Ricky J. Sulpico nourishes the eggplants to be sold to local vendors of Passi City at STEPHEN’S sweet city garden.

Photo byJuliana Paulette Ligasan

Illustration by Kris Joy L. Suarnaba & Jean Arian B. Palomo

Photo by The Researcher

A Techy Approach for Efficient Farming

The sky is as blue as the vast ocean. The temperature is warm like when you are in front of a fireplace on a cold weather day. The vast green fields spread out like a luscious carpet, unfurling eternally beneath the open sky. It was another warm and pleasant day in the farms situated in the far most rural areas in the

Philippines. These farms use traditional ways of farming. They use very minimal technologies in their farm and most rely on manual labor and natural processes. While this may be good in their eyes, it might not be as efficient as it should be.

Traditional ways of farming can lead to falling behind in the competitive agricultural landscape. With the rise of technologies that can be used for efficient farming, we should fully make use of it for the community’s betterment.

The Philippines is an archipelagic country

blessed with fertile lands. These lands produce a variety of crops such as coconuts, bananas, and pineapple that benefit the people and the country. With our rising population, the need for food also increases, this is where efficient farming techniques using technology comes in.

By employing Global Positioning System (GPS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies, satellite imagery, and drones, farmers are enhancing their agricultural planning, pest management, and irrigation. Using the essential information on soil samples and crop conditions, they can provide adequate crop support and enable continuous growth in the fields.

Other than GPS and GIS, controlled-release fertilizers are those that release nutrients gradually

over time in response to environmental conditions, and drip irrigation, a type of irrigation system that allows water to be gradually drip to the roots of plants, are farming methods that were also used.

Moreover, the Philippine Rice Information System (PRiSM) is a fully operational system that monitors and informs timely data about productions of rice at a national scope. Since 2014, PRiSM has provided our farmers with precise data about weather using satellite imagery and with the use of other technology. Since its foundation, PRiSM has provided accurate data about planted rice areas, risks to crops, yield, and seasonality.

Technology in farming contributes to sustainable growth, economic prosperity, and better quality of life for communities. Using technology in farming

minimizes pollution and conserves energy and water resources, thus lowering the impact of farming on the environment. Farmers' profitability is increased by using precise and automated agricultural practices that reduce input costs for water, fertilizer, and pesticides. With the help of technologies, communities can be guaranteed food security.

Our modern world problems also need modern world approaches especially in farming. As certain communities around the world suffer from the environmental effects of traditional farming and shortages in food due to inefficient farming, we must embrace the new farming methods.

CHANNELING HIS INNER RILEY

YANCY EMMANUEL AGUILAR

What kind of student were you back in high school?

This question in any form finds its way to the reminiscent conversations most people have in their class reunions. With its indomitable fusion of newfound friends and exceptional day-today adventures, the narrative of a former high schooler is one of a kind. Some may answer with their achievements. Some may answer with their humorous banters. But someone, in one way or another, might answer her experience on the peaking emotions of a normal teenager.

With shivering lips and trembling toes, most seventh graders find themselves standing in front of two concrete beams painted in cream and an arc with rustic metal lettering saying, "Enter to Learn."

Standing on his newly polished black leather shoes, not knowing what the very next minute, Patrick* heaved a deep breath and went on the first three steps of the entrance gate. But some things seem to not go his way. The laces of his leather shoes seem to have been untangled and he steps on it making him trip with nose smelling the smell of the concrete foot walks. At that moment, he might have to face his first ever high schooler emotion— Embarrassment.

Inside Out, a Pixar animated film released in 2015 features a girl named Riley being directed by five personified characters—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. It centers on the emotions of Riley growing up,

experiencing those exact emotions. Nine years later, Pixar reveals a poster saying that it is set to release its second season. When all eyes were on the poster, people had spotted four new colors. Among which is Embarrassment, the pink character in a wisteria-colored jacket. From tripping, he stood and

continued to walk with head lying low, trying to avoid any possible eye contact he could ever make with the seniors that witnessed the first embarrassment he could make. Remembering the poster, Patrick thought one thing: Am I channeling my inner Riley?

As weeks went by, he found himself standing in line for a club line-up

How Carbon Sinks Affect Global Warming?

One cold night, while Mira was sleeping, she suddenly woke up sweating and crying. She dreamed that their village which was once a scenic view of lush greenery turned into a lifeless, barren land. Hectares of land that used to be carpeted with a sea of grass parched under the scorching sun.

She breathed a sigh of relief because it was all just a dream but suddenly her expression changed to sadness because she realized that her dream is somehow happening nowadays. Can there be a remedy to what the Earth is enduring today?

Carbon sinks are natural and/ or artificial reservoirs that absorb more carbon dioxide (CO2) than what it releases to the atmosphere. It plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change by helping regulate the Earth's climate and balancing the carbon cycle. The ocean, soil and

forests are the world's largest carbon sinks. The carbon cycle is a process that has been perfectly balanced for thousands of years. According to an article published in the Carleton College EarthLabs, it controls the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere by regulating global temperatures. Moreover, the naturally occurring greenhouse effect itself makes Earth habitable by maintaining bearable warmth for life to last. It prevents the Earth from becoming a freezing place.

Palawan Biosphere Reserve, Philippine’s last ecological frontier is a 1,440,496.00-hectare reserve that houses 1,700 islands and is considered as one of the important carbon sinks in the country.

species

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), it has 44,500 ha of mangrove forests–the highest remaining mangrove cover in the country. In addition, the Verde Island Passage between Luzon and Mindoro is also

with hopes of being accepted. But he found himself more tired than usual because of the lack of sleep he had to endure due to his inability to sleep for few days now.

Just like what in a Johns Hopkins Medicine article entitled “Anxiety and Stress” he has read for an assignment the previous day, he found himself in

those symptoms. Patrick seems like the word “restless” himself. With the orange character kicking in and the wanting to make a good first impression, Anxiety it is.

Months passing by, with him being accepted into the club, he found himself awed with the capabilities he seems to think “so extraordinary,” but his interest and will to do things suddenly went downhill. He became unproductively tired of doing the things he ought to do.

Like of the blue-green colored girl with pink blush named Envy and the blue, slender character named Ennui, his organization life has become like of a forged partnership between the characters.

His high school is like a prediction of what should happen in Inside Out’s second season; however, one thing is for sure: you should make room for new emotions.

Now, after trying to tie his leather shoes, he looks up to see the other side of the arch, saying “Depart to Serve.” From the concrete he smelt to the warmth breath of high school success, his emotional journey has gone thus far.

When the time comes, who knows? When he is asked by the very exact question, he might boldly say only one thing. He was just channeling his inner Riley.

crucial for carbón absorption with its mangrous and rich coral reefs. Moreover, the "hagdan-hagdang palayan" or the rice terraces in the Cordillera Administrative Region, carbon storage is enhanced while sustaining rice terraces because of its trees and crops. Tubbataha reef, one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site is also considered as one.

To preserve carbon sinks we must protect forests, ocean and mangroves, and other kinds of carbon sinks from unsustainable practices through: Reduction of the excessive production of greenhouse gases. Investing in eco-friendly farming and herding methods by using trees and shrubs in its systems

Deforestation of wiped-out mountains and other landforms

To sum up, carbon sinks store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere

and help to regulate the earth's climate. Also, there are important carbon sinks in the Philippines needed to be protected. Hence, sustainable practices must be upheld for the support of marine life and enhance carbon storage. The nightmare that Mira had experienced made her think of a plan on how to address pressing environmental issues. Mira is determined to make a positive change and she wants to preserve carbon sinks for the sake of people and the natural environment. Someday, she just hopes to wake up with the lush greenery once again creeping up their village. By then, the nightmare’s gone.

LEAH GRACE C. CARBOLIDO

Illustration by Olyxes L. Relatos & Jean Arian B. Palomo

Illustration by Ashlie Vallerie P. Homdos

Kiddie Trails: Looking through Caloy Biboso's Tower-High Dreams

It’s not every day that we encounter such tiny terrain tires roaming the bumpiness of the racetracks. People might even say “Isn’t he supposed to be on his training wheels?” but here he is. Karl John Biboso, also known as Caloy and “The Little Rider of Passi City” effortlessly did motor jumps with his dirt bike during the Pintados De Pasi Festival 2024, 2nd Mayor Stephen A. Palmares National Invitational Motocross under the category of 50cc Class. On the grounds of the impressive skills of this eightyear-old rider, people are curious about what inspirations he gears himself with to keep riding, provoking us to dig deeper into his fun and playful journey.

This connection between the little rider and his fiery passion

Recalling his third race in Bacolod City, the Bacabac sisters were the ones who encouraged him to join. The crowd bewildered, Caloy's grandmother even said, “Twenty-three sanda kabilog, nag-fourth pa siya! May naghambal pa gani nga ‘hala ang bata basi gabibiron pa.’”

As he was the “little rider,” one of the obstacles that he was about to jump over was the age gap he had with his competitors, a twelve-year-old opponent as the oldest by the time that he was only five -- not that he was worried about it anyway.

Motocross is not just some random sports that people can easily join in, as it requires strong financial support and precautions, leading his grandparents -- who handle most of the finances that his race needs -- to

A talent can be turned into a passion. Likewise, in all possibilities, one can only dare to envision or dare to make it a reality, and for 16-year-old John Raymart Palec, it is the latter. From being a pompous child, he had now grown halfway through his high school days, and the one thing that accompanied him was his very mantle; cycling gear, along with all the factors that come with it. Being a yielding 11th grade student of Passi National High School, he garnered countless trophies, and he will continue to do more.

Palec started this endeavor at the age of 13, just a fresh youngster about to enter junior high, and is quite enthusiastic about it, not expecting to enter a major phase in his life. From there, he started his journey beside the bike, a cycle that he would put in his heart. At such an early age, he declared cycling as his own, an innocent dream that had been founded, thanks to the support of his inspiration–his parents.

The very first of his many wins was accumulated when he was thirteen years old, and like his parents, peers, and friends, the Devel Project was the construct of his weapon. From the wheels that ran with his passion and the gears that functioned to his will.

But of course, there isn’t one smooth path as coarseness is what shapes a definite and strong boy to become a man. After all, pressure is needed to create diamonds. To Palec, it isn’t any different. From cramps to side pains and difficulty in breathing, he has experienced many of them. Worst, he also fell several times off his rides. Though, that didn’t do anything to deter his will to continue.

“I feel the happiest when I’m cycling,” answered Palec when asked about his passion. As a testament to his words, his very memorable victory, which had been his peak too, was when he contended against promising cyclists all over the country at Danao, Cebu City for the Philippine National XCE/XCO Championship.

Despite all this, his journey is still not stopping. Despite the possibility of tragic injuries and regardless of occasional refusals to ride due to the burden of it –he said it himself. For now, he is still partaking in his studies but the future of being a pro cyclist is one of the choices he can consider. As long as his passion would continue to burn, the wheels of his ride would eventually stop, and that is the race track of his life.

“

Maalay sa paa. Masakit sa paa. Gabiring ya siki. Gasuka while ga race. Pero indi gid mag tinamad. Dapat may disiplina sa kaugalingon kag may respeto sa kapareho nga cyclist.

Pedalling Untroddenthrough Terrain

SYRA JASMINE P. VALLENZUELA

NIÑA JAMELA D. PADIOS

PAGARA vs. AKETELIETE

15, 2024 City of Passi Arena

Photo by: MYLZ MARIE D. PACLIBAR

Photo by: LGU PASSI CITY

STRIKING THE BALANCE: Grade or Sports

opportunity for athletes to their time and overcome

abilities, these educators celebrated their day with a blast as they competed like two titan clans to take over a coliseum.

As the bell rang, the spark of the game was gained right after the ball was tossed through the air, giving both teams an equal chance of rulling the gym which was immediately interrupted when Mallorca drifted to the ring claiming the first score that gave her team a kickstart, providing a piled up score of 10-2.

Motivated by the sudden rush of adrenaline, the high school team continued to fight aggressively,

scoring back-to-back which leaves the elementary team in doubt of winning the championship title.

Commencing the second half, the third quarter turned the court into a ring as both teams abstained to let one another touch the ball, sparing no effort, the margin between the two clans was unflattering, 26-14.

Intense pressure and rising stakes conveyed the last quarter, overpowered Mallorca proved that a flick of a hand and calculated pulse can crash the hopes of the opponents’ team to take home the bacon, letting them witness her squinting sprints as she kept the ball at her arm's length, which gave her team the seventh heaven of victory, 30-18.

"Kumbaga, happy kami at least ya amon pag-practice for how many nights, worth it," Mallorca said.

Meanwhile, the Men’s category were clutched by the Schools Division Office team against the Sec. team.

BACK-TO-BACK WIN

Powered by strategic and lightningfast moves, Queen Rose O. Pamplona of Passi City remained victorious as she proved her mettle by clinching the gold medal with a rating of 5 points, against her rivals in the recently concluded Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association Meet 2024 - Girls Blitz Category at Bacolod City, Negros Occidental on May 2-7.

With nerves of steel and a mind sharper than ever, Pamplona emerged triumphant in the latest blitz chess tournament still holding the title as the reigning champion. From the beginning, Pamplona already seized control of the center with an extreme pawn advance, pushing Iana Angela Sotaridona of Iloilo, onto the back foot. With such speed, each move was executed,

making it difficult for her opponent to maintain momentum.

Pamplona's excellent skills in adjusting to different playing styles was one of the most amazing performances during the game. She moved the chessboard with such ease that she was always one step ahead, even when faced with powerful attacks.

As the game progressed, the tension soared. In a desperate move, Pamplona sacrificed a knight to free her opponent's king. By blocking the attack responded by Sotaridona, all of the audience have erupted. But it was all in vain because Pamplona, an ace, showed off her amazing blitz chess skills by pulling off mind-blowing moves that astonished spectators, demonstrating her innate talent for the game.

Zamboangeño bags belt in Pacquiao’s Blow by Blow

PASSI CITY - Boxing fans were treated to 13 bouts where, Albert Francisco of Zamboanga secured a belt against Mark Antonio of North Cotabato during the Manny Pacquiao’s Blow By Blow at City of Passi Arena on February 9.

Remaining undefeated at 10-0, Francisco defeated Antonio (8-1) in a unanimous decision by the judges. Spectators marveled at Francisco's triumph, extending his unbeaten streak to 10 wins.

In a minute of the first round, Francisco's defense was weak due to Antonio’s continuous punches, causing Francisco’s fall on the other side of the ring and allowing him to score a knockdown.

With 30 seconds remaining in the first round, despite Antonio's explosive punches, Francisco managed to corner him, and landed series of blows and combinations.

In the third round, Antonio extended multiple combinations to Francisco's head. Later in the fourth round, Francisco blew punches on Antonio, blocking and trying to counter-punch yet it was not enough to stop the Zamboanggeño from throwing hooks which ended this opponent kneeling.

In the last round, their bouts struggled them, but the judges unanimously decided Francisco’s win, letting his continued unbeaten record.

With the final move executed and time stopped, Pamplona undeniably put in a lot of effort as she took the gold medal, as well as bronze in the Standard Category, remaining undefeated champion in Blitz, which adds another title to her remarkable history. With Sotaridona from Iloilo, claiming silver and Negros' Nabor claiming bronze.

“I'm super scared and pressured that time but nag pray po ako kag sang time nga nag daog ko nag pa thank you gid ko kay God.” Pamplona said.

The game resonates a fierce battle among the excellent chess players. But, amidst the intense competition, one player stood out above the others -- the defending champion.

Pamplona was also the champion of 2023 WVRAA Group Blitz Category in Aklan.

KATHLEEN CLAIRE S. PALMARES

FIELD GOAL. Secondary teachers swept against Elementary teachers during the Women’s Basketball Championship in Poblacion Ilaya’s Covered Gym.

CHECKMATE GLORY. Queen Rose O. Pamplona of Passi City clinches the ‘24 WVRAA Blitz Category with her cunning and fast moves held at Negros Occidental

CRYSTAL FAITH P. GARE & SYRA JASMINE P. VALLENZUELA

Illustration by: OLYXES RELATOS & REANNE APELIDO

Sports

Pro Open 1, he fiercely strived to win every lap in the game, surpassing his opponents one by one.

pump his engine; however, he crashed twice which of his opponents, make a strong block pass, placing

category, Mangosong has to edge his opponents in With great stamina fueled with his determination

steering against each turn, but was pressured after

Grade 9 dance couple Jemuel Andrei Villanueva and Alleria

Khate Francisco brought home five silver medals as they ranked Second from each category of the Dancesport Juvenile - Latin American Category during the Iloilo School Sports Council (ISSC) Meet 2024 held at Paref Westbridge School Incorporation, Iloilo City, March 14 at 3pm.

Villanueva and Francisco delivered outstanding performances in all dances, excelling particularly in the Jive and Cha-Cha-Cha with seamless synchronization and technical precision, capturing the crowd's attention.

In the beginning with their most stunning dance, Villanueva, and Fransisco performed exquisite footwork and high kicks while retaining balance, but they were unable to clinch the gold as they were overshadowed by the high level of enthusiasm and skill, kicking and flicking movements of Ma. Victoria D. Cruz and Klynne Joseph F. Castigador of the Western Visayas State University (WVSU) Team of Iloilo City. Their Cha-Cha-Cha dance was where they outdid themselves, as the couple swayed to the beat, expressing their emotions and exuding playful energy as they demonstrated their sharp movements and rocking steps, earning a silver medal as the WVSU Team won again the gold. Meanwhile, in Paso Doble, the tandem showcased staccato movements as they struck body poses and added flamenco-style footwork yet ranked second as the WSVU Team showed powerful hip movements and p

Capping off an incredible choreography and steps, the Samba category tested their stamina. Villanueva crossed her leg in front

of Francisco while adhering to the many samba dynamics and directions; however, WVSU's wellcoordinated choreography was stronger.

In their last dance, Rumba, Villanueva, and Fransisco demonstrated strong box steps coordinated with eye contact while emphasizing slow steps, which gives the pair smoothness and fluidity.

The duo, which competed in five different Latin dance categories—Samba, Chachacha, Rhumba, Paso Doble, and Jive—won a total of five silver medals at the end of the competition.

In addition to this, Villanueva and Fransisco secured the second position with their combined effort in their overall performance in the competition.

"We are grateful even though we just got rank two as we didn't expect so much that we would be the winner because we thought at that time that our goal is to do our best to win," claimed Jemeul Andrei Villanueva.

San Miguel Team from the 2nd CDSA placed third in the competition, while the WVSU Team from Iloilo City won the championship.

outdid him, but Mangosong retaliated with lightning speed, taking the lead once again in the sixth lap.

Despite his endurance and enthusiasm, Mangosong nearly lost the second round after River surpassed him again in the middle of the last lap.

However, his will and unyielding spirit brought him with a slim gap against Revira, 50 meters away from the finish line. He executed the last lap like a meerkat, finishing the last round triumphantly.

Meanwhile, Mangosong got a bonus cash price of P50,000 for winning three straight first-place results.

"It was fun how the organizers made the race rules very exciting by giving a bonus price of P50K if you win three straight first places. Gladly, I did three straight wins just missing the first heat by crashing two times in Moto 1 of the Pro Open 1 category and dominating the rest of the heat races one after the other," Mangosong said.

Palmares Pintados de Pasì National Invitational