The Matrix Volume 18 Issue 1

BRSHS students bag awards at TIMO ‘23-’24 Finals

BicolRegional Science High School (BRSHS) students clinched awards and showcased mathematical expertise at the 2023-2024 Thailand International Mathematical Olympiad (TIMO) Final Round last April 27-29, 2024.

Among the awardees were Brendel De Leon, a silver awardee, Anthony Alpapara, a bronze awardee, and Richard Olea, a merit awardee.

According to the participants, the intensive practice period began only weeks before the competition held in Bagkok, Thailand, however other preparations began after the TIMO Heat Round last October 22, 2023.

“As the competition approaches, we were coached and practiced by the mathematics teachers in th school as preparaton for the TIMO,” De Leon said.

Participants were trained by the mathematics teachers of BRSHS namely, Maria Tricia San Jose, Loyd Quililan, Jomylene Sañosa, and Dianne Requiza.

BRSHS commits efforts for Matatag Implementation

Aligned with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Matatag Curriculum, the Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) committed to spearhead efforts in the full-scale implementation of the Matatag Program to further improve the resilience and well-being of students.

In accordance with the DepEd Memorandum No. 054 s. 2023, the MATATAG Curriculum shall be implemented in phases involving various grade levels starting from the year 2024 to 2028 along with the undergoing review of the Senior High School Curriculum.

Cristina B. Relleve, BRSHS school principal II, said that the MATATAG Curriculum implementation will start in the upcoming school year, 2024-2025 with the grade seven students, along with the kindergarten, grades one, and four students.

Relleve added that the school will always follow the mandate of the education department and ensure to prepare the

teachers to implement the new curriculum.

“We are now submitting the names of the teachers teaching in the grade seven to undergo the training for the MATATAG curriculum so that in the coming opening of the school year, they are now well equipped with what is really the MATATAG curriculum,” Relleve added.

As for the support systems of the school, it was confirmed that the school always has the curriculum guide, the teacher and student guide, and the training and instructional materials to facilitate the successful implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum.

HOME ALONG

THE RAILS

Rail-side residents raises worry as PNR resumes operations

Six years after its last trip, the Philippine National Railways (PNR) continued its operations connecting routes in the provinces of Albay and Camarines Sur in December, last year.

PNR resumed its operations in the region after completing the rehabilitation projects of tracks due to having been damaged by typhoons hitting the area, causing its suspension in 2017.

Accomodating at least 250 passengers, PNR’s diesel-powered trains will include 16 stops, with endto-end stops in Naga City and Legazpi City, and regular stops in Pili, Iriga, Polangui, Ligao, Travesia, and Daraga Stations.

The routes of PNR in the region have served as the commuter rail backbone for Bicolano commuters since its launch, including the Manila to Bicol route, ‘Bicol Express’.

Armand Balaguer, a passenger bound to Naga City, said in an interview that the resume of operations of the PNR gives a convenient option or avenue for travelers in the Naga to Legazpi Route.

“The new PNR trains are now really modernized, clean, and convenient. I would take the PNR again when going to work [in Naga],” Balaguer added.

A few individuals, however, have occupied the space near the rail tracks since its operations stopped in 2017, deciding to reside in the area.

Residents near the rail tracks expressed their worries that the resumption of the PNR operations may pose risks of accidents to them, especially to their children.

“We only worry of the danger and accidents it may cause, especially since there are a lot of children here in the area where they can be hit,” Alyssa Altamera, a resident, said.

In addition, loud noise and shaking of houses were also experienced by the residents, who noted that it causes disturbance to them.

“Our house also shakes whenever the train

passes by and its loudness often disturb us, especially that my daughter sometimes complains of the noise when she is studying,” Altamera added.

Moreover, the residents also expressed their concern regarding their relocation, stating that they will abide by the authorities when they are requested to transfer, but a relocation site must be provided.

William Propogo, barangay captain of Tuburan, said that the barangay continues to monitor and remind the residents of the dangers posed by the PNR operations through the Barangay Tanods (Barangay Police).

“It is much better if the people living in the areas near the PNR will be relocated since there can be accidents. But, since they are still there, we will continue to remind them with the help of the Tanods,” Propogo added.

Carol Jasmin Miranda

Ashley Dorothy Nueva

Chris Dominic Laguilles

NEW JOURNEY AHEAD The Philippine National Railway(PNR) conducts its first train service operation after six years of disruption to train routes in parts of the provinces of Albay and Camarines Sur in December 2023.

Roldion Symone Gregorio

Roldion Symone Gregorio

Marlon Rementizo

Marlon Rementizo

In the bustling halls of Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS), amidst the whirlwind of academic challenges and extracurricular pursuits, there emerged a young individual whose journey from being a radio broadcasting enthusiast to a promising cadet at the Australian Defense Force Academy (ADFA) is nothing short of inspiring. Kerby Q. Cañaveral is a name poised to carve a path of excellence and service

in the realms of academia and military service.

At the age of 22, Cañaveral finds himself on the brink of a new chapter, transitioning from the esteemed halls of BRSHS to the rigorous training grounds of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and now to the prestigious ADFA. Reflecting on his journey, Kerby reminisces about his humble beginnings in journalism, particularly in radio broadcasting,

IrrigationsInnovationsand

Albay, a province rich in natural resources and agricultural lands, thrives on the bounty of its fertile soil. Ensuring the continuous productivity of these lands is a task shouldered by various stakeholders. In a tropical country where the rising temperatures prove its detriments to the community, they create irrigation systems and mitigate the impact of climate-related challenges such as El Nino.

Engr. Mark Cloyd G. So, the Engineering Operations Section Chief of NIA AlbayCatanduanes sheds light on NIA’s ongoing efforts towards modernization, with a slated program under FSTE (Feasibility Study Engineering) scheduled for implementation next year.

Among the innovations in the pipeline is the automation of irrigation processes, aiming to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. Additionally, existing technologies like the “lover dove,” which employs a method akin to vulcanization to impound water, showcase the agency’s commitment to leveraging innovation for agricultural advancement.

In Ligao City, the primary irrigation system revolves around the utilization of rubber tubes. Engineer So emphasizes

Echoes of Valor

which laid the foundation for his unwavering determination and discipline.

“My keenness for speaking in English will be a great help now that I am set to transfer for Australia. I won’t have a hard time understanding the language, especially since I was able to train my writing skills through my foundation in journalism,” said Cañaveral.

For Cañaveral, BRSHS was not just a school; it was a melting pot of growth and self-discovery. He found himself drawn to the challenges it offered along its halls, particularly in academics. His time there honed his study habits, discipline, and ability to balance various responsibilities. Moreover, his involvement in radiobroadcasting served as a launchpad for his future endeavors, instilling in him the values of perseverance and effective communication.

Kerby's journey was not without its setbacks. Despite facing initial challenges, including a failed attempt at PMA, he persevered, retaking the exams and eventually

securing a coveted spot at the ADFA. His relentless pursuit of his dreams exemplifies the resilience and determination instilled in him during his formative years at BRSHS.

“In order to make it in the PMA, you have to excel in academics, physical fitness, and go through different holistic examinations before you get chosen. There is a very slim chance of getting chosen, but I still took that chance,” Cañaveral added.

As Kerby embarks on his new chapter in Australia, armed with a full scholarship and a fervent passion for cybersecurity, he remains committed to making a difference. His three-year tenure at ADFA promises to be a period of academic growth and military training, with a focus on advancing the capabilities of the Philippine Armed Forces in cybersecurity—an endeavor that aligns perfectly with his aspirations of serving his country.

To aspiring individuals, especially those from BRSHS and beyond, Kerby offers sage advice. He emphasizes

the noble nature of military service, underscoring the transformative power it holds. He urges others to embrace the challenges, knowing that every hardship endured leads to personal growth and fulfillment. His journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us all that with perseverance and determination, anything is possible.

“Being a cadet is a noble profession. You will realize a lot of things beyond what you are now. Once we went through our training, we realized what our purpose really is. My experience really helped me transform into a person that I never thought I could be.”

As Kerby Q. Cañaveral sets his sights on the horizon, we can't help but be inspired by his unwavering dedication and passion for excellence in all aspects of life. From his roots as a broadcaster of BRSHS to the global stage of military academia, Cañaveral's journey epitomizes the adage: "With courage and determination, the world is yours to conquer."

On Friday’s, We Dagli

the significance of these structures in impounding water, particularly amidst challenges posed by natural phenomena like the eruption of Mount Mayon, which results in heightened sedimentation levels in rivers.

The Rubber Tube system stands as a resilient solution, ensuring consistent water supply even during adverse conditions such as El Nino.

Engineer So underscores the importance of a participative approach, highlighting the indispensable role of farmers in monitoring and maintaining irrigation systems. Through collaborative efforts between NIA and local communities, the agency endeavors to safeguard vital infrastructure such as dams, recognizing their pivotal role in sustaining agricultural activities across vast swathes of land.

As Albay navigates the complexities of climate change and agricultural sustainability, NIA remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation, resilience, and community engagement. Through a multifaceted approach encompassing technological advancements, community collaboration, and proactive measures, the agency stands poised to safeguard the province’s agricultural heritage for generations to come.

As it aims to strengthen the reading skills of Filipino students, CatchUp Fridays has gathered a plethora of reactions. For the fully able, the question of whether this program is worth the time and resources remains. Teachers and students alike continue to question the productivity of this learning strategy, and Brisayano’s were not an exception.

The allures of a whimsical anecdote exempt no one.

Passion and dedication turned classrooms of skeptics into a room of fanatics thanks to student teacher Krizzia Viola.

A Filipino Major and aspiring educator, Viola anticipated having an effective approach to the literacy program. Aware that reading walls of text would not appeal to everyone, Viola researched for the best ways she could engage all students in the class and encourage them to think.

Out of every medium possible, it was dagli or flash fiction that truly caught Viola’s attention. These stories were known for their double meanings, requiring a deeper understanding to correctly interpret each one.

A familiar and well-practiced medium, Viola had already written plenty throughout her

academic journey as a college student; it intrigued her, finding herself enjoying these little story puzzles.

Used to educate and entertain the 8th Grade students of Bicol Regional Science High School, she already has them on the edge of their seats for the next one. She had begun sharing her original works in every Catch-Up Fridays since the 8th of March 2024. Although short, these stories had left a significant impact on all four sections and left her with a satisfactory feeling, like reeling in a fresh and large catch.

Since her first flash-fiction, these works had already inspired students to write their own, exercising their own creativity and learning the how’s of writing a thrilling piece of mystery in plain sight. An avid writer herself, Viola aims to become a school publication advisor in the span of her educational career whilst teaching children how to compose written compositions.

It is inevitable for people to

raise their eyebrows at the efficiency of a new program, creative teachers such as Viola prove that Catch-Up Fridays can help spread the wings of all learners, even those who are already fully able. By bridging the learning gap for students who are still honing their reading comprehension, it also aids in enhancing analytical skills. Resurrecting the fire of literary appreciation, uniting ideas and sprouting knowledge from roots planted by learning strategies.

Zoe Penetrante

Sophia Paje

Jace Adriel Yap

Urban Metamorphosis FEATURE 10

In a world where technology must be at par with the rest of the world hints that change is ubiquitous. When the marginalized are further oppressed within society, it exacerbates the already existing disparities they face. Among the three jeepney cooperatives in Ligao City, Albay, the excursion to Pio Duran poses a gruesome challenge among drivers and operators.

On the 9th day of a sunlit March, Robin Pereira Jr. faces a four-day wait due to shifts among jeepney drivers, impacting his income. This makes it a formidable prospect for jeepney drivers to secure an auspicious income. Earnings of Php400-Php500 aren’t sufficient for his four children’s education. He supplements his wages by farming, emphasizing his commitment as the family’s breadwinner, both on the road and in the fields.

Despite the need to modernize jeepneys for environmental

Department of Transportation (DOTr) states that modern models are prohibitively expensive, ranging from Php1.4 to Php million. Many advocate for fair solutions, expressing concern that peasant drivers will bear the brunt of the cost.

A 74-year-old jeepney driver lamented, “We’re drowning in debt day after day, feeling like slaves after two decades behind the wheel. The dream of a better future dims with the looming jeepney phaseout. Working from dawn till dusk isn’t just a routine; it’s about more than ferrying commuters—it’s about community.”

The Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) was initiated to address emissions issues caused by old jeepneys, iconic to Philippine transportation for nearly 80 years. These vehicles have served millions of commuters but face high maintenance and fuel costs. With already high maintenance and fuel costs, the push to modernize jeepneys raises further financial burdens. This poses a conundrum: has technology really become an upturn, or a downfall?

On the 30th of June 2022, the son of an infamous kleptocrat assumed his father’s former position, unfurling yet another legacy marred by brutality and corruption. The return of Marcos meant shaking hopes to Juliet Garcia, a 70-year-old medical technologist. When 17, she had witnessed the sinister bombing at the Plaza Miranda and like any individuals around her age was dreading to run to their institution, Centro Escolar University, in an attempt to find a sanctuary they can call their own.

Fear is an irresistible facet to the youth like Garcia because even when education meant to offer a safe space for learning, it was canopied with uncertainty. But nothing goes past her hope, she had to continue with her academic undertakings despite the terror she was experiencing at

THAT PERSIST THE SCARS

the time of Martial Law. But what does the public eye really tell us? It really does give a crooked impression of societal awareness. That half the stories about the atrocities during the late Ferdinand Marcos’ authoritarian rule is not told; that even the other half only consist of equivocal truths.

According to her, freedom was defined by a cloak of authority where even means of media and communication was restrained. She recounts instances where military presence and barricades became the norm, disrupting even the simplest tasks like attending classes. “We were trapped in the school,” she said, implying that harrowing incident where she and her classmates found themselves unable to leave the chaos that shackled them. Such moments of confinement and confusion were all too common, highlighting

An Eye for Equality

Ithe pervasive atmosphere of unrest and uncertainty.

It was Garcia’s fourth year in college when suddenly one of her classmates attempted to jump off from the school window because of the constant horror. From rose-colored glasses to broken glasses, education is no longer education among her peers. “At that time, the trepidation has become constant among us youth, nevertheless, education has to continue even in the face of relentless Martial Law,” Garcia said. Her subject, Philippine Constitution, they were required to interview concon delegates and moments when they were going upstairs in the Constitutional Convention, a bomb planted in a restroom exploded.

Even in the corridors of the City Health Office (CHO) of Ligao City, the remnants

of 1972 still is up and alive. Learning that another Marcos figure has become the 17th Philippine president gives her tension. “The late dictator, Ferdinand Marcos Sr. is indeed a great ruler but both Marcos leaders’ customs in the way they lead are questionable,” Garcia highlighted.

From 17, now 70, nothing has changed much in her frame of reference. Her only wish was for youth to rouse in the inflexible reality. It is always in the discerning eyes of the youth that make the world crave for the truth but even such perception is not enough to suffice the veracity of the public eye. Nothing in life may be viewed as Garcia’s microscope, but there sure is a way to invigorate youth’s consciousness. There may be scars that persist and so as unyielding hopes.

SK ELECTIONS: Honor and Pride

Government and politics come hand in hand. As we all know, elections determine the people who get to call the shots. But before they get to call the shots, the little guy does. The people have every right, and all the power, to choose who gets to sit in the big chair.

The Sangguniang Kabataan or SK Elections of 2023 was like a russian roulette. One would think they got it handled, they are the ones holding the trigger and then all of a sudden, bang! They shot an empty case. It’s the same set of people, it’s the same round of casings.

n a world where gender inequalities persist, Dr. Orfelina O. Tuy emerges as a beacon of change in the education sector, challenging norms and advocating for inclusiveness. A retired Regional Director with a wealth of experience in education, Dr. Tuy’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

“It should be practiced in the schools first by the teachers and then by the students,” Dr. Tuy asserts, emphasizing the importance of early education in fostering gender equality. “When you have your own families, you will also practice gender equality.”

Reflecting on her years as an educator, Dr. Tuy sheds light on the gender disparities she encountered. “I taught the last section of grade 5 for 13 years,” she recalls, noting

the higher proportion of male students and the challenges they faced in reading. Despite these obstacles, Dr. Tuy believes in the transformative power of education to overcome gender biases.

“By acknowledging the causes of inequalities, you will take action,” Dr. Tuy emphasizes. She underscores the need for introspection, urging individuals to reflect on their actions and promote equality in all spheres of life.

While progress has been made, Dr. Tuy acknowledges the persistence of gender disparities in various sectors.

“Even when the Philippines ranked first in Southeast Asia, ranked 10th all over the world, we still have inequalities,” she laments. Dr. Tuy highlights the challenges faced by those who dare to speak truth to power like Leila de Lima.

Dr. Tuy’s own experiences shaped her into a fearless

advocate for gender equality.

“I never felt inferior to my peers,” she asserts, recalling her father’s encouragement to champion her beliefs. Through adversity, Dr. Tuy found her voice, challenging authority and advocating for justice.

As a leader, Dr. Tuy implemented measures to promote gender equality in the workplace. “The regional office was very fair,” she reminisces. Her approach emphasized transparency and open communication, fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect.

Dr. Orfelina O. Tuy’s journey is a showcase to the power of resilience and determination in overcoming gender inequalities. Through her unwavering commitment to equality, she continues to inspire generations, leaving an indelible mark on the path towards a more inclusive society.

Day after day a quaint shop by the side of the road shook with each truck that thundered and passed by. Antiques hung outside in full display, swaying and clicking as nature itself hummed a faint song. Afternoon sun shines past looming Capiz doors stationed at the entrance, past the Capiz windows and enveloping the entirety of the shop in a golden glow.

Adi Berto Penano was a veteran of war, hands that held cold and heavy metal found themselves at the mercy of cracked wooden antiques. An arsenal of pure, rich history and under everyone’s noses for the past 10 years since his establishment. It had begun as a hobby, now it kept his family afloat all these years.

He began collecting during the 80’s, with products that date back to the early 1920’s and even the early 1800s. His love

Amidst the noise of all the gunshots, listen closely to the words of a leader. Political dynasties being political dynasties, Ariate responds “It’s a system that can’t be broken or redirected. This is the root cause of corruption and why the Philippines is still the Philippines. We value power over values and principles, dignity above all.” Later adding after having been asked if this is an abuse of power he continued “And yes it’s clearly an abuse of power especially in the higher positions.”

In an effort to bring light to the students of BRSHS, Ariate states “Struggles are meant to happen, different struggles, but more than struggling and overcoming it, it requires sacrifice and time. “ Over that honor and pride, find those guiding lights. Don’t jump the gun just yet.

“It’s already in the system,” said former Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS) Student Body President, Mark Lyndon Ariate wrote, after having been asked about him knowing how politicians like to keep it in the family, how would he use his authority in preventing cases of violence, vote-buying, and cheating from happening. “But as a new generation of politicians, it should start within us, ourselves. Seeking for great power and self interests are the main reasons why this happens,” he added.

Anti Modern

for the old was as much as his distaste for the new, Penano expressed how he held a deeper appreciation for original and unique designs instead of those which are reproduced, only given recognition for gaining traction and popularity.

The lone collector at the edge of the city’s border, Penano finds himself catering to resorts and politicians that share the same passion as his, with visitors going as far as Manila and even Iloilo. These visitors shared the same goal, Penano’s Capiz doors.

A first class province in the Philippines located at the northeast coast of Panay, Capiz is known for its Placuna placenta oyster shell. These shells were often made into decoration, traditionally for windows and doors.

Tremendously salvaged from demolished antique houses,

the shells of the door’s panes were delicate and fragile, similar to Japanese shoji paper: translucent to allow light to pass through but provided enough privacy. The years made his eyes keen instead of withering away, a single look and Penano could easily identify an imitation from an original piece like the back of his hand.

Hustling cars and multitudes of trucks resemble society’s continuous trudge forward.

Yet this quaint shop serves as a counterpart to that, fueled by the passion of a used-to-be young man who wants nothing more than to appreciate the old when others cannot.

“Antique lovers are happy with anything, even if it is cracked and old. They would rather have this instead of something new. It’s history, not something we should take for unseriously. ” –Adi

Story by: Raymund Chua

Art by: Reiane Nicole Alocillo

Raymund Chua

By: Reiane Alocillo

By: Joaquin Cedro

Jace Adriel Yap

Anya Parallag

Andrea Layug

By: Zabdiel Datoon

By: Reiane Alocillo

Tech Farming:Cultivating Tomorrow FEATURE

In a frantic attempt to replenish their empty pockets, which they know will empty again the following day, farmers plough the fields for several hours every day while soaking in the scorching heat of the sun. They were driven to the brink by this never-ending cycle, and they turned to a single, straightforward answer that would completely transform farming for farmers. Technology is a challenging but useful tool for service providers.

exchange ideas, and discuss farming techniques. This move from individualistic farming methods to agriculture, signifies a major change toward an agricultural community that is more knowledgeable and cooperative.

With the support of the government, especially through initiatives like providing free seeds and fertilizers to small-scale farmers, the Tambo Farmer Association has been able

techniques. By registering with the city agriculture office, the association ensures legitimacy and access to government assistance, further enhancing its impact on the local farming landscape.

Luha highlights the concrete advantages of this group effort, stating, “Our expenses are reduced in the price of fertilizer and seeds, we are able to plant properly.” This sentiment echoes among farmers within the organization, who now find themselves better equipped to face the

challenges of farming in a rapidly changing agricultural sector.

As corn and rice continue to thrive in the fertile lands of Ligao City, Luha’s message resonates: through unity and technology, small farmers may not only survive but also succeed in an ever-changing agricultural environment by banding together and utilizing technology. The Tambo Farmer Association is proof of the ability of group effort to bring about significant change at the local level.

The Cost Of Each Grain

Ligao City, home to 2,100 rice farmers, numerous retailers, and a large consumer base, faces the challenge of rising rice prices due to inflation. We face the current dilemma of a backbone food experiencing a sudden uptick.

On September 5, 2023, President Bongbong Marcos implemented a rice cap of Php 41 for regular rice and Php 45 for wellmilled rice. However, the cap wasn’t effectively enforced due to challenges faced by stall owners. Cheryl Ann P. Requiza, the officer in charge (OIC) City agriculturist, noted that stall owners struggled to comply as they had purchased rice at higher prices, making it difficult for them to lower the selling price.

“Not enough, just to make ends meet

we don’t seek to earn more as long as we make ends

meet,” Joaquin Rosco, a 61 year old retailer, on the effects of the imposed rice cap on his business and earnings.

“No matter how much they lower the price, that’s not possible, we tried to lower it but it wasn’t really enough so we went back to the high prices,” he added.

Despite all the struggles, Joaquin Rosco continues to sell rice at his stall on the market, selling rice has been his main source of income at the age of 61.

When asked about the comments he has heard from the customers, Joaqun replies with “They said it was too high, that’s what I heard, I just joked with the customers, we can do it, let’s buy at least a kilo or two kilos so we can eat every day, they just laugh, don’t do that to themselves, insist on it. Just relax yourself, we’ll get through this.”

Sowing the Seeds of Change:

Roscohopes for the price of rice to return as it normally was. He also suggests for the government to focus more on implementing a price limit on suppliers.

To combat the rice inflation, Cheryl Ann P. Requiza the City Agriculturist of Ligao, shares how the Ligao City Agricultural Office provides support through different programs led by the Department of Agriculture, among their primary programs involve Hybrid Palay and Corn and Fertilizer Subsidy Program wherein it improves a crops overall growth that helps farmers to yield larger amounts of rice. “The department is mainly focused on increasing rice production, which can be seen in their Crop Pest and Disease Management as well as intensive research on various agricultural engineering programs,” explained Requiza.

A New Era of Equity

Bongon, a Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer (MARPO) of the Department of Agrarian Reform Region

V, no person can own more than five hectares of agricultural land, if one does go beyond five hectares, the remaining land would be subject for transfer. Regardless of this rule, one can have more than five hectares of land if the held land was inherited.

The President of the Philippines, Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos Jr. has issued the revised Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) to the newly signed New Agrarian Emancipation Act (NAEA), or the Republic Act 11953. The revision of the CARP Law compared to the NAEA differs with just one thought, and it is the type of transaction it has. Stated by Bongon, “There are two transactions taking place in the CARP Law, the government buys

the agricultural land from the owners and sells it to the farmers. While for the new emancipation, the government buys the agricultural land from the owners then gives or donates it to the farmers.”

With this, a farmer named Roberto Rotobio expresses his feelings for the new emancipation saying “I hope the law will be sustained and will provide more benefits aside from what we benefit in the present time.” Furthermore, he also states that with the new emancipation, the farmers now have a more stable income to supply the basic needs of their family.

In a story where the rich often get richer while the poor struggle, the Philippines is changing the narrative by making farming fairer. With laws like the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, it is like giving everyone a chance at success. It is not just a dream anymore; it is becoming a reality for all.

Zaijan Monilla

Hannah Eugenio

Eloissa Maligaya

By: Reiane Alocillo

Rementizo

SPLASH OF GOLD. Roldion Symone Gregorio, spreads his wings, swiftly making his way to 5 Golds in the Ligao Division’s City Meet Swimming Secondary Boys held at Rendezvous Resort, Herrera, Ligao City, last February 24, 2024.

Gregorio Breezes Through City Meet Showdowns

With a swift 50-meter freestyle to triumph in his final event, Roldion Gregorio stamped his name in Ligao history as he bagged f ive gold medals, dominating the 400, 100, and 50-meter freestyle, along with the 50-meter butterfly and 100-meter backstroke events in the City Meet’s Swimming Secondary Boys held in Rendezvous Resort, this February 24,2024.

Gregorio steamrolled his competition in the 400m freestyle as he left his two opponents in the dust with a sizeable lead all throughout the race finishing with a 5 minute 30.65 second record to claim a comfortable gold.

“In the first 100 meters, I conserved my energy and slowly increased my speed as we got closer to 400 meters,”

Wstated Gregorio. “I had a wide lead during the race, I really had the advantage,” he added.

The 100 and 50-meter freestyle saw Gregorio sail smoothly through his adversaries closing out with a 1 minute 45 second and 40 second finish respectively.

Gregorio rounded up his tally of golds with a 100m backstroke and 50m butterfly

Walk of Success

Peak Plays

Michelle Miel Sablayan

ith all eyes fixed on them, models must summon all their courage to strut their skill and stand with dignity and poise, posing with charm with every flick of the wrist and arch of the eyebrow. Behind all the glitz and glamour leaves no room for mistakes, the runway is no place for the faint of the heart.

In the recently concluded Mr. and Ms. Sportsfest, a candidate sparked debate by claiming pageantry as a sport she’s most dedicated to. However, her answer lacked support and relevance, leaving both judges and audience the wrong impression of her said statement.

“Since this is something I am passionate about, I see it as a sport or physical talent. Despite the fact that I am aware that this is not regarded as a sport,” female candidate of Blue Wolves, Zolliel Van Bitara stated.

While pageantry or modeling is not considered

as a traditional sport, the dedication, skill, and competitiveness are all evident in both expertise. Despite the difference of places, the core of sportsmanship remains consistent, aiming for greatness and challenging the limits of what defines a champion.

Bitara highlighted how she can still be an inspiration to her fellow students regardless of her chosen sport. “I think I can still inspire my fellow Brisayanos to engage in sports, and I will be the symbol of compassion, grace, and camaraderie,” pertaining to how her talent can influence others’ skills.

The applause for the athletes’ achievements should match the recognition given to the role models of the stage, whose dedication and spirit inspires us all. Whether seeking for gold medals or golden crowns, the true measure of success is the walk taken, not just the reward itself.

stunner in which he cruised to an easy pair of gold silverware to wrap up a dominating City Meet stint. Due to the time cutoff, Gregorio and the division of Ligao despite their valiant effort, will not compete in the upcoming Palarong Bicol 2024. The time cutoffs for 400m, 100m, and 50m freestyle were 4 minutes

50 seconds, 1 minute 30 seconds and 27.79 seconds respectively. Cutoffs for the 100m backstroke and 50m butterfly was 1 minute 9.66 seconds and 29 seconds for the latter.

“We had less than two weeks to prepare, swimmer’s time drops down usually within one month of training, maybe things would have

gone differently with enough preparation. I just fell short off the cutoff,” said Gregorio. He, along with the other Ligaoeño swimmers set their eyes on the upcoming Congress of Philippine Aquatics Tournament and National Age Group Tournament. Gregorio was also invited to represent Ligao in the upcoming Batang Pinoy.

Competition

With a suffocating game to close out the five-round swiss format, Richard Olea reached into his bag of tricks to eke out three important wins amidst a draw and a loss to qualify for Palarong Bicol in the City Meet’s Chess Secondary Boys held in the School’s Division Office this February 24,2024.

The Brisayano roared out a vicious counter-attack against fellow Brisayano in his final must-win game to clutch out a second place finish to send him through to the Bicol Meet.

Olea breezed through his first game, utilizing piece harmony and snapping off free pieces gifted by his opponent to edge out a quick checkmate.

A bump in the road of

a second game saw Olea miscalculate a Rook sacrifice to throw away a winning endgame maneuver, ultimately blundered back by his opponent as the game liquidated into a draw.

Olea thanked his lucky stars in the third match-up as his opponent blundered a crucial knight in defense of his king leading to a tactic in which he picked up a rook and was able to convert his monumental advantage into a checkmate.

With the Bicol Meet in sight and needing to win the game, Olea battled through a promising chess player and schoolmate in a King’s Indian Attack Game with a formidable attack brewing but ultimately withered through the storm as his opponent pushed a pawn which activated his Bishop and allowed Olea to Harmonize his pieces in a dominating counterattack.

“It was a good game, I probably had a worse position had he not pushed his pawn, the game would’ve been very different but it is what it is. He fought well for someone as young as he is,” Olea praised his fellow Brisayano.

Olea hit a brick wall when he went up against the strongest player in the tournament, Palarong Bicol Veteran and long-term player, in an Exchange Caro Kann in which Olea dubiously went for a queenside castle game leading to his opponent launching a pawn storm on the queenside with a brilliant knight sacrifice to force checkmate.

Olea Bags Palarong Bicol Ticket Against Stacked

Richard Harrier Olea

Andrey Ricahuerta

Andrey Ricahuerta

CRITICAL EXECUTION. Richard Harrier Olea of Bicol Regional Science High School (BRSHS), en route to a First-Runner Up finish to qualify for the 2024 Palarong Bicol, analytically thinking for his next move in the Ligao Division’s City Meet Chess Secondary Boys held in Ligao West Central Elementary School (Binatagan) on February 24, 2024.

Marlon