The Escolarian | A.Y. 2021-2022 | Issue 02

A.Y. 2021-2022 • 2ND SEMESTER

@TheEscolarian

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FEATURE

A Journey to Genuine Happiness Living in the 21st century comes with a lot of responsibilities, decision-making, challenges, and opportunities. Encountering different situations that require people to have a strong faith and determination within themselves...

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SCITECH

Monkeypox: Another virus to look out for Coronavirus or CoViD-19 made a huge impact on the lives of people worldwide. This air-borne transmitted disease caused people to lock their homes to protect themselves from this virus. It has not yet come to an end, but...

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SPORTS

SIBOL Claims Gold Medal for the Philippines The SIBOL Mobile Legend: Bang Bang (MLBB) players demolished Indonesia as they retained the gold medal, 3-1, in the best-of-5 grand finals in the 31st Southeast Asian Games held at Hanoi, Vietnam. The Philippines' representatives...

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Senior’s Day Batch 2022

By Saena Santos

The Escolarian Pride: Escolarians Haul Rankings in CAMAF 2022

By Biel Catipon

Student-journalists from The Escolarian secured rankings from the recently held Camilo Osias Arts Festival 2022 (CAMAF 2022), organized by National University’s The National with the theme “Strengthening Voter’s Education and Political Awareness Through Media” last April.

CAMAF 2022 was composed of two events: Camilo Osias Search for Ten Outstanding Student Journalists (CSTOSJ), which was the main event that held writing competitions in the categories of News, Editorial, and Sports.

The other event included photojournalism, editorial cartooning, and flash report.

Biel Catipon, a news correspondent, clinched the 9th spot in Sports Writing for the main event.

For the other event, Mary de Mesa, cartoonist, acquired 9th place in Editorial Cartooning with the same theme.

At the said event, the contestants underwent a writing battery test on the different categories. The competition was held via Zoom for the participant’s monitoring.

Other The Escolarian members also partook in the main and other events, namely: Andrea Teves (Opinion/Editorial Writer), Faith Robles (Sports Correspondent), Aleeana Rose Agustin (Editor-in-Chief), and Jann Michael Gomez (Feature Writer). Nonstaffers Cheska Estrada and Jean Michael Dinio also participated in flash reporting.

The participants then received e-vouchers from the minor sponsors and e-certificates of participation and recognition.

In a Facebook post, NU The National expressed their gratitude to The Escolarian as a gold campus media partner who helped the event succeed.

Graduating senior high school batch of 2022 of Centro Escolar Integrated School - Malolos (CEIS) gathered on the campus for the first time during Senior's Day 2022 on June 10.

Before the academic year ends, Grade 12 students of Centro Escolar Integrated School Malolos gathered at the CEU Centrodome for the celebration of Senior’s Day 2022 on June 10.

An hour was spent for a community singing led by a CEIS alumnus. The dome filled with laughter and chatters as students roamed to play a little activity during the inspirational talk.

Senior’s Day 2022 was the first face-to-face event held for the students at the campus after a long online modality which brought excitement to the graduating seniors.

After the singing of the CEU Hymn, students were briefly instructed for the Extra Challenge: Campus Edition, where each section will roam around the school and will be given a simple task to accomplish in a particular area to move on to the next area.

Teachers were assigned to facilitate the students to ensure the observation of health protocols.

The faculty and staff strictly monitored the students to observe the safety health protocols, and they were required to fill in an online health form as well as to present the needed printed documents to the committees before entering the dome. Seats were assigned per section for the students to officially meet their designated class in person.

The student-hosts, Aleeana Rose Agustin and Micco Adrian Jimenez, warmly welcomed the students as the event officially started. This was followed by the singing of the National Anthem and the opening remarks of Ms. Abigail DC. Espineda, the CEIS acting principal.

After each section wanders inside the campus, their last destination will be their designated classrooms, where they will be facilitated by their respective adviser for meet and greet activities. Most of the sections utilized their last hour playing games with the class. As the event concluded, notepads with the stamp of CEIS Batch 2022 were given to students before dismissal.

Students seized their time inside the campus, taking photos with their classmates, advisers, and friends before they parted ways.

Escolarians Journey Into The World of Exercise

PPCRV starts manual encoding of ERs

By Saena Santos

By Mykee Franco

Students of Centro Escolar Integrated School - Malolos (CEIS) open their cameras and join the exercise during the World of Exercise webinar on February 24.

Centro Escolar Integrated School - Manila Campus hosts a webinar titled “The World of Exercise: Holistic Approach to Fitness,” focusing on the basic concepts on how to become physically fit on February 24, 2022.

is difficult and it’s too much the process is worth it),” Mr. Pacleb states while highlighting that exercise improves self-confidence, flexibility, and immune system.

Mr. Pacleb starts the talk by enlightening the viewers that 93% of Filipino children are not active, which ranks the country as the number 2 of the countries with the most number of children with insufficient physical activity.

He then gave another small discussion about the Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type (FITT) principle. “Sa online set up na ito importante yung gumalaw, kahit hugas lang ng pinggan…kahit sundan sundan lang ang mga nakikita sa Youtube, basta get your body going at some point (In this online setup, it is important to move, even if it’s just washing the dishes…even if you just follow what you see on Youtube, as long as you get your body going at some point),” he added.

After these unsatisfying statistics shared by Mr. Pacleb, he also discussed the three types of muscles, namely cardiac, smooth, and skeletal, as well as the difference between aerobic and anaerobic exercises.

The webinar comes to a conclusion as Mr. Pacleb answers the viewer's questions about tips, fallacies, and other information regarding exercise.

Mr. Emmanuel Pacleb, the speaker for the webinar, delivers a mixture of discussions and physical activities to the viewers to help them understand the direct importance of exercise.

Moments later, he encouraged the viewers to participate in a stretching activity which earned a smile from the kids and other students doing the activity.

“Tanggalin sa mindset na mahirap ang exercise na it’s too much, worth it naman ang process (Get rid of the mindset that exercise ......

“Exercise is a process…hindi mo talaga agad makikita yung results sa katawan mo pero over time sabi nga nila, makikita mo kung ano yung itinanim mo sa katawan mo (Exercise is a process…you can’t really see the results in your body right away but over time just like as they say, you will reap what you sow in your body).”

After May 9 elections, the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) has started its manual encoding of printed election returns at the University of Sto. Tomas Quadricentennial Pavilion on Tuesday.

PPCRV will check the vote counts manually against vote-counting machines (VCMs) as speculations spread on social media on the questionable gap between the two opposing presidential candidates.

PPCRV spokesperson Atty. Van Dela Cruz explained that they are given the 4th copy of the printed transmission copies of the election returns, which they will use to audit the votes accurately without manipulation.

Help desks, assisted by Lawyers from the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) and Legal Network for Truthful Elections (Lente), and phone lines are open for election-related reports.

Dela Cruz said some precincts refused to release PPCRV copies of election returns but then were later resolved. It has received around 2,000 election returns as of Tuesday morning.

“We are not about speed, we are about accuracy,” Dela Cruz said in a press briefing.

The PPCRV is a national parish-based, nonpartisan lay movement that has been monitoring the election process since 1991.

Quezon Memorial Circle Becomes Colorful with Pride Festival

Putin Declares War on Ukraine

By James Fernando

By Mykee Franco Photo from Facebook | Quezon City Government

Photo from Instagram | ukraine.ua

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community celebrate Pride Month at Quezon Memorial Circle (QMC) in an event titled “Alab for Love: Pride PH Festival” on June 25, 2022.

The spearheads of the event were Quezon City Mayor Maria Josefina Tanya "Joy" Go Belmonte Alimurung, Pride PH lead convenor Mela Habijan, and Quezon City Tourism Department Officer-in-Charge Ms. Maria Teresa Tirona.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte announced in a press conference that the event is scheduled from 10:00 in the morning until 12:00 midnight.

“This is a testament of Quezon City’s status as a staunch ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. We are always here to support all of your current and future endeavors. We remain committed to uphold and fight for the rights and welfare of the LGBTQIA+ community. In our city, you will remain protected and cared for,” Mayor Joy Belmonte stated.

The event was divided into three main activities, which are the “Pride Expo,” “Pride March,” and “Pride Night.” The event was officially opened by Executive Director Mr. Ryan Silverio of the ASEAN SOGIE Caucus where all the guidelines and further details regarding the activities of the event were announced.

The first activity is the “Pride Expo,” where the officials have placed different booths which consist of Non-governmental organizations for those who want to know more about serious topics such as human rights, companies that are LGBTQIA+ friendly and are willing to share ideas about how to support LGBTQIA+ members, and even entrepreneurs that are also members of the community to deliver inspiration for those who are drowned by anxiety due to the people who are against LGBTQIA+ people.

Booths for HIV testing and Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) on-the-site vaccinations were also placed along with

medics to ensure safety during the said event.

Some ambassadors from other countries also created a speech in celebration of pride month.

“We’re here today because we all believe that no one should be subjected to discrimination or violence because of their sexual orientation, their gender identity or expression, or their sex characteristics,” Canada Ambassador Peter McArthur said in his speech.

Most of the people stated that the “Pride March” was the highlight of their day, where around 5,000 people marched with their rainbow flags up high along the elliptical road of Quezon City at 3:00 in the afternoon. Some were also seen dancing as they wore clothes with rainbow designs or dresses that symbolized just how proud these people are of their gender or sexuality.

The event ended with the activity named “Pride Night,” where people got to witness performances done by members of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as some speeches made by other famous LGBTQIA+ icons.

The crowd was surprised and honored as the hosts introduced Senator Ana Theresia “Risa” Navarro Hontiveros-Baraquel as the special guest, who also gave a supportive and thankful speech to the people. “You are more than Pride Day or Pride Month, you have every right to exist as you are in the day-to-day. You deserve a chance to be yourselves and feel at ease everywhere, you deserve to be safe.” The crowd cheers and claps with the kind words given by the senator.

“I’m sure pagod na kayo, but thank you so much for never stopping this fight, dahil ang laban nating na ito ay para rin sa bawat isa sa atin, lahat tayo panalo sa equality (I’m sure you are all tired, but thank you so much for never stopping this fight, because this battle of ours are also for each and every one of us, all of us are the winners with equality).” Senator Risa Hontiveros added.

On February 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a “special military operation” against Ukraine in a televised address.

Around the same time, missiles, artillery, and air attacks started raining down on Ukraine as the Russian forces moved towards Kyiv, the capital city.

In Putin’s televised address, he said Russia has no plans to occupy Ukraine and that the action was justified after the United States of America (USA) and its allies from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) expanded the alliance along Russia’s borders.

“To anyone who would consider interfering from the outside, if you do, you will face consequences greater than any you have faced in history. All relevant decisions have been taken. I hope you hear me,” Putin said as he warned other countries planning to interfere.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared Martial Law across Ukraine after the first wave of strikes from Russia.

“Putin has launched a full-scale war against Ukraine. Strikes continue on peaceful Ukrainian cities. This is a war of aggression.

Ukraine will defend and win. The world can and must stop Putin. It’s time to act,” Zelensky said.

Western leaders have responded to the actions of Russia, with USA President Joe Biden accusing Putin of choosing a “premeditated war that will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering.”

As of February 26, the number of refugees from Ukraine who have crossed to Poland, Hungary, Romania, and other countries is 368,000, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

According to Viktor Liashko, head of the Ukrainian health ministry, 198 civilians have been killed, and 1,115 people were wounded, including 33 children.

Filipinos back with the Holy Week traditions

By Saena Santos This Maundy Thursday, April 18, and Good Friday, April 19, hundreds of Filipinos are back with the Holy Week tradition - pabasa, senakulo, and penitensiya - after being prohibited last year due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Many streets in the country were filled with flagellants who used leather or thorny straps to hit themselves and even crucify themselves on a cross as they visited from church to church as a spiritual act of seeking forgiveness this Holy Week.

“This is a religious vow. I will do this every year for as long as I am able”, said Rusty David, a devoted flagellant for half his life.

While, Pabasa, a marathon reciting or chanting of the book of De Belen, echoes through towns of the country overnight without interruption, narrating the life story of Jesus Christ.

These annual traditions to atone for the sins and seek divine intervention have become a major tourist attraction over the years.

The Catholic Church did not sanction the practice of self-flagellation, calling it a “misinterpretation of faith,” but that did not hamper the devotees from practicing these annual traditions.

Photo from Getty Images

Robredo to launch Angat Buhay NGO

By Saena Santos Vice President Leni Robredo is set to launch the Angat Buhay Program to a non-government organization (NGO) starting on July 1, 2022, after her term ends.

"Unang araw ng Hulyo, ilulunsad ang Angat Buhay NGO. Bubuuin ang pinakamalawak na volunteer center sa kasaysayan ng bansa," Robredo announced during a thanksgiving held on May 13 at Ateneo De Manila University.

Supporters of Robredo were hyped up, and support poured in as they chanted “Kasama kami!”.

As the second leading presidential candidate, Robredo added, “Iniimbita ko kayong lahat, ang mga nagpagod, ang mga kumpanya at private partners, itutuloy natin ang ating pagsasama-sama”.

With millions of supporters and volunteers during the campaign, she also mentioned that this “bayanihan” movement is possible.

Different social media platforms were raining “Count me in” posts and endless gratitude and appreciation to Robredo as soon as she announced the movement.

Photo from Rappler

Angat Buhay was launched in 2016 by the Office of the Vice President to address the needs of those who are less fortunate. This movement provides and engages support to six areas which are food security and nutrition, universal healthcare, public education, rural development, housing and resettlement, and women empowerment.

Marcos names cabinet secretaries before the inauguration

By Paul Armand Mallari

By James Fernando

Photo from ABC News | Aaron Favila

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Congress has officially proclaimed Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the country’s 17th president, on May 25, 2022. The winner of this election, who also bears the name of the famous late dictator, was announced to be the next leader of the nation.

Photo from BBM Media Group

As the inauguration of President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. comes closer, he continues to name cabinet secretaries for the incoming administration.

The cabinet will be a mix of first-timers and familiar names that already had experiences in the executive branch during past administrations.

The names making up the cabinet are the following: Sara Duterte (Department of Education) Vic Rodriguez (Executive Secretary) Benjamin ‘Benhur’ Abalos Jr. (Department of the Interior and Local Government) Susan ‘Toots’ Ople (Department of Migrant Workers) Jesus Crispin ‘Boying’ Remulla (Department of Justice) Bienvenido Laguesma (Department of Labor and Employment) Arsenio Balisacan (National Economic and Development Authority) Benjamin Diokno (Department of Finance) Felipe Medalla (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor) Alfredo Pascual (Department of Trade and Industry) Manuel Bonoan (Department of Public Works and Highways) Anton Lagdameo (Special Assistant to the President) Rose Beatrix “Trixie” Cruz-Angeles (Press Secretary) Erwin Tulfo (Department of Social Welfare and Development)

Amenah Pangandaman (Department of Budget and Management) Ivan John Uy (Department of Information and Communications Technology) Zenaida Angping (Presidential Management Staff) Maria Esperanza Christina Frasco (Department of Tourism) Clarita Carlos (National Security Adviser) Conrado Estrella III (Department of Agrarian Reform) Menardo Guevarra (Solicitor General) Juan Ponce Enrile (Presidential Legal Adviser) Jose Faustino Jr. (Department of National Defense) Ricardo de Leon (National Intelligence Coordinating Agency) Lilia Guillermo (Bureau of Internal Revenue) Jaime "Jimmy" Bautista (Department of Transportation) Bongbong Marcos (Department of Agriculture) Marcos said that he seeks to disclose more members of the cabinet before he takes oath on June 30.

So far, Marcos has already named 27 secretaries and appointees, including himself.

Marcos has yet to announce other members of the cabinet for the incoming administration.

The secretaries and appointees mentioned will later go through the Commission on Appointments for confirmation.

Sara Duterte, the daughter of outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte, and Marcos were both named the winners in a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives on May 25.

With Rodrigo Duterte's daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio as his vice president, 64year-old Marcos, also known as "Bongbong," takes over on June 30 from Rodrigo Duterte and will hold the position till 2028.

“I thank our people and, beyond that, I promise you that we may not be perfect but we will always strive to perfection,” Marcos said.

“I ask you all pray for me, wish me well. I want to do well because when the president does well, the country does well,” he said.

Even though his father's legacy is still a contentious topic in the Philippines, the incoming president ran on a platform of promoting unity among all Filipinos. From 1965 until 1986, when the "People Power" movement overthrew his brutal and corrupt dictatorship, the old Marcos ruled the Philippines.

“The Marcos Restoration and Duterte Extension are now complete,” he wrote, adding, “The people must now continue to fight for genuine freedom and democracy under a second Marcos regime.”

Only The Young

THE ESCOLARIAN THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF CENTRO ESCOLAR A.Y. 2021-2022 INTEGRATED SCHOOL MALOLOS

EDITORIAL BOARD Aleeana Rose G. Agustin Editor-in-Chief Llana Saena T. Santos News & Opinion Editor Abi J. fernando Features Editor NEWS CORRESPONDENTS Llana Saena T. Santos - Team Lead Biel Catipon Joan Katrine C. De Jesus James Patrick M. Fernando Mykee L. Franco Aliyah Patricia E. Garcia Paul Armand DJ. Mallari OPINION/EDITORIAL Ellysa Marie F. Talucod Andrea D. Teves FEATURE WRITERS Abi J. Fernando - Team Lead Alicia Louisse M. Cortez Pia Karoline M. De Jesus Jann Michael P. Gomez Brigette Leigh B. Mantala Maria Sophia R. Mendiola Bhea Christina F. Miranda Ma. Sophia Valerie M. Valenzuela

“Mag-aral ka mabuti hindi yung kung ano-ano inaatupag mo.” A line everyone, particularly the youth, is very familiar with. The gap inflicted by age is clearly defined— opportunities are passed up, voices are shunned, and words are being left unsaid. Are we too young to engage in important matters but too old to be idle and passive? How can one play their part if the world so easily dismisses the youth who is labeled the nation’s beacon of hope?

Historically, young people have always been excluded from the political realm. The recent national elections once again proved how the youth are easily spurned in matters of issues where their voices should be heard. The youth’s place in politics is complex and oftentimes problematized. Even the Philippine constitution can’t safeguard everyone, including the youth’s freedom of speech, as their thoughts are easily disregarded because of their age. The stigma has caused discord in society as young people are disengaged from political discussions giving them little to no room to voice their opinions.

We all want to be heard, but not everyone is willing to listen, especially when strong sentiments come from a young person.

Education should be a youth’s top priority. The same education society is referring to is what taught us to be active citizens who constantly engage and learn about politics and society. The irony is clear: the youth are smart enough to be given academic recognition but not smart enough to engage in political discussions. To be .......

heard genuinely without mockery is every child’s dream. The sad reality is that no one but a child can turn that dream into a reality.

When will this end? The truth is, it will never end unless we act. However, actions do not necessarily guarantee results, but it does add up to one’s progress. So, the real question is how?

How can we change deeply-rooted stigmatization while facing adversities that come with being a youth of today’s time? In a world where no one listens, be deafening. In a society that easily forgets, be the constant reminder. Be loud and bold in whatever you do in the pursuit of fighting for a seat at the table. When they think it is over, prove them wrong and emphasize the fact that it only has begun. Nothing can stop a movement that is driven by a child whose dream is a world where they are also given the same platform and respect.

When we declared our votes with intentions for a peaceful and just nation, our right index finger is marked blue. A reflection of the blue field on our national flag that stands for peace, truth, and justice. It is a symbolism that we have the power to change the crooked path most fail to question, as it is easier to sit down than stand up and fight for what is right. Like the indelible ink used on our index finger, let us leave a mark and pave the way for the younger generations to be loud and bold as they embody the title of being the nation’s hope.

The future is ours, now is the time to actually own it.

CONTRIBUTORS Celestine M. Dolandolan Alliah Dennise C. Garcia Alyssa Micah T. Tayug Christine Joy S. Villanueva Danah Kathrein C. Sampaga Aerishlynn Joy Silva SPORTS CORRESPONDENT Ailyn Faith B. Robles CARTOONISTS Mary Elizabeth S. De Mesa LAYOUT ARTISTS Richard Christian M. Uaje - Team Lead Chelsey Cassandra D. Alcaraz Alyssa Mariz F. Bebar Francine Leeane L. Espiritu Ayessa Julienne N. Lunita Drew Halle M. Sibayan COPYREADERS Aleeana Rose G. Agustin Laurice Franzel DC. Belgica SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS Alyssa Mariz F. Bebar Laurice Franzel DC. Belgica Kristen M. Ramos WEBSITE MANAGERS Richard Christian M. Uaje Drew Halle M. Sibayan TECHNICAL ADVISER Mr. Raymond Carlo D. Mendoza CONSULTANTS Ms. Angielyn Prima C. De Leon Overall Adviser for Student Organizations Mrs. Cielito V. Bautista Team Lead for Student Activities, SHS Mrs. Teresita D. De Leon Officer in Charge, SHS Department Ms. Abigail D.C. Espineda Officer in Charge, Office of the Principal

A First Class Seat to ?: A Minor’s POV Prove wrong what I have heard. But those pleads, begs, and cries that I have heard seemed to have been muffled and foretold as something completely different in the ears of others. It is now that I wonder if that is how easily deceivable my fellowmen can be? Have they really been blind by the other side? Is this one of those stories when the villain wins?

I am scared. Frightened of the next six years. As I read and see the results, I cannot help but feel anxious.

I am a minor, so I can only spectate and read about the happenings of the elections. Though unable to vote, I am confident with the choices I have made and the candidates I have supported.

My deliberations were made on top of track records, education, and backgrounds. Actually, for me, there was a clear choice here. We were finally given a chance to choose a great potential candidate with a clean track record. I thought it was obvious who people should have voted for, but yet, I was wrong.

Seeing the results, I had to hear out the other side as well. Maybe there was a reason why the people chose this candidate over the other. I kept an open mind, as much of us should have done but I truly cannot find anything remarkable about this candidate. He made promises with no basis, not enough background for me to give him trust. As I face the screen projecting the results, against me is another politician that will govern the country, not a leader that will work for its people.

I am disappointed, scared, anxious, and angry. I cannot help but think that the people who chose ‘that’ person are selfish. There are millions from the youth explaining why she will be a better leader than him, but alas, we are ignored.

Looked down upon and invalidated. I thought we were the country’s hope. You people raised us with high expectations. We met those towering expectations you have set for us, and now that we speak, we are too young?

This election will not only be for your benefit, but for my generation and future generations as well. This is a time when I truly wish that I am wrong. To the people who voted for him, to him and his administration, please, PROVE ME WRONG! I hope where I am right now is a first class seat to a better Philippines and not a plane that may crash at any moment.

Art by Mary De Mesa

Go Into it Blindly

By Ellyssa Marie Talucod

Our country has been a laughing stock for other countries to scrutinize. The competence and discernment of the Filipino people are being put into question as the victims of the torments have now become blind to all that they have suffered from.

May 9, election day— d-day. As the countrymen head into precincts wielding their markers and list of candidates, anomalies begin to rise. Issues with votecounting machines, handing out of sample ballots on-site, pictures of watchers holding wads of thousand peso bills, videos of police officers tearing filled-out ballots, government vehicles ornamented with stickers of candidates, riots in electoral precincts, and a candidate being offered a sure win spot by a smartmatic operator, these are—to name a few—some of the issues that have risen just this week.

I would go as far as to say that this has become one of the most chaotic elections the country has witnessed since the EDSA Revolution.

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is the government body tasked with regulating and facilitating the country’s national elections. With the number of issues transpiring, it seems as though this body has been covering its ears from all its countrymen voicing out their concerns and shedding light on injustices they have faced during this election period. The voice of the Filipino people fighting for the betterment of this country is being shunned. A lousy excuse for a government body that was predicated upon the expectation of a clean election period.

Since the day of the elections, more and more anomalies are being exposed by the hour. The unofficial results show that former senator and son of dictator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is miles ahead from current Vice President Leni Robredo. Just hours after the end of the set voting schedule, millions of votes have already been counted. This would be an acceptable thought as the voting machines used are now automated, but knowing that hundreds of the Vote Counting Machines (VCMs) were broken, questions rose from the masses. How could the COMELEC be projecting such a large amount of votes for the unofficial results when some voters have not yet voted because of their lack of preparedness?

Voters have shown their dissatisfaction on social media, saying they waited until midnight to cast their votes, so they were shocked when they saw that millions of votes had already been counted. And what does the COMELEC do about it? Nothing.

I am sad to see that the body tasked with regulating all matters regarding the rulers of the country has failed to do its job. We have not received any assurance from them that they are working for the good of its people. They have let us wander in nothingness. They have allowed unqualified people to run for positions they have no background in.

They have allowed a son of the dictator—who shunned the voice of his citizens—to be given an opportunity to become the country’s ruler. An action star with no background in politics. A former president with plunder charges. These people were chosen over qualified candidates with clean records.

Art by Mary De Mesa

To me, the next six years are black. It hurts to see that the discernment of our people are being questioned.

I do not know what the future holds, and so I hope my current judgments are proven wrong. I only hope that my dear fellowmen have learned and will elect leaders capable and fit for their positions in the next elections—if there even is one. So let us brace onto our seats because the next six years of the lives of the Filipino people will certainly be a ride: a bumpy one or a smooth one, is yet to be determined.

Examine the Sinister Smile

By The Escolarian Staff

Art by Mary De Mesa

“...Tutuparin ko ang tungkulin ng mamamayang makabayan; Naglilingkod, nag-aaral, at nagdarasal ng buong katapatan. Iaalay ko ang aking buhay, pangarap at pagsisikap sa bansang Pilipinas,” every morning, as we raise our right hands, we are reminded of our duties and responsibilities to our motherland, yet its own government terrorizes its own people.

We were running fast. Zooming into the elections with hope, but a big brick wall ceased that hope for me and for many. I thought we embraced the capability to express opinions. I thought we applauded for standing up for what we believe in. I thought we put worth in freedom, but now, it seems as though these are just duties that we fail to fulfill.

We are all citizens yearning for the betterment of our dear country. Above all, we are first Filipinos. Taught to speak for what ...............................

they believe in, now silenced by fear and terror.

Red-tagging has become one of the hinders of freedom of speech at these times. We have a government in place tasked to hear out the voice of its people. To provide equity, to enact justice. But now, the government acts like a toxic partner, too full of pride, too condescending, and too stubborn to hear out what anybody has to say, except for the likes of their own.

Over the course of the 16th administration up until December of 2021, 22 journalists have been silenced. As an aspiring member of the active youth, I do not want to settle for less, that is why I speak out. I, among others, are blessed enough to be able to know what the country yearns for. We are able to notice the injustices faced by the community, as well as know our privilege and use it for good. I certainly do not want to experience being scared to speak out, .........

nor do I want it for future generations to come.

It is not that the government even hides the fact that they are out to zip the mouths of whoever wants to speak against them. I find it shameful how they do not even try hard to cover the fact that they are abusing their power. Is it not embarrassing that some of these journalists’ fellowmen find it acceptable to condone these kinds of actions from any authoritative body?

The 22 lives gone may never be undone, but we must give their lives and their bravery, justice.

We must fight to change the justice, we so obviously know is wrong. Why should we all worry about speaking out when we know that what we are fighting for is right. As the government smirks with its sinister smile, we, its people, become intimidated by the power it holds, but do not neglect the fact that we are giants when we are one. Giants that can abolish that sinister smile.

A Grasp on Standard Education Against Militarism

By Alyssa Micah Tayug

Last January, Davao City Mayor Sara DuterteCarpio mentioned on a virtual caravan that she would use the Office of the Vice President (OVP) to push her plans for mandatory military training among 18-year-old Filipinos if she wins in the May national elections. These would be different from the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) offered to college students taken for one weekend or one month a year. She stated that all these individuals would be given a subsidy and required to serve the country in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). In May, Duterte-Carpio, the Vice President-elect and the incoming Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary vowed to “push for reforms in the DepEd” to “develop Filipino youths who will persevere to reach their full potential as individuals." She stated that the country needs a “disciplined and patriotic” youth, following her proposed plan, and has reached out to the OVP and DepEd Office of the Secretary to ensure a “smooth, orderly, and comprehensive transition.” Since then, several youth groups, including Kabataan Partylist and Save Our Schools (SOS) Network, have been criticizing this plan.

Ph’s Current Necessity: Quality Education This action is distant from what the Philippines needs today–a quality education system to produce locally and globally competent Filipinos. Over the years, the country has been in dire need of development on quality learning among students. In the 2019 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Talent Ranking, the Philippines ranked 49th among 63 countries. The country ranked 31st for appeal, 61st for investment and development, and 26th for readiness. In 2018, the Philippines scored lowest for investment and growth.

When the Covid-19 pandemic broke out in the country, the situation was even worse.

Numerous students started transferring from private schools to public ones because parents no longer can fund their studies due to the job loss in the country when the quarantine started. DepEd revealed that 250,539 students transferred from private to public schools before the beginning of the academic year 2020-2021. In August 2020, around 380,000 students moved from private to public schools.

With this, public schools were jam-packed with students, making it challenging for teachers to provide excellent learning to each learner.

In addition, a study in Lyceum of the Philippines University - Batangas revealed that the majority of 247 higher education students ......

are not yet globally competitive due to their deficiencies in competencies, skills, and attitudes and delimited international exposure.

Imposing militarism to the future curriculum would hinder the country from further improving the education system because students would focus more on these aspects rather than training for their future jobs and finding success in their ways.

Modern Patriotism Among Youth Furthermore, having a patriotic generation of youth could not just be present through militarism. Exercising love for the country could be done through battling internal and societal issues in the Philippines, including fighting against disinformation and misinformation to produce wise and critical-thinking Filipinos, upholding human rights and democracy, demanding transparency and accountability from the government, and defending press freedom.

A December 2021 Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey disclosed that 51% of Filipinos found it challenging to assess fake news in various media.

Also, the extrajudicial executions, development aggression, redtagging, etc. have contributed highly to the numerous cases of human rights violations in the country. When the youth participate in rallies, most people see it as a terrorist act when in the first place, these individuals just wanted to have a country free from all of these brutal actions of the government. Taking action regarding these issues would show more devotion and love for the country rather than implementing militarism on the youth, which could further impose more violence among individuals.

Effects of Militarism to Youth Moreover, pushing these plans would make students slack off more in their studies or even stop continuing, for it would take them several years before going to college and getting a job for themselves and their families. Also, the various past harassment under ROTC, which could also happen in the AFP territory, would even make students terrified of their future in the hands of these authorities. Some may take it as a challenge to continue studying, undergo this training, and later pursue their dreams however, a lot more would choose to find jobs rather than spend a year or two in the barracks, especially if their chosen profession is not inclined to these aspects.

On the other hand, Filipino parents expressed their approval of this plan in the comments ..........

section on Facebook, saying that mandatory military training would discipline their children. Disciplining the youth starts at home.

Parents should not give their responsibility of correcting their children to the authorities, especially if these higher officials would bring more danger to the youth. It is the duty of the parents and not the government to develop ways that could discipline these individuals.

Also, the government aims to make these youth serve the country in case of emergency, including war and disasters. In this case, the leaders should communicate and ask for help from other allies or countries. The government should not force nor obligate these individuals to participate in such emergencies, especially if they did not want to do it in the first place.

Being with their loved ones, keeping themselves alive and well, and not participating in the battlefield is what they need to do during these times.

Proposed Development in Ph Education System To aid these crucial times that the country is continuously facing, the incoming administration should focus more on providing a standard education system that would cater to the needs of every student. The government should start providing less clerical work to teachers, increasing their wages and making them do their job of teaching students. Having them do these reports is one of the hindrances to giving quality teaching to learners.

Additionally, all children should have access to essential and standard education, whatever condition they may have. The next administration should provide an opportunity for special education to take place even in public schools. In a nation where poverty is constant, it is a demanding decision for financially unstable parents to enroll their children with special needs in private schools.

Making this type of education available in public schools would be a big step towards achieving quality learning.

Also, considering that society is in the information age where various contexts are present everywhere, the government should teach the youth to identify falsities from the truth. These abilities should be included not just in the senior high school curriculum, but even in elementary and junior high school, given that this is an essential skill today. Making them ignorant of the truth at a young age would fuel irrationality among them as they grow up.

Furthermore, the government should invest more in laboratories and research centers to provide more advanced courses to high education students. These would make learners more critical and globally excellent in accomplishing research that would help the country address several issues and challenges.

Finally, everyone must keep in mind that providing our youth the essential standard education they need would not just make them wise and patriotic individuals but also competitive Filipinos that would transform the country into a more advanced and prosperous one. As Hepburn says, "A quality education has the power to transform societies in a single generation, provide children with the protection they need from the hazards of poverty, labor exploitation, and disease, and give them the knowledge, skills, and confidence to reach their full potential."

A Valentine’s Day Special: Joy in Solitude

By Aleeana Agustin Don’t we all want to be loved? The kind that sweeps us off our feet– exciting yet securing and enchanting but authentic. A love that transcends boundaries dissolving all types of prejudice as it opens our hearts. Something so powerful yet grounding, a bond that connects us to one another.

Love, a powerful combination of letters. So what is love? Other than it is a chemical reaction or imbalance of hormones. Humanity has given it countless meanings, and numerous versions of it have been cultivated in different parts of the world, but despite its complexity, one particular kind often goes unnoticed.

Self-love has been heavily neglected despite its significance. Regardless of many advocacies surfacing in the media about self-love, many are still facing difficulties in getting on board with the journey. But why?

As being with someone is eagerly romanticized the concept of solitude is seen as lonely and depressing even. We ought to think that love should always be shared with another person. We long for connection, but we deprive and cut ourselves off from it.

Let’s be honest, all of us have looked for love in others. In different cultures, romantic love has been encouraged– something we should seek and devote ourselves to in the belief that it will bring us a profound meaning in our lives and a fairytale-like union. We are bombarded by images of happy couples, love stories, and a damsel in distress waiting to be saved by a prince. So it is not surprising that many of us see love as a crowning glory, something to be sought, found, earned, and won. Something we have looked for in others or material endeavors.

Worst case scenario, our hearts have taken a pummeling. Some of us may turn our back on the very idea of love, while others give it another chance.

The thing is, we don’t actually need to search for it in others. In fact, it is and has always been available right here, right now, within you. As cliche as it may be, self-love will bring you the truth: Love is not something you have to seek or win. There is an infinite supply of it within you– enough to fill your cup and still be able to pour on others. All we need to know is how to gain access to it.

As human beings, we are expected to be selfless, but its meaning has become misunderstood. It does not equate to abandoning our needs but rather to loving ourselves the same way we are always willing to love others. So the answer to the ‘how’ is simple but definitely not easy. How can we first love ourselves? Let’s start with something small, how do you want to be loved? Through words of affirmation? Acts of service? Quality time? Knowing how you want to be loved will give you a sense of selfconnection that would start your journey towards self-love.

Each of us needs and deserves love, and nothing could ever compare to the kind of love that flourishes from oneself. This Valentine’s season, when love is in the air, allow yourself to be loved by yourself as it is a privilege because it takes a lot of hard work. A love that heals and brings peace, the type of intimacy you can’t find anywhere else but within. Let the love month be the start of your journey towards self-love, an adventure that brings growth and healing.

So that someday, when love arrives, you will be able to recognize and reciprocate it without draining and exhausting yourself.

We’ll never be those kids again.

By Sophia Mendiola Growing up, we were clueless little things with too much imagination locked up in a cookie-cutter world. Indecisive at best, we viewed everything through rose-tinted lenses, dreaming one thing after the other, infatuated with our own desirable imaginations. The ephemeral ambitions and fleeting habits we’ve mistaken for our calling, fulfilled our young hearts with exuberance that our present selves crave now more than anything.

Funny enough, we were so sure of the dreams and aspirations scribbled in the margins at the back of our color-coded notebooks more than we are now of what we’ll pursue for the sake of our future. We were so young, yet unwavering and puttogether, despite the appearance of wrinkled clothes and crooked teeth. Our hands were stained filthy, dirt muddled within the gaps of our fingernails, but we were carelessly and ceaselessly happy.

What followed after was the least of our worries, and still, we were nostalgic for a future that had yet to exist.

We were quite the vivid visionaries, despite the pragmatic reality that the world we exist in may work in arcane schemes to prove our dreams futile. The spark of hope in our eyes and the flame of passion instilled in our hearts were more than enough to keep us going. Now, we exist in hesitancy, torn between holding on to the possibilities of change and realizing that what we had hoped for was just a reverie sold to a young soul deluded in their own daydreams to separate fiction from reality.

Existing in the cusp of adolescence, most of us might be plagued with thoughts of bidding farewell to the youth we’ve treasured for what seemed to be a transient point of life. We have played many roles in that compact pocket of time, and we will continue to do so; as an homage to everything we have been, and all the things that we have yet to become. We had a good run, despite the hiccups in the process and the complaints about the most minuscule things; the paraphernalia we’ve acquired throughout the odyssey of our youth proves cardinal in the journey that lies ahead of the temporary finish line.

Unbeknownst to our younger selves, the crushing weight of books piled in our school bags would be the lightest.

All About Gratitude

By Abi Fernando

By Sophia Valenzuela

Photo from Frimufilms

Photo from Michal Collection

Gratitude can transform our lives. Indeed, it is more than just a lovely concept; it has farreaching implications for one's physical and mental health, happiness, and a sense of purpose.

An attitude of gratitude is the seed of joy. It tends to replace a sense of what you lack with a focus on what you have. Some argue that you can't be grateful and miserable simultaneously; therefore, focusing on all the things you're thankful for increases your chances of experiencing happiness. The more you focus on what you have, the greater those parts of your life appear. The result is that thankfulness tends to make you feel full and content, linked to a sense of well-being.

Why Gratitude Matters Gratitude enables us to appreciate the present moment and all it offers. Grateful people are less inclined to take something for granted or exploit it since they are more aware of its worth. I feel that appreciating the world around us encourages us to be more active in it.

We should focus more on the positive aspects of our lives if we want to have a better quality of life. Being grateful will make you more involved in the things going on in your life.

Gratitude is a robust response to negativity. The negative you are, the more negative you become. Conversely, the positive you are, the more positive you become. There is no such thing as gratitude if it is prompted by hatred.

Grateful one does not harbor resentment toward people who have more than they have.

An annual practice of everyday appreciation and positive thought can alter your brain and outlook on life.

People with a better understanding of selfworth are found to be more thankful. One's sense of self-worth grows when one expresses gratitude. A possible explanation is that acknowledging the kindness of others can help you to appreciate your worth better. There are also several ways that gratitude improves your self-esteem, making you feel better about yourself.

Expressing Gratitude through Hard Times Thankfulness has been found to help us appreciate and enhance the good things in our ........

lives. Remember that things may not go as planned, but that's okay. Although life has its ups and downs, gratitude, on the other hand, is a mental attitude that can withstand them all.

After a disaster strikes, gratitude gives us a perspective that allows us to see the bigger picture and not become consumed by the immediate issues.

Gratefulness not only helps through hard times but is also essential. It's beneficial to have a favorable view of life when things are unpleasant. It's a great incentive to express gratitude when you're feeling low. Gratitude has the power to revive optimism even in the face of overwhelming odds. When things look bleak, remembering to be grateful might be a lifesaver. To put it another way, gratitude is a powerful ally in moments of crisis. When we reflect on how difficult life used to be and how far we've come, we're more likely to feel grateful.

Ways to Cultivate Gratitude Everyday To get you started, here are a few simple ideas to boost and strengthen gratitude in your everyday life: Find little things through which you can express thankfulness, no matter how insignificant they may appear at first glance. Do not take things for granted. Whenever possible, take advantage of new opportunities and focus on the elements of your life that bring you joy.

When you first wake up, take a moment to reflect on your blessings and your goals for the day. As the day draws to a close, take some time to pause and consider all of your benefits.

You can feel better and be happier by just writing down all the things you're grateful for.

Your ability to remember and appreciate the remarkable things that have happened in your life will improve from your realization.

Possessing a grateful mindset can have a powerful impact. Being thankful for the small things in life is essential to a happy existence.

We tend to take these things for granted until they no longer exist. Be grateful for the simple things in life and show your appreciation for everything you have.

Living in the 21st century comes with a lot of responsibilities, decision-making, challenges, and opportunities. Encountering different situations that require people to have strong faith and determination within themselves in order to come up with a better solution for it.

As a matter of fact, everyone is having a hard time with things that are happening lately that we are torn on which path we should take.

They say, “follow what makes you happy and grow as a person,” and that is why people follow everything that makes them happy but are not conscious enough that following it hinders them from growing. The excitement and satisfaction that we feel sometimes are the reason why we are immature and not open to serious topics. We are blind by our own desire to achieve something even though it will not help us to become a better person. However, we should not let this continue because it will only have a negative impact on us and the people around us as well.

With the pandemic heavily affecting our lives, people have become risk-takers and are going out of their comfort zones as they believe that they only lived once. Hence, we should push through something that will definitely help us grow and become a person who inspires other people. Choosing careers, planning for future selves, and looking for the right path to go are some of the concepts that we always have a hard time deciding. The influence of other people is becoming stronger, which is one of the factors why many are hesitant to make decisions for themselves. We are afraid of what the people might say and not ready to take up the responsibilities they will meet in the process of deciding to do it.

Have you ever been in a situation where your decisions are based on what the people around you are saying? Even when it is against your principles, you still go for it because you don’t want to disappoint them. Over time, realizing that, why would your decisions depend on them when in the first place, it is your life after all. You should be the one who gets to decide and control since you have the sole right to make decisions for yourself.

Life is indeed short so follow what makes you happy as long as you don’t intend to hurt someone’s feelings. We should have the courage to choose the path that will have a happy ending and not regret it in the future.

Whenever you are having a hard time finding what’s meant for you, always remember that there is someone up there who is continuously guiding you to the path you are choosing. So, let’s enjoy life and fulfill our dreams one at a time as we grow into amazing people.

Art by Mary De Mesa

To the one who dared to dream, I have typed and erased hundreds of paragraphs trying to find the right words to start this letter. It has come to my realization that no words would be fitting for what we all feel right now. Elated?

Scared? Maybe a little bit of both? So, let me start this by saying it has been both an honor and privilege to be able to share the past two years with you at the same institution. I know it hasn't been easy, we all have our share of steps and missteps; a few setbacks here and there. Sleepless nights where we all shed tears and frustrations. With that, allow me to say that all those missteps, setbacks, tears, and frustrations led you here, at this very moment. By the time you are reading this, we are probably only a few days away from the day we all have been waiting for. In just a few days, we will leave Centro Escolar Integrated School-Malolos to go out into the world to discover what’s next for us.

Before we move on with our lives, I would not let this letter end without reminiscing and recognizing each other’s efforts. I always believe that a triumph takes a village. In the words of Taylor Alison Swift, “We are each a patchwork quilt of those who have loved us, those who have believed in our futures, those who showed us empathy and kindness or told us the truth even when it wasn’t easy to hear. Those who told us we could do it when there was absolutely no proof of that.” You are a mosaic of experiences that bloomed from the people you have met along the way, and the fact that you are reading this proves how far you’ve come— an iridescent being, full of life and love. Let it all sink in and give yourself the permission to celebrate this momentous achievement.

Entering a new chapter of our lives can be exciting. But as we start anew, a lot of experiences will point to the fact that it does not get easier, but you will get stronger. Inevitably, we would all make mistakes— may it be small or drastic ones.

Now, victories are gratifying, and losses are truly humbling. Quoting Taylor Swift once again, “Losing things doesn’t just mean losing. A lot of the time, when we lose things, we gain things too.” Wins and losses will mold you as you carve your own path and chart your way to your dreams and aspirations. As scary and exciting things can be, I hope that wherever you are and whatever you’ll do in the unpredictable future, do not be afraid to make mistakes, get back up, dust yourself off, and start again.

So you see, life is never set in stone. You are slowly becoming more of yourself day by day as you experience new things, no matter how minuscule and mundane they seem. The journey can get chaotic at times as it is meant to be a long process of choices that leads to wins and losses, hopefully, more of the former than the latter. How will we know if we’re winning or losing? We won’t. The bad news is: We won’t know until it’s over. The good news: It will never be over. Because life is never over as long as you are allowing yourself to strive and dream As I end this letter, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the batch of 2022 who deserves the warmest hugs. No amount of medals nor certificates could ever amount to your achievements. Let us navigate life fueled by our dreams and strengthened by our fears.

Sincerely, Someone who’ll always believe in you

The Art of Imperfections

By Alicia Cortez

In the society we live in, scars were a part of a social stigma wherein all that is attached to it were negative responses. It makes you question your worth – “Am I beautiful?”, “Why do I have this?”, “This makes me remember my pain” and many more. Some even show how it lowers their self-esteem and confidence about their beauty. But scars are more than just a mark upon your skin. As Kahlil Gibran said, “Out of the suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.”

Kintsugi is the Japanese art of putting broken pieces back together and outlining the cracks with gold. It highlights or emphasizes the areas of the breakage. The Kintsugi art shares a concept that helps in accepting our scars. It teaches us that our broken places make us stronger and better than before. Sometimes in our life, there’s a time when we are to break—a time to feel pain. To feel our heart churn, to lose appetite, cry for days, and in the end, feel nothing. Then, tomorrow comes. We feel incomplete as imperfections surface in our minds and body. We couldn’t accept it, yet we wouldn’t be able to forget it. We have to live with it. Imperfections, a visual aspect or not, allow us to be unique and resilient. It gives us a chance to go past our limits as we reach our full potential after being broken. We accept these scars, like how Kintsugi highlights the cracks in broken pottery, giving us a chance to show ourselves with flaws. As written by Kumai in her book, Kintsugi Wellness, Kintsugi teaches us how to heal and that we are better with our golden cracks.

Kumai has written principles that we can apply in our daily life. Ten are written in her book, but we shall only focus on five.

First, Wabi-sabi. Wabi-sabi means – let us accept our imperfections, which symbolizes that we celebrate our strengths. We can’t live a perfect life. Wabisabi teaches us to embrace both good and bad and accept the imbalance in life.

That being different is also a beauty.

Second, Gaman. This reminds you to be resilient, calm, and endure the situation you are going through, giving your mind a break and a chance to see the positive within the negative to strengthen your mindset.

Third, Eiyōshoku. Let us learn how to nourish our bodies. As the famous saying goes, “Healthy body, healthy mind.” Don’t try to deprive yourself of things that you know can help you. Having a robust and healthy body leads to a more positive mindset as you see yourself improving. Both are connected, and that means when one feels pain, the other feels it too.

Fourth, Shikata Ga Nai. This term is derived from a formal saying: “Don’t keep complaining, move on from it.” Let go. You have to let go and remember the part where it makes you stronger. It won’t do you anything good if you keep complaining or hurting about it when you know that you can stand up and walk away while bearing in mind that you won’t let it happen twice.

Fifth, Kansha. “Cultivate gratitude.” We express gratitude not only for good but also for the “not-so-good” (let’s not call it bad). We realize everything we have and do not have – we are grateful for it.

Try looking in the mirror. Think of your scars as the mark of your new chapters in life. It symbolizes how you got past the most challenging and most painful situations you experienced. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to be vulnerable. Allow yourself to flow with time to heal and accept that scars make you even more beautiful.

Photo from Voyagerix

A Search for Soil to Grow

By Brigette Leigh Mantala

A plant needs suitable soil for it to flourish.

When it comes to gardening, we were taught that if we want a plant to develop healthily, we must keep an eye on the seed and carefully study each procedure. In the same way that a parent wants the best education for their child. A mind that has not received fundamental knowledge or has been inundated with misinformation is similar to a plant growing in heavy clay soil, where water inevitably reaches the roots but stays there, potentially drowning it.

As I browsed through my phone after taking a short pause from the mountain of tasks assigned to me, my orbs darted at the sight of an article. During the first month of the year, the number of Filipinos living in poverty had climbed to almost 26 million, amounting to little under 25% of the population. This situation may increase the danger of understudies being out of school and working their fingers to the bone instead; thus, they aren’t able to generate income and study at the same time. According to the Department of Education (DepEd), the country has about 1 million pre-literates and more than 6 million individuals who are deemed to be functionally illiterate. The Philippines' educational system has been shattered by controversies that have continued unabated to this day. Multiple factors have contributed to low educational levels.

The deteriorating quality of education is primarily due to the government's inadequate education budget.

I exited the tab and silently acknowledged the privilege I have to receive a good education without constantly worrying about the plate served for my family’s next meal. While watering the plants to complete my final chore for the day, lingering thoughts concerning the unraveling news from earlier engulfed my head. "How is it possible for this plant to die when I give it the same care as the others?" A voice inside my mind questioned me as I stared at a dimming area filled with sand soil where a hibiscus was placed. There it hit me, my plant will not grow until its deficiency is provided. After a few weeks, flowers from the hibiscus began to bloom, once placed in a mixture of peat moss and vermiculite.

Wouldn't it be nice if searching for a solution regarding the ongoing educational dilemma we are facing was as simple as classifying the best soil for plants?

Unfortunately, it isn't. Especially nowadays when people tend to rely on the internet for seeking information. Not everything we see is inevitably accurate, despite how convenient it is for most of us to input and search. As a result, most people are poisoned by misleading assertions.

Individuals poisoned by false claims aren't wholly to blame because they, too, are victims of misinformation and can't tell the difference due.

It is undeniable that our country is slipping behind in terms of education.

Not until higher-ups recognize and address the spread of withering minds caused by the educational crisis, we won’t be able to bloom to our fullest potential.

Photo from Nopphon Pattanasri

Lights in the Sky

By Alicia Cortez When the clock strikes twelve, numerous fireworks are displayed above as it colored the darkest time of the night, filling every person with varied emotions. The glistening lights in the sky and the booming sounds surround our ears. The bright smiles and laughter create a scene that shines like gold in our memories.

As we welcome the new year, it also marks the second year of living a life while in a pandemic. I slowly realize and see the whole world from another point of view. It has been that long since I last stepped foot outside, but not quite literally. To be honest, I didn't really expect to see fireworks being displayed in the sky. People are flocking around each other’s homes and partying outside the streets. I was worried about what if while we welcome this new year, what about the medical workers and the other frontliners still at work? What about the people who are in hospital beds, alone and wanting to feel their family’s warmth the second the clock strikes twelve? It felt like there was still a void from before. Not everyone is happy. Not everyone is content. Not everyone is full. I could still see the news filled with a rising number of cases, continuous lockdowns, and limitations to keep us all safe.

Still, it amazes me so much how people find the most incredible ways to find joy and hope.

The new year, the fireworks, though bright– it can never match the shining light of hope. No matter how hard it is, the exhaustion and the pain they must endure– they strive to survive.

We all do. How our eyes reflected the different colors beaming at the sky, it also reflected the hope we still have in our hearts. I saw how the fireworks lit up and also saw the hope to see the end of this chapter in the people’s eyes.

The smallest things we do to people who give their all to come back home and give something to eat for their family. Even if we do not have something to give, we have that desire to grant them something, even if it is little. And, they return something even more special. A smile and words of appreciation. The light of kindness showed up in the cruelest times. An ingredient of hope. I actually do believe that hope does not sprout so casually inside our hearts and minds. It is given as an idea of something to see, of something to believe, and of something to achieve. And it is hardened by our thoughts and by the thoughts of others.

Added by the actions and the effort we do.

Hope is not just for one. Hope is meant to be shared. It will wash our blinded eyes. Cover us with warmth from the coldest winds. The grayish sky will slowly change as the colorful rainbow shows itself.

The lights we see in the sky will remind us of the hope that never fades. It may flicker, yes, but it never sets off. We still have the light in our hearts, rekindled with new hope and joy we see around our life. Let us not be afraid to welcome a new chapter in our lives, even if we are in the middle of a pandemic. We may change, but we do not forget that hope is still alive.

Photo from AlekZotoff

Pang-aabusong Sekswal: Sa Likod ng mga Rehas

By Alyssa Micah Tayug

Wala na sila, ngunit hanggang ngayon ay nakalapat pa rin sa akin ang kanilang mga bakas.

Minasdan ko kung paano ilabas ang mga nahatulang guilty sa korteng kinauupuan ko at dalhin papunta sa apat na sulok na nararapat nilang karoonan dahil sa karahasang sekswal na aking natamo mula sa kanila.

Nakatutuwang isiping magbabayad sila sa kanilang ginawa, ngunit bakit tila hindi ako mapanatag nang lubusan?

Ako ang biktima, ngunit pakiramdam ko ay kasama nila akong nagdurusa sa likod ng mga rehas dahil sa takot at pangambang naiwan sa akin.

Iyan ay isa lamang pahapyaw sa pinagdaraanan ng mga nakararanas ng sekswal na pang-aabuso sa kanilang pang-araw-araw na buhay. Ang takot na kanilang nadama mula sa isang tingin, tawag, o haplos na puno ng malisya na kailanman ay hindi nila ninais ay habangbuhay nilang dadalhin sa kanilang kalooban. Kahit saan man sila pumunta, hindi matitinag ang pagkabahala nilang baka mangyari muli ang kanilang kinatatakutan.

Gaya ng alam ng karamihan, ang pangunahing biktima ng ganitong karahasan ay ang mga kababaihan.

Ayon sa pagtatalang ginawa ng United Nations (UN) Women noong Pebrero 2016, pito sa sampung kababaihan edad 12-17 at siyam sa sampu namang edad 18-24 ang nakararanas ng sekswal na pang-aabuso sa mga pampublikong lugar. Gayundin, naitala ng Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) noong 2017 na isa sa apat na mga Pilipinang edad 15-49 ang nakatatanggap ng pisikal, emosyonal, at sekswal na karahasan mula sa kanilang nobyo o asawa.

Photo from Josie Stephens

Bukod pa dito, nakalulungkot isiping maging ang sarili nating pangulo ay lantaran sa ganitong gawain laban sa mga kababaihan.

Sa kaniyang campaign rally noong 2016, inihayag ni Pangulong Duterte ang kaniyang pagkadismaya sa natamong rape at pagkamatay ng isang Australyanang misyonaryo sa Davao, kung saan siya dating alkalde. Dagdag niya, dapat daw ay siya ang nakauna sa naturang biktima. Noong 2017 naman, sa isang pahayag sa mga Pilipinong sundalo ay binigyang-permiso ni Pangulong Duterte ang mga ito na gumahasa ng hanggang tatlong babae. Ilan lamang iyan sa mga sekswal na pang-aabusong ipinakita ng pangulo sa mga kababaihan.

Bagamat lingid sa kaalaman ng nakararami, hindi maitatagong maging ang mga kalalakihan ay hindi nakatatakas sa ganitong karahasan. Sa katunayan, inilantad nina Davis at Miles noong 2019 sa kanilang pag-aaral na 33 sa 51 na mga Pilipinong lalaking karaniwang nakatira sa gilid-gilid ang nakararanas ng sekswal na pangaabuso mula sa mga nakatatanda sa kanila. Ilan sa mga ito ay ipinakikilala sa pornograpiya habang ang iba naman ay ineengganyong makipagtalik kapalit ng pera, pagkain, o di kaya’y anumang regalo. Ang iba naman ay tahasang sekswal na inaabuso nang walang kapalit.

Tunay ngang hindi madaling mamuhay sa isang komunidad na kahit saan ka tumingin ay nariyan ang banta ng karahasang sekswal, anuman ang iyong kasarian. Bilang tugon dito, itinalaga ng National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) sa Estados Unidos noong 2001 ang buwan ng Abril bilang “Sexual Assault Awareness Month” (SAAM) -- isang taunang adbokasiyang naglalayong magpalaganap ng mga paraan upang wakasan ang anumang uri ng sekswal na karahasan sa lahat ng kasarian.

Nauna itong ipalaganap sa Amerika, na kalaunan ay sinuportahan na rin ng iba’t ibang mga bansa. Sa ilalim nito, ineengganyo ang mga mamamayang gumamit ng kulay teal na laso o anumang bagay bilang pagsuporta at isagawa ang mithiin ng naturang kampanya.

Ngayong taon, gamit ang temang “Building Safe Online Spaces Together,” layunin ng NSVRC na gawing ligtas mula sa anumang sekswal na pangaabuso ang bawat isa sa online na setup. Naniniwala ang NSVRC na malaki ang gampanin ng Internet sa paglaganap ng ganitong karahasan sa online world kaya naman ninanais nilang maging ligtas ang lahat ng online users sa anumang uri ng pangaabusong sekswal.

Sa kabila ng kampanyang ito, nawa’y tumimo sa isipan ng nakararami na hindi natatapos sa buwan lamang ng Abril ang mga karahasang sekswal sa buong mundo. Bawat minuto ay may nagiging biktima, kaya nararapat lamang na ipagpatuloy natin ang nasimulang adbokasiya anuman ang panahon. Pakatandaan din sana ng bawat isa na hindi kailanman ninais ng isang biktima na makaranas ng gayong karahasan, dahil tiyak na walang maaabuso kung walang mang-aabuso.

We outgrow them just like we outgrow our clothes. And when road trips get exhausting, we are advised to pull over, rest, and recharge to prevent accidents.

By Pia De Jesus

Photo from Getty Images

They say, “Everything happens for a reason.”

Though, oftentimes, this is what keeps us from tossing and turning at 3 a.m. Is every instance of our lives destined to be, or did I make a foolish mistake again? Our course of existence differs from one to another. Some people undergo a secure and stable ride, a few were fortunate to be in first-class seats, and the other half merely had coverings on their feet. The introduction of the transportation system, beyond any doubt, did much to ameliorate the standard of living. However, the inconvenience we experience in commuting on public transportation is almost inevitable. The icky sensation caused by the scorching hot glaring sun as we walk down the streets, the undefinable redolence, and in peak times, the discomfort in jam-packed vehicles may add to our already pounding head.

What fascinates me is that, occasionally, we would run across a certain somebody in our travels. It may be an old classmate, a distant relative, or a new character who might be an element of change in our next destination. And perhaps, a brief appearance of a compassionate stranger who reminded you that we left your wallet or that your bag had been ripped apart by a robber only moments before. A quick, perplexed contemplation to thank the heavens or construct a hoodoo leaps to mind before resuming the day. The idea is that people you .......

sit with hop on and off. And the most agonizing for us is when those unexpected ones take on a different route. If only I prohibited them from coming in… If only I had known it would come to a halt… If only I were aware… If only I had just been aware… Countless regrets and selfdoubts would inundate our minds, suffocating us into unconsciousness. Is it always up to our own hands, or was it always doomed to be set in stone?

The question of whether we have free will or is everything predetermined is considered one of the eight mysteries of philosophy that may remain enigmatic for all our born days. For ages, countless studies, beliefs, theories, and conjectures have become the premise of discussions. Several scientists, philosophers, and the pious ushered, yet no one could bring humanity together on the same page.

Furthermore, according to fundamental physics, it remains unclear that everything that transpires in the cosmos is inscribed in its initial conditions. If that is the case, constantly selfreproaching for being unsuspecting of our surroundings will make us our worst enemy.

“Not every person we feel something deep and moving with is meant to make a home within us, is meant to be forever,” Bianca Sparacino once stated. Someone will part from your story, and you will leave from someone else’s. It is human nature we all have to learn to live by.

Those who depart are beyond our control. But one thing that is within our arm’s reach is how we respond. To keep going without an afterthought, “Will they return tomorrow, next week, or next year?” is a process toward healing−building strength, accepting what came to be, and being open to possibilities as we march on the road. Each person we encounter leaves something of theirs with us, as we give something from ourselves to them. The new memories that would do our heart’s good or leave a tear streaming down our cheeks, the unprecedented perspectives, approaches to life, insights, and wisdom we obtained, which we should turn into an asset. Always remember to try to see yourself through their eyes. In this way, we can catch sight of how broken or delighted our souls are the minute they depart.

We can use this as fuel to forge ahead in confidence. Because at the end of the day, as grating as it may sound, the only one with the highest probability that will not desert us is ourselves.

So, to the ones we are meant to cross paths with, we thank you for being a part of our ride.

As a consequence of our time together, I have grown to be more empathetic and prudent.

Simultaneously, I also learned not to give everything away easily, always leave something for myself, and better guard my heart but not to the point of seclusion. Indeed, “everything happens for a reason.” It is possible we may never know now why some instances happened the way they did. But one thing is certain: Life is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that we share with others. As long as we are alive, we are bound to encounter, experience, and learn about life together.

Where Do We Go From Here?

By Bhea Miranda

I have built my life around a single dream—to become a physician. I gradually cemented the path toward that goal; I excelled in my studies, tried to involve myself in extracurricular activities, and maintained a good relationship with both family and friends. I brazenly aspired to enter one of the best universities in the country. Since I wanted to stand out among the selection pool, I did my best. I studied even if everyone else was asleep, and the darkness of the night crept its way inside our home except for the light in my room. I set everything aside for a week to meticulously craft a meaningful essay for the admissions office. I believed that this was the one perfect thing that could turn my life around and bridge the gap between my yearning self and the dream of a lifetime. I can imagine it—a life in that college—so vividly. I was ready to embrace the success of my past, present, and future endeavors. Until it is no longer possible to do so, as life is far from sweet, and the system can be quite cruel. I was rejected. Reading the words, “We regret to inform you…” shattered my happiness into millions of irretrievable pieces. I could barely stomach the anxiety of anticipation, more so, the tragedy of rejection. I had failed to read the ...................

entirety of the letter as I was immediately consumed by immeasurable sadness and exhaustion. My vision was blurry, literally and figuratively. I could only sit in one corner of my room, suffocating from the weight of my emotions. It felt like every second I spent working went down the drain. I was a failure, and no amount of words could fix that. My ideal world crumbled in an instant, and I had no idea where to go from here.

Sobriety is a curse when I am overcome with grief. The aftermath of rejection heightens the presence of silence. There, in those moments, I found myself unable to distinguish the bitterness of my tears from that of the alcohol I drank. I could not think, and I did not want to think. No star in the sky can brighten the miserable night; no blanket can warm the loneliness and cold tones of the room. With a heavy heart and swollen eyes, I slept the pain away. In my dreams, I was drowning; I was mourning the life I could no longer live. Amid the somberness, I felt lost, walking to nowhere.

For a few days, I had no direction and destination in mind.

The only way to escape the maze of my thoughts is to willingly face what lies ahead. I needed to acknowledge the doubts and uncertainties. When most of the monumental events of my life occurred in academia, the place where I was recognized, it was so easy to reduce one’s worth on a result beyond our control. The thing is, we are more than our accomplishments on paper. Our dreams are bigger than any unexpected setbacks we encounter. In the face of challenges, it is essential for us to transform them into learning opportunities. My rejection was a chance to contemplate and retrace the reason behind my desire to heal. There are certain realizations that we will only make when we stumble and fall from the highs. It was during those times, I had to rekindle the flames of my passion and strengthen the tender heart. In the pursuit of my future, I must not do it for prestige. It is always for the people.

So, where do we go from here? The sole answer is toward our dreams, where we are meant to be. Believe and trust that things will fall into place. A redirection in life will make our success sweeter. Padayon!

Wielding Blind Faith

By Bhea Miranda

If a prophet wills your death as the ultimate sacrifice to the Creator, will you acquiesce? To what extent will you let faith direct your actions?

We as a collective live in-between the subjective and objective truths of life. And to believe in these verities is what propels us to continue when faced with the greatest tragedies. At the same time, chaos can originate from clashing truths. Humanity will thrive, suffer, and live as long as faith persists.

Blind faith is intrinsically robust. The very core of its existence is devoid of rationality. It does not depend on empirical evidence to influence the mind. In fact, the boundless potential of blind faith is evident in how the different aspects of society function. We have the idea of justice, laws, and rights that people perpetually pursue because of a divine and/or natural law that we consciously choose to believe in. Our longstanding systems are built from the imagination of the human brain. For instance, banknotes do not have an inherent value.

It is simply another type of paper made from plant fibres. But because we maintained that these pieces of paper have a particular cost, we had managed to externalise this idea and incorporate it into the machinery of society as currency effectively replaced the barter system. We blindly follow the system, either because there is a genuine belief, for the sake of customs, or in fear of retribution. Generally, blind faith drives our society forward toward a future. As individuals, we derive strength from it to stomp on the rough patches in everyday life. It can be a blessing that will lead us to manifest our dreams as it fuels our deliberate decision to face incertitude because we trust the universe, God, or fate for that matter, to be in our favour.

Conversely, blind faith can be a curse—a harbinger of disastrous consequences as it extends itself to cults and other complex groups (e.g., terrorist organisations). Supposedly the foundation of unity behind thousands and millions of followers, manipulation of members can be entirely possible and easy for a single charismatic leader. The results from such machinations, however, are devastating and terrifying. History warns us of this peril. In the case of Adolf Hitler, his ideology and propaganda built an army that eradicated innumerable lives of Jews, prisoners, and other victims of war. Bigotry can incite genocide. Blind faith is hideous in this way. Although it is strong, it remains malleable like metals. And humans may shape it to forms they desire, whether it may be ethical or unethical.

Blind faith is a double-edged sword that can create miracles and bring forth destruction. In the current political affairs of the Philippines, citizens are susceptible to naively glorifying and following candidates of questionable integrity and competence. The echoes of delusions are deafening; their twisted morals and words pollute the air, concealing our sight. They will strike to gouge the eyes until we rely on nothing but corrupted beliefs. So, we must heed their lies, take action, and break free from the horrors of blind faith.

Photo from Getty Images

A Breath of a Thousand and More

By Jann Michael Gomez

A great number of scientists were arrested last April 6, 2022 due to civil disobedience. These scientists held a protest to spread awareness of what’s happening on Earth. They’ve become desperate because the dangers of these climates are needed to be addressed as soon as possible.

The current critical status of the Earth pushed these scientists to proceed in their protest. They are terrified for what could possibly happen for the next years of our living here on Earth if we don’t do anything about it. According to the report, we are left 3 years to curb these greenhouse gas emissions to avoid more severe climate disasters.

Climate change is the alteration of weather patterns globally or regionally. Oftentimes, it is sometimes called global warming because the effect of greenhouse gases causes to increase global temperature. Since the year 1985, when the hole in the ozone layer was first discovered, ...

men and women of science are finding numerous ways to contradict the devastating effects of climate change and global warming, rising sea levels due to melting ice caps, however, this efforts of theirs cannot show results if we are mediocre about it. The emission of greenhouse gases is resulting in the destruction of a portion of our ozone layer that keeps our Earth cool and protected from heat.

Human activities are mainly the reason for these emissions; carbon emissions from car exhausts, methane and nitrous oxide from agricultural activities, and fossil fuels such as coal, oil, gas, and peat in factory that greatly contributes to these greenhouse gases.

The danger that climate change brings to humanity is immeasurable if not prevented as soon as possible. To keep our planet sustainable for life, we need to make our move in this ..............

A Celestial Parade

present time to make a change for the future. As of now, we are limited to 3 years give or take to make a change and extend the life of our planet before we can experience disasters that cannot be manageable. This matter should not be ignored because the future generation and the future of life are dependent on the movement that we are going to take.

It is not yet too late to flip things around, we can still make our planet healthier and better. Through unity and hard work of each and everyone of us, we can help our mother earth. Even a little help that we can do can make a great impact for a greater chance of our planet surviving. Aside from individual manpower, this is also a call for companies that utilize fossil fuels who greatly contributes in this disaster that we are facing. We can still make a change for our world, let us work together, and let us help our mother earth breathe.

Photo from Getty Images

By Aleeana Agustin

Ever heard of a planet parade that happened last December 2004? Well, another surprise was unveiled in the month of June. A proof that we are a part of something bigger— something magical.

After 18 years, the five brightest planets lined up in a row for an extraordinary planetary conjunction visible with the naked eye. Sky-watchers will be given this rare chance to witness the major planets in our solar system assembled— with the moon joining this euphoric reunion.

This rare alignment involves the five planets easily spotted with the naked eye: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. Space Scientist and Chief Stargazer at The Society for Popular Astronomy Professor Lucie Green explained, “The planets appear "like a string of pearls spread out from close to the horizon.” The brilliant Venus being the brightest and Mercury being the faintest, all named planets ..... are bright enough to be seen even in slightly polluted city skies. The celestial bodies will appear to be arranged across the sky in the same order as their distance from the sun, making it a more special and spectacular event.

What makes this a rare encounter? Well, two or three planets huddled together are the norm but five? Now that is a celestial parade. The last time this phenomenon happened was way back in December 2004. This planetary alignment can be glimpsed by the majority of the world’s population, although some will be better positioned than others. The best view will be centered in the localities of the tropics in the Southern Hemisphere.

However, no matter where you are in the world, this parade of planets will be hard to miss as the grand sky show is easy to see with unaided eyes. Of course, a pair of binoculars will enhance your visualization more. Nonetheless, this opportunity is rare, and you have to wait until 2040 as scientists predicted for the next celestial parade.

Inhabitants on mars are nearing, or is it?

By Jann Michael Gomez

Elon Musk has been working for years to extend humanity’s living to another planet, specifically on Mars. With the help of Space X, the private spaceflight company established last 2002 that manufactures spacecraft, space launch providers, and a satellite communication corporation that aims to colonize the Red Planet – Mars in the future.

"The reason SpaceX was created was to accelerate the development of rocket technology, all for the goal of establishing a self-sustaining, permanent base on Mars," Musk said All these years, Space X has been progressing in creating possible aircraft that could transport people from Earth to Mars. In 2016, a space rocket named Interplanetary Transport System or ITS, which is a larger version of Falcon 9 was mentioned

by Musk. This ship could accommodate at least 100 people per flight. The year after that, Musk mentioned another system called the Big Falcon Rocket or BFR, which has 40 cabins for passengers and a capacity of 100 people. In 2019, the first FBR was renamed Starship Mk1 with the change in its material from expensive carbon fiber to stainless steel. This craft is being assembled in the facility of SpaceX in South Texas. Recently, this February 2022, it may be possible to reach a launch rate of one Starship vehicle every six to eight hours, and one Super Heavy rocket every hour, on missions that would send up to 150 tons of payload to orbit.

Such a high launch rate is expected to bring down costs, Musk said, making Mars settlements more financially feasible.

After all the years of progress of Musk with these ships, The rocket Starship is nearing to launch with the approval of the Federal Aviation Administration for orbital launches on Starbase in South Texas. The starship is a huge reusable rocket-spaceship that is said to take people and payloads to the moon, Mars, and beyond. However, the setup on Starbase has some drawbacks to the environment and to wildlife near the location. This is the factor that hurdles the Starship from continuing its launching. Though the orbital launch is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, the environmental and wildlife consequences of the activities near the Starbase needs to be considered.

With all the issues that Starbase has been facing with the environmental and wildlife consequences of the activities in the location. Musk has decided to move the Starship operation to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. SpaceX may also attempt to conduct operations offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, Mississippi’s Port of Pascagoula, and the two oil rigs owned by SpaceX; Phobos and Deimos. These platforms could accommodate the needs for the operation of Starship that Kennedy Space Center can’t support. Nonetheless, the Starbase on Boca Chica will serve as a Research and Development center for future rocket builds of SpaceX. Thousands of Starships would be leaving the Earth carrying people to Mars to migrate and start a living is how Musk envisions the future. But in order for this to happen, launch platforms are needed, such as in Texas, Florida, and as well as offshore platforms.

Photo from SpaceX

Photo from Adobe Stock

Monkeypox: Another virus to look out for

By Jann Michael Gomez

Coronavirus or CoViD-19 made a huge impact on the lives of people worldwide. This air-borne transmitted disease caused people to lock their homes to protect themselves from this virus. It has not yet come to an end, but another virus should be looked out for, according to public health officials, which is the Monkey Pox Virus.

strain, flu-like symptoms followed by a rash on the face which can spread to other parts of the body. This rash transforms from red spots to pusfilled blisters that eventually scab and fall off.

These symptoms usually fade after a few weeks, but they are fatal in about three percent of the cases. For the Congo Basin monkeypox strain, it is more severe, and it causes death to nearly 10 The first case of this virus has been recorded last percent of those infected. Another strain that is a May 7 this year in the United Kingdom, and ever close relative of monkeypox that has been since, epidemiologist Andrea McCollum has been eradicated in 1979 is more fatal, causing death to hands-on with keeping an eye on it. The said case 30 percent of those who acquired it. of the patient has been confirmed that it has taken a trip to Nigeria, where the virus may have been accumulated. The rise of cases has been This virus is different from CoVid-19, SARS-CoV 2 inevitable, between the date of May 13 and 24, at infects the RNA while monkeypox infects the least 16 countries in Europe and North America, DNA. With this, monkeypox is less likely to as well as Australia and Israel, reported more mutate and generate more variants. It also differs than 250 confirmed and suspected monkeypox in transmission because this virus is dependent cases. Most of these confirmed cases have been on close physical contact and skin-to-skin contact reported from Europe, particularly U.K, Spain, with the infected. It can also be transmitted through contaminated clothing or bedding. and Portugal.

Unlike Covid, which is an air-borne disease that A person who acquired this virus may can be accumulated through cough, sneezing, or experience the following; for the West African speaking. ...........

The severity of treatment in monkeypox is not as much in Covid. Not all patients are hospitalized, and most of them get better without treatment and by isolating themselves at home for three weeks. In the U.K., Infected people are suggested to quarantine for 21 days. And in the U.S, people are advised to take vaccines instead of having quarantine.

There are vaccines that are available for this virus, such as; Jynneos that is approved by Food and Drug Administration for Bavarian Nordic’s monkeypox strain, and ACAM2000, which is approved for smallpox that can also be used.

However, no medication has been approved to treat monkeypox.

Experts are still alarmed even though the virus hasn’t spread worldwide, the possibility for it to develop is concerning until this outbreak is not yet finished. “it’s just never good when a virus that’s been in an animal reservoir is now circulating more and more in people.” stated by Philippe Selhorst, a virologist at the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Belgium.

Asa Miller Ski To 2022 Winter Olympics

By Ailyn Faith Robles

Asa Miller becomes the first Filipino Alpine skier to compete for two editions at the Winter Olympics after meeting the qualification standard for slalom and giant slalom events.

The 21-year-old Alpine skier garnered 68.56 points in slalom and 68.83 points in the giant slalom in the competitions he participated in to qualify for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

He formally declared his second straight Olympic stint on his official Instagram account last December 21.

“Hi everyone! I’m extremely excited to announce that I will be making my second Olympic appearance in Beijing 2022! Big thank you to everyone who’s helped me on my skiing journey so far,” Miller said.

The Oregon-native Olympian first waved the Philippine flag in the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, where he placed 70th out of 110 skiers in the giant slalom tournament.

He became the second athlete to participate in two Winter editions after figure skater Michael Christian Martinez competed in the 2014 Sochi and 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Games.

The Filipino-American will be the sole athlete to represent our country in this year’s Olympics after scoring 160 qualification points or lower in the two events and being granted one quota slot by the International Ski Federation, according to the Philippine Ski and Snowboard Federation President Jim Apelar.

Miller is currently in Salt Lake City, Utah, and looking forward to performing better in Beijing from February 4 to 20.

Photo from Asa Miller

Photo from Asian Football Confederation

PH Women's Football Team Seals First World Cup Slot vs Chinese Taipei

By Biel Catipon

The Philippine Women's National Football Team (PWNFT) made history as they secured a ticket to the FIFA Women's World Cup, edging Chinese Taipei, 4-3 in a penalties shoot-out during the Quarter Finals of Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women's Asian Cup at Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in India last January 30.

During the first half of the normal time, no one got a score, but the Philippines was on top for a long period as they kept pressuring the opponent, but Chinese Taipei still stood their ground.

The second half of the normal time was much better, especially with the early shot on goal by Philippines' Quezada at the 49-minute mark, 10, giving her team a 1-point edge.

After that goal from the Philippines, Chinese Taipei started to put a bit of pressure on the opponent. Eventually, eight minutes before the end, Zhuo Li-Ping managed to equalize the game with her fantastic strike from way outside the box.

In the final minutes, there were several times when the Philippines almost got the ball in ...............

the back of the net, but Chinese Taipei's solid goalkeeper Cheng Ssu-Yu easily saved the shots.

An extra time was given as the teams were even in scores, but it was still a goalless draw, just breaking up the game by some substitution in team members and injury strategies. A clash at the 103-minute mark between Chen Ying-Hui and Sarina Bolden led to a free-kick to the Chinese Taipei.

After 120 minutes of football and still with tie scores, 1-1, the tournament proceeded to the penalty shoot-out, which was a best of five.

The first two shots on goals of both teams were successful, but at the third turn of the Philippines, Cheng Ssu-Yu saved the goal of Jessica Anne Miclat, 2-3, putting Chinese Taipei ahead.

In the fourth turn of each team, the scores remained as Chinese Taipei's Hsu Yi-Yun missed her spot-kick, and the opponent's goalie still blocked the Philippines' Hali Long's attempt.

In the team's fifth turn, fate started to turn as ...............

Olivia McDaniel thwarted the opponent's shot.

She cracked the opponent's defense in the Philippines' fifth penalty kick, 3-3, making the standing even again.

At the Chinese Taipei's last turn, Zhuo Li-Ping failed to score as Olivia McDaniel blocked it again, making three misses in a row.

On the last turn of the Philippines, Sarina Bolden succeeded in finishing a goal, 4-3, giving her country the victory in the quarter-final round.

The matchwinner, Bolden, sent the Philippines team into ecstasy as they exploded in celebration.

Team Philippines or "Filipinas (formerly known as Malditas)" are expected to partake in the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2023 and will advance to the semi-finals on February 3, competing with South Korea.

No Philippine football team, men's or women's, has ever advanced to football's most prestigious competition prior to this, making it the country's first-ever participation in a FIFA World Cup.

Photo from MPL Philippines

By Biel Catipon

The SIBOL Mobile Legend: Bang Bang (MLBB) players demolished Indonesia as they retained the gold medal, 3-1, in the best-of-5 grand finals in the 31st Southeast Asian Games held at Hanoi, Vietnam.

The Philippines' representatives, Blacklist International, is composed of Johnmar "OhmyV33nus" Villaluna, Danerie James "Wise" Del Rosario, Kyle Dominic "Dominic" Soto, Lee Howard "Owl" Gonzales, Salic "Hadji" Imam, and Russel Aaron "Eyon" Usi. The series started off hot with both teams in the first game. Gonzales top-scored using Wanwan in their team's victory, having nine kills with one death and six assists. At the same time, Del Rosario used Baxia to bait the opponent to kill ..........

the lord several times. Indonesia managed to steal the fourth lord, but the Philippines still ended the game as they wiped out the other team, 17-8, giving them a 1-point lead in the whole series.

Sanz of Indonesia carried the team using Xavier, securing a clean 4-0-10 KDA. Indonesia's XavierFranco combo sealed its team victory in the second game, 10-18, evening the scores.

The gold medal match's tension only increased during the third game of the series. For most of the early minutes, Indonesia got the superiority as they cleared the Philippines' turrets and wiped them out at the 16-minute mark. However, the Philippines clutched as they defended themselves from the enemy's lord,

pushing the mid-lane turrets and wiping Indonesia out, tearing the opponent, 24-26, changing the game with 2-1 standing.

The series ended with the Philippines eliminating Indonesia in almost 11-minute gameplay.

Gonzales used Beatrix to have a triple kill, followed by Imam's (Xavier) Dawning Light to kill Indonesia's Baxia, allowing the Philippines to immediately end the game with 7-2, which led to a base-rush victory.

This celebrates the second gold medal for the country in MLBB, as the Philippines also won the championship back in the 2019 SEA Games held in the country. ...................................................

Photo from Penn State University Athletics

By Aleeana Agustin

SEA Games fencing gold medalist Samantha Catantan eyes for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

But without financial support, the fencing ace’s quest for the Olympics would be a pipe dream.

Catantan bagged the national team its only gold medal in the Hanoi SEA Games. The aficionado’s next step would be to participate in the World Fencing Championship set from July 15 to July 23 in Cairo Egypt to keep her Olympics dream on the agenda.

The athlete expressed that if she fails to participate in the tournament in Egypt, the points she garnered in the Asian Fencing Championships (AFC) could be wasted. She earned ranking points after placing 13th in the women’s swordsmanship during the AFC last June 10 to June 15 in Seoul, South Korea.

Catantan aims to raise roughly $3,000 for the Cairo tournament in the hopes of jacking up her ranking points for a chance at the Paris Olympics.

By Aleeana Agustin

The Olympian missed out on two tournaments after contracting COVID-19.

Prior to testing positive EJ Obiena bagged a gold medal in the European City of Sports in L’Aquila, Italy with a record of 5.85m.

Proving himself once again, Obiena procured his latest gold medal at the recent Taby Stavhoppsgala in Sweden.

The ace came up .01 short to outdo his personal best record of 5.93 he set in a meet in Austria back in 202. Up to date, 5.93 is the established standard in Asian men’s pole vault.

The distinguished Filipino pole vault attempted to surpass the record by setting the bar at 6.01m but fell short in all three attempts during the meet.

Photo from University of Santo Tomas

Photo from Klutch Basket

By Aleeana Agustin

Kai Sotto, a former Ateneo high school star and the first Filipino talent to be drafted in the NBA, failed to secure a team in the 2022 NBA Rookie Draft at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

The basketball star paved his way as he played for the Adelaide 36ers in the Australia National Basketball League stint. Despite his impressive performance, his name was not recognized by Commissioner Adam Silver and deputy Mark Tatum during the picks.

In the face of dismay, Sotto still has his chance to impress coaches, general managers, and scouts if he bags the opportunity to play in the NBA Summer League in July.

Paolo Banchero, an American-Italian player, was the top pick and will be joining the Orlando Magic. Chet Holmgren, an American player, was chosen by Oklahoma City as the second overall pick. The third overall pick American player, Jabari Smith Jr., was drafted by the Houston Rockets.

By Aleeana Agustin

National University’s Lady Bulldogs star Bella Belen makes history as she bagged the title Rookie of the Year award and MVP honor in the ceremony before Game 2 of the UAAP Season 84.

The 19-year-old rising star, in her freshman year, also reigned as the 1st Best Outside Hitter plum to round out her impressive pull of three individual awards.

NU’s dominance in the season came with no surprise as the Lady Bulldogs are determined to end their 65-year title drought.

Belen set off as the first NU player to take home the top individual awards since Jaja Santiago in UAAP Season 80 back in 2018.

Four other players, namely Jennifer Nierva, Alyssa Solomon, Camille Lamina, and Princess Anne Robles, bagged individual awards.

Photo from University Athletic Association of the Philippines

A.Y. 2021-2022 • 2ND SEMESTER

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Photo from Instagram | elpams_pamisa

TheEscolarian.org

Photo from Instagram @elpams_pamisa

By Ailyn Faith Robles

Eljay Pamisa bagged the silver medal after suffering a loss to Uzbek boxer Abduvali Buriboev on a 2-3 close split decision (SD) in the men’s youth bantamweight finals of the 2022 Asian Confederation Boxing Championships (ASBC) Asian Youth & Junior Boxing Championships held at the Al Hussein Sports City in Amman, Jordan on March 14.

The ASBC Asian Youth & Junior Boxing Championships gathered 355 competitors hailed from 21 different countries. Boxers born in 2004 and 2005 are eligible to participate in the youth category, while those born during 2006 and 2007 could partake in the junior classification.

outboxed the host country's Habeeblibzo and Nima Beygi of Iran with a unanimous decision in the quarterfinals and semifinals, respectively. He unleashed his powerful counter-attacks and excellent footwork to uppercut his Asian Youth championship campaign and advance to the gold medal bout of the event for fighters who belong in the 54kg weight class.

He became scheduled to share the ring with the boxer from Uzbekistan after Buriboev's win in his protest when he lost to India's Anand Yadav in the thrilling semis with an SD.

after winning the second spot in when he still fights in the 46kg in Al Fujairah, United Arab Emirates in 2019.

Yadav and Beygi both finished third place after they failed to reach the final match of the Asian Youth Championships.

Other Filipino representatives who showcased their boxing prowess in the event are junior fighters Robert Malunoc Jr., Justine Valero, and Van Hendriche Abing, who competed in the 46kg, 48kg, and 50kg, respectively. Also, youth boxers Reymond Lofranco and John Wayne Vicera, who fought in the minimumweight and flyweight, respectively.

Pamisa tried his best to hook the gold medal in The young rising boxing star started feebly after the championship round, but Buriboev narrowly beating Kyrgyz Chomonov Askatbek in preponderated to emerge as the champion for The two-time silver medalist strives to finally the preliminary stage with a 3-2 result on the the bantamweight division. clinch the gold medal in the next year’s edition of second day of the tournament.

The Cagayan De Oro native’s settlement for silver the ASBC Asian Youth & Junior Boxing The 17-year-old Filipino amateur youth boxer was a repeated feat for him Championships. ............ ..............................................