The Fortress Digital School Newspaper (Vol. 1 No. 1) by The Fortress

What’s Inside:

Project GOALS In Reading: Pandemic Series

Project RADIOS: Students’ Learning Aid

EDITORIAL 3 VOLUME 1. NO.1

The Intelligence We, Humans, Have

FEATURES 8 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF TIBAG HIGH SCHOOL

THE FORTRESS EXCELLENCE BEYOND WORDS

SCI-TECH 17

Tibag HS Teachers bring modules closer to learners Paul Joseph S. De Jesus Tibag High School (THS) teachers supported the DepEd’s program, “Sulong Edukalidad’’ by conducting an outreach activity to deliver the learning modules to students in far-flung barangays, held in the first quarter of the school year 2020-2021. The teachers’ initiative provided the learners an opportunity to continue their education amidst the pandemic.

LEARNING IN THE NEW NORMAL. Stephanie A. Maxaraeg,

Grade 11 - Fleming, answers her Learning Activity Sheets (LAS) while listening to the discussions on RBI.

Project RADIOS eyes learning continuity amid pandemic Fiona E. Ramirez To address the academic needs of learners during the pandemic, Tibag High School initiates project RADIOS (Remote Alternative Delivery Instruction and Optimization on Schooling). Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban, school head of THS, is the proponent of the project. The goal of the project is to cater the learning needs of the students as they answer the activities in the learning activity sheets (LAS). According to Dr. Esteban, Radio-Based Instruction (RBI) is one of the learning supplementary modalities the school implemented. It was being aired on THS Numero Uno:

Doble Otso (88.0 FM) Radyong Totoo, the official radio station of the school and combined with Facebook live streaming in the official THS page. This project aims to aid students on the printed modular distance learning modality of the school. Marianne N. Wage, one of the teacherradio broadcasters, said “These trying times should not prevent us from providing quality education to learners and one good way to supplement the printed modules being given is the RBI with live streaming through the school’s FB page. Through these supplementary modalities, the learners are further guided and given interactive activities that allow for a deeper understanding of the lessons found in the LAS.” Radio teaching episodes are provided for students from different nearby barangays

Based on the DepEd order no. 012 s. of 2020 or the “ Adoption of the Basic Learning Continuity Plan” for the school year 2020-2021 considering the COVID -19 public health emergency, all stakeholders, staff, and learners should observe the health protocols and ensure their safety to continue the education through K-12 curriculum adjustments. In response, Tibag High School promotes the Sulong Edukalidad to provide the quality education despite the threats and challenges caused by the pandemic. Jump to pg. 2

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within the (5) kilometer radius of Tibag High School. The project RADIOS made learning at reach where various teachers discuss lessons to guide students regarding their Learning Activity Sheets (LAS).

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Brigada Eskwela ‘20 donations, amount to PHP 149k

Yuri Kimo Robles, Grade 12 HUMSS student of THS, said, “It helps us when we don’t understand the modules and it is effective because we can be guided about our lessons as the teacher gives us clearer instructions about the activities that we don’t understand.”

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Mayor Cristy Angeles supports learners in distance education

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Very useful, survey says; THSians’ perception on usefulness of RBI

THS stakeholders, students, parents, guardians, faculty and staff are the ones who benefit from these supplementary modalities implemented by the school to ensure that education is unimpeded.

UP Sandiwa initiates '21 Pataasandiwa tilt;

THS clutches 2nd place in digital poster making of Tarlac regardless of the challenges they are facing right now.

Lucky E. Tabamo & Krisha Jen C. Corcuerra Tibag High School bagged the 2nd placer award in the Senior High School digital poster making contest as part of the UP Pataasandiwa 2021: Lockdown Competition last March 6-7, 2021 via zoom. The goal of Pataasandiwa 2021 is to showcase the speaking and writing skills of high school students from the Province

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"I find this competition difficult because it is an online and on-the-spot competition. I really felt pressured and challenged while I'm competing. In spite of the pressure, I really enjoyed this event because I was able to showcase my talent and represent my school." - Vonne Orly Sadumiano, 2nd Placer of Digital Poster Making (SHS), uttered.

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THS faces new normal learning; stude number continues to increase An increase of 8.2% or 201 students was accumulated in Tibag High School (THS) on the conducted survey of enrollees from S.Y. 2019-2020 to S.Y. 2020-2021 in Junior High School and Senior High School. Follow story on pg. 3

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Sitio Paroba II, Tibag, Tarlac City

2 News

October 2020 to May 2021

Brigada Eskwela ‘20 donations, amount to PHP 149k

COMMUNITY DONATIONS. A representative from the

city government signs the deed of donation of plastic envelopes together with the assistance of the Brigada Eskwela chairperson, Michael G. Ocoma.

SK Tibag supports students by providing learning kits

Lucky E. Tabamo In preparation for the opening of the school year 2020-2021, Tibag High School (THS) received Php 148, 520 worth of donations during the Brigada Eskwela 2020. As stipulated in the DepEd Memo No. 32, s. 2020 or commonly known as the “2020 Oplan Balik Eskwela”, Department of Education releases the “Joint Implementing Guidelines on the 2020 Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela Relative to the COVID-19 Situation” or DepEd Memorandum no. 58, 2020, amending the DepEd Memorandum No. 32, s. 2020 “2020 Brigada Eskwela Program Implementing Guidelines and DepEd Memorandum No. 14, s. 2020” titled “2020 Oplan Balik Eskwela,” this

activity is designed to assist stakeholders in preparing for this school year under COVID-19 pandemic. Local government, teachers, and private individuals donated essential supplies consisting of facemasks, face shields, sanitations mats and supplies, alcohols, bond papers, printing inks, and plastic envelopes. Financial assistance was also received by the school from different companies such as Sitel and Jollibee Corporation. According to Michael G. Ocoma, Brigada Eskwela chairperson, "Our resources are limited due to the pandemic, and this school year has been challenging, but with the assistance of our Mayor Cristy

Tibag HS Teachers bring modules closer to learners... From pg. 1

THS also delivered a new version in distributing the learning materials to the barangay with the different safety protocols, observed by the stakeholders and the students in relevance to the school year’s opening. The self-learning materials (SLM) and DepEd textbooks were distributed to 125 learners of Tibag High School with the assistance of the barangay officials of Tibagan, Care, Sapang Maragul, San Pablo, San Jose de

Urquico, and other places, distant from the school. The THS personnel reported to the school to sort and pack the modules in an envelope before distributing these learning materials to the students per barangay. Furthermore, the faculty staff are off to visit the learners in distant places to hand the learning materials. Dr. Velvet C. Alva, one of the head teachers, emphasized that education is one of the keys in producing productive

Angeles and stakeholders, the school is doing well." “Some of the cash donations collected in Brigada Eskwela were used to buy rain catcher, which is used to collect and restore the rainwater that can be used in future.” Michael Ocoma added. The rain catcher or rain barrels are located near the covered area that are connected to the pipeline in every building. Due to the pandemic, this school year made numerous adjustments but with the unity and solidarity of the Tarlac City community, the school brigada gained assistance this year. THS still accepts donations of different material up until today.

citizens in our country, and many students would want to pursue their education despite the challenges this pandemic continually poses. She also added that delivering basic quality education has been more challenging on the part of the school personnel. Yet, Tibag High School is trying its best to resolve them in the best way it can. Moreover, THS faculty and staff aim to provide quality education to every learner. The said program shall continue until the end of the school year with the barangay officials’ partnership to help the learners continue their quality education despite the struggles in this new normal setting.

‘The Fortress’ marks history as THS’ first-ever English school newspaper Yuri Kimo E. Robles The Fortress made history in Tibag High School as its first-ever English school newspaper which aims to deliver news reports regarding school events and activities through a Facebook page despite the COVID-19 pandemic. In line with the Republic Act No. 7079 or the "Campus Journalism Act of 1991," The Fortress protects the press freedom even at the campus level. The writers develop and strengthen their ethical values, creative thinking, and moral character by writing articles. Mariechris M. David, the school paper

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adviser of The Fortress, stated "I was really grateful because this opportunity will hone the students' writing skills, especially in the field of journalism. I am also excited to work with the students amid the pandemic. It will be an avenue for them to discover their potential as campus journalists." David also shared the preparation on the school publication, "We had series of meetings for the creation of The Fortress. We also consulted our school head and consultants. After the planning, we have decided to formulate the Editorial Board and staff. The preparation became harmonious because of the collaboration and interest of the

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students," she uttered. With the help and support of The Fortress school paper adviser, Mariechris David, and her co-adviser, Rose Anne Gonzales, along with THS consultants and school head's assistance, Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban, the English school publication was successfully implemented. The editorial board and staff is headed by the first Editor in Chief, Vonne Orly O. Sadumiano. They are posting e-school news on their Facebook page to give updates to the school and community.

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Alyzza F. Villapando Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) of Barangay Tibag launched the project "School Kit," wherein SK officials donated over 400 school kits to college students. This project by the SK Council and Barangay Council was headed by SK Chairman, Dave Basilio with the support of Hon. Brgy. Captain, Tito Mallari and his councilors. The school kits contain earphones, tripods, yellow paper, notebooks, and pens, that were distributed to the learners last November 5-6, 2020. "This is very important to us because it will help the students in our barangay. This project will support them in their studies, especially in this time of the pandemic." SK chairman, Dave Basilio said. Moreover, the council also expressed gratitude to the Sigma Nu Confraternity and the members of KKDAT (Youth Against Drugs and Terrorism) for their help in implementing the project, which was posted on their official page – Sangguniang Kabataan ng Barangay Tibag - Tarlac City. In regulations of Republic Act No. 10742, known as the "Sangguniang Kabataan reform act of 2015," this is to constitute and recognize the vital role of the youth in nation-building. The Sangguniang Kabataan was established for a primary purpose to formulate programs that would answer and address the actual needs of the youth of Tibag.

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

NEWS

October 2020 to May 2021

Project E.M.P.O.W.E.R helps THSians improve reading skills Marcos S. Quiballo With the goal to improve the reading skills of THSians, project E.M.P.O.W.E.R. (Empowering the Mind towards a Positive Outlook despite the World Pandemic through Effective Reading) was proposed last March 2021 by Eugene S. Yango, Master Teacher I in English. According to the DepEd Order No. 173 Order No. 173 s. 2019, H.A.M.O.N.: BAWAT BATA BUMABASA (3Bs), there is a need to address learning gaps by strengthening every learner’s reading proficiency and nurturing a culture of reading which is required in all learning areas. The project EMPOWER emphasizes this need to eradicate the number of non-readers and lessen the number of frustrated readers.

The learners were identified as independent, instructional, frustrated and non-reader. After the non-readers are identified, they will be classified by the following as CLASS A who can read syllables and simple words but cannot read long and difficult words, as CLASS B who can read letters but cannot read syllables, and CLASS C who cannot read letters. Teacher-broadcasters serve as language teachers, who guide the students in pronouncing the sounds of letters and words properly. The project was proposed to improve the reading performance and enhance students’ reading skills for them to become successful and effective readers.

The reading remediation advisers, together with the language teachers per grade level, collaborated in the conduct of reading assessment and interventions.

THS clutches 2nd place in digital poster making... From pg. 1

Sadumiano added that he did his best in this competition because it is just a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity, his coach is Marianne N. Wage. According to Marianne Wage, it was not that difficult for her to train Vonne because he has the appropriate gadgets and applications for creating the outputs. She added that they explored the possible topics before the competition. There are 6 categories where the THSians participated, Extemporaneous speaking (English & Filipino); Essay Writing (English & Filipino); and Poster Making (Traditional & Digital). The top 3 winners of the Pataansandiwa are considered finalists in the national competition, UP Pataasanlahi.

Robles (Left) and Harley Ancheta (Right), both grade 12 HUMSS students, collaborate with one another in accomplishing their task to make a digital newspaper after their webinar on their category.

DepEd Region 3 trains campus journalists to strengthen skills Yuri Kimo B. Robles Amidst the pandemic, Department of Education (DepEd) Region 3 conducted a 2-day regional online training and workshop last November 26-27, 2020, which aims to enhance and develop the writing skills of campus journalists throughout the whole region. The program was held via google meet headed by Mr. Allen Ray Belisario with the assistance of Mrs. Diana Cauguiran and Mr. Mon Ferdinand Prado.

Eugene S. Yango, the proponent of the project E.M.P.O.W.E.R, said “The project E.M.P.O.W.E.R. is an activity proposal that provides students for the primary purpose of increasing reading levels. It involves the reading abilities, strengths, weaknesses, and development of the learners.” He also added that for the implementation of this activity proposal, the collaboration of teachers, learners, and their families is needed. The project utilized the assessment tool which was taken from the Philippine Informal Reading Inventory (PHIL-IRI) provided by the Department of Education. The assessment material is composed of three pages that contain the following: 1) reading text, 2) comprehension questions, and 3) answer key and rubric.

PAPER MATES. Participants in the online publishing category, Yuri

LEVEL OF LEARNERS’ READING SKILLS.

One of the JHS students, reads the passages provided by her language teachers to determine her classification in reading proficiency.

was conducted virtually.” According to Rose Anne Gonzales, coach of the online publishing category. “It's really an honor to be one of the attendees of the workshop training in campus journalism that time. I gained a lot of knowledge on campus journalism because of the training workshop. All the things that I've learned from that training help me in guiding the writers in composing and writing their articles.”

The said online training and workshop pursued to update participants on the latest trends, approaches, and principles This training is in line with the Regional of journalistic writing in view of the new normal in education. It also promotes the Memorandum 333, s. 2020 or titled as “Online Training and Workshop on Campus right access of information, knowledge, and Journalist,” in consonance with the Republic data necessary to strengthen journalistic values. Act No. 7079, which supports the freedom of press even at the campus level. It aims to Resource speakers of the different develop the writing skills and ethical values categories in English and Filipino, facilitated of campus journalists. simultaneous lectures. They selected 3 best written outputs in each category Paul Joseph De Jesus, one of the both in English and Filipino. Categories participants in the online campus on the workshop include news writing, journalists category, shared his thoughts editorial writing,science and technology, and experiences during the training. “I feel photojournalism, online/digital campus nervous but of course excited since I am one of the chosen students to be part of that journalism, feature writing, sport writing and webinar. I can showcase my talent and can TV/radio broadcasting. gain more knowledge from the seminar. It The said program was attended by also gives me more ideas to come up with good outputs, it is a pleasure to be part of it various divisions from Aurora, Bataan, and it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales. is a new experience because the seminar

THS faces new normal learning; stude number continues to increase... From pg. 1

Lucky E. Tabamo An increase of 8.2% or 201 students was accumulated in Tibag High School (THS) on the conducted survey of enrollees from S.Y. 2019-2020 to S.Y. 2020-2021 in Junior High School and Senior High School. Last school year, the total number of enrollees was 2,446, and this school year is 2,647. The enrollment registration was done through online platforms and telephone landlines considering the health preventive measures. Based on the enrollment record, in Senior High School (SHS), an increase of 26.71% or 78 students was accumulated in Grade 12 and 10.87% or 36 students in Grade 11 were added this year.

In Junior High School (JHS) enrollees, 3.88% or 64 students were added to Grade 10 while 13.01% or 64 students were added to Grade 9. In Grade 8, 0.91% or five students were added. Meanwhile, a decrease of enrollees in Grade 7 were gathered which dropped by 11.61% or 54 students compared to the previous year. These are the possible reasons why the grade 7 enrollees of this school year decreased: First, many students felt the need to stop due to financial incapability, including lack of gadgets. Second, some have no assistance from parents/ guardians. Third, some students went to their hometown and chose to transfer to a school nearer to them. Fourth, some students do not want to enroll using modular modality because of their notion that they cannot perform/accomplish selflearning activities. Lastly, some students

decided to stop because of health concerns. According to Evangeline V. Espiritu, Grade 7 coordinator, “Yearly, it’s been a challenge for the school to cater an increased number of learners because of some experienced problems, especially during this time of COVID-19 pandemic. The primary factors to consider are the teacher-student ratio and the availability or sufficiency of learning materials. We are very thankful because this school year, TCSD has deployed eleven (11) additional teaching personnel in THS.” With the rising number of enrollees in school, THS continues to deliver quality education to students amidst the pandemic. These changes and implementations were applied to achieve the vision, mission, and goals for the benefits and future of learners.

THE FORTRESS - Official Publication of Tibag High School

NEWS

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

DepEd Usec. Alain Pascua visits THS to provide technical assistance on RBI

SSG 'Project CONNECT', ready to address students’ concerns Michael G. Ocoma.

Arvi P. Estrada The Supreme Student Government (SSG) launched the “Project CONNECT (CONtact N’ EffeCT) or the electronic version of the “Suggestion Box”, on April 12, 2021 which aims to protect the freedom of speech and expression of the students.

Micaella Q. Grande DepEd Central Office Undersecretary for Administration Alain Del B. Pascua, together with his team, visited Tibag High School (THS) on Tuesday, February 9, 2021, to deliver technical assistance regarding the implementation of the Radio-Based Instruction (RBI). Together with the help of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) Director Abraham Abanil and Radio Broadcaster Francis Flores, they examined the new set up of stations for the radio and television studio from its usual classroom arrangement in the different schools of Tarlac Province. "No one in Tarlac City knows the time and date of the inspection of USEC Alain Pascua and his team in different schools in Tarlac. I was surprised when I saw them entering Tibag High School,” Dr. Velvet C. Alva, focal person of RBI in JHS, uttered. The radio station booth uses soundproof facilities, laptops, smartphones, and complete sound systems such as speakers, microphones, headphones, radio equalizers, and other equipment to deliver education, which serves as a teaching method wherein educational materials and instructions are broadcasted.

The proposal for Project CONNECT was approved on the same day by the school head of THS Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban, through google meet which was attended by the SSG officers, and SSG adviser,

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Junel T. Santiago, SSG President, said, “The Project Connect means connect in Filipino translation is “kumonekta” or “dumugtong”, SSG will serve as a bridge of the voice of the students to the ear of the administrator or the principal. Followed by CONNECT, which came from the acronym of the project title itself “contact” or call or reach someone, and “effect” or the action that follows after reaching someone, particularly the SSG and the principal.” The objectives of the project are to

reinforce the freedom of speech as stated in the Article 10 of the Human Rights Act: Freedom of Expression and 1987 Constitution Article III – Section 4 of the Bill of Rights, to allow the students to share their concerns in particular, questions, comments, and suggestions to the principal and to allow the principal hear the voices of the students. It also aims to elevate the standard of the school as a learner-centered and student-friendly institution and to help the school to further develop its service to the learners and the community. The SSG President added that they will continue addressing students’ concerns via messenger, text, and calls.

TCSD honors LAS authors in celebration of National Teachers' Day Shiena Mae Taguines Tarlac City Schools Division (TCSD) celebrated the National Teachers' Day last October 2, 2020, via Facebook live streaming at DepEd Tayo Tarlac City Schools Facebook page to award different teacherwriters, illustrators, and layout artists of Learning Activity Sheets (LAS). The said celebration recognized the expertise of the teachers in writing localized materials such as LAS for the education of TCSD learners. As stated by the OIC - Schools Division Superintendent, Dr. Maria Carmen P. Cuenco, EdD, CESO VI, "Words are not enough to express gratitude for the tiring, selfless

USEC Alain Pascua also requested a sample teaching on air from one of the onboard teachers, Mariechris M. David,

October 2020 to May 2021

service you give our learners. I commend the Tarlac City teachers for the insurmountable challenges we face. They were with us all the way. Relentless in their effort to give the learners what they need." This activity is in in line with DepEd Memorandum No. 33 s. 2020 or also known as the "2020 National Teachers' Month and National Teachers' Day/ World Teachers' Day Celebrations," pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 243 titled "Declaring the Period from September 5 to October 5 of Every Year as National Teachers' Month," as well as National Teachers' Day titled "An Act Declaring the Fifth Day of October Every Year as the National Teachers' Day". Kenzie M. Ancheta, one of the

teacher awardees and TLE LAS quarter 1 developer, uttered, "I felt appreciated. Writing a module is not as easy as drinking a cup of tea. It takes a lot of thinking, time, and effort. As a writer, being recognized signifies that our hard work was appreciated. It enlightens us, writers, to continue to give our best in everything that we do." Another teacher-awardee, Ma'am Rose Anne G. Gonzales, emphasized the importance of pursuing one’s dream and ways on how to achieve it. With the celebration of the National Teachers' Day with a theme "Gurong Filipino para sa Batang Filipino", TCSD teachers are acknowledged on their crucial role and service to the nation to produce responsible citizens.

Mayor Cristy Angeles supports learners in distance education; 2, 384 expandable plastic envelopes receive by THS City to show support for distance and online learning for this school year.

Alyzza F. Villapando Last October 16, 2020, Tibag High School (THS) received a total of 2, 384 of expandable plastic envelopes donated by Mayor Cristy Angeles, which has been distributed to all the learners from Grade 7 to Grade 12. The expandable plastic envelopes were used by the learners to portably move their modules and Learning Activity Sheets (LAS) when there is distribution and retrieval of learning materials. According to Michael G. Ocoma, Supreme Student Government (SSG) faculty adviser, “It was a big help for all the students of Tibag High School because in this way, they can put their outputs or Learning Activity Sheets (LAS), so it will be easier for them to arrange and bring their modules in school." Through Mayor Cristy Angeles and the Sangguniang Panglungsod, the City Government of Tarlac provided a school kit essential to different schools in Tarlac

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Mayor Cristy Angeles uttered, “To our parents, please enroll your children whether in distance learning or study from home. We are willing to provide them school bags with school supplies. Hence, you do not have to worry about this matter."

SUPPORT FROM CITY’S MOTHER. Grade 7

adviser, Algene Mae Samson, assists a parent as she receives Mayor Cristy’s donation of expandable plastic envelope which enables her daughter to have a LAS container for the easy return of answer sheets and learning materials.

As based on the Public and Administration service of the Tarlac City Government, they have continuously supported the Tarlac City Schools Schools Division Office even before and with the pandemic, they carried on with the usual grants and projects supporting the learners and teachers.

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THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

NEWS

October 2020 to May 2021

DepEd Usec. Alain Pascua visits... From pg. 4

SHS English teacher. David said, "As one of the teacher-radio broadcasters of the SHS Department, I was grateful for the opportunity to teach on air. When Sir Alain Pascua visited the school, I was pressured, but their presence was full of positive experiences. They did not just visit us but also shared meaningful tips on how to improve our RBI in THS."

IMPROVING THE RBI EPISODES. TVL-ICT teacher and head teacher welcome the arrival of DepEd Usec. Alain Del B. Pascua along with his team for their technical assistance in improving RBI episodes..

In addition, USEC Alain Pascua with

his crew also looked at the JHS’ ICT room and praised the teacher in charge, Maureen P. Talens, for the state-of-theart facility. The visitation of USEC Alain Pascua made the radio teacher broadcasters of THS continue exerting their efforts for the goals of DepEd. The whole THS faculty and staff are expected to monitor the learners offline and online to provide better RBI episodes.

New principal welcomes once THS celebrates again; Maintaining quality in commemoration of Victory at Mactan’s Quincentennial SBM, goal of school head Nicole Y. Saborboro With the goal to support in maintaining the quality of SBM in Tibag High School, the entire faculty and staff welcomed once again Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban for her second term as the school head at THS through a virtual program which was conducted via google meet, on Tuesday, September 1, 2020. The installation of the new principal was led by Dr. Ruby Ana T. Pineda, former Principal of THS, and passed the key of responsibility to Dr. Esteban.

that the vision was smoothly functioning and implicated in the school. They also communicate for the development of the educational system and practice inside the school. Principals are also actively restructuring School-Based Management (SBM) for improving and developing the school. The installation of the new principal is to advance the performance in terms of the quality of outputs of the school. The newly appointed school head of THS is ensuring that education is continuously delivered by students amidst the pandemic.

The issuance of the installation of the new principal is in line with the D.O. 7, s. 1999 or ‘Policies on Selection/ Appointment and Transfer/Reassignment of DECS Regional Officials’, which appointments of district supervisors and principals for both elementary and secondary levels may be transferred to any district of school within the division when the need arises, and the Transfer/ Reassignment of District Supervisors and Principals shall be done every 5 years. Juanita M. Salvatierra, head teacher of THS, stated, “The rotation of principals is to continuously improve and attain quality in school management, also, to ensure a renewed management in schools, and to expand the management and experiences of school leaders.” Some of the roles and responsibilities of the principal are: school heads worked withteaching and non-teaching personnel to carry out a clear vision and mission for the school and then worked to make sure

Ninety-four percent (94%) of the survey respondents said that Radio-Based Instruction (RBI) and Facebook live streaming in Tibag High School page are very useful in their study, since THS had implemented these modes of teaching to deepen the lessons found in the Learning Activity Sheet (LAS) of the students. The survey was done through google

Camille S. Tumbaga Tibag High School celebrates the 500th Anniversary in the Battle at Mactan on April 23, 2021, through a virtual program led by AP and ESP Department to honor the heroism of various historical figures in the Philippines. The school-based Quincentennial Commemoration highlights the introduction of Christianity in the Philippines, the country's role in the Magellan – Elcano circumnavigation, and the victory of Lapu-Lapu in the battle of Mactan. The event aims to promote local and national tourism, reignite Filipino’s nationalism, inculcate values for the common good, strengthen the community’s social cohesiveness, intensify social awareness, and foster Filipino creativity socio-economic growth. “We gather here virtually to celebrate the success of our Philippines independence because of our brave heroes, which show their braveness and patriotism,” Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban emphasized in her opening remarks of the program.

LEADER OF THE ACADEME.

With the goal of maintaining excellence amidst pandemic, Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban continuously provides utmost service for her second term as the school head of Tibag High School.

Very useful, survey says; THSians’ perception on usefulness of RBI, Facebook live streaming Vonne Orly O. Sadumiano

anniversary

form on April 20, 2021, to determine the perception of students on the usefulness of RBI and Facebook live stream. Students also voiced out their suggestions for the improvement of the said modalities. One of the google form comments revealed that the RBI helped the students in understanding their LAS. As stated in the comment, “It makes our study easier. It helps us students understand the lessons better and answer the LAS effortlessly. It is really helpful because some of the questions on the LAS were so difficult to answer."

The program showcased informative videos of the notable history and heroes of the Philippines. Modern Filipinos and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) and honors achieved by various personalities in the fields of science, national natural

RAISE YOUR FLAG. For the

commemoration of the 500 years of Victory at Mactan and Christianity, a THS non-teaching personnel put a Philippine flag on the school front fences. resources, health and nutrition, humanism, arts, and culture were also recognized. This said program is in line with the Republic Act No. 10086 which states that all means to strengthen people’s nationalism, love of country, respect for its heroes and for the accomplishments of people should be provided. In commemorating the 500 years of the various events that molded the Philippines today, THS also displays flags in front of the school and a poster highlighting the 2021 Quincentennial Commemoration.

It was found out in the survey that printed modular learning led to the highest modality used by students in their studies with a percentage of 59.8%. In using both modular distance learning and RBI, it was revealed that by digital modular learning, 14.2 % of the respondents are users of the said modality while RBI with 0.8% of users. 52.8 % answered they always utilize this modality, 45.3 % said sometimes, and 7.5% stated they seldom used this learning mode. Tibag High School continues to conduct surveys to parents, guardians, teachers, and students to improve its academic practices for the continuation of education in the new normal.

THE FORTRESS - Official Publication of Tibag High School

NEWS

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

October 2020 to May 2021

Tibag HS launches Radio-Based Instruction education challenges brought about by COVID-19, the Radio-Based Instruction is one of the interventions or alternative learning mode in administering the learning in the new normal.

Lucky E. Tabamo Tibag High School (THS) launched the Radio Based Instruction (RBI) on January 18, 2021, which provided a supplementary modality to deepen the lessons from the Learning Activity Sheets (LAS). The first RBI episode was conducted with the help of the head teacher, Dr. John John J. Flores, and with the support of the school principal Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban. The pilot episode was aired on 88.0 FM (THS Numero Uno! Doble Otso, Radyong Totoo!) and through a Facebook live-streaming at Tibag High School Facebook page.

The RBI disseminated instructions for THS learners and learners from different nearby barangays within the (5) kilometers radius of Tibag High School to support and enhance the modular distance learning modality. It uses new and improved equipment such as soundproof facilities, laptops, and complete sound systems, which includes radio equalizers and other equipment to deliver education. Mariechris David, one of teacher-radio broadcasters, said, "This pandemic is not really a hindrance to learning. No pandemic can stop us from listening and learning!"

In response to the Department's Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan (BE-LCP) or a package of education interventions that will respond to basic

RBI LEARNING AT REACH. Radio teacher-broadcaster, Wenzlee Laus

(left), together with his technical director, Kenzie Ancheta (right), conduct discussion on Grade 7 English lessons through Radio-Based Instruction and Facebook live streaming.

‘Online Advancement Class’ aids SHS learners to lessen subjects to take Nicole Y. Saborboro Senior High School learners of Tibag High School had an Online Advancement Class (OAC) via google meet, last June 1 to July 10, 2020, which helped learners to take some subjects earlier before the actual opening of the new school year. Dr. John-John J. Flores is the proponent of the project. It is the first-ever online class of Senior High School Department. The advancement classes last for six weeks with a maximum of three subjects to be taken.

Core, Applied, and Specialized subjects were offered which includes Introduction to Philosophy of Human Person, Media and Information Literacy, Filipino sa Piling Larang, Practical Research, Empowerment Technologies, and Creative Nonfiction. "OAC has benefited us a lot. First, we just took the subjects in just a short period of time. Second, it is very convenient because it's online. It also lessens the subjects we are currently taking, resulting in less stress and more time for another thing." Lucky E. Tabamo, one of the students of the OAC, said.

He added that he was struggling at first because it's his first time in this mode of learning, which is online class. “As time passed by, I found out that this is not that worse, I learned a lot in advance, and that time is valuable, no time was wasted,” he emphasized. In accordance with the Department Order No. 13, s. 2018 or the “Implementing Guidelines on the Conduct of Remedial and Advancement Classes During Summer for the K to 12 Basic Education Program” and in the amendment on the DepEd Memorandum No. 51, s. 2020 or known as the

“Guidelines On The Conduct Of Remedial, Advancement And Enrichment Classes During Summer 2020,” the advancement class is for any subject area offered during summer class to be taken by a senior high school learner with work immersion in the succeeding semester. According to Dr. John John J. Flores, SHS focal person, "Online Advancement Classes became easier for Senior High School students, because their subjects for the S.Y. 2020-2021 will be lessened." Because of the advanced subjects, the incoming Grade 12 learners were given more time to focus on their work immersion as they prepare for the school year 2020-2021.

Project G.O.A.L.S in Reading keeps studes enhance their proficiency levels Sweden Mae I. Reyes Language teachers of Tibag High School conducted an Online Reading Assessment last October 18-30, 2020 to support TCSD’s Project Goals in Reading. The Online Reading Assessment was held virtually where 2,000 students joined the activity. Taking the video while learners are reading is one of the strategies in knowing their reading levels. Dr. Reymar D. Paguio, EPSvr in English, said, “Reading teachers need to exhaust all the ways and means in order to evaluate reading skills of the learners.” The main goal of the activity is to strengthen, enhance and develop the students’ reading level not only through basic reading but also their reading comprehension and to support the project of DepEd “Hamon Bawat Bata Bumabasa”. “Conducting an online assessment on reading is different from face-to-face

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assessment because face-to-face is more credible than virtual assessment. In reality, there may be irregularities such as memorization or on-the-spot tutorial especially if it is a voice recording only,” Norlan D. Agdeppa, SHS teacher of THS, stated. There are different categories on reading, these are independent, those who can read and comprehend well, instructional, are those who can read but cannot comprehend well, frustration, those who have problem in reading and even in comprehension and the non-reader, who cannot read and comprehend. There are 632 readers under the independent category, 1,287 in the instructional category, 112 in the frustrating category, and 24 in the non-reader category. Despite the pandemic, teachers still find ways to evaluate the students’ reading level. The program is now in the stage of implementing the reading intervention for those under frustration and non-reader.

NEWS

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

Parents', students' virtual orientation addresses new normal school calendar Vonne Orly O. Sadumiano Tibag High School (THS) conducted an online orientation for parents and students regarding the latest updates on Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan assessment and grading and the 20202021 school calendar last November 6, 2020. The program highlighted the DepEd Order No. 30, s. 2020 or the “Amendment to DepEd Order No. 7, s. 2020” titled as “School Calendar and Activities for School Year 2020-2021,” amending Section 3 of the Republic Act No.7797 or otherwise known as “An Act to Lengthen the School Calendar from Two Hundred (200) Days to Not More Than Two Hundred Twenty (220), which opened on October 5, 2020, for the school year S.Y. 2020-2021. Juanita M. Soriano, Head Teacher of the Math Department and the teacherspeaker on the school calendar, said, “What is the reason for this change? The pandemic situation caused by COVID-19 is already known to us. In previous years, the month of June was the start of class, now it has been moved to October 5, 2020.” She added that this school year shall consist of 205 days, inclusive of the preschool activities, in-service training for the teachers or semestral break, and conduct of the end-of-year rites. The orientation also focused on DepEd Order No. 31, s. 2020 or the “Interim Guidelines for Assessment and Grading in Light of the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan,” which provided guidance on the assessment of the students' learning and on the grading scheme adopted this school year. “The orientation really enlightens me on how my children will be assessed and graded on this new normal of education and the things that I need to monitor in their studies,” Annabelle B. Robles, parent of grade 8 and 12 students at THS, said. Speakers of different topics in the light with the D.O. No. 30 and No.31, s.2020 are as follows: School Calendar - Juanita A. Soriano, Planning the Assessment John-John J. Flores, Formative - Zandra. E. Berenguer, Summative - Eugene S. Yango, Performance Task - Evangeline Espiritu, Rubrics - Glenn S. Soriano, Grading and Promotion - Juanita M. Salvatierra, Monitoring Tool - Merlina S. De Jesus, and Role of Technology - Clariza Mae M. Guiang. With the adoption of the basic education continuity plan for this school year, Tibag High School ensured the proper dissemination of information to its stakeholders, especially the parents.

OATH TAKING. Yuri

Kimo B. Robles, the managing editor of The Fortress, takes the oath of the journalist’s creed during the writers’ induction and online-writeshop of Ang Kanlungan and The Fortress journalists via google meet on April 12-13.

October 2020 to May 2021

Tibag HS, wins gold in 'Handa na Kami sa Taong 2020, Bagong Normal!' division tilt Arvi P. Estrada Tibag High School (THS) was hailed as the champion in "Handa na Kami sa Taong 2020, Bagong Normal!" audio visual presentation competition which was joined by 16 other secondary schools at Tarlac City Schools Division (TCSD) last October 1, 2020. The said contest aims to monitor the preparedness of each school in facing the new normal in education. THS showcased the institution's preparedness in the opening of classes for the academic year 2020 to 2021, and it also encouraged students, parents, and the community that education must continue amidst the pandemic. The audiovisual presentation was made by the THS teachers, particularly the storyline, voice-over, and video editing. Students also showed their support through reacting and sharing the audiovisual presentation of the school

posted at TCSD Facebook page. Shiena Mae Taguines, a grade 11 student at THS, shared her insight of the audiovisual presentation. She stated, "Yes, it really showcased in various aspects, not only about the safety protocol matters, but also the facts about the learning modalities to be implemented by the THS." The collaboration among the heads of each department, teaching and nonteaching staff, the community and other stakeholders, and the school head Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban, made the campaign possible. THS is all set for the new normal of education to deliver quality education amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

'Drop, Go Scheme' makes retrieval of SLM, LAS straightforward Vonne Orly O. Sadumiano Tibag High School (THS) implemented the “Drop and Go Scheme” every distribution and retrieval of the Printed Self-learning modules (SLM) and Learners Activity Sheets (LAS) to lessen physical contact and crowded area. This program also made the submission easier and faster for the parents and guardians as they exert less effort and time. "I can now effortlessly return the Learners Activity Sheets, and self-learning modules of my child to the school, and the

prolonged interaction with other people is lessened," Mrs. Marlyn F. Villapando, parent of a grade 10 learner, emphasized in consonance to the Drop and Go Scheme. The Drop and Go Scheme implied -"DROP", means the parents or guardians will place the LAS and SLM inside the box provided by the advisers according to the student's grade and section. The "GO" means the parent or guardian can leave the school or go home already. Mrs. Villapando added, "This is one of the effective ways to avoid and reduce COVID -19 cases in our area since this program lessens the communication with

PREPARED ON NEW NORMAL EDUCATION. Dr. Juvelyn L.

Esteban showcases the readiness and preparedness of Tibag High School on the new normal education through audiovisual presentation which is submitted to TCSD. the others. Therefore, it will help to maintain the safety of each other." In consonance with the DepEd's mandate regarding distance learning as the mode of learning for the school year, these plans were carried out to ensure that basic quality education will be accessible to every learner, even in the most remote areas. The Drop and Go Scheme accords with the Scheme A or the school-based retrieval and distribution of LAS and SLM of THS, wherein the school team has a safety guide flow for the parents and guardians. It includes floor signages to give directions, improvised footpath sanitation, and other minimum health requirement such as alcohol and thermal scanner to those who will enter the school premise.

Campus journalists undergo first-ever online writeshop; The Fortress, Ang Kanlungan conduct induction of writers Krisha Jen C. Corcuerra With its goal to improve and put into practice the skills and talents of campus journalists, Tibag High School conducted the first-ever online writeshop and induction of writers.

The program was held on April 12-13 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM via google meet and Facebook live streaming, which was attended by the campus journalists from Ang Kanlungan and The Fortress, and grade 11 learners from Humanities and Social Sciences. The two-day online writeshop is divided into four categories: Editorial, News, Feature, and Science writing. There was an allotted time for the different categories of the invited speakers who are professionals in their line of expertise. After the discussion of the resource speaker, an hour was given to the students, in which they wrote their articles according to the topic given by the speaker. Speakers also acted as judges to critique the student’s work, and they chose the top 5 best writers. The resource speakers for each category are: Editorial writing - Ma’am Marianne I. Quitalig from Central Azucarera De Tarlac High School (Main), News writing - Sir Eugene S. Yango from Tibag High school,

and Feature and Science writing - Sir Benjamin S. Gaspar from Maliwalo National High School (MNHS). “It is an honor to be part of a webinar that discusses the nature of journalism even though it became an online writeshop, distance has not been an obstacle to learn.” Angelo S. Mallari, one of the campus journalists from Ang Kanlungan, expressed. Campus journalists also pledge to be committed with prudence, accuracy and fairness. They pledged to write only what holds in their hearts to be true. The induction was led by SHS focal person and school paper consultant, Dr. John John J. Flores. As a closing remark, the THS principal Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban, said, “Keep moving, keep dreaming, just focus on what you are looking for and achieving. Of course, with prayer, the right attitude, always put your heart to your work, and everything will follow.”

THE FORTRESS - Official Publication of Tibag High School

8 Editorial

October 2020 to May 2021

ON CAMPUS

Project RADIOS: Students’ Learning Aid

t is apt that Tibag High school has implemented Project RADIOS to assist THSians in answering and understanding lessons on their learning materials as some students are experiencing adversities in grasping concepts and ideas on their Learning Activity Sheets (LAS).

The advent of the unexpected catastrophe that has spread around the world - the COVID-19 pandemic, caused every person to gain fear and apprehension, which resulted in many changes affecting primarily the students' education. One of the affected schools in the country is Tibag High School. With fear in the face of invisible enemies and the prohibition of faceto-face classes, as stated by President Rodrigo Duterte in his fifth State of the Nation Address, the physical classes are suspended.The school decided to push through this school year through its primary modality, printed modular distance learning. However, through take-home modular learning, it passes casualties to parents and students in making sure that the process continues. As found in research conducted for the 3rd International Conference on Advanced Research in Teaching and Education, the main challenges that emerged through modular distance learning were lack of school funding in the production and delivery of modules, students struggling with self-studying, and parents' lack of knowledge to academically guide their children. With this, Tibag High School ensures that every student will be gaining quality education to its learners; thus, the school implicated Project RADIOS or Remote Alternative Delivery of Instruction and Optimization on Schooling, which teacher-radio broadcaster discusses students Learning Activity Sheet (LAS). The Project RADIOS consists of Radio-Based Instruction (RBI) and a Facebook live stream at the Facebook page of Tibag High School. These two supplementary approaches of instruction help students on their studies in their Learning Activity Sheet (LAS). In fact, according to the survey conducted on THS students towards their perception of the usefulness of Project RADIOS, 94% percent of the respondents answered that RBI and the Facebook live stream assist them in their studies, which shows that the project is an essential aid to students. Some students may still be experiencing challenges to transition to these learning approaches, as some students don't have the accessibility to the technology and not all students' learning needs can supplement Project RADIOS as there are only limited lessons that are set per grade level and schedule of the RBI, leaving the them to deal again with the hardship of self-studying on their SLM and answering their LAS. But this will leave lessons to students to be responsible, resourceful, and study harder. Truly, Tibag High School, in its academic commitment to excellence, provides assistance to maintain quality education to its students amidst the pandemic. The pandemic has affected all of us in the worst ways possible that sometimes we forget we all have the same enemy, but it leaves us lessons that gradually, albeit challenging, we can adapt to the trying times of the pandemic, which enables us to persevere, always do our best, and be mindful of our studies in order for us to reach our dreams and to keep moving forward.

MY VERDICT

consequences, and the impact of their actions on others.

Abolish corporal punishment, enforce positive discipline Vonne Orly O. Sadumiano Editor-in-Chief

orporal punishment will do no good as it only caused torment to students, as reported in several studies; that is why corporal punishment must be discarded, and positive disciplining must be implemented for humane and justifiable discipline. Discipline guides students’ behavior or sets limits to them to help them learn to take care of themselves, other people, and the world around them. Before, corporal punishment is the most common form of discipline used by teachers. This method includes spanking students with a stick, throwing chalk at their face, and verbally punishing them for any wrongdoing that the students have done. Today, if we examine this act of discipline utilized by teachers to punish their students, it may be seen as a form of child abuse. Teachers have no intention of harming a child, they just want

their behavior and lifestyle to be good, so this method of discipline enters. However, teachers punishing their students in corporal punishment is a weapon for students to backlash them because of the enacted policies limiting this disciplining method. According to the DepEd Undersecretary for Legal Affairs, Josephine Maribojoc outlined the department’s initiatives to protect children against all forms of abuses in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. As cited in the Child Protection Policy or the DepEd Order No. 40, Series of 2012, Maribojoc reiterated DepEd’s “zero-tolerance policy against all forms of violence and abuse upon learners.” Another form of disciplining method is positive discipline, which affects students significantly to be better students. With positive discipline, students see a connection between their behavior, the personal

Teachers work as a team in providing realistic and helpful illustrations of practice to manage the students’ behavior constructively by applying positive and non-violent discipline to ensure a learningfocused environment anchored in the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST). As such, discipline in the new normal of education may be in the form of virtual. Teachers may discipline students through messages or chats and online video conferencing apps.

“

Jump to p.10

Discipline in moderation should now be put into the minds of all people.”

THE FORTRESS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF TIBAG HIGH SCHOOL • EXCELLENCE BEYOND WORDS

Editor-in-Chief: Vonne Orly O. Sadumiano • Associate Editor-in-Chief: Arvi P. Estrada • Managing Editor/Sports Editor: Yuri Kimo B. Robles • News Editor: Lucky E. Tabamo • Feature Editor: Fiona E. Ramirez • Science Editor: Paul Joseph S. De Jesus Feature Writers: Krisha Jen C. Corcuera, Mellany A. Laxamana, Micaella Q. Grande, Sweden Mae I. Reyes • News Writers: Camille S. Tumbaga, Nicole Y. Saborboro, Alyzza F. Villapando • Contributors: Faulin Shane M. Samson , Danica L. Andres, Marcos S. Quiballo, Trisha Mae C. Lanuza, Fritz Wallace B. Alvarez, Joyce Ann L. Taguines, Shiena Mae Taguines, Karla Marie B. Briones, Jeg Christian D. Lopez, Princess Dianne B. Andres, Cheng H. Valiente • Cartoonists: Alyssa Ashley M. Mandap, Erwin C. Postrero, Vonne Orly O. Sadumiano • Photojournalist: Alessandra Kate W. Ordoñez • Layout Artist: Harley Alanson M. Ancheta

Adviser: Mariechris M. David Co-adviser: Rose Anne S. Gonzales

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Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban Principal III

OPINION

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

Pearlescent Words

Education Must Prevail: THS Modular Approach to Education Fiona E. Ramirez Feature Editor

he great minds must continue to grasp knowledge amid pandemic. Due to the effects of COVID-19 on our society, our world brings a temporary pause to social and economic activities for the safety of its people. Education is one of the sectors that is greatly affected by the coronavirus pandemic. However, education must prevail in any possible way for the learners to acquire quality education. The way to learn and deliver education for the students this new normal is the flexible learning program which is the printed-modular and online distance approach, but which of these is the practical and best way in providing quality education for the students of Tibag High School (THS)?

and public schools at all levels to guarantee that learning remains unimpeded as the country fights against the pandemic. Studies show that online learning approaches prove to be a great alternative, and it is a great way to learn about a variety of subjects while still increasing self-motivation. Online learning is so effective because students can finish their homework quickly, and there is more time left for hobbies. However, it is not a practical way to provide education for the students of THS since many of their students don't have access to stable internet connection and gadgets. When the academic year started last October 5,2020, the THS chose to implement the printed-modular approach to cater for the needs of most students. What makes the printed-modular approach a practical way in catering for

The Department of Education (DepEd) implemented a distance learning approach for private

inevitable thoughts

Reverse World of Education Lucky E. Tabamo News Editor

hanges began to occur in the field of education, especially in light of the pandemic; thus, we must persevere and maintain a positive attitude towards the Department of Education (DepEd) planned bridge to students' success with various distance learning modalities. However, does the imposed education system throughout the country have the so-called quality education that DepEd wanted for their learners? Many have changed, from customs, norms, and habits, including social gatherings and celebrations, all actions are restricted due to virus prevention. Regardless of the growing cases of COVID-19, the government strictly enforces safety and preventive measures to avoid the spread of the virus. The Department of Health (DOH) reported the country's biggest daily COVID-19 death toll at 401 as well as new infections of 12,225 that boosted active nationwide cases to 178,351 as of April 2. Due to the relentless rise of the patients in Tarlac, some activities were stopped and moved, including the distribution and retrieval of Learning Activity Sheets (LAS), which affected the school calendar schedule. Because of the pandemic, there were too many preparations.

Many opposed the opening of education, others wanted an academic freeze, but despite the argument and debate, education continues with preventive measures. The decision is alarming, but the DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones said, "We are now focusing on alternatives. We cannot be waiting exclusively for the vaccine because schools in other parts of the world have opened classes already. We do not want them to be left behind."

“

Since life is about embracing obstacles and deciding to keep moving forward, don’t be afraid to make a change.”

the needs of the students is that learners may set their own timetable for completing the LAS’ activities, they have their own learning styles that they find beneficial as they developed a sense of duty when they completed their assignments at their own rate. Lastly, it is accessible for all since the printed modules: LAS and SLM, are provided by the school. Parents and guardians would be able to save a lot of money from transportation and accommodation. The only expense is in the printing of modules which are covered by the school. Traditional classroom-based instructions are being opposed for the academic year 2020-2021 for the safety of all the students. After the execution of OAC last June to July, some problems occurred that many students don't have the ability to partake in because they lack gadgets and a stable internet connection, especially for the students living in remote areas. That is why the printed-modular has been chosen as the learning approach for the students of THS for the whole academic year. Along with it, the Radio Based Instruction was

Do you still remember when you only need a pen, and your kind classmate will provide the paper? Today, technology is the only way to prepare for the future. In the present situation, distance learning modalities are the best way to continue education while preventing the spreading of the virus. The traditional face-to-face mode of teaching is currently not allowed. In Tibag High School, modular distance modality is constant, and yes, this kind of alternative modality has adequate progress and supports the needs of learners. Marianne Wage, a teacher of Tibag High School, said, "Education must continue for the youth because, in the near future, they will be the building blocks of our country and will take our nation into the path of success." We can't see the enemy, and we're anxious and stressed, but we're determined to succeed. That is why learning can never be a hindrance during a pandemic. Nobody knows when the global crisis will end, but we must remain resilient. Even if there are so many changes, we must remember that in this situation, discipline is necessary. At the same time, while chasing our dreams, we should be aware on the importance of education in our lives. Since a face mask is better than an oxygen mask, protocols and instructions must be followed. Since life is about embracing obstacles and deciding to keep moving forward, don't be afraid to make a change. We need education, the government only wants us to be secure, and no one wants to be left behind.

October 2020 to May 2021

conducted as a supplementary modality for the learners. The efforts that every teacher has given for their students to deliver the safest and effective course of action in bringing quality education is being appreciated not only by the learners, as well as for every parent who wants their children to be educated while fighting against the pandemic. The various learning modalities implemented by the school and staff, together with the barangay officials, are able to bring knowledge and wisdom to each student of THS. They proved that against the struggles, the education must abide. You, as a student, must be eager to grasp knowledge even amid the pandemic because these trying times should not be the reasons for you to stop gaining knowledge as you are reaching your dreams. The faculty and staff are the bridges in delivering quality education through a printedmodular learning. Through this modality, you can enhance your time-management skills while developing a sense of independence.

“

You, as a student, must be eager to grasp knowledge even amid the pandemic because these trying times should not be the reasons for you to stop gaining knowledge as you are reaching your dreams.”

Volition of a Student Warrior

COVID-19 Vaccination: To Be or Not To Be? Yuri Kimo Robles Managing & Sports Editor

accination is a way to control and to be immune to the virus; thus, are you willing to be vaccinated to fight the coronavirus? A new virus has rapidly spread in many parts of the world, originating in Wuhan, China – the coronavirus or popular known as COVID-19. In just a blink of an eye, on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 as a pandemic. A pandemic occurs when a disease that people are not immune to, in which it spreads across large regions. Because of these instances, people suffered, and it damages every business and daily lives of the people, including the education of the learners around the world. The spread of the virus is very alarming, where countries already impose numerous plans and preventive measures for the virus to be constrained and also develop vaccines for COVID -19 virus. The countries that produced vaccines are the following countries: the United Kingdom produced the vaccine named Oxford Uni-AstraZeneca who has 62%- 90% of effectiveness; the USA produced the Moderna Vaccine who has 95% of effectiveness; Germany’s Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine that has 95% of effectiveness; and Russia

produced Gamaleya (Sputnik V) vaccine that has a 92% of the effectiveness to the patients who are infected to the virus. We are free to choose to decide what path we are going to cross; we have the freedom - the willingness to partake in the vaccine for the sake of our dreams and the safety of our loved ones. But the question is, do we have a strong stand, no matter what it takes to partake in the vaccine? As a student and as a citizen, I will not partake in vaccination. This vaccination is not yet proven to be 100% effective; although Jump to p.10

“

We are free to choose to decide what path we are going to cross; we have the freedom...”

THE FORTRESS - Official Publication of Tibag High School

OPINION

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

inevitable thoughts

A New Horizon Towards a Big Leap Paul Joseph De Jesus Science Editor

he intriguing concern of graduating students towards conducting their graduation virtually arises again as the school days end. Now that every activity is immobilized, do we still consider the call of the students or will this serve as their wake-up call, especially this pandemic? Way back in 2019, the wake of the virus happened. It was the time where everyone was excited because it was near the commencement exercise of every student, especially graduating students. It was an awful moment that their happiness was being kept silent as the government called for a nationwide lockdown under the safety of all. As an alternative, virtual graduation was considered to be utilized in every corner of the country. According to the Department of Education (DepEd), the virtual graduation ceremonies all over the country will still be implemented this school year as the COVID-19 arises for over 1.7

million cases as of May 2021. DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones said that DepEd will consider the online graduation given that schools will comply with the requirements of the agency as well as the strict protocols of the Health Department. Hats, graduation gowns, friends, teachers, schoolmates, parents, certificates, and medals, are the ones that make the graduation rites work. Every student wants to go on the stage and receive their hard work and fruit of all the sacrifices. But at this time of the pandemic, is it possible to achieve the traditional graduation or continue the previous plan to conduct the rites virtually? Undoubtedly, virtual graduation might be the safest way to avoid the spread of the virus and make it an end. Health protocols must be considered for virtual graduation. Social distancing, wearing face masks and face shields are some protocols that must be practiced. Is it possible to continue, but we

are going to risk our lives? No, everyone must be concerned about their lives because once you are infected, it would be a problem not just for yourself, but for the society. Once the fight is over, then it is the time where traditional graduation can be made possible. The success may come even if it will be held virtually, traditional, or virtual, but today, our safety is our priority. One THS student said, “It’s better to look forward to the opportunities that will come and realize that everything that happens now can bring better success in the future. Virtual graduation does not make a huge difference, but it still possesses the meaning of graduation and gives the students the recognition they deserve even though it will be conducted virtually. On the other hand, traditional graduation is truly memorable and a one-time experience. But today, as we look forward to the new normal of our daily lives, we should focus on the current situations that are happening. Everyone must be aware that we are no longer living the life we used to be before. Once a door closes, many doors will eventually open. Opportunities do not end because of our downfall, but it is a process of realizing that

everyone must work to make a change. Be vigilant and resilient, as the world needs the most in achieving the great outcome and withstand any hurdles in life. Yet, traditional graduation might still be possible, but at the right time, not today in the surge of crisis. Nevertheless, our success does not count when or where we received it, the factor is that we gain learnings and move to the next chapter of life, that is the true meaning of success. Whether there are no hats and gowns virtually, still, our dreams to become successful are near to come. We should realize that the biggest is yet to come, but this ceremony for us is just the beginning of another chapter in our lives. We may not experience it today, sooner it will be rewarded for better opportunities.

“

Once a door closes, many doors will eventually open.

Letter to the Editor Dear The Fortress Editor, As we are in the middle of a pandemic, our routines are changing as our lives are upheaved by the changes brought by COVID-19. Education is affected. We don't have face-to-face classes like we always do before, so we have a different learning mode, distance learning. Since we are entering a new normal, we only have printed modular as the modality in our school, which means we only use printed modules/LASs to study and learn. As a student, we encounter a lot of challenges during this kind of learning. Sometimes, we are experiencing difficulty while answering our modules. Also, there's a time that we don't understand the topic. So the first step we need to do is ask our teachers regarding the topic that we don't understand. Our teachers are properly answering our questions regarding our concerns. And happily, with the help and guidance of our teachers, they give us ideas, and because of that, we can answer our modules/LASs properly and rightly. But of course, not all of the students are the same. We have different ways of understanding lessons. Some are easy to learn, and some are not. As of now, we just communicate with our teachers through the utilization of technology. Most of us use social media;however, not all of the students have a chance to communicate with their teachers because not all of them have gadgets and social media accounts to use to communicate with their teachers. Studying in the middle of the pandemic is so hard. So what should we do? How should we deal with such challenges? Can you give some pieces of advice and tips on how to be motivated while answering our modules? And also, can you share with us what study habits that are effective for you? Looking forward to your immediate response. God bless. More power!

Sincerely, Trisha Mae C. Lanuza, Grade 10-Flores

Dear Trisha, We, campus journalists, share the same sentiments. It is really tough to adjust to the education we have today. However, these changes of learning are for the betterment and safety of us. It's really challenging, but when we have a positive mind that we can do it – You can do it! With this, we should be responsible for our studies as our means of learning is self-learning. One of the ways to be responsible for your study is by having an effective study habit. The effective study habits for me are the following: First, self-discipline - having a structure and practicing self-discipline can help set boundaries and begin to maintain a new routine. Second, ask for help – by asking for help from parents, siblings, relatives, friends, or teachers, I can get resources to get the help I need for my studies. Third, time management – having a concrete schedule or list of the assigned task according to time is a highly effective study habit for me as it tracks the things I need to do throughout the day. To be motivated, take your dreams as your inspiration because these are the things that will push you to move forward and make yourself grow and be better. We firmly believe that we have endless opportunities to take advantage of a new beginning every day. The world is an open ocean that we navigate together. Our purpose as a student is to learn: cultivate and develop ourselves for the world's reality. With the pandemic, we know these are challenging times for all students, teachers, parents, and communities. But when we all stick together and think positively, we can surpass all of these difficult times.

Sincerely, Vonne Orly O. Sadumiano, The Fortress, Editor-in-chief

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October 2020 to May 2021

COVID-19 Vaccination: To Be or Not To Be?... From to p.9

most of the vaccines have only 90%-95% of effectiveness against COVID-19, the vaccines may just cause side effects. According to the Department of Health, “The possible side effects of a vaccine include pain, redness, itchiness or swelling at the injection site (which may last a few hours). The following are also the side effects: fever, feeling of weakness or fatigue, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, or nausea. Consult the nearest healthcare professional if you experience any of these.” This means the cure has not been fully developed and must take precautions of taking the vaccine for the community and for society. As the COVID-19 is still out there and vaccination is not a concrete solution, we must take seriously the preventive measure imposed by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases Resolutions (IAT-EID) and our local government for the coronavirus to be constrained. We must always wear a face mask, face shield, always do the physical distancing, sanitize with alcohol and soap, and as much as possible, we should always stay at home as we don’t know where the invisible enemy is hanging around.

Abolish corporal punishment, enforce positive discipline... From to p.8

These are the two disciplining methods utilized by teachers. Just the difference between the two is that corporal punishment is violent, and positive discipline is nonviolent. Discipline in moderation should now be put into the minds of all people. With the rise of students’ protection that stops the violent method of discipline, now with modernization, the best-inclined discipline method for students is the positive discipline. With this, we should already see corporal punishment as a past discipline method, and we should now promote positive discipline for students effective learning at their distance education. Teachers should understand how children think and feel long-term goals by building a positive and healthy relationship. By having this with students, they can learn when they feel respected, understood, trusted, safe, and loved. Recognizing their efforts for their success will be beneficial.

Features 11

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

ON CAMPUS

#ProjectGoalsinReading

PANDEMIC SERIES

hen was the last time you sat on a couch and read your favorite genre of a book? When was the moment when you flip the pages of a meaningful book and you can’t just stop looking for a sequel?

My veins start to haunt me like a fast running water in a river. This is not the situation that I dreamt of. I suddenly missed my vast experience in reading before the pandemic. I became anxious about my future. I know that the pandemic destroyed thousands of lives. The series of negative stories everyday affected my personality as a reader. Will this crisis continue to damage the very essence of life? Will this pandemic stop us from being the best authors of our daily life stories? I wanna enjoy every scent of a book again when I go to a book sale. I went to our balcony and reflected. I visited our school page and I was struck with a Facebook post on TCSD’s reading program, Project GOALS. Join me as I flip the pages of our literacy journey as readers of Project EMPOWER, our school-based program in line with Project GOALS. Let’s keep literacy alive amidst pandemic. Enjoy every story of accomplishment, success, inspiration, and friendship. Reading is indeed a majestic skill that everyone should treasure.

PROJECT EMPOWER:

Magnifying the pages of a reading program

uring the pandemic, I felt like the world left me behind in many aspects. It feels like it’s stopping me from experiencing new things and it’s stopping me from having quality education. My reading comprehension wasn’t that good. That's why reading wasn’t my thing and I know that some students did not choose reading as their cup of tea. As I conquer the pandemic, I have a mighty companion. I was immersed in a school project that empowers who I am as a reader. I was in great delight when I heard my reading teacher when she said that we’ll be having a reading activity in the second quarter. The literacy response of the Department of Education

s I glanced at my books, I couldn’t help myself but to get stubborn since I am not good at reading. My friends and classmates are good in terms of reading but how about me, am I not that good? Erase! Erase! Erase! I need to find someone who will give light to my darkest time in coping with my reading

Reading can be your wings so let it shine and keep it beautiful.

Camille S. Tumbaga implied the Deped Order No. 173 s. 2019, Hamon: Bawat Bata Bumabasa. I was challenged even though I am in the secondary level. I immediately imagined myself as one of the students being strengthened with my reading proficiency. My school has the dream to nurture a culture of reading in all the corners of the pandemic. It supports wholeheartedly all the objectives of Project GOALS. The project E.M.P.O.W.E.R., serves as the hope and light for all students who lost their direction because of the endless problem they face. It gives me infinite reasons to empower my current reading level. I gained a positive outlook to be productive even when I am in the middle of

problem. “Good morning, class!” my teacher greeted us virtually since this pandemic urges everyone to continue education in other ways. Discussion started but my mind keeps telling me what is happening? What is she talking about? I don’t understand everything and suddenly... Paul? Paul, are you with us? I turned back to

a crisis. Through this project I started to appreciate and to love reading because of radiobased instruction. The beneficial project made me see the other horizons of reading. When I listen to my teachers in RBI, I feel like I am in a world of comforting letters. I can travel anywhere. I can still experience the things that the pandemic deprived me to experience. Through the project EMPOWER. I can avoid the tempting attack of boredom. It gives me a positive mindset in this chaos, through reading my LAS and listening to my energetic teachers.

Reading gives me hope that one day the pandemic will come to its end and if that day comes, I will finally see and experience the things that I just experienced through reading. Way to go, Project EMPOWER! You are my armor to my aspiration in life. I am empowered now as a future leader of the nation.

Pandemic stops me from doing and experiencing many things but through reading, I gained a positive mindset and look forward to the silver lining of this pandemic.

Life-Changing Encounter with a Reading Teacher Danica Andres & Paul Joseph De Jesus

reality that we are having an online class in the 21st century with Ma’am Rainniel Marcos, a very good English teacher. I am the center of attention now and I don’t know what to do but my mouth has begun to speak honestly.

excel and learn what they should have needed to learn. I’ll introduce to you the Project EMPOWER which will be your avenue to improve in this time of pandemic”.

“Ma’am, Pasensiya na wala talaga akong maintindihan nahihirapan po talaga akong bumasa”, Paul said to her teacher.

From this moment, whenever I talk to my classmates who are having difficulties in reading, I share the story of my lifechanging encounter with Ma’am Rainniel Estares Marcos, a Senior High School teacher from San Juan de Valdez, San Jose, Tarlac.

Ma’am Rainniel Marcos replied,”You know what dear, thank you for being honest to me and because of that after our class let me help you. That is my job to help my learners

To the paper I was holding, there's a story that has not been shared that only now will you know. Make sure that you are in a safe place to read this because now I will start to share

with you her amazing story that will inspire you during this pandemic. I felt her sadness this school year. A mixture of emotions overpowered her system. I saw how she adjusted to this new normal. Just like her I was overwhelmed with the drastic changes because of the virus. I heard her stories when she prepared herself emotionally, spiritually, and physically. I will never forget her words of encouragement even though she faced a lot of challenges. My heart was deeply touched when the term communication was emphasized by Ma’am Rain. It is her mantra to always Jump to p.12

THE FORTRESS - Official Publication of Tibag High School

FEATURES

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

October 2020 to May 2021

ARTS & CRAFTS

THE TALENT WITHIN ME

Soul and Beauty in Arts Fiona E. Ramirez

hat would you feel if you saw an artistic masterpiece in a chaotic world?

Are you going to be mesmerized? Shocked? Fulfilled? Here, look me in the eye and you'll see the reflection of colors and the beauty of art. Every stroke of the lead pointing to its canvas paper leaves a mark of graphite dust, from point to point, creating an image though it is dark and shadowed. It hides meaning that you'll never understand unless you see the beauty within its soul. Every hue is mesmerizing. The primary that blends create secondary and when fused together, tertiary is what you'll see. There is a man who is a great chemist when it comes to color blending. Whatever color he produces, it compliments his masterpiece. He confers them with life that makes you goggle for a lifetime. One's art is a great treasure that hides millions of memories and messages. A well-known artist doesn't mean to be known by the world; the appreciation of their own masterpiece is. Art is the expression of emotions and imaginations. It is honed by the passion to create and revamped over time. Every portrait that he brought into existence aids his necessities during this pandemic. He fought his boredom with pencils and paintbrush in his hands as he was battling in this

disastrous time. He earns money from his commissions that makes him support his family and buys the things that he needs to continue making portraits and paintings. It started when he was in grade school where doodles are famous and his notebook in the back was full of drawings like cartoon characters and anime that dance and perform on the blank sheets with parallel lines that have a life and a soul. They called him to draw more so that they’ll have many more companions to dance and perform with. This led him to draw and practice more until he got into Junior High School where he was able to show his talents by joining competitions as a cartoonist. Unfortunately, he didn’t win. But that didn't make him stop, instead, it made him more eager to learn and improve because he has goals: to make himself proud and to make people appreciate his natural talent. When he went to Senior High School in 2019, he taught himself how to acquire techniques by watching YouTube videos. During the quarantine, he was able to grab the opportunity to focus on improving since schooling has stopped because of the COVID-19 pandemic. He learned to draw using colored pencils, paints, paint brushes, and pencil sets that he bought with his money that he earned from his first commissions. For two years of learning and improving, he has already created more than 300 masterpieces including his fan arts,

portraits, and paintings. The most expensive painting that he sold for 4,000 pesos is the “Running Horse”. That helps him and his family to survive during the pandemic. Their daily needs and food were supplied. Because of his talents and skills that he honed for years, he was able to make himself, his family, and the people that support him proud during his journey of becoming a great artist. “Mensahe ko sa mga mahilig sa arts, huwag sumuko sa kung ano ang sinimulan nila gaya ko. Basta lahat tayo may talento nasa atin na lang kung paano natin ito mapapalago at maipapakita sa ibang tao.”Kristian Dueñas. He practices every day until before he sleeps. He vividly said, “When you hold the pencil, don't let go of it. Just like your dreams, start with your passion and continue doing it until it becomes perfect.” In this way, you will love what you are making. It will serve as your inspiration to continue your passion. Anything is possible if you believe in yourself. One should learn to appreciate his/her talents and skills.

“

When you hold the pencil, don’t let go of it. Just like your dreams, start with your passion and continue doing it until it becomes perfect.”

Kristian N. Dueñas, 18, a Grade 12(TVL-EIM) student of Tibag High School from Sitio Casulucan Tibagan, Tarlac City.

Life-Changing Encounter with a Reading Teacher... From to p.11

communicate with her students. I wanna share with my classmates her techniques in teaching and motivating us. These serve as the inspiring bits of success which she inculcated to us. During the pandemic, I read materials from her during my free time at home. Because of her, I explore and choose a piece to be read. I was convinced to love reading even in a pandemic. I was encouraged to read even by reading even a few words for the day. A word for a day can help

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me understand what is in the sentence. I realized that reading itself is unsuccessful without comprehension. Comprehension leads to better learning. Ma’am Rain allowed me to go beyond the pages of books. I related what I read in life. I was motivated to think of my loved ones. If I am dreaming of my future profession for my family, it can be more possible through reading. Self-love, selfcare, and self-assessment can be of big help for me to be more positive in life. I did not consider the pandemic as a

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hindrance in improving my skills. I look at the brighter side of life. Ma’am Rain understood my situation at home. She used the importance of homeschooling by coordinating with my parents as my mentor too. The project EMPOWER made it possible for me to use online platforms for my studies. When I listen to RBI, my reading teacher also teaches correct pronunciation and the friendly drills made me enjoy every RBI lesson. I value my reading skill as a survival skill in my endeavors. I can confidently say now that reading is a fundamental skill with or without pandemic.

thefortress2021@gmail.com

“Now, I want to thank my reading teacher because she gives me the light in my dark insecurities in life”, as I end my speech in front of my classmates for our Online Graduation rehearsal. Thank you Ma’am Rain! Thank you Project GOALS! Thank you Project EMPOWER! I owe you my reading skill. I am Paul Joseph De Jesus, one of the best readers in our pre-covid face to face class and a graduating student, who is now ready to take the next level of my journey in life.

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

hey are working for me, but now I am working for them.

In the midst of a pandemic, here I am in between work and academics. It isn’t impossible for me to work for them as they work for me at the same time. As my sweat falls, my numbers increase and that indicates that my hard work is being paid off. My works are not only written as I was studying in modular distance learning but it is also written in the mind and memories of the people I am serving. It was engraved, written with my sweat and blood that never fades through time.

As the protocol on the IATF Resolution No. 95; the age-based restrictions for areas placed under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCCQ) amended that any person below ten (10) years old and those who are over sixty-five (65) years of age shall be required to remain in their residence at all times. But since I just turned 18, the right age for me to work for my family because I knew that my Crissa Antonio a grade 12 HUMSS student of THS.

FEATURES

October 2020 to May 2021

Working Achiever REAL LIFE

Fiona E. Ramirez

parents are barely able to provide for us. It was at that point that I knew I needed to figure out a way to relieve my parents' burdens. We are not financially secure, and there have been moments when I have felt like I am part of the burden that my parents are bearing on their backs; when I want to eat sweets, I have had to lay my hands on the table just to get money from them, which I do not want. So I decided to look for a job that would enable me to contribute to our family's expenses while still providing for myself. When I knew that my science teacher in grade 11 and as my research teacher today in grade 12, needs a companion in doing household chores and caring for her four sons, I took that opportunity to work for them while studying since Tibag High School implemented printedmodular learning for all of their students. Because of that, I can balance my time while working and learning. Whenever I have free time or if the kids are asleep I’m answering my modules even at night before I end my day. She needed me and I needed them, it is like mutualism in science and I learned it

from her. We both got a common benefit. I was able to earn money in exchange for my physical work and she was able to generate income for her family because she is a teacher of mine. I know that there is no easy job, all things in life must be done by hard work and I know that God is always with me to make it easier. We are residents of barangay Sapang Maragul and I work for them in San Rafael, Tarlac City. Because of the quarantine, together with my classmate who also works like me, we have free accommodation and food in their house and after one week we can get a salary of one thousand pesos which will help me provide for my family to buy groceries and other necessities. When you work, note that you are providing for yourself and your family. You must enjoy whatever work you are doing. For the time being, I'm trying my best to focus on my studies and provide for my family; I may not be able to meet all of their needs, but I'll still bring home the bacon because I know I'll succeed. Even though my hands are stained by lots of work, my perseverance and hard work will be engraved within me. My experience is like the stamp torch in my medal that cannot be erased. I have my

best teacher literally, which allows me to be independent and that is my science and research teacher and my experiences while working. “I am proud of my fellow working students, all of our hard work will be paid off in the future. We just need to trust ourselves and have the courage to conquer things in life.

“

I know that there is no easy job, all things in life must be done by hard work and I know that God is always with me to make it easier.”

LOCAL FOODS

The Recipe for Success of

‘She Bakes Tarlac’ Krisha Jen Corcuera

um… yum… yum… The smell of fresh-baked bread wafted in the entire room.

The saccharine scent of rich sponge cake containing layers of cream and fresh fruits. It’s all made by the bared gifted hands that serve an impressively beautiful art. 4lb of love, 1 cup of interest, and 2lb of pounded passion are the ingredients of her successfully well-done business. Christelle Je Evangelista, a successful businesswoman and the owner of She Bakes Tarlac in barangay Tibag. In her third year of high school, she was taught and inspired by her teacher in her economics subject about baking and eventually took BSHRM at Tarlac State University to pursue her dream. The support and love of her family and friends became her inspiration to start her small business that is selling home-baked goods. The kitchen became her workplace, a place of failures and success, and a place that is filled with memories of cuts and burns and delightful smiles from her family members, who always taste her mouthwatering products. Cakes, cupcakes, brownies, caramel bars, and Ilocos bibingka, these are the products that, if you taste, you can forget

your name, especially her classic and best seller banana loaf bread with overloaded filling and toppings. Everyone loves these, and everything on the menu is worth because why not? Every pour and every mix has a secret recipe, and that is love, the love of what you are doing, the love for the people who are supporting and trying your products, and the love for yourself that you can do it for you to create a wonderful and scrumptious piece of hard work that will satisfy every person’s taste buds.

discover your passion in something, take a risk and be the best at doing it.

“Remember, if it is God’s will, nothing or no one will hinder your success,” one of her heartwarming pieces of advice. Businesses have their ups and downs, twists and turns but when you add your interest and willingness, you can never be discouraged to do it. Pour all your love on what you are doing and people will love your effort. And now, it’s time to work the whole together with God's will until everything is well-mixed and baked gently to give and serve a fruitful result. It all started as her hobby and comfort zone. She took care of it and let it grow and now, she’s finally picking the fruit of her success. In every price of success, the key is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether you win or lose you try it because the greatest failure is to not try. Once you

Photo Credits: Christelle Je Evangelista, owner of She Bakes Tarlac

THE FORTRESS - Official Publication of Tibag High School

FEATURES

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

October 2020 to May 2021

CURRENT EVENTS

Birth of Silver Linings LOOKING AT THE BRIGHTER SIDE OF PANDEMIC

Paul Joseph S. De Jesus | Krisha Jen C. Corcuera | Micaella Q. Grande | Mellany A. Laxamana | Sweden I. Reyes

pportunities were made, families were bound across all odds of life, new trends that made the society hype were created, and new heroes of today’s generation were born. These are the things that make our day complete in this pandemic.

something new, something out of the box. Yes, you can. You can learn how to dance, how to play an instrument, or try some fancy new recipes of yours. It’s satisfying and heartwarming when you are carrying new learning and skills that you can have throughout your life.

I am here today in front of my mirror looking at myself but as I stared, all I can see is black, nothing so special and dark.

Look around. Look at the things at your home and to the people you are with. There’s still happiness, right? There is still a brighter side of this world that you can enjoy and feel that everything is worth living.

This pandemic prevents me from being productive. I need to make a change since change is a constant notion in this world. I heard something, and it’s coming from my television. “Good day to all, here are some of the things that people tend to do despite this crisis that we are facing. These things did not stop them from being motivated. They continued working amidst the pandemic.” Immerse yourself and learn from these opportunities. PANDEMIC HOBBIES: DISCOVERY OF INNER SELF The pandemic and the social isolation gave us the opportunity to finally explore, ferret, and appreciate everything inside our home. We have passions and interests that we can use to go further into our hobbies and try out a few ones that have fascinated us. Let’s try

CLOSED FAMILY TIES: THE POSITIVE WITHIN THE NEGATIVE SITUATION Spending time with my parents and siblings is important. The fact that everyone in our family is at home all day can be seen as an opportunity to enforce our family ties and relationships. For instance, eating meals together, playing games, and even watching movies will all help to strengthen our family bonds. This outbreak is influencing the whole world in ways that no one can imagine. It stepped into our lives out of nowhere and opened the Pandora’s box of so many negative consequences for humanity. However, let us not just always look on the negative side, but look for the positive effects too. We can take this opportunity to make a negative situation into a positive one. We can go to the circus with our family members in a virtual show to make the negative vibes of the pandemic into a positive and enjoyable experience. We can imagine it as if we were in the actual circus stage. We can

watch through online without any hassle together with our family. This virus serves as a reminder of what is important in our lives. It wants us to think about why we are here. That is to live our lives with our loved ones with a blast. TIKTOK FEVER: PANDEMIC HAPPY PILL Almost everyone is being infected by this trending fever, like a virus that rapidly affected my whole country. Wherever I go, whether I walk on the street, scroll on my Facebook timeline, or visit my Instagram, almost everyone is infected. It's just so amazing how everyone welcomes this from "argh! That is so cringing" and turns into "wow! That's a great video". We are into this generation where almost everyone widely opens their arms into this trending fever, no vaccines nor any medicines that can stop. But this fever can surely cure our boredom- Tiktok. Before the pandemic, life is boring. It feels so blue. It feels like waking up for another day just to sleep again. But when people learned the use of this amazing application, the blue surroundings quickly became colorful and lively because just by posting and gaining substantial followers on this app that everyone can be an instant strange sort of celebrity. This is the fever that we never expected to come and will instantly infect everyone.

Even though vaccines are still being injected, we all know that this fever itself can already be one of the pandemic happy pills that can also instantly bring color to everyone’s long time colorless life. SCHOOL CUSTODIANS AND GUARDS: UNSUNG HEROES OF THE PANDEMIC Everyone is at risk of being exposed to viruses and being infected. As the school operations resume despite the pandemic, janitors and guards are responsible for maintaining health safety through sanitation and protection by following safety rules and practices. They go to work to make sure that everyone is clean and safe by giving us protection against the virus. They continue to put their lives on the line in the face of danger and uncertainty. Every day, they are using their physical strength to make the world a safer place for others. They are not celebrities, and you won’t see them walking gracefully on the red carpet because they are the unsung heroes, heroes who committed their lives to fight against this COVID-19 and bring hope to dark places in the world. They are the heroes who are not always acknowledged and recognized. School custodians and guards are more than actions. They are the people who show their strength, courage, and grace under pressure. Remember that day that

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

FEATURES

October 2020 to May 2021

This pandemic just closes our eyes, but we can still open our eyes to see such opportunities in every day’s life. We just need to be resilient and practical to see the brighter side despite the pandemic.

unheralded heroes throughout the world made everything possible. When this coronavirus ended, we should not forget their extraordinary and astounding sacrifice for the sake of humanity. They deserve our unending gratitude. RESTORING FAITH IN A TIME OF CRISIS During these challenging times, our spiritual aspect is being stretched. The brighter side of the pandemic unleashes our trust in God. The storms that we face are not permanent. All dark clouds will become bright when we hold on to our belief that we don’t face it alone. We face it with our supreme being, our God. This pandemic also made us realize that when we are in a crisis, faith is bigger than all the problems. Kneel and pray when problems are overpowering our system. After restoring our faith, reflection on the good things come along. We may have different religions, but we have God who is carrying us when we don’t know what steps to take in. This pandemic is a hindrance to mass gathering but as we isolate ourselves to the power of prayers, all bad situations turn into something good. Let your faith be strong because things will get better. It might be gloomy now, but it can’t rain forever. In a time of crisis, hold on to what matters most in the world, our relationship to our creator.

NETFLIX: UNVEILING UNDISCOVERED ACTIVITIES AND BENEFITS Netflix is one of the most popular subscription-based streaming services that allows its members to watch TV shows, movies, documentaries without commercials on an internet-connected device. Netflix is available worldwide, and if you haven’t tried it yet, maybe it is the right time to do so. Netflix really helps people a lot especially in this time of pandemic, it is one of the best ways to alleviate the sadness and problems that are brought by this devastating situation that we have. It makes our families have strong bonds. Through this, people learn many things that they could apply in their daily living. Enjoying the streaming shows and movies over the internet is the best way to watch TV, and Netflix is the best choice for streaming entertainment. This pandemic made us realize that we only have a short time to fulfill the things that we want to do and to enjoy every single thing in this world. Come and let's wander in the vast clouds of enjoyable adventure.

things still work, consider several alternatives to make your life worthy and productive. This pandemic blinds us… No, this pandemic just closes our eyes, but we can still open our eyes to see such opportunities in every day’s life. We just need to be resilient and practical to see the brighter side despite the pandemic. Nevertheless, I could still see some light that shines upon not just on my eyes but also the eyes of everyone. We should widen our eyes and mind that these crises prevent us for a while, but this does not make us stuck to the dark sides we emit. I’m proud of myself because I am still surviving. I can see the brighter side of this pandemic rather than its negative effects that block the opportunities I can make and see.

Now, I don’t have to work so hard to make things possible in this pandemic. There are situations where we cannot control and do but to make

Photos from Google

FEATURES

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

October 2020 to May 2021

STUDENTS

WIN THE GAME OF LEARNING

10 TIPS TO A SUCCESSFUL MODULAR DISTANCE LEARNING Vonne Orly O. Sadumiano

Are you struggling and experiencing difficulties in studying with modular distance learning? Or do you find yourself getting bored and not wanting to finish the task that has been assigned to you? If you have experienced these adversities, here are some tips you can use to be successful in your modular distance learning. Let’s flip the pages of your pandemic journey as a warrior of modular learning!

TIP #2 READ COMPREHENSIVELY. The more you understand what you have read, the more you will learn. The better you comprehend, the more chances you will succeed in your studies.

TIP #1 KNOW YOUR REASONS FOR STUDYING. By finding reason for yourself, this enables you to understand and define your purpose of studying. You will be gaining a well-built, solid foundation that you can use to cope with all the problems, all the struggles, and all the hardships that you may encounter in the rough road in learning.

TIP #4

Since modules are really what you are really facing most of the time here in modular distance learning, it is necessary that you really pay attention and comprehend what you are reading. This will develop your selfreliance, self-regulation, and independent learning. So, you should really work on your reading comprehension because if you don’t learn and understand what you’re studying and reading, modular distance learning will definitely have a problem.

MANAGE YOUR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT. When there is a never-ending physical noise that is distracting your studies, you need to find a space in your house where you are comfortable and can focus on your studies. This space is needed away from distractions so that you can concentrate on what you are reading and studying.

TIP #5 USE OTHER LEARNING RESOURCES. The more learning resources you have, the greater the chance to succeed. If you find the lessons in the modules which are too difficult to understand, you can also use other reference materials such as textbooks, encyclopedias or watch DepEd TV which broadcast lessons, and video lessons on Youtube.

TIP #3 ASK FOR HELP OR ASSISTANCE! Ask for help! When you are struggling to understand a certain topic, you can ask for the assistance of your parents, older siblings, cousins or relatives, classmates, friends, neighbors or anyone who can help you with your study. Most importantly, you can also ask for help from your teachers. You can contact your teachers when you don’t know a certain topic; you can ask for their assistance because they are very much willing to give aid for you to learn and understand the lesson you find hard.

TIP #6 DO NOT OVERDO IT! Too much, too fast, won’t last. Sometimes, when you are given a tremendous amount of tasks, what you do is force ourselves to finish tasks in just one sitting. When you force all the information into your brain, you just tend to become more irritated, stressed, and pressured. Then the learning you got will not be absorbed by your brains, and eventually, you forget about it immediately.

TIP #7 CREATE A SCHEDULE AND SET DAILY TARGETS. When you manage your tasks accordingly, and you can get everything done, you are capable of managing your time wisely and properly. By creating your own schedule, you can know what subjects you will be studying at that time, how long it will take, and what activities you will be covered in the modules. You can also create your own checklist so you can monitor the activities and keep track of the progress you are making.

TIP #8 KNOW YOUR LEARNING STYLE. Different students lead to different learning methods. Students have their own suitable and best fit learning approach; some apply learning and instructional videos to their lessons, so they can remember it faster. Some listen to classical music while studying; some may even draw their lesson so that they can quickly remember and learn the lessons and concepts.With this, you just need to find which learning style will help you in your studies.

TIP #9 BE HEALTHY. The greatest wealth is your health.Your health is the most important of all things. You should not neglect your health. Your health should be your utmost priority. Thus, you should be eating nutritious food, exercise regularly. Let’s always remember, an empty stomach is an empty brain.

TIP #10 REWARD YOURSELF! A prosperous reward is a bonus after a great success. After your studies, set aside a time to have a break and reward yourself. You can watch movies and series on Netflix, play video games, bond with your family, do your hobbies, or play and talk virtually with your friends because you deserve that. You deserve to enjoy, after doing a tremendous amount of tasks in your school. You deserve to be rewarded because you did a great job in accomplishing your work.

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SCIENCE

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

October 2020 to May 2021

Gulayan sa Tahanan: ON CAMPUS

Sustaining the Pandemic Bliss of Gardening Danica Andres

lot of people are now financially unstable because of the predicament the pandemic has caused to us. Bread winners lose their jobs or parents having difficulties to budget their money. This makes them worried on how to sustain their basic needs due to the financial constraint or no income at all; that’s why we have to save money to help them financially.

With this circumstances, this birthed the gulayan sa tahanan or growing vegetables or food at home, in which it inspired the students of the Tibag High School to make various ways of planting in their houses that could help their families to gather benefits from it. This idea came from the gulayan sa paaralan, a DepEd program that supplies nutrition to students at school. In gulayan sa tahanan, it helps students to sustain healthy nutrition, aid them financially, and strives to help the earth through catering nutrition and starving problems through planting vegetables at home.

The program was initiated by SSG and in collaboration with the agriculture focal person of Tibag High School, Mr. Wenzlee Laus, they mapped out distribution of vegetable seedlings to the students of the school, in which students can use these seedlings to plant in their own garden and to make it a source food to help them. The planting activity benefitted the nature and it will improve our health. We can also consume fresh fruits and vegetables by just picking up food in your garden. Being healthy during these times of pandemic is essential. By this program, it will help to boost our immune system to fight COVID-19. Take note: we could also save money and we could also save the earth.

Planting vegetables allows us to reduce the number of harmful chemicals that pollute our environment and waterways. The students of Tibag High school help to be “Makatao at Makakalikasan” amid pandemic, one fundamental way to fight back against climate change is with ecogardening. In this pandemic, there are so many things we learned, discovered, and realized. Just like having fun planting at home, it relieves stress and saves from more expenses and much more. Growing vegetables at home definitely will make the lives of everyone blissful. With a little creativity and ingenuity, even if you had a small space, growing food can be maximized for a greater food harvest from your garden.

INVENTIONS

THE INTELLIGENCE WE, HUMANS, HAVE Fritz Wallace Alvarez

Teacher: Wow! This drawing of yours is great! I assume that you do like astronomy, don’t you? Student: Teacher, I do! When I grow up I want to become an astronaut. Teacher: *smiles* Great! Why do you want to be an astronaut? Student: When I grow up I want to explore other planets and see if there are aliens, too!

t’s been almost 52 years since Neil Armstrong and his fellow astronaut successfully landed on the moon. 52 years later (February 18, 2021), the rover named Perseverance successfully landed on Mars to seek signs of ancient life and collect samples of rocks. The Perseverance Rover is just one of those 5 NASA rovers sent to Mars. Yes, 5 rovers have managed on Mars in just a short amount of time. Isn’t it fascinating how advanced science and technology has become just 5 decades after the moon landing and it’s already at this level? It’s like that everyday there’s a chance that one of us will discover a new technology or someone will make the technology we have even greater. With this in our hands, the possibilities are endless.

Someday, we would be able to build a spacecraft that can travel to other planets, to other solar systems or the galaxy in a small amount of time. One bullet day, we would be able to build what’s impossible because that’s what we are the intelligence we humans have.

extraterrestrial life. Many people don’t believe in aliens because we haven’t discovered them yet. What if technology is not as great as ours or what if they were traveling towards our planet right now and we are just about to meet them? Interesting, right?

It’s no surprise if 4 or 5 decades from now, NASA will be able to turn planet Mars into a habitable planet and even explore other galaxies. It’s only a matter of time before we discover

With the universe which is constantly expanding, technology will help us to answer the questions that we have regarding the existence of other planets and what’s on each planet.

THE FORTRESS - Official Publication of Tibag High School

SCIENCE

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

October 2020 to May 2021

HEALTH

14-14 Day Agony:

Tale of a COVID-19 Survivor! Arvi P. Estrada

J’s body gave him a very unusual feeling and tiredness like out of nowhere. He didn’t have any idea what happened. So, he just took a deep rest, ate, kept himself hydrated, and took vitamins. He thought that it was a simple sickness that can be cured by available home remedies. But little did he know, this is the beginning of his 14-14 Day Agony -April 16, 2021. Next morning, April 17, his fever was still on, but he still kept himself busy with school tasks, even unconsciously weak. The next day, at midnight of April 18, he opened his eyes as he was bothered by something. He couldn’t sleep, he sensed fever and severe body pain. In spite of the rages he felt, his dedication to his work still continues at home - the professionalism he pursued on April 19 and 20. On the sixth day, April 21, he got his 5-day sick leave. He felt well at that time, as if, his illness was gone. So, he went to SSS Tarlac in the morning for the death claim of his father. While on his way back home, all the signs and symptoms came back, and the miserable pain had crushed him again. At first, he thought it was dengue, which he had 9 years ago, so he called his friend who owns a medical and testing laboratory on the seventh day, April 22 for a CBC Test. All results showed not within the normal ranges. On the eight day,

April 23, morning when all symptoms were present, such as the fever, all the previous symptoms, plus low CBC, dehydration, and trauma. In the afternoon of the same date, he was well. Signs and symptoms were on and off. Late evening, he decided to head himself to the hospital. Rapid Antigen Test was performed at Immaculate Conception Polyclinic and Hospital, Inc. It came out positive for SARS - Coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV-2). JJ’s mind suddenly experienced paranoia. Tension and worry lingered in his mind for any possible mishaps that may happen to him and his family.. On April 25, the tenth day was worse than every other day. He encountered problems prior to confinement. All of the private and public hospitals in Capas, Concepcion and Tarlac City had no vacant room for PUIs/ PUMs. From Capas to Concepcion they sought for a hospital, but all declined. In Ospital ning Capas, he felt discriminated against and humiliated the most. JJ said “Ayaw ako lapitan/tingnan!”. Then, they decided to contact LGU Capas to pick him up and go to hospitals in Tarlac City. They went to Tarlac Provincial Hospital (TPH), Jecsons Medical Center, Talon Hospital, Ramos General Hospitals, and Loving Mother. Unfortunately, all of them declared no vacant room. They went back to TPH again and thankfully, through the help of Dr. Juvelyn L. Esteban, the Principal of Tibag High School where JJ is employed, Dr. Juvelyn coordinated with a good nurse, who is connected with TCSDO Nurses, and assisted him. The assistance of the nurse

enabled him to be admitted at TPH. His confinement continued on the eleventh day, April 26 to the fourteenth day. April 27 he had a confirmatory swab test. April 29 as he got packed with all the virus symptoms, ramping up with trauma caused by external circumstances. On April 30, the swab result was released by DOH and he was informed by the Local Government Unit of Capas and TPH, and it was once again confirmed as positive for SARS-CoV-2. But, he didn’t have any symptoms anymore, he was already released from the hospital, and had another 14 days quarantine at home, from April 30 to May14. He is Dr. John-John J. Flores (JJ), SHS Focal Person and Head Teacher of Tibag High School, a COVID-19 survivor. Even up until now, he still thinks it wasn’t true - that he has faced these adversities and managed to fight back coronavirus throughout the 14 days of symptoms of the virus. Like him, the discrimination and other external notices are really experienced by COVID-19 patients. Even though he was crippled, he still fought back the virus and rose once again.

Handwashing webinar, attends by THSians to have proper hygiene Nicole Y. Saborboro Tibag High School had a virtual orientation program, “OK sa DepEd & NDEP and Proper Hand Washing Virtual Orientation” on February 8, 2021 for the grade 7 to grade 12 students via google

meet, which aims to give awareness and educate the students to maintain proper hygiene and healthy lifestyle to students. The program was led by Medical Officer III - Dr. Eliseo M. Bungay Jr., Dave Lemuel A. Saavedra - NDEP

division focal person, and Hazen S. Bognot - Nurse II/ WINS division focal person of Tarlac City Schools Division (TCSD) who are in the with their expertise. Visual and video presentations about the effects of using smoke and drugs, giving awareness to HIV, and the proper hand washing were discussed and presented on the program. The event highlighted the proper handwashing program, where actual hand washing steps are presented by the medical professionals, which helps students to better understand the causes if they do not properly handle the handwashing.

KEEP YOUR HANDS GERM-FREE. Angelo Cunanan, a grade 12 HUMSS student, applies his learning on the webinar about the eight steps in proper handwashing.

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Speakers discussed that germs from unwashed hands can be transferred to another object and then transferred to another person’s hands, especially with the coronavirus, students must do hand washing to avoid getting a and transfer the virus. They added that with proper handwashing it can help prevent diarrhea and respiratory infections and may help prevent skin and eye infections.

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Here are the eight steps in proper handwashing techniques to ensure that any bacterias and germs from the hands are washed away. The 8 techniques to proper hand washing: first, rinse both hands with running water, then apply liquid or bar soap . Next is to apply the techniques: the palm to palm, between fingers, the back of hands, the thumbs of thumbs, backs of each fingers fingers, the fingernails, both wrists, lastly is to rinse it with running water and wipe it with clean dry clothes. “In the absence of handwashing facilities in all public areas, alcoholbased hand rub is used since it effectively reduces the bacteria counts on hands. Also, we can do both alcohol-based hand rub and hand washing as long as we apply them in a proper way/correct manner to ensure maximum health care.” Khristine Casareno, school health leader of THS, said. With the threats of the coronavirus, proper handwashing is one of the best ways to remove and prevent germs, and avoid getting the virus as unwashed hands can be transferred to another object and then transferred to another person’s hands.

SCIENCE

THE FORTRESS Volume 1 - No.1

October 2020 to May 2021

SCI-NEWS

Online access to learning materials, increases accessibility to students, teachers Camille S. Tumbaga The Department of Education (DepEd) launched DepEd Commons, the online educational platform of learning modules, to have a wide range of accessibility of learning resources by the students and teachers in public and private schools. The DepEd Commons are written by public school teachers who are experts in their subject and all materials underwent quality assurance. It is now serving more than 9.6 million unique users around the country in support of the learning and teaching process in the middle of the pandemic. Marianne N. Wage, a grade 12 teacher from Tibag High School, said that “Even before the pandemic, the DepEd commons was already a rich source for my supplemental instructional materials.” The DepEd urged students to use the DepEd commons as an option only for those who can access the internet and have equipment such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers. Wage added, “And with the new normal education, its importance is strengthened further to give a muchneeded boost to the distance learning modalities being implemented in lieu of the traditional face-to-face teachinglearning process. Teachers like me can create resources with original content and share these with other teachers and vice versa.” DepEd commons can retain, reuse, revise, remix, and redistribute the content by teacher and with Globe or TM-powered smartphones, students and teachers can now access the DepEd Commons without getting data charges.

SCI-EDITORIAL

Safer Vaccine: Enhance Public Trust

he world welcomes the availability and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. Filipinos need an effective and safer one, to rebuild their trust and hope. With this, the government needs to build up public trust and have concrete information regarding its efficacy to assure a successful vaccination program. In the past years, we faced the most challenging of times in our country and in the world’s history with the COVID-19 pandemic drastically affecting our lives. Individuals fear immunizations for diverse reasons, and the primary step to make strides antibody acknowledgment is to address the specific fear that avoids it. Visualising the dengue antibody discussion, Filipinos did not exactly lose confidence within the science of antibodies. Instead, Filipinos misplaced confidence in government

judgement. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccines are critical new tools in the battle against COVID-19 and it is hugely encouraging to see so many vaccines proving successful and going into development. Working as quickly as they can, scientists from across the world are collaborating and innovating to bring us tests, treatments, and vaccines that will collectively save lives and end this pandemic. “The other day, I read about the news where Israelis were allowed to step out of their homes without masks on. This is because over half of the population of Israel were fully vaccinated. And I said to myself, it would have been a relief if my country could do the same. Yes it sounds scary because of some negative news about the different COVID-19 vaccines, but I think it's about time we Filipinos take a step forward and agree to be

SPORTS

Tokyo Olympics: To continue or not? From pg. 20

As a student and a fanatic of sports, the Olympics is a perfect example of celebrating an event that still follows strict guidelines for the safety of the participants and athletes. I totally approved of the dedication of the Tokyo organizers and staff to continue it and make the international sports festival to a success event because Olympics will promote sports and development of harmonious humankind and a message to the world to always follow the safety protocols regardless and strictly of the activity to eliminate COVID-19 and to ensure the safety of our future.

THSians, move to the beat on Zumba, Aerobics Vonne Orly O. Sadumiano Senior High students of Tibag High School (THS) showed their dance and exercise with various moves at their Zumba and Aerobics practicum held in the school year second quarter, which was led by Immanuel Marcon, Senior High School (SHS) PE teacher of THS. The said activity was conducted asynchronously and complied by grade 11 for PE 1 - Aerobics and grade 12 students for PE 3 – Zumba by capturing their performance to a video. Students performed their tasks inside their home, living area, and outside their houses or backyards, in which videos were

submitted online on google drive. The practicum is part of the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCs) which one of the practicum is to have a Zumba and Aerobic performance. “These activities are essential to maintain the students’ health in the new normal as the majority of the students are focused on staying in their home because they are not allowed to go out of their house, and they keep on just using their phones. That’s why I, as their teacher, ask them to perform. I ask them to video themselves by performing Zumba and Aerobics.” Sir Marcon emphasized.

vaccinated. Let us take aside political issues and trust our government so that we can be one step closer back to our normal lives again”. Deseree O. Galamay, Grade-11 Coordinator in Tibag High School (THS) stated. One of the most important developments in our battle against the pandemic is the development of vaccines. It can produce protection against disease, as a result of developing an immune response to the virus that means there is a reduced risk of developing the illness and its consequences. On the whole, political pioneers must moreover take on being the party to demonstrate. The leading pioneers lead by example. Getting the immunization freely isn't as it were to rouse the open and boost belief and certainty in science but moreover as a verifiable point of reference.

Challenges arise in the conduct of the activity because of the pose of distance learning. The main problem that was adjourned is the Internet issue as some students cannot upload or send their practicum on google drive because of the deficient level of internet connection. As well as for those students who don’t have a cellphone to video themselves and to do their task. However, in spite of the challenges that arise, students are still able to comply with the activity, expressed by Sir Marcon. The conducted activity benefited the students by stretching their muscles and bones and doing exercises by utilizing the activity. For the second semester, Sir Marcon stated, “What I can ask for them to perform in this new normal is a modified dance and sports that they can do in their places.”

THE FORTRESS - Official Publication of Tibag High School

Sports THE FORTRESS

Official Publication of Tibag High School

SPORTS EDITORIAL Tokyo Olympics: To continue or not? CRITICAL MOVE. Harley Alanson M. Ancheta finds his way to conquer his opponent in the chess game.

SPORTS FEATURE

THE QUEEN’S GAMBIT:

Starting a Surge of Intrigued in Chess W

the main character in the film “The Queen’s Gambit”, who proved that playing chess can change a life. In her chaotic world, she did not expect that chess could lift her life to become better and gain the title of chess world champion.

Chess is a game played one-on-one where each development of a chunk can make the distinction between winning or losing. But it can too be seen as a challenge against yourself as you need to know how to concentrate and see ahead the upcoming move — both you as a contender and your opponent move.

Rather than being crushed by her misfortunes, she learned to reflect by it. She studies each blind spot and adjusts her procedures. The vital point of view she had was that disappointment was not the end, she did not take it as an unpreventable corner, but she took it as a challenge to learn and overcome it. She came back for more and was persistent in taking her prize.

It may be challenging at first, but as you play over and over - chess is fun and can be addictive. Just like Beth Harmon,

“With a large part of the population in lockdown, chess has become a pastime and coping mechanism. With proper

Marcos S. Quiballo

ith the lockdown, board games players have increased - one of which players rises is in chess. But why do some people think playing chess is hard, when this board game can catch a lot of attention?

Tokyo Olympics will be possible as long as the COVID-19 preventive measures are strictly followed by the athletes. Olympics is the worldwide sports competition where more than 205 nations compete to achieve the goals of the sports festival to promote the service of the harmonious development of humankind and to earn a peaceful society for the concern with the preservation of human dignity. This international sports festival or the Olympic Games is usually held every four years for the long-lost tradition of ancient Greece. The 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics is scheduled to be held from July 24 to August 9, 2020, but when the pandemic enters, it causes a tragic crisis that leads people into despair; which not only affects the world, but it also leads to the cancellation of the 2020 Olympics. However, the International Olympic and Paralympics Committee, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and the Government of Japan will continue and hold the Olympic Games in 2021, celebrated from July 23 to August 8, 2021, XXXII Olympiad games According to the International Olympic Committee president, Thomas Bach stated, "There is no "Plan B." If the Tokyo Games can't be staged this summer, they probably won't be held at all." This decision made the Tokyo organizers and other Olympic Games staff to be motivated, and it seems that coronavirus itself can't stop the special event. The Olympic organizers said that, "Tokyo was already in the best-prepared ever Games." Through the strict guidelines, this will minimize the risk and limit their exposure to the virus. Jump to pg. 19

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Home Workout:

SPORTS FEATURE

Active Living on New Normal Lucky E. Tabamo

e’ve been stuck at our homes for more than a year already. Because we are always inside our houses, most of us are just lying down on our bed the whole day and don’t do some simple exercise like walking or running. We are not physically active anymore. If we don’t do anything active at all, this may cause a serious health risk problem. Inside

our home we can do some simple exercises for us to stay healthy just

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by doing push-ups, curl-ups, jumping jacks, stretches, and yoga. These exercises, even if it is just a simple workout and a small amount of exercise, when you combine it, it can make a huge difference as it will make you feel energized, better, and healthy. As a matter of fact, working out is one of the most essential aspects in life that we must apply to maintain our physical and mentally health. “Outdoor workouts are entertaining but home exercises are most applicable in our situation. Home workout can also promote quality time with family. It can also temporarily forget the crisis that we are facing right now.

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training and progress in the game will give positive insights and it becomes more enjoyable. It can develop perspective, improves memory and increases intelligence. It can deepen your focus and elevate creativity because this game needs good strategy and intelligence.” Mr. Fernando David, teacher and one of the chess Trainers in Tibag High School (THS), expressed. The film became a motivation for many people to play chess – a game well-suited to COVID lockdowns. A lot of players have found chess to be addictive because once you learn the basics, it’s sort of like a drive to get better. But even if you are deeply intrigued by chess, at the end of the day, this can make you feel better as you play with your family members, relatives, and friends.

While embracing inside the home activities, we should also observe healthy eating.” Arnel Ibanez, Master teacher and MAPEH coordinator, advised. By staying active, it not just aids us physically but it can also heal the wound in our mind, where it can ease depression, stress, and anxiety. By implicating an active living it can help you to get moving and stay motivated, and you enable you to take charge of your physical and mental health. It can also help you to retain a sense of control during these days where distress and uncertainty is relevant, and stay on track to be active living inside your home.